Bus Talk - Issue 28 - April 2014

Issue 28 • June 2014

Introducing new Area General Managers See pages 6 & 7

In this issue

Cash-free initiative for London's buses Driver Sunday Olatanji with an Oyster card.

Portal to a world of information Page 4

David creates garage garden at Waterloo Page 5

Oyster card to replace cash T

Focus on Go South Coast operations Page 8 2

RANSPORT for London (TfL) has announced that it will stop accepting cash fares on London's buses from July 6.

Passengers using cash have decreased by around 25 per cent over the past decade, and now make up less than one per cent of journeys.

This is in stark contrast to the success of the Oyster card, first launched in 2003, and contactless payment cards, which have been used on 11 million journeys.

Measures have been put in place to ensure a smooth transition, including a new 'one more journey' feature on Oyster cards. This allows passengers with less than the single bus fare

(currently ÂŁ1.45) but with a positive balance on their card to make one more bus journey before they have to add more credit.

All Go-Ahead London drivers will be given fresh guidance on how to deal with vulnerable passengers in order to ensure a consistent approach.

As part of a major public information campaign, which began in May, TfL has been promoting using a contactless payment card or Oyster pay as you go which results in a 95p cheaper fare.

On top of that, the Oyster Ticket Shop network has been reviewed, with plans to open additional locations across London.

Celebrate the Year of the Bus at Stockwell Preparations are well under way at Stockwell ahead of the garage’s open day on June 21.

The event celebrates 2014 as the Year of the Bus – a TfL and London Transport Museum-led initiative to reconnect Londoners with their bus network.

A number of classic vehicles specific to Stockwell will be on display, with plenty of

other activities available to keep the whole family entertained.

The day will also feature an informative architectural talk about the iconic Stockwell roof and building from an open-top bus.

Donations will be taken for Go-Ahead London’s chosen charity, Trinity Hospice, which is local to the Stockwell area.

If you would like to find out more about

the hospice, or what you can do to raise money for it, just visit www.trinityhospice. org.uk or email enquiries@trinityhospice. org.uk.

Make sure you come down and bring your family and friends to the garage between 10am and 4pm. Show your support and be a part of the Year of the Bus celebrations!

Ramping up the service for ALL our customers Training and development manager Eric Dale runs training courses on how to deal correctly with wheelchair-users.

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O-Ahead London continues to work hard to ensure that wheelchair-users have a smooth, problem-free journey when travelling by bus.

All new drivers must go through a mandatory training course which takes up to six weeks and includes a module developed by TfL covering disability, equality and diversity awareness.

Not only does it give advice on how to deal correctly with wheelchair-users, but also disabilities that may not be immediately obvious.

Drivers are also shown two DVDs, All Aboard and Accessible Transport in London, which further highlight the correct procedures for dealing with

disabled customers.

“We teach drivers that it is their responsibility to take notice of a wheelchair-user as they approach a bus stop,” said training and development manager Eric Dale.

“The driver should then acknowledge them with a nod and position the bus parallel to the kerb so that the wheelchair ramp can be deployed.

“Our buses are especially well-equipped, as they can be raised and lowered in order to properly line up with the kerb.”

All Go-Ahead London buses are equipped with a designated seating area for wheelchair-users. Eric said that clearing these is often difficult for drivers.

He said: “The most common problem

involving wheelchair-users is that there are parents with buggies taking up the space.

It can be difficult to get them to move, so we do provide training to drivers that prepares them for this eventuality.”

Sometimes standards can slip, so the training department also offers refresher courses for drivers.

“We want our drivers to feel confident when dealing with wheelchair-users. A little extra training could be the difference between a wheelchair-user having a positive or negative experience.

“All drivers are provided with a Big Red Book, which they should have with them while driving. If they do need to check the correct procedures, they can find out what to do in that book.”

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Portal will become way of life for employees A

rollout of the Go-Ahead London employee portal has begun, following a successful trial at Camberwell earlier this

year.

