Coach & Bus Week : Issue 1095

Wednesday July 10, 2013 Issue 1095 | ÂŁ2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com

COACH:

SAPPHIRE:

London's Anderson More sparkle from Travel marks 25 years Arrivas new premium of coach operations p8 bus service p18

BUS:

BSOG for tendered services to be devolved to local authorities p4

AAA Coaches: built on strong reputation

PEOPLE:

Kevin Gale on his transistion from rail to NatEx Coach p48

for recruitm

JOB ADVE ent EVERY WERTS EK

RECRUIT N

OW

p20

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this week

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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.

BSOG devolution: good news or a sigh of relief?

A

s you’ll read on p4 of this issue, BSOG for non-commercial routes is to be devolved to local authorities from January 2014. At first glance it’s easy for cynics to dismiss the idea and jump to a seemingly inevitable conclusion.

Assuming a future government chooses not to continue the ring fencing and a local political administration is in power which views PSVs with disdain, there is a danger of bus funding being squeezed – shades of concessionary fares reimbursement. The re-regulationists will have a field day, citing ‘fat cats’ and all the usual ‘insults’.

More immediately, the dirt looks like it’s about to hit the fan for some firms, particularly the smaller independents who may have based their bids on the existence of BSOG. Remember that thing called competition? Yes, I know some of you deride them as ‘cowboys’ but everyone has to start somewhere.

Of course, it goes without saying that any operator with sense would have factored that into bids post once the consultation was announced – and especially so after a 20% cut – the writing was on the wall.

The good people at ATCO (Association of Transport Coordinating Officers) were not slow to voice their opinion at the announcement – and I commend the organisation for its stance. Speaking in a personal capacity (not Merseytravel), ATCO’s Chairman David Blainey said: “It is noted that the funding is only ringfenced until the end of 2016/7. At a time of continuing cuts in budgets, it is important that a strong case is made for the bus at a local and national level so this important funding stream is not lost but retained to protect the current bus network. ATCO will be working hard to make that case in partnership with our colleagues within CPT and local bus operators.”

Saying that, realistically, will the change have much of an impact? Anecdotal evidence suggests there is a trend for tendered services to move away from gross cost in favour of minimum subsidy. As such, tender prices will be adjusted accordingly.

However, if BSOG devolution is seen to work – and don’t forget the politics of propaganda – there is a danger it could be the start of a slippery slope. For now, commercial bus operators can probably count themselves lucky.

Gareth Evans Editor

CONTENTS 4

36

50

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

20

A Plaxton Panorama Elite III-bodied Bedford VAL70 operated by Dews

46

Holdsworth provides fabric for NBfL, Exol increases delivery fleet

An insight into family-run West Lothian operator, AAA Coaches

24

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

48

A lighthearted look at the industry.

Plus Office Diary column

A look at suppliers of training courses and safety products

Kevin Gale talks about his new position with National Express

All the latest people moves from across the industry

News

Operator Profile Industry Guide

Big Picture Deliveries

Face to Face

Products

69

Last Stop

71

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.

Driver CPC Training Fully inclusive. No hidden costs

£60

wts.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com

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4 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

news

“We’re delighted to be bringing the Sapphire brand to Leicester. This service will certainly offer something different.”

Alex Perry Arriva Midlands

briefly The new road bridge across the Firth of Forth is to be called ‘The Queensferry Crossing’ – Scotland’s First Minister Alex Salmond announced. More than 35,000 votes were cast in the public competition to name the structure.

Mr Salmond explained: “It was Queen Margaret in the 11th Century who introduced a ferry to carry pilgrims across the Forth, giving the communities on either side of the Firth their name. The public’s choice of ‘Queensferry Crossing’ reflects the area’s rich history and the continuing link between the two communities on the estuary’s north and south banks.”

According to figures released by the SMMT bus and coach registrations ended the first half of 2013 down 21.3% to 3,861 units.

Bus and coach registrations fell 30.6% to 636 units in June while converted bus registrations fell 20% to 333 units. “The bus and coach market dropped 30.6% in June this year. Although coaches posted a 12.5% increase in the month, the overall purpose-built bus and coach total fell 39.5%,” said Wendy Williamson, SMMT Bus and Coach Manager. “Last year the Olympics led to a sharp rise in registrations for the first half of the year with volumes falling after July.

This should see registrations for the second half of 2013 level off, stabilising for the end of the year.”

The number of motorists flouting regulations and driving through Chatham’s bus station have fallen by more than 40%, Medway Council has said.

The bus station has restrictions in place to stop all vehicles apart from buses, taxis and bicycles entering it. However, when the restrictions started being enforced last year it was found that 96 motorists were driving through the facility each day. The authority said the figure had fallen to 56 a day after a safety campaign.

Figures from the DfT have highlighted a slight fall (0.5%) in journey reliability to 77.1% of journeys on England’s motorways and ‘A’ roads for the year ending in March 2013 compared to the rolling year ending this February. www.coachandbusweek.com

News4,5.indd 4

News Focus p18

DfT announces BSOG reform from January BSOG funding for noncommercial routes will be devolved to local authorities from January 2014 Transport Minister Norman Baker has confirmed local authorities are to be given greater control over the way money is spent on some bus services, providing better value for passengers and taxpayers.

The reforms to Bus Service Operators Grant (BSOG) announced on July 5 are designed to give more freedom to local authorities while making them accountable for the decisions they take. The funding stream will be ringfenced until April 2017.

This devolution of bus subsidy for locally tendered services comes after the recent spending round

when the Treasury confirmed current levels of government support for buses will be maintained until at least 2015/16.

Several authorities will also be established as new Better Bus Areas (BBAs) this autumn, receiving increased funding to invest in bus improvement measures. These BBAs will incentivise closer partnership between local authorities and operators and provide a test bed for how bus subsidy might be better used.

Norman Baker said: “These important reforms will give councils more freedom to determine appropriate bus provision, handing more power to local communities to take decisions based on local knowledge

The end is nigh for First’s Northampton operation First is set to finally close its remaining meagre operation in Northampton after the firm started a 30-day consultation with its staff.

In a memo to staff, which CBW obtained by legitimate means, First UK Bus MD Giles Fearnley said: “It is with regret that I have to inform you we have begun the collective consultation process with the trade unions on proposals to withdraw all bus services from Northampton, the possibility of redundancies and closure of the depot.

“We know this news will be distressing for employees affected and we are arranging for staff in Northampton to discuss the implications of the decision with unions and management.

“We will do everything that we can to assist everyone affected, including exploring opportunities for transfer to other First operations within the Midlands and beyond.

“Our services in Northampton have underperformed for some years. We have been faced with extra cost pressures due to the economic climate, including high

Giles Fearnley said Northampton had underperformed for years fuel prices and cuts in external funding. Unfortunately, in this instance it means we need to consider discontinuing all our services in Northampton in order to ensure the long term sustainability of our operations in South East and Midlands.

“We fully explored a range of alternatives, including selling our operations and transferring staff to another operator but unfortunately these were unsuccessful.

and priorities. This will mean better buses for the travelling public and shows our continued commitment to the localism agenda, freeing local authorities from central government control.

The announcement sets out the government’s package of measures to reform aspects of the existing system of subsidy for the bus industry.”

Under existing arrangements, BSOG for both commercial and non-commercial bus routes is administered centrally by the Department for Transport. From January 2014, BSOG funding for non-commercial routes will be devolved to local authorities. This funding will be ringfenced until April 2017 so each local authority will have to spend it on bus services “Our decision is a business driven one and does not reflect on the effort or individual performance of the employees in Northampton.

I would like to thank everyone for the commitment and loyalty they have shown us over the years.”

The size of the operation has contracted steadily over the years since the former municipallyowned Northampton Transport was sold to First’s predecessor GRT in 1993.

While Mr Fearnley confirmed Northampton’s PVR (Peak Vehicle Requirement) currently stands at 17, recent service withdrawals and those which are due to take effect next month mean it is understood that the figure will be down to just nine buses after August 10.

Routes vacated by First have been replaced in the main by other local operators, including Stagecoach, UNO and Country Lion.

View the details of the replacement services provided by other operators on Northamptonshire County Council’s public transport webpages at https://www. northamptonshire.gov.uk/en/ councilservices/Transport/ pubtrans/Pages/bus-servicechanges.aspx

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Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek in their area. In designated Better Bus Areas, BSOG funding for commercial services will also be devolved. BSOG funding previously paid to bus operators in London will also be devolved to Transport for London and the Greater London Authority.

Norman Baker added: “In addition, the reforms close a loophole which, up until now, allowed bus companies to claim extra subsidy to run rail replacement services and buses catering for tourists, rather than those which provide vital local services.

“BSOG is designed to help bus companies keep fares down on regular local bus services, but has been claimed by some companies to run rail replacement services when engineering work is carried out on the network or for buses operating local tours for visitors.

Under the new arrangements, this will no longer be possible, which will send a clear signal to train operating companies that when people buy a rail ticket, they want to use a train.

“A further review of BSOG will be started next year, examining the commercial element of the bus subsidy.”

Welcoming the changes, CPT Chief Executive Simon Posner said: “This is a fair outcome to the bus subsidy review. It follows on from the latest Spending Review which saw the amount of financial support for the industry remaining broadly the same and demonstrates the Government clearly recognises the crucial role local bus services play in supporting the economy.

“The news that the devolution of BSOG outside London has been postponed until January next year is particularly welcomed and will give all parties the opportunity to prepare for the change. Striking this deal demonstrates once again the deep understanding and unswerving support Norman Baker shows to the bus industry and its passengers.

“For its part, the industry will continue to do what it does best and provide high quality, reliable bus services which meet local needs.”

Richard Hall, MD of Arriva Malta, the third to hold the post in two years, is stepping down and is leaving the company. Mark Bowd is to assume the role. He has been in Malta for several months.

No explanation for the reasons

for the move has been forthcoming.

Mr Hall recently stated in an interview he was looking forward to developing the winter timetable which would build on the success of Arriva’s recent summer timetable.

When Arriva won the the contract to provide transport for Malta the operation was led by Keith Bastow. Constantly under fire from the Maltese press which stirred public criticism, he resigned from the position for health reasons. He was replaced by Dave Kaye in January 2012 until Richard Hall took the reins a year ago.

Arriva Malta MD Richard Hall steps down

Brighton & Hove is set to break with tradition and carry commercial adverts on the sides of its buses – hitherto the firm has only promoted its services

Brighton & Hove and Metrobus to merge Brighton & Hove and the provincial operations of Crawley-based Metrobus are to merge – it has been officially confirmed. The TfL work run by Metrobus is set to come under the management of Go-Ahead London.

“We will see one or two new things coming out from both companies to improve customer services,” explained Martin Harris, the former Go North East Commercial Director who took over as Brighton & Hove MD from Roger French three months ago.

“While we will be making some efficiencies, there will be a very limited reduction in jobs and we

will do everything to try and find alternative roles for those affected.”

Mr Harris has also revealed the company is set to break with tradition by introducing advertising on the outside of the firm’s fleet later this year. For many years Brighton & Hove has famously carried only images of customers and personalities promoting its services.

Proposals are also being developed to open up Brighton & Hove’s key smartcard system to other operators.

“We are in discussions with the council and they are actively exploring with other bus services such as Big Lemon and Compass Travel how smartcard ticketing can be extended to other services,” said Mr Harris.

“I think there is a desire for all the parties to see a solution as soon as possible but it is impossible to put a specific time frame because there are issues around funding.”

Digital and analogue tachograph analysis

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News4,5.indd 5

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£450k

news › BUSeS

The money invested by Arriva in its latest Sapphire launch on the Leicester to Oadby route

briefly CCTV cameras mounted on buses could be used to fine motorists who commit traffic offences in Cardiff. Cardiff Bus Business Development Manager Gareth Stevens said the firm’s fleet already had cameras, but there were legislative requirements to overcome before they could be used to fine drivers. “For a number of years we have been lobbying both Cardiff council and Welsh Government to look into this area in its entirety, beyond bus lane abuses,” he said. “You only have to look at some key pinch points in the central areas. Enforcement would aid the free flow of bus services for the greater good.”

A team from Hampshirebased operator Bluestar, dubbed the Star Squad, has been at bus stops along the Bluestar 18 route between Millbrook, Shirley and Southampton city centre in a bid to encourage more families with buggies use the bus. Ed Wills, Operations Director for Bluestar said: “I wanted show that it’s easy and fun to travel by bus with the kids. For the parents we also have free WiFi to keep them amused as well.” The service uses specially converted buses with more folding seats to allow extra buggies or wheelchairs to be carried.

As of July 7 renowned municipal operator Lothian Buses is trialling a Family DAYticket (sic) on Sundays allowing families of up to two adults and three children to travel on day service buses all day for £7.50, representing a saving of up to 42%.

A passenger safety scheme carried out by TfGM, Greater Manchester Police (GMP), Stagecoach Manchester, First Manchester and the Metrolink operator MRDL has won national praise. The Greater Manchester Travel Safe Scheme (GMTSS) was presented with a “highly commendable” certificate as part of the Home Office’s Lord Ferrers Awards. The GMTSS, which started in 2009, has resulted in regular policing patrols on Greater Manchester buses and trams and at stations and includes surveillance operations. www.coachandbusweek.com

News6,7.indd 6

NXWM and Centro sign £81m partnership This latest deal between the operator and the transport authority aims to build on previous partnerships National Express West Midlands (NXWM) and Centro have signed a two-year £81m partnership agreement, dubbed Partnership Plus, which aims build on the improvements delivered by previous partnerships.

The deal, which sees £65m of investment by NXWM and £16m by Centro, involves 300 new buses including 15 hybrids and 10 new gold bus corridors benefitting from new buses, real-

time information and increased bus priority. In addition, 350 new bus shelters are to be built as well as a new bus station at Merry Hill and refurbishments to Dudley bus station alongside new infrastructure, shelters and information provision for Wolverhampton and Coventry city centres. The deal also sees the introduction of the Swift smartcard on to the NXWM network, allowing all ticket deals to be loaded on to the card. NXWM’s successful on-bus cleaning scheme will also be expanded upon while audio visual equipment informing passengers of their next stop is

Cllr John McNicholas, Geoff Inskip, Dean Finch and Peter Coates

Munro’s of Jedburgh ceases trading Scottish Borders Council (SBC) has made emergency route cover arrangements after Munro’s of Jedburgh ceased trading.

The company confirmed the move, effective from 2245hrs on July 3, via its website stating it would no longer be able to operate any of its scheduled services. The firm also expressed its thanks to all its “loyal customers” over the years.

SBC said it had secured cover to ensure ‘essential services’ could continue. A number of the routes were due to change hands later

A Munro’s Plaxton Primo seen in happier times this summer following a tendering process (CBW1074). The remaining services will continue to run until a permanent contract can be agreed.

In a statement, the Director of Munro’s of Jedburgh, Bruce Campbell, said: “With deep regret I must announce the closure of Munro’s of Jedburgh Ltd.

set to be introduced. Partnership Plus also aims to deliver ambitious new programs including Sprint, a European-style rapid transport system.

The previous partnership between NXWM and Centro, Transforming Bus Travel 2, reportedly achieved 100% of its objectives including the introduction of a smartphone app, delivering the region’s first hybrid buses and increasing the number of ticket inspectors on the bus network.

National Express Chief Executive Dean Finch, Peter Coates, Managing Director of National Express West Midlands, Centro Chairman Cllr John McNicholas and Centro Chief Executive Geoff Inskip signed the agreement in a public ceremony at Wolverhampton bus station.

Dean Finch said: “Partnership Plus will build on the improvements we have already made in the West Midlands including investment in new vehicles and more on-bus cleaners as well as promising a limit to future fare rises.”

“This partnership is great news for bus passengers in the West Midlands and I believe it will encourage more people to save money, time and stress by leaving the car at home and using the bus.”

“Substantial losses to Perryman Buses of Berwick upon Tweed during a recent round of tenders with SBC has left us in a trading position which cannot support the business.

“During very difficult circumstances I owe our employees a very deep debt of gratitude; they have supported us greatly when many would have walked. Within this extreme economic climate, my concerns go to the many local businesses who will suffer due to our demise.

“Lastly, severe cash flow problems over the last few years has led to a massive drop in the quality of the service presented to our loyal and supportive passengers, for this I sincerely apologise.”

08/07/2013 22:40

July 10, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 7

9,000 500 The number of passenger journeys on the New Forest Open Top Tour in 2007

The number of bus stops Cardiff Bus’ Roadside Infrastructure Team is updating before the July 21 service changes

Of�icial: Kimes of Folkingham to shut

Kimes of Folkingham is to close next month, the firm’s parent company Centrebus has confirmed.

Asked to comment on the latest developments, Dave Shelley, Commercial Director at Centrebus told CBW: “The first stages of the consultation with staff are complete and the decision has been taken by Centrebus to close the depot.

“The majority of services will be transferred through a rolling programme during August to other depots. The first phase will see routes 4, 26, 27 moved to Grantham depot. A week later, service 9 will transfer to Saxby Depot and route 12 to Corby depot.

“An agreement has been reached for transfer of routes 58 and 59 to Brylaine Travel, together with five buses. This is expected to happen at the end of August, when the Kimes site will formally close.”

A blow for the firm has been the decision by Peterborough City Council to cease funding any of the Centrebus/ Kimes services from the start of October. “We will therefore be using that date as an opportunity to review what timetable changes to former Kimes services will be needed, if any.

“However, at this stage, customers can be reassured that services will continue unchanged during the closure process,” Mr Shelley concluded.

News6,7.indd 7

Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, July 1. Stagecoach saw the greatest proportional rise, while Siemens saw the greatest proportional drop.

Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk

412.55p

Price: Year High: 430.50p Year Low: 275.80p

Duncan Cameron, Director & General Manager of First Aberdeen

The Northern Lights hit Aberdeen’s roads First Aberdeen has unveiled 23 new ADL Enviro 300s which went into service on July 1.

The buses, which are fitted with leather seats and free WiFi, are operating on routes 17 and 18. To celebrate Aberdeen being one of the best places in the world to see the Northern Lights, the routes have been christened ‘The Northern Lights 17 & 18’.

Each of the vehicles has been fitted with a star-gazing design on the outside of the bus and, representing a first in the Scottish bus industry, the roof inside the new buses also

sport The Northern Lights.

Duncan Cameron, Director and General Manager of First Aberdeen, said: “The arrival of these brand new buses is great news for our customers.

“We’ve invested £3.5m in 23 brand new buses this year. It underlines our determination at First Aberdeen to improve bus travel and encourage more people to use our services and to use them more often.”

The interior of each new vehicle has been modified to allow greater flexibility for buggies and wheelchairs and provides additional grab rails for all passengers whether seated or standing.

