Coach & Bus Week : Issue 1079

Wednesday March 20, 2013 Issue 1079 | £2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com

COACH:

RATP Group expands by buying Selwyns of Runcorn p5

PEOPLE:

A preview & extract of Peter Nash's new 'Push Once' book p24

Inside this week...

Minibus

BUS:

DfT ups the ante with multi-operator ticketing guidance p5

ROADTEST:

Plaxton's popular Cheetah minicoach put through its paces p40

for recruitm

JOB ADVE ent EVERY WERTS EK

RECRUIT N

OW

Tanat slashes its bus fleet age profile p16

Cover.indd 1

18/03/2013 18:15

681629-1079-Quartix

11/3/13

14:41

Page 1

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 3

this week

Coach & Bus Week, 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@coachandbusweek.com Editor Gareth Evans 01733 293243 gareth.evans@coachandbusweek.com Deputy Editor Andrew Cream 01733 293482 andrew.cream@coachandbusweek.com Technical & Minibus Editor Martin Cole 01733 293245, 07885 692144 martin.cole@coachandbusweek.com News Reporter James Day 01733 293244 james.day@coachandbusweek.com News Reporter Alex Tyler 01733 293240 alex.tyler@coachandbusweek.com Art Director Keith Simpson Contributors Tim Deakin, Ray Wilkes, Richard Charnley, Alan Payling

ADVERTISING, MARKETING & EVENTS Advertising & Marketing Manager Ian Gillis 01733 293484 ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com Coach & Bus Market Advertising Manager Jade Cassidy 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com Advertising Executive Brian Winterton 01733 293488 brian.winterton@coachandbusweek.com Advertising Production June Barnard 01473 858761 june@adsproduction.co.uk

SUBSCRIPTIONS & circulation Subscriptions & Circulation Manager Samantha Noble 01733 293480 samantha.noble@coachandbusweek.com Annual subscription rate for 51 issues: UK £85, Europe/Eire £140, USA and RoW £295 ONLINE £44.95

www.coachandbusweek.com ISSN: 1351-3877 © 2013 Coach and Bus Week Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or system or in any means without the written permission of the directors. This is considered a breach of copyright and action will be taken where this occurs. This magazine must not be lent, sold, hired or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condition or in any authorised cover by way, or by trade, or annexed to any publication or advertising matter without first obtaining written permission from the directors.

Multi-operator ticketing – take the lead, DfT

L

ast week the Department for Transport (DfT) released guidance for local authorities on introducing multi-operator ticketing (p5).

Principally, the increased implementation of multi-operator ticketing in the country should bring benefits to the passenger and therefore increase patronage. Those I have spoken to within the industry, including Giles Fearnley and David Martin, have been positive about the concept and are keen to see more of it.

It is not, however, something which can be implemented cost-free. Local Authorities (LAs) have already had their budgets tightened dramatically and costs like smartcards, marketing and the like make it a serious investment.

I’m sure authorities can apply for funding for such projects under schemes like LSTF, but if LAs are unsuccessful, or choose to bid for a separate project, I can imagine many areas won’t be interested until restraints on budgets are alleviated somewhat.

If the benefits of multioperator ticketing are so

apparent, and important to the economy in general, would it not be wise for the DfT to seek out potential projects and award specific funding to get the schemes off the ground? If the government is not prepared to take a risk on such projects, I can’t see why councils would be.

Elsewhere, RATP has expanded its operations in the UK with the acquisition of Selwyns Travel. I think it’s safe to say the French state-owned operator has an eye for a well-run business, with its portfolio already featuring Epsom Coaches and the Bath Bus Company.

Overseas companies are often looked at with more than a hint of scepticism when expanding in the UK, but while Selwyns is a coach firm, the slow but steady expansion of RATP could make the ‘big 5’ sit up and take notice. Perhaps they have learnt from the mistakes of another French operator’s time in the UK… We’ll be turning our focus to RATP at the start of May with a dedicated issue and it will be very interesting to see what else is in the pipeline.

Andrew Cream Deputy Editor

CONTENTS 4

20

29

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

14

Wheel loss & policing alcohol onboard hit McKendry Coaches

22

Cheetah test drive, the rundown on Optare’s Bonito & the latest news

What’s happening across the country’s regions. Plus Events Diary

18

A preview of Peter Nash’s book on life in the bus industry, ‘Push Once’

26

A lighthearted look at the industry.

Plus Office Diary column

Tanat Valley’s £850,000 investment in 10 new buses slashes age profile

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

All the latest people moves from across the industry

News

Regional News News Focus

Legal News

Book Preview Deliveries

Minibus

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 Coach and Bus Week Ltd.

For all your relief coach driver needs call us today 0845 2416 288 www.justcoachdrivers.com www.coachandbusweek.com

Contents.indd 3

18/03/2013 17:38

4 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

news

“We chose the Solo because of the good experience we had with earlier models in our 34-strong fleet, both MAN & Cummins powered...”

Mike Morris Tanat Valley

CBW would like to correct an error made in the Abellio Battersea Depot feature in issue 1077. The vehicle lifts used were mistakenly labelled as Stertil Koni products, when they were in fact manufactured by Somerstotalkare.

Wales has a new Transport Minister after First Minister Carwyn Jones announced he had reshuffled his cabinet on Thursday.

Edwina Hart (Labour, Gower) is now responsible for the Economy, Science and Transport, while her predecessor Carl Sargeant (Labour, Alyn & Deeside) has moved to Housing and Regeneration.

The UK Bus Awards Conference, which was due to take place this week, has been cancelled. A spokesman told CBW: “The decision was taken with great reluctance. However, it became clear that day-to-day demands on managers are restricting their ability to take time out for professional networking and the study of best practice. Much of this is due to the current economic climate and consequent pressures.”

Further to our story in last week’s issue entitled ‘Elcock Reisen Transport Manager suspended’, Nick Prince has said he would be grateful if we could clarify some of the content. “As the article states, I am suspended until May 1, when I will apply again to continue my role as Transport Manager,” he told CBW. “What your article does not state, but which Traffic Commissioner Nick Jones said in his report, was “that we can continue to operate during this three month period as we are. The reasons for this are the length of my suspension, which I believe to be one of the shortest a TC has given out. The other reason is that my fellow Director Pete Taylor has recently passed his CPC to become a Transport Manager, a role which when I have applied again we will share. This experience has had a tremendous impact on not only this company, but myself and the other Directors.” As we reported, the article made no suggestion that the matter has affected the renowned operator’s repute or professional competence. www.coachandbusweek.com

News4,5.indd 4

Growth in sales and profits for Shearings The Group’s continued diversification is helping to broaden its appeal Shearings Group reportedly carried a million passengers in 2012, up 3.6% over the previous year.

The Wigan-based Group, which provides holidays and hotel breaks for the over 50s market, experienced an increased revenue of £195.7m and a profit of £5.5m for the 12 months to December 31, 2012. This saw a further £5.4m reduction in net debt to £9.7m at year end.

In a statement, the firm said the continued diversification of

its domestic and overseas holiday offering – which spans everything from West End theatre breaks to escorted tours and river cruises around Europe – was helping the Group broaden its appeal and acquire new customers.

Efficiency initiatives had resulted in significantly improved profitability across the Group, with its holidays and hotels businesses both making a strong contribution.

Passenger volumes were particularly strong at the Group’s value focused brands, National Holidays and Caledonian Travel.

The firm’s ‘Showtime’

A Shearings Grand Tourer is seen in Newcastle upon Tyne

Guide Dogs gives evidence at TSC inquiry Guide Dogs’ Chief Executive, Richard Leaman, appeared as a witness before Transport Select Committee to give evidence to the Committee’s inquiry on Access to Transport for People with Disabilities.

Leaman appeared on a panel with representatives from other groups of transport users – the National Pensioners Convention, Action on Hearing Loss and Trailblazers, a national network of young disabled people. All witnesses agreed that while there have been improvements in recent

years, much remains to be done before the transport network is fully accessible.

Leaman talked about the importance of consistency in accessibility arrangements, pointing out that people who are blind or partially sighted do not consider their journeys based on local authority boundaries. He explained that provision is patchy, particularly around staff training and enforcement of current accessibility laws.

When Committee Member Adrian Sanders MP asked Leaman what one thing he would do to improve transport accessibility, he replied that installing audio visual announcement systems on buses would benefit the travelling public the most.

entertainment-led short break programme continued to expand and the Group as a whole was able to develop more ‘event focused’ products around the Jubilee and Olympics.

Shearings’ 50-strong hotel portfolio, operating under the Bay and Coast & Country brands, sold almost two million bednights during the period, increasing its occupancy rate to an annual average of 82%. Facilities and rooms were further upgraded during 2012 as part of a wider £3.6m investment programme.

Shearings plans to invest further in its hotels, with a £3.5m refurbishment programme due for 2013, alongside a planned £7m investment for its coach fleet funded by a new £11m leasing agreement.

Denis Wormwell, CEO, said: “The Group made good strategic progress in 2012 and delivered much improved results. We’re targeting a large and attractive market across a demographic which continues to expand. By combining a marketleading position in escorted tours and a growing UK leisure hotel business, we’re confident we can continue to further improve performance in the coming year.”

STEVE HODGSON

briefly

Fleet Update p16

Tories back bridges plan

Tories in the Welsh Assembly have proposed cutting tolls on the Severn crossings and using the proceeds to spend on infrastructure.

Both bridges are run by a private firm and the Welsh government has said it should take control when they return to public ownership. On Friday, Tory Transport Spokesman Byron Davies AM put forward options for the future of the bridges.

They include keeping the existing toll structure and using the money raised to invest in infrastructure projects. He also proposed a lower flat rate toll to cover the cost of maintaining the bridges.

18/03/2013 17:13

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 5

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

RATP acquires Selwyns Travel RATP Dev UK has purchased Selwyns Travel, which has more than 200 staff across depots in Manchester, Runcorn and St Helens, for an undisclosed sum. The Runcorn-based firm will continue to operate as an independent division of RATP Dev UK under its Managing Director Selwyn Jones.

Selwyns, which has a turnover of £15m, was founded in 1968 and operates a fleet of 90 vehicles with clients including local authorities, National Express, Barclays and Emirates.

Selwyn Jones said: “We’ve had lots of approaches over the years but the time was right to sell

New Door to Door Strategy from DfT

The DfT has launched its Door to Door Strategy, which is aimed at encouraging more people to use public transport.

Figures show 54% of Britons who need to travel less than five miles will use their car. For longer journeys this increases to 80%.

The strategy focuses on four areas which need to be addressed so people can be confident in choosing greener modes of transport: 1: Accurate, accessible and

and the deal opens up a world of opportunities. Selwyns will operate as we always have, providing a fantastic service to our clients.

Being able to tap into the expertise and experience of the team at RATP Dev will give the business a major advantage over the competition.”

Steve Whiteway, Area Director North for RATP Dev UK, said: “Selwyn and his team have built an excellent business which fits well with our strategy to run highquality public transport services and we look forward to working with them”

A Selwyns Runcorn Plaxton Cheetah reliable information about different transport options for their journey; 2: Convenient and affordable tickets, for an entire journey; 3: Regular and straightforward connections at all stages of the journey and between different modes of transport; 4: Safe and comfortable transport facilities.

It also sets out how the Government is encouraging behaviour change by helping reduce or remove barriers to the use of sustainable transport.

Norman Baker said: “Helping people use ‘greener’ modes will help create growth, cut carbon and ease congestion. To make it happen we need it to become as easy as

jumping into the car. This strategy pulls together, for the first time, a whole range of different areas of work aimed at making sustainable transport a viable option for everybody.”

The strategy cites practical examples of schemes which are already making it easier for passengers to access public transport, including South Yorkshire’s multi-operator ticket which is valid on buses, trams and trains and the Leeds Cycle point scheme.

The strategy can be viewed at https://www.gov.uk/ government/publications/doorto-door-strategy

DfT releases multi-op ticketing guidance The DfT has released guidance for local transport authorities on planning and implementing multioperator ticking services.

In Norman Baker’s foreword, he outlined the important role multi-operator ticketing can play in delivering “a clear vision for a better bus service that offers more of the attributes that we know passengers want, such as more punctual, interconnected services”.

Baker cited Oxford as an example of multi-operator ticketing working efficiently and stated the DfT wants to see similar schemes in the UK. The guidance covers the benefits of multi-operator ticketing, providing examples of effective schemes; steps needed to take when planning a multioperator ticketing scheme; staying compatible with competition law; marketing, staff training and testing; and how to review and extend schemes in the future.

Benefits are cited as increased patronage, and the obvious additional benefits that brings, and increased competition by reducing barriers to entry for smaller operators.

The guidance has been produced in association with ALBUM, ATCO, Bath & North East Somerset Council, CBT, the Competition Commission, OFT, Passenger Focus and the University of Hertfordshire.

View the guidance at http:// tinyurl.com/ctdu7sg

Vehicle Inspection & Maintenance Compliance Services

If you would like further information please call 01543 897505 or visit www.lloydmorgangroup.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com

News4,5.indd 5

18/03/2013 17:14

6 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

3

news › BUSeS

Number of new Optare Solo SRs acquired by Tanat Valley Coaches

briefly Lothian Buses is to raise its Adult Single fare by 10p to £1.50 from Sunday (March 24). Other fares will remain unchanged. The firm said ‘significant enhancements’ to a number of its services will also take place from this date, including enhanced frequencies on its most popular routes and improved Sunday services. Ian Craig, MD, said: “The continued expansion of our network has created another 30 full-time jobs which is only possible by our customers’ continued strong support.”

Organisers have confirmed the popular Potteries Rally & Running Day will take place at Wedgwood Visitor Centre, Barlaston, Stoke-on-Trent, on Sunday, May 19. Free tours to local destinations will depart at five or 10-minute intervals throughout the day. Preserved buses, classic cars and commercials will be on display.

Trade stands are invited for a small fee. Visit http://potteriesomnibus. wordpress.com/rallies/ The Isle of Man’s Department of Community, Culture and Leisure (DCCL) has defended its use of external CCTV on buses. It comes after the Data Protection Supervisor (DPS) revealed he had served an enforcement notice on state-owned Bus Vannin when he learned cameras had been collecting footage of people on private property. Iain McDonald said the external CCTV on buses had been filming people up to 45 feet away, and accused the DCCL of breaching a European privacy convention.

The DCCL said CCTV is vital for public and passenger safety and front-facing cameras need a longer range to record incidents. It said footage is destroyed after 56 days and is only viewed in response to specific incidents. While it did not tell the public of its plans, other agencies were consulted in advance. It pointed out it put signs on buses to tell people they were being filmed but said it disagreed with the DPS about exactly what the signs should look like. The DCC also said it is appealing against the enforcement notice but will keep the cameras rolling while the issue is resolved. www.coachandbusweek.com

News6,7.indd 6

New ADL & Volvo hybrids for NXWM Operator acquires a mixture of ADL and Volvo hybrids complete with next stop announcements National Express West Midlands (NXWM) has unveiled 20 new hybrid buses, representing a £3.9m investment.

The vehicles – 10 ADL Enviro400Hs and 10 Wrightbodied Volvo B5LHs – were launched at the Beacon Centre for the Blind by MPs Ian Austin and Pat McFadden, Peter Coates, Managing Director of NXWM, and John McNicholas, Chairman of

Centro. Significantly, they feature next-stop announcement techology, an invaluable aid to the blind. The new buses, which will operate on the number 1 service between Wolverhampton and Dudley, will also be distinctive in appearance, with a bright green front and falling leaves down their side to represent the environmental benefits they will provide for the area.

NXWM MD Peter Coates said: “These new vehicles will make a big difference to Dudley and Wolverhampton. They will make transport easier for customers

Left to right: Mayor of Dudley Melvyn Mottram, Pat McFadden MP, Ian Austin MP, Chairman of the Beacon Centre for the Blind Ken Bullock, NXWM MD Peter Coates and Centro Chairman John McNicholas

MAN gas bus trial for Newport Newport Transport is piloting an MAN gas bus from March 25 in an eight-week trial.

Scott Pearson, Managing Director of Newport Transport, said: “This is a milestone for public transport in Wales and a very exciting pilot for us to be involved in. As one of the main bus operators in Wales it is important to us that we use buses of innovation and this particular MAN bus certainly represents that.

“We know bus operators across

Wales are finding it a challenge to run services and keep fares low because of the rising cost of fuel.

Gas buses offer the potential to experiment with new alternatives to these traditional fuel sources which are more economical and also better for our customers in terms of their experience in the vehicle.”

The first MAN gas bus in Wales

with sight and hearing loss as well as reducing the amount of carbon emitted by an impressive 440 tonnes a year. We are really proud of these state of the art vehicles and we hope that the people of Dudley and Wolverhampton will be too.”

Asked about the branding, which appears to be far more pleasing on the eye than that hitherto seen on the firm’s bus fleet, Jack Kelly, NXWM’s Head of External Communications, confirmed to CBW the branding had been designed by Adam Rideout.

All of the latest hybrids work out of Wolverhampton Garage.

They replace Dennis Tridents. Jack said the “vast majority” have now arrived.

He added: “The drivers have been given special training, we have brought in drivers from elsewhere who are familiar with the technology to give them a good grounding. It’s been a very good programme lead by our Operations Director Simon Mathieson.

“As for the engineering side, we have a lot of expertise within the Group with these vehicles so there have been no problems there. Also, we are hoping these buses will increase patronage and there’s really a sense of renewed pride in the route – we’ve made every effort to get everybody as involved as possible.”

Paul Gardner, Key Account Manager for MAN Bus and Coach UK, said: “MAN is excited to be working with Newport Transport.

MAN currently has over 8000 gas buses operating in various countries around the world, so our technology is already well-proven over many years.

“Now, increasingly, leading UK operators are seeing the advantages to their passengers, the environment and their bottom line. We are convinced that Newport Transport driver and passenger feedback will be positive, and the company will soon join other high profile operators bringing the economic and environmental benefits of the gas bus to their regions.”

18/03/2013 17:43

82%

The occupancy rate in Shearings’ hotel portfolio

Delaine Good Friday Running Day Delaine Buses is to celebrate the 40th anniversary of the delivery of its Leyland Atlantean 72 (ACT540L) by using it in scheduled public service on its Bourne to Peterborough route on Good Friday March 29.

Delaine’s other ‘heritage’ vehicles, Willowbrook-bodied Leyland PD2 no.45 (KTL780) dating from 1956 and Yeates-bodied Leyland PD3 no.50 (RCT3) will share the heritage duties on the 101 service with the firm’s Atlantean.

The Atlantean will operate the 0930, 1130. 1330 and 1530hrs departures from Bourne to Peterborough and the 1030, 1230, 1430 and 1530 departures from Peterborough. The Leyland PDs will share duties on the 1030, 1230 and 1430 departures from Bourne and the 1130, 1330 and 1530 return departures from Peterborough.

Day Rover tickets, costing £5 and offering unlimited travel all day on Delaine services, are available and Delaine’s modern Wright Gemini and East Lancs-bodied Volvos will operate other services on the route on the same day.

Perhaps of note to better halves is that the traditional Friday street Market in Stamford is being held on the same day. Stamford is of course, served by Delaine routes 201 from Bourne and 201 from Peterborough.

For full details, visit www.delainebuses.com

STEVE HODGSON

Go North East strike called off Industrial action by members of the UNITE trade union employed

by Go North East (GNE) has been called off.

On March 11, the operator confirmed its drivers were to strike after receiving notification from the union on March 8. It said 970 of its 1,645 drivers had chosen not to support the strike, either through voting against it or not voting at all. However, following lengthy discussions between the company

News6,7.indd 7

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 7

£908k

The sum awarded to Manchester Community Transport

by TfGM towards the purchase of Optare Solo SR hybrids

SHARE WATCH

Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, March 18. Go-Ahead saw the greatest proportional rise, while Optare saw the greatest proportional drop.

Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk

382.60p

Price: Year High: 385.30p Year Low: 268.52p

The Tilling Green base livery of the vehicles is similar to that which was used on Bath buses from the 1940s to the 1970s

Bath Bus Company’s new Bath to Bristol Airport service The Bath Bus Company is due to start running its new Bath to Bristol Airport service this Sunday (March 24).

The commercially operated service will run almost around the clock every hour – except between midnight and 0300hrs. Five Alexander Alx400-bodied Volvo B7TLs have been acquired from fellow RATP-owned firm London United. Numbered A501-5, they are registered SK52 URX / URY / USG / USH / USJ. The buses have been painted Tilling Green, the colour of Bath buses from the 1940s to 1970s but with lime green roof and bold branding for the service.

Numbered A4, the route happens to fit with other bus services to the airport from Bristol itself, but is appropriate as this route

follows the A4 road from Bath via Keynsham and Saltford, which forms a quality corridor as part of the local authorities’ Quality Partnership Scheme. The route then turns off the A4 to follow the South Bristol ring road to the airport.

The vehicles have been modified to include luggage racking on the lower deck and some seating with tables upstairs. Video screens will provide information and advertising on board.