Peckham was the second garage to receive the new technology in May. Employees at the garage have been given a Go-Ahead London Gmail account, which they use to log in to the portal.

Every garage will have iPads installed to provide employees with easy access to the portal from garages. They can also login from any Wi-Fi enabled smartphone or tablet.

Not only does the portal contain news about the company, access to the employee forum and latest vacancies, it also houses the new online allocation request system commonly known as ‘OARS’. This allows employees to change their shifts more easily and manage their own job.

Link It also provides a further link to management, with the portal also giving users the ability to field ideas, comments and questions to managing director John Trayner.

Camberwell driver Lance McFarlane, nicknamed the ‘super user’, has been busy at both Camberwell and Peckham garages teaching employees how to use the portal.

“Everyone I’ve spoken to so far has been really keen to start using the new system,” he said.

“I am always on hand if anyone requires assistance as I am only an email away!”

The employee portal is the way forward for the company and is something that will become a way of life for all Go-Ahead London employees.

Go-Ahead go for glory at awards FINGERS are firmly crossed at Go-Ahead London in advance of the London Bus Awards on June 12.

The awards recognise staff who have displayed outstanding commitment and professionalism during the course of their work.

This year’s event will be held at the Riverbank Park Plaza and attended by bus companies from across the capital.

Go-Ahead London has been nominated in six of the eight categories.

“It’s a real achievement to get to this stage and their inclusion on this year’s shortlist is richly deserved,” said managing director John Trayner.

“I am looking forward to joining nominees and their managers at the presentation evening, and wish them all the very best of luck.”

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Driver and 'super user' Lance McFarlane, left, with supervisor Ron Ladd.

This year’s nominees are: Year of the Bus award for outstanding customer service n Lesley Haggerty (Stockwell) n Alec Burrows (Bexleyheath) Year of the Bus award for outstanding long service n Alf Louis (Stockwell) Year of the Bus award for an accessibility champion n Gary Blenkinsop (Merton) Year of the Bus award for actions above and beyond the call of duty n Habib Akinsemoyin (Camberwell) n Diane Kilbane (Camberwell) Year of the Bus award for an outstanding newcomer n Aruliah Janakanishanthan (Croydon) Year of the Bus award for an environmental campaign champion n Bexleyheath Cycling Group (Bexleyheath)

It could still be YOU! YOU still have the opportunity to be entered into the 500 Challenge 2014 and give yourself a shot at winning a Fiat 500 worth more than £12,000!

To be in with a chance of winning the grand prize, which features an environmentally friendly engine and lots more cutting edge technology, you must continue to drive safely and fuel efficiently.

Specially selected Driver of the Month winners between March and August 2014 will be entered into the competition, which takes place in September.

Entrants will have the opportunity to show off their driving ability, with one lucky winner becoming the owner of a brand new Fiat 500!

Tender David's green fingers NEWS create garage garden from across the capital

IN OUR regular column, we highlight recent announcements made

by Transport for London.

All are retentions unless stated otherwise.

Abellio London n Route 109/N109 (Croydon to Brixton/Oxford Circus) won from Arriva London South.

Contract begins on January 31, 2015, using new hybrid double-deck buses (25 PVR). n Route 414 (Putney Bridge to Maida Hill) using existing double-deck buses (19 PVR). Contract begins on November 22, 2014. n Route 415 (Elephant and Castle to Tulse Hill) won from Arriva London South.

Contract begins on March 7, 2015, using new hybrid double-deck buses (7 PVR). n Route S4 (St Helier to Roundshaw) won from Quality Line. New contract begins on November 15, 2014, using new hybrid single-deck buses (6 PVR).

Arriva London South n Route 627 (Worcester Park to Woodcote Green, school service) using existing double-deck vehicles (2 PVR). Contract begins on November 1, 2014.

Metroline n Route 606 (Queensbury to Ravenscroft School) using existing double-deck vehicles (2 PVR). Contract begins on October 11, 2014.