Routes 17 and 18, which at peak times operate every eight minutes, serve the communities of Dyce, Stoneywood, Bucksburn, Woodside, Kittybrewster, City Centre, Ferryhill, Kincorth and Altens.

deployed in late 2015.

AVL allows for real-time service information (RTI) to be provided to passengers via smartphone apps and the internet. The system is also a cost-effective way to help local authorities deliver RTI to bus stops.

Stagecoach’s existing VIX TP5000 ticket machines already support ITSO smartcards, such as concessionary bus passes and StagecoachSmart products like the multi-journey Dayrider and Megarider tickets.

The system will be used to track vehicle location, monitoring and reporting progress in real time. It will provide this information to

back office systems for use on bus stop displays, mobile apps and the internet.

Robert Montgomery, MD of Stagecoach UK Bus, said: “Investment in this new system will help deliver a platform to provide better journeys for our customers, more cost-effective information provision by local authorities and improve the efficiency of our own operation.”

Peter Eccleson, Director of VIX UK and Ireland, said: “Once again Stagecoach has demonstrated its willingness to embrace transport innovation by selecting the VIX TP5000 electronic ticket machine.

The new system will aggregate large volumes of RTI network data to deliver critical business intelligence to Stagecoach.”

Stagecoach invests in automatic vehicle location Stagecoach has announced a multi-million-pound investment in a nationwide Automatic Vehicle Location (AVL) system for its 7,000strong provincial bus fleet in the UK. A contract to supply and provide on-going support of the system has been awarded to VIX Technology, a global provider of integrated transit and mobility systems.

The operator plans to build on current ticketing system technology to develop a platform to deliver key service information to customers and local authorities. Work on a pilot is expected to be completed by summer 2014, with the system fully

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08/07/2013 23:07

8 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

30

news › coaches

The anniversary David Urquhart Travel is marking this year

briefly The Competition Appeal Tribunal has announced the timetable for Eurotunnel’s appeal against the UK’s Competition Commission order that the firm divest its former SeaFrance cross-channel ferry business. A two-day hearing is due to start on September 10. SeaFrance was a wholly-owned subsidiary of French rail firm SNCF, and ceased operating in November 2011 The B1112 is closed on a 500-metre stretch on either side of the A11 to allow for the construction of a new underpass to carry the B1112 under the A11.

There is no access between the B1112 and the A11 and a localised 40mph speed restriction on the A11 near the B1112 crossroads is in place. Traffic wishing to access the A1101 or the A1065 from the A11 is being diverted via the Fiveways roundabout. The B1112 will remain open for local access at the A1065 near Eriswell and the A1101 near Icklingham and a temporary 40mph speed restriction is in place along the B1112 for safety reasons.

The C616 is closed at the Junction with the A11. Access is maintained via the A1065, Brandon Road.

The planned completion date is December 2014.

Work to replace the safety fence posts on the central reserve of the M1 between junctions 10 Luton to 13 for the A421, continues overnight from 2200 to 0500hrs. There are clearly signposted lane closures at different locations during the work which is due for completion in October 2013.

A package of road surface improvements for the A3 in Surrey continues. Sections of both north and southbound carriageways between the M25 junction 10 and the Hook (A243) junction are being resurfaced. The work is due, weather permitting, to be completed at the end of August. Fully signed diversion routes are in place with traffic being diverted to the next junction.

The work is being carried out overnight between 2200 and 0530, Monday to Thursday, and between 2300 and 0600 on Fridays. www.coachandbusweek.com

News8,9.indd 8

Anderson Travel marks 25 years in business London family-run operator replacing majority of its fleet with new vehicles London-based coach firm Anderson Travel is celebrating its 25th year in business. The company started in 1988 with one coach, which MD Mark Anderson drove himself. Now the operator has over 25 vehicles, two Tower Bridge premises and over 45 employees.

The firm provides airport transfers and a wide range of excursions and short breaks within the UK and across Europe to 85,000 plus passengers a year. Over the

years it has built up an impressive list of customers, including many blue chip companies, schools, tour operators, private hire clients and sports clubs and has CoachMarque award, the only kite mark of currently available in the UK coach industry.

Highlights of recent years include being the chosen mode of transport for guests attending the royal wedding in 2011 and chauffeuring Team GB around to various promotional and social events during the London 2012 Olympics.

Replacing the majority of its fleet with 19 brand new stylish coaches

One of the fleet additions for 2013 is this impressive VDL Futura

Bakers of Biddulph using King Longs with Hino Travel Bakers Coaches of Biddulph has secured a prestigious contract working with Hino Travel – a UKbased agency co-ordinating travel plans for Chinese tourists, covering a range of holiday destinations, throughout Britain and Europe.

In-line with the nature and requirements of the operation, Bakers decided to acquire King Long coaches carrying Hino Travel livery.

Managing Director Phil Baker said: “This is an important development for Bakers Coaches and a notable win, following our work in 2012 in connection with the Royal Jubilee celebrations

and the London games. We are operating in a global community and it is a great privilege to be selected to provide the transport arrangements for Chinese tourists, who are now visiting the UK in growing numbers.”

The company has taken delivery of three King Long XMQ6127 midicoaches with seating capacities of 29, 31 and 35 passengers. A further three 49 seat King Long Executive Coaches are also being delivered for use on the Hino contract, as well as other business opportunities.

All the vehicles are equipped with air conditioning, video players and reclining leather seats.

is just one way in which the coach firm is marking this milestone, all part of the £4m investment programme which brought together each of the Anderson Group of companies under the main banner of Anderson Travel earlier in the year.

This year also sees the launch of Anderson Travel’s newly developed website.

Mark Anderson, Director of Anderson Travel, said: “Anderson Travel is proud to be one of the longest standing independent coach firms in London. Over the years we have seen various coach operations come and go but it is through our focus on professionalism and high quality, customer friendly drivers and staff, expert in-house technicians, first rate service and our team’s incredible wealth of experience and knowledge that sees us here today celebrating 25 successful years of business.

“It’s down to this that we have built up a fantastically loyal customer base over the years and therefore been able to extend our offering and services to the extent that we have. We’ve enjoyed the journey every step of the way and look forward to the next 25 years.”

Phil Baker together with Justin He and Daphne Chen of Hino Travel Justin He, Managing Director of Hino Travel said: “We are very happy to be working with Bakers Coaches. We value the quality and professionalism of the company and the willingness to supply King Long coaches.”

08/07/2013 22:41

July 10, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 9

1988 16 The year Scottish coach operator AAA Coaches was established

The age at which NX Service Delivery Director Kevin Gale started his career in the transport industry

Operators recognised

by National Express

New Glasgow – Edinburgh Airport Citylink route

Operators from across the UK were recognised for their service to National Express at the company’s annual award ceremony.

Pontypridd-based Edwards Coaches, Coventry-based Travel de Courcey and Parks of Hamilton were among eight different operators who scooped an award at the National Express Operator Awards last month (June 20).

Dean Peters of Chalfont Coaches, described by his passengers as a ‘gold standard driver’, was also handed an individual award for his outstanding professionalism and dedication to the job.

Customer commendations, frequency of audits and successfully completed contractual mileage were all factors taken into account when selecting the winners, who beat off tough competition from over 20 different operators.

Bennetts Coaches was awarded Operator of the Year. The

Scottish Citylink has launched what is claimed to be the first dedicated coach service to operate between Edinburgh Airport and Glasgow city centre.

The new Citylinkair service provides a direct, non-stop service between Glasgow’s Buchanan Bus Station and Edinburgh Airport, with a journey time of around an hour.

Delivering a regular direct service, the new coach link operates from morning until night, allowing passengers to catch the first service which leaves Glasgow at 0400hrs, and arrive in time for the earliest flight departure from Edinburgh Airport. The last service leaves the airport at 2230hrs.

The journey is expected to take no more than one hour each way, with services operating every 30 minutes during peak times. The new link offers the quickest method of public transport to get from Edinburgh Airport into the heart of Glasgow.

The Citylinkair fleet is made up of five brand new Irizar i6-bodied Scania K360s. The coaches seat 59 people or 55 plus a wheelchair and have ample space for passengers’ full designated luggage allowance.

Elizabeth Esnouf, Managing Director for Stagecoach Coaches and Special Activities said: “Following valuable feedback from customers we decided to introduce this new route to help passengers save time and money when travelling to and from Edinburgh airport. They can sit back and relax without worrying about the hassle of driving or the cost of car parking.

As this is the only service of its kind, we recommend that passengers book early so they can get the best possible deal and be certain to get a seat.”

Gordon Dewar, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Airport, said: “It’s fantastic news that we can now offer our passengers more choice on how they can travel to and from the terminal.

“We look forward to welcoming more of our friends from west coast to Edinburgh Airport – which we say is where Scotland meets the world.”

Kings Coaches growth aided

by Lombard and Natwest Colchester-based Kings Coaches has marked the family-run firm’s 60th anniversary with the purchase of a new Van Hool TX16 Alicron.

Kings has been a NatWest customer since its inception six decades ago, and recently turned to the bank and its asset finance division, Lombard, for financial support to develop the business further. The ongoing development will help to secure the company’s year-on-year growth, which is predicted to be 5% at the end of 2013.

As previously profiled in CBW, Andrew Cousins proprietor of Kings Coaches, has worked at the firm from a young age helping clean the fleet of coaches on weekends.

Established by his grandfather Frank King in 1953, Andrew took over the company in 1994 and has

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Representatives from the NX UK Coach operators’ network at the ceremony Gloucester-based business had just 12 complaints in the whole of 2012, despite operating almost three-quarters of a million miles.

This equates to just one complaint for every 10,000 customers served.

The firm was also praised for the standard of its fleet.

E Stott & Sons, Parks of Hamilton, De Courcey Travel and Edwards Coaches were all recognised as Network Operator of Year according to their size, again judged by the same criteria.

Lucketts, Parks of Hamilton and Go North East were also

given gongs for Sustained High Achievement.

Tom Stables, Managing Director, National Express UK Coach said: “It was fantastic to see our operators out in force and I would like to thank them for all their hard work. National Express strives to achieve the lifetime loyalty of our passengers, which is something we can only achieve by delivering an entirely customer-focused service.

The importance of the contribution made by operators in helping us achieve this goal cannot be underestimated.”

Sarah Kinch, Senior Relationship Manager at Lombard, with Andrew Cousins, Proprietor of Kings Coaches and Colin Gathercole, NatWest Relationship Manager been dedicated to improving the company since then.

Andrew said: “We have a fantastic reputation which we’ve established over the years – it is built on our high level of service and quality of fleet. This new addition to the fleet will help maintain this. Lombard and NatWest have provided excellent support and are extremely easy to

deal with.”

Sarah Kinch, Senior Relationship Manager at Lombard, commented: “Continued investment is crucial for businesses to remain competitive and to achieve their growth aspirations. We are proud to have been able to help Kings continue to take its investment plans forward and mark this momentous occasion in the company’s history.”

www.coachandbusweek.com

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news

New benefits boost for Stagecoach UK Bus staff Stagecoach’s 24,000 employees now have access to 24/7 online and telephone support as part of the new package Stagecoach has launched a new benefits programme for employees in its UK Bus division.

The programme of benefits was produced in partnership with Personal Group, an employee benefits expert. Stagecoach’s 24,000 UK bus employees will receive access to a bespoke online portal, as well as a benefit book, offering thousands of retail discounts across numerous well known high street shops.

The offers can be easily taken up online, via SMS, reloadable cards, cashback or vouchers and provide a range of money-saving opportunities including discounts on holidays and retail, cinema outings, dental insurance, vehicle breakdown cover and hotels and attractions.

First Glasgow adopts zero tolerance to vandalism

First Glasgow has confirmed its zero tolerance approach to combating vandalism has produced dramatic improvements.

Broken windows have been reduced from 8,000 about 10 years ago to just 750 for last year, the firm said. Forging close relationships with the police, the introduction of CCTV to the majority of the fleet, running anti-vandalism programmes and better engaging with local communities have been key reasons for the improvement.

First has also pledged to prosecute anyone found damaging its vehicles. The company said it recently made legal history by winning a civil court case banning vandal Nathan Chlosta from its fleet for life after damaging 26 First Glasgow buses in the space of three months. First was also awarded £10,000 damages. The vandal, who damaged windows on the buses, www.coachandbusweek.com

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Through the new package, Stagecoach’s UK Bus staff will also benefit from an Employee Assistance Programme, which provides support to promote the wellbeing of staff. This offers access to a confidential service available 24 hours a day, providing specialist guidance and assistance on a range of personal and work-related issues, from dealing with stress and anxiety to managing financial, marital or legal issues. Face-toface counselling sessions are also offered, alongside telephone and online support.

Stagecoach and Personal Group will be working closely to communicate the benefits to the diverse workforce under which Personal Group will visit every Stagecoach Bus depot in the UK in order to present and explain the benefits available to as many employees as possible.

Stagecoach UK Bus MD Robert

Montgomery said: “Our staff are the key to everything we do and the success of our business is down to the hard work of our employees at every level across the UK. “We are fortunate to have a committed and professional workforce. We hope this programme of benefits will be of use to them as well as demonstrating that we value their contribution in helping to deliver greener, smarter bus services to millions of people every day.”

Mark Scanlon, CEO of Personal Group, commented: “We are excited to offer Stagecoach staff access to a wide range of discount purchase arrangements as well as the Employee Assistance Programme to support health and wellbeing. The programme underlines Stagecoach’s commitment to its employees, and it is encouraging to see another high profile employer taking steps to support its staff in a more holistic way.”

Vandals are no longer having such a ‘smashing’ time on First Glasgow buses was given a 200 hour community payback order.

Managing Director of First Glasgow, Ronnie Park, said: “Our responsibility is to our customers - to give them a pleasant, safe experience when travelling on our buses. I am pleased that our approach to reducing vandalism, and indeed all crimes on our buses, is succeeding.”

“If someone is caught causing damage to any of our vehicles, or acting in a manner that will compromise the safety of our employees and passengers, we will seek to prosecute the individual

concerned. In this case we took Civil Action to prevent this individual from travelling on our buses throughout Scotland and sought compensation for the damage caused.

“We adopt this zero tolerance approach to make bus travel safer and more pleasant. In addition, as a commercial bus operator, we would much rather invest the revenue we receive from customers in improving our services, and not replacing windows or cleaning graffiti. I must stress travelling by bus travel remains a safe – crime remains low.”

VOSA launches recovery guide VOSA recently compiled a Guide for Recovery Operations.

The publication has been developed following recognition of the need for further clarification around the complex legislation relating to operating recovery vehicles.

It has been designed to aid operators, drivers and VOSA staff alike who need a quick and easy reference to questions specific to this sector that regularly come up as they do their jobs.

Gordon MacDonald, Head of VOSA Enforcement Policy said: “We are proud of the successful relationship we have with the trade. The guide is an example of trade representatives involved in recovery operations approaching us with concerns and VOSA working with them to come up with a workable solution.

“The guide provides a clear and concise summary for quick reference on a range of topics from Drivers’ Hours and tachographs to roadworthiness. I hope this will be a useful tool to improve awareness of current rules around a variety of important areas and longer term I hope this will help increase compliance and so make our roads a safer place for all of us.”

Steve Scott, Regional Network Manager for Allianz Global Assistance said: “It is refreshing to see the industry coming together with VOSA to produce this Guide.

“This guide will be a really useful reference point for recovery operators to use. It clarifies many of the issues that some in the industry still refer to as grey areas and I am sure this will help recovery operators remain safe and compliant.

“As a work provider to the industry, the safety of our customers is paramount to us so anything that promotes good operating practices can only be applauded.”

Download the guide free of charge from https:// www.gov.uk/government/ publications/guide-for-recoveryoperations

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NEWS › INTERNATIONAL

Smart ticketing charter agreed Alliance goals include establishing interoperable smart ticketing EUROPE Following the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) signed February 2012, a Smart Ticketing Alliance Charter has now been agreed by representatives of VDV KA (Germany), ITSO (UK), AFIMB (France), Calypso Network Association and UITP (International Association of Public Transport).

The Charter includes cooperation on, and establishment of, a trust scheme for public transport which mirrors the trust schemes in the mobile phone industry and banking.

The February 2012 agreement commits the Alliance to cooperating on the development of smart ticketing interoperability based on the principles of Interoperable Fare Management (IFM) set out

in the EU-IFM Project, funded by the European Commission and the developments in contactless bankcards and NFC-enabled devices, particularly mobile phones.

The Smart Ticketing Alliance Charter represents a coordinated approach for establishing Smart Ticketing interoperability in the public transport sector.

Representatives from UITP, ITSO, Interappli, Calypso Network Association and VDV KA and the MoU signing in February last year

ZF drivelines for 565 citybuses in Russia

RUSSIA Moscow-based public transport authority Mosgortrans has specified ZF driveline and chassis technology for its new 565 vehicle intake. It includes transmission systems, axles and steering technology.

Mosgortans believes attractive, economical and more environmentally-friendly urban public transport networks can be achieved by combining contemporary commercial vehicle components and the systems expertise of a leading technology company. It is why the authority has ordered 565 new citybuses with ZF’s driveline and chassis technology. They begin operation in Moscow from the end of August.

Moscow has more than 12m inhabitants and about the same number use the transport network every day. There are more than 520 city and intercity routes www.coachandbusweek.com

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The main goals of the Alliance are: Co-operation between national and regional smart ticketing schemes to establish interoperable smart ticketing in Europe and elsewhere.

To develop, agree and publish the functional and technical requirements for smart ticketing interoperability Cooperation on the establishment of trust schemes, specifications and Certification Cooperation with other European and International bodies to promote interoperability in smart ticketing Full membership is open for national ticketing schemes and regional groups of PTAs/ companies cooperating in the electronic smart ticketing area.

The founder members of the Smart Ticketing Alliance invite other European stakeholders to join either as full members or at associate level in the development of the Smart Ticketing Alliance.

A coordinating Secretariat will be established for the Smart Ticketing Alliance from within the UITP to provide a single contact point.

Above: The ZF AV132 lowfloor rear axle. Below: Mosgortrans LiAZ citybus with ZF driveline. The operator has specified ZF on its 565 new buses

covering around 765 000km. All 565 citybuses have been built by Russian vehicle manufacturer, LiAZ. There are 404 single-deck citybuses and the remaining 161 are articulated buses. They all feature ZF automatic transmissions, RL

85A front axles and AV32 lowfloor driven rear axles. Articulated buses also have the AVN 132 non-driven tag axle. Steering equipment is provided by ZF Lenksysteme.

Mosgortrans has previously specified ZF’s expertise in the past and previous major intakes to the network mean there are already 5,000 similarly equipped buses operating in the fleet. ZF sees considerable potential for future growth in the region as from July 2012 a further 19 municipalities officially became part of the Moscow administrative area.

