Coach & Bus Week : Issue 1115

The latest book and model reviews p31

RECRUIT NOW

Letters page: Time for your say p22

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Wednesday November 27, 2013 Issue 1115 | ÂŁ2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com

p24

Ahead of the Game New bus fleet for Cardiff p7

Keynote speech from Kramer p16

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THIS WEEK Coach & Bus Week, First Floor, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX Switchboard 01733 293240 Fax 0845 280 2927 Web www.coachandbusweek.com Distributed by COMAG

EDITORIAL Publisher Jonathan Taylor 01733 293240 jonathan.taylor@coachandbusweek.com Editor Gareth Evans 01733 293243 gareth.evans@coachandbusweek.com Features Editor Andrew Izatt 01733 293482 andrew.izatt@coachandbusweek.com Technical & Minibus Editor Martin Cole 01733 293245, 07597 179030 martin.cole@coachandbusweek.com Digital Editor James Day 01733 293244 james.day@coachandbusweek.com Art Director Ian Blaza Contributors Ray Wilkes, Jonathan Bray, Richard Charnley, Alan Payling

ADVERTISING, MARKETING & EVENTS Advertising & Marketing Manager Ian Gillis 01733 293484 ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com Coach & Bus Market Advertising Manager Jade Cassidy 01733 293247 jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com Senior Sales Executive Caroline Barnes 01733 293480 caroline.barnes@coachandbusweek.com Advertising Sales Executive Brodiee Neumann 01733 293488 brodiee.neumann@coachandbusweek.com

Fun at the UK Bus Awards

I

was honoured to be asked personally to announce the winner of the Local Authority Award at last Tuesday’s UK Bus Awards (UKBA) in London. Throughout my time on this magazine, I’ve supported the scheme and have enjoyed the cooperation of the organisers. While I have previously announced an award at the UK Coach Awards, last week was my �irst time on the stage at the Hilton Park Lane. I admit I had a brief dippy moment (a combination of tiredness and nerves), almost announcing the winner before the shortlist had been read out, but at least I gave some people a giggle.

Back to the serious business, in my speech I mentioned how I enjoy an excellent relationship with ATCO and that we all recognise the vital role local authorities play in delivering reliable bus services. And then I decided to bring out my claws when I added: “...Except in Liverpool.”

Yes, I was being deliberately controversial – it’s clear that the Liverpool bus lanes saga really is a hot potato.

CONTENTS

Disturbingly, word on the grapevine is that hot on the heels of Liverpool, the ‘anti-bus’ lobby are rubbing their hands with glee at the prospect of the scenario being repeated in other large towns and cities across the UK. While the UKBA Keynote Address given by Baroness Kramer was eagerly anticipated, it being her �irst bus industry event in her current Transport Ministerial role, I’m sure I can’t be alone in listening with interest to Lord Snape. Notably, he said: “I don’t think you will ever �ind a Chancellor willing to fund an industry of this size in the same way London is supported.”

It may have only been a token line but I’m sure it was short and sweet for many in the room.

Yes, that’s right, a Labour politician, who admittedly does have some bus industry experience, effectively ruling out reregulation and the Quality Contract model.

Gareth Evans Editor

Advertising Production June Barnard 01473 858761 june@adsproduction.co.uk

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SUBSCRIPTIONS & CIRCULATION

The latest from across the coach and bus industry at home & abroad

14

Cutting costs and emissions Reading’s gas buses scrutinised

31

OE suppliers join together to promote quality assurance

What’s happening across the country’s regions, plus Events Diary

16

Latest titles from BBP reviewed and a new Oxford Diecast Royal Tiger

32

A look at suppliers of repair and refurbishment srvices

Photos and speeches from the industry’s leading awards scheme

22

First Scotland East PI hears no evidence of maintenance failures

36

A lighthearted look at the industry, plus Office Diary column

Your thoughts and opinions on cyclists and Section 22 operators

A Johnsons of Henley-in-Arden Scania Irizar PB in Betws-y-Coed

All the latest people moves from across the industry

Subscriptions & Circulation Manager Samantha Noble 01733 293480 samantha.noble@coachandbusweek.com Subscriptions Executive Lorraine Jackson 01733 293483 lorraine.jackson@coachandbusweek.com Annual subscription rate for 51 issues: UK £85, Europe/Eire £140, USA and RoW £295 ONLINE £44.95 www.coachandbusweek.com Cover picture: David Bell ISSN: 1351-3877 © 2013 Coach and Bus Week Ltd. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or system or in any means without the written permission of the directors. This is considered a breach of copyright and action will be taken where this occurs. This magazine must not be lent, sold, hired or otherwise disposed of in a mutilated condition or in any authorised cover by way, or by trade, or annexed to any publication or advertising matter without first obtaining written permission from the directors.