Martin Curtis, Managing Director of the Bath Bus Company told CBW: “The service has been warmly welcomed by residents, the tourist industry – as no direct link with Bath currently exists – and political leaders. Bristol Airport itself is growing rapidly with six million passengers expected to use the terminals this year.”

Go North East drivers look set to see a gradual increase in pay totalling 4.5%, with the full amount coming into effect on July 1

0.5% from April 1, 2013 and a final 2% from July 1, 2013. GNE said the increase in the revised offer is to be funded through productivity improvements which will be the subject of further negotiation.

Martin Harris, GNE Commercial Director, said: “We’re pleased the union has decided to suspend its industrial action. This means our customers will experience normal services on March 18 and 23.

“We believe the offer to be better than has been agreed in any other bus firm in the region. It represents a good deal in the current climate.

I welcome the fact the union is to recommend it to our drivers.”

The result of the ballot should be known on March 26.

and the union on the night of March 13, union members are to be balloted on a revised pay deal.

The revised offer consists of three parts: a 2% increase backdated to July 1, 2012, a further

202.55p

Price: Year High: 300.60p Year Low: 174.60p

1513.5p

Price: Year High: 1513.5p Year Low: 1074.0p

214.70p

Price: Year High: 256.20p Year Low: 162.90p

310.15p

Price: Year High: 321.50p Year Low: 227.90p

0.37p

Price: Year High: 0.93p Year Low: 0.26p

45.50p

Price: Year High: 46.98p Year Low: 36.00p

83.55p

Price: Year High: 85.26p Year Low: 62.29p

13.88p

Price: Year High: 20.00p Year Low: 8.50p

+14.70 on last week

+5.45 on last week

+62.50 on last week

+7.85 on last week

+5.75 on last week

-0.03 on last week

-0.50 on last week

+0.40 on last week

-0.37 on last week

FTSE 100

6,452

Index: Year High: 6,498 Year Low: 5,260

-45

on last week

www.coachandbusweek.com

18/03/2013 17:44

8 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

news › coaches

“The fact that she dealt with her driver by the issue only of a warning, when the court found him to have turned a blind eye, I find to be very surprising.”

Simon Evans Deputy Traffic Commissioner

briefly Cramond Coaches, based in West Harbour Road, Granton is facing trial accused of employing drivers who were not properly licensed or insured. The firm pleaded not guilty to 20 separate charges at Edinburgh Sheriff Court. It is further accused of refusing to provide company and driver records to a police officer conducting an inspection at its premises in September last year.

The operator is also charged with failing to install a fire extinguisher and first aid kit in a bus. A spokesman told The Scotsman it was “100% confident” of being found not guilty. The trial is set for September.

Drainage improvements which began March 15 on the M11 at North Weald, Essex are expected to be complete by March 27. The following lane closures are scheduled on the M11 between Junctions 7 and 6: Southbound lane 3 is closed 24 hours a day until work is complete for safety reasons while Southbound lane 2 closures are limited to overnight between 2000 and 0600hrs when work is taking place.

Overnight resurfacing on the M60 starts on March 25 and is expected to take up to four nights with at least two nights involving a full clockwise carriageway closure between junction 11 and junction 12. Work will be carried out between 2200 and 0500hrs.

No work will take place over Easter between March 28 and April 2.

When the road is fully closed a diversion route will be in place from junction 9 – via the A5081 Parkway and A576 Tenax Road and Gilda Brook Road up to the M602 and Eccles Interchange. An alternative diversion is also available from junction 11 using the A57 Liverpool Road through Eccles and then Gilda Brook Road onto the M602.

Work has started on the A259 near Brookland in Kent, due to be completed by March 28. Work is being carried out between 2000 and 0600hrs with the road closed in both directions between the Brenzett roundabout and Camber Road. A diversion route is in place. www.coachandbusweek.com

News8,9.indd 8

Legal News p18

Galloway receives two new Plaxton Panthers The vehicles will primarily see service running educational tours Suffolk-based Galloway Travel Group has upgraded its 50-strong fleet with the purchase of two new 53-seater Plaxton Panther-bodied Volvos.

The vehicles are being used for specialist educational trips for schools across the UK as part of Galloway’s Educational Study Division which includes trips to the First World War battlefields, the Normandy beaches and European capital cities. The division holds the

Quality Badge award by the Council for Learning Outside the Classroom.

The Panthers are 12.8m two-axle vehicles featuring 53 Politecnica GTV reclining seats with all age three-point seatbelts, trimmed in blue moquette with light coloured leather headrest inserts and piping.

A matching courier seat is installed in the easy access entrance with drivers benefiting from a Grammar fully adjustable seat.

Other specifications include climate control with a roof-mounted Thermo-King air conditioning unit

Galloway’s new Plaxton Panther, sporting a unique livery appropriate to the firm’s educational First World War tours

GreenRoad ‘Fleet Elite’ status for Simonds’ drivers Six drivers from Norfolk-based operator Simonds Coach & Travel have achieved GreenRoad Fleet Elite status for their safe, smooth and fuel-efficient driving.

A presentation was made to drivers Steve Cutting, David Elliott, Dale Evans, Michael Gardiner, Andrew Gorringe and Samuel Spinks in recognition of their achievements.

GreenRoad is a technology-based device installed in the vehicle to improve driving behaviour as the telematics measure corner and lane handling, speed, acceleration and braking patterns which all contribute to passenger safety and comfort and also fuel efficiency. The

entire fleet of PCVs is equipped with the GreenRoad driver performance management system and all staff participate in GreenRoad safe driving strategy.

Martyn Simonds, MD of Simonds, said: “We are proud of our ‘Fleet Elite’ drivers who have consistently applied GreenRoad principles and we extend our thanks and congratulations to them. To qualify for this award the drivers have had to log 500 driving hours over a 12-month period and maintain a safety score of five or less which is a fantastic achievement. In 2012 less than 5% of GreenRoad drivers worldwide achieved this so to have six drivers, representing

and tinted windows. There is also a kerb level washroom with fridge and servery area above.

The Euro 5 Volvo B9R chassis incorporates a rear-mounted Volvo D9B 9.36-litre engine with 380bhp and Volvo I-Shift automated gearbox.

Externally, the vehicles are enhanced with Alcoa Dura-Brite alloy wheels and feature in-house designed graphics which are appropriate to the First World War educational tours on which the vehicles will be primarily employed.

David Cattermole, MD of Galloway Travel Group, said: “As a progressive company, we have a vision of delivering high standards to the school travel market and the acquisition of the Panthers supports this. They represent value for money and offer the combination of 53 seats with good luggage capacity and a toilet on a two-axle vehicle, providing us with operational flexibility. We had good experience with a Plaxton Panther we operated for a short period last year and are well accustomed to the Volvo chassis. We get good support from our local Volvo dealer and our initial experience with Plaxton has been very positive.”

To achieve the award Simonds’ drivers had to maintain a score of five or less over a 12-month period 12% of Simonds driving staff, is very pleasing and a well-deserved honour. It distinguishes Simonds’ drivers as being amongst the best in the world and also means that they are contributing to a greener, cleaner environment.”

18/03/2013 14:49

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 9

Top school safety marks for Stanley Travel

Director, Ian Luckett

New NatEx contracts for Lucketts Fareham-based Lucketts Travel has been awarded two new contracts

by National Express. As of March 18, the firm is operating the ‘A3’ service from Gatwick Airport to London Victoria and the ‘025’ Brighton to London routes.

Lucketts has invested heavily in new luxury coaches for the two routes; a total of 13 vehicles have been purchased. Six of the coaches are based at the company HQ in Fareham, from where an additional 17 drivers operate the Gatwick route. Another seven coaches used on the Brighton

service are now based at the Worthing Coaches depot in Lancing.

This has required Lucketts to employ an extra 24 drivers.

The firm already operates three other NX routes, from Portsmouth to Heathrow and Victoria (routes ‘203 & ‘030’), and from Southsea to Bristol (route 300). All staff employed by Lucketts to drive NX routes attend Lucketts’ own inhouse Driver Academy.

Ian Luckett, Director of Lucketts Travel, said: “We’re delighted that National Express has chosen us to operate these important routes on its behalf. Having worked closely with them for the last four years it is clear that both companies share the same determination to provide the highest levels of service, punctuality and safety for passengers.”

Translink and Bus Eireann have announced a new X1 brand name for the popular cross-border service, formerly operated by either a Goldline 200 or Bus Eireann 001 coach, between Belfast and Dublin.

The name change aims to deliver a more recognisable brand reflecting the joined-up service delivery along with timetable and vehicle developments.

The X1 provides an hourly coach service between 0500 and 2100hrs with early bird departures also available at 2300, 0100 and 0300. A stopping service, it is supported by Translink’s ‘X2’ direct coach service

between Belfast, Dublin Airport and Dublin City Centre.

Carol Lundy, Translink Brand Manager for Bus Services, said: “The X1 brand is a natural progression which complements our existing ‘X2’ express service and reflects our strong partnership with Bus Eireann. We have grown the important cross-border coach market and want to highlight the customer benefits of X1 & X2 which offer superb journey choice, comfort, value and convenience.”

Sean Forde, Bus Eireann, Expressway Product Manager, said: “This route is a very important part of our Expressway network and the move to X1 is another step in our strategy of continuous customer improvement. In the year of “The Gathering” it is important to have an easily recognisable service offering on the corridor.”

Irish Border service rebranded

News8,9.indd 9

Stanley Travel has been awarded the Benchmark and Simply Safe accreditations by BUSK (Belt Up School Kids), the organisation which specialises in the safe transportation of children.

The operator gained six out of six stars in the Benchmark rating. In fact, a score of 53 was achieved when only 30 is needed for the top rating.

The award is being used by the firm to spread the message among schools that cost should not be the primary factor when choosing transport, as there are many other factors which need be considered.

Andrew Scott, Partner and Transport Manager, told CBW: “There’s a tick list which sets out the criteria you need to meet and

we ticked nearly every single box.

“Each criterion is weighted differently. For example, we scored highly in one area because we randomly breathalyse our drivers before trips.

“These accreditations are important as we are aiming to be part of the Guild of British Coach Operators. We also want to get the message out that the cheapest option isn’t always the best. We might not be the cheapest but we have everything in place in the unlikely event of an accident. We’re trying to get that message across to head teachers and parents.”

Stanley Travel aspires to join the Guild of British Coach Operators

www.coachandbusweek.com

18/03/2013 18:53

10 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

news › international

Spotlight shines on Setra S6 at trade fair The coach with the world’s first self-supporting frame was premiered in 1955 GERMANY Fifty years after production stopped, at this year’s Retro Classics (March 7 – 10), Setra shone the spotlight on a coach model which featured largely in the success story of the long-standing brand from Ulm: the Setra S6. A total of five examples of the S6, the compact coach with the world’s first self-supporting frame, were on show in Hall 8 of the Stuttgart Trade Fair. In addition to buses belonging to the firms Rast-Reisen, Schranner, Kronberger and Fischer, Daimler’s Ulm-based bus brand also exhibited an S6 from the Setra classic collection in Neu-Ulm. The third ever coach from Setra premiered at the Geneva Motor Show in 1955. The 6.7-metre-long and 2.25-metre-wide coach became the basis for all compact buses of the brand to follow. A total of 1172 examples of this model, which can still be admired at many classic vehicle events, were manufactured up until 1963. The features include four independent wheel mountings with double wishbones, which is

Solaris to deliver 200 buses to Belgrade

SERBIA Solaris Bus & Coach is to supply 200 Urbino 18 articulated lowfloor city buses to the municipal transport operator of Belgrade (GSP Belgrade / ГСПБеоград).

The order is the result of a competitive tender process won by Solaris, which called for the delivery of 180 buses with an option to increase the number by up to 15%.

The operator exercised this possibility and the €64m contract covers the delivery of 200 buses as well as the supply of spare parts during the two-year warranty period.

Production will take place this year. According to the agreement, www.coachandbusweek.com

NewsIntlTOP.indd 10

unique to this day, rubber springs with telescopic shock absorbers and a steering column gear shift.

A low centre of gravity and the ideal ratio between wheelbase,

overhang and track width ensured stable road-holding at all times.

The S6 was powered by a 517 D 4K Henschel four-cylinder diesel engine, the output of which was boosted in later years from the original 85 hp to 100 hp with the aid of a belt-driven compressor.

Retro Classics has become truly established as an international exhibition for classic vehicles, spare parts and restoration. Last year, 65,000 visitors flocked to the halls of the Stuttgart Trade Fair.

The Setra S6 is 6.7 metres long and 2.25 metres wide the first buses will arrive in Belgrade by early July and delivery of all vehicles completed by the end of October 2013.

“We are delighted to have won this tender, especially as its large volume attracted offers from major competitors. Although we are not yet well known in Serbia, we can assure the operator and passengers they will benefit from a product which meets highest European standards,” said Małgorzata Olszewska, Solaris Sales and Marketing Director.

The first Solaris buses in Serbia were supplied to the city of Novi Sad in 2011. This fleet of six Solaris Urbino 12s is fuelled by CNG. The 200 articulated Urbino 18s for Belgrade offer a low floor throughout the bus and are fully air-conditioned. The diesel engines meet the Euro 5 and each bus has a CCTV monitoring system with seven cameras.

Two Oz bus bodies set to merge AUSTRALIA South Australia’s two trade bodies are looking to merge – according to Australasian Bus & Coach magazine.

The long-established Bus and Coach Association of South Australia (BCASA) and its more recently formed counterpart the South Australian Bus Association (SABus) have started discussions aimed at establishing a unified single industry representative body.

In a joint statement, both groups say they are committed to working with South Australia’s bus industry stakeholder through ‘forming united representation’.

BCASA Chairman Jim Scott said one industry representative body

Beijing’s electric buses in decline CHINA According to Chinese media reports, the fleet of e-buses on its streets has shrunken since the 2008 Olympics, plagued by high operation costs.

Beijing first deployed electric buses powered by on-board batteries in 2001. Before the Olympics, 50 e-buses were launched running on two lines connecting the Olympic Park with the rest of the city. Charging facilities were built at Beitucheng station, close to the park, which is still the only place in the city where e-buses can get replenished.

Of the 50 buses, built by Jinghua Bus with e-drive systems supplied

by China Southern Rail (CSR), over a dozen had retired by 2011.

Beijing’s plan to revive the fleet by adding 50 more e-buses, built

by Foton, has so far failed, largely due to lack of funding and areas for charging stations. Beitucheng already operates at full capacity and would require major upgrades to serve the Foton buses, which have a battery system different from the Jinghua vehicles. The lithiummanganese batteries powering the Jinghua buses are expensive to buy and maintain, needing replacement within two to three years. would lead to more consistent outcomes for all travellers, whether travelling by route service, tour and charter or school bus.

“We are currently in the process of consulting with our membership if and how best to proceed towards this goal,” commented Jim. SABus Chairman Stephen Lucas said a unified industry body will work with all key stakeholders, including government, to ensure that a vibrant transport future is properly planned for and efficiently delivered. “In seeking to unite into one industry body, we will be looking for ways in which more useful and effective transport outcomes can be achieved for all,” he said.

If an agreement can be reached both associations would be in favour of a unified presence at the BIC national conference at the Adelaide Convention Centre, October 27-30, 2013.

15/03/2013 11:10

696541-1079-GuideDogs

18/3/13

14:36

Page 1

NS LATIO S U T A R CONG AL EXPRES N NATIO MIDLANDS WEST

12 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

news › REGIONAL

SCOTLAND

A McGill’s driver who crashed his bus with 10 passengers onboard was nearly four times over the drink drive limit, The Herald newspaper reported.

Steven Dawson drove his vehicle into the rear of a car on Glasgow’s Bridge Street on March 8.

A concerned member of the public who noticed a strong smell of alcohol on his breath contacted police, who tracked him down and breathalysed him, a short time after he returned to his depot in Barrhead, East Renfrewshire.

He gave a reading of 136mg per 100ml of breath. The legal limit is 35mg.

At Paisley Sheriff Court on March 11, Sheriff David Pender immediately banned him from driving.

Depute fiscal Annette Ward said: “One of the other parties detected a strong smell of alcohol from the accused and contacted police. When officers spoke to him, he said ‘I’ve made a mistake. I was drinking this morning’.”

Defence agent John Gardner said there were underlying issues which needed to be addressed. Sheriff Pender said before he could begin to consider sentencing options, and due to the serious nature of the charge, he would require a detailed background profile. Deferring sentence until April 8 and calling for reports to be prepared, he imposed interim disqualification and released the accused on bail.

NORTH

Go North East (GNE) is implementing several changes across its network from Sunday March 24. Over the last few months the operator has been developing plans to improve its services. Staff have travelled on board services to discuss plans with passengers and get their views and thousands of surveys have been distributed.

In the East Durham network, the firm says overall, 84% of passengers spoken to said the plans would make them travel about the same or more than they do at present.

GNE also considered the views of those who said they would travel less and made some amendments.

One of the changes sees route 10 in the Gateshead area benefiting from a £2.6m investment in new buses. The double deckers will feature WiFi, power sockets, next stop announcements and increased www.coachandbusweek.com

RegionalNewsTOP.indd 12

Coach & Bus Week takes a look at the big issues where you live in our round-up of the regions. If you’ve got a local issue you’d like us to cover, contact James Day on james. day@coachandbusweek.com.

KEY

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

seating capacity.

The full list of changes, which involves 33 routes, can be found at http://tinyurl.com/bz5hkwx .

Manchester Community Transport (MCT) has been awarded £908,000 part-funding for 10 new Optare Solo SR hybrids

by TfGM. The vehicles will be used on tendered services in Stockport, Ashton, Middleton, Oldham, Manchester, Salford and Trafford, along with a route between the city centre and the airport, and are due to be delivered in the summer.

Rob Marshall, Managing Director of MCT, told CBW: “These are new services to us after winning the tenders from TfGM. “The vehicle choice was down to us. We made the decision based on the level of support Optare offers and the areas the buses will operate in. Optare has been manufacturing hybrids for some time now so has had a chance to iron out any issues.

“They can also offer ongoing maintenance and their Trafford depot is close to our head office in Stockport.”

The company has also recently acquired Maytree Travel.

The operator, which is now a subsidiary of MCT, has provided services across Bolton, Bury, Salford and Wigan since 2008.

Rob said: “We had been working with Maytree for some time and carried out some joint tenders. We have found that smaller providers

have to work together against bigger operators to win tenders.

“It was just a case of taking it to the next step – and we have kept on Maytree’s proprietor Gary Hawthorne as Head of Development.

“By bringing the two organisations together, we are confident that the shared resources and skill sets which now sit within a combined team will allow us to drive efficiencies and raise operational standards. By bringing these costs together, the savings we recognise can, and will, be filtered in to our operational model, permitting us to offer exceptional value at the highest standards for the communities we support.”

MIDLANDS

Following the success of the countrywide Bus For Jobs scheme in January, Arriva Midlands has confirmed it will continue to support unemployed job seekers in Derby who hold the new Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) travel card with half price travel on all of its routes across the city.

While travelling to job centres, interviews and training can be costly for those out of work, the DWP pass, which has been funded by the Local Sustainable Transport Fund, will enable job hunters to continue to use Arriva’s routes at half the regular fare.

Roy Godfrey, Area Business Manager in Derbyshire for Arriva

Midlands, said: “Arriva is committed to supporting local initiatives and the DWP plan to Get Britain Working. The scheme was a success in January and it enabled people to travel further afield for their job hunt and explore opportunities in areas they wouldn’t otherwise have been able to.

“We hope that by extending our support, we will continue to help people back into work, to the benefit of them, their families and the local economy.”

The card is issued by Jobcentre Plus to eligible jobseekers, including those claiming Jobseekers’ Allowance, Incapacity Benefit, Employment and Support Allowance or Income Support, who are actively engaged with a Jobcentre Plus adviser.

Stoke-on-Trent’s new bus station opens on March 26.

Costing £15m, the new building includes 22 bus departure bays, waiting facilities, a passenger information office, interactive touch-screen bus journey planners, a convenience store and toilets for station users.

Councillor Mohammed Pervez, leader of Stoke-on-Trent City Council, said: “The opening of this bus station marks the start of a journey to transform our city centre and the whole city.

“Even during these economically challenging times we are working hard to create the right conditions for jobs and growth in line with our Mandate for Change vision. A successful city centre will act as a magnet for growth across the city.

“For too long our people raised concerns about the state of the old station. We have listened to their concerns to bring a brand new bus station with a breathtaking design.”

Councillor Ruth Rosenau, Cabinet Member for Regeneration, Planning and Transformation, said: “This new bus station is a wonderful step forward in the quality of service provision and it will make bus journeys much more enjoyable.

“Along with the improvements in the city centre’s public realm, shoppers and other visitors to the city centre will see a real difference.”

Highways officers will work overnight on Monday, March 25, to prepare the roads in the city centre for the new traffic management system, which involves changes to one-way streets, bus stop locations and traffic flow and operators are working with the council to ensure a smooth transition.

The unique design of the

15/03/2013 11:12

p13_CBW_1079

18/3/13

14:03

Page 13

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 13

14 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

news › REGIONAL

building includes a sweeping curved roof, V-shaped columns and an enclosed, glazed concourse which wraps around the perimeter of the site.

