Coach & Bus Week : Issue 1178 by Coach and Bus Week & Group Travel World

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The odds of successfully appealing a Penalty Charge Notice are stacked against drivers and operators

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6 l Van Hool hydrogen fuel cell buses to come to London as part of 3Emotion project

06 l News 10 l Bus News 12 l Coach News 44 l Big Picture 52 l Deliveries 82 l Last Stop 84 l People

7 l Rotala acquires the entire share capital of Green Triangle Buses trading as South Lancs Travel 10 l Ace Travel goes into liquidation after HMRC issues a winding-up order

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More fuel cell buses for London London likely to receive two hydrogen fuel cell buses as part of EU project The 3Emotion project foresees the delivery of 21 hydrogen fuel cell buses to London, Rome (Italy), Rotterdam and the Province of Zuid-Holland (Netherlands), Cherbourg (France) and Flanders (Belgium) as well as the creation of new fuelling stations in Cherbourg and Rome. 3Emotion (Environmentally Friendly, Ef�icient, Electric Motion) valued at €41.8m, has Van Hool leading a consortium of 14 partners and the Belgium manufacturer will develop two new types of fuel cell bus. Transport for London is a partner and while nothing has been agreed yet, talks are ongoing for the possible supply of two vehicles. One of the Van Hool A330 fuel cell buses that Stagecoach will operate in Aberdeen was brie�ly viewed in London last year. It’s up to local public transport organisations and local political involvement to evaluate, consider and negotiate about the investments required in order to acquire the number of vehicles

Arriva to operate London’s �irst all electric bus route

TfL has announced that Arriva has been awarded the contract to operate route 312, which will become the �irst route in London

Van Hool has a proven track record in manufacturing hydrogen fuel cell buses scheduled. This needs to be done in a 2015-2019 timeframe in order to bene�it from the €15m that the European Union (EU) is contributing. Van Hool is to coordinate the entire project including research, development and manufacturing of buses powered by hydrogen and the infrastructure for the hydrogen fuelling stations. With the project, the consortium meets targets set by the EU: reduction of CO2 and other

harmful emissions such as �ine dust and NOx, the goal of zeroemissions public transport and renewable energy sources, and the creation of green jobs in the member states. For Flanders it includes three articulated buses that will be deployed in Antwerp together with the hydrogenpowered Van Hool buses recently delivered. Filip Van Hool, CEO at Van Hool NV, stressed the importance of this project for the company. “We

already have some 10 years of experience with hydrogen fuel cell buses,” he said. “Today, we have 49 operational in Europe (27) and USA (22). The priceless experience that we have gained in the process will prove valuable for the development of new-generation hydrogen fuel cell buses within the framework of the 3Emotion project. These vehicles with high added value are of tremendous importance for our plant in Koningshooikt.”

to be operated entirely by electric buses. Arriva, which already operates route 312, was re-awarded the contract after a competitive tender process. The contract will run from September 2015. There are currently two Optare MetroCity electric single deck buses on route 312, which runs between

South Croydon and Norwood Junction. These two buses have been used as an initial test to establish whether the technology could stand up to the rigours of operating in an intense urban environment such as London. Arriva is currently in talks with bus manufacturers with a view to adding a further seven electric

buses to the route. Mike Weston, TfL’s Director of Buses, said: “This is an exciting new milestone for our bus �leet, which is already one of the cleanest in Europe. “We currently have eight electric buses in our �leet and as this number grows we are learning more about this new technology.”

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Rotala buys South Lancs Travel

Rotala has acquired the entire share capital of Green Triangle Buses Ltd, trading as South Lancs Travel (SLT), from D&G Buses Ltd and Julian Peddle for a cash consideration of £900,000 as of February 28, 2015. At completion Rotala also repaid approximately £368,000 to SLT’s bankers to settle the outstanding overdraft.

0.165p

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At the date of acquisition, SLT had net assets of £466,000, including Hire Purchase debt of £233,000. In the year ended August 31, 2014, SLT had revenues of approximately £3.9m and a pro�it before tax and exceptional items of £107,000. Rotala expects the acquisition to generate about £450,000 of positive goodwill. SLT operates 43 vehicles from a long leasehold depot in Atherton, Manchester and employs about 100 staff. The acquisition represents the �irst time that Rotala will operate in an area which falls under the remit of Transport for Greater Manchester.

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Operationally SLT – which will be renamed Diamond Bus (North West) Ltd in due course – will be part of the North West division of Rotala, with its existing hub in Preston headed by Bob Dunn as Managing Director. Simon Dunn, CEO of Rotala, told CBW: “Upon acquisition the current Directors will resign; myself, Kim Taylor, Bob Dunn and Antony Goozee will be appointed Directors of the new acquisition. Over the medium term the intention is to rebrand the business. “We see this opportunity as an entrance route into the Greater Manchester market, and it leaves

Aberdeen fuel cell routes announced Stagecoach and First have announced the routes that Europe’s largest �leet of hydrogen fuel cell buses, 10 Van Hool A330s, will operate in Aberdeen, this following the imminent opening of a refuelling station at Kittybrewster. The six-strong Stagecoach �leet will operate on the X17 Aberdeen city centre to Westhill route while the four First Aberdeen vehicles will be in operation on the X40 Kingswells to Bridge of Don Park and Ride service. Stagecoach is expected to start �irst with First following in a few weeks. Aberdeen City Council Leader Councillor Jenny Laing said: “We are entering a really exciting stage of the Aberdeen Hydrogen Bus Project, with First and Stagecoach preparing to launch the buses on

www.coachandbusweek.com

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(L to r) Steve Walker (Stagecoach), Jenny Laing (Aberdeen City Council) and David Phillips (First) at the announcement their services and take a new and exciting form of transport to the Aberdeen public. “The route announcements are a clear commitment by the companies to bring these buses into public service in the very near future, once they have completed their driver training and the hydrogen refuelling station is fully commissioned, and I am quite sure the travelling public will be as excited as I am to have

155.00p

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the opportunity to travel on these buses. “The Aberdeen Hydrogen Bus Project has created a huge amount of interest not only in Aberdeen, the UK and Europe, but across the world. These buses will not only help us to realise Aberdeen’s aspiration of becoming a worldleading city for low carbon technology, but also to maintain our position as a leading world energy city, while improving the

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the group well positioned for future market developments and potential opportunities.” David Reeves, Managing Director of D&G Buses Ltd, commented: “The decision to sell Green Triangle has been dif�icult to make and it is hard to let it go, but geographically it is very dif�icult to run a business in Manchester when our other operations are closer to home. “Julian Peddle, Kevin Crawford, Heidi Holland, Chris Almond, the D&G Head Of�ice Staff and myself would like to thank everyone at Green Triangle for their continued efforts and to wish them all the very best for the future.” city’s environment and city centre air quality.” The hydrogen fuel cell buses, manufactured by Van Hool, were brought to the city as part of the £19m project, a largescale demonstration testing the economic and environmental bene�its of hydrogen transport technologies. Partners are: Aberdeen City Council; the Scottish Government; Scottish Enterprise; Innovate UK; Scottish Hydro Electric Power Distribution; BOC; Van Hool; First; Stagecoach; Scotland Gas Networks; and Element Energy. Funding has come from Scottish, UK and European partners: the UK’s innovation agency, Innovate UK (£2.4m); Scottish Government (£1.7m); Scottish Enterprise (£1.7m); Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking (FCH JU) through the High V.LO-City and HyTransit projects (£8.3m); Aberdeen City Council (£2m); First (£1m); Stagecoach (£1m); Scottish Hydro Electric Power Distribution £750,000; and Scotland Gas Network £200,000.

March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 7 02/03/2015 17:59

NEWS

Scottish Transport Statistics show bus industry contraction Though there have been improvements in many areas over the past year, the Scottish bus sector remains well below levels seen five years ago

Key points:

l 425m journeys were made by bus in 2013-14. More than a third of these were made under the National Concessionary Travel Scheme. l The number of vehicles operated has fallen 15% over the past five years l Vehicle kilometres have fallen by 15% over the past five years l There were 1.3m people with National Concessionary Travel cards in Scotland in 2014. l The bus industry received almost £300m in funding from Local or Central Government in 2013-14. Passenger revenue in 2013-14 stood at £364m in Scotland. Scottish Transport Statistics has released its 2014 report, presenting a comprehensive statistical picture of transport in Scotland.

Vehicles & Passengers

Around 425m passenger journeys were made by bus in Scotland in 2013-14. This is an increase of 0.2% on 2012-13 and a 13% fall from a peak in 2007-08. Journeys under the National Concessionary Travel Scheme make up just over a third of this figure (36%). Similarly, vehicle kilometres have fallen by 15% over the past five years, with the distance covered falling in four of the last five years; 2012-13 to 2013-14 being the only period seeing a rise (up 1%). The drop has been similar in both commercial and subsidised services. There is further evidence of contraction in the industry with the number of buses in operators’ fleets falling by 15% over the past five years, and an 8% fall in the number of staff employed in the industry over the same period.

There is a slightly contrasting picture for Great Britain as a whole, which has seen passenger journeys remain relatively stable over the past five years and, although vehicle kilometres have fallen, they have done so at a slower rate than in Scotland (a 5% fall compared to a 15% fall). Bus use is higher in urban areas and lower in rural areas. The Scottish Household Survey travel diary shows 61% of those who used the bus the previous day lived in large urban areas compared to 2% of users living in remote rural areas. This compares to population estimates of 39% living in large urban areas and 6% living in remote rural areas. These figures are supported by the results of the more general question on bus use included in the Transport and Travel in Scotland publication which shows 59% of respondents in large urban areas had used the bus in the last month compared to 20% of those in remote rural areas.

Operator revenue

Bus operators in Scotland received £655m in revenue in 2013-14, a decrease of 1% on the previous year but a 3% increase over the last five years. Adjusting for the effects of inflation, total passenger revenue decreased 3% over the last five years. Almost half (£291m, 44%) of operator revenue came from Local or Central Government: whether through concessionary travel reimbursement, Bus Service Operators Grant (BSOG) or supported services. Passenger revenue (i.e. ticket sales to non-concessionary passengers) accounted for around 56% of operators’ revenue (£364m). Additional non-revenue support is excluded from these figures, specifically the Scottish Green Bus Fund and the Bus Investment Fund. In real terms (adjusting for the effects of inflation), funding from Local and National Government is now 5% lower than five years

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While passenger journeys were up 0.2% on the previous year, they still fall 13% short of 2007/8 levels ago and passenger revenue is 3% lower than five years ago.

Fares

Bus fares in Scotland have fallen by 2% in real terms (adjusting for the effects of inflation) over the past five years, which is better than the increase of 4% for Great Britain. In current prices, i.e. viewing fare increases in the way that a consumer would, fares have risen by almost 20% over the past five years. The increase in current prices is lower than in Great Britain as a whole which has seen an increase of 26% over the last five years.

Operator costs

Operating costs for bus operators have risen consistently over time. Over the past five years operating costs per vehicle km have increased by 14% in real terms. Operating costs per journey have risen by 10% from £1.28 per passenger journey to £1.41. Although these increases are higher than those seen in the rest of GB (excluding London), operating costs per vehicle km remain higher in GB (£1.83 in Scotland, compared to £1.90 for GB excluding London).

Passenger Satisfaction

People were satisfied with most

aspects of bus services that the Scottish Household Survey asked them about. At least 75% of respondents were satisfied with the extent to which buses ran to timetable; the cleanliness of buses; the ease of changing to other forms of transport; the ease of finding out route and timetable information; and the simplicity of deciding which ticket they need. Respondents gave lower satisfaction scores for the extent to which buses were environmentally friendly (56%) and whether the fares were good value (55%). Additionally there was a noticeable difference in those who felt safe on the bus during the day and in the evening. 93% of respondents agreed that they felt safe using the bus during the day compared to 62% in the evening.

Concessionary Travel

The National Concessionary Travel Scheme for older and disabled people was rolled out across Scotland in April 2006. The scheme enables individuals aged 60+ or those with a disability (who meet certain criteria) to travel free on buses across Scotland. In some local authorities the card can be used on trains and ferries. There is also a scheme for young people, The Young Scot Card. Those aged www.coachandbusweek.com

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a steady increase in pass holder numbers over the period. The majority of pass holders (88%) in the older and disabled persons scheme hold a pass on the basis of age. Of those who have a pass for the disabled or visually impaired, two thirds (68%) have a companion card which allows someone to travel with them on the bus. Bus journeys account for almost all (96%) of journeys made under the concessionary travel scheme.

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IRTE Skills Challenge registration open

Ministerial statement

16-18, or full-time volunteers aged under 26 can use the card to get a third off adult single fares on bus services in Scotland, a third off rail travel and two free journeys to the mainland for islanders. Almost 153,000 young people were eligible to access the travel concessions available through their Young Scot card in 2014. 26% of all adults (16+) had a concessionary fare pass under the Scheme in 2013, and 86% of those aged 60 or over had a pass. These proportions have changed little over the period since the introduction of the national scheme, though there has been

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Transport Minister, Derek Mackay, said: “These figures provide a useful overview and insight into transport trends and behaviours. We are confident this pattern will continue going forward but appreciate there is still much work to be done to build on this momentum. “Our commitment to assist bus operators is clearly demonstrated by providing around £250m every year through the Bus Service Operators Grant and Concessionary Bus Travel. We have also secured a deal that guarantees the future of the ever popular concessionary travel scheme for the next two years. “There is robust evidence we have used our devolved powers over transport infrastructure wisely. Our commitment to the largest transport investment programme that Scotland has ever seen defies relentless Westminster budget cuts. This year we are investing over £1 billion in public transport and other sustainable transport options.”

The full document from Scottish Transport Statistics can be viewed at www.transportscotland. gov.uk/analysis/statistics/ publications

Teams of three bus and coach technicians compete in the IRTE Skills Challenge to prove their engineering prowess Registration is now open for the IRTE Skills Challenge, which this year takes place from June 1-5, 2015 at S&B Academy in Bristol. This annual event champions the vital work done by bus and coach technicians throughout the UK and Ireland, and invites operators large and small to test their technicians against each other in a bid to discover the best in the business. Founded by the Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE) in 2011, the challenge includes theoretical and practical assessments, with a heavy focus on safety and reliability. Lloyd Mason, Engineering Development Manager, Arriva UK Bus, said: “The IRTE Skills Challenge is a real confidence

booster and confirmation that technicians are doing something right. As more operators participate each year it is especially rewarding for these engineers to come out on top, proving they are the best in their discipline.” Bus and coach operators are invited to enter teams of three technicians/apprentices by March 27, and the winners will be announced at an awards ceremony in July. The event is sponsored by Allison Transmission, Bridgestone, KnorrBremse and Shell.

Entry to the competition is free and operators should complete the registration form at www.soe. org.uk/irteskills

March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 9 02/03/2015 16:05

NEWS › BUSES

The number of seated passengers which can be accommodated in the TfL-spec diesel-powered Enviro400 MMC double-decker

2010

The year Konnectbus was sold to Go-Ahead, after growing its fleet from four to 45 vehicles in the space of 11 years

Ace Travel NW goes into liquidation

Ace Travel (North West) has an O-licence for 17 vehicles and an extensive network of services Winding-up order issued despite the operator reportedly having a payment scheme in place Ace Travel (North West) went into liquidation at the weekend. Founded 10 years ago it had an O-licence for 17, employed around 60 staff and ran more than 30 routes, most of them contracted from MerseyTravel, but including the Liverpool City Sightseeing tour. According to the Liverpool Echo, HM Revenue & Customs (HMRC) issued a winding-up order against the company despite an offer to pay. “I can’t believe they have done this,” Ace Director Alan Denson told the paper. “We did fall behind with payments, fair enough, but

we had a payment scheme in place and we would have paid it by the end of the year. “I don’t care about myself, but it is the staff I am worried about. To have a settlement in place and the Revenue to knock it back is just sickening. “I have tried everything and even phoned friends all over the country.” A HMRC spokeswoman told the paper: “We do not comment on individual companies or people.” Seven commercial routes serving Liverpool city centre, Liverpool One, Liverpool Football Club (match days only), Belle Vale, Halewood, Bootle and Southport ceased from February 28. Merseytravel managed to secure replacements for 26 routes and groups of services mostly from March 2 although Stagecoach

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Merseyside & South Lancashire managed to provide Night Tunnel routes 500/501 and 156/157 (Garswood – Rainford) from February 28, the latter on a reduced frequency. The 264 (Halewood – Huyton) and 181 (Bootle – Speke) were covered from March 1 when a reduced frequency was also introduced on 81 (Bootle – Speke). It also ran routes 119 (Pier Head – Kirkby) and 214/216 (Walton Park Circulars) from the same date. Services 201, 667, 800, 831, 839, 881 and 892 were covered from March 2. Other operators stepping in were Southport-based Cumfybus on the 160-165 (Formby Circulars) from February 28, and 103 (Thornton – Aigburth), 701 (Crossens – Christ the King)

and 746 (Southport – Christ the King) from March 2. Avon Buses, Prenton took on the 111 ((Alder Hey – Whiston Hospital) from March 2 as did Maghull Coaches, Bootle for the 827 (Kirkby – Old Swan) and 691 (Kirkdale Station – Savio College). Liverpool-based Huyton Travel assumed responsibility for the 211 (Speke Circular) from February 28 and 693 (Knowsley Vill – Knowsley Park Centre of Learning) from March 2. Halton Transport took on the 264 (Halewood – Huyton) from March 1 and the 289 (Rainhill Station Circular) and 290 (Kirkby Civic Centre – Rainhill) from March 2. A replacement operator for service 265 (Tarbock Green – Halewood) was being sought as CBW closed for press.

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02/03/2015 16:07

£65

The cost of the penalty charge notices frequently issued to coaches in London

New NX Dundee MD promises network review

Elise Turbyne has been appointed Managing Director of National Express Dundee and has promised a review into routes and greener buses. The new MD pledged to improve customer service, roll out smartcards for bus travel and improve routes to Ninewells, Dundee’s universities and the waterfront. She said: “We are looking at the route structure to make it easier for the people of Dundee. “We want to provide more unified, easier to understand routes – some of our routes are quite complicated for the customer. “A big review is going on at the moment.” A new livery for the buses will be chosen by local people following a consultation in the spring. Individual routes could be branded to help passengers navigate services. After the Seagate, Whitehall Street and Lochee Road were named among the 10 most polluted streets in Scotland, the new National Express boss promised to further reduce the company’s carbon footprint. She said: “We are looking at new vehicles that might be even more carbon-friendly. It is something that we do take very seriously. Shona Robison MSP said: “I congratulate Elsie Turbyne on her appointment as managing director and look forward to working with her and Dundee City Council on plans to transform bus travel in Dundee.”

Big Bus Tours sale goes through Big Bus Tours has been bought by Exponent Private Equity. The company was owned by the Maybury family and Abu Dhabi-based Al Fahim Group, both of which are selling shares to Exponent. Exponent’s Richard Lenane said: “We are delighted to be investing, alongside the management and existing shareholders, in Big Bus Tours. “The business is the industry leader in an exciting and growing market. We are looking forward to working with Pat Waterman and his team to help the business reach its full potential.” www.coachandbusweek.com

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Ipswich Buses achieves first CPT Workshop Accreditation Ipswich Buses has become the first recipient of the Confederation of Passenger Transport’s (CPT) new Workshop Accreditation. The Accreditation, recently designed and launched by CPT’s engineering committee with support from the Traffic Commissioners, assesses bus and coach operators’ workshops, as well as dealer workshops, against a series of in-depth engineering compliance and health and safetybased procedures. Ipswich Buses’ workshop on Constantine Road was assessed by CPT’s Compliance Partner, Lloyd Morgan Group, on a wide range of competences over an intensive two day period during December. Presenting Ipswich Buses’

Managing Director Malcolm Robson with the Workshop Accreditation, CPT President, Bill Hiron said: “This is the only industry specific Accreditation recognising the professional standards available to maintenance providers and ATF’s (Approved Testing Facilities), and the auditing team reported that both the quality and management of facilities, maintenance record keeping and vehicle inspection here at Ipswich Buses was simply ‘outstanding.’ “I offer my congratulations to all who were involved in making sure that Ipswich Buses attained this industry standard.” Malcolm Robson added: “We are honoured to be the first operator to hold CPT’s new Workshop

Pteg Oxford SmartZone review

Translink raises fares after losses

Pteg criticised the fact that the SmartZone pricing was determined by Stagecoach and Go-Ahead without third party involvement Pteg has completed a review of the Oxford SmartZone scheme. It claimed detailed analysis of the overall bus ticketing offer in Oxford and the surrounding area highlighted a number of potential weaknesses of an operator-led solution. One issue was that pricing is jointly determined by Go-Ahead and Stagecoach, without any oversight from third parties. Pteg also argued that SmartZone had made only a modest contribution towards simplifying the existing public transport fare structure, and could have made ‘an already complex ticketing offer even more complicated.’ “In addition to fare structure complexity, the SmartZone system also suffers from lack of common branding or information, which contribute to a confusing user experience,” the review said. Pteg said: “SmartZone is not a truly integrated solution; it is an inter-operable ticketing agreement between the two dominant groups

Accreditation. “This is a real testament to our Engineering Manager, Nigel Daniels and his highly skilled and dedicated team of engineers, and demonstrates the importance Ipswich Buses places on ensuring the highest levels of safety and compliance.” Having been integral to Ipswich Buses successfully passing the Workshop Accreditation assessment, Engineering Manager Nigel Daniels also completed a further two day audit and achieved CPT’s Engineering Manager Accreditation. Nigel now automatically qualifies for affiliate and associate membership of the Institution of Mechanical Engineers (IMechE).

valid across a relatively narrow geographical area. A true multioperator ticketing product valid across Oxford’s travel to work area does not exist and neither is SmartZone a multi-modal product at present.” The SmartZone operators, Oxford Bus Company, Stagecoach and Thames Travel, said they felt that not all of the conclusions reached in the review were factually correct and that pteg’s review would have been better informed had it consulted the local operators and local authorities and understood the context of the scheme. In a joint statement the operators said: “Every smartcard scheme has to reflect the market in which it is delivered. “The Oxford SmartZone scheme has been in place for nearly four years now and 98% of users were either satisfied or very satisfied with the product according to the Passenger Focus Report published in September 2013.”

Translink has increased passenger fares on Metro bus services and Ulsterbus services. John Simpson, reporting for the Belfast Telegraph, said that the increases are slightly out of phase with the annual accounting periods for Translink and apply different rates of fare increase in the separate companies. For Translink’s bus services, in the year to March 2014, even with a significant offset to depreciation charges (partly as a result of large grants on the cost of new buses) Ulsterbus, on turnover of £98m, made a pre-tax loss of £3.4m. Metrobus, on a turnover of £37m, made a pre-tax profit of £0.1m. The trading figures for the bus companies raised concern on whether some form of switch to competitive services might be justified. Translink has argued that injecting commercial criteria into bus services could be dangerous if there was any concern about maintaining a comprehensive series of bus services. While main interurban routes would attract commercial bids and could earn a return for the operators, the doubt is whether a large number of the lesser used routes, often focused on rural areas, would survive in an open market.

March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 11 02/03/2015 16:07

NEWS › COACHES

Successful CTC Coach Holiday Conference More 160 delegates gather at Hilton Reading for what has been declared the best event yet The Coach Tourism Council (CTC) says its 2015 Coach Holiday Conference, which attracted more than 160 delegates to the Hilton Reading last weekend, was the most successful yet. The two-speaker line up and an expanded industry workshop attracted praise from operators, wholesalers and suppliers. ‘How do I turn a satisfied customer into a loyal one?’ was the theme for the two speakers – Jo Causon, Chief Executive of the Institute of Customer Service, the UK’s lead organisation for excellence in customer service – and Peter Welch, Vice President Marketing & Sales, Disneyland Destination International. They kept the delegates spellbound as they both detailed what needed to be done to set companies and organisations at the top of the tree in customer service. Jo warned that rather than getting better, UK Customer satisfaction was at its lowest level since 2010, although the tourism sector was doing better. She said it was not enough today to have satisfied customers – all businesses needed highly satisfied customers, whose loyalty could be

Ashraf Nabih, General Manager of the Hilton Reading, Peter Welch, Vice President Marketing & Sales, Disneyland Destinations International, Jo Causon, Chief Executive of the Institute of Customer Service, CTC Chairman Sean Taggart and CTC Chief Executive Chris Wales guaranteed. Peter, a founder Board member of the CTC 25 years ago, said Disney’s philosophy was to create magic through service excellence, value and cast members being really proud of what they do. The aim was to deliver happiness and memories which would live for ever, to bring back generations of families to Disney. “It’s not the magic that makes

First Cymru has revealed that the private hire coaching side of the business is being re-started. Three vehicles are being finished in the livery pictured here – all of which are 70-seater Plaxton Profile-bodied Volvo B7Rs allocated to Penlan depot. First Cymru told CBW the vehicles will mainly be used for school contract work in Swansea, but can be hired for other purposes too. For more details, call the private hire unit on 01792 572204 or email Firstcoaches.southwales@firstgrouop.com. Visit www.firstgroup.com/ukbus/south_west_wales/other_services/ private_hire/. 12 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015 012_013_CBW1178_News.indd 12

Disney work, it’s the work that makes the magic,” he said. A familiarisation trip to Runnymede, Savill Garden and Windsor Castle organised by the Royal Borough of Windsor & Maidenhead, was also declared a great success. Chris Wales, CTC Chief Executive said: “Thanks goes to Irizar UK for providing the coach transport through new CTC member

Stewart’s Coaches of Reading. We would also like to thank the Reading Hilton for hosting the event and to their enthusiastic staff for helping to make everything run so smoothly.” Good causes were not forgotten either. A charity raffle raised more than £1,000 for the Family Holiday Association and Paul Hagan, formerly of Travel Europe, who has been seriously ill.

A new coach station could be built on land to the west of the former Greyfriars bus station in the centre of Northampton, the Northampton Chronicle has reported. Northampton Borough Council said that talks are being held about an improved facility located close to the Mayorhold car park. Coaches currently leave from shelters in Victoria Street, where some toilet facilities have recently been installed for use by waiting passengers. The council also announced it is working with National Express to relocate evening coach services to the North Gate Bus Station later this year. A spokeswoman for the local authority commented: “Some

work on the site has already started and a feasibility study is already looking at the creation of a new, improved facility for visiting coaches on the western island section. “This would replace the Victoria Street coach stop and complement the facilities at North Gate. She added: “The shelters and toilet recently installed at Victoria Street coach stop were designed to be suitable for easy relocation and can be moved to the new coach station site.” The announcements are part of a plan to guide the development of the Greyfriars site following the demolition of the old 1976-built bus station which is due to take place on March 15.

Northampton Greyfriars site could see return of coach services

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02/03/2015 17:58

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Coach drivers group donates to Neonatal Unit Members of the Coach Drivers North & South (CDNS) group on Facebook have donated £550 to the Neonatal Unit at Aberdeen Royal In�irmary. The sum serves in memory of little Hope who was the granddaughter of one of its members, John Paterson. Born premature, Hope was immediately transferred into the neonatal unit where she was looked after for 10 weeks before she sadly lost her life. CDNS group owner Neil Edmonstone told CBW: “Visiting the unit was humbling to say the least. It was wonderful to see the care and attention the nursing staff give. We also had great delight in handing over £550.00 that was raised through our fantastic group. To everyone who donated a huge thanks, the money will be

John Paterson, Aileen Duncan and Neil Edmonstone with the special cheque channeled back in to the ward.” John commented: “I hope this money raised can be put to good use by the superb staff at the hospital. I’m still overwhelmed and eternally grateful for the support I received from the members of CDN&S.”

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DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Busworld Kortijktakes place from October 16-21

2015

www.fokab.org.uk

■ March 17-20 QV Associates’ course Route & Timetable Planning. Birmingham. 01905 613527. www.qv-associates.com/ qvcourses.htm

■ May 11-13 ALBUM AGM & Conference Carden Park Hotel, near Chester www.albumconference2015. com ■ June 7 Southdown Centenary Rally Southsea Common www.southdown100.co.uk

■ March 18-19 Young Bus Managers Network Conference Nottingham. www.

