Bus Talk issue 41 - August 2016

Issue 41 • August 2016

River Road garage comes on-stream See page 4

In this issue

Our London buses made in Egypt Page 4

Don't forget this year's Eco Challenge Page 10

Another route through our history Page 12 2

Welcome to our new cutting edge website A WEBSITE fit for the 21st century was GoAhead London’s ambition for its new site, which went live on June 24.

The new website has been designed to be more user-friendly on smartphones and tablets and places greater emphasis on recruitment and commercial operations.

Potential employees can see the latest vacancies and find out more about working for the company. The site includes videos with three drivers explaining what their job involves and why they enjoy it.

Customer information has been enhanced and users can now find out the number of minutes until the next bus arrives at key stops along the route. The website is permanently linked to TfL’s live bus tracking system and is constantly updated.

It is also easier for customers to report and trace lost property.

Go-Ahead London’s communications team has full control of the site and can manage the content and update it at any time.

“We felt our previous website was not keeping up with our competitors,” said Communications Manager Sheldon Malcolm.

“But after much hard work, we now believe our new site has surpassed the competition.”

Raj wins a close run Bus Driver of the Year final THE 2016 Go-Ahead London Bus Driver of the Year competition, held in Crawley on July 9, couldn’t have been much closer!

Winner Raj Viswanathan from Croydon and runner-up Barry Thorne from Orpington received the same number of penalty points and were only separated by their Highway Code scores.

Third-placed driver Abdul Rouf had the same number of penalty points as two other drivers but scored highest in the Highway Code category.

The three winners received a trophy and cash prizes of £200 (1st), £100 (2nd) and £50 (3rd).

Training and Development Manager Eric Dale said: “It was such an exciting day. I can’t remember the last time the scores were so close!”

The nine finalists were selected following tests at Camberwell to measure their CPC, PCV and Highway Code knowledge.

From left, third-placed Abdul Rouf, Training and Development Manager Eric Dale, winner Raj Viswanathan and runner-up Barry Thorne.

Raj, Barry and Abdul will go on to represent GoAhead London in the 50th national Bus Driver of the Year competition, which takes place in Blackpool over the weekend of September 3 and 4.

Eric said: “The three finalists will receive extra training from my team.

“While we won’t know the exact manoeuvres until the

day, we can prepare the drivers as much as possible by giving them a chance to familiarise themselves with different types of vehicles and improve their accuracy of judgement by using obstacles to reverse around.

“I’m looking forward to seeing how they perform at Blackpool and I wish them all the best of luck!”

Incredible achievement as our employees take three out of nine awards

Saluting our winning trio at London Bus Awards A RECORD three Go-Ahead London employees were winners at this year’s TfL London Bus Awards – the highest of any bus company in the capital.

The awards were held at the Hilton London Bankside Hotel on July 14. There are only nine award categories, so for

the company to win three is a fantastic achievement.

Leon Daniels, TfL’s Managing Director of Surface Transport, hosted the event and said: “The capital’s red buses are the lifeblood of the city and play a significant role in keeping it working and growing.

“It is thanks to the day-in day-out pride and hard work of our staff, both in the driver’s seat and those in garages whom the public don’t see, that we meet this challenge.”

Congratulations to the Go-Ahead London winners, below...

n James Barlow Outstanding Newcomer – Bexleyheath garage James has proved to be adaptable and open-minded when looking at ways to solve problems.

He has worked with engineers to improve performance by getting to the root cause of issues and has developed solutions by working as one team.

n Claude Parchment Accessibility and Safety Champion – Stockwell garage Claude is Stockwell’s customer experience champion and has hosted several events with drivers, user groups and a school.

He regularly represents drivers at discussion groups and forums, demonstrating his commitment to providing an accessible bus network.

n Brendan Fleury Safety Champion – Northumberland Park garage Brendan has spent a lot of his own time with the Accident Prevention Manager working on ideas to reduce accident rates for new drivers. He has also worked with the management team to devise a refresher accident prevention training programme for drivers involved in incidents in their first year in the role.

T H E

H& S

C O L U M N

Safety reps – Who? What? Why?

By Tom McGlew DO YOU know who your local garage safety representative is? Did you know your local garage safety representative meets regularly with managers to discuss health and safety matters that affect you and your colleagues?

Did you know that the minutes of those meetings are displayed in the garage and are also available on the employee portal?

As Michael Caine never

said – “not a lot of people know that”.

Safety representatives are not appointed by managers but by your union. They fulfil an important role helping maintain and improve safety in garages by addressing the safety concerns of you and your colleagues.

Your local safety rep undertakes inspections of the workplace to identify hazards and assist with the risk assessment process.

