Wednesday April 25, 2012 Issue 1033 | £2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com
COACH:
Parry's Van Hool scoops the honours at UK Coach Rally p18
TECHNOLOGY:
Social Media is becoming a powerful marketing tool p34
BUS:
OFT refers McGills merger to Competition Commission p6
INSIGHT:
TSC grills industry �igures over bus competition p28
for recru i
JOB ADV tment EVERY WERTS EEK
Kings Ferry crowned coach firm of the year p24
Cover2.indd 1
23/04/2012 21:59
554158-1033-Volant
23/4/12
10:55
Page 1
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April 25, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 3
THIS WEEK
Coach & Bus Week is published by Rouncy Media, First Floor, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX Switchboard 01733 293240 Fax 0845 280 2927 Web www.coachandbusweek.com Distributed by COMAG
EDITORIAL Publisher Jonathan Taylor 01733 293240 jonathan.taylor@rouncymedia.co.uk Editor Gareth Evans 01733 293243 gareth.evans@rouncymedia.co.uk Technical & Minibus Editor Martin Cole 01733 293245, 07885 692144 martin.cole@rouncymedia.co.uk News Reporter James Day 01733 293244 james.day@rouncymedia.co.uk News Reporter Andrew Cream 01733 293482 andrew.cream@rouncymedia.co.uk Art Director Keith Simpson Contributors Tim Deakin, Richard Charnley, Gabriel Conway, Alan Payling
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www.coachandbusweek.com ISSN: 1351-3877 © 2012 Rouncy Media Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or system or in any means without the written permission of the directors. This is considered a breach of copyright and action will be taken where this occurs. This magazine must not be lent, sold, hired or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condition or in any authorised cover by way, or by trade, or annexed to any publication or advertising matter without first obtaining written permission from the directors.
A mixed bag of a week
T
his week’s issue contains a mixed bag of stories in terms of ‘positivity’. On the upside is the first part of a small series of features on social media, compiled by CBW’s very own IT enthusiast James Day. With the concept being an increasingly important one, we felt it was high time for an explanation in easy to follow terms to help you as operators and suppliers join in – just as we at CBW have. We hope to feature the experiences of those of you who do use social media in a future issue - please let me know your thoughts and experiences. On the downside is the OFT’s decision to refer McGill’s recent acquisition of Arriva’s loss-making Scotland West operation to its more senior sibling the Competition Commission. To cynics like me, it’s hardly unexpected. While I commend their objectives, what about the Statutory Quality Bus Partnerships in Paisely and Glasgow,
which raise the barriers to entry to the bus market? This is a matter Ralph Roberts mentioned in a piece about the current state of the Scottish bus industry in CBW1030. The McGills referral appears to be the latest textbook example of the need for a revision of the definitions used by the OFT on bus-related matters. Should we start lobbying our politicians? Back to the brightside, I would like to publicly congratulate all those who were successful at the UK Coach Awards and the UK Coach Rally. It was great to catch up with so many friendly readers at both events. Such occasions go to show that, despite the economic gloom, the coach industry can do itself proud. Perhaps we should trumpet those achievements in our local newspapers. On that note, I’ll drop the Peterborough Evening Telegraph a line... Gareth Evans Editor
CONTENTS 4
18
34
The latest from across the coach and bus industry in the UK
12
News, pictures & all the results from the 58th UK Coach Rally
24
Suggestions for making good use of modern social media websites
Solaris expands in Scandinavia, MAN CNG Buses for Turkey
14
The country’s top operators honoured in Manchester
28
IT management provided by Distinctive Systems and Roeville
What’s happening across the country’s regions. Plus Events Diary
16
TC meets with industry chiefs and union heads to discuss competition
32
A lighthearted look at the industry. Plus Gareth’s Diary!
FirstGroup and Stagecoach share accolade, good news for Eurotunnel
Longmynd Travel’s new Plaxton Elite coach in a spring setting
All the latest people moves from across the industry
News
International News Regional News
Business News
UK Coach Rally
UK Coach Awards Bus Competition The Big Picture
Technology
38
Essential Guide
61
Last Stop
62
People
The opinions and views expressed by authors and contributors within Coach & Bus Week are not necessarily those of the Editor or its publisher Rouncy Media Ltd.
For all the latest industry news and information, register with us online at:
www.coachandbusweek.com www.coachandbusweek.com
Contents.indd 3
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4 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 25, 2012
news
“Most people don’t believe me when I tell them I enjoy being at the UK Coach Awards, but I do. It’s formal yet not too formal. I love being here.” Carol Kirkwood BBC Weather
briefly Directors and senior managers from First Aberdeen met with customers last week (April 19) as part of the company’s regular ‘Meet the Manager’ initiative. First also opened the doors to one of its state of the art coaches to promote its 2012 Day Tours Programme. The coach used to transport Aberdeen Football Club players to away games features kitchen facilities, satellite television, wi-fi, leather seats and tables. Duncan Cameron, Operations Director at First Aberdeen, is one of the Directors meeting members of the public. He said: “Our Meet the Manager sessions are a fantastic means of learning more about what our customers want in a bus service.” Sir Brian Souter, Stagecoach Group Chief Executive, has been honoured with membership to the British Travel and Hospitality Industry Hall of Fame. He is the first public transport entrepreneur to receive the honour, with previous members coming from the airline, hospitality and travel management sectors. The Hall of Fame was launched in 1994 and recognises people who have played a significant role in the creation and development of the travel and tourism industries. Sir Brian was honoured at a special dinner at the Savoy in London. He was awarded his knighthood in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List in June last year. Arriva Yorkshire celebrated a total of 450 years of service at a Long Service Awards Presentation Lunch. Drivers, engineers and administrators were invited to the event to have their service celebrated – with some individuals being recognised for racking up over 35 years. 15 employees from depots in Wakefield, Castleford, Selby, and Dewsbury were presented with a certificate and badge, along with a gift from the company reflecting their years of service. Nigel Featham, Managing Director for Arriva Yorkshire, said: “We are so proud of all our long service employees, they have shown such dedication and commitment throughout their years of service.” www.coachandbusweek.com
News4,5.indd 4
UK Coach Awards p24
RATP buys Epsom Coaches Group Business as usual at popular Surrey operator: Steve Whiteway appointed MD RATP Dev UK has announced its acquisition of H R Richmond Ltd, parent company of Epsom Coaches Group. Founded in 1920, the company is known for its strong family values and has established itself as one of the main operators in the area, trading under the names of Epsom Coaches and Quality Line. The business has also received several national awards for its quality and is recognised throughout the industry as a quality brand. Running a fleet of 85 buses and 25 coaches, Epsom operates 14 routes for TfL and four local bus routes in Surrey, in addition to a
full range of coach, contract and holiday services, including National Express and Terravision. Epsom Coaches will continue to operate as an independent division of RATP Group under the leadership of Steve Whiteway, who takes up the role of Managing Director, following the departure of Andrew Richmond. Steve Whiteway told CBW this very much means business as usual. He said: “I look forward to a new chapter in the long history of Epsom Coaches, retaining all that is innovative and unique about us, whilst working closely with our new parent company to further develop our joint values of quality and customer focus.” Jean-Marc Janaillac, CEO RATP Dev, said: “I am delighted we have been able to bring Epsom Coaches
In addition to contract coach and bus work, Epsom Coaches operates private hire and touring coaches. A Plaxton Cheetah is seen here at Beddgelert, North Wales
Arriva NW orders 44 hybrid buses Arriva North West has announced an order for 44 Wright-bodied Volvo B5LHs. The agreement, finalised at the recent Thomas Hardie Commercials Open Day in Deeside, Cheshire, will see 33 hybrids going into
service for Arriva at Laird Street in Birkenhead and a further 11 in Bolton and is in part due to the Green Bus Fund (GBF). Phil Cummins, Regional Engineering Director, Arriva North West and Wales, said: “The GBF has allowed us the ability to upgrade our bus fleet in the North West. The Volvo B5LH is a strong and reliable vehicle and we also like the Wrightbus bodywork. One of the biggest factors in our decision was the back-up and support we get
into the RATP Dev UK Group. We are committed to running high quality public transport businesses and as such, this acquisition fits very well within our strategy for the future. The management and staff have built an excellent business and we look forward to working with them and continuing to deliver a high quality service for our customers.” Andrew Richmond has retired after 41 years with the company, along with his sister and fellow shareholder Rosemary Lever. Whiteway said: “I would like to pay tribute to Andrews’ leadership of the business. We have worked closely together over many years building Epsom Coaches into a world class operation which was keenly sought after – RATP Dev share the same values of quality through its people. Andrew and Rosemary will be sorely missed, but I look forward to continuing the development of the company, where it is very much business as usual, with further enhancement of the unique qualities built up over so many years by the Richmond family.” RATP Dev UK is a subsidiary of RATP Dev, formed in early 2011 to develop the Group’s expansion by recognising potential within the UK. In the UK, it owns London United, Bournemouth Yellow Buses and the Bath Bus Company. It also operates the Manchester Metrolink tram network. Visit www.ratpdev.com and www.epsomcoaches.com
from Thomas Hardie Commercials here in the North West. They’ve got dealerships here in Deeside, on Merseyside and in Manchester and that’s a big factor for us.” Volvo Bus Sales Director, Phil Owen, said: “The GBF has given operators the freedom and incentive to invest in new green technology. The Arriva North West order sees the production of 44 B5LH double deck buses, which is certainly good news for the people of the region.”
24/04/2012 00:16
April 25, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 5
Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek
Go-Ahead Group acquires Anglian Buses The Go-Ahead Group has announced the acquisition of Anglian Buses which strengthens its position in the East of England, joining its existing businesses konectbus and Hedingham Omnibuses. Angian Buses has two depots, in Beccles and Rackheath, and 133 staff including 100 bus drivers. It operates a mix of commercial routes and school and local bus contracts. The company, based in Beccles, Suffolk operates 71 buses on services from the Suffolk coast to, from and within Norwich, as well as in Yarmouth, Lowestoft and on the Suffolk coastal strip down to Ipswich.
The business was established in 1981 by David and Christine Pursey, both of whom will now retire. Andrew Pursey is staying with the business and become Managing Director. The company name and brand will remain in place. David Brown, Group Chief
Anglian Bus operates routes into Norwich, pictured here in May 2011
£25m South Hants BRT opens for passengers Phase 1 of the £25m Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) route in South Hampshire, which links Gosport to Fareham along a former railway line, opened April 22. The new route allows buses to bypass the congested A32 and the route links housing estates with the two town centres. The BRT scheme is being implemented by Transport for South Hampshire (TfSH), a partnership between Hampshire County Council and Portsmouth
Executive of Go-Ahead, said: “Anglian Buses fits well with our strategy of acquiring wellmanaged businesses which have the potential for growth and further development. We look forward to building on the success already achieved by the Pursey family and the Anglian Bus team.”
and Southampton City Councils, which aims to improve transport for the area of South Hampshire. The official opening of Phase 1 took place on April 25 at Gosport’s Explosion Museum at 1100hrs. Locals objected to the plans but construction began after the council won the case at the Supreme Court and planting and acoustic fencing has been installed on the route to reduce the impact on residents. The two new E1 and E2 Eclipse bus services will run every 15
minutes Monday to Saturday and every 30 minutes on Sundays. On April 13, potential passengers had their first opportunity to view one of the new £2.3m fleet of ‘Eclipse’ buses to run on the route. The 14 Eclipse-branded buses are fitted with leather seats, wood effect flooring, internal display screens with travel information and free Wi-Fi making the journey comfortable for passengers. Glenn Jones, BRT manager for First Bus, said: “It’s been very good, we got a wide spectrum of people but on the whole most people are enjoying it. They are looking forward to the launch. People are impressed with the buses.”
New trial service for Cambs busway Cambridgeshire Guided Busway services to Peterborough via St Ives Ramsey and Chatteris are being trialled under a scheme which won £1.7m of DfT funding last month. The scheme also involves the creation of a bus gate in Cambridge city centre, allowing buses to cut through Mitcham’s Corner as they travel outbound, removal of parking bays and the creation of bus priority measures at 21 sets of traffic lights. Rising bollards have also been introduced in the city to ban all vehicles except buses from using St Andrew’s Street north of Emmanuel Street, and the Citi 1 and 2 services will be rerouted to use Victoria Avenue in both directions instead of the pinch point at Magdalene Street. Five new Wright-bodied Volvo B7 single deckers and three ADL E400bodied Scania double deckers have been introduced on the service. The scheme aims to encourage 291,000 extra bus trips to be made in the first two years and will slash up to two minutes off journey times. Further funding comes from Cambridgeshire County Council and bus operators, including Stagecoach, which has pledged to purchase new buses. Andy Campbell, Stagecoach Cambridgeshire MD, said: “Improving the reliability of services through the city centre has got to be good news for passengers.”
www.coachandbusweek.com
News4,5.indd 5
24/04/2012 00:17
6 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 25, 2012
200
news › BUSeS
Number of nominations for the UK Coach Awards 2012
briefly First Aberdeen is operating additional Park and Ride services from Bridge of Don to the Foresterhill site via the city centre to coincide with nurses’ 12 hour shifts. An extra journey leaves Bridge of Don Park & Ride facility at the AECC at 0615hrs arriving at the ARI bus port in time for the 0700 shift. An additional service leaves the hospital at 1920. Park & Ride Service 40, operates between Bridge of Don and Kingswells via the city centre, Monday to Saturday. It operates every 15 minutes Monday to Friday throughout the day and every 20 minutes on a Saturday between 0740 and 1840. A Park & Ride return ticket, which includes free parking costs £3. A four-week Park & Ride season tickets costs £50. At an event in Warrington Town Hall to celebrate Warrington Borough Transport’s 110th anniversary, Network Warrington MD, David Squire, announced the company’s onbus cash fares and Touch&Go! Smartcards would be frozen. He said: “As part of our campaign to grow ridership throughout 2012, we are embarking upon a major promotional drive to attract more customers. With the cost of fuel and other household bills at an all time high, this is our way of putting something back into the community we serve. We are bucking the trend by announcing a fares freeze for both our cash fares and our period tickets.” Birminghams open-top tourist bus is launching its summer sightseeing season with free taster sessions. The big Brum Buz enters its fourth year of operation on Saturday by offering half-hour taster tours at 1300 and 1400 from Waterloo Street off Victoria Square in the city centre. The bus is run by Kings Norton Coaches as a not-for-profit organisation. This year it is running from April 28 to September 30 every weekend at 1030, 1230 and 1430 from Victoria Square. New for 2012 are the Brewery Bus tour, Hidden Gems of the City and the Diamond Jubilee tour. Call 0121 427 2555 or visit www.birminghamtours.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com
BusNews6,7.indd 6
McGills merger: OFT refers to Competition Commission Worries about the consequences of route monopolies lead to CC referal The OFT has referred the completed acquisition by McGill’s Bus Services of the Arriva Scotland West local bus business to the Competition Commission. The £10m takeover deal was announced in December 2011, which caused McGills to more than double in size. McGill’s operates close to 200 vehicles from it’s Greenock and Barrhead depots and took
on Arriva’s depots in Johnstone and Inchinnan, along with 165 buses. Arriva Scotland West operates competing local bus services in Renfrewshire and East Renfrewshire, to the west of Glasgow, including the town of Paisley. The OFT expressed concern because of their strength in this area compared to other operators, which could mean the merger may result in a loss of competition of local bus services in this area. The merger reduces competition on a number of sections of routes
McGills more than doubled in size after the Arriva Scotland West takeover
Arriva’s 21 MAN EcoCity gas buses arrive in the UK A batch of 21 MAN EcoCity lowentry CNG buses has arrived in the UK for service with Arriva. The group was the first to order these models which allow eco-friendly operation on either CNG or biogas and they are destined for operation in Runcorn and Darlington. “We are very happy with the first order for this new city bus, which has been tailor-made for the UK. The natural-gas and biogas bus is a future-proof technology for urban transport,” emphasises Tony Griffiths, General Manager Bus Operations at MAN Truck & Bus UK. Mike Cooper, Managing Director
of Arriva’s UK Bus division, said: “These MAN gas buses are part of Arriva’s ongoing investment in improving the environmental performance of our bus fleet. Alongside the increasing numbers of hybrid buses being introduced and our eco-driving programmes they help further the environmental sustainability of the services we provide for our passengers.” Running vehicles on natural gas makes it possible to save up to 30% on operating costs. The buses can also be run on biogas. Operation using this regenerative source of energy enables largely CO2 neutral
where the parties previously competed and creates a monopoly for sections of some journeys, such as those in and around Paisley. The OFT is concerned the merger removes the potential competitive constraint each party exercised on the other services across the Renfrewshire region. Although other bus companies operate at some level in this region, the OFT is concerned the main constraint each of the merging parties faced in terms of restricting entry and expansion by rival operators was from the other. Ali Nikpay, Senior Director and Decision Maker in this case, said: “The Competition Commission’s market investigation into the bus industry showed how important competition between bus operators at a local level is. Where local competition exists, the OFT will look carefully at mergers between rivals which have the potential to result in price rises or a reduction in journeys for passengers. As such, we believe it is appropriate the Competition Commission reviews this merger in detail to ensure the interests of passengers in this part of Scotland are protected.”
MAN’s new low-entry version of its Caetano-bodied EcoCity CNG local public transport. Besides the diesel hybrid technology MAN also offers, biogas technology gives citybus operators a further alternative for reducing CO2 emission and conserving fossil resources. The Caetano bus bodies are made from weight-reducing aluminium, with a steel framework reinforcing the front and rear of the structure.
23/04/2012 21:55
April 25, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 7
800m 0.1% Number of active Facebook social media users worldwide
The merger was reported to the OFT by the MP for Paisley and Renfrewshire North, Jim Sheridan. Mr Sheridan said: “One company having a monopoly of routes in the area is not a healthy situation for the travelling public, particularly in an area where travel by bus was the only option for many.” A spokesman from McGills said: “We can confirm we received notification from our lawyers that the OFT has referred our acquisition of the assets of Arriva Scotland West to the Competition Commission for investigation. The full details of the decision have yet to be disclosed by the OFT.” Ralph Roberts, McGill’s Managing Director said: “We are disappointed to hear of the OFT’s decision. Despite McGill’s offering a number of guarantees to the OFT in relation to fares, routes, frequencies and the introduction of a multi-operator ticket; we now face another six months of uncertainty. The decision throws into sharp relief that we have a London-based government agency having a direct impact on local business, without the required local market knowledge.” He added: “McGill’s has saved jobs and bus routes in Renfrewshire following Arriva’s decision to withdraw from the Scottish marketplace. Had we not done so, we would be witnessing a similar scene here as we have seen in Dalkeith and Musselburgh in recent weeks, with the loss of over 200 jobs.” The Competition Commission is expected to report by Tuesday October 2. The drive train features the 272bhp MAN E2876 12.8 litre EEV-compliant engine. The buses are all 12m long with 40 seats (plus two tip-ups). Four roof-mounted natural-gas tanks with a capacity of 1,176 litres provide the necessary range. MAN has entered into a partnership with the Gas Bus Alliance (GBA) consortium. GBA installs the tank unit and gasprocessing system on site, typically on the bus operator’s premises, and will also take over financing, operation and maintenance if requested. Gas-processing is a key factor in achieving one-hundred-percent operational safety, because gas in the UK can vary in quality: the proportion of biogas fed into the UK network is rapidly increasing.
BusNews6,7.indd 7
Number of routes run by Arriva which it claims could support an additional competitor
SHARE WATCH
Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, April 23. Stagecoach saw the greatest proportional rise while Optare experienced the biggest proportional drop. Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk
287.65p
Price: Year High: 345.30p Year Low: 241.00p
Citaro artics bring a much needed boost to passenger capacity
Uno articulated “bendy” bus inter campus service Five Mercedes-Benz Citaro articulated ‘bendy’ buses were introduced on the inter-campus shuttle service for the University of Hertfordshire, on April 15. A spokesman for Uno told CBW its conventional services were bursting at the seams and these new high-capacity buses would help during busy periods. The buses, two from London, and three from Cornwall are all exFirstGroup. Service changes are being supported by individual service leaflets including details of alternative local bus services which link Titan/MacLaurin with the College Lane Campus in accordance with undertakings given to the University.
An ‘inter-campus’ bus pass is available to enable university staff to travel free of charge between these points. New leaflets are currently being produced for the London 712/714 service to promote day trip opportunities in the run up to the Diamond Jubilee and the Olympics. They include details of a London Plus day ticket which includes travel by local bus to connect with London services at Hatfield and St Albans. In addition, some bus stops at the Forum bus interchange will change their numbers to allow the new articulated buses to run on the shuttle. The bus may now leave from a different stop outside the Forum.
Cambs Busway court case hearings open in 2014 The Cambridgeshire Guided Busway court case has been set for 2014. Cambridgeshire County Council papers reveal a judge at London’s Technology and Construction Court has selected January 2014 for the start of the hearings involving the council and contractor BAM Nuttall. The dispute focuses on whether the council should pay the £87m fee which was originally agreed or the £152m which the company claims it is due because of extra costs which were run up. If the council loses the case, the total cost of the link between St Ives
and Cambridge could move through the £200m barrier, with £90m falling on its own shoulders. According to the Cambridge News, senior councillors are confident they will win the case. A report going before the cabinet asks for members’ approval to appoint a contractor to collate the documentation which will have to be disclosed to BAM Nuttall before the hearing. This process alone is likely to cost more than £175,000. Cllr Ian Bates, said: “The judge has set the date and required us to go through disclosure, and we are complying with the court.”
