Contract Category
TVS SCS London Docklands - Courier Control Team
Office Category
Reece Hardy - Santis Global London - Courier Controller
Craig Hyland - Proactive Despatch Manchester - General Manager
Rusheen Hemley - Smiths News Birmingham - Operations Manager
Mariola Kowalczyk - Smiths News Slough - Regional Operations Manager
Stuart Pittaway - TVS SCS Minworth - Night Manager
Kath Wade - TVS SCS Chorley - Senior Customer Services Manager
Two Wheel category
Michael Fawcett - Absolutely Couriers - Cycle courier
Richard Hope - Absolutely Couriers - Cycle Courier
Kamal Colubali - Santis Global - Cargo and motorbike
Luiz Fellipe (S29) - Santis Global - Motorcycle courier
Stuart Ramdhanie (P51) – Addsion Lee - Motorcycle courier
Four Wheels Category
Ray Coombs (V361) - Addison Lee – Van Courier
Robert Irish (V301) – Addison Lee - Van Courier
Arnold Abu – Dpd - Multidrop Van Courier
Sammy El Kurd - Santis Global – Multidrop Van Courier
Thomas Curtis Royal Mail shortlisted Postie of the Year
Super Hero
Agnieszka Straczkowska and Artur Straczkowski - Whistl Bedford – Community Action
Lavina Tudorteo - CitySprint Birmingham – Self Empl Van Courier
Jose Vargas – SBL Couriers Crawley – Cover Van Driver
Tony Warner – Quickline Manchester - Large Van driver
Services to Industry
Jon Bunting Smiths News
Full citations and photos
Contract Category
Office Team - London Docklands Courier Control Team TVS SCS ‘Saving a red panda’
Time-critical veterinary sample movement
Contributed to saving the life of a critically endangered red panda.
Exceptional Service and Operational Excellence – three locations co-ordinated
Operations team identified the developing issue through live vehicle tracking and took immediate action.
Simi Punn nominates TVS SCS Docklands Sameday Team - including both Customer Service and Operations, for their exceptional handling of a time-critical veterinary sample movement that ultimately contributed to saving the life of a critically endangered red panda.
The team received an urgent booking request to recover veterinary samples from three separate locations after the customer's regular driver had been unable to complete the collections the previous evening due to an emergency.
From the moment the booking was received, the Docklands team recognised that this was not a routine courier movement. Customer Service immediately contacted the client to confirm the requirements and obtain additional collection instructions to ensure the recovery could be completed successfully.
During this conversation, the team learned that one of the samples related to a critically ill endangered animal and that urgent laboratory testing was required to determine the appropriate course of treatment.
Understanding the importance of the shipment, the team immediately prioritised the booking for allocation.
Once a driver had been secured, the driver was personally briefed on the critical nature of the consignment and the importance of completing all three collections and the final laboratory delivery as quickly and safely as possible.
From that point, Customer Service and Sameday Operations worked together to manage the movement from end to end. The team proactively monitored the driver's progress, coordinated the three collection points and maintained regular communication with the customer, providing updates on driver allocation, collection times, estimated delivery times and any emerging risks.
The greatest challenge arose when severe congestion around the M25 and Dartford Crossing threatened to delay the shipment by as much as two hours. The original delivery deadline was 15:00, and such a delay could have had serious consequences.
Rather than simply accepting the traffic delay, the Sameday Operations team identified the developing issue through live vehicle tracking and took immediate action. The driver was diverted away from the congestion and redirected via the A406.
As a result of this intervention, the shipment arrived at the laboratory at 15:57, significantly reducing what could otherwise have been a substantial delay.
The importance of the team's actions only became fully apparent afterwards.
The customer contacted us to explain that the sample was from a critically ill red panda. Had the sample not reached the laboratory when it did, the animal would most likely have had to be euthanised.
Because the Docklands team and driver ensured the sample reached the laboratory as quickly as possible, testing was completed promptly, the correct treatment was identified, and the veterinary team was able to provide the care required.
The customer was incredibly impressed with the service and specifically praised the driver for their professionalism, determination and commitment to completing the delivery.
This movement demonstrates everything that outstanding same-day courier operations should represent teamwork, communication, urgency, intelligent decision-making and complete ownership of the customer's requirement. The Docklands team did not simply allocate a vehicle and monitor a delivery. They understood the importance of what they were carrying, anticipated potential problems, intervened when the delivery became threatened and worked collectively to achieve the best possible outcome.
It is not every day that a courier team can say their work directly contributed to saving the life of an endangered animal. For their exceptional teamwork, professionalism and determination, and for demonstrating the genuine difference that outstanding courier services can make, we are proud to nominate the Docklands Sameday Team for recognition at the National Courier Awards.
Office Category
Office - Reece Hardy - Courier Controller Santis Global London
Level-headed – positive impact – composed under pressure
Brings a sense of stability to the department
Dependable approach is invaluable in a role
Clear judgement and effective coordination.
Reece Hardy, Courier Controller recognition of his consistently calm, level‑headed approach and the positive impact he has on both the department and the wider operation.
Reece maintains a steady and a composed attitude at all times, even in high‑pressure or fast‑moving situations. His ability to remain calm and focused brings a sense of stability to the department, helping workflows run smoothly and ensuring challenges are handled efficiently and professionally. This dependable approach is invaluable in a role that requires clear judgement and effective coordination.
His approachable personality and respectful manner have earned him the trust and loyalty of the driver team, with whom he is a firm favourite. He communicates clearly, listens carefully, and treats everyone with fairness and understanding, fostering strong working relationships and a positive team culture.
Through his calm presence, strong people skills, and commitment to doing things the right way, Reece makes a significant contribution to the success of the department and is a thoroughly deserving nominee.
Office - Craig Hyland - Proactive Despatch - General Manager
‘He has overseen 30% revenue growth in the business.’