They can undertake accident

investigations and cooperate with a Health and Safety Executive inspector.

When a new vehicle is proposed for a garage, the rep will be invited to the vehicle manufacturer for a preview where they can raise any concerns before production launches.

The safety rep is there to represent your interests.

The union will pay for specific training in health and safety to ensure the rep can carry out their full range

of duties and the company must ensure the rep is made available to attend training.

So, the benefits of having good safety reps working with managers to improve safety in garages is clear.

They provide a means by which your voice can be heard on health and safety.

They can, with appropriate training, confidently represent the safety needs and concerns of you, the colleagues they represent.

They help promote an open, transparent and just safety culture, which can only benefit all of us.

Stay safe.

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New garage opens its doors

RIVER Road garage was officially opened with the help of some distinguished dignitaries in July.

Go-Ahead Group Chief Executive David Brown and TfL Managing Director Leon Daniels were among the guests invited to the launch.

David said: “The opening of a new London bus garage is a rare event and I am proud of what my colleagues have achieved.”

The three-acre site represents a

£7m investment and is now home to approximately 425 drivers and 155 buses.

It is also home to Blue Triangle’s 12 day routes, one night route and 13 school routes, which were previously operated from Rainham garage.

Area General Manager Gavin Smith said: “Preparing the new site and moving the routes across from Rainham, which closed on July 1, was a massive project.

The whole team did a fantastic job and completed the project on time without

any disruption to the ongoing operation of the routes.

“River Road is in an area of massive development. More than 12,000 new homes are being created in Barking and so we are perfectly placed to acquire new bus routes.”

Leon Daniels said: “River Road is a welcome addition to the bus scene. It is a well-designed garage with good staff and maintenance facilities. I congratulate GoAhead London on a job well done.”

Green technology from the land of the pharoahs A FLEET of Egyptian hybrids arrived at Camberwell in April.

The MCV (Manufacturing Commercial Vehicles) and Volvo hybrids are being used on route 35, which runs from Dulwich to Aldgate, and route 40, from Shoreditch to Clapham Junction.

Camberwell Engineering Manager Mick Reavill said: “We are very pleased with the new vehicles.

The bodywork is made in Egypt and the chassis is from Volvo.

“They are £30,000 cheaper than conventional hybrids and the drivers love them.”

The garage is in the process of conducting a fuel consumption comparison between the new vehicles and the Alexander Dennis double-deck hybrids.

Mick added: “Go-Ahead London is always on the lookout for new products and we are delighted to be trialling these new hybrids at Camberwell.”

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The new faces ...and those in the team... on the move... u HASSAN RAZA Operating Manager New Cross ARSENAL fan Hassan previously worked as a Staff Manager and Operating Manager at Tower Transit bus and coach company.

Hassan said: “Having worked in the bus industry, I have a lot of transferable skills.

“I am a big believer in employee engagement and look forward to building a better relationship between the managers and drivers.”

In his spare time, Hassan enjoys playing cricket for an East London start-up team

and following Arsenal.

“I can’t wait for next season,” he said. “I think we’re going to win the league!”

u DANIEL CORBIN General Manager Putney, Waterside Way & Croydon Daniel likes to live life in the fast lane. The Formula One fan previously worked for Tower Transit bus and coach company where he was responsible for 900 drivers and 280 vehicles.

He said: “Working as an Operations Manager for Tower Transit has given me a good understanding of how the industry works and the issues that need to be dealt with on a daily basis.

“I am looking forward to meeting everyone in my team at Go-Ahead and getting the best out of them.”

When Daniel isn’t watching Lewis Hamilton challenging

for the Formula One title, he enjoys running “in stages”.

“I run for three months and then I stop,” he said. “I have completed the Tough Mudder challenge, though, and look forward to trying again next year!”

u JON VERALL General Manager Belvedere, Bexleyheath & Orpington FORMER Royal Mail Manager Jon is relishing his new post.

He spent 31 years in the mail industry, starting as a postman in Bromley before working his way up to Area Manager.

Jon said: “I’m really excited about joining Go-Ahead London and have long had an affinity for buses, especially the Routemaster. I grew up on the streets of South London jumping on and off them!

“The bus industry may be different to the one I’m used to but it all comes down to people and how you treat them and that is my number

one priority.”

In his spare time, Jon enjoys following Kent county cricket and Gillingham Football Club.

“The less said about the latter the better!” he joked.

u ANGIE RYDER Appeals & General Manager Waterloo NEW Appeals & Waterloo General Manager Angie Ryder is proud to be appointed to her new role.

She will work alongside Pat Mahon until he retires in September and will be based at the new Appeals Office in Merton.

