Coach & Bus Week : Issue 1090

Wednesday June 5, 2013 Issue 1090 | ÂŁ2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com

COACH:

The Kings Ferry to launch new services in North Somerset p9

INSIGHT:

Guide Dogs charity gives CBW blind bus travel experience p18

BUS:

Judge halts 'whiplash' claim against NatEx West Midlands p4

OPINION:

Ian Jones says Twitter is a 'must have' tool for business p38

for recruitm

JOB ADVE ent EVERY WERTS EK

Strengthening the Anglo-Irish connection

RECRUIT N

OW

p34

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this week

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It’s important to Twitter on about life (sometimes)

I

trust you will read Ian Jones’ ‘Open Platform’ column about his use of social networking website Twitter on p38 with interest. If you’ve ever seen him in action at a Public Inquiry or a seminar/conference, you’ll know the highly respected legal professional can be quite the entertainer, engaging with those around him – even dare I say it, inspirational. I always think he’s one of those individuals which people sit up and take notice of, hence I welcome his contributions with open arms.

It’s been over two years since I took over the editorial chair here at CBW – I didn’t mark the anniversary some weeks ago. Working six and a half days a week and more at varying hours of the day was tough to say the least but I enjoyed it and was determined to succeed. I used to get asked about Twitter, but I always felt Facebook was more than enough for me – or so I thought.

That was until I read an article in a publishing trade magazine, urging journos to embrace Twitter. I picked it up in an instant.

Rather than delegating it to one of my by then relatively new team as had previously been the case, I decided one evening to take personal ownership of CBW’s account.

I actively tweeted – instead of it being an off-shoot of Facebook. I recognised the differences between the two. Put simply, with just 140 characters per message, Twitter is short and snappy, whereas Facebook offers almost unlimited wordlength.

I also boosted our Twitter followers using various means. These included embracing ‘Follow Friday’ or ‘FF’ in Twitter parlance. Put simply, each Friday you use the ‘hashtag’ (symbol) ‘#FF’ and tweet some of your friends and those you know will re-tweet your ‘FF’, so your presence spreads.

For when I’m out on the road or even relaxing of an evening (I no longer do seven-day weeks) I have CBW’s Twitter and Facebook accounts on my iPhone. As a result, you may catch me tweeting about subjects as diverse as breaking news, a TV show or the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways.

Yes, Twitter can be a tool where personal and professional lines blur. That’s part of it’s appeal in some respects. Of course, care must be taken not to drop yourself in the muck but that’s the same with everything in life…

I’m still not on Linked-in but I have given serious consideration to it.

Gareth Evans Editor

CONTENTS 4

22

38

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

14

Ticketing and fare collection systems analysed in detail

32

Backhouse Jones’ Ian Jones gives his views on the importance of Twitter

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

18

An ex-Rhymney Valley Leopard spotted on the streets of Barry

34

A lighthearted look at the industry.

Plus Office Diary column

Alex Tyler experiences a blinkered view of public transport

Andrew Cream talks to John Gilbert about the Anglo-Irish services

All the latest people moves from across the industry

News

Regional News Guide Dogs

Industry Guide

The Big Picture Eurolines

Open Platform

60

Last Stop

61

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.

Driver CPC Training Fully inclusive. No hidden costs

£60

wts.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com

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news

“The simplest of actions had become real obstacles and I was utterly dependant on Helen’s guidance and the street design.”

Alex Tyler

Insight p18

briefly Family-run bus operator Riverside Transport of Glasgow has reportedly ceased operating. According to Traveline Scotland, as of June 1 the firm “is no longer operating bus services.” A statement on the company’s website reads: “Owing to circumstances beyond our control we are unable to provide service. Please check the websites of other bus operators in order to plan your journey.” In May 2012, Riverside’s MD Anne Cowden voiced her concerns about the financial pressures on the Scottish bus industry in the Paisley Daily Express newspaper. At the time, she reportedly warned the firm “could end up having to close the doors within a month.”

Having had the chance to collect in all the sponsor money due and tally up how much was raised collectively by First, the company has now announced its staff in the West of England donated £1166.15 to the charity.

Drivers, Traffic Controllers, Business Managers and Directors in Bristol and in Bath all got on board on March 15 to raise money for Comic Relief. Legs were waxed, heads were shaved, fancy dress and red noses were worn, and cakes were baked and eaten and as a result more than £1100 was generated for good causes.

Staff at Bus Eireann have voted overwhelmingly to accept changes in their terms and conditions and see an end to further strike action. Members of SIPTU voted by 63-31 to accept the deal, while the NBRU ballot was 7723. A two-day strike was held last month in protest against planned changes to workers’ pay and conditions designed to reduce costs within the state-owned operator to achieve a €5m annual saving in order to remain viable. The action is said to have affected 80,000 passengers each day, leaving them without a service. Urgent talks between the Labour Relations Commission, management and unions have now agreed to a cost-cutting plan. Workers were balloted on the proposals which were accepted. The deal runs until January 2015. www.coachandbusweek.com

News4,5.indd 4

The claimant alleged the ‘crash’ involved an unknown NXWM double-decker

Nat Ex fights ‘whiplash’ claim Judge throws out questionable claim and orders perjury investigation National Express West Midlands (NXWM) is in something of a celebratory mood after a judge presiding over a whiplash compensation claim it is fighting said he “disbelieved the claimant’s evidence in its entirety” and that the bus ‘accident’ had never happened.

Mohammed Hafeez Saeed, 26, took legal action against NXWM after claiming he suffered a neck injury when a double decker hit his parked car, which was full of passengers, in Bordesley Green on March 2, 2011. The motorist later caught up with the bus and reported the ‘collision’ to the driver.

A supervisor was called and he inspected both vehicles, but was unable to relate the alleged damage to the car to any damage to the bus.

However, investigations revealed the damage to the car could not have been done by the bus and NXWM decided to challenge the compensation bid in court – a case which brought Saeed’s previous

claims to light.

At the hearing at Birmingham County Court, the address given for an orthopaedic surgeon who is said to have signed the driver’s medical report was revealed to be that of a taxi company. Saeed and his friends were found to be lying on oath.

Judge Simon Brown QC ordered £15,700 be paid towards NXWM’s legal costs.

At least two other people were in the process of claiming compensation for injuries they claimed to have suffered in the same incident. One of them was Saeed’s girlfriend Adele Raven, 27, who has made a total of three accident compensation bids in recent years.

At the hearing it was also revealed the gang had previously lodged up to 23 whiplash claims for other alleged car accidents – with Saeed involved in up to 13 of them over the last eight years. Six claims alone were made for 2010-11.

The judge has now thrown out the claims against NXWM. Furthermore, in what is believed to be an unprecedented move, the Judge referred the claimant, his

witnesses, legal team and medical expert to the Director of Public Prosecutions (DPP) for a possible perjury investigation in relation to this claim and all the previous accident claims.

He also said he “found it incredible” that Saeed had filed yet another whiplash compensation bid against another party after the bus crash claim.

It is not known whether the DPP or the police have begun a perjury investigation, but NXWM said it was willing to make a criminal complaint.

NXWM was represented by legal firm Berrymans Lace Mawer at the case. Partner Joanne Francis said: ‘‘We are pleased to support and partner with NXWM in investigating and tackling dishonest claims. We collaborate and work hard with them to defend these cases and prosecute where necessary. ‘‘It is important that the genuine customer is protected from the effects of increased costs being passed onto them in fares as a result of non-genuine claims; and it can be effective to adopt a zero tolerance approach.’’

An NXWM Spokesman told CBW: “We are delighted with the result of this case. We always fight claims in which evidence raises serious concerns. We hope this will make anyone thinking of making a dishonest claim think again. We are unable to give further comment as the matter is on-going.”

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Businesses rally around Norfolk Green’s Coasthopper Pubs, cafés and Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s Cley Marshes reserve are supporting Norfolk Green’s Coasthopper service, which runs between Cromer and King’s Lynn.

The scheme, organised by the Norfolk Coast Partnership, aims to entice more passengers with the lure of cut-price deals along the way.

Ben Colson, MD of Norfolk Green, welcomed the initiative which he said was part of a package of measures introduced to cut costs and boost passenger numbers. He also warned that this year is critical for the future of the Coasthopper, after funding cuts by Norfolk County Council, coupled with costs cuts to BSOG in April 2012, meant the ‘top end of £250,000’ had been

taken out of the service since April 2011.

Last year the service carried 544,000 passengers but only a little over a third of them had been fare-paying. Colson claimed the average distance travelled by pass holders using Coasthopper was 15 miles, meaning the company was carrying them at entirely its own expense for about 11 miles per journey after concessionary fares reimbursement.

Recently, fares on the Coasthopper have risen by 7%, the number of vehicles on the route has dropped from 13 to 12, the last bus of the day is running earlier and the extended summer season service has been shrunk from April-

A driver/cleaner who was infected by a flesh eating disease caused by a piece of metal left on the floor at work, while working for Arriva Southern Counties Ltd, has been awarded damages.

Izzy Lloyd, 49, is set to receive substantial recompense as a result of the incident at the Armstrong Road depot in Maidstone on April 6, 2010, although the scale of the damages she will receive is unlikely to be determined for at least a year.

Judge William Birtles, at the Mayors and City of London Court, in his judgement said: “Ms Lloyd alighted from one of buses she had been cleaning into the engineering bay. Stepping onto the floor she felt a sharp metal spike pierce her work boot and penetrate her foot.

“On the floor of the engineering bay and where the claimant had her accident there were pieces of metal, probably pop rivets, which should have been cleaned up and were not .

“Unfortunately the wound became infected resulting in necrotising fascilitis to her left foot and ankle.”

It is claimed that by the time Ms Lloyd was admitted to hospital on April 9, 2010, she was four hours from death unless she received

Damages awarded to cleaner at Arriva

October to May-September to try and save the service. “[Coasthopper] is becoming increasingly difficult to sustain,” Colson said.

“We don’t want to have to make 20-plus drivers redundant and we don’t want to leave businesses along the road isolated and

One of the dedicated Optare Solos on lay over between trips at King’s Lynn bus station immediate treatment. She required an amputation of part of her left leg and has since been unemployed.

Izzy Lloyd said: “Going to work is not meant to result in a life threatening condition. Had Arriva paid attention to health and safety and operated a proper cleaning policy this would have been avoided.”

Unite’s Director of Legal Services.

Howard Beckett. said: “The liability win contains a legal first establishing liability on the basis of regulation 9 of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992. The money and support which Ms Lloyd gets from this case will almost certainly be life changing for her.

“This case demonstrates the importance of Unite’s legal

abandoned. We are working hard to try and find rather unusual ways of trying to resolve this problem.”

At The Jolly Sailors pub, in Brancaster Staithe, Duty Manager Marek Vlk said they were offering Coasthopper passengers 10% off stonebaked pizzas on weekday lunchtimes.

“There is a bus stop just across the road from the pub and it’s very important to us in the summer. We get a lot of passengers who use the bus and come visit us,” said Mr Vlk. Grant Rundle, Community Officer with the Norfolk Coast Partnership, said local businesses valued the Coasthopper as it brought them customers and helped protect the special character of the coast.

Residents and visitors said it was a lifeline.

He added: “When we heard it was under threat we decided to help out.” services in offering protection to members who, on their own, could never mount such an expensive legal action. The hard work and expertise of the solicitors, Pattinson & Brewer in bringing this case to a successful conclusion is to be commended.”

Asked to comment on the story, Arriva’s Regional MD, Heath Williams, told CBW: “We note the decision of the judge and I would emphasise the safety and wellbeing of our employees is very important to us. We work hard to provide clear and safe working areas in our depots to minimise the risk of anyone hurting themselves.”

CBW is reliably informed Unite has incorrectly suggested the whole leg was amputated, when in fact it was from below the shin.

www.coachandbusweek.com

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20%

news › BUSeS

The percentage of Eurolines UK routes which travel to Ireland and Northern Ireland

briefly London Mayor Boris Johnson has confirmed the second route to be served entirely by New Bus for London (Borismasters) is route 11. The service runs between Liverpool Street Station and Fulham Broadway. It is currently planned to convert the route to the new vehicles on Saturday, September 21. The route will have a peak vehicle requirement of 25 Borismasters.

Harrogate in Bloom is to take on the maintenance of the gardens surrounding the town’s bus station for the next year. The move is the latest drive by the voluntary group to make sure all the town’s floral beds are of the highest standard, according to The Press.

Transdev has become the major sponsor of the awards evening in return. Pam Grant, President of Harrogate in Bloom, said: “This is a very important part of town with so many visitors arriving by bus or train.”

Paignton Bus Station has reopened after a threemonth refurbishment by its owner, Stagecoach South West. The work has included the total replacement of the roof canopy as well as new lighting, signage and seating to give the area ‘a bright fresh look’.

Stagecoach South West Engineering Director Mike Bishop said: “I’m very pleased this major renovation has been completed on time, enabling us to keep passengers disruption to a minimum and I’d like to thank customers for their patience while the works were completed.”

A bus used by First as a mobile training facility for its vehicle technicians has now finished its third tour of duty after more than two years spent educating staff around the country.

Launched in December 2010, the training bus (a refurbished London double-decker) has now travelled from Aberdeen to Cornwall and back three times. The training bus was created to help the operator meet a commitment which it made in late 2011 to upskill all of its vehicle examiners so that they all reached irtec (Institute of Road Transport Engineers Certification) standards. www.coachandbusweek.com

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New evidence reveals consequences of further bus cuts FOI request shows the extent of damage to the economy if BSOG is cut Campaign for Better Transport (CBT) has obtained Government information which it claims shows the scale of the threat to bus services if funding is cut in next month’s Spending Round.

The Freedom of Information request to the DfT shows if BSOG is cut, one in seven bus journeys would be lost. This would cost the economy £3.7bn by 2022.

Abolition of BSOG was threatened in the 2010 Spending Review but saved due to pressure from a range of organisations and MPs. Now over 30 organisations, including the WI, the RNIB and the National Union of Students, have written to the Chancellor demanding he maintain support for bus services in this year’s Spending Round.

Modelling by the Local Government Association suggests further pressure on LA funding could see councils cutting their support for bus services. Estimates of even a 25% cut in local council

support for buses show this would reduce passenger journeys by 14%.

CBA says it would spell the end of LA support for evening services, services in smaller towns and the end of Sunday buses as authorities struggle to make ends meet.

Buses have already taken significant cuts in Government support: The 2011/12 Spending Review cut funding for local

One in seven bus services could disappear if bus funding is cut again, the CBT says

West Coast Motors acquires Bowman’s Tours

West Coast Motors has acquired Mull-based Bowman’s Tours with the company officially changing ownership on June 24, 2013.

MD of Campbeltown-based West Coast Motors Colin Craig said: “Bowman’s has played an important role in tourism on The Isle of Mull since the mid50s and we are looking forward to continuing this role through building on their success with the newly established Mull Coach Tours brand as part of our company.

“Offering these tours compliments our existing network of services in and around Oban, Argyll and Bute as well as those

we operate to the area from Glasgow and our intention is to take advantage of these synergies to introduce more visitors to these stunning islands.”

Jim Bowman, MD, said: “Handing over a business which has been in the family for many years has been made less difficult by the knowledge that West Coast Motors, also family-owned, is ideal to carry on what we have strived to achieve. As well as transferring our staff over to their company, their plans include improving what we currently offer through investment and linking in with their own services.”

authorities’ transport budgets by 28%; and A cut of 20% to the direct support all buses receive through BSOG from April 2012.

Reductions in support resulted directly in cuts by local councils: One in five local council supported bus services were cut or cut back in 2011/12; and Over 40% of local authorities cut bus services again in 2012/13.

With support for bus services having already faced significant cuts, there are fears a further round of spending reductions could push many services over the edge, leading to the collapse of entire networks.

Stephen Joseph, Chief Executive, CBT, said: “If Government swings the axe at bus funding again it could spell the end for whole networks of services. There will be grave impacts on employment, education and communities. CBT is calling on the Government to protect bus funding and avoid cuts which would tip many vital services over the edge.”

konectbus introduces free Wi-Fi

konectbus has introduced free customer WiFi to its konectexpress 8 route which operates between Toftwood, Dereham and Norwich City Centre via the A47. So far seven buses have been fitted with the Icomera Moovbox device and if successful WiFi will be rolled out across other similar routes.

The free service has already proved popular with passengers with over 150 customers a day logging in. The 8 route was chosen due to the commuter market which travels on the service and lengthy average journey time.

03/06/2013 18:29

55k

The number of followers Go North East has on Facebook

Bus �irms recognised for social media presence trent barton has been included for the second time in a list of 100 companies, recognising them as the best in their field at communicating with customers through social media such as Facebook and Twitter.

The Social Brands 100 list was selected following detailed research of the social media sites of over 700 organisations and places trent barton ahead of many household names such as British Airways, Coca Cola the BBC and John Lewis.

Alex Hornby, the operator’s Commercial Director, said: “This is a great result for our trent barton live team who work round the clock to keep customers informed on our social media sites. Facebook and Twitter have become an invaluable form of two-way dialogue that enables us to communicate and get to the heart of our customers’ thoughts and needs. Over 32,000 people follow our range of social media sites to date.

“For a locally-owned East Midlands business to share

£4,000

The sum raised at this year’s First Aberdeen annual dinner dance in aid of charity

News6,7.indd 7

SHARE WATCH

Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, June 3. Three firms remained consistent, while National Express saw the greatest proportional drop.

Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk

408.10p

Price: Year High: 430.50p Year Low: 268.52p

125.35p

trent barton Commercial Director Alex Hornby with the firm’s customer services team of (left to right) Nicola Grebby, Jane Beaver, Adele Gillott and manager Steve Hathaway, alongside a trentbarton live-liveried bus the spotlight with big budget, international super-heayweight brands, and us being the only bus company to feature at all, is a huge achievement and I’m really proud that our team’s efforts have been recognised.”