‘Over a decade’s service’ ‘Boundless energy is infectious and fires everybody up every day.’
‘Mentored his team to significantly grow professionally and personally.’
Paul Woods nominates Craig Hyland, as General Manager of Proactive Despatch and my number two in the business. Craig's responsible for the Sales, Operations and Customer Service functions in our business.
In the last financial year ending August 31st 2026, he has overseen 30% revenue growth in the business, whilst still maintaining the extremely high service standards that our customers expect from us.
He leads from the front, rolls his sleeves up and gets stuck in as required. He is a radiator and not a drain his boundless energy is infectious and fires everybody up every day.
His people skills are first class, he has the ability to talk to anyone at any level, and an enviable knack of making anyone in his company feel good.
His core role at Proactive Despatch is to develop more leaders in the business, and due to his tutelage, his team have significantly grown professionally and personally.
All this aside I want to give you an example of what a decent human being Craig is.
About nine years ago as my mobility declined and I started to use a wheelchair, I developed a plan to turn a negative situation into a positive one, and made a decision to enter the Swansea 10k in my wheelchair. Now my wheelchair is just a standard one, not a racing chair that you see in the London Marathon, so I knew it would be challenging. When Craig found out I was doing this, he did nothing more than hired a wheelchair and did it alongside me. Wheeling with me in torrential conditions side by side, just like we are in business. Doing it together we raised £4500 for a local children's hospice.
This is just one example of when and how Craig has stepped up for me and the business, but it gives you a good idea of the sort of character he is.
Office - Rusheen Hemley Smiths News Operations Manager Birmingham
Led two major operational transformation programmes Led change affecting more than 1,800 customers. She established countdown meetings to create clear governance, accountability and visibility of risk.
Enabled several sites and specialist functions to work towards one coordinated implementation plan with minimal customer disruption.
Ability to turn complex plans into successful operational change, while keeping people and customers central to every decision.
Wayne Foster Smiths News nominates Rusheen Hemley smith Operations Manager Birmingham, ‘Delivered two major operational transformation programmes Led change affecting more than 1,800 customers Managed extensive contractor, colleague and stakeholder engagement Maintained service through depot closure, integration and network redesign Over the past 12 months, Operations Manager Rusheen Hemley has demonstrated exceptional leadership through two of the most significant network transformation programmes undertaken by Smiths News.
Although nominated within the Office category, Rusheen delivered these achievements at the heart of the operation, working across multiple depots, delivery networks, contractor communities and specialist functions.
The first programme involved closing the Worcester depot and integrating its operation into Gloucester. Approximately 210 customers were transferred, creating a complex challenge involving routes, contractors, colleagues, equipment, facilities and customer continuity. Ten contractors were affected and offered the opportunity to transfer, with Rusheen securing four transfers through open and constructive engagement. Five employed colleagues were supported through the process and offered alternative opportunities at Gloucester or elsewhere within Smiths News.
Rusheen established countdown meetings to create clear governance, accountability and visibility of risk. She coordinated Facilities, IT, Customer Services, HR, Contractor Management, Growth, local management and senior operational leadership, while also maintaining publisher confidence. The integration was delivered seamlessly with service maintained, and Rusheen continued supporting Gloucester afterwards to ensure the change remained successful.
Her second programme was a major network redesign across Birmingham, Wednesbury and Shrewsbury. It involved transferring approximately 500 customers from Birmingham to Wednesbury, moving 90 customers from Wednesbury to Shrewsbury and completely redesigning the delivery arrangements for the remaining 1,000 Birmingham customers.
The contractor challenge was considerable. Rusheen led 57 new contractor negotiations in Birmingham and a further 17 negotiations to establish 17 new routes at Wednesbury. She also managed the successful relocation of a management colleague from Birmingham to Wednesbury.
Once again, she brought structure to complexity through disciplined countdown meetings, visible milestones and clear accountability. This enabled several sites and specialist functions to work towards one coordinated implementation plan with minimal customer disruption.
Throughout both programmes, Rusheen applied Operational Excellence principles in practice: Right First Time to protect service; Visual Management to make progress and risks transparent; Standardisation to create consistency; and Go See Do to understand and resolve issues at source.
Equally important was how she led people. Her fair, friendly, trusted and open approach enabled honest conversations with colleagues and contractors during periods of uncertainty. She balanced empathy with the need to make decisions, maintain momentum and deliver the required outcome.
Rusheen’s ability to turn complex plans into successful operational change, while keeping people and customers central to every decision, makes her highly deserving of the IOC Office Award.
Office - Mariola Kowalczyk - Smiths News Slough - Regional Operations Manager
She demonstrates a genuine willingness to develop - stepped from operational to strategy.
‘progression is a great example of what she can be achieved through hard work’
She is approachable, supportive and always willing to get involved when somebody needs help.
But equally she is prepared to challenge where standards are not where they need to be
Craig Lawson, Smiths news nominates mariola Kowlczyk regional Ops Manger Slough. ‘Mariola’s progression within Smiths News is a great example of what can be achieved through hard work, determination and a genuine willingness to develop. I have had the opportunity to work closely with Mariola and have seen first-hand the amount of effort she has put into progressing through the management ranks. She has never been someone who has simply waited for the next opportunity to come along; she has actively worked on her own development, taken on additional responsibility and continually looked for ways to broaden her knowledge of the operation and the wider business.
One of Mariola’s biggest strengths is her willingness to challenge herself and step outside of her comfort zone. As she has progressed, she has had to adapt from being heavily involved in the day-to-day operation to thinking more broadly and strategically. She has invested a significant amount of time in her own development, including completing her apprenticeship alongside the demands of her operational role. Her recent project work is another good example of this, where she demonstrated her ability to use data, process mapping and colleague engagement to understand operational issues and drive improvements.