David Somogyi working in the garden at Waterloo garage.

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GLORIOUS summer isn’t the only thing employees at Waterloo are looking forward to.

Thanks to driver David Somogyi, they also have a well-tended garden at the garage to enjoy whenever they want to relax.

David has been looking after the garden for the last year, a hobby he said extends from looking after his garden at home.

“I jumped at the chance to take over the garden after my colleague who used to run it left,” he said.

“Gardening has always been a passion of mine. I can still remember getting to work in the garden of the very first house I bought.

“Being able to see the fruits of your labour,

and in some cases eat them, is a very rewarding experience.”

David has been hard at work on the garden recently in preparation for the good weather. There are peppers, tomatoes, blackcurrants and redcurrants growing, ready to be eaten later in the year.

“The garden does have flowers in it, but I thought it would be nice to try my hand at growing fruit and veg as well.

“My colleagues enjoy the garden and it gives me a great deal of satisfaction to know my work is making other people happy.

“The only other thing I would like is for a bit more room to grow a few more things!”

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Go-Ahead London e necessary staff rest

n With Croydon and Orpington joinin the company now has 17 garages and services. n To reflect this, it has been decided responsibilities. n There will now be two area general for the south east and west regions.

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Colin 'undaunted' by new role COLIN Langford has taken on the role of area general manager for the south east, with responsibility for Bexleyheath, Belvedere, New Cross, Peckham, Camberwell, Mandela Way, Croydon and Orpington.

His job will be to look at all areas of performance and ensure that the garages are coordinated in their efforts.

Prior to taking on his new role, Colin was general manager for Bexleyheath, Belvedere, New Cross and Peckham.

Colin recently worked on integrating Croydon and Orpington garages, which he said helps now they are part of his remit.

He said: “I spent two months working to make the transition as easy as possible for the two garages.

“It’s really helped me get to know the garages better in preparation for becoming area general manager.

“Working with so many garages at once will be challenging but not daunting, as I know how talented the teams are.”

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HERE have been a number of appointments across Go-Ahead London as part of the organisational changes coming into effect from June.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Graham Johnson has been promoted to general manager of New Cross and Peckham, having previously worked as operating manager for Bexleyheath and Belvedere.

Kastriot Gashi will be working with Graham as Peckham’s new operating manager, while Gavin Smith will take his place at Bexleyheath.

“It’s a great opportunity to progress my career and I am looking forward to facing a new set of challenges,” said Graham.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Derek Barker is now general manager for Stockwell, promoted from operating manager at Camberwell.

He said: “I am replacing Colin Opher, so have some very big shoes to fill. Stockwell has an excellent team who I enjoy working with.”

Working alongside Derek will be new operating manager Edwin Swaris, who takes over the role from Hannah Self after spending some time at New Cross.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Hannah Self has been promoted to general manager for Camberwell and Mandela Way. Nicola Philips will be joining Hannah at Mandela Way as the garage’s new operating manager.

“I will be sad to leave Stockwell but I am really excited about what the future holds for me at Camberwell and Mandela Way,” said Hannah.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Peter Russell has left the operating manager post at Blue Triangle to become general

expansion triggers tructure

ng Go-Ahead London earlier this year, d runs 24 per cent of London’s bus to restructure the general managers’

l managers, who will be responsible

manager for Merton and Sutton. Taking over his previous role is Hema Agrippine.

“I’ve spent the last five years at Blue Triangle, so will be sad to leave,” said Peter.

“However, the move is also a very positive thing and I am pleased to move my career forward.”

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Graham Oliver has been named reserve general manager, ready for a vacancy.

“It’s great to have your hard work recognised by the company,” he said.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Angie Ryder will continue as general manager of Blue Triangle, Northumberland Park and Docklands.

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• Ayse Hodgkinson has been named general manager service quality for Metrobus and will also take on a consultative role for mileage in the company.

