Coach & Bus Week : Issue 1074 by Coach and Bus Week & Group Travel World

Wednesday February 13, 2013 Issue 1074 | £2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com

COACH:

Finalists announced for this year's UK Coach Awards p4

LEGAL:

PI for Midlands �irm after convicted sex offender is hired p38

BUS:

Brighton & Hove launches mobile ticketing p7

IN CAMERA:

How Redwing Coaches has worked with VUE CCTV p42

for recruitm

JOB ADVE ent EVERY WERTS EK

RECRUIT N

TfGM: A fairer deal for Manchester p46

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this week

Coach & Bus Week, First Floor, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX Switchboard 01733 293240 Fax 0845 280 2927 Web www.coachandbusweek.com Distributed by COMAG

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PR matters: It’s the way you tell them...

’m sure I’m not alone in being somewhat saddened by the formal announcement of the planned closure of Parrys International, but I confess I was told in the strictest confidence some time ago that it was on the horizon. Like so many of us in this industry, Dave is very passionate about what he does. Being at times rather frank, he’s not everyone’s cup of tea but I’ve always got on well with him – we’re straight and we trust each other. When changing any business, communication is key. In Dave’s familiar candid style, he told me: “We decided that if we didn’t get a press release out as soon as we’d broken the news to our staff, people would think we’d gone bust. The story made the front page of our main local paper, the Express & Star and the tributes poured in.” Another gentleman who’s very close to his businesses and has been in the media this past week is Sir Brian Souter, who appeared on BBC TV’s Question Time (QT) programme. As always seems to be the case, he spoke well. He may be a very wealthy man but he remains down to earth, having never forgotten his roots, something which certainly came across on QT. It appears there is a tendency to

have the same pool of people on QT. It was therefore refreshing to have a fresh face, but particularly someone from the transport industry. With his role changing in the business he founded, hopefully we will see more of him in the coming months. Of course, the programme is not for everyone – particularly if you’re a traditionalist – as you can end up being ripped to shreds rather than being seen in a good light. Of course, Sir Brian has never been particularly slow in coming forward about his political views. On the subject of PR, it was great to see coaches from Alpine Travel, Redwing and Brent Thomas on BBC Wales at tea time on Sunday afternoon in the selfexplanatory programme ‘A Summer in Wales’. Also, while I don’t expect many of you to have seen him, Sion Midway of Midway Motors, Crymych, Pembrokeshire flew the flag for the coach industry on Saturday evening. He appeared on the popular entertainment show ‘Noson Lawen’ as a comedian on S4C, the Welsh language Channel 4. Perhaps not surprisingly, all his jokes revolved around his experiences of driving coaches, much to the joy of the audience. As we say in Welsh, da iawn (well done). Gareth Evans Editor

CONTENTS 4

The latest from across the coach and bus industry in the UK

The latest Jonckheere-bodied Volvo supplied to Plastow’s of Oxford

Transport Manager disqualified after hiring convicted sex offender

Drivers gain recognition for high achievement with First and NCT

Redwing adopts VUE CCTV systems after positive results from trials

A lighthearted look at the industry. Plus Office Diary column

Focus on Driver CPC specialist training providers

Service and traffic management Transport for Greater Manchester

All the latest people moves from across the industry

News

Drivers

Industry Guide

Big Picture

Coach CCTV PTE Insight

Legal News

Last Stop

People

The opinions and views expressed by authors and contributors within Coach & Bus Week are not necessarily those of the Editor or its publisher Coach and Bus Week Ltd.

Putting your training in safe hands www.wts.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com

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news

“What we have demonstrates a need for multioperator ticketing. More passengers would use the product if there was consistent pricing.” Michael Renshaw TfGM

briefly National Express Group (NEG) has been awarded two 15-year rail contracts in Germany. Currently run by Deutsche Bahn, the contracts cover a regional express service between RheineMunster-Cologne-Krefeld and a Bonn-Cologne-Wuppertal stopping service. After procuring 36 new electric trains on behalf of the local authorities, NEG will start operating the contracts in December 2015. The move is expected to generate €1.6bn in revenue over the duration of the contracts. NEG is also currently pre-qualified for three other rail bids in Germany. Welsh haulier Owens Logistics plans to open an Authorised Testing Facility (ATF) at Llangennech, Carmarthenshire, located off J48 of the M4, in March. Company Secretary Robert Williams told Commercial Motor: “It will be a state-of-the-art facility, resulting from significant investment from the business, and the services on offer will cover all aspects of commercial vehicle testing.” For further details, call the company’s dedicated ATF line on 01554 824024. Junction 1a of the M9 has been officially opened – two months ahead of schedule and for £20m less than the original budget. The new junction – the second of three major contracts required to deliver the 22km-long (13.6 miles) Forth Replacement Crossing (FRC) scheme – will provide significantly improved connections for traffic using the road network in West Lothian and to the north west of Edinburgh. Opening of the new £25.6m junction follows the upgraded M90 ‘going live’ in Fife in December. The final FRC contract – the principal contract – is on course to deliver the new bridge and associated road connections in 2016. Bridlington-based bus renovation specialist Cobus has ceased trading. The company, which was ran by the Waggitt family, has appointed business rescue and restructuring specialist Begbies Traynor to deal with the liquidation. More information in a future issue of CBW. www.coachandbusweek.com

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Insight p42

UK Coach Awards 2013 finalists Operators up for awards include Anthony’s Travel, Bibby’s of Ingleton and Maynes of Buckie The finalists in the 2013 UK Coach Awards have been revealed, and all share a common ability, according to the Awards organisers. In the words of Chairman Allan Edmondson: “They give their customers a warm welcome and great service.” He continued: “We have been delighted with the spread of entries this year. For the fourth year running, some 200 nominations were submitted for the various award categories from customers who’ve responded to our appeal to tell us about their experience of quality service and warm welcomes. As well as previous winners, there are several new names in there too, which can only be a good thing for coaching and tourism in general.” The winners will be announced at a glittering ceremony on Saturday April 20 at Alton Towers Resort as part of a weekend of entertainment. The UK Coach Rally will be held over the same weekend, offering a double celebration of all that is best in British coaching and tourism. The UK Coach Awards approach can be summarised as ‘Nominated

by customers, judged by experts’. This means customers nominate people and organisations in a range of categories who, in their view, deliver the best service. These nominations are then subject to expert scrutiny, including ‘mystery shopping’ where possible, and consideration by a panel of expert judges. “Our aim then is to tell the world about those who are really delivering excellence. That way we can promote coach travel and coach tourism to a wider public, as well as inspiring others in the industry to emulate the best practice we’ve identified,” explained Allan. Coach operators have been selected by the judges from the nominations submitted by group organisers and other customers from around the country. The eight names who will go head to head for the UK Coach Operator of the Year prize include some of the country’s biggest operators, but also small and medium-size family businesses dotted around the regions. The combined UK Coach Rally & Awards is expected to become one of the leading events in the coaching calendar. For further information on bookings, visit the website at www.ukcra.org.uk.

Shortlisted for Top Medium Fleet Operator is Bibbys of Ingleton. One of the firm’s immaculate Van Hool coaches is seen at a hotel in Kettering

UKCA 2013: the finalists

Awards for Coach Friendliness The Most Coach-Friendly Historic Attraction n Beamish Museum  n Chatsworth The Most Coach-Friendly Tourist Attraction n Brick Lane Old Tyme Music Hall, London n Cadbury World  n Longleat  n York Chocolate Story The Most Coach-Friendly Local Authority n Bath  n Liverpool  n Rochester (Medway) The Most Coach-Friendly Shopping Attraction n Birmingham Christmas Markets  n Bury Market  n Gloucester Quays UK Coach Destination of the Year Selected from the winners of the four above and announced on April 20 Awards for Services to Coach Passengers Best Service Provider – Tour Wholesaler n Albatross Travel Group  n Greatdays Travel Group  n Norman Allen Group Travel Best Service Provider – Hotels & Catering n Best Western Hotels  n Hilton Worldwide  n Marriott Hotels  n Rezidor Hotels Best Service Provider – Sea Crossing & Water Transport n Eurotunnel  n John o ‘Groats Ferries, Caithness, Scotland Best Service Provider – Theatre & Venue Ticketing To be announced Coach Passenger Service Provider of the Year Selected from the winners of the four above and announced on April 20 Technical and Professional Awards ROSCO (Road Operators Safety Council) Award for Innovation in Safety There is no shortlist for this award. The winner will be announced on April 20 Coach Marketing Award n National Express  n Woods Coaches of Leicester

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Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek Coach Travel Programme n Epsom Coaches  n National Express  n Woods Coaches of Leicester Making Coaches a Better Choice There is no shortlist for this award. The winner will be announced on April 20

IRU seeks improved 12-day derogation

Awards for Industry People Top National Coach Driver n Alexander (Sandy) Watson (Maynes Coaches of Buckie) n Mike Fitzgerald (Anthony’s Travel of Runcorn, Chesire)  n Peter Speaight (Epsom Coaches)  n Stuart Alford (Maynes Coaches of Buckie) Services to the Industry There is no shortlist for this award. The winner will be announced on April 20 Young Coach Industry Professional To be announced Unsung Heroes Award There is no shortlist for this award. The winners will be announced on April 20.

The IRU has called upon European institutions to support the European Parliament’s (EP) proposal to improve the 12-day driving derogation, adopted as part of the review of the EU Tachograph Regulation 3821/85/EC. Yves Mannaerts, IRU VP, said: “The EP proposal constitutes an improvement of the 12-day derogation adopted in 2009 as it simplifies the rest time compensation requirements for using it. It is also timely, showing the current EU driving and rest time rules do not match the specificity of the bus and coach business.” The abolition in 2007 of the original 12-day derogation and its reinstatement in a very limited form in 2009 was part of a process of searching for the best rules’ model for European bus and coach travel. The process continues today. Drivers currently must take a four-day rest period immediately after the use of the derogation which includes the lost rest days which would have been taken during the derogation. The new rules allow for two standard rest days to be taken with the remaining two missed rest days taken within the following 160 hours. “Our battle for a customer and industry-friendly 12-day derogation is a matter of survival for thousands of small tourism destinations and companies across Europe.” Mannaerts concluded.

Awards for Coach Operation Top Small Fleet Operator n Lawton’s Executive Coaches of Boston, Lincolnshire n Woods Coaches of Leicester n Woods Travel of Bognor Regis, West Sussex Top Medium Fleet Operator n Anthony’s Travel  n Bibby’s of Ingleton  n Excelsior Coaches Top Large Fleet Operator n BelleVue Coaches of Manchester n Maynes Coaches of Buckie UK Coach Operator of the Year Selected from the winners of the three above and announced on April 20.

Parrys International is well known for the immaculate presentation of its vehicles and friendly, professional staff. Driver John Harvey is seen here with a Van Hool coach after taking part in the UK Coach Rally 2011

Parrys to shut down in 40th year Respected coach operator Parrys International is to shut its doors at the end of the year. CBW has known about the story for some time but respected MD Dave Parry’s wishes not to publish it until now. Mr Parry said the decision to close was made due to increasing regulation and spiralling costs in the coach tour industry. “While we’re not afraid to implement them, it’s like working with one arm behind your back,” he told CBW. “It’s difficult for me personally – this firm has been part of my life for 40 years. Aside from closing a business down yourself, the only other way to exit this industry is in a wooden box or bankruptcy. I want to go while I still can. I couldn’t just

have managers in – I’m a hands on sort of person. It’s knowing every single aspect which makes it tick. “I anticipate the assets will be sold, unless someone makes an offer I can’t refuse.” The company owns all its assets. The fleet includes 11 impressive MAN-powered Van Hools and a brand new Neoplan Starliner is due in March. “It’s a proper one – not a cheap one,” stressed Mr Parry. “The original idea was if the Starliner went well, we would change the fleet accordingly. In the light of our decision on the business, however, we will have the coach for just nine months – but then again, we have done that in the past. I’ve already had two approaches but I think we’ll go with the disposal option.” Mr Parry said he: “Won’t be retiring – there are a lot of things in the pipeline.” Poignantly, he concluded: “We’ve made our impact but it’s now time to say goodbye. We will still be at the rally this year though.”

www.coachandbusweek.com

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10m

news › BUSeS

Number of passengers Manchester’s 192 service carries per year

briefly Arriva the Shires is offering passengers on its 280 service a 50% discount to see Goodnight Mister Tom at Aylesbury Waterside Theatre. Valid until Saturday March 30 on the 1900hrs performances, the reference code ‘ARRIVA 280’ must be quoted at time of booking. More details can be found at www.atgtickets. com/aylesbury . Route 280 links Aylesbury with Oxford, via Haddenham, Thame, Wheatley and Headington. Two bendy buses are to be trialled on the Isle of Man for a month. The artics arrived on the island last week and drivers are currently being trained to drive the buses along the island’s country roads. Transport Minister Graham Cregeen said the trial could begin after the half-term break.

Bus Driver of the Year is open for business Contest enters 47th year and takes place on Sunday, September 8 The National Final of the UK Bus Driver of the Year (BDoY) competition will take place in Blackpool on Sunday, September 8 and entries have been invited from operators which have regularly supported the competition, but the organisers are especially keen to hear from those who have not previously taken part – not least the smaller operators and those new to the bus business. Joe Mackie, Chairman of the UK Bus Driver of the Year Association, which runs the competition, said the 2013 National Final marked

47 years of BDoY which was first run in 1967 as a local contest in Coventry and subsequently grew into a national event. “We would be delighted to welcome smaller companies – and those new to the industry,” he added. “BDoY is there for all operators – large or small, whether independently or

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The Bus Driver of the Year award is once again being held in Blackpool

municipally owned or part of a plc – and the really good news is that we have been able to hold the entry fee at the 2012 level.” Last year’s overall winner, and UK Bus Driver of the Year 2012, was Paul Jarvis from National Express West Midlands’ Birmingham Central Garage, who beat 91 other top-ranking competitors from the length and breadth of the country. Entry forms should now have been received by all companies which have previously participated in the competition, but operators who would like to become involved – or are considering coming back to BDoY – are invited to contact the Competition Secretary, Bill Holmes, on 01303 251462 or at bdoy@ btinternet.com . Bus Driver of the Year’s event is hugely popular with all those who take part, not least with the attractions of Blackpool on hand for the families and friends who loyally support the national finalists every year. Visit the BdoY website at www.bdoy.co.uk .

Welsh Government launches GoCymru travel smart card Carl Sargeant, Welsh Government Minister for Local Government and Communities, launched GoCymru, the transport e-purse for Wales, on January 31 at Wrexham Bus Station. One of the key selling points of the e-purse is the ability to allow passengers to register for Auto Top Up (ATU). This means passengers always have the ability to pay for travel as the card will automatically be topped up if it drops below a pre-set amount. This is then collected from their bank account. This is the first phase of the national roll out by the Welsh Government. MVA Consultancy is providing technical and commercial support, including evaluation of the technology and the public perceptions of an electronic payment means before it is more

widely rolled out. Vivien Collins of the Welsh Government said: “The launch of this pilot is an important step towards deployment of GoCymru throughout Wales and MVA has provided an invaluable contribution to its development.” Jeremy Meal, Director of Smart Card and Ticketing Strategies at MVA Consultancy, said: “This milestone in the development of smart ticketing in Wales is testament to the commitment shown by the Government to the ITSO specification and an indication of the flexible options available to schemes for deployment according to priorities agreed nationally which are relevant and beneficial to public transport customers in Wales.”

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Number of VDL Citea SLF buses ordered by De Ljin in Belgium

New NatEx buses for Dudley National Express West Midlands has unveiled eight new ADL Enviro200 buses which will operate on the 222 route. The vehicles are a £1.5m investment and feature technology including next stop announcements to alert passengers with visual and hearing impairments where the bus will be stopping next. The 222 service will also have distinctive green route branding, making it easier for customers to find and use this particular service when making regular journeys to hospital appointments. To encourage customers to use the new vehicles, National Express West Midlands and Centro have launched a joint leaflet giving people information on the service and vouchers for cheaper bus travel. These new vehicles mark the start of a larger £10m investment programme between National Express West Midlands and Centro. As well as the new buses, Centro is installing new shelters and more real-time information displays

Brighton & Hove launches m-ticketing

Brighton & Hove has launched a new mobile ticketing system powered by Corethree’s awardwinning Core Engine integration platform. The operator has consistently invested in new technology, including CCTV on buses, GPS tracking and next stop displays and announcements. Delivering m-ticketing offers an easy way to purchase tickets and board buses, with discounts will be offered to those who use the new service regularly. Chris Kirk, Commercial Manager for Brighton & Hove Buses, said: “Brighton & Hove Buses are very pleased to have the opportunity to launch such cutting edge technology in our fast paced and

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38%

SHARE WATCH

The percentage Arriva Midlands says its fuel bill has increased this year

Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, February 11. 21st Century saw the greatest proportional rise, while Optare saw the greatest proportional drop. Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk

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Price: Year High: 367.50p Year Low: 268.52p

Steve Hale, General Manager National Express West Midlands, and Cllr Kath Hartley, Centro’s Vice Chairman, at the launch along the route. Around £5m of funding is coming from the Government’s Better Bus Area Fund, with £1.5m from Centro, £1.5m from Westfield, owners of the Merry Hill shopping centre, and a further £2m from bus operators. Steve Hale, General Manager National Express West Midlands, said: “These new vehicles are a big investment into our services in Dudley and Brierley Hill. They feature the latest advancements in customer comfort, including a state of the art heating system which ensures our buses are cool in the summer and warm in the winter.”

Brighton & Hove has already invested in several forms of new technology for its fleet, including AV announcements cosmopolitan town. Our society advances by extending the number of important jobs we can perform without thinking of them. Our M-Ticket app will be an extension of this inevitable and exciting technology.” The mobile ticketing system is usable on iPhone and Android devices carried by passengers making 48 million journeys on Brighton & Hove buses every year. Bus passengers can browse, select and then purchase bus tickets using their smartphone, with one-time

Cllr Kath Hartley, Centro’s Vice Chairman, said: “We warmly welcome this investment in new buses for the Black Country and it demonstrates the commitment of all parties to improving public transport in the Brierley Hill area. “These new buses with next stop announcements are the first of their kind in the Black Country. They are just another example of how we are working together to make people’s journeys as easy and convenient as possible. The announcements are particularly useful for those passengers who may not be familiar with the route.” registration of payment details and on-screen tickets which can be used within seconds of purchase. Due to the natural take up of new technology, Brighton & Hove buses has targeted the large population of students in Brighton as the first to use the service. Routes 23, 24 and 25 have been initially targeted to trial the service, with further routes being added as take up of the services grows. Corethree’s CEO, Ashley Murdoch, said: “Mobile ticketing and live services information are becoming increasingly popular with UK transport operators as they realise the benefits of operational efficiencies and provide a more enhanced customer experience. Corethree is proud to be supporting Brighton & Hove Buses. We will continue to provide product innovation and look forward to the next phase of enhancing these mobile services.” For further details on Corethree, visit www. corethree.net

192.80p

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FTSE 100

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Index: Year High: 6,347 Year Low: 5,260

on last week

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nEWS coaches

BriEfly Work to install traffic lights at the M1 junction 36 interchange near Barnsley began February 11 and runs until late April. During the work, the northbound and southbound exit slip roads at junction 36 are closed overnight between 2000 and 0600hrs, with signed diversions via the next M1 exit and back. In addition, various lane closures over 24 hours on the roundabout and approaches are planned. There will also be occasional convoy working on the A61 northbound and southbound approaches. Resurfacing work on four sections of road on the A14 near Swinford and the M6 near Catthorpe is expected to start on Monday (February 18) and take three weeks to complete with carriageway closures of the A14 east and westbound and M6 north and southbound taking place between 2200 to 0600. The Highways Agency said it will ensure clearly signed diversions are in place. Improvements to an important coaching route in East Anglia may have moved a step closer to fruition – the A14 around Cambridge. Councils from across the East of England would contribute towards funding Cambridgeshire’s A14 upgrade under plans which it is hoped will speed up the desperately needed modernisation of the notorious stretch of the key east – west artery. At a summit in Cambridge, local authorities which lie outside the immediate area but would benefit from ending or relieving the congestion and chaos between Girton and Ellington, north of Huntingdon, said they would be prepared to help pay for improvements. The deal, believed to be the first of its kind in the UK, would see Cambridgeshire councils agree to offer support for infrastructure upgrades elsewhere from which they could benefit, for example, improving the notorious A47 in Norfolk. Among the bodies represented at the meeting were county councils from Suffolk, Northamptonshire, Essex, Hertfordshire and Norfolk.

