OXFORD Bus Company is nominated in what it calls 'the prestigious' UK Bus Awards.

The firm is shortlisted in the 'Top Shire Operator' category which recognises bus companies that provide an 'outstanding' service and 'embrace technology to drive improvements'.

The category also rewards bus companies that demonstrate 'commitment to uplifting the environment they operate in' and commitment 'to their customers and employees'.

The shortlist is being officially announced today at the Museum of Transport, Greater Manchester.

Oxford Bus Company managing director Phil Southall said: "It is an honour to be shortlisted for such a high award in our industry and it is a fantastic reflection of the hard work and dedication of our colleagues and the service we provide on a daily basis.

"It has been a year of great change in Oxford with the development of the Westgate and we have embraced this and been flexible and progressive in our approach to ensuring we continue to deliver a first class transport network for the county we are proud to serve.

"We are steadfast in our long term vision and have invested almost £9m into new buses, technology, customer convenience and staff welfare in the past year, to ensure we continue to innovative.

"This has included introducing contactless payment technology, new modern buses with Wi-Fi, luxury seating and charging points, establishing a new travel shop and customer lounge at Gloucester Green coach station and entering new markets, like Woodstock.

"Our culture is very strong and employee and customer engagement and satisfaction ratings have improved."

The award winners will be revealed at a ceremony on Tuesday, November 21.