Up to 120 buses are expected to travel through the station every hour.

Bus departure bays will stay the same as they are in the current bus station (i.e. bays A to X), as the changes from numbers to letters was introduced last year to ease the transition.

EAST

Anglian Bus has received the final three of its 13 MAN biogas buses, thought to be the first 13-plate buses in Norfolk and Suffolk.

Two of the buses will provide extra morning peak journeys on the 146 route between Lowestoft and Norwich from April 2, in response to customer feedback.

The four additional journeys will each arrive into Norwich before 0900hrs, aimed at commuters and students.

All 13 of the ultra low carbon vehicles are now in operation

A campaign urging people to join the Organ Donor Register (ODR) is being backed

by Nottingham City Transport (NCT). The operator is supporting Nottingham University Hospital’s campaign asking people to ‘be a hero’ and join the register. More than 10,000 people in the UK currently need a transplant. Of these, three will die each day waiting as there are not enough organs available.

As part of NCT’s support, an advert promoting the ODR has been produced to cover the back of a single deck bus. The bus will travel around the city for several months.

“This is an excellent campaign and is set to make a huge difference to thousands of people’s lives,” said NCT Marketing Manager Anthony Carver-Smith.

“If a large advert on one of our buses can play a part in helping to get the ‘be a hero’ message to more potential donors, then it’s the least we can do, and we are very proud to show our support in this way.”

Anyone can register on the ODR. Age and most medical conditions are not barriers to being an organ or tissue donor. People in their 70s and 80s have become donors and saved many lives.

Lorraine Hogg, Specialist Nurse for Organ Donation at NUH, said:

across the Anglian Bus network, including on the 588 service between Halesworth and Norwich and the 601 between Southwold and Great Yarmouth.

The first six MAN EcoCity buses, launched in December last year, have already completed over 23,000 trouble-free kilometres and the operator says it has received great feedback on just how much quieter and smoother they are to ride, from both passengers and drivers. A further four gas buses hit the road in January, proving popular across Halesworth, Southwold and Great Yarmouth.

A variety of bespoke liveries are present on the buses, each highlighting the environmental benefits of the buses.

MD Andrew Pursey said: “By operating these innovative biogaspowered buses, the first in the country, we are helping to promote the use of public transport as a viable alternative to the car. Whilst we are still only three months into the project, we are very encouraged by the early results of operating these buses.”

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

The 2013 ALBUM Conference is being held at Belton Woods Hotel, near Grantham on May 14-15. Pictured is more from Wilts & Dorset’s Commercial Manager Nikki Honer at last year’s event

2013 n March 19-21 The Cleaning Show. NEC, Birmingham. 01737 855 086 www.cleaningshow.co.uk n March 20-21 UK Bus Awards Annual Conference. The conference is booked to takeCEplace in AN LLED Fareham andC will feature a visit to Hampshire’s Eclipse BRT project. www.ukbusawards.org.uk n March 23-24 Spring Transport Festival. Greater Manchester Museum of Transport. www.gmts.co.uk n April 6 South East Bus Festival 2013. Kent Showground, near Maidstone, Kent, brought to you by the organisers of ‘M&D 100’ and ‘M&D and EK 60’. www.facebook. com/southeastbusfestival n April 9-11 CV Show 2013. NEC, Birmingham. www.cvshow.com n April 20-21 UK Coach Awards & UK Coach Rally. Alton Towers, Staffordshire. 01753 631170. www.coachdisplays.co.uk or www. ukcoachawards.co.uk

“We would like to thank NCT for its generous contribution to our campaign. The support will help us spread the message about the importance of organ donation and how vital it is to join the ODR.” At Nottingham University Hospitals last year, 13 donors allowed 39 patients to benefit from 40 organs. This generosity also accounted for 95 kidney transplants carried out at City Hospital.

Since the launch of Nottingham University Hospital’s ‘be a hero’ campaign on January 1 the Organ Donor Register in Nottingham and Nottinghamshire has increased by an extra 2,661 people.

n April 21 London Bus Museum Spring Gathering. Cobham Hall, Weybridge, Surrey. 01932 837994.

www.londonbusmuseum.com

n May 5 Cardiff Transport Preservation Group ‘A Municipal Running Day’. Barry bus depot, Vale of Glamorgan. www.ctpg.co.uk n May 12 First in South Yorkshire Sheffield Centenary Bus Rally.

Olive Grove depot will be open to the public, with modern & heritage buses on display. www.firstgroup. com/ukbus/south_yorkshire/ n May 14-15 ALBUM Conference.

Belton Woods Hotel near Grantham, Lincolnshire. www.albumconference. co.uk

n May 26-30 UITP Congress & Exhibition. Palexpo, Geneva. www.uitp.org. +(00)32 2673 610 n June 2 Clacton Bus Rally & Running Day, Clacton Factory Outlet, Essex. Classic and current vehicles. Entry forms & more details available at http://www. colneestuarypb.co.uk/ n June 11-13 ATCO Summer Conference. Merseytravel HQ, Liverpool. www.atco.org.uk n June 16 Swansea Festival of Transport. Free to enter & attend. Call organiser Ashley Lovering on 07814958379 or email swanseatransport@aol.com. Visit www.ntfwswansea.co.uk. n July 14 The Annual Peterborough Bus & Commercial Vehicle Rally. Sacrewell Farm (A47/ A1 junction). Free entry. 07828 754412 or 01462 626750 n July 21 Alton Bus Rally. Anstey Park, Anstey Lane, Alton, Hants. www.altonbusrally.org.uk n September 7-8 Bus Driver of the Year Final. Blackpool. Call 01303 251462. www.bdoy.co.uk n September 8 Bus & Coach Wales 2013. Rhyd y Car Leisure Centre, Merthyr Tydfil n September 10 Association of Trainers AGM. 1400hrs, Wembley.

For details call 01797 344251. n September 22 Showbus 2013.

Long Marston Airfield, Warwickshire. www.showbus.com n October 2-3 Coach & Bus Live 2013. NEC, Birmingham. www. coachandbuslive.com

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

www.coachandbusweek.com

RegionalNewsTOP.indd 14

18/03/2013 19:11

683007-1074-ADL

12/3/13

09:52

Page 1

16 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

news focus › tanat fleet upgrade

Transforming Tanat’s bus fleet Gareth Evans reports on how Tanat Valley Coaches has slashed the average age of its frontline single deck bus fleet, thanks to an investment of £850,000 in 10 vehicles Welsh border operator Tanat Valley Coaches has acquired a trio of brand new Optare Solo SRs and seven late used buses to run on Powys County Council contracted services in the north of the county.

The award of the contracts and the arrival of the new buses was marked by a presentation to local dignitaries next to Welshpool’s tourist information centre on Sunday (March 17).

Speaking at the launch, Welshpool Town Mayor, Councillor John Meredith, said: “These new buses are great for the people of Welshpool and our neighbouring www.coachandbusweek.com

NewsFocus_Tanat.indd 16

communities. I would like to congratulate Tanat Valley Coaches, a long-established local company, for the investment. The vehicles are truly something to be proud of.”

Also present was Glyn Davies, the popular Conservative MP for Montgomeryshire, who said: “I’ve known Tanat Valley Coaches for a long time. I’ve always been keen on where possible using local companies. We’ve gone through a period of using big firms from outside the area on almost all areas of procurement, but the pendulum now thankfully appears to have swung the other way.

“Tanat Valley is a wonderful family-run company. It’s great to see so many of the dedicated staff who are proud to be here with their new buses.”

The model chosen by Tanat is the 9.7m SlimLine, which at

2.33m wide is ideal for the firm’s rural terrain. Internally, the buses have a seating capacity of 34, 31 of which are on fixed Rescroft CT Lite seats, plus three tip-ups in the wheelchair/buggy bay. Mobitec LED destination gear is also fitted.

As with almost all the buses which have entered the fleet in the current round of investment, the Solo SRs are equipped with three-point seat belts.

Power is from the Euro 5 Mercedes-Benz OM904LA four cylinder engine, delivering 154 bhp (115kw). This is matched to an Allison 2100 Series five-speed automatic transmission with a lock-up torque converter which contributes to better fuel efficiency.

Out of the three Solos SRs, two carry 62-plates, while the third is a 13-reg, having arrived last. They are to be allocated to routes:

n 74 Llanfyllin to Shrewsbury, via Llanymynech, Alberbury and Ford; n 76 Llanrhaeadr to Welshpool, via Llanfyllin and Guilsfield; and n 81 Newtown to Welshpool, via Montgomery.

Three Optare Versas have been acquired from Mistral, two of which are 58-plates and third carries an 09 registration. Of these, two will be allocated for routes 79/79A Llangynog to Oswestry, via Llanrhaeadr (and Trefonen on 79A) and 84 Llanfair Caereinion to Newtown. A third will remain spare at Llanrhaeadr depot.

A pair of Plaxton Centro-bodied Volvo B7RLEs have also been acquired from Santander for the X71 Newtown to Oswestry, via Welshpool service. The 08-plate buses were previously operated by Alton Towers.

An 02-plate Wright-bodied Daf SB120 Cadet has also entered service at Abermule depot for the Shropshire Councilcontracted route 558, which links Montgomery with Shrewsbury. A 57-plate Solo also acquired from Mistral, is currently undergoing refurbishment at Tanat’s Pentrefelin depot prior to entering service.

Explaining why Optare was

18/03/2013 18:13

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 17

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

selected to supply the three brand new buses, Mike Morris, Tanat’s Managing Director told CBW: “We chose the Solo because of the good experience we had had with earlier models in our 34-strong fleet, both Cummins and MAN-powered variants.

“Our drivers also find the Solo nice and easy to handle, particularly on the country roads on which they spend much of their time. From an operating point of view, I find them to be both reliable and to deliver a satisfactory level of fuel economy.

“Investing in state-of-the-art buses like these is important if we are to persuade people to get out of their cars and use public transport.”

Optare Sales Director John Horn commented: “We’re very pleased to be supplying such a highly regarded operator as Tanat Valley. These compact Solo SRs have been designed for exactly the type of service which Tanat has been providing to small and often isolated rural communities for over nine decades. Their narrower width suits the country roads well yet still provides all the passenger comfort you will get with our full width models.”

Mr Morris added: “We are

NewsFocus_Tanat.indd 17

Above: The clever destination displays created by Operations Foreman Phil Bradley say it all.

Left: Mike & Peter Morris, who own the company, with the ceremonial golden steering wheel. Below left: Interior of a new Solo SR delighted to be part of Powys County Council’s policy of improving its local bus network.

I would also like to thank Mistral for all their help. They organised the painting of our Versas at the impressive facilities at Bakers of Biddulph.”

Significantly, the £850,000 investment, a substantial sum for a family-run firm, means the average age of the single deck bus fleet will now be 6.42 years. Volvo B10Bs and Mercedes-Benz 709s and Varios which have served the firm well for some time have been sold to other operators, although a couple remain available for sale.

Not to be forgotten is that Tanat is also refurbishing its former Claribells of Birmingham Wrightbodied Volvo B6BLE. The bus, which has been in the fleet for some time, is benefiting from the fitment of newer seats, a full external repaint and LED destination gear.

www.coachandbusweek.com

18/03/2013 18:14

18 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

LEGAL news › PUBLIC INQUIRY

McKendry’s Coaches has fleet halved after wheel loss incident Deputy Traffic Commissioner Simon Evans said the Midlothianbased operator demonstrated a “lack of effective control” over both staff and the activities of its maintenance department The sole trader Mrs Anne Aitken Watson McKendry, trading as McKendry’s Coaches (the operator), was the holder of a Standard National Public Service Vehicle Operator’s Licence (O-licence) for 10 vehicles, originally granted on June 14, 2004.

The operator is principally engaged in school and university contract and private hire work; it does not operate registered services.

The operator was called to Public Inquiry (PI) before Deputy Traffic Commissioner (DTC) Simon Evans on February 1, 2013 at Edinburgh and was represented by Michael Whiteford, solicitor of Glasgow. Her daughter, Nicola Ann McCallum (Mrs McCallum), her Transport Manager, was present and also represented by Mr Whiteford.

Vehicle Examiner Douglas Pugh (VE Pugh) was also present.

Enquiries by VOSA and a subsequent mechanical investigation and maintenance inspection had been prompted by an incident on May 2, 2012, when one of the vehicles operated by Mrs McKendry was involved in a wheel loss incident on the A72 Peebles to Blyth Bridge road, when it was carrying schoolchildren on a trip from Peebles. Two wheels on the nearside rear axle had become detached from the Volvo 42-seater bus.

VE Pugh began his investigation on May 4, 2012 by inspecting the vehicle and wheels at the garage and then proceeding to the operating centre at Loanhead. The results of the investigation and the maintenance inspection were unsatisfactory.

The operator had previously been convicted of one offence under Section 19 Criminal Law (Consolidation) (Scotland) Act 1995, which was concerned with www.coachandbusweek.com

LegalNews.indd 18

her permitting, by the hand of the driver of her vehicle (Driver Wilson), alcohol to be carried on a trip to carry football supporters to a Scottish Premier League match at Aberdeen. She had pleaded not guilty but was convicted at the Aberdeen Justice of the Peace court and sentenced to a fine of £500.

The repute of the Transport Manager was also brought into question by reason of other information referred to in the calling-in letter and Mrs McCallum was separately required to attend the hearing.

At a conjoined hearing the DTC also considered the fitness to hold vocational driving entitlement of Driver Roberts.

The DTC said: “I was aware of the following history for this operator. At a 2010 PI a decision of the TC had led to an effective curtailment from 14 to 10 vehicles.

Furthermore, at a PI before me

Deputy Traffic Commissioner Simon Evans called the operator to PI

Key Points: The operator had a previous conviction regarding alcohol on its services A walk round check had not been done on the vehicle prior to the incident The operator’s vehicle authorisation had been curtailed previously Steps had been taken by the operator to address its shortcomings

on March 8, 2012 the licence had been curtailed so that only eight discs were in issue for a period commencing at 2359 on April 1, 2012 and concluding six months later at 2359hrs on September 30, 2012 and undertakings imposed.”

The DTC also consulted his notes from the previous PI, which contained a number of passages, notably: “The operator accumulated a series of prohibitions during the period of operation since the last inspection. A number were immediate, more were delayed but two were ‘S’ marked – wheel nut security concerns had been the source of both those markings indicating a significant failure in the maintenance system,” and that “the first time MOT pass rate for this operator remains at a level below the national average.”

THE EVIDENCE VE Pugh answered questions from Mr Whiteford and the DTC about his PI statement which he had adopted without amendment. This included, as an annexe, a substantial and detailed assessment by way of a vehicle mechanical examination following the wheel loss incident and a further annexe containing photographs of the wheel and the axle.

He confirmed the maintenance facilities at Loanhead were adequate for their purpose, with an appropriate number of fitters employed and that he was given access to all the records and the operator and her staff were fully co-operative. In his view maintenance systems were in order, as described in the VOSA ‘Guide to Roadworthiness’.

The PG13 form issued after the maintenance inspection showed negative entries in three areas: the issue of prohibitions, the effective use of driver defect reporting system and the MOT pass rate. He concluded it was the competence of maintenance staff and drivers that was most in question.

VE Pugh believed there were

three factors which contributed to the wheel loss: The fact that the walk round check had not been done; The condition of the road wheels themselves because the corrosion and pitting on their surfaces would have affected the effectiveness of the clamping action – in his view they were not serviceable; and That whilst a calibrated torque wrench set to the correct reading was in use it was not possible due to the absence of the calibration certificate to be satisfied it was fit for purpose.

VE Pugh was pressed by Mr Whiteford about the reasons recorded for the ‘S’ marking, specifically that there was no reference in it to the serviceability of the wheels. VE Pugh responded that this was because he issued the prohibition before the time he had concluded his investigation. He accepted he had not seen the tyres when originally fitted on March 10, 2012 and that Mrs McKendry’s

18/03/2013 12:05

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 19

BLAIR CAMERON

DTC Simon Evans made the decision to reduce the fleet by five vehicles, halving the O-licence authorisation mechanic had told him about the procedures used to clean and prepare wheels. It was his evidence that such advanced corrosion as he saw on May 4, 2012 would not have developed in that time period, if the wheels had been properly torqued.

Stuart Duncan had been employed by Mrs McKendry for two years and was her senior mechanic. It was his evidence which stated when fitted on March 10, 2012 that the wheel surfaces were in good condition. He had done the subsequent preventive maintenance check on the vehicle on April 13, 2012, when he said there was no problem. His evidence was that the corrosion evident in the photographs must have developed since the refitting.

He disputed the imposition of the ‘S’ marked prohibition on June 13, 2012 in respect of excessive movement in a steering joint and outlined the two-man method used to check for such movement.

The operator told the DTC she had not expected to be back at a PI

LegalNews.indd 19

after the last experience – things had not progressed as she would have wanted. She had met the requirements of the previous curtailment period and the fleet had been returned to 10 vehicles. As things stood, most of the time the peak vehicle requirement was for seven vehicles, occasionally eight.

The wheel loss incident had led to the withdrawal of the contract with the Borders Council but those with Edinburgh City Council and with the university remained in place.

A copy of a letter dated May 3, 2012 to the Office of the Traffic Commissioner was produced referring to the adverse incident of wheel loss.

The DTC was referred to the following steps taken by the operator which address the findings of VE Pugh: Drivers have been issued with a reminder about their obligations as far as walk round checks are concerned; A checking process to see that they act in appropriate

“It was accepted by [Mrs McKendry] that police found on Driver Wilson’s bus some 43 litres of alcohol unopened some of it in boxes, and it was clear that least as much had been consumed on the outward journey, as was evidenced by empty cans and bottles found.”

Simon Evans Deputy Traffic Commissioner

fashion is run by Mr Duncan; An additional torque wrench has been purchased, together with locking wheel nuts for all vehicles; Additional cleaning equipment is available for wheels; Six drivers will attend a course including walk round checks on February 6, 2013; Both mechanics will attend a two-day PCV inspection standards course on February 2021, 2013; and For not less than the next 12 months, one vehicle chosen at random per month will receive a second safety inspection through Lothian DAF by way of audit of the in-house arrangements. The first such vehicle was submitted on February 5, 2013.

The operator was reportedly visibility upset as the wheel loss incident was discussed at the hearing and the potential consequences considered. Her own investigation had uncovered the CCTV footage showing that Driver Roberts did not carry out a walk round check – he had since been dismissed.

As to the matters concerned with the carrying of alcohol on a football supporters’ coach, the DTC was told the business had been doing such trips for organised supporters’ groups for some time. There was an awareness of the legislation and an acceptance that more unusually, the police had contacted the operator the day before the trip and drawn to her attention to information which suggested alcohol might be carried.

Drivers were given copies of the disclaimer notice for trip organisers to sign, and Driver Wilson had actually spoken to the police officer himself.

“She told me she had then ‘left drivers to comply’,” said the DTC. “It was accepted by her that police found on Driver Wilson’s bus some 43 litres of alcohol unopened, some of it in boxes, and it was clear at least as much had been consumed on the outward journey, as was evidenced by empty cans and bottles found.”

The operator acknowledged Driver Wilson was found at court to have “turned a blind eye” to the carriage of the alcohol. Drivers had been issued with a reminder about their responsibilities and those particular groups responsible were no longer carried on trips.

Mrs McKendry reported

www.coachandbusweek.com

18/03/2013 12:05

20 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

LEGAL news › PUBLIC INQUIRY

that she remained aggrieved by her conviction, frustrated by the lack of any ability to search supporters and the fact she was convicted even though she was 100 miles away at the time of the offence.

Mrs McCallum reported she had undertaken the course directed at the last hearing and found it was useful. While she was “gutted” about the wheel loss incident, she had played no part in the matter, nor had any role in the alcohol carrying incident. She described herself as chasing drivers and staff more than before but was at a loss to explain how with systems seemingly in place and in accordance with industry standards that the sorts of failure exposed by VE Pugh continued to occur.

SUBMISSIONS “Mr Whiteford reminded me of the positive features of the evidence which pointed to systems being adequate, to the positive steps taken since the wheel loss to address the continuing shortcomings and to the fact that whilst the wheel loss incident had been serious, no person had been injured,” said the DTC. “There had been a detailed response provided through solicitors at the time and the operator had taken the matter seriously.

“It was the operator’s case that wheel loss was the result of the failed walk round check and not the condition of the wheels. He asked me to find that the evidence supported them being in good condition when fitted.

“He argued it may be that the extent of the further prohibitions could be a function of the fact the operator was under the spotlight after the last hearing.

While it was accepted no appeal had followed the issue of the June 2012 ‘S’ marked prohibition, it was felt its issue may have been challengeable on the evidence. It had been argued in evidence that several of the other prohibitions could have arisen while the vehicle was in service.

“As to the alcohol carrying incident, he contended the operator had acted on the advice given as best she could but ultimately she had to rely on her drivers.