■ June 21 Welsh Coach Rally National Waterfront Museum, Swansea. For details, call Ashley Lovering on 07814958379.

youngbusmanagers.org.uk

■ March 25-27 Busworld Asia, Suzhou International Expo Centre, China. www.busworld-asia.com ■ March 28 South East Bus Festival Kent Showground

www.facebook.com/southeast busfestival

■ June 28 Wessex Transport Society Bus Rally Lorry park, Ringwood, Hants. Contact Mike Caldicott 01202 293245 or email mikepenny.wts@gmail.Com

■ April 14-16 CV Show 2015 NEC Birmingham 020 7630 2102. Email enquiries@cvshow.com www. cvshow.com

■ July 12 Gloucestershire Warwickshire Railway Classic Bus Rally & Running Day Toddington, Gloucestershire. www.gwsr.com

■ April 18-19 UK Coach Rally Alton Towers Resort, Staffordshire 01753 631170. www.ukcoachrally.co.uk

Seen with one of the specially branded coaches are: NX UK Service Delivery Director Kevin Gale, Bristol Airport Chief Executive Officer Robert Sinclair and Jason Edwards of Edwards Coaches

NX takes over Cardiff – Bristol Airport service National Express (NX) is to take on the Cardiff to Bristol Airport coach service after First Cymru announced it planned to cut back its Greyhound service to focus on the Swansea to Cardiff corridor (CBW1174). The NX journeys, which took to the road on St David’s Day, are being run by Edwards Coaches, which already runs a plethora of services on behalf of NX. Running 12 times a day in each direction, the service offers a journey time of 1hr 20 minutes – 20 minutes faster than the outgoing www.coachandbusweek.com

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service. It also calls at Cardiff University and Newport Rail Station. The 216 runs direct to the airport – NX’s route 202 already connects Cardiff and Bristol city centres. Two Caetano Levante-bodied Volvo B9Rs are being dedicated to the 216, which carry ‘Bristol Airport Express’ branding. First Cymru confirmed to CBW that it will continue to operate its Greyhound services to the airport until March 18 – meaning it will run alongside the National Express journeys for two and a half weeks. First has also told CBW of a revised timetable, which will see Greyhound journeys run on a broadly hourly frequency, pulling off the M4 to serve Port Talbot and Bridgend Designer Outlet village.

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Join our flickr group. Search groups – coach and bus week magazine

■ April 19 Spring Bus and Coach Gathering (formerly Cobham Rally). London Bus Museum. 01932 837994 ■ April 23 UK Coach Awards Mercure Piccadilly Hotel, Manchester. www.ukcoachawards. co.uk ■ April 26 Keighley double depot open day, Transdev Keighley Depot and Keighley Bus Museum. www.keighleybus.co.uk www.kbmt. org.uk

■ August 2 Thames Valley 100 Celebrating the centenary of the start of bus services between Reading and Maidenhead by the forerunners of the Thames Valley Traction Company. www.tvagwot.org.uk ■ August 23 Buses Festival Heritage Motor Museum, Gaydon. 01780 755131 www.busesfestival. com ■ September 5-6 UK Bus Driver of the Year National Final Blackpool.

www.bdoy.co.uk

■ September 9-10 Cenex Low Carbon Vehicle Event Millbrook Proving Ground, Bedfordshire www.

cenex-lcv.co.uk

■ April 26 Delaine Buses Heritage Running Day 01778 422866. www.delainebuses.

■ September 30-October 1 Coach & Bus Live 2015 Halls 19 & 20, NEC, Birmingham www. coachandbuslive.com

■ May 2-4 Llandudno Transport Festival Bodafon Fields, Llandudno, North Wales. info@llantransfest. co.uk; www.llantransfest.co.uk

■ October 16-21 Busworld Kortrijk Kortrijk, Belgium http:// kortrijk.busworld.org

■ May 3-4 Friends of King Alfred Buses Running Day Winchester

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

com.

March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 13 02/03/2015 17:58

INBOX NEWS › XXXXXX

Enough is enough…

I write in response support of Patrick LETTER and Faull’s Opinion piece of the recently (CBW 1176, week February 17). I will do my best to address each point made by Patrick, but in short everything he said is absolutely correct. London coach parking, and the PCNs (Penalty Charge Notice) that our industry receives are nothing short of scandalous. If someone mugs us in the street for £65 we go to the police. Well that is exactly what is happening every day in London to us, the people in our industry, and yet we have nobody to turn to about being robbed. We are issued PCNs in exactly the same ways as a car is – but the fact that we are dealing with setting down and picking up passengers means that a ‘better exemption’ should apply than what is already in place. Writing a few letters to people like Boris is to be commended, but in the long term it will get all of us nowhere. Just as Patrick has said, this needs to be a much bigger group of people fighting back. Many coach operators from what I can make out just make the driver pay

Greg White: ‘We need someone to stand up and fight – no, in fact we all need to stand up and fight back’ for PCNs they get in London. Based on the fact that it is impossible at times in London, I cannot be one of those Operators. I look at each case and if I believe my driver has done as much as is possible to drop off and pick up passengers in a safe and sensible manner I will fight the case and pay it if I lose. This leads me to my next point. PATAS – the Parking and Traffic

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Appeals Service. If we disagree with a PCN we receive, we have the pointless option of appealing to PATAS. I have recently attended two appeals to PATAS on behalf of my drivers, if for no other reason than to learn something. On the first occasion at their huge state of the art offices above Angel Tube Station in Islington, I was spoken to like a naughty school child by a very

pompous and officious man and I left there very angry and none the wiser. The second time, I again lost but did at least speak with a lovely lady who was willing to talk to me like an adult. What I did find out is that PATAS are not able to take ‘mitigation’ into their considerations (circumstances that have contributed to a driver stopping somewhere or why they stopped somewhere). However, TfL (Transport for London) and the borough councils do have the power to look at ‘mitigating circumstances’ should they so choose. As you may imagine, I am extremely unhappy to have discovered this. If PATAS have no power to look at mitigation, can someone tell me why on earth they even exist? Clearly, the people at TfL and the borough councils will never choose to look at mitigation because they want to rob us of £65, and they know full well that PATAS have no power to apply mitigation. Furthermore, when we win an appeal the local authority has to pay us nothing for their error, yet we have to pay an increased charge of £130 and learn from our mistakes. www.coachandbusweek.com

02/03/2015 10:57

We welcome contributions for this column. Please email your missive to gareth.evans@coachandbusweek. com or by post to The Editor, Coach and Bus Week magazine, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough, PE7 8GX. Alternatively, feel free to use the ‘private message’ function on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek and Twitter @CBWtweets.

Trade organisations are lobbying I must just pass comment about CBW 1176, February 17. Excellent. It really was good and I did enjoy the Ken Bruce interview. I used to be in touch with Ken on things PCV some years ago and what a really good read it was. The other thing that really interested me was the article by Patrick Faull on London’s’ reducing coach parking. He did do well on the issues he wrote about, but the only comment I would have to make on it is that it does come across a little that no one else has actually bothered about the reduction in available space for the coach to set down and pick up, let alone park. It probably should be said that the trade organisations have lobbied for

An entertaining read, thank you

As this scene from several years ago shows, drivers can be driven to desperate measures to drop off and pick up their passengers. ANDY IZATT The following week, they can send us another PCN for the same offence and we have to go through another appeals process for something we have just been advised we are correct on. What sort of system is that? I have said before that the reason they get away with it is because it is easier for us all to keep quiet and pay the £65 – both appeals I lost I think were unfair and yet I had to pay £130 twice to keep PATAS and everyone else in a job. But there is a right and a wrong here – my parents brought me up to know the difference between the two – and I for one am not certain I can continue to keep the silence and just accept that I have to put up with it. There are so many fantastic points made by Patrick – aircraft and trains not being LEZ (Low Emission Zone) compliant, and the absolute disgrace that Boris’ Euro 5 New Routemasters will be allowed to continue operating in central London once Euro 6 applies to the rest of us. I mean, surely we must all see that for what it is – and surely we can all see what a joke that makes of us and what a laughing stock we are? www.coachandbusweek.com

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TfL and the borough councils simply do not want to mess with the black cab drivers – because they have a huge trade union and therefore they get away with whatever they want. The private bus and coach industry is the biggest ‘cash cow’ that London has – as Patrick says, we in the coach industry generate millions of pounds worth of revenue in London for everyone involved in many other industries in London, and yet we are treated like idiots by Boris and all the borough councils. It takes having your cake and eating it to a whole new level. Coach parking is very much related to the points I have already made. As Patrick said, coach bays are being removed without replacement – and all this will do is make it even more impossible for drivers to find somewhere to park and take a break, make it harder to remain legal on driving hours – and we all

I spoke with Ian Jones last week and we both commented on how good your magazine is and wanted to let you know. The features are all very interesting and it’s always good to see so many of our clients highlighted. I often scan the pages and then circulate to members of our team so they can find out information they never knew about the people

know DVSA will not give a monkeys about our problems in London – and guess what? It will also lead to more PCNs being issued as we are literally forced to pull over somewhere in the poisonous spiders web that is central London. I know there is an organisation already set up that is doing its best to fight for the bus and coach operators rights in London, and I fully understand that they are doing the fighting in their own time and therefore there is a fee if you want to join this movement. However, if we are paying a fee we may as well just keep paying £65 when we get a PCN. I have made the point before that if the PCN was £130.00 without the offer of a 50% discount that TfL and the borough councils know they would meet far stiffer opposition. There it is in a nutshell. At £65 a

‘My plea is to simply ask all bus and coach operators to simply stop paying the PCNs’

many years to retain and develop spaces for coach users. It is important to get the driver perspective on this at the front, but it is equally important that all operators make their messages heard by CPT (Confederation of Passenger Transport) or LTCOA (London Tourist Coach Operators Association), otherwise livelihoods will be lost. I do applaud Patrick for putting his head above the parapet from the point of the view of the driving staff. Keith Payne, Managing Director, Ebdons Tours Sidcup

they are acting for. It’s always very insightful. I was also interested to hear you’d visited Bury market. People always rave about it and I must confess, I’ve never been, but your write up made me want to visit. Best regards and keep up the good work with the mag. I truly look forward to it landing on my desk every week. Julia Davies, Brand Manager, Backhouse Jones Solicitors

time they know that our industry will continue to keep our mouths shut and stump up the cash – even though they are stealing from us and despite the fact it is simply wrong. We need someone to stand up and fight – no, in fact we all need to stand up and fight back. My plea is to simply ask all bus and coach operators to simply stop paying the PCNs. There is no way they can prosecute all of us and if we all did this they would have to hear our voice. Any of you are welcome to contact me via email: greg@whitescoaches. co.uk. One tip I do want to pass on to all drivers is this. If you pull up on yellow lines – even if they have the kerb markings – always pull up at the exact location that you are picking up from and get out of the coach and pretend you are on the phone in front of the vehicle. An exemption applies if you are picking up passengers or for the purpose of contacting the passengers. Then as long as they get on within 10 minutes you should be fine. Greg White, Managing Director White’s of St Albans

March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 15 02/03/2015 18:24

INBOX Patrick Faull remains concerned about the Cycle Superhighway which is set to run along the Embankment, and which will result in a severe reduction of coach parking bays between Blackfriars and Westminster Bridges. ANDY IZATT

London coach parking: pillar to post? The article which you published in CBW1176 containing a copy of the email I sent to London Mayor Boris Johnson has attracted a lot of comment and feedback. Operators and fellow drivers have contacted me to say how pleased they were that the issue was being highlighted and some have remarked that I was brave for putting my head above the parapet. I thought you may be interested to read the reply I received from Miria Kyamanywa, Customer Service Adviser at Transport for London (TfL) Customer Services on customerservoces@tfl. gov.uk. Dated February 23, the message reads: “Thank you for your email of February 16 to the Mayor Boris Johnson regarding coach parking. As this is a transport related query, your email was forwarded to TfL to reply. I’m replying on the Mayor’s behalf and apologies for the delay in doing so. “I appreciate your comments and I have passed them onto the appropriate

department to look into. Once they have provided me with feedback, I’ll be able to advise you appropriately. “Thank you for taking the time to contact us. Please contact me again if you need any further assistance, or if you would prefer to talk to us about this matter, please call us on 0343 222 1234.” I have sent the following reply to Mira: “Thank you for your reply to my email dated February 16, reference 1015653481, which related to coach parking and other coach-related issues in and around London. “My first reaction, as with many other coach drivers who have read your reply, is that this is another case of passing the buck. “My email was directed at the Mayor and his office specifically, as one of the problems that needs to be addressed is the proliferation of cycle lanes in London narrowing the highways and roads, and causing congestion in various locations around London.

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“The proposed Embankment Cycleway would result in a severe reduction of coach parking bays between Blackfriars and Westminster Bridges as depicted in your artists impression. This will have an adverse effect on coach drivers, who will have to drive around London, trying to find somewhere to park for a short period of time. The EU Drivers Hours Regulations define a break as: “Any period during which a driver may not carry out any driving or any other work and which is used exclusively for recuperation.” “This means that a driver must be able to take a reasonable break away from the vehicle. Time spent searching for a parking space seriously encroaches on our very valuable – and limited – driving time. All of our journeys are planned to make maximum use of our legally allowed driving time. “Coach parking areas have been dramatically reduced in favour of new developments. “Coach bays are being closed or suspended again in favour of workmen’s vehicles, DVSA, Police ANPR operations and the like. Crossrail work is not helping in our plight either. “Coach bays are also being temporarily suspended for an activity or incident followed by a series of numbers which mean absolutely nothing to anyone who reads the notice, which most drivers believe are being used to hide that fact that it is yet another cycle ride, running event, or the like.

“With regards to cyclists, there have been several reports of cyclists being injured or killed when large vehicles are turning left. This is generally blamed on the large vehicle, despite the fact that the vehicle would have been sitting there with the left hand indicator on for all to see BEFORE the cyclist pulled up. “Cyclists jump red traffic lights, even those on cycle lanes. Cyclists weave in and out of traffic, using random, erratic routes that have no rhyme or reason, and are impossible to predict. Despite the Highway Code, the vast majority of cyclists still fail or refuse to use hand signals. Because of this, motorists cannot predict what a cyclist is about to do. “It is quite clear that the cyclists need to be educated in common sense when riding around the London streets. Instead of this, under your FORS (Fleet Operator Recognition Scheme) programme, heavy vehicle drivers are being forced to sit in a room with militant cyclists, being told that all of their experience counts for nothing, and that they are arrogant and stupid. They are then being told that they HAVE to go out for a ride on a bicycle, otherwise they won’t be certificated, which means they will not be permitted to drive in London. “It would be far more sensible, in my view, to have cycle paths in the footpath, where the footpath is wide enough, instead of squeezing the already narrow busy main roads of London. “We all look at YouTube, and there are now numerous cyclists wearing helmet www.coachandbusweek.com

02/03/2015 18:32

cams to video their journey. Although the cyclist may be at fault in many of the incidents shown, they first blame the motorist for causing the incident, even though the cyclist has put him or herself in imminent danger. “This even applies when they are stopped by the police, with many of these cyclists arguing with the police, and choosing to tie up our court system by demanding a summons over paying a fine, so that they can “prove” they were not in the wrong by jumping a red light, or blazing through a pedestrian crossing that has people on it. “London is being made smaller by all of the work that is going on. Tourists are coming to London only to find one enormous building site, with buildings being erected that are completely out of context with it’s surroundings. “Tourist coaches are being restricted in where they can go. No right turn here, no left turn there, parking is suspended between certain times. “London has become extremely coach unfriendly. It is time to look at what is going on. It is time for TfL to embrace visiting coaches, not to keep pushing them away. Coaches that are

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staying overnight are not so much a problem, as parking is available – but not always close to the hotel. On the other hand, coaches on day excursions are having a major problems, with setting down and picking up of passengers SAFELY and finding somewhere nearby the venue so that it does not interfere too much with our driving hours being nigh-on impossible. “My colleagues and I in the coach tourism industry would like to hear – DIRECT from The Mayor – a response to both the original email and to this response “Furthermore, I understand one of my colleagues has also emailed your office, and has enclosed a copy of an article that I have had published in our industry’s respected, independent publication – Coach & Bus Week magazine. “I ask that you read this article, and include an official response to it either in a reply to letter, or through the magazine’s publisher.

MODELS MAY VARY

All letters of the week will receive a limited edition diecast model manufactured by Corgi. Write in now and your opinion could get you this fantastic model. It should be noted that the opinions and views expressed by authors within CBW are not necessarily those of the Editor or its publisher Coach & Bus Week Ltd.

Patrick Faull, Coach driver, Truemans

March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 17 02/03/2015 10:57

TEST DRIVE › LONDON ADL ENVIRO400 MMC

Top marks all round Gareth Evans test drives ADL’s Euro 6 dieselpowered Enviro400 MMC double-decker built to Transport for London specification, which is currently in service with Abellio London at Walworth Garage

hen ADL launched its new Euro 6 Enviro400 MMC double-decker last year, it was keen to trumpet that the bus, a replacement for the established Enviro400, had been “meticulously thought-out and built as part of a unique partnership involving ADL’s design and engineering teams, customers from all walks of the industry and suppliers.” It said the result was a “bus designed by the industry for the industry” – which incorporated “200 improvements that introduce a wealth of benefits for operators, drivers and passengers.” Having read my colleague Andy Izatt’s indepth report on the model’s launch, and been impressed with what was before my eyes when I saw the MMC in the metal at the ALBUM conference in May and again at EuroBusExpo in November, it was with considerable enthusiasm that I took up the offer of a test drive. Management at Abellio London’s Walworth Garage kindly made available to CBW in late January, the diesel-powered Transport for London (TfL) specification bus. Fleet number 2400 in the Abellio London fleet, registered ‘YY64GXG’ is a 10.3m two-door model and has an unladen weight of 11,435kgs. The vehicle is plated for 66 seated passengers, 27 standees and one wheelchair. It has an overall height of 14 foot six inches or 4,420mm if you’d prefer. For the record, several single-door variants of the MMC are also available – 10.3m 74-seater, 10.9m 82-seater and 11.5m 86-seater. “This bus has been used for type training at Beddington,” explained Jon Batchelor, Operations Manager at Walworth Garage. “Despite it being a demonstrator, it’s equipped with Abellio-style seats, with our moquette. We’re expecting to keep it for a while and use it in service.”

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All controls are at hand in the cab Since CBW’s visit, the bus has entered service on route 381, Peckham – Waterloo.

Specification

The MMC undoubtedly has kerbside appeal – it’s smooth lines look modern without being flamboyant. The black around the light clusters

helps accentuate the styling, particularly at the rear. A tree guard is fitted to the front nearside, which again is practical but unobtrusive. In the driving seat, all controls are easily to hand. The handbrake is located on the right, which can be released or applied without a second thought as to its location. External

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OPINION The diesel MMC has entered service on route 381. JON BATCHELOR

The iBus unit (including microphone), destination display control, CCTV display and fan hang from the ceiling light switches can be found on the dash to the left of the steering wheel, which itself is easily adjustable. A useful feature for walkround check is a button labelled ‘check’ inside a light bulb icon. The lights can be set to ‘Auto’ mode. The master and ignition switch can be found in the top left-hand corner of the dash. www.coachandbusweek.com

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Also at hand is the iBus control, which conveniently hangs from the ceiling on the left, alongside the McKenna Bros Mobitec smartblind controls and CCTV screen. A fan can be found in the top right-handside. The Chapman driver seat is comfortable and easy to adjust – there being no shortage of

Engineering Manager’s verdict on the MMC Asked for his view on the MMC, Vince Goane, Engineering Manager at Abellio London replied: “I had the diesel bus here on demonstration for two weeks. While I did drive it out on the road, I did not operate it in service. As a result, I’ve not serviced a diesel variant, so am unable to comment on that. We operate hybrids at Beddington garage – the body is the same of course. “Underneath, both the diesel and hybrid MMCs are on updated Enviro400 – the quirks have been taken away. The MMC is far better put together than its predecessor – build quality has certainly increased. Members of our cleaning team tell me the MMCs are easier to look after, there being a minimal number of dirt traps. Externally, the vehicles are also bus wash-friendly, thanks to their more smoothed appearance. Our drivers love the MMC body as the cab is larger – their only complaint being the length of the nearside mirror. We are looking at modifying that. “It’s great that manufacturers are thinking of us as engineers. The only manufacturer which did that historically was Scania. ADL and Cummins have got their heads together and really thought it through. The results speak for themselves. “Generally, the MMC is a very good bus. In my 24 years of working in this industry, this is probably one of the easiest buses I’ve put into service.” room in the cab. The MMC has powerful cab heaters – something which was particularly evident during the low temperatures on the day of CBW’s visit (January 30). The front half of the cab window can be slid open too. On the lower deck, behind the front wheelarch on the nearside, there are two rows of priority seats for “people who are disabled, pregnant or less able to stand.” Adjustable arm rests are fitted on the outside edge of both seats. The wheelchair bay is located on the offside to the rear of the staircase. The row of seats behind the second door on the nearside is mounted on a raised piece of flooring. While passengers sat there do benefit from a glazed panel, a heater is helpfully located under the seating ‘box’, helping to ensure legs are protected from the cold. The heater vents also point out into the aisle. Entry to the staircase has a ‘cut out’ indent effect, which not only looks contemporary but also helps to boost the airy feel. There is a glazed panel on the inside face of the staircase – and the steps are nicely spaced. The upper deck is clean and uncluttered – it too feels bright and airy. Like downstairs, there are no radiators and the seat fittings have minimal footprint, meaning they are easy to sweep and mop – and do no collect dirt. Several windows on both decks are equipped with ‘Safe T Punch’ devices. March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 19

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TEST DRIVE › LONDON ADL ENVIRO400 MMC Out on the road

I rode the ‘cushions’ as a passenger initially on what I found were most comfortable seats. It was immediately apparent that there was no intrusive noise onboard – and rattles were notable by their absence. Also apparent was the bus’ full air suspension – it rode very well. Bernie Waters, a Driver Mentor at Walworth, took the wheel for the first part of CBW’s evaluation. He drove us to Peckham, past the site of the old London Transport garage, which is now a Morrisons supermarket. We then headed towards Peckham Rye, following the part of the route taken by service 343 as far as New Cross Gate. Upon arrival at Peckham Rye, it was then time for a photo stop at the bus layover bays. I took over the controls at this point. Jumping in the driving seat, I was immediately at ease – the bus being easy to drive. When I reached a suitable location I momentarily put my foot flat to the floor, and the bus responded without hesitation. It was clear power from the 6.7-litre Euro 6 Cummins engine was not in short supply. The steering was just right – it was not too light or too heavy. Relief from the otherwise built up environment came when I entered leafy Peckham Rye Park and Common. Visibility from the driving seat and mirrors was excellent. That said, it was noticeable as I reached the end of Peckham Rye, the glare of the security shield made it hard at times to see the nearside mirror. I felt confident enough, as I am sure those who drive these buses day in day, day out will be. After a sharp left from St Norbert Road, the sort that one needs to keep an eye on the rear nearside wheels while also being mindful of the pedestrian island on the offside, I took to the long straight stretch that is Frendsbury Road, interspersed with parked cars, speed cushions and pleasant broadleaf trees. Passing under the railway bridge, after which the road is known as Avignon Road, I negotiated the speed humps, doing my utmost to minimise the potential damage arising from them. Stopping at the mini roundabout at the junction of Drakefell Road to check the roads around me were clear, I headed straight across

OPINION

Operations Manager’s verdict on the MMC Jon Batchelor, Operations Manager at Walworth Garage said: “It’s evolution. Our drivers have been flocking to the MMCs – and those who haven’t driven one are eager to do so. The 80 drivers who’ve been typetrained on the MMCs at Beddington think they’re the best thing since sliced bread. The cab is a lot better – the switches are all in the right places. “From a London operator’s point of view, the TfL specification has been designed with iBus in mind – rather than it being an afterthought. As a result, the iBus screen is within easy reach above the left-hand ceiling.”

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The attractive rear styling – as seen on Jerningham Road

The wheelchair bay is spacious, uncluttered and clearly marked. Note the heater outlet at the bottom of the staircase, helping to keep passengers warm in this area

The seat row behind the second door showing the thick squabs. Note the glass screen to the right and heater outlets, which helps to prevent draughts on the legs

and through the bus priority pinch-point and up the steep climb along Pepys Road, which the bus handled without hesitation. I had no need to put my foot flat to the floor – the bus just took it all in its stride. I took the roundabout at St Catherines Church steadily, the bus’ handling qualities again coming into their own. Providing a reminder of the tightness of the island, the damaged brickwork around the elevated flower bed bore scars of other drivers not having quite managed it. At this point Jon remarked that if I ever fancy doing some bus driving in London, I would be welcome at Walworth Garage. I pulled up at a bus stop alongside the kerb with ease. After a quick photo stop, we descended the mature tree-lined bank on Jerningham Road, the bus braking smoothly and steadily. The absence of any sort of jerking or noise was notable. Arriving at the foot of the hill, we were now

at New Cross Gate, terminus of the 343. We turned left onto New Cross Road and headed ‘round the block’ to Peckham and back to Walworth. On this section of the journey, cyclists and motorcyclists were a constant hazard – they were akin to ‘baddies’ in a video game, appearing from nowhere, coming from almost all angles.

CBW verdict

The Enviro400 MMC is sleek and it’s modern – yet it’s practical in all sorts of ways. A pleasure to drive, it gives an excellent ride for passengers and it’s also easy to maintain. I saw firsthand the attention that the MMC attracted from drivers at Walworth, with many passing favourable comment. If you’ve not had the chance to sample one either as a passenger or driver, I would urge to do so if the opportunity arises. n www.coachandbusweek.com

02/03/2015 14:57

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PASSENGER PERSPECTIVE › ABELLIO ADL ENVIRO400H MMC

Step change improvement The rear ‘hips’ are a distinctive aspect of buses that have an unladen weight of 11,665kg. ANDY IZATT

ast May CBW reported on the launch of the Euro 6 Alexander Dennis (ADL) Enviro400 MMC (Major Model Change) double-decker, the result of a £7.5m investment by the Larbertbased manufacturer that saw over 70 customers consulted about the redesign. With more than 200 improvements incorporated into an ‘all-new’ bus, much was promised. Now that the �irst production vehicles are in service including the �irst hybrids, it’s time to take a closer look at what’s on offer. While Gareth has put the diesel version through its paces (see p18-20), I gained a passenger perspective by travelling on some of the 27 Scarborough-built hybrids that Abellio London introduced to route 109 (Brixton – Croydon) from January 31. That after it won the Transport for London (TfL) contract for the route from Arriva London. Based at Beddington depot, these buses are the �irst of their type not just in London, but anywhere in the country. 10 more at Walworth garage plus one reallocated from Beddington will convert route 415 (Elephant & Castle – Tulse Hill) from March 7, another win from Arriva. The 415’s requirement is increasing because it’s being extended from Elephant & Castle to Old Kent Road Tesco. In April/May a further nine buses are

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There’s a new bus for London, it’s from Alexander Dennis, and Andy Izatt �inds out what it has to offer from a passenger perspective scheduled to replace Dennis Tridents on route 350 (Heathrow Terminal 5 – Clarendon Road), an existing Abellio contract. They will be based at Hayes where other double-deckers allocated are �irst generation Enviro400Hs.

Impressions in detail

I made several journeys on seven-mile route 109 Enviro400H MMCs travelling at the front and back both upstairs and downstairs, and it was quite clear that ADL has indeed delivered on what it promised for passengers – designing and building a vehicle that is demonstrably better than its predecessor. With sweeping, contoured styling and distinctive ‘hips’ at the rear, these are attractive, stylish buses that seem to have been designed aesthetically and practically without compromise. Selective use of black and black glazing both front and rear does much to enhance the overall look. Although it was to brighten up in the

afternoon with some sunshine, the day started damp and overcast. I boarded at Brixton not long after the end of the morning rush and sat upstairs. Reaching the top deck, I found ADL’s compact ‘square case’ staircase very user friendly with well placed handrails. The upper saloon was bright and attractive with full length LED strip lighting and deep windows – they’re the same depth on both decks. Safe T-Punches are standard. I don’t know how busy the bus had been on the journey north from Croydon, but despite the damp conditions, there was minimal condensation on the windows. It was much more apparent on other types of bus that we passed. Where it was evident on my bus, it was round the edges and the view out was unimpeded. ADL has located the upper saloon heater downstairs under the �irst two risers of the staircase, the manufacturer making the point that warm air rises and placing the heater here www.coachandbusweek.com

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Deep windows and full length LED lighting ensure the upper deck is bright. ANDY IZATT

Despite damp conditions, windows were almost entirely condensation free. ANDY IZATT

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eliminates the risk of damage from leaks as materials in the vehicle age. The heater works in conjunction with an air chilled unit mounted in the upper deck ceiling above the staircase. Combined they maintain an internal temperature of around 17-18degrees centigrade and the ventilation system is designed to reduce condensation. Just about the only noise I could here upstairs was from the air blown through the vents. The temperature was very pleasant. ADL’s QRG (Quick Release Glass) system means that side glass can be replaced from inside the bus in around six minutes. The flexible plastic strips around the four edges of the window also create a neat finish and there isn’t the mottled fretting that comes with bonded glazing to disguise the effect of the adhesive used. It was also nice to see hopper windows, which will doubtless be very welcome on those occasionally very hot summer days. Front and rear glass on both decks is bonded. Abellio London’s 10.3m-long, 4.3m-high buses seat 66 and have space for 24 standees plus a wheelchair. Rear bench seating for five and on the offside at the front of the upper deck are on GRP mouldings. Even so they all have proper seat cushions – not as deep as those on the Lazzerini Practico saloon seats – but deep enough. All were covered in attractive red moquette and the pitch of those I tried was very good. They’re screwed into a rail concealed beneath the floor surface removing potential trip hazards and possible dirt traps. The iBus and bus stopping screen is integrated into the body moulding above the front windscreen upstairs. There’s a significant parcel shelf behind the upper rear seats which creates an obvious home for rubbish. On one bus I travelled there was a banana skin and the remains of a spilt drink, but equally it should be relatively easy to clean. There was also rubbish stuffed in the gap between seats. Drain holes are incorporated in the floor front and rear of the upper deck. What was most striking on that first journey, and on subsequent ones, was the complete absence of rattles whatever the quality of the road surface, which sometimes was poor. Yes, there was some body creaking, but no rattles. ADL thinks that hand poles have been the major cause of this in the past so with the new design they have been built into the roof and interdeck structures rather than just screwed into surfaces. It certainly looks like they’ve identified the problem.

