Logistics UK has said the ‘search for the country’s best van driver is on’ with the launch of its Van Driver of the Year competition for 2021.

The competition now in its seventh year will take place on July 10 at Bott in Ashby-de-la-Zouch and includes practical and theoretical challenges, said Logistics UK.

The competition recognises and celebrates the nation’s best drivers.

Entrants will complete a series of challenging tasks on the day and will be rated on ‘safe driving’ style, legislative knowledge, economical driving, manoeuvring, risk perception and pre-use vehicle defect checking.

Safety has been at the forefront of commercial fleet operations throughout the Covid-19 crisis, according to a new report from Logistics UK

Kevin Green, marketing and communications director at Logistics UK, said: “Successful van drivers are highly skilled; as well as being able to manoeuvre the vehicle safely, efficiently and cost effectively to a tight timetable on Britain’s crowded roads, drivers must have a comprehensive understanding of all the relevant legislation and safety procedures as well as excellent observation and concentration skills.

“As shown throughout the COVID-19 pandemic, van drivers are the lifeblood of our economy, delivering everything the nation needs and we are proud to recognise the best of the best in this competition.”  

A presentation will be made at the end of the day to celebrate the overall Van Driver of the Year, the second and third place contestants and the Van Excellence Driver of the Year. Prizes include a holiday voucher, a GoPro and Amazon vouchers.

The competition is supported by the AA, Bott, Brigade Electronics, Hertz, Lex Autolease, Quartix and TVL.

Entries close on June 2, find out more information on how to enter at the Logistics UK website.