Angie said: “I’m so pleased to be joining Waterloo, especially when it has been awarded the first fleet of electric buses in London.

“Pat has a wealth of experience and I’m looking forward to learning from him before he retires.”

Angie has worked in the London bus industry since 1987 and has worked as a General Manager for GoAhead London for the last four years, since it took over Northumberland Park Garage from FirstGroup.

She was most recently based at Belvedere, Bexleyheath and Orpington.

“I hope to pass on my experience to members of my team,” she said.

“As the manager responsible for appeals, I want to build good relationships with the trade unions and make the

disciplinary process as fair as possible.

“I would like to be seen as someone employees can trust, while safeguarding the company’s interests.”

In her spare time, Angie enjoys photography, supporting Arsenal Football Club and “getting away from it all” in the countryside. “I love walking in the Peak District and the Lake District – basically anywhere you can’t get a mobile phone signal!” she joked.

u STEVEN ROWE Schedules Manager Head Office SCHEDULE Compiler Steven Rowe has been promoted to Schedules Manager.

He said: “I feel very proud to be appointed to my new role.

I have learnt a lot in my nine years working as Schedule Compiler and look forward to making the schedules department the best that it can be.

“I aim to ensure that the Go-Ahead London schedules are reliable and cost-effective and I also want to build closer working relationships with the operational side of the business.”

Steven is a keen traveller and has a trip booked to Cuba

next year. “I want to go before it loses its character,” he said.

“I can’t wait to see all the classic cars!”

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Focus on... NORTHUMB

N

ORTHUMBERLAND Park is one busy garage.

Not only has it won the contract to operate route 76 from January 2017, it is also going through a series of development works.

Engineering Manager Carl Webber said: “There is lots going on here at the moment.

We won the new route, which will run from Northumberland Park to Waterloo, and we’ve also had an extension to the garage.”

The extension was previously used as a water pump house. Carl said: “The land has

got quite a bit of character. It is currently an additional parking area but we may develop it for the operating department.

“We have also changed the location of the garage entrance and exit to allow more buses to be parked on site. The fuel bays are being moved to prevent the roadway from being obstructed at peak times.

“It’s an exciting time to be at Northumberland Park and we look forward to running the new route in January.”

Daniel is relishing new role

Mentors making NEW Senior Garage Administrator Daniel Cutts has received a good grounding from Go-Ahead London.

He started as a Passenger Assistant on route 11 in 2013 before working his way up to Garage Administrator at Waterloo in 2014.

“I learnt so much in my role at Waterloo,” said Daniel. “I dealt with all aspects of garage life and it has proved to be a great stepping stone.”

In his new role, Daniel hopes to reduce

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lost mileage and build a closer relationship between the drivers and supervisors.

“I want the drivers to feel that they can approach me and to make sure we have a good rapport, especially when I’m calling them at 4am to come in for a shift!” he joked.

In his spare time, Daniel enjoys going to the gym and playing football. “I play three times a week and I also follow Arsenal Football Club,” he said. “I can’t wait for the new season to start!”

A NEW mentor team has been appointed at the garage.

It is made up of seven former Northumberland Park drivers, who were chosen for their excellent driving performance and attendance record.

Operating Manager Mark Cambridge said: “We wanted to create a strong structure for our new entrants and more experienced drivers. The mentors play a vital part in the progress of the department, whether it’s delivering inductions or providing accident prevention training.”

ERLAND PARK Garage Safer journeys NORTHUMBERLAND Park garage rolled out a twoweek accident prevention training programme in April.

Drivers with less than one year’s service, who had had two or more accidents, spent half a day with a leading mentor.

Accident Prevention Manager Ricky Field said: “The retraining was aimed at correcting bad habits and driving behaviours that have crept in since leaving the training school.

“We wanted to offer support and guidance to our drivers so that they could be more confident on the road.”

The mentor opened with a feedback session looking

at previous accidents before observing the driver on a one-hour drive, much like a driving test.

A debrief session followed to discuss and identify the driving faults which then led to a second one-hour drive under the mentor’s guidance to correct any faults observed in session one.

Ricky said: “We had some really good feedback.

A lot of accidents can be avoided and so we wanted the sessions to be an informative, positive experience.

“I am in the process of assessing the results and preparing a plan to move forward with the training.”

Imran is a knockout in new role!

the difference The mentors were trained at the driver training centre in Camberwell.

Mark said: “We’ve had some good feedback from the drivers.

Our mentors are experienced in all aspects of the job and so by providing the right support, they can give our drivers the confidence and skills they need on the road.”

Pictured from left, Patrick Brice, Paul Smith, Brendan Fleury, Syed Raza and Birku Dirik.