Grey’s joins the Guild of British Coach Ops Grey’s is only the 11th coach company to achieve dual certification for both Guild and CoachMarque The Guild of British Coach Operators has accepted Grey’s of Ely as a member after the Cambridgeshire family-run firm achieved 100% in both CoachMarque and Guild audits. This was carried out by external auditor Sue Viney from Fleet Risk Control, who provided the following feedback following the audits: “I am delighted to add that the audit report is now a combined report to include accreditation for The Guild of British Coach Operators. “The Guild of British Coach Operators is an association which represents top quality coach operators who are dedicated to providing customers with a first class service. It has exacting quality standards and at my recent visit, Greys of Ely was able to demonstrate that it delivers in all respects. Two words spring to mind when I think about Greys and in particular yourself (Richard Grey) and they are professionalism and enthusiasm.” Guild Chairman Ian Fraser, who is also Operations Director at The Kings Ferry, said: “We’re pleased to

MD Richard Grey continues to drive the family firm forward welcome into the Guild an awardwinning operator with such a reputation for quality.” Grey’s of Ely, a family-run firm based in Witchford, has enjoyed some recent success in local business and industry awards. In April 2012, Richard Grey was named Coach Driver of the Year at the UK Coach Rally. Richard said of joining the Guild: “2012 was a great year for Grey’s and to join the Guild of British Coach Operators is truly the crowning achievement, we look forward to working with the Guild members to raise our standards and profile even further in 2013.” In welcoming Grey’s, Ian Luckett, the Guild’s Treasurer who is also a

Woods’ care awards Woods Coaches of Leicester has helped celebrate local community carers with an awards party run by its local newspaper. The ceremony was the culmination of a three-month campaign by The Leicester Mercury to find the area’s top carers, with Woods Coaches as the headline sponsor. Kevin Brown, MD of Woods, said: “It started as an idea from our PR man Mark Williams which immediately appealed to me. Rewarding those who give their time selflessly to care for the elderly and disabled had particular resonance with me, since my

MD Kevin Brown at the awards ceremony immediate family had benefited from these unsung heroes. “Clearly, the age profile of our customers means many of them also have direct experience of the way in which some carers beyond the call of duty, whether they are

Director of Fareham-based Lucketts Travel, spoke of the benefits of Guild membership, saying: “The Guild provides an excellent forum for owners to meet to share best practice and to help benchmark their operations against some of the best operators in the coach industry. I look forward to Richard Grey playing an active role in the Guild.” The Guild was established in 1985 to promote and market the services of its members, all of whom commit to meeting the highest quality standards, assured by regular independent audits. Prospective members have to achieve a 100% pass before being accepted into the Guild. The Guild is also registered as a Driver CPC training centre, giving members access to a suite of courses specifically designed for the coach industry. Grey’s will shortly start delivering Guild courses to its drivers, adding to the more than 3,000 training days Guild companies have already provided for their staff. Guild membership currently comprises 23 operators across the UK. For more information, visit the newly revamped website at www.coachtours.co.uk caring for a family member or working at our many excellent care homes.” Kevin added: “It was absolutely vital that we got media support, and Leicester Mercury deserves credit for taking the awards to its heart, running all the nominations, judging, and creating a fantastic event to celebrate the winners.” From October to December, the paper ran articles about the nominees and found individual awards sponsors, running a special on the awards ceremony at St Martin’s House in Leicester. BBC Radio Leicester presenter Julie Mayer hosted the event at St Martin’s House as winners were chosen in nine categories. Prizes donated by Woods included a coach holiday voucher.

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“The driver told me he had been working for other bus companies since his release from prison. His conviction has not been brought before the attention of the TC...” Nick Jones Traffic Commissioner

Legal News p48

Bennetts raises money for Cystic Fibrosis Trust Family-run Bennetts Coaches recently held a charity raffle and auction at its annual staff party, raising £1,100 in aid of the Cystic Fibrosis Trust. The Trust was chosen as the Bennetts Coaches 2013 Charity of the Year because the Granddaughter of Martyn Starkey, one firms coach drivers, has the condition. The cheque was presented by Peter Bennett, the firm’s MD to Audrey Williams, South West Regional Fundraising Manager for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust on January 31. The Gloucester-based operator also took the opportunity to celebrate its 50th Anniversary, having been providing luxury coach travel to its customers since 1962. Audrey said: “We are so grateful for this donation. Every penny we

raise makes such a difference in our fight to make sure that people with Cystic Fibrosis receive the very best care available and we desperately need the funds to continue the wide range of practical help and support we provide.” Mr Bennett thanked the firm’s employees and the many companies which donated raffle and auction prizes, “all of whom contributed towards making the evening such a success.” These included: Saracens Rugby Club, Gillmans Electrical, Castell Howell Foods Ltd, Autosmart, Continental Tyres, CM Downtons, Anderson Karts, Holiday Inn Barnwood, EvoBus, Spirit Health & Fitness, Cheltenham Autos, Pizza Hut and the Priory Lodge Hotel in Newquay.

Gavin Bennett, Workshop Manager, Audrey Williams, South West Regional Fundraising Manager for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust, Martyn Starkey, Coach Driver and Peter Bennett, Managing Director. Front row: Isabella Starkey (6) and James Starkey (3)

Refuelling specialists to the Coach & Bus industry

Dana Lewis, Director of Sales MICE & Leisure Accor UK, Alan Clough, Edwards Coaches and Dinesh Hirani, Groups Sales, Accor UK

Accor rewards loyalty Accor hotels has rewarded the loyalty of its staff and clients with a special workshop and awards dinner held at the group’s Mercure London Watford hotel between January 24-25. Eight awards recognised achievements of coach operators and wholesalers. Of particular interest to the coach industry, Shearings was crowned Coach Operator of the Year; Albatross won the Group Coach Wholesaler of the Year category; and the Partnership Achievement Award for Groups and Coach Operators was won by South Wales-based Edwards Coaches. “We’ve been holding the workshop sessions for the last five years,” explained Dana Lewis, Director of Leisure Sales at Accord UK. “Each year they’ve got bigger

• • • • • •

and bigger. When we started we had 25 of our UK and European hotels present and 20 of our clients. We’ve always done things like casino nights, but this year we had 66 hotels from our Ibis, Novotel and Mercure portfolios. “The 82 clients present for the workshop included coach operators, in-bound wholesalers, UK coach wholesalers. Of these, 62 attended the gala dinner.” Commenting on the award, Emma Pennycard of Albatross told CBW: “We are delighted to be chosen as their group coach wholesaler of the year. We cooperate well with Accor and look forward to continuing and increasing our relationship with them in the coming year.” Alan Clough, Tours Manager at Edwards Coaches, who is no stranger to awards, told CBW: “We’ve had a good and constructive relationship with Accor over the years. It’s always nice to get something for the cabinet.”

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Major order from De Lijn for VDL Bus & Coach The Belgian operator has ordered 27 Citea SLFs and 41 VDL MidCity dial-a-ride buses BELGIUM Belgian passenger transport company De Lijn has ordered 27 Citea SLFs and 41 VDL MidCity dial-a-ride buses from VDL Bus & Coach. “We are proud De Lijn chose us as their supplier and are confident our buses will make a very positive contribution to the sustainability and profitability of the De Lijn fleet. VDL Bus & Coach is the only remaining bus and coach manufacturer which carries out its production exclusively in Western Europe. This order is therefore also very important for employment in Belgium,” said Willem van der Leegte, Managing Director VDL Bus & Coach Belgium. All the vehicles meet the Euro 6 standard. The MidCity dial-a-ride buses are scheduled for delivery by April 2014 and the Citeas by the end of July 2014. The vehicles will be put in service on various lines in Flanders. The Citea SLF-120/310s are 12m long and powered by Euro 6 FPT Cursor 9 engines. They can accommodate 105 passengers (25 seated and 80 standing). The lowfloor construction makes

More bi-artics for Mexico MEXICO Volvo has delivered 14 7300 bi-articulated buses to Mexico City’s BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) system Metrobús. The vehicles are expected to transport more than 60,000 passengers a day. The Mayor of Mexico City, Miguel Angel Mancera, attended the delivery event for the new buses which are to operate on line 1 of Metrobús, the public transport system in Mexico City. The increasing demand on line 1, which runs along one of the most important corridors in Mexico City, Insurgentes, is the main reason for the new units being integrated into the system. To date, occupancy has www.coachandbusweek.com

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boarding and alighting exceptionally easy and offers optimal access for passengers with a baby buggy or wheelchair. Cantliver seat mounting ensures the floor area is clear and easy to clean. The MidCity buses feature a multifunctional lowfloor area suitable for standing room or for wheelchairs. This lowfloor conversion was developed in-house by VDL Bus & Coach. All 41 will have 13 seats (including two folding seats) plus nine standing spaces. Its compact dimensions (total length is 6.944m) make the MidCity highly manoeuvrable and suited for transport in the narrow streets of

old city centres. De Lijn is the commercial name for the ‘Vlaamse Vervoermaatschappij’, the Flemish Transport Company, an autonomous government company for city and regional transport. De Lijn aims for high quality, customeroriented public transportation and delivering punctual, reliable and rapid service provision with satisfactory capacity, frequency and safety. A total of about 10,000 people are employed by the operation with around 7,500 working for V.V.M. De Lijn and other 2,500 for bus companies which run on behalf of V.V.M. De Lijn.

All the vehicles conform to Euro 6 emissions standards been recorded up to 95% on the route. Guillermo Calderón, General Director of Metrobús, commented: “The 14 additional buses should alleviate overcrowding during the peaks and allow a much improved service to be operated.” Line 1 is now operated by 27 Volvo 7300 bi-articulated buses each measuring 25 metres long with capacity for 240 passengers in each vehicle.

A Volvo 7300 bi-artic bus

Scania to deliver 709 buses in Russia RUSSIA Scania in association with Russia-based commercial vehicle manufacturer GAZ Group has received an order to deliver a total of 709 buses to Mostransavto, the largest public transport operator in the Moscow region. Scania will deliver chassis modules and GAZ will be responsible for bodyworking for the order which is thought to be one of Scania’s largest in Europe. “Developing and delivering buses for the Russian market in

Scania begins bus and coach sales in India INDIA Scania has entered the Indian bus and coach market for the first time coupled with an appearance at the Busworld India exhibition in Mumbai. A new bus and coach range, branded Scania Metrolink, was launched at the event. It is being manufactured at Scania’s industrial facility in Bengaluru. Scania entered the Indian market in 2007, in partnership with Larsen & Toubro (L&T) for sales of trucks to the mining industry. In 2011, Scania established its own company in India to boost its presence in additional segments of the Indian CV market. In late 2012, a range of trucks for heavy road haulage was launched. In 2012, the company also began construction of the Scania Regional Product Centre - in an industrial area 40 km east of Bengaluru, the capital of Karnataka state, investing a total of about SEK 300m in the facility, which will also be the centre for the company’s commercial operations in the country. The industrial operations encompass final assembly of truck and bus chassis as well as bodywork and fitting out of complete vehicles. The head office of Scania’s Indian company, complete with a service workshop and a central parts warehouse, is also being built at the same site. partnership with a well-known and respected domestic manufacturer such as GAZ Group has great value,” said Hans Tardell, Managing Director of Scania Russia. “Putting such a large number of buses into operation means the Scania brand will receive wide exposure in Russia. Even more significant is the service potential which the deal provides for our workshops in the region.” GAZ Group has developed three different versions of its GOLAZbranded buses, two of which are for intercity service and one for “occasional” service. All models are built on Scania chassis. The buses will be delivered during 2013 and will be used for transport services in Sochi during the first quarter of 2014 before being brought into service in Moscow.

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NORTH

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has been reminding Salford youngsters about the rules of the road using online technology. ‘DingDing’ is a classroom based programme which sees pupils devise and tackle games and quizzes through an interactive website. So far around 80 pupils from Year 6 classes at both St Andrews Primary School in Boothstown and Moorside Primary School in Swinton have already undertaken DingDing sessions, with more planned for local schools in the future. The classroom lessons come as part of TfGM’s Bus Priority programme, which includes a commitment to community engagement, education and involvement. A key element of the Bus Priority programme is a busway leading from Leigh and Atherton, through Manchester and onto the Central Manchester University Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust site on Oxford Road. The buses will travel along the A580 in Salford, and between Leigh and Ellenbrook a guided section for specifically modified buses will exist, allowing them to avoid congestion. The project is scheduled for completion in 2015. Councillor Andrew Fender, Chairman of the TfGM Committee, said: “As an organisation we are very excited about the Bus Priority programme and the benefits it will bring to passengers and commuters in Salford. “A key part of the scheme is to talk to people about travel options in Greater Manchester and to initiate schemes showing the corporate responsibility TfGM encompasses. First South Yorkshire is painting two modern buses in the former liveries of Sheffield Corporation, the organisation which ran buses in the city for most of the last century. These buses, one in 1913 livery and one in 1960 livery, will soon be running on route 51 between Charnock, Sheffield City Centre and Lodge Moor as part of celebrations to commemorate 100 years of motorbuses in Sheffield. On February 15, 1913 the first motorbus began operation between Broomhill and Lodge Moor and supplemented the city’s existing tram network. www.coachandbusweek.com

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Coach & Bus Week takes a look at the big issues where you live in our round-up of the regions. If you’ve got a local issue you’d like us to cover, contact James Day on james. day@coachandbusweek.com. be used for graffiti purposes. Sergeant Adrian Brown, who is over the Safer Travel team in Birmingham, said: “This case should serve as a warning to anyone who commits graffiti across the transport networks here in the West Midlands that we will find those responsible and bring them before the courts. “Graffiti is unacceptable to passengers and is costly for the travel companies to clear.”

KEY

SCOTLAND NORTHERN IRELAND REP OF IRELAND NORTH WALES MIDLANDS EAST LONDON SOUTH EAST SOUTH WEST

EAST

Other events to mark the centenary include a celebratory trip along the route for some of Sheffield’s key dignitaries including the Lord Mayor. This will be followed by a reception at Sheffield Town Hall. These events will take place on Friday February 15, exactly 100 years to the day since the first bus began operation. Also, on Sunday May 12, a bus rally will be held at First’s Olive Grove depot for members of the public to come and see a selection of old and new buses and to take part in fun activities, which will include a charity bus pull in 1913 costume. Giles Fearnley, Managing Director of First UK Bus, whose grandfather, Arthur Fearnley, was the General Manager for ‘The Sheffield Corporation Tramways’ from 1904 to 1936. Giles, has led the organisation of the centenary celebrations. He said: “It is very exciting that people and organizations in Sheffield are coming together to celebrate 100 years of motorbuses in Sheffield. “Sheffield has grown tremendously in the past century and buses have been at the forefront of this development. It is only right and proper we organise a series of events to commemorate this anniversary and the public should look out for these spectacular buses that represent the history of this great city.”

MIDLANDS

A man has been sentenced to four weeks imprisonment and two others have been fined after a spate of graffiti on buses in Birmingham. The three young men, aged between 20 and 24, were arrested in November 2012 following two attacks on buses the previous month. Investigators from National Express West Midlands identified a series of graffiti tags on their buses, with the damage totalling more than £1,000. The information was passed to the West Midlands Police Safer Travel team, which fully investigated the crime and trawled through CCTV to find those responsible. The three arrested men, all from Quinton, were charged with criminal damage and were sent to Birmingham Magistrates Court in November, where the 20-year-old admitted his actions, however his two accomplices entered not guilty pleas and went to trial. On January 30 the pair, aged 23 and 24, were found guilty of criminal damage. The 20-year-old man was ordered to pay £255 in costs and was sentenced to four weeks in a young offenders institution. The two men, who were convicted alongside him, were both ordered to pay £450 costs and were handed Anti Social Behaviour Orders to prevent them from possessing any item that could

Norwich’s bus station is closing from 0600 on Sunday, February 17 until midnight on Sunday, February 24 to make permanent repairs to its leaking roof. In June last year, water poured through the roof into the main building containing the booking office, café and toilets. Norfolk County Council had to shut the station so its contractors could replace the flexible roof with a corrugated steel sheet but now want to make a more long-term repair. In order to manage the number of buses which will use neighbouring roads, All Saints Green closes to all other traffic between Surrey Street and Queens Road for the duration of the works. Timetables for buses which usually run from the bus station remain as normal but the county council has arranged for pick up and drop off to take place at alternative stops on nearby streets. Posters at the bus station and other bus stops around Norwich city centre announce details of the alternative stops, while staff will be available on the street to guide passengers to the right place to catch their buses. The information centre, including the ticket desk, café and toilets are to shut and during the closure of the site there will be no access for pedestrians or vehicles to the concourse from the Surrey Street entrance or from Queens Road. On-street parking is being suspended on Surrey Street between All Saints Green and Queens Road. The drop off parking area adjacent to Queens Road is to remain in use, but all vehicles must turn right when leaving. The council says the work is weather dependant and the timetable for completion of works may change.

SOUTH EAST

A new partnership board could be set up to help improve the bus network in

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Portsmouth. Portsmouth North MP Penny Mordaunt wants to see regular bus users, campaigners for elderly people, First and other oeprators come together to draw up solutions. She hopes operators would expand on the work already carried out by Transport for South Hampshire (TfSH), which works with bus firms in the county. “TfSH looks more into the commercial side of things and this would look more into making changes which would benefit the community,’ said Mordaunt. “I want to see a board with a wide membership of people which will look at things long term. They would also be more strategic and not focus on dealing with an immediate budgetary crisis. This is a good way forward and it means issues can be given attention. I want to see services being brought up to scratch with ones in other major cities.”

SOUTH WEST

Dorset County Council has agreed to preserve a number of threatened bus routes

in Dorchester for a further five months. The authority has worked to save the numbers 1, 2, 3 and 4 town services and the 95 school service since last year when Go-Aheadowned Damory Coaches announced it could no longer operate the routes commercially. The short term contracts set to run until the end of March are being extended until the end of August. Director for Environment, Miles Butler, said the cost of extending the contracts – as well as those for the 103 service between Dorchester and Bovington, the 212 to Yeovil and the 387 to Poole – was expected to be around £129,000. He said extending the contracts meant the routes could then be considered in a countywide review of bus provision set to be completed by the autumn. Cabinet Member for Highways and Transportation Peter Finney said: “I would strongly recommend we support these services because they are vital for the people who use them. Their demise at this particular point would be, in my view, quite wrong.”

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

The Peterborough Bus & Commercial Vehicle Rally is due to take place on Sunday July 28 at Sacrewell Farm, a popular local attraction

2013 n February 24-25 Coach Holiday Conference. Bristol Filton Holiday Inn. www.coachtourismcouncil.com n March 13-14 Best of Britain and Ireland (BoBi). Travel Trade Forum at the NEC in Birmingham. 01926 834796. www. bestofbritainandirelandevent.co.uk n March 19-21 The Cleaning Show. NEC, Birmingham. 01737 855 086 www.cleaningshow.co.uk n March 20-21 UK Bus Awards Annual Conference. The conference is booked to take place in Fareham and will feature a visit to Hampshire’s Eclipse BRT project. www.ukbusawards.org.uk n April 6 South East Bus Festival 2013. Kent Showground, near Maidstone, Kent, brought to you by the organisers of ‘M&D 100’ and ‘M&D and EK 60’. www.facebook. com/southeastbusfestival n April 9-11 CV Show 2013. NEC, Birmingham. www.cvshow.com

First Scotland East has secured ISO 9001, a management system accreditation which focuses on customer service. The firm’s depots in Balfron, Bannockburn, Galashiels, Larbert and Livingston all passed the strict criteria at the end of 2012. Meanwhile, First’s garages at Musselburgh and North Berwick will shortly become accredited. Vic Duddy, the company’s Quality and Environmental Manager said: “My colleagues right across the business have been incredibly supportive and committed in striving to achieve the standard, so it’s especially pleasing that we’ve been successful. We are a better company for it and will be working just as hard going forward to ensure we keep raising standards.” First Scotland East Managing Director, Paul Thomas, said: “Certification is only awarded to those companies who demonstrate a total commitment to continuously improving the quality of the service they provide. “It means our passengers can expect a more consistent and improved service. While we already enjoy good punctuality and reliability performance across the business, we anticipate further improvement thanks to better staff engagement, enhanced communications and new procedures that we’ve introduced as a result of ISO 9001. We’re also building upon the skills of our staff and investing in new technology.”

n April 20-21 UK Coach Awards & UK Coach Rally. Alton Towers, Staffordshire. 01753 631170. www.coachdisplays.co.uk or www. ukcoachawards.co.uk n April 21 London Bus Museum Spring Gathering. Cobham Hall, Weybridge, Surrey. 01932 837994. www.londonbusmuseum.com

n June 2 Clacton Bus Rally & Running Day, Clacton Factory Outlet, Essex. Classic and current vehicles. Entry forms & more details available at http://www. colneestuarypb.co.uk/ n June 11-13 ATCO Summer Conference. Merseytravel HQ, Liverpool. www.atco.org.uk n June 16 Swansea Festival of Transport. Free to enter & attend. Call organiser Ashley Lovering on 07814958379 or email swanseatransport@aol.com. Visit www.ntfwswansea.co.uk. n July 21 Alton Bus Rally. Anstey Park, Anstey Lane, Alton, Hants. www.altonbusrally.org.uk n July 28 The Annual Peterborough Bus & Commercial Vehicle Rally. Sacrewell Farm (A47/ A1 junction). Free entry. 07828 754412 or 01462 626750 n September 7-8 Bus Driver of the Year Final. Blackpool. Call 01303 251462. www.bdoy.co.uk n September 8 Bus & Coach Wales 2013. Rhyd y Car Leisure Centre, Merthyr Tydfil n September 10 Association of Trainers AGM. 1400hrs, Wembley. For details call 01797 344251. n September 22 Showbus 2013. Long Marston Airfield, Warwickshire. www.showbus.com

n May 14-15 ALBUM Conference. Belton Woods Hotel near Grantham, Lincolnshire. www.albumconference. co.uk

n October 2-3 Coach & Bus Live 2013. NEC, Birmingham. www. coachandbuslive.com

n May 26-30 UITP Congress & Exhibition. Palexpo, Geneva. www.uitp.org. +(00)32 2673 610

Send your event details to gareth.evans@ coachandbusweek.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

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DRIVERS

In association with

DriveTech

Send your driver news and stories to alex.tyler@coachandbusweek. com or call 01733 293 244.