In the specific travel category of the Social Brands 100 trent barton is ranked 14 and is joined by fellow operators Go North East, ranked 24 and Lothian Buses at 26.

Stephen King, Marketing and Sales Manager at Go North East,

said: “For a regional bus company to be hailed as a leader in social media engagement on a national stage is a great achievement. We are incredibly proud, to say the least.

“We were a relatively early adopter of social media as a means of communicating and engaging with our customers and this has transformed the effectiveness of our customer service. Our passengers love being able to interact with us easily and in a timely manner.”

First Bristol is in the recruitment process for a permanent MD for the Bristol and Avon business

Berkshire. Marc is supported in this role by Chris Bainbridge, the current Service Delivery Director for the South Coast.

Career busman Alex Carter has been appointed as a new Director for Devon, Cornwall and Somerset and joins the business having worked in the industry for more than 25 years. Having previously managed Go-Ahead’s South Coast operations, he has spent the past six months working with First on business development.

Supporting him in the role is current General Manager for Devon and Cornwall, Robbie Lamerton.

Jeroen Weimar, COO of UK Bus, said: “We are making these changes because we recognise the unique circumstances, dynamics and requirements of the cities, towns and villages we serve across the South West and South Wales.

We are keen to build on the good relationships we have with our customers and local stakeholders to ensure we can meet and exceed their expectations.”

First restructures South West and Wales region FirstGroup has confirmed a number of senior managerial appointments for its restructured South West and Wales region. As previously reported, since Monday (June 3), the region has been split into four separate business units, each headed by an MD who reports directly to the UK Bus COO, Jeroen Weimar.

The boundaries of the different operating areas have also been changed. Specifically, Somerset has, for operational purposes, become part of the Devon and Cornwall operating area, while Berkshire has joined with the current Hampshire and Dorset business.

Justin Davies, previously the Regional MD for the South West and Wales, has moved to manage the Cymru business. Justin’s new role will see him oversee the changes, particularly around funding

June 5, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 7

streams, which are currently taking place within the Welsh bus industry.

As such, First Bristol is now recruiting for a permanent MD for the Bristol and Avon business, and is managed by Paul Matthews, the current Service Delivery Director for the area.

Marc Reddy has been appointed as MD for Hampshire, Dorset and

Price: Year High: 267.00p Year Low: 115.60p

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200.10p

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82.07p

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-7.70 on last week

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FTSE 100

6,554

Index: Year High: 6,840 Year Low: 5,260

-209 on last week

www.coachandbusweek.com

03/06/2013 18:26

8 | COACH & BUS WEEK | June 5, 2013

news › coaches

briefly The bridge over the railway line at the A339 in Newbury is closed in both directions between 2100 and 0600hrs Tuesday to Thursday nights, and between 2100 and 0800hrs Friday and Saturday nights for maintenance. Signed diversions are in place. Station Road at its junction with the A339 is closed until the end of the project in September. Alternative access to Newbury Station is in place via St John’s Road. A 30mph speed restriction and narrow lanes are in operation outside of the road closure times.

A maintenance and repair project is taking place on a motorway bridge over a railway line in South Manchester. The eight-month scheme to repair the bridge – which carries the M56 Sharston Link over the Cheadle Branch railway line – is due to be completed by October. It involves replacing the existing parapets, repairing abutments, installing new expansion joints and bearings maintenance. Drivers are advised that both the eastbound and westbound carriageways of the M56 between Junction 1 with the M60 and Junction 3 at Baguley, as well as junction slip roads, are closed overnight. Signed diversions are in place.

Work is ongoing to resurface seven sections of the A69 between Newcastle and Carlisle, which include sections between Brampton, Hayton and Warwick Bridge in Cumbria. Work is being carried out between 1900 and 0700hrs, with temporary speed limits. HGVs are being diverted along the A689 between Junction 44 of the M6 and Brampton when work takes place at Warwick Bridge. The scheme is due to be completed, weather permitting, on Friday, June 28.

Operators are advised to plan ahead of Download Festival which is being staged from June 14-16 in Donington Park, located next to East Midlands Airport, four miles west of junction 23a of the M1. Anyone travelling in the area should allow extra travel time for their journey. www.coachandbusweek.com

News8,9.indd 8

Jan’s Coaches O-licence cut after driver found without valid licence Operator also found to have poor maintenance record and sees O-licence cut from nine to three vehicles A Soham coach operator has been penalised after one of its employees used a vehicle on a school journey without a valid driving licence.

Jan’s Coaches, owned by Ronald Edwards, Janet Edwards and Stuart Edwards, has been restricted to running three vehicles until June 8, 2013, following a decision by the East of England Traffic Commissioner, Richard Turfitt.

The TC cut the partnership’s licence from nine vehicles after holding a public inquiry in Cambridge on May 23. The hearing was called to consider evidence from the VOSA relating to the driver’s offence – and problems with the firm’s vehicle maintenance.

During evidence from VOSA, Mr Turfitt was told an 80-seat coach owned by the partnership had been checked at Bottisham Village College in June 2012. The driver, David John Badcock, was found to

NatEx supports Armed Forces Day National Express is putting on a show of support for the armed forces by halving the cost of travel to the national Armed Forces Day event taking place in Nottingham on June 29.

The operator announced that all members of the public will get half price coach travel to Nottingham, from anywhere in the country, for journeys booked online at least one day before the event.

Tom Stables, National Express UK Coach MD, said: “Armed Forces Day promises to be a fantastic event and we want to enable as many

be driving without the right type of licence for the vehicle. Further checks also revealed his licence had been revoked in 2007.

In a subsequent interview, Stuart Edwards said he had no way of knowing Mr Badcock’s licence had been revoked, as checks were only undertaken of drivers’ own licence records once a year. He promised checks would be performed every three months in the future.

Mr Badcock was prosecuted as the driver and Mr Edwards as the operator.

They both pleaded guilty and were fined before the Cambridge Magistrates’ Court in September 2012.

A further investigation was also conducted by VOSA into the coach firm’s vehicle maintenance procedures, the TC heard.

In October 2012, a vehicle examiner reported that standards were not satisfactory. He identified a number of shortcomings, including that vehicles had been issued with prohibitions for mechanical defects – one of which

National Express driver Simon Jay, 49, who served for 22 years as Petty Officer Writer with the Royal Navy people as possible to show their support. Our armed forces do an incredible job for us at home and abroad, so we want to show our appreciation by offering discounted travel to Nottingham Armed Forces Day for people to recognise the achievements of our forces and

was for a tyre worn beyond the legal limit – and also noted the annual test failure rate was higher than the national average.

Additionally, the VOSA officer said improvements were needed to the vehicle defect reporting system used by drivers.

After hearing evidence from the partners during the inquiry, Mr Turfitt concluded the good repute of all three had been tarnished by the VOSA investigations. He also indicated that the professional competence of the Roland Edwards, in his position as transport manager, had been tarnished.

Mr Edwards did not exercise the continuous and effective management required in this role, the TC determined.

Ordering the reduction of the licence by six vehicles from 2359 on May 24 to 2359hrs on June 7, the TC recorded several undertakings against the partnership, including the requirement for spot checks to be carried out on drivers every week to ensure they are recording defect checks correctly. enjoy a host of exciting events.”

Wing Commander Tracey Broome, MOD Armed Forces Day team, said: “Support for the Armed Forces, whether from members of the public or major companies like National Express, means a great deal to Servicemen and women and will help to make this year’s celebrations in Nottingham the biggest and best yet.”

National Express also offers an existing National Express Armed Forces discount which offers servicemen and women a 60% reduction on travel all year round.

The fifth national Armed Forces Day event is expected to draw crowds of 60,000-plus. Throughout the UK, the day will be marked with parades, pageants, aerial displays and various other performances.

The day honours the contribution of military personnel, past and present.

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“It’s all about a constant improvement of quality. For me, being competitive is only part of the offer. We have to retain our customers as well as spread the word.”

John Gilbert Eurolines

The Kings Ferry launches Somerset commuter service The Kings Ferry is launching a new commuter coach service in North Somerset.

The operator, part of National Express Group, is to run two commuter services to business areas in Bristol and South Gloucestershire, after being awarded the contract by North Somerset Council.

The services are due to launch in the Autumn and will be councilfunded for two years, with The Kings Ferry set to fund them for a further two.

Coaches will pick passengers up from Weston and Portishead, running along two commuter corridors at morning and evening rush hours. Currently 3,500 North Somerset commuters who travel in by car have few alternatives as there are no direct public transport services and limited rail options.

The Kent-based firm, which has nearly 30 years experience of carrying commuters from Kent into the city of London, is to supply four vehicles kitted out with reclining seats, air conditioning, drinks machines, TV screens and wireless internet. All coaches are also equipped with real-time tracking, allowing commuters to check the

location of their service via web and mobile devices.

Last year The Kings Ferry saw a record rise in passenger numbers using its Kent to London service – taking the total number of passenger journeys to over half a million a year.

Danny Elford, The Kings Ferry Commercial Director, said: “Every year we’ve seen more and more

Operator Update p34

commuters switching to the coach because it’s comfortable, great value and you’re guaranteed a seat.

What’s more, we communicate constantly with our customers, providing instant service information and traffic updates to ensure their journey to work is as relaxing as possible.

“We are certain this region has the fundamental elements needed for a successful service.”

For more information visit www.thekingsferry.co.uk or call 01634 265 510

The Kings Ferry’s existing commuter services now provide over half a million passenger journeys per year

Operator in search for School Of The Year

UK Coach Awards winner Anthony’s Travel has started a campaign to appoint a company ‘School Of The Year’. The initiative aims to promote vehicle safety and the winning school will be notified by the end of June, with prizes including; One free day coach trip within the period of September 2013 until July 2014; Generously discounted coach hire rates for a whole 12-month period between September 2013 until July 2014; 10% staff discount for any personal private hire for a whole 12-month period mentioned (staff ID required at time of

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Anthony’s Travel believes the initiative will help to promote BUSK booking); 10% parent discount for any personal private hire for a whole 12-month period mentioned (confirmation that child attends the school);

A supply of great raffle prizes for the school’s summer/ winter fairs and other events along with other support where possible; Voucher prize for three students who can

National Trust coach partnership in Arran The National Trust for Scotland has announced a new partnership with Caledonian MacBrayne offering savings of up to £526 per coach on crossings to Arran during 2014.

The offer is available exclusively to the trade, saving coaches up to 40% on spring and autumn sailings to Arran (Ardrossan – Brodick return) and includes admission to historic Brodick Castle.

Pietro Cecchini, Head of Travel Trade at NTS, said: “This new product offer delivers a perfect day out to one of Scotland’s most popular destinations. Often described as ‘Scotland in Miniature’, Arran is the ideal excursion for groups with the added attraction of Brodick Castle, ‘the jewel in Arran’s crown/’ Spanning 800 years of Scottish history, the castle boasts elegant interiors, magnificent formal gardens rich in exotic plants and spectacular views of Brodick Bay.”

For bookings & information call 01475 650335 or email traveltrade@calmac.co.uk demonstrate a good attitude to their safety and that of others when travelling by coach; One free safety training session for one class of students with safety training resources made available to school for any follow up sessions they may wish to do. (Resource of DVD and Lesson Plan); Opportunities to forge links with good causes including Halton Haven Hospice and Special Olympian Omar Haddad. Special assembly visits may be a possibility.

Richard Bamber of Anthony’s Travel told CBW: “This initiative helps promote BUSK and helps recognise those schools which understand ‘buy cheap, buy twice’.

“This is also a good business opportunity, providing publicity for both BUSK and Anthony’s Travel.”

For more information vist the Anthony’s Travel website at www.anthonys-travel. co.uk

www.coachandbusweek.com

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news

TfL launches Countdown Digital Sign service Introduction comes after successful trials in four locations in the capital TfL has launched its Countdown Digital Sign service – providing a new way to deliver tailored live bus arrival information to a range of public locations, such as hospital waiting rooms, schools or shopping centre foyers.

The introduction of the service follows a trial in four locations: Oaks Park High School in Newbury Park, Loxford School of Science and Technology in Ilford, Redbridge College in Romford and Gracefields Gardens Health and Social Care Centre in Streatham. TfL says the trial demonstrated the signs worked well, delivering clear, easily accessible information about local bus services, utilising existing IT and display equipment in public locations.

The technology can be selfinstalled using existing equipment; the business or organisation is provided with a tailored web link via a dedicated URL which will give information for the bus stop or stops in the immediate vicinity.

An electronic map detailing the local area is also displayed, which is especially useful for passengers unfamiliar with the location.

TfL charges £240 per annum for

The signage helps staff at London organisations plan their travel

the service to cover operational costs. This charge can be waived for public sector applications and other specific circumstances.

Simon Reed, Head of Technical Services Group at London Buses, said: “We hope the new Digital Sign service will help passengers make the most of London’s extensive bus service. The service makes use of existing infrastructure which is already in place in many public spaces and can be delivered cheaply and quickly. It will help our passengers’ access real time bus information away from their local stop which is especially helpful for those who may not have access to the Internet or a smart phone.”

Businesses or organisations interested in learning more about the service should email Digisign. countdown@tfl.gov.uk

trent barton raises thousands at birthday bash trent barton’s 100th anniversary celebration has so far raised more than £5,000 for charity.

Over the last bank holiday weekend, the operator opened the doors of its Langley Mill depot for a fun-filled day involving staff, customers, local traders and community groups.

Thousands flocked to the event, which also aimed to raise money for the firm’s ‘adopted’ charity for the year, The Lewis Mighty Fund.

Jeff Counsell, the Heanor-based firm’s Managing Director, said: “The day was a huge success, and we were even blessed with fantastic weather.

“A display of vintage buses attracted a lot of attention and a selection of funfair rides proved a hit with children and big kids alike.

At the same time, a number of local community groups were also able to boost their own fundraising www.coachandbusweek.com

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Jeff Counsell (front left), trent barton Managing Director, Jaime Mighty of the Lewis Mighty Fund and Alex Hornby, trent barton Commercial Director efforts with stalls and other attractions.”

The Lewis Mighty Fund is a charity set up in memory of the Derby youngster who died from Neuroblastoma, one of the most common forms of childhood cancer.

It now raises money for children receiving cancer treatment at Nottingham Hospitals NHS Trust.

Jaime Mighty, Lewis’s mum, joined in the party celebrations and said she was delighted at the

support the fund has received from trent barton.

“It’s fantastic to have such a high-profile company behind our cause and we are very grateful for their help in raising our profile and for the money they have raised,” she said.

Jeff added: “I would like to thank everyone who helped to make our special day so memorable whilst raising so much money for a very worthy cause.”

Network changes for First in Southampton A number of changes are being made to bus services in Southampton as of June 30.

Some of the alterations are being made following a re-tendering exercise completed by Southampton City Council, while other changes are being made by First to its own commercial network.

The changes affect the following existing services: 1/1A, 2/2A, 5, 6, 7, 8/8A8B, 9, 10, S1 and X2, while a handful of new services are also being created.

Where the commercial network is being amended, First says the changes are designed to ensure the company’s resources match the level of demand as closely as possible. The alterations also give First the opportunity to fix some of the issues that arose following last year’s massive network change.

Marc Reddy, a Director for First in the South West and Wales, said: “We understand any type of change can be unsettling and some people are worried about the loss of some previously council-supported routes and journeys. We have looked at this and where possible we have altered some of our commercial services to compensate for changes to council-supported ones. This has not been possible in all cases, but we have done what we can. We would encourage people to check the new timetables and routes carefully to ensure they understand the impact of what is happening. To aid this process we will be holding a number of events around Southampton to give people the opportunity to ask questions and pick up new timetables.

“Our commercial network altering follows on from last year’s network review and is intended to help us fix some of the issues we have seen develop. For instance our X2 Service has not carried as many people as we hoped it would so we are removing this service and amending service 2/2A. The latter is being split into three routes, which from June 30 will be known as Services 2, 12 and 13.

This means there will be buses up to every six minutes from Millbrook into the city centre via Shirley.”

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briefly Reports from the USA indicate FirstGroup-owned Greyhound is seeking to emulate airline ticketing models and boost its profitability by charging more for peak travel. The company proposes to invest heavily in computerised yield management technology and has engaged a US carrier to assist with its design and implementation. The move will see Greyhound abandon its current policy of flat-rate fares.

MAN displayed a Euro 6 18.75m Lion’s City GL articulated bus at the UITP exhibition in Geneva. This was one of 50 which will go into regular service in the city of Lausanne.

Transports publics de la région Lausannoise (TL) is taking delivery over the course of this year.

Its specification includes 41+1 seats and standing room for 119 passengers. It is driven by an MAN D20 common-rail engine with an output of 265 kW (360 bhp). Four swing/sliding doors (doors 2, 3 and 4 with electric drive) ensure passengers can board and alight quickly, while the driver has six video cameras for monitoring this process. A 42-kW air-conditioning system optimised for weight and a passenger-compartment heating system delivering over 30 kW make sure that the on-board climate is pleasant at all times of the year.

Energy-saving LED interior lighting, two TFT dual monitors for up-tothe-minute passenger information and stainless-steel uprights complete the interior equipment.

Deutsche Bahn has acquired Veolia Transport Central Europe (VTCE) for an undisclosed sum. VTCE employs more than 6,300 people and has a fleet of 3,400 vehicles across 60 depots in six countries. Its primary function is to provide bus services for local authorities. The acquisition ensures Arriva now has a presence in 15 nations and has an overall workforce of more than 55,000 people. Mike Cooper, Deputy CEO and MD of Arriva’s mainland Europe business, said: “We will work closely with our new partners and develop strong relationships that enable Arriva to bring value to clients and customers.” www.coachandbusweek.com

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Ballard Fuel Cells dominate in Europe Company will be powering buses in eight different areas next year and is making waves in China CANADA Ballard Power Systems anticipates powering approximately 40 of the 50 zero emission fuel cell buses used in public transport revenue service on European roads in 2014.