FORMER Docklands bus driver and boxing fan Imran Patel is learning the ropes in his new role as Accident Prevention Supervisor.

Imran was a driver for the company for six and a half years. He said: “Making the move to APS is a big step.

There is a lot to take in but I enjoy a challenge!

“My aim is to minimise the risk of accidents and give the drivers as much support as they need.”

In his free time, Imran loves to socialise with friends and family, explore new places and watch IBF heavyweight champion Anthony Josua defeat his opponents. "He's unstoppable," he said.

Retirements n Ali Malik and Javed Mirza.

TWO long-serving members of the Operating team retired in June.

Ali Malik gave nearly 46 years of service to London’s buses. He joined London Transport at West Ham in 1970 before enjoying a series of promotions.

He moved on to Capital Citybus at Northumberland Park in 1992 and stayed loyal to the garage through its transitions to FirstGroup and Go-Ahead London.

Javed Mirza completed 39 years of service

in the London bus industry. After working at London Transport for 15 years, he also joined Capital Citybus at Northumberland Park in 1992.

He later progressed into a supervisory position to become a Counter Supervisor with First and a Senior Garage Administrator with Go-Ahead London.

General Manager Nick Faichney said: “On behalf of the entire management team at Northumberland Park, I would like to wish Ali and Javed the best of health and good fortune as they begin their well-earned retirements.”

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Joining forces to help Fun for the more vulnerable all the A PIONEERING Metropolitan Police-led initiative to help vulnerable and disabled people was launched with the help of Sutton garage in June.

The campaign, which coincided with Learning Disability Week, is being backed by 30 statutory, voluntary and charitable organisations.

Sutton Operating Manager Glenn Woodman said: “Go-Ahead London is a major provider of public transport in Sutton.

“Bus travel is often the only means of public transport fully accessible to the more vulnerable members of our community and our drivers play a crucial role in enhancing the lives of people whose

mobility is impaired.”

As part of the campaign, the garage is promoting Bus Disability Days alongside the local police and Sutton Community Transport.

Glenn said: “These local events highlight some of the issues faced by members of our community.

“Whether it’s showing someone with learning disabilities the correct way to get off the bus or educating children about the dangers of strangers, our staff receive regular training to ensure a high level of travel experience and so we are pleased to be associated with the Metropolitan Police’s latest awareness initiative.”

Sutton Operating Manager Glenn Woodman, left, with Chief Superintendant Stringer of the Metropolitan police.

Tender NEWS from across the capital IN OUR regular column, we highlight recent announcements made by Transport for London.

All are retentions unless stated otherwise.

London Central n Route 42 (Liverpool Street to East Dulwich), using new battery

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hybrid double-deck vehicles (16 PVR).

Contract begins on October 1, 2016. n Route 89/N89 (Lewisham to Slade Green/N89 Trafalgar Square to Erith), using existing diesel double-deck vehicles (17 PVR). Contract begins on January 28, 2017. n Route 108/N108 (Lewisham to Stratford), using existing diesel singledeck vehicles, which will be transferred from routes 507/521 (17 PVR).

Contract begins on October 1, 2016. n Route 436 (Lewisham to Battersea Park), using existing battery hybrid double-deck vehicles (22 PVR).

Contract begins on November 19, 2016.

London General n Route 76/N76 (Tottenham Hale to

Waterloo), won from Arriva London North, using New Routemasters (25 PVR). Contract begins on January 28, 2017. n Route 476 (Northumberland Park to Euston), using existing diesel doubledeck vehicles (23 PVR). Contract begins on January 28, 2017.

Abellio West London n Route H26 (Feltham to Hatton Cross), using new diesel single-deck vehicles (5 PVR). Contract begins on January 7, 2017.

Arriva London North n Route 259 (Edmonton Green to King’s Cross), won from London General, using new battery hybrid double-deck vehicles (22 PVR).

Contract begins on March 25, 2017.

family at garage open day !

STOCKWELL bus garage will be opening its doors for a day of family fun on Saturday October 15.

There will be a range of buses on display – from vintage to electric – and any budding bus drivers can speak to staff at the recruitment stand to find out what the application process involves.

Communications Coordinator Greg French said: “The open days are a great way for the company to build a rapport with the public and we look forward to welcoming them to Stockwell in October.”

Any members of staff who would like to get involved in running the open day should contact the Communications Department on 020 8545 6105.

London United n Route 10/N10 (Hammersmith to King’s Cross), using existing New Routemasters (23 PVR). Contract begins on January 28, 2017. n Route 696 (Hayes to Bishop Ramsey School), using existing diesel double-deck vehicles (2 PVR). Contract begins on January 21, 2017.