Silky smooth drive

The frequency on route 109 is between six and 10 minutes. ANDY IZATT www.coachandbusweek.com

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In the lower saloon, rear bench seating for five and those over the wheelarches are on GRP and again benefitted from those deeper cushions. A back window, not always a feature of rear-engined double-deckers, is useful for those passengers particularly in London who like to keep an eye out for following buses that might be on a more appropriate route for their journey. The spacious wheelchair and buggy bay was put to the test on one journey I experienced with three buggies onboard at one point. We were stopping at virtually every stop with people boarding and alighting – and stops are

March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 23 02/03/2015 11:45

PASSENGER PERSPECTIVE › ABELLIO ADL ENVIRO400H MMC

The Euro 6 Enviro400H MMC is a stylish bus with a distinctive look that’s different from its predecessor. ANDY IZATT frequent. While younger people were happy to go upstairs, it was evident that those of an older disposition preferred to use the lower saloon if space was available. Headway can be up to every six minutes on the 109. On my final journey, sat in the front nearside seat adjacent to the driver and the entrance door, I encountered my only squeak. It was a squeak not a rattle and came from the casing around the side electronic destination display. There were no rattles from the Ventura Systems entrance and exit doors, or from the cab door, the latter steel-framed with rubber compressed seals to overcome that very issue. I would struggle to see how two adults could comfortably sit side by side on this seat – more one for a mother and baby, or two children I think. Immediately behind over the same nearside wheelarch there’s a small tray for bags, then two pairs of floor-mounted priority seats with adjustable armrests. Notable with the ‘MMC’ model is the deletion of the ‘Billy No Mates’ single seat directly behind the driver. There’s just isn’t space for it with the redesigned compact staircase.

Hybrid differences

The 11,665kg unladen weight, Enviro400H MMC uses a Euro 6 Cummins ISB 4.5-litre engine coupled to BAE Systems HybriDrive series drive and lithium ion energy storage. Diesel engine stop/start is designed to reduce idling and fuel consumption even further than the hybrid drove would otherwise deliver and it had not gone unnoticed by one passenger who was heard asking her friend whether she’d noticed that drivers had started turning the 24 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015 022_024_CBW1178_ADLE400.indd 24

I found ADL’s ‘square case’ staircase very user friendly with good handrail provision. ANDY IZATT engine off at bus stops. On the vehicles I travelled on, diesel engines were shutting down at red traffic lights as well as stops, but not always. Abellio London Engineering Manager Vince Goane explained

that shutdown only takes place when the bus slows to below 7mph if the engine is at full operating temperature thus ensuring that drive system components are not compromised. The bus is then powered solely by the electric traction motor, the engine starting up again when the driver accelerates beyond 7mph. While this usually took place quickly on my journeys, the last driver of the day who was particularly measured in his control of the vehicle managed to travel around 100 yards on one occasion before that happened. Braking is regenerative through the electric traction motor. The absence of a gearbox meant that acceleration could be impressive, but was usually carefully feathered by the drivers I experienced. Either way it was always silky smooth with the diesel engine cutting in and out seamlessly. A consequence of having electric drive is that the power steering is electric. Vince, who draws on 24 years’ experience, explained that the Cummins engine in these buses is not mounted transversely, but in-line to create space for, amongst other components, the extensive exhaust system required by Euro 6. It was too early to comment on fuel consumption. He added that the entry into service of the Enviro400H MMCs had been amongst the easiest he’s experienced with just a handful of niggles in the first couple of days that were quickly ironed out. The buses are easier to service and clean and there was praise for ADL, not just for listening to customers on the design, but for the support it was providing. From a passenger perspective I agree with Vince’s positive prognosis. The Enviro400H MMC is a very impressive bus. n www.coachandbusweek.com

02/03/2015 18:35

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FACE TO FACE › NIGEL EGGLETON

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Directing the

Midlands O

Nigel Eggleton, Managing Director for First Midlands, tells Jade Smith about his career and recent developments within the businesses

n a February afternoon I arrived at Leicester, returning to the city that was my home for the three years I spent at university. The First depot in Leicester is opposite the National Space Centre, a place I regularly visited when I lived in the area. The driver on the 54 bus was friendly and funny – always a good start. Nigel welcomed me with a smile and led me to his of�ice, his warm nature immediately apparent. After a short chat about living in Leicester and Peterborough he began to tell me about his career in the bus industry. CBW How did you get into the industry?

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Nigel Eggleton (NE) It’s all I ever wanted to do. I always had an interest in buses and public transport. If my mother were still alive she would say that as a three-year-old if we went on one route into the city I would be happy, if we went on another there were tears, so there was something going on in my mind as a child. I went along to the careers of�icer at school and said I wanted to go into bus company management and they’d never heard of that before. If you wanted to be a driver, �ine, but management was a mystery to them. I was told to do whatever A Levels I enjoyed, so I did. Then I went to what was Newcastle Polytechnic on a sandwich course with two periods of industrial placement – six months in Norwich in 1978 and six months in Barnsley in 1979 and that convinced me more than anything that I still wanted to do bus company management. My �irst full-time job, other than bus conducting up in Whitley Bay in the weekend and holidays, was with what was then the National Bus Company (NBC) Marketing

and Operational Research department in Peterborough. CBW Tell us about your career.

NE The Marketing and Operational Research department in Peterborough moved to Birmingham and none of us there wanted to move. By luck, there was a vacancy for a Traf�ic Assistant at the local bus depot, then Eastern Counties, so I moved to Peterborough depot in 1982. As Traf�ic Assistant I looked after all the coaching activities for two years until I split up with my girlfriend at the time. At that age, such a thing can be the end of the world so I left Peterborough and went home. By luck again there was a vacancy for a Planning Of�icer with the old United company based in Newcastle, so I did that for two years. A combination of contacts and friends that I’d made over the years meant that in 1985 I was offered the position of Planning Of�icer at South Wigston garage in Leicester working for Midland Fox, one of the �irst companies to break away from the NBC corporate identity. One of the �irst projects I was involved in was putting together the network for implementation on the day of deregulation in October 1986. Then I was offered the position of Depot Manager at Coalville garage in 1988, and then a bigger depot – Southgates garage in 1990. After Southgates I went into a Head Of�ice role as Planning Manager a few years later, followed by a move to Luton and District as Commercial Manager in 1994. Luton and District through various iterations became part of Arriva, so I was appointed Commercial Director in 1997. In 2001 I became Commercial Director of the Oxford Bus Company, part of Go-Ahead Group. In 2006 I was Operations Director for the then recently acquired Go West Midlands business

March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 27 02/03/2015 10:34

FACE TO FACE › NIGEL EGGLETON based in Birmingham. In 2008 I moved to Transdev as Sales and Marketing Director for Transdev in Northern England. Then on December 16 2013 I became the Managing Director for First Midlands. I’ve been here for 14 months. CBW Are you enjoying your current role?

NE Yes I am, I don’t think I’d continue to do it if I didn’t. If you don’t enjoy coming to work in the morning then you might as well find an alternative. It’s satisfying to be able to make people’s lives more pleasant then they would have been otherwise, as clichéd as that sounds. That’s for your own staff as well as the customers that you deal with on a day-to-day basis. CBW How have things changed since you first started in the industry?

NE The overriding difference is that gradually in the UK bus industry there is a greater understanding of what our passengers expect of us and those expectations are increasing every day. We have to be alive to that and keep pace with it. A small example – a typical second-hand car these days will have air-conditioning. That wasn’t there at all when I first came into the industry. So that’s an expectation now when you travel by bus. Looking at it from a more negative point-ofview, I’ve noticed frequently a lack of skill and experience in some of the day-to-day challenges that face us. Going back all those years, the supervisory team were trained in the art of regulating disrupted services – that was part of their speciality. Now, we’re putting great emphasis into restoring that skill, because in the interim period it’s often disappeared. CBW Tell us about your current role.

NE The role of Managing Director for First Midlands includes a wide variety of diverse operations. I look after Leicester, Worcester and Hereford and two depots in the Potteries – Adderley Green and Newcastle-under-Lyme. As

you might imagine, the business in the Potteries is utterly different to that in Hereford and indeed, Leicester and Worcester. Our market share in those places varies where we are by far the major operator in Worcester, to now a less than 50% market share in Leicester. We’ve got all sorts of things going on in the economy, so we see some considerable recovery from recession in Hereford – we’ve yet to see any sign of that in the Potteries. We think in the Potteries the economic situation has bottomed – it doesn’t appear to be getting any worse but nor is it getting any better, which brings its own challenges with it as well. We talk to our stakeholders that we deal with frequently in the Potteries and we hear some horror stories about footfall in shopping centres and car park throughput. During the last 14 months we’ve made some changes to the structure, so we now have dedicated to the Midlands business a finance business partner, HR business partner, and we’re currently considering how we put together the right structure for the commercial side of the business as well. So we think in the next six months we will have the structure complete to enable this business to go forward at the speed and efficiency that it needs to. CBW Describe an average day/week for you.

NE An average week is easier. I can run through this week as an example. Monday – I started off in Worcester with a meeting in the depot about service planning issues, looking at what we need to do to the Worcester and Hereford network to grow the business over the next 12 months, what do we need to do to bring further improvements to reliability and punctuality, what can we do in terms of duties and rotas to make those more efficient. Then in the afternoon we moved on to cleaning standards in the area – for all sorts of historical reasons the location and design of the depot makes cleaning every vehicle in the evening difficult. We said we can’t allow this to continue – we’ve got to be able to do better, so hopefully come April or May the cleanliness

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of the vehicles in the depots will be noticeably better. Tuesday – Leicester. A discussion on some engineering issues and HR matters. Then we moved on to the fleet profile of the next year, some discussion on new vehicles for the next year and refurbishments and what we want to do with them. Wednesday – obviously, doing this interview. This morning we had discussions about performance and development. Then we’ve been looking at vehicle design with some consultants and livery. I just completed a call about the introduction of real-time information into Leicester. Thursday – meeting Staffordshire County Council about some market research that has been done jointly on the development of concessionary fares. Then we’re going to the Potteries to see what’s going on there. After that I’m up to Crewe in the afternoon to meet some stakeholders there about a local bus route in a village outside of Crewe. Friday – I’m in Leeds to discuss a training and development procedure for some of our supervisors designed specifically to get over the issue of disruption and regulation. In the afternoon we’ve got a discussion about uniform and what we might be able to do to make the process of issuing uniform more efficient. Next week will be completely different, and the week before was different too. First thing on Monday is business review, so down into London to discuss with Regional Managing Directors our performance as a business during the most recent financial period and what our outlook is for the rest of the financial year and going into next year. That’s a meeting which is around two to three hours long and we discuss all manner of things to do with the business. I’ve got the biggest geographical patch of any www.coachandbusweek.com

02/03/2015 18:37

The market in Leicester is highly competitive. ANDY IZATT

of the MDs – from the Potteries in the north down to Hereford in the south, Leicester over to the East. I try as far as possible to limit driving by going most places on the train. That’s hugely valuable – an hour and a half to Hereford is a bit of time by yourself to either deal with emails or just to sit back and have a think. I do need some decent long train journeys from time to time, in order to keep up with everything that’s going on.

NE The financial performance of our four different businesses in the Midlands is always at the forefront of my mind. That is especially so when you have a business such as the Potteries where, for all sorts of economic and demographic reasons in the area, the business has gone backwards over the years, in certain cases quite dramatically. If you look at the Potteries in the early 60s, the forerunner to First was running 530 buses and now we’ve got 170.

CBW What do you most enjoy about your job?

It’s gone backwards as the economy of the area has changed. Those 530 buses were providing special services to mines and potteries that no longer exist. So the challenge there is aligning the products in the business now to the current environment and doing whatever is required to stop further contraction. The challenge in that part of the world is due to some very difficult economic situations – the local population has suffered noticeably and there’s not a lot of disposable income around to keep the business stable and avoid any further contraction. In Leicester the challenge is quite different – we’re in a highly competitive market in Leicester. We’ve got another major operator in the city, Arriva Midlands, so we need to be alive

to everything that’s going on in the marketplace. In Worcester the challenge has been somewhat different – 18 months to two years ago the county council made the decision to remove the majority of the funding from public transport, as part of a move to make savings of over £3m. Inevitably, that affected our business quite dramatically. Subsequently they took a step back from that and they have retained some funding for public transport but we still needed to react. In order to react to that we’ve introduced some new experimental services into the West Midlands and into Gloucestershire for the first time in a long time and so far that’s worked. We’ve been able to stabilise the Worcester business without taking a noticeable hit in financial performance which has been satisfying. We’ve got 20 buses in Hereford, as it’s a different market altogether – a very small town. Again, a competitive market in terms of the tendered work, but we’ve had some success there. The challenge there is to manage it efficiently and appropriate to the local market. It’s also a personal challenge not to forget about the place. I’m dealing with all these buses in the Potteries and in Leicester and little Herefords over there. They deserve attention appropriate to their size. CBW Tell us about the Potteries network review and new buses.

NE When I joined last December I realised that

‘If I can plop myself in a canteen or a drivers’ mess room for a couple of hours, I’m sorted. You learn all sorts of things there, can provide feedback, motivate staff and put their minds at rest’

NE I would say there are two aspects. Firstly, the bit of the business that I’ve been brought up with – network design and marketing. I still enjoy designing that part of the product. Some people may describe it as my comfort zone. The other part is having fun with people. If I can plop myself in a canteen or a drivers’ mess room for a couple of hours, I’m sorted. You learn all sorts of things there, can provide feedback, motivate staff and put their minds at rest. I also like dealing with stakeholders. If I can go out and talk to a parish councillor or an MP and shout about how proud we are of what we’re doing in the midlands, that’ll keep me happy. CBW What are the main challenges of your job?

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Freddie helped promote First’s successful M Ticketing Launch in Worcester March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 29 02/03/2015 18:37

FACE TO FACE › NIGEL EGGLETON the Potteries business had gone backwards quite dramatically over those years, without the resource we were committing to it reflecting how it had gone backwards. We were still running a frequent service to a hospital that had closed three years previous, the new hospital we largely weren’t serving at all – 80% of the Potteries conurbation didn’t have a link to the hospital or to the railway station. If we look at Stoke-on-Trent, one of the six towns, five years on we were carrying twice the number of people to the area around the station where the university is than we were to the town centre, yet we were still providing the majority of the bus services into the town centre. So of all the areas we serve, this one was ripe for a review of the network. A substantial amount of work has been done there – implemented at the end of July, tweaked again at the end of November, and I believe that the network in the Potteries is now fit for purpose. We continue to learn about the Potteries every day so we’re still going through a process of fine-tuning as we get more feedback, thoughts and ideas from our staff. It’s pleasing for me that the team in the Potteries seem quite willing to provide that feedback now that they know those ideas will be responded to and often reacted to and implemented, whereas previously they may have been ignored. It’s not without its challenges. It would be very naive to say we got everything right – we’ve had to put back some routes we withdrew, play with frequencies and do various things to sort the reliability, but it’s in a far better shape than it was.

The individual routes are now colour-coded – we’ve had the benefit of 10 new vehicles into the Potteries last autumn and those were the first new vehicles for many years. I think the network is now in a very good shape to benefit from the Potteries coming out of the recession, whenever that happens. The relationship between First and our local stakeholders is a lot better now and we’ve got a very healthy working relationship with Stoke City Council and Staffordshire County Council, which I’m quite proud of – we have some fun together and if you can’t do that it’s a bad job. The Potteries network review was a big piece of work. It’s a fascinating area with nice people – I enjoy going down there. CBW What have you done in terms of route branding?

NE Before I joined work was already underway on route branding in Leicester. The three main corridors in Leicester – 14, 22, 54 – the doubledeckers had been rebranded specifically for those corridors. The 54 has yellow branding, for example. In the Potteries we said that given that the network is of a complicated nature because it’s a complex piece of geography with the six towns of Tunstall, Burslem, Hanley, Stoke, Longton and Fenton, we must find a means of explaining that network in a more understandable fashion. My own experience elsewhere in the industry told me that you can do things with colour, so that’s what we’ve done in the Potteries. We’ve got three

routes converted so far – the raspberry route, the cherry route and then the aqua blue route. We’ll be rolling that out as we’re able to due to the arrival of new vehicles on the refurbishment programme over the next 18 months to two years. So it’s little and often in the Potteries, but already we’re seeing people describe what we will know at the number 6 as “those raspberry buses,” so that’s working. The new vehicles that are on the number 6 and the 26 are turning heads because they’re distinctive. It’s one of the ingredients of gradually growing the business – we’ll never know in a million years how many customers we get as a result of that, but instinct tells you that it’s the right thing to do. We know very little about how our customers understand cartography. I enjoy reading maps, but what do the general public do? We don’t know a great deal about that, although some recent market research tells us that 16-25 year olds don’t react to maps in the way older people do – maps aren’t that relevant to them because they can do everything so quickly on their smart device. CBW How is the Hereford contract going?

NE The Hereford business has gradually but noticeably declined over the years. From 55 vehicles in 1967 when I looked at one of my old books, down to 18 when I took over. Within Hereford city there are limited opportunities for straight commercial expansion, some, but it’s not a big place. So we were keen to win some of the tendered work on behalf of Herefordshire Country Council, and last September we did.

Some vehicles in the Leicester fleet have been rebranded for specific routes

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02/03/2015 10:34

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We were delighted to be successful with a tender for four vehicles, and that takes First vehicles into places they hadn’t been to in years like Leominster and some of the other more rural areas. Of course, 18 to 21 vehicles is a big increase in terms of a small depot percentagewise so we had to recruit staff and bring extra vehicles in and that provided a great lift to morale in the area. It’s nice to see the business going the right way at last. There’s going to be limited opportunity for that because local authority funding is less than it was, but still nice to see the right thing happening. CBW Tell us about Leicester bus station.

NE That’s something else good that’s going on. The city council is investing heavily in a new replacement bus station for Haymarket in Leicester. Personally it’s interesting because I remember how pleased we were when the Haymarket bus station opened for the first time, last time. It’s gradually become tired so come next December, all being well, Leicester will have a brand spanking new large bus station with 23 bays. I think that will give a huge lift to public transport in the area – the city is putting a lot of effort into it and we’re delighted to be working with them. CBW How has your fleet changed?

NE The mix of single and double-deckers has changed over the last 12 months. We’ve

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transferred double-decks into the Potteries – there are a great deal more double-decks there now to accommodate the students we carry to and from Keele University. In Leicester, following quite a bit of debate, we’ve been able to transfer 12 of our double-decker ADL Enviro400s down to Bristol because James Freeman, who recently joined First as Managing Director Bristol and the West of England, is in need of a greater number double-deckers to deal with the growth of customers they’re having down there. In exchange, we’ve had single-deckers from Bristol which are ideal for some routes in Leicester that don’t need double-decks. There’s a constant process of fleet change going on there. 18 new Wrightbus StreetLites in over the last year, 10 full-sized to the Potteries and eight midis into Worcester – as I mentioned, two places that haven’t had vehicle investment for some time. CBW What are you doing in terms of mobile ticketing?

NE Worcester was one of the two first trial areas for mobile ticketing, the other one being Aberdeen. We are now live with mobile ticketing at every Midlands depot. It has been successful but perhaps not in the way we expected, in that mobile ticketing in the Potteries has been hugely successful, more so than it has been in Worcester which we’re delighted with. We’d assumed that the demographic in Worcester would be more attune to mobile purchasing

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than in the Potteries. Live and learn – it’s going along a dream in the Potteries. CBW Tell us about ADI Training.

NE One of the features of First that I hadn’t realised before joining was the considerable and very wise focus on safety throughout the business, something that is embedded now to a great extent and is one of my responsibilities as Managing Director. We always look for ways of improving training, adherence – everything that relates to safety. I’m proud that one of the two Potteries depots is a pilot area for a new form of safety leadership training and ADI (Approved Driving Instructor) training. It’s a system that’s been tried and tested with First in America, so all categories of staff, including myself are going through that training process at the moment, and my initial reaction is it’s proving to be thoroughly fascinating. We need to understand sometimes the psychology behind a person’s behaviour to be able to lead and train them in the most efficient fashion. One of the examples given was the chances of a typical UK person suffering from cancer at some stage in their life was one in two. Despite that quite high probability we still continue to do all the things that we shouldn’t do to avoid that like smoking etc., and you need to understand the psychology behind that – why somebody may still behave in an unsafe way despite it being perfectly obvious that they shouldn’t do that. If you understand all of that

‘We’ve introduced some new experimental services into the West Midlands and into Gloucestershire for the first time in a long time and so far that’s worked’

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March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 31 02/03/2015 10:34

FACE TO FACE › NIGEL EGGLETON you can manage without it. Things I used to do as a young conductor around 18 or 19 I should have been sacked for. There was one night where it got to 2000hrs and a driver and I hadn’t had any tea. We fancied some fish and chips so we missed out half the route and went off to a chippy. It was dreadful. CBW Do you have any advice you would give to anyone wishing to follow your footsteps?

NE It relates to always keeping the faith. Keep the faith and always strive to adhere to what you believe in. There will be all sorts of challenges and difficulties come along but if you keep our head down you’ll get through them. If it suddenly all comes crashing around you but you’ve still got that passion and can keep that faith a door will open for you and you’ll be able to grow your career. CBW What aspirations do you have for the future?

First’s heritage is an important feature of the business. DAVID BELL you can act, lead and train in a slightly different fashion. CBW How have you been celebrating First’s heritage?

NE The company’s heritage is an important feature of our business, certainly from a public relations and stakeholders point-of-view. In 2014 we had two different events, the first being to celebrate 90 years of motorbuses in Leicester. We painted two Leicester vehicles in heritage livery, one being the mid 60s livery the other pre-war livery. Those caused a huge public relations interest, particularly from the media which did us a power of good. They also gained fascination from the bus enthusiast community and if you can get the enthusiast community on board, they can be no better ambassadors for your business. They are very valuable. Later in the year we had 100 years of route 144 in Worcester. It’s still the main route for Worcester depot and it’s been going since 1914 – Birmingham to Worcester and then at various times in its career, on to the Malverns as well. Similarly, two vehicles were painted in heritage livery for Worcester depot, and I think it has had the exact same effect on the enthusiasts. It’s very difficult to say as a result of that we got a certain number of extra passengers, but we’ve got some advocates on board for what we do that I don’t think we would have had otherwise, which is always a good thing. CBW Any interesting anecdotes?

NE I once worked for a bus company that had a very interesting tagline – ‘Serves You Right’. They thought it was wonderful! They couldn’t see that that might not be the right thing to say. We once had a conductress that was rather 32 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015 026_032_CBW1178_Nigel Eggleton.indd 32

‘Mobile ticketing in the Potteries has been hugely successful, more so than it has been in Worcester which we’re delighted with’ large and got stuck on the stairs. We had to take all the handrails off to get her out. Some bizarre things have happened to me. When I first went to Wigston depot my office used to be the ladies toilet and for the first couple of months it still had ‘Ladies’ on the door. A few drivers took a photograph of me going into the ‘Ladies.’ A bit of market research we did amongst passengers in Hertfordshire was interesting – we put them on a brand new bus and a 15-year-old bus that had been recently refurbished and they couldn’t tell the difference. That was a bit of a fright. The customer couldn’t recognise a new bus from another one which had been given a lick of paint. We also did a bit of research where we travelled around on various buses in Lincolnshire and Kent and asked all the passengers what the route number of the bus they were travelling on was. Only about a third knew. So we did a bit more research and we found that if they were on a route that had a three digit number compared to a route that was a single digit, the level of comprehension was far lower. It’s obvious really – one number is easier to remember than three. You learn that whatever you do in this industry it has to be simple. Why have a route number at all if

NE I’d be telling a lie to say that I’ve been particularly ambitious. I had an ambition to be a director of a bus company by the time I was 40 and I made that when I was 37, so that was good. There’s always been a doubt in my mind that I’ll be able to do the next job up. Even as a Traffic Assistant in Peterborough I used to watch the Depot Manager and think “he’s clever, I’d never be able to do that,” but then eventually I did. So I spent a number of years as what you might call a ‘number two director,’ watching various Managing Directors but now I’ve done that as well. If I was to go to my grave tomorrow I have the satisfaction that I’ve achieved the role of Managing Director, and I think ambition from now is difficult to predict because my career has never been predictable. On a personal side, I want to travel. There are lots of different parts of the world I would like to see. We have such a diverse range of people from different ethnic backgrounds working here, particularly in Leicester. I talk to some of them and think “I would love to go there.” CBW Any final thoughts?

NE It still comes as a surprise to me that I am a Managing Director. It’s an interesting experience from that point of view, because to me I’m still Mrs Eggleton’s little lad. If a driver comes to see me they’re often very nervous – I had a chap do a presentation to me and he was so nervous he could hardly speak, and I’m thinking “It’s only little me.” Of course, if you have the title of Managing Director, I remember how I reacted to somebody in that position when I was in my 20s. I do what I can to let the temperature down and put their mind at rest. I’ve always got to bear that in mind that they will react to me differently – for example, I might tell a joke, and there’s no reaction at all. It’s because they don’t know how to react to the concept of a Managing Director telling a joke. n www.coachandbusweek.com

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March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 33

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

ENGINES & TRANSMISSIONS

Powering up I

t requires serious equipment to move a vehicle the size of a coach or bus, but engines and transmissions not only need the power to move the vehicle, reliability is essential. Breakdowns affect service punctuality and customer con�idence and while they are sometimes unavoidable, it’s best to take all the appropriate measures to prevent them. Environmental factors are also important. With London preparing for an ultra-low emission zone by 2020 and other cities such

This week’s industry guide focuses on engine and transmission technology, from the machinery itself which powers coach and bus �leets, to maintenance and additives which assist it

as Brighton considering similar measures, now is a great time to upgrade a �leet’s engines to Euro 5 or 6. Having a cleaner, greener �leet is sure to be appreciated by customers and the public,

34 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015 032_041_CBW1178_Industry Guide.indd 34

and helps to promote buses and coaches as an environmentally friendly way to travel. It is harder to justify this viewpoint when vehicles powered by older drivetrains are churning out fumes.

Of course, maintenance is very important. Replacing an engine or transmission due to breakdown can get very expensive and result in signi�icant vehicle downtime. Serious defects may also draw the wrath of the Traf�ic Commissioners. It is something operators will want to avoid. To help with this, many companies offer assistance in maintaining vehicles. It is a good idea to make use of this expertise, particularly for smaller operators who may not have the budget to employ a signi�icant amount of engineering staff. ■ www.coachandbusweek.com

02/03/2015 16:25

ENERGENICS

Measures to reduce harmful emissions from diesel engines maintain a high pro�ile as concerns about air quality in city centres continue to make the headlines. Low Emission Zone requirements in London and elsewhere have led to many vehicles being retro�itted with Diesel Particulate Filters (DPFs). The introduction of Euro 6 emissions limits mean that most new buses and coaches will be factory �itted with a soot �ilter. To keep the exhaust clean of particulates (soot), however, the DPF itself needs to be kept clean. But the �ilter will rapidly block up unless a process called regeneration occurs to clear out the soot that it is designed to trap. Soot or carbon particles will burn completely away – like charcoal on a BBQ – provided they reach a temperature of around 600°C, and DPFs rely upon exhaust gas temperatures becoming hot enough for this to happen. Vehicles regularly run at high speed and carrying signi�icant loads produce enough heat in their exhaust

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032_041_CBW1178_Industry Guide.indd 35

gases to achieve this but this is not always the case. Operating problems with DPFs related to excessive soot blocking continue to be reported, especially in urban and some rural areas. Slow traf�ic speeds can mean the exhaust gases do not reach the necessary temperature for long enough to regenerate the �ilter. This means it may gradually block up with soot, leading to poor running of the vehicle. Fuel economy may also suffer as the engine has to work harder against the back pressure caused by soot build up in the exhaust system. Envirox DPF Assist is a proven Fuel Borne Catalyst (FBC) formulation that speci�ically addresses these issues. It is a further development of the well-known nanotechnology fuel additive Envirox from Energenics Europe. Regular Envirox is mainly targeted at saving fuel and is usually supplied in drum quantities to bus depots where it is injected into bulk diesel fuel. This has had a high pro�ile in the UK bus

A 500ml bottle of DPF assist can treat 1,000 litres of diesel

industry since Stagecoach adopted it nationally in 2005. However, at higher dose levels the active cerium oxide nanocatalyst in Envirox will perform as an effective Fuel Borne Catalyst (FBC), a well-established class of fuel additives which have a proven history of regenerating DPFs. It works by:

● Decreasing the level of soot particles produced during combustion. ● Signi�icantly lowering the temperature the exhaust gases need to reach to burn off the trapped soot particles in the DPF. It also includes a strong dose of the detergent additive chemistry used by premium fuel retailers to clean fuel injectors and preserve optimal spray patterns. Envirox DPF Assist is supplied in a convenient 500ml bottle with a 25ml dispensing chamber which is well matched to the dosing recommendations. The concentrated formula means that one bottle will treat up to 1,000 litres of diesel and more than pay for itself by delivering fuel savings approximately equal to double its cost.