“I will be overseeing the controllers and performance managers, with the aim of improving service quality,” said Ayse.

“My other responsibility is to act as a contact for mileage clerks and provide consistency between garages.”

••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••••• There are also a number of new assistant operating managers, with Carl Trainor taking on Blue Triangle and Docklands, Nigel Wood from Metrobus covering Croydon and Emma Tooze doing the same at Bexleyheath and Belvedere.

Charles Newitt is training for the role at Camberwell and Stockwell, ready for an AOM position to become available.

Trevor will focus on coordination between locations TREVOR Johnson has become area general manager for the west, working with Putney, Waterside Way, Stockwell, Merton and Sutton.

He first took on a general manager’s role in 1999 and was most recently responsible for Merton and Sutton.

Part of his role will be to provide a link between garages and the directors, as well as mentor some of the new promotions.

“We are there to support the general managers and help them develop in the role,” said Trevor.

“I’ve spent a long time working as one myself, so am looking forward to passing on some of the things I have learnt over the years.

“The growth Go-Ahead London has experienced means it is important we focus on coordination between locations.

“That being said, we have some fantastic people at our garages and I’m sure everyone will adapt quickly to the changes.”

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Focus on Go South Coast n In our look at another company in the Go-Ahead Group, we turn the spotlight on Go South Coast. n The company is responsible for a fleet of 750 buses and more than 1,400 employees.

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HE Go-Ahead Group first ventured into south coast operations with the purchase of Wilts & Dorset and its subsidiaries in 2003.

In the following years, the company continued to expand, purchasing Southern Vectis in 2005 and Hants & Dorset Trim in 2006.

Once the purchase of coach company Marchwood Motorways was completed that same year, the companies were then consolidated into the Go South Coast we know today.

The company has a turnover of more than £80 million a year and facilitates 45 million passenger journeys.

Alistair has just completed his secondment with Go-Ahead London, working at Camberwell as an assistant operating manager.

n We sat down with Go South Coast’s Alistair Strong n Alistair is a graduate management trainee who has just completed a threemonth secondment with Go-Ahead London.

Prior to coming to London, he spent time with Go South Coast finishing his driver training, driving 'in service', aiding supervisors, assisting the operations team, working with the commercial team and even working on a website launch.

This experience has helped him identify a number of similarities between the two companies.

“Policy and practices, and the way in which drivers are managed are similar between Go-Ahead London and Go South Coast,” he said.

However, Alistair said: “In all honesty, it’s the differences between London and the South Coast that are more immediately apparent.

“Go South Coast is not a small company by any means, but the scale of operations in London is staggering.

“It really is a 24-hour industry and you always need to be on the ball; it can be unpredictable and I have fully embraced and enjoyed working with everyone at Camberwell.

“Because of TfL, mileage and its

Graduate management trainee Alistair Strong.

Policy and practices are similar between Go-Ahead London and Go South Coast subsequent auditing is of greater importance in London than it is elsewhere.

“You also hear stories about incidents that have happened on buses and with drivers that you would never imagine happening outside of the city!”

Go South Coast is made up of the following operations:

more bus – operates throughout Poole, Bournemouth and surrounding areas providing both school transport and local bus services.

Salisbury Reds – provides services across Salisbury and Wiltshire with a landmark service serving Old Sarum and Stonehenge – The Stonehenge Tour (above).

Bluestar – offers high quality services to the residents of south Hampshire, with a strong focus in and around the Southampton area.

Southern Vectis – works closely with the Isle of Wight Council to provide a comprehensive and high frequency network. It also operates tourist-focused services across the island.

Damory and Tourist Coaches – operate local and school bus services in and around Dorset, linking rural communities and they provide coach and bus hire services.

Hants & Dorset Trim – an industry leader specialising in vehicle refurbishment and repair, from re-upholstery through to major repairs.

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Route 244 is trialling the new automated manual transmission technology, illustrated below.