190.15p
Price: Year High: 375.60p Year Low: 189.50p
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FTSE 100
5,666
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+0.00 on last week
www.coachandbusweek.com
23/04/2012 21:56
8 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 25, 2012
news › coaches
“It ain’t going to die. We’ve already got sponsorship in place for next year and we’ve got some big & exciting changes...” Steve Telling Director
briefly Drivers in Hull are being advised that the A63 Myton Bridge south of the city centre will be closed for a period during the next two Sundays. A project is taking place between 0600 and 1400hrs this Sunday (April 29) and between the same hours on May 6. Both the westbound and eastbound carriageways of the A63 over the bridge will be closed between Market Place and Garrison Road roundabout. Eastbound traffic will be diverted up Market Place, and re-join the A63 at Garrison Road roundabout. Westbound traffic is being diverted from Mount Pleasant roundabout, up the A1033 to rejoin at Mytongate roundabout. The Highways Agency (HA) is to scrap the Quickchange Moveable Barrier (QMB) used on the M20 in Kent due to cost. The QMB was planned to assist with traffic flow in periods when trucks were unable to cross the Channel, as part of Operation Stack. It was designed to allow contra-flow arrangements to be implemented more quickly on the London-bound carriageway of the M20, between junctions 11 and 12, at times of extreme congestion at the Channel ports or Eurotunnel. Installed in 2008, the QMB costs over £600k per year to lease and was used just twice in the past four years. HA is not renewing the lease when it expires at the end of April as the barrier does not represent good value for money. Simon Duke, HA service manager, said: “When the QMB was installed, it was predicted Operation Stack and the QMB would be used more frequently than they have. The QMB was used once during a routine Operation Stack incident and for a number of months when Operation Stack was used following the Channel Tunnel fire. HA will continue to work on finding a long-term solution.” Work on Junctions 13 to 14 of the M5 started on April 16 and are expected to take six weeks to carry out. During this time there are narrow lanes running with a 50mph speed restriction during the day, with additional lane closures at night. The work includes embankment stabilisation on the southbound carriageway. www.coachandbusweek.com
News8,9.indd 8
Coach Rally p18
Galloway buys Concert and Day Excursion trips of R W Chenery With the foundation of Chenery Live Ltd from its latest acquisition, Galloways has expanded its Norfolk operations The Galloway Travel Group has announced the acquisition of the Concert and Day Excursion activities of R W Chenery of Dickleburgh, which trade as Chenery Live and Chenery Day Excursions. Both companies have been merged to form Chenery Live Ltd, a wholly-owned subsidiary of The Galloway Travel Group.
The acquisition allows Galloways to extend the current successful concert programme into Suffolk and North Essex, while R W Chenery coaches and drivers continue to provide service for the programmes in the Norwich area, resulting in minimal disruption to Chenery’s clients. In addition, by retaining R W Chenery’s existing Norwich travel shop at 3 Castle Meadow, Galloway has the opportunity to provide services and sell tours and holidays in Norfolk. Galloways has not
A Galloway Setra S416GT-HD pictured at UK Coach Rally over the weekend
McCombs of Newtownabbey expands to tackle demand Northern Ireland’s McComb’s Executive Travel is expanding its coach fleet to cater for substantial growth in tourism. The operator was awarded ‘2012 Coach Operator of the Year’ last month by the Federation of Passenger Transport. It has invested in two 49-seat KingLong coaches. The boost to tourism has come from the opening of landmarks such as Titanic Belfast and the Causeway Visitors’ Centre in addition to the upcoming Irish
Open golf tournament. Rodney and Caroline McComb started the business 16 years ago with a Volkswagen Caravelle which they used for airport transfer work from hotels and private trips to the Giant’s Causeway. Last year the firm carried over 25,000 passengers and over half those were tourists, many taking advantage of travel to north coast destination and the company’s popular five-day tours of Cork and Kerry, Derry and Donegal. Events such as the British
actively promoted the area since it successfully extended into North Essex with the opening of the Colchester retail outlet five years ago. The purchase also bolsters the company’s local school touring operations, which include trips to Berlin, York, the Somme and the Normandy landing beaches. The knowledge and experience of the Chenery staff involved in the Concert and Day Excursion programme has also transferred with the business and Galloway has said it looks forward to working with them. The Galloway Travel Group was established over 40 years ago and encompasses one of the UK’s leading educational study tour operators, together with one of East Anglia’s major luxury coach operators and offers popular holiday programmes from Norfolk, Suffolk and Essex. Visit www. gallowayeuropean.com n R W Chenery has operated for over 60 years, providing UK and continental tours and transport to various shows and events. Visit www.chenerytravel. co.uk
Transplant Games and Amnesty International World Conference increased business substantially and then in November it was hired exclusively by Swatch for the MTV European Music Awards which they sponsored. Caroline McComb said: “We are very grateful for the ongoing support of organisations such as the Northern Ireland Tourist Board and Belfast Visitor and Convention Bureau, whose work in attracting tourists to Northern Ireland is vital and without whom we wouldn’t be in the position we are now.” McComb’s customers include the Irish Football Association and the Hilton Hotel Group.
23/04/2012 22:10
IN PARLIAMENT…
A Redwing Mercedes-Benz Tourismo pictured prior to delivery at Evobus UK’s Coventry premises in March
£2.8m worth of new Redwing Coaches enter service Renowned London operator Redwing Coaches has received 14 new Mercedes Tourismo luxury coaches. Ordered last September at a cost of £2.8m, the vehicles arrived on schedule in March. After thorough mechanical checks and test drives the new coaches were put straight into service and can now be found operating across the UK and Europe. The new coaches, built to Redwing’s specification, replace an equal number of existing coaches in the firm’s 75-strong fleet. They are a mix of 49 seaters with washroom/WC and 53 seater standard luxury coaches.
Gatwick road closures affecting coaches
As part of Gatwick’s North Terminal Lower Forecourt Uplift Project, new crossings are being formed to assist pedestrians crossing the coach access and Car Park Plaza Road. To facilitate these works it is necessary to temporarily close the coach access road. The work is taking place overnight between 2200 and 0500hrs, Monday to Thursday and started this Monday (April 23). It will take approximately three weeks to complete.
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This latest delivery is part of Redwing Coaches’ policy of regular fleet renewal. This means the company consistently has one of the youngest and most technologically advanced large fleets of luxury coaches in Europe. A spokesman for Redwing Coaches told CBW the company looks at renewing its fleet at least every four years, which can result in a yearly influx of eight to 14 coaches, occasionally more. He said: “The fleet is predominantly Mercedes-Benz so we order them regularly to keep in line with the rest of the fleet and for a sense of conformity.” During the period of the coach road closure, coaches, taxis and buses will be diverted onto the Car Park Plaza Road via a dedicated cut through which has been formed at the southern end of the forecourt and will then leave the area via a dedicated and managed car park exit lane. Vehicles using the crossover will be assisted by dedicated traffic marshals. The works areas will be defined and segregated using heras fencing and pedestrian barriers along with temporary passenger wayfinding.
For more information contact the Surface Transport Operations Manager Mark Turner on 07824 452134 or the External Operations Duty Team on 07831 172543.
BUS FARES Tom Blenkinsop (Middlesbrough South and East Cleveland, Labour) asked what assessment has been made of recent trends in the level of bus fares in England; and if a statement will be made. Norman Baker (Parliamentary Under Secretary of State (Regional and Local Transport), Transport; Lewes, Liberal Democrat) replied: “As I set out in the recent paper, “Green Light for Better Buses”, bus fares outside London fell by 4% in real terms between March 2009 and March 2011—the most recent figures available. Bus fares are set by local bus companies or in some cases by local councils, so they vary across the country. Tom Blenkinsop’s response: “In my constituency, bus fares have jumped by a minimum of 10p since the Government subsidy cut. A basic return journey from Saltburn to Guisborough is now £5.10 for an eight-mile journey. Will the Minister explain why on ConservativeHome this week, a Lib Dem special adviser argued for means-testing free bus passes, as well increasing the age at which a pensioner would receive that bus pass? Are we to take it that this is now Government policy? Norman Baker said: “I have no idea what the hon. Gentleman is referring to. This is not Government policy and it is not Lib Dem policy either. I am sorry that he seeks to make a political point about something as serious as bus fares. I hope he will take some comfort from the answer I gave, which was that bus fares have fallen in real terms by 4%, unlike under the previous Government, when between 1997 and 2009, bus fares increased by 24%. BUS SERVICES Gavin Williamson (South Staffordshire, Conservative) asked what steps are being taken to encourage local authorities to improve local bus provision and
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services. Norman Baker replied: “Bus services are an important part of our plans to help create growth and cut carbon and they provide a lifeline to essential services for many people. “Green Light for Better Buses” sets out a comprehensive and balanced set of measures to help local authorities play their part in providing better, greener and more innovative bus services - new funding, better regulations, revised guidance and reformed subsidy arrangements. “These proposals have been carefully formulated to attract more people on to buses, to ensure better value for the taxpayer and to give local transport authorities more influence over their local bus networks.” Gavin Williamson said: “South Staffordshire district council and Staffordshire county council will shortly launch South Staffordshire Connect, which provides local transport for people to get to bus routes in my constituency. Does my hon. Friend agree that this is the type of initiative we need to promote right across the country? Norman Baker replied: “I do agree. This is the sort of initiative which I am pleased to see some councils adopting, given the freedom the Government is providing. Buses are a lifeline for people who do not have access to a car. “I would be delighted to help my hon. Friend launch this scheme on June 13.” Derek Twigg (Halton, Labour) asked what the Government are doing to help young people gain access to affordable transport. Norman Baker responded: “I accept there is an issue for young people, which is why I have taken steps to ensure that young people came along to talk to the operators and local authorities at the bus forum I hold on a sixmonthly basis. “It is also why I discussed the matter with the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT), which is now taking steps to try to get a better deal for young people. I have had discussions with the confederation about that very matter.” www.coachandbusweek.com
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news
IMechE calls for mandatory anticollision technology inclusion Institute argues the inclusion is necessary as cyclist deaths have risen by 7% in last year Collision-avoidance technologies, which could help eliminate cyclist and pedestrian deaths caused by driver ‘blind-spots’, should be made mandatory for all UK buses and lorries by 2015, according to a new report published by the Institution of Mechanical Engineers. The ‘Intelligent Transport Intelligent Society’ report also calls for automated emergency response systems to be integrated into all new road vehicles within the next two years. These systems automatically alert emergency services in case of an accident – even if a driver is unconscious – as well as providing the exact location of the accident using Global Positioning Systems (GPS). Philippa Oldham, head of transport at the Institution of Mechanical Engineers, said: “The alarming rise in cyclist deaths on British roads needs to be addressed urgently. Cyclist deaths have risen by 7% in the past year, with about eight cyclists
London Dial-a-Ride procurement opportunity
A PQQ (pre qualification questionnaire) and OJUE notice has gone to market for an opportunity to supply new minibus-sized vehicles for London’s Dial-a-Ride (DaR) fleet. The aim is to reduce the average DaR fleet age to six years and ensure no vehicle over 12 years old is utilised, to accommodate the increasing numbers of trips expected to be delivered in the upcoming years. Potential bidders can use the following link to gain access to TfL’s etendering portal to submit a response - www.tfl.gov.uk/ eprocurement www.coachandbusweek.com
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being killed or seriously injured daily on British roads. A number of these deaths could be prevented if technology to prevent driver ‘blind spots’ were made mandatory for all large vehicles. “New intelligent transport technologies have the potential to save thousands of lives. Cyclists, pedestrians and other road users could all benefit but, just as with seatbelts thirty years ago, we need policymakers to work with the automotive industry to make them mandatory. ”By putting the UK at the forefront of intelligent transport technology we can also build an industry which is set to redefine the car in the next few decades, tapping into a market worth about £40 billion by 2020.” Heavy Good Vehicles make up 5% of the traffic on Britain’s roads yet cause 20% of all fatal accidents involving cyclists. Making collision avoidance technologies mandatory for all large vehicles which prevent driver ‘blind-spots’ could make the roads safer for millions of cyclists across the UK. One example of a collision avoidance technology
is LATERAL SAFE which is being developed by the European Council for Automotive Research & Development (EUCAR). This system uses sensors to warn drivers of obstacles and accident risks, such as cyclists, to the rear or side of the vehicle. Electronic safety systems like the European project eCall, which automatically alert emergency services in the case of a serious car accident, have the potential to cut road fatalities by as much as 10%. The ‘Intelligent Transport Intelligent Society’ report also calls for Government to introduce an Oyster-card style nationwide co-ordinated charging and information system for all public transport within the next five years and for the newly formed ‘Catapult’ for Transport Systems to work with industry to develop an agreed unified vision for Intelligent Transport Systems across the UK’s entire transport network within the next three years. Other Intelligent Transport Systems which could make travel safer and more efficient were also reviewed - such as:
90 new London Dial-a-Ride vehicles will be procured between 2013 - 2018 Old vehicles will be replaced with more environmentally friendly vehicles meeting the latest Low Emissions Zone (LEZ) requirements whilst providing a significantly improved level of travel comfort for DaR users. The number of new DaR vehicles to be procured between 2013
and 2018 is estimated to be 90, although this is subject to change and is not guaranteed. There is an option for the bidders to submit a price for an additional 20 vehicles for year 2013. All vehicles are delivered to the DaR depot at Mandela Way (SE1 5SS) to an agreed delivery
A lane guide system which uses lasers or infrared sensors to continuously monitor the vehicle’s lane and alerts the driver if he/she unintentionally begins to wander out of lane. Autonomous vehicles like the Google driverless car which uses information gathered from Google Street View, artificial intelligence software with input from cameras and sensors to control the car. Pedestrian protection through sensors in the front bumper area. These sensors send data to an engine control unit which analyses it and could stop the vehicle automatically in an emergency. Speed-proportional steering which automatically provides more power-steering during low speed and parking manoeuvres and less power-steering at high speed. Vibrating steering wheel which notifies drivers of possible collisions, lane departures or drowsiness. To download the full report visit: http://tinyurl.com/ bvuey3w
schedule together with a full quality inspection report. The vehicle specification is tailored to the requirements of DaR, but generic enough to encourage engagement from potential suppliers. The ITT specification details the vehicle specification for suppliers to submit against, however the vehicles must be able to carry between eight and 15 passengers and should be low floor and fully accessible. London Dial-a-Ride (DaR) is a subsidiary of London Bus Services Limited (LBSL). DaR operates around 372 DaR vehicles from seven depots throughout London, providing door-to-door passenger service covering all of London’s 33 boroughs. The service delivers a free, fully accessible service for disabled and elderly London residents. It can be used for all sorts of journeys, to go shopping, visit friends and attend doctor’s appointments.
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news › international
Solaris receives first Finnish order Solaris bus expands its Scandinavian presence with TKL’s recent order POLAND Solaris Bus has received its first order from Finland, bringing the company’s international presence up to 25 countries. Two eco-friendly Urbino hybrid buses will join the fleet of Tampere’s Tampereen Kaupunkiliikenne (TKL) by the end of the year. This comes just two months since the start of Solaris’ cooperation with local specialist Valmet Automotive. “Finland is another Nordic country that will operate Solaris buses. We are delighted to increase our presence in Europe. We are sure Finnish passengers will like our eco-friendly buses just as much as their counterparts in Sweden, Norway and Denmark,” said Małgorzata Olszewska, Global Director Sales & Marketing. The buses combine a 44 kW electric engine with a Cummins diesel engine meeting the EEV standard. Power is transmitted through a six-speed automated
MAN wins articulated CNG bus order from EGO-Ankara
TURKEY MAN is to supply 250 CNGfuelled Lion’s City G articulated buses to Turkish operator EGOAnkara. 50 of the buses, the first natural-gas-powered articulated buses to enter service in Turkey, are to be delivered by September 2012, followed by 25 vehicles every month until the order is fulfilled by summer 2013. EGO-Ankara also has the option of another 50 buses. In the early 90s, EGO-Ankara started converting a large part of its fleet to gas to improve air quality and with 1,090 MAN Lion’s Classic vehicles, the company runs the world’s biggest fleet of gas-powered buses. The 18-metre long articulated www.coachandbusweek.com
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gearbox in the hybrid drive unit. Energy recuperated during braking is stored in lithium-ion batteries and is used for acceleration. The western Finnish city of Tampere is served by TKL’s 30 routes, operated with 135 buses. Solaris is also delivering seven Urbino 18 Hybrid buses to La Chaux-de-Fonds in Switzerland this summer for Transports Régionaux Neuchâtelois. It is the first time this
customer has chosen articulated diesel-electric hybrid buses. “We are very pleased an increasing number of countries choose our eco-friendly city buses. They represent environmental protection as well as sustainable transport - exactly what the future needs”, said Małgorzata Olszewska. The Allison Transmissionsupplied hybrid system combines electric motors delivering a total of 150 kW with a 181 kW Cummins diesel engine. The diesel-electric drive train uses up to 25% less fuel than conventional diesel buses. Harmful emissions such as particulate matter are reduced by as much as 78%.
The Solaris Urbino Hybrid buses for Tampere combine a 44 kW electric engine with a Cummins diesel engine buses, produced in MAN’s Turkish plant in Ankara, are to be equipped with four doors and a fold-out access ramp at Door 2. They have 36 seats and standing room for 116 passengers. The driveline consists of the 310bhp E28 CNG engine and ZF EcoLife six-speed automatic transmission with topographydependent TopoDyn Life transmission control as standard. Fire-extinguishing systems installed in the engine compartment ensure high safety standards. Nine aluminium gas-storage tanks, each with a capacity of 205 litres, are located on the roof.
MAN is supplying 250 articulated versions of this bus to EGO-Ankara
MET acquires fourthGerman bus business GERMANY Marwyn European Transport plc (MET), a subsidiary of Marwyn Management Partners plc (MMP), has acquired the contracted bus services of Norbert Welter GmbH, the German transportation business. The acquisition incorporates gross assets of Euro 0.45m. Welter operates 37 vehicles providing contracted services in an area close to the City of Koblenz in the Rhineland-Palatinate region. In 2011 Welter generated unaudited revenue of €1.6m. Welter will be integrated into MET’s existing subsidiary Axel Tücks GmbH, which was acquired by MET in July 2011. Following the completion of Welter, MET’s fourth acquisition in the German bus sector, MET now
BRT given go-ahead in Cebu PHILIPPINES Representatives from the Filipino city of Cebu have endorsed a proposal to introduce Bus Rapid Transit (BRT) to the area, with a planned launch in 2020. The BRT system will rely on dedicated bus lanes and elevated platforms. The network will include 190 buses served by 411 drivers with smaller vehicles serving as ‘feeders’ for areas outside the BRT system. Smartcards or tickets will be used. The system will include bike and pedestrian lanes. A mass transit route from Barangay Bulacao to Talamban will be the highest priority corridor. The BRT system should cost $195m to complete, but potentially earn $15m in annual revenue. The Study and Concept Plan states: “BRT in Cebu is physically, institutionally and financially feasible. It will offer a new form of public transport which has the potential to significantly enhance the mobility of those that live and work in Cebu, benefitting growth in the local economy, and offering significant environmental benefits.” operates a fleet of over 280 vehicles on bus operations. In the first three months of 2012, MET has also won three new or expanded contracts which will add 17 buses and €1m of pro forma revenue per annum. These contracts include the operation of public services in the Heidelberg area from April and new school and related transport services in the Overath and Eifel areas from August. This will take the total MET fleet size to around 300 vehicles. David Leeder, Chief Executive Officer of MET, said: “The acquired business has an excellent local reputation and represents a close fit with our existing operations.” Mark Watts, Executive Director of MMP, said: “With the completion of this acquisition the MET management team has successfully demonstrated the delivery of another component of their core strategy - in this instance delivering a bolt-on acquisition at an attractive multiple with the opportunity to generate local operating synergies.”
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14 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 25, 2012
news › REGIONAL
REPUBLIC OF IRELAND
Commuters could potentially save themselves thousands of euros in fuel costs by switching to the bus for some or all of their journeys, according to the latest Cost of Commuting Survey from Bus Éireann. With the recent increase in fuel prices, commuters who regularly travel to work by car could be adding hundreds or thousands of euros to their annual household bills. For instance, the annual cost of petrol for commuting by car between Kells and Dublin is an estimated €4,958.36 excluding additional charges, according to the survey. However, the bus between Kells and Dublin using a Bus Éireann weekly ticket would cost €2,538 a year – a saving of over €2,400. Further savings of up to 52% off the monthly or yearly cost of the fare could be achieved depending on a person’s tax status by signing up to the Taxsaver Scheme as these tickets are not subject to tax, PRSI or the Universal Social Charge (USC). An AA Ireland survey conducted in February 2012 found the monthly cost of having a car had increased by €18.75 for petrol users and €23.85 for diesel users. Andrew McLindon, PR and Media Manager, Bus Éireann, said: “With the increase in fuel prices it is getting more expensive to use the car. Commuters who leave their car at home even a couple of days a week and take the bus instead could save hundreds of euros a year.” Car users intending to switch to the bus can view up-to-the second bus arrival times for stops across the country via the web or text at www.whensmybus.ie
NORTH
Middlesbrough bus station will close for up to six weeks from July 16 for a £1.5m revamp. The project, part of the Tees Valley Bus Network Improvement Scheme, will see the station become more accessible for the disabled and other users. A total of £57m is being invested into bus infrastructure across Teesside in the DfT-funded scheme. The work will include: n Reconstruction of the external concourse area and partreconstruction of the ramps to the upper deck; n Creating low floor stops at the majority of the local bus stands in www.coachandbusweek.com
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The firm is targeting expansion across the region and recently announced it would be helping to fund a £10m transformation of the bus network around the Merry Hill Shopping Centre. The project aims to improve bus services to the shopping complex and to the nearby Waterfront Business Park and Brierley Hill. National Express is bringing new buses to the area, many of which will feature next stop announcements. To help improve reliability and frequency new timetables will be introduced alongside a focus on improved customer information. The project to improve the bus station and network was drawn up by Centro and Dudley Council, and has received £5m in government backing.
