PUTTING IT TO THE TEST

So it was a shame that my flight's early arrival had caught out the driver of my booked chauffeur service. Not to sweat, though, an email confirmed my driver's name and contact number, and a text message assured me he had arrived at the airport. A call shortly afterwards helped unite us and we were soon on the road.

I'd booked the service with Blacklane, selecting an entry level 'Business Class' service – a Mercedes Benz E Class – costing £243 (including VAT, fees and tip, and for up to three passengers) from Heathrow to my home in Sussex. An hour's tolerance is included for airport pick-ups, or 15 minutes for other services.

I took the opportunity to trial the service because it was substantially quicker than using a combination of the Underground and Southern train services. And if I'd driven my own car, the expense claim for petrol and parking wouldn't be too far behind the cost of a chauffeur service.

However, it is the duty of care argument that is perhaps the most powerful, for the law wouldn't look kindly on a company that allows an employee to step off a red-eye flight and drive themself home.

And then of course there is the wellbeing factor. This was a totally stress-free and comfortable journey home. Bottled water was provided, I could charge my phone, and the driver was polite – checking I was happy with the volume of the radio and temperature – but also not too chatty. Just the tonic after a busy trip and little sleep!

There's something very comforting about stepping off a long-haul flight early in the morning and being greeted at arrivals by a smartly dressed driver bearing a board with your name on it.