By next year Ballard will be powering 27 fuel cell buses manufactured by its Belgian partner Van Hool NV. Examples of these are operating in Oslo (five buses); Cologne (two); San Remo

(five); Flanders (five) and, very soon, Aberdeen (10).

Aberdeen’s fleet will be the second largest in the world, next to the 20bus fleet that has been operating in Whistler, Canada, since 2010.

The 40 Ballard-powered buses in Europe use the company’s latest-generation 75 & 150 kilowatt FCvelocity-HD6 modules, based on zero emission technology which provides reliable power while emitting only water and heat.

Dr. Christopher Guzy, Ballard’s Chief Technology Officer, said: “Our fuel cell power module has

Ballard will be powering 27 fuel cell buses made by Van Hool by next year

Volvo wins Cape Town extended MyCiti tender SOUTH AFRICA Cape Town has awarded the tender to provide vehicles for its extended MyCiTi bus routes to Volvo SA. The contract, worth R180m, is for 40 buses to run on the N2 Express routes. Volvo SA will also provide ancillary services such as training and maintenance.

N2 Express routes were expected to commence at the end of the year, linking Khayelitsha and Mitchells Plain with the city centre.

A further tender for 66 buses is being evaluated for other routes scheduled for launch this year and in 2014, with destinations including the Atlantic Seaboard, Melkbosstrand, Atlantis, Dunoon and Century City. Results may be announced during June.

Cape Town’s roll-out of MyCiti bus routes has been challenged in court by Golden Arrow Bus Services (GABS). An application by GABS to have the MyCiti service expansion halted was turned down by the Western Cape High Court.

GABS wanted the city to enter into a mediation and arbitration process to resolve disputes over certain routes.

It also wanted to prevent the city negotiating and concluding a 12year contract to operate the MyCiti services.

The High Court ruled compelling the authority to go through such a process would make it impossible to fulfil its mandate to integrate services into an overall public

proven to be highly reliable in a large number of buses in Europe and elsewhere. And, since fuel cells are a zero emission solution, this has made the Ballard module an increasingly popular choice of transit authorities as an alternative power technology.”

Since 2003, fuel cell hybrid buses in Europe have logged more than 1.9m miles in service. Ballard has also worked with other OEMs to integrate its fuel cell modules into buses operating in additional European cities, including London, Amsterdam and Cologne.

Together with reductions in fuel cell bus costs, a major enabler for relatively large-scale fuel cell bus demonstrations in Europe has been – and continues to be – the EU Joint Technology Initiative (JTI) funding program. JTI earmarks funding for clean energy public transportation alternatives and, in combination with national, regional and municipal funds, has encouraged deployment of fuel cell-powered buses in numerous European cities.

Ballard is currently working to further commercialise its FCvelocity-HD power modules – with funding support from transport system.

According to the National Land Transport Act, the city was obliged to negotiate, but not to agree to something. The application was dismissed with costs.

Golden Arrow Bus Services says it has now turned to the Supreme Court of Appeal to challenge decision made by the High Court.

“After careful deliberation of the judgment, GABS has been advised reasonable grounds exist for another court reaching a different conclusion on critical issues,” General Manager Francois Meyer said in a statement. He said GABS had submitted an application for leave to appeal against the judgment. “GABS is concerned about the precedent which will be set in the future rollout of the MyCiti services if the judgment handed down is upheld,” said Meyer.

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Sustainable Development Technology Canada (SDTC) – through improvements in durability and reliability, as well as cost reduction. Expanded fuel cell bus deployments are also expected to generate technology enhancements for vehicles and fuelling infrastructure, including improvements in well-to-wheel performance and significant reductions in lifecycle cost and purchase price.

Beyond Europe In Beijing, Ballard has signed a non-binding Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) with Azure Hydrogen Corporation, extending the scope of their collaboration to include fuel cell buses.

The MOU with Azure envisions Ballard providing a manufacturing licence agreement, engineering services, fuel cell stacks and components. As the MOU is nonbinding, it is not certain a contract will be completed but the parties will move into the contract phase in the next several months. In the interim, under terms of the MOU, Azure has made a $1m up-front payment to Ballard. Azure plans to develop fuel cell bus capabilities in China with funding from Chinese sources, including both private investors as well as various levels of Government. If Azure is successful with its plans, the collaboration under this MOU would lead to the deployment of zero emission fuel cell buses in China.

80 New Flyer Xcelsiors for Halifax

CANADA Winnipeg-based New Flyer Industries Inc reports Halifax Regional Council has approved the purchase of up to 80 Xcelsior clean diesel 40-foot heavy-duty buses for use by Metro Transit of Halifax, Nova Scotia.

The contract contains a firm order for 22 40-foot clean diesel buses with options to purchase an additional 58 buses at a later date.

Metro Transit currently has a fleet of 331 active transit buses of which 182 are New Flyer models.

“We appreciate our long term relationship with Metro Transit and are excited to build for them our ‘world class’ Xcelsior bus

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Hartmut Schick (r), Head of Daimler Buses and CEO of EvoBus GmbH, receives a certificate to commemorate the delivery of the 25,000th Groeneveld Oilmaster to EvoBus, from Johan Bood of Groeneveld

Groenveld delivers 25,000th Oilmaster to EvoBus NETHERLANDS The 2013 UITP exhibition in Geneva between May 26 amd 30 saw Groeneveld celebrate the delivery of the 25,000th Oilmaster to EvoBus for ex-factory installation. Since the first Oilmaster was delivered to the bus division of Daimler, some 10 years ago, the Groeneveld oil

New Flyer Excelsior XDE40 model for the first time,” said Paul Soubry, President and CEO of New Flyer. “Halifax’s last transit bus order in 2011 was with another manufacturer and we are thrilled to have won back their confidence and their business.”

The initial 22 Xcelsior XDE40s for Metro Transit should enter production in the third quarter of 2013 with all buses expected to be delivered by the end of the year.

management system has become an integrated option for EvoBus. Oilmaster avoids manual oil level checks and topping-up engine oil, and is therefore specified by many well-known public transport operators around the globe.

Groeneveld claims there is growing demand for its efficiency

Chicago’s ‘Bus on Shoulder’ success USA Chicago’s Pace Suburban Bus has awarded Motor Coach Industries (MCI) a contract for 13 MCI Commuter Coaches with an option for 37 more. Pace is using the new coaches to replace older buses and those leased from MCI, on its “Bus on Shoulder” service, which launched in 2011 between Chicago and the southwest suburbs.

Until now the service has operated with 14 MCI Commuter Coach vehicles which are permitted to use the shoulder on Interstate Highway 55 in congested traffic.

When traffic in regular lanes is flowing at less than 35mph the buses using the shoulder cannot

improving products. “The lack of time for maintenance and daily checks, combined with the need for continuous efficiency improvements, drives demand for our products in the world of public transport”, explained Johan Bood, Groeneveld’s Sales Director for the Bus and Coach Sector. “The few minutes available for cleaning, refuelling and daily checks when buses enter the depot, simply do not allow for a proper oil level check. This explains the success of the Oilmaster oil management system.”

The long standing relationship and co-development activities between Daimler Buses and Groeneveld resulted in an integrated solution, where Oilmaster is entirely developed to EvoBus standards and requirements. For buses with the Euro 6 engine, a dedicated Oilmaster was developed with 19 litre nylon or aluminium reservoir, depending on the vehicle type. The system is fully integrated in the design and communicates with the vehicle’s electronic system.

“By offering the Oilmaster as an ex-factory installed option, we offer a reliable oil management solution to our customers for improving efficiency and uptime,” said Hartmut Schick, Head of Buses and CEO of EvoBus GmbH. With Oilmaster, the oil level is monitored automatically according to engine-specific settings so there is always exactly the right oil level in the engine. travel at speeds greater than 35mph, or 15mph faster than the flow of regular traffic – whichever is less.

‘Shoulder riding’ has been cited as one of the most affordable options for implementing BRT on highways because it is less expensive to modify shoulders than it is to construct new roadways and requires little capital investment compared with rail.

“The Bus on shoulder program has helped combat Chicago’s jammed expressway system, and we are very pleased Pace has selected the MCI Commuter Coach,” said Patrick Scully, Executive Vice President of MCI. “We’re proud our Commuter Coach offers the best mean distance between failures among all types of bus models, reinforcing our ‘Reliability Driven’ promise to offer the highest quality coaches, parts and service.”

www.coachandbusweek.com

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news › REGIONAL

SCOTLAND

First Aberdeen’s annual dinner dance raised more than £4,000 for children’s health charity the ARCHIE Foundation.

The event, held on February 21, attracted more than 200 guests, was the company’s 76th annual dinner dance and was the 42nd to be organised and hosted by First Aberdeen Director, Joe Mackie.

Joe is also Chairman of the ARCHIE Foundation and this month will celebrate 50 years working in the bus industry. He said: “Every year I look forward to organising this event and this year was no exception. It’s fantastic to have such a great turn out and to be able to raise such a generous amount for a charity that is close to my heart.

ARCHIE makes a real difference to the lives of thousands of sick children in the North of Scotland every year.”

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

NORTHERN IRELAND

Passenger numbers on Northern Ireland’s stateowned public transport operations have risen despite fare increases.

More than 78.5m people took trains and buses over the past year – up from 77m from last year.

Ulsterbus services experienced major rises which is thought to be down to increasing petrol prices and congestion in Belfast city centre.

Regional Development Minister Danny Kennedy said: “This is an incredible rise and proves that when people are provided with a bus and train service which delivers on quality and efficiency then they will use it.”

Earlier this month, ticket prices rose by an average of 3% on Metro and Ulsterbus routes.

The increase was criticised by members of the Regional Development scrutiny committee and the Consumer Council.

Jimmy Spratt, Chairman of the Regional Development Committee, said: “We would welcome any increase in footfall but we would also like to see increases in efficiency as well. What these figures don’t tell are the number of routes, particularly in country areas, that have been abandoned because they are not profitable.

“We will continue to press and we believe this outfit could become much more transparent and answerable to the public given the high degree of subsidy it receives.”

Catherine Mason, Translink Group CEO, said the company was pleased with the increase in passenger numbers. www.coachandbusweek.com

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She added: “Our aim is to offer integrated travel solutions that are attractive, sustainable and good value.

“This is a great result – over a million more fare-paying customers compared to last year; customer satisfaction is also very high, which shows we are getting it right.”

NORTH

Go North East has invested in free on board WiFi for customers on 48 buses on its Red Arrows, TEN, Angel and Tyne Tees Xpress services.

The decision was made to equip these buses with WiFi in response to customer demand. The firm says more and more people are seeing the benefits of being able to surf the internet while on the move.

Stephen King, Marketing and Sales Manager at GNE, said: “We have a lot of daily interaction with our customers via Facebook and Twitter and they are telling us they love being able to make the most of their bus journeys by doing other things on their phones or tablets.”

When on board the bus, passengers find the Moovbox or CCL networks, log on and surf away.

GNE is celebrating its centenary year having started operating buses in the region in 1913.

Three local authorities in the North West of England have joined forces to create the Cheshire and Warrington Local Transport Body (CWLTB).

CWLTB will see Cheshire West

and Chester Council (CWaC) working with Cheshire East Council and Warrington Borough Council, after the Department for Transport (DfT) gave the new body devolved decision-making powers.

With the authority to approve and release funding for transport schemes, the new body could help bring about a new bus interchange for Chester and improved access to employment sites in Ellesmere Port.

DfT has awarded CWLTB funding worth £21.8m for the period between 2015 and 2019 with full details due to be announced next month.

The three councils will now be looking to work together to attract further outside investment. CWLTB is a publicly-accountable body and has been set up to improve transport infrastructure helping boost the economic growth and prosperity of the region.

CWLTB will also develop an integrated transport investment programme of capital projects for the sub-region.

There will be a pooled transport investment fund created and CWLTB will work to identify other funding sources, including private sector funding contributions and investments.

WALES

Bus Users UK’s Gillian Merron has met with Wales’ leading lady in the bus industry Cynthia Ogbonna, MD of Cardiff Bus. With Wales going through big

changes in funding support for local bus services, Gillian was keen to learn of the challenges being faced in the industry following the bus funding review.

Cynthia, who was of course appointed only last year, is facing up to these challenges. Gillian heard how Cynthia has embarked on a programme of engaging with community leaders and bus users in the Welsh capital. Gillian also heard about the ‘Cardiff Bus On Tour’ programme, where the city’s bus passengers can discuss problems and offer suggestions locally in communities like Llanrumney, Radyr and Heath.

Gillian said: “Talking to Cynthia, I can see how the bus operator is widely consulting, trying to keep leaders in the communities around the city informed. Cynthia told me her aims include improving punctuality and reliability and ensuring all drivers have completed their Driver CPC in good time.

“I particularly liked the new Cardiff Bus ‘OMG’ fares for the 1618 age group which basically gives a third-off the adult fare for young citizens, and they don’t have to have a special pass or card either – an offer showing that bus travel can be cool. Short Hop fares also show that buses offer good value too.”

MIDLANDS

The National Express Foundation, set up to help disadvantaged young people across the West Midlands, has announced which community groups will receive its funding this year.

The foundation will support projects including the development of a new youth hub, a community safety campaign and the recruitment of a young volunteering squad.

In this wave of charitable awards the Foundation will provide £20,000 to assist the six community groups in providing positive activities for local youngsters.

Two Black Country groups will receive a combined £7,500, with Olio Youth Hub using its funding to equip its new club building and clear land to provide a play area.

Changing Our Lives will be using the money to provide workshops on safety to local young people.

They will join three community groups from Birmingham receiving a combined £10,000. Balsall Heath Children Action Team Support will create a youth group designed to bring together both disabled and able-bodied youngsters,

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news › REGIONAL

the Disability Resource Centre will provide 40 new disability awareness workshops and Sport4Life will extend their existing good work to deliver 120 news sports sessions in Washwood Heath.

Coventry Voluntary Action will recruit a team of young people to support voluntary groups across the city, who receive training and a qualification.

Trustees of the Foundation, including MP Shabana Mahmood, will announce funding for bursaries in partnership with local educational institutions in August.

Anthony Vigor, Chairman of the Foundation, said: “This funding will make a big difference to local community groups who are working hard to provide positive activities for young people. These groups were chosen because the work they will be able to do as a result of the funding will have a big impact in their community. I look forward to seeing these projects in action and hope the funding will make a real difference.”

EAST

Funding could be made available to complete phase two of the improvements to Cromer bus station.

Norfolk County Council said money was not available for the work, which would produce two

First Aberdeen has announced a novel Father’s Day competition with the help of Aberdeen Riding for the Disabled Group. First Aberdeen wants passengers and members of the public to send their favourite funny picture of their dad with a short sentence highlighting why their father is the best in the world. The company will display the winning photographs and messages on the side of a bus in time for Father’s Day on June 16.

For every entry it receives, the firm will donate £10 to the Aberdeen Riding for the Disabled Group. Entries can be submitted via www.firstgroup.com/aberdeen.

Welcoming the initiative was the company’s Scheduler, Mark Caird, whose eight-year-old son Jack suffers from cerebral palsy and is a weekly visitor to the Group.

“For children like Jack, the Group is so important. I’m really pleased First Aberdeen is backing Aberdeen Riding for the Disabled. I hope the public back the initiative. Jack’s got

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY extra bus bays, stopping buses from pulling up on nearby Cadogan Road.

The Highways Officer said it could be between five and 10 years before funding was available, but Cromer Town Council has now made a bid under County Hall’s parish partnership scheme.

The original bus station was closed in 2006 and buses started operating from street stops, but campaigning saw the bus station reopening in 2011.

Earlier this year, NCC demolished the old tourist information centre on the corner of the site, paving the way for phase two of the bus station upgrade.

Town clerk Julie Chance said: “Phase two would provide two new bus bays and hopefully rule out the need for buses to use Cadogan Road as a pick-up point.

“I got a quote from the county council for phase two, which is £30,000, and have put in a bid through its parish partnership scheme.

“The deadline for bids for funding was the end of April, but I asked for an extension, which we have been given. If successful, we would pay £7,500 and the county council would pay the rest.”

Chance said she hoped to hear whether the bid was successful by the end of May and said the work could be completed within a year.

Metrobus is opening the doors of its three depots on September 21 and 22 for an open weekend to celebrate its 30th anniversary

2013 n June 4-5 Young Bus Managers Network Conference. Marriott Bristol City Centre Hotel, Lower Castle Street, Bristol. www.

youngbusmanagers.org.uk

n June 11-13 ATCO Summer Conference. Merseytravel HQ, Liverpool. www.atco.org.uk n June 16 Father’s Day. Free entry for dads with their paying child at the Oxford Bus Museum. 01993 883 617. www.oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk

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 June 16 Peak Park Preserved Bus Gathering. Rowsley South Station, Peak Rail Heritage Railway, nr. Matlock, Derbyshire. www. chesterfield123.org.uk

n September 9-10 CPT Scotland Annual Conference. Crieff Hydro Hotel, Perthshire. Visit www.cpt-uk. org or call CPT Scotland on 0131 272 215

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 September 10 Association of Trainers AGM. 1400hrs, Wembley.

For details call 01797 344251.

n June 30 First Aberdeen Open Day. King Street Depot, Aberdeen.