“He argued both suspension of the licence or revocation would be catastrophic for the business, the six drivers, two mechanics and her two daughters who worked in the business and that in the light www.coachandbusweek.com

LegalNews.indd 20

A previous PI had noted there were concerns over wheel nut security which indicated failures in maintenance

“I find that it is highly likely that the failure of the driver to conduct a driver walk round check on the morning of the wheel loss incident was a significant factor in the loss of the road wheels.”

Simon Evans Deputy Traffic Commissioner of the steps taken and to be taken, it would be disproportionate. He pointed out the operator knew that if permitted to continue, she could not afford to return to another hearing – this would be ‘a last chance’. He argued for any action to be limited to a curtailment of the licence to a level which was manageable whilst prohibitions were eliminated and MOT pass rates improved.

“He further argued it would be disproportionate for the repute of the Transport Manager to be lost, as there was in his view insufficient evidence to make such a finding against Mrs McCallum, who was neither involved directly in either the wheel loss or the alcohol carrying incident.”

FINDINGS DTC Simon Evans made the following findings based on the evidence: The requirements for financial standing were met; The investigation report prepared by VE Pugh is thorough, coherent and logical in its approach and it was accepted it accurate; The undertaking given to keep vehicles fit and serviceable at all times and to operate an effective driver defect reporting system had not been met; Driver Roberts had not conducted his first use walk round check on the day of the wheel loss, even though he had signed to the effect that he had done so; The vehicle had been issued with an ‘S’ marked prohibition after the wheel loss and there were also shortcomings detected some of which related to the fabric of the inside of the vehicle; In the period since the last public inquiry in March 2012, including the prohibition referred to above, there had been examinations of six vehicles leading to three immediate prohibitions, two of which were ‘S’ marked, three delayed prohibitions and one variation and refusal notice. A 100% prohibition rate had been calculated;

A wheel torque wrench was in use but there had been no calibration certificate for it as would have provided assurance to the operator about its safe usage; The first time MOT pass rate was recorded as standing at 33% against a national average of over 80%. Up-to-date information provided no evidence of real improvement; There was no prosecution as a result of the wheel loss incident and no physical injury or damage caused to any person; On balance, the poor state of the wheels, which were corroded and pitted at the time of the wheel loss, as is clearly reflected in the photographs, did contribute to the loss of the wheels in May 2012 because in that condition the clamping effect of the wheel nuts and washers would have been reduced; It is more likely than not that they were in a state at the time of their refitting in March 2012 and that they should not then have been fitted.

On this note, the DTC commeted: “Since I accept the evidence of the VE that it is unlikely the wheels would have deteriorated to the extent visible in the photographs

by May 2012, I find that it is highly likely that the failure of the driver to conduct a driver walk round check on the morning

18/03/2013 12:06

p21_CBW_1079

18/3/13

14:06

Page 21

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 21

YOUR ONE-STOP DRIVER TRAINING SHOP

Approved Delivery Centre for • Driver CPC, LGV & PCV • JAUPT • RTITB Awards • UK Bus Operator of the Year Award 2012 • Best UK Training Operator 2011 Complete Flexibility • Full or half day sessions • 7 days a week • Times to suit you Contact Karl Ward on 01159 766745/karl.ward@nctx.co.uk or Mike Lee on 01159 766739/mike.lee@nctx.co.uk to discuss all your driver development needs

22 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

LEGAL news › PUBLIC INQUIRY

of the wheel loss incident was a significant factor in the loss of the road wheels. At the very least that failure deprived the operator of the opportunity to detect whether the problem which caused the wheels on that axle of the bus to become detached, existed at that time.”

The internal investigation

by Mrs McKendry into the loss of the wheels was timely and appropriate; The operator suffered a conviction when she was found to be vicariously liable for the actions of her driver in carrying alcohol on a trip to a regulated sporting fixture.

“Apart from the matters raised above, the maintenance regime and systems were found by the VE who visited to be adequate,” said the DTC. “I make no finding that the acts or omissions of Mrs Nicola McCallum in her transport manger role specifically contributed to the continuing accumulation of prohibitions, the failures at MOT and of the driver defect reporting system on the day of the wheel loss incident, nor the carrying of alcohol on a bus.”

CONSIDERATION Having considered the position of Mrs Nicola McCallum and her repute and professional competence as transport manager for this operator, the DTC found no further adverse finding against her repute or professional competence. Her responsibility for the continuous and effective management of transport operations includes the systems and practices which might avoid prohibitions, support proper reporting of defects and is likely to improve MOT pass rates. “She is of course far from being immune from responsibility for the predicament in which this operator finds itself and her contribution will be key if this operator is to get to a position where it can be trusted to be compliant,” commented the DTC. As to the position of the operator, the DTC said his “readiness to believe that the operator has the capability to turn things around had been tested to the very limits”.

He acknowledged the steps proposed to be taken were coherent, appeared to have been thought through and were designed to bring about improvement and provide assurance.

In addition, he accepted that the seriousness of the incident www.coachandbusweek.com

LegalNews.indd 22

McKendry’s was previously convicted for allowing alcohol onboard a PSV could have a galvanising effect for the general good, as all staff contemplated what might have been.

“I derive a level of confidence from the fact that the systems themselves are in accordance with good practice and it is the case that if they are operated to the letter with the proposed audits and checks in place that compliance is achievable,” he said. “It is, as before, management’s lack of effective control of its staff and of the activities of the maintenance department that remain at the root of the problem and this must be an issue that is resolved now decisively and for good by the operator. Now is the time where it will be appropriate for those family members permitted to play an active role in the management of this business to sit down together and work out how change is to be brought about, for if it does not take control the demise of the business seems likely to be inevitable. Taking account of all those matters, on balance, I conclude repute is just retained.”

As to the conviction of the operator before the court at Aberdeen for being an operator whose driver permitted substantial amounts of alcohol to be carried after warnings by the police the DTC described the matter as “the worst I have come across of its type”.

“The fact that she dealt with her driver by the issue only of a warning, when the court found him to have deliberately turned a blind eye, and despite the advance notice he too was given, I find to be very surprising indeed. It would have been absolutely obvious from the sheer volumes of alcohol taken

“I reduce the fleet for an indefinite period by five vehicles, so that the condition which covers such matters shall be varied accordingly so only five discs are in issue.”

Simon Evans Deputy Traffic Commissioner on board that the law was being flouted in a most clear cut fashion.

In many ways the whole affair is symptomatic in my view of the lack of clear control by Mrs McKendry of her staff that I have witnessed more directly in the management of the maintenance systems and how drivers go about their basic duties for example by carrying out walk round checks. The simple fact is she did not go far enough to ensure an offence would be avoided. There was no strategy I could detect but for the disclaimer document which was barely worth the paper that it was written on,” he said.

“I find it would be disproportionate to exclude the operator from such business opportunities altogether but note that the match in question on that day was a trip for others than the usual supporters and therefore a greater risk arose. The operator would be well advised to stick to those groups of fans who she is familiar with and who may be expected to be compliant.”

DECISION “As to the action I choose to take falling short of revocation I find a warning to be wholly inadequate,”

said the DTC. “Suspension would certainly be effective as a punishment but this is not what this jurisdiction is about and I do not feel it will serve other regulatory purposes in this case. Realistically if I may say, I was invited by Mr Whiteford to consider a curtailment of the fleet. I do indeed take that option because it is the most appropriate and proportionate, but also because it enables me to control the scale of operations, potentially the number of vehicles which need to be maintained and the number of drivers whose activities need to be checked. It is clearly the case that with the business running at the levels it was in 2012 problems continued to arise.”

“I am of course aware that in current circumstances all employment is precious and this will be a business which depends on a certain scale of operations for its survival but it simply cannot be left as it is and significant scaling back will be required,” he continued. “While I take account of those matters, my consideration must primarily be based on my assessment of the size of operation I feel can be handled safely by the operator. In the years to come it may be built back but for now I conclude that nothing short of halving the fleet would be enough.

“I reduce the fleet for an indefinite period by five vehicles, so that the condition which covers such matters shall be varied accordingly so only five discs are in issue. I am satisfied this is the greatest scale of operation I may safely leave this operator with in the short to medium term. I accept that seven or sometimes eight vehicles are used simultaneously at present and this will almost certainly involve rearrangements to contractual arrangements and may have repercussions for staff but this is unavoidable. In that light however, I am delaying implementation of my order until March 22, 2013 when the school term has finished so the public will not be inconvenienced unduly.

The five discs which will have been taken out of use will be returned to my offices by March 29, 2013.”

In addition to being dismissed from the operator on account of his negligence, the vocational driving entitlement of Driver Roberts was revoked and he was disqualified for a period of eight months from holding PCV entitlement.

18/03/2013 12:06

UKBA FP

25/2/13

16:54

Page 1

Book Enter Come and join us Bring

24 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

BOOK PREVIEW › PUSH ONCE

Push Once – a life in the bus industry Career busman Peter Nash has turned author and compiled a book of real life stories from the bus industry, with contributions from a host of well-known professionals. Coach & Bus Week’s Gareth Evans reports

P

eter Nash started his bus industry career as a seasonal conductor and then as a management trainee with the National Bus Company (NBC) in 1969. After spending two years in Yorkshire, he moved on to join the Tyne and Wear Passenger Transport Executive in 1973.

During the period leading up to the opening of the Metro system in 1981, he played a major role in the development of the integration of bus and Metro services in Tyne and Wear.

In 1986, when bus services were deregulated, Peter took up the role of Commercial Director of Busways Travel Services Limited and helped ensure the successful transition of Busways into a private operator.

Three years later, Peter was a Director of the company which successfully completed a management /employee buyout at Busways and in 1994 saw the company join the Stagecoach Group.

During his career, Peter has been involved in a number of major pioneering developments in public transport, including being a founder director of Network Ticketing Limited – the first multi modal ticketing company established outside London.

In 1999, Peter became Chairman of the newly-formed North East Transport Information Service and he was a founder Director of ITSO the company formed to provide an open platform for smart ticketing transactions.

Shortly after moving to the North East, Peter became a member of the regional CPT committee and in 1995 became the Stagecoach representative on the CPT Council.

He also represented the Group on the Bus Commission and was its

Chairman until his retirement.

In 1999 Peter left the North East to move to Macclesfield. He continued to work for Stagecoach Group on commercial issues as part of the UK Bus team and in 2000 took up the role of Commercial Director for Stagecoach Manchester.

He also provided competition compliance advice to the UK Bus Division. Peter has also played an active role in the community and is a Justice of the Peace. His efforts were recognised in 2005 when he was made an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday Honours List.

The story behind the book

After he retired as UK Bus Policy Adviser in March 2012, Peter set about looking for entertaining stories about people who work (or worked) in the industry which would illustrate just what a great industry it is.

Asked why he wrote the book, Peter told CBW: “Many people said to me ‘What will you do when you retire?’, which set me thinking and led me to only one conclusion – I would write a book about life in the bus industry for everyone to enjoy.

The 144-page book includes 160 full colour illustrations

“I wanted the book to be not just about my experiences, but to encompass a wide spectrum of views from across the industry.”

Peter Nash

The Kithead Trust: a brief history

On a modern industrial estate in Droitwich, an anonymous temperaturecontrolled building houses one of the UK bus industry’s most important historic resources. This is the home of the Kithead Trust. The Trust came into being through concerns that much historical material of the National Bus Company (NBC) would be lost or dispersed when the subsidiary companies were privatised and NBC itself wound up. That 1987 initiative led to the Trust’s registration in 1989 as an educational charity. Many important records were rescued at the time and, since then; much other material has been deposited with the Trust which now holds papers and documents relating to all forms of transport. The operating costs of this valuable historical resource are funded solely from donations by users, friends and supporters.

“Having spent 47 enjoyable years in the industry I decided I wanted to capture the unique spirit of the bus business. It’s easy to forget that many of today’s young managers have limited knowledge of the NBC, and even less of what went before it.

“I wanted the book to be not just about my experiences, but to encompass a wide spectrum of views from across the industry, so when I called for contributions I was pleased to find that 30 career busmen were willing and able to help too.

“My job was the easy bit – dovetailing them all together to produce an interesting chronicle of the changes in the industry over the last 50 years. My search for relevant images was just as fruitful and the book contains some first class photographs from 20 private collections. In total some 50 people have had a hand in the finished product.

“It’s taken a lot longer than I had hoped. I was told at the outset that it would take ‘as long as it takes’ – and indeed it has – almost 12 months. Nevertheless, I am sure that Push Once has been one bus that was worth waiting for.”

Does he have any plans to do more if there is enough interest?

“I haven’t really thought about a volume two. Let’s see how this one sells before we think about doing it all over again,” he replied.

Overview

With a foreword by Sir Brian Souter, the 144-page book includes 160 full colour illustrations. There are contributions featuring 35 operators, including London Transport, supported by high quality images sourced from over 20 private collections. The operators include Crosville, Devon General, J Fishwick & Son, Lytham Corporation and Midland Red – not to mention Ulsterbus and Norfolk County Council. As noted earlier, Peter has been fortunate to gain written contributions from a host of professionals, including Nigel Barrett, Andrew Dyer, Jim Hulme, Mark Yexley, Mark Fowles, Liz Esnouf and Les Burton.

Significantly, all proceeds from the sale of the book will be donated to the Kithead Trust – the charity which maintains the bus industry’s national archive (see panel, left).

Order your copy from MDS Book Sales. Call 01457 861 508. Visit www.mdsbooks.co.uk.

www.coachandbusweek.com

BookPreview.indd 24

18/03/2013 14:25

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 25

To achieve 51 years’ service is remarkable. To do so on just one bus service deserves a medal. Phyllis Maycock, MBE, poses for the press in 1993 on the steps of Charlton-on-Otmoor Services’ Piddington to Oxford service. The vehicle is a 1977 55-seat Plaxton-bodied Leyland PSU5A/4R. (Bicester Advertiser) Extract

Long Service Bus company employees tend to fall into one of two camps. They either leave within two years, not liking the shift patterns or having to deal with the public, or, they welcome the limited supervision and the interaction with customers that comes with the territory and finish up working on the buses for their career. Some of them manage to clock up very long service indeed and one such example was Phyllis Maycock, who not only completed 51 years service but also managed to do so conducting on just one route: the Piddington – Oxford service run by Charlton on Otmoor Services. This amazing achievement won her an MBE in 1994 and a celebrity appearance on “This Is Your Life”. Employees like Phyllis were, and remain, the backbone of every bus business and can usually be relied upon to use their experience and initiative to resolve any problems they might come across without seeking guidance

BookPreview.indd 25

from ‘management’.

Andrew Dyer first met Phyllis when, as a young lad, she taught him to conduct. This is his story of Phyllis: “For 51 years from 1942 to 1993 Phyllis Maycock conducted the same bus route from Piddington to Oxford via the Otmoor villages, run

by Charlton-on-Otmoor Services.

Phyl, as everyone knew her, was a battleaxe bus conductress with a heart of gold and not only knew everyone in the villages, but also their friends and relatives who made occasional visits by bus. At the tender age of 16, I got a school holiday job with Charlton Services and Phyl taught me to be a bus conductor. I then conducted the route while she was on holiday. The first day was not easy. People would just sit and hold out their money while they gossiped about village events. When I asked ‘Where to’ the reply was simply, ‘Well Phyl knows!’

“Wednesday was Oxford market day and so the busiest day of the week. On my first Wednesday conducting the 1710hrs bus

from Oxford we had six standing passengers on the elderly exLondon Transport RT. After work, I saw Phyl in the village pub. ‘How’re you getting on boy?’ I was asked.

‘Oh Phyl, the 1710 was really full, I had six standing,’ I replied. ‘FULL? You call that full?’ came the quick response. ‘I’ll tell you what’s full’.

She then proceeded to tell this story from 1946. The route went past a barracks near Bicester where army personnel were stationed while they waited to be demobbed.

As a result they went into Oxford drinking on a Saturday night and caught the last bus back to the camp.

“In Phyl’s own words… “During the war nobody bothered you as long as you got people to where they wanted to go, but afterwards rules and regulations started to be enforced. Normally we’d have two buses on the last trip, but on this particular night one had broken down and so I had to manage with one bus. It was packed with drunken squaddies and I thought we were a bit full cos’ as we went round the corner out of Gloucester

Green Bus Station, the platform scraped the ground! Round in Beaumont Street by the Ashmolean [museum] the police stopped us. “You’re overloaded,” said this jumped-up young copper “I’ll have to report you”. “Well, it’s like this my duck,” I said. “Either I can take them back to camp or I can throw them off the bus here and you can stop them going round Oxford wrecking the place.” He paused to take a look at the state of the passengers, and we were soon sent on our way! I thought I would just count them as they got off to see how full we were … and we only had 109 on a 56 seat decker!”

Sadly Phyllis died in 2005 in Charlton-on-Otmoor where she had been born. Hundreds of well-wishers crowded into the village church for the funeral. Just before the service started I heard a woman in the pew behind me say “Isn’t the church full!” I could immediately hear Phyl’s voice in my head. “FULL? Do you call this full?

You could fit at least another 20 standing at the back!”

www.coachandbusweek.com

18/03/2013 14:25

26 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

DELIVERIES

and storage cupboards, an additional cool box and storage situated over the front axle, air conditioning, Webasto pre-heater, radio/ pa/CD player, DVD, five LCD monitors and Blaupunkt satellite navigation.

Surveillance cameras linked to a dash-mounted monitor cover the upper saloon, reversing operations, rear outswing. A panoramic camera faces forward.

Ferris Holidays Ferris Holidays of Nantgarw, South Glamorgan, has received a pair of 14.2m Van Hool TDX27 Astromega double deck coaches.

They are specified with 720-litre fuel tanks, disc brakes with A.B.S, traction control, steering rear axles

and Dura Bright alloy wheels.

There are 83 Grand Luxe Reclining seats with armrests, footrests, seat back tables, seatbelts, leather inlaid headrests and moquette covers with piped seams.

Other features include a reclining courier seat, air suspended drivers seat, toilet compartment in the lower saloon, a servery with coolbox, two water boilers

ANDERSON TRAVEL Anderson Travel of Tower Bridge Road, London, has recently taken delivery of two VDL Bova Futura FHD2 – 122.365 PR luxury coaches.

The 12.2-metre vehicles are the first of a number of coaches Moseley in the South is supplying Anderson and significantly, the two coaches are the first Futura

FACT FILE

Chassis/body Van Hool TDX27

Astromega (integral)

Engine 480 bhp MAN

D2676LOH27, 12.4 litre EEV Transmission ZF AS-Tronic with Intarder Seats 83 Spec Touring Supplied by

Moseley in the South 01823 653000 www.moseleysouth.co.uk

Peter Godward Coaches Irizar UK has delivered two new integral coaches to Peter Godward Coaches of Basildon - an Irizar PB and an Irizar i6.

The first to be delivered, just before Christmas, was the PB which measures 13.9m long and 3.9m high. It boasts 59 Exclusive Irizar PB seats with leather headrests and piping, footrest, table, magazine holder and threepoint seat belts along with toilet, fridge, hot drinks machine, climate control system, aircraft style rack lockers and drivers bunk.

The i6 was delivered at the beginning of January. It is 12.9m long and 3.5m high and was specified with 57

2s supplied to a customer from Moseley in the South.

They are specified with ASR traction control, ZF Intarder with hand control, cruise control and Alcoa Dura Bright alloy wheels.

Onboard, there is an O/S centre-sunken ‘fresh water’ toilet with continental exit stepwell and powered continental exit.

The 49 Vogel Conturo luxury reclining seats feature contrasting piping to the

UK and European tours, day excursions, private hires and as the official coach operator for the South East Essex and Shoeburyness Manchester United Supporters Club, will be used to take supporters to the home games.

Peter Godward commented: “We have run Irizars for the last eight or nine years so we are familiar with the product.”

FACT FILE

Chassis/body Irizar integral Engine DAF MX340 Euro 5

seats featuring e-leather headrests, Three-point seat belts, toilet, fridge and hot drinks machine.

Both vehicles are equipped with the usual high specification DVD system, Bosch audio equipment, two

LCD monitors, reverse camera and horn, dark tint double glazing and alloy wheels etc.

All Integral Irizars come equipped with WABCO ECAS/EBS/ABS-ASR/ESP, ZF Axles and Knorr Bremse Tyre Pressure monitoring

system and the vehicles are supplied with a two-year full comprehensive body and driveline warranty as standard.

The vehicles will be used on Peter Godward Coaches’ comprehensive

462bhp (PB) / DAF PR265, 360bhp (i6) Transmission ZF AS-Tronic 12 speed Seats 59 (PB) / 57 (i6) Spec Touring Supplied by

Irizar UK 01909 500514 www.irizar.co.uk

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

www.coachandbusweek.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

Deliveries.indd 26

18/03/2013 17:10

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 27

Have you taken delivery of a new vehicle and want to tell the world about it?

Email all the details and pictures to james.day@ coachandbusweek.com

moquette seams, headrest flaps, magazine nets, seat back tables, adjustable, individual footrests and three-point seat belts.

Other features include a Courier seat, cool box, water boiler for drinks, roofmounted air conditioning, dark tinted double glazed windows, Webasto pre heater with digital timer, radio, PA and CD system, a DVD system with two flat panel monitor and a proximity warning system for the rear bumper.