‘Superstar Award’ for Hawick Driver Driver is hailed for his quick thinking and heroic actions when he came across a car accident Bus Driver Steven Godfrey, 41, from Bonchester Bridge (just outside Hawick) has been awarded a ‘Superstar’ award by First Scotland East, after he came to the rescue of a middle aged couple involved in a road traffic accident. Steven was driving First Scotland East’s Service 68 from Jedburgh to Galashiels and at Ancrum, he came across a BMW x5, which had obviously just been involved in a crash. “The car was on its side and judging by how badly it was damaged, it had obviously been involved in a very nasty incident,” said Steven, who works from First Scotland East’s Galashiels depot. “It did not appear as if any other vehicle was involved, but it was clear that they had collided with some trees on the side of the road. “There was smoke emanating from the vehicle, so I knew the accident had happened just a

couple of minutes beforehand. “I parked the bus, and approached the car. The couple were trapped inside, but I was able to communicate with them. As per my safety training at First Scotland East, I asked if the ignition was turned off, and then set about trying to get them free. I was very concerned that the engine would go up in flames and so I knew that getting them free safely and quickly was critical.” Steven, who has been a driver with First Scotland East since 2009, continued: “By now another motorist had stopped to provide help and suggested we try to pull them through the window, but I was really concerned this would upset the balance of the car and cause further injury. I decided it was much safer to gain access via the boot. So we quickly removed the headrests to create enough space so that we could set them free. “We successfully got them out via the boot and I immediately escorted them on board the bus, all the time reassuring them that the

NCT announces winner for its ‘Driver of the Year’ The UK’s Bus Operator of the Year, Nottingham City Transport, has announced the winner of its annual ‘Driver of the Year’ award for 2012. Barry Polkey, 66, from Clifton was crowned the winner at an awards dinner which included one of the last performances of this year’s Theatre Royal Pantomime, Cinderella. Adam C Booth, the actor who played Buttons, presented Barry with his Driver of the Year shield and certificate which he receives alongside £1000 and an extra week’s holiday.

NCT Driver, Barry Polkey, pictured here with the infamous Buttons

emergency services were on their way, and that everything would be fine. “It looked as if they had a few nasty cuts and bruises and were obviously in shock. It was a miracle that they escaped from the wreckage without serious injury.” Operations Director for First Scotland East, John Gorman, sad: “Steven’s quick thinking and heroic actions could have saved the couple’s lives. I’m very proud of his actions – he fully deserves his Superstar Award.”

‘Superstar’ Driver Steven Godfrey Barry, who joined Nottingham City Transport in June 2010 and drives the L53 from Clifton to Arnold , was one of five finalists who had each won a Seasonal Driver Award throughout the year. To qualify for the Seasonal Driver Award, drivers needed to have had 100% attendance, always turn up on time, have no live disciplinary awards or blameworthy accidents on file and have a clean driving licence. “The Seasonal Driver and Driver of the Year initiative was launched to recognise and celebrate the continual hard work and professionalism of our drivers,” explains NCT Marketing Manager, Anthony Carver-Smith. “Winners

Bus driver sacked after drink-drive arrest A driver for Wiltshire-based operator Faresaver was arrested after police received reports from a passer-by that the male driver of the 1440hrs X34 journey from Frome to Chippenham was swigging from a can of lager in Frome and urinating against the side of the vehicle. Wiltshire Police were alerted by Avon and Somerset Constabulary and officers were waiting at Market Place in Melksham with a relief driver and a supervisor from the bus company. The driver, 55, from Trowbridge, was breathalysed and arrested after being found to have 42mg/100ml of alcohol on his breath, above the 35mg/100ml legal limit. He has been bailed pending further inquiries. General Manager Justin Pickford said: “There is an ongoing police investigation and an internal investigation, but suffice to say the driver is no longer working for us. He was suspended from the moment he was taken off the bus and his employment was terminated.” are decided wholly by mystery travellers who measure customer service, driving standards and overall competence over numerous random trips. Barry achieved outstanding marks of 91%, making him the ‘best of the best’ and this is a fantastic achievement he should be really proud of.” “I’ve been driving this route for two years now and the best part of my job is interacting with the passengers,” said Barry. “To know I’ve won this award thanks to their feedback really means a lot to me, and puts an extra spring in my step. My friends and family know Nottingham City Transport well and are really proud of me – it’s a great way to start 2013.”

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO TRAINING & SAFETY

More and more training suppliers are willing to travel to the operator’s own premises and deliver the most convenient training possible

Safe and Sound This week’s Industry Guide looks at providers of training courses, whether for Driver CPC or for general good practice, as well as suppliers of safety products for both your drivers and the vehicles in your fleet www.coachandbusweek.com

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eeping your fleet, drivers and passengers safe is an extremely important factor in the running of a bus or coach operation. Aside from complying with the Driver CPC rules, with the deadline now less than 200 days away for ensuring all drivers have had the necessary 35 hours training, good training and/or safety procedures help to improve and secure an operator’s reputation, avoid insurance or legal costs and give passengers and staff peace of mind. On the safety side this week, there is a focus on breathalysers, which prevent vehicles from being driven by individuals over the drink

drive limit, whether they are aware of it or not. Precautionary devices elsewhere on the vehicle are also featured, along with training geared towards safety, such as conflict management, health & safety and risk management. A large number of training companies and operators are featured, offering a variety of courses and covering all areas of the UK. In order to contribute to Driver CPC training, the courses need to be JAUPT accredited, but as long as they have this accreditation the training offered can cover any area. With this in mind and the choice offered, operators can customise the Driver CPC training their drivers receive to suit them, not simply go through a box-ticking exercise.

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CONTACT To advertise in future industry guides, call Victoria Schult for a features list or more details on 01733 293248, email victoria.schult@coachandbusweek. com. For more information on providing editorial, call James Day on 01733 293244 or email james.day@coachandbusweek.com

RLR Services Regrettably, the first thing which suffers in a recession is training. While the reasoning is understandable, RLR Services claims it is fundamentally flawed. Clive Aisbittm, Dangerous Goods Safety Advisor and partner of RLR Services, said: “Embracing training as a means of occupying drivers’ time, enhancing drivers’ skills and retraining core knowledge means firms can improve their quality of service. “Whose cost? The regulations make it clear the driver is responsible for completing 35 hours, but my suggestion is prudent operators will pay, with a signed agreement where a driver leaving within a set time period is expected to contribute to the costs. Operators can negotiate bulk discounts unavailable to individual drivers. “RLR Services has provided training and consultancy to the transport sector since 1991 and has embraced Driver CPC as a means

of providing additional assistance to its clients. In many cases courses have been specifically tailored. “With options to attend open courses or select bespoke ones for in-house delivery, our Driver CPC courses offer the greatest flexibility with a price structure to match (including discounts for block bookings). We make no price distinction between weekdays, weekends or nights – training is delivered to satisfy the clients’ needs with the minimum disruption. Where drivers opt to undertake training at weekends, this does not affect their weekly rest unless they are attending at their employer’s insistence. “We also offer nationwide coverage through our network of training providers. RLR Services is a founder member of The Driver CPC Consortium, ensuring consistent high standards of delivery.”

T: 01225 775 252 E: training@rlrservices.co.uk W: www.rlrservices.co.uk

Lloyd Morgan Lloyd Morgan Group offers three-, four- or five-day courses for focusing on maintenaning and preparing vehicles for annual tests. The courses are designed to provide candidates with the appropriate training to accurately identify defects, make qualitative and quantitive (wear and tear) assessments and evaluate the condition of vehicles. The course has an optional IRTEC accreditation which is a benchmark for the industry and is valid for five years. This is an additional day on the four-day course. The course covers the VOSA inspection manual, health & safety, correct inspection procedures including correct pass/fail application and prohibition and inspection procedures. Participants can develop report writing skills and learn how to carry out full vehicle inspections and roller brake tests. Courses also cover testable items inspected at annual test,

pass/fail criteria, correct operation and safe use of testing equipment, brake performance testing and brake calculations. Lloyd Morgan gives practical exercises in vehicle inspection including assessment of delegates feedback and coaching. There is a maximum of six delegates per course, which are in-house and Lloyd Morgan Group certificated. As a result of attending the course, and employing a more systematic approach to inspecting vehicles, candidates will maximise their chances of detecting defects which may otherwise have attracted an annual failure or prohibition notice. The five-day course content is the same as the four-day. The IRTEC on-line and practical assessment is undertaken on day five in groups of three. All candidates are informed on the day of pass/fail. T: 01543 897505 W: http:// lloydmorgangroup.co.uk

Specialist vehicle Inspection training with optional IRTEC accreditation If you would like further information please call 01543 897505 or visit www.lloydmorgangroup.co.uk Lloyd Morgan Group Phoenix House, Hemlock Park, Hyssop Close Cannock, Staffs. WS12 7GA t: 01543 897505 e: info@lloydmorgangroup.co.uk

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TO TRAINING & SAFETY Freight Transport Association Although there are many training options available, FTA is recognised within the industry as a leading provider of DCPC training; which continues to be reflected in the customer feedback we receive. June Powell, FTA’s GM for Training, said: “We can work with you to help identify the most practical, efficient and cost effective way to manage your Passenger DCPC program, and pride ourselves on providing training to meet your individual training needs.” With FTA, operators benefit from: n competitive rates for both members and non-members to offer excellent value for money n block bookings available in April and August to complete a lot of training in a short amount of time n a team of trainers with a wealth of knowledge and experience n availability at public venues throughout the UK or in-company, at a premises to suit the client

FTA courses on offer include vehicle safety and driving values FTA conducts a wide range of training for all operators, including passenger-specific courses such as: drivers’ hours, working time and record keeping, vehicle safety, road legal, driving values, safety first and Operator Licence compliance. Throughout 2013, delegates attending FTA’s DCPC courses will see a different approach to training,

with its team of core trainers using an interactive voting system throughout their courses. The aim is to make the courses more engaging and encourage debate in the classroom. Additionally, it will provide valuable management information and course feedback, both of which are instant. Drivers can’t fail approved DCPC

training courses, however those who attend an FTA training course are offered an opportunity to demonstrate a level of achievement. This upgraded certificate demonstrates that drivers have absorbed the knowledge imparted during the training. FTA also offers administrative support services and bespoke course development designed to support companies which use their own staff to train drivers. By choosing FTA for an operator’s training requirements the FTA guarantees: n ROI – through quality training delivered by professionals, who are experts in their field n flexible, tailored training – to suit location, business sector or size n peace of mind – that the information provided reflects the very latest legislation and industry developments. T: 08717 11 22 22 E: training@fta.co.uk W: www.fta.co.uk/passengercpc

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The Association of Trainers The Association of Trainers (ASOT) has grown from a small seed into a strong consortium with many members as ‘branches’, which now ranks in the top ten of training providers. Members can save both cost and administrative complications by using the ASOT centre registration and save on the £1500 fee (for five years). The cost of joining ASOT is £295 per annum, plus a £95 annual audit fee if you wish to deliver courses, then just £20 per driver per seven hour course, including the £8.75 DSA upload fee. All aspects of these costs, except the upload fee, are subject to VAT. Trainers and operators can offer drivers a wider and more attractive selection of courses, totalling some 27 half day modules. These modules include: n Customer Service and The School Run;

n Drive Safe/Stay Legal; n Dealing with emergencies and Vehicle Evacuation; n Road Risk (including Highway Code) and Drugs & Alcohol Awareness; n Health and Safety, Walk Round checks and luggage handling; n Disability awareness (important for proving staff have been adequately trained as part of the European Passenger Rights Act); and n Drivers Hours and Tachographs. ASOT also has a range of bespoke training aids, including walk round check DVD’s, luggage handling DVDs and booklets and fatigue awareness booklets. It couldn’t be simpler for an operator to reduce Driver CPC periodic training costs and yet improve the standard and quality of the training. T: 01797 344251 E: julia@asot.org.uk W: www.asot.org.uk

Intoximeters Intoximeters has over 70 years experience in designing and manufacturing breathalysers and recently launched its new Alco-Sensor VXL (AS-VXL) which is an advanced, handheld, microprocessor driven, breath alcohol testing instrument. The AS-VXL provides a simple, economical method of measuring a subject’s breath alcohol concentration with evidential grade accuracy. Also, the AS-VXL can perform rapid screening and passive testing of subjects, or be utilised to perform a headspace analysis of a sample over a liquid/ drinks container. The Alco-Sensor VXL can be used in a stand-alone mode or it can be interfaced through a docking station or wireless connection with multiple peripherals, including keyboards, printers, magnetic card readers, bar code readers and computers. All employers have a duty of care

‘PAY AS YOU GO’

in the Workplace

Employers are often unaware that alcohol problems exist, until the “inevitable” happens.

Penalties for regulatory non-compliance are harsh and disruptive.

DRIVER CPC TRAINING

EACH 7 HOUR UPLOAD

• WIDE RANGE

OF COURSES

WITHOUT THE COST OF REGISTERING THEM www.asot.org.uk

T: 01803 868602 W: www.intox.com

Combat Alcohol

The Association of Trainers

• ONLY £20

to their staff to ensure they adhere to best practice and use equipment suitable for the purpose; the same applies to enforcing a Drugs & Alcohol Policy, which is why many employers turn to intoximeters to screen key employees prior to their starting work. Companies operating in high risk environments or under the Railways and Transport Bill have a particular interest as many of their employees are covered by the particularly strict limits of the act but there are many other businesses, not least coach & bus transport, who have a responsibility to their customers and the general public to ensure no one operating their vehicles or machinery does so under the influence of alcohol. The Alco-Sensor V-XL complete “in a briefcase” product provides a printout of each test which can be used at disciplinary or tribunal hearings. It also stores all test data for future reference.

Alco Sensor V XL

Intoximeters instruments provide fast and accurate results of breath alcohol levels. Comprehensive technical support services are available.

Expertise Reliability Support&Service From Policy to Implementation, Intoximeters UK Ltd offers the solution to workplace testing for alcohol To arrange a demonstration contact:

Steve Pope 07834 101673 • spope@intox.com The Alpha Centre • Babbage Road • Totnes • Devon • TQ9 5JA | Tel 01803 868602 | Fax 01803 868701

www.coachandbusweek.com

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INDUSTRY

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TO TRAINING & SAFETY Sibbald Training Ltd Sibbald Ltd is one of the country’s leading training providers and having spent over 20 years investing in construction-related services it has now diversified into providing a wide selection of specialist training for the Driver CPC Scheme. Sibbald Ltd delivers a range of JAUPT-approved courses which allow both PSV and LGV drivers to complete their full requirement of 35 hours of mandatory periodic training. The company has courses running at its site in Blackridge, West Lothian on a weekly basis, including weekends and during school holidays and can also provide an instructor to travel to an operator’s own site to deliver the courses for up to 20 members of staff, which may be the best option for your business, depending on the number of employees. The courses available include Analogue and Digital Tachographs,

Driver’s Hours, Route Planning, Stress Awareness, Customer Care, Accident Procedures and Loading & Load Security. Managing Director David Sibbald has over 30 years experience in the training industry. He has grown his company Sibbald Training from being an owner operator in the plant hire sector into a nationwide multi-disciplined training organisation with a first class reputation for training. Sibbald Ltd is passionate about its customers and continually strives to meet the needs they have today as well as planning and innovating for the needs they will have tomorrow. It said its mission has always been to provide quality training, which creates the very best results for clients. T: 01501 750900 E: enquiries@ sibbaldtraining.com W: www.sibbaldtraining.com/ pv/15/cpc-driver-training

Sleafordian Coaches Sleafordian Coaches training centre will shortly be celebrating its first anniversary. So far it has supplied almost 200 drivers with training and has received positive feedback consistently from all of its courses. It has also had three JAUPT audit visits all with very satisfactory results. Steve Fellows, from SERCO Transport Section, said: “I would like to pass on my thanks for an excellently delivered course. I was in attendance with colleagues and we all agreed Jemma did a very professional job and made use of some excellent material. This was my final session of training and it was by far the most interesting and professionally delivered to-date.” Courses currently available are: n Company Image, Customer Care & The Importance of Physical & Mental Ability; n Tachographs, Drivers Hours & Working Time Directive; and n Vehicle Maintenance, Daily

Vehicle Checks, Defect Reporting & VOSA. Sleafordian’s fourth and fifth courses will be available soon and will include First Aid Training and Health & Safety. Sleafordian provides courses for individuals and groups on its scheduled dates throughout the year and is also able to provide private sessions for groups and companies on request. The company was recently awarded external delivery status by JAUPT and can now travel to suitable destinations convenient for attendees. It continues to host sessions at its own training facility. Courses start from £49.99 + VAT (including DSA upload fee) and are available during the week, at weekends and in split sessions spanning a 24-hour period. T: 01529 303333 E: jemma@sleafordian.

co.uk W: www.sleafordian.co.uk/ Corporate/DriverTraining.aspx

IS YOUR BUSINESS READY FOR THE NEW CPC DRIVER TRAINING LAWS? With driver CPC Courses on average £75 + VAT per module, we are already cheaper at £58.75 + VAT per module.

BUT have you considered organising this training at your own premises* for 20 drivers? This would work out at £29.75 + VAT per person, per module. For more information

call Sibbald Training on 01501 750900 enquiries@sibbaldtraining.comw ww.sibbaldtraining.com

*based on your premises being within one hour from Sibbald Park, Blackridge

www.coachandbusweek.com

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11/02/2013 16:53

CBW editor Gareth Evans had a training day at AA Drivetech led by retired police officer Richard Bratton (pictured)

AA Drivetech AA DriveTech is a leading supplier of quality Driver CPC courses. The division has a wealth of experience and expertise in this sector and hundreds of clients both large and small which can testify to the efficacy of its award-winning courses. AA DriveTech currently has 10 JAUPT-accredited workshop-based courses and four practical, on-roadbased courses for both LGV and PSV drivers. Two of the workshops are new; the first being ‘Winter Driving’. This 3.5-hour workshop is designed to prepare drivers for all the dangers winter driving can bring, from snow and ice to wind, fog and rain. Participants will have their hazard and visual perception challenged, as well as being coached on the latest defensive driving techniques and skid avoidance. The second new course is entitled ‘The Application of Roadside Safety & Working Practices’ and is a specialist Driver CPC and IVR (Institute of Vehicle Recovery) accredited course which deals with working at the roadside for breakdown and recovery technicians. Over seven hours it covers the correct procedures for safely approaching breakdowns, if intending to repair or to carry out direct recoveries, and instruction on how to carry out a dynamic risk assessment prior to repairing or safely recovering casualty vehicles. In addition AA DriveTech provides a seven-hour First Aid course delivered in conjunction with the Red Cross, both of which count towards Driver CPC mandatory training requirements. Apart from enabling professional

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drivers to comply with their Driver CPC obligations, AA DriveTech training courses deliver real business benefits for even the most experienced driver and offer genuine value for money. The appeal of opting for AA DriveTech Driver CPC courses is strengthened yet further by their accessibility. In recent months the division has arranged an additional 20 new training venues which offer delegates both comfort and convenience. “We pride ourselves on delivering quality Driver CPC training at an affordable price. Now with even greater national coverage we offer modern, quality surroundings available across the country,” said Jason Vallint of AA DriveTech. “With our extended national reach, flexible selection of courses, high levels of service and quality products, operators can depend on us to provide their driver training anytime, anyplace.” Without their 35 hours of mandatory Driver CPC training in place, drivers will effectively be working with an invalid licence and time is fast running out. PSV drivers now only have just over 200 days to complete their training, although LGV drivers have somewhat longer, needing to have their training completed by September 2014. The latter may sound a long way off but training will have far less impact on normal working patterns if it is taken over time, rather than in a block at the last minute. T: 0845 345 9626 E: drivercpc@AAdrivetech.

com W: www.theaa.com/ aadrivetech/index.html www.coachandbusweek.com

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO TRAINING & SAFETY

Above left: The WTS team. Above right: CBW’s Senior Sales Executive Victoria experiencing some essential training. Below: WTS’ in-house test centre

Western Training Services Exeter-based Western Training Services (WTS), was started up in 2007, although it was acquired by the organisation which runs Just Coach Drivers in January 2012, and is headed up by the same team. Before the acquisition, JCD was one WTS’ best customers, according to Managing Director Del Haggerty. WTS was previously located at premises nearby to JCD’s Exeter operations, but after the purchase it was moved into the same building. The company has recently expanded with a smart in-house test centre, featuring 15 computer test stations. For the coach and bus industry, WTS offers Driver CPC training as well as Transport Manager CPCs, first aid and PCV driver training. When WTS came under the new ownership, the test centre was only one of five online test centres for this industry in the country. Del admits that when the DCPC regulations came in, he was a little sceptical, but he soon realised the benefits of the training. “Every driver says ‘I don’t need the CPC, I don’t need to hear this. I know everything about a tachographs and digicards’ etc, but that simply isn’t the case,” he said. “DCPC is an upgrade to the individual. A lot of drivers don’t know how to use a tachograph properly, for example. “It’s important to know how you are expected to conduct yourself around certain people, like OAPs or children. Drivers are not just the bloke at the front – their job involves lots of different kinds www.coachandbusweek.com

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of scenarios. We are the most underestimated individuals. “Drivers have many trades. They are good with history and geography as well as first aid etc. Coach drivers know the right place to go and they have great knowledge of places like Paris, Edinburgh, London and Dublin.” “Our industry is stepping up to the mark,” Del continued. “I

“At the end of the day, DCPC is vital. Systems change and if you don’t keep up with it you are out. Training is an ongoing necessity for the industry.”

honestly believe DCPC is very important because I can genuinely see how drivers are benefiting. It’s why I bought the company as training drivers is a natural progression. “We’re currently specifically aiming WTS at the coach operator. Operators are now recognising there’s not much time left so we are making it very easy for them – we can go to their place if necessary. Whatever suits the company and its drivers best. “We’re also currently booking operators in for the next five years so nobody is left behind next time. It will be a smoother process between 2013 and 2018. “At the end of the day, DCPC is vital. Systems change and if you don’t keep up with it you are out. Training is an ongoing necessity for the industry.” The Driver CPC is for LGV and PCV drivers who drive professionally throughout the UK. It has been developed as a requirement of the EU Directive 2003/59 to improve the knowledge and skills of professional LGV and PCV drivers. An initial qualification must be achieved by new LGV and PCV drivers along with their vocational licence to enable them to use their licence professionally. Western Training Services’ courses include Health & Safety in Transport, Princibles of Safe & Eco Driving, Rural & Urban Driving and Emergency First Aid. T: 0845 894 0844 E: info@wts.co.uk W: www.westerntraining services.co.uk

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TO TRAINING & SAFETY Minimise Your Risk Being the first JAUPT-approved registered centre, Alec Horner can quite rightly state that Minimise Your Risk has some of the longest experience at delivering periodic training. However, he is concerned that many operators haven’t got into the routine of having one course each year delivered to all their drivers. The operators who’ve gone for the five courses all at once haven‘t understood that new drivers do not have the same training cycle as the ‘acquired rights’ drivers and waiting for another five years isn’t an option. Operators and drivers should be looking to their next training cycle starting after September 10 this year and finding courses which are relevant them. One new course Minimise offers is strongly advisable due to the European Passenger Rights Act which requires operators to demonstrate their staff have been given ‘suitable’ training on disability awareness.