Mariola has also built strong relationships with the people around her. She is approachable, supportive and always willing to get involved when somebody needs help, but equally she is prepared to challenge where standards are not where they need to be. That balance has helped her gain the respect of colleagues at different levels of the business.
Her progression into the Operations Manager/ROM role is thoroughly deserved and reflects the journey she has been on rather than one individual achievement. She has continued to develop, learn from challenges and take on greater accountability at every stage. For me, Mariola is a strong example of internal progression within Smiths News and somebody who demonstrates that with the right attitude, commitment and willingness to learn, there is a genuine pathway to progress through the organisation.
Office – Stuart Pittaway - TVS SCS Minworth - Night Manager
Outstanding commitment, dedication, and contribution to the successful implementation of IEX.
Leading real time GPS – photographic POD proof.
Strong technical understanding, careful planning, resilience, collaboration.
An unwavering focus on achieving the right outcome.
‘A real and lasting difference to the business.’
Simi Punn nominates Stuart Pittaway for his outstanding commitment, dedication, and contribution to the successful implementation of IEX.
The introduction of IEX has been a significant and ambitious transformation for the business. More than simply replacing an existing system, the project has provided us with a modern, market-leading technology platform that strengthens our operational capability and creates a solid foundation for future growth and innovation.
Stuart heading IEX has brought several important new capabilities to the business, including real-time GPS tracking, enhanced operational visibility, and the ability for drivers to capture photographic proof of delivery (POD) at the point of delivery. These capabilities provide greater transparency and accountability, while also giving the business access to better information to support decision-making, customer service, and operational performance.
Delivering a transformation of this scale is never straightforward. It requires strong technical understanding, careful planning, resilience, collaboration, and an unwavering focus on achieving the right outcome. Throughout the project, Stuart consistently demonstrated all these qualities. His exceptional attention to detail and thorough approach were fundamental to keeping the implementation moving forward. Stuart played a key role in identifying and resolving issues, managing challenges as they emerged, supporting colleagues across the business, and ensuring that the implementation remained focused on delivering a successful outcome.
What has been particularly impressive is Stuart’s perseverance and professionalism. Even when faced with challenges, he remained committed to finding solutions and continued to go above and beyond what was required. His willingness to take ownership, maintain momentum, and support the wider team made a significant difference throughout the journey. The successful rollout of IEX represents an important milestone for the business. We now have a more modern and connected operating platform, greater real-time visibility of our activities, improved proof-of-delivery capability, and a technology foundation that enables us to continue developing the way we operate.
This achievement reflects the hard work and commitment of everyone involved, but Stuart’s contribution has been particularly significant. His dedication, expertise, attention to detail, and determination have been instrumental in turning an ambitious technology programme into a successful business transformation.
For these reasons, I am delighted to recognise Stuart for his exceptional contribution and to thank him for the commitment he has shown throughout the IEX programme.
His efforts have made a real and lasting difference to the business, and his contribution should be rightly recognised and celebrated.
Office - Kath Wade TVS SCS Chorley - Senior Customer Services Manager
‘achieving significant operational challenges that extended far beyond a standard delivery service.’
Leading complex logistics supporting oversized two person Guiness Self pour bars throughout UK
‘Developed and managed the end-to-end delivery process, coordinating multiple stakeholders.’
Service did not simply end with delivery.
Every installation required precision execution - operational and ready for customer use on arrival.
Simi Punn nominates Kath Wade for her outstanding leadership and coordination of a highly complex logistics operation supporting Diageo's innovative Guinness Self-Pour Mobile Bar programme. This initiative required the transportation, installation, and commissioning of oversized mobile bars across venues throughout the UK, presenting significant operational challenges that extended far beyond a standard delivery service.
The bars are large, specialist units requiring two-person handling teams, careful transportation planning, and detailed operating procedures to ensure safe movement and installation. Kath developed and managed the end-to-end delivery process, coordinating multiple stakeholders including warehousing, transport providers, technical support teams, and customer locations. She was instrumental in creating a robust operating model that ensured each bar was stripped down prior to loading, safely transported, reassembled at the destination, and fully tested before handover.
What makes this achievement particularly impressive is that the service did not simply end with delivery. Every installation required precision execution to ensure the equipment was operational and ready for customer use on arrival. Kath's attention to detail and commitment to service excellence ensured that venues could immediately offer visitors the unique experience of pouring their own perfect pint of Guinness, protecting both the customer experience and the Diageo brand.
Throughout the rollout, Kath demonstrated exceptional problem-solving, planning, and communication skills. She successfully brought together multiple internal and external partners to create a scalable, repeatable solution for a completely new logistics requirement. Her dedication, professionalism, and customer focus were critical to the success of the programme and helped establish TVS as a trusted partner in delivering an innovative and high-profile national initiative.
Kath's contribution exemplifies the very best of the logistics industry, combining operational excellence, innovation, customer service, and teamwork.
Two Wheels Category
Two Wheels – Michael Fawcett Absolutely same day cycle courier, London (chose to stop and help)
Above and beyond as courier and for his community
Extremely uncomfortable situation – courier chose to stop and help.
‘remained calm, used his judgement and helped to de-escalate the situation.’
‘he plaid his part in keeping London moving.’
‘He chose to stop. He saw people who were distressed and a situation where he believed he could make a difference, and he acted.’
Jo Ferrari nominates, ‘Mike’. Michael Fawcet for going above and beyond, not just in his role as a courier, but as a member of the wider London community.
Whilst cycling through Central London making deliveries, Mike noticed a bus had stopped and its alarm was sounding. Realising that something wasn't right, rather than simply continuing with his working day, Mike stopped to see if there was anything he could do to help.
When he approached the bus, he discovered that an intoxicated man was intimidating both the driver and the passengers. The situation had become extremely uncomfortable and both the driver and passengers were understandably distressed.