11-1600hrs. More details at www. firstgroup.com/ukbus/aberdeen/ or by email on joe.mackie@ firstgroup.com.

a really close bond with one of the horses, Holly – it’s fantastic to see how they interact with each other. ” Seen here are Mark’s two sons, Jack and Connor, with Hollie the horse. Their message said: “Our Dad is the best in the world because he always has time to play with us and always helps us with our homework.”

n July 14 The Annual Peterborough Bus & Commercial Vehicle Rally. Sacrewell Farm (A47/ A1 junction). Free entry. 07828 754412 or 01462 626750

n June 30 Ringwood Bus Rally.

Scenic rides and memorabilia stall.

For details call the Wessex Transport Society on 01202 293245. www. wessextransportsociety.co.uk n July 5 Hampshire County Council Public Bus Supplier Engagement Morning. Elizabeth II Court, Sussex Street, Winchester. To book onto the event or for further information contact passenger transportprojects@hants.gov.uk

n September 21-22 Metrobus 30th anniversary depot open days. Orpington, Croydon & Crawley. www.metrobus.co.uk/metrobus30 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 n October 20 Oxford Bus Museum Bus & Coach Vehicle Rally. 01993 883 617. www.oxfordbusmuseum. org.uk

2014 n May 12-14 ALBUM Conference.

Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh. www.album-bus.co.uk

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

www.coachandbusweek.com

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insight › blind bus passengers

Above: Alex & Helen walk from the CBW office to the bus stop round the corner. Above right: Alex & Helen check out the tactile paving at the bus stop. Right: Seated in a priority seat, Alex experiences riding Stagecoach’s citi6

Being led by the blind Alex Tyler takes on Guide Dogs’ Blindfold Challenge to gain an insight into the obstacles faced by the blind who use bus services. Photography by Gareth Evans

T

he Guide Dogs for the Blind Association (Guide Dogs) has had a working relationship with the industry since the 1990s, prompted by the introduction of the Public Service Vehicle Accessibility Regulations (PSVAR) which outlined necessary provisions for disabled people, including guide and assistance dogs, on public transport.

Until the turn of the century, the charity worked with operators, associated authorities and ITAs providing valuable input to specific projects as necessary.

However, in the last 10 years, after the introduction of the Guide Dogs Travel Charter in 2002 and subsequent amendments to legislation concerning the Disability Discrimination Act of 1995, the charity has launched and maintained a number of initiatives to highlight the needs of blind and partially sighted passengers.

Following on from the charity’s

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recently published ‘Road to Nowhere’ survey (CBW 1084), I decided to take on the Guide Dogs Blindfold Challenge, wherein a sighted person is blindfolded and taken on a walk which aims to demonstrate living with sight loss. A route was drawn up from the Coach & Bus Week offices in the suburb of Hampton to Peterborough Railway Station and then on to London.

Once there I could experience the benefits of Audio Visual technology (AV) and understand why Guide Dogs is working to see the system rolled out nationwide with its ‘Talking Buses’ campaign.

The blindfold challenge

While the cynics may dismiss the challenge as a mere gimmick, it is a valuable exercise which not only encourages empathy but spreads awareness.

Like many, I take my sight for granted and though it is far from the vaunted 20/20 vision, it doesn’t impede my daily life and as such I found myself blind to how difficult it can be for partially sighted people.

I was met at CBW office by Guide Dogs Sighted Guide Ambassador for East Anglia Helen Sismore, who as the job title suggests, helped me negotiate my way around town. The ‘Blindfold’ used for the challenge was more akin to a pair of blacked out goggles which allowed me to keep my eyes open whilst still being unable to see. Rather than feeling like I was simply blindfolded, it felt as though I was in a pitch black room.

After some icebreaking banter and a quick demonstration of guide techniques, including elbow squeezes and arm brushes, we were off with Gareth and his camera in tow.

It didn’t take long to encounter my first obstacle – the office stairs.

With trepidation, no small amount of patience and Helens ability to see, we negotiated them with tactical heel kicks and tentative steps. The banister, which I usually use for leverage on early Monday mornings, became an appreciated gauge of steepness.

Once in the car park I kept

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trying to place where I was from memory, but judging distances was impossible and it was very easy to become disorientated and confused.

As Helen guided me towards the bus stop, situated less than a minute from the office, she pointed out the tactile pavement beside the kerb. I could feel the difference in texture beneath my feet and though I appreciated the knowledge I was at the edge of a road, I still had to cross it.

The simplest of actions had become real obstacles and I was utterly dependant on Helen’s guidance and the intuitive design of streets and buildings.

Since I couldn’t see, everything seemed much closer than it actually was. While waiting for the bus, I believed I was stood perched on the kerb and the traffic was inches from me, though Helen assured me we were stood in the shelter.

I heard the familiar rumble and hiss of an ADL Enviro400 as it pulled up at the stop. I produced my Day Rider, asked Helen if it was the right way up, and we boarded the bus. The driver had thankfully parked close to the kerb and the low floor meant I could simply step onboard. It may not sound like much, but when you can’t see, any action which reduces the possibility of tripping is much appreciated. In addition, the friendly driver was kind enough to wait until I had found my seat before pulling away.

Helen stressed that driver disability awareness is paramount. ‘The Road to Nowhere’ report released by Guide Dogs showed a lowly 25% of drivers always pull right up to the kerb. Once on board, only 17% of drivers always wait for blind and partially sighted respondents to find a seat before pulling off.

Being a regular commuter on Stagecoach’s Citi6 service, I recognised familiar bumps and turns and could accurately guess where I was for parts of the route.

However, if I didn’t know the area, or was alone, I would rely entirely on the driver or strangers to tell me when to alight. On arriving at Peterborough’s Queengate Bus Station, we thanked the driver for his courtesy, and made our way to the railway station.

I felt a bit self-conscious walking through the bus station, which from the sound of it, was quite busy and I could sense quite a few people walking past and around us. I suggested the escalator to save

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insight › blind bus passengers

Above left: As Alex holds on, Helen provides reassurance about the traffic. Above left: The citi6 bus approaches the in-bound stop near the CBW office time but Helen assured me it would cause more problems than it solved as I had no way to judge when to walk once we had reached the top.

Another flight of stairs, over a bridge and a road crossing later we arrived at the railway station.

I still had to purchase my ticket for onward travel to London, and with the touch screen self service machines currently unsuitable, Helen led me up to the ticket desk.

The East Coast clerk desk was friendly, patient and made sure I could find the card reader. I asked Helen to check I wasn’t using my credit card by accident and once I found the initial digit, I was able to enter my PIN with relative ease.

Since I was travelling to London alone I opted to remove the blindfold for the train journey.

Though there was no AV, with the help of Helen and various staff, I had been able to travel with confidence.

Commenting afterwards, Helen said: “I can’t believe the Government hasn’t amended the PSVAR to bring buses in line with other forms of public transport, and I hope they do this soon. In the mean time, I would like to see all bus operators implement AV systems on any new buses which they may order. The benefits to all passengers more than outweigh the relatively small costs involved.

I would also like to see the Department for Transport (DfT) provide funding for bus companies.

The costs involved are miniscule compared to a project like HS2, yet the benefits will be quickly realised.

At the moment I’d also encourage local transport authorities in England and operators who are considering applying to become www.coachandbusweek.com

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Better Bus Areas (BBA) to include Talking Buses as part of their bids.

It’s about encouraging collaboration between organisations to provide assistance to those with sight loss.”

In July 2012, Guide Dogs commissioned a report from the TAS consultancy. It states for an individual bus, installing AV technology could cost as little as £2,100 for a single-decker vehicle or £2,550 for a double-decker.

These figures reflect the discounts possible if whole fleets are equipped with the technology and the charity suggests a minimum investment of £58m by the DfT would bring buses in to line with other forms of public transport.

Guide Dogs also believes the sum compares favourably with amounts allocated by the DfT BBA fund in 2012, which was allocated in a piecemeal fashion for a range of improvements, rather than a universal uplift in standards across the sector.

However, Helen explained the human element is just as important as the use of technology. “We also examine driver training and encourage them to look out for people with sight loss,” she said.

In aid of this, Guide Dogs has compiled a pamphlet entitled ‘Tips for bus drivers: How to assist blind and partially-sighted passengers’ which outlines some useful habits and advice for drivers when it comes to helping blind and partially sighted passengers.

“Even if we worked with drivers for just half an hour, maybe did a brief blindfold challenge with them, it would help to share awareness and help them and others understand from a blind person’s point of view,” added Helen.

Guide Dogs: a brief history

Guide dog training began in Britain at Wallasey, Wirral in 1931. Three years later, The Guide Dogs for the Blind Association was formed with the help and enthusiasm of Muriel Crooke and Rosamund Bond, German shepherd breeders who trained the first guide dogs.

In 1956 Guide Dogs began to recruit volunteers to become puppy walkers. A few years later a breeding programme was introduced, and by 1970 these components of Guide Dogs’ work had grown so much they were given their own premises at Tollgate House, near Leamington Spa. Primitive training facilities have since been replaced by modern training centres and localised District Teams, while the handful of supporters has become a network consisting of hundreds of voluntary fund-raising branches and many more individuals and groups which raise money for guide dogs.

A highly-organised breeding and puppy-walking scheme now ensures the best possible dogs are available for training and has established Guide Dogs as the world’s largest breeder and trainer of working dogs.

Asked about the benefits of the Blindfold Challenge, she replied: “The good thing about the Blindfold Challenge is that it takes sighted people and puts them into an unsighted person’s world. It can really make people stop and realise what it is to be in that world. It’s a strong exercise, it makes people consider things from another point of view and ask themselves how would you go about your daily life without sight? It spreads awareness in a number of ways, as those around who see the exercise became more aware. It’s very positive.”

Negotiating the stairs at Queensgate Bus Station. Despite appearances, Helen assured it was easier than the escalator

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Above left: Boarding the bus. Above: The driver waits for Alex & Helen to be seated. Above right: Disembarking at Queensgate Bus Station

Encouraging best practice

I was met in London by James Kell, Communications Officer, who was to be my guide. I’ll admit travelling around the city while unable to see was an intimidating prospect but regardless, the blindfold was back on as we travelled to Oxford Street from Kings Cross and back again to Euston.

By now I was used to the blindfold but since I don’t know London well, I was put at ease by the AV announcements. Truthfully, I would have found them reassuring even if I could see. AV is arguably a

necessity in the capital due to the high number of tourists but I found since the bus would stop and start and spend many minutes stationary and with no sight to judge landmarks it is nearly impossible to accurately know your location.

When I arrived at the charity’s London offices I was introduced to the charismatic Engagement Officer David Kent. David, who is a guide dog owner, stressed the importance of AV systems in the capital but also around the country. “The more integrated and standardised networks become the more empowered our clients will be,” he

said. “We are looking for national consistency in services. London provides a superb opportunity to experience best practice, but we have to look at the wider picture.

We are blessed in London with all the systems. I work closely with operators and drivers to help train them and bring them up to speed but a good coherent system makes all the difference between staying at home and going out for our clients.”

Asked about the role of drivers, David said: “Ultimately drivers have a lot to think about and asking them to remember to tell me when to get off can be a huge ask and I

Guide Dogs’ ‘Talking Buses’ campaign calls for:

Bus operators to look at ways to make bus services more accessible for blind and partiallysighted people, including providing audio-visual announcements; The government to honour the commitment in the PSVAR guidance and legislate for the introduction of audible and visual announcements on all new buses; In the interim, the government to encourage bus operators and local authorities to introduce audible and visual announcements on buses; The government to maintain its commitment to introduce a ‘smart ticketing’ system for the UK bus network and recognise how this could support the introduction of audible and visual announcements; and The government to continue to support measures which ensure cross modal transport and the provision of information prior to and during a journey is consistent.

appreciate they can’t remember everything, especially considering they have a whole bus load of people to look after. That’s one of the benefits of AV they don’t need to tell me anything.”

David believes the system can directly improve the quality of life for those with sight impairments. “I feel all blind people have the right to mobility,” he said. “It encourages integration, creates confidence and leads to a lack of isolation and improved health benefits. It should be available to all, there is really no excuse as the technology is there.”

“The AV currently used on London Underground is the sort which we need on all buses,” he continued. “We are encouraging service providers to be really thinking about the visually impaired when they source their vehicles.”

Prior to living in London, David said travelling on public transport could be very “random”. “Any number of incidents can befall you and you can easily fall off the social radar,” he said. “This is why AV and driver training are essential. I’ve had experiences when others on the bus have started complaining about it, saying, ‘Oh why is that on?’

Well it’s on for a bloody good reason so stop being so selfish. I feel it is a moral imperative. Furthermore, it costs £50k to train and fund a guide dog. What is the point of this effort, if society will not support it? The community shouldn’t be a barrier.”

For more information on AV and the ‘Talking Buses’ campaign, visit www.guidedogs. org.uk/talkingbuses. For a copy of the ‘Road to Nowhere’ report email campaigns@guidedogs. org.uk. Call 0800 028 4348.

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO ticketing & cash handling

I

Many developments in ticketing are aimed at reducing the amount of coins, passes and various bits of paper which passengers need to carry around

Just the ticket This week’s Industry Guide looks at various ticketing and cash handling products, from smartcard and mobile ticketing systems to change sorting machines, all geared to saving operators’ time, whether it is by reducing administrative burdens or simply allowing passengers to board vehicles more quickly www.coachandbusweek.com

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nnovation is rife when it comes to ticketing.

Whether it’s Near Field Communication (NFC), smartcards, contactless payment or mobile phone applications, ticketing technology is moving forward at quite a pace and it’s easy to be left behind.

Investing in this new technology is great for passenger confidence and convenience – and it can help slash boarding times on busy routes.

This industry guide includes valid options for both large operators looking for a worthwhile investment to be launched across a large network and smaller operators without the benefit of economies of scale. The top-quality products and systems have seen praise of all corners of the industry and the country.

Ticket machines themselves are equally important and require an increasing amount of versatility and future proofing. Established

manufacturers of ticketing machines have taken this into account and modern systems can cope with all sorts of different forms of ticketing and payments, whether an operator has decided to support it yet or not.

Infrastructure to slash stop dwell times does not have to be built onto vehicles, with advanced payment terminals available which can be installed in bus stations, at bus stops or in travel shops. If properly promoted, passengers can buy their tickets while waiting for the bus at the roadside.

Smart ticketing can dramatically reduce the amount of cash handling a business needs to do. However, no operators are at a point where it is no longer necessary. Some passengers will always want to pay with cash, such as irregular users or those wary of modern technology.

There are plenty of products on the market to make cash handling as efficient as possible, saving man hours and administration costs.

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CONTACT To advertise in future industry guides, call Brian Winterton for a features list or more details on 01733 293488, email brian.winterton@ coachandbusweek.com. For more information on providing editorial, call James Day on 01733 293244 or email james.day@coachandbusweek.com

Parkeon Blackpool Transport is expanding its partnership with transport ticketing technology specialists Parkeon after awarding the company the contract to deliver its next generation fare collection system on both its bus and tram networks.

The municipal has specified Parkeon to deliver a multi-faceted platform as part of the on-going NowCard ITSO scheme and has also commissioned the company to introduce a commercial smartcard which will use the area’s extensive PayPoint retail outlets.

The contract sees 150 ETMs supplied by Parkeon as replacements for the company’s TGX150 machines, which will have been in service for nine years, along with 90 handheld units which mark the company’s entry point into Blackpool’s tram network.

This new era in smart ticketing is supported by Parkeon’s on-bus Wayfarer200 ticketing platform

and its Wayfarer P50 handheld device, both of which are capable of dual reading ITSO concessionary cards and commercial products.

The company is also providing its SmarTrack card tracking and management software.

Trevor Roberts, Blackpool Transport Managing Director, said: “As part of NoWcard, we were among the early adopters of the ITSO standard and we shared that journey with key technology

partners, including Parkeon.

“Over the years, our concessionary passengers have benefited from the convenience and interoperability these smartcard systems provide, but we want to do more. Soon, with the latest technology from Parkeon, we will be extending the reach into the retail environment through our commercial products, thereby enhancing the ease and flexibility of travel for all our passengers.”

Trevor Roberts (left) with Ryan Thomas from Parkeon

Ryan Thomas, Parkeon Northern Account Manager, commented: “This is the latest success among many for Parkeon with ALBUM Group operators, which is testament to the close working relationship we have developed with its members through initiatives such as the User Group, which regularly meets to consider current and future technologies.”

In addition to on-vehicle and retail systems, Parkeon is providing a Hosted Back Office Service to Blackpool. The hosting service means Blackpool staff can concentrate on core business activities in the knowledge the back office environment is supported and operated to strict service standards – a decision which reflects a growing trend among operators for back office outsourcing as part of replacement fare collection systems.

T: 01202 339339 E: sales_ uk @parkeon.com W: www.parkeon.com

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO ticketing & cash handling

Above: A sample mobile phone ticket. Left: An advertisement for the My Mobile Tickets service seen on an Abellio Surrey bus.

Mobile Onboard My Mobile Tickets believes it is now the most popular and fastestgrowing choice for transport operators up and down the country looking to offer mobile and e-ticketing to its customers.

The constantly expanding service is now available on partnered bus networks across the UK from the South Coast and Surrey to the Midlands, North Wales and North West of England, allowing their passengers to buy tickets online and use their mobile phones as their ticket.

My Mobile Tickets is a zerocapital investment mobile ticketing service which allows passengers to sign up in seconds, buy their tickets online and download them directly to their mobile phone. Passengers can also buy tickets on-demand using an SMS text message when they decide they want to travel, or by scanning a QR code at the bus stop or from print media – something other solutions do not offer as standard.

The system allows the purchase of practically any type of ticket, including season tickets, fixed term tickets and multi-trip “carnet” tickets, with no requirement to download a native app onto the phone, which means it works with most modern smartphones and is a credible alternative to smartcards.

Allowing passengers to purchase their ticket by credit or debit card, www.coachandbusweek.com

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Above: Velvet Bus says between 30% and 50% of its ticket sales are made through My Mobile Tickets. Below: The Validator will debut in the summer

PayPal or by Direct Debit not only offers them convenience and choice, but also significantly minimises cash handling for the operator.