Some of the courses are always going to be a ‘staple’ for coach drivers, such as driver’s hours and tachographs. While there haven’t been any major changes in the last five years, there are sufficient changes to make a refresher appropriate and informative. Cost of courses is always an issue and while Minimse doesn’t claim to be the cheapest, its courses are value for money and drivers go away with many informative hand-outs, such as a copy of the PSV 365. However, one industry figure remarked many operators, never mind the drivers, don’t possess a copy of this document. Alec Horner believes based on a group of 20 drivers at £43.75 per driver (including the £8.75 upload fee) this is one of the most competitive prices on offer for a seven-hour periodic training course, when delivered at your premises. T: 0844 335105 W: www.minimiseyourrisk.

co.uk

Wright Training Services Wright Training Services Ltd is a family-run business which has been training successfully for over 20 years in the bus and coach industry. The company provides courses for both drivers and managers including Driver CPC, Manager CPC and the new Refresher CPC. Wright Training Services is committed to the need for good training within the bus industry and in particular to the Drivers CPC, where the time to get qualified is rapidly running out. Traffic Commissioner Beverly Bell has stated there will be no leeway for operators which do not ensure their drivers are trained. Courses are run by Wright during the week and at weekends. Bookings can be made on an individual or group basis, where clients can either attend the firm’s own training centre in West Thurrock, Essex, or have group training provided at their own

premises. Attendees will be provided with comprehensive course information to take away as reference material for future use and Wright is happy to give assistance after the course if needed. Wright has a policy which means if someone has booked a course, the company is committed to run its course, as it understands the arrangements which must be made to be able to attend. Legislation is constantly changing and to give customers a well informed and up to date course, Wright continually updates its instructors with additional training and monitoring. The company asks those interested to call Janice or Pauline at Wright to discuss training needs free of charge, where they may be able to help or point you in the right direction. T: 01708 867564 E: info@wright-training.com W: www.wright-training.com

Transport Managers CPC Course – New & Refresher New Operators Course Drivers CPC Venue: West Thurrock, Essex or we can come to you 01708 867564 info@wright-training.com www.coachandbusweek.com

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Alcolock GB In 2011, 5% of all road casualties occurred when someone was driving over the legal alcohol limit. None of us would want our drivers contributing to this statistic. Installing the Alcolock GB breath alcohol testing device can ensure those behind the wheel are not only below the limit but also not impaired by alcohol. The Alcolock GB DS-10 Breathalyser Immobiliser System is a tethered alcohol device which is connected directly to an immobiliser, preventing any driver from starting the vehicle if a breath sample is over a preset limit. In the event it detects an excessive alcohol reading, the vehicle will become immobilised. If the sample is under the preset limit the vehicle will start. Unlike other similar devices the unit can be linked to mobile phone technology which allows operators to be made aware instantly of positive tests allowing you to react

Above left: Alcolock GB Director David Whittock at the Euro Bus Expo 2012. Above right: A breathalyser in use before the vehicle is allowed to leave accordingly. This system is also supported by remote access to the Alcolock GB dedicated website which clearly identifies the vehicle, date, time and alcohol figure recorded. It is also supported by an email for further notification. This site is username and password protected. The system is simple to operate and reliable. It has a provision for a rolling pin number activated override in the case of emergency,

and a ‘time out’ which allows the driver to take a short break without taking a further test. Alcolock GB prides itself on being able to work with clients to tailor any installation to meet their individual requirements, and this in most cases changes from one business to another. The company has a fully trained team of engineers which specialise in this business. All installations are

completed to a very high standard and Alcolock GB supports this by giving equal warranty on both product and installation. Installations can be completed at the operator’s premises which take around two hours per vehicle. Alcolock GB’s support does not stop there; its team is always on hand for help and advise, and offers a guaranteed 48hr response for engineers if required. Alcolock GB supplies all consumables, such as mouthpieces or any spares required, and arranges the required calibration of breathalysers. The cost may be less than you think. It could save you on insurance and it will definitely stop any drink/drive related accidents and the associated costs. Alcolock GB can arrange monthly terms to cover all costs for the complete package at less than £2/day per vehicle for larger fleets. W: www.alcolockgb.com T: 01761 40815 E: info@alcolockgb.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

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28 | COACH & BUS WEEK | February 13, 2013

INDUSTRY

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TO TRAINING & SAFETY QV Associates’ residential courses are held in a Birmingham hotel, with the next course taking place from March 5-8

QV Associates QV Associates has updated its wellestablished courses on the planning of bus timetables and the scheduling of buses and drivers so as to focus on the current financial issues. The Worcester-based firm believes planning and scheduling are sometimes treated as mere technical skills – but they’re actually an essential part of bus operations and every serious professional ought to have a good understanding of them, irrespective of whether they work for an operator or a local

authority. The courses are residential, based at a hotel in Birmingham, and run from Tuesday lunchtime to Friday lunchtime to allow time for travelling to and fro. The next pair of courses this year will be: Introduction to Bus and Crew Scheduling, taking place March 5-8 (and repeated November 5-8), and Route and Timetable Planning on March 19-22 (and repeated November 26-29).

T: 01905 613527 E: courses@qv-associates.com

Checkpoint Safety It’s no secret that in the commercial vehicle sector, particularly in the coach and bus market, wheel security is a primary issue for operators. With an estimated 7,50011,000 wheel fixing defects and up to 400 wheel detachments per year occurring in the UK, it’s hardly surprising that wheel security policies and procedures attract constant development and scrutiny. The FTA recognises this and has recently revised and released a new Wheel Security Drivers Card for ‘essential daily check for drivers’, however the message within the market concerning the causes of wheel detachments are not always portrayed consistently or taken seriously at ground level. While wheel nut indicators and retainers are a proven option to improve the safety of fleets and facilitate more robust safety policies, fleet operators still rely on staff for good quality servicing and monitoring to maintain high levels

of vehicle roadworthiness. Checkpoint Safety recently released Checkthread, a toolkit designed for use by service staff and engineers to monitor the quality of wheel studs and stud holes. The kits offer a clear way of highlighting and fixing problems and heighten the awareness of wheel security at an operating level. The kits allow fleet managers to train staff in detecting problems early, which in turn allows the opportunity to take remedial action. Andrew Woodings, MD of Tyre Force Nottingham, said: “We’ve recently purchased Checkthread toolkits for our mobile vehicles and workshop staff and found them to be a very useful tool in detecting worn or stretched wheel studs.” The kits are widely available in the UK and abroad via parts distributors and industry associations. T: 015242 71200 W: www.checkpointsafety.com

Vital skills for success

Courses on Network and Timetable Planning Bus and Crew Scheduling

QV Associates

2 Bath Road Worcester WR5 3EJ Phone 01905-613527 Fax: 01905-767509 email courses@qv-associates.co.uk

+44 (0) 1524 271200 sales@checkpoint-safety.com t m

www.coachandbusweek.com

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11/02/2013 13:59

682442-1074-Orion

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TO TRAINING & SAFETY The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association Buses play a vital role in enabling blind or partially-sighted people to live more independent lives. However, negotiating public transport can be a real challenge. The Forgotten Passengers survey by Guide Dogs revealed nearly 87% of passengers with sight loss who took part had missed their stop because they didn’t know where they were on a bus journey. Despite asking a bus driver to tell them where to get off, 87% of visually impaired respondents said they have missed their stop because the driver had forgotten to tell them. James White, Campaigns Manager at Guide Dogs, said: “Some of the stories which survey respondents told us were awful. One lady was almost locked in a bus in a depot for the night because the driver forgot she was there. People are ending up lost or left in potentially dangerous situations because they can’t get the information they need about their bus journeys.” Worryingly, Guide Dogs found that 29% of visually-impaired respondents said a driver had refused to alert them to their stop. Guide Dogs’ Talking Buses campaign is lobbying for audiovisual announcements on board buses to help everyone, not just blind and partially sighted people. The charity wants all buses to have information telling passengers the next stop and the final destination, much like trains, and this doesn’t need to be expensive. Recent research by The TAS Partnership found it costs just £2,100 to install audio-visual technology on a singledecker bus, or £2,550 for a doubledecker. The report said the cost could be reduced if whole fleets are equipped with the technology. As well as Talking Buses, it would make a huge difference if all bus drivers were aware of the needs of blind and partially-sighted people and if they were trained in sighted guiding techniques. One major public transport provider, First Bus, has committed to doing exactly that. First Bus has a fleet of 8,500 buses, and over 17,000 drivers. Training all those drivers should enhance the experience of thousands of people using their services and greatly increase their confidence that their journeys will be safe, comfortable and adapted to their needs. www.coachandbusweek.com

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Above: Blind people make up a large proprtion of passengers. Below: First committed to raising driver awareness

Throughout 2013, Guide Dogs Sighted Guide Ambassadors will be working with First Bus trainers at 14 venues across England, Scotland and Wales as part of the My Guide “Open for Business” scheme. The First Bus trainers will learn practical techniques for sighted guiding, enabling them to confidently assist blind and partially-sighted passengers in a wide range of situations. The sighted guiding training the First Bus trainers receive will be passed on by them to all drivers nationwide as part of their extensive ongoing driver training programme. The ‘train the trainer’ programme developed by Guide

Dogs and First Bus means that a sustainable and economical training structure is in place and First Bus drivers will continue to support their blind and partiallysighted passengers. Sighted Guide Ambassador Pam Stringer is enthusiastic about the news, and said: “The My Guide contract with First Bus is great news for blind and partially-sighted people who use public transport. Guide Dogs has been campaigning hard for improvements like Talking Buses and working with First Bus can only help move things forward. “Training First Bus trainers to deliver the sighted guiding programme also means the training

can be delivered to the thousands of drivers far more quickly than if we attempted to do all the training ourselves. At the same time, Guide Dogs can act as expert consultants to ensure quality and consistency is maintained and the best possible service is given to blind and partially sighted passengers. “Having confidence in the knowledge that staff within the public transport sector have been trained to support individuals with sight loss will open the way for blind and partially sighted people to participate in recreational and social activities and become part of the community they live in. “I think we should applaud First Bus for their forward thinking and their commitment to making transport safe and accessible to blind and partially sighted people and we hope that many more organisations and businesses follow their lead in making the My Guide Open for Business sighted guiding training part of their employee development.” T: 0800 028 4348 (Talking Buses) or 0118 983 4348 (My Guide) E: campaigns@guidedogs.org. uk (Talking Buses) or myguide@ guidedogs.org.uk (My Guide) W: www.guidedogs.org.uk/ talkingbuses

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TO TRAINING & SAFETY Nationwide Transport Training The well-established brokerage and booking service offered by Nationwide Transport Training Ltd (NTT) provides a real benefit to PCV operators and their drivers across the UK, particularly with regard to Driver CPC Periodic Training. NTT has a comprehensive website and provides a 24/7 free booking service to operators where knowledgeable staff offer guidance and advice and fulfil the complete booking process. This minimises the hassle of understanding the legislation and finding appropriate training. All the Trainer members and their courses are JAUPT approved and NTT has now organised CPC courses for many large, medium and small operators across the UK. John Barker, NTT Director, said: “We have established a good working relationship with our trainer members, who offer courses

at realistic prices, and demonstrate a real willingness to accommodate operator needs and deliver courses on dates to suit their business commitments. “The common demand at the moment is for training to be delivered local to the operator, in-house or at a local venue and in some cases different operators are grouping drivers together to make up an economical number for all parties’ benefit. Operators have welcomed our complete booking service, which saves them thinking and research time and allows them more time to focus on running their business.” Nationwide Transport Training, as the name suggests, is nationwide and can assist any coach and bus operator based anywhere in the country. T: 0845 217 8121 E: info@nationwide transporttraining.com W: www.nationwidetransport training.com

Nationwide Transport Training

EYMS EYMS Bus & Coach Training is a busy and successful division of EYMS Group in Hull. Fully approved, EYMS provides Driver CPC training to both PCV and LGV customers as well as the EYMS Group. It also provides initial PCV Licence acquisition training for either automatic or manual vehicles in addition to module four Driver CPC Practical Demonstration instruction and friendly support and advice towards theory testing. With dedicated training facilities and vehicles, EYMS’s team of qualified trainers have many years ‘hands on’ experience from within the industry. The quality of its training has been proudly recognised in the industry and locally with two consecutive ‘Training Excellence’ awards in the Mail News & Media Business Awards 2009 & 2010. For Driver CPC training EYMS offers five seven-hour courses including Customer Care &

Disability Equality, Working Time/ Drivers Hours & Tachograph regulations, Defensive Driving, as well as Fuel and Safe Efficient Driver training which has helped EYMS itself achieve significant fuel savings and reduced insurance costs. It also offers several, 3½ hour modular CPC courses, which can be combined into full seven-hour courses with subjects including Health Safety, Manual Handling, Legal Awareness and refresher Drivers Hours courses, etc. CPC course prices are as low as £31.25 per driver on a group booking (plus VAT and DSA fees). Attractive discounts are offered for groups of just two or more. Course dates are available throughout the year and EYMS can offer the option to complete five CPC courses within a week. T: 01482 592935 M: 07742 569869 E: training@eyms.co.uk W: www.eyms.co.uk

0845 217 8121 / 0161 335 2073

emma@nationwidetransporttraining.com

A Professional Brokerage and Booking Service Your Business Training Can Save You Money NTT provides a hassle free service to operators and drivers to assist them source appropriate courses to suit any transport training need, particularly Driver CPC. Driver CPC – a legal requirement – courses can include: • Working Time Directive • Tachographs • Health & Safety • Dealing with Emergencies • Vehicle Evacuation • Disability/Wheelchair

• First Aid • Drugs & Alcohol • Customer Service • Fuel Efficient Driving • Dealing with Conflict

Benefits of using NTT: • Free service to operators and drivers • Fully accredited training providers across the UK • No hidden or extra costs • Training records provided • Flexible Training (Weekend/Weekday) • Training providers will travel to you • Group bookings can be arranged to reduce costs

www.coachandbusweek.com

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Advanced Vehicle Auditing Service In this age of compliance and litigation, staff training is essential in reducing your exposure. Advance Vehicle Auditing Service (AVAS) can provide training courses for drivers and workshop staff. By training staff, further cost savings can be made through more fuel efficient driving and reduced vehicle down time. Drivers of PCVs only have until September 2013 to comply with the EU Driver CPC requirement. AVAS is an approved centre (AC01121) by JAUPT and can provide periodic training with a choice of four approved modules: n Driver vehicle checks – as the first line of the maintenance system, drivers will not only comply with this important duty but can also identify and report defects before they become prohibition items; n Driving hours – refresh drivers’ knowledge and understanding of driving hours and the

AVAS provides experience on using a tachgraphs in a safe environment consequences of non-compliance; n Tachographs – drivers gain experience of using a digital Tachograph in a safe environment, any mistakes made here will not have the consequences of on-road mistakes; and n Eco-driving – Drivers will become more aware, safer and fuel efficient in their driving. More courses are coming soon.

Courses can be provided at operators‘ own premises or at a venue provided by AVAS. A minimum of six drivers are required. Courses can be provided on most days, where delivered at an operator’s own premises and on most weekdays if a training room is to be provided. Course duration is from 0800 to 1700hrs with tea/coffee breaks during the day,

although courses can be delivered at other times (contact Advanced Vehicle Auditing Service for further details). Timings and agenda will be provided with joining instructions. Workshop staff will become more conversant with the relevant ‘Annual Testing’ manual - changing parts when required rather than when they have gone beyond their serviceable life or on ‘gut feeling’. Supervisors can advise if defects attract prohibitions at roadside checks, preventing unroadworthy vehicles from being driven. AVAS can cater to individual training requirements with standard or bespoke training courses and certificates. Training courses are usually held at the operator’s own premises to maintain the candidate’s vehicle familiarity and reduce travelling costs and refreshment expenses. T: 01325 317 220 M: 07956 244 142 W: www.advanceauditing. co.uk

Advance Vehicle Auditing Services Ltd

Time is running out for driver CPC (Sept 2013). Are you ready? Providing training courses for your drivers and workshop staff:

• Driver vehicle checks • Driving hours • Tachographs • Eco-driving • More courses coming soon Courses can be provided at your own premises or at a venue provided by ourselves. A minimum of 6 drivers are required for a course to be delivered.

Workshop staff will become more conversant with the relevant 'Annual Testing' manual - changing parts when required rather than when they have gone beyond their serviceable life or on 'gut feeling'. Supervisors will be able to advise if defects would attract prohibitions at VOSA roadside checks, preventing unroadworthy vehicles from being driven on the road. Advance Vehicle Auditing Service Ltd can cater to your training requirements with standard or bespoke training courses and certificates.

Lunch can be provided. Tea & coffee is provided.

Training courses are usually held at your own premises to maintain the candidate’s vehicle familiarity and reduce travelling costs and refreshment expenses for your company.

Course duration is from 08:00 to 17:00 with tea/coffee breaks during the day. Courses can be delivered at other times, please contact us for further details.

If you would like further information on the staff training courses offered by Advance Vehicle Auditing Service Ltd please contact us today and see how we can help you.

Advance Vehicle Auditing Services Limited 34 Harebell Meadows, Woodham, Newton Aycliffe, County Durham DL5 4UG Telephone. 01325 317 220 Mobile. 07956 244 142 www.advanceauditing.co.uk

JAUPT APPROVED CENTRE AC01121

www.coachandbusweek.com

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO TRAINING & SAFETY Squire Transport Training Squire Management and Training Ltd (SMT) has been delivering high quality educational project management and training for several years, with SMT’s Managing Director Keith Squire holding 25 years experience in delivering and managing training across both the private and public sector. The current training team has over 100 years experience of delivering high quality training, with all PCV trainers still driving buses and coaches on regular basis. SMT can create bespoke training material to suit the needs of any operator and deliver training at times to suit, whether it’s during evenings and weekends or worked around school runs. All training delivered by SMT is Driver CPC training, with the aim being to be the best provider. SMT can provide testimonials from a long list of clients who have been very satisfied.