All geared up for new technology D

RIVERS at Belvedere have been embracing new technology recently, with automated manual transmission currently being trialled on one of their buses.

The Enviro 200 is fitted with an AS-Lite, manufactured by ZF, and is being used on the 244 service between Queen Elizabeth Hospital and Abbey Wood.

It offers the best of both worlds, removing the need to use the wasteheat generating fluid torque converters on automatic vehicles, while using an actuator to change gears using the clutch.

The benefits of the AS-Lite include less frequent maintenance, less heat needing to be dissipated and no energy loss through the torque converter.

There have also been reductions in fuel usage, with initial indications up to 20 per cent under trial conditions.

“They are fuel efficient, require less maintenance and have a lower impact on the environment, which is brilliant,” said engineering manager Rob Garrard.

“We have also been working with drivers to get them used to the changes and

prepare them for using the buses in service. “Driver feedback is that they are very good to drive, while passenger comfort is also increased.

“We have done a lot of development work, which has proved quite positive, and it is definitely a product that could be used by Go-Ahead London in the future.”

Pedal power set to 'Le-Mons' squeeze benefit two charities in French fundraiser!

A GROUP of cyclists at Merton took on the gruelling London to Brighton cycle ride on June 15.

The group cycled the 54-mile course, which includes plenty of hills around the South Downs, to raise money for First Touch and the A-T Society.

First Touch is a charity that supports the neonatal unit at St George’s Hospital, while the A-T Society supports AtaxiaTelangiectasia sufferers and their families. A-T impairs areas of the brain causing difficulty with movement and coordination, weakens the immune system

and prevents repair of broken DNA. “Both charities have provided fantastic support to some of my colleagues at Go-Ahead London,” said senior garage administrator Danny Prescott, one of 22 cyclists who took part.

“The company is a very close knit community, so it was great to see so many people getting on their bikes to raise money.

If you would like to donate to the group or find out more about its fundraising, just visit www. virginmoneygiving.com/team/ mertonlions2.

GROUP engineering director Phil Margrave, Go-Ahead London engineering director Richard Harrington and friends cycled from Caen to Le Mans on June 11 to 13 to raise money for RP Fighting Blindness.

This is a charity that supports sufferers of Retinis Pigmentosa, a disease of the eye that can lead to loss of vision and blindness.

The trip took three days, with the group, known as the Cycling Lemons, pedaling more than 150 miles to reach their destination.

Arriving at Le Mans in matching yellow jerseys, they were greeted by a brass band and bunting.

They also had the opportunity to do a victory lap of the circuit.

The Lemons have journeyed to Le Mans no fewer than 15 times, but this is the first time they have cycled there.

They had already raised an incredible £7,000 this year before they started their trip.

You can donate to Phil, Richard and the rest of the group online by visiting www. uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/ cyclinglemons.

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Keen to advance FACE their driving skills

FACE 2

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N IMPRESSIVE number of Stockwell drivers took the opportunity to learn more about the Institute of Advanced Motorists during an open day at the garage on April 4.

The visit was a huge success, with 129 drivers committing to taking their advanced driving test.

Benefits include cheaper insurance, membership to the Institute and one year’s breakdown cover with the RAC.

prevention manager Cliff Frost.

“We have more than 600 drivers at the garage, so for almost a quarter of them to sign up straight away is fantastic. Now we are working on getting them to the assessors.

“Hopefully, the Institute will visit again soon, as we are aiming to eventually get every driver at Stockwell through the test.”

In our Face 2 Face column, we chat to Dwayne Peart, known to colleagues as Flukey, a driver at Camberwell who has worked for the company for 11 years.

Q: What’s your favourite way to relax after work?

A: Playing pool or dominos.

Q: What job did you want to do when you were growing up?

A: I wanted to be a singer.

Q: Which famous person would you most like to have dinner with?

A: Jesus.

Q: If you could only have one meal for the rest of your life, what would it be?

A: Rice, fish and peas.

Q: What makes a good day at work for you?

