THREE Bury bus drivers are certainly in top gear.

Steve Shaw, James Barnes and Graham Ducie have received their certificates in recognition of achieving NVQ (National Vocational Qualification) Level 2 in transporting passengers by road.

The presentation took place at the Village Hotel in Prestwich and the certificates were handed over by Garry Raven, North West divisional managing director of bus company First, which employs the drivers.

Altogether, 23 achievers based at various depots of First across northern Greater Manchester received awards.

Each had worked determinedly towards their NVQ and their success reflects the considerable time and effort they put into acquiring this valuable recognition of their professional skills.

Mr Raven said: "The company is totally committed to the principles of the NVQ scheme and, utilising the experience and expertise of our staff at the company's training and development centre in Bolton, supports all its drivers in their efforts to secure this valuable qualification.

"This is a clear endorsement of real professionalism. Each of the drivers has an important part to play in enabling the company to fulfil its mission to transform travel by delivering the consistent, high quality services that our customers demand."