Keith said: “The attitude of operators towards Driver CPC depends on when you ask. Before they attend the first course they think it is getting in the way, but afterwards a good 75% ask when the next module is scheduled for. “The training helps drivers as they all have concerns which they may have been frightened to raise previously. Their increased knowledge means confidence goes up. “There is also evidence that operators have seen a reduction in tachograph infringements and improvements in fuel efficiency. “My advice would be; don’t delay – you’ll get better value for money and periodical training is more beneficial than one big block. “There is a better impact when courses are spaced out. Customers booking with us have a fixed price, so the last courses they attend are priced the same as the first.” T: 07754 619 844 E: keith@cpc-smt.co.uk W: www.cpc-smt.co.uk

Driving Forward with CPC

Daniel Stephenson, Training Manager, beside Tanat Valley’s Berkhof-bodied Volvo B10M

Tanat Valley Coaches Tanat Valley Coaches has almost 100 years experience serving the borderlands of Powys and Shropshire, with 10 years experience delivering driver training. It has introduced a fresh range of training in the last three years, including PSV & LGV initial driver training and in-house assessor training. Tanat Valley also offers a mobile classroom and training unit, on board a dedicated training coach. Daniel Stephenson, Training

Manager at Tanat Valley Coaches, said: “The beauty of the mobile classroom is it can visit operators and allow the training to be done there and then, whether it has the facilities or not. All that is needed is a power point.” Tanat Valley has recently become a member of RTITB’s master driving consortium, meaning it can be relied upon to deliver high quality instruction with its courses. T: 01691 780212 E: info@tanat.co.uk W: www.tanat.co.uk

The Garage, Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant, Nr Oswestry, Shropshire SY10 0AD

Squire Management and Training Ltd

Tel: 01691 780 212

Fax: 01691 780 634

Email: info@tanat.co.uk

Coach Hire • Day & Holiday Tours • Local Bus and School Services • Garage Services • MOTs • Driver Training

All our trainers are current drivers with between 21 and 42 years experience. Nationwide delivery anytime, evening and weekends. Training materials customised to operator requirements. We only deliver Driver CPC with the aim of being the best at what we do.

Tanat Valley Coaches have been serving the borderlands of Powys and Shropshire for almost 100 years as well as delivering driver training to the bus and coach industry for over 10 years. The last 3 years have seen the training department expand its services, to include:

     

PSV & LGV initial driver training CPC Initial & Periodic Training for PSV & LGV B+E car and trailer training In-house assessor training Driver assessments and training Fuel saving and compliance systems training & development And we can deliver the training to your doorstep with our mobile classroom and training unit, thus supplying fantastic training in the most convenient of ways! Driver CPC is fast becoming a big issue, with many companies and drivers leaving it till the last minute in the hope that it might go away! Don’t be left behind, contact us today to arrange convenient and flexible training at very competitive rates. We have recently become a member of RTITB’s Master Driver Consortium, a nationally recognised non-profit training organisation that is one of the largest In the UK, where every instructor is trained to a high standard in order to deliver their high quality courses.

JAUPT APPROVED CENTRE AC00882

Booking hotline on 07754 619844 Email: matt@cpc-smt.co.uk www.cpc-smt.co.uk

We have a wide range of courses to choose from so, whether you’re an individual looking for a career change or a company looking to reduce overheads and raise standards, Tanat Valley can help you get results. If you have any questions or would like more information contact our Training Manager Daniel Stephenson, who will be happy to help.

www.coachandbusweek.com

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Novadata Novadata is one of the UK’s most specialised and trusted providers of training for both managers and drivers, offering consultancy services to help drivers and fleets operate safely, legally and profitably. Its reputation for first class training has made Novadata a first port of call for drivers wishing to complete their 35 hours of Driver CPC training and register for a DQC in advance of the deadline. Courses are run at a number of centres across the nation, or can be held at clients’ own premises if required. Novadata runs a popular five-day course to provide all 35 hours in one week, often timed to coincide with school holidays, consecutive afternoon courses to fit in around regular contracts such as school runs and even Saturday courses for those who struggle to attend weekday courses. DSA registration fees are included in all course fees. Novadata also trains managers, providing courses on Management

CPC, O-Licence undertakings and drivers hours & correct tachograph use. The firm is one of the foremost in providing resettlement training for ex-forces personnel going into transport management. Novadata is an invaluable source of tachograph products and analysis; including the latest download technology and Tachotek, its digital tachograph software; as well as offering the leading tachograph analysis service for both analogue and digital records. It has courses to teach drivers the correct use of digital tachograph systems, highlighting the differences between leading makes and models. The training ensures drivers and managers are aware of legislation to help them comply with legal obligations, safeguarding O-Licences and keep operators and drivers free from prosecution. T: 01376 552999 E: enquiries@novadata.

co.uk W: www.novadata.co.uk

Features List 2013 Below is the complete list of this year’s CBW issues showing current scheduled dates for Industry Guides. Dates are subject to change. Issue

Issue Date

1068 January 2 1069 January 9 1070 January 16 1071 January 23 1072 January 30 1073 February 6 1074 February 13 1075 February 20 1076 February 27 1077 March 6 1078 March13 1079 March 20 1080 March 27 1081 April 3 1082 April 10 1083 April 17 1084 April 24 1085 May 1 1086 May 8 1087 May 15 1088 May 22 1089 May 39 1090 June 5 1091 June 12 1092 June 19 1093 June 26 1094 July 3 1095 July 10 1096 July 17 1097 July 24 1098 July 31 1099 August 7 1100 August 14 1101 August 21 1102 August 28 1103 September 4 1104 September 11 1105 September 18 1106 September 25 1107 October 2 1108 October 9 1109 October 16 1110 October 23 1111 October 30 1112 November 6 1113 November 13 1114 November 20 1115 November 27 1116 December 4 1117 December 11 1118 December 18

Product Focus Feature Passenger Comfort & Entertainment Vehicle Presentation Telematics

Training & Safety Engines & Transmissions Seating, Flooring & Interiors

Digital Technology Rental, Leasing & Finance Garage Equipment Tachographs Fuel Management & Emission Control Ticketing & Cash Handling

Repairs & Refurbishment Training & Safety Glazing & Entry Systems Uniforms & Workwear Vehicle Presentation Engines & Transmissions

Security & Insurance Digital Technology Garage Equipment Seating, Flooring & Interiors Ticketing & Cash Handling Repairs & Refurbishment Fuel Management & Emission Control

CONTACTS Senior Sales Executive Victoria Schult 01733 293248 victoria.schult@coachandbusweek.com

Advertising Executive Brian Winterton 01733 293488 brian.winterton@coachandbusweek.com www.coachandbusweek.com

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THE BIG PICTURE

Two new Jonckheere-bodied Volvo B9Rs are now in active service with loyal Volvo operator Plastow’s Coaches. The firm’s fleet now totals nine vehicles, all of which are built on Volvo chassis. “We’ve always been a fan of the Volvo Jonckheere combination,” said Plastows’ Partner, Barbara Plastow. “The new B9Rs feature 53 passenger seats and a toilet, which makes them ideal for our private hire work. Our whole fleet is Volvo based – and that’s not an accident! We’ve looked at the rest of the market, but Volvo has consistently provided us with the right vehicles at the right time. I’ve dealt with Volvo Bus Regional Coach Sales Manager Jo Standbridge over a long period of time now. We’ve built up a good understanding and a trust, which I think is really important when it comes to us reinvesting in our fleet.” Established for more than 60 years, the firm is based in Wheatley, on the eastern edge of Oxford. The fleet ranges from 29 to 53 seater vehicles. This attractive winter scene was kindly supplied to CBW by Volvo Bus.

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technology › cctv

Redwing safe & secure with VUE CCTV James Day talks to Glen Mullins, Managing Director at VUE CCTV, and Colin Miller, Assistant General Manager at Redwing Coaches, to see the benefits of the CCTV system being rolled out across the coach fleet

CTV is frequently the subject of serious debate. There are many arguments about improvements in safety against invasion of privacy, and some drivers may see it as one of many new developments which can call their professional integrity into question. However, the VUE CCTV system being rolled out with Redwing Coaches has received nothing but praise from drivers, management and passengers. Redwing now describes it as something crucial to have.

About VUE CCTV

Over the last 14 years, VUE has provided CCTV across several automotive markets, primarily for vehicles within the emergency services, VOSA, Government agencies and public transport, as well as commercial vehicles, all over the UK and Europe. In the coach and bus industry, VUE has installed 200 systems on OneBus vehicles and works closely with a number of vehicle builders. The company spends time finding out specifically what its clients requirements are and creating bespoke systems to suit them. Having previously worked with Addison Lee Group installing CCTV into some of its private hire taxi operator’s Ford Galaxies in London, part of its 4,500 vehicle fleet, VUE discovered the Group owned www.coachandbusweek.com

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Above: Glen Mullins, VUE CCTV MD. Right: A side rear-facing CCTV camera mounted on the wingmirror Redwing Coaches and proposed a new CCTV system for the coach operator. Vue’s CCTV system is being installed Redwing’s entire 75 vehicle fleet, with 30 of its coaches having had the system fitted so far. The first vehicles were equipped with CCTV last summer and are now specified for inclusion to any new coaches Redwing acquires through its regular vehicle replacement programme. Each CCTV system is hardwired into a vehicle, with cables running along the length of coach. There are six cameras in total – four outside, with a single camera mounted to the front and rear, and a backward facing camera on each side. Two internal cameras are used, one facing down the central isle and another looking over the driver’s cabin.

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SUPPLIEr: VUE location: Manchester Contact: 0161 877 2257 info@vue-cctv.co.uk www.vue-cctv.co.uk

VUE Managing Director Glen Mullins explained the company’s systems were not a case of one solution fits all. “We can build bespoke systems for specific vehicles,” he said. “Systems vary in size from two to six cameras depending on the size and requirements of the vehicle, all of which are recording all the time. “Time taken to install the system depends on size, type of system and so on. Generally, installation on a coach takes the best part of a day – about five hours, while a two camera system takes two hours. “The outside cameras protect from false claims and exaggerated insurance claims, while the internal cameras protect against similar claims from incidents happening on board. It’s great for insurance companies.” The VUE system also records the speed of the vehicle together with its location, using integrated GPS, to prove compliance with speed limits. By measuring G-forces in the event of an incident, the force of impact makes it clear to see whether or not it’s possible for whiplash to have been inflicted and a very strong argument can be put together against the all too common injury claims. The external CCTV does provide driver aid as well, with the side cameras fully integrated with screens within the vehicle and helping the driver to cover blind spots. Integration doesn’t stop there. VUE can integrate Sat-Navs, DVD players and on-board entertainment through the CCTV screen, all via a single system. “We can also overlay information, such as data from ticket machines, which proves passengers have been issued with a specific ticket,” Glen added. VUE employs a full time research and development team which constantly looks into new developments. Recently the firm has developed its VUEtrak telematics system and is working with LGV companies to develop a weight measuring system, which ensures customers have been delivered the correct amount of product by recording changes in the vehicle’s weight.

Right for Redwing

Redwing Coaches’ Assistant General Manager Colin Miller is a retired policeman and as such has some prior knowledge of what works and what doesn’t with CCTV.

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technology › cctv

VUE:

aftersales service

Top: The aisle CCTV camera is seen to the right of the monitor. Above: Colin Miller of Redwing Coaches “It’s becoming more and more apparent that CCTV is a crucial thing to have,” Colin stated. “I speak from a position of strength on this as I was an officer in the Metropolitan Police specialising in crime prevention and CCTV use in town and city centres. I have an idea of what these systems should do and how you should manage them. “This was one of things which led me to decide CCTV was best option for us.” With this previous experience, Colin made sure to do his research before deciding which supplier to use. He said the ‘better’ companies all had CCTV products of a similar high quality, so in the end the decision was primarily cost based. “VUE were streets ahead in terms of value for money,” Colin explained. “However, its aftersales support has elevated the compny to even greater heights. They couldn’t be better on after service support. They even deal with my stupid questions!” In the time since the first Redwing coach was outfitted with VUE CCTV, Colin estimated it had been used a dozen times on a variety of bookings. “What I’m finding already is the most important use of the CCTV is the post incident analysis,” he said. “We can download the footage from the hard drive out of the camera and see exactly what happened. “It takes away any vagueness. You can instantly see who’s at fault www.coachandbusweek.com

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The majority of the CCTV systems currently running on Redwing’s fleet were not installed by VUE, but by Redwing’s own engineers. This has been possible because one of VUE’s technicians took the time to go through the installation process with them and the engineers are now fully trained in implementing and maintaining the systems. “We’re a family company and like to treat our customers how we would see ourselves treated and offer the right price,” Glen explained. “Why should operators have to pay £500-600 per vehicle to fit something which they can easily fit themselves?” VUE also employs a driver behaviour expert on the support side of its business. VUE taught Colin how to review footage and use it for training purposes. “It’s one of the services we offer,” Glen added. “You can see whether he’s stressed out or not and give feedback on the mistakes a driver doesn’t make when he’s driving perfectly with an instructor sitting next to him. The camera gives a more real picture. “We’ve invested in quite a big groundbreaking research programme to see the effects of this, which is ongoing at the moment. We believe it has a positive effect and Colin has onfirmed the way he manages his drivers has completely changed as a result.”

that area or premises being a safer place,” he explained. “However, this is only valid if the system is properly managed. If you put it in and do nothing with it, as soon as people realise it’s not maintained, the illusion is broken and the problems come back. “If you do manage it properly, people will feel safe and it will reduce crime.” Colin added that the Redwing drivers have learnt to trust the CCTV and are now very positive about it. “Our drivers have become aware the system is there to protect them and we’re beginning to see an effect on driver behaviour. They were initially suspicious but now they know we’re not out to get them and we have had positive feedback, particularly as false claims can be rebuked and drivers are not being given advice or lectures when they were not at fault.”

Justice is served

The discrete driver’s cab camera is seen here above the coach’s doorway

“If you do manage it properly, people will feel safe and it will reduce crime.” Colin Miller and whether the complaint should be upheld or if it is spurious. It’s so beneficial in those cases when it would have been one person’s word against another’s. “One of the first incidents we got on CCTV was obviously our driver’s fault, but we could still actually save money. Knowing what happened, we contacted the insurance company and asked what we could do to help. There’s quite a bit you can do in that situation. There doesn’t need to be a premium paid for a courtesy car when we can provide it ourselves, for example. It’s a win-win situation.”

There have also been scenarios already where the driver was clearly not at fault, where he was absolved thanks the onboard CCTV system. “If our driver is not at fault, we can look at the footage, explain it to the claimant and retain our reputation. We had a case of this where we showed the claimant, they apologised, and was then so impressed with the system we had in place they told other people positive things about our attention towards safety and such. “I’m really really pleased with it.” When dealing with anti-social behaviour, CCTV has three primary functions – catching criminals in the act, deterring crimes from taking place to begin with and making people, in this case the passengers and drivers, feel safer. Colin said it is important to consider all of these factors equally. “CCTV gives the perception of

Those of you familiar with Youtube or those police fly-on-the-wall documentaries which CBW editor Gareth enjoys, may have seen some of the situations which onboard CCTV captures. Sometimes it shows car drivers attempting the ‘Crash for Cash’ scam – braking hard in front of bus in an attempt to make it crash into the rear so they can submit a fraudulent claim for damages and, potentially, any whiplash inuries suffered by passengers in the car. Courts tend to consider the vehicle behind to be at fault but CCTV reveals the facts. Colin has had an experience with a similarly opportunist individual, where he was quite happy to make the fraudster look a fool. “Drivers can explain on the spot to someone attempting a spurious claim that the incident is on record. We had a complaint a couple of weeks ago about a driver being rude, so we got the hard drive downloaded and found claimant’s story was completely different to the CCTV evidence. We saw the passenger was swearing at our driver, while the driver was polite and trying to avoid confrontation. “I called the claimant, explained what we had seen and heard on the CCTV and he immediately put the phone down. “The CCTV is really showing these people up and they just go away.”

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insight › tfgm

Managing the city’s public transport network Andrew Cream visted Manchester to meet TfGM’s bus team to find out about its Quality Partnerships, Yellow School Buses, delivering affordable fares and much more www.coachandbusweek.com

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ith an array of different operating conditions and operators in Greater Manchester, I was intrigued to see how the regional PTE managed public transport in the area. Being an ex-resident of the Cottonopolis myself, there was a personal interest, especially when driving around areas I used to live, finding out about how traffic is managed and what improvements have taken place since I left, as well as what was on the horizon. I met with four members of Transport for Great Manchester’s bus team – Michael Renshaw, Bus and Rail Director, Howard Hartley,

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Service Infrastructure Manager, Paul Lucas, Operational Service Planning Manager, and Melanie Watson, Head of Bus Network Performance. Despite the rise of the Metrolink in recent years, buses still cater for just under 80% of passenger transport journeys in Manchester. “The bus is certainly not the Cinderella of public transport here,” Michael remarked. The Greater Manchester area has a high number of operators, which stems from how Greater Manchester Transport, and subsequently GM Buses, was split. 1996 saw the most significant transformation, with GM Buses’ northern operations being sold to First and its southern services going

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to Stagecoach. The north and south operations evolved with different commercial models which resulted in a very clear contrast in service delivery and fare structuring – more of which later. In albeit different guises, Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has existed since 1969, after the introduction of the Transport Act 1968. The organisation was originally known as SELNEC Passenger Transport Executive – SELNEC standing for South East Lancashire North East Cheshire. When the metropolitan county of Greater Manchester was created on April 1, 1974, the name changed to GMPTE. The change to the TfGM name occurred on April 1, 2011. It’s not just name changes however which have moved the organisation on over the years. In more recent times, TfGM has decided to ramp up its bond with operators. “Over the last five or six years we have done a lot more work than traditionally,” Michael said. “We have always tried to work with bus companies, but we used to leave commercial operators to their own devices and focused on the performance of contracted services. But the commercial network covers around 46.6 million operated miles and accounts for about 94% of passenger journeys. “So we changed our approach in 2004/5 and started looking at how we could improve the network. “It’s about trying to get greater consistency in the quality of services even though we have such a diverse range of operators.” The term ‘quality of services’ for TfGM covers every angle of operations, from the network performance to vehicle presentation. “It’s not just about large versus small operators,” Michael continued. “We have had both good small and large operators – as well as poor. This isn’t simply a case of ‘big is beautiful’.” TfGM’s overall bus strategy is broadly based on working in partnership with bus companies. Essentially its aim is to bring in countywide improvements in standards and a reduction in their variability, which it claims ensures future improvements through corridor-specific partnerships are not achieved at the expense of the wider network. As well as increasing its own involvement with operators, TfGM also encourages companies to

work with each other, influencing their peers and building a mature relationship. The success of the bus strategy is judged by aggregate performance across all operators, so the better operators have an incentive to encourage others to improve their performance. This is guided, in part, by the Greater Manchester Bus Operators Association. “The GMBOA has been around for well over 10 years and is a well constituted organisation,” Michael explained. “It works constructively together with Greater Manchester Travelcards (GMTL), which goes back into the 90s, on a range of ticketing and network issues.”

Running on time

Manchester’s PTE is focused on improving punctuality and reliability. One of the schemes it has set up is the Performance and Reliability Monitoring System (PRMS), which forms the foundation of TfGM’s network performance monitoring. A methodology was agreed

upon with operators and TfGM holds regular meetings where firms jointly develop performance improvements plans. Melanie explained: “We sit down with the operators and jointly drive a systematic approach. “Operators can look at the data and provide feedback about areas in Greater Manchester which are causing problems. We hold data on over 100 locations. “We report on the performance of operators every three months. The scheme is very much on the ground. “We have implemented changes to timetables, resulting in improvements for passengers on the tendered side and we have seen operators do the same to improve service provision. It’s also about improving the operating environment for operators. “TfGM deals with the nitty gritty as well as the bigger, more substantially funded projects.” The organisation’s ‘Overall bus network performance’ graphs show improvements to each area – reliability, start point punctuality, mid-point punctuality and regularity – over the last three years. The challenge is to continue to drive up start point punctuality and regularity of frequent services to meet Code standards.

Network coverage

Above: TfGM Bus and Rail Director Michael Renshaw. Left: The city’s free Metroshuttle service

The Metroshuttle has three routes, stopping at popular destinations

The team explained how they go about achieving appropriate network coverage. Paul said: “We work in partnership with operators, ensuring the network is appropriate. This includes encouraging operators to maximise their commercial activity, both geographically and in terms of hours and days of operation. “We have regular dialogue for improving the take-up of commercial activity.” “We are trying to make sure communities have accessibility to the network throughout the day,” he continued. “At the moment we are about 85% successful. “This includes making sure houses have a nearby bus stop. Some areas are covered by demand responsive transport where conventional routes aren’t appropriate. If demand grows we review routes to see if a fully operational service is needed. “We are successful with finding operators for specific routes.” The transport body also has to respond to changes

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insight › tfgm

within its area, including new housing developments, business sites or supermarkets. “We make sure the bus network is supporting developments and giving access to new facilities,” Paul added. On top of this, with the city’s tram network expanding, TfGM has to ensure there are provisions to link up the two transport modes. Michael added: “Each mode has a role but each also complements other modes. We try to encourage operators to be imaginative and creative and identify opportunities which are presented. “Different operators respond differently to these challenges. Operators need to be aware travel across more than one mode might be the answer in a lot of cases.”

Raising overall quality

TfGM relies on Voluntary Partnership Agreements and operator-specific initiatives to help raise the overall quality of services. According to Michael: “The jury’s out on Quality Contracts as we are seeing how we work with Quality Partnerships first.” There is also a Code of Conduct in place which has been signed by seven of the main operators in the area - Stagecoach, First, Arriva, Transdev, Maytree, Jim Stones and Rossendale. These firms operate 86% of GM’s route mileage. There are discussions ongoing to increase the coverage to 90%. The Code includes: n Service performance standards n Vehicle standards n Driver behaviour and uniform standards n Other commitments to improve the customer experience All code signatures have met the service performance standards in the last 12 months. Howard said: “We won’t relax the standards to get more operators signed up to it – it’s about trying to deliver that improved service.”