Mike could very easily have decided that it was nothing to do with him and carried on with his deliveries. Instead, he chose to stop and help.
With both the driver and passengers distressed, Mike stepped in and calmly brought the situation under control. He reassured those around him and calmly engaged with the man, managing to persuade him to leave the bus. Mike then safely helped him off the bus, allowing the driver and passengers to carry on with their journey.
What stands out to me about Mike's actions is the way he responded. He didn't panic or make an already difficult situation worse. He remained calm, used his judgement and helped to de-escalate the situation so that everyone involved could move forward safely.
In our industry, we talk a great deal about reliability, responsibility and keeping London moving. On this occasion, Mike demonstrated that this means much more than simply collecting and delivering packages.
As a cycle courier, Mike is already part of the network of people working across the capital every day to keep the logistics of London moving. On this particular day, however, his contribution extended far beyond his own deliveries. By acting quickly, calmly, and compassionately, he helped the people on that bus while also enabling the driver to get the service moving again and the passengers to continue with their journeys.
There is something particularly admirable about the fact that Mike didn't have to stop. He chose to stop. He saw people who were distressed and a situation where he believed he could make a difference, and he acted.
His actions demonstrated courage, compassion, good judgement, and a genuine willingness to look out for others. They also reflect the spirit of the courier industry, with people out on the streets of London every day who don't simply travel through the communities they serve but are very much a part of them.
Mike went above and beyond what could ever be expected of him as a courier that day. He helped a driver and a group of passengers when they needed support, calmly resolved a difficult situation and, quite literally, helped to keep London moving.
Two Wheels - Richard Hope Cycle Courier London - Absolutely Courier
Over seven decades remains regular and incredibly valuable member of the team
Commitment every day to a standard of service.
Playing his part whatever the weather.
Attention to detail second to none. ‘Assurance for work in the legal sector’
Jo Ferrari nominates London cycle courier, Richard Hope for his remarkable commitment, professionalism and dedication to the courier industry, and for proving that age should never be a barrier to continuing to do a job you enjoy and take enormous pride in.
Richard joined Absolutely in 2022 as a pushbike courier at the age of 70. Four years later, at 74 years young, he remains a regular and incredibly valuable member of our bike circuit, cycling around London every day and providing the same reliable and professional service that he has since the day he joined us.
What makes Richard particularly deserving of recognition is not simply the fact that he is still riding a pushbike professionally at 74, impressive though that undoubtedly is. It is the standard of service, attitude and commitment that he continues to demonstrate every single day.
Whatever the weather, Richard gets on his bike and gets on with the job. Whether London gives him sunshine, wind, rain or freezing temperatures, Richard can be relied upon to be out there collecting and delivering for our clients and playing his part in keeping the logistics of London moving.
Richard's attention to detail is second to none. He is someone who understands that being a professional courier is about far more than simply getting a package from one place to another.
We work with clients in the legal sector, where Richard is regularly trusted with important documentation. If there is an issue with an address, difficulty locating the correct recipient or a requirement to wait patiently at the delivery point, Richard will take ownership of the situation and do everything he can to complete the delivery correctly. For me and the rest of the operational team, that provides a huge amount of reassurance.
When a job is allocated to Richard, we know it is in safe hands. We know that he will be patient, thorough and professional and that he will represent Absolutely in exactly the way we would want one of our riders to represent us. That trust is incredibly important in our industry.
Richard also brings something to the team that cannot be measured through delivery numbers or performance statistics, and that is his personality. He has a fantastic sense of humour and regularly manages to put a smile on my face. On a beautiful sunny day, Richard will happily remind me just how lovely it is outside while I am sitting behind my desk in the office. Equally, when the weather turns and he is out cycling through the wind and rain, he is just as quick to remind me how lucky I am to be sitting in a warm, dry office while he is outside facing the elements! That good humour sums Richard up perfectly. He doesn't complain. He doesn't expect to be treated differently. He simply gets on his bike, does his job and does it to an exceptionally high standard.
There is something incredibly inspiring about someone who decided at the age of 70 to take on a role as a pushbike courier in one of the world's busiest cities and who, four years later, is still out there at 74, riding his bike and delivering for our customers. But I don't want Richard to be recognised simply because of his age. I want him to be recognised because of what his age makes his continued commitment, resilience and professionalism represent. Our industry relies on people who are dependable. People who take responsibility. People who understand the importance of the item they are carrying and the promise that has been made to the customer. People who will go out in difficult conditions and still provide the same level of service. Richard represents all of those things.
At 74 years young, Richard continues to demonstrate resilience, reliability, professionalism, attention to detail and genuine pride in the job he does. There are people who simply do a job, and then there are people whose attitude towards that job represents everything you would want your business and your industry to stand for. Richard is undoubtedly one of those people. He is an exceptional character, a trusted and valued member of our team and a fantastic example of the people who make the courier industry what it is.
Two wheels - Kamal Colubali - Cargo and motorbike Santis Global London
The right person with the right attitude. The right work ethic.
A little gem who works conscientiously
Reliable punctual and efficient
Kamal responded to one of our rounds of recruitment and was quick to explain that he was young, enthusiastic, fit (as a semi-professional footballer), very local to our head office, but knew very little of the industry - as many recruitment heads will recognise, sometimes we are better taking the right person, with the right attitude, the right work ethic, and a willingness to learn over riders or drivers who may have experience, but then we all need to mould them to our circuit and work methods
Kamal proved why every so often we unearth a little gem, who works so conscientiously that he blends in seamlessly – always with a smile on his face - reliable, punctual and efficient - can we clone couriers yet?!!!
Two Wheels S29 Luiz Fellipe Santis Global London Motorcycle courier
Progressing from meal delivery to parcel.