T: 01865 233010 E: info@energenics.co.uk W: www.energenics.co.uk

March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 35 02/03/2015 16:25

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

ENGINES & TRANSMISSIONS VOITH TURBO

Voith Turbo, the German bus transmissions specialist that manufactures automatic transmissions speci�ically for buses, is looking forward with con�idence after enjoying a record year in the UK in 2014. The company, which entered the UK bus market in 2009, won a signi�icant volume of business in 2014 – almost double from the previous year. Soon after entering the UK Voith Turbo became a leading supplier to Wrightbus. Since then the company has increased its presence in the bus market by supplying the other two UK manufacturers ADL and Optare. Last year Voith Turbo won its biggest-ever UK contract for midibus products with an order for 308 automatic gearboxes to be �itted to Wrightbus StreetLite and StreetLite Max buses ordered by First Group. The Voith DIWA 824.5 and 854.5 automatic transmissions went into service across England, Wales and Scotland, including the cities of Glasgow, Manchester, Bristol and Bath. They are also be operating in Hampshire, Berkshire and South Yorkshire. In September Voith Turbo announced that Stagecoach was �itting 140 gearboxes to ADL Enviro200s.

John Domigan, Voith Turbo Sales and Marketing Manager Stagecoach said they had chosen Voith “because it has proven to be the most cost-effective and reliable option.” Throughout last year Voith also made signi�icant inroads into the important municipal sector. Successes included winning new business with Cardiff Bus – who awarded Voith two contracts – and with award-winning operator, Reading Bus. Today Voith Turbo supplies the Big Five UK bus operators and is looking forward with optimism for the rest of 2015. “We have made good progress over the past �ive years and now, with the

launch of our Euro 6 compliant DIWA.6 automatic gearbox, we are already receiving good signs for another successful year,” said John Domigan, Voith Turbo’s Sales and Marketing Manager “We believe our success can be attributed to two factors. First, our fuel consumption results in both existing buses and independent trials is playing a crucial part in keeping operator costs to a minimum over the lifecycle of buses. “Secondly, over the past �ive years our reputation for reliability and longevity has grown signi�icantly.” Recently Voith Turbo took

‘Voith Turbo makes automatic transmissions specifically for the stop-start cycle of buses’ steps to further improve its service to customers by using a new software package to assess the condition of gearboxes to help bus companies cut operating costs. The new health checks, already being carried out on some UK bus �leets, can save operators hundreds of thousands of pounds a year. The checks are carried out by

The DIWA.6 automatic transmission is specifically designed for the start-stop cycle of buses

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service engineers who can interrogate gearbox ECUs with a laptop, and also deploy a new software package called Adascanner. The health checks can accurately predict when a gearbox is likely to fail, or if a component, such as a solenoid, is about to fail leading to costly repairs. Adascanner involves computer monitoring of the condition of clutch plates which cannot be inspected visually without stripping down the transmission. Clutch plates can cause widespread damage to other gearbox components when they

fail, so predicting when they are coming to the end of their life is a major breakthrough for Voith Turbo. “At present if a bus breaks down in service with a gearbox failure it has to be towed back to a depot. Every hour the bus is out of service costs the operator money,” said John Domigan. “Now, using Adascanner with our ECU �iles, we know when a clutch plate is about to fail with a fairly high degree of accuracy – usually about four to six weeks. So we can take the bus off the road at a time convenient to the bus operator. “We can then replace the gearbox in time for the bus to be back on the road at its scheduled time. It also means that costly downtime can virtually be eliminated through new planned maintenance programmes.” Voith Turbo makes automatic transmissions speci�ically for the stop-start cycle of buses. The DIWA’s �irst gear replaces the �irst two gears on a conventional automatic gearbox cutting fuel consumption. It reduces gear shifts at lower speeds giving a more comfortable ride for passengers. T: 0208 667 3021 W: www.uk.voithturbo.com

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

ENGINES & TRANSMISSIONS ZF

For more than a decade, ZF’s AS-Tronic has been relieving drivers from the tiring effects of repetitive clutch operation and gear shifting. In addition to improving comfort and safety, it delivers reliable, economical and virtually maintenance-free operation. Economy – To provide optimally coordinated shifting, the transmission combines tried and trusted ZF technology with modern electronics, developed speci�ically for vehicles with electronic diesel control (EDC) engines and controller area network (CAN) communication capabilities. Employing 12 closely stepped gears enables the engine to always operate in the most economical range, leading to signi�icant fuel savings. Comfort and control – Passengers clearly bene�it from the comfort of quick and precise gear changes without clutch release and engagement jolts, but importantly the driver also enjoys a signi�icantly more relaxed driving environment. In automatic mode, the ZF ASTronic selects appropriate gear

The ZF AS-Tronic automated manual transmissions: ZF AS-Tronic (rear), AS-Tronic Mid (front left) and AS-Tronic Lite (front right) changes depending on conditions such as driver demand, engine load, vehicle acceleration, driven versus nondriven wheel speed, and a variety of other inputs. According to the situation, the driver can switch the transmission from automatic to manual mode and vice

versa at any time with the press of a button. Maintenance – The AS-Tronic is a very low maintenance unit; no dedicated cooling of the transmission is required, the typical interval between oil changes is 185,000 miles and the

integrated ZF clutch requires no preventive maintenance. Clutch actuation is achieved pneumatically with air solenoids and valves rather than hydraulically. The clutch selfadjusting system is microprocessor controlled and the release bearing, clutch fork and push rod do not need periodic lubrication. As a result, and taking into account extensive �ield tests, the estimated life of the clutch system is in excess of 500,000 miles. In the event of clutch overload or need of replacement, the system will alert the driver via the touch pad display. Vehicle compatibility – The ASTronic has a high torque capacity of up to 2,700 Nm. However, to make the comfort and economy bene�its available to vehicles in lower weight categories, the AS-Tronic Mid and AS-Tronic Lite ensure that torque outputs from 600 to 2,700 Nm can be accommodated.

T: 0333 240 1123 E: info.zf-services-uk@ zf.com W: www.zf.com

ZF ECOLIFE - THE UNIVERSAL GENIUS When you need a replacement automatic transmission, who better to trust than the manufacturer? So for a replacement ZF Ecolife, insist on a unit remanufactured by ZF Services UK. Remember our products use only genuine ZF components and are built to the highest standards which include series production upgrades. If you want peace of mind and value for money, look for ZF Services UK Ltd - ZF quality guaranteed. ZF Services UK Ltd ▪ Abbeyfield Road ▪ Lenton ▪ Nottingham ▪ NG7 2SX ▪ Tel: 0333 240 1123 ▪ www.zf.com/uk/busandcoach

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www.coachandbusweek.com

02/03/2015 16:25

CUMMINS

Cummins’ class leading ISB Euro 6 engines are featuring strongly with OEMs across Europe, delivering impressive results in ef�iciency. Ashley Watton, Cummins’ Bus Engine Sales Leader for Europe, said: “Our engineers worked closely with our customers to meet their needs and provide the best all-round package in terms of fuel economy and performance. We have seen a number of products launched to date with excellent results.” To meet the ultra-low levels of Euro 6 these engines use proven technologies of cooled exhaust gas recirculation (EGR) and variable geometry turbocharging (VGT). The Cummins VGT is optimised for high torque and low speed capability, delivering signi�icant performance and driveability improvements. The engine works with the latest Cummins designed exhaust aftertreatment technology, combining a Diesel Particulate Filter (DPF) with Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) to meet the ultra-low levels of emissions. The patented SCR design uses Copper Zeolite technology for very high conversion ef�iciency, even at low temperatures. The four-cylinder ISB4.5 engine is available up to 210ps, with an excellent power to weight ratio and delivers a strong peak torque of 760 Nm. The six-cylinder 6.7 litre ISB engine extends up to 310 ps for coach installations, and 280 ps for bus applications. Peak torque remains at a high level of 1100 Nm. For Euro 4 and 5 Cummins adopted a very successful emissions strategy using SCR. ISB engines delivered class-leading levels of fuel economy with low

AdBlue usage. For Euro 6, Euro 5 fuel consumption levels will be at least maintained, and Adblue consumption reduced to around 2-3% of diesel. Alexander Dennis’ brand new Enviro400 bus, launched recently, features the ISB6.7 Euro 6 engine. It has a number of key product improvements making it lighter, with more passenger capacity, easier to maintain and more fuel ef�icient by 12%. VDL Bus and Coach have used Euro 6 ISB4.5 and ISB6.7 engines for contracts in Finland, Belgium and Germany in their Citea buses. With over 350 ordered, operators are seeing economy gains of at least 20% with standard drivelines and more in hybrids. Also available for Euro 6 is the 8.9 litre ISL G natural gas engine, available from 250 to 320ps for alternative fuel bus applications, with a peak torque of 1356Nm. It uses a combination of cooled Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR) with stoichiometric combustion. Cummins cooled EGR lowers combustion temperatures and reduces engine out emissions and noise. Stoichiometric combustion, where fuel is burned completely, ensures an oxygen free exhaust. It enables the use of highly ef�icient three-way catalyst aftertreatment. The maintenance-free, three-way catalyst technology is an effective, simple, passive device, packaged as part of the exhaust muf�ler, providing consistent emissions control across the operating range. This engine is installed in the Solaris Urbino 12 CNG bus.

T: 01933 334200 E: cduksales@cummins.com W: www.cumminseurope.com

The Cummins ISB4.5 Euro 6 engine has been used extensively by VDL Bus and Coach www.coachandbusweek.com

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

ENGINES & TRANSMISSIONS E & E POTTS

E & E Potts Ltd started in 1956, supplying used engines and parts. After a number of years, the company started to ship truck engines and components to many parts of the world. In the late 1980s, a 5,000 square foot factory was acquired and the company started to supply major operators with engines and parts for their rebuilding programs. The next 10 years saw signi�icant growth in this business and a 20,000 square foot factory was purchased. Good running engines and quality core parts were shipped to customers in both large and small quantities and this business continues today. E & E Potts Ltd started to receive enquiries from customers in the UK and overseas asking it

‘E & E Potts has made a name for itself in this business for being at the forefront of engine building and remanufacturing’

A Caterpillar C3.3 engine to supply rebuilt engines, so it started purchasing them and selling them on. Enquiries kept coming in for long engines and short motors, so the company searched around but the engine rebuilder’s did not supply long engines, only short motors. When E & E Potts looked at the prices, it decided that it could supply a quality long engine and a short motor with a guarantee for less money. The business set up a rebuilding area and now produces full engine rebuilds, short motors,

long engines, cylinder blocks, cylinder heads, crankshafts, and all other related parts. E & E Potts has made a name for itself in this business for being at the forefront of engine building and re-manufacturing. It will build operators an engine to their vehicle’s speci�ic needs. It also has some engines in stock – operators should contact the business for further details if they are looking for something in particular. Whether it’s commercial, travel industry, agricultural, power generation or construction, E & E Potts is able to build an engine to get a vehicle up and running again. As a family run business, E & E

the factory. This is essential if operators want a fully tested engine and the peace of mind that when they do �it the engine, they won’t be confronted with oil or water leaks. If the engine is not dynomometer tested, then how can this be guaranteed? E & E Potts is always keen to keep up with the current changes in technology, hence why it is always investing in equipment which enables it to do its work at an excellent standard. The company offers a full 12 month warrenty on all full engine rebuilds. E & E Potts prides itself on having good customer relationships, so it will go the extra mile to assist operators with any issues. The company sees Cummins engines as one of its specialities. It imports brand new quality parts for B series and C series engines at very fair prices. Other engine types which the company frequently deals with include DAF, Volvo, Mercedes-Benz, Perkins and Caterpillar. The company has also provided MAN engine rebuilds. E & E Potts stocks a variety of small engine components, and can stock operators with gaskets, bearings, piston rings and a number of other parts which they need. It is best to call the company to see what they have in stock. Larger engine components are also on offer, such as pistons, crankshafts, blocks, �lywheels, housings and pumps. Again, it is worth calling the company to see if they have the parts which are

‘All of E & E Potts engines, whether manual or electronic, will be dynomometer and smoke emission tested before leaving the factory’

A rebuilt Perkins 1104 engine 40 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015 032_041_CBW1178_Industry Guide.indd 40

Potts prides itself on delivering a friendly and ef�icient service. Being based in Salford, Manchester means it is perfectly centred within the United Kingdom and with its worldwide shipping, the company is happy to help anybody. Not only does E & E Potts sell, but it also buys surplus engines. Operators with any engines or parts to sell should not hesitate to get in touch. All of E & E Potts engines, whether manual or electronic, will be dynomometer and smoke emission tested before leaving

required, or if they are able to acquire them. If an engine has already been stripped and the customer would just like a long engine building, E & E Potts can cater for this. The business is on Facebook, and can be followed at www. facebook.com/eepottsltd. There are a number of examples of the different services it provides available online.

T: 0161 737 4666 E: eepottsltd@aol.com W: www.eepottsmanchester.com

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707053-1178-Potts FP.qxp 02/03/2015 08:33 Page 1

E & E Potts Ltd DIESEL ENGINE RECONDITIONER

Specialists in Cummins, Perkins, Caterpillar, Mercedes Commercial, Volvo, MAN, DAF, Scania. With over 50 years in the Engine business, E&E Potts are renowned for the efficiency of our Engines. Our Engineers have over 80 years of combined Diesel Engine building experience. All Engines are Dynamometer and Smoke Emissions Tested. Full Engines, Long Engines and Short Motors available. Cylinder Heads, Blocks, Crankshafts, Camshafts, Pistons, Turbochangers, Gaskets and Bearings always in stock.

Call us today on 0161-737-4666 Email: eepottsltd@aol.com Engine House, New Thomas Street, Salford, M6 6WF

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

ENGINES & TRANSMISSIONS

Features List 2014/2015 2015 1178 1179 1180 1181 1182

3 March 10 March 17 March 24 March 31 March

Engines & Transmissions Seating, Flooring & Interiors

1183 1184 1185 1186

7 April 14 April 21 April 28 April

Digital Technology

1187 1188 1189 1190

5 May 12 May 19 May 26 May

Garage Equipment Fuel Management & Emission Control

1191 1192 1193 1194 1195

2 June 9 June 16 June 23 June 30 June

Ticketing & Cash Handling Repairs & Refurbishment

1196

7 July

Vehicle Presentation

Senior Sales Executive

Glazing & Entry Systems

Caroline Barnes 01733 293248 caroline.barnes@coachandbus week.com

Booking deadline Space should be booked no later than two weeks in advance

PAUL CLARK SERVICES

Paul Clark Services (PCS) is the largest coach and bus industry professional engineering support services provider in the UK and has a reputation for providing quality, reliability, diversity, support and value for money within the bus and coach industry for almost 20 years. The business is able to provide highly skilled engineers, including mechanical, electrical and coach building disciplines, and additionally provides workshop management, supervision and specialist technical assistance with any engineering task. This also includes fully managed contract maintenance packages covering anything from a depot to a full operation. The management team has signi�icant experience in high level transport management and holds the necessary industry quali�ications to undertake the duties of Transport Manager. PCS has the experience and knowledge to undertake any repair, refurbishment work or project at the customers’ own premises or at its workshop facility

in Royal Wootton Bassett, close to junction 15, M4 motorway in North Wiltshire. Whether the work involves vehicle inspections, predelivery inspections, post contract assessments, engine rebuilds, or major unit changes using its comprehensive �ixed price menus, PCS has the expertise to ensure that all work is completed to a high standard. PCS can also undertake chassis repairs, including replacing main chassis members and body work repairs, usually at the customer’s own premises. The PCS business is ISO9001 accredited for quality management systems, certi�ied by ISOQAR. Further investments in the business quality manual will include working towards ISO14001 and OHSAS18001 accreditation for the business and workshop. The business is also working towards IRTE workshop accreditation and IRTEC accreditation for its engineers.

T: 0845 6060 474 E: info@paulclarkservices.co.uk W: www.paulclarkservices.co.uk

THE CLUTCH & FLYWHEEL ONE-STOP SHOP Call: 01274 877322

Email: sales@truckfixclutches.com www.truckfixclutches.com 42 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015 032_041_CBW1178_Industry Guide.indd 42

www.coachandbusweek.com

02/03/2015 16:26

GROENEVELD

More major �leets both in the UK and abroad are seeing signi�icant bene�its by �itting Groenveld’s Oilmaster and are specifying the system as part of the standard speci�ication on all of their new vehicles. The Oilmaster system from Groeneveld replaces the need to manually check and replenish the engine’s oil between service intervals and helps �leets reduce oil consumption, oil wastage, �ilter contamination and therefore helping to keep emissions under control and downtime needed for maintenance and repairs. Oilmaster monitors the oil level in the engine and when the ignition is switched on, the device runs through a sequence and automatically adds oil when necessary to ensure the engine always runs at the optimum oil level. In general, this level is substantially lower than the maximum level mark on the dipstick. Since oil consumption is substantially lower at optimum oil

levels, the oil should not be fully topped up when changed. This also reduces the risk of over �illing, with the potential of oil being burned away or being forced out of the engine to atmosphere. These measures result in �inancial bene�its for operators, through accurate and safe automatic monitoring of engine oil levels on vehicles with high utilisation requirements. Oil levels can also be easily checked using Levelmaster, the external ‘at a glance’ indicator which has a tri-colour LED, which can be placed in an optimum position on the vehicle for easy visual indication of whether the engine requires oil or not. This further reduces unnecessary �illing in busy depots. Both systems can also be installed as a retro-�it for vehicles already in service.

T: 01509 600033 E: info-uk@groeneveld group.com W: www.groeneveldgroup.com

SHELLEY TRANSMISSION SERVICES Shelley Transmission Services is a family-run company and has been trading in the commercial transmission reconditioning business for over 25 years, with a background of over 45 years experience. The company’s primary aim is providing a �irst class quality service at competitive prices to the road transport and associated industries. Shelley Transmission Services provides services in reconditioning and repairing gearboxes, differentials, propshafts, steering boxes, axles and other vehicle accessories. The gearboxes and differentials are stripped, cleaned, meticulously inspected and carefully re-assembled with replacement bearings, gears, syncros and the like. A stock of units has been purchased and reconditioned to a high standard with a 12 month guarantee so that exchange units can be offered. This service is useful where a customer requires an urgent turn around.

Propshafts and steering boxes are a natural extension of the gearbox and differential business with the same customer base. Propshafts and steering boxes of various types and speci�ications are held in stock and adapted to individual vehicle size and application as required. A propshaft repair service is also available to reduce costs to customers if required. Shelley’s has brought together a team of highly skilled technicians, some with proven experience and some trained from within the company. Employees do not work on a mini-production �low line but complete all the work necessary as individuals. This gives pride in the work completed and contributes to maintaining the high quality standards achieved by the company.

T: 01902 351178 E: sales@shelley transmission.co.uk W: www.shelleytransmission.co.uk

Shelley Transmission Services Limited Eagle Street, oﬀ Bilston Road Wolverhampton, WV2 2AQ Tel: 01902 351178 Fax: 01902 352545

WHY GO ANYWHERE ELSE?

We have everything here – for free quotes at competitive prices – service exchange or cost of repair. You can be assured of professional advice

NO JOB TOO SMALL!

We can collect and deliver nationwide We stock the full range of gearboxes and diﬀerentials of all makes and models, including Volvo, Mercedes, ZF, DAF, Iveco, MAN, ERF, Fuller, Rockwell, Scania, Eaton – all in stock.

ALL MAKES OF STEERING BOXES IN STOCK! Repair service available for pumps and rams

RECONDITIONED AND NEW PROPSHAFTS, BRAKE CALIPERS All propshaft components and CV joints for all vehicles including plant and farm machinery

FLUIDMASTER indicator Our ‘at a glance external’ fluid level

Top quality repair and balancing service – our speciality Reconditioned starter motors and alternators for PSV, HGV and light commercial vehicles available Why be oﬀ the road – Call today! Call us now, don’t delay

FREEPHONE: 0800 652 0901 www.shelleytransmission.co.uk Email: sales@shelleytransmission.co.uk

www.coachandbusweek.com

032_041_CBW1178_Industry Guide.indd 43

March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 43 02/03/2015 16:54

THE BIG PICTURE In this week’s CBW Gareth Evans and Andy Izatt take a closer look at the all-new Euro 6 Alexander Dennis (ADL) Enviro400 buses that are now operating for Abellio London. Gareth drives the diesel demonstrator that has been working on route 381 (Peckham Bus Station – County Hall) while Andy, who took this picture in Croydon, samples one of the 27 hybrids that are now operating on service 109 (Brixton – Croydon). When ADL unveiled the new design last year it promised a raft of improvements. We think these buses deliver on that promise.

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02/03/2015 10:42

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02/03/2015 10:42

OPERATOR PROFILE › LYNX

Back working together, Andy Warnes and Julian Patterson. ANDY IZATT

Grassroots busmen The team that built Konectbus into one of the country’s most successful independent bus operations is back with a new venture, Lynx in King’s Lynn. Andy Izatt finds out more

am standing in King’s Lynn bus station on a grey, bitterly cold February day. Buses are everywhere. Nearly all Norfolk Green, they’re showing the ravages of winter with varying degrees of road dirt masking the paintwork. It would be the same anywhere in the country. Then my eye is caught by something different – an immaculately presented red Optare Tempo, branded Lynx and bound for Hunstanton on route 35. It’s not just the livery that stands out. The bus is spotless and the driver immaculately dressed. Lynx is the trading name of Coastal Red, a North Runcton-based company that started running its first bus route, the 35, entirely commercially on January 26. New bus companies are a relative rarity these days, but this one has particularly aroused industry curiosity because of the people behind it. They’re Steve Challis, Andy Warnes and Julian Patterson who founded Konectbus in 1999 with just four coaches on work taken over from Norfolk Green and built it up into a 45-vehicle, industry-leading bus operation that was sold to Go-Ahead in 2010. Prior to joining his former directors at Lynx last November, Julian was Managing Director 46 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015

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of Go-Ahead’s East Anglian operations. A grassroots busman at heart, he’s clearly delighted to be back doing what he enjoys most – running buses hands on. The reason that Tempo is spotless is very simple. It is being hand washed everyday, sometimes twice a day. As Julian openly admits, when it’s 2100hrs, cold, dark and snowing, he’s asked himself why he’s doing it, but it’s all part of a micro managed strategy designed to differentiate Lynx from the competition. Don’t assume that he’s hand washing because there isn’t an automated vehicle wash available, because there is. There’s one right next to the workshop that the new company is renting, but he doesn’t use it because he knows that the brushes will take the gloss of the freshly painted paintwork. Remarkable for a new commercial start up, route 35 runs seven days a week. There are 13 return journeys a day with only the first and last being dropped on Sundays. “We aim to offer journey times that are compatible with using the car,” said Julian. “The bus should cost no more than that and paying for car parking – preferably less.”

A question to ask

Inevitably I had to ask Julian why he’d give up that well-paid senior job with Go-Ahead to become involved in the decidedly risky business of starting a new operation all over again. In fact, while the three main shareholding directors have more money than they did in 1999, Lynx started with no work. Konectbus at least had the contracts that came with the Saham Toney-based coaches bought from Norfolk Green. This time around there are two other minority shareholders. Julian’s partner Jenny Moore is one and she will be working part-time in the business. There’s also a member of staff. Steve’s wife Mags, who was a Konectbus shareholder, isn’t involved this time around. “It’s what we know and what we do,” said Julian about the start up. “I’ve been in this industry 26 years. I like running buses and latterly at Go-Ahead I wasn’t doing that. If you’re an MD in a big organisation you don’t get your hands dirty. You’re remote. It’s not the same as knowing all your staff and seeing all your buses out every day. Andy (Warnes) and I have worked together for a long while. We wanted to get back to the coalface.” www.coachandbusweek.com

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The 10.6m Optare Tempo former demonstrator was the second to be built and was acquired from Optare. DAVID BELL It was sentiments echoed by Andy who added: “We’re in control of our own destiny here. It’s nice to be doing it ourselves again.” “When Go-Ahead first approached us in 2009, it was a very different animal to what it is now,” Julian continued. “When we sold Konectbus, we had high hopes, but I’d come to the conclusion that a ‘plc’ career was not for me long-term. “When we started Konectbus we said we’d stop at 12 vehicles. When we got to 18 we said it would be 25, and so it went on. There are many factors which mean that you’re not in control of the size of a business, but this time we’ve decided that we really don’t want more than 20. If we keep to that, we won’t have to employ people to do things we can do ourselves.”

Could have been different

A condition of the deal to sell Konectbus in 2010 was that Steve, Andy and Julian would continue to work for Go-Ahead for two years. First to leave was Andy who decided in July 2012 it was time to take time out to be with his young family. Steve who was in his mid-60s decided to semi-retire in March 2013, but having enjoyed working together in the past, all three men felt there might be an opportunity to do something www.coachandbusweek.com

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together in the future. By no means would it necessarily be in the bus and coach industry. Holiday property was one suggestion. Andy and Steve registered Coastal Red in September 2013, but the company lay dormant. Said Julian: “I became Managing Director of Konectbus when Steve left, but then I inherited Anglian Bus, Hedingham and Chambers. My job changed from being a big version of what we’re doing now to running four different companies. The others were family firms and very different from Konectbus. Anglian was loss-making while Hedingham had just three buses out on Saturday. A complete transformation was required. What’s more, Groups tend to put in their own structures which add significantly to costs. “I needed support on the engineering side and persuaded Andy to come back. He was my trouble-shooting fleet engineer for about a year. Then Norfolk Green was sold to Stagecoach in December 2013. It was in May 2014 that we decided that Coastal Red would be a bus company. That’s when I handed in my notice at Go-Ahead.” The business partners know the area very well. Julian grew up locally and prior to

setting up Konectbus, all three worked for First Eastern Counties. Steve was Operations Director while Julian was Operations Manager at King’s Lynn depot. Andy was a modern engineering apprentice, completing his training at Konectbus. “With the Norfolk Green sale we saw an opportunity,” said Julian. “On most key routes in Norfolk there are two operators competing, but in west Norfolk, Norfolk Green had a monopoly. “We built Konectbus with a mixture of tendered work and by competing with First. Quality competition keeps everyone on their toes. It keeps prices realistic and grows the market. There’s more choice and that encourages people out of their cars. “However, it does feel a very different industry now. There’s not the money around that there was when we started Konectbus, particularly in rural areas. Introducing free concessionary passes for pensioners has changed the rules because it’s just not possible to compete for pass holder business. It was a Labour vote winner that wasn’t thought out properly. It actually discriminates depending on where you live – whether you have a regular bus service or not. A lot of pass holders would be prepared to March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 47

02/03/2015 10:41

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OPERATOR PROFILE › LYNX pay something. For that matter it wouldn’t take much for the government to fund the scheme properly.”

