Ref. 14885/1Trucker Wayne Eyears beat 71 other finalists to win the Comet driver of the year contest and make history for his Westbury firm.

Mr Eyears, who is a driver with Exel on the West Wilts Trading Estate, became the first non-Comet worker to lift the title in the competition's 14-years.

Exel handle some of the electronics giant's driving contracts and Mr Eyears was asked to represent the firm at the contest in Preston. He delivered a consistent performance and win a year's use of a Ford Focus with all the costs thrown in.

Drivers from across the country had their expertise tested in 16 different events including reversing an HGV, racing 80 mph go-karts and taking on a Subaru Impreza rally simulator.

Mr Eyears said: "It was totally unexpected. Even some of the Comet boys said I didn't stand much of a chance.

"It worked on a points system so it was not necessarily a case of trying to win every event, but do as best you can in each. I took a professional approach and it paid off."

Mr Eyears was not the only Exel driver to triumph in Preston earlier this month. Colleague Aidan O'Connor joined up with four Comet workers to lift the team award.

Mr O'Connor, who has worked for Exel for 14 years, said: "I was over the moon. It was a great achievement for both of us."