West Midlands tram drivers compete in championship

The European Tram Driver Championships will be held Frankfurt, Germany, over the weekend

Two tram drivers will represent the West Midlands at the European Tram Driver Championships over the weekend.

Jasbir Kaur, from Wolverhampton, and Dawid Osika, from Wednesbury, will head to Frankfurt, Germany, to showcase their driving expertise with events including performing emergency stops and bringing trams to a precise halt.

Organised by TRAM-EM, the event first began in 2012 and hosts tram drivers from across the globe.

Mr Osika said he was excited to take on the challenge and bring home a win to the West Midlands.

"I've worked in the public transport sector for the last 12 years but I love the trams," Mr Osika said.

Ms Kaur became a tram driver after wanting a career change and said she was looking forward to competing against other drivers from around the world.

"When I found this job I thought this is the perfect one for me, it was the best decision of my life and I love it.

"When I drive along the tracks and collect people along the way they appreciate you and I put smiles on people's faces," she said.

One of the most anticipated events is “tram bowling,” where drivers must skilfully push a 1.5kg ball along the track between two marker posts.

Anthony Stanley, West Midlands Metro’s head of operations and safety, said: "We’re excited to watch them compete against the best in Frankfurt,” Anthony added.

“Both have an excellent chance to bring home the title of European Tram Driver of the Year.”

The championship will take place on Saturday.