KEY
SCOTLAND NORTHERN IRELAND REP OF IRELAND NORTH WALES MIDLANDS EAST LONDON SOUTH EAST SOUTH WEST
EAST
the bus station; and n Introduction of automatic doors at each of the stands, which will be triggered when a bus approaches. Alternative facilities will be made available nearby during the closure, which is expected to last between four and six weeks. The 21 local bus stands and the express coach stand will be relocated to temporary sites elsewhere in the town centre. There will also be a “mini bus station” at nearby Denmark Street car park, which will be closed to all other traffic during the works. The council hope to provide two express coach stands within the mini bus station, together with temporary passenger facilities to replace those in the express lounge of the bus station. Nicky Walker, the council’s Executive councillor for transport, said: “We’re committed to making public transport as efficient and accessible as possible and this scheme will mean Middlesbrough bus station is one of the best facilities of its kind in the region. “We looked at partial closures but the scale of the work involved means a total closure is the most efficient and effective way to get this vital work completed as soon as possible. “The bus station is already one of the busiest and best used transport hubs in the region and these improvements will make sure it is fit for purpose well into the 21st Century.
“We’ll be issuing detailed information about the temporary arrangements nearer the time to minimise any inconvenience to bus and coach passengers whilst the bus station is closed. “In the meantime, I’d like to apologise in advance for any disruption that these works may cause, and thank bus users for their patience while we carry out this important upgrade.”
MIDLANDS
National Express is to create 1,700 new jobs across its bus and coach operations over the next three years, with the aim of boosting employment opportunities in the West Midlands through its Travel West Midlands operations. The company is also targeting women and the long-term unemployed and has signed a partnership agreement with Job Centre Plus in order to recruit the people it needs. The new employees will be trained as drivers and other operatives so they can fill vacancies when current workers retire. 125 new posts are also being created to help improve the bus company’s route management and to supervise the operation of new services. National Express MD Peter Coates said the partnership would enable more young people and women to get behind the wheel of its buses.
Centrebus is reinstating its Saturday SB10 service from Old Town to Bedwell in Stevenage on May 5. The operator previously scrapped the route at the beginning of April due to its unprofitability. The turnaround has come about after Hertfordshire County Council agreed to a proposal by Stevenage Borough Council leader Sharon Taylor to fund it from her locality budget. The £4,650 funding from the £10,000 budget will keep the service running for a year. Cllr Taylor said she was surprised the council agreed to the suggestion. County Hall had earlier rejected an appeal by Centrebus for the funding. She added: “It gives us a bit of breathing space to look at funding of this service in the longer term. It’s essential for people with mobility issues. It’s really, really important to the people who use it.”
SOUTH WEST
Plymouth Citybus has received the Plymouth Herald Corporate Social Responsibility Award for the Dennis Dart School Bus Safety Training Scheme. The award was presented by TV presenter and Childline founder Esther Rantzen at a black-tie ceremony in association with Plymouth Chamber of Commerce. Andrew Wickham, Managing Director at Plymouth Citybus, said he is delighted the training scheme, which has visited 70 of the 72 junior and primary schools within the city to promote safe and
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considerate travel on buses, has received the accolade. “Since the launch of the scheme in April 2010, the team have had the opportunity to provide a fun training event for hundreds of school classes who get the opportunity to travel on Dennis and receive Dennis Dart books. The positive feedback from parents and schools has been very rewarding and we often find that some children whose parents always use a car have never been on a bus.” A spokesman at Plymouth Citybus said eight schools with multiple classes have already rebooked the Dennis Dart Safety Training for 2012. Wiltshire Council has announced Park & Ride travel to the Wiltshire Diamond Jubilee Celebration event on May 1 is being provided free of charge by Salisbury’s Park & Ride service, which is operated by Hatts. The frequency of the service is increasing with buses leaving for Salisbury town centre every 12 to 15 minutes from all five sites with the last Park & Ride buses leaving Salisbury at 1840. Extra buses are on standby should demand exceed expectations.
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Coach & Bus Week takes a look at the big issues where you live in our round-up of the regions. If you’ve got a local issue you would like us to cover, contact James Day at james.day@rouncymedia.co.uk.
DATES FOR YOUR DIARY
Dick Tonge, cabinet member for transport, said: “Many people are expected to join in with these celebrations, and to ensure as many as possible can enjoy it, we are encouraging people to use public transport to access the city. “Allowing people to use Park & Ride for free will help greatly with this.” The medieval-themed event will take place at Salisbury because of its links to the Magna Carta at cathedral Close on May 1 from 1000 to 1730hrs. All Wiltshire’s community areas are represented with a tent packed with activities, artefacts and locallysourced refreshments. Buckingham Palace has confirmed the Queen, accompanied by the Duke of Edinburgh, is visiting the south west, including Salisbury, on May 1 and 2. The Jubilee celebration is part of the council’s 2012, a year of celebration in Wiltshire, which includes the Wiltshire 2012 festival of Celebration on July 11 at Salisbury Hudson Field. The event also celebrates the Olympic Torch passing through the county and is expected to attract thousands of people.
2012 n April 24-26 CV Show. NEC, Birmingham. 01634 261262. www.cvshow.com n April 25-26 Arriva Bus & Coach (dealer) Open Days.Gomersal, Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire. 02174 681144. www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk n May 5 – 7 Llandudno Festival of Transport. Bodafon Fields, Llandudno, North Wales. 01492 545053. www.llantransfest.co.uk n May 6 Roselyn Coaches Open Day. Middleway Garage, Par, Cornwall. 01726 813737.
The popular Llandudno Transport Festival of Transport will be held at Bodafon Field over the Mayday Bank Holiday Weekend of May 5-7
n May 22-23 ALBUM Conference. – Forest Pines Hotel, near Brigg, North Lincolnshire. www.albumconference.co.uk
n Sept 9 Amberley Bus Show. Amberley Museum and Heritage Centre, West Sussex. www.amberleymuseum.co.uk
n June 4 Imberbus’ service, using Routemaster buses from Warminster, across rarely-seen parts of Salisbury Plain. warminstervbrd. zxq.net/v/imber.htm
n September 16 Showbus. Imperial War Museum, Duxford, Cambridgeshire. www.showbus.com
www.roselyncoaches.co.uk
n June 5 – 7 Transports Publics 2012. The European Mobility Exhibition, Paris. www.transportspublics-expo.com n June 10 Barry Festival of Transport. Organised by Cardiff Transport Preservation Group, Barry, South Wales. postmaster@-ctpg. co.uk. www.ctpg.co.uk n June 22 CILT Wales National Transport Awards lunch. Cardiff City Hall. 01446 451227. www.ciltuk. org.uk/pages/regions/wales n July 1 Reading Transport Great Knollys Street Open Day. 11 – 1600hrs. 0118 959 4000. www.reading-buses.co.uk n July 15 Alton Bus Rally & Running Day. Mid Hants Railway, Alton, Hampshire. www.watercressline.co.uk
trent barton has extended its sponsorship of Jack Burrows, a young sportsman from Nottinghamshire in light of the 14-year-olds continued success. Speed skater Jack was already the holder of several junior awards, which now include a gold medal from the recent Youth Winter Olympics in Innsbruck, when trent barton first offered him free travel to help him maintain his demanding training regime. Jack trains three times a week at the National Ice Centre in Nottingham and relies on trent barton buses to make the journey. Thanks to his success on the ice, Jack has been chosen as a torchbearer in the run-up to the London Olympics, and will carry the torch through the streets of Mansfield on June 28. He has his sights fixed firmly on a place at the Winter Olympics in Russia 2014. Alex Hornby, Commercial Director at trent barton, said: “We’re delighted to have been able to help such a talented and dedicated youngster by providing him with free travel on our calverton connection service for another year. We are all looking forward to seeing him compete at the very highest level in a few years’ time.”
n August 3-5 Bedford OB GetTogether. South Cerney Airfield, Cirencester, GL7 5QB. Contact the organiser Tim Wootton by email on tim@tjcs.freeserve.co.uk. Visit http://www.bedfordob.com/ n August 27 The National Association of Road Transport Museums gala day. The Transport Museum, Wythall, near Birmingham. www.wythall.org.uk n September 6 Association of Trainers AGM. Steele Road, Wembley Julia@asot.org.uk 01797 344251 n September 8-9 UK Bus Driver of the Year, Blackpool. Call competition secretary Bill Holmes on 01303 251462. www.bdoy.co.uk
n September 20-27 IAA Commercial Vehicles. Hannover. +(00)49 30897842. www.iaa.de n October 14 Midland Red Centenary of the Reintroduction of Motorbuses. The Transport Museum, Wythall, near Birmingham. www.wythall.org.uk n October 18 CILT Annual Awards for Excellence Dinner. London. 01536 740104. www.ciltuk.org.uk n October 21 The Very Best of London Buses. Brooklands, Surrey. Featuring 50 years of Routemaster buses. London Bus Museum. www. londonbusmuseum.com n November 6-8 Euro Bus Expo. NEC, Birmingham. 01926 834790. www.eurobusxpo.com n November 20 UK Bus Awards London Hilton Park Lane. www.ukbusawards.org.uk
2013 n Jan 1 New Year’s Holiday Open Day. Oxford Bus Museum. www. oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk n March 20-21 UK Bus Awards Annual Conference. Venue to be confirmed, but will be in Central London. www.ukbusawards.org.uk n May 26-30 UITP Congress & Exhibition Palexpo, Geneva. www.uitp.org. +(00)32 2673 610 n October 18-23 Busworld Kortrijk. www.busworld.org
Do you have an event to promote? Send details to gareth.evans@rouncymedia.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com
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4.6bn
news › BUSINESS
The number of bus journeys in England last year
briefly Unemployment fell by 35,000 to 2.65m over the Decemberto-February period, according to the Office for National Statistics (ONS). The unemployment rate edged down from a 12-year high of 8.4% to 8.3%, the lowest level since the summer of last year. The claimant count rose by 3,600 in March to 1.61m, which is the highest total since October 2009, according to the ONS. Nick Palmer from the ONS told BBC News: “Looking at the longerterm picture, unemployment rose quite strongly during summer last year, then the increases tailed off a bit towards the end of the year. So despite this latest decrease, the level of unemployment is some 170,000 higher than it was at the same point a year ago.” In a speech this morning at a CBI/Policy Exchange business taxation debate, John Cridland, CBI Director-General, said UK businesses pay around a quarter, £163bn, of the country’s total tax revenue, and a competitive tax system is essential to the economy and prosperity. Cridland said: “UK businesses need to be competitive on the world stage and are perfectly entitled to operate in low-tax jurisdictions for legitimate business purposes.” He made clear an important distinction had to be drawn between transparent lowtax jurisdictions and ‘tax havens’ which hide behind secrecy. Warm weather and fuel shortage fears helped prompt the biggest increase in retail sales in more than a year in March, raising chances that recovering consumer spending may have helped the economy avoid recession. The unexpected figures come as a relief for policymakers as they try to boost fragile growth at a time of sticky inflation, deep austerity measures and weak wage rises. Figures due out next week will confirm whether the economy avoided slipping back into recession at the start of this year after contracting by 0.3% at the end of 2011. The ONS said retail sales volumes rose 1.8% on the month to give an annual rise of 3.3%. They were both the highest increases since January 2011 and both beat forecasts. www.coachandbusweek.com
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FirstGroup and Stagecoach share sustainability prize Scottish PLC Awards recognised the operators at a ceremony in Glasgow last week FirstGroup and Stagecoach were jointly awarded the coveted Sustainability Award at the Scottish PLC Awards in Glasgow, April 18. The Scotland plc awards, launched in 1999 by Scottish Business Insider and pwc, celebrate and publicise outstanding achievements by the Scottish plc
community. Terri Vogt, FirstGroup’s Head of Corporate Social Responsibility (CSR), said: “Public transport is very much part of the solution to climate change, however we are firmly committed to reducing the impact of our own operations. Indeed FirstGroup recently achieved the Carbon Trust Standard, which certifies organisations for real carbon reduction and commitment to ongoing reductions.”
Terri Vogt, Head of Corporate Social Responsibility, First Group
Report shows potential of buses to stimulate growth Greener Journeys has commissioned a report into the role of the bus in mobilising workforce, facilitating retail spend and supporting regeneration. ‘Buses and Economic Growth’, conducted by the Institute of Transport Studies at Leeds University, consults with major employers and retailers, The British Chambers of Commerce, British Retail Consortium, Federation of Small Businesses and others. Claire Haigh, Chief Executive of Greener Journeys: “There were 4.6bn bus journeys in England last year. Decision-makers need to recognise bus potential to help stimulate growth.”
Dr Adam Marshall, British Chambers of Commerce, said: “We need all modes of transport to work together in order to have thriving towns and cities across Britain for decades to come. Local business communities up and down the country tell us good bus networks are an essential part of their success. It’s crucial for councils, companies and the transport industry to work together to make services better – and make all journeys better.” The report findings will be released in September 2012. Visit www.greenerjourneys. com for more information.
FirstGroup has invested £160m in nearly 1,000 new buses, £27m in new ticketing technology and are commitment to reduce fuel consumption through its DriveGreen programme. Stagecoach Group Director of Communications Steven Stewart said: “We are delighted to have been recognised once again for the steps we are taking to become a more sustainable business. Our people are at the heart of helping us to become a greener business and this award is down to the hard work of our employees at all levels of the company. “We have set ourselves stretching targets to reduce our impact on the environment and help people in our local communities make greener travel choices. This has been backed up by a multi-millionpound investment programme in our bus and rail companies, from new hybrid electric buses and regenerative braking systems on trains to more efficient energy management systems in our buildings. We will continue to work hard to improve further.”
Profit before tax up 14% for Rotala
Rotala reports strong performance for 2011 with growth in turnover of 26% to £56.1m (2010: £44.6m). The company also announced profit before taxation for the year to end of November 2011 was up 14% to £1.88m (2010: £1.65m) and basic earnings per share up 24% to 6.22 pence (2010: 5.00 pence). Net cash flows from operating activities were £6.66m (2010: £5.84m) and EBITDA to debt ratio 2.4 times (2010: 3.1 times) The board has proposed a final dividend of 0.80 pence per share (2010: 0.60 pence), making 1.20 pence for the year, a rise of 33%.
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26% €222.5m The growth in turnover for Rotala in 2011
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Revenue for Eurotunnel in the first quarter of 2012, an increase of 21% from 2011
Go-Ahead featured in first Carbon Footprinting Gallery
Go-Ahead Group featured in the world’s first Carbon Footprinting Gallery in London. The gallery celebrated companies which are pioneering and shaping the future of carbon footprinting. Go-Ahead was the only transport operator included in the exhibition organised by the Carbon Trust. The exhibition included a model train illustrating how Go-ahead led the way in installing third-rail regenerative braking systems on Southern and Southeastern. In addition to regenerative braking on trains, Go-Ahead has introduced
Eurotunnel announces increased traffic
Eurotunnel Group reported total revenue in the first quarter of 2012 reached €222.5m, an increase of 21% compared to 2011. Revenues for the Fixed Link segment increased sharply in the first quarter of 2012, led by the Shuttle business and revenues from the railway network. Revenues from the core business,
Go-Ahead is an advocate of hybrid technology and fuel efficiency Mix Telematics to improve fuel efficient driving and more hybrid buses. Other displays included an army of concrete jelly babies, a miniature bed, a sack of potatoes and a bubble the transport of trucks and passenger vehicles by Shuttles, reached €101.7m, an increase of 21% compared to the same period in the previous year at a constant exchange rate. Revenues generated by the usage of the railway network reached €67.5 million, an increase of 10% for the first quarter of 2012. Other revenues increased by 18% to €2.3m. Shuttle traffic increased significantly in all areas compared to the first quarter in 2011, particularly for the Truck Shuttles which are all the more competitive in the current state of the crossChannel market. During the quarter, Eurotunnel benefitted from the
machine. The Footprinting Gallery showcases how a diverse range of brands including BT, Danone, Dyson, The Football Association, Formica Group, Greener Planet,
Revenue from the transport of trucks and passenger vehicles by Shuttles, reached €101.7m transfer of some traffic from SeaFrance which ceased operations in November 2011, but proportionally less than the other cross-Channel operators who put significant extra
Loomis, Manchester United, SodaStream, Tarmac, Tesco, Walkers and Whitbread – have reduced the carbon footprint of their products, services or organisation. David Brown, Go-Ahead Group Chief Executive, said: “Go-Ahead has worked with the Carbon Trust since 2008, when we became the first UK transport operator to receive Carbon Trust accreditation after taking action to cut our emissions.“ Tom Delay, Chief Executive, Carbon Trust, says: “The diversity of the exhibits in the Gallery reflects the broad range of industries which are now taking carbon seriously, and using carbon footprinting as an important first step on the journey to managing their environmental impact.” For more information on the Carbon Footprinting Gallery visit www.carbontrust. com or ring 0207 8324802.
capacity into service. Jacques Gounon, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Groupe Eurotunnel SA, said: “In an active market, the Eurotunnel Group has made significant progress in all areas of the business. Attention to customer needs, transparent pricing and protection of the environment are the three pillars of our service offer which is proving to be increasingly attractive, especially as we approach the London 2012 Olympic Games.” For more information on Eurotunnel visit www. eurotunnel.com or ring 08443 353535.
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18 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 25, 2012
uk coach rally
Driving forward success Coach & Bus Week’s Gareth Evans reports on the UK Coach Rally 2012 which took place last weekend at the Peterborough Showground
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he forecasted heavy rain showers failed to dampen spirits at the 58th annual UK Coach Rally over the weekend. Indeed, the event, a key date in the coach industry calendar, was in fact blessed with some sunshine – albeit not to the same extent as the last two years. Despite the name, Peterborough Showground benefits from a large area of hard standing, with the result the venue does not get transformed into a quagmire. According to the programme, there were 39 entries – although it is understood this figure does not take into account a handful of lastminute cancellations.
A rewarding feat
The prestigious UK Coach of the Year title went to Parrys International for its immaculate high-class Van Hool TX 17. In the best tradition of the renowned West Midlands operator, the coach came complete with a rear servery, leather seats and seat back monitors. To say it looked the business both inside and out is an understatement. Richard Grey from Grey’s of Ely was crowned UK Coach Rally Coach Driver of the Year, while the Highest Placed Coach in all Classes was won by Sharpes of Nottingham for its Van Hool T9 Alizee-bodied Volvo B12B. Midi Coach Driver of the Year was won by Kevin Walker of York Pullman, while the Mini Coach Driver of the Year was won by Ben Harpin from Bedford-based Cedar Coaches.
Seasoned rally contestant Darren Brown, who won Coach Driver of the Year in 2009, collected the Director’s Challenge award. The winner of the ‘greatest distance travelled’ prize, were such a thing to exist, would be back in the hands of Prentice Westwood, of West Calder, West Lothian, which measures circa 330 miles from Peterborough Showground. Notable new additions to the rally line-up this year included Welsh operator DJ Thomas of Neath, with a Volvo 9700 coach in an all-new gold-based livery, which it is hoped to feature in CBW in the coming weeks. Last year the family-run firm had a Van Hool triaxle coach on display as part of the Moseley stand, but did not take part in the rally itself. Also making a welcome sight at the rally was Epsom Coaches – not only because the Surrey-based operator has not taken part for some years, but because the Setra S416GT-HD was driven by the only female competitor in the 2012 rally, Alison Putman.
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Minis & buses
Operators participating with mini coaches included London Mini Coaches, Haines Minicoaches and Cedar Coaches of Bedford. It is hoped a small feature on these will appear in the next issue of CBW Minibus. In an effort to broaden the appeal of the event to family-run coach firms who also run buses, new additions to the awards line-up for 2012 included UK Coach Rally Bus of the Year and continued on p23
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CBW @ Facebook.com reader reaction
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Richard Sharman: The event seems to lack the draw that Brighton had, at Brighton people could take their family and there would be plenty to do combined with the seafront. That aside, its great so many companies made the effort to participate given the hard economic times. Maybe we could learn from the truck fest event that draws thousands at the same venue?