SWB’s trial BYD ebus

BYD ebus tested in Bonn GERMANY BYD’s full-size pure electric ebus has been tested in Bonn, Germany, by operator Stadtwerke Bonn (SWB).

The manufacturer says the trials, which ran in the former West German capital city throughout June, achieved positive results. The vehicle completed over 1,000 km while loaded with test weights to a simulated gross vehicle weight of 17,900kg, almost the maximum weight permitted.

The ebus ran with air conditioning running and lights on which is believed to provide an equivalent worst case battery load scenario to running the bus with heating on full power during wintry conditions.

SWB rated the results of its trials as positive and, at the press conference to mark the conclusion of the trial on June 28, SWB CEO Heinz Jurgen Reining said: “The test has encouraged us that we are on the right track towards electric mobility.”

The BYD ebus achieved a range of 200km with at least 20% of its battery charge remaining. This performance means that almost half of SWB’s routes could be switched to electric buses without the need for any mid-route recharging.

It is also claimed SWB drivers who tested the BYD ebus had a positive impression. Ride comfort was judged to be equivalent to a conventionally powered vehicle and external noise was thought to be very low.

The bus was charged at the Stadtwerke Bonn depot in Friesdorf.

Total charging time was five hours using a 400 volt three-phase supply and a charging current of 125 Amps.

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news › SPECIAL SERVICES

Arriva Southern Counties open-top Medway tours Tour starts from coach bays – ideal for groups visiting Rochester Arriva Southern Counties (ASC) is running weekend open-top tours of the Medway Towns on behalf of Medway Council until July 14, after which it becomes a daily service from July 20 to September 1.

The 45-minute tour running seven times a day links the main tourist attractions in Rochester, Chatham and Gillingham, including Rochester Cathedral, Rochester Castle, Fort Amherst, Dickens World, Chatham Historic Dockyard and the Royal Engineers’ Museum.

Former Abellio ALX400-bodied Dennis Trident ‘V340KGW’ has been acquired for the purpose and converted to open-top configuration by South East Coachworks at Faversham.

It retains a roof over the front two bays to give protection in inclement weather and has been vinyl-wrapped in a striking purplebased ‘Explore Medway’ livery designed by the council.

The tour starts from the coach bays in Corporation Street, Rochester, immediately behind the Visitor Centre but passengers can join the bus at any of 12 stops around the figure-of-eight route, hopping off at the various places of interest and re-joining the bus later on.

Rochester and Chatham Rail Stations are among the stopping points, as is Chatham Waterfront Bus Station. All-day tickets are available on the bus at £5.50 for

Stagecoach launches classic route in Eastbourne Stagecoach has launched a new classic bus service in Eastbourne.

Numbered 110, the service, which started on June 30, follows a circular route from the Sovereign Centre to the theatres via the www.coachandbusweek.com

NewsSpecialServices.indd 14

adults, £3 for children, £4.50 for concessions and £13 for families of two adults and two children or one adult and three children. Groups of 10 or more travelling together can take advantage of one free ticket for their group. The tickets can also be used on ASC’s service 197 to reach Upnor Castle.

Over 1,000 years of history are covered on the tour which has a recorded commentary narrated by actor Brian Blessed – whose witty performance brings Medway’s heritage to life.

ASC’s Publicity Manager, Richard Lewis, said: “The tour’s starting point at Rochester Visitor Centre is also ideal for groups arriving by coach who might like to take the

tour around the area as part of their day out.

“Similar but slightly longer tours ran in the 1980s and 90s and it will be good to once again give visitors to the Medway Towns, as well as local residents, the opportunity to learn about the area’s history which includes England’s second-oldest cathedral at one end of the route and some of the attractions based on the towns’ military and naval heritage at the other end.”

Full details of the Explore Medway tour are available from Rochester Visitor Centre, from Chatham Waterfront Bus Station and online at arrivabus. co.uk/explore-medway-by-bus

Brian Blessed with members of the Arriva Southern Counties team at the launch event – Mark Coleman (Operations Manager, Gillingham), Matthew Arnold (Commercial Manager), Brian Blessed, Colin Adcock (Driver, Gillingham Depot – the regular driver for the tour) and Kevin Hawkins (Commercial Director) Pier and Terminus Road using a restored 1950 AEC Regal single decker and a 1967 Leyland PD2 double decker.

It marks part of Stagecoach’s year-long celebration of the 110th anniversary of bus services in the resort. The company has also pledged 10p from every ticket sale to St Wilfrid’s Hospice.

The classic bus route was devised by David Rouse, Assistant Operations Manager at Eastbourne depot, who said: “Eastbourne is recognised for its historic and

pioneering role in the development of our national public transport system. We decided to pay tribute to with a classic bus service. We hope residents and tourists enjoy using the service which will be a trip down memory lane for some and a new experience for others.

We’re also pleased to donate some of the proceeds to a local charity.”

The heritage bus route operates from Sunday to Thursday until September 5. A flat fare of £1.10 applies and concessionary passes are not accepted.

On the launch day, pupils from Milford Primary School were given an exclusive trip aboard the blue bus after learning in school about the benefits of sustainable travel

Extra New Forest Open Top Tour The seasonal New Forest Open Top Tour bus network has boosted with the addition of an additional route.

The tour is run by Go South Coast in partnership with the New Forest National Park Authority. It has grown in popularity, starting with 9,000 passenger journeys in 2007 and rising to nearly 34,000 passenger journeys in 2012, with many more expected this year.

Go South Coast MD Andrew Wickham, said: “There’s genuine excitement about the new blue route after six years of success with the green and red routes. Sitting on the open-top deck means you can relax and enjoy superior views of ancient woodland, picturesque villages and the famous New Forest ponies.”

Tour passengers can hop on and off where they like, change routes and bring their bikes. All buses are equipped with audio commentaries which include tales of witches, smuggling and salt mining.

While the the red and green routes are operated commercially, the blue bus is supported by a £3.8m DfT fund to encourage 370,000 car-free journeys in the New Forest and South Downs National Parks by March 2015.

The Tour is also supported by Hampshire County Council.

All routes started on June 29 and will run every hour daily until September 15.

To find out more go to www.thenewforesttour. info, or follow on Twitter @ newforesttour or at www. facebook.com/newforesttour

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news › REGIONAL

SCOTLAND

The Traffic Commissioner for Scotland has revoked the operating licence held by John Carson, trading as WJC Buses, after he failed to provide evidence of his financial standing.

The TC also heard that Mr Carson, who operated school contracts and private hire work, was sequestrated following action

by HM Revenue and Customs.

Miss Aitken’s ruling comes after a PI held in Edinburgh on June 20, which considered Mr Carson’s financial standing and the standard of his vehicles.

During the hearing, a VOSA Examiner told the TC that one of the operator’s vehicles had been stopped on the A8 in September 2012 by the Police. The vehicle was found to have a worn tyre and there was a problem with the suspension and was prohibited by VOSA. The worn tyre should have been picked up during the driver’s preuse check.

The VOSA officer also reported other prohibitions had been issued, including one for loose wheel nuts and another for passenger seats being insecure.

In his evidence to Miss Aitken, John Carson said he could not provide financial evidence to support his licence and that he had trusted his accountant to make sure payments were being made to HMRC. He had made an offer to settle with the agency but this did not succeed. The amount due is £90,000.

The TC told Mr Carson his licence had to come to an end as a result of his sequestration and failure to demonstrate financial standing, which is a mandatory requirement.

Mr Carson advised the regulator’s clerk before the hearing that he had gone out of business in April 2013.

NORTH

Southport could see a new transport hub and bus interchange as part of a £4m planned overhaul of public transport in the area, The Southport Visiter reported.

With money awarded from the DfT’s BBA fund, Merseytravel plans to build a new bus interchange outside the train station, relocate four existing bus stops into three new bus stops and introduce information screens.

Under the proposals the new stops will be outside Beales and another outside Lakeland, both www.coachandbusweek.com

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KEY

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

on Lord Street, with another on Eastbank Street.

Councillors voted in favour of putting the proposals out to public consultation at the Southport Area Committee on June 20.

If the project goes ahead, work will start in September and take six weeks to complete. A report presented to councillors warned the new stops on Lord Street would reduce part of the road to one way on the northbound stretch – an impact analysis is being carried out.

Liam Robinson, the Chairman of Merseytravel, said the infrastructure improvements would significantly upgrade facilities and public transport.

After an 18 month trial, Go North East is to withdraw its OK1 Expressway service on Saturday, August 10.

Beginning as an experimental Go North East service in January 2012, the OK1 aimed to provide a new bus link from St Helen Auckland and West Auckland to Darlington and a faster service from Crook and Bishop Auckland. The service was then extended in November 2012 non stop from Darlington to Middlesbrough to give a direct bus link from the Wear Valley area and to attract new users.

In a statement on its website, the operator said: “We would like to thank everyone who has used the OK1 and we’re sorry we can no longer run this service.

Unfortunately while passenger

numbers grew initially, numbers have remained low except for a few busy journeys and as such the service is just not sustainable to operate in the longer term. Go North East will continue to innovate and look for new opportunities to pilot bus services such as the OK1.”

SOUTH EAST

A record number of visitors attended the sixth annual Reading Buses open day on June 30, which showcased its fleet and raised money for the firm’s charity of the year, PACT (Parents & Children Together).

The firm lined up one of each of its vivid brands in a crescent-shape display of buses which were open for people to sit in the driver’s seat.

CEO James Freeman said he was struck by the number of people, young and old, who wanted to sample what the driver’s seat was like in each of the buses.

He said: “People really enjoyed being able to get close which was reflected in the numbers who flocked to the display. It was really incredible and a good job we had our largest ever number of staff volunteers present to keep a watchful eye on things.

“There were queues all day for the rides through the bus wash on Reading’s cleanest bus.”

A 1935 Reading Corporation bus was on display alongside Reading Buses’ latest gas buses which have recently entered the fleet.

A local trolleybus expert, Dave Hall, gave talks, and a representative of the Gas Bus Alliance answered a wide range of questions.

A number of old local buses visited, including an ex Reading MCW Metrobus from The Green Bus fleet in Birmingham.

Visitors enjoyed tours of the workshops and control room as well as the RTI system and there was a wide range of associated activities from traditional English games to sales of old pieces of bus memorabilia.

The open day was launched by the Mayor of Reading, Cllr Marian Livingston and also present throughout the day was Reading 107FM who had been regularly promoting the event for a week in advance.

Representatives from PACT were delighted with the profile Reading Buses has given them and the several thousands of pounds the day will have raised for the charity.

“Our annual open day is a really super way of meeting our customers and showing them that we are real people committed to doing a consistently good job on their behalf,” Mr Freeman added.

“It’s also a wonderful way of increasing team spirit as well as raising a worthwhile sum of money for our charity.”

Arriva has revised some of its bus routes in the Dunstable area as a result of the closure by Central Bedfordshire Council of Poynters Road for an expected period of 11 weeks.

Services 7, 8, 24, 31, 38, 61 and 70 are affected and although most do not serve Poynters Road itself, the expected traffic congestion in the area has led to the decision being taken to revise frequencies and routes in order to maintain as reliable a service as possible.

The main effect will be to Service 24 between Luton and Dunstable which uses a short section of Poynters Road and for which there is no acceptable alternative route.

As a result, this service will run only between Luton and Leagrave High Street, requiring a change onto Service 38 buses to reach Dunstable.

Central Bedfordshire Council is funding a shuttle bus to cover part of the western end of the 24 route, running between Dunstable and Katherine Drive as Service 24A. Regional MD Paul Adcock said: “I am sorry our services in the Dunstable area are liable to suffer

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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. significant delays and disruption over a lengthy period due to the closure of Poynters Road.

“We have emphasised to Central Bedfordshire Council that closing this road will have serious implications on traffic flows around the area and this will impact on the reliability of our services.

“However, the road closure is going ahead and we have had to put in place what we consider to be the best solution to keep our services running as reliably as possible.

“I would ask that our customers understand the temporary changes we are making to our timetables and routes are totally beyond our control and we appreciate some journeys will take longer than normal or involve a change of bus.

Our drivers will be doing their best to keep to time so please bear with them if they are running later than expected because of the traffic congestion.”

Full details of the changes to services are shown at arrivabus. co.uk/poynters-road-road-closurejuly-2013

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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

LONDON

Arriva London’s Tottenham Garage is preparing to celebrate 100 years of serving the UK capital with a party.

The centenary celebrations will be held on Saturday, July 20 at Tottenham Green on Town Hall Approach.

In addition to the celebrations on the green, during the day buses from the Arriva London Heritage fleet will operate alongside existing route 76 buses from Tottenham to Waterloo and back between 0900 and 1730hrs. Passengers boarding the RMs will not be asked for a fare, but will be invited to make a donation to The North London Hospice charity, the local charity Arriva has chosen to support for this occasion. Commemorative models of two of the RMs running will be available to buy.

A selection of vintage buses will join the Routemasters on the day such as the NS and FRM from the London Transport Museum, which will be running at least once on the route.

Coach & Bus Live is being held at the NEC on October 2-3 this year.

Pictured is part of Arriva Bus & Coach’s display from the 2011 event

2013 n July 14 The Annual Peterborough Bus & Commercial Vehicle Rally. Sacrewell Farm (A47/ A1 junction). Free entry. 07828 754412 or 01462 626750 n July 20 Arriva London Tottenham garage centenary.

Tottenham Green. www.

arrivalondon.com/

n July 21 Alton Bus Rally. Anstey Park, Anstey Lane, Alton, Hants. www.altonbusrally.org.uk n July 21-22 Coach Tourism Council Summer BBQ. Bedford Swan Hotel, Bedford. 0870 850 2839. www.coachtourismcouncil.com n August 3 Imberbus. Vintage bus service to abandoned settlements on Salisbury Plain, 10–1800hrs.

www.warminstervbrd.wordpress. com/imberbus/ n August 10 Metroline’s Holloway Garage Open Day www.metroline.co.uk

More than 7,000 people visited First Aberdeen’s King Street depot on Sunday, June 30, as the company opened its doors to the public.

Visitors saw the firm’s 23 new ADL E300s a day before they entered service. Other exhibits included: the body of a Nimrod surveillance aeroplane; vintage buses, including a 1930s Albion Bus with starting handle; a 1903 Fire Engine; a display of classic Lotus cars; a visit from the Morris Minor Club, a Miniature Railway; trips through the First Aberdeen bus wash; the Lathallan Pipe Band; the Bon Accord Silver Band; and a range of stalls including Scottish Police, Macmillan Cancer Support and the Scottish Fire Brigade. and.

“It First Aberdeen Commercial Director, Joe Mackie, celebrating his 50th year of service, said: “Our Open Day was a fantastic success. We had visitors from all over Scotland come to see the tremendous exhibits and learn a little more about our operations. Queues began forming outside our HQ more than an hour before we opened.

“Our new buses provided a popular attraction, although the favourite amongst kids seemed to be the trips through our bus wash. Other popular attractions were the miniature railway, the Nimrod and the Pipe Band.

“It was a fitting tribute to throw open the doors of our depot, which has been our home for almost 100 years, to the general public – particularly as we are celebrating the 115th year of public transport in Aberdeen.”

“

n August 24 Inglebrough Classic & Vintage Vehicle Gathering.

Bibbys Coaches depot, North Yorkshire. 10-1700hrs. For details, call 015242 41330 n August 26 The Big Operating Day and Blue & Cream Celebration. Celebrating the centenary of Birmingham’s first blue & cream buses. The Transport Museum Wythall. 01564 826471. www.wythall.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 21-22 Metrobus 30th anniversary depot open days. Orpington, Croydon & Crawley. www.metrobus.co.uk/ metrobus30 n September 22 Showbus 2013.

Long Marston Airfield, Warwickshire. www.showbus.com n October 2-3 Coach & Bus Live 2013. NEC, Birmingham. www. coachandbuslive.com n October 20 Oxford Bus Museum Bus & Coach Vehicle Rally. 01993 883 617. www.oxfordbusmuseum. org.uk n October 23-24 Young Bus Managers Network Conference. Manchester. www. youngbusmanagers.org.uk n October 27 Swansea Bus Museum Running Day. 07877 771 878. www.swanseabusmuseum.com

2014 n March 18-19 Young Bus Managers Network Conference.

Reading. www.youngbusmanagers. org.uk n May 12-14 ALBUM Conference.

Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh. www.album-bus.co.uk

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

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18 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

news focus › arriva sapphire launch

1

Arriva Midlands’ premium service Coach & Bus Week’s Alex Tyler attends the launch of Arriva’s latest Sapphire-branded route in Leicester The bleak weather in Leicester did little dampen Arriva’s launch of its latest Sapphire-branded premium routes.

The new service was officially unveiled at Humberstone Gate during a garden party themed gathering, complete with music from a string quartet, children’s entertainers offering face painting and balloon art, free ice creams and ‘sparkling’ cupcakes in keeping with www.coachandbusweek.com

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the Sapphire tag line of “adding a little sparkle to your everyday journey”. Two Wright-bodied Gemini double-deckers were in attendance to show off the changes to passengers and prior to the event sample taster tickets had been distributed to households along the route, coupled with roadside displays alongside social media promotion.

The route is operated by 10 such vehicles from the company’s South Wigston depot. The buses have been refurbished

by Northumberland-based vehicle repair and refurbishment

specialists Thorntons representing a £450,000 investment.

Each vehicle is bedecked in a new blue livery designed by Best Impressions and is fitted with high backed E-leather seats which have been arranged 2+1 to allow for more leg room and space. Free WiFi is also available onboard along with USB plug-in points and 13 amp sockets for charging purposes as well as audio-visual announcements and CCTV. Arriva advisors were on hand at the launch to talk about the additional benefits the buses offer, including Arriva’s commitment

to deliver a punctual, reliable and direct service every 7/8 minutes and a so called “no-quibble” money back guarantee.

Arriva Midlands Managing Director Alex Perry was present at the proceedings and delivered a speech alongside High Bailiff Councillor Ted Cassidy to officially launch the service. Mr Perry said: “We’re delighted to be bringing the Sapphire brand to Leicester and we are honoured to have High Bailiff Councillor Ted Cassidy in attendance to officially launch the service. This service will certainly offer our customers something different and we hope it will tempt more people to try the bus as a result.

“The investment is significant at a time when there are plenty of economic challenges out there, although we firmly believe in continuing to try and improve our service offering whenever and wherever we can. We certainly hope the upgraded route will be

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

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3

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1: The launch was held at Humberstone Gate in central Leicester. 2: The public were able to board and inspect the two vehicles in attendance. 3: A refurbished Wright-Gemini being used on the route. 4: Arriva advisors were on hand to answer any questions from the public. 5: The service was launched by Arriva Midlands Managing Director Alex Perry and High Bailiff of Leicester Ted Cassidy. 6: The plush interiors have e-leather seating as part of the specifications. 7: There was a garden party like atmosphere, bolstered by a string quartet as well as free ice cream and refreshments

6

5 a success and we’ll be working with our customers to gauge their feedback throughout the coming weeks and months.”