On one network, Velvet Bus in Hampshire, between 30% and 50% of their ticket sales in any one month are purchased online through the My Mobile Tickets system.

Mobile Onboard, the company behind My Mobile Tickets, is also rolling out a range of simple products over the coming months

to support its mobile ticketing network, including low-cost fixed and handheld mobile ticket validation and revenue-protection devices, as well as tools to help organisations such as schools and colleges to issue concessionary mobile tickets to large numbers of students.

It has partnered with Casio to develop an application to run on its IT-800 and IT-9000 range of handheld terminals which can perform offline validation of the mobile ticket app. By scanning the encrypted data contained within the embedded QR code on the mobile ticket, the terminal can instantly tell the revenue protection officer whether the ticket is valid.

Furthermore, if the terminal is

connected online, it can download the photograph of the person the ticket was issued to for further verification, and record the scan on a central server.

Also due for release over the summer is its low-cost standalone validator which, when connected to a suitable scanning device, can validate a mobile ticket as the passenger boards the bus, with sub-second scanning and instant feedback to the driver to facilitate fast boarding. The validator is also WiFi enabled, which means scan data can be sent back to a central server in near real-time when the bus is also fitted with its Beam passenger WiFi system, which acts as an Internet gateway for the validator.

For a low set-up charge, My Mobile Tickets enables operators to get a foothold into the emerging, fast moving world of mobile commerce now, while complimenting their existing ticketing methods. No additional equipment is needed, but if required, Mobile Onboard’s powerful m-commerce platform has the ability to integrate directly with operators’ back-end systems at real-time and its in-house team is available to help with these integration projects at any level.

T: 08432 899 897 E: contact.us@ mobileonboard.com W: www.mobileonboard.com

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO ticketing & cash handling Thomas Automatics When considering the implementation of a cash handling or ticketing system within your business, Thomas is a name to be trusted.

The company has been designing, building and supplying specialist change-giving machines, payment systems and cash handling products for over 40 years. The extensive range of Thomas machines can provide operators with a perfect solution for many types of application including ticket and receipt vending, note and coin counting, safe cash deposits and coin changing.

The Thomas PayStation is a cash handling and ticketing powerhouse and is claimed to be at the forefront of digital cash transactions in commerce today.

The PayStation offers many advanced features which directly apply to many sectors of industry including travel, leisure, gaming,

retail, service, medical, the list goes on. PayStation is the ideal system for merchants who require a secure, low maintenance system for safe consumer cash and ticket transactions.

Completely expandable and upgradable, PayStation is designed for both external aesthetics and internal sophistication. The modular design of PayStation provides the ability to select only those features which are deemed necessary, ensuring maximum value for money. Furthermore, with an enhanced internal blueprint, PayStation can handle multiple inputs and outputs including: coins and notes in, chip and pin processing, three output coin hoppers, note dispensing and recycling, RFID (Radio Frequency Identification) card interface, slot ticket redemption, ticket and token merchandising plus receipt printing.

The trend to reduce, or even completely eradicate cash handling by operational staff is becoming

more of a standard practice and the need to source effective ways to achieve this has become paramount. Thomas claims its PayStation is the solution.

The Thomas PayStation is PC based, which brings with it all the benefits associated with this platform; flexibility, enhanced security and remote monitoring which will audit and control all payments in and out.

The system is said to be very user friendly – not just for the merchant but for the consumer as well.

Using a large 21-inch touchscreen, PayStation seamlessly guides the user through ticket purchase with the option to pay by either card or cash. With the latest generation printer installed within each machine, receipts are produced almost instantly at the end of every transaction.

The Thomas PayStation is a superior management tool which provides operators with the ability to track and improve the financial performance of the business

by utilising the management and reporting tools as well as, if required, the networking functionality of PayStation. This function will provide up to the minute reports on payment and ticketing information. In addition, NFC (Near Field Communication) card readers can identify staff members and authorise controlled actions, meaning the Thomas PayStation is impervious to error or breaches of security.

Nick Veitch, Managing Director of Thomas, commented: “After six intensive months of product development and some successful on-site trials it’s very exciting to see the Thomas PayStation now being rolled out across the country.”

The Thomas PayStation will help provide a secure, efficient cash operation for ticket output to consumers while improving the effectiveness of the business.

T: 01509 267611 E: sales@thomasa.co.uk W: www.thomasa.co.uk

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Trapeze While adoption of technology has radically transformed the public transport landscape in recent years, ticketing processes have remained largely paper-based. This appears to be changing, as operators and LAs come round to the benefits of electronic ticketing systems.

Trapeze has been at the forefront of this evolution in ticketing since 2009, when its award-winning m-ticketing system was launched nationwide with Arriva UK Bus. m-ticketing allows passengers to pay for and display tickets for their journeys straight from their mobile phone. Tickets are bought anywhere via a simple and secure interface and only need activation when they are needed. Operators benefit from faster boarding, reduced cash handling, improved customer perception and reduced ticket fraud & administration costs. m-ticketing not only reduces boarding times, and therefore the cost associated with ticket

Trapeze m-ticketing systems allow tickets to be activated as required sales, it is also being shown to drive additional ticket revenues, attracting users towards higher value multi-journey tickets. This helps to retain existing clients and has significant benefits in terms of lost or stolen tickets, which are easily cancelled or reissued.

Most people only consider the obvious face of m-ticketing as the mobile app, but behind this convenient customer tool is a

sophisticated ticketing information engine driving the entire ecosystem.

The back office elements of the solution enable operators to have complete up to the minute control over the entire system, including the ability to manage tickets issued to mobile handsets.

One less well appreciated advantage of mobile ticketing is the information it provides back to an organisation. Operators can gain an understanding of transactional behaviour, generating a clearer picture of who is travelling and where.

They also have a means to identify and contact lapsed users, making it possible to lure them back with discounts or other offers. Similarly, as digital tickets can be issued and withdrawn instantly, operators have the chance to explore different ticketing pricing options to find the best fit for their business.

Outside of m-ticketing helping to position an operator as a modern, tech-savvy organisation, it also enables them to track the effectiveness of marketing activities,

measuring new user registrations and how many progress to become repeat or regular users.

Additionally, by combining mobile ticketing alongside real-time travel information, operators can offer passengers a convenient way to assess their options and then purchase the required tickets – all directly from their mobile phone – making it an invaluable tool for promoting the business as a whole.

As the technology landscape continues to evolve, providers such as Trapeze continue to build on their solid mobile ticketing base by working with the industry to create development roadmaps which will see the inclusion of various EMV and NFC strategies in the future.

Mobile ticketing is undoubtedly the future, and the success of Trapeze’s m-ticketing shows the public is ready for it now.

T: 0844 561 6771 E: info@trapezegroup.

co.uk W: www.trapezegroup.co.uk

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO ticketing & cash handling INIT Innovations in Transportations (INIT) is a supplier of integrated Intelligent Transport Systems (ITS) and ticketing systems.

INIT’s on-board Electronic Ticket Machine (ETM), EVENDpc, is equipped with a high speed thermo printer for a fast operation and has an easy to use driver interface.

The ETM is capable of handling conventional cash payments as well as smart ticketing. EVENDpc is fitted with an ITSO compliant card reader to allow smartcard payments and acceptance of passenger passes. A 2D barcode reader can be added which enables prepaid ticketing via mobile phones. INIT’s validators can also be installed to implement a touch on/off smart ticketing on board or on platforms. Ultimately, operators can optimise their fare collection system and offer maximum payment flexibility for passengers.

EVENDpc is currently being prepared to provide operators

with the pathway for on-board contactless bank card payments in the future.

As a multi-functioning system, EVENDpc is designed to determine the highest level of AVL accuracy.

Operators can persistently monitor exact locations of their vehicles to provide reliable RTPI. Further, AVL data can be applied for statistical analysis, e.g. with the combination of automatic passenger counting figures for fleet management and competitive intelligence.

On top of these features, INIT’s ETM also offers public transport operators benefits such as efficient communications between drivers and dispatchers, on-board operation via one interface control for multiple systems (e.g. audio/ visual announcements) and ability to achieve better fuel efficiency via monitoring driver’s behaviour.

INIT also creates multi-client capable, hosted AVLC/RTPI and ticketing back office systems.

With a data centre located in Beeston, Nottingham, INIT offers

an alternative system for realising back office systems. The virtualised platform means the central system is located at the data centre allowing for easy implementation and operation. Operators need only the internet to access their data and use the systems.

Optionally, multiple operators can use the platform via the web with confidence in privacy.

Practically, opting for INIT’s hosted system has the potential to save operators from a lot of costs. Savings can be made from eliminating operators’ requirement to invest vast capital towards advanced infrastructure, complex network connection installations as well as costly manpower and expertise for maintenance, etc. This lowers the entry barrier for smaller operators.

INIT’s integrated approach has been implemented in many of its projects and schemes worldwide.

An illustration of this is INIT’s virtualised back office system.

The integration goes beyond the

operational function capabilities of what one solution can offer but also enables cooperation between different public or cross modal transport networks. In Hertfordshire for example, INIT has implemented an all integrated AVL/ RTPI and ticketing system currently in use by several of the local bus operators there. Adding further clients to expand the platform is a viable future possibility.

In a complex operational and regulatory environment, INIT’s integrated approach presents answers for organisations desiring optimum operation efficiency whilst keeping control over costs like maintenance. INIT’s engagement in the forefront of innovation ensures its portfolio is well in pace with the changing technology and allows public transport operators to be up to date with the ever growing demand for first class customer service.

T: 0870 890 4648 W: http://www.initag.de/en/

www.coachandbusweek.com

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03/06/2013 16:29

June 5, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 29

TransMach Systems

ETMSS

TransMach Systems provides ticketing solutions for independent bus and coach operators. It offers end to end ticketing solutions, from specifying, installing and providing personal help desk support. As specialists in ticketing, TransMach can build the system to suit individual requirements.

TransMach is Parkeon’s authorised distributor for the Wayfarer 200 ticketing system.

The company offers the system at an affordable cost and provides personal help desk support. The Wayfarer 200 ticketing system is ITSO v2.1.4 and RTIG 1.1 certified and meets local authority requirements. The back-office software suite gives full flexibility to operators. By acquiring the Wayfarer 200, operators can take advantage of the BSOG uplift.

As CASIO’s authorised partner, TransMach offers the CASIO IT9000 for satellite tracking, journey planner, paper tickets, smart

ETMSS Ltd has been in the ticketing industry for over a decade, celebrating its 10th anniversary in August last year.

The business has been built on recommendation and reputation; its ethos is service, quality and price.

ETMSS supplies a range of products and services, including ticket rolls, support for Wayfarer 3 machines and travel card wallets just to mention a few. The company can take care of operators unique ticketing requirements.

Of course, the company’s own self-praise is no recommendation, so it asked its customers for their thoughts.

Michelle of Courtney Coaches said: “The cost of the ticket rolls supplied by ETMSS was far less than we were previously paying and the quality was far superior.

The speed of delivery from point of order is always excellent, the service is second to none.”

“We have been using ETMSS

TransMach is Parkeon’s authorised distributor for the Wayfarer 200 cards, validating web booking and accepting Chip & Pin card payments. The IT-9000 features a lithium-ion battery, integrated high speed thermal printer, NFC smartcard reader and writer, barcode reader with high speed and accuracy, GPS and HSDPA – capable 3G with high speed data transfer and high memory capacity.

T: 020 8861 1946 E: sales@transmach.co.uk W: www.transmach.co.uk

since day one,” said Beestons of Hadleigh. “Since those early days, we have built an extremely close working relationship with all the team.

“Despite severe pressure and high demands from us they have always delivered – on time and on budget. Such is the level of customer care, support has always been offered, even in evenings and over weekends. For Wayfarer 3 help, advice, support, maintenance and consumables they are exceptionally hard to beat.”

David Stuart, of Norse Commercial Services, said: “When we were using Wayfarer 3 ticket equipment, ETMSS provided us with exemplary aftermarket support which proved invaluable on many occasions.” Norse is now using Ticketer, for which ETMSS has supplied the ticket rolls.

T: 0844 800 9299 E: info@etmss.com (request a call back) W: www.etmss.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

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30 | COACH & BUS WEEK | June 5, 2013

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

TO ticketing & cash handling Ticketer Ticketer believes it offers the bus industry’s most innovative and cost-effective ticketing solution.

The Ticketer system improves bus company bottom lines by delivering advanced features which allow managers to run their business with maximum flexibility but without the need for expensive support.

Ticketer offers a unique modular solution which delivers the following features and more: n Mobile-network delivers realtime back office management and reporting; n Centralised hosted Software as a Service (SaaS) approach eliminates the need for any IT or depot infrastructure; n Web based management and reporting can be accessed from anywhere with an internet connection (including smartphones and tablets); n Easy-to-configure and easyto-use back office functionality significantly reduces operational

and reporting administration – tickets can be customised quickly and easily, and at no cost to the operator; n Integrated GPS with a real-time tracking interface and proven SIRI server-to-server interface delivers real time information to multiple users, including local authority RTI systems; n Two way driver messaging increases operational efficiency; and n ITSO certified, with an innovative and remarkably simplified approach to smartcard scheme management.

But Ticketer’s real strength lies with its success stories and deployments.

HCT was looking for a ticketing solution in conjunction with their newly awarded contract to operate the bus network in the States of Jersey in January this year. After successful Ticketer deployments with HCT in both Bristol and Yorkshire under the SWSAL and Yorcard frameworks respectively, HCT chose Ticketer for its Jersey

ticketing requirements. Douglas Downie, Chief Financial Officer of HCT, explained: “I was initially sceptical, but no longer. The range of data available, and instant visibility of ticket transactions, is excellent. I can see every ticket which has been sold within seconds of the transaction.”

After the introduction of an ITSO concessionary scheme on the island, HCT will soon be deploying a range of new ITSO card schemes targeted at both residents and visitors, including a rapid online top-up option.

Moving northwards, and after extensive trials, Ticketer will shortly be deploying to its first major Scottish operator, West Coast Motors, initially in Glasgow and thereafter across the full network.

Similarly to the States of Jersey, Ticketer was chosen both for its ease of use and for the ability to rapidly introduce, and support, a full range of ITSO commercial cards.

The company is going further in 2013, with Ticketer delivering

solutions ‘beyond Ticketing’.

Ticketer’s Managing Director, John Clarfelt, explained: “Our successful rollouts with Reading Buses, Ipswich Buses, Ensign Bus and many other operators have helped us build a solid foundation for our ticketing platform. Our deployments with the operators under the SWSAL, Yorcard and Nesti frameworks helped us optimise our service delivery such that we are now able to deploy smart solutions to operators in weeks, not months.

“2013 sees us using the Ticketer platform for more than just ticketing. On top of our driver messaging introduced earlier this year, we have recently made several significant improvements to our free tracking solution and later this year we will be releasing our first version of our schedule adherence package for operators.”

T: 020 319 58800 E: info@ticketer.org.uk W: www.ticketer.org.uk

www.coachandbusweek.com

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32 | COACH & BUS WEEK | June 5, 2013

THE BIG PICTURE

On Sunday, May 5, the Cardiff Transport Preservation Group (CTPG) held its first ever ‘Running Day’ with a Municipal Bus theme from its 1930s ex National Welsh operating centre, better known as The Bus Depot, in Barry.

Pictured here by CTPG volunteer Tudor Thomas is 1979-built East Lancs-bodied Leyland Leopard ‘YBO16T‘, which was new to the now long-departed Rhymney Valley District Council fleet as no.16. A bus enthusiast of the future is seen disembarking with, one assumes, his two relatives at The Bus Depot. Contrary to the destination screen, the vehicle had been for a round trip to Rhoose, in the Vale of Glamorgan, via the scenic coast road, offering views of the Bristol Channel. The CTPG’s next event, the Festival of Transport, is due to take place this Sunday (June 9) on Barry Island, between 10 and 1700hrs.

For details visit www.ctpg.co.uk.

www.coachandbusweek.com

BigPicture.indd 32

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June 5, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 33

www.coachandbusweek.com

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34 | COACH & BUS WEEK | June 5, 2013

operator update › eurolines

Eurolines unveiled a coach with livery promoting The Gathering earlier this year

www.coachandbusweek.com

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03/06/2013 13:56

June 5, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 35

The Irish connection Coach & Bus Week’s Andrew Cream talks to John Gilbert, President of Eurolines, about the operator’s Ireland routes, competition and the overall scale of Eurolines in Europe

I

reland has opened its doors this year in support of the tourism-led initiative The Gathering.

Aimed at bringing Irish family and friends back to the country and promoting tourism in general, the project is a series of events taking place all over Ireland, sharing Irish culture, tradition, business and sport.

In support of The Gathering, Eurolines has teamed up with Tourism Ireland to promote its coach trips to the Emerald Isle.

I caught up with John Gilbert, President of Eurolines, to learn about its Irish operations and also to find out about the man himself.

Increased demand

Eurolines started to ramp up its operations to Ireland last year as it was seeing some growth on its Dublin and Cork services. John cites the firm’s good value for money coupled with an increase in air fares as reasons for the patronage increase.

“As we have seen the growth and we have confidence in our services we increased the Cork route to daily throughout the year,” John said. “This year we are supporting Tourism Ireland and encouraging people to go back to Ireland and partake in The Gathering. It’s about giving Irish families the chance to go back to visit relatives. We can get people to their destination with a network of connections we can plug into. Bus Éireann and Ulsterbus provide the domestic services so we are connected to over 100

Eurolines.indd 35

John Gilbert, President of Europewide coach operator Eurolines destinations.

“If people need to get home quickly they can rely on us. Tickets are still very competitive at last minute and through tickets to connecting services are available; people often see us as a lifeline.”

