LONDON United, the Fulwell-based bus company, is just the ticket for passengers, decided the judges in a prestigious competition.

The firm was named Bus Operator of the Year at this year's London Transport Awards, held last Thursday (March 25).

The event celebrates the achievements of the capital's transport industry and aims to reward organisations who have made a difference to public transport.

London United, whose head office and main garage are in Wellington Road, Fulwell, was delighted to receive the supreme recognition. Competition came in the form of Epsom Buses, Hackney Community Transport and Metroline, but it was London United's commitment, investment and forward thinking that secured the victory.

Emphasis was placed on the company's reputation for service quality, reliability and punctuality, shown by their consistent appearance at the top of the Transport for London performance league tables.

The evening was hosted by David Begg (director, the Centre of Transport Policy) and Jon Snow (presenter, Channel 4 News) with the after dinner speech delivered by Dave Wetzel (vice chairman of Transport for London).

There to pick up the award for London United were managing director Charlie Beaumont, chairman Francois-Xavier Perin and head of human resources Karen Fuller.

Mr Beaumont said: "We are delighted to receive the top award, finally being crowned as London's finest operator is a remarkable achievement and a fitting tribute to the sterling work and dedication of London United's employees, and the investment and support given by Transdev."

London United is owned by the French Transdev group.