This was followed by an enthusiastic Cllr Cassidy smashing not one, but two, bottles of champagne against one of the buses to christen the route.

The service, which began June 29 on route 31/31a between Oadby and Leicester, is the second of four planned pilot routes for the brand; one in each of Arriva UK Bus’ regional businesses.

Other Sapphire routes in include service 1 between Wrexham and Chester, calling at Gresford, Rossett and Chester Business Park; route 280 between Aylesbury, Thame and Oxford in the South East due to be launched this month; and service 7 operating between Darlington, Newton Aycliffe and Durham which is planned for launch in the autumn.

Arriva has invested circa £3m in 41 vehicles for the Sapphire pilot

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scheme.

Speaking at the event, Ray Stenning of Best Impressions told CBW: “Arriva had a project team in place and they invited us in to help with the design. In the beginning, there was an idea in place for something completely different, but ultimately these are not new routes,

7 we don’t want to go alienating people with a livery which is utterly detached from the original.

We basically envisioned Arriva on steroids. We came up with the strap line and suggested the name Sapphire. It was important not to over promise and we feel it conveys a sense of quality.”

The new livery is striking while still being recognisably Arriva and the interiors are finished to a high standard.

In addition, like it or loathe it, the AV system is well implemented and given the route passes close to Leicester Race Course and to the University, those from outside the city will appreciate the gesture.

However, I could not ignore the grumblings from the some of the locals, some of which would rather have seen this money invested in “improving current services” and a few, who pointed out, that on race day these “flash new buses will get trashed”.

As the old saying goes though, nothing ventured nothing gained and I found it refreshing to see a company trying to encourage modal shift with a big gesture at a time when the industry is feeling the strain.

Though the Sapphire brand is still only a pilot, and a costly one at that, it is based on extensive market research and hopefully will go will some way to improve the perception of the bus not only in Leicester but further afield.

Throughout the event it was made clear the aim of this endeavour was to grow passenger numbers. On the choice of route Mick Rossiter, General Manager of the South Wigston depot, said: “We chose existing routes which were doing well with the aim to grow the service with non users. We have kept the fare structure the same so it doesn’t cost more than it used to use the route.”

“Leicester in particular needed this,” he added. “Trust has gone out of the buses, due to extensive road works and delays. We really needed to do something different to win back the confidence of the general public. It’s about maintaining standards, but also making the effort to stand out. I’ve been really pleased with the turnout at this event, I’m sure it will result in more passengers trying the service.”

For more information, visit www.arrivasapphire.co.uk

www.coachandbusweek.com

08/07/2013 22:44

20 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

operator profile › aaa coaches

Edinburgh’s AAA operator James Day visits West Lothian-based family-run operator AAA Coaches, which has built a strong reputation as a quality coach company with a top of the range fleet

A

fter accidently getting myself lost in Edinburgh thanks to tram works removing the name from the bus stop I needed, I was taken to the AAA Coaches premises by Sharon, one of the second generation of the Renton family working at the renowned West Lothian-based coach operator.

Thankfully I had at least managed to get lost in the right direction, meaning Sharon didn’t have to go far out of her way to find me.

It wasn’t immediately clear that I had been taken to the depot of a moderate sized coach operator at all, as almost every AAA-liveried vehicle was already out working, including every single coach with 49 seats or above. Fortunately a couple of the coaches returned briefly to allow me to take slight advantage of the fairly bright weather on the day, but a near empty yard has to be a good sign for a coach operator.

Indeed, we had passed several AAA vehicles on the way.

Clearly, everyone was extremely

busy but they were all nevertheless very friendly and gave as much time as they could during such a demanding period.

A brief history

James Renton and his wife Avril are the directors of AAA (Any time, Any place, Any distance) Coaches, although Avril has since taken a back seat. However it hasn’t always been a coach company which has provided a living for the family.

Having never felt comfortable working under someone else, James always wanted to run his own business. In 1978 he bought a fish & chip van which served the West Lothian area. After quickly building

“You can choose to go with nice coaches or not and our vehicles speak for themselves.

It’s what people see which has made us so successful.”

The Bova Futura is AAA Coaches’ preferred vehicle

up to three vans he changed direction, using six Vauxhall Vivas to do doorto-door egg and potato rounds.

In 1981 he bought a former electricity board van at auction for £1,000 and started Scotshift Removals. He secured regular contracts from furnishing company Brown Bear and B&Q in Edinburgh, allowing investment in larger lorries.

Unfortunately Scotshift was no longer viable after Harris Queensway took over Brown Bear, cut hire rates and itself went out of business. James decided to do something a bit different. After selling the family home and moving into a council house, he established AAA Coaches in 1988 with his wife Avril, itself a gamble as he had no work for it at the time.

“I bought an old Ford R1114 Plaxton coach from Liberton Travel and a 12-seater VW minibus,” James said. “The business just sort of spiralled from there.”

AAA’s first contracts came from social services runs. The company used Ford Transits and MercedesBenz 307Ds fitted with wheelchair lifts.

The Jonkeheere-bodied Volvo is a more uncommon sight in the fleet

www.coachandbusweek.com

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operator: AAA Coaches location: Edinburgh established: 1988 FLEET: 30 Contact: 01506 883000 www.aaacoaches.co.uk

The AAA Coaches fleet has a reputation for quality which the company has thrived upon

In 1990 AAA acquired a Bova Calypso, financed by Hansar Finance’s Ron Telford. It remained in service for nine years. A 10-yearold Bedford was also acquired from Liberton Travel but it was disposed of after several engine changes. The company had more success with Jonkeheere-bodied Volvos and a Berkhof-bodied MAN from Browns of Edinburgh, along with its first Bova Futura.

School travel became a staple for AAA, with the work starting to come to the company as demand grew for larger coaches and private hire.

James and Avril were joined later by their three daughters, with the third generation of the family set to join the business in the near future.

They continue to be instrumental in the running of AAA Coaches.

“We all know a bit of everything but have specific roles,” Sharon said.

James’ daughter Linda started up her own company, LA Travel, 14 years ago. Operating as a sister company to AAA Coaches and sharing the same yard, as well as a very similar vehicle livery, Linda’s business has five vehicles on its own O-licence. AAA Coaches employs 40 staff in total, with the depot now having three large garages erected on it.

A fleet which markets itself

The AAA Coaches fleet amounts to around 30 vehicles, 22 of which are large coaches with a seating capacity ranging from 49 to 70.

The firm likes to keep the average age of the fleet quite low and are constantly upgrading their fleets.

The company favours the Futura and has 10 of them on its books – eight Bovas and two VDL Futuras, most of which have been acquired through Moseley.

A Mercedes-Benz Vario minibus beside one of AAA’s many Futuras

Sister company LA Travel has five vehicles including this Setra S415HD www.coachandbusweek.com

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OPERATOR PROFILE › AAA COACHES

The newest VDL Futura has been acquired very recently and seemed to create quite a lot of interest on the operator’s Facebook page.

“Bova definitely seems to be the leader,” James said.

“We’ve very up on the Futuras,” Sharon added. “The running gear on them is absolutely fantastic and they’re very much our preferred coach.”

Aside from the Futuras, the yard is also home to two Setras, a Jonkeheere-bodied Volvo, three Sunsundegui-bodied Volvos and seven vehicles on MAN chassis – five Beulas, one Marcopolo and one Tata Hispano. The MANs have been acquired through BASE coach sales.

“The 70-seater MANs don’t go on tour as much since they’re built more for schools. They are quite popular for weddings but that doesn’t make up a large part of our business,” Sharon explained. “We’re flexible though and all our coaches can go on any job on which they are needed.”

As well as the full size coaches, AAA Coaches also has a 33 seater Plaxton Cheetah, a 29-seat Mercedes-Benz Sitcar Beluga, a 24-seat Mercedes-Benz Vario, two 16-seater Renault Masters, two Ford Transit minibuses and several Volkswagen people carriers.

“People know what they’re looking for,” Sharon added. “You can choose to go with nice coaches or not and our vehicles speak for themselves. It’s what people see which has made us so successful.”

Luggage:

room for more

Above: A Renault Master minibus. Below left: A VW Transporter T5. Below right: AAA’s 29-seater Sitcar Beluga. Bottom: One of AAA’s three garages

Weight can often be an issue when running a coach operation. High capacity vehicles are great for carrying large groups, but weight restrictions can pose problems when it comes to luggage. Tri-axle coaches eliminate problems with weight restrictions but also restrict luggage space, not necessarily solving the problem. The issue is also prevalent with minibuses, especially those used to transport passengers to airports, a common service which AAA Coaches provides.

AAA’s solution to this is to have a Ford Transit box van travel with the coach. The van is usually used for corporate work and can easily cover for any luggage overspill which cannot already be carried by the coaches. The van is far cheaper to acquire and run than an additional coach, allowing the operator to use high capacity minibuses and twoaxle coaches while still providing a generous luggage allowance.

A top class reputation

As well as school transport and private hire, corporate work and transport for VIPs form a large part of AAA’s business. While I was visiting, everyone was very busy making sure everything was prepared to transport a large number of delegates from Nestlé to a corporate event at Gosford House, including loading crates of water bottles for refreshments and applying bespoke seat covers. I also heard a similar event was held for Tupperware.

AAA has carried quite a large number of high profile individuals over the years. Some examples of the famous faces who have used the company are: ■ J K Rowling, for which AAA provided travel for her 40th birthday party and the subsequent charity event; ■ A couple from Channel 4 soap opera Hollyoaks who were getting married; www.coachandbusweek.com

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AAA Coaches: ■ Several famous comedians; ■ A former chairman of the Glasgow Rangers football club; ■ Rock band Kings of Leon, who had a full size coach to themselves; and ■ The Scotland rugby team.

AAA has also provided two coaches for a G8 summit, which were away for an entire week.

Understandably, this was also quite confidential at the time.

“Drivers come in and tell us “guess who I’ve been driving for today.” Sharon said. “We’re not always told upfront because they don’t want the press around.

“It’s only when the driver arrives to pick them up that they realise they’re transporting someone

famous.”

“Our VIP work takes coaches all over the place, depending on their requirements. Corporate events are usually conferences nearby but people do go further afield.”

The firm certainly seems to maintain a solid reputation. Sharon said about 90% of AAA’s work is repeat business, with much of the remaining work generated through word of mouth. She also said the firm has a very good relationship with other operators in the area, naming at least five who AAA have worked closely with in the past.

“Although it is hard at times we’re proud of our achievements over the years,” James said.

an online presence

AAA Coaches’ website, along with LA Travel’s similar site, is one of the most well-presented sites for an operator of its size. Visitors are greeted with an audio description of AAA’s services, a comprehensive list of tours & services on offer and a description of the different types of vehicles available.

A number of testimonials are also featured on the website which give solid evidence of the operator’s strong reputation.

“Although the coaches are the best advert, our webpage is big thing for us,” Sharon said. “We’re on social media quite regularly too and always promoting it, with regular updates. Both Twitter and Facebook are performing very well for us.”

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24 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO training & safety

K

Daniel Stephenson at Tanat Valley delivering a Driver CPC course onboard the company’s mobile classroom

Maintaining skills and staying safe As the clock runs down on the Driver CPC deadline, this week’s industry guide looks at suppliers of training courses and safety products which help keep operators compliant, safe and providing the highest level of customer service possible www.coachandbusweek.com

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eeping your fleet, drivers and passengers safe is an extremely important factor in the running of a bus or coach operation. The Driver CPC deadline is on September 10, now less than two months away. Any drivers who have not already completed the periodic training need to do so as a matter of urgency. Everything we have heard in the CBW office has pointed towards anyone driving a PCV vehicle for hire or reward needing to have completed 35 hours, and contrary to rumours, this isn’t going to go away.

Aside from complying with Driver CPC rules, good training and/or safety procedures help to improve and secure an operator’s reputation, avoid insurance or legal costs and give passengers and staff peace of mind.

A large number of training companies and operators are

featured, offering a variety of courses and covering all areas of the UK. In order to contribute to Driver CPC training, the courses need to be JAUPT accredited, but as long as they have this accreditation the training offered can cover any area.

With this in mind and the choice offered, operators can customise the Driver CPC training their drivers receive to suit them, not simply go through a box-ticking exercise.

Options include first aid, customer service and compliancerelated courses, all geared towards making staff an asset to the business as it works to remain compliant with training regulations.

On the safety side this week, there is a focus on breathalysers, which prevent vehicles from being driven by individuals over the drink drive limit, whether they are aware of it or not. There are also some safe flooring products featured which have proven very successful both in the UK and abroad.

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July 10, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 25

Driver CPC 4U Since its establishment in 2009, Driver CPC 4U has been at the forefront of providing Driver CPC training for both PCV and LGV drivers in the South East, by holding regular open public courses as well as delivering in-house training for many passenger and goods transport operators in the area.

The last two years have seen Driver CPC 4U offer additional training within the transport industry as well as develop a number of partnerships with fellow training providers throughout the UK by increasing the membership of its Driver CPC training consortium.

Driver CPC 4U has registered with JAUPT a variety of 3.5 and seven hour Driver CPC training modules (giving a total of 38 different combinations of seven hour training days) and through its consortium members can offer other training including SAFED (Safe and Fuel Efficient Driving),

Fork Lift Truck and Lorry Loaders all of which will qualify a driver for at least seven hours of Driver CPC training.

On top of this, Driver CPC 4U has attained registration with OCR enabling delivery of CPC training for Transport Managers for both passenger transport and road haulage operations from their training premises in Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire.

This training is delivered by attending either a seven-day intensive course or a seven week (every Friday for seven weeks) course, both of which are conducted in the run up to the relevant examinations (held on the first Friday of March, June, September and December), or by distance learning through the use of home study packs and available refresher courses.

T: 0843 2893211 E: drivercpc4u@ hotmail.co.uk W: www.thedrivercpc4u.com

Tachodisc With only two months to go for PCV drivers to complete the 35 hours of training required for DCPC before the deadline, Tachodisc, which specialises in compliance related courses, reports a surge in bookings from drivers wanting to become more informed about the law and their responsibilities.

Karen Crispe, Tachodisc’s MD confirms that PCV drivers are stating they want to use these final hours of training positively, and gain up-to-date, meaningful information on subjects which can help them stay safe and compliant in their everyday work life, i.e. drivers’ hours law, working time and digital tachograph rules.

She said: “There has been a lot of talk about DCPC since it was introduced, but we know drivers and operators can really benefit from good CPC training courses.

There is real business and personal value in gaining knowledge and understanding of compliance

related issues - if only to avoid being stopped at the roadside and receiving a fine.”

As a JAUPT approved training centre for DCPC, Tachodisc offers a range of approved courses from its Warrington training school.

These include seven-hour courses on Drivers’ Hours and Tachograph Regulations, Tachograph Records, Working Time Requirements & Defect Reporting, Safe & Secure Loading Principals & Vehicle Defect Checks, Manual Handling & Driver Wellbeing and Health & Safety.

The company has also created two courses specifically for the PCV driver - Don’t Become a Statistic Accident Prevention, Vehicle Fire Management and The Customer & You - Driver/Customer Relations plus Disability Awareness.

All of Tachodisc’s courses can also be held at an operator’s premises.

T: 01925 283328 E: sales@tachodisc.co.uk W: www.tachodisc.co.uk

Driver CPC 4U For all your transport industry training Driver CPC Training From £55 + Vat per person Various modules available, courses held at our JAUPT approved training centre in Sawbridgeworth, Hertfordshire or Nationwide (either at clients own premises or on external premises arranged by us)

Passenger Transport Management CPC Training £1167 per person Price includes tuition fees, 35 hours of Driver CPC qualification, CPC manuals, exam fees, lunch, refreshments and VAT Next intensive 7 day course commences 27th August 2013 (candidates must be registered by 16th August 2013)

Other Training Available: Driver Skills Card and Vulnerable Road User (Epic Card) Fork Lift Truck (Novice and Experienced) ALLMI Lorry Loader and ALLMI Slingers & Signallers SAFED (Safe and Fuel Efficient Driving)

Transport and Compliance Consultancy We can provide Transport Management Solutions, Compliance Audits, Risk Assessments, Health & Safety Training, Onsite Driver & Transport Staff Training, HR Solutions and Payroll Services

Contact us on: T: 0843 2893211 E: drivercpc4u@hotmail.co.uk W: www.thedrivercpc4u.com F: www.facebook.com/drivercpc4u www.coachandbusweek.com

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26 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO training & safety

Above left: The WTS team. Above right: Training in progress on how to safely tackle a fire. Below: Some ICT facilities at the Exeter training centre

Western Training Services Exeter-based Western Training Services (WTS), was started up in 2007, although it was acquired by the organisation which runs Just Coach Drivers in January 2012, and is headed up by the same team.

Before the acquisition, JCD was one WTS’ best customers, according to Managing Director Del Haggerty.

WTS was previously located at premises nearby to JCD’s Exeter operations, but after the purchase it was moved into the same building. The company has recently expanded with a smart in-house test centre, featuring 15 computer test stations. For the coach and bus industry, WTS offers Driver CPC training as well as Transport Manager CPCs, first aid and PCV driver training. When WTS came under the new ownership, the test centre was only one of five online test centres for this industry in the country.

Del admits that when the DCPC regulations came in, he was a little sceptical, but he soon realised the benefits of the training.

“Every driver says ‘I don’t need Driver CPC, I don’t need to hear this. I know everything about tachographs and digicards’ etc, but that simply isn’t the case,” he said. “DCPC is an upgrade to the individual. A lot of drivers don’t know how to use a tachograph properly, for example.

“It’s important to know how you are expected to conduct yourself around certain people, like OAPs or children. Drivers are not just the bloke at the front – their job involves lots of different kinds www.coachandbusweek.com

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Western Training Services’ facility in Exeter

“We’re currently booking operators in for the next five years so nobody is left behind next time.”

Del Haggerty

of scenarios. We are the most underestimated individuals.

“Drivers have many trades.

They are good with history and geography as well as first aid etc.

Coach drivers know the right place to go and they have great knowledge of places like Paris, Edinburgh, London and Dublin.”

“Our industry is stepping up to the mark,” Del continued. “I

honestly believe DCPC is very important because I can genuinely see how drivers are benefiting.

It’s why I bought the company as training drivers is a natural progression.

“We’re currently specifically aiming WTS at the coach operator.

Operators are now recognising there’s not much time left so we are making it very easy for them – we can go to their place if necessary.