Metroline n Route 235 (North Brentford to Sunbury), won from Abellio West London, using new diesel single-deck vehicles (20 PVR). Contract begins on January 7, 2017. n Route 237 (White City to Hounslow Heath), using existing diesel doubledeck vehicles (21 PVR). Contract begins on January 7, 2017.

Enjoying IRTE success

From left: Gordon Harrington, Robert Dalton, Perry Bignell, Earl Sutherland, Richard Harrington, Matthew Fleming and Gerry Fleming.

THREE Go-Ahead London engineers have become the first to gain their IRTE (Institute of Road Transport Engineers) Inspection Technician accreditation in-house.

Perry Bignell, Earl Sutherland and Matthew Fleming received IRTEC certificates in recognition of their engineering skills, knowledge and commitment to safety.

The engineers’ theoretical and practical skills were tested at the Stockwell Engineering Training Centre, which became an approved IRTE assessment centre in January this year.

The IRTEC accreditation scheme was established by the IRTE, the professional sector of the Society of Operations Engineers (SOE), after identifying a need for

technicians in road transport to be able to prove their skills and competence.

Engineering Training Manager Gerry Fleming said: “IRTEC qualifications are becoming the new industry standard and by achieving accreditation from them we can do more work in-house rather than paying for outside companies to complete inspections.”

Go-Ahead London's successful engineers: From left: Jamie Wright, Tom King, William Snell, Witold Wolski and Chris Wright.

ENGINEERS from Go-Ahead London have scooped two top awards and four runnerup places at the IRTE Skills Challenge 2016.

THE Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE) introduced the Skills Challenge in 2011, and Go-Ahead London has entered a team each year. Operators from the UK and Ireland test the skills of their technicians and apprentices against each other in a series of mechanical, electrical and bodywork tasks.

The tests took place at the S&B

Automotive Academy in Bristol on June 7 and the awards were presented on July 14 at the Jaguar Experience in Birmingham.

The Outstanding Team award went to Witold Wolski (Northumberland Park), Tom King (Orpington) and Chris Wright (Croydon). Chris also won the Top Scoring Mechanical Technician award.

The four runner-up awards were for: Top Scoring Bodywork Technician, Witold Wolski; Top Scoring Electrical Technician, Tom King; Top Scoring DVSA Inspection Apprentice and Top Scoring Mechanical

Apprentice, Jamie Wright (Stockwell).

Engineering Director Richard Harrington was at the presentation ceremony and said: “It's fantastic to see our colleagues picking up these awards and I'm very proud of all those who are willing to put themselves forward to represent GAL. It shows they have the confidence to test their skills against other technicians across the UK. “These results confirm my belief that we truly have some of the best engineers in the industry. I look forward to seeing others being encouraged to participate next year.”

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On the road to FACE career success

FACE 2

IN OUR Face 2 Face column, we chat to Oz Hassan, Assistant Operating Manager at Bexleyheath, who has worked for the company for six years. We ask Oz a series of light-hearted questions.

Q: Where would you go for a dream holiday?

A: The Seychelles or Mauritius. The colour of the sea and the tranquillity appeal to me.

Q: What’s your favourite TV programme?

A: The Wire. I love the reality of it and watched the whole series back-to-back.

THREE new Apprentice of the Year winners have been announced to celebrate the achievements of the company’s best engineering trainees.

Engineering apprentices spend three years learning the skills required to keep Go-Ahead London’s vehicles in top condition, through a combination of work and college-based training.

Congratulations to the winners who are: n First year apprentice – Sam Milledge n Second year apprentice – William Snell n Third year apprentice – Biruk Dawit.

They each received a certificate of recognition for “consistently demonstrating personal, professional and technical development”.

Six apprentices have recently completed and passed their three-year training period and have been appointed to the following roles: n George Issom - Technician n Biruk Dawit - Technician n Taylour Gravell - Technician n Mandinder Khatkar - Technician n Andre Grant - Technician n Leon Rennie – Storeman.

Q: What do you enjoy doing in your spare time?

A: I’m a drummer in two bands. Stick of Rock plays covers and Broken Chakra is a bit like the Red Hot Chilli Peppers.

I also enjoy track days on my motorbike.

Q: What would you do if you were invisible for a day?

A: I would love to play Vinnie Paul’s drum kit from Pantera – one of my favourite bands.

Q: As a child, what did you want to be when you grew up?

A: A drummer and a rock star. I’m halfway there!

Q: Who or what makes you laugh?

A: My wife, Becky, and daughter, Mia. Q: What do you enjoy most about your job?

A: Talking to people – we have a great team at Bexleyheath.

Q: Which band or singer would you like to see in concert?

A: I'd have loved to have seen Pink Floyd’s Wish You Were Here Tour or Black Sabbath.

