Coach & Bus Week : Issue 1081

Wednesday April 3, 2013 Issue 1081 | £2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com

COACH:

Rebrand for Anderson Travel Group & £3.5m �leet investment p8

OPERATOR:

The latest goings on from Uttoxeter-based D&G Bus p38

Scania's ADL gas bus ready for demos

BUS:

BUS LAUNCH:

Anglian Bus shares its First Volvo 7900H experiences of running single decker unveiled MAN gas buses p6 in Basildon p16

for recruitm

JOB ADVE ent EVERY WERTS EK

RECRUIT N

OW

p4

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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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www.coachandbusweek.com ISSN: 1351-3877 © 2013 Coach and Bus Week Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or system or in any means without the written permission of the directors. This is considered a breach of copyright and action will be taken where this occurs. This magazine must not be lent, sold, hired or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condition or in any authorised cover by way, or by trade, or annexed to any publication or advertising matter without first obtaining written permission from the directors.

Confusing scenario over

Y

ou could be forgiven for thinking this week’s issue is something of an alternative drive-themed issue, with three separate stories from MAN, Scania and Volvo.

The recent drive to introduce CNG-fuelled buses in the UK is getting into full swing with MAN taking the lead in having vehicles in series production and the first tranche of deliveries completed. So far, the customers are excited and very happy with the results. The competitor to MAN’s EcoCity is a joint development between Alexander Dennis and Scania which is due to begin a programme of demonstrations this week.

Although it has been shunned as a means to fuel buses in the UK since the end of WWII, with the exception of a brief flurry in the 1990s with CNG and LPG, it has been a commonly accepted technology in many parts of the world. There can be issues with CNG and most people are afraid of fires with a gas vehicle.

They do occasionally catch fire – as do diesel buses – but in terms of

overall safety – gas bus fires tend to flare and quickly die away.

Diesel buses leak fuel all over the place which runs and spreads burning pools of fuel with the risk of far more collateral damage.

There are many operations around the globe using CNG without any major problems. They can be a source of knowledge for developing safe working practices around gas buses and minimising risks. Our industry needs to take this best practice aboard. There are strong CNG bus markets in Australia and the USA. Both speak a version of English – so the material should not be too difficult to translate.

Recent video footage of a gas bus burning begs the question: Why not point the safety relief valves on the cylinders upwards? It used to be standard practice at DAF Bus in the days of LPG. It allows flaring to go upwardsout of harm’s way. Side facing vents risk damaging or setting fire to surrounding property. Let’s get this right before we face any problems.

Martin Cole Technical Editor

CONTENTS 4

20

46

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

12

A showcase for suppliers of a range of digital technology products

36

All the latest vehicle deliveries in operators’ yards across the country

What’s happening across the country’s regions. Plus Events Diary

16

London’s 1,000th ADL Enviro 400 on Westminster Bridge, London

38

Ian Jones discusses insolvency and pre-pack administration

First right-hand drive Volvo singledecker hybrids debut in Basildon

18

New vehicles, routes, acqusitions & the sale of Midland to Arriva

45

A lighthearted look at the industry.

Plus Office Diary column

Symptoms & causes of the condition and how to treat it

CPT Scotland’s Paul White talks about BSOG & concessions

All the latest people moves from across the industry

News

Regional News

First Volvo 7900H Sleep Apnoea

Industry Guide Big Picture

D&G Bus Update Open Platform

Deliveries

48

Legal Update

69

Last Stop

70

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.

For all your relief coach driver needs call us today 0845 2416 288 www.justcoachdrivers.com www.coachandbusweek.com

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news

“We are hugely excited about the arrival of the hybrid vehicles into Basildon and it’s a very exciting time to be part of First.”

Danny Jones GM, First South Essex

briefly Organisers of the fifth Busworld India trade show have revealed the event attracted 3,162 visitors. The exhibition was held over three days at the Bombay Convention & Exhibition Centre, Mumbai. India is the second largest market in the world for buses and coaches, according to Busworld, with a demand for buses and coaches above eight tonnes which is twice as big as the demand in Western Europe.

CPT North West is to hold its AGM Dinner on Tuesday April 23. The gathering begins at the bar from 1815 with dinner from 1845hrs. Guests will include Beverley Bell, Senior TC, and Steven Salmon, Director of Policy CPT UK. It is to be held in the same location as recent years – Ashton Conference Centre, Bryn Road, Ashton-in-Makerfield WN4 0AA. On March 20, CPT hosted a pilot Transport Managers Workshop at Manchester College for members in its North Western region. The workshop, which featured presentations from Senior TC Beverley Bell and CPT’s Legal Partners Backhouse Jones Solicitors, detailed the changing role and duties of today’s Transport Managers. Delegates also heard from Manchester College as to opportunities for further management development training. With over 70 people in attendance, the event was arranged following recent changes to the ‘Access to the Profession Rules’ which have redefined the role of Transport Managers nominated on operator licences. Beverley Bell said: “For many years all Traffic Commissioners have been scrutinising the way in which nominated Transport Managers carry out their duties, but since December 2011 the spotlight has shone more brightly on nominated Transport Managers. Traffic Commissioners are concerned that Transport Managers do not always understand the exact nature of their statutory responsibilities and so workshops such as this give an ideal opportunity for them to attend and to hear first hand about how they can fulfil the role and comply with their responsibilities.” www.coachandbusweek.com

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News Focus p16

Scania-ADL gas-powered demonstrator takes to the country’s roads High interest means demonstration period is expected to last for around a year With all preparatory work completed, the Scania-ADL gaspowered bus demonstrator is now ready to begin its programme of operator trials and evaluations around the UK. Such are the levels of interest in this all-new, Green Bus Funding-compliant vehicle, that the demonstration period is expected to last for around a year.

To support operators wishing to try gas-power for themselves, a mobile fuelling station capable of refuelling the vehicle in around eight minutes after a typical day’s service has been developed.

Featuring a Scania K UB4x2

Extra Easter services to Holy Island

The Holy Island Partnership is providing additional bus journeys over the Easter holidays to the Holy Island of Lindisfarne. The 477 service runs from Berwick Railway Station to Prior Lane and operates on a branded bus depicting iconic landmarks on the island. As well as the Monday, Wednesday and Saturday journeys, services also ran on Good Friday and Easter Monday, and will run on April 5, April 8 and April 12. Single tickets are priced at £4.00 while a return is £7.60.

A number of businesses on the island are offering discounts on the day of travel. This includes English Heritage and Lindisfarne Heritage Centre who are offering 25% off an adult ticket and Pilgrims Café who are offering 10% off food and drink.

Working in collaboration with the Northumberland Coast Area of Outstanding Natural Beauty, Northumberland County Council and Perryman’s Buses, David Suggett, Holy Island Partnership Development Officer, stated: “The

chassis with a 270 horsepower Scania OG9 G04 engine, the bus is capable of operating on either Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) or Bio Natural Gas (BNG). The engine offers high efficiency and low fuel consumption with no need for exhaust gas recirculation (EGR). It is based on the same platform as Scania’s modular-build 9.3-litre diesel engine, which limits the number of new components required for the low entry gas chassis to around 40 items.

The 12.2m overall length ADL Enviro300SG body provides seating for a total of 40 passengers. The driver’s seat, Transito saloon seats, rear five-person seating unit and wheelchair bump pad are all finished in E-leather green with

cream piping, with the wheelbox and tip-up seats finished in green only. Complementing the seating is Tara bus Gaya Wood 4521 Yellowstone flooring and cool white interior LED lighting. The bus has Hanover electronic type destination equipment with LED illumination.

The demonstrator is also equipped with WiFi and a Synectics sevencamera CCTV system.

Operators interested in trying the Scania-ADL gas demonstrator should contact: Scania’s Mark Oliver on 07768 032883 or email mark.oliver@ scania.com or ADLs Richard Matthews on 07747 477574 or email richard.matthews@ alexander-dennis.com .

Left to right: Roddy Perryman, Perryman’s Buses; Gary McBride, Northumberland CC; and David Suggett, Holy Island Parternship additional services will offer choice and flexibility to visitors and the local community and a branded bus will help to continually publicise Holy Island throughout the year.”

Roddy Perryman added: “We’re hoping the eye catching vehicle branding on our 477 bus along with the additional journeys over the Easter period helps generate more visitors to the island”.

Charles Baker-Cresswell, NAONB Partnership Chairman said: “This service is so important for the area that the AONB Sustainable Development Fund supported the

new branding of the bus which is especially poignant during this special Lindisfarne Gospel year.”

Barry Rowland, Interim Corporate Director of Local services at Northumberland County Council also said: “Service 477 is an important link for both the community and visitors wanting to experience the island. The Council is pleased to be supporting the service.”

For further details visit www. holyislandpartnership.org

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Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek

Stagecoach in top 10% for carbon performance Stagecoach Group is among the top 10% of large companies in the UK for its performance in reducing the carbon emissions from its business, according to new Government figures.

Data compiled as part of the Government’s Carbon Reduction Commitment (CRC) Energy Efficiency Scheme showed the firm cut carbon emissions from UK operations by 10% in 2011-12 compared to the previous year.

Large public and private sector firms are covered by the CRC scheme and ranked according to their carbon reduction efforts.

Stagecoach was ranked 157th out of nearly 2,100 organisations, ahead of Tesco, Aviva and the BBC. Stagecoach advanced significantly from its position of 299 in 2010-11.

Steven Stewart, Director of Communications for Stagecoach Group, said: “We are committed to growing our business in a sustainable way and we are pleased we have made further progress in reducing the impact of our UK businesses on the environment over the past year.

“Our services are already helping to reduce the carbon footprint of hundreds of thousands of people in the UK every day. The latest reduction in our emissions reflects the hard work of our employees.

“But we know we have further work to do and we are already developing plans for the next phase of our sustainability strategy.”

trent barton treats for centenary

Sunsundegui and Volvo Bus illustrated their commitment to the UK market with the launch of the SC7 at the NEC show in Birmingham in November

Sunsundegui saved Volvo Bus says it is delighted to confirm Sunsundegui has instigated a change in ownership structure of its Spanish bodybuilding partner.

The executives of Sunsundegui will own 51% of the company, with the balance being owned by the rest of the employees.

The new ownership structure, in combination with support from the Government of Sodena, will place the company in an excellent position to grow the business across Europe.

In 2012, Sunsundegui and Volvo Bus illustrated their commitment to the UK market place with the launch of the SC7 at the NEC show in Birmingham. The new structure

enables the focus on innovation design and quality to continue.

Volvo Bus can also confirm that Euro 6 pre series chassis will be delivered to Sunsundegui in preparation for the Euro 6 legislation being introduced.

Nick Page, Volvo Bus MD, said: “The new ownership enables Sunsundegui to dedicate its focus in bringing to the market quality, innovative designed vehicles are ideally suited for the UK market.

“Volvo Bus will continue to import these vehicles, with the back up and support of our Volvo dealers for parts and service in the aftermarket. The SC7, with its excellent build quality, is coupled with the B11R which is demonstrating excellent fuel consumption on customer demonstrations, and 11.5mpg on a recent road test.”

trent barton has provided a seasonal treat for youngsters on the Children’s Cancer Ward at Nottingham City Hospital ward as part of its centenary celebrations.

The operator gave away 100 gifts to mark 100 years of service.

During the unveiling of a special gold-coloured centenary bus, the firm handed over 10 Easter eggs to Jaime Mighty of the Lewis Mighty Fund, which is working in partnership with the hospital to raise money for young cancer sufferers. The fund is also trent barton’s adopted charity for the year.

“The eggs will go down a treat on the ward, and the centenary bus also displays our logo which we hope will help to raise the profile of the charity and boost our fund raising efforts,” Jaime explained.

The Lewis Mighty Fund was originally founded to help meet the cost of specialist treatment for Jaime’s son, but now raises money to help other children after the Derby youngster lost his brave fight against cancer.

L-r: Gill Morrison, charity patron, Jaime Mighty and Jeff Counsell

Driver CPC Periodic Training

If you would like further information please call 01543 897505 or visit www.lloydmorgangroup.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com

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19

news › BUSeS

Number of Volvo 7900H hybrids delivered to First in Basildon

briefly Plans for a light rail tram system in Derby have been rejected as too costly. The sevenmile (11km) route would have gone from Mickleover and Mackworth to Pride Park, with a possible extension to the High Speed 2 rail hub at Toton. However, the city council said the estimated £100m – £140m price tag was unaffordable and it did not believe there was enough public demand.

Londoners have paid for more than 700,000 bus fares using their contactless bank cards since the option was introduced three months ago. TfL brought in the bank card option on its 9000 buses in mid-December, providing Londoners with an alternative to the Oyster system. According to Barclaycard, since then an average of 11,000 contactless bus fare transactions have taken place every day and the volumes are growing exponentially month-onmonth. The figure still represents just 0.18% of the six million passengers which TfL says use the network each weekday. However, Barclaycard predicts usage will continue to rise sharply, estimating 25 million contactless journeys will be made across the capital by the end of 2013.

Planning is now well under way for Reading Buses’ fifth annual open day on Sunday, June 30. The open day, at Great Knollys Street depot, will be from 1100 until 1600hrs. It is the first open day to raise funds for Reading Buses’ charity of the year PACT and main organiser Jayne Foster, organising the event for the third time, is working hard at drumming up volunteer support from within the bus company. As usual, a free service, provided by a variety of vehicles including historic buses and possibly an open-topper (weather permitting), will connect the main bus stops in the town centre with the Open Day at Great Knollys Street. Jayne said: “This is our annual opportunity to invite the public into our depot, to let them look behind the scenes and to put on an enjoyable entertainment, while at the same time raising money for the PACT charity. We are looking forward to it already!” www.coachandbusweek.com

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Anglian Bus – benefits of CNG bus operation Gas bus operation has indicated the potential for making considerable savings in operating costs – Anglian Bus MD Andew Pursey reveals significant savings in the first months with the new MAN EcoCity buses.

An event last week, hosted by MAN Bus & Coach UK, was designed to reveal operator experience and actual costs of operating the MAN EcoCity buses which have been in service with Go-Ahead subsidiary Anglian Bus. MAN’s CEO Des Evans lived up to his newly proclaimed ‘hands-on’ approach with the bus and coach side of the business. He said the three main areas of focus for operators were costs, credit and compliance. He explained: “Comparing the operating cost over a whole life, of say – a million km, shows the cost of the vehicle is very small by comparison. Credit these days is not so easy to come by and compliance issues such as safety and roadworthiness have to be at the top of the agenda. It’s our future ambition to make bus and coach operators more profitable.”

Sales Manager Paul Gardner was appointed as project manager for developing a CNG-fuelled bus for the UK market. He said: “We selected CNG as it provided a simple and innovative route to Euro 5 and 6 and also fell-in with the trend for customers to seek a one-stop shop.

CNG also offers a green technology option against the alternative – very expensive hybrids. CNG is also proven technology – MAN has 4,000 CNG buses operating in Europe and around 8,000 worldwide and they can be produced in low-entry or lowfloor configuration.

“The first showing in the UK was of a left-hand drive model we had been developing with Caetano.

It received a very good reaction from show visitors so we decided to go ahead with Caetano as our bodybuilding partner – largely because it has 15 years’ experience of building CNG buses and has extensive experience in bodying MAN vehicles.

“The R&D was finished in early 2011 and we started building two

Andrew Pursey, Managing Director of Go-Ahead owned Anglian Bus right-hand drive demonstrators in Q2. We organised a full programme for each vehicle with all potential customers taking a vehicle for a six-week period. Each one was equipped with full telematics so everything could be analysed in detail. Between them they did 500 days service and worked hard. In general they showed 25-30% cost savings on fuel used. In real terms this equates to annual savings of £1.3 – £1.5m for 10 buses run over 10 years.

“We are also able to provide operators with a full 10-year projection for the EcoCity on specific journeys or routes for direct comparison to their existing diesel buses.”

Gas Bus Alliance (supplier of gas, fuelling equipment) MD Phil Lowndes said MAN’s 16-year experience of building gas buses had shown the technology was reliable. The Gas Bus Alliance was formed three and a half years ago as a means to bring the advantages of CNG operation to market. The vehicles were fully warranted and used proven technology in purpose-built, dedicated engines.

Another advantage was the very low CO2 production if the vehicles were operated on gas from a bio-methane source – which was getting close to being carbonnegative. It had also met the Low Carbon Emission Bus requirements making it eligible for Green Bus

Funding.

He said: “Our secure pricing of the fuel means it is not subject to the same influences as petrol or diesel. This means it’s easier for operators to predict margins on tenders.” Operators can contract for fuel payments on a fixed cost basis over a period of years or can opt for ‘tracker’ payments at a set discounted unit rate which rises or falls in line with the market.

Mr Lowndes pointed out there was nothing ‘low-carbon’ about lithium production for batteries in hybrids or electric buses, there was no diesel used and no AdBlue required either – it was just clean and simple technology which did not need to be imported. All bus fleets could potentially be supplied from renewable sources. There were eight production plants in the UK currently injecting biomethane into the national Grid which was sufficient to power a significant number of buses. Another four are due to come on-stream this year – each producing 3,000 cubic metres of bio-methane per hour.

Gas Bus Alliance, he maintained, would not only supply the fuel but could organise custom-built on-site fuelling facilities to meet the requirements of all operations. Fuel contracts could be taken out over five or 10 years with the cost of the installation built into the unit price.

Ten-year deals secured a cheaper gas rate and fixed rate contracts

02/04/2013 18:02

3%

The percentage of the population affected by Obstructive Sleep Apnoea

are available for three-year terms – although these could be extended.

Anglian Bus MD Andrew Pursey gave a brief overview of the business – which began in 1981 as Anglian Coaches. Run by his parents, it operated five Ford coaches based in Lodden. Andrew joined in 1988 and in the mid-late 90s he looked into contract services and began to win tenders. There was a sudden requirement for six new buses – filled by three Plaxton Beavers and three Super Pointer Darts. The sudden expansion determined Lodden was no longer large enough to accommodate the fleet and so new premises at Beccles were acquired. Andrew continued steadily building the fleet as more contracts were won and eventually began operating the first commercial service in 2003 with four Optare Solos linking Halesworth with Norwich – it now needs much bigger buses to handle the passenger capacity. When the fleet size reached over 70 Andrew deemed it was time to drop the coaches and they all went during 2004.

In 2012, the company received a good offer from Go-Ahead Group, which it accepted. Andrew’s parents retired and he stayed on as MD. The current fleet had some 25 Beavers,

Arriva Wednes�ield depot reopens

An investment of over £280,000, which has seen the refurbishment of the Arriva Wednesfield depot and its buses, was officially unveiled by the Mayor of Wolverhampton, Councillor Christine Mills on Wednesday, March 27.