A common goal

John explained how the Tourism Ireland partnership works: “The tourist board wished to promote their destination as widely as possible. We can target different groups, like students and young people – complimenting what Tourism Ireland is doing by reaching an audience they don’t find it easy to get to. They are very keen to have us on board, while we are keen to get the message across that we have low fares and easy access to Ireland.

“We have an opportunity this year to boost our passengers even further. It also puts us in good stead for next year.”

The firm has found that the increase in patronage for its

www.coachandbusweek.com

03/06/2013 13:56

36 | COACH & BUS WEEK | June 5, 2013

operator update › eurolines

Ireland journeys is predominately people visiting friends and family, with John acknowledging the UK’s large Irish community.

However, there has also been an increase in general tourists without Irish roots crossing the sea. This year, Derry~Londonderry has been named the UK City of Culture which will no doubt attract visitors from across Europe. “There is lots of activity out there to attract firsttime tourists,” John commented.

There are two coaches with special livery on the Ireland routes, one promoting Eurolines’ current student campaign and another promoting The Gathering.

Traversing the Irish Sea

Eurolines’ Cork route crosses at Pembroke in South West Wales and Rosslare in Ireland, while the Dublin operation goes from Holyhead to Ireland’s capital. There are direct coaches from London, Birmingham and Manchester to both Dublin and Belfast. There is also a Leeds / Bradford operation to Dublin, with connections throughout Eire and Northern Ireland.

The coach firm has agreements in place with the three ferry operators it uses for its Ireland and Northern Ireland trips – Irish Ferries, for its Dublin and Cork work, and P&O and Stenaline for Belfast.

“We work with the operators in order to get our schedules sorted and we contract space for the coaches,” John explained. “We work more with Irish Ferries on the marketing side – when we can promote each other we do so. For example, we have a presence on the Irish Ferries website. Our relationship with them is more like a partnership.”

Another partnership Eurolines has is of course with its partner operators. For example, Bus Éireann runs the services to Dublin on behalf of Eurolines. When this interview was being conducted, the state-owned operator was going through some union-related problems, but John explained they have no bearing on its contracted coach work.

“The Bus Éireann problems have not affected our through operations between the UK, Dublin, Waterford and Cork, but travellers connecting to destinations beyond were inevitably impacted,” he said.

“That mainly affects the domestic network which is 95% of its operations. It’s nothing that will impact on service quality at all.”

Coaches and drivers are specially www.coachandbusweek.com

Eurolines.indd 36

Above: An Irish Eurolines coach on its way to London. Below: The firm can tap into its student market in order to promote The Gathering

“We always find low cost airlines very challenging. But there is an increasing amount of extra charges with airlines and the consumer is getting tired of this.”

John Gilbert contracted for each route, which is standard across Eurolines’ UKbased operations. John explained that, while Eurolines runs the Belfast operations, as it’s part of the UK, the coaches are National Express branded.

Coach vs. rail and air

Regarding competition, John said: “Rail is definitely our competition on the Dublin route, but we compete on timing with rail from Birmingham to Holyhead. Rail however will be faster from London.

“Air is the biggest competition and the market is always changing.

Air Lingus is aggressively priced if you book early but not if you book late. Meanwhile, easyJet and Ryanair are currently scaling back to the capital which is beneficial to us.

“We always find low cost airlines very challenging. But there is an increasing amount of extra charges with airlines and the consumer is getting tired of this.

“Our numbers prove we are competing well – we had 11% growth in 2011/2012 and we’re growing still. We are providing the goods.”

We’ve spoken about competition from other forms of public transport, but what about coach operators?

“There is only one other operator which runs on a regular basis and that’s megabus, which only has a limited connection,” John said. “And that’s just to Rosslare. It’s not really competition in the true sense.”

The bigger picture

John gave a bit of an idea of the scale of Eurolines’ Irish operations before giving an insight into his

career background.

“Our Ireland and Northern Ireland routes account for just under 20% of what we do from the UK. It’s quite significant in terms of the operation but if you look at the whole organisation, Europe-wide, it’s relatively small,” he said.

While Eurolines is part of the National Express Group in the UK, the firm has a consortium of 30 operators across Europe. Transdev is in fact the biggest operator of Eurolines services.

There is a standard livery throughout Europe, although there cannot be a standard coach due to pricing and regulatory differences between countries. John explained: “We provide a common vehicle spec to all members and they provide vehicles for their local market. We lay down the must-have standards like air conditioning and toilets, etc. On the intercity services we are rapidly adding WiFi.” John has been involved in inter-country coach travel from the very beginning. “I have had lots of experience in this business; I started off very early, working on the opportunity to run international services into Europe,” he said. “I joined National Express in 1984 helping to develop these services.

The first service was London to Rome. There was a definite demand for these journeys – of course this was before low cost air travel.”

Before NX John worked for Wallace Arnold. Wallace Arnold and National Express had strategic agreements in place in the early days of continental coach travel.

“I have been involved in building up Eurolines ever since,” John continued. “And four years ago I became President.

“While my main task is to run Eurolines UK, I also influence strategy and policy at EU level and throughout Europe with the support of the Eurolines members.

“It’s all about a constant improvement of quality. For me, being competitive is only part of the offer. We have to retain our customers as well as spread the word.”

Finally, John also played an important part in influencing the recent European passenger rights legislation for the coach sector.

Eurolines lobbied in Brussels with other organisations like the IRU and John believes the resulting legislation is reasonable and won’t result in an excessive financial burden for the industry.

03/06/2013 13:57

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38 | COACH & BUS WEEK | June 5, 2013

open platform › ian jones

Go on, Tweet yourself Ian Jones shares his experiences of using Twitter and believes it’s a vital communication tool, even more so than Google when sourcing information The theme of the recent Association of Local Bus Company Managers (ALBUM) Conference was technology and its growing influence within the bus industry. All of the speakers confirmed the importance of Twitter in the updating of existing passengers and its ability to attract prospective passengers. During a presentation from the Transport Minister Norman Baker I tweeted his comments and received, before he had even finished, a riposte from one of his parliamentary opponents. Twitter can be a distraction but it can also lead to new work, new relationships and unwitting interaction with Members of Parliament.

If you listen to my wife I am addicted to Twitter. While I might dispute this, I do accept I am fascinated by Twitter and the characters who populate it and agree I need to cull. Several hundred voices all yabbering at once is a bit too much to take in and I need to get my Twitter feed to a sensible number that works. Too many followees and it’s just noise; too few and it’s like an awkward conversation outside the bathroom at a party. There must be a Goldilocks figure that provides socio-mathematical perfection.

My wife thinks Twitter is nothing more than a distraction combined with a trickle of ego. However, I have advised her that Sir Brian Souter confirmed in his keynote presentation that at its very basic level Twitter is simply a communication tool. It is an open conversation and it’s all about how you use it. I find if you nurture it carefully and make sure you only follow the voices you really trust, you’ve got something invaluable. It’s a river of news, opinion, wisdom, humour and opportunity flowing through my working day like a babbling brook.

Twitter is also a fascinating search engine.

Rather than feeding your request into Google’s Binary Code, you actually get to ask human beings information about the industry we all occupy. It is possible to ask a simple question and moments later to be inundated with generous pearls of wisdom and links and advice from all over the industry. It’s like having your own personal Privy Council. Her Majesty’s Most Honourable Privy Council dates back to Norman times and is a body of advisers who assist with the exercise of the Royal prerogative. This font of advice will only become more tailored as more members of our industry join in.

Strangely, Twitter has also proved to be a www.coachandbusweek.com

OpenPlatform.indd 38

Ian Jones is a ‘must have’ in your Twitter ‘following’ list if you’re a transport industry professional.

He shares news & views, both personal and professional-related items

“It is possible to ask a simple question and moments later to be inundated with generous pearls of wisdom and links and advice from all over the industry.” splendid starting point for many conversations I have had with complete strangers at industry dinners across the country. Last month I attended a conference in Bournemouth and an operator, whom I had never met before, introduced himself as one of my ‘followers’. I have lost count how many times my thoughts have been quoted back to me or conversely I have had ready conversation available when I met a stranger I am following.

Perhaps people are turned off by the fact that Twitter is all rather public as if we live our own personal Truman Show. At the outset I found this prospect to be downright terrifying, but over time I have formed the view that properly used Twitter is full of interaction, incredible narratives and utterly illogical connections.

Western Greyhound were unable to attend the conference due to the arson attack at their premises, but they sent thanks to the conference delegates as ALBUM members had rallied round to send buses for the assistance of a colleague in need. This confirms we cannot as an industry operate in isolation and the industry benefits and feeds from generosity and openness, even in a competitive environment. This brings me

back to the initial quandary: how many people should you follow? Twitter (naturally) advises that ‘Dunbar’s number’ is a measure of how many effective social relationships it’s possible to maintain. On average we are told it is about 150.

This seems like a sensible level of interaction but misses an opportunity for symmetry. By culling a few extra individuals the perfect and poetically elegant number to follow should be 140 characters.

I was introduced to the colourful characters of the bus industry in 1993 when, as a very junior solicitor, I took a random telephone call from an operator who remains a client of mine to this day.

But for this telephone call I would not be writing this article. I wonder whom Twitter will throw at me during the forthcoming, more technologically advanced, phase of my interaction with the bus industry.

Ian Jones, a solicitor and director at transport legal specialist Backhouse Jones. Follow him on Twitter @backhousejones . Contact Ian on 01254 828300. Visit www.backhousejones.co.uk If you want to let off some steam, just tap away at the keyboard and send your rant (or carefully-reasoned views) to gareth. evans@coachandbusweek.com, or fax 0845 280 2927. Make ‘Open Platform’ the subject line. Alternatively, send your missive to: CBW, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX

03/06/2013 14:01

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40 | COACH & BUS WEEK | June 5, 2013

Network Warrington have the following vehicles for sale 7HO

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

Access Lifts

& Ramps

Dennis Dart SLF 10.8m 2000/2001 V & Y Plate, Cummins 6BT, Allison AT545 4 speed auto, Marshall body, 40 seats.

Contact Ian Parker (Engineering Manager) Warrington Borough Transport Ltd Wilderspool Causeway, Warrington WA4 6PT. Tel 01925 634296

2002 ADL ALX200 Dennis Dart

COIF and DDA compliant, Euro 3 engine, 28 seats and 16 standing, taxed until end of June and MOT until July, well maintained and ready to work.

POA – choice of 3

Phone Nick on 01626 833664 or 07872 839530

Mercedes Optare Solera

2005 MAN Noge

2009 Renault

2004 Bova Futura

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

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.

51 seat executive, LEZ compliant, ZF auto, excellent condition, centre sunken toilet, 2 monitors, DVD, MOT until May 2014.

£65,000+VAT - P/X considered

£18,500 + VAT

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

Florida Taxi Coaches 01787 477701

2007 Unvi Riada

1998 Volvo B10M Caetano Enigma

39 seats + courier, 3 point belts, 6 speed manual, double glazed tinted glass and curtains, air-con, driver’s electric windows, reversing camera, 247,117 miles.

Brand new engine with Mercedes warranty, 22 seats + certified courier seat, leather headrests, Euroliners, DVD, 3 point belts, P/A, air-con, 227,000km, MOT 15/04/14.

£49,000

£42,000

Blythswood Motors 0141 889 9730

Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279

49 seats with retractable belts, monitor, DVD, radio, cassette, taxed and tested, has air-con but needs re-gas + belts, needs t.l.c. but good motor.

£59,000 + VAT

Travelstar European 01922 647100 / 07779 801862

2003 ADL Enviro 300

COIF and accessibility certificate, 40 seats and 27 standing, taxed until August and with a new MOT, this is a very clean and tidy bus which is ready to go straight to work.

£15,500 + VAT ono

POA

Paul Watson Travel paul.watson9@btconnect.com

Phone Nick on 01626 833664 or 07872 839530

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

p41_CBW_1090

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June 5, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 41

1999 Volvo B10M Jonckheere

48 reclining seats with retractable belts, monitor, DVD, radio + cassette, rear toilet with rear door, fully sprayed and new stretch panels fitted, good coach, just been to Spain, lovely driver.

Marco Polo Iris

21 seat wheelchair accessible bus with room for 18 wheelchairs, Euro 4, coach style seats, destination equipment, 300kg capacity tail lift, automatic ZF gearbox.

ÂŁ20,000 + VAT ono

Paul Watson Travel paul.watson9@btconnect.com

2008 Mercedes Benz Sprinter 515

16 seat mini-coach, Onyx conversion, manual gearbox, full spec with racks, lights, blowers, panoramic windows, skirts, wheel trims and large boot, digital tacho, test March 2014, excellent throughout.

ÂŁ28,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

ÂŁ40,000

Ventura Sales 01342 835206

MAN Fast Carrier

57 dual purpose seats + 12 standees, 3 point belts, power front and side doors, auto gearbox, double glazed tinted glass and curtains, 238,157 miles.

ÂŁ92,000

Blythswood Motors 0141 889 9730

1999 Mercedes Benz 814D Plaxton

27 coach seats with 3 point belts, perfect for school bus and private hire, tested April 2014, choice of two – one manual and one auto.

2006 Bova Majiq

49 seat executive, ZF auto, LEZ compliant, leather headrests, twin monitor DVD, centre sunken toilet, tasteful moquette, excellent condition, MOT & taxed.

ÂŁ99,000 + VAT

ÂŁ7,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

Travelstar European 01922 647100 / 07779 801862

2003 Volvo Jonckheere B12M Mistral 50

2005 MERCEDES VARIO 814 WHEELCHAIR ACCESS MINIBUS

53 passenger seats, 12 months MOT, 527,071kms, interior & exterior in excellent condition, vigorously maintained (records available).

4300cc turbo diesel engine, automatic gearbox, analogue tachograph, certificate of initial fitness states 32 passenger seats or 10 wheelchairs and 2 seated, Plaxton Beaver 2, there are 17 seats at present but can be made up to 33, Access underfloor rear tail lift, tracking for 10 wheelchairs, ex-council, 118,000kms/73,000 miles, finished in silver, supplied with 12 months PSV or MOT, fully serviced to Good Garage Scheme standards, 3 months nationwide parts and labour warranty. ÂŁ22495 + VAT

ÂŁ49,950 + VAT ono Star Coaches Limited Martin 07831 265804 Adam 0121 350 5555

Ben Weaver Commercials 0114 275 7076

Iveco 17 seat wheelchair accessible minibus

1999 Mercedes Benz 814D Plaxton

<RXÂś UH L Q FRQW URO

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

ÂŁ15,495

31 coach seats with 3 point belts, excellent condition throughout, perfect for school and private hire.

Pembridge Vehicle Management 01633 485858

ÂŁ9,450 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

2006 (56) Ford Transit 17 seat minibus

2003 Dennis Trident 2 Alexander ALX 400

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2.4 diesel, one owner, 40,000 miles.

ÂŁ9,995 + VAT

Pembridge Vehicle Management 01633 485858

67 seats, Cummins Euro 3 engine, DPF to meet Euro IV, ZF gearbox, DDA compliant, MOT. ÂŁ25,000 + VAT â&#x20AC;&#x201C; CHOICE Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

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

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42 | COACH & BUS WEEK | June 5, 2013

2000 SCANIA T9

Dennis Dart Plaxton Pointer

2007 MAN Plaxton Panther 49/53 seats, LEZ compliant, toilet, DVD/CD, fridge, hot drinks, Webasto.

Only used on our own holidays and excursions.

Excellent condition.

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.

39 seats in blue patterned moquette, front, side & rear LED destination, luggage racks, Euro 2, front manual ramp.

£24,750

SPECIAL OFFER – £8,500

Contact Eric on 07921 389720

Ventura Sales 01342 835206

Please call Jamie 01730 267543 or 07956 029344

VDL Bova Futura FH

2008 MAN Auto Ayat

2007 Setra 415GTHD Comfort Class

Blue interior, satellite navigation, air conditioning and centre toilet.

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...

£90,000 + VAT

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.

POA

£89,000+VAT - P/X considered

£109,500

Arriva Bus & Coach 01274 681144

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279

1998 Volvo B10M Jonckheere Mistral

VOLVO B12B

2005 Daf VanHool

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

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.

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.

1999 Scania L94 Irizar Century

S

D L O

Automatic, 70 seater using Cogent seating with 3 point belts, MOT till Sept, Eminox exhaust system.

£39,950 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

2004 MAN 14.240 SLF MCV Evolution 11.3m

39 seats + 21 standees, DDA compliant, Mobitec LED. £24,500 + VAT Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

£120,000

£85,000

Contact William on 07733 914050

Burns Coach Tours 01651 851279

1993 Dennis Dart Limo Bus

2004 Ford Transit T300

2003 Futura

2007 Scania K340/ Caetano Levante

12 months MOT, 20 seats incl. driver, blue leather seats, LED lights in roof, colour changing lights in seats, illuminated glass holders, 2 x champagne buckets, ideal for proms and weddings.

MWB hi-roof, wheelchair accessible, MOT July, SLD, 93,000 miles, FSH, Ricon step through lift, full soft trim, tracking, air-con, very tidy throughout.

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

Choice of 2, 49 leather reclining seats, ZF automatic gearbox and retarder, Hanover front, side and rear destinations, WC, air conditioning, PLS magic lift, low mileage, recently refurbished and can be used on National Express network until June 2016.

£35,000 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

£8,000 + VAT ono

£5,450 + VAT – PX considered

For more information please call Dave or Lou on 01291 625449

Crystals Coaches Ltd 020 8960 8800/07971 000111

£65,000 + VAT L.J. Edwards: 01323 440622 option 2 or John 07974 369570

£85,000 each

yourbus – 01773 714013

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

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June 5, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 43

1998 R REG OPTARE SOLO

Mercedes engine, Allison, 30 seats, new MOT.