ALWAYS has a smile on his face. Agreed to come out for early work, stayed out for later work.
Always happy to do work at the weekend too to help out
Every circuit can benefit from a Fellipe, and we are very grateful to have him and proud to have him recognised.
Fellipe rides a 125cc scooter, and his calls sign is S29 (Sierra Two Nine)
Luiz is known to us as Fellipe, and he ALWAYS has a smile on his face –
He came in to the industry having very little experience, as many of the younger scooter riders do as they tend to cut their teeth in the food delivery sector, logging onto apps, and working in a very small area, so learning the ropes in a same day circuit when they may do double ups, or multiple collections and multiple deliveries, and Fellipe worked so hard, so conscientiously, so reliably, that as essentially a newbie he picked it up far quicker than virtually everybody that has gone before him, and always with a smile on his face - in addition, he has agreed to come out for early work, stayed out for later work, and is always happy to do work at the weekend too to help out - every circuit can benefit from a Fellipe and we are very grateful to have him, and proud to have him recognised
Two Wheels - Stuart Ramdhanie (P51) – Addison Lee - Know it will get there
Always Moving – Reliability, Knowledge and Outstanding Delivery
Sixteen years on the road, whatever the weather, whatever the deadline – when this courier gets the job, you know it will get there.
Exceptional Motorbike Skills.
London Knowledge That Keeps Deliveries on Track
There’s a reason this courier, Papa 51, Stuart Ramdhanie has built such a strong reputation on two wheels. He is an exceptionally skilled motorbike rider, he combines outstanding road knowledge with experience, reliability and an unwavering commitment to getting the job done.
With 16 years of service at Addison Lee, he has developed a wealth of knowledge that few can match. His understanding of London stretches well beyond the city and towards the M25, allowing him to anticipate delays, navigate efficiently and make the right decisions when every minute counts.
Whatever the weather or season, he is out there delivering. Rain, cold, wind or sunshine, his commitment remains the same – turn up, get the job done and deliver on time. His consistent working pattern and operational reliability make him someone the team can depend on every day.
A memorable example came when a critical, time-sensitive delivery needed to reach its destination within a demanding deadline. With traffic threatening the delivery window, he drew on his extensive road knowledge, adapted his route and remained focused on the task. Through experience, determination and a willingness to go the extra mile, he completed the delivery within the required timeframe.
It was a perfect example of his reputation: when the clock is against him, he finds a way to keep moving.
His record on direct and deadline deliveries is impressive. He understands that when a delivery is time-critical, every minute matters. He plans carefully, remains focused and delivers with the professionalism expected when handling important deliveries.
What really stands out, however, is his attitude. When circumstances change or a delivery becomes challenging, he doesn't look for reasons why it can't be done – he looks for a way to make it happen.
Being a great bike courier requires far more than getting from A to B. It takes judgement, reliability, road awareness, communication and the right attitude every day. He consistently demonstrates all of these qualities across London and beyond, whatever the conditions.
Four Wheels Category
Four Wheels - Addison Lee – Ray Coombs (V361)
Always Delivers – Exceptional Customer Service and a Positive Attitude
One reputation that says it all – “Postman Ray Always Delivers!"
Nine years of experience, thousands of deliveries
Victor three six one, Ray Coombs, there’s a reason this courier is affectionately known as “Postman Ray – Always Delivers!” It perfectly captures both his reliability and his approach to customer service.
In recognition of nine years of dedicated courier service, he is a truly valued member of the team whose experience, professionalism and positive attitude consistently make a difference.
A defining quality of his approach is his ability to deal with the unexpected. Every day brings different challenges, from changing delivery requirements and difficult access points to customer queries and last-minute requests. Rather than seeing these as problems, he uses his experience to find practical solutions, think on his feet and keep the job moving.
A great example came when a time-sensitive delivery was required at short notice, with a demanding delivery window and changing client instructions. Rather than simply accepting the challenge, he took ownership, worked through the practicalities and used his experience to ensure the consignment reached its destination on time.
It was exactly the kind of situation that explains his reputation: when something needs delivering, he finds a way to deliver it.
His extensive knowledge of the courier industry and London delivery environment allows him to assess situations quickly and make informed decisions. Whether answering a customer’s question, resolving a delivery issue or adapting to circumstances on the road, he approaches every situation with patience, professionalism and a genuine desire to help.
What truly sets him apart is his attitude. Customer service isn't simply something he provides – it is part of the way he approaches every job. He listens, understands what is needed and finds the best possible solution, always maintaining a friendly and approachable manner.
And true to his reputation, he is rarely without a smile. His positive personality makes him a pleasure to work with and a valued member of the team. Customers and colleagues know they can rely on him to approach even the most challenging situation with a calm attitude and willingness to help.
He represents everything great courier service should be: experienced, dependable, knowledgeable and genuinely committed to the customer.
Four Wheels Van Driver - Robert Irish (V301) – Addison Lee
Instinct and service excellence. This courier is the person you want when the unexpected happens.
The Consummate Professional Courier – Experience, Instinct and Service Excellence
London throws the challenge. He finds the solution.
Central London Knowledge That Delivers
Victor three zero one, Robert Irish, In recognition of a consummate professional whose experience, exceptional knowledge of Central London and unwavering commitment to client service make him a truly outstanding member of the Addison Lee team.
This courier is the person you want when the unexpected happens.
A typical example came during a busy Central London delivery run. A time-sensitive parcel was heading to a client in the West End when a sudden road closure disrupted the planned route. With traffic building and a tight delivery window to protect, this courier immediately assessed the situation and drew on his extensive knowledge of the capital to identify an alternative route.
Rather than allowing the disruption to become a problem, he adapted, kept operations updated and continued towards the destination. His knowledge of the less obvious routes through Central London enabled him to avoid the worst congestion and complete the delivery within the required timeframe. This is typical of his approach.