Taking responsibility of the depot on Planetary Road in August 2012, Arriva Midlands has focused on improving the garage and its buses in a move which has safeguarded the future of 110 employees.

The benefits include 17 refurbished buses, positive service changes resulting in enhanced links across the Black Country and the introduction of double-decker buses onto certain routes.

Alex Perry, Regional Managing Director at Arriva Midlands, said: “We are delighted to have given the Wednesfield garage a new lease of life, and think the local community

News6,7.indd 7

£4,855

April 3, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 7

Approximate annual saving seen by Anglian Bus when using an MAN EcoCity gas bus compared to a new Euro 5 vehicle

but they were being replaced by bigger buses and suddenly the days of operating buses capable of 20mpg disappeared. Andrew turned to biofuels under the CIVITAS 2 initiative which Norwich had partaken in from 2002-2009.

He experimented with fuel blends from 5%, 10%, 50% and even 100% in a bid to reduce NOx and particulates. Norwich also introduced its own LEZ from 2009 and so Anglian Bus tried an Optare Solo with a diesel/biogas dual fuel conversion from Hardstaff. He said it ran well but had a short range and was unreliable in winter as high electrical demand from heaters and blowers meant a constant 26 volt supply to the ECU could not be maintained.

He said: “I looked with great interest upon the LHD demonstrator when it first appeared and entered into a demonstration programme agreement. Running a short route between Beccles and Lowestoft it proved Okay. We tried a longer Halesworth to Norwich route and it was also Okay – so we were getting confident and working up to getting 300km per day.

“Feedback from the drivers and the passengers has been extremely positive but we were now in a

new world of Kg/Km – how did it compare to conventional diesel? As we had no gas connection on site the cost for infrastructure to cover two or three buses would just not have been viable – we would need at least eight.

“Compared to the cost of running new Euro 5 buses the savings worked out at £4,855 per vehicle but we couldn’t just buy eight gas buses unless they were replacing existing buses. Against them were saving £39.21 per day with an annual saving of £11,967.89.

With depreciation calculated in the figures still stacked up and Go-Ahead said to go for it. There was only £20m available in GBF3 so we bid for 13 low-entry gas buses and were awarded funding for all of them. We placed an order with MAN for November 2012. The first six entered service on the 146 Lowestoft to Norwich service. The second tranch of vehicles will be ready two weeks ahead of schedule.

There have been a couple of minor issues but in four months operation they have covered 238,000km and are returning 3kg/km. This is a 9% improvement over what we had from the demonstrators. We are also noticing the fuel consumption is reducing further as the engines begin to bed in.”

SHARE WATCH

Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, March 25. 21st Century saw the greatest proportional rise, while Optare saw the greatest proportional drop.

Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk

395.70p

Price: Year High: 395.71p Year Low: 268.52p

214.45p

Price: Year High: 267.00p Year Low: 174.60p

1486.0p

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208.15p

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311.10p

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Price: Year High: 0.93p Year Low: 0.32p

44.50p

Price: Year High: 46.98p Year Low: 36.00p

85.12p

Mayor of Wolverhampton Cllr Christine Mills officially opened the depot will certainly notice the difference in the services as we begin to roll out the refurbished buses across the Black Country.

“The rebuild represents a significant investment which has enabled us to create a clean, safe and modern working environment for all employees as well as enabling Arriva to continue providing the best possible service

to the community.

“I’m particularly pleased the refurbishment has taken place without any disruption to passengers or employees – this is an impressive feat and one which I’m sure everyone has appreciated.”

The work which was carried out on the depot includes a new bus wash and changes to the garage infrastructure.

Price: Year High: 88.20p Year Low: 62.29p

14.62p

Price: Year High: 19.50p Year Low: 8.25p

+6.80 on last week

+14.20 on last week

+31.00 on last week

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-2.95 on last week

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-1.98 on last week

+1.5 on last week

FTSE 100

6,488

Index: Year High: 6,529 Year Low: 5,260

+57 on last week

www.coachandbusweek.com

02/04/2013 18:07

8 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 3, 2013

news › coaches

briefly The contract for Newtown bypass has been announced by newly-appointed Welsh Economy, Science and Transport Minister Edwina Hart. The Powys town, which lies on the A483, has gained an unfortunate reputation as a notorious congestion hotspot in recent times. Alun Griffiths Contractors Ltd with engineering and environmental support provided by Atkins and TACP respectively will carry out the work on the 3.5-mile bypass. The next stage of the project will be the preparation of the preliminary design and publication of the draft orders, which is expected by April 2014.

Kent-based coach operator Ebdons Tours has relocated to a new shop on Main Road in Sidcup. The firm’s Managing Director Keith Payne told CBW: “We moved shops as part of a restructuring. We recently moved to a new depot in Thamesmead which has a covered workshop which can house the entire fleet. The opening of the new shop also coincides with the launch of our brand new brochure. Furthermore, we recently bought some new second-hand Volvos to bolster the fleet, and I have always found them to be very serviceable and driver proof.”

A new permanent 40mph speed limit to improve safety on the A590 was put in place last week through Newby Bridge, a small village situated near the southern end of Lake Windermere in Cumbria, a popular destination for coach operators. In addition, an experimental 50mph speed limit has been introduced through Newlands for an initial period of 18 months. The speed limits have been implemented along a threequarters-of-a-mile stretch around Newlands, from Ulverston to the Arrad Foot dual carriageway, and through the full length of Newby Bridge village for approximately a third of a mile. Additional signs have been introduced in both eastbound and westbound directions. Extra work will take place for one week from Monday (April 8). There will be occasional lane closures, but minimal disruption is expected. www.coachandbusweek.com

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Orange Coach Travel loses licence after PI Vehicles without an MOT were used to transport school children David Roots, trading as Orange Coach Travel of Woking, had his O-licence terminated at the end of March. He was called before London and the South East TC Nick Denton following investigations

by VOSA. Evidence presented during the Public Inquiry (PI) led the TC to conclude the firm’s management of maintenance was “not sufficiently organised” and had resulted in a vehicle being used to transport school children without an MOT. The expiry of the annual test meant the vehicle would not have been insured on the journey.

David Roots said he was annoyed with himself for failing to uphold promises made at a PI in June 2012, including attending a licence

awareness course.

Reviewing the firm’s previous history, the TC noted the operator had his licence suspended for seven days in 2012. This was also the operator’s fourth PI during the 12-year life of his licence and the second in nine months.

An independent audit was also critical of the safety inspections carried out by Mr Roots. The TC also heard a vehicle operated by the business, carrying children, had been in an accident.

The operator explained the incident had been the result of a driver error and the police had not brought a prosecution.

Nick Denton said: “Far from rushing to put his house in order after the June 2012 PI, as a competent Transport Manager would have been expected to do, he failed to fulfil his undertakings

Anderson Travel’s rebranded coaches

Rebrand for Anderson Travel Group The Anderson Travel Group has rebranded as Anderson Travel uniting Anderson Travel (coach hire), Anderson Tours, London Transfers 4 U, Off the Beaten Track and Out There Excursions under one unified brand.

The firm has also invested £3.5m in vehicles and driver uniforms.

In addition, two new staff –

Marketing and Sales Manager in the Tours department Carly Eden and administration and compliance officer George Aylott – have been appointed.

Mark Anderson said: “What better way to mark our 25th anniversary than unifying our brands coupled with an investment programme that will make a big difference to the passengers travelling on our coaches.

“We believe it’s this type of investment, along with our customer service, that has kept us leading the way in coach travel for so long.”

and failed to inform me he had not carried them out.”

He added that previous rulings against Mr Roots had not “jolted him into the necessary action”.

The TC said: “Only in the few days before the 2013 PI and in the few days since has he apparently grasped the urgency of his situation and put the maintenance in the hands of an outside contractor, arranged an audit and attended a CPC refresher course.

“He should have done all this after the PI last June, not just before the PI this February. No one reading the audit report could conclude this licence is in safe hands.”

Mr Roots’ licence was revoked from April 1.

He was disqualified from working as a Transport Manager for other passenger transport businesses for 12 months.

Chalkwell Coaches trials advans

Chalkwell Coaches has invested in two advans which are to be used to promote its commuter coach services.

Under the heading ‘Ease the stress commute for less’, the advans feature information such as ‘Save up to £1,300 per year - commute to London with Chalkwell Coaches!’, ‘Local pickups from Maidstone, Medway and Sittingbourne areas’ and ‘Local stops nearer to your home and workplace’.

Operations Manager Andy Bates said: “We believe they will be a very good promotional tool and useful for handing out leaflets. As they run around our pick up points, people will see there is an alternative to train travel.”

He added: “A future part of the plan might be to hire them out.”

Commuters are urged to visit www.commuteforless. co.uk or telephone 01795 423982.

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“We need to shift the political agenda from one focused on regulation towards one that has at its core a desire to actually support bus services...”

Paul White CPT Scotland

Open Platform p45

NX to takeover Arriva Green Line route to Luton Airport

Left to right: Simon Gregory Director Market, Tourism Ireland, Minister James Reilly and Tom Stables, MD National Express UK Coach

Eurolines goes green for Ireland Eurolines has launched two specially-liveried coaches to raise awareness of affordable coach travel to Ireland.

The Eurolines network is targeting travellers to the Emerald Isle during The Gathering 2013, a special year of celebrating Irish history and culture.

The coaches were unveiled in time to take part in Birmingham’s St Patrick’s Day Parade, in partnership with Tourism Ireland.

The company offers daily services to Ireland from all major UK cities including Birmingham, Manchester, Cardiff and Leeds, with connections on arrival available to over 160 towns and cities.

Rising demand saw the LondonCork service increased to a yearround daily service in 2012, while all routes experienced year-on-year growth of up to 25% from 2011.

Eurolines President John Gilbert said: “Whether it’s reuniting family and friends or helping people enjoy a mini-break, we’ve got Ireland covered. Thanks to investment in the network and increased frequency services, it is now even easier for people visit Ireland affordably.”

After 32.5 years, Green Line 757, operated from London Victoria to Luton Airport by Arriva the Shires with 16 Van Hool Acron tri-axle coaches, will cease serving Luton Airport after a new concession to operate the route was awarded to National Express (NX).

NX will begin running dedicated services between London Luton Airport and London Victoria Coach Station from May 1, 2013. It claimed it will deliver faster journey times, more frequent services and more seats at peak times. All coaches will be equipped with free WiFi, power sockets and business-class legroom.

An enhanced timetable, specially engineered around flight times, is also expected. The operator anticipates a minimum of £6m of annual revenue over seven years.

At peak, coaches will run every 10 minutes, with 150 services to

and from the airport each day.

NX CEO Dean Finch described it as a “significant new agreement with London Luton Airport which further consolidates our position as the UK’s coach market leader”.

It is thought Arriva will continue to operate between London and Luton but inevitably at a much reduced frequency.

Paul Adcock, Arriva the Shires MD, said: “This is an extremely disappointing outcome. The 757 has provided a high quality service between the Airport and London for over 30 years and over the last five years we have invested heavily in the service provision ensuring it has grown and expanded to meet demands. As a business we are now reviewing the possibilities and opportunities available to us and further announcements will be made in the next few weeks.”

CPT & TfL launch 2013 London Coach Parking Map CPT and TfL have produced and launched the 2013 version of the London Coach Parking Map. The map, now in its tenth year, details information on the location, availability, cost and booking requirements of coach facilities in central London (also Docklands, Greenwich and Woolwich). It also features parking locations near London’s main tourist attractions.

An interactive version of the map, which includes real-time information on planned roadworks, details of public events, traffic updates, CCTV images and images/ accidents, can be accessed online at www.tfl.gov.uk, with hard copies available from CPT. CPT President Malcolm Robson said: “It is a great example of what can be achieved when organisations

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work in partnership. I see this map as a must-have for all involved with the coach industry.”

Peter Bradley, Chairman of the London Coach Forum, added: “The London Coach Parking Map continues to help operators and drivers gain a better understanding of how to use the coach parking and driver facilities in the capital.”

Pictured at the launch are Malcolm Robson (left) and Peter Bradley www.coachandbusweek.com

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news › international

Heinz Friedrich, Brand Spokesman for Setra Germany (right), hands the symbolic key to the vehicle to Managing Director Guido Gröpper

TopClass Setra for AK Touristik GERMANY Kiel-based AK Touristik is expanding its ‘Panoramabus’ concept with two new Setra S416HDH coaches. The operator took delivery of its first Setra TopClass 400 coach of this type last year and has now increased its fleet to include three of these luxury glass-roofed vehicles, each of which seats up to 30 passengers in comfort on Setra ‘Ambassador’ seats arranged in a 2+1 configuration.

AK Touristik GmbH has existed in its current form since 2001

and employs 30 members of staff.

The company was previously the coaching division of the longestablished Autokraft Kiel GmbH, a wholly-owned subsidiary of stateowned operator DB Regio AG in the German state of Schleswig-Holstein.

The core of AK Touristik GmbH’s tour programme is made up of high-class coach tours to all European countries, operated under the slogan ‘Treat yourself’.

AK Touristik’s Managing Director Guido Gröpper explained: “We believe our concept is unique in Northern Germany. The 2+1 seating configuration allows us to focus quite consciously on small groups in which passengers very quickly

USA National Express’ North American Transit business, National Express Transit, has also been selected to provide operations and maintenance for Solano County Transit (SolTrans), located in Vallejo, California.

This contract is worth $8m of revenue in the first year, and is for an initial five-year term with an option to extend by up to two years.

Overall the contract has potential

total revenue of $60m.

The contract is significant as it is National Express Transit’s first in the important Californian market.

The contract also encompasses all forms of transit – local fixed route, regional commuter express bus service, paratransit and General Public Dial-a-Ride – as well as customer service and vehicle and facility maintenance functions throughout the cities of Vallejo, Benicia and Fairfield, California.

The contract was awarded after a competition which judged both the operator’s bidding price and service quality proposition.

30-seats in a tri-axle touring coach makes for spacious combination

NX to expand in California

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get to know each other, so allowing them to enjoy the places they visit in friendly companionship.”

Commenting on the new coaches, Mr Gröpper said: “Setra has managed to meet our high expectations in full, for our firstclass travel programme demands, quite simply, exclusive coaches in which passengers can enjoy, amongst other things, considerable freedom of movement.With these comfortable seats in this particular layout, passengers never need to rub shoulders with their neighbour.”

The touring coaches are equipped with, amongst other features, a practical galley kitchen with a 40-cup coffee machine, flat-screen monitors, a leather steering wheel, a reversing camera and a sophisticated audio/video system. Loudspeakers above each passenger seat ensure excellent quality of sound. Along with the familiar Setra safety which include Front Collision Guard (FCG), Lane Assistant (SPA), adaptive cruise control (ART) and Active Brake Assist (ABA), a determining factor in Mr Gröpper’s purchasing decision was the widespread coverage offered by the European service network of the EvoBus service brand Omniplus.

The high-quality ‘Ambassador’ 2+1 seating ensures passengers travelling with the Kiel-based operator have plenty of space to move around during the journey Dean Finch, NX Group CEO, said: “This announcement demonstrates the international appeal of our market-leading and value-formoney services. Within a year our North American transit business has emerged as an important new player in the market.

“In around a year National Express has built up a transit business with more than $75m of annualised revenue. This win provides another platform for further growth in a market where we have an identified pipeline of $300m of capital-light opportunities.”

Israel legislates for fire suppression systems ISRAEL The Israeli Ministry of Transport, Road Safety and Infrastructure has announced last week that its Minister, Yisrael Katz, has decided to require fire extinguishing systems on all the country’s buses.

The move is part of a package to improve safety after a spate of bus fires in the past year. The package also includes installation of fire detectors in the engine and battery compartments, as required by international standards. At the end of February, Fire Chief Shahar Ayalon threatened to close down the Egged transportation cooperative if fire extinguishing was not installed.

SP, the Swedish Technical Research Institute is calling for Israel to adopt its P-mark system for verifying and securing a good level of quality for fire suppression systems in engine compartments of buses and coaches instead of them developing a new standard.

This system has been under development over a long time together with worldwide experts. It has been shown to be effective and reliable for verifying the fire fighting performance and survivability of these systems. SP believes instead of developing a new test standard and qualification system for Israel the most cost effective path would be to simply adopt the P-mark system. The system is already in place and can easily be adopted and introduced to satisfy the urgent demands of Israel Transport Ministry.

It is hoped the legislation will avoid scenes like this

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news › REGIONAL

SCOTLAND

Strathclyde Partnership for Transport (SPT) and South Lanarkshire Council (SLC) have officially marked the opening of the new Hamilton Bus Station, a key transport hub in South Lanarkshire, after a £5.5m rebuild.

The redevelopment is a joint initiative between SPT, which provided £5m to the project, and South Lanarkshire Council, which committed a further £500,000 of funding.

Key aspects of the revamp include a new operational building containing a ticket office, waiting room and toilets and an efficient bus operations system which separates buses from other traffic.

The extensive use of glass makes the passenger waiting areas light and spacious and the modern passenger facilities also include enclosed waiting areas fitted with automatic doors to provide greater comfort. Electronic passenger information screens give travellers information about bus arrivals and departures.

Covered walkways link the stateof-the-art station building to the 17 local bus and coach stance areas and also extend to the rail station and taxi area.

NORTH

The Department for Transport (DfT) has confirmed £15.3m will be made available for the first phase of the Access York project, allowing work to start on two new Park & Ride sites and improvements to the A59 roundabout on the Outer Ring Road.

The funding covers about 70% of the scheme’s total £22.7m costs.

The scheme, developed by City of York Council, sees the existing Askham Bar Park & Ride replaced by a larger site with space for 1,100 cars, with a new facility at Poppleton having initial capacity for 600 vehicles.

Pre-construction and site clearance works were carried out earlier this year and the main building work begins this month.

The Park & Ride sites are scheduled to be operational by next spring, ahead of part of the opening stages of the Tour de France, Le Grand Depart, being held in York next July.

Cllr Dave Merrett, the council’s Cabinet Member for Transport, Planning and Sustainability, said: “It’s staggering to think we first started consulting with residents on 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. has yet to be defined.

A Cardiff Council spokeswoman told the Western Mail: “The study will be an investigation of the feasibility of providing a bus route across the barrage between Penarth and Cardiff Bay and the city centre.

“We will be working with SEWTA and the Vale of Glamorgan council on the project over the next few months.”

The barrage is currently open only to pedestrians. With this in mind, there is speculation as to whether an electrically-powered bus could be used. If the idea is progressed, it could become a tourist attraction in its own right, offering some of the most spectacular views in South Wales currently only available by boat.

