Gritter Driver of the Year crowned after 40 winters on UK roads

Gary Lawson, a Durham gritter driver, was named the first-ever Gritter Driver of the Year after 40 winters with Durham County Council; the award was presented at Econ Engineering's Grit and Glory Awards.

Gary Lawson, a gritter driver with Durham County Council, has been named the inaugural Gritter Driver of the Year after his 40th winter on UK roads. He received the accolade at Econ Engineering's Grit and Glory Awards. Lawson was nominated by four managers and praised for his professionalism, community spirit and technical knowhow. He also mentors new winter maintenance operatives and takes part in local industry outreach. Key facts: - Gary Lawson, 62, from Crook, was named the overall Gritter Driver of the Year for 2026. - He was first named the North of England Gritter Driver of the Year before being selected as the overall winner; regional winners were also named in the South of England, Wales and Scotland. - Managers and judges highlighted his vehicle knowledge, problem-solving skills and long service. - Judges noted he has rescued people, livestock and emergency vehicles and has a long record of punctuality across decades of service. - Lawson is a qualified winter maintenance assessor who mentors younger operatives and has represented the industry at events and in schools, including taking part in a children's naming competition for a council snow blower. Summary: The award recognises long service, practical skill and community commitment within winter maintenance and was launched by Econ after research indicated the public underestimates the role gritter drivers play in keeping the UK moving during winter. Undetermined at this time.