Road closures, congestion, restricted access, demonstrations and constantly changing delivery requirements are all part of a London courier’s working day. This courier consistently remains calm, thinks practically and makes sound decisions under pressure, ensuring challenges are overcome rather than becoming excuses for delay.
He knows Central London beyond the sat-nav – understanding the roads, access points, traffic patterns and alternative routes that can make the difference between a successful delivery and a significant delay. But his strengths go far beyond driving and navigation. He consistently goes the extra mile for clients, taking genuine pride in delivering a professional, courteous and dependable service. He understands that a courier is often the face of Addison Lee and represents the company with professionalism at every interaction.
Operationally, he is a pleasure to work alongside – reliable, communicative, positive and always willing to help. When a challenging job comes in, he can be trusted to approach it with the right attitude and find a way forward.
He embodies what it means to be a consummate professional courier: experienced, adaptable, dependable and committed to getting the job done properly. When London throws up an obstacle, this courier doesn’t see a problem – he sees another route.
Four Wheels - DPD driver Arnold Abu – three stars Champions league standard
Justin Pegg – Meet Arnold – ‘15 years of incredible service’
Three stars – over three hundred thousand deliveries.
IOC fellow, DPD boss Justin Pegg was down at the local bank, ‘A fabulous end to the week, meet Arnold. Arnold is from our Birmingham depot and I just met him at the bank drawing out cash like me in Oldbury. Arnold has served 15 years of incredible service! He has delivered over 300k parcels in that time. 3 x 100k Stars on his polo shirt .
Champions league standard in our business. True Super Hero, Delivering What Matters to our customers.’
Four Wheels - Sammy El Kurd Santis Global - Home counties
Almost fifteen years - Sammy makes our job easier
Extraordinary work ethic, go to person for early shift.
Without fail bespoke morning run never failed
Well tsked across short, long and multi.
Sammy has also worked for the Santis same day manager at 2 different companies for over 14 years, joining us at the same time as Chris Mackmurdie – despite his lack of Central London expertise, Sammy has such an extraordinary work ethic, that he learned really quickly, and is our go to man for early work, and will always make himself available for later work and weekends where required - he also does a bespoke run every Monday morning and delivers the multi drop quicker than people a lot younger than him (we never ask his age!!). Unlike some others, he can do both short and long distances, multi drops or same day, and always with his special request for a little extra for loading and unloading!! Sammy makes our job easier - Thank you Sammy.
Four Wheels - Royal Mail Thomas Curtis - Shortlisted for Postie of the Year
Exceptional commitment to customer service
Operational excellence.
Support for new starters and colleagues, helping them build confidence.
Positive impact every day for customers, colleagues, and Royal Mail
‘Leading Ammanford Delivery Office's British Heart Foundation fundraising campaign.’
Royal Mail nominate Thomas Curtis for his exceptional commitment to customer service, operational excellence, and the positive impact he delivers every day for customers, colleagues, and Royal Mail.
Thomas was shortlisted as Royal Mail's Heart of Royal Mail Postie of the Year 2026, following a rigorous review of both qualitative and quantitative performance data. He distinguished himself not only through outstanding operational results, but also through the way he consistently embodies Royal Mail's values and behaviours, setting a benchmark for excellence across the business. Thomas consistently delivers an exceptional level of service, making a measurable difference to customers, colleagues and the wider community. As a postman at Ammanford Delivery Office, he routinely goes beyond the requirements of his role to resolve customer issues before they become formal complaints, personally investigating any parcels highlighted on local social media channels to ensure they reach the correct recipient. His proactive approach protects customer trust, safeguards Royal Mail's reputation and improves customer experience.
His impact extends well beyond his own delivery route. He is a trusted mentor and source of support for new starters and colleagues, helping them build confidence, improve performance and settle quickly into their roles. Through his willingness to share knowledge and provide hands-on support, he contributes positively to team productivity and morale across the delivery office.
In addition to his operational excellence, Tom is leading Ammanford Delivery Office's British Heart Foundation fundraising campaign, engaging colleagues in charitable activity and creating opportunities for the team to give back to local communities. He has also established and coordinated a team to participate in the ROD Wales and Marches fundraising football tournament, strengthening colleague engagement whilst raising money for charitable causes.
Whether supporting customers, helping colleagues succeed or leading fundraising initiatives, Tom consistently demonstrates the professionalism, dedication and community spirit that define the very best of the postal profession. His contribution has a positive impact far beyond his own duties, making him a worthy runner-up for Postie of the Year
Super Hero
Agnieszka Straczkowska, Artur Straczkowski - Whistl Bedford
12-month extraordinary support for colleague.
Fears for his survival - in recovery from life changing cycle accident.
Emotional period – constant source of support.
Together, they took on numerous practical responsibilities that helped both him and his family navigate an incredibly complex situation.
Their actions have inspired colleagues across the business. Through their humanity, commitment, and selfless dedication, they have shown what true colleague support looks like and have made a lasting difference to another person's life.
Steven Pickard, (General Manager – Whistl Central & SE nominates, Agnieszka Straczkowska (Shift Manager – Whistl Central and Artur Straczkowski (Supervisor – Whistl Central & SE) - Aga and Artur deserve recognition for the extraordinary compassion, dedication, and selflessness they have demonstrated over the past year in supporting a colleague (Janusz Krystecki – Warehouse Operative) through an incredible recovery journey following a life-changing cycling accident. Janusz suffered a major traumatic brain injury and was in a Neuro Critical Care unit and placed in a coma with an uncertain prognosis. There were genuine fears for his survival. During this extremely difficult and emotional period, Agnieszka and Artur became a constant source of support, hope, and reassurance. From the day of the accident, they made a commitment to be there for him, visiting regularly in hospital and ensuring he was never alone during one of the most challenging times of his life.