KEY

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

SOUTH EAST

proposals to develop a new Park & Ride on the A59 way back in 2002, so it’s fantastic that, 10 years on, this is now a reality. The project represents one of the largest single investments in the city’s transport infrastructure since the Outer Ring Road was built.”

Transport Minister Norman Baker said: “This scheme will help York’s economy continue to grow by ensuring movement around the city is as efficient and sustainable as possible.”

First has reduced the price of its weekly bus ticket in Halifax to £10, which means for less than £1.30 a day, customers can make unlimited First bus journeys each week within the Halifax district.

Oliver Howarth, First’s local Area Service Delivery Manager, said: “This is great news for First bus passengers in Halifax.

“Our aim in 2013 is to continue to give value-for-money to our customers and look to stimulate customer growth in partnership with the local authorities.”

Halifax Mayor Cllr John Hardy said: “I congratulate First for this cut price offer and I am sure it will benefit many bus users who are looking to save a few pounds in these tough economic times.”

Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) has started a public consultation about plans to improve bus journey times in Middleton. The transport

authority wants to create a new northbound bus lane where the M60 joins Manchester New Road and wants to extend the southbound lane, which currently stops at Kingsway, further north towards Mount Road to cover Alkrington Green.

TfGM claims this will help increase general traffic flow as motorists won’t get stuck behind buses stopping to pick up passengers.

The hours the lane operates will also be extended to 1000hrs and from 1600 to 1900 in the evening.

Minor changes to the location of some bus stops and a pedestrian island have been included in the plan, as well improvements to the pedestrian crossing by Kingsway.

WALES

The South East Wales Transport Alliance (SEWTA) is carrying out a £15,000 feasibility study which will look at the possibility of running a bus service between Cardiff city centre and Penarth – by operating a bus service across the Cardiff Bay Barrage.

The bus could potentially operate from Cardiff Central Station into the Bay, before passing the Porth Teigr development and Associated British Ports (ABP) docks.

On crossing the barrage, it is envisaged the bus could pass Penarth marina and continue into the town centre. However, the route

Reading Buses has chosen to show its support to the Reading Girls Under 13s football team through sponsoring their kit for the rest of this season and the next.

Bus driver Mark Levy, who is also one of the team coaches, approached the company about a possible sponsorship which was approved by Reading Buses Chief Executive Officer James Freeman.

“We don’t normally get involved in sponsorship, but this seemed like a good fit with Mark’s involvement in coaching the girls,” said Mr Freeman. “And looking at the kit, we are glad we agreed.”

Reading Buses has paid for a full kit with the company logo emblazoned on the front.

“The girls really enjoyed getting the new kit,” said Mark. “We are so happy with the results and grateful to James and Reading Buses for the sponsorship.

“It is a real boost and good that Reading Buses is giving something back to the local community.”

The Oxford Bus Company has announced plans to put extra buses on two of the city’s popular Park & Ride routes, significantly improving the frequency.

From March 31, services on the P&R500 service from Water Eaton to Summertown and the city centre now run every 15 minutes. On the P&R400 route from Thornhill and the city centre to Seacourt, buses now run every 12 minutes.

Phil Southall, Operations Director of the Oxford Bus Company, said: “The County Council is currently working on a major expansion programme at Thornhill Park

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news › REGIONAL

& Ride. When the first phase opens in May we expect more and more motorists will want to leave their cars there and travel into the city on the Park and Ride service without the stress and worry of parking their cars in the city centre.”

New Wright Volvo hybrid buses have also been introduced on the P&R500 service, with what OBC has called ‘a striking new livery’ to make them even more distinctive.

LONDON

Transport for London (TfL) has issued an Official Journal of the European Union (OJEU) notice for the contract to take the Capital’s transport ticketing systems into the next decade.

The Electra contract, which was posted to the OJEU on March 27, will assume responsibility for the provision and maintenance of front and back office revenue collection systems for all of TfL’s services, including the 4,000 retail outlets, and at National Rail stations where

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY Oyster is accepted.

This includes ensuring all of the gates are maintained and available, Oyster readers on buses and at stations, platforms and retail outlets are working reliably, that the systems transferring transactions from the Oyster readers to the back office are operating efficiently and that systems are integrated to support TfL’s plans for the widespread use of contactless payment cards across the network.

The new contract will begin in August 2015, when TfL’s current five-year contract with Cubic Transportation Systems is complete.

The Electra contract term is for seven years with an early exit option at five years and extension options of up to three years. The value of the contract is up to £1bn over the 10 years and will be awarded in October 2014, with a 10-month transition period to ensure a smooth handover of the system before the start date.

Speakers at the ATCO Summer Conference June 11-13 are set to include Stagecoach acclaimed marketing guru Elaine Roscraig

2013 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.

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 April 9-11 CV Show 2013. NEC, Birmingham. www.cvshow.com

n June 11-13 ATCO Summer Conference. Merseytravel HQ, Liverpool. www.atco.org.uk

com/southeastbusfestival

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 April 25 Special Education Transport National Conference.

Liverpool. Details from Sian Thornthwaite by email on info@ school-transport.com

Norman Baker visited St Joseph’s Catholic School in Brighton to launch ‘Go-Learn’, Go-Ahead’s unique education programme aimed at helping children and young people improve their knowledge of public transport. The children had the opportunity to explore a new Brighton & Hove hybrid bus during the visit with the company’s new MD Martin Harris and bus driver David Grimstone. Also on hand was Southern train driver Jane Dymott. The Go-Learn materials use the theme of public transport to deliver informative and engaging resources which help pupils aged four to 14 develop skills and confidence for independent travel. The resources, mapped against the National Curriculum, can be used to support literacy and numeracy and elements of Personal Social and Health Education.

Baker said: “Our bus and rail services have a key role to play in the communities they serve and are an increasingly important mode of travel for the next generation. It’s good to see Go-Ahead providing the tools which will help equip young people with the skills and knowledge they need to travel independently and with confidence on our buses and trains.”

Martin Harris added: “Go-Learn is an ideal way of introducing young people to transport and increasing their knowledge of the social, economic and environmental benefits of using buses & trains rather than cars.”

Go-Learn consist of fact sheets and worksheet topics which are free for teachers to download from Go-Ahead’s website www.go-ahead.com.

n April 28 ‘History in Motion’.

East Anglia Transport Museum, Carlon Coalville, near Lowestoft Call 01502 518459. www.eatm.org.uk n May 5 Cardiff Transport Preservation Group ‘A Municipal Running Day’. Barry bus depot, Vale of Glamorgan. www.ctpg.co.uk n May 12 First in South Yorkshire Sheffield Centenary Bus Rally.

Olive Grove depot will be open to the public, with modern & heritage buses on display. www.firstgroup. com/ukbus/south_yorkshire/ n May 14-15 ALBUM Conference.

Belton Woods Hotel near Grantham, Lincolnshire. www.albumconference. co.uk n May 26-30 UITP Congress & Exhibition. Palexpo, Geneva. www.uitp.org. +(00)32 2673 610

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 14 The Annual Peterborough Bus & Commercial Vehicle Rally. Sacrewell Farm (A47/ A1 junction). Free entry. 07828 754412 or 01462 626750 n July 21 Alton Bus Rally. Anstey Park, Anstey Lane, Alton, Hants. www.altonbusrally.org.uk 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 9-10 CPT Scotland Annual Conference. Crieff Hydro Hotel, Perthshire. Visit www.cpt-uk. org or call CPT Scotland on 0131 272 215 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

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

www.coachandbusweek.com

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16 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 3, 2013

news focus › first in essex

1

The New Bus for Basildon James Day reports on the launch event for First’s 19 new hybrid buses in Basildon, Essex After dealing with a broken boiler at home for almost a week at the height of the latest round of freak weather to hit the UK, I wasn’t expecting it to be kind for First Essex’s hybrid launch event in Basildon on Wednesday, March 27.

Luckily, while it remained quite cold, the sun was happy to show itself and show off the bright and bespoke livery on one of the new vehicles, which was parked up in bay one at Basildon Bus Station www.coachandbusweek.com

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for all to see. Many representatives from the operator were present along with balloons and banners decorating the vehicle for as long as the wind would allow.

The vehicles in question are single-decker Volvo 7900Hs – the first complete right-hand drive vehicles of their kind to go into service in England. Built in Wroclaw, Poland, the vehicles feature the same driveline as Volvo’s B5LH double-decker hybrid – a five-litre engine paired with Volvo’s 12-speed I-shift gearbox. The Integrated Starter Alternator Motor uses stop start technology, meaning

the diesel engine cuts out as the vehicle comes to a halt, with the bus able to leave the stop on battery power alone. The engine then kicks in again once the vehicle reaches 17kph (~10.6mph).

The buses achieve Low Carbon Emission Buses targets for greenhouse gas emissions, equivalent to a 30% reduction compared to a Euro 3 diesel bus of the same capacity. They each carry 41 e-leather covered seats and tinted windows. There is also the potential for a future upgrade installing an audio-visual announcement system. They are all fully supported by the Volvo aftermarket service.

The Basildon hybrids are one of two orders First has made for Volvo 7900Hs. A further 10 will be used on a Heathrow BAA route operated by First and feature full air conditioning and double glazing.

A further 10 7900Hs have been ordered by Lothian Buses.

All of the hybrids will operate on the 100 route, which has a peak vehicle requirement of 18, leaving one as a spare. First has also launched four further hybrids, ADL Enviro350Hs, which will run on service 42 out of its Chelmsford depot. Combined, the vehicles represent and investment of almost £5m.

The event was one of three launch days scheduled by First, the others at Lakeside Shopping Centre on Thursday, March 28 and Broomfield Hospital, Chelmsford, on Tuesday, April 2. While the press were certainly present, with representatives from local radio and industry media, the events were geared more towards First’s passengers, giving them the opportunity to meet their local managers. South Essex General Manager Danny Jones spent three hours at the Basildon Bus Station launch day speaking to interested parties and was certainly very busy

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Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek

“I congratulate First for having invested not only in excellent buses for their service but also for helping the local environment.”

John Baron MP

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3

5 2

4

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1: 19 Volvo 7900Hs have been delivered to First in Basildon.

2: The driver’s cab. 3: The hybrid fleet carries a bright and bespoke livery. 4: Stephen Metcalfe MP, First South Essex GM Danny Jones and John Baron MP. 5: The hybrids’ stop-start technology means they arrive at and leave stops silently.

6: The vehicles seat 41, with all seats covered with e-leather

while I was there, engaged with media and passengers alike.

Speaking at the event, he said: “Volvo is the standard in Basildon and with the hybrids here they’ve given us the backing we need and have been on board from the start.

“We are hugely excited about the arrival of the hybrid vehicles into Basildon and it’s a very exciting time to be part of First. By bringing in new, environmentally friendly buses, we can provide greener, cleaner, quieter and smoother journeys to our customers in Essex, while ensuring our carbon footprint remains low.

“I’m also very interested to personally introduce the buses to local people and answer any questions they may have. There has been huge interest from the public and we promoted the event to bus groups all over Essex.”

Local MPs were also present at the launch and were very positive about the investment. John Baron, MP for Basildon, told CBW: “The hybrids are a real asset to the company and the local community.

I congratulate First for having invested not only in excellent buses for their service but also for helping the local environment going forward.”

Essex County Councillor Derrick Louis, cabinet member for highways and transportation, said: “Bus services are very important to local communities and I welcome the investment into this service, particularly with the introduction of more environmentally friendly hybrid buses.”

Nigel Barrett, Regional MD for First in the South East and Midlands, said: “I’m delighted to be able to offer our passengers the chance to enjoy these new hybrid vehicles. It is imperative for companies, particularly those in the transport industry, to take action to reduce emissions. The 19 new vehicles mark a significant investment by First into building a greener Essex.”

www.coachandbusweek.com

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insight › sleep apnoea

Don’t sleep on snoring – wake up and deal with it Beccy Mullins, Head of Patient Services at ResMed and a registered sleep nurse explains the symptoms and causes of sleep apnoea, along with treatments, and puts to bed misconceptions about the condition and your licence

E

ver felt sleepy while driving? Popular advice suggests pulling over and taking a break will solve the problem – but of course, that’s not so easy when you have a coach or bus full of passengers. If drowsiness and a desire to nod off is a daily occurrence, you could be suffering from Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.

The condition affects around 3% of the population. Those most at risk – but not exclusively – are overweight middle-aged men.

Unfortunately, due to the lifestyle and typical profile, professional drivers are at an increased risk of suffering from sleep apnoea.

My partner says I snore – so what?

It can be hard to recognise that you’re suffering from sleep apnoea due to the fact the most noticeable symptoms take place while you are asleep. Your partner may have noticed your snoring during the night, but it’s important not to ignore this as it could be a vital symptom.

When we fall asleep the muscles in the throat relax, which causes the airway to narrow. Airflow can become turbulent, causing the airway to vibrate, resulting in snoring.

Common causes of snoring are: n Nasal stuffiness n Drinking alcohol at night n Enlarged tonsils n Smoking n A receding lower jaw n Thyroid problems n Menopause n Being overweight www.coachandbusweek.com

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Above: Treatment involves wearing a mask, which delivers a stream of air, holding your airway open, allowing you to sleep. Below: Beccy Mullins If your snoring is loud but only occasional, it is most likely related to the above causes which exacerbate the problem such as excess alcohol before bed. For mild snorers, off the shelf solutions may help, but persistent loud snoring should be taken seriously and have medical input. Nasal surgery is offered in some cases of snoring but Obstructive Sleep Apnoea should be eliminated first.

How do I know if it’s something more serious?

Persistent and loud snoring on a regular basis should be investigated further by a doctor as you may have a more serious problem which requires treatment, such as Obstructive Sleep Apnoea.

Other symptoms include excessive daytime sleepiness, waking with a dry mouth/sore throat, difficulty

concentrating, irritability, high blood pressure and depression.

Obstructive Sleep Apnoea affects breathing due to a partial or total closure of your airway behind the tongue while you’re sleeping.

This results in episodes of brief awakening to restore normal breathing. In severe cases this can be hundreds of times a night, but on most occasions you will be

completely unaware this is taking place.

If you think you are suffering from sleep apnoea you should make an appointment to see your GP mentioning that you think you have the symptoms. Your doctor will refer you to a sleep clinic to confirm your diagnosis. If you are a commercial driver, mention this so your treatment can be fast-tracked.

How is sleep apnoea treated?

If you are diagnosed with Sleep Apnoea you will most likely be prescribed Continuous Positive Airway Pressure treatment, usually referred to as CPAP. CPAP treatment involves wearing a mask at night, connected to a small CPAP device which delivers a stream of air whilst you sleep, holding your airway open, allowing you to sleep soundly, and wake feeling refreshed. This simple treatment restores your energy, quality of life and further reduces associated health risks.

What impact would a diagnosis have on my job?

You will need to notify the DVLA of your diagnosis. While you may have to stop driving for a short period, due to the fact there is a quick and effective remedy, this diagnosis does not mean the end of your driving career. Every case is different, and you will need to follow the advice of your doctor, but once you are successfully treated, and this has been confirmed by the sleep clinic, you will be able to resume driving normally and will be much safer on the roads “Drivers should contact their GP urgently if they think they might be suffering from sleep apnoea,” explained Beccy Mullins, Head of Patient Services at ResMed and registered sleep nurse. “Many sleep centres will in fact fast-track professional drivers to ensure their treatment is commenced successfully, in many cases, less than two weeks, in order not to impact on their career. Importantly, successful treatment can dramatically improve the quality of life of sufferers, their families, and make the roads safer for everyone.”

If you’re concerned about snoring, sleep apnoea and its treatment visit: www. realsleep.co.uk. The site in an information resource from ResMed, one of the leading providers of sleep apnoea treatments.

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Abellio Route Control in the Battersea depot makes extensive use of service management software

Moving PCVs into the digital age

This week’s Industry Guide examines the many forms of digital technology which can be used to great effect by bus and coach operators and why they are such a valuable investment www.coachandbusweek.com

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igital technology advances at a phenomenal rate and in our industry it’s no exception.

In the last few years there have been major advancements in ticketing, online technology and telematics systems. With more and more operators investing in these products, their benefits are becoming clear.

Bus routes with free WiFi on board are extremely popular with the younger generation, while access to the internet is practically a requirement on commuter routes.

WiFi can also provide marketing opportunities through a landing page, which all users accessing the system will see.

Mobile and smartcard ticketing have proven extremely popular for a number of operators across the country simply by making both the passenger and the operator’s lives easier. Passengers can board without the hassle of fumbling with change or discovering the driver cannot change a £10 or £20 note,

while the operator can enjoy faster boarding times and less cash to handle.

To use these systems requires more advanced ticket machines in place which can handle new technology like Near Field Communication (NFC). Fortunately, modern machines are becoming more versatile and adaptable to any future developments in ticketing technology, meaning it is a great time to upgrade at the next rollout.

Scheduling software is becoming more and more advanced, with integrated mapping and real-time tracking. Investing in a modern system can really make a difference when it comes to managing headways and staying in control of day-to-day operations.

Digital technology can also provide safety measures.

Telematics systems are in use by an increasing proportion of the industry and are widely accepted to improve driving standards, save fuel and reduce accidents. Digital breathalysers can alert managers as soon as a driver fails a breath test, allowing them to act immediately.

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QUARTIX

Above left: Quartix’s live tracking includes Google Maps integration.

Above: The DailyLog. Left: A graph displaying weekly information on driver behaviour. Below: An example of a daily route chart

A reported 40% of coach and bus operators are equipped with telematics in the UK and this number is growing fast. The benefits of vehicle tracking are evident for many operators looking to save fuel, time and money and improve the safety of their drivers and customers; but what are the things to look out for when choosing a supplier and how can you limit your initial investment?

AVOID LONG-TERM RENTALS AND THIRD-PARTY LEASES The use of lease finance contracts to fund vehicle tracking systems was the main cause of business failure for a number of wellknown suppliers during the recent recession and credit crunch.

Customers of these companies were left with long-term obligations to banks and financial institutions as a consequence.

Few customers seem to realise this, but these long-term contracts are a debt obligation, taken on and underwritten by the customer, so the supplier can get paid out immediately. For example, if a customer signs a five-year lease deal for vehicle tracking on 50 vehicles at £25 per month, that amounts to an obligation to pay the bank (or other finance house) a total of £75,000. There is normally no way out of this if the tracking supplier founders or provides bad service, as the debt contract is generally with a separate institution. And yet many operators think that this is just a service agreement which can be cancelled if problems arise.

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valid role to play as the systems were very expensive. However the costs have now dropped considerably and there is therefore no justification for committing a customer to pay so much through an onerous contract, as the following example demonstrates.

