A bus driver has been hailed “a tourism ambassador” for going above and beyond the call of duty.

Mark Anderson was recently awarded the Visitor Industry Partnership’s Sunshine Award for his tireless work to showcase Bermuda and make visitors feel welcome.

He received his Sunshine Award pin and certificate from the Minister of Tourism, Shawn Crockwell, at a congratulatory lunch last week.

“Mark Anderson truly represents Bermuda hospitality; he is a tourism ambassador full of genuine warmth and friendliness,” Mr Crockwell said.

“It is really good to celebrate the success of Bermudians who go above and beyond the call of duty.”

“I am pleased to offer my congratulations and gratitude to Mark for ensuring that our visitors have a pleasurable and memorable experience. He is very deserving of this award.”

The Sunshine Award programme is sponsored by the Bermuda Tourism Authority and is designed to highlight a Bermuda resident who has gone out of their way to make a visitor’s stay in Bermuda one to remember. The quarterly winners are chosen as a result of nominations from visitors.

Chairwoman of Visitor Industry Partnership Dr Barbara O’Shaughnessy said: “Since the inception of the Sunshine Awards, Mark has received 85 nominations.

“They were all glowing and talked about his friendly and warm personality. He exemplifies the true Bermudian spirit of hospitality and friendship.”

Jill Dill, tourism appreciation and communications manager, who was a member of the judging committee, added: “The positive way in which Mark engages our visitors and showcases Bermuda’s brand of hospitality is invaluable.

“His interactions along with the warm and sincere greetings demonstrated by all of us throughout the community are paramount in solidifying the Island’s reputation as one of the world’s most friendly destinations.”