An award-winning lorry driver instructor from Southampton has retired after helping more than 100 students gain licences of their own.

Dave Monk celebrated turning 66 on December 8, and retired from his position as an LGV instructor at 2 Start Training in Otterbourne on the same day.

Having passed his own LGV driving test in 1991, Dave spent much of his career driving the length and breadth of the UK – clocking up more than one million miles on the roads – before becoming an instructor three years ago.

“I’m quite proud of my time as an instructor,” said Dave.

He said: “I spent most of my life driving up and down the country and would go as far as Wales and Scotland.

“Eventually I wanted to spend more time at home and hopefully pass on what I’ve learnt in 30 plus years.”

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As an instructor, Dave has seen more than 100 students qualify for their LGV licence before hitting the road.

He said: “It’s crazy when you think about it but it’s an incredibly rewarding job.

“It’s nice to see people pass as it means a lot to them and It’s nice to help younger people out and hopefully make their lives better.”

This month, Dave was awarded the 2 Start training instructor of the year award – selected from a range of employees across the region.

He was commended for his hard work, along with the “many positive reviews about him, and his great attitude.”

Dave said: “It’s great to be recognised but I work with a lot of good people who help make a difference.”

Newly retired, Dave doesn’t seem ready to hang up his fluorescents just yet, as he still aims to return to the driving school on a part-time basis.

He added: “I’ve enjoyed it all really and met so many people.

“I’m not at the stage where I’m ready to do nothing so I think the centre might let me come back for a couple of days here and there to help out where I can.”