FACT FILE

Chassis/body VDL Bova Futura Engine DAF PR Euro 5 365bhp Transmission ZF 5HP604 auto Seats 49 Spec Touring Supplied by

Moseley in the South 01823 653000 www.moseleysouth.co.uk

TLC Travel The first 7.2-metre Optare Solo SR SlimLine model has entered service with West Yorkshire operator TLC Travel on rural services around Keighley.

The 915-918 service operates circular routes seven days a week out of Keighley bus station connecting local rural communities. This is a tendered service with the Metro ITA and parts of the route are hail and ride.

“These routes include numerous narrow country roads and this called for a more compact bus,” explained TLC Travel’s Managing Director, Trish Lambert. “We were already familiar with the Solo product, of which we run over 20, and when the new SR version at 7.2 metres long and only 2.3 metres wide

Horn said: “The 7.2-metre Solo SR SlimLine model is a good example of our ability to provide compact buses which meet the needs of independent operators like TLC for use on rural routes.

It offers a good passenger carrying capacity and a comfortable travelling environment, and its compact size makes it easy to handle on narrow country roads or in congested town centre traffic conditions.” became available we felt that this would be ideal.

“The fact that it is a lowfloor bus and fully DDA compliant with a wheelchair ramp and bay was also an important factor in our choice, as many of our passengers are elderly with mobility problems or young mums with buggies.

“This bus represents a significant investment for us in the Keighley area,

where we have only recently started to operate. We will be watching with interest how the Solo SR is received by our passengers and how it performs on these routes.”

The bus has a capacity of 23 seated on Ster 6MS seats and up to nine standees. A CCTV system is fitted along with Mobitec LED destination equipment.

Optare Sales Director John

FACT FILE

Chassis/body Optare Solo SR

SlimLine

Engine Mercedes-Benz

OM904LA Euro 5 95kW Transmission Allison 1000 Series five-speed automatic Seats 23 Spec DDA Supplied by

Optare 07770 660036 www.optare.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

Deliveries.indd 27

18/03/2013 17:10

682924-1075-EVM

18/2/13

11:23

Page 1

minibus The essential read for Minibus Operators

March 2013

p40

p30

p36

Lowfloor or low-cost? – the choice facing buyers

O

ptare’s new Bonito is targeting sales of 50 units for this year and it’s expected it can achieve around 200 per year afterwards.

It’s an ambitious goal for a product which is uniquely different from the norm with its Plastisol composite body structure. Undoubtedly stylish and attractive and making use of popular Fiat drivetrain components it has much going for it. Optare says it will be competitively priced but as it is not intended for use in any type of farestage operation the company will be facing many issues of pricing a true lowfloor product against low-cost van conversions. Local authorities and CT organisations are bound to weigh-up the basics like how many conventional accessible

MB.Opener.indd 29

vehicles they would get for the same money – and as they are stretched for funding many will likely choose to buy of the cheaper options.

Rightly, Optare can point to a body life of possibly 40 years – but no lightweight vehicle drivetrain is going to survive as long and will need replacing a few times. Having already received much positive feedback from potential customers Optare is fairly confident.

It remains to be seen whether what customers prefer is actually what they end up buying.

Martin Cole Editor

CONTENTS 30 News

Unwin Safety Systems - in-house training for customers. Koller Engineering develops wheelchair restraint/retractor for use in tight spaces. Lots of high-spec minibus deliveries.

36

Optare unveils its Bonito

Long body life, no corrosion, stronger than aluminium, lightweight, highly accessible and quiet and comfortable to ride in - is Bonito just what the doctor ordered? We visit Plastisol.

40

Plaxton’s auto Cheetah

Plaxton reserved 49 chassis for future Cheetah production before Euro 6 kills off the Vario.

While the search for an alternative goes on we test the current model - its nearly purrrfect!

www.coachandbusweek.com

18/03/2013 18:12

30 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | March 20, 2013

news

40

Unwin provides training for Vitalise drivers Major training and familiarisation exercise ensures staff and passengers benefit Unwin Safety Systems’ Martock premises were the venue for the launch of nine new accessible minibuses, converted by Red Kite for the national charity Vitalise.

Vitalise provides about 5,000 respite holidays a year for people with disabilities, visually impaired people and carers, at centres in Chigwell, Southampton and Southport. Each centre now has three Peugeot Boxer minibuses.

The minibuses all went from Red Kite’s base in Dorset to Unwin’s Somerset HQ so the Vitalise drivers could be trained in fitting and removing seats, using Innotrax flooring and lockables and also in fitting and removing Quattro wheelchair and occupant restraints, with split-reel inertia and thirdpoint upper anchorage.

Eleven Vitalise drivers enjoyed a hands-on training session in Unwin’s training room with

Ford invests in 16-24 year old trainees

Ford is to invest £250,000 to recruit up to 50 additional apprentices for its UK network of Commercial Vehicle (CV) dealerships this year, providing valuable employment opportunities for young people.

The funding is being made available for its dealership network to recruit CV Sales Executive Apprentices under the Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme, to help develop the next generation of skilled salespeople at Ford. The funding is available for UK dealers who recruit 16 to 24 year olds.

Business Development Manager Andy Palmer, then honed their skills on the new vehicles with Andy and Sales & Marketing Director Gerry O’Connor.

Andy Palmer worked closely with Red Kite and Vitalise to ensure

the new vehicles give all their users the best possible experience.

Andy said: “Respite care is very important to people and if you’re going on a trip, you want the safest products and best vehicles available - and this is what is being provided

Vitalised: Mark Coombes (left), general sales manager with minibus convertors Red Kite with Andy Palmer, Unwin Safety Systems’ Business Development Manager. The two firms worked together to produce nine new minibuses for national charity Vitalise, which provides respite holidays Stuart Harris, Ford College manager, said: “We are delighted to offer this scheme and to provide much needed employment opportunities in today’s challenging economic climate.

“The Government is placing an increased emphasis on apprenticeships as an effective and credible route into employment.

Ford’s dealership network recruits more than 500 apprentices every year, making it one of the largest recruiters of apprentices in the motor industry.”

In their role as CV Sales Executive Apprentices, participants in the programme will gain extensive knowledge of Ford’s vehicle product range and how to provide customers with a high quality and professional purchasing experience.

They will become skilled in selling techniques, finance and vehicle appraisals.

Ford CV dealerships will work alongside Skillnet, an automotive training provider, to advertise the apprenticeship vacancies to potential applicants around the UK. Skillnet received an ‘Outstanding’ status by Ofsted in 2010 and has successfully delivered training for the Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme for the past five years.

Training will be delivered on a one-to-one basis, both on-thejob from colleagues, mentors and managers and by a team of specialist assessors. The apprentices are paid and the training runs over two years. At the end of the programme, apprentices will achieve an industry-recognised

here. We’re very pleased and proud to have been involved, particularly as Vitalise is celebrating its 50th anniversary this year.”

Red Kite was founded in 1982.

Managing director John Maskell said the company had always used Unwin products. “We keep returning to Unwin because of the quality. We know what we’re going to get and we’re used to dealing with the guys there,” he said. “They put aesthetics into the products as well and they’re functional, good quality and easy to handle and use.

“We buy our floor system from Unwin and having one manufacturer ties everything together for type approval.

Specifying all the kit from the same supplier means everything meets with the requirements and simplifies approvals. It means all the t’s are crossed and I’s dotted, it’s fully certified.”

Vitalise was able to buy the four minibuses thanks to a fundraiser hosted by Samantha Cameron, the Prime Minister’s wife. The other five were bought with help from financing through Barclays Bank.

Unwin Safety Systems is also supplying Innotrax flooring, HAL seating fixtures and wheelchair and occupant restraints for 200 new minibuses for HC-One, the UK’s third largest care home operator.

PETER HALL

The predicted life span of the Bonito Plastisol composite body

qualification, a Vocational Related Qualification (Technical Certificate) and a Vocational Competence Qualification (VCQ) or a Scottish Vocational Qualification (SVQ).

There are 13 apprenticeship pathways available on the Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme (FMAP), including a range of technical and nontechnical disciplines.

For more information regarding the Ford Masters Apprenticeship Programme and the Commercial Vehicle Sales Executive Apprenticeship, please visit www.ford-apprenticeships. co.uk or telephone 01923 216165. n For more information about Skillnet, visit www.skillnet.org.uk

www.coachandbusweek.com

MB.News1.indd 30

18/03/2013 17:42

49

The total Vario O816 chassis secured for Cheetah production

Goldline’s EVM quartet Goldline Cars of Leytonstone has a batch of four new EVM Sprinters.

The order was made up of two EVM Sprinter X-Clusives with 16 VIP seats plus two tables, A/C front and rear, dropwell boot and coach rear end, a 20 Seater Classic and 22 Seater Classic. All vehicles featured EVM’s X-Clusive styling and were finished in metallic silver.

With over 40 years ‘experience in the Private Hire Industry, Goldline is ranked within the top ten private hire companies in London and the Home Counties and its name has become synonymous with commitment, reliability, quality and efficiency. As Goldline services have grown, so has the quality and diversity of services on offer.

Available to both private and corporate clients, Goldline offer a wide range of vehicles from minicabs to 49 seat coaches for all occasions. With a fleet of over 500

X-Clusive choice for Pro Bus and Car

Pro Bus and Car Ltd has taken delivery of a new EVM Sprinter X-Clusive VIP direct from its factory in Westmeath. Based on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 516cdi 163bhp extra-long chassis with automatic gearbox.

Its specification includes full length luggage racks, pleated full draw curtains on rails with moulded tie backs, double glazing, in-dash and Saloon air conditioning, 11 Brusa Seats in real leather with leather cushioned headrests, threepoint seatbelts and raised seat cushion while reclining.

The seats feature vertical grip handles in the backrest and leather magazine nets. Two “leg free” tables are located in the rear saloon. The customer also opted for a panoramic roof and panoramic double glazing creating a sense

50

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | 31

Places created by Ford on its Masters Apprenticeship Programme

Innovative Wheelchair Restraint from Koller

Goldline’s EVM Sprinter line up features two X-Clusives and two Classics vehicles ranging from minicabs and minibuses to 49 seat coaches, the fleet is designed to meet all customer needs - whether it is daily commuting, a stag night, a shuttle service, a group outing, or a corporate event. All vehicles are equipped with latest industry technology such as climate control, satellite navigation, and mp3/4 players.

Goldline Cars became the first minicab service to introduce the

Pro Bus & Car EVM X-Clusive of light and space. Entertainment is via a Blaupunkt New York 800 World unit. It features 6.2” Touch screen display, DVD Drive, USB Slot for I-Pod / I Phone. Audio / Video plus integrated reversing camera.

EVM X-Clusive Body styling and colour coding add to “kerb appeal.”

It complies with European type approval and carries a three-year bumper-to-bumper unlimited mileage chassis warranty.

Pro Bus and Car claims to have considered every detail in its quest to create a transport company as close to perfection as possible.

From superbly trained drivers,

IVR (Interactive Voice Response) system in London. Now regular commuters using its minicab service are rewarded by being able to book journeys at the touch of a button. Swipe and Go has brought the speed, ease and cost effectiveness of the Oyster card to the private hire industry while finally eliminating the need for cash in cabs by introducing the Goldline’s in car Chip and Pin payment system. impeccably maintained cars and coaches and round-the-clock support for clients to all the luxury touches the operator leaves nothing to chance. Pro Bus and Car believes the result is elegant, discreet, luxurious and exceptional service.

The business was founded in 1998 by Bruno and Sandra Schmidt. Both have years of experience in the five-star hotel industry. Bruno was one of Ireland’s youngest chefs ever to achieve a coveted Michelin star. While they were working in the deluxe hotel industry they noticed the client’s transportation did not match the standard of hotel they were visiting. It led them to establish a transportation company with a difference. One where attention to detail reigns supreme. The Pro Bus & Car vehicle selection is second to none. From the drivers, butlers to receptionists the people at Pro Bus and Car pride themselves on creating a peaceful oasis for all travellers whether they are visiting for business or pleasure.

The i-ON High Capacity Auto Electric Retractor is the latest offering from Koller Engineering.

The i-ON is a front electrical wheelchair tie-down retractor Koller claims is perfect for vehicles where space is restricted for wheelchairs which limit the types of restraint used.

It consists of black safety straps (webbing) and a quick-release Karabiner or Buckle and Tongue fitting - essential safety measures.

The i-ON also includes a one-bolt fixing for swift and unobtrusive installation and along with the black webbing, matches the rest of the vehicle interior.

Advantages of this restraint include: n Choice of two secure locks: Karabiner or Buckle and Tongue n Webbing which automatically retracts once power is removed which enables the wheelchair to be pushed into the vehicle n Extendable to an unrivalled 4.5 metres with Karabiner lock n Extendable to 4.2 metres with Buckle and Tongue lock.

All restraints are tested to European and International Safety Standards and conform to ISO 9001:2008.

Koller believes coachbuilders and converters will enjoy the versatility and ease of use of this restraint. It can be sold new during the conversion process or as an aftermarket replacement.

Koller’s new i-ON retractor

www.coachandbusweek.com

MB.News1.indd 31

18/03/2013 17:42

32 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | March 20, 2013

www.coachandbusweek.com

BigPicture.indd 32

18/03/2013 15:04

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | 33

THE BIG PICTURE

This week’s image shows a new Ferqui Soroco – a model which was very popular when Optare was handling its importation. Now under the Connaught wing, it has begun to see an encouraging level of resurgence in the marketplace for operators wanting coachbuilt minibuses based on Mercedes-Benz Sprinters rather than conversions.

For owner Bobby Bridgeman of Bee Bee Travel, this is the second Soroco in succession and he is absolutely delighted by the level of support and co-operation he receives from both Connaught and Ferqui – and in particular the attention to detail the manufacturer displays in ensuring the product lives up to or exceeds expectations.

This example is fully air conditioned and equipped with 16 Vogel reclining seats trimmed in leather. It has a large boot with a detachable panel in the rear shelf to enable tall/long items to be stowed comfortably. Glazed panels in the entrance door are double glazed to avoid misting and ensure the driver always has a good view and can manoeuvre or pull out from junctions in complete safety.

It is pictured in the grounds of Brockett Hall, on the outskirts of Lemsford, Hertfordshire where the golf club has been a source of many prestigeous jobs for Bee Bee Travel.

www.coachandbusweek.com

BigPicture.indd 33

18/03/2013 15:05

34 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | March 20, 2013

news

Express of Batley gains EVM X-Clusive West Yorkshire minicoach operator boosts its fleet with striking 18-seater exec Express of Batley recently took delivery of a new EVM Sprinter X-Clusive Minicoach. This particular vehicle was the star of EVM’s stand at the Birmingham EuroBus Expo and attracted huge attention from all who visited. As is usual with EVM’s products, this vehicle marks a unique new direction in ‘style’ with the use of ivory beige and terracotta colouring. It was also fitted with EVM’s own Panoramic roof, an option which is almost standard on all new X-Clusives.

Express of Batley was established in 1967 by a local family man who found a niche market for quality coach hire. In today’s demanding modern business travelling environment the company has the latest high profile, modern young fleet ranging from standard to full executive minicoaches.

Based on a Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 516 automatic chassis it features 18 Brusa reclining seats in

Age UK gets its Master Faster

Stanford Coachworks pulled out the stops to ensure a fast delivery time for Age UK Doncaster, completing a wheelchair accessible conversion on a Renault Master in less than five weeks.

Certified to IVA type approval, the long wheelbase, high roof Master is equipped with 11 detachable M2 seats trimmed in Ambla material and fitted with grab handles, head restraints and all-age seat belts. It features in-dash air con, an Eberspacher D2 saloon heater, sliding side entrance

real two tone leather incorporating three point seat belts, saloon tables, Eberspacher saloon air con, two monitors & DVD and a wooden floor to compliment the luxury finish. The vehicle was also specified with PA with hand microphone, plug type power door, panoramic windscreen, panoramic roof with shutter blinds, EVM framed coach type double

glazed saloon windows, moulded window capping finished in leather, X-Clusive Body styling, front spoiler with integrated fog lights and LED driving lights, large dropwell boot, X-Clusive coach back boot door, driver’s comfort seat with armrests, driver’s locker in racks, twin roller windscreen blinds, cruise control, Bluetooth, 100L fuel tank and a saloon heater with heater booster.

Express’ latest fleet addition lives up to it’s ‘X-Clusive’ name door with a manually-operated access step, high visibility textured handrails, non-slip flooring, bonded panoramic windows with one top sliding opener, reversing sensors and a CD player.

With rear seats removed the bus can carry up to three wheelchairs.

Cab area storage provides space for two folded wheelchairs. The vehicle was up-rated to 3800kg GVW to comply with current rules and ensure adequate carrying capacity.

David Hardacre, Sales and Marketing Executive for Stanford Coachworks, said: “We’re the preferred supplier to Age UK and provide them with a range of specially converted buses. We’ve worked with Age UK Doncaster for over 15 years.”

ML Global takes two EVM Sprinters ML Global Ltd has taken delivery of two EVM Avantgarde minicoaches from Crawley-based EVM. Both are based on Mercedes-Benz Sprinter 516cdi 163bhp extra-long chassis with automatic gearboxes.

Their feature-packed spec includes full length luggage racks, pleated full draw curtains on rails with moulded tie backs, EVM double glazing, in-dash and saloon air conditioning, 16 Brusa seats in real leather with leather cushioned headrests and three-point seat belts and raised seat cushion while reclining. The seats feature vertical grip handles in the backrest and leather magazine nets.

Both vehicles feature the EVM passenger plug door. Colour coding of bumpers and skirts greatly enhances the ‘kerb appeal’ EVM conversions are renowned for. As with all firm’s minicoaches, it has European type approval and three year bumper-to-bumper unlimited mileage, chassis warranty. ML Global provides services to all the major hotel groups with a particular focus on the visiting Chinese community. It offers a range of tours around the UK.

Stanford’s David Hardacre hands over the Renault Master to Age UK

www.coachandbusweek.com

MB.News2.indd 34

18/03/2013 17:12

682836-1079-Eberspacher

11/3/13

16:42

Page 1

36 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | March 20, 2013

VEHICLE launch › optare bonito

Bonito – a new approach Martin Cole visits Plastisol’s Netherlands plant to examine composite body manufacture and assess its advantages of low weight, high strength, absence of corrosion, 40-year expected life-span and expected strong residual value

A

fter major restructuring forced the abandoning of its coach and minicoach business and eventually dropping the Alero lowfloor minibus, Optare made a surprise announcement over its intended return to the sector with a new lowfloor offering which is totally outsourced to Plastisol. The preview Bonito model exhibited at Euro Bus Expo is now entering a demonstration phase; vehicles are in production and short lead times can be expected.

Based in Wanroij, in the Netherlands, Plastisol is renowned for producing composite bodies for fire engines and airport crash tenders. A few years ago it introduced its own Eclipse minibus at a CTA exhibition in Manchester – but it lacked style and did not attract a great deal of interest.

While short slimline versions of Optare’s Solo ticks many of the accessible transport market’s boxes it is built using big bus components and designed to operate in intensive urban services – hence it is generally much too expensive for most CT or dial-a-rides to contemplate. It therefore only sells in very small numbers.

Following some initial approaches and discussions Optare and Plastisol entered into a twoyear partnership which would see Plastisol’s composite material

technology combined with Optare’s design capability in a bid to create a small bus for the accessible transport market with a broad sector of applications.

Optare Director Chris Wise, who headed the project, said: “We’ve designed the Bonito to be serviceable and superior to the opposition. We chose Plastisol as a partner because the company met all the requirements. Between us, we’ve designed Bonito to look like it belongs to the Optare range and what we’ve created offers some unique features.

“The body has a lifetime guarantee. Being entirely built of composites it eliminates all the rattles and squeaks associated with conventional body construction.

The bonded structure means there are no joints and therefore no leaks. There’s no corrosion, it is fire retardant and it’s 10% lighter

than a conventional body. Bonito benefits from having an integral construction which utilises the Fiat Ducato drive train, its floor pan and its dashboard. It has a kneeling suspension system, designed by Plastisol, and a flat floor from front to back which can accommodate 16 seats or up to seven wheelchairs.

Full length Unwin floor tracking is installed for total flexibility of seating layout and high-level cant rail tracking is mounted either side to assist with special restraint systems.”

Bonito measures 7.5m long and 2.2m wide. The Fiat engine is 3.0 litres and rated at 157bhp. It can be coupled to a six-speed manual gearbox or to Fiat’s Comfortmatic automated manual gearbox. It has a gvw of 5.0 tonnes. The drive train carries a three-year Fiat Professional warranty. Back-up and support for Bonito is also

Above: Bonito posed with a 200year old Dutch windmill. Left: Left to right: Ben Jardine, Gary Smith, Glenn Saint, Chris Wise, Rob Walraven (MD of Plastisol BV) and Bardo Govaarts jointly provided by Optare and Plastisol UK who will supply mobile technicians and operate a call centre plus an internet-based parts ordering system.

Shorter or longer variants are perfectly possible and a shorter model could appear before the end of the year. Longer models will only

www.coachandbusweek.com

MB.Bonito.indd 36

18/03/2013 14:31

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | 37

be considered if demand becomes apparent.