If a customer signs a tracking deal at £25 for 60 months, that is a fixed debt commitment of £1500, for a piece of kit the supplier would be happy to sell for £250 if the customer only insisted on knowing the purchase price at the time of order. The difference of £1250 is therefore the service element of the contract, which the supplier is hoping to pocket on day one. This is not what “asset finance” was ever intended for. Service for the customer is, from this point on, entirely dependent on the goodwill and good fortune of the supplier.

Quartix only offers direct rental and purchase options, which

means its customers do not need to go through third-party leasing.

Its most popular package is the 12-month rental as it offers maximum flexibility and peace of mind, and only requires minimal initial investment.

MAKE SURE THERE ARE NO HIDDEN COSTS Long-term rentals also have hidden costs: if a customer signs a five-year deal and then increases his fleet size two years later, then a new five-year contract has to be signed on the additional tracking systems, meaning the customer is tied to the same supplier for a total of seven years from the start. This makes it impractical and costly to switch supplier – a situation which may continue indefinitely if the company continues to grow. Similarly if the fleet size contracts, the customer finds himself committed to paying for tracking systems he is no longer

using – for many years in some cases.

Also be aware of any additional charges such as warranty or installation. All the Quartix rental options include free installation, onsite warranty and technical support which monthly charges will cover.

Quartix has a transparent pricing policy too, all of which is published on its website, helping operators make an informed choice which is best adapted to their requirements.

CHOOSE A SUPPLIER WITH A GOOD CREDIT RATING “It is increasingly important for prospective customers to make sure their telematics supplier has a good credit rating, coupled with a strong balance sheet, as engaging in a contract with a financially weak provider is extremely risky,” said Andy Kirk, Sales and Marketing Director at Quartix. “Quartix’s operating profit increased by 60% to £2.9m in 2012, making us one of the most financially stable companies in the tracking sector.”

Quartix added 1,400 new fleet customers during the year from a broad range of industry sectors.

Organisations from both the private and public sectors chose the Quartix system, including Volvo Construction Equipment, Worcester City Council, Alton Towers, Days Contract Hire, Amaryllis Group, and Greater Manchester Police.

A significant highlight of the year was the winning of a contract from LOCOG for the provision of 650 tracking systems for visiting officials and dignitaries during the Olympic and Paralympic Games of London 2012.

T: 0870 013 6663 W: www.quartix.net

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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 brian.winterton@ coachandbusweek.com. For more information on providing editorial, call James Day on 01733 293244 or email james.day@coachandbusweek.com

Synectics Vandalism, criminal behaviour and fraudulent insurance claims are serious issues for bus and coach operators across the UK. Digital CCTV technology can lend a vital helping hand towards tackling these issues. Synectics Mobile Systems (SMS) is the UK’s leading supplier of bus and coach digital video recorder (DVR) systems. It has over 20 years experience in the development and installation of over 20,000 CCTV systems for major bus and coach operators across the UK. Synectics’ specialist bus and coach team has hundreds of years of combined experience of working in the industry. This knowledge, combined with Synectics’ surveillance technology, allows it to offer CCTV and telematics systems in tune with the day-to-day operational and business demands facing operators.

Understanding how to get the best from your investment in

mobile digital CCTV technology is something which Synectics takes very seriously. Synectics works with the foremost suppliers of mobile DVR technology to ensure its customers obtain the very best mix of performance, reliability and value for money.

As part of Synectics Group plc, Synectics Mobile Systems has access to extensive hardware and software development expertise.

This expertise, in conjunction with years of bus and coach industry experience which exists within Synectics Mobile, gave rise to the

Synectics’ specialist bus & coach team have extensive experience

development of Synectics’ own proprietary DVR – the T-series range of recorders.

The current range of T-800 (up to 8 channel) and T-1000 (up to 16 channel) DVRs have a proven reputation in the field, with over 6,000 units in operation with bus and coach operators nationwide.

Using state of the art CCTV technology, the T1000 recorder supports between two and 16 real time H.264 video channels and four audio channels. The recorder also features Synectics patented Dual Path recording. This automatically records the last five minutes worth of footage from all cameras onto a solid-state memory SD 16GB card.

“Mobile CCTV technology is constantly developing, with our customers expecting ever greater functionality at a lower cost. Innovation and continuous improvement run at the heart of our business, and we strive at Synectics Mobile to deliver the latest mobile technology which provides our customers with a

full CCTV solution that meets their needs,” commented Jeff Fail, Managing Director, Synectics Mobile Systems.

“We have some exciting developments underway which, we believe, will further stretch the boundaries of current mobile CCTV technology, and we’ll be telling our customers more about these later in the year.”

‘CCTV as a Service’ is an innovative approach to CCTV for bus and coach, developed

by Synectics for bus and coach operators who would rather concentrate on running their bus and coach services than managing CCTV. A combination of remote CCTV system monitoring, and Synectics’ national network of field service engineers, ‘CCTV as a Service’ means full maintenance, consistent high levels of uptime and a system which meets the customer’s exact specification.

T: 01253 891222 W: www.synx.com

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TO digital technology Mobile Onboard My Mobile Tickets is on course in its goal to become the de-facto mobile ticketing solution in the UK after it launched with more bus operators in recent weeks. This makes it the most popular and fastest-growing choice for transport operators up and down the country looking to offer mobile and e-ticketing to its customers.

Recently, the network has expanded to allow passengers to buy tickets online and use their mobile phones as their ticket on services operated by Classic Bus North West in Blackpool, GHA Coaches in North Wales and Abellio Surrey. This is in addition to the operators already accepting Coach and Bus Week – EDITORIAL My Mobile Tickets on services throughout the country.

Southampton, Hampshire, UK, 25 March 2013 My Mobile Tickets is a zerocapital investment mobile ticketing service which allows passengers toMobile An advert forisMy Tickets seen an Abellio bus mobile ticketing solution in the UK as it My Tickets onMobile course in itsasgoal toonbecome theSurrey de-facto sign up in seconds, buy their tickets launches with more bus operators in recent weeks. This makes it the most popular and fastest-growing coming weeks is its low-cost protection devices, as well up as and down online and download them directly ability to integrate directly choice for transport operators the country looking to offer mobile and e-ticketing to itswith standalone validator which, when tools to help organisations such to their mobile phone. Passengers operators’ back-end systems at customers. connected to a suitable scanning as schools and colleges to issue can also maintain a ‘mobile wallet’ real-time, and their in-house team device, can validate a mobile ticket which allows them to get tickets on- concessionary mobile tickets to is available to help with these Recently, thestudents network has expanded to allow passengers to buythe tickets and use projects their mobile as the passenger boards bus, online their en-masse. demand using an SMS text message integration at any phones level. withBus sub-second scanning and It recently partnered with Casio when they decide they want toas their ticket on services operated

by Classic North West in Blackpool, GHA Coaches in North Wales instant feedback to the driver to develop an application to run to the travel, or by scanning a QR codeand at Abellio T: 08432 Surrey.

This is in addition operators already accepting My Mobile Tickets899897 on services to facilitate fast boarding. The on their IT-800 and IT-9000 range the bus stop or from print media.

E: contact.us@ throughout the country. validator is also WiFi-enabled, of handheld terminals which can The system allows the purchase mobileonboard.com which means scan data can be sent perform offline validation of the of practically any type of ticket, W: www.mobileonboard.com Tickets a scanning zero-capital mobile ticketing back to a central server inservice near mobile ticket.isBy the investment including season tickets, fixed My Mobile real-time bus isonline also fitted encrypted data contained within term tickets and multi-trip ‘carnet’ which allows passengers to sign up in seconds, buywhen theirthe tickets with its Beam WiFi mobilecan Internet the embedded code on tickets, with no requirement toand download them QR directly tothe their mobile phone.

Passengers also system. mobile ticket, the terminal can download a native app onto themaintain a “mobile wallet” which allows them to get tickets on-demand My Mobile Tickets enables instantly tell the revenue protection phone, which means it works with SMS whether text message when they decide they want travel, or by operators to get atofoothold the ticket is valid. most modern smartphones. using anofficer scanningFurthermore, a QR code ifatthe the bus stop print into the media. emerging,The fastsystem moving terminal is or from Mobile Onboard, the company purchase of practically any typeworld of ticket, including season of mobile commerce connected online, it can download behind My Mobile Tickets, is allows the now, while complimenting photograph of theand person the also rolling out a range of simple tickets, the fixed term tickets multi-trip “carnet” tickets, with no their existing ticketingwhich methods.

No it ticket was issued to for products to support its mobile requirement to download a further native app onto the phone, means additional equipment is needed, verification, and record the scan on ticketing network, including lowworks with most modern smartphones. but if required, their powerful a central server. cost fixed and handheld mobile m-commerce platform has the Also due for release in the ticket validation and revenue-

Mobile Onboard, the company behind My Mobile Tickets, is also rolling out a range of simple products to support its mobile ticketing network, including low-cost fixed and handheld mobile ticket validation and revenue-protection devices, as well as tools to help organisations such as schools and colleges to issue concessionary mobile tickets to their students en-masse.

It recently partnered with Casio to develop an application to run on their IT-800 and IT-9000 range of handheld terminals which can perform offline validation of the mobile ticket. By scanning the encrypted data contained within the embedded QR code on the mobile ticket, the terminal can instantly tell the revenue protection officer whether the ticket is valid. Furthermore, if the terminal is connected online, it can download the photograph of the person the ticket was issued to for further verification, and record the scan on a central server.

Also due for release in the coming weeks is its low-cost standalone validator which, when connected to a suitable scanning device, can validate a mobile ticket as the passenger boards the bus, with sub-second scanning feedback the driver to facilitate fastproved boarding. validator is also Wi-FiSurrey enabled, Above Left: A My Mobile Tickets validatorand box.instant Above right: MobiletoOnboard’s mobile ticketing has to be The a huge success with Abellio which means scan data can be sent back to a central server in near real-time when the bus is also fitted www.coachandbusweek.comwith its Beam Wi-Fi mobile Internet system.

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My Mobile Tickets enables operators to get a foothold into the emerging, fast moving world of mobile commerce now, whilst complimenting their existing ticketing methods. No additional equipment is 02/04/2013 needed, but if required, their powerful m-commerce platform has the ability to integrate directly with

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TO digital technology Roeville The revolution in the way consumers research and book their holidays has been seismic in the coach tourism industry. Without doubt the website is the new shop window on the Digital High Street and has the potential to reach a greater number of consumers than direct marketing at a fraction of the cost.

2013 sees Roeville celebrating 20 successful years at the cutting edge of passenger reservations technology for the coach tourism industry.

The company produces a range of attractive and flexible e-commerce solutions which power many of the UK’s leading coach touring brands.

Roeville also offers a choice of back office reservation system, depending on the nature of the business. t28 is an off-the-shelf package which meets the needs of small to medium sized coach tour operators whereas t3 is a premium

The Roeville crew pose for the camera at Euro Bus Expo 2012 – Ken Hays, John Roe, James Brailsford, Raynor Williamson and Adam Leggot product which can be customised to ‘fit into the corners’ of larger and higher volume operators. Both products have excellent pedigrees and proven track records with many of the UK’s leading operators, plus there is an easy migration path

from t28 to t3.

Operators with their own coach fleets can use the Roeville ph28 software for all their coach hire and contract reservations. This is a user-friendly and highly flexible diary based system which handles

quotations, firm bookings, driver and vehicle allocations, work ticket printing, confirmations and invoices.

Roeville is renowned for having a friendly and responsive back up service and all of its customers are offered software support contracts.

A new automatic product update service is available to all support contract customers, enabling companies to download the very latest versions of the t28 and ph28 products, and for them to be swiftly and automatically deployed to all users within their organisations.

There is a range of purchase options for t28, t3 and ph28 to allow operators to manage their cash flows. These vary from outright purchase through interest free credit to monthly rental plans, including software, support contracts, payment card handling and web hosting.

T: 01302 841333 E: sales@roeville.com W: www.roeville.com

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MiX Telematics A recent bus operator survey conducted by MiX Telematics has revealed an insight into current and future thinking within the industry.

The first question asked was, How would you describe the outlook for bus operators in 2013?

10% were optimistic, while more than 80% said the outlook is ‘OK or poor’. In terms of the external factors impacting upon their businesses, 50% cited increasing fuel costs as the most significant, followed by the cost of compliance and increasing insurance costs.

Behind these came increasing vehicle prices, the availability of finance and the effects of new legislation.

When MiX Telematics asked about hybrid technology, 80% of respondents replied they have yet to invest. Asked Why not? 27% replied the investment doesn’t stack up with a further 17% saying they would need an incentive to invest.

Operators were then asked what they felt would be the best single way in which to reduce their fuel spend. Most replied that they believed an investment in fuel efficient vehicles would bring the best results, with a focus on driver development and improving driving style coming second.

38% of those surveyed report they currently use telematics systems as part of their efficiencygaining measures. This figure is set to rise during 2013, with 45% saying telematics will form part of their driver development programmes this year.

Of the four out of every 10 operators already employing telematics solutions, the majority stated they are seeing positive results – although they did hedge their reply by saying gaining results through telematics is something you have to work at; telematics alone is not a ‘fit-and-forget’ solution.

Significantly, not one operator described their venture into the world of telematics as a failure.

As you might expect, the majority of operators not yet using telematics cited a lack of investment capital as their primary obstacle to adoption. A similar number reported they have yet to be convinced of the potential benefits.

Commenting upon the survey results, Steve Coffin, Marketing & Operations Director for MiX Telematics, said: “It is interesting to note that more respondents feel investing in fuel efficient vehicles – which we regard as a major expense – would bring about greater savings than improving driving style. Given that operators

implementing driver development programmes in conjunction with telematics solutions such as our Fleet Manager system typically report fuel savings of up to 10% – and way in excess of this in some cases – we find that view surprising to say the least.

“We are naturally delighted to learn more operators are planning to introduce fleet management solutions in 2013, and would echo the view of the survey respondents who said telematics systems need to form part of a larger programme of driver development. Much of our work at MiX Telematics today involves working alongside our operators to maximise the benefits they derive from our products.

As we see it, this is most certainly the way forward in terms of maximising the potential offered by telematics solutions.”

T: 0121 7175360 E: info@mixtelematics.

MiX Telematics’ RIBAS system gives simple and immediate feedback

co.uk W: www.mixtelematics.com

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TO DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY Actia From Actia’s Early Electronic Chassis (ECUs) in the 1990s, to today’s digital network control systems, buses are now laden with technology, from OEM systems to retrofit equipment. To make sense of this evolution, Actia’s Integrated Systems approach is designed to maximise the potential of the vehicle and to eliminate bolt-on systems and hardware duplication where possible. Indeed Actia holds a unique position as the designer and manufacturer of not only the core vehicle electrical architecture and dashboard, but also telematics, driver feedback and CCTV systems.

Actia’s automotive specification Telematic Gateway Unit (TGU) sits at the heart of the Integrated Systems concept. TGU acts as a single hub for digital communication between onboard systems and the operator. From the chassis up, a wide range of data is made available 24/7, often in real-time.

Actia’s driverAID gives drivers realtime feedback while they work Eco-Fleet, Actia’s telematics service, returns this data with the objective of improving efficiency in many areas: operations, driver performance, maintenance, route optimisation and breakdown response. Drivers are encouraged to respond to the in-cab driver feedback of driverAID. The realtime driver trainer warns of harsh manoeuvring, as well as styles which have a negative impact on fuel economy such as idling and over-revving. This process on-theroad will soon be backed up by drivers having access their own

performance data online. Drivers can view their weekly score, driver MPG and event map. They will also get a feel for where they sit in a driver league table week by week, and where they can improve.

The maintenance department receives reports on vehicle health, fuel economy and CCTV status, as well as access to Multi-AID remote diagnostics. Healthy vehicles return better MPG than problem ones – even with the best driver behind the wheel. A problem with an engine, HVAC or cooling system can account for as much as a 10% increase in fuel consumption. Eco-Fleet’s measured fuel, vehicle condition monitoring and remote diagnostic capabilities enable rapid identification of an underperforming vehicle, to minimise time on the road at reduced fuel economy.

CCTV is another core product of the Integrated Systems range.

The BOP digital video recorder (DVR) is built to withstand the vehicle environment and comes

in standard and high resolution formats. All BOP CCTV systems are capable of integration with Actia in-dash TFT screens to provide a driver’s monitor and reversing aid. Existing switchpacks (where available) may also be used rather than bolting on extra controls, and when integrated with the CANbus and a tracking device, the recordings are enhanced with the status of brakes, indicators, speed, doors and GPS location, helping to build a more complete picture of vehicle activity at any time. To complete the system, connection is available to Eco-Fleet to provide real-time CCTV incident alarm and status monitoring.

Digital technology is here to stay on our buses, and Actia has synergised its capabilities to provide the ultimate integrated solution for efficiency, security and performance.

T: 01686 611150 E: mail@actia.co.uk W: www.actia.co.uk

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DISTINCTIVE SYSTEMS Distinctive Systems is a supplier of software to the coaching industry.

It has been established for 30 years and has supplied more than 2,000 systems to operators throughout the English speaking world.

Each Distinctive product can be used independently of the others, although they all integrate seamlessly.

Coach Manager is a booking system for private hire and contract work specially designed for coach and minibus companies. It offers secure handling of bookings, efficient allocation of vehicles and drivers, client confirmations, driver work tickets, invoicing, payments and statements.

Coach Manager now includes Coach Manager Connect – which connects the Coach Manager booking system at over 400 of Distinctive’s clients to create the most powerful community-wide communication network the industry has ever seen. Operators

can share selected bookings with each other at the click of a button. Coach Manager Connect can broadcast a request to cover a booking to a chosen list of operators, or to the community at large, communicating directly from the source Coach Manager system straight into the target systems.

When required it can target operators in a given geographical

area, without the originator needing to know who the firms are.

Tour Booking System (TBS) is a reservation system for extended tours and day excursions. The software guides the user through the booking one step at a time dealing with seat allocation, accommodation choice and pick-up point selection. TBS offers real-time payment processing and automatic

Distinctive System’s Coach Manager handles bookings and payments

emailing of invoices.

Vehicle Maintenance System is a VOSA-approved workshop management system specially designed for coach and bus operators. The software provides defect reporting, inspection planning, scheduled and unscheduled maintenance activity management, job cards, history recording and workshop control.

Distinctive’s website includes a price calculator which covers both traditional outright purchase options as well as the company’s recently introduced alternative of annual rental for any version of its systems. Monthly rental pricing is calculated at 2% of software list price, plus an additional 1.25% for software maintenance, making a total of 3.25%. The minimum rental period is 24 months.

T: 01904 692269 E: sales@distinctivesystems.com.