Whatever suits the company and its drivers best.

“We’re also currently booking operators in for the next five years so nobody is left behind next time. It will be a smoother process between 2013 and 2018.

“At the end of the day, DCPC is vital. Systems change and if you don’t keep up with it you are out.

Training is an ongoing necessity for the industry.”

The Driver CPC is for LGV and PCV drivers who drive professionally throughout the UK. It has been developed as a requirement of the EU Directive 2003/59 to improve the knowledge and skills of professional LGV and PCV drivers.

An initial qualification must be achieved by new LGV and PCV drivers along with their vocational licence to enable them to use their licence professionally.

Western Training Services’ courses include Health & Safety in Transport, Princibles of Safe & Eco Driving, Rural & Urban Driving and Emergency First Aid. T: 0845 894 0844 E: info@wts.co.uk W: www.westerntraining services.co.uk

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INDUSTRY

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TO training & safety Checkpoint Safety It’s no secret that in the commercial vehicle sector, particularly in the PSV market, wheel security is a primary issue. With an estimated 7,500-11,000 wheel fixing defects and up to 400 wheel detachments per year occurring in the UK, according to 2006 research by the Transport Research Laboratory, it’s not surprising that wheel security policies and procedures attract constant development and scrutiny.

The FTA recognises this and has recently revised and released a new wheel security drivers card for ‘essential daily check for drivers’, however the message within the market concerning the causes of wheel detachments are not always portrayed consistently or taken seriously at ground level.

While wheel nut indicators and retainers are a proven option to improve the safety of fleets and facilitate more robust safety policies, fleet operators still rely on staff for good quality servicing and

monitoring to maintain high levels of vehicle roadworthiness.

Checkpoint Safety has recently released a product called Checkthread, a toolkit which is designed to be used by service staff and engineers to monitor the quality of wheel studs and stud holes. The kits are easy to use and not only offer a clear way of highlighting fixing problems, but also heighten the awareness of wheel security at an operating level.

The kits allow fleet managers to train staff in detecting problems early, which in turn allows the opportunity to take remedial action.

Andrew Woodings, MD of Tyre Force Nottingham said: “We’ve recently purchased Checkthread toolkits for our mobile vehicles and workshop staff and after testing them for a number of weeks, found them to be very useful for detecting worn or stretched wheel studs.”

T: 015242 71200 W: www.checkpointsafety.com

Squire Management How would your business cope if your O-licence was suspended?

Squire Management claims a coach operator has recently had its O-licence suspended as a direct result of failing to ensure its drivers had completed enough relevant modules for DCPC. With the deadline for completion of PCV DCPC now less than two months away it is crucial for business survival that all drivers achieve the qualification. The message is that not only is DCPC here to stay and the deadline date of September 10 will not be moved.

Squire Management has trained over 6,000 drivers, few of whom initially wanted to do the training, with nothing but positive feedback and messages of thanks. Its clients are based nationwide and include large operators such as Horseman Coaches of Berkshire, and Alton Towers Travel.

All of Squire’s trainers still drive professionally on a regular basis

ensuring maximum credibility with drivers when in the training room.

The training can be tailored to suit the operational needs of clients including flexible delivery times during weekdays, evenings and weekends with training content presented relevant to the business.

Squire Management is so confident about the quality of its training that it offers a 100% ‘no quibble’ money back guarantee.

Whatever their situation with DCPC, if a firm thinks it could have problems achieving the qualification for its drivers by September 10, Squire will help keep the business on the road.

A 10% discount on Squire’s published day rates for Driver CPC training is available to know when booking before July 31, 2013. Call and quote BC07 to receive the 10% discount.

T: 0121 359 4515 E: keith@cpc-smt.co.uk / david@cpc-smt.co.uk W: www.cpc-smt.co.uk

DRIVER CPC TRAINING

How would your business cope if your Operator licence was suspended?

A coach operator recently had their Operator Licence suspended as a direct result of failing to ensure that their drivers had completed enough relevant modules for the DCPC. Whatever your current situation is with Driver CPC if you think you could have problems achieving Driver CPC qualification for your drivers by September 9th, 2013 we will do our best to help keep your business on the road.

• Nationwide delivery anytime, evenings and weekends • Over 6,000 drivers trained by us to date

• 100% no quibble money back guarantee

Special offer

10% discount off our published day rates for Driver CPC training if you book training before July 31st, 2013.

Call 0121 359 4515 now and quote BC07 to get your 10% discount

Driving Forward with CPC Squire Management and Training Ltd www.coachandbusweek.com

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The Association of Trainers The Association of Trainers (ASOT) has grown into a strong consortium with now over 50 members, which ranks in the top ten of training providers and turnover this year has already exceeded £250,000,stated Alec Horner, Chief Executive of ASOT. ASOT was set up as a notfor-profit organisation with the objective of providing a quality assurance scheme for PSV and LGV Driver CPC periodic training providers at low cost, especially for the smaller operator or training provider. It was approved by JAUPT to deliver Driver CPC as a Consortium in September 2009.

“Our Members can rent our training courses on a ‘pay as you go’ basis,” stated Horner. “After a Member has delivered a course, we record the trainees’ attendance by inputting data onto the government’s ‘Gateway’ website under our own JAUPT Centre Registration and we produce the drivers’ certificates. This represents a considerable saving to our Members.”

JAUPT Centre Registration costs £1,500 every five years and each seven hour training course costs £252p.a. in registration fees plus the various costs of course production. The cost of registering five different seven hour courses is £1260 each year, whereas we can offer more variety to our Members without the additional cost. Another significant, but unquantifiable, benefit for ASOT members is that they do not lose valuable time spent on burdensome administration.

If training organisations are registered with JAUPT as a centre in their own right, they can also purchase ASOT courses and then register on their own centre.

The cost of joining ASOT is £295 per annum, plus a £95 annual audit fee if you wish to deliver courses,

then just £20 per driver per seven hour course, including the £8.75 DSA upload fee. All aspects of these costs, except the upload fee, are subject to VAT. Trainers and operators can offer drivers a wider and more attractive selection of courses some 27 PCV and LGV half day modules, usually paired into seven hour courses as shown below), including:n Customer Service and the School Run; n Driving Economically, safely and legally; n Eco-driving On-road practical; n Dealing with emergencies and Vehicle Evacuation; n Road Risk (including Highway Code), and Drugs & Alcohol Awareness; n Health & safety, Walk Round checks and luggage handling; n Disability awareness (important for proving staff have been adequately trained as required as part of the European Passenger Rights Act); n Drivers Hours and Tachographs; and n Company induction ( in-house only, for new starters) Many of these courses include practical aspects, such as on-road practical ‘eco-driving’, walk round checks, vehicle evacuation and luggage handling. ASOT also have a range of bespoke training aids, including walk round check DVD’s, Luggage Handling DVDs and low cost but good quality booklets covering issues such as Alcohol and Drugs Awareness, driver fatigue, first aid, assisting wheelchair users, health & safety and luggage handling.

It couldn’t be simpler to reduce your driver CPC periodic training costs and yet improve the standard and quality of the training. Horner claims ASOT members get better value from delivering their training though the consortium.

T: 01797 344251 E: Julia@asot.org.uk

ASOT offers a wide range of courses to help drivers complete their Driver CPC periodic training in time for the September deadline

www.coachandbusweek.com

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO training & safety AA DriveTech AA DriveTech, the specialist division of the AA which provides driver development courses for qualified occupational and professional drivers, is a well-known supplier of quality Driver CPC periodictraining courses and Driver Quality Monitoring (DQM programmes) focused on the PCV industry. The division has a wealth of experience and expertise in this sector and hundreds of clients both large and small which can testify to the efficiency of its award-winning courses.

Driver CPC With the September 10 deadline for Driver CPC completion imminent, AA DriveTech currently has 12 JAUPT-accredited workshop-based courses and four practical, on-road based courses which are geared up for any coach, bus and minibus driver.

Although the most popular course is focused on customer service, the company can also provide workshops, typically three and a half hours long, which cover the following areas: n Eco Driving; n Good Samaritan; n Mobile Phone; n Vehicle Checks and Effective Loading; n Safe Culture; n Winter Driving; n Roadside Breakdown Recovery Safety; n Speed Appreciation; n Tachograph and Drivers’ Hours; and n Urban Driving workshop.

On-road courses include Real World Driving; In-Vehicle training, Eco Driving and a Reversing & Manoeuvring course.

In addition, AA DriveTech provides four workshops specifically for members of the Food Storage and Distribution Federation and a seven hour First Aid course delivered in conjunction with the Red Cross, both of which count towards Driver CPC mandatory training requirements.

Apart from enabling professional drivers to comply with their Driver CPC obligations, AA DriveTech training courses deliver real business benefits for even the most experienced driver and offer genuine value for money. The appeal of opting for AA DriveTech Driver CPC courses is strengthened yet further by their accessibility. www.coachandbusweek.com

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Above: An AA DriveTech DCPC training course in session. Below: CBW Editor Gareth Evans enjoyed a training day at AA Drivetech earlier this year led by retired police officer Richard Bratton (pictured)

Training venues, open to any drivers, are available nationwide which offer delegates both comfort and convenience.

“We pride ourselves on delivering quality Driver CPC training at an affordable price. Now with even greater national coverage, we offer modern, quality surroundings available across the country,” said Dominic Pargeter, Operations Manager at AA DriveTech.

“With our extended national reach, flexible selection of courses, high levels of service and quality products, operators can depend on us to provide their driver training anytime, anyplace.”

Driver Quality Management (DQM) Complementing Driver CPC courses, AA DriveTech has

developed, specifically for the bus & coach industry, a DQM assessment programme which encompasses the set-up, delivery and programme management of a complete DQM process for individual bus and coach operators.

The primary purpose of DQM is to provide transport authorities and fleet managers with accurate and consistent trend analysis and reporting with a focus on improving quality of service.

DQM provides bus operators and transport authorities with an independent assessment of their bus and coach drivers’ ability marked against a set driving standard. They are carried out either covertly or overtly, and provide trend analysis and reporting to help focus on improving the quality of service and driving performance. The outputs also help to provide guidance and support for in-house assessment and training teams on best practice, effective and improved ways to train and assess drivers. The scores can then be benchmarked with similar firms to establish training requirements and best practice.

A DQM programme can provide many business and customer care benefits including helping companies meet their ‘duty of care’

responsibilities, an ability to target ’at risk’ drivers and a reduction in collision rates and hence fleet operating costs. Assessments are independent, objective and fair and can provide a quick way of measuring a driver’s abilities which can be measured and benchmarked.

They also form an important part of continual improvement plan which supports sustainable enhancements in road safety on an annual or predetermined periodic basic.

The company fleet manager can then tailor training solutions to the employees with the greatest need. This training could include workshops for the low risk drivers to intensive one to one training for the high risk.

AA DriveTech’s Dominic Pargeter said: “We are now working with some significant bus & coach firms who are seeing real benefits from their DQM programme not only in improvements in driver behaviour but more robust information on what is actually happening in the customer environment out in the real world. This is a real step forward.”

T: 0845 345 9626 E: drivercpc@ AAdrivetech.com W: www.AAdrivetech.com

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO training & safety ZF Services Comfort plays a big part in making the travelling experience pleasant, but safe handling also makes a vital contribution to passenger wellbeing in the mobile environment.

To guarantee the optimum blend of stable handling characteristics and ride comfort, manufacturers’ chassis designs depend on precision components for consistent performance and reliability. ZF develops complete driveline and chassis packages in which all of the component parts are carefully designed to complement each other. This is a fundamental consideration whenever parts need replacing, as non-original equipment (OE) parts are unlikely to precisely match the vehicle manufacturer’s specification for fit and performance.

Manufacturers such as DAF, VDL and Volvo rely on Lemförder – a brand of ZF – for premium quality steering and suspension

The ZF EcoLife’s integrated primary retarder provides 40% more retarding torque than previous versions to supplement braking components as factory fitment. To enable vehicles to be maintained to the high standard which preserves these essential attributes, Lemförder OE products are also marketed by ZF Services UK for the aftermarket. As the parts are identical to those installed at the factory, correct match and fit are assured, as well as the high strength and reliable performance necessary to ensure safety on the road.

For example, Lemförder uses specific aluminium alloy

compositions and after-treatments for control arms to achieve the desired properties. In the event of an incident such as a heavy kerb impact, components are designed to flex rather than fracture so the vehicle remains driveable and steering control is maintained.

Less obvious contributors to the achievement of optimal driving dynamics include shock absorber mounts, engine & transmission mounts and mounts for control arms. In these application areas, Lemförder rubber-to-metal components are used to suppress critical vibrations under all driving conditions, improving ride comfort, sound insulation and vehicle safety.

Lemförder uses unique rubber/ additive recipes and product designs to accurately define the dynamic properties of these rubber-to-metal components.

This is necessary to ensure the vibrational frequencies which occur at the mounting location are absorbed and that the components perform their function effectively

and reliably over a long service life. Other requirements such as high fatigue strength, resistance to ageing, the ability to withstand extremes of temperature, resistance to corrosion by road salt, and recyclability must also be met. Parts from other sources which appear visually identical may be constructed with rubber of unsuitable characteristics, e.g. hardness, or simply glued together rather than chemically bonded during the vulcanisation process.

In addition to focusing on road safety, ZF Ecomat and EcoLife transmissions are equipped with topographic dynamic shift strategies to help reduce fuel consumption. They are also fitted with an integrated primary retarder, reducing wear on the brakes to keep the production of fine particulates as low as possible.

T: 01788 822353 E: info.zf-services-uk@ zf.com W: www.zf.com/eu

www.coachandbusweek.com

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QV Associates QV Associates has updated its wellestablished courses on the planning of bus timetables and the scheduling of buses and drivers so as to focus on the current financial issues.

The Worcester-based firm believes planning and scheduling are sometimes treated as mere technical skills – but they’re actually an essential part of bus operations and every serious professional ought to have a good understanding of them, irrespective of whether

they work for an operator or a local authority.

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

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

QV Associates residential courses are held in a Birmingham Hotel, with the next course taking place from November 5-8

Vital skills for success

Nottingham City Transport NCT Training offers a comprehensive range of learning and development programmes for drivers. Training on offer includes: Driver CPC – LGV and PCV; n Initial Qualification n Periodic Training Driver Performance Monitoring; n DSA assessment model n Remedial training Driver Recruitment & Selection; and Safe and Fuel Efficient Driving (SFED) NCT Training is a business approved as a delivery centre by both JAUPT and the RTITB, with trainers accredited by and registered with both bodies and able to deliver the complete range of RTITB training modules for both the LGV and PCV sectors.

All NCT Trainers hold the RoSPA Advanced Driving qualification at Gold standard, Instructors working on Initial Qualification programmes hold Level III Instructor qualifications, and Driver

Recruitment & Selection processes are managed by specialists registered with the British Psychological Society.

NCT Training is the commercial arm of the Training & Development Department of Nottingham City Transport, winner of the UK Bus Operator of the Year Award in 2012; NCT Training was Best UK Training Operator of 2011.

All of the programmes in the NCT Training portfolio have been delivered over a period of years to the driver employees of its parent company, and have made significant contributions to operational standards and profitability.

Complete flexibility of delivery – full or half-day sessions over seven days a week with a timeframe from 0800 to 2100hrs – means that operational disruption caused by driver release is kept to a minimum.

T: 01159 766745 E: karl.ward@nctx.co.uk W: http://www.nctx.co.uk/ training

YOUR ONE-STOP DRIVER TRAINING SHOP

Courses on Network and Timetable Planning Bus and Crew Scheduling

Approved Delivery Centre for • Driver CPC, LGV & PCV • JAUPT • RTITB Awards • UK Bus Operator of the Year Award 2012 • Best UK Training Operator 2011

QV Associates

N

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

Complete Flexibility • Full or half day sessions • 7 days a week • Times to suit you Contact Karl Ward on 01159 766745/karl.ward@nctx.co.uk or Mike Lee on 01159 766739/mike.lee@nctx.co.uk to discuss all your driver development needs

www.coachandbusweek.com

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO training & safety Minimise Your Risk Being the first JAUPT-approved registered centre, Alec Horner can quite rightly state that Minimise Your Risk has some of the longest experience at delivering periodic training. However, Alec is still concerned that many operators haven’t got into the routine of having one course each year delivered to all their drivers. The operators who have gone for the five courses all at once have not understood that new drivers do not have the same training cycle as the ‘acquired rights’ drivers and that waiting for another five years isn’t an option.

Operators and drivers should be looking to start their next training cycle after September 10 this year and finding courses relevant to their needs. One new course Alec is offering relates to the requirement of the European Passenger Rights Act for operators to demonstrate their staff have been given ‘suitable’ training on disability awareness.

Clealry, some of the courses

are always going to be a ‘staple’ for coach drivers, such as Drivers’ Hours and tachographs. While there haven’t been any major changes in the last five years, there have been sufficient updates to make a refresher viable.

The cost of courses is always an issue for operators and while Alec might not claim to always be the cheapest, his courses are good value for money and drivers go away with lots of informative handouts, such as a copy of the PSV 365.

However, one industry figure did remark that many operators, never mind their drivers, do not possess a copy of this important document.

Alec believes that based on a group of 20 drivers at £43.75 per driver (including the £8.75 upload fee), this is one of the most competitive prices on offer for a seven-hour D-CPC course, when delivered at an operator’s premises.

T: 0844 335105 W: www.minimiseyour risk.co.uk

Daniel Stephenson, Training Manager, beside Tanat Valley’s Berkofbodied Volvo B10M

Tanat Valley Coaches Tanat Valley Coaches has almost 100 years experience serving the borderlands of Powys and Shropshire, with 10 years’ experience delivering driver training.

It has introduced a fresh range of training in the last three years, including PSV & LGV initial driver training and in-house assessor training.

Tanat Valley also offers a mobile classroom and training unit, on board a dedicated training coach.

Daniel Stephenson, Training

Manager at Tanat Valley Coaches, said: “The beauty of the mobile classroom is it can visit operators and allow the training to be done there and then, whether it has the facilities or not. All that is needed is a power point.”

Tanat Valley has recently become a member of RTITB’s master driving consortium, meaning it can be relied upon to deliver high quality instruction with its courses.

T: 01691 780212 E: info@tanat.co.uk W: www.tanat.co.uk

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

Tel: 01691 780 212

Fax: 01691 780 634

Email: info@tanat.co.uk

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

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

     

PSV & LGV initial driver training CPC Initial & Periodic Training for PSV & LGV B+E car and trailer training In-house assessor training Driver assessments and training Fuel saving and compliance systems training & development And we can deliver the training to your doorstep with our mobile classroom and training unit, thus supplying fantastic training in the most convenient of ways!