Getting established

Coastal Red applied for a six-vehicle O-licence in June 2014 with Steve named as Transport Manager. That was granted in September. An application has subsequently been made to make Julian Transport Manager, but that’s still being processed. Julian’s record is unblemished, an independent Konectbus never having received a PG9. The administrative delays are a frustration, Julian wryly observing that if the Office of the Traffic Commissioner was a bus operator it would be called in front of the Senior Traffic Commissioner over its performance. “There seems to be an assumption out there that every operator is guilty of something,” he said. “They just haven’t been caught yet.” A search of industrial estates in and around King’s Lynn eventually yielded what the business partners were looking for – a two bay workshop that could accommodate doubledeckers, hard standing for parking, washing facilities and space to locate portable buildings, all at the back of a secure haulier’s yard in Acer Road. There’s also plenty of space to accommodate future expansion. “The King’s Lynn - Hunstanton route was an obvious candidate to start with,” said Julian. “I’ve known it for 40 years. Our 35 route number is the old Eastern Counties number. There are a lot of buses on that corridor, but we knew we could offer something different – a faster journey from the villages (South Wootton, Dersingham, Ingoldisthorpe, Snettisham and Heacham) to King’s Lynn, but not via the Queen Elizabeth Hospital or Gaywood where there can be traffic congestion.” While Lynx runs hourly, Norfolk Green’s routes 10 and 11 between King’s Lynn and Hunstanton operate every 20 minutes. There’s also a more direct half-hourly Coasthopper service operated by Norfolk Green, but that’s via Gaywood. “We could offer better value for money fares as well,” Julian continued. “Interesting how

A nice touch is the ‘sleeping’ destination display while a bus is in the workshop. ANDY IZATT 49 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015 046_051_CBW1178_Coastal Red.indd 49

The Plaxton Interurban-bodied Volvo B10M that was new to First Eastern Counties. ANDY IZATT

The workshop being used by Lynx is at the rear of a secure lorry park. ANDY IZATT Norfolk Green matched that within days. Some passengers have suggested to me that if they could do that now, they must have been ripping them off before.” Lynx ticket options between King’s Lynn and Hunstanton are £3.40 single, £5.50 return valid for a month, £30.50 10-trip, £25.00 weekly and £98.00 monthly. Discounts are available for young people and concessionary pass holders can travel before 0930hrs on a one third discounted single. “It’s what you actually do that’s important,” Julian emphasised. “At Konectbus everyone could say that we ran a quality operation. That was reflected in loyalty from passengers and word of mouth recommendation. It’s about getting the basics right – running on time every time with clean buses, friendly drivers and good value fares. If you do that people will trust you and come to rely on you. If you don’t, you will always have problems.” Konectbus operated Optare’s first Tempo demonstrator on the Norwich Costessey Park and Ride service a decade ago and went on to buy 14. When it came to sourcing buses for Lynx, Tempo was the obvious choice. “At

Konectbus we had operated Excel 1 and 2s from Trent Barton,” Julian recalled. “We got on well with them and the Tempo was the next obvious thing. We have found them to be economical buses and we know all their niggles.” First to join Lynx in May 2014, even before a route had been chosen, was a former TrawsCambria 41-seat 12m bus from Pygall’s Coaches of Peterlee. That was followed by a 34-seat 10.6m former development vehicle, the second Tempo built, that came direct from Optare. Two more former TrawsCambria 41-seaters were bought from Marchant’s of Cheltenham in September. Lynx has an option on another two from Marchant. Even if they’re not used in King’s Lynn, they would be quite sailable with DDA deadlines looming. Interestingly, the original demonstrator operated by Konectbus could also have been bought, but at 12.6m it was considered too long for west Norfolk roads. PVR on route 35 is nominally two, but with roadworks a problem until March, three are being used at peak times to ensure timings are maintained. A welcome feature of the Lynx timetable is that some times that might www.coachandbusweek.com

02/03/2015 10:41

OPERATOR PROFILE › LYNX be subject to delays of up to �ive minutes are highlighted in red so passengers are aware. Julian has built up a small collection of preserved buses, mostly with an Eastern Counties connection that he remembers from his younger days. He and Andy also own a new to Hants & Dorset Leyland National that in later life passed to Trent where, like sister vehicles it was reengineered and proved to be a real asset in Konectbus ownership, helping the business develop so successfully in its early days. Julian keeps tabs on vehicles of interest to him so learned that Rambler of Hastings was selling a former Eastern Counties route X94 1997 Volvo B10M Plaxton Interurban 57-seater last December. It was acquired, but for Lynx so that a suitable vehicle could be made available for Go-Ahead’s Great Northern rail replacement work. Julian is a great believer that you can make your own luck, and no sooner had the coach been bought, a Norfolk County Council (NCC) tender for an emergency school contract between Southery and Downham Market Academy was won. With a January 6 start, Andy worked over Christmas getting it ready and like the Tempos it has been repainted Volkswagen Mars Red by Full Circle Enterprises of Banham. The Volvo also earns its keep hired to Hamilton’s Driver Training which has a base in the same yard as Lynx. While there’s no intent to develop a coaching side to the operation, Julian continues to monitor tenders as they come up. “When we �irst started Konectbus we ran coaches,” he observed. “It was just a small number, but we’re bus people. Running buses is more planned and evenly paced. At Konectbus,

they were never more than 25 miles from base. If there was a problem we could be there in 45 minutes. With coaches it seems to be all or nothing. If there’s a problem one could be stuck on the M25 motorway at midnight. “We like to work hard during the day and then go home and have a good night’s sleep. We have no plans for more coaches, but there are tenders that we would consider looking at.”

Strong image

One of the former Marchant Tempos was still being prepared for service when CBW visited. Interestingly, Julian pointed out that all the buses are �itted with tachographs although none are currently calibrated. All will receive Centrad CCTV systems. The attention to detail that is a hallmark of everything that Lynx does even extends to onboard signage, which is all specially produced and appropriately branded. A red livery was chosen because no other local operator currently uses that colour. The Lynx trading name is designed to bring ‘Lynn’ and ‘links’ together although it’s suf�iciently generic to work anywhere. That point is emphasised by picking out an arrow in the letter ‘x’. While the �irm’s branding looks like the expensive product of a well-known design house, it has actually been developed by Julian in conjunction with vinyl graphic design company, Nervous Graphics of Barnham Broom. A stylish, attractive, user-friendly website that went live in January was created by King’s Lynnbased Binarydrive. Julian went to school with the owner. “The website will evolve over the next six months,” said Julian. “We are able to populate it

First to be acquired was a former TrawsCambria 41-seat 12m bus from Pygall’s Coaches of Peterlee. DAVID BELL

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BELOW RIGHT: While ‘Lynx’ has a King’s Lynn theme it will also appeal to a wider market. ANDY IZATT MIDDLE: A bold message that sets the tone for boarding passengers. ANDY IZATT BOTTOM: Even detailed signage is in the appropriate colour and suitable branded. ANDY IZATT

Route 35 is already attracting good loads as can be seen in King’s Lynn bus station. ANDY IZATT ourselves. Graham Smith (formerly Commercial Manager at Go-Ahead East Anglia and now driving for Lynx) looks after our social media. At Konectbus he was originally a driver, but he’s very talented so we created a management position for him. He’s come here because he fancied a change.” There has been no difficulty in finding good drivers. As soon as rumours started to circulate about the new start up, two interested parties speculatively wrote to the firm’s registered address. Julian knew how professional they were and they were taken on. A third was someone also known to him. Another is Dave Sherwood who was one of the original founders of Norfolk Green. “Dave has been in this industry for years,” said Julian. “He’s exceptionally good with people. He’s been working round here for nearly 20 years and has other talents – a great ambassador. All our drivers are great ambassadors.” Smart Lynx-branded uniforms include a company tie, black blazer, black trousers and coat. “We did think about a red uniform, but we want or staff to feel comfortable with what they’re wearing. We want to empower them to be professional, friendly and approachable.”

Strong start

Aware of how Norfolk Green would almost certainly react when its fare table became public knowledge, Lynx took time to publish it. Press releases were issued to the local media, flagging www.coachandbusweek.com

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up the launch of route 35 and on the first day there was coverage from Radio Norfolk with a presenter travelling on the service. There has been a concerted effort to distribute timetable leaflets to households along the route as well as to libraries, tourist information centres and shops. Explaining the timing of the launch, Julian pointed out that it should enable a strong relationship to be developed with local people who have regular journey patterns before the population of Heacham and Hunstanton doubles in the summer when the seaside caravan sites fill up. “We wanted to find our feet before the summer,” he said. “We wanted to start small and build up our regular clientele. We already have people waiting for us and letting the Norfolk Green bus go by.” Loadings at the end of the first week were what had been projected for the end of the first month. Julian had high praise for the Ticketer ticket equipment that Lynx is using. The machines have been supplied free as part of a Department for Transport, NCC smart ticketing pilot scheme, but the 8% BSOG uplift otherwise due to the operator is forfeited for three years after which there’s an option to buy at a reduced rate. There are also options to buy before then. “It’s all cloud-based,” said Julian about Ticketer. “Information is instantly available and we can do uploads straight away. GPS is also included.” He speaks highly of the public transport team at NCC who he describes as always pro

bus. However, a real concern is the mechanism for concessionary fare reimbursement, a real barrier to any new entrant coming into the local bus market. Norfolk’s scheme is administered by MCL, which in our case said they would not start to reimburse until five months after the original journey had been recorded. “Potentially that’s 75% of our income,” said Julian. “If we didn’t already have the money, it might have been very hard for us to start up. It would put new entrants off having to wait nearly half a year for the first penny of what should be coming through fares from day one. They have since agreed to make a payment in April.” But the smiles on Julian’s and Andy’s faces underlines just how at home they are with their new venture. “When I get up in the morning I feel I’m going to work to make a difference,” said Julian. “I’m dealing with drivers, looking at schedules and helping in the garage rather than looking at KPIs (Key Performance Indicators) to find out what’s going on in the business. You can’t be everywhere, but KPIs are so reactive. Here I’m close to the detail. I know what’s happening day by day. “Some bus companies are more local than others. We’ll build our first service up and then look at other opportunities. At Konectbus we always said that if we couldn’t do it well, we wouldn’t do it at all, and that’s as true now as it has ever been. What’s important is having local knowledge and contact, not just playing lip service to it.” n

March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 51 02/03/2015 18:38

DELIVERIES

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

in association with

SAFEGUARD COACHES Safeguard Coaches Ltd of Guildford has taken delivery of two VDL Futura FHD2 coaches. The first of these represented the inaugural Euro 6 Futura delivered from Moseley in the South and was displayed at Euro Bus Expo 2014. The vehicles are powered by 10.8 litre 370bhp (270kw) Paccar MX11 Euro 6 engines, paired with ZF 6AP1700B Ecolife Automatic transmissions with ZF Intarder. Seating capacity in the vehicles is 57, with threepoint seatbelts. The Vogel Conturo reclining seats also feature contrasting leather headrests and piping, passenger footrests and

WEST MIDLANDS SPECIAL NEEDS TRANSPORT West Midlands Special Needs Transport (WMSNT) has been supplied with three new 8.9m Alexander Dennis (ADL) Enviro200s. The vehicles were acquired from Mistral Bus & Coach PLC and are running from the company’s South Birmingham depot, on the

confidently use them on adult work. “They have replaced two vehicles, a 53-seater Javelin and 57-seater Volvo B10. “We wanted to be sure we were buying something which would go the distance. “A side benefit of having the Euro 6 vehicles is they are significantly quieter. It wasn’t a reason we purchased them, but it is a nice bonus.” FACT FILE

BODY/CHASSIS: VDL Futura

FHD2

armrests. Other specifications include a Paragon CCTV system, DVD player coupled to front monitor and a dash-mounted top loading fridge.

Andrew Halliday, Managing Director of Safeguard Coaches, told CBW: “We wanted a big touring coach as a long-term replacement for the Van Hool Volvos

which are no longer available. We decided to go with maximum capacity, hence 57 seats, but with proper adult legroom and on two axles, so we can

39/39A bus route which runs half-hourly between Longbridge and Quinton/ South Woodgate, via Weoley Castle and Northfield. Dave Sterland, Bus Service Manager for WMSNT, told CBW: “We have quite a few Enviro200s in the fleet already so it’s a bus we’re very familiar with. They’ve replaced other Enviro200s. “The vehicle size is appropriate for the 39/39A and their manoeuvrability is well suited to it as there are

a couple of u-turns involved – the Enviro200 has a really good lock on it which means it copes with them very well. “The buses are performing well so far.”

COACH SERVICES

52 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015 052_CBW1178_Deliveries.indd 52

ENGINE: Paccar MX11 10.8ltr 370bhp Euro 6 TRANSMISSION: ZF 6AP1700B Ecolife SEATS: 57 SUPPLIED BY: Moseley in the South 01823 653000 www.moseleysouth.co.uk

FACT FILE

BODY/CHASSIS: ADL Enviro200 ENGINE: Cummins Euro 5 TRANSMISSION: Allison SEATS: 29 SUPPLIED BY: Mistral Bus &

Coach 01565 621881 www.mistral-bus.com

A new Scania Irizar i6 coach has been delivered to Thetford-based Coach Services Ltd. Constructed upon a Euro 5 Scania K400 EB6x2*4 rear-steer chassis, the 12.9m overall length vehicle is specified with 53 seats with three-point seat belts, seat back tables, a centre sunken toilet, drinks machine, climate control air-conditioning, extra tinted side glass and Durabright alloy wheels. Coach Services Operations Director, Thomas Crawford, said: “We were in the market for a 13m tri-axle coach

and the complete offering from Scania was excellent. The two year repair and maintenance package is superb.” The coach is operating on Euroview Coaching’s extensive tour programme, which is wholly-owned by Coach Services Limited. FACT FILE

BODY/CHASSIS: Scania Irizar i6 ENGINE: Euro 5 K400 13ltr TRANSMISSION: Two-pedal

Scania Opticruise SEATS: 53 SUPPLIED BY: Scania GB 01908 210210 www.scania.co.uk

www.coachandbusweek.com

02/03/2015 10:36

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THE NO.1 WEBSITE FOR BUYING AND SELLING YOUR VEHICLES (Marketplace) - Copy Deadline - 12 noon Friday week prior to publication. (Main) – Booking and Copy Deadline 12noon Monday week of publication 2006 ADL East Lancs Esteem

2001 Alexander

2005 Bova Futura FHD 14.430XE Tri-Axle

63 reclining seats, leather headrest inserts, individual footrests, courier seat, curtains, air con, CD audio, video & monitor, double glazing, manual, intarder, Webasto.

2004 Bova Futura FHD 14.430XE Tri-Axle

63 reclining seats, leather headrests, individual footrests, courier seat, curtains, air conditioning, CD audio, wired for DVD, double glazing, manual, intarder, Webasto.

25 seats, automatic, air con, manual front and back destination, electric middle ramp, CCTV cameras, assault screen, LEZ compliant.

37 seated, new MOT, DDA.

£POA

£5,500 + VAT

Ventura Sales 01342 835206

Peakes Coaches – 07773 793239

Tel: 01823 653000 Moseley in the South

2002 Bova Futura

1996 Caetano Optimo

2003 DAF DB250 Plaxton President

2003 DAF DB250 Alexander ALX400

DAF engine, air conditioned, twin monitors, DVD, toilet, boiler, fridge, Eminox-LEZ, 49 seats, green cloth trim, manual gearbox, ready to go, MOT March 2015.

• MOT January 2015

• 18 seats

• Good runner 65 seats + 26 standees, DAF euro 1V / Voith, conversion to single door available.

£3,500 + VAT

65 seats + 26 standees, DAF euro 1V / Voith, conversion to single door available.

£13,500 + VAT – CHOICE

L.J. Edwards Coach Hire 07974 369570 / 01323 440622

£13,500 + VAT – CHOICE

L.J. Edwards Coach Hire 07974 369570 / 01323 440622

Southdown PSV 01342 711840 bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk

1998 DAF SB3000

1998 DAF SB3000 VanHool

1998 Dennis Dart ALX200

1999 Dennis Dart SLF

13 berths sleeper coach, static AC/heating, 240v, normal band bus stuff, towbar, MOT Feb 2015, good condition for age.

67 seats, 3 point height adjustable seat belts, CCTV, automatic.

37 seats or 33 plus 1 wheelchair, manual ramp, Cummins engine, Allison auto gearbox, power door, new MOT, very tidy.

33 seats, 19 standing and various combinations incl. wheelchair space, Hanover destination front side & rear, wheelchair ramp, fully DDA compliant with accessibility certificate, choice of 5, MOT May and July.

£40,000 + VAT

£9,500 + VAT

£19,000

£4,500 + VAT

£6,250 + VAT

01487 843333 / 07834 97751 david@sunfunholidays.co.uk

Smith & Sons – 01828 626262 info@smithandsonscoaches.co.uk

Drew Wilson Coach Sales 0141 248 5524

Andy.Bates@chalkwell.co.uk Tel: 01795 423982

1996 Dennis Lance

2004 Dennis Enviro 300 Service Bus

2006 DAF SB4000 VanHool Alizee T9

2003 DAF SB4000 VanHool Alizee T9

47 belted seats, excellent condition, long or new MOT, excellent reliability, choice of three vehicles, 2nd owner from new, ex Brighton and Hove.

44 seats, automatic gearbox, LED front, side & rear destinationm front manual ramp, DDA compliant, MOT until May 2015.

ZF auto, 51 seats + courier, centre sunken toilet, coffee machine, fridge, centre carpet and air conditioning, low mileage, MOT to February 2016.

ZF auto, 42/49 seats + courier, rear mounted toilet and servery with fridge, luggage nets, seatback tables, carpets and air conditioning. Choice of 2, low mileage, MOT to February 2016.

£POA

£24,995

£105,000

£65,000

Peakes Coaches – 07773 793239

Ventura Sales 01342 835206

Dalesman Coaches - 01943 870228

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VEHICLES 1999/2001 Dennis Tridents

58 plate Enviro 200

2003 Dennis Dart

Dennis ‘R’ Series Plaxton Panther

Cummins/Allison, Plaxton Pointer body, 47 seats with 45 belted, test 30th June 2015, immaculate throughout, spare gearbox also included.

53 reclining seats, 3 point seat belts, courier seat, plug entrance door, air con, radio/PA/CD audio, DVD and monitor, AS-Tronic intarder, LEZ compliant.

80/85 seats, Voith gearboxes, ISC Euro 3 engines, LEZ compliant, can be DDA with 78 seats, choice of 3.

Offers invited – need space for new vehicles!

£POA

From £14,000 + VAT

£52,500

Whitegate Travel Tel 01606 786833 / 07841 110426

Tel: 01823 653000 Moseley in the South

Steve Hayes – 0161 946 9255 steve.hayes@manct.org

Centaur Coaches

2006 Ford Transit 430E

Ford Transit 115 T430

29 seater, manual ramp, Hanover destination equipment all round, new MOT, in white, ready to go.

01322 625370 / 07957 162388

FORD TRANSIT 115 17 SEAT BUS OCT 2011 61 REG PSV, COIF AND TACHO ONLY 39K MILES READY TO WORK £13,950 + VAT

16 seats, side loading door, 3 point seat belts, rear emergency exit, radio/cassette, tachograph, MOT till Oct.

£5,495 + VAT

White, 17 seats, standard cab, LWB, just one previous owner, electric windows, CD player, central locking, finance available, 3 month/3,000 miles warranty.

£9,995 + VAT

UK Minicoaches – 01902 631507 sales@ukminicoaches.co.uk

WVC – 01784 256255

Ford Transit 17 seat minibus

Ford Transit 100 T430

Immaculate condition throughout, in-dash air conditioning, recent new clutch and flywheel.

White, 17 seats, standard cab, LWB, air conditioning, electric windows, CD player, central locking, finance available, 3 month/3,000 miles warranty, new service and MOT.

£11,500

£9,995 + VAT

keith.cabincoaches@gmail.com

WVC – 01784 256255

59 Reg Ford Transit T430

2.2 D, 6 speed gearbox, LWB, high roof, Advanced conversion, PAS, side loading door, AVS step, 16 high back seats plus driver, rear Unwin tracked floor, Ratcliff underfloor tail lift, CD player, electric windows, only 24,964 miles. £POA

H.W. Pickrell – 01268 521033

2002 Iveco Beaulas

www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01785 811139 07803 222552 staffordbus@btconnect.com

2004 Ford Transit

2006 Ford Transit

16 seats, side loading door, 3 point seat belts, rear emergency exit, radio/cassette, tachograph MOT September 2015.

16 seats, side loading door, 3 point seat belts, rear emergency exit, radio/cassette, tachograph.

£4,950 + VAT

£5,495 + VAT

Whitegate Travel Tel 01606 786833 / 07841 110426

2009 Iveco Library Bus

2008 Iveco Eurorider Beulas Cygnus

2009 Iveco Plaxton Panther

Euro 5, superb example, as new, all keys and manuals, only 29,000 miles warranted, direct council, viewing on site in Manchester.

53 seats + courier, 3 point seat belts OR 49 reclining seats with ONE wheelchair position, wheelchair lift, fridge, continental door, cruise control, digital tacho, integral retarder, automatic.

ZF auto, 61 seats, Euro 5, A/C, 3 point seat belts, crew seat, reverse camera, huge locker space, Webasto, good condition, MOT April 2015.

£POA

Tel: 0161 223 3882 juliej@stoodley.co.uk

Tel: 01823 653000 Moseley in the South

01487 843333 / 07834 97751 david@sunfunholidays.co.uk

NEW Iveco Sitcar Voyager

2008/08 LDV Maxus 3.5T 95 LWB (Euromotive) Welfare

2007 LDV Maxus LWB EHR 15STR

£25,000 o.n.o.

Automatic gearbox, air conditioned, twin monitors, DVD, toilet, boiler, fridge, 25 seat luxury midi coach, Lazzerini reclining seats + courier + driver, air con, manual gearbox + retarder, double glazed tinted windows, with curtains, power door, radio/PA and CD, luggage space of 4 m3.

6 seater, internal AMF-Bruns chair lift, full tracking, Eberspacher, AVS, A/C, 103K.

£POA

£6,495 + VAT

L.J. Edwards Coach Hire 07974 369570 / 01323 440622

Moseley Distributors Ltd Tel: 01236 750501

B&L Coaches 0208 363 8572 or 07971 785390

UK Minicoaches – 01902 631507 sales@ukminicoaches.co.uk

2009 Levante

2009 MAN 18.400 Beulas Cygnus

2000 MAN VanHool EOS 90

2005 Mercedes Benz UNVI Esker Radia

National Express specification, disabled access lift, Alcolock, automatic, reclining seats with leather trim, air con, washroom, powered lockers, radio & PA, air-suspension driver’s seat.

53 seat + crew seat, air con, sat nav, Astronic gearbox, new MOT, choice of 3.

£89,950

48 reclining seats plus courier, WC/washroom, double glazed windows, forced-air ventilation, radio/CD and PA system, clean condition, MOT Jan, 640,000 kms.

Manual, 22 seats + courier, 3 point belts, air conditioning and large boot, excellent condition, low mileage and available with 12 months MOT.

£89,000 – 2 AVAILABLE

Tel: 01202 741439 info@seaviewcoaches.com

£21,500

£32,500

Coachtraders – 01501 744000

Dalesman Coaches - 01943 870228

49 seats, Euro 3, MOT March 15.

£25,000 + VAT

Lewis Coaches Ltd 02476 449944

14 seats + driver, digital tacho, 3 point seatbelts, headrests, side loading door, COIF at cost.

£4,995 + VAT

p56_CBW_1178.qxp 02/03/2015 13:25 Page 1

VEHICLES

Call Gemma Ireland Tel: 01733 293247 E: gemma.ireland@coachandbusweek.com

2008 Mercedes 813

Euro 4, 24 seats with 2 tables, air-con, power door, tow bar, Eberspacher heater and air suspension, year’s MOT.

2010 Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 515cdi

Mercedes Benz UNVI Touring

New Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 516cdi

UNVI Vega conversion, 16 seats, large d/g windows, A/C, saloon forced air, large boot space, deep drop boot, 190k miles, good condition, new test, can repaint at extra cost.

Atego chassis, air suspension, 41 Esteban Ergos seats with 3 pt belts, in Holdsworth moquette, courier seat, air con, double glazed, radio/CD/PA, large luggage capacity, new test.

19 seats, power door, panoramic d/g windows, in-dash A/C, saloon forced air, large luggage space, bulkhead and deep drop boot, 3 yr unlimited mileage warranty.

£26,000 + VAT

£24,950 ono + VAT

£POA

Hailstone Travel - 0845 388 3848

Coachtraders – 01501 744000

2004 Mercedes Sprinter 311D Traveliner LWB

2005 (55 reg) Mercedes Vario 814 LWB

1998 Mercedes Sprinter

2001 Mercedes 814D

15 seats, front entry, Mellor conversion, MOT 16/5/14, very good condition, with tail lift.

£3,700

D L O

1998 Iveco 40 / 10 15 seats, front entry, MOT 22/8/14, very good condition.

£2,500

1995 Iveco 49 / 10 19 seats, front entry, power door, MOT 13/1/15, very good condition.

19 reclining seats, quality conversion, air-con, large boot, LEZ compliant Euro 4, 281,000km, FSH, owned from new, MOT Nov 2015.

£3,000

16 seats, LEZ compliant, 161,000km, PSV MOT Sept analogue tacho, good reliable coach, in good condition.

£6,595 + VAT

£16,995 + VAT

Andy.Bates@chalkwell.co.uk Tel: 01795 423982

Kingdoms Tours Ltd 01884 252646 / 07702 626542

Rainham Coach Co Ltd, Kent 01634 852020/07850 657653

2000 Mercedes Vario 614

2005 Mercedes Sprinter 413 CDI

2001 Mercedes 814D

1999 Mercedes Vario Plaxton Cheetah

27 seats with 3-point belts, LEZ compliant, manual gearbox, MOT April 2015.

£14,950 + VAT

16 seat, air con, mood lighting, London compliant, PSV MOT, COIF, extended rear, huge boot, in superb condition, one owner, loads of history, alarm, reverse sensors etc, panoramic windows, ready to go staight to work.

24 seater, power door, private plate, manual, 3 point belts, low mileage, wood dash kit, very good condition, drives great, long PSV MOT, COIF.

27 seats with 3-point belts, RPC, manual, MOT April 2015.

29 seats, PSV MOT’d, drives well, manual gearbox, 3 point belts etc, bodywork straight but paintwork a little dull, original interior, may PX.

£8,000 + VAT – MAY PX

£12,500 + VAT

£14,950 + VAT

£10,750 + VAT

01404 47502/07790 966667 parnell-coaches@supanet.com

Andy.Bates@chalkwell.co.uk 01795 423982

01404 47502/07790 966667 parnell-coaches@supanet.com

2002 Mercedes Beaver 2

NEW Mercedes Atego Indcar Next

33 seater, auto, 3 point belts, racks, boot, drives well, new tyres, brakes etc, in good condition, very nice interior, wood dash, etc, may PX.

Available in two weights 10 tonne / 4 cyl engine (33 passenger seats) and 12 tonne / 6 cyl engine (33-37 passenger seats), power doors, air con, radio P/A, CD.

WANTED MERCEDES COACHES 1999 to present year,16 to 35 seats, finance settled, with or without MOT, accident damage etc. Contact Tim for an immediate decision

Tel: 01404 47502 / 07790 966667 Email: parnell-coaches@supanet.com

2002/02 Mercedes 814 Vario Plaxton Beaver 2

2003/03 Mercedes Sprinter 413 CDI UVG Treka

29 seater, automatic, tacho, big MOT, power door, 283k miles.

17 seater, welfare/accessible, Sprintshift, front entry, power door, COIF, tacho, MOT, 160,000kms, very good all round order.

£11,950 + VAT

£7,450 + VAT

B&L Coaches 0208 363 8572 or 07971 785390

New Mercedes Benz Sprinter Grand Tourer

2009 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 515

7 speed G Tronic auto, power door, panoramic saloon side windows and windscreen, powered elevating boot door, large boot and side lockers, 19 leather seats + driver + courier, air con.

Manual gearbox, 252,000 miles, white, manual entry door, double rear doors, large drop boot, full draw curtains, 16 moquette seats, air con front & rear, luggage racks.

£POA

£25,000 + VAT

EVM Direct – 0845 5205160

£13,999 + VAT

£POA

01404 47502/07790 966667 parnell-coaches@supanet.com

Moseley Distributors Ltd Tel: 01236 750501

Mercedes Benz Sprinter 516 CDI

2006 Mercedes Benz Vito 111 CDI

Automatic, metallic silver, power door, privacy double glazing, coach rear end, 16 leather seats, in-dash & saloon air con, MOT till June, 177K miles.

8 seats, 202,000 miles, twin sliding saloon door, large boot, 6 speed manual, in-dash & saloon air con, MOT March, clean & tidy vehicle, been very well maintained.

£36,500 + VAT

£4,800

EVM Direct – 0845 5205160

1995 Mercedes 711

2006 Mercedes 815 Unvi Riada

24 seats, power door, private plate, COIF PSV MOTd until July, drives well, 3 point belts, boot, etc, good runner, pretty good condition.

29 seats with 3 point belts.

£2,999 + VAT

£39,000

01404 47502/07790 966667 parnell-coaches@supanet.com

Smith & Sons – 01828 626262 info@smithandsonscoaches.co.uk

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www.coachandbusweek.com

VEHICLES

2009 Mercedes Benz Sprinter Minicoach

2012 Mercedes Benz Sprinter

2009 Mercedes Sprinter 311 MWB

16 moquette seats, automatic, manual entry as well as saloon sliding door, luggage racks, full drawn curtains, double rear doors, monitor/DVD.

Auto, graphite grey, power door, panoramic roof & windows, privacy glass, coach rear end, large drop boot, 16 leather seats, 15in monitor + DVD player, Euroliners, 3 point seat belts, air con front & rear, 100,000 miles, coolbox, MOT Oct.

57,828 miles, 8 highback passenger seats, lots of Unwin tracking, SLD with cassette step, external Ratcliffe fully automatic cassette tailift, totally showroom condition inside and out, excellent value.

2006 Mercedes Vario 814

98,000 miles, 24 highback seats with 3 point belts, lots of Unwin tracking, PLS fully automatic internal Clearway tailift, powerdoor front low step entry, tacho, excellent UVG Modular coachbuilt body, PSV tested, showroom condition inside and out, excellent value

£27,500 + VAT

£47,500 + VAT

£16,995 + VAT

£16,995 + VAT – CHOICE OF 3

EVM Direct – 0845 5205160

Heatons Motor Co 01942 864222

54 plate Mercedes Sprinter 515 LWB

2000 Neoplan Starliner N513 Tourer

Optare Solo Slimline

42,696 miles,16 highback passenger seats, Unwin tracking, SLD with side step, external fully automatic tailift, digital tacho, fully carpet-lined, totally showroom condition inside and out, excellent value

60 leather seats, comfort shift, resprayed, PSVD & seatbelt cert, toilet with hand dryer, sink, 3 x TVs, satnav, DVD, fridge, air con, electric sunroof, alloys.

D L O

Mercedes engine, 3 point seat belts, low floor, wheelchair access and tacho. Sale due to loss of contracts.

Optare Tempo Dual Door Bus

Ex London Transport, 28 seats, 48 standing, lowering suspension, wheelchair ramp, air con, electronic destination, LED lighting, full 12 months test.