A6 Quality Partnership

The flagship Quality Partnership (QP) is the A6 Manchester – Hazel Grove scheme which was formally launched on April 1, 2012. The route is served by the 192 service, operated by Stagecoach, and is one of the busiest bus routes in the country, with around 10m passengers per year. The route has seen significant investment from both parties – and it’s TfGM’s job to maintain the facilities and oversee the www.coachandbusweek.com

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Above: Belle Vue operates 25 of TfGM’s 81 Yellow School Buses. Below: Children are allocated specific seats

partnership. “Since the QP was introduced, each passenger will have noticed a significant difference,” Howard said. Stagecoach is also currently introducing 40 new ADL E400 hybrids for the route (CBW1073). A number of upgrades and bus priority measures have been put in place, including bus lanes, raised curbs, new shelters and updated traffic signals. TfGM also keeps the timetable information at bus stops up-to-date. Melanie explained there isn’t continuous bus priority – they worked on where the congestion was worst. The route passes through a number of built up suburbs between Manchester and Stockport, including Longsight and Levenshulme. This created additional challenges when trying

to find the right balance for local communities and bus operators and passengers. Michael said: “We needed to find a balance and not ignore the needs of the communities and how they function. “Operators would ideally prioritise the whole highway but we can’t adversely impact town centres. It’s about finding the right balance and ensuring operators understand the context of the route and how the two things coexist.” A gating strategy has also been introduced at the Hazel Grove end of the route in an attempt to keep traffic moving. Melanie added: “The general flow of traffic has improved along the route as we are managing flows more effectively. We have thrown in quite a lot of resources over the years. Traffic used to come to a

standstill on this route. “One of the things we have done is moved on-street parking into the pavements – where space allows – to keep them off the road. “The route serves quite a lot of local centres, in which the flow is managed. It’s got to be a balance – you can’t ignore that shops have loading requirements – you need an integrated approach.” The infrastructure provided has resulted in significant patronage growth and accidents have also reduced by 20% across the board; the QP ensures this infrastructure is now protected for the duration of the scheme. “The A6 is one of several strategic roads out of Manchester,” Melanie explained. “We have a working group which meets quarterly and helps identify where further investment is needed in order to deliver further performance improvements. “This is the first QP and we are seeing the benefits.”

Supplier rating

The Supplier Rating system was introduced at the start of 2011 and has been developed to enable quality to be included in the tendering process and to encourage continuous improvements in service quality. There is a scoring matrix which is based on criteria important to TfGM and bus passengers. Results for each operator are updated quarterly and scores are based on a

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Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek moving annual average. A minimum score of 70% was introduced in February 2012 for ordinary contracts, meaning operators could not tender for services if they fell under this score. This was raised to 72.5% in June 2012 and to 75% in October 2012. It will be further raised to 77.5% in April and 80% in September 2013. Results for school operators were introduced in September 2011 and are produced separately. A 70% threshold for school tenders is being introduced this month. The average ordinary score has increased by 3.36% since January 2011, while the average school supplier score has risen by 2.97%. Howard explained: “We look at what the public would want from an operator when working out the scoring criteria. Things like contract breaches, loss of mileage or wrong vehicles are very important. We also monitor complaints and look at drivers’ uniforms. We have seen it’s an easy one for operators to get drivers in uniforms. We’re not prescriptive, though. We are just looking for a clear identity – sweatshirts are just as good as a shirt and tie. “Drugs and alcohol and monitoring CCTV also comes into it.” Since the introduction of Supplier Rating, only one operator has failed to achieve the threshold. “We don’t want to remove operators from the tender market,” Howard explained. “The threshold will continue to go up, but we do need the market to be vibrant.” TfGM says it is completely transparent with the operators about what they need to achieve. The team engages in dialogue about the next set of measures and a sixmonth leading period is given. “The aim is to drive standards not to draw a guillotine,” Howard added. Michael continued: “The GMBOA is broadly supportive of it as it creates an even playing field. We have had little negative expressions from operators as we have approached it in quite a constructive way.”

and has been on the receiving end of a well-publicised Public Inquiry in recent months. There seems to be an air of frustration at TfGM about First in Manchester, but the team is continuing to work with the operator to help bring about improvements. “We have been in dialogue with First for some time,” Michael explained. “We have been looking at how they can continue to build upon the work they have done. We feel frustrated with the increased role the bus could play if the right fare strategy was implemented. “We think First is underperforming in Greater Manchester; it could be carrying a lot more people. We hope First’s initiatives going forward are more successful. “However, the operator has started to address issues regarding fleet and network performance. “First’s performance is fundamental for Greater Manchester. They have got to step up to the plate and show some results. It’s very good they have started [to lower fares in some areas] but we will see where that leads to. Only time will tell.” Another avenue TfGM acknowledges needs to be resolved is multi-operator ticketing. While the SystemOne scheme, introduced in conjunction with GMTL, is in place a across the area, it is far from perfect. There can be a significant premium on the equivalent singleoperator ticket – particularly in the south. The basis is there however for a system which could rival any other in the country. There is an LSTF Memorandum of Understanding in place with GMTL (SystemOne), Arriva, First and Stagecoach which

The 192 service’s newest hybrids

Green Bus Fund: success so far

TfGM has secured £5.23m from GBF 1 and 2 since December 2009 to part-fund 88 diesel-electric hybrid buses. The remaining costs were met by TfGM borrowings (£10.69m) and local external funding (£1.44m). The Optare vehicles have gone in to service on Manchester Metroshuttle (20), the Yellow School Bus network (29) and into general service (29). TfGM has also secured £1.01m from GBF 3 which will be passed on to operators to acquire hybrid vehicles for use on specified subsidised services. The first tranche, and majority of, the GBF 3 funding is currently in the process of being allocated to an operator however this has not yet been completed.

“We’ve got smart ticketing going out on the Metrolink but the aim is for it to be multimodal.” Michael Renshaw

Fair fares

The north/south Manchester divide mentioned earlier is fairly noticeable. Stagecoach, operating in the south of the conurbation, is relatively reputable, while First, operating in the city’s northern region, has a pricier fare structure

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TfGM is planning on increasing the amount of bus-only lanes in the city

defines partnership working arrangements for implementing smart ticketing. TfGM’s aim is to work in partnership with operators to consider the potential passenger benefits of the Competition Commission’s recommendations for multi-operator ticketing, developing an all-mode ticketing strategy and updating the TfGM Ticketing Scheme. The body will also continue to lobby operators for ‘value for money’ fares. Michael explained: “What we have in place demonstrates there is a need for multi-operator ticketing. In due course we could have more passengers using the product, but we need to get more consistent pricing in place. “We’ve got smart ticketing being rolled out on Metrolink but the aim is for it to be multimodal. Operators in principal are supportive. “There are issues for us to develop about ticketing; some issues are around practicalities of it. We’re trying to address the problem universally. “What makes it more challenging is that the operators are in slightly different places as groups at a national level. “However, we are passionate about making this work. We look at how successful the Oyster card has been. It’s about making greater use of public transport. “Plus, it gives us the ability to be imaginative about fares and products. GMTL has been successful but it can be more successful.”

RTI moving forward

Real-time information in a populous city which is also frequented by many tourists and overseas travellers should be a priority in at least some form, whether it be at bus stops, via smartphone apps or through on-bus announcements. TfGM currently provides disruption information in cases like severe weather, but it is working on encouraging operators to examine opportunities to embrace AVL (automatic vehicle locating) technology. TfGM is aiming to develop a strategy to exploit data from AVL to meet passengers’ growing expectations for reliable and comprehensive RTI. Melanie added: “We are encouraging operators to invest in AVL. Amongst other things, it would help us push for bus priority provision with traffic signals.”

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insight › tfgm

Safety

By their very nature, large cities need a more comprehensive approach to law enforcement. TfGM has established joint relationships with the police and transport authorities in order to tackle antisocial behaviour and the like on buses. “Greater Manchester Police (GMP) has become far more engaged with us on safety on passenger transport,” Michael said. “We share data on both tactical and strategic levels, together with operators, us and GMP.” TfGM has also been involved in a much more proactive level. Michael added: “18 special constables are being recruited from both our and operators’ staff. They are being deployed on to the passenger transport network. “They have a good perception of issues on passenger transport so it works really well. We have 13 special constables already and the target is for 18 to be in place by the end of the year. We will of course continue to review it.” In partnership with GMP and operators, TfGM has jointly funded response teams and gateway checks along with extensive CCTV (on-bus and at bus station), warning notices and targeted CCTV at bus shelters as well as maximising front-line staff presence.

Yellow School Buses

Yellow School Buses have been operating throughout GM since 2003. Funding was drawn from a range of initiatives to purchase new vehicles, generally with a Repair and Maintenance agreement. Paul explained the main objectives of the service are to: n Deliver modal shift from car; n Reduce anti-social behaviour (ASB), thereby increasing students’ perception of security on their school bus journeys; n Meet significant unmet demand; and n Reduce social deprivation. The fleet expanded to 81 vehicles in April 2012 after 39 hybrids were introduced through funding from the GBF. The operation serves 4,400 students at 50 schools across all 10 districts of GM. Five operators run TfGM’s Yellow School Buses. The bus I viewed was run by Belle Vue, which operates 25 out of the 81 vehicles. Special features of the service include: dedicated seats, with threepoint belts, which helps prevent vandalism and litter; regular drivers www.coachandbusweek.com

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town centres also have their own Metroshuttle services, operated by Arriva, Oldham Community Transport and South Lancs travel respectively.

Future schemes

Above: Stagecoach Manchester is the principal operator in the south of the city. Below: One of the upgraded bus shelters in Stockport

trained in customer care, who can recognise registered users and reduces behaviour problems; and pick-up/drop-off points close to children’s homes. All buses are fitted with interior and exterior CCTV which is provided by Actia, with the tracking and telematics provided by Quartix. Misconduct is taken very seriously – there is also a Code of Practice which involves the children, parents and guardians, drivers and schools.

Metroshuttle

Manchester’s Metroshuttle, originally introduced in 2002, provides a free bus link between the city’s train stations, NCP car parks and certain popular shopping and business areas, with Deansgate being the most popular destination. The service is jointly funded by TfGM, Manchester City Council, NCP and Allied London and operates three routes. Service 3 was added in September 2005, linking Piccadilly and Salford Central rail stations with Spinningfield business district. Service 1 operates a six-minute

frequency while services 2 and 3 operates every 10 minutes. The service was re-launched in November 2010 and is currently operated by First, under contract to TfGM. Howard explained the reason behind the re-launch: “We rebranded the service and introduced new vehicles. We also placed greater emphasis on service quality and First introduced dedicated drivers who offer high levels of customer service.” The new vehicles comprised of 12 Optare Versa hybrids and eight Optare Solo hybrids, acquired with investment from the GBF. Howard explained how the organisation has a close relationship with Optare and they have worked with the manufacturer on its hybrid design. Patronage has increased by 4.5% since 2006, peaking in 2009 at 2.58m. There are on-board display screens showing passenger information and there is also an Android app – aimed at tourists unfamiliar to the area. Stockport, Oldham and Bolton

TfGM has a number of bus priority schemes which it hopes to put in place over the next few years. These include a guided busway between Leigh and Ellenbrook, new bus and cycle lanes in the north, towards Middleton and Manchester, and changes to traffic flows in the city centre, with the addition of busonly lanes. One of the most significant proposals however is for around the universities to the south of the city. Melanie explained how a one-mile stretch of the Oxford Road corridor by the University of Manchester and the hospitals will become bus-only, between Grosvenor Street and Hathersage Road – albeit allowing cycles, Hackney Carriages and emergency vehicles access. “We’re going to create a ‘boulevard’, with widened pavements, which will make it a much more pleasant place to work and study,” Melanie said. “We are working with the parallel corridors to reduce any negative effects of this – there is a lot of traffic management going in.” The proposal is out for consultation over the next few months and TfGM hopes for the scheme to be delivered and opened by mid 2015. I was also taken along the stretch of road that follows on from Oxford Road – Wilmslow Road – which runs from the university through Rusholme, Fallowfield, Withington and East Didsbury to Parrs Wood. It is a road with many high frequency services running along it, at all hours of the day, and has an exceptionally high level of students using the services during term time. As with the A6 scheme, parking measures on the narrow roads have helped keep cars off the roads, with bollards put in place in Withington to make sure vehicles don’t stop and hold up the traffic. Fallowfield has had some very wide bus lanes put in place and there are new Grade 2 bus shelters along the route. Melanie admitted there was still room for improvement in Rusholme, an area with high levels of congestion. However, since the addition of cycle lanes in the area, accidents have reduced significantly.

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PI called after sex offender hired as driver Traffic Commissioner for the West Midlands Nick Jones strips a Transport Manager of his repute and disqualifies him from holding similar positions after a driver, with a history of sexual assault, is not properly CRB checked and is allowed to work for a Midlands operator

BACKGROUND VIP Contracts Ltd was granted a standard international PSV operator’s licence in 1999 and the current authority is 16 vehicles. The sole director, who was also nominated Transport Manager, is Sarbjit Singh Raju. A Public Inquiry (PI) was held in 2008 to deal with maintenance concerns. They were addressed, with the outcome including a curtailment and a condition to specify vehicles. Later an increase in authorisation was granted with various undertakings agreed by the operator, including independent audits. The call up letter for the latest hearing referred to various maintenance issues, however they were not matters that would in themselves justify a PI. Information was received that both Birmingham City Council and West Midlands Police had concerns about the operator who, it transpired had employed a driver who was known to be on the Sex Offenders Register. Discussions between a police officer and the operator’s sole Director led the police to believe Criminal Records Bureau (CRB) checks had been made and the operator was merely awaiting the result; however the police subsequently doubted that was the case. Suspicions arose as to whether the sole director of VIP Contracts Ltd had been deliberately misleading the police and local authority in relation to the employment of a PSV driver. Furthermore, there were concerns that the driver employed by the operator would have had access to both children and vulnerable adults. PUBLIC INQUIRY In regards to the above, the Traffic Commissioner for the West Midlands Nick Jones directed that www.coachandbusweek.com

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The firm was previously called to PI in 2008 on maintenance grounds a PI be convened with a view to considering evidence, making formal findings and addressing any issues relating to both the operator and the transport manager. The driver was also called to the hearing to consider his fitness to hold a vocational PCV licence. During the PI it transpired that Sarbjit Singh Raju also held a sole trader licence. Nick Jones said: “As I did not know of this until part way through the evidence, no formal notice had been issued to bring that sole trader licence to a hearing and no decision can be made in respect of the sole trader licence. For the avoidance of doubt a new transport manager will need to be nominated as a result of my decisions.” The PI was held on November 15, 2012. In attendance from the operator were Sarbjit Singh Raju as sole director and nominated transport manager, together with his proposed new Transport Manager Dennis Rolls. Sarbjit Singh Raju was not represented. The driver who was the convicted sex offender attended together with his solicitor. While the legislation governing the hearings for the operator and driver differ, Nick Jones believed it was in the interests of all parties to hear both cases together. Detective Constable 6255 Roger Orchard from West Midlands Police and Sex Offender Manager for the driver attended the hearing. Various

members of the public were in attendance, including an observer employee from Birmingham City Council who, at the Traffic Commissioner’s invitation, gave evidence. This evidence was provided by Kathy McDonough. “I made decisions in relation to the driver,” said Mr Jones. “I felt that Sarbjit Singh Raju had not appreciated the seriousness of and the potential consequences of the issues which were before me; he had not brought supporting documentation to corroborate some of his assertions. In view of this I allowed additional time for written representations. I also indicated I would ask for a transcript of the hearing to afford me an opportunity to reflect on the evidence. “Later I received representations from Bradin Trubshaw Solicitors requesting additional time to prepare evidence for me; I also supplied them with a transcript of the hearing. Additional evidence on behalf of the operator and transport manager was received on December 13, 2012.”

Adult & Communities, and so she was not in a position to answer all the points raised by Sarbjit Singh Raju. There was no dispute that DC Orchard was the Sex Offender Manager for the driver in question and that he spoke to him on July 13, 2012 when that driver was unable to meet him because he was driving for the operator. The police officer had good reason to believe the driver was potentially carrying children and vulnerable adults. As a result the police officer then spoke to Sarbjit Singh Raju and felt that Mr Raju was minimising concerns relating to the employment of a driver with a conviction for a sexual offence. He was also told a criminal record bureau check had been carried out and VIP Contracts Ltd was awaiting the result. However subsequent enquiries by DC Orchard led him to believe that no CRB check had been requested for this driver by the operator. Sarbjit Singh Raju claimed he learnt of the fact that the driver had a conviction for a sexual offence on completing an application form for a job, it was only later, after he had been accepted as an employee, that he asked for a CRB check. In his oral

TONY HUNTER

LEGAL news › PUBLIC INQUIRY

EVIDENCE AND FINDINGS OF FACT At the PI it was clear the operator did not agree with the interpretation placed on facts as outlined by DC Orchard and by Kathy McDonough. Kathy McDonough told Nick Jones she represented Children’s Services, not

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February 13, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 49

evidence he claimed he followed his usual procedure whereby he had contacted Birmingham City Council. Evidence at the PI was of the operator corresponding with the local authority at an incorrect address, this being an issue which both aroused suspicions as to the truthfulness of Sarbjit Singh Raju, and additionally, added to potential confusion. “I felt that Sarbjit Singh Raju had not fully grasped the significance of the issues put to him, so I afforded him the opportunity to produce tangible evidence to support some of his assertions to me,” said Mr Jones. “This included corroboration of a claim that the driver, whilst known to be a sex offender, never went out unaccompanied and was always supervised by someone else. It was suggested to me that when the convicted sex offender drove, he only did so to show other trainee drivers a particular route; he was an experienced driver.” Written evidence presented in December 2012 by solicitors representing the operator was that Dennis Rolls, who had been appointed to his position to assist VIP Contracts Ltd only a couple of weeks or so prior to the PI,

had conducted an investigation. Dennis Rolls produced written evidence of the questions and answers in relation to individuals who had supervised the driver. This evidence was both detailed and comprehensive. The effect of the new evidence is that, if correct, it corroborated the operator’s claim that the driver did not travel unaccompanied. It also demonstrated that the CRB check had been requested as claimed by Sarbjit Singh Raju. “I have not outlined the entirety of the evidence at the hearing or produced to me later because there is no need for me to do so, as I have accepted the principal thrust of Sarbjit Singh Raju’s point that he did not intend to mislead,” said Mr Jones. However during the PI Nick Jones pointed out that the standard of proof when dealing with serious allegations was the balance of probabilities. He went on to point out that the more serious an allegation or issue which was raised, the more cogent the evidence needed; this contributed to the decision to afford the operator an opportunity to present additional evidence. A finding that

Sarbjit Singh Raju had deliberately misled the police or local authority could have led to closure of the business. Mr Jones said: “On re-reading the transcript of evidence and the detailed additional written evidence sent to me in December 2012 I have come to the view that I should accept the written evidence presented to me by the operator. I make a finding that the operator has been woefully inept, but has not been dishonest; furthermore Sarbjit Singh Raju has not attempted to mislead either the police or the local authority. It is not surprising that others thought that he was misleading them; this was due to his incompetence, poor judgement and poor communication skills. “I accept that Sarbjit Singh Raju knew that the driver had a conviction for a sexual offence but did not know its details.” For the avoidance of doubt the sexual offence which resulted in the conviction of the driver was one that Nick Jones regarded as highly relevant to allowing someone to drive a public service vehicle. The driver was convicted in 2002 of an offence committed against a woman aged 20 with special

Key Points:

VIP Contracts Ltd had employed a driver who was known to be on the Sex Offenders Register. The police officer called to PI had good reason to believe the driver was potentially carrying children and vulnerable adults and felt Mr Raju was minimising concerns. The operator had previously been called to PI in 2008 for maintenance issues. Mr Raju reportedly knew that the driver had a conviction for a sexual offence but did not know its details. Mr Raju has lost his repute and is disqualified from holding the position of transport manager following the case. Dennis Rolls was appointed replacement transport manager on the operator’s licence for VIP Contracts Ltd.