Mercedes 814D Euro Coach

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

Volvo VanHool

Dennis Dart Mini Plaxton Pointer 8.8m

Very clean and tidy coach for year, converted 2 months ago to 70 seater with 3 point belts.

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

£26,000 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

Ventura Sales 01342 835206

POA

£58,000

EnsignBus 01708 865656

Contact William on 07733 914050

2002 Futura

2005 13m Bova Futura

2004 Volvo B12M VanHool T9 Exec

2011 Enviro 200 Service Bus

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

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

39 seats, choice of 13, but only one for sale! Low miles and clean, only used on P&R. One year’s ADL warranty, new MOT, price inc. re-spray (2 colour).

£55,000 + VAT L.J. Edwards: 01323 440622 option 2 or John 07974 369570

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. £57,000 + VAT (manual gearbox)

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

Nigel McCree - 01509 502695

Tel: Adrian on 07717 768315

2003 Mercedes Citaros

2003 Setra 315 GTHD

2006 Mercedes Benz 616 CDI Soroco Plus

38 + 34 standees, LEZ complaint, full DDA, dual door, Hanover LEDs, CCTV, in good condition, very low mileage (240,000 – 260,000 km), 1 year’s MOT. Choice of 6 (5 x 53 plate and 1 x 03 plate). £45,000 each + VAT

49 seat with retractable belts, low mileage, seat back tables, footrests, centre toilet, power door, air con, webasto, cool box and boiler 2 x monitors and DVD, radio cassette, LEZ exhaust, great drive.

Volvo Olympian open top bus

Alexander Dennis body, P reg (1997), seats 75.

Fitted with a PA system, new MOT on purchase.

Choice of 5 vehicles.

Bath Bus Company 01225 330444

2006 Mercedes Benz 814 Vario

£84,500+VAT - P/X considered

yourbus – 01773 714013

New Turas 500

24 seats + courier, 3 point belts, luggage racks, reading lights, blown air, private plate, full skirts, wheel trims, very low mileage, test October 2013, stunning condition.

LEZ compliant, manual or auto, Politecnica or Fainsa seats, courier seat option, 3 point belts, air con, power door, dark tinted double glazing, radio/CD/PA, DVD, reverse camera, full draw curtains, extra large luggage boot, Euroliners, 3 year chassis warranty.

£32,495 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

Minis To Midis – 01302 833203

POA

£53,500 + VAT ono

£5,750

£94,900 ONO + VAT

16 Fainsa seats, 3 point belts, seat back tables, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights, power door, large boot, fridge, DVD, new re-spray, 280,000 kms.

POA

Paul Watson Travel paul.watson9@btconnect.com

Connaught PSV – 01405 814064

1995 Scania K113 VanHool Alizee

2010 Mercedes Benz Travel 45

Converted this year to 70 seater using Cogent seats with 3 point belts, tea machine, TV/DVD.

16 reclining seats, 3 point belts, A/C, forced air, reading lights, power door, power step, curtains, coach rear, bi-xenon lights, auto gearbox, 189,000 miles.

£27,500 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

Connaught PSV – 01405 814064

POA

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

681335-1090-Ensign:Layout 1

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18:11

Page 1

Ensig DOUBLE DECK 85

SEAT S

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

LEZ

COMPLIANT

Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant for 2012 with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX400 bodies, DDA compliant or upseated to 80 seats.

1999/2000/2001 V/X/51 PLATE DENNIS TRIDENTS

1999 T/V REG DENNIS TRIDENTS

1999 T/V REG DENNIS DART SLF’S

Cummins/Voith, LEZ compliant with traps, Plaxton President bodies, 62 seats dual door or 70 when converted to single door.

Last few remaining from £8,500.

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

2000 VOLVO B7TL’S

2001 Y REG VOLVO B7TL’S

Euro 3 engines with traps, 8.8M long, Marshall bodies, 25 seats, DDA.

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

Caetano Compass bodies, 39 seats, ramps.

Euro 3 with traps, DDA, LWB, Plaxton bodies, 67 seats as 2 doors or 78 once converted to single door.

1999 VOLVO B7TL’S

2002 DENNIS DARTS

2001 Y REG DENNIS DARTS

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

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

OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY -

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

681335-1090-Ensign:Layout 1

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nbus

K ER SPECIALIST 1998 R REG VOLVO B10BLE’S

ZF auto, East Lancs Myllenium bodies, SLF, 46 seats.

2000 W REG DAF SB220’S

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

1998 R REG DENNIS JAVELIN

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.

1998 R REG VOLVO OLYMPIANS

2003 Enviro 300, Euro 3 Cummins ISC engine, ZF auto, 12m, DDA, 44 seats.

2003 ENVIRO 300

Volvo Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, Alexander RL bodies, 83 / 87 seats.

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.

Euro 4, Plaxton Panther bodies, 15m, 65 seats, toilet, DDA, front wheelchair lift, Hanover LED's all round.

2007 VOLVO B12BT’s

51 and 02 plate, Cummins Euro 3 ISC engines, LEZ, Plaxton President bodies, can be DDA, single door and 78 seats, or dual door 67 seats.

2001/2002 DENNIS TRIDENTS

Voith automatics, Alexander PS bodies.

1998 R REG VOLVO B10M’S

1998 R REG VOLVO OLYMPIANS

2004 VOLVO B7RLE’S

Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, Northern Counties bodies, 80 seats.

Euro 3 Volvo engines, Voith gearboxes, East Lancs bodies, 68 seats as 2 doors or 78 seats as single door, DDA, LEZ compliant, long MOT’s.

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

682251-1088-Ventura

14/5/13

14:04

Page 1

ARRIVING SOON CHOICE OF TWO 08 (08) IVECO 50C15 16 SEAT W/CHAIR ACC MINIBUS UNDERFLOOR LIFT TRACKING FOR UP TO 5 W/CHAIRS COIF/PSV SILVER METALLIC, 49,000 MILES £20,995

05 (55) MERCEDES SPRINTER 413CDi TREKA BUS W/CHAIR ACCESS COIF/PSV 101,650KMS £16,495

06 (06) FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MINIBUS COIF/PSV ANALOGUE TACHO 94791MILES £7,495

MULTIPART & LDV/MAXUS PARTS STOCKISTS

(PONTYPOOL) LTD

P.O.A.

Tel: 01495 757111 Mob: 07850 739446 (Haydn) or visit our website www.minibussales.biz to view the above stock

2005 (05) MERCEDES SPRINTER 413CDI 17 SEAT MINICOACH OLYMPUS CONVERSION 220,000 MILES AIR CON LUGGAGE RACKS £ 18,495

2010 (10) FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MINIBUS 140PS MEDIUM ROOF SILVER METALLIC 26,184 MILES COIF/PSV DIGI TACHO £15,750

• ALTAS CONVERSION • 17 SEAT MINICOACH • DOUBLE GLAZED WINDOWS • FULL AIR CONDITIONING • POWER DOOR LOW ENTRY STEP

NEW MERCEDES SPRINTER TOURLINE 519CDI

12:23

03 (53) MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 17 SEAT W/CHAIR ACCESS ADVANCE CONVERSION TRACKING FOR 2 W/CHAIRS UNDERFLOOR LIFT ONLY 22,000 MILES £10,995

04 (04) MERCEDES 413CDI 17 SEAT TREKA W/CHAIR ACCESS BUS COIF/PSV 145,463KMS £12,995

3/6/13

07 (07) FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MINIBUS 115PS COIF/PSV DIGI TACHO ELECTRIC MIRRORS £9,495

ARRIVING SOON CHOICE OF TWO 08 (08) IVECO 50C15 16 SEAT W/CHAIR ACC MINIBUS UNDERFLOOR LIFT TRACKING FOR UP TO 5 W/CHAIRS COIF/PSV SILVER METALLIC, 49,000 MILES £20,995

p00_CBW_1090 Autoserve Page 1

697230-1090-Transtrading

in S h ar

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e to c i t c t pra s e b g

tran

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2003 Volvo Sunsundegui 12 months Tax 12 months MOT. Good condition and clean. £37,500

2009 BOVA MAGIQ

Fully touring executive coach with 53 seats finished in full leather. This vehicle is fully prepared and ready for the 2013 season. New MOT. Excellent condition, Please note we can put you in touch to arrange suitable finance funds etc. Spec as follows: DVD; Climate air con; Reversing camera; Cruise control; Electric central locking; Two screen monitors; 53 seat exec with toilet; Fully carpeted; Ex diamond spec tour coach; Hoovers in board; Drivers Bunk; Excellent condition throughout; Only 310, 000 km since new; Great maintenance condition; Ready for the 2013 season; Fully automatic; Heated driver’s seat; CD player; Full leather interior.

Priced for a quick sale for £144,950

697230-1090-Transtrading

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Page 2

2005 MAN NOGE

49 seat executive coach for sale. Tri Axle Touring Coach with New MOT and 12 Months Tax. The vehicle is immaculate inside and out. The underneath is in very good condition. Originally this vehicle was Swansea City’s Team Coach and therefore has top spec on the vehicle. There are power sockets, auxiliary power outputs, climate control, cruise control, fully functional wc, immaculate moquette throughout the vehicle, full automatic ZF gearbox, sleeper bunk. The current mileage is 52000KM, genuine low mileage.

The engine is a MAN D28 12 LITRE 265KW. Priced to sell at £45,950

Scania T9

Registered in 2002 but on 1999 chassis.

12 months MOT. 12 months Tax. 49-53 seater.

Good condition.

Priced for quick sale at £29,950

www.transtrading.co.uk Tel: Jo on 01527 878807

697131-1088-Stafford

20/5/13

11:15

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697066-1089-Pickrell

H. W. PICKRELL

25/5/13

08:34

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

2009 59 REG VAUXHALL VIVARO SL28 2.0 T D

08 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5TD

57 REG PEUGEOT BOXER 2.5TD

08 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4 TDCI

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, 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.

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, 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.

58 REG IVECO DAILY 50C13 IRIS BUS 3.0

06 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 CDI

59 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.45TD

58 REG FORD TRANSIT TOURNEO CONNECT 1.8 HDI

Auto gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, power door, 16 rear high back seats (17 seats in total), AMF tracked flat floor, Eberspacher heater, full air con, PLS tail lift, COIF, 49,381 miles only.

Manual gearbox, LWB, PAS, O & H conversion, n/s full height manual door, 16 high back removable seats, Eberspacher heater, PLS underfloor t/lift, ex local authority, COIF'd,103,080 kms, PSV tested till March 2014.

Manual 6 speed, high roof, PAS, LWB, O & H conversion, side loading door, side step, 8-14 high back seats, fully tracked Unwin floor, Ricon tail lift, Eberspacher heater, ex NHS, only 12,695 miles.

Manual gearbox, CD, electric windows & mirrors, a/c, twin side loading doors, high back seat in rear, single passenger seat, cut out floor, lowering air suspension, fold down ramp, Gowerings conversion, only 8,600 miles.

07 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5TD

DEC 2007 57 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 513CDI UVG TREKA

57 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD

08 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4TDCI

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.

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, pSV tested, 81-98,000 kms.

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.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, side loading door, side step, 14 rear seats, Unwin Innotrax fully tested tracked floor, Eeberspacher heater, underfloor PLS tail lift, tacho, 41,598 kms only

60 REG FORD TRANSIT 330 2.4TDCI

06 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 413 CDI UVK TREKA

07 REG VOL KSWAGEN CRAFTER CR50 UVG T REKA

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, 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.

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.

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.

57 REG FORD TRANSIT 100, 350 2.4TDCI

58 REG IVECO DAILY 50C13 IRIS BUS 3.0

57 REG VAUXHALL MOVANO M M33 2.5TD

57 REG CITROEN RELAY 2.5TD

Manual, MWB, high mroof, PAS, SCW conversion, side loading door, side step, 8 high back seats, fully Unwin tracked floor, Dash ac, Eberspacher heater, Ratcliff underfloor tail lift, 11,092 miles only.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, power door, 16 rear high back seats (17 seats in total), Unwin tracked floor, Eberspacher heater, Ratcliff tail lift, COIF, 63,371 miles, PSV tested till March 2014.

6 speed manualgear box, MWB, high roof, PAS, twin side loading door, side step, 9 seats plus driver plus 1 x wheelchair, heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 39,191 miles only.

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, O&H conversion, SLD, AVS side step, 9 seats plus driver plus 1 x wheelchair space, Unwin tracking, Eberspacher heater, Ricon tail lift, ex local authority, 21,647 miles.

NEW UN REG IVECO DAILY 50c17 IRIS BUS 3.0

2008 57 REG M ERCEDES SPRINTER 311 2.2CDI

58 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5TD

08 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD

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.

6 speed manual gearbox, semi high roof, PAS, MWB, SLD, 14 high back seats including driver, Bluetooth & sat nav, air con, elec windows & mirrors, electric side step, Unwin tracking, Ricon tail lift, 39,834 miles.

Manual 6 speed, high roof, PAS, LWB, O & H conversion, side loading door, side step, 8-14 high back seats, fully tracked Unwin floor, Ricon tail lift, Eberspacher heater, ex NHS, only 31,199 miles.

Manual, high roof, PAS, LWB, Atlas conversion, twin side loading door, AVS side step, 6 high back seats, Unwin Inotrac tested floor, Ricon tail lift, ex local authority, 30,383 miles.

09 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.5 TD

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52 | COACH & BUS WEEK | June 5, 2013

697244-1090-Heatons

3/6/13

18:10

Page 1

HEATONS MOTOR CO. WIGAN THE NORTH WEST’S PREMIER MINIBUS SALES, SUPPLYING NATIONWIDE FOR OVER 40 YEARS 08 IVECO 50C15

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

PSV’d

• Only covered 64,000 miles • 16 high back passenger seats • Lots of Unwin tracking • Full air con • Power door • Front entry • External fully automatic tail lift • Plant on panoramic tinted glass • Totally showroom condition inside and out • Will come with 12 months PSV test • Large selection • Tremendous LEZ value £17,995

56 IVECO 50C15

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

PSV’d

• Covered 80,000 miles • One council owner • 15 /16 high back passenger seats • Lots of Unwin tracking • Full length cant rail • External PLS fully automatic tailift • Front low step entry • Totally showroom condition inside and out £14,495 LEZ

08 VW CRAFTER MELLOR COACHBUILT

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

PSV’d

• 16 high back passenger seats in soft trim with contrasting centre panel • Complete flat floor • Ricon internal fully automatic tail lift • Power door with low step entry • Full panoramic tinted windows • Drives and looks like new • Will come with 12 mths PSV test LEZ £21,995

06 MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 CDi

• Covered 63,000 miles • External PLS cassette tailift • SLD with cassette step • 12 high back passenger seats plus wheelchair spaces • Lots of Unwin tracking • Euroliners • Totally immaculate in every way £13,995 LEZ

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

06 VOLKSWAGEN BLUEBIRD TUCAN

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

PSV’d

57 VOLKSWAGEN CRAFTER LWB

• Covered 60,000 miles • 15/16 high back passenger seats • Lots of Unwin tracking • SLD with cassette step • External fully automatic cassette tail lift • Drives and looks like new • Tremendous value • Complete flat floor LEZ £17,995

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

2000 W PLATE BOVA FUTURA FHD

57 MERCEDES SPRINTER 515 UVG

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

PSV’d

Only covered 49,000 miles • 16 highback passenger seats on Unwin tracking • Flat floor • Full air con • Powerdoor front entry • Auto • External fully automatic cassette tail lift • Showroom condition inside and out • Will come with 12 mths PSV • Excellent value £21,995 LEZ

54 MERCEDES VARIO 814 MELLOR COACH BUILT

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

PSV’d

• 32 high back passenger seats all on Unwin tracking • Full air conditioning • Power door • Front low step entry • External PLS cassette tail lift • Automatic gearbox • PSV tested • Exceptionally LEZ clean £21,995

• Covered 86,000 miles • Fitted with 14 high back passenger seats in soft trim • Power door • Front entry • Wheelchair accessible • 2.5td • Manual gearbox • Very, very clean and drives superb • 12 months PSV test • Excellent LEZ value £13,995

PSV’d

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE

ALL PRICES PLUS VAT

• 57 highback coach seats + courier • Lapbelts • DAF powered automatic transmission • All usual spec • 12 months PSV test • Superb drive • Very very clean • Ready to work • This must give excellent value for money £21,995

08 IVECO 45C15

• Only covered 32,000 mls • 16 high back passenger seats in soft trim with contrasting headlining • Lots of Unwin tracking • Full air conditioning • Panoramic plant on tinted windows • Power door • Front entry • Showroom condition inside and out £17,995 LEZ

We guarantee quality vehicles, right prices, no pressure sales. Come and have a coffee while you browse at your leisure. Junction 23, M6 or 20 miles from Manchester/Liverpool airport.

HEATONS MOTOR CO. WIGAN 53 Bickershaw Lane, Abram, Wigan, Lancashire WN2 5PL

Tel: 01942 864222 SEE ALL OUR STOCK ON OUR WEBSITE www.heatonsmotorco.co.uk

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AUDIO & VISUAL

BUILDINGS HEAVY DUTY STEEL BUILDINGS

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

BLUELINE BUILDINGS 01709 578333 anytime

CHECKPOINTS &KHFNSRLQW

®

'XVWLWH/5

®

Wheel Nut Indicators and Retainers 5 I F

NB S L F U

G P S

7 F I J D M F T

1 S P E V D U T

B O E

4 F S W J D F T

+44(0)1524 271200 www.checkpoint-safety.com

ENGINES

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

CRAIG TILSLEY Suppliers of Reconditioned Tel: 01782 791524 or 01782 791527 Fax: 01782 791316

Email: info@craigtilsley.co.uk www.craigtilsley.co.uk

DAF MAN MERC, VOLVO SCANIA, GARDNER LEYLAND, CUMMINS ENGINES CYLINDER HEADS CRANKSHAFTS CRANKCASES CAMSHAFTS PUMPS ETC

Moorfields Industrial Estate, Cotes Heath, Stoke-on-Trent ST21 6QY

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EXHAUSTS

LEZ BOXES FOR SALE 2 x used Eminox LEZ exhaust boxes, used for 6 months 2012.