A: Getting to see all my friends and colleagues at the garage.

Q: If you could have any superpower, what would it be?

A: I’d like to be able to fly, so that I could easily relax on the beach with family in Jamaica.

Q: What’s the best present you’ve ever been given?

A: My girlfriend saying yes to marriage.

Q: What’s the best thing about your job?

A: Getting to meet the public every day.

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Attendees also had the chance to take part in a Highway Code competition, with three drivers scoring full marks!

Devon Philips (above) took first place, winning a box of chocolates, John Mukasa, (above right) came second, bagging himself a car care kit, and Ann Alexander (right) won a car polishing cloth for third.

“It was really encouraging to see so many drivers showing an interest,” said accident

After the World Cup... there's more football!

PREPARATIONS are well under way for the 2014 charity football tournament, which is taking place on September 13.

This year, the annual tournament will be taking place on home turf, with Goals at North Cheam hosting teams from GoAhead London, Germany and Italy.

Last year, three teams from the company travelled to Rome to take part. The Merton Lions were the top English team, knocked out in the semi-finals after a nail-biting penalty shootout.

The event raised £1,500, which was donated to a local children’s charity.

This year’s competition will be raising money for First Touch and the AT Society.

Once the tournament is over and the winners have lifted the trophy, the

festivities will continue into the evening at nearby North Cheam Sports and Social Club.

The club will host a charity night, with an entrance fee of £10, which is open to all players and spectators.

Go-Ahead London has chipped in to help make the competition a success, donating £1,000 towards the pitches, trophies and hall.

Teams of up to 10 players can enter, with a cost of £10 per person. The cut-off point for entering a team is August 22.

Posters have been put up in garages with further information. You can also get in touch with Merton driver and organiser Scott Horney to enter a team on 07989 109169 or horneyboy@sky.com.

Metrobus makes smooth transition to Go-Ahead

Metrobus colleagues have adapted well to Go-Ahead London.

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ROYDON and Orpington are settling in well to the Go-Ahead London way of life.

The two garages joined us in July last year following the retirement of managing director Alan Eatwell.

Key practices that the garages will share with the company are now in place. General manager Adrian Tullett was pleased with how smooth the transition has been.

He said: “There will still be a few changes that need to be made here and there, but everything is going well.

“Big changes that we have had to implement include the payroll system and a route reallocation.”

Orpington’s 367 service, between Bromley and North Croydon, has moved to Croydon. Only the buses used on the 367 and the route itself have switched, with drivers staying at Orpington.

This has allowed Orpington to start putting employees through the CPC earlier than planned, with many already beginning their training.

“I am happy to see the first groups going through their CPC training,” added Adrian.

“Everyone has adjusted really well and I am impressed by how hard and professionally my colleagues have been working to facilitate the changes.”

Employee Commendations BEXLEYHEATH n GLEN Wenham has received a commendation from Ms Nzerem for helping to return a customer’s backpack.

CROYDON n WAITING for last minute passengers has earned Mark Ofeimun a commendation from Mr Parkin.

MERTON n MISS Zitolo has thanked Parviz Noorinejad for his “great service” when helping to return her bag. n AN IMPRESSED Mr Akhtar has described Jerome Taiwo as the “friendliest, most affable bus driver”. n MR HARRINGTON has commended Michael O’Keefe for his “courteous, kind

and professional” attitude.

NEW CROSS n A CUSTOMER has described David Partridge as “a great driver” who was “friendly and cheery”.

NORTHUMBERLAND PARK n A GRATEFUL Mr Wilkinson described Natasha Cespedes as “extremely kind” for her help when boarding the bus.

STOCKWELL n AIDING a teacher to transport her class has earned driver Ouarda a commendation from Ms Voss, who described her as “extremely helpful”. n AN ENTIRE route has received a commendation from Mrs Pritchard. She

described route 11’s drivers as “cheerful and helpful”, providing a service that “exceeded expectations”.

