TWO drivers for a Henley charity achieved maximum marks in a driving safety test. 

Rod Simmons and Charles Whittaker are volunteers for Henley Handibus, which provides transport for frail, elderly or disabled Henley residents who can’t use the bus. 

The duo achieved 100 per cent passes in a course and Minibus Driver Awareness Scheme exam held at the River and Rowing Museum. 

Last year, the charity applied to join the national scheme and was given a year to have all its 14 volunteer drivers assessed to ensure they reached the MiDAS standard. Every driver passed and Mr Simmons and Mr Whittaker were the last two, sitting the exam just three days before the year was up. 

The Handibus was set up in 1985 after a survey by Henley Lions Club revealed the need and the current drivers include several retired airline pilots, two dentists and two teachers. 

Published 09/02/10