Their support extended far beyond friendship and emotional encouragement. Together, they took on numerous practical responsibilities that helped both him and his family navigate an incredibly complex situation. They assisted with coordinating medical appointments, assessments, welfare meetings, and essential documentation, while also helping to manage personal affairs and financial commitments. Their willingness to give up countless hours of their own time allowed our colleague and his family to focus on what mattered most: recovery.
Throughout every stage of this journey, Agnieszka and Artur demonstrated exceptional kindness, empathy, resilience, and determination. They provided encouragement during the darkest moments and remained unwavering in their support, even when the future was uncertain. They never sought recognition for their efforts and instead acted purely out of genuine care and concern for another person.
The impact of their actions cannot be overstated. Initially, Janusz had severe memory and speech loss. Their dedication has played a significant role in supporting a recovery that many feared might never be possible. Less than a year ago, the focus was on survival. Miraculously, today, Janusz has returned to work, his speech and memory have returned, and he is regaining his independence. A remarkable achievement made possible not only through his own determination but also through the unwavering support network provided by Agnieszka and Artur.
Their actions have inspired colleagues across the business and demonstrated the very best of our company values. Through their humanity, commitment, and selfless dedication, they have shown what true colleague support looks like and have made a lasting difference to another person's life.
Lavina Tudorteo - CitySprint Birmingham - Van Courier
‘making a real difference in people's lives beyond the delivery itself.’
‘recognising that something did not seem right.’
‘Her prompt actions enabled the team to intervene quickly’
‘demonstrated empathy, emotional intelligence and a strong sense of responsibility.’
‘recipient later wrote to express their gratitude, praising Lavinia's actions, highlighting outstanding customer service, genuine care, courage and quick thinking under pressure.’
Colette Trippick CitySprint nominates Self-employed courier Lavinia from Birmingham for her outstanding commitment to customer care and for demonstrating how couriers can make a real difference in people's lives beyond the delivery itself.
While delivering a prescription to a patient, Lavinia encountered some confusion regarding the delivery. Having completed the drop, she could easily have continued with the rest of her route. Instead, recognising that something did not seem right, she returned to check on the recipient and found them in a highly distressed state.
Understanding that the situation required immediate attention, Lavinia acted quickly and contacted the Pharmacy Team, ensuring the issue was escalated without delay. Her prompt actions enabled the team to intervene quickly, providing support and helping to resolve what could have become a very serious and worrying situation for a vulnerable patient.
What makes this story exceptional is that Lavinia's actions went far beyond the role of a courier. She demonstrated empathy, emotional intelligence and a strong sense of responsibility for the wellbeing of the person she was serving. Rather than simply focusing on completing the delivery, she remained alert to the needs of the customer and took decisive action when she recognised that help was needed.
The recipient later wrote to express their gratitude, praising Lavinia's actions and highlighting her outstanding customer service, genuine care, courage and quick thinking under pressure. They recognised that by going above and beyond her normal duties, she helped protect the wellbeing of a vulnerable patient and ensured the appropriate support was put in place.
Lavinia embodies the very best of the courier profession. Her compassion, professionalism and commitment to delivering what matters transformed a routine prescription delivery into an act of genuine human kindness.
Through her initiative and care, she made a meaningful difference to a customer when they needed it most.
Jose Vargas – SBL Couriers Crawley – Cover Van Driver
‘Compassion has made a lasting difference.’
‘Three years of pride in work.’
‘Someone the team can depend on’
‘repeatably flexible across different depots’
‘continues to go above and beyond. ‘
SBL national operations manager Thaylon Marinho, ‘This award recognises someone whose dedication, hard work and compassion have made a lasting difference to his colleagues, the business he represents and the customers he serves. That person is Jose Vargas.’
Jose has been part of SBL Couriers for nearly three years. Throughout that time, through challenging periods and changing demands, he has consistently proved himself through his commitment and the pride he takes in his work. He has become someone the team can depend on, stepping forward where support is needed and giving his best to every assignment.
As a cover driver, Jose’s role requires considerable flexibility. He works across different sites and contracts, each with its own procedures, performance targets and expectations. Covering an unfamiliar round means adapting quickly, learning the operation and delivering a reliable service while representing both SBL and its customers.
Jose has repeatedly risen to that challenge. Whether working at a different depot, covering a new route or putting in long hours to support an operation, he approaches the task with determination and dedication. Wherever he has worked, he has made a positive difference.
Living in Bristol, Jose has also travelled far from home to provide that support. His willingness to do so reflects his commitment to the team and his understanding of how much dependable cover matters. Behind every round is a customer waiting for a delivery, a colleague relying on support and an operation that needs to keep moving. Jose takes those responsibilities seriously.
Case Study – Powerful example of quality.
‘When the client was vulnerable and needed someone beside her, Jose made sure they was not left alone.’
Jose was covering a delivery round in Crawley demonstrated the depth of his character.
During a delivery, Jose encountered an elderly lady with a heart condition who was experiencing difficulty. He recognised that she needed help and acted. He called for assistance and stayed with her until she was in safe hands.
At a moment when she was vulnerable and needed someone beside her, Jose made sure she was not left alone. Although he was away from home, working on a round he was covering, he took the time to notice her distress and respond with care.
That decision speaks volumes about the person Jose is. A delivery driver’s working day brings pressures, deadlines and responsibilities, but Jose recognised the importance of stopping and helping someone who needed him. He showed awareness, compassion and a willingness to take responsibility when it mattered.
For SBL, this incident stands out as a powerful example of the qualities Jose has shown throughout his time with the company. His hard work supports the operation. His flexibility supports his colleagues. His care reaches the people he meets along the way.