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ECO Challenge – could you be a finalist?

FERRARIS, Porsches and Lamborghinis are just three of the supercars that 20 lucky Go-Ahead London drivers will be racing around the track in this year’s thrilling Eco Challenge!

Managing Director John Trayner will be selecting the 20 finalists in early September, based on the monthly RAG (Red, Amber and Green) scores, which include miles covered and acceleration counts.

There is still a last chance to qualify by becoming a driver of the month in August, the final month of the competition.

The chosen finalists will be heading to Vision Motorsport in Oxfordshire on

Wednesday September 14 for a series of exciting driving challenges.

In the afternoon session, the driver with the fastest rally drive in a 1.7 litre Ford Puma will win the top prize – a brand-new, eco-friendly Fiat 500 car.

Some quotes from drivers who participated last year included…“A complete adrenaline rush“…“This was a day not to be missed”…“A brilliant day”…“The best thing I’ve ever done in my life”.

So, if you want to take part in this oncein-a-lifetime driving experience, make sure your August RAG scores are your best ever!

Rewind 25 years...

1991

In this edition, we take a look at our private hire business 25 years ago, then fast forward to a bus-themed silver wedding celebration

August 1991

e c i p s e h t y t e i r Va of private hire

m to the hotel.” back later to return the cus, Cir te Sta w sco Mo ra buses for the WHAT do The company laid on ext Bakerloo line the and i ott de Park at var Hy in Pa rt no Lucia the Pavarotti conce viding pro as ll we as y, have in common? the end of Jul ent rec the en be for vice They have all a train replacement ser al’s ntr Ce on nd .

Lo 11 of st rs’ ‘custome Bakerloo Line on Augu service. tween the blossoming private hire The line was closed be Cross garage Oxford Circus and stle Since its move to New Ca Elephant and m fro ne go has hire e mpany ran a last year, privat on that day, and the co min Ad and vice. th, eng str em to strength uency replac ent ser s: “We are tube-freq ort rep this es ed Jam om n bo e Ala er hav s Manag Private booking s.” pher, gra oto ph er’s pp Cli e inundated with booking summer – Th s, act ntr co jor were ma , s rah ver Sa co The service er, and his bride, ove, to the Nic Coop ab ned and – ntio s me bu a se tho such as among those chartering take wedding e proved more hiring of a single bus to one-day excursions hav . tion ep rec to years. guests from church popular than for many scow doing are s ion Entertainers from the Mo urs exc ay “Sund the m fro ried fer re n James. we Ala d cus State Cir tremendously well,” sai to Battersea tel Ho e ied round lac rall e Pa hav ton ng es Kensi “Staff at the garag six of m tea a by things very well.”

Park for six weeks and we are managing s. ver dri al ntr Ce on oper, and his volunteer Lond Photographer Nic Co m the fro up m the g kin dding day pic we re ir “We we rah on the ing them to bride, Sa tak and 00 18 t ou ab at hotel in 1991. en we’d go Battersea,” said Alan. “Th

Nic and Sarah Cooper on their silver wedding anniversary with driver Neil Kidley.

the bus but Sarah was thrilled to see r hiring a idence. inc co a t jus EXACTLY 25 years afte s on thought it wa y, da ing dd we ir the for il and Routemaster As Sarah was telling Ne grapher Nic bus they had the s wa May 25, Bus Talk photo this t tha e nis De very same day, Nic got Cooper arranged for the hired on their wedding e, wif his and him e a bottle of d ene op bus – RM9 – to tak e on the bus and ridg tsb igh Kn in t ran tau lained that Sarah, to a res Champagne. He then exp ing dd we er silv ir for them the ally e eci rat to celeb the bus was there esp Outlaws to m ry. the rsa ive ing ann and would be tak ss Cro w Ne , Unknown to Sarah restaurant. ley and brilliant,” private hire driver Neil Kid “Neil and Denise were re we ker Ba e nis way to De s rfe res conduct Nic. “It was the pe ct lico station with said Pim at m the ry.” for rsa g ive itin wa celebrate our ann rah arrived, RM9. When Nic and Sa Nic and Sarah Cooper share a toast.

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ROUTE HISTORY...

“SING Michael, sing, on the route of the 19 bus,” begins a song by The Clash called 'Rudie Can’t Fail', which featured on their 1979 album ‘London Calling’.

The iconic route also found fame in the 1978 Dire Straights song ‘Wild West End’, which contains the line: “And my conductress on the number 19 …”

The route dates back to at least 1923, when the London General Omnibus Company operated an open-top NS-type bus with a route 19 plate.

Records show route 19 operating from Finsbury Park to Streatham Common in 1934.

