Diamond Bus North West named winner at UK Bus Awards

Diamond Bus North West received the Top Contracted Operator title at the 2025 UK Bus Awards, held at the Troxy in London, recognising its work delivering franchised services across Greater Manchester as part of the Bee Network.

The company also took home the silver award for UK Bus Operator of the Year.

Matt Rawlinson, managing director of Diamond Bus North West, said: “Winning the first Top Contracted Operator award, alongside Silver in UK Bus Operator of the Year, is a fantastic achievement for everyone at Diamond.

“It reflects the hard work of our colleagues, the trust placed in us by our partners, and our belief in what franchised networks can deliver for local communities.

“It also comes as we mark our 10th anniversary, so this national recognition is a brilliant way to round off a landmark year for the business.”

The Top Contracted Operator award highlights Diamond’s performance on contracted networks, including its delivery of Bee Network services across all three tranches in Greater Manchester, in partnership with Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM).

The company has positioned itself as a long-term partner in the region.

It was the first bus operator to sign the Greater Manchester Good Employment Charter and is accredited for both the Real Living Wage and Real Living Hours.

Diamond also works with councillors, passenger groups, and schools, including special educational needs (SEN) schools to help young people gain confidence in using mainstream transport services.

Alan Millar, chairman of the UK Bus Awards, said: “Every year, the UK Bus Awards remind us that this industry is built on people, people with skill, ability and a determination to make a difference.

“Our 2025 winners and finalists showcase the power of innovation, collaboration and community.

“Their achievements inspire the whole sector, and we’re proud to celebrate them.”

Diamond continues to invest in both its workforce and its fleet.

More than 200 drivers have completed training at its academy since 2023, supported by in-house instructors and a DVSA examiner.

The company has been fully staffed since 2023.

On the road, Diamond operates a modern Euro 6 fleet, with vehicles equipped with 5G CCTV, telematics, and audio-visual announcements to support Greater Manchester’s safety and environmental goals.

Alison Chew, director of bus at TfGM, said: “The Bee Network is delivering much more reliable services to people throughout Greater Manchester.

“This wouldn’t be possible without the commitment and dedication of our operators and their staff, who work hard day-in and day-out to keep the city-region moving – and this award is deserved recognition of that.”