Over nearly three years, Jose has earned the respect and appreciation of his team through his actions. He has supported different sites, adapted to different contracts and consistently given his best, even when the work has been demanding. He has shown that being an outstanding courier includes the way you treat people, the attention you give them and the decisions you make when something unexpected happens.
Jose deserves this recognition for the commitment he brings to his work every day and for the compassion he showed to that customer in Crawley. His actions reflect the very best qualities of our industry: reliability, dedication, responsibility and care.
Tony Warner - Quickline Manchester - Large Van Driver
Truly valued member of the community
Supporting vulnerable members of the community
Shared his personal journey of home regeneration to help inspire others
During the Christmas period, rather than celebrating solely with family, Tony opened his home to people experiencing homelessness.
In a local supermarket, Tony witnessed an elderly lady preparing to return her shopping because she could not afford to pay for it. Without hesitation, he stepped forward
Anthony Warner (Known as Tony) is an exceptional individual whose kindness, generosity, and commitment to others extend far beyond his role as a frontline driver for Quickline. He consistently demonstrates compassion, integrity, and a genuine desire to make a positive difference in the lives of those around him.
Supporting His Community
• Tony shared his personal journey with RBH Housing in the Manchester Evening News, highlighting how the organisation supported him through a regeneration programme and helped him move into a safer, better-quality home. By openly sharing his experience, he has helped raise awareness of the positive impact of community regeneration and has inspired others who may be facing similar challenges.
• During the Christmas period, rather than celebrating solely with family, Tony opened his home to people experiencing homelessness. He welcomed them with warmth, provided a freshly cooked meal, and ensured that no one had to spend Christmas Day feeling isolated or alone. This selfless act reflects his belief that everyone deserves kindness, dignity, and companionship.
• In a local supermarket, Tony witnessed an elderly lady preparing to return her shopping because she could not afford to pay for it. Without hesitation, he stepped forward and paid for her groceries, allowing her to leave with the essentials she needed. His quiet act of generosity made an immediate and meaningful difference to someone at a difficult moment.
Alongside his remarkable contributions to the community, Tony gives 110% every day in his role as a frontline driver for Quickline. He drivers a Vauxhall Movano LWB van. He is from Manchester but employed under Quickline head office in Liverpool.
He is dedicated, reliable, and always willing to go the extra mile for customers and colleagues alike. His positive attitude, professionalism, and friendly approach have earned him consistent praise from customers, with regular positive feedback recognising the outstanding service he provides.
Tony doesn't just do his job—he represents the very best of Quickline's values. Whether he is supporting vulnerable members of the community, helping strangers in need, or delivering exceptional customer service, he approaches everything with humility, compassion, and unwavering commitment.
Tony is an incredibly deserving candidate for this award. His actions demonstrate that making a difference isn't limited to the workplace—it is simply part of who he is.
IOC Fellow, Quickline boss, Andy Martin, ‘He is an outstanding ambassador for Quickline and a truly valued member of the community.’
IOC Services to Industry 2026
Jon Bunting Smiths News – Delivering the nightly miracle
His ethos - ‘The Journey matters.’
CEO of a complex overnight supply chain that is the media, nightly miracle’
Major media business places decade-long contract in 2026.
‘Consistently championed the importance of people, culture and community.’
‘During the COVID-19 pandemic, Jon and the Executive team introduced a direct colleague hardship safety net to support employees and families.’
Jon is a rare example of a leader who combines long-standing industry experience with the vision, pace and personal conviction needed to lead a business through change. Having joined WH Smith News in 1994, Jon has grown with the organisation, taking on senior commercial, operational and executive leadership roles before becoming CEO. That journey matters. It means his leadership is not theoretical; it is grounded in a deep understanding of colleagues, customers, publishers, retailers and the complex overnight supply chain that keeps the newspaper and magazine industry moving every day.
Under Jon’s leadership, Smiths News has continued to deliver strong financial and operational performance in a market that is structurally challenging and constantly evolving. Rather than simply managing decline, Jon has led the business with purpose: protecting the core, strengthening customer relationships, investing in operational capability and building confidence in the future of the industry. Smiths News now stands as the UK’s largest news wholesaler and a leading early-morning supply chain provider, serving over 22,000 retailers through a national network of distribution centres and hundreds of thousands of tracked weekly deliveries.
The clearest evidence of Jon’s leadership is the confidence major publishers continue to place in Smiths News. In 2026, the business secured two transformational long-term agreements with News UK and Associated Newspapers Limited. These agreements not only extend key publisher relationships through to 2037, but also help simplify the wholesale model, reduce structural cost from the supply chain and support a more sustainable future for print distribution across Great Britain. In a sector facing changing consumer habits, cost pressure and operational complexity, Jon has helped create a model that protects retailers, consumers, publishers and the wider industry.
What makes Jon’s leadership stand out is that commercial success has never been separated from responsibility. He has consistently championed the importance of people, culture and community. His founding of Pass It On, a charity supporting homeless and vulnerable people, demonstrates the values that sit behind his leadership. What began as a simple act of kindness has grown into a charity that has helped thousands of people with warm clothing, sleeping bags, care packs, food, hot drinks and, just as importantly, human connection.
Jon also showed exceptional people leadership during the COVID-19 pandemic, when he and the Executive team introduced a direct colleague hardship safety net to support employees and families facing difficult circumstances. That response reflected the same qualities that define his wider leadership: practical action, compassion, speed, and a clear belief that businesses have a duty to look after the people and communities around them.
Jon’s impact is therefore both commercial and human. He has helped secure the long-term future of a critical national supply chain, delivered strong business performance, built confidence with major partners, supported retailers and publishers, and shown that responsible leadership is measured not only in results, but in the way those results are achieved.
For his sustained contribution to Smiths News, the wider news distribution industry, his colleagues and the communities the business serves, Jon Bunting is nominated for highly deserving recipient of the 2026 Institute of Couriers services to industry award.
