Oxford Bus Group team members were recognised at the operator’s “Really Amazing Awards” ceremony held recently at the Ashmolean Sculpture Gallery in Oxford.

Among the highlights was the marking of 12 colleagues collectively amassing 355 years of service between them.

Awards were presented in eight other categories, for which staff at Oxford Bus Company and its sister companies, Thames Travel, Carousel Buses and City Sightseeing Oxford, made nominations. A top-three was then announced in advance of the evening.

Oxford Bus Company bodybuilder Nigel Brown was celebrated for 50 years’ service. Meanwhile, bus driver Gary Butler and engineer Andy Bowler marked 40 years each with the business.

Nine others received awards for 25 years’ service: Julian Antonen, Martyn Ballinger, Nunzio Bianchi, Jan France, Paul Hennigan, Wayne McKay, John Perry, Danny Thompson and David Troth.

The other winners included Chris Reeves, Oxford Bus Company’s Data, Fares and Ticketing Manager. He received the “Above and Beyond” award in recognition of his role in integrating Pulhams into the business and launching new on-board ticket machines across all depots.

Luke Marion, Oxford Bus Company Managing Director, says: “It was brilliant to celebrate the people who have done really amazing work to ensure we consistently deliver a first-class service to our passengers.

“We also recognised our colleagues who have given a significant number of years’ service to the company.

“There are so many unsung heroes within our group of businesses who do an excellent job, providing first-class public service, and they should be very proud of their achievements.

“It was a significant year for the Oxford Bus Group, with our record investment in an electric fleet of vehicles and the acquisition of Pulhams, and it’s important to recognise the people behind our strong performance.”