Driver CPC is fast becoming a big issue, with many companies and drivers leaving it till the last minute in the hope that it might go away! Don’t be left behind, contact us today to arrange convenient and flexible training at very competitive rates.

We have recently become a member of RTITB’s Master Driver Consortium, a nationally recognised non-profit training organisation that is one of the largest In the UK, where every instructor is trained to a high standard in order to deliver their high quality courses.

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

www.coachandbusweek.com

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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 help 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. It is a tethered alcohol device which is connected directly to an immobiliser, preventing any driver from starting the vehicle if a breath sample is over a preset 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 instantly of positive tests allowing you to react accordingly. This system is also supported by remote access to the Alcolock GB dedicated website, which clearly identify the vehicle, date, time and alcohol figure recorded. It is also supported by an email for further notification.

This site is username and password

The Alcolock DS10 handset

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.

However, like all procedures, these can be changed to meet individual operator requirements.

Alcolock GB prides itself on 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. Alcolock GB 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 around two hours per vehicle.

Alcolock GB’s support does not stop there. Its team is always on

hand for help and advice and offers a guaranteed 48hr response for engineers if required. It supplies all consumables, such as mouthpieces or any spares required.

All breathalysers require calibration. Alcolock GB arranges this with the operator’s transport department.

Alcolock GB engineers carry identification, risk assessments and hi-viz clothing. The firm also carries out its own vehicle audit before and after every job attended, however small. It has dedicated team offering a one stop shop.

The cost may be less than you think. It could save you on insurance and it will definitely stop any drink/ drive related accidents and the associated costs. Alcolock GB can arrange monthly terms to cover all costs for the complete package at less than £2/day per vehicle for larger fleets.

T: 01761 408159

E: info@alcolockgb.com W: www.alcolockgb.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

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THE BIG PICTURE

The immaculate fleet run by Dews Coaches of Somersham, Cambridgeshire, includes some beautifully-restored heritage vehicles.

Amongst these is UFX 360L, a Plaxton Panorama Elite III-bodied Bedford VAL70, depicted here by John Robinson crossing the Twenty Foot River at Beggars Bridge, between Turves and Whittlesey, during the Fenland Classic Bus Running Day on May 18. New to Ward & Tarr (Sea View Coaches) of Parkstone, Dorset, in 1973 it passed to West Wight of Totland Bay in 1980.

After passing briefly to Kent firm Morgan, Sutton Valence, in 1987, it went to Farthing Corner Coaches of Rainham. Dews bought it in April 1988.

Bodywork repairs were carried out in 1997 to bring it up to rally condition.

It was driven in the 2000 Brighton Rally by Simon Dew when he won Coach Driver of the Year. The coach has recently been refreshed to bring it up to current pristine condition.

www.coachandbusweek.com

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www.coachandbusweek.com

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08/07/2013 21:41

38 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO training & safety Novadata Novadata is one of the UK’s most specialised and trusted providers of transport training for both managers and drivers, and also offers consultancy services which help drivers and entire fleets to operate safely, legally and profitably.

Its reputation for first class training has made Novadata a first port of call for drivers wishing to complete their 35 hours of DCPC training and register for a DQC in advance of the deadline. Courses are run at a number of centres across the nation, or can be held at client’s own premises if required.

Novadata has taken an innovative approach to providing training in a number of formats. It runs a fiveday course to provide all 35 hours in one week, often timed to coincide with school holidays, consecutive afternoon courses to fit in around regular contracts such as school runs and even Saturday courses for those who struggle to attend weekday courses. DSA registration

fees are included in all course fees.

Novadata also trains managers, providing courses on Management CPC, O-licence undertakings and drivers hours and correct tachograph use. The company is also one of the foremost in providing resettlement training for ex-forces personnel going into transport management.

Novadata is an invaluable source of tachograph products and analysis. It has courses to teach drivers the correct use of popular digital tachograph systems, highlighting the differences between the leading makes and models. The training ensures drivers and managers are aware of the relevant legislation in order that they can comply with their legal obligations, safeguarding O-licences and helping to keep operators and drivers free from prosecution.

T: 01376 552999 E: enquiries@ novadata.co.uk W: www.novadata.co.uk

Intoximeters Intoximeters has over 70 years experience in designing and manufacturing breath alcohol testing products and has recently launched its new Alco-Sensor VXL (AS-VXL) which is an advanced, handheld, microprocessor driven, breath alcohol testing instrument.

The AS-VXL provides a simple, economical method of determining breath alcohol concentration with evidential grade accuracy.

Additionally, the AS-VXL offers the ability to perform rapid screening and passive testing of subjects or it can be utilized to perform a headspace analysis of a sample over a liquid/drinks container.

The instrument’s design offers great flexibility. The Alco-Sensor VXL can be used in a stand-alone mode or it can be interfaced through a docking station or wireless connection with multiple peripherals, including keyboards, printers, magnetic card readers, bar code readers and computers.

All employers have a duty of care to their employees to ensure they adhere to best practice and use equipment suitable for the purpose; the same applies to enforcing a drugs & alcohol policy. Companies operating in high risk environments or under the railways and transport bill have a particular interest as many of their employees are covered by the particularly strict limits of the act but there are many other businesses, not least bus & coach transport, who have a responsibility to their customers and the general public to ensure no one operating their vehicles or machinery does so under the influence of alcohol.

The Alco-Sensor V-XL complete “in a briefcase” solutions provides a printout of each test which can then be used at later disciplinary or tribunal hearings. The AS-VXL also stores all test data for future reference if required.

T: 01803 868602 W: www.intox.com

Combat Alcohol in the Workplace

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

Penalties for regulatory non-compliance are harsh and disruptive.

Alco Sensor V XL

CPC

Driver CPC

Digital Tachograph

Drivers’ Hours Law

Tachograph Analysis

Intoximeters instruments provide fast and accurate results of breath alcohol levels.

Comprehensive technical support services are available.

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

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

www.coachandbusweek.com

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Advanced Vehicle Auditing Service In this age of compliance and litigation, staff training is essential in reducing your exposure. Advance Vehicle Auditing Service Ltd can provide training courses for your drivers and workshop staff.

By training your staff, further cost savings can be made through more fuel efficient driving and reduced vehicle down time.

Drivers of PCV’s only have until September 2013 to comply with the EU Driver CPC requirement.

Advance Vehicle Auditing Services Ltd is an approved centre (AC01121) by the Joint Approvals Unit for Periodic Training (JAUPT) and can provide periodic training with a choice of four approved modules: n Driver vehicle checks: as the first line of the maintenance system, drivers will not only comply with this important duty but will also be able to identify and report defects before they become potential prohibition items;

The company offers practical experience of using tachographs in a safe environment

n Driving hours: refresh driver’s knowledge and understanding of driving hours and the consequences of non-compliance; n Tachographs: drivers will have practical experience of using a digital Tachograph in a safe environment, any mistakes made here will not have the consequences of on-road mistakes; and n Eco-driving: Drivers will become more aware, safer and fuel efficient in their driving. More courses are coming soon.

Courses can be provided at your own premises or at a venue

provided by Advanced Vehicle Auditing Service. A minimum of six drivers are required for a course to be delivered. Courses can be provided and delivered on most days, where delivered at an operator’s own premises, and on most weekdays if a training room is to be provided. Lunch can be provided, and tea & coffee is provided.

Course duration is from 0800 to 1700hrs with tea/coffee breaks during the day, although courses can be delivered at other times (contact Advanced Vehicle Auditing

Service for further details). Timings and agenda will be provided with joining instructions.

Workshop staff will become more conversant with the relevant ‘Annual Testing’ manual - changing parts when required rather than when they have gone beyond their serviceable life or on ‘gut feeling’.

Supervisors will be able to advise if defects would attract prohibitions at VOSA roadside checks, preventing unroadworthy vehicles from being driven on the road.

Advance Vehicle Auditing Service Ltd can cater to individual training requirements with standard or bespoke training courses and certificates.

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

T: 01325 317 220 M: 07956 244 142 W: www.advance auditing.co.uk

Advance Vehicle Auditing Services Ltd

Time is running out for driver CPC (Sept 2013).

Are you ready?

Providing training courses for your drivers and workshop staff:

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

Workshop staff will become more conversant with the relevant 'Annual Testing' manual - changing parts when required rather than when they have gone beyond their serviceable life or on 'gut feeling'.

Supervisors will be able to advise if defects would attract prohibitions at VOSA roadside checks, preventing unroadworthy vehicles from being driven on the road.

Advance Vehicle Auditing Service Ltd can cater to your training requirements with standard or bespoke training courses and certificates.

Lunch can be provided. Tea & coffee is provided.

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

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

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

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

JAUPT APPROVED CENTRE AC01121

www.coachandbusweek.com

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO training & safety

Above: Training in progress at the Sibbald Training premises. Below: The company has provided training for Stagecoach drivers

Sibbald Training Ltd Sibbald Training is one of the country’s leading training providers and has won National Training Awards no fewer than four times.

Having spent over 20 years investing in construction related services it has now diversified into providing specialist training for the Driver CPC scheme. The business has provided driver training to some extent for the last 25 years. In the PCV industry, Sibbald Training has worked with a number of operators, including Stagecoach, Golden Eagle Coaches, Bruce Coaches and JMB Travel.

Sibbald Training delivers a range of JAUPT approved courses which allow both PSV and LGV drivers to complete their full requirement of 35 hours of mandatory periodic training. It has courses running at its site in Blackridge on a weekly basis, including weekends and during school holidays and can also provide an instructor to travel to the operator’s site to deliver the courses for up to 20 members of staff, which may be the best option for a business, depending on the number of employees. The courses available include: n Analogue and digital tachographs and tachograph rules and regulations; n Drivers hours regulations; www.coachandbusweek.com

IndustryGuide_p40.indd 42

n Route planning & fuel efficient driving; n An introduction to stress awareness; n Customer Care; n Accident Procedures – for drivers who are first on the scene of an incident; and n Loading & Load Security.

Modules cover the following parts of the European Directive – legislation including tachograph / driving hours, vehicle systems, health & safety / emergencies, vehicle checks, industry & environment, professional driver / company Issues and personal health & well being. All courses are fully accredited.

Sibbald traing also offers courses

in other areas, such as first aid, fire fighting and risk assessment.

Even with its training experience, the company’s courses are still very reasonably prices. Driver CPC courses average £75 plus VAT per module. Sibbald’s base rates already beat this, at £58.75 + VAT per module, but if operators choose to have the training at their own premises, the price can come down to £29.75 + VAT per person, if 20 drivers are put through each training session. This is a saving of £45.25 + VAT per person, per module on the average cost of a Driver CPC course.

Managing Director David Sibbald started the business as an owner operator with one

excavator for hire. The plant hire side of the business did very well and the training business really developed out of the need to train operators after the introduction of new legislation. David now has over 30 years experience in the training industry. He has grown his company from being an owner operator in the plant hire sector into a nationwide multi-disciplined training organisation with a first class reputation for training.

Asked why Sibbald Training has been such a success, Andrew Morrel, Sales Director for the business, said: “We get a lot of repeat business which means our training must be good and that’s the foundation of everything. But we’re always looking to innovate. We have our site but we train at clients’ own locations and we’re adding e-learning to our portfolio soon.”

Sibbald Training is passionate about its customers and continually strives to meet the needs they have today as well as planning and innovating for the needs they will have tomorrow. Its mission has always been to provide quality training, which creates the very best results for our clients.

T: 01501 750900 E: enquiries@ sibbaldtraining.com W: www.sibbaldtraining.com

08/07/2013 22:34

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Free CPC Training 8/7/13

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If you are an LGV or PCV driver and Qualify for Individual Learning Account funding (ILA) you may be en"tled to free CPC Training.

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Shona’s Way, Sibbald Park, Blackridge, West Lothian EH48 3BN Web: www.sibbaldtraining.com Email: enquiries@sibbaldtraining.com

42 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO training & safety Unwin Safety Systems Hand Activated Lockable (HAL) seat fixtures, traditional Innotrax and the innovative Innotrax Flat Floor were designed by Unwin to be uniquely functional and easy to use, and these qualities mean they are being widely adopted.

HAL is a removable seat fixture especially well-suited for use in community transport. Two major OEMs, Mercedes and Renault, have chosen Unwin’s HAL for use in their production minibuses.

HAL’s adoption by major European manufacturers builds on its increasing popularity with customers in the UK, such as West Midlands Ring and Ride.

Unwin Sales and Marketing Director Gerry O’Connor said: “HAL has unique functions, a unique design and people like its easy to use operation.

“We supplied West Midlands Ring and Ride with HAL for 28 vehicles last year and they have just come back this year for the same number of vehicles and the same HAL specification because their drivers and operators are comfortable with its use.

“Renault Tech is using HAL on their minibuses and so are Mercedes on minibuses coming out of Dortmund. That kind of highlevel acceptance from OEMs is the icing on the cake.

“They all say HAL is both functional and easy to use, with a simple one hand operation.

Additionally, it looks stylish and modern in their vehicles. Those are not my words – that’s what they tell me.

“I’m confident it’s going to be a major player and an even bigger seller for us for years to come.”

Unwin’s flooring system Innotrax was launched over 10 years ago. It’s a system fully tested to M1 standard which quickly and consistently produces a level horizontal floor, as sections click smoothly together.

Gerry said: “It’s been the floor of choice for several years in Hong Kong. It’s being supplied to the Hong Kong police force for use in their vehicles – general purpose travel minibuses and vehicles for riot control. It’s also being supplied to The Hong Kong Society for Rehabilitation for the transport of disabled people, so there are very varied users all having the same requirement: a safe, tested and strong solution to their needs.

“Closer to home there’s a

Unwin is also well known for its provision of seat restraints widening customer base as well.

It’s supplied to Vauxhall for use in police vehicles throughout the UK. “Initially, the primary purpose of Innotrax was to help with the transport of disabled people but now nearly half of the floors that we supply go out for general seating within minibuses, with no requirement for wheelchair access.

“Mercedes in Dortmund are using it in conjunction with HAL on the production line. We also used to supply LDV. Unfortunately, they are no longer in business in the UK, but we did supply up to 15 floors a day, every day of the week, for a considerable period of time. It was all done in ‘just in time’ fashion.

We were tasked to deliver to site to within 10 minutes of when it was needed, so we have plenty of

OEM experience having supplied a number of the biggest OEM names in Europe.”

Floors for LDV were cut by Unwin to the vehicle shape, supplied in halves, then fixed together, and lifted into place via forklift. The firm can cut floors to shape if supplied with CAD or SolidWorks drawings.

Gerry continued: “Whereas traditional rails are mechanically fixed into the vehicle floor every 100mm, Innotrax is generally glued and then requires only one fixing per rail at the rear of the vehicle, it is so simple.

“It keeps intrusion into the floor of the vehicle down to an absolute minimum and the OEM likes that solution. It’s also quicker to install because it is that much simpler.

Unwin can cut floors to shape if provided with CAD or SolidWorks drawings

“Innotrax is also a system which is fully tested on a whole range of vehicles, and that’s especially important these days with Type Approval. We’ve tested it, we’ve verified it and we stand behind it.”

Approved Innotrax installers are trained by Unwin and a review takes place every two years with the individual and the company they work for. The two things are linked, employer and employee.

Both have to hold certification at the same time.

A more recent innovation is the Innotrax Flat Floor. Fully tested to M2 standard, it is an increasingly popular choice for three vehicles able to use it properly, the Mercedes Sprinter, VW Crafter, and Iveco Daily. It’s the traditional Innotrax floor to look at but the difference is that it is bonded across five purpose-built and designed loadbearing aluminium sections and laid over cut-down wheel arches to maximise space within the vehicle.

Gerry added: “We have worked closely with VB Suspension in the Netherlands. They have a choice of three suspension systems which can be used, a simple block system, semi air, and full air suspension that is particularly good. A normal van can come to feel like a car in terms of comfort, quality and ride.”

T: 01935 827740 E: sales@unwinsafety.co.uk W: www.unwin-safety.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

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44 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO training & safety Wright Training Services Wright Training Services Ltd is a family run business which has been training successfully for over 20 years in the bus and coach industry.

The company provides courses for both drivers and managers including Driver CPC, Manager CPC and the new Refresher CPC. Wright is committed to the need for good training within the bus industry and in particular to the Driver CPC, where the time to get qualified is rapidly running out.

Traffic Commissioner Beverly Bell has stated there will be no leeway for operators which do not ensure their drivers are trained before September 9.

Courses are run by Wright during the week and at weekends.

Bookings can be made on an individual or group basis, where clients can either attend the firm’s own training centre in West Thurrock Essex, or have group training provided at their own

premises.

Attendees will be provided with comprehensive course information to take away as reference material for future use and Wright is happy to give assistance after the course if needed.

Wright has a policy which means if someone has booked a course the company is committed to run it course, as it understands the arrangements which must be made to be able to attend.

Legislation is constantly changing and to give customers a well informed and up to date course Wright continually updates its instructors with additional training and monitoring.

The company asks those interested to call Janice or Pauline at Wright to discuss training needs free of charge, where they may be able to help or point you in the right direction.

T: 01708 867564 E: info@wright-training.com W: www.wright-training.com

Transport Managers CPC Course – New & Refresher

Meridian Driver Meridian Driver delivers Driver CPC training throughout the UK and Europe.

The company has supplied bus and coach drivers to national UK operators since 2004, stating it will not be beaten on quality or price.

Some testimonials from Meridian’s customers are as follows: n Adrian Carter, Operations Director at Big Bus Tours, said: “I started using Meridian during my management at National Express to cover driver shortfall.

“I was very impressed with the calibre of drivers and management.

I now use Meridian for all my CPC training requirements at Big Bus Tours and have found the management and delivery to be superb.” n Christina Kelly, Operations Manager at Manchester Airport, said: “We have used Meridian driving staff for the last three years and have always found their

services very reliable and cost effective. I would recommend them to anyone in the PCV industry as their staff are flexible and reliable which is very important when you are managing a demanding operation. n Tracy Jackson, Staff Manager at First’s Hengrove Depot, said: “It is always good to receive praise for a good service and we would like to compliment Meridian on providing us with excellent drivers.” n Dave Palmer, Operations Manager for Veolia Transport’s Rotherham and Sheffield depots, said: “It’s been an excellent experience working with Meridian’s staff, especially National Supervisor Dave Doyle and the team of PCV drivers. I would be more than happy to recommend the company and staff to any company within our industry. Absolutely brilliant service!”

