Stagecoach Merseyside & South Lancashire Named UK’s Greenest Regional Operation for 2025/26

• Stagecoach Merseyside & South Lancashire named Best Operating Company (UK) at the Christopher Ball Memorial Awards
• Awards held in memory of former employee who pioneered eco-driving technology across Stagecoach
• Drivers across Gillmoss, Birkenhead, Chester, Preston and Chorley recognised for exceptional standards in fuel-efficient and safe driving

Stagecoach Merseyside & South Lancashire has been named the UK's Greenest Regional Operation after winning Best Operating Company at the 2025/26 Christopher Ball Memorial Awards.

The annual awards celebrate Stagecoach's UK Bus eco-driving champions and honour the memory of Christopher Ball, a former Stagecoach Ecodriver Project Manager who was instrumental in introducing GreenRoad eco-driving technology to the company's fleet.

Christopher, who sadly passed away in 2014, played a leading role in embedding safer and more environmentally responsible driving practices across Stagecoach's UK operations. The awards scheme, launched in 2015 in his name, continues to recognise excellence in eco-driving and road safety.

Stagecoach Manchester and Merseyside, formerly known as Stagecoach Merseyside & South Lancashire, operates services across Merseyside and Cheshire. The award recognises the achievements of colleagues from the former Merseyside & South Lancashire operation, including teams based at Gillmoss, Birkenhead, Chester, Preston and Chorley.

Hundreds of drivers across the region were recognised for their commitment to delivering safe, smooth and fuel-efficient journeys for customers.

Through the use of GreenRoad's real-time driver feedback system, Stagecoach has achieved significant reductions in fuel consumption and CO₂ emissions, supporting the company's wider sustainability ambitions and commitment to achieving net zero emissions.

Simon Tramalloni, Operations Director at Stagecoach Manchester and Merseyside, said: "We are incredibly proud to be recognised as the UK's Best Operating Company at the Christopher Ball Memorial Awards.

"This achievement reflects the dedication and professionalism shown by our drivers every day across Gillmoss, Birkenhead, Chester, Preston and Chorley. Their commitment to safe, responsible and fuel-efficient driving not only helps us reduce our environmental impact but also ensures our customers enjoy reliable and comfortable journeys.

"The awards are a fitting tribute to Christopher Ball's legacy, and it is fantastic to see so many of our colleagues recognised for the exceptional standards they consistently deliver. This award belongs to every member of the team who has contributed to making Stagecoach Merseyside & South Lancashire the Greenest Regional Operation in the UK.”

As the business continues its journey towards a more sustainable future, this latest recognition reinforces its position as a leader in eco-driving excellence. The award celebrates not only the legacy of Christopher Ball, but also the dedication of drivers and colleagues across the region whose commitment to safety, efficiency and customer service continues to deliver benefits for customers and the environment.

Picture - Left to Right:

Simon Tramalloni, Operations Director, Stagecoach Manchester & Merseyside

Daniel Howard, GreenRoad Champion Birkenhead Depot

Piotr Strychalski, GreenRoad Champion, Preston/Chorley Depot

Gail Abbott, GreenRoad Champion, Chester Depot

Paul Gale, GreenRoad Champion, Gillmoss Depot

Adam Moss, Managing Director, Stagecoach Manchester & Merseyside

Rob Jones, Regional Managing Director England & Wales