The UK bus industry today salutes the essential work of its unsung heroes in the prestigious 2011 UK Bus Awards.

Rita Kendrick of Arriva Yorkshire is named Unsung Hero for 2011 for her “dedication and commitment” in overseeing the company’s Heckmondwike depot.

There are celebrations for a trio of bus industry veterans, who receive Commendations for Outstanding Service. They are Rick Halsall of Arriva North West; Malcolm Morgan of First Hampshire & Dorset and Arthur Pearson of the Oxford Bus Company.

They were selected from 250 entries in 20 categories from around the country, and received their prizes before 650 industry movers and shakers at a glittering ceremony at the Hilton at Park Lane on 29th November.

Congratulating all the successful finalists, UK Bus Awards chairman John Owen commented: “In these difficult and uncertain times, we’ve been both surprised and delighted by the number and quality of entries for the 2011 UK Bus Awards.

“The combination of rising fuel prices and cuts in public spending are making life particularly difficult for everybody involved in bus service provision at the moment. Even so, our judges were really impressed by the commitment to quality and innovation shown by bus operators, local authorities and their partners in this, the awards' 16th year,” he continued.

“Over five billion passenger journeys are made by bus every year, and the industry has a huge amount to offer in delivering the Government’s key transport policy objectives. The finalists in this year’s awards are contributing hugely with their bright ideas and their commitment to customer service. They are paving the way for the future success of an industry which remains firmly at the heart of our national life.”

The lunchtime ceremony was hosted by BBC News Presenter Jane Hill and the Keynote Address was given by Norman Baker MP - Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State, Department for Transport; Gillian Merron, Chair, Bus Users UK presented the awards.