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1: Motts’ driver Jason Dancer competes in the final on Sunday; 2: Banstead Coaches won the Top Beulas Trophy; 3: Richard Grey (left) from Greys of Ely receives the UK Coach Driver of the Year award from Peter Hendy; 4: Peter Hendy presents the UK Coach of the Year trophy to John Harvey and Dave Parry of Parrys International; 5: Michael Stoneman of Blakes Coaches completes the first test with ease; 6: Sharpes of Nottingham had several reasons to smile, collecting multiple awards; 7: Clarkes of London won the Top Touring/Express Luxury Coach, the LTCOA Martin Cornell trophy and the Smartest Uniformed driver/ & or courier; 8: The Brown family from Crawley Luxury Coaches were in high spirits after Darren (second from left) won the Directors Challenge award; 9: Seasoned rally contestant Chris Bibby from Bibbys’s of Ingleton shows how its done on the Sunday final; 10: The Winson family from Paul S Winson Coaches receive their trophy for the Top Mini/Midi coach
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20 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 25, 2012
uk coach rally
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1: Motts of Aylesbury driver Jason Dancer successfully completes the width test on Saturday in his Jonckheere-bodied Volvo; 2: Adam Barham from Pather Travel negotiates the garage exercise; 3: Tom Williams from Dews Coaches of Somersham won Runner Up Coach Driver of the Year; 4: Peter Hendy presents staff from The King’s Ferry with the Salvador Caetano Trophy; 5: Prentice Westwood driver David Reid competes in the final on Sunday; 6: Peter Hendy presents members of the Paul S Winson team with the Kirkby trophy for the top coach supplied by Plaxton Coach Sales; 7: Ben Harpin from Cedar Coaches of Bedford was crowned Mini Coach Driver of the Year; 8: Ian, Andrew and Gavin Scott of Stanley Travel pick up their collection of trophies from Peter Hendy; 9: Manning the Holdsworth stand were Nigel Vickers and David Niall
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CBW @ Facebook.com reader reaction Christopher Shore: It was my first time at the coach rally since moving to Peterborough. I was impressed but I feel the event does lack the atmosphere it had at Brighton.
The Winners:
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Coach Driver of the Year Coach of the Year Best in all Classes Bus Driver of the Year Bus of the Year Top Team of the Year Peter Bostock Trophy Mini Driver of the Year Midi Driver of the Year West Middlesex Coach Operators Association Trophy – Runner up to Coach Driver of the Year Special Class – Directors Challenge
Richard Grey – Greys of Ely Parrys International Sharpes of Nottingham Liam Spencer – Paul S Winson Paul S Winson Stanley Travel Neil Sharpe – Sharpes of Nottingham Ben Harpin – Cedar Coaches Kevin Walker – York Pullman Tom Willams – Dews Coaches Darren Brown – Crawley Luxury
concours d’elegance awards Top Mini/Midi (Class 1A or 2A) Top Standard Coach (Class AA or AAA) Top Touring/Express Luxury Coach (Class B) Top Dual Purpose Bus or Coach (Class C) Trophy for Top Executive Coach (Class D) Top Coach aged 5 years or older (Class E) Rita Dalziel Trophy John Fielder Memorial Trophy
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Paul S Winson Stanley Travel Clarks of London Not Awarded Not Awarded Sharpes of Nottingham Not Awarded Jay & Kay Coach Tours
concours d’elegance manufacturers awards VDL Berkhof (Top VDL Berkhof) Not Awarded Salvador Caetano Trophy (Top Caetano) The Kings Ferry Scania UK Trophy Not Awarded VDL Jonckheere (Top Jonckheere) Motts Travel Neoplan (Top Neoplan) Not Awarded Kassbohrer Trophy (Top Setra) Not Awarded Plaxton Trophy (Top Plaxton) Stanley Travel Beulas Trophy (Top Beulas) Banstead Coaches Kirkby (Top coach supplied by Plaxton Coach Sales) Paul S Winson Van Hool (Top Van Hool) Parrys International Irisbus Award (Top Irisbus) Not Awarded Moseley Trophy (Top Van Hool supplied by Moseley) Parrys International Bova Trophy (Top Bova supplied by Moseley) Jay & Kay Coach Tours Volvo Trophy (Top Coach supplied by Volvo Coach Sales) Dews Coaches BASE Trophy (Top Marcopolo) Mike de Courcey Travel Toyota Trophy (Top Toyota Optimo) Not Awarded special awards Terry Porteous Trophy (Top Optare/Autobus) Clarkes (Best Access for Disabled) Boon’s Award (Best co-ordinated Decor) Peter Rogers Trophy Cymru (Top coach from Wales) Tony Roose Trophy (Top Coach from Scotland) Fred Bibby Award (Best Loved Coach) Coach Drivers Club of Great Britain (Driver Quiz) LTCOA Challenge Trophy Guild of British Coach Operators Smartest uniformed driver &/or courier Best Irizar Integral
Not Awarded Not Awarded York Pullman Parrys International DJ Thomas Coaches Prentice Westwood Stanley Travel Stanley Travel Clarkes of London Not Awarded Clarkes of London Stewarts Coaches
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22 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 25, 2012
uk coach rally
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2 1: The BASE Trophy for the top Marcopolo was awarded to Mike de Courcey Travel; 2: Some of the vehicles on display in the heritage area; 3: Peter Hendy presents Kevin Walker of York Pullman with the Midi Coach Drivers of the Year award; 4: Daryl Garland and Jason Dancer from Motts of Aylesbury collect the VDL Jonckheere trophy for the top Jonckheere; 5: The BASE Coach Sales display
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continued from p18 UK Coach Rally Bus Driver of the Year categories. The three entries comprised a Vanhool-bodied Volvo school bus from Kenzies and a pair of ADL Enviro 200s. Stephensons of Essex driver Francis Bartlett competed in a 10.8m example, while Paul S Winson’s Liam Spencer drove an 8.9m model. Both categories were won by the latter.
The outside display
More of the event was staged outdoors this year – although it appears ‘Murphy’s law’ came into play; the showers coming in stark contrast to the sunshine of 2010 and 2011. As outlined in CBW1022, it cost over £10,000 alone to rent the exhibition hall. Therefore trade displays were moved down with the coaches by the horseshoe. However, a small presence remained inside – thanks to the CPT One Stop Shop-type event in the glazed area near the WCs. An added attraction for families
was the presence of small animals from the West Midlands Safari Park. Snails, cockroaches and ferrets seemed to provide intrigue and fear in equal measure. Back to the outdoor area, traders included BASE, MAN, KVC, Moseley, Altro and Irizar UK, in addition to a couple of stallholders selling model vehicles. Many rally attendees gained their first up close and personal look at the New Bus for London, perhaps better known as the ‘Borismaster’. Fleet number LT1, which is run by Arriva, made an interesting sight alongside original Routemaster RM1005, part of the FirstGroup fleet. The former also provided much-needed shelter during the rain showers which hit the event on the Sunday afternoon. Heritage vehicles on display included York Pullman’s Duple Laser-bodied Volvo B10M ‘YFD923Y’, Peelings Coaches’ Plaxton Supreme-bodied Volvo and Lodge’s ‘toast rack’ convertible Bedford OB.
Next year?
Prior to presenting the awards, London Transport Commissioner Peter Hendy said: “What a fantastic celebration, people here are the cream of the industry, showing how good the industry can be.” He was not wrong when he said: “I’m really, really impressed with how great it is. I don’t think the public realise.” Turning to the important question of whether the event will take place next year, Steve Telling was keen to stress: “It ain’t going to die. We’ve already got sponsorship in place for next year and we’ve also got some big and exciting changes in store.” Steve said he planned something of a media de-brief in the coming weeks – watch this space. In the meantime, please let CBW know your thoughts on the event. The date for the UK Coach Rally 2014 has already been set – April 13/14. Visit www.coachdisplays.co.uk
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24 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 25, 2012
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Excellence celebrated at UK Coach Awards 2012 Coach & Bus Week’s Editor Gareth Evans reports on the popular fourth annual UK Coach Awards – which celebrated and rewarded the very best the industry has to offer in Manchester last week www.coachandbusweek.com
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he air was full of friendly competitive spirit. Sweepstakes were organised by attendees on some tables – while the likely winners became the subject of much debate. That said, the UKCA remains a civilised affair. The organisation is slick, it’s impressive and one feels proud to be there and be part of it - but perhaps more importantly, and at the risk of apparent contradiction, it’s a friendly, down to earth event. Lounge suits are very much in vogue here. There may have been rivalry but it was all in good spirit - more friends reunited than blitzkrieg. Indeed, there was almost pantomime-like participation from the audience – with much good natured cheering and booing. What’s more, the positive air made a pleasant change from the dark sky currently hanging over much of the wider PCV industry and indeed, society as a whole. While it would be easy for cynics to
dismiss such positivity as merely being the result of one of the awards’ raisons d’être, the UKCA differs from other such schemes in that it mixes the integral ingredients of coach tourism – passengers, local authorities, industry suppliers, drivers, operators – and attractions. The latter is an industry in itself yet one which would arguably be lost without the coach industry. Thus, the UKCA is more than a mere operator’s event. Indeed, anecdotal evidence suggests that tourism views coaches as a major part of the solution to the economic downturn and hence is keen to support and engage with the coach industry.
The Winners
Back to the awards evening, over 60 individuals, companies and organisations across the UK coach and coach tourism industry were recognised and rewarded for their excellence and good practice at the Belmont International UK Coach Awards, which took place on Thursday (April 19) at Manchester’s famous Ramada
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4 1: CBW ‘s Gareth Evans presents the award to Mark Pitter; 2: The National Express crew; 3: Michelle Demain; 4: Excelsior MD Kathy Tilbury collects the Top Medium Fleet Operator award; 5: Representing Bova was Tim Fairless of Moseley PCV; 6: Laurie Kennard of Norman Allen Group Travel; 7: Chris Wales presents the Most Coach Friendly Attraction award; 8: Kevin Brown & Ian Trigg from Woods Coaches of Leicester; 9: Maurice Duckworth (centre) receives the Marketing Award for First’s Greyhound Coaches
5 Piccadilly Hotel, which literally towers over the city centre. Amongst the prize winners were coach operators and coach drivers who were nominated by group travel organisers and other industry customers from around the country. Outstanding winners were the Kent coach operator The Kings Ferry, who won two awards. First the company won the title Top Large Fleet Operator. The evening was completed when the National Express Group-owned operator was named as UK Coach Operator of the Year, a judgement based both on customer nominations, performance data and a ‘mystery shopper’ exercise to test the company’s customer friendliness. The Top Medium Fleet Operator title went to Excelsior Coaches of Bournemouth, whilst the Top Small Fleet operator was named as Woods Coaches, the long established Leicester company. The Coach Driver of the Year was named as Billy Graham, who has worked for the Durham coach operator Cochrane’s for over 30
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years, and where his personality and dedication ensure he’s in heavy demand from the company’s regular clients. The best practice in coach friendliness has been highlighted by coach operators and industry experts. These are categories designed to highlight best practice amongst local authorities, tourist attractions, shopping attractions and service providers in welcoming coaches, their passengers and their drivers to venues all over the country. Top shopping attraction was the Blacksmith’s Shop at Gretna Green, with the Lancashire attraction Oswaldtwistle Mills named as runners up. In the context for most coach-friendly tourist attraction, the Eden Project was named winner, with the West Midland Safari & Leisure Park named as runner up for the third year in a row. In a similar contest for historic attractions, the top prize went to Severn Valley Railway, with the Eden Camp in Malton, North Yorkshire as runner up. Bury Council was named
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26 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 25, 2012
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3 1: Phil White presents the UK Coach Operator of the Year to Danny Elford of The Kings Ferry; 2: Ian Skeels of National Express was honoured as an Unsung Hero; 3: Lynda Denton & Pauline Pennie from Gretna Green’s Blacksmith Forge; 4: John Johnson; 5: Group Travel World’s Colin Mansell (left) presents the Industry Support Solution of the Year award to Ian McCarron & Paul Coates of Gautlett Risk Management; 6: Mike Beagrie with the Coach of the Year award for the Setra S416; 7: Mark Sheringham from Leighton Buzzard-based Marshalls Coaches
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The UKCA: a synopsis
The UK Coach Awards (UKCA) is run by an independent not for profit joint venture company established by Rouncy Media, publishers of ‘Coach and Bus Week’ and ‘Group Travel World‘ magazines, and Transport Events Group, the company that organises the hugely successful UK Bus Awards, now in their seventeenth successful year. The company delegates the organisation of the scheme to a Management Committee comprising representatives of industry stakeholders and customer representatives, including the Coach Tourism Council and the Group Travel Organisers’ Association. For more information, including more photographs from the awards ceremony, go to the website www.ukcoach awards.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com
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5 Most Coach Friendly local authority, recognising its outstanding service in promoting its famous market, with Liverpool City Council as runners up. There were prizes too for professionalism in specific aspects of coach operation and management, for coach builders and for providers of support solutions such as software and engineering support. The Setra 416GTHD was named Coach of the Year for the fourth year in a row, whilst the award for Best Industry Support Solution went to innovative risk management experts Gauntlet. The award for Coach Marketing went to FirstGroup for its work on promoting Greyhound UK, whilst rivals National Express were named as runners up for an innovative campaign known as ‘You Know You Wanna’. Several people were also honoured for their hard work in supporting the industry. UKCA Chairman Allan Edmondson said: “Our aim is to recognise the hard work, dedication and
professionalism of a whole range of people and organisations involved in coach tourism around the country.” The professionals recognised with awards on the night were Michelle Demain of First Rail Support and Ian Skeels of National Express, both named ‘Unsung Heroes’, whilst John Johnson of renowned family-run Warwickshire company Johnsons Coach and Bus, was given the prestigious award for services to the Coach Industry. He has worked in the industry all his life, and chaired the Coach Tourism Council as well as being a CPT committee member and a great fund raiser for charity through longdistance cycling.
Young Professional
A new award this year was the Young Industry Professional category, which has been introduced at the suggestion of CBW’s Editor. With the Young Bus Manager award forming a popular part of the associated UK Bus Awards line-up, it was felt the
achievements of individuals under the age of 30 working in the coach industry, which inevitably often go unreported, needed to be put under the spotlight. The title has been so named owing to the absence of the word ‘manager’ in the job titles of many young coach professionals who worked principally in the familydominated sector. Presenting the award to Mark Pitter of Coliseum Coaches, CBW Editor Gareth Evans, said: “As an industry publication, we feel it’s very important for young managers to receive recognition for their exceptional capabilities. They are after all, the future of this industry.” Allan Edmonson continued: “The judges were really impressed. There’s innovation going on all over the country - and great care and attention to detail in delivering great customer service. This is what makes for better trips for our customers. Whether it’s using social media or just looking at things from the customer’s point of view, people
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The Winners:
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7 really are working very hard, and thoroughly deserve the recognition that the UK Coach Awards delivered on Thursday night.” The evening was compered by BBC Breakfast’s weather presenter Carol Kirkwood. While she always comes across as an affable person on TV, she’s every bit as approachable in the flesh. “Perhaps people don’t believe me when I tell them I enjoy being at the UK Coach Awards, but I do,” she told CBW. “It’s formal yet not too formal; everyone’s friendly and out to have a good time but they’re also civilised. I love being here.” Every bit as sincere in her words, Carol didn’t perform a vanishing act once off stage – she was happy to chat with coach industry professionals and not afraid to have photos taken with her many fans. The awards themselves were presented by Tom Jenkins, Executive Director of the European Tour Operators Association. The event was attended by over 200 key players in the coaching and coach tourism industry.
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UK Coach Operator of the Year sponsored by Belmont International and AVIVA Winner: The Kings Ferry, Gillingham, Kent Runner Up: Excelisor Coaches, Bournemouth Top Small Fleet Operator (fewer than 15 vehicles) Winner: Woods Coaches, Leicester Runner Up: Woods Travel Group, Bognor Highly Commended: Carol Peters Coach Travel, Ramsgate, Kent; Grahams Coaches, Colchester, Essex Top Medium Fleet Operator (16-50 vehicles), sponsored by Volvo Winner: Excelsior Coaches, Bournemouth, Dorset Runner Up: Golden Boy Coaches, Hoddesdon, Hertfordshire Highly Commended: Anthony’s Travel, Runcorn, Cheshire; Marshall’s Coaches, Leighton Buzzard, Beds; Stanley Travel, Stanley, County Durham Top Large Fleet Operator (over 50 vehicles) Winner: The Kings Ferry, Gillingham, Kent Runner Up: Johnsons Coach and Bus Travel, Henley-in-Arden, Warwickshire Highly Commended: Johnson Brothers, Workshop, Nottinghamshire Coach Marketing Award This goes to the company judged to have made the best and most creative use of a range of marketing tools to grow their business and increase consumer awareness. Winner: Greyhound UK, FirstGroup plc Runner Up: You Know You Wanna, National Express ROSCO Award for Innovation in Road Safety Winner: Excelsior Coaches, Bournemouth, Dorset for their support of the Under 17s Car Club Industry Support Solution of the Year Designed to recognise and reward excellence and high standards in the delivery of essential support services to coach operators. Winner: Gauntlet Risk Management, Leeds Runner Up: Towergate Chapman Stevens Coach of the Year Award Operators were asked to nominate the best vehicles from the passenger perspective.
Winner: Setra 416GTHD (Evobus (UK)
Limited, Coventry) Runner Up: Volvo/Plaxton BR9 Elite (Plaxton Limited, Scarborough) Highly Commended: Neoplan Tourliner (M.A.N. UK Limited, Swindon); Bova Futura (Moseley Distributors Ltd, Loughborough)
Most Coach Friendly Local Authority Operators were asked to nominate authorities that had made extra effort to deliver outstanding facilities for coaches and their passengers. Winner: Bury Metropolitan Borough Council Runner Up: Liverpool City Council Most Coach Friendly Historic Attraction Historic attractions that have gone ‘that extra mile’ to accommodate, attract, and welcome coaches, their drivers and their passengers. Winner: Severn Valley Railway, Bewdley, Worcestershire Runner Up: Eden Camp, Malton, North Yorkshire Highly Commended: Beamish, Living Museum of the North; Edinburgh Castle; Hampton Court Palace; Warwick Castle Most Coach Friendly Tourist Attraction Tourist attractions that have gone ‘that extra mile’ to accommodate, attract, and welcome coaches, their drivers and their passengers. Winner: The Eden Project, Bodelva Par, Cornwall Runner Up: West Midland Safari Park, Bewdley, Worcestershire Highly Commended: Alton Towers Resort, Staffordshire; Royal Yacht Britannia, Leith, Edinburgh Most Coach Friendly Shopping Attraction Shopping attractions that have gone ‘that extra mile’ to accommodate, attract, and welcome coaches, their drivers and their passengers. Winner: Gretna Green Blacksmith’s Shop, Gretna Green, Dumfries & Galloway Runner Up: Oswaldtwistle Mills Shopping Village, Lancashire Highly Commended: Boundary Mill Stores, Colne, Lancashire; Bury Market; The Trafford Centre, Greater Manchester Best Coach Industry Supplier Providers of services such as meals, hotels, admission tickets
or sea crossings that have made outstanding efforts to accommodate, attract, and welcome coaches, their drivers and their passengers. Hotels and Catering Winner: Park Inns by Radisson Runner Up: Menzies Hotels Highly Commended: Hilton Hotels Sea Crossing/Water Transport Winner: Wightlink Highly Commended: P&O Ferries; Red Funnel; Stena Line Theatre & Venue Ticketing Winner: Encore Tickets, London Highly Commended: Group Line, London; Leeds City Varieties; Octagon Theatre Yeovil; Palace Theatre Manchester Tour Wholesaling Winner: Albatross Tours, Larkfield, Kent Runner Up: Norman Allen Group Travel Highly Commended: Greatdays Travel Group, Altrincham, Cheshire Top UK Coach Driver
Winner: Billy Graham, Cochranes Runner Up: David Alford, Euro Cruising Highly Commended: Ken Jones,
Anthony’s Travel; Mike Fitzgerald, Anthony’s Travel; Kevin Starkey, Marshalls Coaches
Young Coach Industry Professional Designed to recognise and reward talented youngsters under the age of 30 who are showing leadership and commitment to the future development of the industry. Winner: Mark Pitter, Coliseum Coaches, Southampton Runner Up: Jonathan Pollard, National Espress Unsung Heroes This award is designed to recognise and reward the hard work, loyalty and devotion to duty of one or more individuals who perform junior or middle management roles in the industry. Two prizes were awarded for 2012: Michelle Demain, First Rail
Support; Ian Skeets, National Express
Services to the Industry This prize is awarded to somebody in the world of coach tourism who has devoted a lifetime to the industry, and delivered exceptional service in the provision and/or delivery of coach services. This year, the prize goes to John Johnson, Johnsons Coach and Bus www.coachandbusweek.com
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28 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 28, 2012
insight › bus competition
Exploring competition and Quality Contracts Industry professionals share their views on a number of pressing topics with the Transport Committee, including regulation and franchising. Andrew Cream reports
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n Tuesday April 15, the House of Commons Transport Committee met with various members of the bus industry, union representatives and Acting Senior Traffic Commissioner (TC) Beverley Bell to discuss the Competition Commission’s recent report on competition within the bus market. Along with Beverley Bell, present at the meeting was Mike Cooper, Executive Director, UK Bus Operations, Arriva; Steve Salmon, Director of Policy Development, Confederation of Passenger Transport; Giles Fearnley, Managing Director UK Bus, FirstGroup; James Freeman, CEO, Reading Buses and representing Association of Local Bus Company Managers (ALBUM); Bobby Morton, National Officer for Passenger Transport, Unite; Martin Mayer, Unite Executive Member for Passenger Transport; and Phil Bialyk, RMT Regional Organiser, South West England. The committee, chaired by Mrs Louise Ellman, questioned them on a number of topics including Quality Contracts (QCs), the role of the TC, the state of the bus industry and franchising.