There is currently no legal requirement for CRB checks to be carried out by operators

needs, the offender was the driver of a bus, he refused to let her off at her stop at the end of the journey. He then exposed his penis to her and forced her to have oral sex. A second offence was ordered by the Judge to remain on file, that was an allegation relating to a boy aged 15. A custodial sentence was reduced to 30 months imprisonment on appeal and he was placed on the Sex Offenders Register. “It is of note that the offence for which the driver was convicted was one of sexual assault,” said Mr Jones. “The law has now changed and the description above would today be classified as rape. The driver told me he had been working for other bus companies since his release from prison. His conviction had not been brought to the attention of a traffic commissioner until now.” Members of the public reading this decision may assume that the commission of a serious sexual offence by a bus driver will automatically result in an order preventing that person from holding a PCV driving entitlement. There is currently no legal requirement for CRB checks to be carried out by third parties for PSV drivers. However in practice local authorities will require CRB checks to be carried out against PCV licence holders if they have contracts with operators so that the public they serve can be assured passengers are safe, but there is no legal requirement for CRB checks to be carried out by operators for all PSV drivers. Recently, the Police have started to bring sex offenders who hold a PCV vocational driving licence to the attention of traffic commissioners so that they as a specialist independent tribunal can determine whether the offender should continue to hold a PCV vocational driving entitlement or whether it should be revoked or suspended. “It is highly regrettable that in this case the driver has only been brought to my attention several years after release from prison and after having driven passenger carrying vehicles unchallenged for other operators,” commented Mr Jones. “My decision regarding the driver was that his conviction and the surrounding circumstances were such that I would revoke his vocational PCV licence as he was unfit to hold one and that he was disqualified indefinitely from holding a vocational PCV

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LEGAL news › PUBLIC INQUIRY

MATERIAL CONSIDERATIONS “I have accepted that Sarbjit Singh Raju has not attempted to deceive the police, or the local authority or me. I need to distinguish between Sarbjit Singh Raju as sole director of an entity before me and as transport manager,” said Mr Jones. Every transport manager for a PSV operator has a duty to ensure checks are in place to protect the reputation of the industry and to ensure road safety. The most obvious checks relate to the holding of the necessary driving entitlements including checks as to endorsements. But that is not sufficient by itself as the travelling public should have confidence that not only is their driver competent in the physical act of driving, but he or she is an honest and law abiding citizen. This includes ensuring sex offenders are kept out of the industry, it being known that vulnerable passengers are at risk of unscrupulous and predatory sexual offenders. The public must have confidence that they are safe with whoever drives a PSV that they travel in. “A transport manager is a gatekeeper as to the standards of the industry in which he or she will work,” said Mr Jones. “Sarbjit Singh Raju knew he was employing someone with a conviction as a sex offender and did not prevent that individual from driving a bus. I accept he ensured that someone was accompanying the driver, but that is not good enough and falls woefully short of the minimum acceptable standard.” Sarbjit Singh Raju was not aware of the explicit circumstances of the offence for which the driver was convicted, but he should have made further enquiries on learning that there was a conviction for a sexual offence which resulted in a prison sentence. “That failure is a grave one and is sufficient for me to make a finding that Sarbjit www.coachandbusweek.com

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Above: VIP Contract Ltd has had it’s repute “severely tarnished”. Below: Traffic Commissioner for the West Midlands Nick Jones

Singh Raju loses his repute as a transport manager and is no longer professionally competent,” added Mr Jones. Where a transport manager is removed from the national register there is a requirement that he or she be disqualified until an act has occurred and or a passage of time has passed. “In this case I regard it as proportionate to make an order that Sarbjit Singh Raju be disqualified from holding or obtaining a position as a transport manager unless and until a period of five years has passed; additionally, he must study and pass fresh CPC examinations,” said Mr Jones. “I heard evidence from Dennis Rolls and have seen reports from him subsequent to the PI. His name has been put forward as an alternative transport manager. Theoretically I could make a formal finding that the operator no longer has the necessary professional competence; I do not do so solely because I know there is a competent transport manager who is now undertaking that role. I accept the nomination of Dennis Rolls as Transport Manager for VIP

Contracts Ltd. “The operator in this case is not Sarbjit Singh Raju, instead it is a limited company VIP Contracts Ltd. The Upper Tribunal in its decision in Skip It (Kent) Ltd 2010/277 spelt out the need to avoid making a formal finding of loss of repute for a director when the entity holding the licence was a limited company,” he added. “I have reflected on the preliminary questions as set out by the Upper Tribunal in 2009/225 Priority Freight Limited, namely “How likely is it that this operator will, in future, operate in compliance with the operator licence regime?”. As Judge Brodrick states in Priority Freight Limited, “If the evidence demonstrates that it is unlikely that the operator will ensure all future compliance, then that will, of course tend to support the conclusion that the operator ought to be put out of business”, that being the ultimate question set out by the then Transport Tribunal in 2002/217 Bryan Haulage. I also remind myself that since December 2011, EU Regulation 1071/2009 sets out that if repute is lost, a licence should still not be revoked if it were disproportionate. In this respect it supersedes 2002/217 Bryan Haulage. “I am conscious it is not explicit in legislation that a convicted sex offender cannot drive a PSV. Ordinary right thinking people would say that someone on a Sex Offenders Register would not be regarded as fit to drive a PSV. While I recognise each case has to be dealt with on its merits, I too fail to envisage circumstances whereby someone on a Sex Offenders Register would be

regarded by the travelling public as safe. The circumstances of this case are both exceptionally serious and specifically relate to driving of buses. I would expect every Transport Manager who knows of a conviction for a sexual offence to stop that person driving until they know of it is safe for them to do so. Sarbjit Singh Raju’s judgement in this respect has been crass and wholly unacceptable. The fact he did not appear to appreciate the significance of his poor judgement until he attended unrepresented at the PI only serves to support my view that his lack of appreciation of his responsibilities renders him unfit to remain as a Transport Manager. In the case of an operator which is a limited company, the position is not quite the same in view of the Skip It (Kent) decision. Theoretically VIP Contracts Ltd could be sold or it could change its director. On my reflecting that I have made formal findings that the operator did not intend to mislead anyone; the operator took some limited albeit inadequate steps to protect the public; and, the operator was not acting illegally. It would be disproportionate to take the step of finding a loss of repute for the limited company and revoking its licence. But I only just fall short of taking that step, the final balancing factor being the fact that Parliament has not made it a legal requirement that there be CRB checks for PSV drivers.”

DECISIONS The decisions were made in respect of the standard international PSV operator’s licence PD0001724 held by VIP Contracts Ltd: “While the good repute of the operator has not been formally lost under Section 17 1 (a) and Section 17 ZA (2) (b) of the Act, repute is severely tarnished. The strongest form of formal warning is recorded against the operator,” said Mr Jones. “In addition, Sarbjit Singh Raju has lost both his repute and professional competence as a Transport Manager. He is disqualified from holding or applying for any position as transport manager for a period of five years. Additionally, prior to his being accepted in any new position as Transport Manager he must pass fresh CPC examinations. “I accept Dennis Rolls as replacement Transport Manager on the operator’s licence for VIP Contracts Ltd.”

TONY HUNTER

licence.” This decision was communicated to the driver and his solicitor on the day of the hearing. The driver had also passed a test as an LGV driver; it was made clear that the Traffic Commissioner had no authority to take any action in respect of his holding that licence, the legal test for fitness to continue to hold an LGV driving licence being restricted to matters which relate to driving and a driving record. The driver and his solicitor accepted the decision.

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2011 Ford Torneo

32 seats + 17 standees, Cummins engines, Alison gearboxes, full service histories, both with current MOT, average mileages. Each one will be re-sprayed in white or in the new ownerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s colours if required.

16 seats with 3 point belts, TV, DVD, plug door, air-con, 60,000 miles, mint condition, under warranty to April.

ÂŁ49,000 o.n.o.

ÂŁ59,950

Courtney Buses 0118 973 3486

EVM â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 07749 103203

2004 Ford Transit

2002 Futura

17 seats, lap/diagonal belts, 2 x air bags, 121,000 miles, FSH, remote central locking, radio/cassette, one previous owner, very tidy throughout, no internal damage. ÂŁ3,950 + VAT

Choice of 5, mileage between 60-100k, 60 plate. POA For further information please contact: Nigel Busbridge on 01303 261870 or email nigel@buzzlines.co.uk

1998 Volvo VanHool B10M Alizee

48 reclining & belted seats, air-con, PA/Video/ DVD/VCR, floor mounted WC, full servery, full service history, MOT to December 2013.

ÂŁ25,000

Royal Blues - 01803 872422

2003 Iveco Daily 45c13

2009 Renault

Full exec spec, Eminox euro 4 exhaust, 49 seats, green cloth, manual, 792K kms, new MOT on sale.

13 seat front entry wheelchair accessible minibus, white, COIF, tacho, 129,000 miles.

16 reclining seats, perfect for airports, takes 20 big suitcases, A/C, TV, DVD, hot drinks & fridge, 3 point belts, overhead racks, front entry, 166,000kms, great on fuel, sale due to fleet restructure.

Crystal Coaches â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 020 8960 8800

ÂŁ55,000 + VAT L.J. Edwards: 01323 440622 option 2 or John 07974 369570

Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076

2004 Setra S415 HD

200 DAF SB120

2005 Bova Futura

ASTronic, retarder, aircon, 2 x monitors, radio/cassette, crew seat, fridge. Vehicle currently undergoing MOT preparation and test.

Cummins/Allison, Wrights Cadet body ramp, wheelchair space, Hanover LEDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, CCTV, 39 retrimmed individual seats, from our own fleet and very tidy.

ÂŁ6,495 + VAT

ÂŁ79,500

POA

49 seat executive, excellent condition inside and out, used only for touring and excursions, 12 months MOT, 470K kms, owned since new, genuine reason for sale. ÂŁ75,000 + VAT o.n.o.

Evobus - 02476 626046

EnsignBus 01708 865656

Call Paul â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 07968 106891

ÂŁ19,500 + VAT

Florida Taxi Coaches 01787 477701

2000 W Reg MINI POINTER DART

Cummins/Allison, 8.8m, 29 seats.

POA

EnsignBus 01708 865656

Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com

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54 | COACH & BUS WEEK | February 13, 2013

" E W F S U J T F P O U I F T F Q B H F T B M M Z F B S G S P N K V T U c D B M M Network Warrington have the following vehicles for sale

2006 Setra 416 GTHD

49 reclining seats with lap belts, toilet, fridge, hot water boiler, CD/DVD player, Euro 4 certified, owned by us from new, good condition. POA For further information please contact: Nigel Busbridge on 01303 261870 or email nigel@buzzlines.co.uk

2000 SCANIA T9

53 seats, excellent condition, PSV 26/5/13, Taxed 30/4/13, service records. Lovely bus all round and just had an interior re-trim.

ÂŁ24,750

Contact Eric on 0792 138920

2002 Mercedes Vario 614

2004 Iveco Daily 45c13

2000/2001 V & Y Plate, Cummins 6BT, Allison AT545 4 speed auto, Marshall body, 40 seats.

13 seat front entry wheelchair accessible minibus, diesel, 160,000 miles.

11 seat front entry wheelchair accessible minibus, white, diesel, 80,000 miles.

ÂŁ6,995

ÂŁ10,000 - no VAT

Contact Ian Parker (Engineering Manager) Warrington Borough Transport Ltd Wilderspool Causeway, Warrington WA4 6PT. Tel 01925 634296

Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076

2002 DAF SB220 SLF Ikarus Polaris 12m

1998 Volvo B10M Jonckheere Mistral

Dennis Dart SLF 10.8m

6 x 2007 (57) Optare Solo M950 Slimlines

32 seats + 17 standees, Cummins engines, Alison gearboxes, full service history, all with current MOT, average mileages.

POA

Courtney Buses 0118 973 3486

2003 Scania CN94UN Omnicity SLF 12m

42 seats + 31 standees, DDA compliant, 12 months MOT. ÂŁ39,500 + VAT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CHOICE Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

2003 Futura

Full exec spec, Eminox euro 4 exhaust, 49 seats, green cloth, manual, 695K kms, new MOT on sale.

D L O

ÂŁ65,000 + VAT L.J. Edwards: 01323 440622 option 2 or John 07974 369570

44 seats + 25 standees, DDA compliant, Hanover LED, DAF/ZF, very clean ex-lease vehicle. ÂŁ15,000 + VAT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CHOICE Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

Dennis Plaxton Coach

Neoplan Starliner

Cummins 420, Plaxton Paragon body, Asotronic gearbox, air con, long MOT, excellent MPG. Has been used exclusively on our tour programme. Regd March 2004.

32 leather seats, full rear servery, airline style overhead lockers, 240V inverter and onboard generator, Blaupunkt sound system with DVD & Sky TV, ASTronic gearbox, A/C, WC, fully carpeted, removable ski box.

ÂŁ48,000 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; choice of 5 Contact Tom Smith or Peter Tetlow on 0845 130 5777 for more details

ÂŁ67,000 + VAT o.n.o.

Florida Taxi Coaches 01787 477701

Converted to 70 seater in September using Cogent 3+2 seating all fitted with 3 point belts, MOT till Oct 2013 and has no known defects.

ÂŁ35,000 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

2009 Scania K340 Irizar PB 12.2m

49 seats, climate control, WC, TV/DVD, Euro 4 EGR (no AdBlue).

ÂŁ159,000

Scania Bus and Coach 01909 553102

Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com

681297-1074-Connaught

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Mini Coach Sales

BRAND NEW COACH BUILT MERCEDES 516 FERQUI SOROCO 16 high back leather trimmed reclining seats, courier seat, A/C, D/G, power door, large boot, DVD, silver metallic. AVAILABLE NOW.

BRAND NEW MERCEDES BENZ 516CDI EVM SHUTTLE 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, luggage racks and A/C.

BRAND NEW MERCEDES FERQUI TORO 28/32 high back seats + courier, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights, power door, large boot. Order now for April delivery.

MORE PHOTOS AND DETAILS AVAILABLE ON OUR WEBSITE:

BRAND NEW MERCEDES BENZ FERQUI SOROCO 19 high back seats, 3 point belts, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights and boot. Order now for May delivery.

www.connaughtpsv.co.uk

BRAND NEW MERCEDES BENZ 513CDI EVM CLASSIC 16/19 high back seats, 3 point belts, luggage racks and A/C.

2009 59 REG MERCEDES 311 CDI SPRINTER 16 high back seats, forced air, reading lights, luggage racks, and drop step.

2008 08 REG MERCEDES 515CDI SOROCO 19 high back seats, 3 point belts, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights, power door, boot in silver metallic.

2006 56 REG MERCEDES 616 SOROCO PLUS 16 high back leather seats, 3 point belts, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights, fridge, DVD, power door and boot.

2005 05 REG MERCEDES 814 VARIO MELLOR 33 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot.

2002 02 REG MERCEDES 413CDI SOROCO 16 high back reclining seats, 3 point belts, forced air, A/C, reading lights, power door, large boot.

2001 TOYOTA CAETANO OPTIMO V 22 high back seats plus courier, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot. REDUCED FOR QUICK SALE

Steve Peach Tel: 01302 770863 Mob: 07836 551020 Email: steve@connaughtpsv.co.uk www.connaughtpsv.co.uk

681335-1073-Ensign:Layout 1

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Ensig DOUBLE DECK 85

SEAT S

2000 DENNIS TRIDENTS Alexander ALX400 bodies, converted to high capacity 85 seat school buses.

LEZ

COMPLIANT

1999/2000/2001 V/X/51 PLATE DENNIS TRIDENTS Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant for 2012 with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX400 bodies, DDA compliant or upseated to 80 seats.

1999 T/V REG DENNIS TRIDENTS

1999 T/V REG DENNIS DART SLF’S

Caetano Compass bodies, 39 seats, ramps.

Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant with traps, Plaxton President bodies, 62 seats dual door (£13,000) or 70 when converted to single door (£16,000).

1995 M REG OPTARE SPECTRA

1996 LEYLAND OLYMPIAN TRI-AXLE

Gardner engine, Voith gearbox, 100 seats with seatbelts.

DAF engine, Voith gearbox, low height, 77 seats.

1998 R/S REG OPTARE SOLO’S

1999 VOLVO B7TL’S

SWB, CCTV, particulate traps so LEZ compliant, Plaxton President bodies, dual door 62 seats or single door 71 seats.

Merc engines , 8.5m long, 30 seats. £4500 each plus tyres.

2001 Y REG DENNIS DARTS

Plaxton Pointer 2 bodies, 10.1m , Cummins Euro 2 engines, DDA, 31 seats, CCTV, particulate traps fitted, LEZ compliant, only £6000 each plus tyres.

2010 ENVIRO 400 Euro 5 Cummins engine, currently 62 seats with tables and luggage area but can upseat to 70.

OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY -

Juliette Close, Purfleet Industrial Telephone 01708 865656 Fax: 01708 8 Visit our website for current s

681335-1073-Ensign:Layout 1

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nbus

K ER SPECIALIST 1998 R REG VOLVO B10BLE’S 1998 R REG DAF SB300

Manual, Ikarus body, 53 seats, air-con.

1998 R REG DENNIS JAVELIN ZF 6 speed manual, Plaxton Premiere 350, 53 seats.

1997 DENNIS DARTS

Voith automatic gearboxes, SLF, Alexander ALX300 bodies, 44 seats and 27 standing, heavy duty low floor buses. They can also be converted to be DDA compliant.

2011 ENVIRO 200

Cummins / Allison, East Lancs bodies, 40 seats, Mobitech LED’s.

10.7m, Euro 5, 35 e-leather seats, very low mileage, Hanover destination, DDA compliant.

1992 LEYLAND OLYMPIAN

2002 02 PLATE DENNIS TRIDENTS

Cummins L10 / ZF, Alexander RH body, 78 seats with retractable belts, MOT Oct 2013, tacho.

2000 VOLVO B7TL’S

Euro 3 Cummins engines, DDA compliant , Plaxton President bodies, Hanover LED’s, 67 seats converted to single door or 62 seats as dual door.

2000/2001 VOLVO B7TL’S

LWB, CCTV, particulate traps so LEZ compliant, Plaxton President bodies, dual door 67 seats or single door 77 seats, DDAS compliant.

1995 M REG VOLVO B10M

ZF 6 speed manual, Caetano Algarve body, 49 seats, centre sunken toilet, very smart for age.

1995 M REG VOLVO B10M

ZF 6 speed manual, Plaxton Premiere 350, 53 seats.

- BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BUS DEALERS Alexander ALX400 bodies, 74 seats.

Park, Purfleet, Essex, RM15 4YF 8 864340 e-mail: sales@ensignbus.com t stock at www.ensignbus.com

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58 | COACH & BUS WEEK | February 13, 2013

AVAILABLE NOW The North West’s Premier Minibus Sales, supplying nationwide for over 40 years

LEZ

PSV’d

Wheelchair Accessible

58 IVECO 50C15 IRIS BUS

08 CITROEN RELAY

Powerdoor front low step entry, 15/16 highback passenger seats, euro 4, soft trim, totally immaculate, plant on panoramic windows, 12 months PSV test £15,995

MWB covered 25,000 miles, Unwin Innotrax m1 tested floor, lots of Unwin tracking, full length cant rail, Ricon internal Clearway tailift, SLD with electric cassette, step totally showroom condition inside and out £13,995

TEMSA SAFARI HD Full Stainless Steel, 12.2 mtr 53 rec seats with 3 point belts, Full Exec

LEZ Wheelchair Accessible

LEZ

57 IVECO 45C14

09 FORD TRANSIT MWB 115

Only covered 78,000 miles, 16 highback seats plus wheelchair spaces, Unwin tracking, powerdoor, front low step entry, external Ratcliffe fully automatic cassette tailift, totally immaculate, excellent value £16,995

Covered 5,100 miles, totally totally like new, 8/11 highback passenger seats, twin SLDs, central locking, electric windows, unmarked silver metallic, where can you find these £12,995

LEZ PSV’d

LEZ

Wheelchair Accessible

56 FORD TRANSIT

58 VAUXHALL MOVANO

39,000 miles, factory spec, 8 high back passenger seats plus lugguage space. twin SLDs, totally immaculate £6,995

LWB covered 41,000 miles, 8 highback passenger seats, lots of Unwin tracking, Ricon internal fully automatic tailift, totally showroom condition, SLD with cassette step £15,995

01274 681144

Gomersal, Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire, BD19 4BJ Email: busandcoachsales@arriva.co.uk Web: www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk

Bus and Coach

take a test drive today

Available Now!

LEZ LEZ

PSV’d

Wheelchair Accessible

06 MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 CDI

55 IVECO 45C14

Covered 63,000 miles, external PLS cassette tailift, SLD with cassette step, 12 highback passenger seats plus wheelchair spaces, lots of Unwin tracking, Euroliners, totally immaculate in every way £13,995

Only covered 45,000 miles, fitted 16 highback passenger seats in coach moquette with matching centre panel, lots of Unwin tracking, Cant rail powerdoor, front low step entry, external Ratcliffe fully automatic cassette tailift, LEZ compliant, totally immaculate £10,995

LEZ

Wheelchair Accessible

05 RENAULT TRAFFIC

09 VAUXHALL MOVANO

LWB, highroof, covered 66,000 miles, 7/8 highback passenger seats, lots of Unwin tracking, Ricon internal fully automatic Clearway tailift, SLD with cassette step, showroom condition inside and out, excellent value £8,995

LWB, PTS spec, covered 41,000 miles, 8 highback passenger seats, Ricon internal tailift, lots of Unwin tracking, SLD with cassette step, totally totally immaculate, LEZ compliant, choice of 2 £15,995

Tel: 01942 864222

www.heatonsmotorco.co.uk Contact us 24/7: 07818 031725 - Wayne 07715 231694 - Phillip ALL PRICES PLUS VAT We guarantee quality vehicles, right prices, no pressure sales. Come and have a coffee while you browse at your leisure. Junction 23, M6 or 20 miles from Manchester/Liverpool airport.