T: 0800 731 5007 E: info@meridianpcv.com W: www.meridiandriver.com

THE DRIVER CPC IS HERE

New Operators Course

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

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REMEMBER-REMEMBER 10th SEPTEMBER

Venue: West Thurrock, Essex or we can come to you 01708 867564 info@wright-training.com

WE WILL HOLD OUR PRICES FOR 5 YEARS

PCV DRIVER HIRE 0800-731-5007 CORPORATE DEALS AVAILABLE

Rising above all others

MERIDIAN DRIVER LTD www.meridiandriver.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

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08/07/2013 22:58

46 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

DELIVERIES

RATHO COACHES Edinburgh-based Ratho Coaches has taken delivery of its fourth Volvo 9700 Prestige Plus. The exdemonstration vehicle is already in operation across Ratho’s tour programme, which includes over 800 UK and continental tours out of London, catering for all variety of tours, particularly

American holiday groups.

This latest 51 seater 9700 two-axle coach joins another Volvo 9700 of the same specification in the fleet, along with two further larger 55-seat tri-axle 9700s.

“This new 9700 makes it five Volvo coaches in our fleet,” said Ratho MD Andrew Cowan. “We took a brand new 60-plate 9700 last year and it has proved extremely reliable. The customer feedback on the vehicle

has been excellent and our drivers like it as well.

“With Volvo Bus you get the on-the-road support across the UK network and abroad, which is massive for us operating continental tours. It’s vital to our operations and reputation that if something goes wrong it can be sorted quickly.”

The vehicle is equipped with theatre-style half leather seating, TV screens, CD/DVD system, centre servery and toilet.

PREMIERE TRAVEL Biggin Hill-based Premiere Travel has been using its new DAF-powered i6 integral for a few weeks and says it’s at the top of the game.

Premiere’s owner Chris Summerscales admitted he bought the coach partly

FACT FILE

Chassis/body Volvo 9700

(integral)

Engine Volvo 13-litre Transmission Volvo I-Shift Seats 51 Spec Touring Supplied by

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

Irizar UK Sales Director Ian Hall hands over the keys to Chris Summerscales of Premiere Travel

ADAMSON’S COACHES Adamson’s Coaches of Cramlington, Northumberland recently reached a milestone in the firm’s history when it took delivery of its first brand new coach from Arriva Bus & Coach.

The Van Hool TX15 Alicron has been built to Adamson’s executive specification. This includes a radio, CD, P/A System, Sat Nav, aircraft lockers, centre sunken WC, water boiler and a fridge.

Founded in 1950, the current owner Allen has been running the business since the 1980s. Specialising in private hire and tours, the three-strong fleet is made up exclusively of DAF-powered Van Hools.

Asked why the TX15

because he needed a new vehicle in a hurry, and Irizar’s short lead time and keen pricing matched his needs.

However, now he has operated the coach, he feels it was the right decision. “It’s been performing really well,” he said. “It offers excellent levels of comfort and impressive fuel economy.”

Apart from upgraded

a customer, you’re treated like family – and you get to know them on first name terms, which makes all the difference.”

Looking into the future, Allen said his grandson Kieren is “into his coaches”.

“He’s just three years old at the moment but it would be great if he could continue that enthusiasm. However, I wouldn’t want to make him feel pressurised,” added Allen.

FACT FILE

Pictured proudly collecting their new coach are Allen and his wife Wendy, with their son Paul and his three-year old son Kieren Alicron was chosen, Allen told CBW: “Van Hool makes one of the best coaches available.

That’s why we’ve got other Van Hools in our fleet.”

Adamson’s has been a long-standing customer of Arriva Bus & Coach.

Explaining why the firm has continued to buy coaches

from the Cleckheaton-based dealership, Allen said: “We’ve acquired coaches from them in the past. They’ve always been great to deal with. As

Chassis/body Van Hool TX15 Alicron (integral) Engine DAF 360hp Transmission ZF ASTronic Seats 49 Spec Touring Supplied by

Arriva Bus & Coach 01274 681144 www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk

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

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DeliveriesTOP.indd 46

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July 10, 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

seats, the coach is standard, but as Irizar UK standard spec is high, that includes a WC, drinks console, a Hispacold Bizone Climate System, Spheros preheater, DVD with 22-inch Actia TFT front monitor and 15 second monitor, ALCOA polished alloy wheels, a Knorr-Bremse tyre pressure monitoring system and a reversing camera.

The coach has electronic stability control, anti-lock and traction control. The i6 joins a fleet operating private hire, tours and corporate work.

FACT FILE

Chassis/body Irizar i6 (integral) Engine DAF 360hp Transmission ZF ASTronic Seats 57 Spec Touring Supplied by

Irizar UK 01909 500514 www.irizar.co.uk

NEWBURY & DISTRICT Newbury & District is the first operator to take delivery of the diesel-engined version of Optare’s specially designed 12.1m Versa school bus. Six have entered service and will be used primarily on school contracts although the company may also operate them on its local services in the Newbury area.

Optare made full use of the modular construction of the model to achieve the required length and because the first examples were built as hybrids with a heavier mechanical pack and roofmounted super capacitors a number of weight saving measures were also introduced, including using lighter-weight materials and fitting Rescroft CT Lite seats.

Each seat has a three-

point lap and diagonal ‘all age’ seat belt. The Versa also meets R66 rollover regulations.

Simon Weaver, MD, said: “This is a very modern and stylish looking bus which has been purpose-designed to carry schoolchildren which ensures we fully meet our contractual obligations. We can also use these buses on our regular service work, giving us added flexibility.”

The company opted for

the six-cylinder Cummins ISBe engine. At 201 bhp (150 kW) it has ample power to cope with hilly conditions when fully laden and its maximum torque output of 750Nm makes move-offs easy in all conditions.

An electro-magnetic retarder is fitted to provide smoother deceleration and braking, together with reduced power consumption leading to improved fuel economy.

Optare’s Sales Director, John Horn, said: “Once again Newbury & District is taking our Versa model, this time our uniquely designed school bus version. The vehicles are finished in a striking black livery with deeply tinted side glazing giving them a really classy appearance and they’ll not only provide safe and comfortable transport to and from school for young people but will also deliver good performance and fuel economy for the operator.”

FACT FILE

Chassis/body Optare Versa

(integral)

Engine Cummins ISBe Transmission Allison 2100

series auto

Seats 49 Spec School bus 3+2 Supplied by

Optare 08434 873 200 www.optare.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

DeliveriesTOP.indd 47

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48 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

face to face › kevin gale

and focusing on delivering a consistently great service for customers.

Kevin’s experience in customerfacing and operational roles give him a rounded perspective, which makes for a good fit with what National Express states is its core value: to put the customer at the heart of the business.

“Traditionally, operations can be seen as a cost-focused activity but the bottom line is, it’s customer service that drives revenue. If you give someone a bad experience, they will not use your services again, it’s quite simple.

Operations and customer services are inextricably linked,” Kevin continued.

Learning from partner operators

Kevin comes to National Express after nearly a decade as Operations Director for First Great Western

Delivering a top service Kevin Gale, a new appointment at National Express, discusses what he can bring to the coaching world from the rail industry and what the firm can learn from smaller operators

K

evin Gale has been appointed National Express’ Service Delivery Director after over 20 years in the transport industry.

The last 16 years of his career was spent at FirstGroup, and he held his last role as Operations Director for First Great Western for nine years; a position he was appointed to aged just 30.

His journey into transport started while he was at school. A career’s advice questionnaire revealed Kevin might be suitable for work in the transport industry, and just before his 16th birthday he joined www.coachandbusweek.com

KevinGale.indd 48

the rail industry under Margaret Thatcher’s Youth Training Scheme.

“Because I was still 15, I had to wait a week for my first pay packet,” recalled Kevin. “But as soon as I started working in transport there was no turning back, I absolutely loved it.”

From rail to coach

Kevin brings a lot to the National Express table, which has recently been strengthened by the appointment of other senior figures with a background in rail.

National Express Managing Director Tom Stables has previously worked for FirstGroup, while Sarah Copley, who has recently been

promoted to National Express’ Commercial Director, joined the company from Virgin Rail Group.

Kevin commented: “The great thing about coaches is their flexibility. Because we are able to add vehicles to meet demand, in a way that train or plane companies cannot, we can be really sensitive and responsive to customers needs.

“There is also so much expertise from the rail industry that we can bring to bear on the coach industry.

We’ve got an absolutely first rate product and the right people within our business but there is always room for improvement.

I’m committed to looking at all the things we do so well and making them even better so we are not just excellent, but consistently excellent.”

Kevin’s new role with National Express, a newly-created position, sees him take on a broad portfolio of responsibility.

He is at the helm of National Express Operations – both owned and third-party – with additional responsibility for coach station activity.

The position also oversees the full integration of all front-line staff including drivers, station operations, and retail staff into one team, in order to streamline ‘on the floor’ processes such as baggage handling.

Increased engagement with operators is another top priority for Kevin, as is improved punctuality

He believes the business can capitalise on the dedication and spirit commonly associated with smaller coach companies, harnessing it for mutual benefit.

“The operators we work with are shrewd, sharp and passionately committed to their work,” he added.

“Many smaller coach operators are still family-owned operations and they have learned business the hard way, on the front line, learning what works and what doesn’t. There is a whole lot we can learn from them.

I’m looking forward to properly getting to know our operators, and importantly, listening to what they have to say. Too often we are seen as a remote ‘corporate giant’ and it is time to change this. As well as the expertise and support we can offer to operators, there is also a lot we can learn from them to help improve the way we go about our business.”

With such a portfolio of responsibility it is a busy time for Kevin Gale, but an undoubtedly an exciting one.

“It’s difficult to travel on the UK’s motorways for any time without seeing a National Express coach and there is such a pride associated with the brand. I’m really looking forward to the coming months,” he concluded.

Tom Stables, MD National Express UK Coach, added: “Kevin’s operational, leadership and people management experience will be an asset to the business and his appointment further strengthens our senior management team. Now is an exciting time for National Express and we are really pleased to have him on board.”

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Allison fully automatic transmissions

deliver proven reliability ALLISON TRANSMISSION EUROPE, MILLBROOK PROVING GROUND, MILLBROOK, MK45 2JQ. T. +44 (0) 1525 408 600 . T. +44 (0) 1525 408 600

F. +44 (0) 1525 408 610

F

50 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

PRODUCTS

Email martin.cole@coachandbus week.com to get your new product or service in the spotlight

HOLDSWORTH MANUFACTURES FABRIC FOR NBFL

The durable moquette is 83% wool, 17% nylon

EXOL INCREASES VEHICLE DELIVERY FLEET Exol Lubricants has increased its fleet of delivery vehicles to 18, boasting enhanced coverage throughout the UK and an improved delivery service to its growing customer base.

The company has acquired an additional Scania 36,000-litre capacity tanker, the largest in the Exol fleet.

The truck is also specially fitted with pumping and metering equipment.

Exol’s fleet of vehicles features a mix of dual-purpose vehicles and large tanker trucks to transport both bulk and packaged Exol products to customers across a variety of sectors including agricultural, automotive, industrial, marine and rail.

The company’s dual-purpose vehicles also operate pumps and meters as well as tail lifts to assist customers further with pallet deliveries.

Steve Dunn, Exol Sales Director, said: “As our business grows, so too must our infrastructure and the acquisition of new vehicles is just another example – in addition to product, production and customer service – of where we are investing in our business to support customers more effectively.

“It is also exciting to see the Exol brand imagery featured across the fleet and this is part of a wider strategy to increase the awareness of the brand throughout the UK and abroad.”

For more information visit www.exol-lubricants.com

Exol has expanded its delivery capabilities with a new bulk tanker

Holdsworth is providing the fabric for the NBfLs which began operating on route 24 this month.

Holdsworth carries out the full manufacturing processes of yarn dyeing, warping, winding, jacquard weaving and all finishing at its busy manufacturing plant in Huddersfield, West Yorkshire.

The aesthetic design for the new buses was carried out

by London-based Heatherwick Studio, in a simple palette of colours and materials to create an interior that feels calm and coordinated. The vehicle sees a return to benchtype seats which two people can share, upholstered in durable red Holdsworth moquette which is an 83% wool, 17% nylon composition.

The fabric has been manufactured

by Holdsworth to withstand the

rigours of heavy usage, with approximately 28,000 people using the route each day. The fabric achieves an abrasion performance of 80,000 Martindale cycles, passes the stringent BS 5852 Part 2 Crib 7 flammability test required by TfL, and will retain its attractive appearance over time. Holdsworth is accredited to the ISO 14001 environmental management standard so can guarantee the fabric is manufactured with proven sustainability credentials and the high content of natural wool fibre ensures a low energy footprint and low CO2 impact.

Terry Colbert, Holdsworth Director of Sales, said: “The NBfL is an iconic sight in London and it’s great news the fabric continues to be manufactured right here in the UK for overground use on the NBfL and underground down in the tube.”

For more information email holdsworth@camirafabrics. com or ring 01924 481965

Nationwide vehicle tracking and detailed reports from Quartix

A SHADE GREENER TRACKING WITH QUARTIX Solar panel provider ‘A Shade Greener Ltd’ is tracking over 200 vehicles with Quartix. The company runs its operations in-house, including sales, surveys, home visits, installations and post-installations. “We have given each department head access to the Quartix tracking system and it has helped them immensely,” said David Wise, Operations Manager.

“They are able to track their teams at all times and direct drivers to avoid traffic or change appointments to suit locations.

“Real-time tracking has helped us allocate vehicles more efficiently.

A feature we find most useful is Address Search, which enables us to quickly find the closest team to a particular location. It helps redeploy

them if necessary, offering a quicker response and a greater level of service.”

Quartix’s management reports also help to keep on top of maintenance.

David continued: “We can monitor the miles our vehicles do, allowing us to plan maintenance and VOR time.”

Reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions is also a top priority for A Shade Greener. “The Driving-Style Monitoring has helped us reduce the speed at which our employees drive, which in turn has reduced fuel consumption for the whole company,” David explained.

It has also assisted in accident management and insurance claims, providing detailed information on where a vehicle was at any time and how it was being driven.

For further information contact Nia Williams, Sales Manager, on 0870 013 6663

www.coachandbusweek.com

Products.indd 50

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52 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

2003 ADL Enviro 300

2004 MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 CDI LWB WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

7HO

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

2200 cc turbo diesel, tachograph, 12 passenger seats all on tracking, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for upto 4 wheelchairs, 68000 miles, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 month nationwide parts and labour warranty. £10,495 NO VAT

Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076

2010 59 Reg Ford Transit Factory Bus

2005 MAN Noge

17 seats, will have new COIF and PSV test, tachograph, only 60k miles.

£14,950

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

Stafford Bus Centre 01782 791774

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

2006 Bova Majiq

2002 ADL ALX200 Dennis Dart

2005 Mercedes 814D Plaxton Cheetah

49 seat executive, ZF auto, LEZ compliant, leather headrests, twin monitor DVD, centre sunken toilet, tasteful moquette, excellent condition, MOT & Tax, economical vehicle, ready to work.

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.

POA – choice of 3

Stafford Bus Centre 01782 791774

£95,000 + VAT

Travelstar European 01922 647100 / 07779 801862

Phone Nick on 01626 833664 or 07872 839530

2007 Unvi Riada

2009 Renault

2012 Mercedes Sprinter 515 Cdi

Brand new engine with Mercedes warranty, 22 seats + certified courier seat, leather headrests, Euroliners, DVD, 3 point belts, P/A, air-con, 227,000km, MOT 15/04/14.

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.

2000 Optare Solo M850

X reg, 27 seats, new MOT.

£8,950

£42,000

£17,500 + VAT

Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279

Florida Taxi Coaches 01787 477701

Immediate delivery.16 Leather seats with blue piping 3 point belts, recliners, arm rest to aisle side, A/C, D/G, Large drop boot, PA System, Heater, EVM Conversion, 11800 mls, New MOT, Fully serviced, Ready to go.

POA. Location: Crawley - Contact: 01293 852025/ 01293 852040/ 0771 9103203

£65,000+VAT - P/X considered

33 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot.

POA

Connaught PSV – 01405 814064

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

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July 10, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 53

1999 Iveco Beulis

Volvo Olympian open top bus

Alexander Dennis body, P reg (1997), seats 75.

Fitted with a PA system, new MOT on purchase.

Choice of 5 vehicles.

LEZ BOXES FOR SALE

2006 Mercedes Benz 616 CDI Soroco Plus

£3,000 each + VAT

16 Fainsa seats, 3 point belts, seat back tables, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights, power door, large boot, fridge, DVD, new re-spray, 280,000 kms.

2 x used Eminox LEZ exhaust boxes, used for 6 months 2012.

Cleaned/reconditioned.

To fit a Bova Futura.

With full fitting kit or can be fitted while you wait!

Blythswood Motors 0141 889 9730

Bath Bus Company 01225 330444

PARNHAMS COACHES LTD Contact Ray 07747 071071

2010 Mercedes Benz Travel 45

1995 Scania K113 VanHool Alizee

Mercedes 814D Euro Coach

49 seats, 4 x 4 box, air con, new test, toilet.

£POA

16 reclining seats, 3 point belts, A/C, forced air, reading lights, power door, power step, curtains, coach rear, bi-xenon lights, auto gearbox, 189,000 miles.

POA

Connaught PSV – 01405 814064

1998 Volvo Olympian

Northern Counties low height body, ZF gearbox, 76 seats + 8, choice of 2.

Converted this year to 70 seater using Cogent seats with 3 point belts, tea machine, TV/DVD.

£27,500 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

2006 Mercedes Benz 814D Vario

£9,950

24 seats + courier 3 point belts luggage racks, reading lights, blown air, private plate, full skirts, wheel trims, stunning condition, more pictures available.

Stafford Bus Centre 01782 791774

£32,495 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

2001 Mercedes 814 Vario Optare Nouvelle

2009 Mercedes Tourismo

31/33 high back seats, forced air, reading lights, PA system, power door and boot.

POA

Connaught PSV – 01405 814064

Travelstar European 01922 647100 / 07779 801862

2003 Setra 315 GTHD

49 seat with retractable belts, low mileage, seat back tables, footrests, centre toilet, power door, air con, webasto, cool box and boiler 2 x monitors and DVD, radio cassette, LEZ exhaust, great drive.

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

£53,500 + VAT ono

£58,000

Contact William on 07733 914050

Paul Watson Travel paul.watson9@btconnect.com

2005 13m Bova Futura

2002 Futura

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

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

£84,500+VAT - P/X considered

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

1998 R REG OPTARE SOLO

49 seat executive, luxury pleated seats with leather piping and headrests, side shift seats, centre sunken toilet, twin monitor DVD, ZF AStronic gearbox, extreme comfort, a hit with passengers. Viewing recommended.

£145,000 + VAT

POA

Connaught PSV – 01405 814064

£55,000 + VAT L.J. Edwards: 01323 440622 option 2 or John 07974 369570

2003 Mercedes Citaros

POA

38 + 34 standees, LEZ complaint, full DDA, dual door, Hanover LEDs, CCTV, in good condition, very low mileage (240,000 – 260,000 km), 1 year’s MOT. Choice of 6 (5 x 53 plate and 1 x 03 plate). £40,000 each + VAT

EnsignBus 01708 865656

yourbus – 01773 714013

Mercedes engine, Allison, 30 seats, new MOT.