A key benefit is improved safety from the ability of the GRP composite to absorb and dissipate shocks caused by impact with another vehicle. Not only does this limit the amount of damage to the body it helps protect passengers.

A full HVAC system is installed to provide adequate climate control and is an essential element in versions without any physical ventilation as standard windows have no top slider or hopper-top option. There is a large roof-vent/

escape hatch which can be opened if necessary.

Seating is currently a choice between Rescroft CT Lite or Phoenix Hydra as both companies also provide the tip and fold systems for rear seats which allow creation of a wheelchair space without need for seat removal.

Glazed rear doors open outwards and fold flat to the rear panel to create a wide entrance aperture and a lightweight folding ramp is mounted on the rear floor to provide a shallow angled gradient for wheelchairs. Although it can

be substituted for a passenger lift or an alternative ramp system Plastisol’s ramp is lighter than most aluminium competitors and is certified to carry 400kg safely.

It also achieves this without need for support legs as there is no noticeable deflection when the wheelchair passes over it.

One certain area of appeal is the front passenger entrance/exit door.

An electric plug-style unit from Tamware, it eliminates the need for constant adjustment and resetting through being mounted in its own cassette. Gary Smith,

“Plastisol has developed a touchscreen system to replace the bank of switches in the cab to control all auxiliary services, interior lighting, HVAC and kneeling suspension/ ride height.”

www.coachandbusweek.com

MB.Bonito.indd 37

18/03/2013 14:30

38 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | March 20, 2013

VEHICLE launch › optare bonito

MD of Plastisol UK at Chorley, said: “The continual problem for operators with powered doors is when they go out of alignment and won’t function correctly. It is largely caused by movement in the body. Modern chassis are designed to flex slightly which gives them better ride comfort qualities. Bodies also have a degree of flex to cater for this, however when you have a door which has just been perfectly set up you can often find, after a 20 mile trip involving the odd pothole and a few sleeping policemen, the movement has thrown the adjustment completely out. By building the door and mechanism into a single cassette it is isolated from the effects and provides long, reliable service.”

Plastisol has also developed a touch-screen system to replace the bank of switches normally mounted in the cab to control all auxiliary services, interior lighting, HVAC and kneeling suspension/ride height. It can also be used to monitor CCTV images and to automatically link with a reversing camera to show the area immediately behind the bus. Customers who may feel uncomfortable with the technology can opt for conventional switches.

Above left: Floor, sides and roof are assembled and bonded in a jig before additional are added. Right: Channels for floor tracking are moulded in. Below left: Virtually the only metal in the body. Right: Drive train installed

Production process

Outlining the specific nature of creating layered composite material sandwiched around a foam core, Gary Smith said the key difference between the Plastisol method and conventional forms of GRP lay-up was the vacuum forming operation.

It meant products contained around 37% more glass which led to higher strength, lower weight, greater shock absorbent characteristics and better noise insulation.

He also emphasised the company’s in-house capability for structural design using CAD and FEA (finite element analysis) to optimise components and ensure complete reliability.

Recent investment at Wanroij had seen the establishment of comprehensive testing facilities where all structural requirements and seating or restraint systems can be carried out and witnessed

by RDW, TUV and VCA officials to

obtain required standards and Type Approval compliance. The test rig incorporates a hefty pendulum to carry out impact testing on cab-area integrity.

The formation process involves creating a mould for the finished product and introducing layers of glass matting. The sheets are of varied thickness and unlike conventional GRP sheets in having a variety of patterns for the fibres.

Some are completely woven while others carry fibres in diagonal directions. Once in position they are covered with a sealing sheet and the air is sucked out. The vacuum created then draws resin into the mould which permeates the layers of matting and binds them

completely with no possibility of air bubbles to cause any weakness in the finished product.

Moulding is usually done late in the day as the resin transfer takes around an hour to complete. It can then be left overnight to cure and is ready for unwrapping and flashing removal next morning. In the area set aside for Bonito components, moulds for body sides, roofs and floors were all evident.

The raw panels undergo a sand blasting process which gives the surface a matt finish which serves to facilitate bonding and also as a key to accept paint. A CNC machine then trims all excess flashing from the panels and they are grouped into sets and placed on trolleys

before entering the production area and assembled into complete body structures.

According to Gary Smith the composite material is easy to repair.

He said any competent bodyshop would have little difficulty in completing repair work and said if operators were keen to do their own repairs Plastisol would provide any training necessary.

For serious damage where a hole has been punched through, Plastisol can provide a plug, cut from a panel of the same material, which the customer can simply bond into place. For peace of mind over simple bumps and scrapes, the Bonito has been given quickly detachable lower panels on all four

www.coachandbusweek.com

MB.Bonito.indd 38

18/03/2013 14:32

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | 39

by the middle of this month. It is also expected Bonito variants could well suit other markets favoured by Ashok Leyland and Plastisol.

Riding in Bonito

Top left: Touch screen control. Above Left: Detachable corner panel. Above: Shallow boarding ramp angle. Below left: Screened off driver section. Below right: The 3.0 litre 157bhp Fiat Ducato driveline delivers adequate power

corners.

In summing up the presentation, Optare deputy CEO Glenn Saint would not be drawn on a price for Bonito, saying: “It will be ‘competitively priced’ against other lowfloor products.

“We have tenders out at present with a number of organisations and there are a lot of people waiting to see one and have a demonstration.

We’ll be entering a demonstration programme immediately. There are currently 12 Bonitos in build and it is available to buy now.”

Asked about longevity and possible residual values he emphasised the composite structure was much tougher than an aluminium and GRP body and

believed it was credible to expect a 40-year life cycle. He said the material was also fully recyclable.

While Bonito ticks many boxes for community transport operation, dial-a-ride and demand responsive services Glenn Saint was quick to point out it is not intended for fare stage bus operation. “We will not be putting destination equipment aboard it,” he affirmed. He also claimed Bonito would ‘eventually’ be fully approved by Fiat as Optare and Plastisol had worked closely with the company throughout its development.

Bonito is currently being certified to IVA requirements but all the paperwork is in place and full Type Approval compliance is expected

“We have tenders out at present with a number of organisations and there are a lot of people waiting to see one and have a demonstration.

Glenn Saint Deputy CEO, Optare

As a lowfloor minibus, Bonito has a dedicated and distinct appearance with typically more visual appeal than others in the sector which retain the Fiat’s own front. The wide passenger entrance affords single step boarding which can be lowered if the ECAS all-round air suspension is fitted. Standard models are equipped with air on rear only. The floor is flat for the whole of its length and there is only minimal intrusion from the rear wheel boxes. Headroom is more than ample and the seats are adequately spaced for reasonable comfort. Sidewall and roofing panels are slightly sculpted to avoid a completely stark appearance but there are no plans to offer soft trim panels or centre roof stripes in order to retain the simple wipeclean advantage.

All seats have seatbelts and integral grab handles. Windows are tinted to reduce glare and offer a good view. A plexiglass screen separates the rear of the driver’s seat from the passenger area although there is open access from the side. There is no driver’s door so the driver must enter and leave via the front passenger entrance.

A journey over mixed road types showed how quiet the passenger environment is and claims of it having no rattles were completely borne out – nothing rattled or shook at all. The ride quality was very pleasing too – so the combination of low noise and high comfort indicate it will certainly win favour with passengers. The windows did steam up quite quickly after we set off but the driver had not switched the HVAC system on.

Overall – a ride on the Bonito is a pleasant experience and passengers could feasibly travel comfortably for much longer distances than they would normally expect to go on most CT-style operations. If Optare gets the price right Bonito could very quickly become a major competitor in the sector.

www.coachandbusweek.com

MB.Bonito.indd 39

18/03/2013 14:32

40 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | March 20, 2013

first drive › plaxton cheetah

Plaxton Cheetah evolves Martin Cole tries out the latest Plaxton Cheetah: equipped with a smooth automatic transmission, it gains another stage of refinement

P

laxton’s Cheetah has always been a relatively popular product in the 25-33 seat sector and since its major reincarnation in 2007 with a complete style change it suddenly gained a very distinctive and attractive appearance. It has always been based on the Mercedes-Benz Vario chassis or its T2-series predecessor O814D which was favoured for minicoach application. More basic bus-styled versions with a standard MercedesBenz front were always marketed as the Beaver – built on O811D (or smaller derivatives) which again was hugely popular in its day, although the market has dwindled considerably in the last few years.

Last year saw the re-emergence of the Cheetah after a hiatus in production – due in part to company reorganisation, to the transfer of all Anston’s production to Scarborough and also redevelopment of the model to meet new European legislation and Type Approval requirements.

While the revision achieved its goals an air of uncertainty over its long-term future arose when Mercedes-Benz announced it would cease production of Vario chassis as it was not prepared to develop it to meet Euro 6 requirements. This

Cheetah is shortly entering its final phase of production on Vario O816D as Euro 6 looms

leaves Plaxton in something of a quandary as to where it should go next with Cheetah. Ideally, it would wish to continue offering Cheetah on a Mercedes-Benz platform but there is only one path currently open and it would mean moving to the Atego chassis. While a smaller Atego chassis is being added to the range there are issues over suitable weights and, significantly, complications over the additional complexity of building on Atego.

Returning to the current O816Dbased offering, changes to the Cheetah include the adoption of a stainless steel frame structure which meets R66 roll-over requirements. It employs identical side pillars to the Panther and Elite coach models although the roofing cross rails required their own specific construction. This made certification much simpler as two-thirds of the structure had already achieved R66. The lighter weight of the structure saves around 300kg and goes a long way towards Cheetah’s ability to retain a favourable seating capacity.

Weight saving exercises carried on throughout the redesign process and a number of areas were successful in shedding some weight – although the most significant savings were achieved in switching to reclining Tourismo seats – cutting around five kilograms per

www.coachandbusweek.com

MB.Cheetah.indd 40

18/03/2013 14:38

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | 41

unit. This means Cheetah can offer up to 29 seats plus a courier along with a reasonably respectable 2.9 cubic metres boot space – whereas Plaxton initially feared it would not have options beyond 27 seats. Having come across a few unexpected weight issues in recent times Plaxton now weighs all incoming chassis individually and claims to have found differences of up to 150kg between chassis of the same specification.

External changes to Cheetah are minimal. The mirrors are altered, daytime running lights have been included, halogen headlamps introduced and all other lighting is now LED. Although it isn’t seen from the outside, a drop-down step has been created at the rear emergency door to assist entry or egress. It constitutes a small flat plate mounted on a hinge. It has a non-slip coating on the top and is bordered with a bright yellow stripe.

Inside the vehicle the immediately obvious changes are to the parcel racks, which incorporate new individual passenger sets and a lighter colouring to the moulded trim panels.

Driving impressions

Having missed a couple of previous opportunities to test drive a version of the new Cheetah equipped with an automatic gearbox, the availability of a new model just ahead of its delivery to Northampton’s Country Lion presented a welcome opportunity which was quickly grasped.

One of the key and unseen modifications is a revision of the sound proofing. Marketing Manager Andy Warrender said Plaxton had been investigating a range of different materials and sound dampening methods, with some very mixed results.

The sound proofing installed on this model, while being a distinct improvement to earlier models, may not be the option Plaxton eventually chooses to standardise on. The work is ongoing and so further improvements could be discovered and implemented in subsequent Cheetah

www.coachandbusweek.com

MB.Cheetah.indd 41

18/03/2013 14:38

42 | COACH & BUS WEEK MINIBUS | March 20, 2013

first drive › plaxton cheetah

Above left: Tourismo seats save weight. Centre: Wide well-lit entrance. Right: Newly added step drops down when the emergency door is opened Below left and centre: Newly-styled mirror and mounting. Right: Respectable boot space plus underfloor sidelockers give adequate stowage capacity

production.

While the noise abatement is hardly dramatic, it is a little quieter – and therefore very welcome. Another nice change is in the smoother operation of the automatic gearbox. Vario still retains the Allison 1,000-series five-speed transmission, but recent production benefits from the latest generation of electronic control systems. The changes are now much slicker and smoother - which is pleasant for the driver and far more comfortable for passengers.

Out on the road, Vario’s implacable nature remains as docile and unhurried as ever. First gear remains very low and always seems to hang on a bit too long but the remaining ratios are much taller and ably propel the Cheetah

towards its broad cruising speed range. It’s tractor-like nature means it cruises effortlessly with little requirement for gear changing on manual versions – but with the automatic it becomes virtually stress free for the driver.

Equipped with air suspension on the rear the Vario provides good ride quality. Its steering is light and it feels extremely stable on the road. The driver position offers a commanding view of the road and the mirrors give a very good view down each side.

Summary

Overall, the Cheetah is an impressive tool in both its appearance and finish. It has reasonably good luggage capacity and provides passengers with

a very tidy, appealing and comfortable interior. Roof-mounted ThermoKing air conditioning is now standard fitment but customers have the option to delete it should they wish. A drop-down DVD monitor was the only addition specified by Country Lion to what has become a quite comprehensive and readily acceptable standard specification.

Only two minor issues became apparent during the test. Firstly the sliding side window by the driver rattled occasionally if the Cheetah hit a pot hole in the road – but on decent tarmac it doesn’t happen.

Secondly, seat belt travel for the driver was too limited. Leaning across the centre console to adjust the heater controls (a bank of four dials) I could only just reach

the third one. Another six to eight inches of belt travel would fix the problem.

Plaxton had been able to secure the production of 49 Vario chassis and 25 of these are now assigned to customers. These will carry production as far as spring 2014 and the last one should enter the build process by week three or four.

Andy Warrender said: “There’s been some resurgence in interest as we’ve sold 19 in first two months of the year. Only limited numbers are now available as chassis manufacture is on the run down.

They are just not there to buy.”

Retail prices for Cheetah are currently £119,500 for a manual gearbox version or £124,070 for an automatic.

www.coachandbusweek.com

MB.Cheetah.indd 42

18/03/2013 14:39

p43_CBW_1075

18/2/13

18:35

Page 1

p44_CBW_1079-1

18/3/13

14:12

Page 44

44 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

" E W F S U J T F

P O

U I F T F

Q B H F T

B M M

Z F B S

G S P N K V T U

c

D B M M

2007 MAN Plaxton Panther

2005 MAN Noge 7HO

All Vehicles Direct Fleet Many With COIF’s, PSV’s, Wheelchair

49/53 seats, LEZ compliant, toilet, DVD/CD, fridge, hot drinks, Webasto. Only used on our own holidays and excursions.

Excellent condition – £90,000 + VAT

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

Please call Jamie 01730 267543 or 07956 029344

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

2010 MAN Beulas

71 seats, LEZ, Glory Euro 5 + EEV, WC, climate control, hot drinks, amazing luggage capacity, fantastic condition, MOT 31/10/2013, fully DDA, only 149,000km, sale due to fleet restructure.

ÂŁ225,000 + VAT

Access Lifts

& Ramps

ÂŁ65,000+VAT - P/X considered

Ford Transit 17 Seat Minibus

4.1 ton, 2.4 diesel engine 140 ps, six speed gearbox, tachograph, COIF, PSV.

ÂŁ15,750

Florida Taxi Coaches 01787 477701

Pembridge Vehicle Management 01633 485858

Mercedes Benz Vito 111 CDI

2003 Dennis Trident 2 SLF Alex 400 10.5m

2001 Mercedes Autobus Nouvelle II

Optare Solo M710 SE (57 Plate)

67 seats + 18 standees, Cummins Euro IV/ZF, conversion to single door available, very clean. £27,500 + VAT – CHOICE Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

33 seats with lap belts, dual purpose, destination gear, this bus has been refurbished in the chassis, to body parts and repainted.

In good condition, 21 seats + 2 tip-ups & 10 standing, MOT till July, Mercedes engine, 239,180 miles, Hanover destination. ÂŁ47,000

3 seat wheelchair accessible minibus, LEZ compliant, MOT until July, air con, plain silver, Euro 4, 300kg tail lift capacity, armrests.

Five in stock.

ÂŁ5,000

D L O S

Ventura Sales 01342 835206

MAN Tourliner

Mercedes Benz 816D Plaxton Cheetah

460bhp Euro V engine, 12 speed AStronic gearbox, white with removable vinyls, no scrapes or scratches, Durabright alloys, many extras, MOT till September 2013.

Air conditioning, LEZ compliant, Webasto heater, radio CD/PA system, seat belts, double glazed tinted windows, coach style seats.

ÂŁ168,000 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

ÂŁ10,000+VAT

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

Graham Crooms, Courtney Buses 0118 973 3486 (Option 3)

Take the photos, write the ad and change it later if you want to, all from your online dashboard.

Selling a vehicle is simple on . . .

ÂŁ42,500

Ventura Sales 01342 835206

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

p45_CBW_1079-2

18/3/13

16:54

Page 45

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 45

" E W F S U J T F

B

T J O H M F

W F I J D M F

G P S

B T

M J U U M F

B T

c

D B M M

2 x 2007 (57) Optare Solo M950 Slimlines

32 seats + 17 standees, Cummins engines, Alison gearboxes, full service histories, both with current MOT, average mileages. Each one will be re-sprayed in white or in the new owner’s colours if required.

2000 VOLVO B7TL’s

2005 13m Bova Futura

Voith gearboxes, Plaxton President bodies, LWB, converted to single door high capacity schoolbuses with 83 seats.

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

POA

ÂŁ84,500+VAT - P/X considered

Courtney Buses 0118 973 3486

EnsignBus 01708 865656

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

2006 Plaxton Pointer Plaxton/Transbus

Mercedes 814D Euro Coach

2004 Ford Transit

2002 VOLVO B7TL’s

DDA and LEZ, 70 seats, Euro 3, ÂŁ24,000 + VAT

ÂŁ49,000 o.n.o.

POA

ÂŁ58,000

17 seats, lap/diagonal belts, 2 x air bags, 121,000 miles, FSH, remote central locking, radio/cassette, one previous owner, very tidy throughout, no internal damage. ÂŁ3,950 + VAT

Arriva Bus & Coach 01274 681144

Contact William on 07733 914050

Crystal Coaches – 020 8960 8800

EnsignBus 01708 865656

Dennis Dart Mini Plaxton Pointer 8.8m

2005 Bova Futura

2002 Futura

2008 MAN A22 Wrightbus Meridian SLF 12m

MOT till Aug 2013, CCTV cameras, CCTV recorder, manual front, side & rear destination, front ramp, Euro 2, blue patterned moquette.

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

ÂŁ5,750

49 seat executive, excellent condition inside and out, used only for touring and excursions, 12 months MOT, 470K kms, owned since new, genuine reason for sale. ÂŁ75,000 + VAT o.n.o.

Ventura Sales 01342 835206

Call Paul – 07968 106891

1996 Volvo VanHool B9M

2004 Volvo B12M VanHool T9 Exec

29 + 17 seats, 323,719 miles.

38 reclining & belted seats, air-con, PA/Video/ DVD/VCR, floor mounted WC, full servery, full service history, MOT to October 2013.

ÂŁ15,000

Royal Blues - 01803 872422

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

49, 51 or 53 seats, air con, Webasto, Ishift or manual, TV, DVD or video, 3 point seat belts, rear saloon w/c, phone, reversing camera, MOTs till late 2013. ÂŁ57,000 + VAT (manual gearbox)

Nigel McCree - 01509 502695

ÂŁ55,000 + VAT L.J. Edwards: 01323 440622 option 2 or John 07974 369570

2009 Renault

16 reclining seats, perfect for airports, takes 20 big suitcases, A/C, TV, DVD, hot drinks & fridge, 3 point belts, overhead racks, front entry, 166,000kms, great on fuel, sale due to fleet restructure.

Ex-rental, LEZ compliant, ZF automatic, 44 seats + 26 standees, wheelchair ramp, Mobitech LED, digital tacho.

Choice of 5 from ÂŁ294+VAT per week

Santander Used Assets 07753 712444

1998 Volvo VanHool B10M Alizee

48 reclining & belted seats, air-con, PA/Video/ DVD/VCR, floor mounted WC, full servery, full service history, MOT to December 2013.

ÂŁ19,000 + VAT

ÂŁ25,000

Florida Taxi Coaches 01787 477701

Royal Blues - 01803 872422

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

p46_CBW_1079-3

18/3/13

14:13

Page 42

42 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

" E W F S U J T F

P O

U I F T F

Q B H F T

B M M

Z F B S

G S P N K V T U

c

D B M M

2000 SCANIA T9

2008 MAN Auto Ayat

2003 Futura

53 seats, excellent condition, PSV 26/5/13, Taxed 30/4/13, service records. Lovely bus all round and just had an interior re-trim.

51 seat full executive, owned from new, choice of 2, real head turner, used on tour programme, low mileage @ 240,000kms, a lot of coach for the money, looks great and great value at just...

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

42-48 seats, 60,667 miles.