Cleaned/reconditioned.

To fit a Bova Futura.

With full fitting kit or can be fitted while you wait! £3,000 each + VAT

PARNHAMS COACHES LTD Contact Ray 07747 071071

PARTS

FLEET SALES

RETIRING or

CHANGING YOUR FLEET?

Contact Malcolm Harrison Auctions

01630 674326

auctions@malcolmharrison.co.uk MALCOLM HARRISON AUCTIONS

FINANCE

• Official Irizar part distributor • All manufacturer parts supplier

As a specialist business funder, Huxley Corporate Finance can provide your company with a wide range of finance facilities including the following:

Call the team to discuss your current financial requirements on 01829 730062

• Same day local delivery • Next day national delivery

Innovative funding solutions to fit every business. We specialise in raising funds for all types of companies from sole traders to PLCs.

• Equipment Finance • Vehicle Finance • Cash Flow • Mortgages • Company Acquisition • Capital Release Scheme • Vehicle Sourcing

• Full UK coverage

• Fast, efficient & 24/7

Tel: 01909 511349 www.master-part.co.uk REGISTRATIONS 65A High Street, Tarporley, Cheshire, CW6 0DP T 01829 730062 F 01829 730063 E info@huxleycf.co.uk www.huxleycf.co.uk

£750 50 LXJ AXZ 15 DRZ 40 GUI 38 LAZ 87 MHZ 25 RUI 46 SNZ 55 UIB 69

£350 AJZ 626 CEZ 838 DKZ 303 JBZ 686 RBZ 696 SCZ 949 VIW 848 WJI 848 XIB 646

£99 EXZ 1611 FRZ 5515 HIG 3236 JIG 7991 JIG 7992 KIG 6606 LIG 1676 LIG 1677 LIG 1678

Buy with confidence – CNDA Member We buy for cash, also Part Exchange

£99 MJZ 6735 RHZ 1511 RHZ 1512 SNZ 5222 SNZ 5223 SUI 8184 TJZ 1119 UUI 2225 UUI 2226

£50 CXZ 5840 DXZ 5969 EXZ 1603 EXZ 1604 FRZ 2037 FRZ 2038 JFZ 9822 LIG 2282 LIG 2283

£50 NFZ 3212 RHZ 1425 RHZ 1426 RNZ 9198 SNZ 3885 SNZ 3886 TUI 7175 UUI 2898 UUI 2899

Tel: 028 6638 7124 • www.speedyreg.co.uk Millwo od, L isbellaw, Co. Fermanagh, N. Ireland B T94 5HQ

INSURANCE

tachograph analysis

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

Digital and analogue tachograph analysis

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June 5, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 57

TRAINING

Driver CPC courses available each month including Emergency First Aid for PCV/HGV CPC Courses £49.99 + VAT Emergency First Aid £75.00 + VAT (2 year qualification) Fee includes upload and certificate

We’re here when you need us For information contact us on 01529 414242 / 303333 or visit: www.sleafordian.co.uk To claim your discount online enter training5 into the gifts/voucher option

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

THE DRIVER CPC IS HERE

TRIM

SAME DAY J.A.U.P.T. REGISTRATION SAME DAY C.P.C. CERTIFICATES DELIVERED AT YOUR OWN DEPOTS COACH TRIMMERS LTD

Supplying the Bus and Coach Industry with quality seat retrims and interior refurbishment.

Full floors re-laid and centre gangways.

Collection and delivery service anywhere in the UK, seven days a week.

Email: info@eastgate-coachtrimmers.co.uk Web: www.eastgate-coachtrimmers.co.uk

Tel/Fax: 01751 472229

& West Coast Trim Ltd

• Interior & Exterior Refurbishment • Bodybuilding • Repairs • Conversions including Paramount • Reconditioning • Spray painting • Re-fitment

Extensive work to rear & side panel carried out by us

Our experienced and highly skilled teams create visually stunning vehicle refurbishments and conversions, engineered to the highest standards, call us to discuss your requirements.

0125 3 698686 www.blackpoolcoachservices.co.uk

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

PCV DRIVER HIRE 0800-731-5007 CORPORATE DEALS AVAILABLE

MERIDIAN DRIVER LTD Rising above all others

TYRE EQUIPMENT

www.meridiandriver.com

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VEHICLE SPARES

Passenger and Commercial Vehicles Recovery Dismantlers Parts Sales OUR SERVICES: •

Recovery

•

Testing

• • • • • • • •

Refurbishment Repairs

Engine/gearbox rebuilds Fault finding

Buying & selling vehicles

DISMANTLING/SPARES: • • • • • •

Reconditioned engines Reconditioned gearboxes Engine spares Windows

Windscreens

Seats

Export to foreign markets Repairs

Finance repossession and storage

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

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

01885 488 448 / 07896 191 672

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

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WINDSCREEN WIPERS

Manufacturers, Designers and Suppliers of windscreen wiper equipment and bus/coach products

FOR ALL YOUR WIPER EQUIPMENT REQUIREMENTS PLEASE CONTACT US OR VISIT OUR NEW ON-LINE CATALOGUE

Unit 3, Seaview Road, Bootle, Merseyside L20 4DU

T: +44 (0) 151 922 5933 T: +44 (0) 151 933 4272 F: +44 (0) 151 922 5468 E: sales@transervex.co.uk W: www.transervex.com

A Clear Vision

60 | COACH & BUS WEEK | June 5, 2013

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

When a National is not a National...

Signs similar to this were recently dotted along the dual carriageways around Peterborough – or ‘parkways’ to use the local parlance.

Of course, to some in our industry a National is a singledecker bus produced by Leyland between 1972 and 1985. Alas, it turned out this event was not a gathering of Leyland Nationals sporting bodykits and spoilers – think souped up Amercian-style gas guzzlers.

According to the website (thanks Google) www.modifiednationals. co.uk, “Modified Nationals is ...the UK’s largest indoor and outdoor car show with some of the wildest show cars in the country.”

100 year old Agnes Willens with her son William on her right and First Scotland East Bus Driver, John Lyall (with high-viz vest) on her left

Dilbert

Tuesday James here. The later press day goes reasonably well again. Leave slightly early in order to prepare for my trip to Scotland.

This event turned out not be a bus rally with a difference (fortunately?)

The UK’s oldest regular bus passenger?

First Scotland East has paid tribute to its oldest passenger, 100-yearold Agnes Willens, from North Berwick, East Lothian. It is widely thought that Agnes is the oldest regular user of buses in the UK. Agnes, who turned 100 on April 21, is a loyal passenger on the company’s X24 in North Berwick travelling from outside her house to the town centre.

First Scotland East driver John Lyall, who is also the firm’s

Employee Director, said: “Agnes has been catching the X24 Service for as long as anyone can remember. She is definitely First Scotland East’s oldest customer, and probably the most popular! We can’t find any evidence of there being an older customer in the UK. She is a real inspiration.”

John, who presented Agnes with a bouquet of flowers, added: “She’s very popular amongst our drivers, and we’re always keen to give her a helping hand if needs be, but she is extremely independent. Agnes is very much an admired local character and extremely spritely for a centurion.”

Agnes said: “I enjoy my trips in the bus. I’m very well looked after.

As long as I’m still fit enough I’ll keep using the bus.”

Wednesday Andrew and I head up to Edinburgh to visit Lothian Buses.

With a bit of help from my new Nintendo 3DS the train ride is over faster than I would have imagined and after snapping a few opportunistic shots on Prince’s Street we’re taken around the depots by Engineering Director Bill Devlin. I’m blown away by the facilities on site, which include leather sofas and a full-size snooker table, as well as the operator’s £1m control room.

The whole operation is seriously impressive. After spending the whole day with the company and conducting several interviews for the upcoming focus issue, we spend the evening in the city centre.

Thursday While Andrew heads over to see Prentice Coaches of Haddington, I visit AAA Coaches. Despite getting rather thrown off by the tramworks while on the bus, I just about manage to meet up with Sharon Smyth, who kindly gives me a lift to the operator’s yard.

They’re extremely busy and regret they cannot spend as much time chatting with me as they would like, with almost all of the large coaches out on jobs, but in many ways that’s a good thing and shows the firm is doing well. After killing some time in Edinburgh, which isn’t hard to do at all, I return home before 1800hrs.

Friday Spend the day proof reading, editing the Industry Guide and adjusting the archive on the website. I do enjoy trying to figure out and squash all of the little bugs and gremlins which websites like to throw at you and it’s nice to have such a varied role. I’m ecstatic to hear my better half has passed a vital test for her PGCE, taking a huge weight off her mind and moving her a step closer to qualifying as a teacher.

www.coachandbusweek.com

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RECRUITMENT & people

June 5, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 61

In association with

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

Tracy Jessop appointed to Bus Users Board Following a unanimous vote at its 2013 AGM, Tracy Jessop has been appointed to the Board of Bus Users UK (BUUK).

Tracy is currently Assistant Director for Travel and Transport at Norfolk County Council where she manages the authority’s portfolio of services for strategic transportation issues.

She leads a team of staff delivering public transport covering bus, rail, demand responsive transport and park & ride; integrated passenger transport including education and social care transport; intelligent traffic systems; travel information; development control; and travel planning.

A co-opted Board Member of the Community Transport Association

UK for 2013, Tracy is an active member of the Association of Transport Coordinating Officers, spending a year as Chair during 2012, and the Transport Committee of the Association of Directors of Environment, Planning and Transport.

Chairman of BUUK, Gillian Merron, said: “Tracy will make a valuable contribution to our organisation. She brings a wealth of experience including her tenure as Chairman of ATCO and has built extensive networks among government, the bus and coaching sectors and professional bodies.”

Tracy Jessop

New OM for Leamington & Stratford-upon-Avon Jayson Smith has been appointed Operations Manager for Stagecoach’s Leamington Spa and Stratford-upon-Avon depots.

Previously OM at Nuneaton, he has worked for the company for over 12 years and his first enployment with Stagecoach was at Morecambe depot as a trainee bus driver.

He progressed to become Assistant Operations Manager at Nuneaton from 2006 to 2010.

He had several secondments to other areas, including a spell at Stagecoach Yorkshire where he was Acting Operations Manager from 2010 to 2011 and he was later based in West Ham, London for nine months for the Olympics and Paralympics as Regional Manager for the bus depot serving the athletes.

Jayson said: “The biggest challenge for me with the new job is

for the first time having to manage two depots. Also, with Warwick University in my catchment area, I am dealing with really high passenger numbers, much higher than I have experienced before and the area is far greater, stretching from Redditch to Banbury and Coventry to Daventry.

“It is a challenge I am relishing though.”

After he left school at 17, Jayson joined the Junior Leaders Regiment based in Dover and at 18 he joined the Royal Engineers. He was with them for five years and did tours of duty in Northern Ireland, Germany and the Gulf. He was in the first Gulf War. Jayson still finds time for his main hobby, mountain biking, which he does with his brother on specialist forest tracks at Cannock Chase and Sherwood Pines.

FLEET ENGINEER Norfolk Green is a wholly independent business, providing a network of local bus services with some 70 buses and ancillary vehicles from its base in King’s Lynn, across West and North Norfolk, North Cambridgeshire and South Lincolnshire.

An opportunity has arisen for a Fleet Engineer. Repor�ng to the General Manager, you will be responsible for the department comprising skilled and unskilled staff maintaining the fleet across 7 days a week to support the business opera�on.

With a proven track record, demonstra�ng strong technical and fleet management competence, you will be passionate about high standards. You will be accountable for the Engineering Policy and ensuring that you and your team have the knowledge and skills to comply and adhere with company standards, in par�cular vehicle roadworthiness and maintenance, plant and equipment, stores management, health and safety, work quality and performance management, vehicle cleanliness and environmental responsibili�es. You will be responsible for the engineering budget, vehicle procurement and ensure effec�ve departmental cost control.

The successful candidate will have motor vehicle technical qualifica�ons and must have obtained a relevant professional qualifica�on in vehicle/fleet management, i.e., IRTE or equivalent and be a member of The Ins�tute of Road Transport Engineers (CPC standard).

We are seeking a leader with the ability to inspire and mo�vate the team to achieve excep�onal levels of performance and who has the ability to work closely with the Opera�ons department in delivering a high service level standard.

Interested candidates should apply in wri ng with CV to: Ben Colson, Managing Director, Norfolk Green, Hamlin Way, King’s Lynn, Norfolk PE30 4NG. Closing date 1st July 2013

www.coachandbusweek.com

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

Alex Chutter graduates to Staff Manager Alex Chutter, who in April 2011 joined the Go-Ahead Group of bus and coach companies in Southern England (Go South Coast) as a Management Trainee, has been appointed Staff Manager for morebus/Wilts & Dorset’s bus operations in Poole, Bournemouth and Swanage. Alex, 24, from Dewlish in Dorset, who has completed six months as Acting Commercial Manager for Wilts & Dorset Reds at Salisbury, is to be based at Poole Bus Station and will oversee the day to day management of the 250 drivers operating the morebus and Wilts & Dorset network.

Andrew Wickham, the company’s Managing Director, said he is delighted Alex has gained his first permanent management

Alex Chutter, Morebus/Wilts & Dorset’s new Staff Manager position supporting Adam Keen, the Operations Manager at the company. The Poole operation is one of the busiest in Southern England with over 900 departures from the bus station each day.

Wickham said: “We are confident Alex will succeed in this key role and contribute to the growing success of the company.”

HASSLE-FREE DRIVERS? Hire coach drivers when you need them.

No holiday, no absence, no NI – pay only for the hours you need them for.

We keep your wheels turning while your drivers are resting.

Call Del Haggerty Just Coach Drivers Ltd 07950 292939 www.justcoachdrivers.com www.coachandbusweek.com

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June 5, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 63

In association with

Reading Buses creates new management role Tony Pettitt has been appointed to the new position of Reading Buses’ Director of Resources. The new role effectively replaces the previous Finance Director’s remit and recognises the abilities of the current Reading Buses finance department, which will now be led by Karen Borton, a qualified accountant.

Karen has been promoted to the new role of Reading Buses Chief Accountant and is responsible to Tony Pettitt.

Tony first became involved in

public transport when he worked for Dyfed County Council in the 1980s. He worked in consultancy for the former Berkshire County Council before becoming a founder member of Transept, the Thealebased transport consultancy which still operates with local authorities in the area.

Five years ago he set up Carnmenyn Consulting and has twice assisted Reading Buses when they were in between appointments, with the most recent stint leading to this new role.

Engineering Manager

Due to the promo�on of the present Engineering Manager, The Big Bus Company, operator of sightseeing tours across the globe, is looking for an enthusias�c and ar�culate individual to head up our UK Engineering Team in London. Repor�ng to the Managing Director UK, you will be responsible for a fleet of 75 open top vehicles, based at Wimbledon, SW17.

Able to recognise and meet the demands of a highly seasonal business, you will ensure that daily vehicle availability con�nually meets opera�onal needs as well as mo�va�ng the engineering team to con�nually improve on vehicle presenta�on and standards ensuring controlled budgetary parameters are maintained. The posi�on also carries the responsibility for general site maintenance and Health and Safety rela�ve to the depot.

Candidates must have a thorough knowledge of PCV/HGV engineering, hold the appropriate engineering qualifica�ons relevant to the industry and be prepared to travel and work flexible hours (including weekends where necessary) to provide the level of service required.

Applicants will be highly mo�vated team players, and be willing to work to con�nue to expand and improve the Big Bus product, a name that has become synonymous with sightseeing.

In return we offer an excellent remunera�on package, commensurate with your skills and experience, including reloca�on if relevant.

The Engineering Manager will report to the Managing Director, and responsibili�es also include: • To ensure vehicles and their records are maintained in accordance with all Company and VOSA statutory requirements.

• Monitor material, u�lisa�on, holding and requirements of the department stores/materials stock.

• Ensure that all staff within the garage fully understand and comply with Company and statutory regula�ons with regards to hours of work, health & safety and good working prac�ces.

• To manage, support and mo�vate supervisory staff and allocate them according to ensure quality and coverage is maintained.

• Manage engineering staff in the performance of their du�es providing advice, guidance, mo�va�on, leadership and effec�ve management as necessary, • To provide a high level of technical exper�se and support to engineering staff, to ensure their skills and competence levels con�nually improve and to iden�fy training needs.

• Maintenance of all workshop and site plant, equipment and premises ensuring all HSE legisla�on is followed.

• To act as the competent person in all Health and Safety ma�ers within the engineering sites located in the UK and to produce risk assessments, safe working prac�ces, toolbox talks, PPE provision along with any other Health and Safety related procedures.

• To fully understand and comply with all Company and statutory regula�ons rela�ng to hours of work; staff rules, regula�ons and good working prac�ces.

To be considered for this posi�on, you must: • Hold the rela�ve City & Guilds / NVQ qualifica�ons • Be experienced in engineering systems, processes and audit procedures – PCV preferred • Have a good working knowledge of VOSA standards • Be of professional appearance and manner • Have a background in a managerial posi�on, preferably within the workshop environment • Be proficient in IT skills (including Microso� programmes; Word, Excel and Outlook) • Being IOSH/NEBOSH accredited would also be an advantage This posi�on will also be adver�sed externally.

If you would like to apply for this role, please send a CV/résumé and covering le er to the following email address no later than close of business on Monday 17th June 2013: LondonEM@bigbustours.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

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