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

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54 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

2007 MERCEDES SPRINTER 311 CDI WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

2003 Volvo Jonckheere B12M Mistral 50

Automatic gearbox, 2200cc cdi turbo diesel, AMF wheelchair lift, tracking for upto 3 wheelchairs plus 4 seated, panoramic glass, 66000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. ÂŁ 18995 + VAT

53 passenger seats, 12 months MOT, 527,071kms, interior & exterior in excellent condition, vigorously maintained (records available).

Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076

2007 VW CRAFTER MWB HIGH ROOF WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

2500cc turbo diesel, PLS easy access internal lift, tracking for 2 wheelchairs, Stanford conversion, electric front windows, panoramic glass, metallic silver, 69000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. ÂŁ12995 + VAT

Mercedes Benz 814D Plaxton

27 coach seats with 3 point belts, perfect for school bus or private hire, choice of two – one manual, one auto, private plate and power door.

2006 Plaxton Cheetah

Automatic gearbox, only had one owner from new.

ÂŁ54,500

ÂŁ49,950 + VAT ono Star Coaches Limited Martin 07831 265804 Adam 0121 350 5555

ÂŁ8,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

Plaxton Coach Sales Centre 01909 551166

2004 Bova Futura

2003 Dennis Trident 2 Alexander ALX 400

2003 Transbus ALX400

51 seat executive, ZF auto, LEZ compliant, excellent condition, centre sunken toilet, 2 monitors, DVD, driver and crew seat retrimmed. Ready to go.

67 seats, Cummins Euro 3 engine, DPF to meet Euro IV, ZF gearbox, DDA compliant, MOT. £25,000 + VAT – ONLY 4 LEFT! Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

ÂŁ55,000 + VAT

Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076

Travelstar European 01922 647100 / 07779 801862

2008 Mercedes 515 CDI Soroco

2010 Alexander Enviro 200

53 reg, 76 belted seats, LEZ compliant, new conversion with new high back seats.

ÂŁ47,995

BASE Ltd – 01772 425355

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19 high back seats, forced air, A/C, D/G, reading lights, power door and boot, in metallic silver.

Very clean example of the market leading bus, fitted with seat belts.

ÂŁ82,500

Connaught PSV â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 01405 814064

Plaxton Coach Sales Centre 01909 551166

1999 Mercedes 814D Mellor

2006 Mercedes Benz 814 Vario

POA

33 coach seats, 3 point belts, MOT 21/11/12, luggage racks, forced air, power door, boot/side locker, manual gearbox, tacho, repainted cream.

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ÂŁ10,000

24 seats + courier, 3 point belts, luggage racks, reading lights, blown air, private plate, full skirts, wheel trims, very low mileage, test 27/10/2013, stunning condition.

Drew Wilson Coach Sales 0141 248 5524

ÂŁ32,495 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

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

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July 10, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 55

2007 Setra 415GTHD Comfort Class

2011 Enviro 200 Service Bus

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.

39 seats, choice of 13, but only one for sale! Low miles and clean, only used on P&R. One year’s ADL warranty, new MOT, price inc. re-spray (2 colour).

2000 SCANIA T9

2004 IVECO DAILY 35S13 9 SEAT MWB HIGH ROOF MINIBUS

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.

2800cc turbo diesel, 6 speed gearbox, white, panoramic glass, electric mirrors, LEZ compliant, 90000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. £4995 NO VAT

£89,995

£94,900 ONO + VAT

£24,750

Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

Belfast Bus – 07921 389720

2007 Scania K340/ Caetano Levante

2007 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 515 CDI

2008 MAN Auto Ayat

Luxury VW Crafter

Choice of 2, 49 leather reclining seats, ZF automatic gearbox and retarder, Hanover front, side and rear destinations, WC, air conditioning, PLS magic lift, low mileage, recently refurbished and can be used on National Express network until June 2016.

Imm delivery. Extra long. Ext’d body, manual, c/back boot door, 16 seats + 2 tables, 3 pt seat belts, aisle side arm rests, curtains, large boot, 197000 mls, panoramic windows, Euroliners, full length luggage racks, forced air + reading lights, under dash storage box, PA, new MOT, ready to go, location Crawley.

POA 01293 852025/01293 852040/0771 9103203

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...

2007, 16 seats, A/C, DVD, microphone, 125,000 miles, 8 months MOT, excellent condition.

£80,000 + VAT each

yourbus – 01773 714013

2003 Futura

2005 Daf VanHool

£89,000+VAT - P/X considered

£25,000

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

Slick Rides – 07823 770978

VOLVO B12B

1993 Dennis Dart Limo Bus

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.

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

£85,000

£120,000

Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279

Contact William on 07733 914050

1994 Volvo B9M Berkof Excellence

2002 Optare Solo M920

2009 MAN NL273F Wrightbus Meridian 12m

Good solid engine and gearbox, tidy bodywork, MOT till April 2014, 37 recliners, loads of legroom and a rear toilet.

02 reg, 31 seats – three available.

£14,000 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

Stafford Bus Centre 01782 791774

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

£65,000 + VAT L.J. Edwards: 01323 440622 option 2 or John 07974 369570

£11,750

Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076

44 seats + 26 standees, fully DDA compliant, Mobitec LED, CCTV, digital tachograph, ex-lease. £67,500 + VAT Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

12 months MOT, 20 seats incl. driver, blue leather seats, LED lights in roof, colour changing lights in seats, illuminated glass holders, 2 x champagne buckets, ideal for proms and weddings.

£8,000 + VAT ono

For more information please call Dave or Lou on 01291 625449

2008 Optare Solo 9.5m

MAN E4 engine, 32 belted seats, new MOT.

POA

Mistral – 01565 621881

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

681335-1095-Ensign:Layout 1

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Page 1

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 or 70 when converted to single door.

Last few remaining from £8,500.

2000 VOLVO B7TL’S

2001 Y REG VOLVO B7TL’S Euro 3 with traps, DDA, LWB, Plaxton bodies, 67 seats as 2 doors or 78 once converted to single door.

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

2005 ENVIRO 300

1999 VOLVO B7TL’S

Cummins ISC Euro 3 engine, ZF gearbox, 44 seats, DDA, Mobitech LED’s, MOT May 2014.

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

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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nbus

K ER SPECIALIST 1998 R REG VOLVO B10BLE’S

2000 W REG DAF SB220’S

ZF auto, East Lancs Myllenium bodies, SLF, 46 seats.

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

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.

2003 SCANIA OMNICITY CN94UB

1998 R REG VOLVO OLYMPIANS

2 door, Euro 3, ZF automatic, 37 seats, 12m, DDA.

Volvo Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, Alexander RL bodies, 83 / 87 seats.

2002 02 PLATE DENNIS TRIDENTS

1995 VOLVO OLYMPIAN

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

Cummins L10 / ZF, Northern Counties body, low height 13 feet 8, 77 seats.

2001/2002 DENNIS TRIDENTS

1991 DENNIS JAVELIN

51 and 02 plate, Cummins Euro 3 ISC engines, LEZ, Plaxton President bodies, can be DDA, single door and 78 seats, or dual door 67 seats.

ZF automatic, Plaxton body, 53 high back seats with 3 point belts.

1998 R REG VOLVO OLYMPIANS

2010 60 PLATE VOLVO B7R’S

Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, Northern Counties bodies, 80 seats.

- BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BUS DEALERS Euro 5, ZF automatic, Plaxton profile bodies, 53 seats, air-con, only 72,000km since new.

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, air-con, tacho From £20,795 + VAT

D L O S

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

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

(05) 2005 Mercedes Vito 9 seat LWB 2.2 diesel, 6 speed gearbox, air-con, large boot £6,995

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

(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

D L O S

(12) 2012 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 135ps air-con, tacho, COIF/PSV £18,450

(07) 2007 LDV Maxus 13 seat wheelchair accessible minibus, under floor lift, space for two wheelchairs, electric side step £8,495

(11) 2011 Ford Transit 9 seat Shuttle Bus, twin side loading doors, large rear luggage area, delivery miles only £16,995

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

(57) 2007 Renault Master MWB 2.5TD 6 speed, tracking for two wheelchairs, in board lift, aircon, rear heating, 35,000 miles, one owner £12,495

(10) 2010 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 2.4 diesel, six speed gearbox, tacho, 55,000 km £13,495 (07) 2007 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 2.4 diesel, six speed, one owner, 64,000 miles, FSH, COIF/PSV £9,950 + VAT

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 (10) 2010 Renault Master 17 seat LM39 2.5 diesel, high back seats, nice spec £11,450 (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

(

(05) 2005 Fiat Ducato 20ltr diesel SWB 6 Seat wheelchair accessible minibus, Unwin fully tracked floor to take two wheelchairs, lightweight fold out ramp, electric winch £3,995

(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

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 £5,995

PART-EX TO CLEAR

(X) 2000 Ford Transit SWB 2 litre petrol 11 seat minibus, MOT until March 2014 in VGC £1,250 no VAT

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%

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697537-1095-Stafford

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Call for details on our website 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

AEC ROUTEMASTER No 1747 FOR RESTORATION

With AEC engine, 95% complete and does run, no seats, been a playbus & office, just waiting for new use.

Offers around £18,950

MERCEDES 614D VARIO VAN CONVERSION 2003 03 REG

Fitted with 20 coach seats, full height boot etc, ideal for airports etc, repainted and new MOT.

£7,950

MERCEDES 814D VARIO PLAXTON BEAVER 2 1999 T REG Fitted with 29 h/b seats and belts but would re seat to 33, will have new MOT. £7,950

FORD TRANSIT 350 15 SEAT FACTORY BUS 57 REG

Low miles, Class 5 MOT, drive on any car licence, ideal for school and club use with restricted drivers.

£9,950

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62 | COACH & BUS WEEK | July 10, 2013

TRAVELBILLITY 2005 Mellor 33 seats with boot, forced air, analogue tacho, 260,000kms, MOT 10/2013

2000 (X) 413 CDI Sprinter

Sprintronic g/box, COIF for 16 seats or 6 W/C, private plate, UVG Modular

Volvo Olympians

2005 Plaxton Beaver 2006 Mellor 28 seats or 9 W/C, 29 seats, large boot, automative, climate air con, analogue control, 98,000kms, tacho, 287,000kms, MOT 09/2013 MOT 10/2013

2006 Mellor COIF for 20 seats, external tail lift, fully tracked flat floor

2005 (55) Fiat Ducato 2.0 diesel, 4 seats and 2 W/C, fully tracked floor, ramp

All prices + VAT FINANCE CAN BE ARRANGED

Please call 01934 515511 or email info@travelbillity.com Location 2 minutes from J21 M5

Large selection, all taxed and PSV’d, ZF auto boxes, recently re-upholstered, just out of services, upper deck 47, lower 31, standing 8.

We also have a number of Dennis Dart and Volvo single decker busses with seat belts.

Contact us for more information: 01530 560566 07836 517350 sales@truckandplantsalesltd.com

65 SEAT S

15 RE MET

2007 VOLVO B12BT PLAXTON PANTHER 15M 65 SEATS n Auto n Air con n LEZ compliant

n DDA compliant n Front lift n Rear toilet

All for £89,950 + VAT OVNO

NEW BATCH RELEASED Call Mike Austin for more information

07834 810907

E&OE

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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.

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

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.

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.

2008 08 REG MERCEDES 515 CDI SOROCO 16 high back seats, forced air, A/C, D/G, reading lights, power door and boot, in silver metallic.

2008 08 REG MERCEDES 515CDI SPRINTER 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, forced air, reading lights, under-floor wheelchair lift, silver.

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 515CDI SOROCO 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, DG, forced air, reading lights, DVD, power door and large boot.

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

2003 03 REG MERCEDES 413 CDI SOROCO 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot.

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

p00_CBW_1090 1000 Vehicles FP

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p65_CBW_1095

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July 10, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 65

........Distinctly Different

EVM Elegance Available Now!

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ADVISORY SERVICES

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

BUS & COACH RENTAL

Vehicle Inspection & Maintenance Compliance Services CHECKPOINTS

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FINANCE

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LIFTS & RAMPS

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SIGNWRITING

TRAINING

Sign Writing Services • School Signs – Hard Back with Suckers, Magnetic or Stick-on • Legal Lettering, Stickers, Notices & Signs • Full Colour Latex Vinyl Printing & Design Service • Vinyl Livery Cut & Posted ready to apply

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

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July 10, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 69

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

Monday: Rest day – of sorts. I miss the madness of press day at work for the last time for some months but certainly don’t laze about at home. With no rest for the wicked, I crack on with sorting junk in the house. By the close of play, the bin cupboard & garden shed are prepared for when we move. The garage is also more organised – the box & newspaper pile having been topped up with a fresh consignment from my parents over the weekend.

The latest marketing innovation from Arriva Yorkshire. Above: The competition’s ‘champions’ met the band after the show. Below: Joan Clarke entered the competition after receiving a flyer advertising her local bus service

You’re my bus friend…

Arriva Yorkshire has teamed up with Theatre Royal Wakefield to offer one lucky street on the route of its 126/127 services the chance to hop on the bus and head into town for a fabulous night of entertainment.

Routes 126/127 connect Wakefield, Horbury, Ossett and Dewsbury and operate every 10 minutes during the day and at least every 30 minutes in the evenings until 2300hrs.

The competition winners, all residents of Oakwood, Lupset, were treated to free bus travel to the theatre, reception drinks and tickets for the whole street to see A

Dilbert

Tuesday: A busy day in the office. Draft up a list of potential operator features for 2014 and also further consider creative ideas which came to my head yesterday. Put together several spreads worth of material for future issues and also carry out an appraisal with our James (nothing bad).

Wednesday: My second day ‘off’ of the week – to concentrate on house stuff.

It’s one of those days where you run around like a blue reared fly, seemingly doing little but end up reaching a significant milestone.

Night of Queen with the Bohemians.

A surprise meet and greet with the band also took place after the show.

Nigel Featham, Managing Director for Arriva Yorkshire, said: “We are delighted that our

competition winners had such a great time. We realise our local bus services are at the heart of the communities we serve and the bus is a great way for local people to meet up to socialise.”

Thursday: A particularly hectic day in the office racing against the clock, doing managerial tasks and my usual hands-on magazine production.

Friday & the weekend: Rise extra early to drive down to Luton Airport for a flight to Bratislava for a bus & coach industry mate’s stag do, for who I’m best man. It’s great fun. Akin to a reunion from Uni, we bounce off each other, just like old times. As chief photographer, I take several hundred snaps over the course of the weekend, both CBW-suitable material and funny friend pics, as it were... We also enjoy a day trip to Vienna, going out by boat and returning by rail, sampling beers, buses and trams in the process.

By Sunday evening I’m shattered but very much on a high – going away with my mates has done me a load of good mentally. www.coachandbusweek.com

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HASSLE-FREE DRIVERS? Hire coach drivers when you need them.

No holiday, no absence, no NI – pay only for the hours you need them for.

We keep your wheels turning while your drivers are resting.

Call Del Haggerty Just Coach Drivers Ltd 07950 292939 www.justcoachdrivers.com

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 half price k e e w d n seco ek FREE! e w d ir h t and a d un�l nde Offer exte ber 2013 m te p 27th Se

Contact Ian Gillis

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RECRUITMENT & people

July 10, 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

Epsom Coaches staff mark 25 years of service No less than three of Epsom Coaches staff enjoyed celebration of 25 years’ service recently along with over 60 friends and colleagues.

Following a sumptuous lunch at the Chalk Lane Hotel, a reception followed where presentations were made by Managing Director Steve Whiteway to Gary Bishop, who has been a remarkably flexible member of the driving team and highly regarded for his hard work and loyalty over so many years.

Trudie Garner started out with our bus driving team back in 1988, but now looks after the payroll system, a vital role, in which she has demonstrated considerable expertise and accuracy over so many years. Alistair Scott is well known to both his customers and trade friends as the creator of so many of the firm’s award-winning holiday and day trip programmes.

Despite his longevity, Stave said Alistair still manages to come up with something new every year.

Steve Whiteway said: “Words alone cannot express my

Epsom Coaches staff pictured at the Chalk Lane Hotel, Epsom

Two new senior appointments at Torotrak Torotrak has made two strategic appointments to its board aimed at further building upon the impressive performance announced in the company’s yearend results last month.

Rex Vevers joins as Finance Director and brings a wealth of international commercial and operational expertise in the clean technology, engineering and volume manufacturing areas. Previously serving as Group Finance Director

admiration for our long serving team here at Epsom. As an old timer myself, I am always delighted to recognise loyalty to the company and this is an appropriate way to do just that. Gary, Trudie and Alistair have been part of the foundations of this unique business for so many years and I look forward to the next 25 years working with them.”

of Ceres Power Holdings plc, Vevers played a lead role in securing the necessary commercial contracts and investment funding to drive the company’s growth strategy.

Additionally Vevers has held finance leadership positions in a number of global industrial organisations since first qualifying as a chartered accountant with Arthur Andersen.

Also joining Torotrak is John McLaren who brings significant

expertise as an adviser, venture capital investor, and business leader across three continents.

McLaren, who joins as nonexecutive director, began his career in the diplomatic service before moving on to hold senior positions in two large investment banks and a US based venture capital company where he built an expansive knowledge of corporate finance and capital markets for a portfolio of clients that included several major car manufacturers.

McLaren is currently the Chairman of Barchester Group and a nonexecutive director of four privately held companies in the UK and US.

Respected bus manager retires Sunderland Operations Manager of Stagecoach North East, Geoff Reed, has retired after 30 years’ dedication to the travel industry.

Geoff has been at the company for 13 years. During his time at Stagecoach North East he has managed four of the company’s six depots.

Geoff started his career as a bus driver following his retirement from the Navy where he spent 15 years. He has worked his way up through to management before joining Stagecoach North East in 2000 as Operations Manager at its Byker depot. He has also worked at the company’s Stockton, Slatyford and Walkergate depots.

Geoff commented: “I’ve really enjoyed my career and my time at Stagecoach North East. The biggest challenge throughout the years has certainly been ensuring the buses remain on time, while providing the same level of service, as the traffic has become heavier as time has passed. Working through the four different depots I’ve had the opportunity to meet some wonderful characters from drivers through to management.

“I’d like to thank all of my colleagues for their help and assistance during my various roles at the company. In my position it’s important to have a good relationship with the staff and I’ve been fortunate to work with a great bunch. The bus industry has given me stability throughout the years and enabled me to live a good life.”

www.coachandbusweek.com

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