BEVERLEY BELL The panel was keen to understand the role of the TC, particularly what they do to help manage competition www.coachandbusweek.com
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Acting Senior Traffic Commissioner Beverley Bell
“It’s very much for the market place to determine how and when operators will operate their services. I’d like to think we do promote competition. We allow anyone to enter subject to them reaching the right standards.” Beverley Bell Acting senior traffic commissioner
within the bus market. Bell explained that TCs have a “very limited role when it comes to competition”. Instead TCs help ensure competition is fair by making sure operators are fit to conduct bus operations. She added: “It’s very much for the market place to determine how and when operators will run their services. I’d like to think we do promote competition. We allow anyone to enter subject to them reaching the right standards.” When asked whether TCs could play a more active role in regulating competition, Bell said they would have to improve their knowledge of competition regulation, adding: “TCs would be well placed to deal with competition regulation but we would have to increase our skills substantially.” She also believes TCs do not have enough resources to deal with their current workload, so increased resources would be paramount. Discussing her current role, Bell said: “I’m not interested in competition per se; I’m interested in a good level of reliable services. My role is to promote a compliant bus industry which passengers and operators can be proud of. This industry does suffer with negative press at times.” Bell was then asked of TC’s views on Quality Partnerships (QPs). “We’ve not yet had to take action with any QPs,” she said. “Many of those are a success, but there will
always be those operators which cannot comply or will not comply.” Moving onto the controversial topic of QCs, Bell said: “We understand that there will be one coming later this year in one of the northern areas, but I cannot say any more.” The panel referred to operators taking a “scorched earth policy” in the North East, “to try and scupper any chances of a QC”. They wanted to know what view TCs would have on those kinds of actions, to which Bell replied: “If we felt an operator was trying to circumvent [chances of setting up a QC] then yes we would take a dim view.” One of the committee members, an MP for a Greater Manchester constituency, spoke to Bell about an alleged 10 years of First Group running poor services in the area. He wanted to know why TCs hadn’t stepped in sooner. Bell explained
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that, a lot of the time, TCs aren’t aware of problems as the public do not pass on their grievances to them. She added: “The reason we don’t get referrals from the public is because most people don’t know who we are and they don’t know that we exist.” She called for the public to be made more aware of “the existence and power of TCs”. Concluding on the current state of the bus industry, Bell said: “Most PSV operators are offering a great service to passengers. It is incredibly frustrating that there are large areas where people aren’t getting the service people should be getting.”
STEVE SALMON, JAMES FREEMAN, GILES FEARNELY, MIKE COOPER Facing questioning from the committee together, Steve Salmon, James Freeman, Giles Fearnely and Mike Cooper were questioned
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about how the industry would deal with additional competition, franchising and government funding. Cooper explained how Arriva would cope with additional competition: “We did a piece of work during the Competition Commission’s analysis, looking at a proportion of our routes. In the short term 0.1% of our routes could sustain an additional competitor. In the medium to long term that rises to 9.9%. “The point being this is a very mature industry that can’t sustain additional competition in many parts of the UK.” Fearnely was keen to explain that bus industry’s economic climate has changed quite dramatically since the report was carried out. “I think we have to bear in mind that since the Competition Commission looked at financial data the financial
Steve Salmon, CPT
“It costs a lot of money to take an empty bus to a town 20 miles away just in order to compete.” Steve Salmon Director of policy development, CPT
matrix of the industry has changed quite dramatically – particularly with reductions to public funding,” he said. “Whether it’s reductions in BSOG or reductions in concessionary fares funding – it’s putting a great uncertainty around operators.” The committee asked the quartet about their rates of return on capital and what the companies were doing with profits made. Cooper explained the average return on capital between 2005/06 and 2009/10 was 13.5%, while Arriva need to put about 10% into investment. He added: “In the last five years Arriva has reinvested £90m each year in capital expenditure and predominately in new buses.” Fearnely picked up: “In terms of what the industry has done with the returns it has made, it has invested very significantly –
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insight › bus competition
Reading Buses CEO and ALBUM representative James Freeman
“If we had the same level of public support for public transport that is enjoyed in London then we would have an amazing public transport system.” James Freeman CEO, Reading Buses and representing ALBUM
Arriva UK bus operations Executive Director Mike Cooper
“In the short term 0.1% of our routes could sustain an additional competitor. In the medium to long term that rises to 9.9%. The point being this is a very mature industry that can’t sustain additional competition in many parts of the UK.” Mike Cooper Executive director, UK bus operations, Arriva www.coachandbusweek.com
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not only in vehicles, but in ticketing equipment and partnerships with local authorities. A huge amount of money has been held back so we have sustainable businesses for our customers.” Salmon added: “We had a period in the noughties of more than five years, where the industry was investing more in each year than it was making profit.” Freeman commented: “It’s certainly not a dirty word making profits out of running buses.” On the subject of QCs, it was clear there was strong animosity towards the idea. Fearnely believed there isn’t a need for QCs as “the market is working and passengers are satisfied.” When asked about whether “scorched earth” language is helpful in creating partnerships between operators and authorities, Fearnely added: “When relationships are deep-seated between operators and authorities, when an awful lot of progress has been made over the years to serve passengers and meet their needs, then I suspect when the QCs develop then there is frustration and I suspect that’s what’s been seen here.” Representing ALBUM, Freeman was asked if smaller operators had the same level of opposition to QCs as larger operators. He replied: “I think it’s hard to say until one actually comes about. The small operators quite often do very well out of QPs. One of the issues about QPs is that they vary according to the people and the organisations which are part of them. The issue with a small operator in a QC that would be a matter of fear for an operator is that they would be very insignificant and not be taken much notice of. So there isn’t likely to be a huge attraction to the QC.” Fearnely was also quizzed on First’s recent PI relating to operations in north Manchester. He was criticised on the firm’s apparent unreliable service coupled with fares comparatively higher than Stagecoach in the south of Manchester. The panel believed First was able to run its services in such a way due to the little competition on its routes. He said: “I accept we are the largest operator in the north of Greater Manchester but there are a number of other operators competing with us on many corridors.
“We believe we are meeting our customers’ needs. I’m not saying we can’t do better; we are striving continuously to do better. “We need a satisfactory rate of return in order to invest in our fleet and in our people.” The quartet was asked about whether the London bus system would work in the rest of the country. Freeman said: “If we had the same level of public support for public transport that is enjoyed in London then we would have an amazing public transport system and we would have ridership levels to cry for. That is the real difference between what happens in London and what happens in the rest of the country. That’s the reason why, in the industry, we tend to see it as a different game.” Salmon added: “At the time when deregulation took place a whole load of money came out. Shire councils which had been subsidising bus networks with millions of pounds suddenly stopped and people looked towards the operators to say ‘what are you going to do?’ And then the authorities had the power in order to fill up what was there. So it’s impossible to say the effect is all down to the regulation system, it’s also down to money.” Cooper wanted to dispel the myth about operators’ opposition to franchising: “There seems to be this prevailing view that all the big operators have this rabid animosity to franchising and that’s not necessarily true. Arriva operates in a franchised world right across Europe. What’s interesting to see is the relative levels of public investment across Europe compared to the UK. Government aid for passenger support in London is 31p per passenger journey; outside London it’s between 13 and 19p. “Copenhagen in Denmark is held up often as an area in which franchising is working effectively. The Danish transport authority in 2011 invested £1.30 per passenger journey in its bus network, so economics has a huge part to play and I think people should be conscious of that fact. “I think the other point as well if you look at the European regulated environment there is no single example of any system having moved from a deregulated world to a regulated world. I think the committee should be conscious
of that.” Back to the issue of competition, and increasing competition throughout the country, Cooper reiterated his routes would not be able to sustain added competition. Fearnely said: “Fundamentally, it’s a lack of demand for bus services. Demand for bus services can be increased most effectively through bus priorities, through controlled use of cars and car parking spaces, through capital investment, through ticketing and through frequency and quality of services provided. That is what will influence demand.” Salmon also explained why operators wouldn’t be keen on competing in areas they weren’t knowledgeable in: “Every operator has an estate of premises and buses and people. There are thousands and thousands of tiny markets – it’s much easier to change what you do within the areas you know around your depots. It costs a lot of money to take an empty bus to a town 20 miles away just in order to compete. That is why the market develops like it does because every stop to every other stop is a different market and people know those markets where they are used to trading and where their assets are. “We know we are quite good at knowing where we can make
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Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek a business. Where there isn’t a business of public transport then the best people to decide on allocating resources to that are the public authorities who have got a whole panoply of things they can spend their money on and the choice of where they choose to spend it is theirs.” Cooper summed up his views on the current state of the industry: “I’ve worked in three other consumer goods industries and I have never seen customer satisfaction as high as in the bus industry, so my view is that we are doing a good job for the customer. I think the ethos, the culture, the practices of the industry are exactly where the consumer needs them to be.”
PHIL BILAYK, MARTIN MAYER, BOBBY MORTON It was very clear to see union representatives Phil Bilayk, Martin Mayer and Bobby Morton did not share the same views as the operators. They were strong advocates of regulation and QCs for a number of reasons. Mayer explained: “The most pressing reform needed is regulation and the reversal of deregulation. I’ve experienced that as a worker but as my union would agree with me the experience of
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FirstGroup UK Bus Managing Director Giles Fearnely
“I’m not saying we can’t do better; we are striving continuously to do better... We need a satisfactory rate of return in order to invest in our fleet and in our people.” Giles Fearnley Managing director UK Bus, FirstGroup
Finglands and Stagecoach-run magic buses compete on the 142/42 route, as seen below at Manchester’s Piccadilly Gardens
deregulation since 1986 has been a disaster for the industry. “We saw a massive reduction in passengers from the instability that was caused, particularly in the first five years, and that reversal has not stopped since. The only area of the country where there has been a change to that with increasing passengers is the only area of regulation, which is in London. “The British bus industry receives about a third of its income from the public purse as it is, so there is still a lot of money going into it. The point is, is it going into it in the right way to get the right results?” Bilayk continued: “Since 1986 the deregulation has actually changed the emphasis from really providing the public service. Once upon a time TCs used to have a greater role in determining services and one of the criteria the TC would consider when an operator wanted to put a route in which may have competition is ‘did it serve the public interest?’ I think that’s the point which has been lost here because people have been exposed to no bus services because they don’t turn a profit. In the South West there are a lot of fields but there are a lot of people that live there as well and they are disconnected in the main. We’ve seen recently with the withdrawal of subsidies from the councils, operators having to make cuts because they’re not turning a profit and that’s where everybody loses.” Mayer wanted to stress the London system does have its problems: “Our members are suffering from the route franchising system that happens in London at the moment. When they change hands, our employees, bus drivers, are being transferred to other depots and other companies across the other side of London possibly, and this is leading to big problems in retaining wages and conditions and particularly pensions. “This wouldn’t happen if we had an area network concept which is what is behind the idea of QCs and if you look across the channel into Europe where this is a much more common form of privatisation it’s actually been considerably more successful. “The European Commission, when it was preparing its evidence for the BSO regulation 1970, showed where there was an overall franchising operation across a whole city with one operator
getting that contract. This was much more successful form of privatisation which led to a lot more stability both for employees but also for passengers. “There’s not a huge amount of difference from the passengers’ point of view but I think there are overall benefits from the local authorities’ point of view by having a less complicated tendering regime. In other words, it’s one network which is then contracted out probably on a much longer term basis to one operator and then that contract comes up for renewal. That’s the typical experience in Europe. I think it’s much less complicated with much less bureaucracy and there will probably be savings because of it.” Bilayk added: “From the passengers’ point of view, I think stability is a very important thing. In Cornwall for example, contracts have been won by another company and the passengers in some degree are upset because this particular bus company isn’t running it again and some people feel quite emotional about that. I think stability and certainty is a main thing and I think a QC or franchising would go a long way in providing stability in the network.” Mayer explained QPs are a step in the right direction, but there are still problems associated with them. “There has been some success with QPs but the problem is they don’t really ever go far enough,” he said. “In some parts of the country the PTE and the local authority has come into an arrangement with an operator or perhaps more than one operator to upgrade the corridor with improved bus priority measures, improved bus stops with lay-bys with ticketing information in return for a guarantee that the operators will maintain a certain level or service and perhaps investment in new buses. So there is some benefit which can come from that but they really don’t end up giving you the comprehensive solution that a QC would do.” One thing the union representatives did agree with the operators on was that increased competition is not the solution. Bobby Morton referred to bus wars in Greater Manchester in the past, comparing the actions of certain companies to “wacky racers”. He added: “We are very afraid that if more competition was introduced on routes then we would return to the past.”
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THE BIG PICTURE
Longmynd Travel has taken delivery of a new 12.6m Plaxton Elitebodied Volvo B9R. The Elite joins several Panthers in a fleet where Plaxton products are a regular choice of MD Mark Sheppard: “We wanted a new vehicle that would really stand out and the Plaxton Elite does this for us admirably. It is the first of its type in Shropshire and, being Euro 5, supports our commitments for the London LEZ.” Director Val Sheppard-Evans added: “The new Elite feels really light and airy inside, the wide door allows for easy access. The seats have plenty of leg room and the ride is smooth.” Longmynd Travel was founded in 1973 when George and Joan Evans acquired a coach for a school contract to the south west of Shrewsbury. The company now operates 22 coaches from 16 to 70 seats from its depot at Lea Cross outside Shrewsbury. Management of the family business has now progressed to the second generation.
www.coachandbusweek.com
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SOCIAL MEDIA
Facebook: CBW’s own Facebook page
Braving the social storm The social media phenomenon is becoming more and more difficult to ignore. Close to a billion people worldwide use social networks and making use of them as a business gives you the potential to reach just about anyone in the world with access to a computer. Coach and Bus Week’s James Day looks at the effect social media has had on business and how best to make use of it www.coachandbusweek.com
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I
A typical Twitter newsfeed, ordered chronologically from the top down n broad terms, a social networking service is an online service, platform or website aimed at building or maintaining friendships and relationships among people with similar interests, backgrounds or from the same locations. They generally include some form of profile, a ‘homepage’ unique to each individual member, a form or several forms of messaging systems and a method of searching for other members who you know or who share interests. Users build up their own personal social network by linking up with any people, groups or businesses they are interested in, creating an ever expanding ‘network’ which they can easily keep in touch with. The industry has a ‘power five’ similar to the bus industry here in the UK, with Facebook, Twitter, Linkedin, Youtube and Google+. The two most prominent social networks at the moment are Facebook and Twitter. With social media having such a presence online, people will be talking about your business whether you like it or not, so it is important your business engages in the conversation.
Currently, Facebook is by far the most used social network, with over 800 million active users worldwide. It was the subject of the award-
winning film ‘The Social Network,’ and has expanded to include a large number of online games and applications. Facebook recently purchased phone camera app Instagram for $1bn, paid for by giving the Instagram owners a 1% share of Facebook, therefore valuing the social behemoth at $100bn. In CBW’s operator profile of Carol Peters (CBW1017) we heard how the coach operator’s Facebook page had lead to 30 bookings in the week we visited alone.
HOW DOES IT WORK? For companies, a Facebook page works in a similar way to how a website homepage should function. It is a hub for everything which is happening with your business and is more and more frequently used for transactions. A business page consists of a timeline, or wall, which works like a chronological corkboard displaying everything the business writes on it, any events and, if desired, comments from visitors to the page. A general post, or ‘Facebook status,’ appears in full on the page, with comments on the posts displayable via drop down menu. Longer posts, or ‘notes,’ are expandable, while events are given their own event page for more details. From the wall, people can click links to see information, photographs and pages you have ‘liked’. Users can subscribe to a page by clicking on a ‘thumbs up’ icon to ‘like’ it. The fact they have liked
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Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek your profile then appears on their own wall and on their own personal information, viewable to anyone with access to their profile. Photographs can be organised into albums and individuals in them can be ‘tagged,’ where you draw a box around a person you know in the photo to identify them, making the photo appear on their wall. Users can also tag themselves in your photos, or tag people they know in your photos, helping to spread the business around Facebook. Users can interact with one another publically via the wall, or privately through private messaging or Facebook’s instant messaging system.
How to use it Facebook pages need to be active and encourage feedback or participation, otherwise people may forget they exist at all. The disadvantage of having a social network which has expanded so much is that there are many places for users to spend their time other than your page. Because posts on Facebook are often much larger than those on Twitter, it is much easier for posts you make to be missed, because other posts take up so much space and priority isn’t always given to the most recent posts. There are ways around this. Mass messaging your subscribers about an important announcement or last minute tickets ensures all of them will see the message in their inbox. This is a good way to keep in contact but shouldn’t be overused, as it reduces the need to visit your page and, as with mass emails, can be irritating if too many messages are sent. It’s always a good idea to leave the full details on your Facebook page. Creating events is always a good idea, even if it is not a physical event, so to speak. Event pages work just as well for an open day, as to encourage people to use the bus during a promotion, or enter a competition. It creates another full page for users to dwell on and helps to interact closely with customers. Feedback is usually much easier to see through Facebook than it is on Twitter, as users can ‘like’ or comment on individual statuses. It’s a good place to ask users what they think and get a conversation going which all can see. You can also set up polls, allowing users to vote on multiple options.
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Be careful with your privacy settings on Facebook, as it can leave you open to spam or malicious posts on your wall. While you want your page to be accessible as possible, be aware that if you choose to allow users to ‘like’ and follow your page without your approval, you will need to dedicate more time keeping an eye on the comments. Keep the page as open as you feel comfortable with and be aware of what your privacy settings are.
Twitter is not a social network in the same way as Facebook is, in that many of its users view it as a tool to keep up to date with anything happening in their areas of interest. It is smaller than Facebook, with 140 million active users worldwide, but is very unique in the social networking scene.
How does it work? On Twitter, users post messages, or ‘tweets,’ which consist of a maximum of 140 characters. These tweets appear on the newsfeed of any individual who follows the user, which is updated in real time. Users can also ‘retweet’ posts made by other users, which causes the retweeted messages to be displayed to everyone who follows them. This effectively allows Twitter users to market each other, by advertising each others’ posts to their own following. Two symbols you may have seen around Twitter talk are the ‘@’ and ‘#’. @ is the method used to send a tweet to an individual or to allow them to more easily see a tweet they are mentioned in. If you were to type @cbwtweets (to shamelessly plug our own Twitter account) at the beginning of a tweet, for example, CBW would see your tweet easily by clicking on the
After the heavy snow earlier this year, hundreds of Nottingham City Transport’s passengers took to Facebook and Twitter to praise the company
‘@mentions’ tab at the top of the page, even if the magazine does not follow you. Hashtags are used more for conversations or trends. For example, if a number of people type ‘#fuelstrikes,’ anyone searching for fuelstrikes or clicking on the hash-tagged link in a tweet can immediately view the ongoing conversation on the topic. If a hashtag is used by enough people in a short enough space of time, it can become a ‘trending topic’. Trending topics cover areas ranging from a single city to the entire world and appear on the left hand side of the screen for all to see. Unlike Facebook, Twitter profiles are very basic, mostly used for some contact details or external links or to view a user’s tweet history. This means the majority of a Twitter user’s time is spent on their news feed, making your tweets harder to miss.
How to use it Twitter is much more a marketing tool than Facebook is and therefore the most important thing straight away is to make people aware of it. Following someone is effortless, but only if you know they are there. Advertise the fact you are on Twitter on your vehicles or even on your tickets – the short @username is very easy to fit into a small space, unlike a large web address. Also, make sure your @username is clearly identifiable as your company, so people searching for it will find it and any mentions made by other users will be
Viral marketing really doesn’t hold back, which is exemplified by Old Spice’s advertising campaign www.coachandbusweek.com
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SOCIAL MEDIA
easy to identify. Twitter is much more restrictive than Facebook, with the character limits enforced, but the trick is to use this to your advantage rather than attempt to circumvent it. Twitter users want short, snappy updates on what is happening, not five tweets back-to-back on the same subject. It is annoying and clogs up the newsfeed. It is also not just a tool for linking to press releases - although this is clearly an application for it, it moves users away from the website which can be a pain on a number of mobile phone apps, especially if the site being linked to is not optimised for mobile use. Try to give an outline of what is being linked to and use links as a ‘if you would like more information’ option. There are many intelligent ways bus and coach operators use Twitter. Bus operators can tweet about delays or service alterations at the last minute and give live updates rapidly thanks to the short character limit and live newsfeed. Coach operators can advertise last minute spare tickets if they have seats to fill. It is also a good idea to link up with local press, who may retweet you for the benefit of their readership, which should help to expand your followerbase. As a business, do not set your profile as private. This will result in you having to approve everyone who follows you, which is not only time consuming, but a totally unnecessary precaution as any mentions from your followers do not appear on your newsfeed unless you retweet them. You do not have to worry about spam putting off your customers and any account which is spamming your @ mentions tab can be easily blocked. Twitter is well optimised for photographs, so posting standout images is a good way to generate retweets. Facebook and Twitter accounts can be linked, making Facebook wall posts automatically appear on your Twitter feed to your Twitter followers. This is useful if you are under time constraint and cannot realistically keep both pages up to date, but bear in mind the importance of tweets being brief, a restriction not imposed on Facebook posts.
