Wirral man named as ‘RAC patrol of the year’

James Jones, from Wirral, who covers his local area and Cheshire was selected from more than 1,600 patrols for his “outstanding£ breakdown assistance and customer service, helping RAC customers to get back on the road.

After spending 10 years in customer service roles including managing a Post Office, James became an RAC patrol in 2016 after completing a Level Three Motor Vehicle and Maintenance apprenticeship.

The 35-year-old decided on a career change that allowed him to combine his hobby of tinkering with cars and his professional experience dealing with the public.

James was described by his patrol team manager as: “a vital and outstanding member of our team, consistently prioritising the needs of the business and members over personal recognition.

"James is always ready to support his colleagues and, alongside his usual roadside service duties, has played a significant role in streamlining the referral process for our new RAC Mobile Mechanics who service and repair vehicles at customers’ homes, ensuring its seamless operation.”

The main prize for the RAC’s Patrol of the Year is driving a brand-new RAC Ford Transit van in the iconic orange branding, with the highly sought-after number plate ‘P1 RAC’.

Paolo De Sio, the 2023 Patrol of the Year handing over the prestigious ‘P1 RAC’ number plate (Image: RAC)

James said: “Becoming a mechanic was my second career and a natural next step, as it allows me to combine my hobby with my customer service skills.

“My favourite part of working for the RAC is meeting and talking to customers. I really enjoy being able to help people and make their day a bit better by seeing a problem through to resolution.

"Although it’s meant less time at home, this year I’ve enjoyed spending more time in different parts of the country when there’s been a need for extra patrols in other areas.

“It was intense waiting to see if I’d won the award, so I was both relieved and pleased to hear the news on the night. It’s fantastic to have your hard work acknowledged and appreciated!”

While James took the title of national patrol of the year, four other RAC employees were recognised for their services in their respective regions. Steven Webster was recognised as northern patrol of the year, Richard Heathcock took eastern, Allan Pett was awarded southern and Nik Rowles was crowned in the western region.