SUTTON n BOTH Maria Aiken and Joao Kialungila have received commendations from Mr Ede for their "smooth driving" and "attention to detail". n THE patient driving displayed by Jacek Wojnarowski has earned him a commendation from Mr Whittington. n MISS Clarke has commended the thoughtful manner of Kevin Moore, who she described as “her knight in the big red bus”.

WATERSIDE WAY n THE high quality service provided by Ibrahim Mehiri received praise from Mrs Cohen, who described him as “helpful, cheerful, friendly and a good driver”.

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Go-Ahead team bowls 'em over in national contest Competition A WINNER TEAM of ten pin bowlers from Go-Ahead London travelled to Great Yarmouth in May to compete against other teams from across the industry.

The National Passenger Transport Sports Association hosts four tournaments a year, with anyone involved in the industry welcome to take part.

Go-Ahead London’s bowlers, who have been together for over 20 years, consisted of Brian Goodger, assistant operating manager at New Cross; Debbie Murray, Sutton driver; Tony Johnson, senior night controller; Andrew Cooksey, commercial department driver; Duncan Finn, Stockwell controller; Steve Ryan, Bexleyheath driver; Andy Todd, retired Sutton controller; Tom Sweet,

Merton driver.

There were singles and doubles competitions over the two days, with the Go-Ahead London team experiencing success in both.

Duncan Finn and Andy Todd were runners-up in the doubles, while Debbie Murray took home top honours in the women’s competition.

Incredibly, it was the tenth year in a row that Debbie finished in first place.

“We love bowling for its competitiveness, as well as the fact it works every bone in your body,” said Brian.

“A lot of us have also been competing in these competitions for a long time, so there’s also the social aspect.

“It’s great to be able to go away for a weekend every so

often and bowl with friends from all over the country.”

If you have a bit of spare time and are looking to take up a sport, Brian says ten pin bowling could be for you.

“We are always looking for new members and I would encourage anyone who is interested to give it a go,” he added.

“Bowlers of all abilities will be welcomed with open arms.

It’s a great way to keep fit and your game will improve quickly.

“If anyone wants to find out more, they can contact me at New Cross Garage.

Membership is £50 per year.”

PICTURED: from left, section treasurer Derek Best, Duncan Finn, Andy Todd, Tom Sweet, Debbie Murray, Brian Goodger, Tony Johnson and Steve Ryan.

LAST issue’s competition winner is Dave Weller, who currently works at Camberwell training.

Dave correctly guessed that the Go-Ahead London employee featured in April’s Bus Talk was Waterloo general manager Pat Mahon.

He said: “It’s the first time I’ve ever won a competition, so I’m a little bit gobsmacked!

“I decided to throw my hat into the ring as I did immediately think the photo looked rather like a young Pat Mahon.

“It’s definitely worth entering the competition even if you don’t think you stand a chance. You never know, you might end up with a cheque for £25!”

WIN £25 in our competition GETTING all the latest, breaking news is not the only reason why you should read Bus Talk - you could also be in with the chance of winning a prize!

For a chance of winning £25, just answer the following questions: 1. From what date will London buses no longer accept cash?

2. What are the names of the two DVDs used to train drivers about disabilities?

Answers to the questions are contained in the magazine’s articles, so be sure to keep your eyes peeled!

Send the completed entry form, right, (one per person) to Bus Talk, Ruxley Communications, 81 High Street, Walton-OnThames, Surrey, KT12 1DN. Or email the information required to bustalk@ruxley.co.uk.

PRIZE COMPETITION - SUMMER 2014 Answer 1 ................................... Answer 2...................................... .......................................................................................................

Name . ............................................................................................

Workplace . .....................................................................................

Home address ................................................................................. .......................................................................................................

Postcode .................................... Tel no...........................................

Entries from the same family can be sent in the same envelope. Entry is limited to one per person. The first entry drawn from the hat on August 1, 2014, will win the prize. Terms and conditions apply.

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