Other social networks
A recent social network to appear on the scene is Google+. In its current state, Google+ closely www.coachandbusweek.com
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Glossary:
Believe it or not, this is an advert for Tipex tape, a product used for covering up pen errors made on paper resembles Facebook and integrates well with the Google search engine and Googlemail. It has a simplistic art style similar to Wordpress, which is frequently seen on blogs and the system CBW uses for its own website. Google+ currently has approximately 170 million users and is likely the fastest growing social network. With Google Chrome one of the most popular internet browsers, Google’s Android system having a large market share of smartphone operating systems and the fact that Google remains the most used search engine as it has for years, its social network has a lot of potential for growth. However dwell time on Google+ is significantly lower than its rival Facebook. In January, users spent an average of 3.3 minutes on the website according to a report by comScore, which is utterly eclipsed by Facebook’s average of 7.5 hours per month. Clearly the infrastructure for Google+ still needs work, but it would be wise to get established on the network should a transition occur en mass. Linkedin is a social network tuned for business. It is mostly used for gaining contact details for individual members of staff or finding professionals to fill an important vacancy. It currently has a reported 150 million users and allows all your employees to be advocates for your business. Youtube is considered by some to be a social network and viral marketing can be an option there, although judging what makes a successful viral marketing campaign is extremely difficult. Generally speaking viral marketing is most often an advertising campaign
disguised as a user generated video, with an intelligent reveal as an advert towards the end. Sometimes it can be as simple as a marketing campaign which takes place entirely online. Successful viral campaigns can get hundreds of millions of views, while others can feel very contrived and perform poorly. Some examples of successful viral marketing include Old Spice, which has its own dedicated Youtube channel at www.youtube. com/user/OldSpice, and Tipex, seen at http://tinyurl.com/2vm3p5u Older social networks do exist but are in decline, the most prominent being MySpace, which lost the majority of its userbase to Facebook and has returned to its roots as largely a site for music.
More tips
Managing multiple social networks is difficult, so you may wish to use a social media manager, which allows you to manage multiple social media accounts from a single site and schedule posts to appear automatically at set times. Examples of this are Ping.fm and HootSuite. It’s also a good idea to use diagnostic tools to find the reach of your messages. Youtube and Facebook include these tools on their sites. The tools can show view trends, view locations and how far shared or retweeted items reach.
The homepages for each of the prominent social media websites are www.facebook. com, www.twitter.com, http:// uk.linkedin.com, www.youtube. com and https://plus.google.com. Each of them has a system in place to guide users on their first visit.
Facebook Comment: Method for users to add feedback or thoughts to anything on a wall, including posts, photos and links. Friend: Connection between two users allowing them to see each other’s profiles. Insights: A diagnostic tool displaying the reach and readership of your Facebook page. Like: A tool to draw attention to an insightful post or comment, or to follow or subscribe to a specific page. Messages: A method used for contacting users in private. Notifications: Alerts which appear whenever another user interacts with you. Profile: A user’s ‘homepage,’ containing all of their information and their ‘wall’. Share: Used to repost something from another’s wall onto your own wall. Status: A standard post on a Facebook wall, intended to be for ‘what’s happening now’ or ‘how are you feeling now’. Wall (Timeline): Seen on the profile of a user, where posts and updates made by both the user itself and its subscribers will appear. Twitter Favourite: A method used to save a tweet made by another user for future reference or remembrance. Follower: A user who is subscribed to your Twitter account, allowing them to see every tweet you make on their newsfeed. List: A group of similar users which can be used to easily follow a specific industry or collective. Mention: Typing @(username) to send a message to another user or draw their attention to a post concerning them. Newsfeed: A real time stream of messages made by all of the accounts you follow, along with all of the retweets they make. Retweet: A method used to forward another user’s post to all of your own followers. Trend: A keyword or hashtagged topic which is being said by a large number of people. Tweet: A post made on Twitter, with a maximum length of 140 characters. User: A person or organisation on Twitter, identified by @(username) and a detail (such as their real name).
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Keeping up-to-date with IT
Computer systems are improving at a dramatic rate and firms can quickly find themselves left behind. This week’s Essential Guide looks at two well-regarded IT firms providing computer systems to help you keep track of your fleet and bookings
www.coachandbusweek.com
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t’s easy to persevere with the system you have in place, even if it is dated, but the savings which can be made in efficiency and staff hours by updating an IT system can be enormous. Time saved can also cover for corners which would normally be cut, improving the service an operator delivers in the end. Distinctive Systems has provided thousands of systems for operators worldwide over the last 30 years. It includes a VOSA-approved workshop manager and free software updates are provided, keeping it up to date. Roeville is cited as a company which constantly evolves its products, keeping them at the forefront of the industry. Their system is hailed as being very user friendly, with good after service support.
Having an efficient IT system is an essential ingredient for any operator running coach tours
Distinctive Systems Distinctive Systems is a leading supplier of software to the coaching industry in the UK. It has been established for 30 years and has supplied more than 2,000 systems to operators throughout the English speaking world. The success Distinctive has achieved over the years comes about as a direct result of its unique experience of both the IT and passenger transport industries. Its knowledge of both fields has been combined to create a range of products which get right to the very heart of what clients want and use the very latest computing techniques and tools to do it. The Distinctive family of products comprises of Coach Manager, Vehicle Maintenance System and its Tour Booking System. Each product can be used totally independently of the others and they all integrate seamlessly if installed on the same computer system.
n Coach Manager is a booking system for private hire and contract work specially designed for coach, minibus and chauffeur companies. It offers secure handling of bookings, easy and efficient allocation of vehicles and drivers, client confirmations, driver work tickets, invoicing, payments and statements. n Tour Booking System is a reservation system for extended tours and day excursions. The software guides the user through the booking one step at a time dealing with seat allocation, accommodation choice and pick-up point selection. TBS offers real-time payment processing and automatic emailing of invoices. n Vehicle Maintenance System is a VOSA-approved workshop management system specially designed for coach and bus operators. The software provides defect reporting, inspection planning, scheduled and unscheduled maintenance activity management, job
www.coachandbusweek.com
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ESSENTIAL GUIDE
› COMPUTER SYSTEMS
cards, history recording and workshop control. A great deal more information can be found online at www. distinctive-systems.com, including a price calculator which covers both the traditional outright purchase options as well as the recently introduced alternative of annual rental for any version of the systems. The rental versions have already proved very popular with operators both large and small. Monthly rental pricing is calculated at 2% of software list price, plus an additional 1.25% for software maintenance, making a total of 3.25%. The minimum rental period is 24 months. An entry level Coach Manager, TBS or VMS Express system costs £97.50 per month, which includes the use of the software itself, a full day in-depth training session at the operator’s own premises, unlimited telephone support and free access to software updates. As many operators already have more than adequate computer hardware in place, they can be up and running and enjoying the many benefits of the software, for nothing more than their first monthly payment. Distinctive Systems is more than just a software house. It is a Dell registered partner and can supply a wide range of competitively priced PCs, printers and popular business applications. Distinctive can also advise on, supply and install both local and wide area networks, online hosting, multi-user Internet access, comprehensive e-mail and remote online technical support.
Above: A homepage designed by Roeville. Below: This mapping tool is a good example of the user-friendliness of Roeville’s software
T: 01904 692269 E: sales@distinctivesystems.com W: www.distinctive-systems.com
ROEVILLE Roeville is a leading supplier of coach tour reservation software, offering a proven and reliable range of products with flexibility to suit operators of all sizes and budgets. All Roeville products are constantly evolving to meet an ever changing marketplace. ■ t2 - the tour, excursion and express booking system - has for many years been a favourite with small to medium sized operators, due to its ease of operation and wide range of features and reports. However t2 has now been superseded by the newer and improved t28 which makes www.coachandbusweek.com
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greater use of modern technologies, including direct client emailing, document archiving and improved management reporting. ■ t3 is a reservation system for larger companies and uses a SQL database for greater productivity, forming the core reservation technology for many of the UK’s leading coach tour operators.
t3 is not just a booking system - it’s scope reaches across many functions of the business including contracting, interchange routing, marketing campaigns and sundry sales to name but a few. The Roeville line-up is completed with the ph28 coach hire and contract bookings system which integrates with the passenger
booking systems to provide a complete package for most operators. WebRes is Roeville’s online booking website. No modern passenger reservation system is complete without a flexible e-commerce web presence and Roeville is a master of this. WebRes offers a state of the art, data driven website with a powerful content management system, working seamlessly alongside the t2, t28 and t3 back office systems. As well as offering a wide range of site styles, Roeville now offer professional SEO marketing and design delivery through its industry partners. This means each tour operator can have a custom designed web site, setting it shoulder to shoulder with the best e-commerce shop windows in the business, all for an affordable monthly fee with no capital costs or risk. Roeville even takes care of customer card payments, data backups, internet security, upgrades and on-going product support. Allowing an operator’s customers, agents and shops to book online and view its tour brochure content can bring massive financial benefits and free up staff time to concentrate on the day to day running of the business. Crusader Holidays Director Roy Finch stated: “It is great to get into the office in the morning and find that thousands of pounds of sales have appeared overnight. The Roeville team have been great. Their system is very user friendly. If our in-house IT manager ever comes across a difficulty he calls Roeville and discusses the problem with them. Our business is relatively complex and they make any changes we ask for quickly and remotely. So far everything has gone brilliantly. This is an excellent off-the-shelf package, designed by industry experts for the industry.” Good product support is essential and Roeville have a team of dedicated technicians standing by to help with technical advice and report changes. Product training is available free of charge at Roeville’s offices in South Yorkshire. Extended support contracts are available for all software and multiple payment options are available, including outright purchase, rental and interest free credit. T: 01302 841333 E: sales@roeville.com W: www.roeville.com
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April 25, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 41
COACH&BUSMARKET – the place to buy and sell
To advertise on these pages for as little as £30 just call 01733 293247
...then 50 come along at once. Due to a major influx of new vehicles, we are selling a number of ex-TWM service buses. They’re in great condition for their age and have been maintained to a very high standard. There are currently 50 vehicles available, all stored at our site for viewing. Although mainly Volvo, Scania and Optare single deck, there are some double deck buses also available. All will be sold with 12 months MOT and repaint if required. Please call for more details. Finance and rental packages available.
Volant PVS Ltd, Beecham Business Park, Northgate, Aldridge WS9 8TZ T: +44 (0)1922 457003 volantpvs.co.uk
Passenger and Commercial Vehicles Recovery Dismantlers Parts Sales
Dennis Pointer Dart Mk2 x 100 All spares available - includes engine, gearboxes, seats, etc.
Call: 01226 727769 Mobile: 07912 103497 Email: geoff-ripley@btconnect.com www.geoff-ripleysbuscoachsales.com
2004 (54) Neoplan Starliner Tri-Axle Corporate/Team Coach
32 leather seats around 8 tables, full rear servery with fridges, ice machine, hot water, microwave and airline style food warmers, 3 extra fridges throughout coach, airline style overhead lockers, 240v inverter and onboard generator, Blaupunkt sound system with DVD & SKY TV (2 screens), extra mini screens on a separate channel on both front tables, ASTronic gearbox, A/C, WC, fully carpeted, removable ski box, spare seats.
£105,000 + VAT o.n.o.
For more details call Patrick or Murray 01787 477701/ 07730 671064
COACH&BUSMARKET
Looking for a great deal to sell your vehicles? Contact Jade Cassidy now for details of our current offers : 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!
Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk
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NEW PRE-REGISTERED FORDS
New Ford Transit 17 seat 4.3ton 135ps minibus. From £20,595 + VAT
OTHER MAKES
FORD TRANSIT MINIBUSES
(11) 2011 Ford Transit 9 seat Shuttle Bus, twin side loading doors, large rear luggage area, delivery miles only £16,995
(10) 2010 Ford Transit 17 seat M/R 140PS with air-con, tacho, COIF/PSV £17,995 (08) 2008 Ford Transit 3.5ton 15 seat 2.4tdi, 115ps, high back seats with three point belts, tacho £13,800 (53) 2003 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4 td minibus, high back seats with three point belts, tacho, air-con, COIF/PSV £6,995
SOLD
(03) Ford Transit 3.5 ton 15 seat minibus, 2.4 tdi, high back seats with three point belts £2,995 (52) 2003 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4tdi, tacho, towbar, high back seats with three point belts, COIF/PSV £6,495
LDV MINIBUSES
(57) 2007 LDV Maxus 15 seat minibus, high back seats with three point belts £7,495
(04) 2004 LDV Convoy 17 seat LWB Hi Roof, tacho, 85,000 miles, COIF/PSV £4,250 (03) 2003 LDV Convoy Maxi XLWB 17 seat mini-coach, 2.4 Tdi, front entry drop step, luggage racks, rear heating, wide aisle, rear row of seats removable, New PSV £6,495
OTHER MAKES
New Renault Master 17 seat LM35/ 2.2di 125ps, six speed, satnav, tacho, fully tracked floor with removable seats £21,995
New Peugeot Boxer 16 seat 3.5 ton and 17 seat wheelchair accessible minibuses, 2.2 diesel 120ps, six speed gearbox, LEZ COMPLIANT from £23,500 + VAT (09) 2009 Renault Master 16 seat minibus, tacho,high back seats with three point belts, 35,000km £15,650 (06) Peugeot Boxer 17 seat 3.5ton minibus 2.2 diesel, high back seats with three point belts, rear row of seats on tracking, 14,500 miles only £9,995
WHEELCHAIR ACCESS
(08) Renault Master LWB 3.5 ton, 2.5 tdi, six seats, fully tracked floor, inboard Ricon Clearway lift, one owner from new, 40,000 miles £16,750 (07) 2007 Renault Trafic LH29, 7 seats, tracking to take two wheelchairs, inboard lift, 43,000 miles £8,995
(57) LDV Maxus LWB 9 seats tracking to take two wheelchairs, inboard lift, 49,000 miles, £9,995
(54) 2005 Renault Master 13 seat wheelchair access minibus, inboard Ricon lift, fully tracked floor, rear heating, electric side step, 56,000 miles £8,995
(03) 2003 Fiat Doblo SX 1.9 diesel, low floor, four seats plus one wheelchair, lightweight ramp, 45,000 miles £3,495
SOLD
(53) 2003 Mercedes Vito 108 cdi 2.2 diesel, 6 seats, low floor with lightweight ramp, tracking for two wheelchairs £5,995 Y 2001 Renault Mascot 2.8 diesel, 16 seat wheelchair accessible minibus, front entry drop step, fully tracked floor to take five wheelchairs, under floor lift, rear heating, COIF/PSV £6,495
Contact Graham Thatcher – email: sales@minibussales.co.uk
Tel: 01633 485858 Mobile: 07866 443304
Pembridge House, The Park Business Centre, Plough Road, Goytre, Penperlleni, Nr Usk, South Wales NP4 0AL – 10 minutes from M4 motorway. Viewing by appointment only Finance Contract Hire and Finance Lease Available. We deliver Nationwide. All vehicles prepared to VOSA standard COIF/PSV specialist
All above prices are subject to VAT @ 20%
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Ensig DOUBLE DECK 1997/8 VOLVO OLYMPIANS Seatbe exampleslted no available w
LEZ
COMPLIANT
Volvo engines, Euro 2, 78 seats, converted to single door, new COIF, tyres included, UK registered ready to work.
Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant for 2012 with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX400 bodies, DDA compliant or upseated to 80 seats.
1999/2000 T/V/X REG DENNIS TRIDENTS
Cummins / Allison, Wrights Cadet body, ramp, wheelchair space, Hanover LEDʼs, CCTV, 39 retrimmed individual seats, from our own fleet and very tidy.
2000 DAF SB120
2004/5 SCANIA K114 AND 124’S
ZF automatics, Irizar PB bodies, 49 leather seats, toilets, air-con, £53,500.
1998 R REG VOLVO OLYMPIAN
Slimline, Mercedes engines, 23 seats, long MOTʼs.
ZF automatic, 74 seats, dual door, CONVERTIBLE open topper, so can still be used in the Winter! One only.
2006 OPTARE SOLO’S
1995 M REG DENNIS DRAGONS
ZF automatic, Plaxton Premiere 350, air-con, 57 seats.
1998 DAF SB3000
Cummins/Voith gearboxes, Duple Metsec bodies, recent floors and 92 coach seats.
2001 DDA COMPLIANT DENNIS DARTS
Plaxton Pointer 2 dual door bodies, 31 seats, CCTV, particulate traps fitted, LEZ 2012 compliant, only £6,500 each plus tyres (£375)
2001 Y REG DART SLF’S
Cummins/Allison, LEZ compliant for 2012 with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX200 bodies with either 30 seats and 2 doors or 34 seats converted to single door, ramps, DDA certified and compliant. 10.8m 37 seaters now available.
OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY -
Juliette Close, Purfleet Industrial Telephone 01708 865656 Fax: 01708 8 Visit our website for current s
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nbus ER SPECIALIST 1996 N REG DENNIS DART SLF
GREAT VALUE DENNIS DARTS!!!
Plaxton Pointer body, 40 seats, long MOT.
2001 Y REG DENNIS DART MPD’s
Plaxton Pointer 2 bodies, 29 seats, LEZ compliant post 2012 with traps, DDA compliant, long MOTʼs.
1998/9 R and T reg Dart SLFʼs with Plaxton or Alexander bodies, 35 seats, single door, long tests.
Hanover LEDʼs, East Lancs Myllenium body, 39 seats.
2003 MAN 14220
Euro 3, ZF automatics, 35 seats, East Lancs Myllenium bodies.
2003 MAN 11.2220’S
Euro 4, Wrights Gemini bodies, dual door, 68 seats.
Cummins Euro 3 ISB engines, Allison gearboxes, Caetano Nimbus bodies, 10.7m, 37 seats, full DDA.
£7000 just spend on recon engine, MCV Evolution body, 40 seats, DDA, Hanover LEDʼs.
2002 DENNIS DART SLF’S
1999/2000 DENNIS TRIDENTS
Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant with traps, Plaxton President bodies, 62 seats or 70 when converted to single door.
1997/98 P/R/S REG VOLVO OLYMPIANS Volvo Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, Alexander RL low height bodies, LWB, 87 seats.
2007 VOLVO B9TL’S
2007 MAN 14.220
Voith automatic, East Lancs body, 49 dual purpose seats just retrimmed, supplied with new MOT.
1995 N REG SCANIA L113
ZF automatic, SLF, Wrights body.