Today, the route still starts in Finsbury Park but finishes at Battersea Bridge, passing through Islington, Angel, Haymarket, Piccadilly Circus, Knightsbridge and King's Road.

In 1993, route 19 became the first Routemaster-operated service to be awarded to

A Route 19 bus in 1923. a company that was not a subsidiary of London Buses Limited. Kentish Bus was awarded the contract for five years after a competitive tender.

The buses were painted in the company’s cream and maroon livery with route branding.

The operation was taken over by Arriva London South in 1998 and the buses reverted to traditional London Bus red to comply with the TfL requirement for all their services to be at

A Route 19 Kentish bus.

least 80 per cent red.

London General won the tender to run route 19 from March 31, 2012, for seven days per week, using new Wright Eclipse Gemini 2-bodied Volvo B5LHs and B9TLs. Stockwell garage originally operated the service, which has a peak vehicle requirement of 26, but in March 2015 half of the buses moved to Northumberland Park.

Stockwell also operates the N19 night service.

Stockwell driver Sanjay Jani has driven on routes 19 and N19 since 2004, and transferred to Go-Ahead London when the company took over the service four years ago. Sanjay said: “It suits me to drive the late shifts as my wife is disabled and it means I can help her during the day. In the evening, other family members are free to spend time with her.

“I know most of the passengers on the route and they know me. There’s always something going on, so every day is different. There are often

Route 19 driver Sanjay Jani. diversions due to roadworks or protests but, as I know the route so well, I can cope with anything that’s thrown at me!”

A Route 19 hybrid bus today.

Retirement n Jim Grover, Controller, New Cross.

FORMER New Cross Controller Jim Grover is enjoying a wellearned retirement after more than 40 years in the bus industry.

Jim joined London Transport as a driver at New Cross in the early seventies, then went on to become an Inspector at Selkent, covering the New Cross and Lewisham area. He was later appointed Assistant Operating Manager at Selkent’s new Plumstead garage.

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After a spell working for Metrobus, Jim joined London Central’s Bexleyheath garage in February 2001. Later that year, he moved to New Cross garage where he was appointed Road Operating Supervisor.

Jim remained at New Cross until his retirement this year on June 21.

General Manager for Service Performance Bradley Faithfull said: “We wish Jim all the best in his retirement and we will miss him working alongside us.”

Controller Jim Grover, left, with Bradley Faithfull.

Employee Commendations BELVEDERE n ROUTE 669 driver Dean Golding has been praised for helping a boy who was sick on his bus. “He is a credit to your company.” n “CONSIDERATE” driver Michael Murrell has been recognised for his great customer service on route 180.

“The world needs more people like him.” n “FANTASTIC” driver Daniel Taylor has been commended for helping an elderly man on route 244.

BEXLEYHEATH n CLEOPHASE Mayembo impressed a customer on route N89. “He drove very smoothly.” n “KIND and thoughtful” driver Jerome Morgan has been praised for helping an elderly lady on route 89. “A big thank you to someone who made a difference.” n ROUTE 89 driver Adriano CostaLucas has been thanked by a customer who was having problems with their Oyster card. “He had a caring and kind attitude.”

CAMBERWELL n JENNIFER Scoon has been commended for her friendly and helpful attitude on route X68. n A VERY relieved customer has thanked route 355 driver Richard Campbell for reuniting her with her phone, which she left on his bus. “He went out of his way to help me.” n “PERFECT drivers” Ashenafi Alemayehu and Fenton Lewis have been commended by a customer on route X68. n ROUTE 45 driver Michael Henry has been commended for giving helpful information over the PA system.

CROYDON n ROUTE 127 driver Salvatore Landolina has been thanked for the “great professionalism” he showed when floods caused a major emergency on Streatham Road. “He was polite, friendly and kept all his passengers informed.” n LYNN Archer has been praised for her driving and politeness on route 202.

“She is a credit to the company.” n ROUTE 293 driver Przemyslaw Olejniczak has been commended for helping a customer and her daughter, who was in a wheelchair.

MANDELA WAY n “DEPENDABLE and nice” route 100 drivers have been commended by a customer. “I wanted to say thanks.” n “SMILEY and friendly” driver Edmond Kamara has been commended for his professional attitude on route 1.

MERTON n “YOUR driver was kind, helpful and informative,” said a customer about route 44 driver Witold Szuber. n ROUTE 118 driver Martin Stevens has been thanked by a very relieved customer after he reunited her son with his bag, which he had left on the bus.

“He was charming, helpful and a real pleasure to deal with.” n “CONSCIENTIOUS and caring” driver Edward Wamala has been commended by a customer on route 219. n A RELIEVED customer has thanked route 270 driver Victor Shearman for reuniting her with her phone, which she had left on his bus. n ROUTE 44 driver Stuart Askew has been praised for his “incredibly smooth driving”.