W: www.distinctive-systems. com

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Icomera’s WiFi is featured on the Stagecoach-owned Oxford Tube commuter route into London

ICOMERA Icomera claims to be the world’s leading provider of cellular broadband gateways, offering WiFi for public and private transport passengers, GPS vehicle tracking and live on-board CCTV connectivity. Offering services in over 26 countries, Icomera has gained a top reputation with a proven track record selling around the world which has established it as the market leader. With a real focus on new products and ongoing development, Icomera is looking to offer new and existing customers the tools to improve their business. Availability of high speed broadband connections on vehicles opens a host of new possibilities for transport operators.

Icomera’s award-winning range of products, including its new M300 series boxes, are simple to install, sleek enough to fit in to tight areas while also being rugged and durable enough to withstand the rigours of travel, usage and handling. The technology bridges wide area 3G and 4G cellular networks with on-board WiFi and Ethernet access. As well as internet connectivity this also

allows operators to track the vehicle’s routing and position and watch live CCTV feeds while the vehicle is in transit. These are the main features, but with these alone major concerns like security, response times to incidents, safety, schedule adherence and passenger satisfaction are improved significantly.

As the company improves and develops its products and technology ever improves, the opportunities for bus and coach providers also grows. Products can support a number of passenger and operational applications designed to increase revenue and save costs. From simple marketing opportunities to more technical vehicle-to-vehicle data, operators are now realising there is a great

deal more to WiFi systems than simply allowing passengers to check their emails.

However, it cannot be forgotten that allowing passengers free access to an internet connection to do this or to surf the web while travelling has now become somewhat of a necessity in modern day society. Smartphones represent the majority of the mobile market and as phone technology expands so does the level of people wanting to use them wherever they may be.

Commuters in particular now rely on such services, allowing them the opportunity to do work outside of the office.

For longer journey times there is an entertainment factor for passengers to consider and a free internet connection is a

Icomera’s M300 series boxes are robust and designed to fit in tight spaces

contributing factor in people’s decision making on choice of carrier.

Providers which do offer free WiFi have had remarkable feedback and the service has proved immensely popular. It is possible to get this feedback directly through the service too which means instantly available data, all of which can be accessed from any location.

Companies thrive on this type of information and it is now able to be gained through far more efficient and reliable methods than in the past.

Whether customers are looking to simply purchase boxes or require a full fitting and management service, Icomera can cover all requirements. Adding to this, Icomera has a free 30-day trial available to all new customers, with absolutely no commitment to continue with the service after this point.

Established in 1999, Icomera is headquartered in Sweden, with offices in Kent in the United Kingdom, and channel partners worldwide.

T: 0870 446 0461 E: sales@icomera.com W: www.icomera.com

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TO DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY Alcolock GB In 2011, 5% of all road casualties occurred when someone was driving over the legal alcohol limit. No operator would want its 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 not just a breathalyser, however.

It is a tethered alcohol device which is connected directly to an immobiliser which prevents any driver from starting the vehicle if a breath sample is over a preset alcohol 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 and can be operated in the usual way.

Unlike other similar devices the unit can be linked to mobile phone

technology which allows operators to be made aware of and react instantly to positive tests allowing them to react 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 very simple to operate and also 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 make a short break without taking a further test. But like all procedures, these can be changed to meet specific requirements.

The company prides itself in being able to work with its clients to tailor any installation to meet their individual requirements, and this in most cases changes from one business to another.

The firm 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 operators’ premises which take

David Whittock, Director at Alcolock GB, at the Euro Bus Expo 2012

around two hours for each vehicle.

Alcolock GB support does not stop here; its team is always on hand for help and advice and offers a guaranteed 48hr response time from its engineers if required. It supplies all consumables, such as mouthpieces or any spares firms may require. All breathalysers require calibration. Alcolock GB arranges this by making arrangements with the operator’s transport department.

Alcolock GB engineers carry identification, risk assessments and hi-viz clothing. It also carries out its own vehicle audit before and after every job attended, however small.

Alcolock GB is a dedicated team offering a one stop shop. Its role in life is to take the stress out of the lives of operators.

It makes sense to keep businesses safe from any consequences of Drink Driving.

T: 01761 408159 E: info@alcolockgb.com W: www.alcolockgb.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

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Vix Technology Vix Technology is a global provider of integrated transit and mobility systems making it easy for people to use and pay for transport, so more people will use it. Vix delivers fare management, fleet management and passenger information solutions for transport providers, to transform the way people connect and commute.

Vix Technology understands operators want to help passengers travel in the simplest, most effective way. This is why Vix brings together expertise across four key areas (Fare Management, Fleet Management, Passenger Information, and Service, Operations & Maintenance) in order to provide mobility solutions.

On the surface, the company is about helping people use and pay for public transport. But ultimately, it’s about transforming lives.

For Vix, it’s all about delivering a seamless travel experience – helping people get to where

Vix Technology provided systems on the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway they need to, when they need to, however they need to.

From design to maintenance, Vix Technology can do it all. It provides solutions using best of class technologies which are not limited by proprietary or closed systems.

The result is greater flexibility and cost benefits. Vix takes pride as a systems integrator in being able to work with all types of technology

to deliver solutions for its clients.

This allows its customers to take advantage of emerging technology and evolve their systems ahead of the rest.

Vix Technology aims to not just transport, but to transform.

Whether it’s by train, tram, bus, car, ferry or bike – Vix wants commuters headed towards a brighter future. It wants access

to be more affordable, reliable and efficient. The company wants to help reduce pollution and congestion and to make a real impact on carbon reduction. It wants local economies to grow; and education and employment to prosper.

A prime example of Vix Technology’s work with the industry is the wide variety of products and services provided to support the efficient operation of the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway. These include advanced bus priority systems at traffic signals to help ensure a fast service for users, the provision of real-time information on displays placed at bus stops and at key points around the city centre as well as Smartenabled ticket machines to enable an ITSO compliant smartcard scheme to provide flexibility when boarding the bus.

T: 01223 728 700 W: www.vixtechnology. com/transit-and-mobility

www.coachandbusweek.com

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY McKenna Brothers Greater Manchester-based McKenna Brothers is a trusted and popular supplier of destination and display signage. Established in 1978, it offers all forms of onboard destination displays ranging from the traditional printed blind right through to state of the art onboard TFT screen.

McKenna Brothers partner Mobitec has recently become part of the Luminator Technology Group, joining a group of companies specialising in electronic information systems. With its integration into the Luminator Technology Group, Mobitec and its sister company Twin Vision, which is based in the United States, now belong to a group of companies which operate on a global scale.

The Luminator Technology Group includes Luminator, Lawo and Focon, three companies which are known for their passenger information and lighting systems.

The technologies developed by

McKenna Bros’ full onboard mobiscreen passenger info system these companies are used in buses, trains and airplanes around the world.

Derek Dawson, MD of the Middleton firm took up the story: “Mobitec is now part of the world’s biggest destination sign manufacturer in the world. While there will be some rationalisation of signs, we are shortly going to unveil a new low-weight low power consumption LED destination sign.

“The cost of lighting signs on a vehicle has been calculated by an independent third party.

The figures have been based on a 10-year lifetime, with average operating hours of 40,000 over that period. The research has shown the new sign will deliver a total saving of about 40% on the amount of fuel required for power the signs over the lifetime of the vehicle. The weight and power required have both been slashed by 20%.

“Going to launch it sometime in June. We’ve been talking to the coach builders and big groups about the new product – they’re quite interested.

With the cost of fuel on the up, operators are doing all they can to save every last little drop. If you reduce the power required by the ancillaries, fuel consumption will also fall, so we’ve done something about it.”

Another new development is Mobitec’s ability to offer content and media management via remote update. It can also diagnose destination signs and has the ability to communicate instant messages, should the need arise.

This might include for example, the diversion of a route owing to an incident – which can be done from the comfort of the garage traffic office. “It’s something we’re looking to expand in the coming months,” continued Derek.

“We’re also now offering larger screens for onboard use. Operators can offer commercial advertising which can be triggered at particular points along a route using GPS. This will be particularly useful on longer distance routes.”

McKenna has also worked closely with Guide Dogs for the Blind on next stop announcement technology.

“It’s something we’re heavily involved in and have offered it to a number of different bus companies.

Newport Transport, Ipswich and Network Warrington have introduced our system,” added Derek.

T: 0161 655 3244 W: www.mckenna brothers.co.uk

www.coachandbusweek.com

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TransMach TransMach Systems is a leading ticketing solution provider for independent bus and coach operators. TransMach offers end to end ticketing systems, from specifying, installing and providing personal help desk support. As specialists in ticketing, TransMach can build the ticketing system to suit unique requirements.

TransMach is a single point of contact for fare collection and supply of consumables.

As Parkeon’s authorised distributor for the Wayfarer 200, TransMach offers the Wayfarer 200 ITSO system to independent bus operators at an affordable cost and provide quality service and personal help desk support. The Wayfarer 200 ticketing system is ITSO v2.1.4 and RTIG 1.1 certified and meets the requirements set by the local authorities. The Wayfarer 200 is an all-in-one and driver friendly ticket machine.

The comprehensive back-office

software suite gives full flexibility to bus operators. By acquiring the Wayfarer 200 ticketing system, operators can take advantage of the BSOG uplift.

As CASIO’s authorised partner, TransMach offers the CASIO IT9000 all-in-one portable device for satellite tracking, journey planner, paper tickets, smart cards, validating web booking and accepting Chip & Pin card payments. The IT-9000 features a lithium-ion battery (operating period - 20hours and more), integrated high speed thermal printer, NFC (smart card) reader and writer, barcode reader with high speed and accuracy, GPS and HSDPA – capable 3G with high speed data transfer and high memory capacity. Transmach offers the IT-9000 with a complete bespoke solution with web based back-office system.

T: 020 8861 1946 E: sales@transmach.co.uk W: www.transmach.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 Advertising & Marketing Manager Ian Gillis 01733 293484 ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com

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

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THE BIG PICTURE

This photo was snapped by CBW’s Deputy Editor Andrew on Tuesday March 5, just before pteg’s Parliamentary Reception at the House of Commons. It was the perfect weather for taking photos, with the blue sky making for a great contrast with the recognisable London bus red. Tourists were out in full force taking advantage of the weather. The vehicle pictured, ‘LX11BKN’, is a 10.2-metre ADL Enviro 400, operated by Stagecoach London out of Plumstead garage on route 53. The service runs between Plumstead and Whitehall, via Woolwich, Charlton, Greenwich, Deptford, New Cross and Elephant and Castle. The 24-hour service covers 12 miles (19 km), running at a 7/8-minute frequency in the day and every 20 minutes during night hours. The route passes many famous locations; this photo was taken on Westminster Bridge, with the London Eye just out of shot to the left of the picture and Big Ben and the Houses of Parliament behind the photgrapher. A quick web search reveals this bus was the 1,000th Enviro 400 delivered to London, and subsequently featured at Showbus in Duxford in 2011.

www.coachandbusweek.com

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operator update › d&g bus

D&G’s six new high-spec Optare Solo SRs for its Crewe operation

New arrivals and exits at D&G Bus Tim Deakin reports on the latest goings on at Uttoxeter-based D&G Bus, including new vehicles, routes and acquisitions and the sale of Midland to Arriva www.coachandbusweek.com

D&Gtop.indd 38

U

ttoxeter-based D&G Bus has introduced six new high-specification Optare Solo SRs to its South Cheshire fleet, representing an investment of almost £700,000 in Crewe’s buses.

They are equipped with Icomera Moovbox WiFi equipment and leather seats. Two are for D&G’s busy cross-town route 8 between Wistaston Green and Sydney; the remainder carry a striking silver and pink livery for the recentlyintroduced ‘one1ink’. This LSTFfunded service runs via many of Crewe’s employment areas and forms a significant plank of the town’s wide-reaching All Change for Crewe redevelopment scheme.

The 9.7m Solos are powered by a 154bhp Mercedes OM904LA Euro 5 engine coupled to an Allison five-speed transmission. They seat 35 passengers, including four tip-up positions, and have a total

capacity of over 50. The buses were launched at an event at D&G Bus’s Lockitt Street premises in Crewe on March 5 and entered service the following day.

The new Solos are the latest in a number of significant developments to have taken place at the operator over recent months, as Managing Director David Reeves outlined when speaking exclusively to CBW a few days after the Optares’ launch.

“We started one1ink on January 6, which from our point of view in terms of running a business and staff welfare couldn’t have been better,” he explained, noting Cheshire East Council had substantially cut its support for non-commercial services at the end of December. These reductions translated to a potential loss of five buses from D&G’s Crewe operation.

“Because we won the one1ink work we were then able to deal with that through staff holidays over the festive period. I’m pleased to say the new service began with

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April 3, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 39

operator: D&G Bus ESTABLISHED: 1998 FLEET: 95 Contact: 01889 568954 www.dgbus.co.uk D&G’s fleet which carried lowerkey route branding than the new Solos. Patronage, David noted, is heading in the right direction, aided by a variety of cheap tickets and a very strong marketing campaign mounted by partner Cheshire East Council.

Unlimited travel for one day is £2.50 with weekly and monthly passes at £9 and £30 respectively, whilst a number of roadshows have taken place in Crewe at which free weekly tickets were handed out. All major roads into the town have large advertising hoarding extolling the service’s virtues to passing motorists, many of whom will also have heard radio adverts for one1ink.

Cheshire champion

four buses running all day, which more than compensated for the work we lost. From a business point of view it came together really well,” David continued.

One1ink also allowed D&G to further improve its fleet engaged on commercial work in Crewe through the purchase of the two Solos for service 8, which followed other substantial upgrades made over the past two years. Optare dominates, with a variety of Solos from very short to very long in use, but the Yorkshire manufacturer’s product was not an automatic choice when feelers were put out for new buses.

David explained two other builders were in the running but the final decision was made partly because of familiarity with Optare’s vehicle. “I like Solos, but there were other types we looked at,” he said. “After various reviews and consideration, and based on quality and price, we went for the Optare.”

The new service ran for two months with existing buses from

D&Gtop.indd 39

“I’m a big believer in trying something different, but I also watch everything very carefully.”

David Reeves

A further development at D&G’s Crewe depot – about which David described himself as almost as proud of as the new buses – is the recognition by driver behaviour management provider GreenRoad of three members of staff there as amongst the most fuel efficient on the road.

Becoming members of GreenRoad’s Fleet Elite scheme, Jan Ferenc, Jerzy Mazurenko and Mark Twigg each received a £50 Argos voucher from D&G Bus as reward for their efforts along with a lapel pin and membership card for the scheme provided by GreenRoad.

“I wasn’t aware GreenRoad did anything like this,” David said. “Then out of the blue three certificates turned up in the post.

We had the awards framed and presented them at a staff meeting.

I’m very pleased with and proud of the drivers.”

Although tendered operations at Crewe have suffered recently thanks to funding cutbacks made by the

David Reeves (middle) and Dorothy Flude, Deputy Mayor, Cheshire East Council, with representatives from the council, Optare and Lombard

local authority, more commercial work has been registered to partially compensate. Trunk service 85 between the town and North Staffordshire was extended to regional centre Hanley 12 months ago and gained an improved daytime provision during December, while a new route between Newcastle-under-Lyme and Audley began in September 2012.

Back in South Cheshire, evening journeys on service 38 between Crewe and Macclesfield have been registered commercially to begin during the summer, a move which will complement D&G’s existing subsidy-free operation of the route’s Sunday journeys – work which is doing “reasonably well”, according to David.

“I’m a big believer in trying something different, but I also watch everything very carefully.

If it doesn’t work then we won’t be doing it for long,” he added.

Furthermore, an amount of mileage which lost its Cheshire East Council subsidy has been tweaked to optimise efficiency and registered commercially.

Thanks to severe weather during the early part of 2013 and a school half-term in the meantime he explained it has not yet been possible to fully analyse and dissect the financial performance of these alterations, but this will be undertaken very soon. “Our business is driven by figures.

There is some reason for cautious optimism, but we need to do more analysis. Overall I’m pleased with Crewe’s financial performance.”

Exiting the Midlands

A part of D&G’s improvements to its Crewe fleet has been facilitated by developments in the Black Country, which saw 61-bus subsidiary Liyell – trading as Midland – sold to Arriva during August 2012. Five buses there, including a pair of 60-plate DAF SB180s, did not form part of the deal and these were transferred to Cheshire prior to Midland’s sale.

Disposal of Midland brought an end to seven years of D&G’s involvement in the Birmingham conurbation. David was open when he described the operation there as a challenging one at times, before adding: “During the last couple of years green shoots began to emerge, which eventually flowered into full blossom. In financial terms, by the end of our time at Midland we’d got a business which was doing well.”

www.coachandbusweek.com

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operator update › d&g bus

Sale of the operation was, he said, “a sad loss, because we’d developed some very good relationships there.

These opportunities don’t come along often and we chose to sell.

We’d been on a journey at Midland and come a long way. But it was the right time.”

One aspect with which he expressed some displeasure was the Competition Commission’s (CC) involvement in the sale of Midland, a matter not fully resolved until February 2013.

“I think it is absolutely bizarre the level of interest they expressed in the deal,” David said. “Our business in the West Midlands was roughly 1.5% of the bus market there. We hadn’t got a large presence and we only came into competition with Arriva on one route.

“Why that then warranted the amount of scrutiny the CC put the deal under is utterly bizarre. I said to them that it potentially removes my opportunity as a businessman to sell one of my companies. Surely I’ve got a right to do that?”

“It would be very useful if the powers that be could clarify what action they intend to take. I’m sure the large operators will have done it, as will operators of our size. I’m equally sure some others won’t have.”

Positive future

Above: One of D&G’s new Solos, taken in Crewe. Below: One of the five buses transferred from Midland; a DAF SB180 with MCW Evolution body

A new challenge

In September 2011 Athertonbased Green Triangle, trading as South Lancs Travel, became part of the D&G empire. This was soon followed by the acquisition of Strawberry Bus, with the combined operation retaining SLT’s blue, yellow and white identity. Equally with Midland at the same stage of the Black Country business’s time as part of D&G, SLT remains “a work in progress,” said David.

Operations at SLT are now managed by Kevin Crawford, formerly responsible for Crewe.

“Kevin is very black and white, and he has been all over our operations,” David continued.

“He has very clear management principles. For example uniform; drivers aren’t scruffy when Kevin’s around. Your average working man or woman needs these kinds of clear boundaries because they know where they are, and they respond to them.”

David noted that SLT is “heading in the right direction”, a movement aided by service changes registered during January. Its fleet is modern and features a pair of TfGM-owned hybrid Optare Versas, used on the Bolton Metroshuttle contract, gained in January 2013.

