A Merton bus driver is the greenest in London after winning an eco-driving competition.

Paul Cooper beat 4,500 other drivers in the 2010 500 Challenge organised by operator Go Ahead London.

Mr Cooper won the top prize of a brand new Fiat 500.

He said: “"It's fantastic – I'm really thrilled.  Each of us had an instructor to advise on how to drive as economically as possible, and the guy who helped me is my new best friend for life.

  John Trayner, managing director for Go-Ahead London, said:  "I would like to congratulate Paul and every other Go Ahead driver for their success in this competition, which has helped bring about a considerable improvement to our overall environmental performance.

"The 500 Challenge was open to all our drivers.  They were monitored throughout the year and the top 20 made it to the final.  To help achieve this, each of our vehicles is fitted with an high-tech driving aid which enables drivers to get the best from their bus at all times. 

"The system also monitors driving style and produces 'traffic light' colour-coded reports, with 'green' signifying a driver qualifies for entry to the club."