ÂŁ24,750

ÂŁ89,000+VAT - P/X considered

Contact Eric on 0792 138920

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

ÂŁ65,000 + VAT L.J. Edwards: 01323 440622 option 2 or John 07974 369570

Arriva Bus & Coach 01274 681144

2004 MAN 14.240 SLF MCV Evolution 11.3m

2009 Mercedes Tourino

VOLVO B12B

39 seats + 21 standees, DDA compliant, Mobitec LED. ÂŁ28,000 + VAT Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

1998 Volvo B10M Jonckheere Mistral

Converted to 70 seater in September using Cogent 3+2 seating all fitted with 3 point belts, MOT till Oct 2013 and has no known defects.

ÂŁ35,000 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

2002 Mercedes Vario 614

13 seat front entry wheelchair accessible minibus, diesel, 160,000 miles.

ÂŁ6,995

Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076

2010 Temsa Avenue

POA

2006 Volvo B7TL Wrightbus Gemini SLF 10.7m

Manual, 32-seat executive, purple, Webasto, air conditioning, retarder, WC, DVD McLaren colour seats with leather headrests, spare double seat, must be seen, 211,000km, MOT April 2014. Must sell due to retirement.

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

ÂŁ110,000

ÂŁ120,000

Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279

Contact William on 07733 914050

2005 Daf VanHool

2004 Iveco Daily 45c13

2004 Optare Solo M850 SLF

Auto, 49/51 seat executive, purple, immaculate, Webasto, air conditioning, retarder, WC, DVD, reversing camera, hot water, fridge, leather headrests/piping, MOT May 2014, one driver from new, 486,000km. Must sell due to retirement.

11 seat front entry wheelchair accessible minibus, white, diesel, 80,000 miles.

29 seats + 19 standees, fully DDA compliant, Hanover LED, Cummins engine, very clean. ÂŁ29,500 + VAT Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

ÂŁ95,000

Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279

Neoplan Starliner

Ex-rental, LEZ compliant, 67 high back seats, 1 tip-up + 14 standees, wheelchair ramp, Mobitech LED, air-con, CCTV, MoT Dec 2013.

ÂŁ10,000 - no VAT

Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076

POA

Santander Used Assets 07753 712444

2007 Setra 415GTHD Comfort Class

Iveco 17 seat wheelchair accessible minibus

32 leather seats, full rear servery, airline style overhead lockers, 240V inverter and onboard generator, Blaupunkt sound system with DVD & Sky TV, ASTronic gearbox, A/C, WC, fully carpeted, removable ski box.

49 seats, AS Tronic gearbox, Mercedes engine, Euroliners, Ambiente seats, serviced by Mercedes since new, one owner, 302,000kms, MOT Apr 2014. Must sell due to retirement.

Unwin Innotrax floor to take five wheelchairs, underfloor lift, rear heating, tachograph, front entry drop step with slam door, COIF, PSV.

ÂŁ65,000 + VAT o.n.o.

ÂŁ120,000

Florida Taxi Coaches 01787 477701

Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279

Pembridge Vehicle Management 01633 485858

ÂŁ15,495

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

696533-1079-CoachTraders

18/3/13

12:11

Page 1

new, used and brokered coach sales

New

Used

681335-1079-Ensign:Layout 1

18/3/13

12:57

Page 1

Ensig DOUBLE DECK 85

SEAT S

2000 DENNIS TRIDENTS Alexander ALX400 bodies, converted to high capacity 85 seat school buses.

LEZ

COMPLIANT

1999/2000/2001 V/X/51 PLATE DENNIS TRIDENTS Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant for 2012 with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX400 bodies, DDA compliant or upseated to 80 seats.

1999 T/V REG DENNIS TRIDENTS

1999 T/V REG DENNIS DART SLF’S

Caetano Compass bodies, 39 seats, ramps.

Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant with traps, Plaxton President bodies, 62 seats dual door (£13,000) or 70 when converted to single door (£16,000).

1995 M REG OPTARE SPECTRA

1986 LEYLAND OLYMPIAN TRI-AXLE

Gardner engine, Voith gearbox, 100 seats with seatbelts.

DAF engine, Voith gearbox, low height, 77 seats.

1998 R/S REG OPTARE SOLO’S

1999 VOLVO B7TL’S

Merc engines , 8.5m long, 30 seats. £4500 each plus tyres.

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

2001 Y REG DENNIS DARTS

2002 52 PLATE VOLVO B7TL’S DDA and LEZ, 70 seats, Euro 3, £24000 plus VAT.

Plaxton Pointer 2 bodies, 10.1m , Cummins Euro 2 engines, DDA, 31 seats, CCTV, particulate traps fitted, LEZ compliant, only £6000 each plus tyres.

OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY -

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

681335-1079-Ensign:Layout 1

18/3/13

12:57

Page 2

nbus

K ER SPECIALIST 1990 LEYLAND OLYMPIAN OPEN TOP

1998 R REG VOLVO B10BLE’S

Cummins L10 / ZF, 78 seats.

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

2000 DENNIS SUPER POINTER DARTS

Cummins 160 engines, Voith gearboxes, DDA compliant, 41 seats.

1992 LEYLAND OLYMPIAN

Cummins L10 / ZF, Alexander RH body, 78 seats with retractable belts, MOT Oct 2013, tacho.

2000 VOLVO B7TL’S

Voith automatic gearboxes, SLF, Alexander ALX300 bodies, 44 seats and 27 standing, heavy duty low floor buses. They can also be converted to be DDA compliant.

1995 N REG VOLVO OLYMPIAN

Northern Counties body, Volvo engine, 74 seats, seatbelts fitted.

2002 02 PLATE DENNIS TRIDENTS

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

2000/2001 VOLVO B7TL’S

LWB, CCTV, particulate traps so LEZ compliant, Plaxton President bodies, dual door 67 seats or single door 77 seats, DDAS compliant.

1995 M REG VOLVO B10M

ZF 6 speed manual, Caetano Algarve body, 49 seats, centre sunken toilet, very smart for age.

1995 M REG VOLVO B10M

Alexander ALX400 bodies, 80 seats, DDA compliant.

ZF 6 speed manual, Plaxton Premiere 350, 53 seats.

- BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BUS DEALERS Park, Purfleet, Essex, RM15 4YF 8 864340 e-mail: sales@ensignbus.com t stock at www.ensignbus.com

681973-1079-Pembridge

18/3/13

16:55

Page 1

NEW PRE-REGISTERED FORDS

New Ford Transit 17 seat 4.3ton 135ps minibus. From £19,495 + VAT

FORD TRANSIT MINIBUSES

(12) 2012 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 2.2tdci 135ps, tacho, 2300 miles only, ex-demo in silver, COIF/PSV £20,695 (12) 2012 Ford Transit Tourneo 9 seat Trend 2.2 125 PS, air-con, Bluetooth, in Midnight Sky Blue, 2,608 miles £14,900 + VAT (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 140ps minibus, tachograph, 33000 km,FSH, COIF/PSV £15,250

D SOL

(07) 2007 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4tdci 115ps air-con, tachograph, 76,000kms, COIF/PSV £11,995 (57) 2007 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4TDi 100ps, six speed gearbox, tacho with 16,000 miles, COIF/PSV £11,995

OTHER MAKES

New Peugeot Boxer 16 seat 3.5 ton and 17 seat w/chair accessible minibuses, 2.2 diesel 120ps, six speed gearbox LEZ COMPLIANT From £24,750 + VAT

D SOL

Volkswagen Crafter 2.5 diesel, 17 high back seats with three point belts, 30,000 miles, COIF/PSV £15,750

(56) 2006 Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 17 seat LWB minibus, 2.8 diesel, high back seats with three point seat belts, 19,000 miles only £9,450

OTHER MAKES

(56) 2006 Peugeot Boxer 3.5t on 17 seat minibus 2.8 diesel, high back seats with three point belts, 33,000 miles £8,995

(55) 2005 Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 17 seat minibus 2.8 diesel, with three point seat belts, tow bar, removable seats to rear, 77,000 miles £6,995

LDV MINIBUSES

(57) 2007 LDV Maxus 17 seat, high back seats with three point belts, twin side doors, COIF/ PSV, silver £7,500

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

(55) 2005 Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 17 seat wheelchair accessible minibus, tracking to take two wheelchairs, low side entrance step, easy clean floor £7,495 (57) 2008 Iveco 50c15 wheelchair accessible minibus, 17 seats or 4 seated + 5 wheelchairs, rear heating, underfloor tail lift, front entry drop step, COIF/PSV £15,495

(57) 2008 Iveco 50c15 wheelchair accessible minibus, 17 seats or 4 seated + 5 wheelchairs, rear heating, underfloor tail lift, front entry drop step, 90,000 km COIF/PSV £15,495

(08) 2008 Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 2.2 diesel, wheelchair accessible minibus, 11 seats, tracking to take three wheelchairs, in board lift £13,995 + VAT (07) 2007 LDV Maxus 13 seat wheelchair accessible minibus, under floor lift, space for two wheelchairs, electric side step £8,495

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

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%

682251-1079-Ventura

18/3/13

17:29

Page 1

696148-1079-Blythswood

18/3/13

17:38

Page 1

681297-1079-Connaught

15/3/13

12:56

Page 1

Mini Coach Sales

BRAND NEW COACH BUILT MERCEDES 516 FERQUI SOROCO 16 high back leather trimmed reclining seats, courier seat, A/C, D/G, power door, large boot, DVD, silver metallic. AVAILABLE NOW.

BRAND NEW MERCEDES FERQUI TORO 28/32 high back seats + courier, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights, power door, large boot.

Order now for May delivery.

MORE PHOTOS AND DETAILS AVAILABLE ON OUR WEBSITE:

BRAND NEW MERCEDES BENZ FERQUI SOROCO 19 high back seats, 3 point belts, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights and boot.

Order now for May delivery.

2011 MERCEDES 519 CDI SPRINTER X-CLUSIVE AUTO 16 high back full leather trimmed seats, 3 point belts, A/C, D/G, power door, glass roof, large boot and DVD system.

www.connaughtpsv.co.uk

2009 59 REG MERCEDES 311 CDI SPRINTER Brand new conversion including16 high back seats, forced air, reading lights, luggage racks, and drop step.

2007 07 REG MERCEDES 515CDI SOROCO 19 high back seats, 3 point belts, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights, power door, boot in silver metallic.

2007 07 REG MERCEDES 413 CDI SOROCO 16 high back seats, forced air, reading lights, A/C, power door and large boot.

2006 56 REG MERCEDES 616 SOROCO PLUS 16 high back leather seats, 3 point belts, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights, fridge, DVD, power door and boot.

2005 05 REG MERCEDES 814 VARIO MELLOR 33 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot.

2004 53 REG MERCEDES 814 VARIO PLAXTON CHEETAH 33 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot.

2002 02 REG MERCEDES 413CDI SOROCO 16 high back reclining seats, 3 point belts, forced air, A/C, reading lights, power door, large boot.

Steve Peach Tel: 01302 770863 Mob: 07836 551020 Email: steve@connaughtpsv.co.uk www.connaughtpsv.co.uk

p58_CBW_1079

18/3/13

14:02

Page 58

58 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

Southdown PSV - 01342 711840 www.southdownpsv.co.uk

Ex-lease 2002 (52) & 2003 (53) Volvo & Dennis SLF ALX400 • 2002 (52) Volvo B7TL • Alexander ALX 400 72 seats • DDA compliant • Tax class: RPC Bus £165 pa • ZF auto gearbox • Repainted to single colour • Long MOT’s • Very clean ex-lease buses • £29,995 + VAT - choice

• 2003 (53) Dennis Trident 2 • Cummins / ZF • Alexander ALX 400 67 seats • DDA compliant • Tax class: RPC Bus £165 pa • Repainted to single colour • Long MOT’s • Conversion to single door available - call for details • Very clean ex-lease buses • £27,500 + VAT - choice Finance available – subject to status

Southdown PSV Silverwood Snow Hill Copthorne West Sussex RH10 3EN

BUS & CO A CH S A LE S

2 005 Dar t P oi nter

Converted to single door, finished to your final specification, circa £30K 2008 MAN Plaxton Centro 38 seats ................£42,000 2007 Wrightbus Electrocity Hybrid ..................£42,000 2006 Iveco Beulas 51 seats auto......................£60,000 2005 Scania Irizar Century 49 seats.................£65,000 2005 Scania Irizar Century 40 seats.................£57,000 2003 Volvo Caetano Enigma 49 seats .............£33,000

2002 Dart Pointer 37 seats ...............................£17,000 2002 Dennis Javelin Marco Polo 49 seats.......£27,000 2002 Volvo B12M Plaxton 49 seats................£36,000 2000 Scania Irizar 49 seats...............................£26,000 2000 MAN Marco Polo 340..............................£22,000 1998 Bova Futura 49 seats ..............................£19,000

For more details contact 07979 295668

696444-1079-Stafford

18/3/13

16:56

Page 1

Call for details on our vehicle conversions, upseating, refurbishment, and change of use conversion. Also vehicles available for hire short and long term.

www.staffordbuscentre.com email: martin@staffordbuscentre.com Telephone: 01782 791774 Mobile: 07803 222552 View our latest arrivals on www.staffordbuscentre.com

DENNIS DART CAETANO BODY S.L.F. 2000 W REG Fitted with 44 fully belted seats and 16 standing, so ideal school bus £8950

VOLVO OLYMPIAN, NORTHERN COUNTIES “LOW HEIGHT” BODY 1998 R REG Volvo engine/ZF gearbox, 76 seats plus 8, can be belted if required. £11,950

DAF SB220 ALEXANDER 1998 R REG 42 seats + 26 standing, good quality replacements for those unreliable, expensive to run Darts.

PHONE FOR MORE DETAILS

ADL ENVIRO 200. B900 2008 08 Reg.29 Seats and 17 standing, Fully repainted POA ENVIRO 300 ALSO AVAILABLE

DENNIS DART PLAXTON SUPER POINTER 1999 V REG Undergoing total internal re-fit to include 45 seats with belts.

FROM £12,950

MERCEDES 814D VARIO MELLOR BODY 2003 03 REG Fitted with 28 h/b seats on tracking, tail lift and Alison auto gearbox, low miles, up to 6 w/chairs and 12 seats. £19,950

MERCEDES 814D VARIO PLAXTON BEAVER 2 2002/3 52 REG 28 Removable H/B seats on tracking, tail lift, PSV tested, auto gearbox, choice of many, very presentable £14,950

MERCEDES 815D MEDIO 2005 05 REG Mercedes built mini coach with 25 seats, large boot etc. £27,950

DENNIS JAVELIN PLAXTON PREMIERE 2002 (51) REG Fitted with 70 highback coach seats, new MOT, manual gearbox £39,950

BLUEBIRD AMERICAN SCHOOL BUS 2000 W REG 60 high back coach seats with 3 point belts, Cummins engine and (reconditioned) Alison gearbox, very simple and rugged construction PHONE FOR MORE DETAILS

FORD TRANSIT 15 SEAT FACTORY BUS 2011 11 REG C.O.I.F plus PSV MoT, very low miles, as new. £15,950

OPTARE SOLO M920 1999 V REG Currently being panelled/painted and belted to 31 seats plus wheelchair. £12,950

FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT FACTORY BUS 2007 (57) 80k miles, tacho, PSV, COIF etc. £10,950

FORD TRANSIT 15 SEAT BUS 2007 07 REG Very low mileage, suitable for school use if required as its 3500 cwt, can be driven on any full car licence. £9,950

DENNIS DART PLAXTON MINI POINTER 2002 52 REG Cummins ISB 4 cyl engine and Allison gearbox, fully panelled and painted, recent test £13,450

OPTARE SOLO 1020 2006 55 REG 37 Seats and 17 standing, Largest of the solo range, With fully recon 6 cyl ISBT engine, Fully repanelled and painted POA

WE ALSO HAVE AVAILABLE OPTARE SOLO ALL MERCEDES ENGINE ALLISON BOX W Reg, 25 seater, very short with new belts plus new paint. £12,950 W Reg, 29 seater, 9.2mtr with new belts plus new paint (in build now). £12,950 52 Reg, 29 seater, 8.5 mtr with belts plus new paint. £16,950

1999 V with auto box, 33 bus seats with belts (cert for 31), new paint and test. £8,950 1999 T with auto box, 29 coach seats but LWB, so plenty of room, destination and power door. £8,950

MERCEDES 814D VARIO PLAXTON BEAVER R 2004 04 with manual box, 33 removable seats, power door and destination, tail lift etc. £16,950

FORD TRANSITS x 10 2007 - 2008 - 2009 - 2010 - 2011 Mostly PSV All 17 seats, tacho etc, all below 60k miles.

Vehicles available for short or long term lease

p56_CBW_1079

18/3/13

14:01

Page 56

Available Now!

56 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

n st ni La mai re

e on

g

Choice of 2 58 plated Setra 53 reclining seats with three point seat belts £110,000 + VAT

Choice of 2 59 plated Mercedes Benz Tourismo 49 reclining seats, executive finish £130,000 + VAT

Choice of 4 59 plated Mercedes Benz Tourismo 49 reclining seats, super executive finish £135,000 + VAT

Choice of 3 58 plated Setra 49 reclining seats, executive finish £115,000 + VAT

BMC Midilux Cummins ISB Euro 4 engine, PA system, rear air suspension, air conditioning, TV, 26 seat configuration, white.

£67,950 Available ex-stock

Contact Paul Hockley on 0207 733 1124 phockley@redwing-coaches to view or for further information

For more details contact Ken Grindrod : 07976 355334 or Phil Hodgson : 07773 258379 BMC UK – Sole importer for the UK : 01924 227777 (A Trading Division of Pelican Engineering Co Ltd)

www.bmc-uk.net

696286-1079-Pickrell

H. W. PICKRELL

18/3/13

18:21

Page 1

MINIBUS AND WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES

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

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

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINI BUSES For latest stock arrivals follow @h_w_pickrell

08 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4TDCI

06 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 413 CDI UVK TREKA

06 REG IVECO DAILY 50c13 IRIS BUS 3.0

10 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, side loading door, AVS side step, 13 rear high back seats, Unwin tracked floor, Eberspacher heater, air con, underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, tacho, 53,946kms.

Auto gearbox, LWB, PAS, climate control, n/s/f electric power door, 16 high back removable seats on NMI quick release, Eberspacher, PLS underfloor tail lift, ex local authority, COIF'd, 82,180 kms.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, power front entry door, 16 rear high back seats, Unwin tracked flat floor, Eberspacher climate control, underfloor PLS tail lift, COIF, 67,671 kms.

6 speed manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 8 rear high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Webasto heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 17,863 miles only.

07 REG VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER CR50 UVG TREKA

08 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4 TDCI

NEW UN REG IVECO DAILY 50c17 IRIS BUS 3.0

08 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5TD

Auto gearbox, climate control, n/s/f electric power door, 16 high back removable seats on NMI quick release, Eberspacher, PLS underfloor tail lift, ex local authority, COIF'd, 81,280 kms.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, side loading door, electric side step, 11 high back seats, Unwin tracked floor at rear, Eberspacher heater, underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, tacho, 34,955 miles.

Agile gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, power front entry door, 16 rear high back seats, Unwin Innotrax flat floor, underfloor Ratcliff t/lift, COIF/IVA to take up to 5 wheelchairs.

Manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, AVS side step, 8 high back seats plus 2 x w/chairs & driver, Unwin tracked floor, ricon internal tail lift, 33,175 miles only.

60 REG FORD TRANSIT 330 2.4TDCI

2004 UN REG RENAULT MASTER LM 35 2.5TD

2009 59 REG VAUXHALL VIVARO SL28 2.0 TD

2008 57 REG VAUXHALL VIVARO L H28 2.0 T D

6 speed manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, MWB, tacho, SL door, 12 rear standard factory high back seats, no tracking (can be fitted), underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, one owner local charity, 20,104kms.

Manual, PAS, LWB, front line ambulance, SLD, fitted with rear seats, Ferno stretcher, full air con, Eberspacher heater, piped oxygen, bulkhead & rear bulk head storage unit, o/head lockers, light bars front & rear, 6,800 miles.

Manual gearbox, low roof, O & H conversion, PAS, twin side loading door, side step, 4 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, modified low floor, electric winch & fold out ramp, 15,491 miles.

Manual gearbox, hi roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 5 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 30,280 miles only.

07 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5TD

57 REG PEUGEOT BOXER 2.5TD

57 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD

06 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 CDI

Manual, PAS, LWB, O & H conversion PTS ambulance, SLD, fold out side step, 6-8 rear high back seats, wipe clean interior, lowering suspension, Unwin tracking, Eberspacher heater, choice of two, 72,000-79,000 miles.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, O&H conversion SLD, AVS side step, 8 rear high back seats plus 1 x wheelchair space, Unwin tracking, Eberspacher heater, Ricon tail lift, ex local authority, 20,286 miles.

Manual gearbox, high roof, Gleneagles conversion, PAS, SLD, electric side step, 8 removable rear high back seats (10 seats in total) plus driver, air con, Unwin tracking & Solo system fitted, Ricon tail lift, 22,487 miles.

Auto gearbox, LWB, PAS, Frank Guy conversion, n/s full height electric power door, 16 high back removable seats on NMI quick release, Eberspacher, PLS underfloor tail lift, ex local authority, COIF’d, 103,080 kms.

