A VAN man has been crowned king of the road after winning a prestigious national driving competition.

Steve Mumford, 45, who drives for BT Supply Chain in Bracknell, is celebrating this week having scooped first prize in the annual Freight Transport Association (FTA) Van Excellence Driver of the Year competition.

Following a day of high pressure challenges, competing against 11 other finalists, Mr Mumford excelled in a range of tasks relating to his job, demonstrating outstanding professionalism, knowledge and excellent driving skills.

He said: “I couldn’t believe it when they said my name. You go into these competitions thinking you might be in with a chance but the standard was so high across all the finalists – I’m still buzzing.”

The competition took place at Mercedes-Benz, Wentworth Park, Barnsley, where each van driver took part in six separate tasks to evaluate their overall driving ability – driving style, economical driving, manoeuvring, defect checking, knowledge of legislation and risk awareness.

The winner was announced by FTA’s Head of Vans, Mark Cartwight, with the prizes being presented by Andy Eccles, Head of Business Development, Mercedes-Benz Vans UK Ltd.

Steve Bridge, Managing Director, Mercedes-Benz Vans UK Ltd, said: “We are passionate about supporting our nation’s van drivers, and championing their hard work and commitment to keeping this country moving. The FTA Van Driver of the Year event is about celebrating the true skill of the driver so we’re proud to sponsor this event, crown the FTA Van Driver of the Year and celebrate them as a great example for our industry.”

The 12 finalists were each nominated by their fleet manager who had recognised their professionalism and skills. Each driver was individually scored on a variety of tasks, ranked on their performance, and the overall winner was announced.