£19,995 + VAT

£24,000 NO OFFERS

£20,000

£29,995

Heatons Motor Co 01942 864222

Call Carl on 00353 86857 0885

gillandersabbeycars@yahoo.co.uk

Priority Hire – 01905 821843

2009 (58) Optare Versa

2003 Renault Master

Scania Irizar Century K114

1996 Scania Irizar Century

53 seats (no toilet), ZF auto, 480,000 km, good tyres, good condition, ready for work, LEZ Eminox exhaust, recent service. Sale due to purchase of another coach.

67/70 seats, luggage racks, curtains, 3 point belts, reading lights, power door, double glazing, ZF automatic gearbox, DVD monitor, tinted windows, Telma Retarda, air conditioning, underfloor lockers.

10.4m, 34 seats + 22 standees.

Rohill Kestrel body, 14 seats or 6 wheelchairs, ramp at rear doors, MOT April 2016.

£38,500 + VAT – CHOICE

£2,750 + VAT

Southdown PSV 01342 711840 bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk

Andy.Bates@chalkwell.co.uk Tel: 01795 423982

2010 Renault Master LWB

32,655 miles, 8 highback passenger seats with 3 point belts, lots of Unwin tracking, SLD with cassette step, climate control, automatic transmission, Ricon internal fully automatic tailift COIF’d, totally showroom condition inside and out

£12,995 + VAT

Heatons Motor Co 01942 864222

2002 Scania Irizar K114

49 seat executive, WC, AC, 7 speed C-Shift, MOT 21/5/15, excellent condition.

NOW £37,000

Kingdoms Tours Ltd 01884 252646 / 07702 626542

2009 Scania K340EB Caetano Levante

Reclining seats, air con, washroom/toilet, ZF manual, CD/radio/PA, CCTV, reverse camera, double glazed, curtains, alloy wheels, full service history, front PLS wheelchair lift.

£POA – CHOICE OF 9

Lewis Coaches Ltd 02476 449944

2001 Scania L94UB Wright

44 seats, automatic ZF gearbox, LED front, side & rear destination, front manual ramp.

£46,000

£17,500 + VAT

Cabin Coaches Tel: 07725 252402

Drew Wilson Coach Sales 0141 248 5524

2005 Scania Irizar PB K114

2006 Scania K114 Irizar Century

2002 Scania VanHool K124

ZF auto, 13.2m tri axle, LEZ compliant, new MOT, 53 part leather seats, centre sunken toilet, 2 x TVs & DVD, immaculate condition.

Automatic, 49 seats + courier + driver, centre sunken WC, continental door, air con, radio P/A, CD player, wired for monitor and DVD, double glazing & curtains, new MOT.

£12,995

Ventura Sales 01342 835206

49 seat executive, WC, AC, 7 speed C-Shift, MOT 30/9/14, excellent condition.

£59,950 o.n.o. + VAT

£POA

NOW £39,000

Tryers Coaches 01257 480979 sales@tyrerscoaches.co.uk

Moseley Distributors Ltd Tel: 01236 750501

Kingdoms Tours Ltd 01884 252646 / 07702 626542

p58_CBW_1178.qxp 02/03/2015 13:26 Page 1

VEHICLES

Call Gemma Ireland Tel: 01733 293247 E: gemma.ireland@coachandbusweek.com

1992 Setra 215 HD

53 seats, MAN engine, MOT Nov 2015.

2001 Setra 315 GTHD

2003 Setra 315 GTHD

49 seats, full exec, Merc V8, LEZ compliant, MOT Apr.

49 recliner seats with retractable belts, DVD + 2 monitors, centre toilet, centre power door, boiler + dash fridge, air con, Eminox exhaust for London 2015, Mercedes engine & gearbox, good condition, test until September 2015.

49 seats with courier and toilet in excellent condition and finished in white. All have long tests and are ready to go. With private plates, they look like new – choice of 5.

2008 Setra 415GTHD Euro 4

£5,000 ono

£28,000 ono

£35,000 + VAT o.n.o.

£95,000 + VAT each or offers for 2 or more

Call Ken – Belle Coaches 01728 830414/07887 898425

07730 486708 paul.watson9@btconnect.com

Chiltern Travel 07768 215058 tboorman@outlook.com

2011 61 plate Sitcar Marlin

New EVM Sprinter Classic

2005 Sunsundegai

2002 52 Plate Super Pointer Darts

33 seat + guide, finished in Moquette and leather, carpeted, A/C, PA & DVD, MOT Oct 2015, 123k kms

22 comfort class seats, auto gearbox, power entry door, double rear doors, in-dash and saloon AC, saloon heater, 3 stage entry step, luggage racks.

Full executive specification, ZF automatic, based on Volvo B12M, 49 reclining seats, moquette trim, crew seat, air con, sunken mid WC, DVD, radio & PA, air-suspension driver’s seat.

£85,000 + VAT

Grange Travel – 01474 357743 info@grange-travel.co.uk

2001 Y Reg Tridents

Cummins C series engines, Voith gearboxes, Plaxton President bodies, 78 seats.

42 seats, DDA compliant, Cummins ISB engines, Voith gearboxes.

£POA

£60,000 – 4 AVAILABLE

£POA

EVM Direct – 0845 5205160

Lewis Coaches Ltd 02476 449944

EnsignBus – 01708 865656

2011 Vauxhall Vivaro Combi LWB Tecshift

2008 VDL Futura FHD 127.365

2010 VDL Futura FHD 127.365PR

Very well maintained, massive boot via lift up tailgate rear, bodywork in very good condition for mileage.

53 reclining seats, courier seat, plug entrance door, double glazing, air con, radio/PA/CD audio, DVD and monitors, centre toilet, water boiler, fridge, continental exit, Webasto, reverse camera, cruise control, digital tacho, retarder, automatic.

53 reclining seats, seatback tables, courier seat, plug door, double glazing, air con, radio/AP/CD audio, DVD & monitors, centre sunken toilet, water boiler, fridge, continental exit, Webasto, reverse camera, cruise control, digitacho, retarder.

£11,995 + VAT

£POA

EnsignBus – 01708 865656

UK Minicoaches – 01902 631507 sales@ukminicoaches.co.uk

Tel: 01823 653000 Moseley in the South

Volkswagen Transporter Shuttle

Volkswagen Crafter

2011 VW Crafter CR50 TDI L MAXI H-R

09 Reg VW Transporter

16 seats, front entry, luggage racks with blown air and reading lights, show curtains and large boot area.

2.5 TD, auto, Bluebird Auriga coachbuilt body, n/s/f electric power door, 16 high back removable seats, Unwin tracking, Eberspacher air con/climate, side & rear portaramps, tacho, 47,125 miles only. £POA

FROM £18,000 + VAT

Silver, 9 leather seats, LWB, RHD, automatic, air conditioning, electric pack, tinted glass, alloy wheels, finance available, 3 month/3,000 mile warranty, new service & MOT.

Silver metallic, 9 seats, standard cab, LWB, just one previous owner, electric windows, air conditioning, side loading door, tinted glass, large storage area to the rear, warranted miles, 3 month/3,000 mile warranty, new service and MOT. Choice of 3.

£13,995 – NO VAT

£17,995 + VAT

WVC – 01784 256255

UK Minicoaches – 01902 631507 sales@ukminicoaches.co.uk

2013 Volkswagen Transporter

2005 Volkswagen

2011 Volkswagen Crafter

2006 Volvo B12M

8 seats, manual gearbox, air conditioning, 3 point inertia seat belts, plain silver with no previous livery.

Low floor disabled access vehicle, suitable for wheelchairbound and able bodied passengers.

16 seats finished in moquette, manual, white, large boot, double rear doors, panoramic windows, curtains, emergency exit in saloon, 63,500 miles.

I-shift, LEZ compliant, Hanover LEDs, 12.8m, 50 seats, air-con, servery and toilet, 3 point belts thoughout.

£28,495 + VAT

H.W. Pickrell – 01268 521033

£21,500

£6,000 – 2 AVAILABLE

£27,500 + VAT

£POA

Ventura Sales 01342 835206

Lewis Coaches Ltd 02476 449944

EVM Direct – 0845 5205160

EnsignBus – 01708 865656

2004 Volvo B12B

1998 Volvo VanHool B10M

Volvo B10M Jonkheere

1993 Volvo B10M VanHool

53 seats with lap belts.

70 seats, 3 point height adjustable seat belts, CCTV.

Manual, new MOT, TV & DVD, air conditioning & Webasto,48 seats, rear floor mounted toilet, immaculate condition. 49 seats, air-con, long or new MOT, v.g.c., not ex-National Express.

£39,500 + VAT

Peakes Coaches – 07773 793239

£20,000 o.n.o. + VAT

Tryers Coaches 01257 480979 sales@tyrerscoaches.co.uk

£8,000

£15,000

Smith & Sons – 01828 626262 info@smithandsonscoaches.co.uk

p59_CBW_1178.qxp 02/03/2015 13:27 Page 1

www.coachandbusweek.com 1998 Volvo B10M Enigma

VEHICLES 1998 Volvo B10L/ Alexander Ultra

2001 Volvo B10M Berkhof Axial

2000/2001 X/Y Reg Volvo B7TLs

50 reclining seats, TV/DVD, PA, fridge, hot drinks servery, air con, Webasto, alloys. Last one remaining.

49 recliner seats with retractable belts, DVD + monitor, centre toilet and door, Volvo engine, ZF gearbox, test until August 2015.

43 seats (39 belted), ZF auto, other seat-belted Volvo service buses available due to fleet upgrade.

£12,500 + VAT o.n.o.

£9,500 + VAT

£23,750 + VAT

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

07730 486708 paul.watson9@btconnect.com

Call 01691 780212 or visit www.tanat.co.uk

Snowcoach Holidays 01727 866177 / 07831 612125

EnsignBus – 01708 865656

2003 (53) Volvo B12M

Volvo B12B Sleeper

51/53 seat executive, WC, AC, Berkoff, LEZ, MOT 12/11/14, excellent condition.

ZF auto, 14 berth sleeper, Euro 4 LEZ, static AC/heating, 240v, alloy wheels, normal band bus stuff! MOT June 2015, good condition for age.

NOW £44,000 – MAY CONSIDER PX

£19,500 + VAT

01884 252646 / 07702 626542 Kingdoms Tours Ltd

2008 Volvo B7RLE/ Plaxton Centro

45 seats (42 belted), ZF auto, 2 available, 1 MOT’d until Dec 15, 1 MOT’d until Feb 16. Available due to fleet upgrade.

FROM £20,000 + VAT

2003 Volvo B12M Jonckheere Euro 3

2008 Volvo B7

48 x 3 point belted seats + crew, air con, saloon mounted WC, rear continental door, MOT November 2014.

Euro 5, 43 seats, 30 standing, DDA, RPC, Esteem bodied buses. Choice of 4.

01487 843333 / 07834 97751 david@sunfunholidays.co.uk

£POA – NO REASONABLE OFFER REFUSED

Nigel McCree - 07817 542113

Heritage Coaches Tel Russell – 01403 711238

1999 Volvo B7R Plaxton Prima

1999 Volvo B6BLE/ Wrights Crusader

2011 Volvo B9R Plaxton Panther

37 seats (recent refurb), ZF auto, MOT until April 2015. Available due to fleet upgrade. Destination blind not included in sale.

Automatic, 12.8m, 61 seats + courier + driver, power entrance door, 3 point belts, leather headrests + piping, rear continental door, radio P/A, CD player and air con, LEZ compliant, MOT Sept,157,519km.

70 re-trimmed coach seats, 3 point seat belts, luggage racks, forced air ventilation, reading lights, 6 speed manual, Telma retarda, 174,969 kms, radio/ cassette, excellent condition.

£78,500 + VAT

£55,000 + VAT

£25,000 + VAT

£9,500 + VAT

£POA

Call 01691 780212 or visit www.tanat.co.uk

Drew Wilson Coach Sales 0141 248 5524

Call 01691 780212 or visit www.tanat.co.uk

Moseley Distributors Ltd Tel: 01236 750501

Due to fleet replacement, we have the following vehicles for sale:

1994 Volvo B10M Plaxton Premier 350

Volvo B12B Plaxton Paragon - I-Shift Gearbox 2007 (Euro IV): 5 x 49/53 seats £69,000 + VAT 2008 (Euro V): 4 x 49/53 seats £84,000 + VAT

All are well maintained, low mileage examples (approximately 62,000km per annum) with reclining seats, 3 point seat belts, air conditioning and demountable toilet with hot/cold water boiler and fridge (unused additional seats to increase seating to 53 included in price). Owned by us from new and used on our own holiday programme. All over cream. Price includes new MOT. Sorry no part exchange facilities!

49 reclining seats, lap retractable belts, toilet, ZF auto, tachograph, power door, aisle carpet, radio/ CD, air con, newly retrimmed seats, repainted white.

CHOICE OF 2 – £9,000 + VAT

Drew Wilson Coach Sales 0141 248 5524

1997 Volvo B12R Jonckheere Monaco

71 reclining seats including lap belts, courier seat, powered centre entrance door, air con, radio/PA/cassette, DVD and monitors, toilet, servery unit, fridge, Telma retarder, cruise control.

To view contact Neil McMurdy - Alfa Travel on 01257 248003 (Direct Line)

2005 Jonckheere Mistral Volvo B12B

13 metre, 53 retrimmed seats with 3 point belts and centre toilet, air con, will be supplied with new MOT.

£51,000 + VAT

Chiltern Travel 07768 215058 tboorman@outlook.com

Volvo B10M

53 seats, several M reg coaches available.

55 seats, two available.

57 seats.

£POA

Tel: 01823 653000 Moseley in the South

Howard Snaith - 01830 520609 howardsnaith@btconnect.com

Volvo B7 Optare Esteem

2006 Volvo B12M Berkoff

VOLVO OLYMPIAN ALEXANDER BODY 1998 WITH PVT PLATE FITTED WITH 78 SEATS WITH BELTS MOT AUG 2015 READY TO GO £9,950 + VAT

Euro 5 – RPC, 43 seats, 30 standing, fully DDA compliant, choice of 4 available – would do a bulk deal.

£78,500 & VAT

Round & About – 01293 852032

51/53 seat executive, WC, AC, auto, LEZ, MOT 12/11/14, excellent condition.

£79,000

01884 252646 / 07702 626542 Kingdoms Tours Ltd

www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01785 811139 07803 222552 staffordbus@btconnect.com

704845-1178-Ensign.qxp_Layout 1 02/03/2015 13:41 Page 1

Ensig DOUBLE DECK 2006 VOLVO B12M

2002 52 PLATE SUPER POINTER DARTS

I-shift, LEZ compliant, Hanover LEDs, 12.8m, 50 seats, air-con, servery and toilet, 3 point belts thoughout.

42 seats, DDA compliant, Cummins ISB engines, Voith gearboxes.

2002 DENNIS DART SLFs 10.7m, Cummins ISB Euro 3 engines, Allison gearboxes, airport spec.

2002 02 PLATE DENNIS TRIDENT

2005 OPTARE SOLO M920 33 seats, Mobitrch LED’s, Mercedes engine, DDA compliant.

2001 Y & 51 PLATE VOLVO B7TLs

Cummins ISC Euro 3 engines, Plaxton bodies, DDA and LEZ compliant, 78 seats.

Volvo Euro 3 engines, Voith gearboxes, 80 seats non DDA or 76 seats DDA, LEZ compliant.

2001 MINI POINTER DART

2004 54 PLATE OPTARE SOLO

8.8m, 29 seats, DDA and LEZ compliant.

2007 OPTARE SOLO M880 28 seats, Mobitech LED’s, Cummins engine, DDA compliant.

1999 V REG DENNIS TRIDENTS Alexander ALX400 bodies, Cummins C series engines, Voith gearboxes, 80 seats.

Mercedes engine, M920, 33 seats Hanover destination, DDA compliant.

2002 DENNIS DARTS Cummins Euro 3 / Allison, Plaxton Pointer bodies, dual door, 30 seats, DDA and LEZ compliant, can be converted to single door. ABS fitted – ideal driver trainers

1998 R REG VOLVO B10M Voith automatic, 48 DP seats, long MOT.

OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY -

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

704845-1178-Ensign.qxp_Layout 1 02/03/2015 13:41 Page 2

nbus

K ER SPECIALIST 1999 V REG DENNIS TRIDENTS Cummins C series engines, Voith gearboxes, Plaxton President bodies, 75 seats.

2011 OPTARE SOLO SRs M995

1999 T REG DENNIS TRIDENTS

Cummins 6 cylinder Euro 5 engines, 35 DP seats, DDA and LEZ compliant.

Cummins C series engines, ZF gearbox, East Lancs bodies, 74 seats, long MOT’s

2004 DENNIS DART SLFs Cummins ISB Euro 3 engines, Allison gearboxes, Plaxton Pointer bodies, 37 seats.

2007 ENVIRO 200 Cummins Euro 4 , Voith gearbox, East Lancs body, 9.4m, 26 seats, DDA and LEZ compliant.

2001/2002 DENNIS TRIDENTS 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.

2001 & 2002 DENNIS TRIDENTS ISC Euro 3 engines, DDA and LEZ compliant, Alexander ALX 400 bodies, 62 seats dual door or can be upseated and converted to single door.

2000 X REG VOLVO B7TLs Euro 2, LEZ compliant, Plaxton President , CCTV, dual door 62 seats or single door 74 seats. £9,000 + VAT

1998 S REG VOLVO OLYMPIAN Volvo Euro 2 engines, 76 seats, ZF gearboxes, part open top.

2001 Y REG TRIDENTS Cummins C series engines, Voith gearboxes, Plaxton President bodies, 78 seats. £18,000 + VAT

1996 VOLVO B10MA ARTICULATED COACHES

2003 DENNIS TRIDENTS Voith gearboxes, Alexander ALX 400 bodies, can be 76 seat DDA or 80 seats non DDA, these can be seatbelted.

- BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BUS DEALERS ZF automatics, 71 seats.

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

702765-1178-Coachtraders.qxp 02/03/2015 11:59 Page 1

703666-1164-Moseley Beulas 17/11/2014 15:27 Page 1

Beulas Mythos 13.2m / 13.7m / 14.4m Super high â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3.78m + air conditioning MAN RR4 chassis 440bhp / 480 bhp

MOSELEY (PCV) LTD Elmsall Way, Dale Lane South Elmsall Pontefract West Yorkshire WF9 2XS

Tel: 01977 609000 Fax: 01977 609900 enquiries@moseleycoachsales.co.uk www.moseleycoachsales.co.uk

p64_CBW_1178.qxp 02/03/2015 13:53 Page 64

The

Stafford Bus Centre Specialist Bus & Coach Sales FORD TRANSIT FACTORY 16/17 SEAT BUS 59 reg with 38K miles, tacho, new COIF and PSV MOT £12,950 Also 10 reg £13,950 Others also available

MERCEDES SPRINTER 616 CDI 56 & 06 reg 24 seats and full DDA spec 1 and 2, manual gearbox, very rare £18,950

ADL ENVIRO 300 2006 56 REG. SLF BUS - dual use options, with 60 x 3 point belted seats, LDuse on bus services or SO school contracts. PHONE FOR SPEC AND PRICE DENNIS DART CAETANO CUTLASS. Step entrance with 38 LD contracts etc. £3,450 SOschool seats and 3 point belts. Ideal FORD TRANSITS 15-17 seats, available for short term rental. Rent for one week, month or year. Up to you. Always available. Phone for details MERCEDES 413D SPRINTER 2004 04 REG. Extra long body D boot, COIF and long OLheight with 16 seats and hugeSfull MoT. £11,950

64 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015

VEHICLES AVAILABLE FOR SHORT AND LONGER TERM HIRE

www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01785 811139 07803 222552 staffordbus@btconnect.com MERCEDES 814D VARIO PLAXTON BEAVER 2 2002 52 reg 28 seats on tracking destination, etc £10,950

ADL ENVIRO 300 2002 reg Currenty fitted out as exibition / classroom, very low miles, very good condition, see website for details £17,950

VOLVO OLYMPIAN ALEXANDER BODY 1998 PP 78 seats with belts, August test, ready to work £9,950

FORD TRANSIT T430 2009 high roof, COIF and PSV test, 16/17 seat with underfloor tail lift and tracking, rare to find this spec £11,950

MERCEDES 814 VARIO PLAXTON BEAVER 2 2004 54 REG. Fitted with 20 seats on tracking, and up to 10 wheelchairs, SOLDgearbox, power door, PSV, COIF and MoT, manual destination etc. long wheel base so could go to 32 seats. £14,950 IVECO DAILY 45 15 LWB HIGH ROOF 2005 55 REG. 16 seats wheelchair accessible with power door, new MoT £5,950 DENNIS DART PLAXTON SUPER POINTER. 47 fully belted D L seats, ideal for schools SO £9,450 DAF PLAXTON PREMIER 1996 PP. Fitted with 55 seats, automatic gearbox, new MOT upon sale £9,950

VW CR50 WITH STANFORD CONVERSION 2007 07 REG. Very expensive and high spec conversion by Stamford who are recognised as the best in the industry, fitted with 14 high back seats with 3 point belts, Palfinger Hideaway tail lift and capacity to carry up to 9 passengers and 2 wheelchairs, it has only covered just over 60k miles from new and is in outstanding condition, all paperwork and spare keys, ready to go £17,950 OPTARE SOLO M850 2000 W REG. One remaining with 23/25 coach seats with ramp, DDA etc £4,950 VDL SB180 2010 59 REG Cummins 6 ISB engine with MCV Evolution body, only 20k miles £POA

www.coachandbusweek.com

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BEN WEAVER PSV

2007 07 MERCEDES 816 33 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE BUS 4.25 turbo diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, silver, cerificate of initial fitness, analogue tachograph, PSV, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 10 wheelchairs, electric b-fold front door, 172,000 kilometers/107,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MOT or PSV, fully serviced to RTA standards, 1 month nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 23,995 + VAT

PSV

2010 10 PLATE FIAT DUCATO MAXI 40 3.0 JTD 160PS KSF FREEDOM STEP ENTRY LOW FLOOR WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 3.0 turbo diesel 160ps euro 5 engine, semi automatic, 1 local authority owner from new, rear air suspension to allow easy access for wheelchairs, COIF for 16 passengers, PSV, digital tacho, fold out rear access ramp, low entry side step, tracking for up to 6 wheelchairs, full size side entry door, panoramic glass, 49,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 22,495 + VAT

PSV

2010 10 PLATE FIAT DUCATO MAXI 40 3.0 JTD 160PS KSF FREEDOM STEP ENTRY LOW FLOOR WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 3.0 turbo diesel 160ps euro 5 engine, semi automatic, 1 local authority owner from new, rear air suspension to allow easy access for wheelchairs, COIF for 16 passengers, PSV, digital tacho, fold out rear access ramp, low entry side step, tracking for up to 6 wheelchairs, full size side entry door, panoramic glass, 54,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 22,495 + VAT

2006 06 PLATE MERCEDES BENZ 616CDI SPRINTER LOW FLOOR ACCESSIBLE SERVICE BUS 2.7CDi turbo diesel 160ps engine, 6 speed automatic, double electric front access plug entry doors, rear emergency exit door, fold out wheelchair access ramp, low floor with tracking for upto 3 wheelchairs, COIF for 15 seated plus 1 wheelchair or 13 seated plus 3 wheelchairs, analogue tachograph, PSV tested, ex local authority owned, 166,000 miles, very good condition supplied with 12 months PSV, fully serviced to RTA standards, 1 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £17,995 + VAT

2008 08 PLATE NEW SHAPE MERCEDES SPRINTER 311CDI LWB 11 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2200 CDi turbo diesel 110ps, 6 speed manual gearbox, white, Frank Guy conversion, Ricon internal rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 3 wheelchairs plus 8 passengers, uplift skylight, CD player, electric mirrors, currently fitted with 10 passenger seats but 4 more can be added to make 14 passengers, 172,000 miles but looks and drives like 72,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 13,495 + VAT

2008 58 PLATE FORD TRANSIT XLWB JUMBO HIGH ROOF 11 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2.4 turbo diesel 115ps, 6 speed manual gearbox, frozen white, tracking for up to 5 wheelchairs, currenlty fitted with 8 passenger seats but can be made up to 16 passnger seats, 65,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 13,495 + VAT

PSV

2008 57 PLATE VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER FRONT ENTRY WELFARE BUS 2461cc TDI turbo diesel 161ps, 6 speed automatic gearbox, white, rear air conditioning, underfloor rear wheelchair lift, fully tracked, tracking for upto 6 wheelchairs, digital tachograph, electric front entry plug door, AVS electric side entry step, CD player, electric mirrors, rear blinds, currently fitted with 13 seats but 8 more can be to make 21 seats inc driver, 92,000 kilometers/57,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 16,495 + VAT

PSV

2003 03 MERCEDES VARIO 814 33 SEAT WELFARE BUS 4.25 turbo diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, currently yellow, waiting for white respray, Certificate of Initial Fitness for 30 seats, currently fitted with 28 seats, analogue tachograph, PSV, Ricon underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 10 wheelchairs, electric bi-fold front door, Leicester Carriage Builders conversion, 230,000 kilometers/144,000 miles, very good condition, supplied with 12 months MOT or PSV, fully serviced to RTA standards, 1 month nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 12,995 + VAT

PSV

2007 07 PLATE IVECO DAILY 50C15 AUTOMATIC FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR MINIBUS 3000cc turbo diesel, automatic, COIF, digital tachograph, PSV, electric front entry plug door with fold out step, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, flat floor, currently fitted with 10 seats but additional seating can be added to make into 16 passenger seats, LEZ compliant, ex local authority owned, 121,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 11,795 + VAT

2004 54 MERCEDES 814 PLAXTON BEAVER 2 33 SEAT WELFARE BUS 4.25 turbo diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, yellow/green, COIF, analogue tachograph, PSV, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 10 wheelchairs, electric bi-fold front door, destination boards, 492,000 kilometers/307,000 miles, VGC, supplied with 12 months MOT or PSV, fully serviced to RTA standards, 1 month nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 13,995 + VAT

PSV

2007 07 PLATE IVECO DAILY 50C15 AUTOMATIC FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR MINIBUS 3000cc turbo diesel, automatic, COIF, digital tacho, PSV, electric front entry plug door with fold out step, Ricon internal rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, flat floor, fitted with 10 seats but additional seating can be added, remote central locking, electric windows, CD player, LEZ compliant, ex local authority owned, 76,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 12,995 + VAT

PSV

2005 55 PLATE MERCEDES BENZ 614 VARIO 20 SEAT MINICOACH Onyx conversion, analogue tachograph, certificate of initial for 19 passengers, PSV’D, electric plug front entry door, coach style velour seats, overhead luggage racks, large boot, uplift skylight, waiting for full respray, can be painted into any colour of your choice, supplied with 12 months PSV, fully serviced to RTA standards, 1 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 11,495 + VAT

PSV

2005 55 PLATE VOLKSWAGEN LT46 16 SEAT WELFARE FRONT ENTRY MINIBUS 2.5 TDI White, 5 speed manual gearbox, analogue tachograph, manual front entry plug door, Ricon internal rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, 3 foldaway seats, currently fitted with 8 passenger seats bus 7 more can be added to make into a 15 passengers seat bus, 1 ex local authority owner, LEZ compliant, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 9,495 NO VAT

BEN WEAVER commercIals

2006 06 PLATE VOLKSWAGEN LT46 13 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2.5 TDI, silver, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 3 wheelchairs, electric plug side entry door with electric access step, digital tachograph, certificate of initial fitness, PSV, LEZ compliant, 104,000 miles, very good condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 8,495 + VAT

PSV

2007 07 PLATE IVECO DAILY 50C15 AUTOMATIC FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR MINIBUS 3000cc turbo diesel, automatic, COIF, digital tachograph, PSV, electric front entry plug door with fold out step, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, flat floor, currently fitted with 10 seats but additional seating can be added to make into 16 passenger seats, LEZ compliant, ex local authority owned, 97,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 12,495 + VAT

PSV

2007 07 PLATE IVECO DAILY 50C15 AUTOMATIC FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR MINIBUS 3000cc turbo diesel, automatic, COIF, digital tacho, electric front entry plug door with fold out step, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, fitted with 9 seats but additional seating can be added, remote central locking, electric windows, CD player, LEZ compliant, ex local authority owned, 100,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 12,495 + VAT

PSV

2005 05 MERCEDES VARIO 814 16-24 SEAT WELFARE BUS 4.25 turbo diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, Frank Guy conversion, green, Certificate Of Initial Fitness for 16 passengers, analogue tachograph, PSV, PLC Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 8 wheelchairs, electric bi-fold front door, fold-out side access step, 169,000 kilometers/105,000 miles, ex local authority owned, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to RTA standards, 1 months parts and labour warranty £ 10,995 + VAT

2005 55 PLATE MERCEDES SPRINTER 416CDI 16 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2200 CDI turbo diesel 160ps, 6 speed Sprintshift automatic gearbox, red, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, fully tracked, tracking for upto 6 wheelchairs, 107,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 10,495 + VAT

PSV

2005 05 PLATE VOLKSWAGEN LT46 16 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2.5 TDI, white, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, fully tracked throughout, tracking for up to 6 wheelchairs, COIF, PSV, electric plug side entry door, analogue tacho, LEZ compliant, 66,000 miles, one local authority owner from new, very good condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 month nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 8,495 + VAT