Choice of 2 58 plated Setra 53 reclining seats with three point seat belts £110,000 + VAT

Choice of 2 59 plated Mercedes Benz Tourismo 49 reclining seats, executive finish £130,000 + VAT

Choice of 4 59 plated Mercedes Benz Tourismo 49 reclining seats, super executive finish £135,000 + VAT

Contact Paul Hockley on 0207 733 1124 phockley@redwing-coaches to view or for further information

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60 | COACH & BUS WEEK | February 13, 2013

683002-1074-Stafford

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11:48

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683004-1074-Pickrell

H. W. PICKRELL

8/2/13

13:32

Page 1

MINIBUS AND WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES

Gardiners Lane North • Crays Hill • Billericay • Essex • CM11 2XE Tel: 01268 521033 • Mobile: 07860 894331 • Fax: 01268 284951

Email: sales@hwpickrell.co.uk - www.hwpickrell.co.uk Finance available on all vehicles (subject to status) Written details on request.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINI BUSES For latest stock arrivals follow @h_w_pickrell

57 REG PEUGEOT BOXER 2.5TD

NEW UN REG IVECO DAILY 50c17 IRIS BUS 3.0

57 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5TD

60 REG FORD TRANSIT 330 2.4T DCI

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, O&H conversion SLD, AVS side step, 8 rear high back seats plus 1 x wheelchair space, Unwin tracking, Eberspacher heater, Ricon tail lift, ex local authority, 20,286 miles.

Agile gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, power front entry door, 16 rear high back seats, Unwin Innotrax flat floor, underfloor Ratcliff t/lift, COIF/IVA to take up to 5 wheelchairs.

Manual gearbox, PAS, LWB, Euromotive conversion, SLD, AVS side step, 12 rear high back seats, Unwin tested Innotrac floor, Ricon tail lift, ex local authority, 20,775 miles.

6 speed manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, MWB, tacho, SL door, 12 rear standard factory high back seats, no tracking (can be fitted), underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, one owner local charity, 20,104kms.

59 REG VAUXHALL MOVANO LM39 2.5TD

56 RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD

56 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD

06 REG IVECO DAILY 50c13 IRIS BUS 3. 0

Manual 6 speed, high roof, PAS, LWB, Mellor conversion, side loading door, new AVS side step, 14 high back seats, new AMF m2 fully tracked floor, AMF tail lift, tacho fitted only 35,749 kms. (22,214 miles).

6 speed manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 6 rear high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 14,300 miles only.

Manual gearbox, high roof, Widnes conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 9 rear high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 42,300 miles only.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, power front entry door, 16 rear high back seats, Unwin tracked flat floor, Eberspacher climate control, underfloor PLS tail lift, COIF, 67,671 kms.

07 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 313CDI 2.5 TD

58 REG IVECO DAILY 50c13 IRIS BUS 3.0

07 REG VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER CR50 UVG TREKA

06 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUM BO 2.4 TDCI

Manual, semi high roof minibus conversion, twin side entry sliding door with electric step, 14 x high back seats plus driver, air con front & rear, fully tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, ex NHS, only 25,000 miles.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, power front entry door, 16 rear high back seats,Unwin tracked floor, Eberspacher heater, destination board, underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, COIF, 63,371 miles.

Auto gearbox, climate control, n/s/f electric power door, 16 high back removable seats on NMI quick release, Eberspacher, PLS underfloor tail lift, ex local authority, COIF'd, 81,280 kms.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, side loading door, side step, 11 rear high back seats, full Unwin tracking, Eberspacher heater, underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, 31,813 miles.

10 REG RENAULT MASTER LM 39 2.5TD

08 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4TDCI

07 REG FORD TRANSIT 100 350 2.4 TDCI

09 PEUGEOT EXPERT TEPEE 1.9 HDI

Manual, high roof, PAS, LWB, new conversion, side loading door, AVS side step, 14 high back seats, AMF m2 fully tracked floor, full air con, Ricon tail lift, tacho fitted, only 46,750kms.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, side loading door, AVS side step, 13 rear high back seats, Unwin tracked floor, Eberspacher heater, air con, underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, tacho, 53,946kms.

Manual, MWB, high roof, PAS, DL conversion, side loading door, AVS side step, 8 high back seats, fully Unwin tracked floor, Eeberspacher heater, Ricon tail lift, 28,779 miles.

Manual 5 speed gearbox, PAS, CD player, air con, twin side loading doors, 2 high back seat in rear, double passenger seat front, cut out floor, fold down ramp, blue metallic silver, alloy wheels, 14,932 miles.

2009 59 REG VAUXHALL VIVARO SL28 2.0 T D

08 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5TD

54 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 413 CDI UVG TREKA

57 REG CITROEN RELAY 2.5TD

Manual gearbox, low roof, O & H conversion, PAS, twin side loading door, side step, 4 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, modified low floor, electric winch & fold out ramp, 15,491 miles.

Manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, AVS side step, 8 high back seats plus 2 x w/chairs & driver, Unwin tracked floor, ricon internal tail lift, 33,175 miles only.

Auto gearbox, LWB, PAS, climate control, n/s/f electric power door, 16 high back removable seats on NMI quick release, Eberspacher, PLS underfloor tail lift, ex local authority, COIF'd, 104,180 kms.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, Atlas conversion, side loading door, AVS side step, 12 rear high back seats, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, ex local authority, 11,587 miles.

06 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 CDI

06 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 413 CDI UVK TREKA

2008 57 REG VAUXHALL VIVARO LH28 2.0 TD

08 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4 TDCI

Auto gearbox, LWB, PAS, Frank Guy conversion, n/s full height electric power door, 16 high back removable seats on NMI quick release, Eberspacher, PLS underfloor tail lift, ex local authority, COIF’d, 103,080 kms.

Auto gearbox, LWB, PAS, climate control, n/s/f electric power door, 16 high back removable seats on NMI quick release, Eberspacher, PLS underfloor tail lift, ex local authority, COIF'd, 82,180 kms.

Manual gearbox, hi roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 5 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 30,280 miles only.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, side loading door, electric side step, 11 high back seats, Unwin tracked floor at rear, Eberspacher heater, underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, tacho, 34,955 miles.

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February 13, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 63

Southdown PSV - 01342 711840 www.southdownpsv.co.uk

Ex-lease 2002 (52) & 2003 (53) Volvo & Dennis SLF ALX400 • 2002 (52) Volvo B7TL • Alexander ALX 400 72 seats • DDA compliant • Tax class: RPC Bus £165 pa • ZF auto gearbox • Repainted to single colour • Long MOT’s • Very clean ex-lease buses • £29,995 + VAT - choice

• 2003 (53) Dennis Trident 2 • Cummins / ZF • Alexander ALX 400 67 seats • DDA compliant • Tax class: RPC Bus £165 pa • Repainted to single colour • Long MOT’s • Conversion to single door available - call for details • Very clean ex-lease buses • £27,500 + VAT - choice Finance available – subject to status

Southdown PSV Silverwood Snow Hill Copthorne West Sussex RH10 3EN

682633-1074-Eastwoods

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DUE TO ILLNESS OF THE MD, MASSIVE SALE WITH HUGE REDUCTIONS – ALL STOCK MUST BE SOLD!

DRIVER TRAINING VEHICLE

DENNIS JAVELIN

10 metre, 47 seater, ABS brakes, new Class 5 for driver training, Cummins 220 engine, 6 speed gearbox, new stretch panels repainted white, ready for service.

£14,250

682633-1072-Eastwoods DPS

28/1/13

17:01

Page 2

IVECO SERVICE BUS

67 seats (moquet), new 2006, only 12,000 miles since new,Vihixel body, auto gearbox, air-con, MOT full year, LEZ, must be seen, superb condition.

£65,000 + VAT PX considered

PLAXTON PARAGON

48 reclining seats plus courier seat, air-con.

£49,500 + VAT

03 MERCEDES VARIO

With wheelchair lift, 13 seats, low mileage.

£12,000 + VAT

02 SETRA

1996 VOLVO PLAXTON PREMIER HIGH LINER

B10 engine, 14 months test, 70 seats, tinted double glazing, curtains, continental door, must be seen.

Model S-315 GT HD, 6 cylinder MAN engine, manual 6 speed gearbox, 49 seater, full air conditioning, many extras, full year MOT

£45,000 + VAT

Part exchange considered

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66 | COACH & BUS WEEK | February 13, 2013

AUDIO & VISUAL

CHECKPOINTS

Wheel Nut Indicators and Retainers

++44(0)1524 44(0)1524 2271200 71200 checkpoint-safety.com

www.

8SO RDG \ RXU Y H KL F O H DG L Q D PDW W H U RI PL QXW H V DQG L Q QR W L PH DW DO O W KH F DO O V F RXO G EH F RPL QJ L Q

GARAGE EQUIPMENT

* ATF LANES * COMMERCIAL BRAKE TESTERS * COMMERCIAL SCISSOR LIFTS * MOBILE COLUMN LIFTS * PREFABRIATED STEEL PITS

INSURANCE

HEAVY DUTY STEEL BUILDINGS

buildings

• Bus Workshops • Secure Storage

• Supplied any width, any length • Building to BS5590 • Doors high enough for Double Deckers

• Finance available

Phone for further information

BLUELINE BUILDINGS 01709 578333 anytime ENGINES

CRAIG TILSLEY Suppliers of Reconditioned Tel: 01782 791524 or 01782 791527 Fax: 01782 791316

Email: info@craigtilsley.co.uk www.craigtilsley.co.uk

LIVERY

DAF MAN MERC, VOLVO SCANIA, GARDNER LEYLAND, CUMMINS ENGINES CYLINDER HEADS CRANKSHAFTS CRANKCASES CAMSHAFTS PUMPS ETC

Moorfields Industrial Estate, Cotes Heath, Stoke-on-Trent ST21 6QY

REGISTRATIONS G

7L PH L V PRQH\ 8SO RDG \ RXU Y H KL F O H DG L Q D PDW W H U RI PL QXW H V DQG L Q QR W L PH DW DO O W KH F DO O V F RXO G EH F RPL QJ L Q

£750 DRZ 40 DRZ 60 LAZ 87 MHZ 24 MHZ 25 PEZ 66 RNZ 99 SNZ 55 UIB 69

SPEEDY REGISTRATIONS CO LTD G ‘Buy with confidence – CNDA Member’

£350 £99 £99 £50 ACZ 727 DXZ 1150 LIG 1239 CXZ 4470 AJZ 626 FRZ 1558 MJZ 6749 DXZ 2267 CEZ 838 HIG 5338 MNZ 1195 DXZ 2268 KBZ 181 IIG 5163 REZ 9451 ERZ 6181 RBZ 696 JIG 8488 SUI 8907 FRZ 2034 SCZ 949 JIG 8489 SUI 8908 FRZ 2035 VIW 979 KIG 6556 TJZ 1119 JFZ 8625 WJI 848 KIG 6557 UUI 1393 JFZ 8626 XJI 474 LIG 1238 UUI 1394 KIG 8976 We Buy for Cash, also Part Exchange

Tel: (028) 6638 7124 Fax: (028) 6638 7771

Millwood, Lisbellaw, Co. Fermanagh, N. Ireland BT94 5HQ

£50 KIG 8977 LIG 1763 LIG 1764 LIG 1765 RNZ 9198 SNZ 2987 SNZ 2988 TUI 7992 TUI 7993

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February 13, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 67

REFUELLING TANKS

TRAINING

THE DRIVER CPC IS HERE

Refuelling specialists to the Coach & Bus industry

SAME DAY J.A.U.P.T. REGISTRATION SAME DAY C.P.C. CERTIFICATES DELIVERED AT YOUR OWN DEPOTS

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February 13, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 69

Seen something funny? Send it to gareth.evans@coachandbusweek. com or write to: Last Stop, Coach & Bus Week, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX

Monday: Press day. Production is right on track and we finish at about the same time as everyone else in the office – which was truly unthinkable in the past, even when I joined six years ago. Tuesday: After having perked ourselves up with caffeine, convene the regular CBW team meeting – despite Martin being out on a job. Write a piece about the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways for CBW’s sister title Group Travel World (GTW). With my camera rarely if ever being off-duty, I supply several touristy photographs for the mag.

Some London bus enthusiasts will doubtless be unable to contain (get it?) themselves at the sight of this biscuit tin. The shortbread found inside has been produced by Stewart’s of Scotland and is marketed as ‘Vintage bus shortbread gift tin 425g’. It was kindly drawn to CBW’s attention by the Ensign Bus crew. It pictures tri-axle AEC Renown LT165 (GK 5323), which is preserved at the London Transport Museum alongside Ensign’s ‘celebratory’ RT8 (FXT183). The painting is based on a photo by Peter Zabek, a copy of which can be found under the RT8 section at www.ensignbushire.com. When it comes to the crunch, the biscuits are advertised for sale at Selfridges for £13.49 or £9.95 on Amazon – although for some of you may well deem that price takes the biscuit. However, it is perhaps worth bearing in mind that there is a market for novel biscuit tins on ebay, including the M&S one produced a couple of years ago, so who knows what its value may be in the near future...

Fit for a king… You may have noticed the deluge of news reports last week when the skeleton exhumed from a Leicester car park was formally identified as Richard III. Well, small operator Harris of Leicester said prior to the announcement that it would name

Dilbert

its former Travel West Midlands Scania 113 double-decker Richard III if the remains proved to be royalty. The bus will receive its new name when it is repainted in the summer. Harris of Leicester is quite a new operator on the scene. The proprietor, Andrew Harris, has been in the industry for over 15 years, formerly with well known Leicester independent Confidence. As well

as the Scania, registration H217 LOM, on registered commercial service 800, Andrew is also a keen preservationist and owns an ex-Leicester City Transport Scania Metropolitan, registration GJF 301N, and an ex-Leicester CityBus Dennis Dominator, registered C100UBC. The operator plans to PSV both of these vehicles and offer them for hire to those wanting a vehicle with a more retro feel.

Wednesday: Write the ‘Accommodation’ section for GTW and sub-edit it as soon as it’s back. Also write up a small feature for a forthcoming issue about a vehicle operated by PeoplesBus. MD Andrew Cawley is his familiar enthusiastic and helpful self. Thursday: Andrew texts to say he’s in the sick bay. For me it’s a busy day in the office writing and getting as much CBW material to Keith as possible, in addition to supporting GTW Editor Caroline. Friday: Start in the office bright & early as normal. Andrew works remotely so as not to bring his bugs into the office. Receive confirmation at 0830hrs that my meeting this afternoon is going ahead at a revised time. Head over to my old stomping ground at National Express West Midlands’ Birmingham Central Garage for a ‘Face to Face’ interview with Simon Mathieson, who was a few years above me when I was at Uni. Funnily enough, the office I interview him in is the one I worked in for a number of weeks while on my sandwich placement year. Happy days. It’s great see several familiar faces and to be remembered by them. Drive north on the M6 and M54 to parents in the Welsh borderland for my first visit since the Christmas break. www.coachandbusweek.com

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RECRUITMENT & people Deadlines Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm Contact Ian Gillis T: 01733 293484 E: ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com

New CEO for TfGM Transport for Greater Manchester’s new CEO Dr Jon Lamonte, who was appointed in September last year, started his new role early this year. He succeeds David Leather who, since 2006, had been seconded to the position from Ernst & Young. Dr Lamonte joined TfGM from his role as CEO of Tube Lines, a subsidiary of TfL, with an annual turnover of £600-700m and 2,500 employees. It holds responsibility for the operation of the Jubilee, Northern and Piccadilly lines. He has previously held a range of senior roles in the Royal Air Force and Ministry of Defence. Jon, 53, who lives in Cheadle Hulme and commutes to work by train, said: “I’ve arrived at an incredibly exciting time. “The scale of the Greater Manchester Combined Authority’s ambitions is really impressive

Dr Jon Lamonte, TfGM CEO and is clearly going to deliver real, genuine change for the people who live, work and do business here. “In recent years, TfGM has evolved and is now responsible for much more than the public transport network – we now play an active part in all types of local travel – and I am committed to delivering the best for the community and economy. “There are so many exciting initiatives under way, not least the Metrolink expansion; improving bus links between Manchester city centre, Leigh, Atherton, Middleton

and Parrs Wood; delivering four new interchanges; launching smart ticketing; major cycling investment; the historic Northern Hub rail investment and electrification of key railway lines; rail refranchising; and high speed rail. “Innovation is key: our Local Sustainable Transport Fund programme will deliver new ways for people to plan their journeys, taking advantage of smartphones, emerging digital platforms and technology, and providing realtime updates to people as they are travelling by all forms of transport. “It is also supporting the launch of new services, such as transport links to key employment sites. “Each of these projects will provide significant improvements, helping to provide new connections and, in the short time I’ve been here, I’m confident they will be delivered with the full commitment and dedication of TfGM. “Transport is the heartbeat of a region’s economy. Without an effective, efficient and accessible

Operations Director

network, essential journeys cannot be made, business struggles and the local economy falters and fades. “We are building on strong foundations which will see Greater Manchester fighting fit for generations to come.” TfGM is overseeing a £2bn-plus investment in public transport improvements. Working alongside the Greater Manchester Combined Authority, it is also working closely with local authorities across northern England in seeking to secure control over the Northern and TransPennine rail franchises. The £0.5bn Northern Hub rail investment programme is also now fully funded, and work to bring high speed rail to Greater Manchester is also progressing at a national level. The Local Sustainable Transport Fund programme, named ‘Let’s Get To Work’, is also delivering new cycle hubs, new cycle routes, new transport services and new infrastructure to keep the economy moving.

Alfa Coaches is the coach operating division of the Alfa Leisureplex Holiday group, which consists of three divisions: hotels, tour operation and coaches. The Coach Division operates 46 touring coaches and is responsible for the regular hire of approximately 30 more vehicles on any given day during the summer to operate the group’s holiday programme. This is a unique opportunity for an experienced high quality candidate to build upon a strong legacy and be part of a small and highly motivated team driving forward a well respected, growing and financially stable holiday group. The Operations Director of Alfa Coaches will report directly to the Group Managing Director. Responsibilities will include all commercial and operational aspects of the coach operation. Candidates will normally be graduates and hold an International CPC. They must be passionate about delivering the highest standards of coach operation and have the operational and commercial expertise to take an already successful team to the next level. Attractive remuneration package including company car and profit related bonus. The role is based at the group’s headquarters near Chorley. To apply, please email your c.v. and a covering letter to Lucia Westhead, Human Resources Manager, Alfa Leisureplex Group, Alfa Building, Euxton Lane, Chorley PR7 6AF. Email: lucia.westhead@alfatravel.co.uk Closing date 22 February 2013

www.coachandbusweek.com

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In association with

Obituary

Ron Brenton Ron Brenton, who once ran Ron’s Coaches Plymouth, died aged 77 on January 11 after a long illness. As a man who had spent his lifetime on the road, he was given an appropriate send off. His family swapped a hearse in favour of an 11-ton Mercedes-Benz truck. The lorry, which belongs to the haulage firm run by Mr Brenton’s son, Gary, was converted to carry Ron’s coffin from the family home in Glenholt to Weston Mill Crematorium. Gary told a newspaper: “Dad said he wanted to ride on my lorry

Retirement after 65 years of service An Oxford Bus Company employee has retired after 65 years of service. Arthur Pearson, 88, joined the company in 1948 and went on to become its longest serving employee. He worked as a driver, an inspector and an instructor. He originally retired at the age of 65 in 1989, but it only lasted for a few days before he returned. Arthur said: “It’s been really marvellous and the people I have worked with have been such a friendly unit.” He said his favourite bus to drive was a double-decker Bristol VR. “It was every driver’s dream - a really magnificent vehicle,” he said. Philip Kirk, MD of OBC, said Arthur had “great charm and courtesy”.

for his last journey. We took it off the road for two days to make the platform to carry the coffin and a family friend, Mark Peters, drove it. “It was a sad but brilliant day. I’m chuffed he wanted to go like that.” Although he retired 12 years ago Ron is still remembered by many as a coach operator. He ran a 17-strong fleet on continental holidays and school contracts. About 100 mourners attended the funeral and cremation. When Gary set up his own haulage company, Venturer Transport, Ron helped him buy the Mercedes 18400. The truck has been named Sheron in honour of Ron and his wife, Sheila.

New Marketing Assistant for Stagecoach Yorkshire Stagecoach Yorkshire has appointed Rachael McCarthy as its new Marketing Assistant. Rachael joins from Bradfordbased Cotswold Food Partnership where she held the position of Sales and Marketing Executive. Rachael, who has a degree in Business Studies from Leeds Metropolitan University, will focus on marketing Stagecoach’s network of local bus services in South and West Yorkshire, Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire.

Rachael, who has also worked in various marketing roles in the hospitality and recruitment industry, said: “It is a great team here and I’m delighted to be a part of it. I’m passionate about making a positive difference and my work will have a direct impact on customers and the community.” Rachael will also market Stagecoach Yorkshire’s Corporate Travel Scheme and helped to launch its new fleet of 19 electric hybrid buses in Sheffield.

Arthur Pearson at the UKBA “Now that Arthur has retired, our longest serving colleagues have clocked up just 45 years,” he added. A retirement party was held for Arthur at the bus company’s depot on February 8 which was attended by Oxford East MP Andrew Smith. Arthur had spent the last 13 years of his career working in the company’s customer services team.

www.coachandbusweek.com

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