2000 X REG VOLVO B6
- BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BUS DEALERS Park, Purfleet, Essex, RM15 4YF 8 864340 e-mail: sales@ensignbus.com t stock at www.ensignbus.com
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BEN WEAVER PSV
2007 07 FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MEDIUM ROOF MINIBUS 2400cc 6 speed turbo diesel 115ps engine, electric front windows, power heated door mirrors, LEZ compliant, CD player, 64000 miles, finished in tonic a very rare light metallic blue, supplied with 12 months MoT, fully serviced to good garage scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £13795 + VAT
PSV
2002 52 IVECO DAILY 13 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE WELFARE MINIBUS 2800 turbo diesel engine, analogue tachograph, certificate of initial fitness, access underfloor rear tail lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, front entryelectric plug door, only 37000 miles, finished inwhite, excellent condition, supplied with 11 monthsPSV test and already serviced by ourselves just in December, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £6795 + VAT
2003 53 IVECO, DAILY 65.13 25 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE WELFARE BUS Tacho, COI, PSV, white, 69000 miles, awaiting preparation, 2800 turbo diesel, certificate of initial fitness, analogue tacho, air con, panoramic glass, rear access underfloor wheelchair lift, 12 months MOT or PSV, fully serviced to Good Garage Schemes standard, 3 mths nationwide parts and labour warranty, arriving soon. £9795 + VAT
PSV
2003 53 IVECO, DAILY 50C11 17 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS With COIF, tacho, PSV, white, diesel, 76000 miles, 2800cc turbo diesel engine, 6 speed, air con, certificate of initial fitness, analogue tacho, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, access underfloor wheelchair lift, electric front plug door, exc condition, 12 mths MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Schemes standard, 3 mths nationwide parts and labour warranty £8695 + VAT
PSV
2004 04 IVECO DAILY 50C11 FRONT ENTRY 11 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2800 6 speed turbo diesel engine, certificate of initial fitness, analogue tachograph, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, access underfloor rear tail lift, electric front plug door, air con, only 37000 miles, finished in white, excellent condition, supplied with 11 months PSV test and already serviced by ourselves just in December £9795 + VAT
PSV
2001 Y REG MERCEDES, VARIO 814 15/25 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE BUS White, 2001, 4300cc turbo diesel, 100000 miles, awaiting preparation, 14 passenger seats but would be able to take 10 additional seats, tacho, ex-local authority, 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Schemes standard, 3 mths nationwide parts and labour warranty £8695 + VAT
2009 09 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 209CDI SHORT WHEELBASE LOW ROOF WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLE 2148cc CDI diesel, automatic gearbox,velvet red, Ricon rear internal lift, cruise control, parking sensors, air con, electric windows & mirrors, CD player, 8000 miles with full service history, excellent condition, 12 months MoT, fully serviced to good garage scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £16995 NO VAT
PSV
2004 04 MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 8 SEAT COACH SPEC MINIBUS WITH BOOT AND LUGGAGE SPACE 2200 turbo diesel engine, internal luggage racks, electric front windows, electric mirrors, coach style recline seats, boot lid with luggage space, twin slide loading doors, reverse parking camera, finished in silver, 141000 miles £9495 + VAT
NOVEMBER 2011 61 MERCEDES SPRINTER 516 CDI EXTRA LONG 16 SEAT COACH BUILT MINIBUS 2300 turbo diesel euro 5 manual engine, 16 non reclining luxary coach seats with piping, luggage racks with forced air and reading lights, large panoramic windows, large illuminated luggage area, show curtains, walnut dash, drivers locker, radio and CD player system with 6 spakers, GRP lowered entrance step, GRP body skirts, COIF £47995 + VAT
2007 57 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 209CDI SHORT WHEELBASE HIGH ROOF WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLE 2148cc CDI diesel, velvet red, Ricon rear internal lift, front and rear parking sensors, air con, electric windows & mirrors, CD player, 40000 miles with Mercedes Benz full service history, excellent condition, 12 months MoT, fully serviced to good garage scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 12995 NO VAT
PSV
2002 52 MERCEDES 814 VARIO AUTOMATIC 32 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS Tacho, COIF, PSV, white, 2001, 74000 miles - awaiting preparation, 4300cc turbo diesel, auto, analogue tacho, certificate of initial fitness, 32 highback cloth trimmed seats, underfloor wheelchair lift, exc condition, fully serviced to Good Garage Schemes standard, 3 mths nationwide parts and labour warranty £14495 + VAT
2002 02 IVECO DAILY 65C15 23 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE WELFARE MINIBUS 2800 6 speed turbo diesel engine, Frank Guy conversion, Ricon internal wheelchair lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, certificate of initial fitness, PSV, analogue tachograph, 145000 klms, 90000 miles, excellent condition, finished in white £6795 + VAT
2007 07 FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MEDIUM ROOF MINIBUS 2400cc 100PS turbo diesel, LEZ compliant, electric windows, CD player, digital tacho, certificate of initial fitness, PSV, full service print out, exc condition, 12 month PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Schemes standard, 3 mths nationwide parts and labour warranty £12995 + VAT
2007 07 FORD, TRANSIT 17 SEAT MEDIUM ROOF MINIBUS - NEW SHAPE White, 84000 miles, 100PS 2400cc turbo diesel, electric windows, electric mirrors, CD player, exc condition, 12 month MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Schemes standard, 3 mths nationwide parts and labour warranty £11995 + VAT
2008 FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MINIBUS WITH TACHOGRAPH Frozen white, 63000 miles, awaiting preparation, 2200cc turbo diesel, supplied with 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Schemes standard, 3 mths nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 13295 + VAT
2007 07 FORD, TRANSIT 17 SEAT MEDIUM ROOF MINIBUS - NEW SHAPE Moondust silver, 48000 miles, 2400cc turbo diesel, electric windows, power heated door mirrors, heated windscreen, reverse parking sensors, LEZ, exc condition, 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Schemes standard, 3 mths nationwide parts and labour warranty £13995 + VAT
2000 W REG VOLKSWAGEN LT46 LWB HIGH ROOF 13 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2500 cc tdi, blue, air conditioning, tachograph, electric folding side entry door, access underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 2 wheelchairs, 101000 klms £5495 NO VAT
2007 57 FORD TRANSIT NEW SHAPE 17 SEAT MEDIUM ROOF MINIBUS 2.4 5 speed 100ps turbo diesel engine, LEZ compliant, electric windows, electric mirrors, CD player, digital tachograph, 198000 klms, 123000 miles with full maintenance/service history records, finished in white £10995 + VAT
2001 Y TOYOTA PREVIA GS VVTI 8 SEATER 2.4 petrol automatic, electric windows, electric mirrors, air con, overdrive, 81000 miles, finished in metallic green, supplied wth 12 months MoT, fully serviced to good garage scheme standards £3495 NO VAT
2001 Y REG VOLKSWAGEN LT35 TDI 10 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2.5tdi turbo diesel engine, underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, finished in blue, 122000 miles £525 + VAT
2001 Y REG VOLKSWAGEN LT35 TDI 10 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2.5tdi turbo diesel engine, underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, finished in blue, 76000 miles £5795 + VAT
2002 51 MERCEDES VARIO 614 23 or 25 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS Euro 3 4250cc turbo diesel automatic engine, front entry electric plug door, Mellor Coach Craft conversion, Ratcliffe rear underfloor electric lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, analogue tachograph, 97000 klms, only 60000 miles, supplied with 12 months MoT, fully serviced to good garage scheme standards, 3 months parts and labour warranty £9495 + VAT
PSV
BEN WEAVER commercIals
2002 02 MERCEDES SPRINTER 413CDI FRONT ENTRY 17 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE WELFARE MINIBUS 2.2 turbo diesel automatic, certificate of initial fitness, tachograph, PSV, UV module conversions, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, underfloor rear lift, 96000 miles £7995 + VAT
PSV
2003 53 MERCEDES SPRINTER 313 CDI LWB HIGH ROOF 15 SEAT MINIBUS 2.2 turbo diesel engine, certificate of initial fitness, 4 seats across the rear with luggage space, twin side loading doors, electric windows, electric mirrors, air con, climate control, automatic side step, lift up sky lights, carpeted roof, finished in white, 46000 miles £10695 + VAT
2005 05 RE VOLKSWAGEN LT35 16 SEAT MINIBUS, 2500CC TDI Ex local authority vehicle, double harness seat belts on all rear compartment seats, AVS side access step, towbar with ball and pin, taxed to 31st July 2012, 100,000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MoT, fully serviced to good garage scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. £7995 + VAT
Gower Street, Sheffield, S4 7JW Tel: 0114 275 7076 www.benweavercommercials.co.uk
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commercials PSV
2004 04 IVECO DAILY 50C13 15 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE WELFARE MINIBUS 2.8 turbo diesel engine, Mellor conversion, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, underfloor rear electric lift, analogue tachograph, 65000 miles, finished in blue £795 + VAT
PSV
2003 03 REG IVECO DAILY 50C13 15 SEAT WELFARE BUS 2800cc turbo diesel, 6 speed gearbox, Mellor Coachcraft conversion, ex local authority vehicle, Ricon internal rear wheelchair lift, tracking for upto 6 wheelchairs, tachograph, 176000 kilometers 110000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MoT, fully serviced to good garage scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 7495 + VAT
2003 53 MERCEDES SPRINTER 313 CDI LWB HIGH ROOF 15 SEAT MINIBUS 2.2 turbo diesel engine, certificate of initial fitness, 4 seats across the rear with luggage space, twin side loading doors, electric windows, electric mirrors, air con, climate control, automatic side step, lift up sky lights, carpeted roof, finished in white, 52000 miles £10495 + VAT
MERCEDES, VARIO 814 21 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS With tacho, white, 2003, 98000 miles, awaiting preparation, 4300cc turbo diesel, manual, Ricon internal electric lift, analogue tacho, front electric door, will be white, 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Schemes standard, 3 mths nationwide parts and labour warranty £11995 + VAT
2005 05 FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MEDIUM ROOF MINIBUS LEZ compliant, 2.4 turbo diesel 125ps, electric front windows, electric mirrors, finished in white, only 64000 miles £8295 + VAT
2001 51 REG IVECO DAILY 40C11 9 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESIBLE MINIBUS 2800cc turbo diesel, white, tachograph, underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 4 wheelchairs, panoramic glass, 200000 klms, 124000 miles, excellent condition £4995 + VAT
PSV
PSV
2001 Y MERCEDES, SPRINTER 413 FRONT ENTRY 10 SEAT WELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE WELFARE MINIBUS COIF, tacho, white, 2001, 137000 miles, 2200cc turbo diesel, auto, LEZ, UVG conversion, underfloor electric lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, electric front entry door, exc condition, 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £6495 + VAT
2003 03 REG LDV CONVOY 17 SEAT HIGH ROOF MINIBUS Certificate of initial fitness, PSV, 2400cc turbo diesel Ford 75ps engine, 119000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MoT or PSV, fully serviced to good garage scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty £ 2495 + VAT
2004 54 VOLKSWAGEN LT46 17 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2500 TDI 109bhp, Ddvanced minibus conversion, tachograph, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, AVS side step, 194000 kilometers 121000 miles, excellent condition, supplied with 12 months MoT, fully serviced to good garage scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty, no vat to pay £9995 NO VAT
2002 52 VOLKSWAGEN LT46 17 SEAT MINIBUS 2.5 turbo diesel, analogue tachograph, certificate of initial fitness, finished in white, 138000 miles £5995 + VAT
PSV
2003 03 REG BMW 318 CI SE COUPE 2.0 petrol engine, 5 speed manual gearbox, 17 inch M Sport alloys, 6 disc CD stacker, on board computer, reverse parking sensors, multi function steering wheel, front fog lights, cruise control, electric windows, power heated door mirrors, air conditioning, 119,000 miles with history, supplied with 12 months MoT and just been fully serviced, now £3395 NO VAT
2001 51 REG. MERCEDES 8 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE DISABILITY MINIBUS 2.2 turbo diesel, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, tracking for up to 3 wheelchairs, side access step, carpeted roof lining, 2 sunroofs, 136000 miles, finished in classic red, excellent condition £4795 + VAT
2004 04 IVECO DAILY IRIS MWB 9 SEATER 2.8 turbo diesel, 8 velour passenger seats, panaramic glass, ex local authority, only 48000 miles, photos taken prior to valeting £5495 + VAT
2004 04 IVECO DAILY IRIS MWB 9 SEATER 2.8 turbo diesel, 8 velour passenger seats, panoramic glass, ex local authority, only 87000 miles £4995 + VAT
2003 53 OPTARE ALERO 12 SEAT PLUS DRIVER PLUS 4 STANDEES BUS 2800cc turbo diesel, fold out ramp to the side, air con, certificate of initial fitness, PSV, 113000 miles, excellent condition £7995 + VAT
2000 X REG FORD TRANSIT FRONT ENTRY 15 SEAT WELFARE MINIBUS 2.5 turbo diesel, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, access underfloor rear electric lift, 85,000 miles, very good condition, supplied with 12 months MoT, arriving soon, photo for illustration purpose only £4495 + VAT
2007 57 FORD, TRANSIT 17 SEAT MEDIUM ROOF MINIBUS - NEW SHAPE White, 2007, 64000 miles, 2400cc turbo diesel, LEZ, electric windows, power heated door mirrors, heated windscreen, CD player, exc condition, 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Schemes standard, 3 mths nationwide parts and labour warranty £12,995 + VAT
2004 54 VOLKSWAGEN, LT46 17 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESIBLE WELFARE MINIBUS Tacho, white, 158000 miles, awaiting preparation, 2500cc turbo diesel, internal wheelchair lift, tracking for 6 wheelchairs, analogue tacho, 12 months MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Schemes standard, 3 mths nationwide parts and labour warranty £7995 + VAT
2005 05 VOLKSWAGEN LT46 6 SEAT FRONT ENTRY WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS 2.5 turbo diesel engine, internal wheelchair lift, analogue tachograph, 224000 klms with full service print out, 140000 miles, excellent condition £7295 + VAT
2005 55 REG FIAT DOBLO 3 SEATER MULTIJET ACTIVE With wheelchair access and manual clutch operating lever, 1.3 turbo diesel engine, OH conversion, rear wheelchair ramp, rear tailgate, twin sliding side access doors, ABS, power steering, central locking, electric windows, finished in rhumba red, only 39,000 miles, service history, numerous uses for a vehicle like this! Excellent condition £3495 NO VAT
2005 55 REG FIAT DOBLO 3 SEATER MULTIJET ACTIVE WITH WHEELCHAIR ACCESS 1.3 turbo diesel engine, OH conversion, rear wheelchair ramp, rear tailgate, twin sliding side access doors, ABS, power steering, central locking, electric windows, finished in capri blue, only 43,000 miles, service history, numerous uses for a vehicle like this! Excellent condition £3495 NO VAT
2004 04 FORD TRANSIT HIGH ROOF 9 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS LEZ compliant, 2.0 135ps turbo diesel engine front wheel drive, ex NHS, Ricon fully electric internal wheelchair lift, air conditioning, electric windows, CD player, front fog lights, 147 000 miles, finished in white, excellent condition £4995 + VAT
2008 08 REG BMW 318I ES 4 DOOR SALOON 2000cc petrol, 6 speed manual gearbox, black, grey cloth interior, alloy wheels, air conditioning, CD player, electric windows, elecric mirrors, 6 months tax, 70000 miles with full BMW service history £7795
IVECO, DAILY 50C13 13 SEAT WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINIBUS With COIF, tacho, 2005, diesel, 54000 miles, 2800 turbo diesel, white, Euromotive conversion, certificate of initial fitness, PSV, Ratcliffe underfloor rear wheelchair lift, 13 passenger seats or 4 seated and 4 wheelchairs, AVS electric side entrance step, air con, electric windows, 87000 kilometers, 54000 miles, supplied with 12 months PSV or MoT, excellent condition £10495 + VAT
2004 54 REG FORD FIESTA 1400cc tdci diesel, silver, colour coded, 17 inch gloss black alloy wheels, rear boot spoiler, CD player, excellent condition, 101000 miles with a fully stamped Ford service history £2395 + VAT
All vehicles supplied with 12 months MOT/PSV, fully serviced to good garage scheme standards and 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty
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2003 DENNIS JAVELIN PLAXTON PROFILE Registered Dec 2003, double glazed tinted glass, Cummins 275 engine, 6 speed manual gearbox, 49 seats, toilet & washroom, ready for immediate use, MoT tested, 120,000 miles, choice of two. £P.O.A
Straight from MOD
VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER
Dec 07, low mileage, 7 seats, quick release tracking for wheelchair use. £12,500 + VAT
MERCEDES VARIO 612
1998, 20 new seats, wheelchair lift on wheel tracking, 20 new seats. Choice of 6. TRADE SALE OR SEPARATE
06 MAN EVOLUTION
14/220, 37 seats, SLF automatic, wheelchair ramp, superb condition throughout, fully MoT’d. £45,500 Part exchange considered
1995 DENNIS JAVELIN PLAXTON PREMIER HIGHLINER 53 recliner seats, 290 Cummins, automatic, continental door, toilet, full years MoT, must be seen. £POA + VAT £19,500
BERKOF RADIAL 1998
53 seats, seats, Cummins 53 Cummins 300 300 engine, ex ex council, engine, council, manual box, box, air cond, manual cond, MoT, veryMoT, low mileage, full years very low mileage, super condition. super condition. £POA £19,500
02 LDV
Minibus with 12 seats, long MOT, wheelchair lift and very clean.
£P.O.A.
CAETANO (SALVADOR) 1998
57 seats, in white, Cummins 245 engine, MoT Sept 2012, very clean vehicle. £19,500 + VAT
1996 DENNIS JAVELIN
10 metre, new MoT, 41/47 seats, 220 Cummins, 6 speed box, new stretch panels, repainted. Choice of 2. £POA + VAT
BMC AIRPORT BUS
32 seats, 220 Cummins, new MoT this week. QUICK SALE WANTED.
£15,000
1996 VOLVO PLAXTON PREMIER HIGH LINER
B10 engine, 14 months test, 70 seats, tinted double glazing with curtains & continental door, must be seen. £POA
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IVECO SERVICE BUS
67 seats (moquet), new 2006, only 12,000 miles since new, Vihixel body, auto gearbox, air-con, MOT full year, LEZ, must be seen, superb condition.
£65,000 + VAT PX considered.
PLAXTON PARAGON 48 reclining seats plus courier seat, air-con.
£49,500 + VAT
03 MERCEDES VARIO
With wheelchair lift, 13 seats, low mileage.
£12,000 + VAT
1995 PLAXTON PREMIER
B10 engine In excellent condition throughout MOT
£16,000 +VAT
02 SETRA
Model S-315 GT HD, 6 cylinder MAN engine, manual 6 speed gearbox, 49 seater, full air conditioning, many extras, full year MOT
£45,000 + VAT
Part exchange considered
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554445-1031-Connaught
10/4/12
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Mini Coach Sales
BRAND NEW MERCEDES OPTARE TORO 32 high back seats, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights, power door, large boot.
2010 10 REG IVECO 50c15 IRISBUS 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, luggage racks, power door and under-floor wheelchair lift.
BRAND NEW MERCEDES OPTARE SOROCO 19 high back reclining seats, 3 point belts, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights, power door, large boot.
PLEASE TAKE A LOOK AT OUR B RA N D N E W WE B S IT E : www.connaughtpsv.co.uk
BRAND NEW MERCEDES BENZ 513CDI EVM CLASSIC 19 high back seats, 3 point belts, luggage racks and A/C.
2008 58 REG MERCEDES BENZ 1022L SITCAR MARLIN 33 high back reclining seats incorporating leather headrest inserts, armrests and seat back tables, A/C, double glazing, fridge and power door.
2007 07 REG FORD TRANSIT 14 seats, 3 point belts.
2006 06 REG MERCEDES UNVI RIADA 29 high back reclining seats, AC/DG, forced air, reading lights, power door, large boot, LEZ compliant.
2006 06 REG MERCEDES BENZ 413 CDI SPRINTER 16 seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, large luggage boot.
2006 06 REG IVECO 40c12 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights and power door.
2003 03 REG MERCEDES 413 CDI SPRINTER 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, luggage racks.
1999 V REG MERCEDES 814 BEAVER 33 high back seats, 3 point belts, power door, 12 months test.
Steve Peach Tel: 01302 770863 Mob: 07836 551020 Email: steve@connaughtpsv.co.uk
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52 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 25, 2012
Dennis Trident Alexander ALX 400 Choice of 1999/2000 (V & X reg)
All long wheelbase and Euro 4 Can be upseated/single door converted to 78/80 Seat belted for DDA certification
Phone for details or see our website
View all stock online: www.staffordbuscentre.com Email: martin@staffordbuscentre.com
Tel: 01782 791774
Mobile: 07803 222552
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April 25, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 53
BUS & CO A CH S A LE S
2010 2010 2006 2006 2005
MAN Panther DDA 49 seats A/C front w/chair lift Volvo B12B Prestige 49/51 sts A/C Mercedes Touro 49 seats A/C MAN Plaxton 49 seats A/C Iveco Beulas 49 seats A/C
2004 2004 2004 2003 2003
MAN Marco Polo 70 seats A/C Volvo B12B Caetano Enigma 49 sts A/C MAN Noge Catalan 51 seats A/C MAN Marco Polo 70 seats Volvo B12M Caetano Enigma 49 seats A/C
2003 2000 1998 1998 1996
Volvo B12B Caetano 48 seats A/C Iveco Beulas 49 seats A/C Volvo B10M Excalibur 49 seats Merc Beaver 27 seats Volvo Strider 49 seats
TO VIEW CALL 07979 295668
!
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p54_CBW_1033
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54 | COACH & BUS WEEK | April 25, 2012
58 Plate Volvo Sunsundegui B9R 49/53 seat coach, interior blue cloth with leather head rests, I Shift gearbox, 2 screens, colour light blue metallic.
57 Plate Volvo Alizee B12B Euro 4, T9 Alicron 12.15M, cloth seats with leather head rests, 2 screens, I Shift gearbox, colour blue.
No deposit finance lease available up to 5 years subject to underwriting
Close Asset Finance
For all enquiries please contact Jim Bentley 07786 986600 or Marie Duffy 01355 572366
Southdown PSV - 01342 711840 www.southdownpsv.co.uk
2006 ADL ENVIRO 200 SLF 29 sts - choice of 2 £45,000 ea+ VAT
2004 DENNIS DART SLF MPD 29 seats. £34,000 + VAT
1995 MERCEDES 0416 WRIGHTBUS 47 seats. £4,950 + VAT
1996 VOLVO OLY ALEXANDER 78 seats. £9,750 + VAT
2000 DENNIS DART SLF MPD 29 sts - choice of 3 £8,950 ea + VAT
2003 DENNIS DART SLF MPD 29 seats. £28,950 + VAT
SOLD
Southdown PSV Silverwood Snow Hill Copthorne West Sussex RH10 3EN
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April 25, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 55
MAYPOLE COACHES COACH OPERATORS FOR OVER 50 YEARS DUE TO RESTRUCTURING HAVE THE FOLLOWING VEHICLES FOR SALE: Belted, S/D con, tacho, Eminox, Euro 4, driver air con, 60 mph, 12 mths MOT £16,000 + VAT
81 SEATS VOLVO OLYMPIAN
Eminox exhaust, air con, 60 mph, 12 mths MOT, £11,500 + VAT
74 SEAT BELTED
T F E L 1 Y L N O
As above £10,000 + VAT
74 SEATS WITHOUT BELTS
1994 VOLVO B10M JONCKHEERE DEAUVILLE
Retrimmed 2 yr ago, 12 mths MOT, 51 seats with belts, toilet, DVD/monitor £12,500 + VAT
1993 VOLVO B10M VANHOOL T8 BODYWORK
12 mths MOT, toilet, DVD/monitor, 49 seats with belts £11,000 + VAT 63 seats, ZF auto, 3 point belts, 12 mths MOT, tacho £5,500 + VAT
1992 LEYLAND LYNX
OFFERS INVITED
60 coach seats 3 point belts,Cummins/ Allison, 12 mths MOT, tacho, radio £5,900 + VAT
1996 BLUEBIRD BUS
Tel: 0151 547 2713 or 07802 235778
COACH&BUSMARKET
Looking for a great deal to sell your vehicles?