PSV

2004 54 PLATE IVECO DAILY 65C15 25 SEAT WELFARE BUS WITH TACHOGRAPH COIF AND PSV 2800cc turbo diesel, white, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 8 wheelchairs, currently fitted with 22 passenger seats, 2 more can be added, analogue tacho, Certificate of Initial Iitness for 22 passengers, PSV, overhead luggage storage 1 local authority owner from new 93,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 month nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 7,995 + VAT

Gower Street, Sheffield, S4 7JW Tel: 0114 275 7076

www.minibuses.co

703478-1178-Ben Weaver.qxp 02/03/2015 14:49 Page 2

commercials PSV

PSV

2006 06 REG IVECO DAILY 40C14 13 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 3000cc turbo diesel 140ps, 6 speed manual gearbox, white, COIF for 12 passengers, analogue tacho, current PSV expires 3rd April 2015, tracking for 4 wheelchairs, Ricon underfloor rear wheelchair lift, LEZ compliant, fold out side door, access step, 4200kgs gross vehicle weight so can be driven without a d1 licence, 151,000 kilometers/94,000 miles, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 6,995 + VAT

PSV

2002 02 PLATE (ON PRIVATE REG) MERCEDES SPRINTER 411CDI 17 SEAT MINIBUS/MINICOACH 2.2CDi turbo diesel, 5 speed manual gearbox, silver, certificate of initial fitness, analogue tachograph, PSV, overhead storage with reading lights and forced air, curtains, sunroof, CD player, 313,000 miles, good condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 6,495 + VAT

PSV

2004 53 PLATE FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT WELFARE MINIBUS White, 2.4 turbo diesel 125 p,s 5 speed manual gearbox, UV Modular conversion, Certificate of Initial Fitness for 12 passengers, PSV, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 6 wheelchairs, electric plug front entry door, 1 ex local authority owner from new, LEZ compliant, 133,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 6,295 + VAT

PSV

2003 53 PLATE FORD TRANSIT 11 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS White, 2.4 125ps turbo diesel, Certificate of Initial Fitness for 10 passengers and 2 wheelchairs, PSV, Ratcliffe internal rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 2 wheelchairs, 82,000 miles, very good condition, supplied with 12 months PSV/MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 5,795 + VAT

2005 55 PLATE IVECO DAILY IRIS 45C13 13 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS Analogue tachograph, electric front entry plug door with low access step, Ricon internal rear wheelchair lift, tracking for upto 4 wheelchairs, 189,000 kilometers/118,000 miles excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 6,995 + VAT

PSV

2003 (03) IVECO DAILY 65C15 23-25 SEAT WELFARE BUSES Analogue tacho, PSV, COIF for 22 passengers, PSV, 2800cc turbo diesel, white, Access underfloor rear chairlift, tracking up to 8 wheelchairs, 1 local authority from new, excellent condition, 12 months PSV and MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 month nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 6,495 +VAT

PSV

2004 04 PLATE FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT WELFARE MINIBUS White, 2.4 turbo diesel 125 ps, 5 speed manual gearbox, Chassis Developments conversion, Certificate of Initial Fitness, PSV, analogue tachograph, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 6 wheelchair,s 1 ex local authority owner from new, LEZ compliant, 102,000 mile,s excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 6,295 + VAT

PSV

2003 53 PLATE FORD TRANSIT 11 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS White, 2.4 125ps turbo diesel, Certificate of Initial Fitness for 10 passengers and 2 wheelchairs, PSV, Ratcliffe internal rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 2 wheelchairs, 82,000 miles, very good condition, supplied with 12 months PSV/MOT fully serviced to good garage scheme standards 1 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 5,795 + VAT

PSV

2004 54 PLATE FORD TRANSIT 16 SEAT WELFARE MINIBUS White, 2.4 turbo diesel 125 ps, 5 speed manual gearbox, Chassis Developments conversion, Certificate of Initial Fitness for 15 passengers, PSV, analogue tachograph, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 6 wheelchairs, electric plug front entry doo,r 1 ex local authority owner from new, LEZ compliant, 100,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 6,495 + VAT

PSV

2004 53 PLATE IVECO DAILY 65C15 16 TO 23 SEAT WELFARE BUS WITH TACHOGRAPH COIF AND PSV 2800cc turbo diesel, metallic light blue, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 8 wheelchairs, currently fitted with 10 passenger seats, 6 more can be added to take 22 passengers, analogue tachograph, COIF, PSV, 214,000 kilometers/134,000 miles, very good condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 month nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 6,195 + VAT

2003 53 PLATE IVECO DAILY 65C15 16 TO 23 SEAT WELFARE BUS WITH TACHOGRAPH COIF AND PSV 2800cc turbo diesel, metallic light green, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 8 wheelchairs, currently fitted with 16 passenger seats, 6 more can be added to take 22 passengers, analogue tachograph, COIF, PSV, overhead luggage storage, 132,000 kilometers/82,000 miles, very good condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 month nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 6,495 + VAT

PSV

2004 04 PLATE FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT WELFARE MINIBUS White, 2.4 turbo diesel 125 ps, 5 speed manual gearbox, Chassis Developments conversion, Certificate of Initial Fitness for 15 passengers, PSV, analogue tachograph, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 6 wheelchairs, electric plug front entry door, 1 ex local authority owner from new, LEZ compliant ,79,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 6,495 + VAT

PSV

2003 03 PLATE IVECO DAILY 65C15 12-24 SEAT WELFARE BUS WITH TACHOGRAPH COIF AND PSV 2800cc turbo diesel, white, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 8 wheelchairs, currently fitted with 12 passenger seats plus drivers companion 10 more can be added to take 22 passengers, analogue tachograph, COIF for 22 passengers, PSV, 1 local authority owner from new, 215,000 kilometers/134,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 month nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 5,995 + VAT

PSV

2002 52 PLATE VOLKSWAGEN LT46 16 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2.5 TDI, white, Ricon underfloor rear wheelchair lift, fully tracked throughout, tracking for up to 6 wheelchairs, certificate of initial fitness, PSV, analogue tachograph, panoramic glass, LEZ compliant, 226,000 kilometers/141,000 miles,1 local authority owner from new, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 month nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 5,395 + VAT

2002 VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER 2.5TDI LWB 9 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2.5 turbo diesel, blue, Ricon internal rear wheelchair lift with fittings for 1 wheelchair, twin side loading doors, just had the following engine work carried out by ourselves due to water pump failure: new water pump, both timing belt kits replaced, new head gasket and head bolts fitted, eplaced camshaft and 3 valves, previously supplied by ourselves, very good condition, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 month warranty CASH PRICE £ 4,695 NO VAT

PSV

2002 02 PLATE IVECO DAILY IRIS 40C13 17 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2.8 turbo diesel, 6 speed manual gearbox, white, certificate of initial fitness, analogue tachograph, PSV, panoramic glass, electric front entry plug door, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for upto 6 wheelchairs, LEZ compliant, 150,000 kilometers 95,000 miles, very good condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 4,495 + VAT

2003 53 PLATE MERCEDES SPRINTER LWB 313CDI WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2.2 CDI turbo diesel 130ps, silver, Ricon internal rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 5 wheelchairs, LEZ compliant, 132,000 miles, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 month nationwide parts and labour warranty. £ 6,795 NO VAT

2003 03 REG IVECO DAILY 45C13 11 SEAT FRONT ENTRY LONG WHEEL BASE WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2800cc turbo diesel white, white, Access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 6 wheelchairs, tachograph, LEZ compliant, currently fitted with 11 seats but can be made upto 17, 200000 kilometers, 124000 miles, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 month nationwide parts and labour warrantry £ 4,495 + VAT

2003 53 PLATE IVECO DAILY IRIS 40C13 15 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS Analogue tachograph, certificate of initial fitness, PSV, 2.8 turbo diesel 6 speed manual gearbox, white, panoramic glass, front entry door, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for upto 6 wheelchairs, LEZ compliant, 166,000 kilometers 103,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 1 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 4,195 + VAT

All vehicles supplied with 12 months MOT/PSV, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards and 1–3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty

2001 Y REG LDV CONVOY 17 SEAT HIGH ROOF MINIBUS Ford 2.5 diesel engine, Ford 5 speed manual gearbox, white, very very good condition for its age, last owner has had this bus since 2002, MOT’d until 6th October 2015, 77,000 miles. £ 1,695 NO VAT

p70_CBW_1178.qxp 02/03/2015 14:25 Page 70

Heathrow based commercial vehicle superstore Up to 50 buses always in stock – prices start from £4,995 Contact: 01784 256 255 www.wheelsvancentres.co.uk

VAUXHALL MOVANO MWB 2.3 9 seats, wheelchair lift, one owner £21,995

10 reg VW CRAFTER CR50 5T 2.5 TDI 16 seat, wheelchair lift, 54,000 miles £22,950

MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER 15 seat, wheelchair ramp, 103,000 miles £19,995

CHO

ICE

20 RENAULT MASTER 120.35 DCI 14 seat, wheelchair access, 88,000 miles £11,995

70 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015

MERCEDES-BENZ SPRINTER 413 CDI 17 seat, air condition, semi-auto £19,995

FORD TRANSIT 17 seaters – choice of 20 From £7,995

www.coachandbusweek.com

701915-1178-DrewWilson.qxp 02/03/2015 12:27 Page 1

DREW WILSON coach sales

2000 MERCEDES HISPANO 49 seats, semi auto, lap retractable belts, centre toilet, forced air heating, reading lights, TV monitor, 542,190kms, new MOT. POA

2003 MERCEDES VARIO 614D 24 coach seats, 3 point belts, luggage racks, forced air ventilation, reading lights, large drop well boot, curtains, aisle carpets, manual, slam door, new paint, 418,273 kms. £13,000 + VAT

2004 FORD TRANSIT 15 seats, 3 point belts, manual., radio.

2010 AYATS BRAVO DOUBLE DECKER 83 seats plus crew seat, 2 side entry doors, carpets, UK COIF, toilet, fridge, TV/DVD, servery, AS Tronic gearbox.

POA

£190,000 + VAT

2000 DENNIS JAVELIN CAETANO ENIGMA 53 seats, lap retractable belts, luggage racks, reading lights, forced air heating, curtains, manual.

2002 IVECO MAXIM 29 coach seats, lap retractable belts, crew seat, power door, manual gearbox, forced air, reading lights, curtains, radio cassette. POA

2004 OPTARE SOLO 18/20 seats plus 2 wheelchairs, wheelchair ramp, 3 point seatbelts, automatic, tacho, Mercedes engine, choice of 2.

1997 SCANIA IRIZAR CENTURY 51 reclining seats, toilet, lap retractable belts, crew seat, comfort shift, double glazing, tinted windows, power door, air con, repainted in white, tidy condition, 199,039kms. £7,500 + VAT

2002 MERCEDES SPRINTER 16 seats OR 6 seated and 3 wheelchair, slam door, manual, cd/radio, 3 point belts.

2004 VOLVO B12M PLAXTON PANTHER 55 reclining seats + crew seat, 3 point belts, curtains, aisle carpet, forced air heating, reading lights, luggage racks, manual., power door, re-trimmed seats. £43,500 + VAT

1998 MERCEDES 0404 HISPANO CARROCERA 49 seats + crew seat, lap belts, luggage racks, TV monitor, centre toilet, reading lights, forced air heating, automatic.

2006 MERCEDES VARIO 814D OPTARE NOUVELLE SR 29 coach seats, 3 point seatbelts, large boot, air con, luggage racks, forced air, power door, new MOT, genuine 22,6000 km, absolutely mint condition inside and out, PX considered. £32,000 + VAT

1998 MERCEDES CHEETAH 32 seats with 3 point belts, luggage racks, curtains, aisle carpet, forced air heating, reading lights, power door, CD player, walnut dash. £15,000 + VAT

1995 VOLVO B10M CAETANO ALGARVE II 70 reclining seats, manual gearbox, lap retractable seatbelts, luggage racks, floor vents, reading lights, radio/CD.

1995 VOLVO B9M VAN HOOL ALIZE 36 reclining seats, rear floor mounted toilet, manual, double glazed, tinted windows, power door. New MOT, rear servery, air conditioning. £9,950 + VAT

1999 DENNIS JAVELIN PLAXTON PREMIER 350 51reclining seats, lap belts, centre toilet, boiler and servery, 6 speed ZF gearbox, luggage racks, forced air, reading lights, power door, very tidy, 843,751kms, new MOT. POA

1999 MERCEDES BEAVER 2 31 bus seats, lap belts, luggage holder, manual, power door.

1996 DAF SB220 PLAXTON TITANIUM 47 dual purpose seats, 20 standing, NO WHEELCHAIR, reversing camera, tachograph, MOT 11/08/2015.

POA

1998 SCANIA IRIZAR INTERCENTURY 55 seats with belts, comfort shift, double glazed, air conditioning, CD player, crew seat, can be made to 70 seats, MOT May 2015. £10,000 + VAT

2010 MERCEDES CHEETAH 33 coach seats, 3 point belts, tinted and double glazed panoramic windows, power door, forced air heating, reading lights, Euroliners, repainted white, boot, side locker, new MOT. £80,000 + VAT

1989 VOLVO B10M VAN HOOL 57 seats with lap retractable belts, luggage racks, reading lights, forced air heating, manual, crew seat, power door. 121,446kms, new test, new retrim, repainted in white. £4,000 + VAT

2002 TOYOTA OPTIMO 23 reclining seats, power door, analogue tacho, radio/cassette, luggage racks, forced air heating, reading lights, MOT’d. £11,000 + VAT

2006 OPTARE SOLO WIDE BODY 29 seats, 1 wheelchair, wheelchair ramp, Allison 2000 auto gearbox, front and rear destination.

£12,000 + VAT

£3,000 + VAT

£17,500 + VAT

£19,000 + VAT

2003 VOLVO B12M JONCKHEERE MISTRAL 50 leather coach seats, manual, 3 point belts, curtains, rear toilet, CD/radio, monitor, forced air heating, reading lights, power door. POA

POA

£7,500 + VAT ono

£30,000 + VAT

CHOICE OF OVER 350 VEHICLES • OPEN 7 DAYS 08.00-18.00

CHECK OUT OUR WEBSITE AT WWW.DREWWILSON.CO.UK Tel/Fax: 0141 248 5524 • Mob: 07764 200444 • Email: drew@drewwilson.co.uk Mob: 07827 325474 • Email: graham@drewwilson.co.uk

p72_CBW_1178.qxp 02/03/2015 13:55 Page 72

Nigel McCree 16 seater, luxury minicoach, air con, mood lighting, London compliant, PSV MOT, COIF, extended rear, in superb condition, one owner from new, drives excellent, loads of history, alarm, reverse sensors etc, top spec vehicle, panoramic windows,

WANTED: MERCEDES COACHES

2005 Optare Solo M780SL • Merc power • 21 belted seats (3pt) • 16 Standees. • Wheelchair floor tracking to take more than 1 wheelchair • MOT 02-05-2015

£28,000 + VAT ovno Tel: 01805 938036 Mob: 07817 542113 Email: nigel@nigelmccree.com Insurance Insurance Stock updated weekly on the website:

www.nigelmccree.com SHORT OF CASH? RE-FINANCE YOUR VEHICLES WITH US – CALL 07808 856390

The

Stafford Bus Centre Specialist Bus & Coach Sales

ready to go staight to work.

1999 to present year, 16 to 35 seats, finance £14750 settled, with or without MOT, accident damage, etc. – IMMEDIATE DECISION

Call Tim 01404 47502 or 07790 966667 Email: parnell-coaches@supanet.com

VEHICLES AVAILABLE FOR SHORT AND LONGER TERM HIRE

www.staffordbuscentre.com Tel: 01785 811139 07803 222552 staffordbus@btconnect.com

RENAULT MASTER TRI AXLE BUS WITH CRAZY LOW MILES OF ONLY 20,000, BUILT TO CARRY 16 SEATED PASSENGERS OR UP TO 7 WHEELCHAIRS, POWER ENTRANCE DOOR, TACHOGRAPH, MANUAL FOLD OUT REAR RAMP, REVERSING CAMERA, NO EXPENSE SPARED WHEN BUILT, FULLY REPAINTED INTO WHITE AND MOT TO MARCH 2015, CAN BE PSV WITH COIF IF REQUIRED

£14,950 72 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015

www.coachandbusweek.com

706682-1177-Connaught.qxp_Layout 1 23/02/2015 15:11 Page 1

Brand New coach-built Mercedes 516 CDi Euro 6 Ferqui Soroco 19 high back reclining seats, 3 point belts, AC, DG, reading lights, power door, tow-bar and boot.

Brand New Coach-built Mercedes Atego Ferqui F5 34, 36 or 38 high back seats, 3 point belts, air conditioning, double glazing, reading lights, power door, curtains, large boot. Orders now being taken.

D L O

S 2011 Mercedes 516 CDi Sprinter Auto 16 high back reclining seats, 3 point belts, AC, forced air, reading lights, curtains, large boot. Choice of 3.

2010 Mercedes 516 CDi Soroco 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, DG, forced air, reading lights, power door and large boot.

Last available for March delivery - Brand New Mercedes 516 CDi coach-built Ferqui Soroco 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, DG, curtains, power door, large boot, metallic paint.

D L O

2010 Mercedes 515 CDi Soroco 19 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, DG, forced air, reading lights, power door, metallic paint and boot.

D L O

S 2009 Mercedes 515 CDi coach-built Ferqui Soroco 16 high back seats. 3 point belts, AC, DG, curtains, power door, large boot.

2008 58 Reg Mercedes 816 Unvi Riada 29 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, forced air, reading lights, power door and large boot.

2008 Iveco 40C12 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, curtains, drop step, coach back end.

D L O

S 2007 57 Reg Mercedes Soroco 16 high back leather trimmed seats, 3 point belts, AC,DG, forced air, reading lights, power door, large boot.

2006 56 Reg Mercedes 413CDi Soroco 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, forced air, reading lights, curtains, power door & large boot.

1999 S Reg Mercedes 814 Plaxton Beaver 33 seats, 3 point belts, power door, manual gearbox, new test.

Steve Peach Tel: 01405 814064 Mob: 07836 551020 Email: info@connaughtpsv.co.uk Web: www.connaughtpsv.co.uk

p74_CBW_1178.qxp 02/03/2015 15:09 Page 74

FOR SALE DUE TO FLEET REPLACEMENT

2006 Mercedes 815 Unvi Riada 29 seats with 3 point belts £39,000

SOLD 2007 Mercedes 815 Sitcar Beluga 33 seats with seat belts, CCTV £42,000

MERCEDES-BENZ UNVI ESKER RADIA 2005 Manual, 22 seats + courier, 3 point belts, air conditioning and large boot, excellent condition, low mileage and available with 12 months MOT. £32,500

1993 Volvo B10M Van Hool 70 seats, 3 point height adjustable seat belts, CCTV £15,000

2 x 1996 Volvo B10M Van Hool 70 seats, 3 point height adjustable seat belts, CCTV £22,000 ea

DAF SB4000 VAN HOOL ALIZEE T9 2003 ZF auto, 42/49 seats + courier with rear mounted toilet and servery with fridge, luggage nets, seatback tables, carpets and air conditioning, low mileage, MOT’d to February 2016. £65,000 – CHOICE OF 2

1998 DAF SB3000 Van Hool 67 seats, 3 point height adjustable seat belts, CCTV, auto £19,000

Volvo B10M Johnkheere 53 seats with lap belts £8,000 2 x Optare Solo 25 seat plus 3 tip ups, DDA compliant, new reconditioned engine fitted 6 months ago by MAN specialists £34000 ea All vehicles in white and with 12 months MOT. All plus VAT.

Smith & Sons Coaches

DAF SB4000 VAN HOOL ALIZEE T9 2006 ZF Auto, 51 seats + courier with centre sunken toilet, coffee machine, fridge, centre carpet and air conditioning, low mileage, and will be available with 12 months MOT. £105,000

The Coach Depot, Woodside, Coupar Angus, Perthshire PH13 9LW

For further details please ring 01943 870228

Tel: 01828 626262 Email: info@smithandsonscoaches.co.uk

Dalesman Coaches

74 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015

www.coachandbusweek.com

H. W. PICKRELL

000000-1177-Pickrell.qxp 23/02/2015 13:57 Page 1

MINIBUS AND WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES

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

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

SPECIALIST SUPPLIER OF NEW & USED STANDARD AND WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUSES For latest stock arrivals follow @h_w_pickrell

59 REG MERCEDES 813 VARIO EURO 5 4.2TD 5 SPEED MANUAL GEARBOX NU-TRACK COACHBUILT BODY, N/S/F AIR POWER DOOR, 16 HIGH BACK REMOVABLE SEATS ON UNWIN TRACKED FLAT FLOOR, EBERSPACHER HEATER, PLS UNDERFLOOR TAIL LIFT, TACHO, EX LOCAL AUTHORITY, COIF, CHOICE OF 4.

2011 11 REG VAUXHALL MOVANO LM35 2.5TD 6 SPEED GEARBOX, PAS, TACHO, O & H CONVERSION, SLD, ELECTRIC STEP, 11 SEATS PLUS DRIVER, FRONT & REAR AIR CON & EBERSPACHER HEATER, UNWIN TRACKED FLOOR, RICON TAIL LIFT, STORAGE, REVERSE SENSORS, VERY HIGH SPEC, 12,062 MILES.

UN REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 513 AUTO GEARBOX EX LWB, HIGH ROOF, VDL LOW FLOOR MIDICITY N/S/F DOUBLE SIZE ELECTRIC POWER DOOR WITH FOLD OUT RAMP, 15 HIGH BACK SEATS + DRIVER, EBERSPACHER HEATER & FULL AIR CON, COACH REAR END, DESTINATION BOARD, DELIVERY MILES ONLY.

11 REG VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER CR50 BUS 2.5 TD MANUAL GEARBOX, PAS, LWB, SCW CONVERSION, SIDE LOADING DOOR & STEP, 16 HIGH BACK SEATS PLUS DRIVER, FULLY TRACKED UNWIN FLOOR, RATCLIFF UNDERFLOOR TAIL LIFT, ELECTRIC MIRRORS & WINDOWS, TACHO, 13,865 MILES ONLY.

09 REG VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER 2.5 TD AUTO, EX LWB, BLUEBIRD AURIGA COACHBUILT BODY, N/S/F ELECTRIC POWER DOOR, 16 HIGH BACK REMOVABLE SEATS, UNWIN TRACKING, EBERSPACHER HEATER & FULL AIR CON/CLIMATE, SIDE & REAR PORTARAMPS, TACHO, 47,125 MILES ONLY.

2014 14 REG VOLKSWAGEN CR50 MANUAL GEARBOX, EX LWB, HIGH ROOF, VDL LOW FLOOR MIDICITY N/S/F DOUBLE SIZE ELECTRIC POWER DOOR WITH FOLD OUT RAMP, 15 HIGH BACK SEATS + DRIVER OR 11 PLUS 2 X WHEELCHAIRS, EBERSPACHER HEATER, DELIVERY MILES ONLY.

13 REG RENAULT MASTER FM35 2.5TD AUTOMATIC GEARBOX, PAS, FACTORY CONVERSION, SIDE LOADING DOOR AND ELECTRIC STEP, 16 HIGH BACK SEATS PLUS DRIVER, M2 TESTED FLOOR, LUGGAGE RACKS, AIR CON, ELECTRIC MIRRORS & WINDOWS, TACHO, 8,432 KMS ONLY.

2012 12 REG VAUXHALL MOVANO FM35 2.5TD 6 SPEED GEARBOX, PAS, TACHO, FACTORY CONVERSION, SIDE LOADING DOOR AND ELECTRIC STEP, 16 HIGH BACK SEATS PLUS DRIVER, M2 TESTED FLOOR, ELECTRIC MIRRORS & WINDOWS, TACHO, AIR CON FRONT & REAR, 36,766 KMS ONLY.

58 REG VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER CR50 BUS 2.5 TD AUTOMATIC GEARBOX, PAS, LWB, SCW CONVERSION, SIDE LOADING DOOR & STEP, 16 HIGH BACK SEATS PLUS DRIVER, OVERHEAD LUGGAGE RACKS, ELECTRIC MIRRORS & WINDOWS, TACHO, 33,865 MILES ONLY, COIF'D.

58 REG VAUXHALL MOVANO LM35 2.5TD LWB, HIGH ROOF, 6 SPEED GEARBOX, PAS, O&H CONVERSION, SLD, SIDE STEP, 12 SEATS, 9 REAR HIGH BACK REMOVABLE SEATS, FULLY TRACKED UNWIN FLOOR, RICON TAIL LIFT, FULL AIR CON FRONT & REAR, 24,526 KMS (15,240 MILES).er)

06 REG MERCEDES 814 VARIO 4.2TD 5 SPEED MANUAL GEARBOX, UVG TREKA COACHBUILT BODY, N/S/F ELECTRIC POWER DOOR, 20 HIGH BACK REMOVABLE SEATS ON NMI QUICK REALEASE LEGS, EBERSPACHER HEATER, UNWIN FLAT FLOOR, PLS INTERNAL TAIL LIFT, TACHO, EX LOCAL AUTHORITY.

2011 11 REG FORD CONNECT T230 1.8 DIESEL, MAN GEARBOX, CD, ELEC WINDOWS & MIRRORS, TWIN SIDE LOADING DOORS, 3 HIGH BACK SEAT IN REAR SINGLE PASSENGER SEAT PLUS DRIVER, LOWERED FLOOR WITH FOLD DOWN RAMP, GOWERINGS CONVERSION, VERY HIGH SPEC, 15,036 MILES.

2015 15 REG VOLKSWAGEN T5 BUS DSG GEARBOX, HIGH ROOF PAS, LWB, NEW CONVERSION, SIDE LOADING DOOR & STEP, 8 HIGH BACK SEATS PLUS DRIVER, FULLY TRACKED UNWIN FLOOR, RICON TAIL LIFT, FULL AIR CON, EBERSPACHER HEATER, ELECTRIC MIRRORS & WINDOWS, HI SPEC.

62 REG FORD TRANSIT 125 T350 2.2 D 6 SPEED GEARBOX, LWB, HIGH ROOF, ADVACED CONVERSION, PAS, SIDE LOADING DOOR, AVS STEP, 8 HIGH BACK SEATS PLUS DRIVER, FULLY UNWIN TRACKED FLOOR, RICON TAIL LIFT, CD PLAYER, ELECTRIC WINDOWS, ONLY 21,974 MILES.

59 REG RENAULT MASTER SM33 2.5TD SWB, HIGH ROOF, 6 SPEED G/BOX, PAS, EUROMOTIVE CONVERSION, SIDE LOADING DOOR, AVS STEP, 5 HIGH BACK SEATS PLUS DRIVER, FULLY TRACKED FLOOR, RICON STRETCHER PLATFORN TAIL LIFT, WEBASTO HEATER, 18,774 MILES.

2011 61 REG FORD TRANSIT 115, 430 JUMBO 2.2 D TACHO, SEMI HIGH ROOF, FACTORY CONVERSION, PAS, SIDE LOADING DOOR, 16 HIGH BACK SEATS PLUS DRIVER, REAR DOORS, REAR STEP, CD PLAYER, ELECTRIC MIRRORS & WINDOWS, COIF & PSV TESTED, TACHO, ONLY 57,991 KMS.

56 REG FORD TRANSIT 350 (OS) CREW CAB DROPSIDE TIPPER FITTED WITH REAR TAIL LIFT 2.4 5 SPEED, PAS, TWIN SIDE LOADING CREW CAB DOORS, REAR BENCH SEAT, DEL 500 KGS TAIL LIFT, TOW BAR & ELECTRICS, EX LOCAL AUTHORITY, ONLY 59,452 KMS, TACHO FITTED, MOT'D 20th OCT 2015.

58 REG FORD TRANSIT 350 (NS) CREW CAB DROPSIDE TIPPER FITTED WITH REAR TAIL LIFT 2.4 5 SPEED, PAS, AC, TWIN SIDE CREW CAB DOORS, REAR BENCH SEAT, DEL 500 KGS, LIM JIM ALLY TAIL LIFT, TOW BAR & ELECTRICS, EX LOCAL AUTHORITY, ONLY 39,117 MILES. MOT'D SEPTEMBER 2015.

59 REG FORD TRANSIT 115 T430 2.2 D 6 SPEED GEAR BOX, LWB, HIGH ROOF, ADVACED CONVERSION, PAS, SIDE LOADING DOOR, AVS STEP, 16 HIGH BACK SEATS PLUS DRIVER, REAR UNWIN TRACKED FLOOR, RATCLIFF UNDERFLOOR TAIL LIFT, CD PLAYER, ELECTRIC WINDOWS, ONLY 24,964 MILES.

2013 13 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5TD 6 SPEED GEARBOX, PAS, TACHO, SCW CONVERSION, SIDE LOADING DOOR, ELECTRIC STEP, 8 -12 SEATS PLUS DRIVER, FULLY TRACKED M2 TESTED FLOOR, RICON TAIL LIFT, ELECTRIC MIRRORS & WINDOWS, ONLY 10,500 MILES. CHOICE OF 2.