As with all of D&G’s current and past operations tendered work features heavily at SLT. “Working with TfGM, I’ve found that the way www.coachandbusweek.com

D&Gtop.indd 40

they report performance is spoton,” David explained. “They’ve some very good systems and I’ve enjoyed working with them.

“We have a three-monthly meeting where we sit down and go through performance and performance management. You only get improvements if you continually manage performance.

They also listen very well, for example if we say we need to change a timetable because it’s not physically attainable.”

DCPC completion

Driver CPC qualification at both Crewe and SLT will be completed shortly, including that of drivers taken on more recently who had not undertaken as much classroom time as D&G’s longer-serving staff.

“I think DCPC’s been accepted now.

We’ve improved our training model and drivers feel they get something out of it,” David explained. Training is delivered in-house by an accredited member of staff.

He was, however, keen to discover what is likely to happen to operators whose drivers have not completed the necessary hours by September.

“I think DCPC’s been accepted now. We’ve improved our training model and drivers feel they’re getting something out of it.”

David Reeves

Thanks to D&G’s buses at Crewe and a reduction in tendered work there, a number of older vehicles have ‘dropped out’ of the bottom of the fleet. David explained these will be taken off the road and removed from the maintenance regime but, although a handful will be made available for sale, four or five will be kept in what the railway industry would refer to as ‘warm store’.

“I believe opportunities are always arising. There are a lot of challenges facing the smaller operator, and dare I say it, the larger operator too. It will be nice to have a small fleet of buses able to go at not much more than a moment’s notice,” he said.

D&G has achieved much in its slightly more than 16 years’ trading.

Its operation began using a solitary second-hand Mercedes-Benz minibus on tendered work in Stokeon-Trent, running from leased space in the old Longton bus station.

Business grew rapidly and the rest is history.

Although the untimely death of David’s late business partner and joint founder of D&G Bus Gerald Henderson represented a setback, and the North Staffordshire operation has long since been sold, the operator has transformed a bus network in Crewe which had become rather forgotten about by its former custodians. Similarly Midland was brought round into a position of good financial performance.

CBW’s advice? Keep watching this story.

A Dart running D&G’s shuttle service to Tesco Extra from Crewe Bus Station

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Enter Come and join us Bring

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How you can benefit from taking part

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Countdown to Entry

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T h e 20 13 Ce re m ony

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open platform › PAUL WHITE

April 3, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 45

Defining support for bus services CPT Scotland’s Paul White discusses what the bus industry wants from its engagement with the public sector in its place of re-regulation The term often applied to the Scottish Government’s budget line for the Bus Service Operators Grant (BSOG) and the National Concessionary Travel Scheme is ‘Support for bus services’. When the Scottish Government is questioned on bus policy it often reels off the statistic that it spends almost a quarter of a billion on ‘supporting bus services’ in response.

However, the statement rings hollow for a couple for reasons. Firstly, neither scheme is really support for bus services – one was conceived as a subsidy for passengers while the other is payment for a service provided.

Secondly, recent funding decisions for both schemes have hardly been that supportive.

The recent Scottish Government review of concessionary travel sees the reimbursement rate drop from 67% to 60% this month. This follows hot on the heels of a review of BSOG last year which resulted in its budget being reduced from £60m to £50m.

I appreciate Scotland is not alone in suffering such cuts. However, new Scottish transport statistics highlight that the situation north of the border is particularly tough. Operating costs in Scotland continue to exceed the UK average and have risen by 21% over the last five years.

Alongside these financial challenges we are also facing a particularly fractious policy landscape. The Scottish Government’s Bus Stakeholder Group is currently examining service registration regulations as well as the legislation surrounding Quality Partnerships and Contracts.

Meanwhile, Labour MSP Iain Gray is preparing a Private Members’ Bill on bus regulation.

Government funding is being cut while the desire to impose more onerous regulations on the industry, or re-regulate entirely, grows.

Support for the bus is diminishing in both regards.

However, a closer look at recent transport statistics also highlights that local bus journeys in Scotland have increased by 2% over the last year, while bus fares in Scotland have risen at about a third of the rate of the UK average. Despite the many economic challenges it faces the Scottish bus industry is continuing to run affordable services and grow networks where possible.

There has long been a culture of looking to identify the failings of the commercial market.

Repeated calls are made to wrest control from bus companies and hand it over to local

OpenPlatform_PW.indd 45

The concessionary fares reimbursement rate has dropped from 67% to 60% this month

“Support for bus services’ should be more than a budget heading, it should be an ethos among local and national government.” authorities, many of whom are struggling under severe budget constraints and have neither the need nor desire to take on that role.

We become mired in an endless debate regarding regulation which is impossible to reason to a conclusion given the many external factors which impact on costs and patronage and have nothing whatsoever to do with what regulatory regime is in place.

We need to shift the political agenda from one focused on regulation towards one that has at its core a desire to actually support bus services.

It was heartening to read in the PTEG report ‘The Case for the Urban Bus’ an acknowledgement that public support for urban bus services generates multiple benefits including supporting local economies, reducing road congestion and benefitting the disadvantaged and that “it provides exceptional value for money in terms of the return on public investment and support”. This should be the starting point for debates around public transport. Good public transport is a positive for all involved so how do we achieve it?

It’s easy to say we should park the regulation debate. The question remains what we want from our engagement with the public sector in

its place. A recent survey by Moorhouse found that a majority of UK transport stakeholders do not believe the government has a clear strategy for transport and that this lack of direction is grinding transport and infrastructure to a halt.

So, how do we foster a constructive discussion around improving bus services?

To help spur the debate, CPT Scotland has commissioned an independent report from the TAS Partnership entitled ‘The Economics of Bus Operation in Scotland’.

The report is a snapshot of the industry in Scotland which concludes the Scottish Government’s policy objectives for public transport should be based upon reducing the generalised cost of public transport use – generalised cost being the total cost in time and money of a journey from door to door.

In other words, enable bus operators to improve punctuality, reliability, information, ticketing and the myriad of other factors which encourage bus use. Take the steps bus operators cannot to introduce bus priority measures and improve bus stops. Look to do so through a partnership agreement which commits all parties to playing their part.

I’ve no doubt the reasoning behind calls for regulation is a genuine wish to improve bus services. However, it can be demonstrated public support and quality partnerships not only improve public transport but deliver measurable economic, social and health benefits to the local area.

The public sector doesn’t need to control buses; it needs to enable bus services. ‘Support for bus services’ should be more than a budget heading, it should be an ethos among local and national government.

Paul White is CPT Scotland’s Communications Manager. His background is in public affairs consultancy and Scottish politics, having previously worked for Weber Shandwick. Contact Paul on 0131 272 2148 or email paulw@cpt-uk. org. Visit the CPT website at www.cpt-uk.org If you want to let off some steam, just tap away at the keyboard and send your rant (or carefully-reasoned views) to gareth. evans@coachandbusweek.com, or fax 0845 280 2927. Make ‘Open Platform’ the subject line. Alternatively, send your missive to: CBW, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX www.coachandbusweek.com

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DELIVERIES

SIHOTA COACHES Sihota Coaches of Southall, West London has taken a delivery of a new Scania Irizar PB coach to mark its fortieth anniversary of trading.

The vehicle is a top of the range 13.9-metre overall length model. The 59-seater bodywork is mounted on Scania’s tri-axle

K400EB6x2*4NI chassis, which is powered by a 13 litre engine, generating 400 HP. The Scania engine meets Euro 5 using EGR (Exhaust Gas Recirculation). An eight-speed Scania gearbox is fully automatic using the Opticruise gear selection system.

Based on Derley Road, the company was established in 1972. To celebrate the trading milestone, brothers Bali and Dal Sihota have also shown

their appreciation to their father and company founder, Mr Sadhu Singh Sihota, by dedicating a cherished registration plate, SC13 SSS, to him.

Family-owned Sihota Coaches specialises in carrying large private hire groups and will continue to provide executive facilities through the addition of this new coach to its fleet.

The vehicle has come with Scania’s two-year repair & maintenance package.

NEW ADVENTURE TRAVEL Coinciding with the opening of purpose-built new premises in the centre of Cardiff, New Adventure Travel has taken delivery of a new Scania OmniLink service bus.

The vehicle is based on a Scania K 230 UB4x2 chassis

with a nine-litre Euro 5 Scania engine and ZF fully automatic transmission. The Scania OmniLink 12-metre semi-low floor body is equipped with 46 seats, including three tip-up seats.

This latest acquisition has now been joined by a second Scania OmniLink, along with three Scania OmniExpress 14.1-metre touring coaches.

These deliveries will

FACT FILE

Chassis/body Scania

K400EB6x2*4NI/ Irizar PB

Engine Scania 400bhp Transmission Scania

Opticruise Seats 59 Spec Touring

Supplied by

Scania GB 01909 500822 www.scania.co.uk

SOUTHERN COACHES Ready to enter service this month with Southern Coaches of Barrhead, near Glasgow, is the company’s first Volvo B9R. The 12.8m-long coach is a 57-seater, specified to offer a high standard of comfort to the company’s diverse range of clients.

“Our work includes golf trips and incoming tourists, who often have a lot of luggage,” said Southern Coaches’ Director Robert Wallace. “By specifying 57 seats and not having a toilet, we get the ideal combination of comfort for our customers and space for their luggage.”

Southern Coaches was formed in 1950 and has a long association with both

Plaxton and Volvo, most recently with B12M and B12B models. Plaxton bodies and Volvo chassis predominate in the 15-strong fleet.

The new air-conditioned Panther follows a Cheetah midicoach delivered a few months ago.

The Panther has Tourismo reclining seats with leather inserts on the headrests and three-point inertia-reel seatbelts.

FACT FILE

Chassis/body Volvo B9R/ Plaxton Panther Engine Volvo D9B, 380hp Transmission Volvo I-Shift 12-speed auto Seats 57 Spec Touring Supplied by

Plaxton 01909 551166 www.plaxtonlimited.co.uk

For all the latest industry news and information, register with us online at:

www.coachandbusweek.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

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April 3, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 47

Have you taken delivery of a new vehicle and want to tell the world about it?

Email all the details and pictures to james.day@ coachandbusweek.com

complete an order for a total of seven Scania coaches, the other two being Scania Irizar Century Club’s which entered service towards the end of 2012.

Commenting on the new bus, New Adventure Travel’s Managing Director Kevyn Jones, said: “It was an easy decision to purchase these vehicles as the Scania product has always worked well for us as they have proven reliability and are economical to operate.”

FACT FILE

Chassis/body Scania K 230

UB4x2/ Scania OmniLink

Engine Scania Euro 5 Transmission ZF auto Seats 46 Spec Stagecarriage Supplied by

Scania GB 1909 500822 www.scania.co.uk

LAKESIDE COACHES Further endorsing the Volvo product range, Lakeside Coaches of Ellesmere, North Shropshire has taken delivery of another B9R coach with Sunsundegui bodywork.

Having aquired an identical vehicle last year, Lakeside is well accustomed to the B9R product. With more than half of its fleet now built on the Volvo chassis, the firm also has extensive experience with the wider vehicle range.

“I trust Volvos,” commented Neal Hall, Lakeside’s General Manager.

“The two B9Rs we had in 2012 have proven to be reliable and very fuel efficient, so when it came to finding an extra vehicle for use on our GB Tours contract, another new B9R was the

obvious choice.”

The new vehicle, which was sold to Lakeside by Volvo’s Regional Sales Manager, David Stevenson, began tour work across the UK and Ireland from March 1.

“I’ve known David Stevenson for many years,” explained Neal. “It was good working with him again on this occasion.”

Exterior features of the vehicle include Alcoa Durabright aluminium alloy

wheels and eye catching livery, whilst the interior features 49 leather trimmed passenger seats, servery, reversing camera, toilet, two TV screens, DVD player and a climate control system. The new vehicle even features a personalised vehicle registration plate NH13LAK. “Back-up and support, provided by Thomas Hardie in Deeside and the Hartshorne dealership in Shrewsbury, has always

been superb,” continued Neal. “They know our requirements having dealt with us over many years.”

Commenting on Lakeside’s decision to take on a new Volvo B9R Sunsundegui, David Stevenson said: “Lakeside Coaches has had some really positive feedback from its passengers about the B9R purchased last year and with favourable fuel consumption, it was the perfect choice.”

FACT FILE

Chassis/body Scania Volvo B9R/ Sunsundegui Engine Volvo D9B, 380hp Transmission Volvo I-Shift 12-speed auto Seats 49 Spec Touring Supplied by

Volvo 02476 210250 www.volvobuses.com/bus/uk/ en-gb/Pages/homepage.aspx

www.coachandbusweek.com

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48 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 3, 2013

LEGAL update

In association with

“Business is like licking honey off a thorn…”

Director Ian Jones Ian Jones of Backhouse Jones discusses insolvency and prepack administration In his first address Pope Francis did not say that business without bankruptcy is akin to Christianity without hell but it’s a sentiment many operators may empathise with, as insolvency is the risk everyone in business must never underestimate. Salvation for some businesses comes – not from divine intervention – but rather in the form of a pre-pack administration and the government has announced it will review the use of this heavilycriticised procedure.

A pre-pack administration is where the sale of the business is marketed prior to the company entering administration and subsequently sold on appointment of administrators. However, the administrators must submit a report outlining why the pre-pack was chosen as the best course of action for creditors.

The insolvency process has been criticised because creditors are usually left out of the loop until the sale has taken place. In some instances a supplier which is owed money does not realise a pre-pack has taken place until they contact a company to chase payment. As with all administrations, the debt held by

The insolvency process has been criticised for sidelining creditors a company is usually reduced when it enters an insolvency process.

For example a company could have debts of £1m but the new owner is only willing to pay for £500,000 of those debts. However, £500,000 can be seen as a better alternative to a company being forced to wind up because there are no other buyers.

Transparency Various concerns regarding prepacks were announced by the Business Innovation and Skills (BIS) select committee when it reviewed the governing body the Insolvency Service earlier this year. The committee claimed there needs to be harsher sanctions on abuse by insolvency practitioners and that there is a need for greater transparency.

Backhouse Jones acts for clients in the private and public sector, both national and international operators from one to several thousand vehicles. Backhouse is absolutely “industry specific”. Whilst the company can trace its heritage to 1819 it only represented its first Road Transport Operator in 1930. The explanation for this is that the

A statement from the Insolvency Service regarding the upcoming review said: “The government has listened carefully to the concerns of creditors about pre-packs, which is why we already have measures in place to increase transparency and prevent abuse.

“Strengthened measures are being introduced to improve the quality of information insolvency practitioners are required to provide on pre-pack deals and we are using targeted monitoring of outcomes to assess whether there is evidence of abuse.

“Used appropriately, prepacks can be a highly effective process to ensure the best deal for creditors by better enabling the rescue of businesses preserving value and safeguarding jobs. The independent review announced by

the government will enable further evidence to be assembled on how pre-packs are working in practice and whether further steps are needed.”

A timescale of the review will be announced when the review is launched in late spring.

Lee Manning, president of insolvency trade body R3, said: “R3 welcomes the independent review of pre-packs and believes government can do more to increase the transparency of what is an extremely useful business rescue tool. We recognise the concerns from within the creditor community about the pre-pack process and we hope this review will help to increase confidence in the regime and highlight the vital role pre-packs play in saving businesses and jobs.

“Pre-packs fare considerably better than alternatives in terms of the retention of jobs and returns to secured creditors. This is crucial during the current sluggish recovery. If the economy is to deliver sustainable growth it will need entrepreneurship and to give viable businesses a second chance.

We must make sure that any changes do not risk crippling this useful and effective process.”

Do unto others...

Nobody could describe a pre-pack as a shard of heaven and they are indeed evidence of a cruel world.

Rogues need to be separated from the unfortunate and as we pass Easter and the resurrection it is worth remembering that it is not easy to turn water into wine and forgiveness actually exists for the person providing the forgiveness.

This is small comfort for a creditor whose own business is – in turn – jeopardised by the default of another, especially if foul play is suspected, but in the absence of loaves and fishes, 50p in the pound is better than nothing at all.

If your business is facing financial difficulties or you are looking to acquire a business out of administration then please contact Backhouse Jones Solicitors at any early stage to ensure that there is no adverse effect on your operators licence.

first transport act was only introduced in 1930 n The Independent Chambers Guide 2009 describes Backhouse Jones Limited as a specialist company with a national reputation for “first class strength, experience and understanding of the transport industry”. n Contact 01254 828300. Visit www.backhousejones.co.uk

www.coachandbusweek.com

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Network Warrington have the following vehicles for sale 7HO

All Vehicles Direct Fleet Many With COIF’s, PSV’s, Wheelchair

Access Lifts

& Ramps

Dennis Dart SLF 10.8m 2000/2001 V & Y Plate, Cummins 6BT, Allison AT545 4 speed auto, Marshall body, 40 seats.

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

2006 Plaxton Panther

2005 MAN Noge

POA – choice of 3

49 seats, blue multi-coloured seats, drinks facilities, fridge, courier seat and centre toilet.

57 reclining seats, air conditioning, one owner from new, 320,000kms, dark moquette leather inset headrests, curtains.

Graham Crooms, Courtney Buses 0118 973 3486 (Option 3)

Phone Nick on 01626 833664 or 07872 839530

POA

ÂŁ65,000+VAT - P/X considered

Arriva Bus & Coach 01274 681144

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

2003 ALD Enviro 300

Mercedes Benz Vito 111 CDI

2010 MAN Beulas

2001 Mercedes Autobus Nouvelle II

Optare Solo M710 SE (57 Plate)

In good condition, 21 seats + 2 tip-ups & 10 standing, MOT till July, Mercedes engine, 239,180 miles, Hanover destination. ÂŁ47,000

COIF and accessibility certificate, 40 seats and 27 standing, taxed until August and with a new MOT, this is a very clean and tidy bus which is ready to go straight to work.

POA

Phone Nick on 01626 833664 or 07872 839530

2002 ALD ALX200 Dennis Dart

COIF and DDA compliant, Euro 3 engine, 28 seats and 16 standing, taxed until end of June and MOT until July, well maintained and ready to work.

3 seat wheelchair accessible minibus, LEZ compliant, MOT until July, air con, plain silver, Euro 4, 300kg tail lift capacity, armrests.

Five in stock.

71 seats, LEZ, Glory Euro 5 + EEV, WC, climate control, hot drinks, amazing luggage capacity, fantastic condition, MOT 31/10/2013, fully DDA, only 149,000km, sale due to fleet restructure.

33 seats with lap belts, dual purpose, destination gear, this bus has been refurbished in the chassis, to body parts and repainted.

