Simon Bottomley of Nasaleze has been named International Forklift Operator of the Year at the Talent in Logistics Awards 2017.

The award was presented by special guest, stand-up comedian, Tim Vine and award sponsor UniCarriers during a ceremony at the Telford International Centre.

Mike Williams, chairman of Talent in Logistics, said: ’After a strong performance throughout the competition heats, Simon continued to excel in the Grand Finals,.

’Simon demonstrated safe and efficient forklift operation through an array of practical tests, showing the high level of skill they have acquired through the correct training.’

Visitors to the Talent in Logistics Conference witnessed the most diverse grand final in the competition’s history.

For the first time ever, female forklift operators qualified for the grand finals of the competition, alongside the youngest competitor yet, an 18-year old apprentice engineer.

It is also the first time an international competitor has reached the grand final, with the reigning India Forklift Operator of the Year moving forward to the next stage.

Simon beat hundreds of the best forklift operators from around the world who originally entered the International Forklift Operator of the Year contest, which is partnered by UniCarriers and McCue Corporation.

The 40 forklift drivers with the highest scores from the initial online test were advanced to the next stage of the contest which was held at IMHX (the International Materials Handling Exhibition) in September 2016.

Following practical tests (sponsored by Pyroban and B&B Attachments), theory and pre-use tests (sponsored by Transaid), just 12 safe, skilled operators were selected by the judges as grand finalists.

At Talent in Logistics, these 12 grand finalists competed in various live challenges using UniCarriers lift trucks in front of an audience of their colleagues and peers, as well as conference visitors, in a bid to win the esteemed title of International Forklift Operator of the Year.

Nasaleze director Samantha Bottomley said: ’Simon worked really well towards this award.

’It shows that we take extreme pride in our employees to show that health and safety is paramount within the company.’

Simon said: ’ I was absolutely made up with winning, it was a tough competition but I managed to overcome the challenge.’

Nasaleze is based at Ballafletcher Business Park, Douglas.

The company produces a revolutionary cellulose powder used to combat hay fever and for allergy relief.

The product is sold all over the world.

With 15 awards this year, the Talent in Logistics Awards are unlike any other in the logistics sector.

They are solely dedicated to recognising those who train, lead and inspire frontline logistics and transport staff. From trainers, instructors and Learning and Development (L&D) managers, to LGV drivers and apprentices, HR managers to transport managers, these awards reward the people that keep the British Isles moving.

Mike Williams said: ’Forklift trucks play an important role in so many companies so skilled knowledgeable operators like Simon are essential for promoting safety and achieving efficiency. Congratulations to Simon but also to his employers Nasaleze for ensuring such high quality lift truck training and standards.’ within their team.’

The next Talent in Logistics Awards will take place on June 21, 2018. To find out more visit: www.talentinlogistics.co.uk.