706931-1178-Chalkwell.qxp 02/03/2015 13:46 Page 1

2001 Mercedes 814D

2006 Iveco Daily

1999 Dennis Dart SLF

8 seats with 3-point seat belts but certified for 16 seats, external wheelchair lift, power door, MOT November 2015.

33 seats with 19 standing and various combinations including wheelchair space, Hanover destination front side and rear, manual wheelchair ramp, fully DDA compliant with accessibility certificate, choice of 5, MOT May and July.

27 seats with 3-point belts, LEZ compliant, manual, MOT April 2016.

£7,950 + VAT

£6,250 + VAT

£14,950 + VAT

1997 Volvo Olympian

2003 Mercedes Vario 614D

2003 Renault Master

Volvo engine, Alexander body, 78 seats and 16 standees, Hanover equipment front side and rear, MOT June 2015

15 removable seats, or 6 wheelchairs, 5 speed manual, external wheelchair ramp, tachograph fitted, very clean condition, MOT May 2015

Rohill Kestrel body, 14 seats or 6 wheelchairs, ramp at rear doors, MOT April 2016

£5,995 + VAT

£4,250 + VAT

£2,750 + VAT

1999 Renault Master

2003 Scania Irizar Inter Century

2002 Mercedes 814D Vario Beaver 2

Rohill body, 17 seats or 9 seats and 3 wheelchairs, fold out ramp, power entrance doors and destination equipment, MOT October 2016

Retrimmed and repainted, LEZ compliant, 53 seats, choice of 2, automatic, MOT Nov/Dec 2015.

Owned from new, 33 highback coach seats, three point seats belts, Hanover destination, manual, luggage racks, boot, power door, LEZ compliant, MOT Dec 15.

£2,200 + VAT

£43,000 + VAT

£14,950 + VAT

Chalkwell Garage & Coach Hire

Tel: 01795 423982 Email andy.bates@chalkwell.co.uk

706847-1178-Moseley South.qxp 02/03/2015 14:51 Page 1

BUS & COACH

IN THE SOUTH LTD.

New in Stock – Used Vehicles

2008 VDL BOVA FUTURA FHD 127.365PR - AUTO (Euro 5) 53 lVogel reclining seats, leather headrests, courier seat, double glazing, AIR CONDITIONING, centre sunken toilet, continental exit, water boiler & fridge situated at toilet top, audio & DVD & twin monitors, reverse camera, digital tacho, retarder, cruise control, auto transmission.

2002 DENNIS ‘R’ SERIES PLAXTON PANTHER - L.E.Z COMPLIANT 53 reclining seats with 3 point seatbelts; courier seat; plug entrance door, double glazed side windows, AIR CONDITIONING; Radio/p.a/CD audio; DVD player & monitor; Continental exit; (Not in use); Curtains; AS-Tronic transmission; ZF Intarder; Eminox exhaust system

1998 DENNIS JAVELIN BERKHOF RADIAL - L.E.Z COMPLIANT 53 reclining seats, courier seat, power Plug entrance door, double glazing, audio equipment, manual transmission, Dinex CRT exhaust system.

1992 MERCEDES 709D WADHAM STRINGER WESSEX 24 rixed seats, seatbelts, bi-fold power entrance door, audio equipment, tachograph, front destination equipment, boot, manual transmission. We have a comprehensive selection of quality used vehicles including touring coaches, double deck coaches, school buses and mini coaches on site at Wellington

Summerfield Avenue, Chelston Business Park, Wellington, Somerset, TA21 9JF

www.moseleysouth.co.uk @MoseleySouth

/moseley south

Telephone (01823) 653000 Fax: (01823) 663502 Email: sales@moseleysouth.co.uk

706532-1175-Eurotaxis FP.qxp 09/02/2015 12:26 Page 1

07970 096 262 2005 Volvo B12M VanHool Alizee T9

2000 Mercedes Setra S315 GTHD

New MOT, 49 seat executive coach with DVD, A/C and 2 screens, LEZ and automatic, 527k kms.

MOT May 2015, manual gearbox, 48 seats, centre toilet, 706k kms.

£59,995

£19,995

2003 Mercedes Setra S315 GTHD

1 years MOT, 48 seats, LEZ compliant, manual gearbox, centre toilet, DVD screens, 756k kms.

48 seats, LEZ, MOT November 2015, manual gearbox, 401k kms.

£30,000

2005 Mercedes Setra S315 GTHD

2004 Volvo B12B Sunsundegui Sideral

LEZ, auto gearbox, A/C, LEZ, 48 seater, MOT August 2015, 659k kms.

LEZ, auto gearbox, MOT Sept 2015, 2 flat screens, centre toilet, A/C, 515k kms.

£49,000

£34,995

2003 Volvo B12B Sunsundegui Sideral

2004 Mercedes Setra S415 HD

LEZ, manual gearbox, MOT Sept 15, centre toilet, 2 flat screens, 464k kms.

MOT Apr 15, 680k kms, 48 seats, LEZ automatic gearbox.

£29,995

£45,000

www.eurotaxis.com

p79_CBW_1178.qxp 02/03/2015 14:41 Page 79

AUDIO & VIDEO

ENGINES

E & E Potts Ltd

• Audio / PA systems • Video-on-demand systems • Monitor & DVD systems • Hands-free mobile phone kits • Reversing cameras and sensors • Multi or single language systems • CCTV • Alarms, tracking and cruise control • SkyTV systems • GPS commentary systems

DIESEL ENGINE RECONDITIONER

UK and Ireland Distributor

www.autosound.co.uk Tel: 0044 (0)1274 688990 Unit 4, Lister Street, Dudley Hill, Bradford, West Yorkshire, BD4 9PQ

CMS BRADFORD - WEST YORKSHIRE

Coach Multimedia Systems

AUDIO/VISUAL/SECURITY SYSTEMS, LCD/LED MONITORS, DVD/HDD PLAYERS, REAR VIEW CAMERA SYSTEMS, MICROPHONES, CCTV, DIGITAL/SATELLITE SYSTEMS, USB CONNECTIVITY ALL SYSTEMS PROFESSIONALLY INSTALLED THROUGHOUT THE WHOLE OF THE UK WITH 30 YEARS EXPERIENCE

Phone: 07933 47 48 48 Email: Andy.Baxter@coachmultimediasystems.co.uk www.coachmultimediasystems.co.uk

BUSINESS FOR SALE

Long established family business for sale due to retirement. Modern fleet of well-maintained 12 to 53 seat coaches. Business including school contracts, private hire, sports and social clubs. Great opportunities for expansion.

BUILDINGS

With over 50 years in the Engine business, E&E Potts are renowned for the efficiency of our Engines. Our Engineers have over 80 years of combined Diesel Engine building experience. All Engines are Dynamometer and Smoke Emissions Tested. Full Engines, Long Engines and Short Motors available. Cylinder Heads, Blocks, Crankshafts, Camshafts, Pistons, Turbochangers, Gaskets and Bearings always in stock.

Call us today on 0161-737-4666 Email: eepottsltd@aol.com Engine House, New Thomas Street, Salford, M6 6WF

CHECKPOINTS

ENGINES

HEAVY DUTY STEEL BUILDINGS

Bus Workshops - Secure Storage Supplied any width, any length Building to BS5590 - Doors high enough for Double Deckers - Finance available For further information phone

BLUELINE BUILDINGS 01709 578333 anytime www.coachandbusweek.com

Specialists in Cummins, Perkins, Caterpillar, Mercedes Commercial, Volvo, MAN, DAF, Scania.

MAN VOLVO CUMMINS SCANIA DAF ETC

March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 79

p80_CBW_1178.qxp 02/03/2015 14:43 Page 80

CLASSIFIEDS EQUIPMENT

Call Caroline Hallam Tel: 01733 293488 E: caroline.hallam@coachandbusweek.com SEATS & TRIM

GARAGE EQUIPMENT FOR SALE Specialists in Brake Testers & Column Lifts

All aspects of coach interior re-trim carried out to a high standard at competitive prices!

www.bwsequip.co.uk BWS (0117) 9530381

Tel: 01253 696033 info@westcoasttrim.co.uk Burton Road, Blackpool FY4 4NW

REGISTRATIONS

£750 99 HXY AXZ 15 AXZ 16 KIG 80 LAZ 87 LIG 59 PHZ 66 UKZ 40 XIL 46

£350 CRZ 949 EUI 424 GKZ 131 IJZ 393 JDZ 585 LCZ 737 WDZ 848 XBZ 404 XIB 494

£50 EXZ 4340 EXZ 4341 GXZ 9311 GXZ 9312 GXZ 9313 HXZ 1450 HXZ 1460 HXZ 1480 IRZ 5560

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£50 TUI 9914 TUI 9915 VJZ 8502 VJZ 8503 VJZ 8504 VUI 2091 WJZ 2931 WJZ 2932 WJZ 2933

Millwood, Lisbellaw, Co. Fermanagh, N. Ireland BT94 5HQ Tel: 028 6638 7124 · www.speedyreg.co.uk · sales@speedyreg.co.uk

GARAGE EQUIPMENT REPAIRS COMMERCIAL GARAGE EQUIPMENT

VOSA AUTHORISED TESTING FACILITY Commercial Garage Equipment Midlands Ltd (CGE) are one of the main providers of ATF Lanes to the CV Market ATF lane includes: - CAD drawing - Civil work - Brake tester approved for all classes - Prefabricated steel pit - Headlight tester - Play detectors - Radius plates - Pit jacks / jacking beams - Optional class 4 / 7 testing - Gas & smoke analyser

Above: Various stages of completion of an ATF Lane at Aldridge Transport, Launceston

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If you would like further information please call 01543 897505

Visit our website: www.lloydmorgangroup.co.uk 80 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015

ALL VEHICLES FINISHED IN CERAMIC 2K PAINT – EXTRA HARD WEARING

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DISMANTLING/SPARES:

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CALL: 01226 727 769 Bus sales: www.geoff-ripleysbuscoachsales.com Geoff Ripley, Boulder Lane (off Shaw Lane), Carlton, Barnsley S71 3HJ

Mob: 07912 103 497 or 07711 750 434 Fax: 01226 727 607 Email: geoff-ripley@btconnect.com

TYRE EQUIPMENT

Trevor Wigley & Son Bus Ltd

TW FULLY LICENSED END OF LIFE VEHICLE CENTRE TW REDUNDANT AND SCRAP VEHICLES TAKEN TW PROFESSIONAL, EFFICIENT SERVICE TW ALL REQUIREMENTS CATERED FOR TW VARIOUS SPARES AVAILABLE TW CONTACT US FOR FULL AVAILABILITY

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

www.twigley.com www.coachandbusweek.com

March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 81

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

NEWS › XXXXXX

A very public toilet A toilet, sink and loo-holder were installed at a bus shelter in Worplesdon. On February 23 a groundsman in the village found the bus stop at the bottom of Oak Hill was given an unexpected addition. Gaynor White, Worplesdon Parish Council Clerk, told Get Surrey she “couldn’t believe it.” She continued: “I received a phone call just before midday and the groundsman said ‘you will never guess what I have found.’ “I have been the parish clerk for 15 and a half years, and I have never seen anything like it – it’s hysterical really. “The key question is – should this be considered a bus shelter improvement or simply money down the drain? “Perhaps we should ask parishioners to share a penny for their thoughts on this one?” The loo-holder, sink and toilet, which was actually used – despite not being plumbed in – has now been removed. CBW assumes the council did not want

SOCIAL MEDIA

UPDATE Red Routemaster @ redroutemaster Check us out in @CBWtweets! #Routemaster

The prankster apparently went to the effort of bolting the toilet, sink and loo-holder to the shelter. @shekcheung to see how it panned out… “It took quite a lot of effort to fix this, as it was actually screwed to the

shelter,”Gaynor said. “It wasn’t just dumped there. I just don’t know why someone has chosen to do this.”

JR Buzz @TheJRBuzz Check out our latest article in @ CBWtweets all about rebranding! Can you name any other interesting rebrands? :) The NW Bus Blog @tnwbb Great article, never knew about Google being called BackRub, I guess now I do! :-) ^TH

Twitter-powered bus stop heating British Gas remote heating service Hive has teamed up with advertising agency CHI&Partners to create an interactive, self-heating bus shelter.. The Hive #TweettoHeat shelter, which launched in Manchester’s Piccadilly station on March 2, will offer commuters a place to keep warm while they wait for buses, trams and trains. Users can heat up the space instantaneously by tweeting the hashtag #TweetToHeat. The pop-up then uses Accurate Instant Response technology from Visual Voice to heat up. Pamela Brown, Head of Marketing and Insight, Connected Homes at British Gas, said: “We love #TweetToHeat – it fits perfectly with our progressive communications approach, using technology to bring to life our smart brand idea; that you can control your heating and hot water from anywhere with your phone.”

Paisley’s bus block? Renfrewshire Council has painted a bus bay on a road which overlaps more than half of a junction, in front of a give-way line.

82 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015 082_CBW1178_Last Stop.indd 82

Richard Bamber of Anthony’s Travel sent your editor this image of his dog Rosie with Jodie Waring’s dog Jimmy. Richard said: “They are fantastic team members and are happy to work for an ample supply of dog biscuits!” The pooches can’t have a ruff life, and they clearly have very pawsitive attitudes…

The bay extends across the junction of Corsebar Road and Glencorse Road in Paisley. However, despite a number of people calling the new stop ‘ridiculous,’ there may have been some rationale involved after all. Renfrewshire Council chiefs said they moved the bus stop to its new location deliberately, to make it easier for vehicles to collect and

This photo was taken on a bus in Barnsley, South Yorkshire. It shows that small malfunctions on public transport shouldn’t have to cause delays. Rather than cause a fuss about the broken bell, the note simply asks people to mimic the bell and shout ‘ding ding’ to alert the driver.

drop off passengers, as there had been issues with the bus stop in its original location. A council spokesman said: “Parked cars regularly blocked access to the bay, which meant buses had to stop on the carriageway. This blocked the road and caused problems for other road users. “The bus bay markings are a standard length and this gives the

impression that traffic on Glencorse Road will be affected but we don’t anticipate there will be any problems when the buses actually stop there. “The bus stop isn’t heavily used and we have talked to local residents about the issue. They understand the reasons behind the move. “We will carefully monitor the situation and reassess the relocation if it causes problems.”

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M O C . S B O J S U B D COACHAN in association with DEADLINES Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm CONTACT Ian Gillis T: 01733 293484 E: ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com

THE LATEST RECRUITMENT

Contact Ian Gillis Tel: 01733 293484 Email: ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com

DEADLINES Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm

VACANCIES

New Chairman takes over at ZF Services

KEY FT Full-time PT Part-time TEM Temporary APP Apprentice

Drivers Coach and Bus Drivers, Driver, FT, Lincoln, P C Coaches of Lincoln Ltd London Bus Drivers, Driver, FT, London, Metroline Casual Chauffeur Drivers for Titan Travels VIP Home Departure Service, Driver, PT, Wales, Titan Transport PCV Coach Driver, Driver, FT, Hayes, City Circle UK Limited Bus Driver - Driver, FT, Hertfordshire, UNO Coach Drivers Wanted, Driver, FT, Weston-super-Mare, Bakers Dolphin

engineers/Mechanics Fleet Engineer, Engineering, FT, Aberdeen, FirstGroup Air-Conditioning Engineer, Engineering, FT, Iver, Falcon Coachworks Fire Suppression Engineer, Health & Safety, FT, Iver, Falcon Coachworks Engineers, Engineering, FT, London, Metroline HGV Mechanic, Engineering, Tem, Kent, WJF Technical Support HGV Mechanic, Engineering, Tem, Oxfordshire, WJF Technical Support HGV Mechanic, Engineering, Tem, Yorkshire, WJF Technical Support HGV Mechanics, Engineering, Tem, Oxford, WJF Technical Support PSV Mechanics, Engineering, FT, East Lyng, WJF Technical Support PSV Mechanics, Engineering, Tem, Birmingham, WJF Technical Support Engineering Supervisor, Engineering, Tem, Birmingham, WJF Technical Support PSV Mechanics, Engineering, Tem, London, WJF Technical Support

To view these and more of latest industry jobs visit www.coach andbusjobs.com

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FULL LISTINGS ONLINE PSV Mechanics, Engineering, Tem, Manchester, WJF Technical Support HGV Mechanics, Engineering, Tem, England, WJF Technical Support PSV Electrician, Engineering, Tem, Leicester, WJF Technical Support PSV Electrician, Engineering, Tem, Birmingham, WJF Technical Support Engineering Manager, Engineering, FT, London, GoAhead London

recommending maintenance or preventive repairs to vehicle owners as appropriate. We will develop the online services necessary for this and offer them to our customers.” Ernst has been working side-by-side with his predecessor Alois Ludwig since July 2014, making himself familiar with the day-to-day operations of the Business Unit and getting to know the international locations and customers. Dr. Stefan Sommer, CEO of ZF Friedrichshafen AG, said: “[Alois Ludwig] was a driving force behind various mergers and led the Business Unit to new heights within the ZF Group as well as on the international aftermarket.”

Management Customer Relationship Manager , IT, FT, Staverton, Trapeze Group (UK) Ltd CPC holder/transport manager, Operations, PT, South West Wales,

operations Head of Commercial, Operations, FT, Wakefield, Arriva Yorkshire Communications Officer, Operations, FT, London, Metroline Training Development Officer, Operations, FT, London, Metroline Scheduling Operations Assistant/Traffic Manager, Operations, FT, Woodford, London, Dans Luxury Travel Operations Support Manager, Senior Management, FT, London, Metroline

senior Management Service Delivery Manager, Senior Management, FT, London, GoAhead London Operations Director, Director, FT, Warrington, Network Warrington Regional Sales Manager, Senior Management, FT, Warwick, Volvo

84 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015 084_085_CBW1178_People_Recruitment.indd 84

On March 1, 2015, Helmut Ernst (55) took over as Chairman of the Board of Directors of ZF Services. He will in the future steer the Aftersales Business Unit of ZF Friedrichshafen AG, expanding its range of telematics and other tailor-made services for tomorrow’s mobility requirements. His predecessor Alois Ludwig (66) is retiring from active working life. “The always-on society will develop rapidly in the coming years. This will again accelerate the networking of vehicles and infrastructure around the globe,” said Helmut Ernst. “The connected workshop will evolve into a mobility manager,

Bainsford Primary School pupils outside the Falkirk stadium with the vehicle provided by First

First Bluebird helps school pupils follow Falkirk FC Over 50 schoolchildren from Bainsford Primary School enjoyed a day out to the Falkirk Stadium on Saturday, February 21, thanks to First Bluebird and Falkirk Football Club. The operator teamed up with the Scottish Championship team to help

connect communities to the match, with the pupils also enjoying free entry to watch their local club play rivals Livingston. Falkirk FC had received feedback that transport can often be an issue with youngsters looking to support their local football team. Paul McGowan, Managing Director of First Bluebird, said: “It’s great that Falkirk FC offers free tickets to school pupils and I’m delighted that we could play our part on Saturday.” www.coachandbusweek.com

02/03/2015 17:01

London Opportunities City Circle was founded in 1999 and from our initial 6 vehicles we have grown to operate a fleet of 58 and employ nearly 100 employees across 3 sites in London and Edinburgh. This growth is due to our company ethos of always providing the highest levels of service to our incoming tourist and corporate customers. Our intention is to continue with this philosophy in order to substantially grow the business over the next 2 years. We realise that the people in our business have got us to where we are today and now need to recruit additional like-minded individuals to achieve our future ambitions. Phase I is to recruit the best people within the industry who flourish under the challenge of aspirational growth, and we now invite applications for the following positions. Phase II will include newly developed roles within all areas of our company. In advance of these roles being published we would like to invite expressions of interest from dynamic experts stating their achievements to date in their chosen fields and how you would add your professional flare and expertise to the business.

General Manager Applicants will have experience of dealing with the day to day operation whilst ensuring quality control and customer service levels are maintained. The role will be responsible for managing all aspects of service delivery, customer focus awareness, compliance and staff under your control. The business needs a General Manager who will not be afraid to question and challenge performance; bring change management experience from both an operations and commercial perspective. This role is a highly visible commercial appointment and one that will offer autonomy and scope to a creative individual who is a natural leader with an obvious entrepreneurial flair and comfortable in a client facing role.

Operations Manager Applicants will have experience of dealing with the planning, organising, coordinating the day to day operation whilst ensuring quality control and customer service levels are maintained. The role will be responsible for scheduling the drivers and vehicles whilst ensuring and improving the performance, productivity, efficiency and profitability of the business through the provision of effective methods and strategies. The successful candidate will ensure full compliance of EU driver and working time directive regulations and hold or plan to obtain national and international CPCs.

Operations Co-ordinator We are looking for an enthusiastic individual with experience of assisting in the planning, direction and coordination of the day-to-day operation by handling the logistics and supervision of the driving team. We are seeking applicants who would like to develop their skills in this hands-on role to drive forward our commitment to customer service. All roles require proactive, eﬀective and resilient organisers accompanied with strong people skills and the ability to lead. To be part of this exciting opportunity then please send your CV and covering letter detailing your current remuneration package to recruitment@citycircleuk.com or HR Department, City Circle UK Limited, West London Coach Centre, North Hyde Gardens, Hayes, Middlesex, UB3 4QT.

www.coachandbusweek.com

084_085_CBW1178_People_Recruitment.indd 85

March 3, 2015 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 85 02/03/2015 18:02

Engineering Opportunities

Traffic Manager Chalkwell

Applications should include the reasons you are applying for the post, examples of how you meet the skills and any relevant qualifications or experience.

Chalkwell Coach Hire and Tours is looking for an experienced Traffic Manager to join our family business in Sittingbourne. Chalkwell operate a large number of private hire coaches to UK and Europe, local bus services, commuters services and school services. Responsibilities: • To ensure the smooth and effective running of all Traffic office activities, including the working productivity of all Traffic personnel • Provide hands on day to day management of the Traffic Supervisor team reporting directly to the Operations Manager. • Show leadership and commercial awareness in a fast moving environment. • Be self-motivated and provide motivation to staff in the pursuit of agreed objectives. • Ensure the planning of vehicles is cost effective and all vehicles and drivers are scheduled correctly in line with customer requirements. • Ensure drivers are compliant with Road Transport (Working Time) Regulations 2005 and EU and Domestic Drivers' hours Regulations, and all vehicles are operated within DVSA regulations. • Provide a can do attitude to customers ensuring that a high level of customer service is delivered at all times including telephone responses times. • Liaise closely with all departments and in particular the vehicle workshop and private hire team ensuring sufficient information is provided between departments and shifts. • PSV License with DCPC required for this post. • Effectively manage all driving and support staff, ensuring adequate cover at all times. The remuneration package will be commensurate with the individual’s experience and ability. All applications will be dealt with in confidence. Please send a CV and covering letter stating current salary to: Andy Bates CMILT, Chalkwell Coach Hire and Tours, 195 Chalkwell Road, Sittingbourne Kent ME10 1BJ or email Andy.Bates@chalkwell.co.uk.

Closing date for applications is March 7th 2015.

Closing date 18th March 2015.

Falcon Coachworks is a bespoke vehicle refurbishment centre for the PSV industry based in Iver. We are currently looking for experienced, ambitious and innovative individuals for two key roles:

Fire Suppression Engineer x 1 We are currently looking for an experienced engineer in the installation, maintenance, repair and any subsequent updating associated with the fire suppression systems on varying platforms for the PSV industry. The Compulsory & professional standards of service adhered to and maintained in all relevant areas of the operation. Must be able to demonstrate a wide breath of experience within the PSV industry on all things fire suppression systems related.

Air-Conditioning Engineer x 5 Experienced in the installation, maintenance and repair of the varying air/chill conditioning systems in various PSV platforms. The Compulsory & professional standards of service adhered to and maintained in all relevant areas of the operation. Must hold FGAS Class 1 qualification or working towards this. You will work 40 hours per week, Monday to Friday with flexibility required to work over and above these hours and weekends if deemed necessary. We offer a competitive salary. To apply, please send a CV and covering letter to Shaun Anders, 20-23 Perivale Park Industrial Estate, Horsenden Lane South, Greenford, UB6 7RL or via email at sanders@metroline.co.uk

warrington’s local bus company

OPERATIONS DIRECTOR

Network Warrington is proud to operate the majority of bus services in the town of Warrington, with an operational fleet of around 100 buses and a history of carrying 8 million plus passengers per year. We are a progressive Local Authority owned Bus Company (working with the Shareholder) and have an annual turnover of £10m and a workforce of 250 employees who are committed to providing the best possible transport service for everyone who lives, visits and does business in Warrington. An exciting opportunity has arisen for an Operations Director. The company is looking for an experienced person who is self motivated, has good interpersonal skills and who is seeking to develop their career and work creatively to deliver a safe, punctual, reliable and customer focused bus service and to ensure that the company remains sustainable and legally compliant for the future. The company is keen to maximise the opportunities afforded by new technology, both for service delivery and customer communications. A good knowledge of RTPI systems would be an advantage, but not essential. To be considered for this role you must be a National CPC holder. We are offering a competitive salary, an auto-enrolled contributory pension scheme and travel benefits. For an application pack, or for further information, please contact Gina Johnson, Executive PA, Network Warrington, Wilderspool Causeway, Warrington WA4 6PT – g.johnson@networkwarrington.co.uk. Tel: 01925 634296. The closing date for applications is Friday 6 March 2015 and interviews will take place week commencing Monday 23 March 2015.

86 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 3, 2015 084_085_CBW1178_People_Recruitment.indd 86

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02/03/2015 17:01

More jobs available online – see our website

Reading Buses names first stars of 2015

Training Development Officer Metroline is one of London’s leading bus operators with a fleet of over 1400 buses operating from a number of locations in West and North West London.

The primary focus of the role requires the successful applicant to develop, produce and deliver training courses in line with the needs of the business, Transport for London and JAUPT. We are looking for a driven, innovative, focused person, who will be responsible for the management of ensuring that all our driving staff are Btec and CPC compliant and that training is provided to a small but dedicated team who will assist in the delivery of training courses.

(L-r) Pablo Stevens, Driver Performance Manager; Doug Grierson, driver and star; Martijn Gilbert, Chief Executive Officer; Jon Rosier, driver and star; and Sharon Austin, Driver Performance Manager. The first of Reading Buses ‘stars’ of 2015 have been named, with two drivers scooping the honours. They are Jon Rosier and Doug Grierson, who have both been commended for helping passengers. Jon 50, of Southcote, Reading, noticed that an older gentleman who had been on his bus appeared to be disorientated when getting off. He made time to speak to the gentleman to ask whether he was ok and knew where he lived. Although the gentleman indicated that he did know where he lived, Jon was still concerned and radioed to control who alerted the local police to check on the man. The police, who found him walking in the wrong direction to his home, contacted his family and made sure he got back safely. Said Reading Buses HR Director Caroline Anscombe: “This is a great example of the vigilance of our staff, which backs up the training we invest in for all our drivers. “Jon instantly recognised that this

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person was confused and acted accordingly. He ensured that the proper channels were followed to get the person home safely. Without Jon’s prompt action and concern for the gentleman, who knows where he could have ended up.” Caroline said the second winner, Doug, 33, of Purley, was a no less worthy winner. He noticed a gentleman collapse outside his bus. Doug got off the bus, used his jacket to keep the man warm and waited with him until the ambulance arrived. He ensured that he kept his passengers informed about what was going on and apologised for the delay. Doug has worked for the company for one year and nine months and this is also his second win, having scooped the prize in August 2013. Said Caroline: “In an age where we hear stories of passers by ignoring people who need help, it is a real fillip to hear of Doug’s actions. “He showed true compassion and ensured that he helped out where he could in a dramatic situation.”

Your responsibilities will include: • Develop CPC & BTEC training courses within CPC & BTEC criteria; • Classroom delivery accredited to BTEC and CPC standards; • Prepare paperwork meeting compliance with JAUPT requirements for registering and re-registering CPC courses. • Ensure that course documentation is up to date, relevant & stored accordingly; • Keeping accounts of such transactions for finance purposes; • Keep accurate records for audit purposes; • Ensure Trainers delivering the courses trained are fully qualified, and regularly audited; • Maintain records ensuring staff are CPC compliant; that all driving • Managing departmental administration processes; to ensure drivers • Liaising with garage management are legally team compliant with periodic training. driver CPC

The ideal candidate will possess: • A sound understanding to the European according of the syllabus Directive 2003/59EC exceptional • Knowledgeable Word and Excel to an of PowerPoint, standard professionally • Ability to holders communicate with all stake and have a committed demonstrate flexibility • Be able to initiative, approach to their work; • Ability to operate as a team player; • The ability to work well under pressure skills, accurate work, • Numeracy in their with a good attention to detail.

You will work 38 hours per week, Monday to Friday with flexibility required above these hours and weekends if deemed to work over and necessary. We offer a competitive salary and free (non contractual) travel on London buses and tubes. For more information on the role please visit www.metroline.co.uk/careers

To apply, please send a CV and covering letter to Samantha Smith, HR Advisor, Metroline, ComfortDelGro House, 329 Edgware Road, Cricklewood, London NW2 6JP or samsmith@metroline.co.uk Applications should include the reasons A you are applying for the post, examples of how you meet the skills and any relevant qualifications or experience. Closing date for applications is Friday 6 March 2015.

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