NEW CROSS n “I WAS absolutely astounded by the exceptional service I received,” said a customer after being reunited with their wallet thanks to route 21 driver Anthony Dwyer and Controller Hern Pun. n “I HAVE never been so impressed by a driver’s manners,” said a customer about route 436 driver Zillion Addy.

“He deserves to be recognised for his excellent attitude.” n ROUTE 108 driver Jorge Monteiro has been commended for his excellent customer service. n PETER Cox has been recognised for delivering “perfect service” on route 321.

NORTHUMBERLAND PARK n VAKKAS Doldur has been commended for his professionalism on route 20. “A very good driver.”

PECKHAM n “BRILLIANT driver” Earl de Bellotte has been praised for his friendly and professional attitude on route 63. n JOSEPH Raphael impressed a customer on route 63. “He deserves recognition for the kindness he showed while waiting for people to board the bus.”

n “ABSOLUTE gentleman” Victor Hanchard has been commended for his attitude on route 63. n P12 driver Michael Jaikaran has been thanked for waiting for a family to board the bus. “He is always polite.”

PUTNEY n ROUTE 14 driver Ping Chan has been commended for helping a customer who had fainted on the bus. “The driver called an ambulance, gave me a banana and offered his bag as a pillow. He is my hero.” n “AMAZING” driver Marco Gaspar De-Almeida has been praised by a customer on route 85.

RIVER ROAD, BARKING n “SHE is the best and cares passionately about her passengers,” said a customer about route EL2 driver Amelia Justin. n ALL 193 drivers have been commended for their polite and cheerful attitude. “Best staff ever.”

STOCKWELL n ROUTE 249 driver Sean McFarlane has been praised for his courteous attitude. n TINA Reynolds has been commended for her polite and professional attitude on route 11. “This lady is doing wonderful work.” n “INCREDIBLY friendly and helpful” driver Otis Williams has been recognised for his courteousness on route 315. n ROUTE 249 driver Francisco Neto has been thanked for his “outstanding customer service”.

SUTTON n “AMAZINGLY caring and kind” route 213 driver Lee Marshall impressed a customer after he found her new phone and zip pass, which she had left on his bus. n “PATIENT” driver Satheeskumar Naganathan has been commended for his calm driving on route 93. “What a star!”

WATERSIDE WAY n “PATIENT and knowledgeable” Finbarr McCarthy has been commended for his professional attitude on route 39. “One of the politest drivers I have seen.”

You can see the latest driver commendations on Go-Ahead London’s Twitter account (@Go_Ahead_London) or by searching for #GoodGALbusdriver

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Cancer charity proves to be the real winner...

GO-AHEAD London was on the ball when it raised more than £500 at a charity football tournament in June.

Four garages took part in the Bob Longley charity cup, which was set up in memory of the well-loved Merton driver who passed away in 2011.

Merton driver and organiser Scott Horney said: “It was a great event. After a well-fought final between Merton and Sutton, Sutton scored a penalty to win 1-0!”

Orpington and Crawley played for third place with Crawley winning on penalties.

Scott added: “We were delighted to raise money for Cancer Research and I look forward to the next event!”

Luckily, football fans won’t have to wait long to parade their pins on the pitch. On September 4, there will be a six-a-side charity match at Tooting and Mitcham football club.

“The tournament is open to all GoAhead London staff and costs £10 to

enter,” said Scott.

“We are raising money for premature baby and cancer charities. We have already made £38,000 since we started fundraising 10 years ago and would love to hit £40,000.

“We look forward to seeing as many staff as possible come along and show their support.”

For more information on how to enter, please contact Scott at scott.horney@ galbuses.com or on 07989 109169.

Children enjoy day out at bus garage A GROUP of special needs schoolchildren had a day out to remember thanks to the staff at New Cross garage in June.

Nine pupils from Drumbeat School in Downham were driven through the garage on an open-top bus before being taken out in an old Routemaster.

Assistant Operating Manager Brian Goodger said: “The children enjoyed the visit very much.

“They met everyone in the garage and loved being on the open-top bus.

I think their favourite part was being driven through the bus wash – they enjoyed it so much we took them through it again!”

The children had lunch in the canteen before being dropped back at school.

Brian added: “The union gave each of the children a badge commemorating 110 years of New Cross Garage.

“The teachers said it was a fantastic experience for the pupils and we were pleased to have been able to help.”

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New Cross Assistant Operating Manager Brian Goodger, right, with garage staff, and teachers and pupils from Drumbeat School.