08 REG FORD TRANSIT 100, 350 2.4TDCI

09 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5 TD

56 RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD

58 REG IVECO DAILY 50c13 IRIS BUS 3. 0

Manual, MWB, high roof, PAS, DL conversion, side loading door, AVS side step, 8-10 high back seats, fully Unwin tracked floor, Ratcliff underfloor tail lift, 25,033 miles.

Manual, semi high roof factory bus conversion, side entry slam door with low entry step, 14 x high back seats plus driver, air con, ex lease, only 32,997 kms.

6 speed manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 6 rear high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 14,300 miles only.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, power front entry door, 16 rear high back seats,Unwin tracked floor, Eberspacher heater, destination board, underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, COIF, 63,371 miles.

54 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 413 CDI UVG TREKA

06 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4TDCI

09 PEUGEOT EXPERT TEPEE 1.9 HDI

59 REG VAUXHALL MOVANO LM39 2.5TD

Auto gearbox, LWB, PAS, climate control, n/s/f electric power door, 16 high back removable seats on NMI quick release, Eberspacher, PLS underfloor tail lift, ex local authority, COIF'd, 104,180 kms.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, side loading door, side step, 11 rear high back seats, full Unwin tracking, Eberspacher heater, underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, 31,813 miles.

Manual 5 speed gearbox, PAS, CD player, air con, twin side loading doors, 2 high back seat in rear, double passenger seat front, cut out floor, fold down ramp, blue metallic silver, alloy wheels, 14,932 miles.

Manual 6 speed, high roof, PAS, LWB, Mellor conversion, side loading door, new AVS side step, 14 high back seats, new AMF m2 fully tracked floor, AMF tail lift, tacho fitted only 35,749 kms. (22,214 miles).

p58_CBW_1079NEW

18/3/13

17:27

Page 58

58 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

Subscribe Today …and save £65!

43% OFF the cover price

Wednesday October 17, 2012 Issue 1058 | £2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com

COACH:

Clarkes of London orders three Irizar i6 integrals for 2013 p8

OPERATOR:

BUS:

MINIBUS:

Oxfordshire family-run RNIB's 'Stop for me, Partnership is the Speak to me' campaign future at Shrewsbury ϐ report in detail p24 Dial-a-Ride p44

ϐ p20

Inside this week...

Minibus

for recruitme nt JOB ADV

*

Subscribe today to receive Coach & Bus Week and pay only £85 for a whole year!

ERTS EVERY WE EK

Johnsons' new Futura Ƥt for the future

RECRUIT NO W

Inspirati onal Days

p14

STEAM AND GREASE

Visiting Britain’s beautifu heritage l railways p14

Out and

Holidays February 2013 /

YOUNG AT HEART

Top ways to groups happykeep younger p22

MATILDA MAGNI FICENT

Review of the multi-aw winning ardmusical p42

LONDON’S STILL BURNING

2012 starting Olympic legac to see real y results

PLUS

FREE

The Elizabeth Tower and Big Ben

www.gr ouptrave Visit our Visit our new new webs velw website lwor ite– the the ONLY orld.co online resou ld. com m

NEW CH LAUN

rce a GTO

subscriptionto Group Travel subscription World magazine and online subscription to CBW worth £83.95 †

Call 01733 293240 or visit www.coachandbusweek.com/subscribe * 43% off full annual subscription. Other subscription packages available. † GTW only subscription worth £39; coachandbusweek.com subscription worth £44.95

£3.95

LOVE LONDON

2012’s lasting legacy the best of London and p30

needs

p59_CBW_1079

18/3/13

14:08

Page 59

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 59

HEAVY DUTY STEEL BUILDINGS

BUILDINGS

• Bus Workshops • Secure Storage

• Supplied any width,

any length • Building to BS5590 • Doors high enough for Double Deckers • Finance available Phone for further information

BLUELINE BUILDINGS 01709 578333 anytime BUS & COACH RENTAL

Bus and Coach

01274 681144

busandcoachsales@arriva.co.uk www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk

Wheel Nut Indicators and Retainers

++44(0)1524 44(0)1524 2271200 71200 www.checkpoint-safety.com

THE CUMMINS ENGINE SPECIALISTS PARTS & SERVICE DIVISION

D.I.E.S.E.L. LIMITED OFFER A VAST RANGE OF SERVICES FOR ALL TYPES OF CUMMINS ENGINES FREE TECHNICAL ADVICE AND SUPPORT FULL OR 3/4 BUILT RECON ENGINES COMPETITIVE & COST EFFECTIVE SERVICE REPAIRS FIXED PRICE ENGINE REPAIRS/OVERHAULS COMPREHENSIVE PARTS STOCK – NEW AND USED ON SITE REPAIRS FULL ELECTRONIC DIAGNOSTICS CONTACT US TODAY FOR ALL YOUR CUMMINS REQUIREMENTS TELEPHONE UK: 01708 859625 FAX UK: 01708 857630 EMAIL: SALES@DIESEL.UK.COM

PARTS

Trident/Javelin front hub bearings Why convert when you can replace?

The front hub bearings (part no 655387/6) are still available from Bus & Coach Parts Avoid the costly conversion kit Order now on: 0845 3038366

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

BUCKINGHAM 3 & 2 • Ideal for 3 & 2 configurations • Ergonomic design for maximum support, comfort and legroom • Tried & tested: fitted into many new coaches as OEM • Full range of legs and fitting options make the Buckingham ideal for upseating to 70+ seats • Lighter weight makes easier for installation Prime Passenger Seating Limited 7 Canalwood Industrial Estate, Chirk, Wrexham LL14 5RL Telephone: 0870 757 1320 Fax: 01691 770 798 Email: johnm@primeps.com

www.primeps.com

SIGNWRITING

Sign Writing Services

ENGINES

Don’t let your Dennis be a menace

Heaters • A/C Equipment Blowers • Motors • Radiators Silicone Hose • Ducting Wiper Equipment • Gas Struts

SEATING

CHECKPOINTS

The ABC of Rental Solutions

Under your control.

For the time you need it.

HEATING

The ABC of Parts Support Over 17,000 parts lines directly from stock.

Next day delivery as standard.

Bus and Coach

01274 681144

busandcoachsales@arriva.co.uk www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk

• School bus sign sets with suction cups – £15 + VAT • Vehicle livery design & supply – fitting by arrangement if required • Legal lettering & graphics supplied by post

Tel: 01884 290818 Mobile: 07583 334455 www.kjsupport.co.uk

p60_CBW_1079

18/3/13

14:11

Page 60

60 | COACH & BUS WEEK | March 20, 2013

TRAINING

TRAINING

Now taking bookings for driver CPC training at our centre in Lincolnshire. Companies and individuals catered for.

Dates available: Whole days – 3, 4, 9 & 10 April For information contact Jemma: Call 01529 414242 / 303333 or visit: www.sleafordian.co.uk

TRIM

CPC Nat / International Driver CPC Digital Tachograph Drivers’ Hours Tachograph Analysis

BLACKPOOL TRIM SHOPS LTD BRUN GROVE BLACKPOOL FY1 6PG

01253 766762

Stock set of Esteban seats to fit Iriza Century coach £2200+VAT

Stock set of Plaxton Premiere seats, newly trimmed £2200+VAT

Stock set of Plaxton Premiere seats, newly trimmed. £1800+VAT.

Full set of 70 Cogent school bus seat covers, cut and sewn. £1000+VAT

Vogal service seats, brand new.

9 doubles, 3 singles. £75+VAT per double £35+VAT per single

Vogal India service seats in red moquette.

9 doubles, 3 singles. £75+VAT per double £35+VAT per single

PVC DRIVER CPC TRAINING CREATED BY A COACH COMPANY FOR THE COACHING INDUSTRY

1 ) 0 5 0 4

" / %

' 6

$ 0 0 6 3

" 4

4 5 " / % " 3 %

0 /

"

7 & ) * $ &

' 0 3

4 " &

" % 7 & 3 5 * 4 & .& / 5 4

We have full sets of pads for Esteban Civic V2, plus spares and other service seats in stock

/blackpooltrimshops sales@blackpooltrimshops.co.uk

VEHICLE SPARES

THE DRIVER CPC IS HERE SAME DAY J.A.U.P.T. REGISTRATION SAME DAY C.P.C. CERTIFICATES DELIVERED AT YOUR OWN DEPOTS

REMEMBER-REMEMBER 10th SEPTEMBER WE WILL HOLD OUR PRICES FOR 5 YEARS

PCV DRIVER HIRE 0800-731-5007 CORPORATE DEALS AVAILABLE

MERIDIAN PCV DRIVER LTD Rising above all others

www.meridianpcv.com

If you would like further information please call 01543 897505 or visit www.lloydmorgangroup.co.uk

Driver CPC Periodic Training

Trevor Wigley & Son Bus Ltd

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

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

www.twigley.com

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 61

Seen something funny? Send it to gareth.evans@coachandbusweek.com or write to: Last Stop, Coach & Bus Week, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX

The industry plays its part for Comic Relief 2013 Across the industry, companies and their staff have been busy raising money for the great cause of Comic Relief.

First Aberdeen bus driver Ian Walker became a stand-up comedian for the day, touring the city’s bus stops and entertaining passengers with his own unique brand of comedy. First Aberdeen confirmed it would donate £1,000 from its Community Involvement Programme to Comic Relief.

Alistair Bayliss, MD of Bayliss Executive Travel and Scottish through and through, wore an England football shirt for the day. After posting no shortage of wind-ups for England fans on his Twitter @AllyBayliss, he had raised £1594.00 and the money is still coming in. “What began as a laugh has just made a difference,” he said.

Staff on board trent barton’s red arrow raised more than £500 by serving up specially baked Comic Relief cupcakes. The money they raised has been matched by trent barton.

Staff at the Vix Technologies’ Cambridge head office raised £330 with a fancy dress competition, raffle and a bake sale. Best dressed was won by Vix’s very brave Superman, who was the only engineer in the building who dressed up. Lothian Buses also held a cake sale, which raised £360.26.

Five retired and working National Express Coventry bus drivers performed their version of The Full Monty. The Full Wumpty group started stripping for charity

Dilbert

Monday: Press day. I begin another decade of service but the first my colleagues know about it is when they find cakes in the office, courtesy of yours truly. It may sound odd to some of you but I’m not normally one for having much fuss made of me, hence I tend to keep such matters private but the big three zero is perhaps a little different. My colleagues kindly give me a signed card and some nice presents.

1

2

3

4 1: Ian Walker performing stand-up on a First bus. 2: Staff at trent barton raised more than £500. 3: Scott Williamson from DAC Coaches having his head shaved at the Bullshead pub. 4: The Vix fancy dress contest 10 years ago and have so far generated £72,000 for a range of good causes. Retired bus driver John George masterminded the group and has won an MBE from the Queen for his charity efforts.

Staff at Ipswich Buses wore onesies when driving their buses

on the day.

Scott Williamson of Cornish coach and bus firm DAC Coaches had his head shaved. Thanks to the generosity of the staff and passengers of DAC, along with patrons of Bullshead pub in Callington, £540 was raised.

Tuesday: A busy day in the office writing a feature for a forthcoming issue.

James is off for the remainder of the week for some much needed R&R after travelling to Manchester for a video game launch.

Wednesday: Alex and I are on the road by 0600hrs as we drive down to Lucketts. Just as I briefed Alex beforehand, we’re given a warm welcome, with a healthy dose of friendly banter. With it being my third time here, Alex is making his inaugural visit, so I listen to his observations. He’s struck by the modern and professional yet friendly set up. We also enjoy a visit to Mark and the crew at Coliseum.

Thursday: A hectic day in the office writing.

When my head starts to fry, I sort through a load of photos, a nice job but one which I have to be in the mood for. Head ‘back home’ to the Welsh borderland in the evening.

Friday: Spend most of the day working remotely at my parents. Visit my NHS dentist in Welshpool. I’m delighted when I find I’m charged the same as a year previously – £12.50. With my parents volunteering on a Welsh steam railway for the weekend, I spend the evening with my grandmother, who is on top form. She doesn’t change a bit – she always seems to make me find room for a piece of apple tart when I’m already full... www.coachandbusweek.com

LastStop.indd 61

18/03/2013 18:48

WORKSHOP MANAGER Bournemouth Transport Ltd (Yellow Buses)

A Workshop Manager vacancy exists at our Bournemouth Depot which operates over 150 vehicles, both coach and bus.

Reporting to the Engineering Director you will be responsible for providing support to our operations by Â‰ČšÂ‰Â‡Â˜Â?š‰ ‘…Â?’˜‰’…’‡‰ “Š “™– ČŁÂ‰Â‰Â˜ …˜ “™– ‘“ˆ‰–’ “–Â?Â—ÂŒÂ“Â”Ä˝ Applicants must have appropriate engineering •™…Â?Â?Č?‡…˜Â?“’—ĺ †‰ Š™Â?Â?Â? …›…–‰ “Š ‘…Â?’˜‰’…’‡‰ requirements and good personnel management skills. –‰šÂ?“™— …’…‹‰‘‰’˜ “– ™”‰–šÂ?—“–Â? ‰œ”‰–Â?‰’‡‰ Â?Â’ ˜Œ‰ ‘…Â?’˜‰’…’‡‰ ŠÂ?‰Â?ˆ Â?— ˆ‰—Â?–…†Â?‰Ľ Â?‰…—‰ —‰’ˆ Â?“™– …””Â?Â?‡…˜Â?“’ĺ ›Â?˜Œ Â… ‡“”Â? “Š Â?“™– Äş ˜“ –— Â?’‹ …˜ “™–’‰‘“™˜Œ –…’—”“–˜ Â˜ÂˆÄş ‰“‘…’— Â…Â?Äş Â“Â™Â–Â’Â‰Â‘Â“Â™Â˜ÂŒÄş “–—‰˜ Ć? Ć— “– †Â? ‰‘…Â?Â? ˜“ cging@yellowbuses.co.uk Â?“—Â?’‹ ÂˆÂ…Â˜Â‰Äź ƉĆ? …–‡Œ Ć‰Ć‡ĆˆĆŠÄ˝

RECRUITMENT & people Deadlines Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm Contact Ian Gillis T: 01733 293484 E: ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com

Go-Ahead announces SE organisational changes The Go-Ahead Group is to change its approach to managing Metrobus following the retirement of current Metrobus Managing Director Alan Eatwell at the end of June this year.

From July 1, Martin Harris, who becomes Managing Director of Brighton & Hove in April, will assume board level responsibility for Metrobus’ operations outside of London. John Trayner, Managing Director of Go-Ahead London, will become responsible for Metrobus’ Transport for London operations which operate from Orpington and Croydon.

Kevin Carey, currently Operations Director at Metrobus, will be promoted to the new post of Chief Operating Officer, Metrobus, reporting to both Martin and John.

David Brown, Group Chief Executive of Go-Ahead, said: “These changes will enable the

teams at Metrobus and Brighton & Hove to focus on using their commercial expertise to build on their successes to date in growing passenger numbers, and on sharing best practice across the two businesses. It also makes sense for the key supplier relationship with Transport for London to be led by Go-Ahead London, the capital’s largest bus operator.�

Kevin Carey

PCV/PSV TECHNICIAN/FITTER Bournemouth Transport Ltd (Yellow Buses)

Ĺ— ‰‡Œ’Â?‡Â?Â…Â’Ĺ— Â?˜˜‰– š…‡…’‡Â? ‰œÂ?—˜— …˜ “™– Bournemouth Depot which operates 150 vehicles, both bus and coach.

EXPERIENCED PCV MECHANICS REQUIRED

Paul Clark Services are the leading provider of skilled engineering support to the UKĘźS major Bus Operators, Manufacturers and NHS Ambulance Trusts.

Due to continued expansion we are looking to increase our team of experienced skilled Bus, Coach & Emergency Service Vehicle Mechanics supporting the industry across the United Kingdom.

Benefits include: • Service van • Excellent rates of pay • Contributory pension scheme

Œ‰ —™‡‡‰——Š™Â? …””Â?Â?‡…’˜ ›Â?Â?Â? Ž“Â?Â’ “™– ‰œ”‰–Â?‰’‡‰ˆ maintenance team and carry out vehicle inspections, ˆÂ?…‹’“—Â?—ĺ –‰”…Â?–— Â?’‡Â?™ˆÂ?’‹ “ ”–‰”…–…˜Â?“’Ľ Œ‰ Â?’ˆÂ?šÂ?ˆ™…Â? ‘™—˜ †‰ ‡“’—‡Â?‰’˜Â?“™— ›Â?˜Œ …˜˜‰’˜Â?“’ ˜“ ˆ‰˜…Â?Â? …’ˆ Â… Â?‡‰’‡‰ Â?— Â…Â’ Â…ÂˆÂšÂ…Â’Â˜Â…Â‹Â‰Ä˝ Â?‰…—‰ —‰’ˆ Â?“™– …””Â?Â?‡…˜Â?“’ĺ ›ŒÂ?‡Œ —Œ“™Â?ˆ Â?’‡Â?™ˆ‰ ˆ‰˜…Â?Â?— “Š Â?“™– ‰‘”Â?“Â?‘‰’˜ ÂŒÂ?—˜“–Â? …’ˆ •™…Â?Â?ŠÂ?‡…˜Â?“’—ĺ ˜“ –— Â?’‹ĺ “™–’‰‘“™˜Œ –…’—”“–˜ Â˜ÂˆÄş ‰“‘…’— Â…Â?Äş Â“Â™Â–Â’Â‰Â‘Â“Â™Â˜ÂŒÄş “–—‰˜ Ć? Ć— “– †Â? ‰‘…Â?Â? ˜“ cging@yellowbuses.co.uk Â?“—Â?’‹ ÂˆÂ…Â˜Â‰Äź ƉĆ? …–‡Œ Ć‰Ć‡ĆˆĆŠÄ˝

PAYE or self employed considered.

For more information and to request an application form, contact Paul on 01793 613 122 or send a CV to info@paulclarkservices.co.uk

www.coachandbusweek.com

People.indd 62

18/03/2013 19:05

March 20, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 63

In association with

Arriva South East employees rewarded at annual Arriva MAD Awards

Dr Gabriele Bosselmann

Giti Tire appoints new HR Director for Europe Giti Tire’s European growth strategy has been strengthened with the appointment of Dr Gabriele Bosselmann to the newly created position of HR Director - Europe.

She joins the EU leadership team with responsibility for HR policies, processes and procedures, as well as holding a key role in the development of business plans and objectives.

Reporting directly to Richard Lyons, MD - Europe, the move follows a period of rapid expansion for the company which introduced a sales subsidiary into Europe in 2006 and set up a sales and retail operation in the UK in 2009.

Dr Bosselmann, who possesses over 20-years pan-European HR experience, joins from O-I Europe, a glass packaging maker, where

she held the title of HR Director.

She previously held senior roles undertaking HR Deployment of LSS, FCP-Folding Carton Partners and Jackstädt GmbH. Richard Lyons said: “In just eight years staff numbers across Europe have increased substantially in line with our market share and our business strategy and growth projections will see this number expand still further over the coming months and years.

“The CV of Gabriele is hugely impressive, with a proven track record of strategic HR and financial management to match her qualifications. This is a huge coup for Giti Tire, and one marking another important day in the development of the company and its brands.”

Three Arriva employees from the South East received awards and commendations at the first-ever Arriva Made a Difference (MAD) Awards earlier this month.

Louise Deverick and Arthur Rumsey, who both work from the training department in Luton, and Stuart Robinson, road safety representative and driver at the Stevenage depot, received a variety of awards for their hard work, dedication and innovation.

Louise was awarded the Making a Difference Olympian Award for delivering outstanding training

to over 100 frontline staff at the Olympics last Summer, while Arthur was highly commended for his work to promote environmental awareness.

Stuart was highly commended for the MAD About Safety award for his work as a safety representative.

Paul Adcock, Regional Managing Director for Arriva, said: “It is a major achievement for our employees to be so highly esteemed in the company and they should all be very proud of themselves.

“Winning these awards clearly demonstrates they have gone above and beyond the call of duty, showing true professionalism to become inspiring ambassadors for the company and the region.”

The Arriva MAD Awards form part of a national recognition programme for Arriva employees, and aim to encourage innovation, dedication and creativity in the workplace. Winners are chosen by a judging panel following nominations from Arriva employees across the UK. Part of the Human Capital Investment Group Offices in Birmingham - London - Surrey

We are specialist recruiters with over 25 years experience in the PSV & Coach market.

Providing 24/7 staffing solutions to prestigious Bus & Coach clients across the UK. We are immediately able to supply and looking to recruit the following skill sets: • Engineering Directors • Diagnostic Technicians • Coachbuilders • Parts Specialists • Welders • General Labour

• Engineering Managers • PSV Technicians • Auto Electricians • Workshop Controllers • Cleaners • Administration & Office Staff

Please contact Andy Jennings - Divisional Manager 01784 487616 or 07799 866467 www.proactive-tech.co.uk

www.coachandbusweek.com

People.indd 63

18/03/2013 19:05

696400-1079-Energenics

15/3/13

09:33

Page 1