ÂŁ5,000

ÂŁ225,000 + VAT

ÂŁ10,000+VAT

Ventura Sales 01342 835206

Florida Taxi Coaches 01787 477701

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

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

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Dennis Dart Mini Plaxton Pointer 8.8m

1996 Volvo VanHool B9M

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

2000 VOLVO B7TL’s

2006 Plaxton Pointer Plaxton/Transbus

MOT till Aug 2013, CCTV cameras, CCTV recorder, manual front, side & rear destination, front ramp, Euro 2, blue patterned moquette.

Voith gearboxes, Plaxton President bodies, LWB, converted to single door high capacity schoolbuses with 83 seats.

ÂŁ5,750

POA

POA

Ventura Sales 01342 835206

EnsignBus 01708 865656

Arriva Bus & Coach 01274 681144

2002 VOLVO B7TL’s

2009 Renault

1998 Volvo VanHool B10M Alizee

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.

29 + 17 seats, 323,719 miles.

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

ÂŁ15,000

DDA and LEZ, 70 seats, Euro 3, ÂŁ24,000 + VAT

ÂŁ19,000 + VAT

ÂŁ25,000

Royal Blues - 01803 872422

EnsignBus 01708 865656

Florida Taxi Coaches 01787 477701

Royal Blues - 01803 872422

2004 Volvo B12M VanHool T9 Exec

2005 Bova Futura

2002 Futura

2008 MAN A22 Wrightbus Meridian SLF 12m

49, 51 or 53 seats, air con, Webasto, Ishift or manual, TV, DVD or video, 3 point seat belts, rear saloon w/c, phone, reversing camera, MOTs till late 2013. ÂŁ57,000 + VAT (manual gearbox)

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.

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

Nigel McCree - 01509 502695

Call Paul – 07968 106891

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

2 x 2007 (57) Optare Solo M950 Slimlines

2004 Ford Transit

2005 13m Bova Futura

Full executive, 53 reclining seats, good leg room, used on holiday programme, one owner from new, 430,000kms, 12 months MOT.

ÂŁ49,000 o.n.o.

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

ÂŁ84,500+VAT - P/X considered

ÂŁ58,000

Courtney Buses 0118 973 3486

Crystal Coaches – 020 8960 8800

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

Contact William on 07733 914050

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 owner’s colours if required.

Ex-rental, LEZ compliant, ZF automatic, 44 seats + 26 standees, wheelchair ramp, Mobitech LED, digital tacho.

Choice of 5 from ÂŁ294+VAT per week

Santander Used Assets 07753 712444

Mercedes 814D Euro Coach

PSV 12/5/13, taxed 30/4/13, full service history.

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

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2000 SCANIA T9

2002 Mercedes Vario 614

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.

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

ÂŁ24,750

Contact Eric on 0792 138920

Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076

Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279

Please call Jamie 01730 267543 or 07956 029344

2003 Futura

2009 Mercedes Tourino

VOLVO B12B

1998 Volvo B10M Jonckheere Mistral

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

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

ÂŁ6,995

Manual, 32-seat executive, purple, Webasto, air conditioning, retarder, WC, DVD McLaren colour seats with leather headrests, spare double seat, must be seen, 211,000km, MOT April 2014. Must sell due to retirement.

2007 Unvi Riada

22 seats with 3 point belts, certified courier seat, DVD, P/A, air-conditioning, MOT 15/04/14, brand new engine with Mercedes warranty.

ÂŁ42,000

375,604 miles, PSV 25/4/13, taxed 31/3/13, full service history.

2007 MAN Plaxton Panther

49/53 seats, LEZ compliant, toilet, DVD/CD, fridge, hot drinks, Webasto. Only used on our own holidays and excursions.

Excellent condition – £90,000 + VAT

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.

ÂŁ110,000

ÂŁ120,000

Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279

Contact William on 07733 914050

ÂŁ35,000 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

2007 Setra 415GTHD Comfort Class

2008 MAN Auto Ayat

Neoplan Starliner

2004 Iveco Daily 45c13

49 seats, AS Tronic gearbox, Mercedes engine, Euroliners, Ambiente seats, serviced by Mercedes since new, one owner, 302,000kms, MOT Apr 2014. Must sell due to retirement.

51 seat full executive, owned from new, choice of 2, real head turner, used on tour programme, low mileage @ 240,000kms, a lot of coach for the money, looks great and great value at just...

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.

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

ÂŁ120,000

ÂŁ89,000+VAT - P/X considered

ÂŁ65,000 + VAT o.n.o.

Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

Florida Taxi Coaches 01787 477701

2005 Daf VanHool

2010 Temsa Avenue

2004 Optare Solo M850 SLF

2007 Setra S415HD

29 seats + 19 standees, fully DDA compliant, Hanover LED, Cummins engine, very clean. ÂŁ29,500 + VAT Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

49 seats, blue and red interior with leather trim, drinks facilities, fridge, air conditioning, vacuum system, DVD and centre toilet.

Auto, 49/51 seat executive, purple, immaculate, Webasto, air conditioning, retarder, WC, DVD, reversing camera, hot water, fridge, leather headrests/piping, MOT May 2014, one driver from new, 486,000km. Must sell due to retirement.

42-48 seats, 60,667 miles.

ÂŁ95,000

POA

Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279

Arriva Bus & Coach 01274 681144

ÂŁ10,000 - no VAT

Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076

POA

Arriva Bus & Coach 01274 681144

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

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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).

2000 VOLVO B7TL’S

1986 LEYLAND OLYMPIAN TRI-AXLE

80 seats, Voith gearboxes, Euro 2 engines with traps, or full Euro 3 with traps, Plaxton President bodies, can be DDA with 78 seats.

Gardner engine, Voith gearbox, 100 seats with seatbelts.

1999 VOLVO B7TL’S

2002 DENNIS DARTS

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

Euro 3 engines with traps, 8.8M long, Marshall bodies, 25 seats, DDA.

2001 Y REG DENNIS DARTS

2002 52 PLATE VOLVO B7TL’S DDA and LEZ, 70 seats, Euro 3, £24000 plus VAT.

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

OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY -

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

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K ER SPECIALIST 1990 LEYLAND OLYMPIAN OPEN TOP

1998 R REG VOLVO B10BLE’S

Cummins L10 / ZF, 78 seats.

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

2000 DENNIS SUPER POINTER DARTS

Cummins 160 engines, Voith gearboxes, DDA compliant, 41 seats.

1992 LEYLAND OLYMPIAN

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

2000 VOLVO B7TL’S

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.

2002 DENNIS TRIDENT

Cummins Euro 3 engines, ZF gearbox, Hanover LED’s, DDA, single door, 67 seats.

2002 02 PLATE DENNIS TRIDENTS

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

Alexander ALX400 bodies, 80 seats, DDA compliant.

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

- BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BUS DEALERS Park, Purfleet, Essex, RM15 4YF 8 864340 e-mail: sales@ensignbus.com t stock at www.ensignbus.com

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NEW PRE-REGISTERED FORDS

New Ford Transit 17 seat 4.3ton 135ps minibus. From £19,495 + VAT

FORD TRANSIT MINIBUSES

(12) 2012 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 2.2tdci 135ps, tacho, 2300 miles only, ex-demo in silver, COIF/PSV £20,695 (12) 2012 Ford Transit Tourneo 9 seat Trend 2.2 125 PS, air-con, Bluetooth, in Midnight Sky Blue, 2,608 miles £14,900 + VAT (11) 2011 Ford Transit 9 seat Shuttle Bus, twin side loading doors, large rear luggage area, delivery miles only £16,995 (10) 2010 Ford Transit 17 seat 140ps minibus, tachograph, 33000 km,FSH, COIF/PSV £15,250

D SOL

(07) 2007 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4tdci 115ps air-con, tachograph, 76,000kms, COIF/PSV £11,995 (57) 2007 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4TDi 100ps, six speed gearbox, tacho with 16,000 miles, COIF/PSV £11,995

OTHER MAKES

New Peugeot Boxer 16 seat 3.5 ton and 17 seat w/chair accessible minibuses, 2.2 diesel 120ps, six speed gearbox LEZ COMPLIANT From £24,750 + VAT

D SOL

Volkswagen Crafter 2.5 diesel, 17 high back seats with three point belts, 30,000 miles, COIF/PSV £15,750

(56) 2006 Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 17 seat LWB minibus, 2.8 diesel, high back seats with three point seat belts, 19,000 miles only £9,450

OTHER MAKES

(56) 2006 Peugeot Boxer 3.5t on 17 seat minibus 2.8 diesel, high back seats with three point belts, 33,000 miles £8,995

(55) 2005 Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 17 seat minibus 2.8 diesel, with three point seat belts, tow bar, removable seats to rear, 77,000 miles £6,995

LDV MINIBUSES

(57) 2007 LDV Maxus 17 seat, high back seats with three point belts, twin side doors, COIF/ PSV, silver £7,500

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

(55) 2005 Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 17 seat wheelchair accessible minibus, tracking to take two wheelchairs, low side entrance step, easy clean floor £7,495 (57) 2008 Iveco 50c15 wheelchair accessible minibus, 17 seats or 4 seated + 5 wheelchairs, rear heating, underfloor tail lift, front entry drop step, COIF/PSV £15,495

(57) 2008 Iveco 50c15 wheelchair accessible minibus, 17 seats or 4 seated + 5 wheelchairs, rear heating, underfloor tail lift, front entry drop step, 90,000 km COIF/PSV £15,495

(08) 2008 Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 2.2 diesel, wheelchair accessible minibus, 11 seats, tracking to take three wheelchairs, in board lift £13,995 + VAT (07) 2007 LDV Maxus 13 seat wheelchair accessible minibus, under floor lift, space for two wheelchairs, electric side step £8,495

(06) 2006 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.9 cdti 9 seat, inboard lift, tracking for 2 wheelchairs, 45,000 miles £8,995

Y 2001 Renault Mascot 2.8 diesel, 16 seat wheelchair accessible minibus, front entry drop step, fully tracked floor to take five wheelchairs, under floor lift, rear heating, COIF/PSV £6,495

Contact Graham Thatcher – email: sales@minibussales.co.uk

Tel: 01633 485858 Mobile: 07866 443304

Pembridge House, The Park Business Centre, Plough Road, Goytre, Penperlleni, Nr Usk, South Wales NP4 0AL – 10 minutes from M4 motorway. Viewing by appointment only

Finance Contract Hire and Finance Lease Available. We deliver Nationwide. All vehicles prepared to VOSA standard COIF/PSV specialist

All above prices are subject to VAT @ 20%

696444-1079-Stafford

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Call for details on our vehicle conversions, upseating, refurbishment, and change of use conversion. Also vehicles available for hire short and long term.

www.staffordbuscentre.com email: martin@staffordbuscentre.com Telephone: 01782 791774 Mobile: 07803 222552 View our latest arrivals on www.staffordbuscentre.com

DENNIS DART CAETANO BODY S.L.F. 2000 W REG Fitted with 44 fully belted seats and 16 standing, so ideal school bus £8950

VOLVO OLYMPIAN, NORTHERN COUNTIES “LOW HEIGHT” BODY 1998 R REG Volvo engine/ZF gearbox, 76 seats plus 8, can be belted if required. £11,950

DAF SB220 ALEXANDER 1998 R REG 42 seats + 26 standing, good quality replacements for those unreliable, expensive to run Darts.

PHONE FOR MORE DETAILS

ADL ENVIRO 200. B900 2008 08 Reg.29 Seats and 17 standing, Fully repainted POA ENVIRO 300 ALSO AVAILABLE

DENNIS DART PLAXTON SUPER POINTER 1999 V REG Undergoing total internal re-fit to include 45 seats with belts.

FROM £12,950

MERCEDES 814D VARIO MELLOR BODY 2003 03 REG Fitted with 28 h/b seats on tracking, tail lift and Alison auto gearbox, low miles, up to 6 w/chairs and 12 seats. £19,950

MERCEDES 814D VARIO PLAXTON BEAVER 2 2002/3 52 REG 28 Removable H/B seats on tracking, tail lift, PSV tested, auto gearbox, choice of many, very presentable £14,950

MERCEDES 815D MEDIO 2005 05 REG Mercedes built mini coach with 25 seats, large boot etc. £27,950

DENNIS JAVELIN PLAXTON PREMIERE 2002 (51) REG Fitted with 70 highback coach seats, new MOT, manual gearbox £39,950

BLUEBIRD AMERICAN SCHOOL BUS 2000 W REG 60 high back coach seats with 3 point belts, Cummins engine and (reconditioned) Alison gearbox, very simple and rugged construction PHONE FOR MORE DETAILS

FORD TRANSIT 15 SEAT FACTORY BUS 2011 11 REG C.O.I.F plus PSV MoT, very low miles, as new. £15,950

OPTARE SOLO M920 1999 V REG Currently being panelled/painted and belted to 31 seats plus wheelchair. £12,950

FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT FACTORY BUS 2007 (57) 80k miles, tacho, PSV, COIF etc. £10,950

FORD TRANSIT 15 SEAT BUS 2007 07 REG Very low mileage, suitable for school use if required as its 3500 cwt, can be driven on any full car licence. £9,950

DENNIS DART PLAXTON MINI POINTER 2002 52 REG Cummins ISB 4 cyl engine and Allison gearbox, fully panelled and painted, recent test £13,450

OPTARE SOLO 1020 2006 55 REG 37 Seats and 17 standing, Largest of the solo range, With fully recon 6 cyl ISBT engine, Fully repanelled and painted POA

WE ALSO HAVE AVAILABLE OPTARE SOLO ALL MERCEDES ENGINE ALLISON BOX W Reg, 25 seater, very short with new belts plus new paint. £12,950 W Reg, 29 seater, 9.2mtr with new belts plus new paint (in build now). £12,950 52 Reg, 29 seater, 8.5 mtr with belts plus new paint. £16,950

1999 V with auto box, 33 bus seats with belts (cert for 31), new paint and test. £8,950 1999 T with auto box, 29 coach seats but LWB, so plenty of room, destination and power door. £8,950

MERCEDES 814D VARIO PLAXTON BEAVER R 2004 04 with manual box, 33 removable seats, power door and destination, tail lift etc. £16,950

FORD TRANSITS x 10 2007 - 2008 - 2009 - 2010 - 2011 Mostly PSV All 17 seats, tacho etc, all below 60k miles.

Vehicles available for short or long term lease

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60 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 3, 2013

07 (07) FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MINIBUS 115PS COIF 47,000 MILES £11995

2006 (06) MERCEDES SPRINTER 413CDI 17 SEAT MINICOACH 189,000 MILES COIF/PSV OLYMPUS CONVERSION. DROPWELL BOOT £20,500

MULTIPART & LDV/MAXUS PARTS STOCKISTS

(PONTYPOOL) LTD

P.O.A.

• ALTAS CONVERSION • 17 SEAT MINICOACH • DOUBLE GLAZED WINDOWS • FULL AIR CONDITIONING • POWER DOOR LOW ENTRY STEP

NEW MERCEDES SPRINTER TOURLINE 519CDI

Tel: 01495 757111 Mob: 07850 739446 (Haydn) or visit our website www.minibussales.biz to view the above stock

2005 (05) MERCEDES SPRINTER 413CDI 17 SEAT MINICOACH OLYMPUS CONVERSION 220,000 MILES AIR CON LUGGAGE RACKS £ 18,495

09 (09) VAUXHALL VIVARO CDTI 9 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 29,500 MILES £18,995

06 (55) MERCEDES SPRINTER 413CDi TREKA BUS W/CHAIR ACC 97000KMS COIF/PSV £18,495 CHOICE

2010 (10) FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MINIBUS 115PS HIGH ROOF SILVER METALLIC 60,000 MILES COIF/PSV DIGI TACHO £15995

08 (58) FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MINIBUS LWB MEDIUM ROOF 63,600 MILES COIF/PSV £12,995

14:09

05 (05) VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER WHEELCHAIR ACESSIBLE £8,250

2/4/13

07 (07) FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MINIBUS LWB MEDIUM ROOF 82,500 MILES COIF/PSV £9,950

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62 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 3, 2013

Buses for Sale

Kinglong Scotland Come and see us on our external stand at

Scottish Fleet Management Seminar 2008 MAN Plaxton Centro 38 seats

£42,000

at the Hilton Coylumbridge from 8th-10th May 2013 to discuss:

• Specialist school buses • New tourist coaches and many other products

2008 Mercedes Plaxton Pronto 16 seats £19,000

2005 Dart Pointer 10m 30 seats

£32,000

MANY USED VEHICLES FOR SALE

2010 BMC Nifty 2012 Kinglong 9 Metre Service Bus 57 Plate Sprinter 55 Plate Volkswagen LT 58 Mercedes Sprinter 92 Leyland Tiger PRICE ON APPLICATION ON THESE ANY MANY OTHER QUALITY USED VEHICLES

25 Dart Pointer 17 seats

£16,000

To view call 07979 295668

Tel: 01651 872864 24-hr Mobile 07769719252 Email: kinglongscotland@yahoo.co.uk Station Yard, Oldmeldrum, AB51 0EZ

681297-1081-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 FERQUI TORO 28/32 high back seats + courier, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights, power door, large boot.

Order now for May 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.

2011 MERCEDES 519 CDI SPRINTER X-CLUSIVE AUTO 16 high back full leather trimmed seats, 3 point belts, A/C, D/G, power door, glass roof, large boot and DVD system.

www.connaughtpsv.co.uk

2011 61 REG MERCEDES 513 CDI TRANSFER 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, A/C, parking sensors, side entry with automatic step, luggage space.

2010 59 REG MERCEDES 515 CDI TRAVEL 45 16 high back reclining seats, 3 point belts, A/C, forced air, reading lights, DVD, power door & power step, coach rear, auto.

2007 07 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.

2007 07 REG MERCEDES 413 CDI SOROCO 16 high back seats, forced air, reading lights, A/C, power door and large boot.

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.

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

696578-1081-Pickrell

H. W. PICKRELL

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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 FORD TRANSIT 100 350 2.4 TDCI

2009 59 REG VAUXHALL VIVARO SL28 2.0 TD

60 REG FORD TRANSIT 330 2.4TDCI

06 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 CDI

Manual, MWB, high roof, PAS, SCW conversion, side loading door, side step, 8 high back seats, fully tracked Unwin floor, Dash A/C, Eberspacher heater, Ratcliff underfloor tail lift, 11,092 miles only.

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.

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.

Manual gearbox, LWB, PAS, O & H conversion, n/s full height manual door, 16 high back removable seats, Eberspacher heater, PLS underfloor t/lift, ex local authority, COIF'd,103,080 kms, PSV tested till March 2014.