COACHES & BUSES WANTED FOR AUCTION for our UK & Commonwealth buyers Our main interest is equipment available due to Retirement or Fleet Reorganisation. All equipment would be marketed worldwide through our Special Auction Events Team. See our website history for people we have worked for.
Contact Jade Cassidy now on :
01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!
For further information please call Malcolm Harrison on 01630 674326 or email malcolm@malcolmharrison.co.uk MALCOLM HARRISON AUCTIONS
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SDRC0ACHhelp
“Assisting the Coaching Industry”
Merc V8/AsTronic box, 75str, white ext/blue int, air con, drinks, fridge, ski box, 160,000 miles since factory engine, MoT Oct 2012, Eminox fitted to Euro 4, RPC for reduced road tax (£190 P/A), very good condition, low mileage coach. Ideal people mover for the Olympics. £103,000 + VAT ono £95,000 + VAT ono
NEOPLAN SKYLINER 2003
1 - 7.8SE 23str with seat belts and semi coach seats, digi tacho, radio, approx 142,000 miles. MoT June 2012 £46,500 + VAT ono 2 - 7.1SE 23str approx 195,000 miles, MoT May 2012 £44,500 + VAT ono £42,500 + VAT ono Both vehicles Euro 4 Mercedes engines, white exterior/blue interior, Hanover destination, vgc.
2 x 1990 Volvo B10M Manual Plaxton Paramount 3500 57 Seaters With Courier Seat, Long Test, Brand New Re-Trim & NEW Sprayed White £8,500.00 + VAT 10% discount until the end of April
2 OPTARE SOLOS 2007
1996 Dennis Javelin Manual Berkhof Excellence 2000
SOLD
53 Seater With Courier Seat, Tested Till June, But Will Supply New Test & NEW Spray White £7,500.00 + VAT 10% discount until the end of April
Tel: 01296 398300 Motts Travel, Buckinghamshire
D L O S
2008 Mercedes 613D Oynx
AVAILABLE NOW
Manual, LEZ 4, Minicoach 24 Seats, AIR CON, Long MOT & London LEZ Euro 4 £38,000.00 + VAT
1995 Volvo B10M Auto Plaxton Premier 350 53 Seat Standard Exec, Level Floor, Mounted Toilet, NEW Retrim & Spray, Long MOT, Mint! £16,000.00 + VAT 10% discount until the end of April
READY FOR START OF SEASON Volvo B10M Plaxton Premier 320 Automatics Brand New Converted 70 Seat Coaches, New Seats & Spray, Certified And Ready To Go... 10% discount until the end of April
TEMSA SAFARI HD Full Stainless Steel, 12.2 mtr 53 rec seats with 3 point belts, Full Exec
01274 681144
Gomersal, Cleckheaton, West Yorkshire, BD19 4BJ Email: busandcoachsales@arriva.co.uk Web: www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk
Bus and Coach
take a test drive today
www.SDRcoachhelp.com 24 Hrs 0844 576 3300 1 x 1993, £18,500.00 + VAT 1 x 1994, £22,500.00 + VAT
1 x 1995, £26,500.00 + VAT 2 x 1997, £29,500.00 + VAT
Hunnable Industrial Estate, Toppesfield Road, Gt Yeldham, Essex CO9 4HD
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April 25, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 57
COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED BUILDINGS
AUDIO &VIDEO
COIN DISPENSERS
HEAVY DUTY STEEL BUILDINGS
C oi n D is pe n s e r s
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
BUSESWANTED
SHELTON MOTORS RAMSEY, CAMBS LICENSED ELV CENTRE
ALL BUSES & COACHES WANTED Tel: 01487 813156 (9 - 5, Mon - Fri) Mobile: 07831 349760 Email: sales@shelton-motors.co.uk
WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED
WANTED # WANTED # WANTED # WANTED
# WANTED # WANTED # WANTED #
# WANTED # WANTED # WANTED #
CHECKPOINTS
TO PURCHASE CHECKPOINT/DUSTITE loose wheelnut indicators or to locate your nearest stockist:
Tel: 01524 271200 www.checkpoint-safety.com
COMMERCIAL GARAGE EQUIPMENT
Quick change coin dispensers Buy direct from manufacturer Also spares and repairs T T S
RANSPORT
ICKET
ENGINES
Crewe Engines Ltd MERCEDES ENGINE SPECIALISTS
Commercial Garage Equipment Brake Testers
Inspection Pits
ERVICES
Phone: 01600 750650 Email: ttservices@tiscali.co.uk www.ticket-machines.co.uk
Commercial Lifts
Mobile Lifts
Tel: 07538 218194 www.commercialgarageequipment.co.uk Email: sales@commercialgarageequipment.co.uk
WE ALSO RECONDITION ALL MAKES OF BUS & COACH ENGINES
Direct from the UK’s No.1 since 1975 Call now for a quote or more information
COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED Looking for a great deal to promote your products and services?
Contact Jade Cassidy now for our current offers: 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk
01270 526333
Federation of Engine Re-Manufacturers
www.creweengines.co.uk
VOLVO - CUMMINS - SCANIA MAN - DAF - IVECO FULL FITTING FACILITIES
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COACH&BUSMARKET
SPECIAL OFFERS
GARAGE EQUIPMENT
HEATING
Specialists in Used Commercial Garage Equipment
Heaters • A/C Equipment Blowers • Motors Radiators • Silicone Hose Ducting • Wiper Equipment Gas Struts
BWS 0117 953 0381 www.bwsequip.co.uk
email: bwsequip@hotmail.com
SEATING
ERGONOMIC SEATING SPECIALISTS
Tel: 01993 849522 Fax: 01993 706920 Email: sales@thhs.co.uk
www.thhs.co.uk
UNIT 9 NIMROD BUSINESS PARK DE HAVILLAND WAY, WITNEY OX29 0YG
GARAGE EQUIPMENT
Full range of Static, Mechanical and Air Suspension seats available for Coaches, Service Buses, Vans and Trucks
Prices from £150+VAT
r .FDIBOJDBM "TTJTUBODF
(No carriage charges)
r &MFDUSJDBM "TTJTUBODF
12 Murray Place, Righead Ind Est, Bellshill ML4 3LP Tel: 01698 845352 • Fax: 01698 844325 Email: TScottco@aol.com
r $PBDI CVJMEJOH "TTJTUBODF r .BOBHFSJBM "TTJTUBODF
Ray McAlle (General Manager) Mobile: 07530 387394 Office: 01666 510158 Fax: 01793 840514 Email: info@paulclarkservices.co.uk Web: www.paulclarkservices.co.uk
TICKETING
REGISTRATIONS G £750 20 HXT 22 TXA 80 HXE ALZ 303 AXZ 88 ECR 767 IIG 62 JUI 808 RXI 85
SPEEDY REGISTRATIONS CO LTD G ‘Buy with confidence – CNDA Member’
£350 £99 £99 £50 DKZ 303 HIG 5651 MNZ 1195 AXZ 5648 JBZ 484 HIG 5652 ONZ 1180 CXZ 4470 MKZ 686 IIG 7764 REZ 3369 CXZ 4471 NUI 636 IIG 7765 RUI 2119 DRZ 7321 PXI 494 JIG 1575 SEZ 8950 DRZ 7322 RBZ 868 JIG 1576 SUI 2171 IFZ 8428 SCZ 878 KIG 1902 SUI 2172 IFZ 8429 YXI 454 KIG 1903 TJZ 1116 JFZ 3260 YXI 585 MJZ 6749 TJZ 1119 JFZ 3261 We Buy for Cash, also Part Exchange
£50 JFZ 3262 JIG 9765 JIG 9766 KIG 1216 KIG 1217 RNZ 2144 RNZ 2145 TUI 5575 TUI 5576
Tel: (028) 6638 7124 Fax: (028) 6638 7771
Millwood, Lisbellaw, Co. Fermanagh, N. Ireland BT94 5HQ
REFURBISHMENT
COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED
Coach refurbishment, spray painting, structural work & accident repairs
Looking for a great deal to promote your products and services?
www.blackpoolcoachservices.co.uk
Contact Neale – 01253 698686
Contact Jade Cassidy now for details of our current offers : 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!
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April 25, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 59
COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED TYRE EQUIPMENT
TRAINING
COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED
Looking for a great deal to promote your products and services?
TRIM
COACH TRIMMERS LTD Supplying the Bus and Coach Industry with quality seat retrims and interior refurbishment. Full floors re-laid and centre gangways. Collection and delivery service anywhere in the UK, seven days a week.
Email: info@eastgate-coachtrimmers.co.uk Web: www.eastgate-coachtrimmers.co.uk
Contact Jade Cassidy now for details of our current offers : 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!
Tel/Fax: 01751 472229
TYRES
• Tyre fitting machine now available •
APRIL SPECIALS 205/75R 205/75R 215/75R 215/75R 245/70R 265/70R 265/70R 275/70R
17.5 BUDGET STEER 17.5 BARUM STEER 17.5 BUDGET STEER 17.5 BARUM STEER 19.5 BUDGET STEER 19.5 BUDGET STEER 19.5 BARUM STEER 22.5 BUDGET STEER
£102.00 £132.00 £99.00 £132.00 £128.00 £136.00 £185.00 £175.00
Remould and premium tyres price on request Free delivery on 4 tyres or more We have more tyres in stock – please give us a call for quotes
275/70R 275/80R 295/80R 295/80R 315/80R 315/80R 11R22.5 305/75R
www.tdtyres.com
22.5 BARUM STEER 22.5 BUDGET STEER 22.5 BUDGET STEER 22.5 MIDRANGE 22.5 BUDGET STEER 22.5 MIDRANGE BUDGET STEER 24.5 GOODYEAR NEW
£245.00 £190.00 £178.00 from £245.00 £198.00 from £255.00 £175.00 £550.00
ew Number N 01684 560029 Adam : 07841 239411 Mark : 07545 735303 All prices subject to VAT and availability.
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COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED VEHICLE SPARES
Trevor Wigley & Son Bus Ltd
Passenger and Commercial Vehicles Recovery Dismantlers Parts Sales OUR SERVICES: • • • • • • • • • •
Recovery
Refurbishment Testing
Repairs
Engine/gearbox rebuilds Fault finding
Buying & selling vehicles
DISMANTLING/SPARES: • • • • • •
Reconditioned engines
Reconditioned gearboxes Engine spares Windows
Windscreens Seats
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
Export to foreign markets Repairs
Finance repossession and storage
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
Call 01226 723147 Night Service 01226 716479 Fax 01226 700199 Email wigleys@btconnect.com
www.twigley.com
COACH&BUSCLASSIFIED Looking for a great deal to promote your products and services? Contact Jade Cassidy now for our current offers: 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@rouncymedia.co.uk
New Van & Minibus Parts
Transit bodyshell
Leyland GB397,390
Master side doors
Sprinter 906 new model doors
Sprinter 616 axle
Sprinter LT old model doors
Mercedes drivers seat
Nissan 2.7 TD engine
Renault 1.9 CDI engine
Transit 17 seater
Transit Millenium doors
Transit Tourneo seats
Sharan Galaxy 1.9 CDI
ZF 16S-109
ZA Astronic 12-AS-1920-TD
Coach & Bus Week – the only paid-for weekly magazine in the bus and coach industry – there’s no comparison!
VEHICLE INSPECTION/TRAINING
• HGV & PCV inspections • Maintenance audits • HGV & PCV training courses • Due diligence inspections and reports info@viats.com www.viats.com 077 0234 9080
www.cabmasters.com 01706 211 838
April 25, 2012 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 61
Seen something funny? Send it to gareth.evans@rouncymedia.co.uk, fax 0845 2802927 or write to: Last Stop, Coach & Bus Week, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX
Quirky signs What have these photos got to do with coaches and buses? Not a lot on the face it… The pictures were caught on camera by Editor Gareth Evans on Easter Sunday while visiting one of his favourite spots ‘back home’ in his native Welsh borderland with his fiancée Sarah. Pistyll Rhaeadr, which is literally translated as ‘spring of the waterfall’, is an enchanting waterfall in the Berwyn Mountains, north of the village of Llanrhaeadr-ymMochnant, near Oswestry. It is formed by the Afon Disgynfa’s falling, in three stages, over a 240-foot (73m) drop, after which the river is known as the Afon Rhaeadr. The fall is composed of two drops, the water flowing through a natural rock arch in the middle between the two. The waterfall is often cited as the tallest single drop in the UK, although this is subject to debate. For those of us old enough to remember the Timotei hair shampoo adverts of the late 1980s, this is where they were filmed. Enjoying a coffee in the rateable tea room which is nestled at the bottom of the waterfall, Gareth spotted this bird grabbing a bite to eat – seemingly in defiance of the sign alongside…. Llanrhaeadr-ym-Mochnant is of course better known in coach and bus terms as the home of familyrun Tanat Valley Coaches, Gareth’s previous employer. The road is suitable for a minibus but not for larger coaches - although a word with Tanat Valley is advised. Coach groups have in the past visited the waterfall, being transported up the valley in smaller Tanat Valley vehicles. Visit www. tanat.co.uk or call 01691 780212.
Dilbert
Monday: Press day. James is in the sick bay but vows not to let us down, so works remotely. The usual manic Monday, but we get the job done earlier than I anticipate. Enjoy my inaugural interview on BBC Radio Scotland about the Stagecoach Megabus expansion. Tuesday: Start in the office at lunchtime. Plan forthcoming issues. Wednesday: A busy day in the office making arrangements for the coming weeks. I always think it’s funny how writing emails can take an age, which can be a pain in the wotsit but doing so also gets you to think, which is not always a bad thing. Thursday: Martin is in Turkey with BMC. Accompanied by Harley, leave the office at lunchtime and head to the UK Coach Awards in Manchester. I’m in my element catching up with a load of friends. Present my first ever award – the Young Industry Professionals category. Enjoy a chat with Carol Kirkwood, who beckons me for a word. While I don’t consume alcohol at a late hour of the day, I stay up chatting far later than intended. Get to bed at 0300hrs.
Top: Pistyll Rhaeadr waterfall. Above: A Chaffinch flouts cafe rules
Friday: Snap a load of stock bus pics in Manchester city centre. Drive back to Peterborough. Dangerous numpties hog the middle and outside lane on the M6: why don’t we have a campaign for drivers to pull over and actually use lanes appropriately?! Arrive back in the office to catch up with my team. Enjoy an evening off CBW. Saturday: Spend an enjoyable day at the UK Coach Rally. In the evening, perk myself up before going through the day’s pics and making a start on writing up. A polite request to organisers of both the rally and awards – please try to hold them a week apart as quite a number of us have to attend both. Zzzz... www.coachandbusweek.com
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RECRUITMENT
Louise is new AOM at Hyde Rd Depot
Tom Dodds joins Go North East
Former bus driver Louise Atkinson has been appointed as Assistant Operations Manager at Stagecoach Manchester’s largest depot at Hyde Road. Louise has worked for the Stagecoach Group for over six years, including three years behind the wheel as a bus driver, in both Cumbria and Manchester. She also held the role of Depot Inspector at the former Princess Road site, before being promoted to Allocation Manager for Stagecoach Manchester at its Ashton depot. At Hyde Road she is responsible for assisting the management team and supporting the 450 full and part-time drivers. Commenting on her appointment, Louise said: “From being a driver to organising bus
Tom Dodds has taken up the role of Stakeholder Manager at Go North East. Tom, 55, has more than 30 years’ experience in marketing, PR and customer relations both within and beyond the transport industry. This new post will build on Go North East’s existing relationships with its customers, businesses and local authorities. Commenting on his appointment, Tom said: “My new job demonstrates Go North East’s commitment to its positive approach to working in partnership across the region. “It comes at a time when the whole future of buses is under threat from Nexus and the Integrated Transport Authority’s proposal to seize control of buses that run in and into Tyne and Wear.”
Louise Atkinson has worked for the Stagecoach Group for over six years schedules, I have experience in a variety of areas, which gives me an in-depth understanding of the workings of the buses and the depots. With this knowledge, I will support the team and endeavour to continue to improve and grow the services which we offer to our customers.”
Coach Allocators
Chris Bowles, Managing Director of Stagecoach Manchester, said: “Louise’s experience and enthusiasm will be extremely beneficial to Stagecoach Manchester. It is great to see someone working their way through the ranks and demonstrating their dedication and loyalty to the business.”
Your First Choice for Recruitment
4 Coach Allocators are required for the production of schedules for LOCOG’s bookable coaches during the Olympic & Paralympics Games. Good experience of EU driver hours is mandatory. Experience of the ‘Coach Manager’ system and working in a busy & time pressured environment with demonstrably good interpersonal & communication skills are all highly desirable The roles will be based in east London providing cover 24 hours per day 7 days per week for the period 1st July to 15th September inclusive (not all roles have to cover this full period). Availability for training and induction before this period will also be a requirement.
Coach & Bus Week’s well-established recruitment portfolio attracts candidates across sales, marketing and management, delivering not just quantity but quality candidates, providing exceptional value for money. In addition to our unrivalled print-based product, at no extra cost recruitment adverts are also automatically placed online at www.coachandbusweek.com, where they remain on view until a position’s closing date.
All expressions of interest are required by 4th May 2012
Coach & Bus Week and www.coachandbusweek.com combine to create the ultimate recruitment solution, guaranteeing your vacancy is seen by every jobseeker that matters from sales agents to board level.
Email: Tom.Cunnington@London2012.com
To get your vacancy seen by quality candidates, call Ian Gillis on 01733 293484 or email ian.gillis@rouncymedia.co.uk
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Deadlines Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm
Contact Ian Gillis 01733 293484
Apprentice of the year at EvoBus
department. He deals with customers, parts identification and helps to manage EvoBus’ multi million pound parts stock. Marcus Watts, Director of Aftersales, said: “It has always been a strategy of EvoBus (UK)’s to bring young people into our organisation and invest heavily in their training. Seeing Ashley progress from his first day at work to accepting a prestigious award for not only being top of his case but for the whole Warwickshire area was a very proud moment for us all.”
Ashley Meehan, Parts Apprentice at EvoBus UK, has won the “Warwickshire garage & Transport Group Training Association Parts Apprentice of the year” award. Ashley joined EvoBus UK in April 2008 as a Parts Apprentice and has made great progress both on a professional and personal level since then. He successfully completed the NVQ levels 2 and 3 and he finished his college education in August 2011. During the last three years Ashley worked as a full time employee in the parts office, attending college classes with Warwickshire GTA. Since his arrival at the company Ashley has covered many tasks in the parts office in order to get a complete insight into the
ian.gillis@rouncymedia.co.uk
WORKSHOP MANAGER Due to the imminent retirement of our current Engineering Director, a position has arisen for a suitably qualified Workshop Manager within our operating team. Reporting to the Operations Manager, the key roles will be: • Maintain and improve Company standards of engineering and vehicle maintenance within our coach, bus and midi-bus fleet • Motivate and manage current engineering staff, and recruit ment of new engineering staff • Ensure vehicles surpass current VOSA standards for test preparation and daily use • Ensure inspection, maintenance and engineering records are prepared to the highest standard using Workshop Manager software systems • Adhere to budgets prepared in conjunction with the Operations Manager • Ensure compliance of Health & Safety matters and environmental responsibilities This hands-on role would suit either an experienced professional looking for new challenges in a SME environment, or an experienced PCV mechanic looking to move into a management role. If you are interested in the position, please send your CV to:
Ashley Meehan with Director of Aftersales Marcus Watts
Mr K Wilde – Managing Director, Mitcham Belle Coaches, 223 Streatham Road, Mitcham, Surrey CR4 2AJ, or by e-mail to kevin.wilde@mitchambellecoaches.co.uk
Senior Sales Business Development Manager The Company Mitcham Belle Coaches provide coach & minibus hire to London & the South-East. For more information visit www.mitchambellecoaches.co.uk As part of ambitious growth plans Mitcham Belle is seeking a talented sales professional. The Role Reporting to the MD, you will play a key role in bringing about a step change in how Mitcham Belle develops and grows its UK business. You will have responsibility for revenue growth and gross margin delivery across the UK business. Key Responsibilities: • Develop a strong, well recognised and profitable coach hire solutions business in London and the South-East, providing coach hire services to UK based businesses, educational institutions, and the general public. • Win new business and explore new markets within preset budgets • Build on and drive the value that existing and future customers get from the current business through excellent consumer centric market understanding, account penetration and smart use of customer analytics, complaint research and social networks And You? You have a proven solution sales background and love to be measured against what you have sold and the strength of your relationships. Although a coach hire or transport background would be ideal, we would consider individuals who can demonstrate an understanding of a solution or service sale. You are a confident and skilled communicator and negotiator and will be motivated by working in an entrepreneurial business where you will develop new skills and build responsibility. How to apply To be part of a dynamic, growing business please send your CV, together with details of your current salary package to kevin.wilde@mitchambellecoaches.co.uk
www.coachandbusweek.com
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