KEEN readers at a Reading primary school have taken to writing words to nominate a ‘star’ from Reading Buses.

The bookworms at Brooklands Community Primary School say one of the company's drivers, 54-year-old Ray Hancock of Whitley, is a ‘fantastic driver.’

Mr Hancock has 31 years of service driving buses.

The children, whose school provides thousands of books to read for study or pleasure, also say that Ray should be recognised for the ‘brilliant customer service’ he gives.

They wrote to Reading Buses: “We have never come across a driver who is so caring.

"He is an absolute credit to the company.”

Mr Hancock kept them informed during a delay in the town, and ensured that they knew what was happening and when they were able to resume their journey.

As a result, Ray is now one of the Reading Buses stars, who will compete for their coveted ‘Star of the Year’ title which will be announced in early 2020.

Another employee who will be competing for the title has an extra reason for celebration.

Simon Gold, 32, of Tilehurst, recently got married.

He has seven years of service, and was nominated by two colleagues for demonstrating ‘everything we value as a company.’

Simon, commercial systems and projects manager, was married last month in Wales to his partner of 13 years, Tamsin Puddephatt.

Caroline Anscombe, Reading Buses HR director, said: "Ray showed fantastic awareness in a difficult situation and is a shining example of how our drivers are trained to help all passengers, including those that can be more vulnerable than others.

"Simon has really stepped up over the last year, taking on new responsibilities and ensuring that lots of work behind the scenes means that customers’ experiences on the buses themselves are of the highest standard.

"Well done to both Simon and Ray."