08 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4TDCI

09 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5 TD

58 REG IVECO DAILY 50c13 IRIS BUS 3.0

08 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5TD

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, semi high roof factory bus conversion, side entry slam door with low entry step, 14 x high back seats plus driver, air con, ex lease, only 32,997 kms.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, power door, 16 rear high back seats, Unwin tracked floor, Eberspacher heater, destination board, Ratcliff tail lift, COIF’d, 63,371 miles, PSV till March 2014.

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.

57 REG PEUGEOT BOXER 2.5TD

08 REG FORD TRANSIT 100, 350 2.4TDCI

06 REG IVECO DAILY 50c13 IRIS BUS 3.0

09 PEUGEOT EXPERT TEPEE 1.9 HDI

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.

Manual, MWB, high roof, PAS, DL conversion, side loading door, AVS side step, 8-10 high back seats, fully Unwin tracked floor, Ratcliff underfloor tail lift, 25,033 miles.

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.

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.

08 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4 TDCI

57 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD

08 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 2.4TDCI

59 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.45TD

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.

Manual gearbox, high roof, Gleneagles conversion, PAS, SLD, electric side step, 8 removable rear high back seats (10 seats in total) plus driver, air con, Unwin tracking & Solo system fitted, Ricon tail lift, 22,487 miles.

Manual gearbox, semi high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, side loading door, 17 high back seats including driver, electric windows, Bluetooth, COIF, PSV tested till September 2013, metallic silver, Euroliners, 84,407kms.

Manual 6 speed, high roof, PAS, LWB, O & H conversion, side loading door, side step, 8-14 high back seats, fully tracked Unwin floor, Ricon tail lift, Eberspacher heater, ex NHS, only 12,695 miles.

07 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5TD

NEW UN REG IVECO DAILY 50c17 IRIS BUS 3.0

06 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 413 CDI UVK TREKA

56 RENAULT MASTER M M33 2.5TD

Manual, PAS, LWB, O & H conversion PTS ambulance, SLD, fold out side step, 6-8 rear high back seats, wipe clean interior, lowering suspension, Unwin tracking, Eberspacher heater, choice of two, 72,000-79,000 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.

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, choice of 5.

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.

06 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4TDCI

07 REG VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER CR50 UVG TREKA

57 REG FORD TRANSIT 100, 350 2.4TDCI

59 REG VAUXHALL MOVANO LM39 2.5TD

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.

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, MWB, high mroof, PAS, SCW conversion, side loading door, side step, 8 high back seats, fully Unwin tracked floor, Dash ac, Eberspacher heater, Ratcliff underfloor tail lift, 11,092 miles only.

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).

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April 3, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 65

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

BMC Midilux Cummins ISB Euro 4 engine, PA system, rear air suspension, air conditioning, TV, 26 seat configuration, white.

£67,950 Available ex-stock For more details contact Ken Grindrod : 07976 355334 or Phil Hodgson : 07773 258379 BMC UK – Sole importer for the UK : 01924 227777 (A Trading Division of Pelican Engineering Co Ltd)

www.bmc-uk.net

BLUELINE BUILDINGS 01709 578333 anytime BUS & COACH RENTALS

CHECKPOINTS

The ABC of Rental Solutions

Under your control.

For the time you need it.

Bus and Coach

01274 681144

busandcoachsales@arriva.co.uk www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk

Wheel Nut Indicators and Retainers

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

www.

ENGINES

THE CUMMINS ENGINE SPECIALISTS PARTS & SERVICE DIVISION

D.I.E.S.E.L. LIMITED OFFER A VAST RANGE OF SERVICES FOR ALL TYPES OF CUMMINS ENGINES FREE TECHNICAL ADVICE AND SUPPORT FULL OR 3/4 BUILT RECON ENGINES COMPETITIVE & COST EFFECTIVE SERVICE REPAIRS FIXED PRICE ENGINE REPAIRS/OVERHAULS COMPREHENSIVE PARTS STOCK – NEW AND USED ON SITE REPAIRS FULL ELECTRONIC DIAGNOSTICS CONTACT US TODAY FOR ALL YOUR CUMMINS REQUIREMENTS TELEPHONE UK: 01708 859625 FAX UK: 01708 857630 EMAIL: SALES@DIESEL.UK.COM

HEATING

PARTS Don’t let your Dennis be a menace

Heaters • A/C Equipment Blowers • Motors • Radiators Silicone Hose • Ducting Wiper Equipment • Gas Struts

Trident/Javelin front hub bearings Why convert when you can replace?

Tel: 01993 849522 Fax: 01993 706920

The front hub bearings (part no 655387/6) are still available from Bus & Coach Parts

Email: sales@thhs.co.uk

Avoid the costly conversion kit

UNIT 9 NIMROD BUSINESS PARK DE HAVILLAND WAY, WITNEY OX29 0YG

Order now on: 0845 3038366

www.thhs.co.uk

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PARTS

SIGNWRITING

Sign Writing Services • School bus sign sets with suction cups – £15 + VAT • Vehicle livery design & supply – fitting by arrangement if required • Legal lettering & graphics supplied by post

• Full UK coverage • Same day local delivery

Tel: 01884 290818 Mobile: 07583 334455 www.kjsupport.co.uk

• Next day national delivery • Official Irizar part distributor • All manufacturer parts supplier • Fast, efficient & 24/7

Tel: 01909 511349 www.master-part.co.uk SEATING

PARTS

The ABC of Parts Support Over 17,000 parts lines directly from stock.

Next day delivery as standard.

Bus and Coach

01274 681144

busandcoachsales@arriva.co.uk www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk

BUCKINGHAM 3 & 2 • Ideal for 3 & 2 configurations • Ergonomic design for maximum support, comfort and legroom • Tried & tested: fitted into many new coaches as OEM • Full range of legs and fitting options make the Buckingham ideal for upseating to 70+ seats • Lighter weight makes easier for installation Prime Passenger Seating Limited 7 Canalwood Industrial Estate, Chirk, Wrexham LL14 5RL Telephone: 0870 757 1320 Fax: 01691 770 798 Email: johnm@primeps.com

www.primeps.com

TACHOGRAPH ANALYSIS

REGISTRATIONS G £750 30 PXA DRZ 40 DRZ 60 LAZ 87 MHZ 24 MHZ 25 RNZ 99 SNZ 55 UIB 69

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

£350 £99 £99 £50 ACZ 727 DXZ 1181 KIG 6557 CXZ 4470 AJZ 626 EXZ 1611 LIG 1611 DXZ 3374 CEZ 838 EXZ 1612 LIG 1612 ERZ 6181 JBZ 686 FRZ 4144 MJZ 6749 EXZ 1633 RBZ 696 HIG 3236 REZ 3327 EXZ 1634 SCZ 949 IIG 8287 SUI 7678 FRZ 2035 VIW 848 JIG 8488 TJZ 1119 FRZ 2036 WJI 848 JIG 8489 UUI 1442 JFZ 8762 XIB 646 KIG 6556 UUI 1443 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 2236 LIG 2237 LIG 2238 RNZ 9198 SNZ 3877 SNZ 3878 TUI 7995 UUI 1601

If you would like further information please call 01543 897505 or visit www.lloydmorgangroup.co.uk

Digital and analogue tachograph analysis

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April 3, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 67

VEHICLE SPARES

TRAINING

THE DRIVER CPC IS HERE SAME DAY J.A.U.P.T. REGISTRATION SAME DAY C.P.C. CERTIFICATES DELIVERED AT YOUR OWN DEPOTS

REMEMBER-REMEMBER 10th SEPTEMBER WE WILL HOLD OUR PRICES FOR 5 YEARS

PCV DRIVER HIRE 0800-731-5007 CORPORATE DEALS AVAILABLE

MERIDIAN PCV DRIVER LTD www.meridianpcv.com

Rising above all others

TRIM

BLACKPOOL TRIM SHOPS LTD BRUN GROVE BLACKPOOL FY1 6PG

01253 766762

Stock set of Esteban seats to fit Iriza Century coach £2200+VAT

CPC Nat / International Driver CPC Digital Tachograph Drivers’ Hours Tachograph Analysis

Trevor Wigley & Son Bus Ltd

TW FULLY LICENSED END OF LIFE VEHICLE CENTRE TW REDUNDANT AND SCRAP VEHICLES TAKEN TW PROFESSIONAL, EFFICIENT SERVICE

Stock set of Plaxton Premiere seats, newly trimmed £2200+VAT

TW ALL REQUIREMENTS CATERED FOR TW VARIOUS SPARES AVAILABLE TW CONTACT US FOR FULL AVAILABILITY

Stock set of Plaxton Premiere seats, newly trimmed. £1800+VAT.

Vogal service seats, brand new.

9 doubles, 3 singles. £75+VAT per double £35+VAT per single

Full set of 70 Cogent school bus seat covers, cut and sewn. £1000+VAT

Vogal India service seats in red moquette.

9 doubles, 3 singles. £75+VAT per double £35+VAT per single

We have full sets of pads for Esteban Civic V2, plus spares and other service seats in stock

/blackpooltrimshops sales@blackpooltrimshops.co.uk

1 ) 0 5 0 4

" / %

' 6

$ 0 0 6 3

" 4

4 5 " / % " 3 %

0 /

"

7 & ) * $ &

' 0 3

4 " &

" % 7 & 3 5 * 4 & .& / 5 4

Call 01226 723147 Night Service 01226 716479 Fax 01226 700199 Email wigleys@btconnect.com

www.twigley.com

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68 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 3, 2013

WINDSCREEN WIPERS

Manufacturers, Designers and Suppliers of windscreen wiper equipment and bus/coach products

FOR ALL YOUR WIPER EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS PLEASE CONTACT US OR VISIT OUR NEW ON-LINE CATALOGUE

Unit 3, Seaview Road, Bootle, Merseyside L20 4DU

T: +44 (0) 151 922 5933 T: +44 (0) 151 933 4272 F: +44 (0) 151 922 5468 E: sales@transervex.co.uk W: www.transervex.com

A Clear Vision

April 3, 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

Triple-decker for Brum?

New triple decker buses will hit Birmingham’s streets in the coming months as National Express West Midlands (NXWM) finds blockbuster inspiration to help cope with an increase in commuter traffic – according to a press release issued by the firm on April 1.

The ‘breathtaking’ new buses were expected to hit the road April 1 after a brainwave by Michael Takkin, NXWM’s Head of Product Development. Mr Takkin came up with the idea while watching Harry Potter with his children. He said: “With petrol and parking prices so high and the bus providing such good value, many people are turning to us as the best way to get to work. So I needed to come up with an innovative way to ensure these new bus commuters had a comfortable ride to work. I was watching Harry Potter with the kids, saw the Knight Bus and thought Eureka!”

Engineers at NXWM have spent

More April Fools

It seems the number of April Fool stories has gone down compared to years past. Perhaps it’s because ideas for scenarios have been exhausted or maybe the fear of flak from individuals with a serious lack of humour?

However, one angle which appears to be almost guaranteed to get people to rise to the bait is to blame anything whacky on Europe.

Citing leaked Brussels files, the Gloucestershire & Warwickshire

Dilbert

Monday: Press day. The final page is with the printer by 1615hrs, something which would have been unheard of even when I joined CBW six years ago. In another revolutionary hurdle we’ve overcome in recent months, I’m even able to forge on with a feature for a forthcoming issue – on a press day. I’m proud of my team and feel lucky to have them.

With Birmingham’s iconic Bullring shopping centre behind, one of the triple-deckers heads down Digbeth High Street on a test run months developing ways to ensure stability given the extra height of the buses. Early issues were rectified with the introduction of state of the art technology consisting of a large gyroscope which creates perfect balance.

Situated in the engine compartment it acts as a spinning top keeping the bus perfectly upright.

Mr Takkin also announced staff will be on hand on the third deck to help customers who suffer with a fear of heights. He added: “These new buses, while giving our customers a unique view, are also not for the faint hearted – that extra eight foot makes a huge difference.” ...It goes without saying that this story is of course, only a joke.

Railway (G&WR) website reported the of ending on-train catering for “health & safety” reasons.

A clearly upset G&WR’s Head of On-Train Catering, Richard Summers, observed: “Some crazy decisions come out of Europe but this really takes the biscuit – if we’re still allowed to serve biscuits.

“This really is nanny-Europe at its absolute pottiest. I’ve never heard of anyone being injured by a flying packet of crisps!”

Read the full story at www.gwsr. com/news/latest-news/shock-euruling-to-ban-on-train-catering.aspx.

Another, bus-related story posted by ‘wirewiper’ on a news

group citied new EU Directive EU/0104/2013, which came into force on Monday. The legislation decreed all buses used on open-top sightseeing tours must be fitted with stairlifts by October 31, 2019, enabling wheelchair users to access the top deck.

“This follows a ruling by the European Court of Human Rights, that on sightseeing operations the view from the top deck is the main purpose of the activity, and that denying wheelchair users and others who are unable to climb stairs access to the views is discriminatory,” s/he wrote.

All good fun...

Tuesday: Complete my main feature for the Lucketts edition and email it to them to for a fact check. Make massive inroads into another too. My (in)famous photo archive comes in handy for Caroline again – for the latest Group Travel World magazine, which goes to press this week. It’s funny how I still get a kick out of seeing my pics in other mags but not so much in CBW anymore.

Wednesday: A busy day in the office writing.

Catch up with a friendly coach operator, who calls me to tell me seeing a photo of one of his vehicles in this week’s issue has lifted his spirits – all his work was cancelled last weekend due to the snow.

Thursday: With my Cambrian Heritage Railways PR man ‘hat’ on, I’m interviewed by BBC Radio Shropshire in the morning about the anniversary of the Beeching Report. Forge on with news and get a number of pages designed.

By the close of play, I feel CBW is in good shape ready for Tuesday’s press day and I’m looking forward to my weekend ‘off’.

Easter weekend: With Bank Holiday working thankfully being a thing of the past at CBW, I can enjoy my weekend by cracking on with the house project. View a house but we decide it’s not for us. By Monday evening, I’m very much on a high as my list of jobs to do on our current home has been slashed – and the place smells of fresh paint. www.coachandbusweek.com

LastStop.indd 69

02/04/2013 17:39

EXPERIENCED PCV MECHANICS REQUIRED

Paul Clark Services are the leading provider of skilled engineering support to the UKʼS major Bus Operators, Manufacturers and NHS Ambulance Trusts.

Due to continued expansion we are looking to increase our team of experienced skilled Bus, Coach & Emergency Service Vehicle Mechanics supporting the industry across the United Kingdom.

Benefits include: • Service van • Excellent rates of pay • Contributory pension scheme

PAYE or self employed considered.

For more information and to request an application form, contact Paul on 01793 613 122 or send a CV to info@paulclarkservices.co.uk

Get your vacancy seen by quality candidates Full colour as standard All vacancies posted to www.coachandbusweek.com/jobs Details of all vacancies posted to our Facebook, Twi�er & Linkedin pages

eek, get a w e n o k o Bo alf price h k e e w d secon ! week FREE d ir h t a d an 013 l 27 May 2 un� Offer valid

Contact Ian Gillis

tel 01733 293484 or email ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

People.indd 70

02/04/2013 17:40

RECRUITMENT & people

April 3, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 71

In association with

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

New Engineering Manager at Chalkwell A man who has been in the bus and coach industry since 1989 has been appointed as Chalkwell’s new Engineering Manager.

Daren Stark, 42, has responsibility for Chalkwell’s Sittingbourne-based workshop which employs seven engineers and two apprentices for an expanding fleet of 70 coaches, service buses and mini buses.

Daren, whose home is in nearby Rochester, started his career in the industry with Kentish Bus as a semi skilled fitter, progressing to shift fitter.

He joined Kent County Council (KCC) in 2000 as a fitter at their

main workshops before moving to the Ashford workshop which he ran for a year.

In 2006 he was promoted to maintenance manager for Kent Top Travel and Passenger Service where he was responsible for eight engineers.

Daren Stark

John McLaughlin takes over as MD at Wrightbus An Engineer with more than 30 years’ experience, John McLaughlin was previously General Manager of the Northern Irish and Czech Republic operations of AVX, now part of the Kyocera Group, which saw him responsible for running operations with more than 2,000 employees, covering R&D, manufacturing and engineering.

As well as a Degree in Engineering, John McLaughlin (53) – who is married with five children - also has a Masters Degree in International Leadership from the University of Ulster. He takes

over from Dermot Sterne, who has had to step down from the MD position for personal reasons, with immediate effect.

Commenting on the announcement, Group Managing Director Mark Nodder said: “John is a locally-based man who brings a huge amount of experience to the role. These are exciting times for Wrightbus and with our previously announced strategy and organisational structure in place he will, I am sure, be able to make an immediate contribution to the business.”

“I am very pleased to be joining Chalkwell which is a growing company with ambitious plans,” said Daren.

Outside work, Darren’s hobby is building kit cars.

Commenting on Daren’s appointment, Andy Bates, Chalkwell Operations Manager, said: “I have known Daren for about eight or nine years. In this time we have worked closely together managing the KCC and Kent Top travel bus fleets, me sending them out to earn money and Daren and his team fixing them.

“Daren has always been the sort to manage costs in his department, but get his hands dirty, getting involved, ensuring the vehicle is fit for service when the need arises, staying late after work or coming in on a day off on a number of occasions to ensure a vehicle is ready to go out to ensure the customer is never delayed.”

He added: “We had to reluctantly accept Dermot’s resignation but fully understand the reason behind his decision and wish him well for the future. That said, in John McLaughlin we have an outstanding successor.”

Wright Group Chairman Jeff Wright said: “John joins us as we are gearing up production for ‘New Bus for London’ double decks, which will shortly be rolling off a dedicated line here in Ballymena. With our Euro 6 product programme ready in the wings, significant developments in our wider manufacturing capability and a number of interesting opportunities for Wrightbus International, there is real momentum right across the Group.”

New NonExec for Go-Ahead Adrian Ewer is to join the Board of Go-Ahead as a Non-Executive Director with effect from April 25.

Having been CEO of John Laing plc since 2006, Adrian began his career in accountancy.

After starting with what is today a specialist investor, operator and manager of public sector infrastructure assets in 1991 as Group and Divisional Financial Controller, he was promoted to Group Finance Director in 1999.

Adrian has previously been a NonExecutive Director of the Board of Severn River Crossing plc, UK Highways M40 (Holdings) Ltd, Chiltern Railways and Octagon Group Limited. He is currently Vice Chairman of the Construction and Business Services Leadership Group within the Prince’s Trust.

Andrew Allner, Chairman designate said: “Adrian has a wealth of experience of major long term contracts, a strong consumer focus and a flair for strategy and finance which will make a major contribution to the Board and the company.”

Adrian Ewer

www.coachandbusweek.com

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