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.

News

Regional News

UK Bus Awards Inbox

Reading Gas Buses Hobby Reviews Legal News Big Picture

Insight

40

Industry Guide

67

Last Stop

68

People

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November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 3 25/11/2013 20:06

NEWS

Scotland’s first electric bus service launches Number of electric Optare Solos in the UK approaches 50 Keith Brown MSP, Minister for Transport and Veterans, was in Ayr this week to launch the first free-running, fully-electric bus to be used for a local bus service in Scotland.

The service, which links the ferry ports at Cairnryan to the railway station in Stranraer, is being operated six days a week with a 27-seat Optare Solo SR battery-powered bus. The bus was part-funded through the Scottish Government’s Green Bus Fund and is supported by the Regional Transport Partnership SWestrans.

Speaking at the event in Ayr on Tuesday, November 19, the Minister said: “This is the first all-electric bus to be purchased through the Scottish Green Bus Fund. I recently announced a further round of Green Bus funding in 2013/14 with a budget of around £2m which reaffirms our support and commitment to the bus industry and is a good example of Scottish Government working in partnership with the industry to promote greener travel.

“The Scottish Government will continue to encourage organisations, businesses and individuals to make the switch to electric vehicles to help us achieve the 2050 vision of freeing Scotland’s towns, cities and communities from the damaging effects of petrol and diesel fuelled vehicles, as set out in the recently launched Switched On Scotland: A Roadmap to Widespread Adoption of Plug-in Vehicles.”

Cllr Brian Collins, Chairman

(L-r) Keith Brown MSP, Minister for Transport and Veterans; Colin Blunt, Optare; Cllr Brian Collins; Cllr Colin Smyth; William McLean, owner / operator of McLean’s; Craig Rennie Port Manager for P&O Irish Sea Cairnryan of Westrans, said “The Regional Transport Partnership and Scottish Government investment in this service will ensure there is significantly improved connectivity between Stranraer, its station, its ferry ports, and Northern Ireland and the Republic. The new connection will hopefully encourage foot passengers back to Stranraer which has been a problem for the town since ferry operations moved to Cairnryan.”

With the entry into service of the Solo EV in Ayr and further vehicles

going into service in Nottingham and York, the number of Optare electric buses in UK service is now approaching 50.

John Horn, Optare Sales Director, commented: “In addition to the known environmental benefits, this is a large enough number to obtain a clear picture of the operating and commercial benefits of free-running electric buses. The evidence is steadily building that electric vehicles, the introduction of which Optare has pioneered in the UK, have a place in the public

transport system when used selectively.

“The vehicles are proving reliable, resulting in lower maintenance costs, and running costs are significantly lower than an equivalent diesel engine bus.

The savings in operating costs can deliver a payback on the additional cost of an EV which is well within the lifetime of the vehicle. Along with technological developments which have increased the range that an EV can achieve, this makes them commercially viable.”

FTA calls for confirmation on fuel duty freeze until 2015 The Freight Transport Association (FTA) has written to the Chancellor, George Osborne, ahead of his Autumn Statement on December 5, asking him to confirm his commitment to freeze fuel duty until 2015 in order to stimulate economic growth and give businesses confidence to invest in the future.

The Chancellor has shown reluctance to increase fuel duty, and in his speech to the Conservative party conference in September he said that he wanted to freeze fuel duty for the rest of

this Parliament. However, this came with the significant caveat: “provided we can find the savings to pay for it.”

Theo de Pencier, FTA’s Chief Executive, said: “While we appreciate the difficult trading and fiscal conditions which persist, and the constraints that these impose, we have written to the Chancellor urging him to confirm his commitment to freeze fuel duty until 2015. We believe such a step would provide just the kind of stability needed to give businesses the confidence to

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invest in the future - but he can go even further.”

FTA and its partners in the FairFuelUK campaign have briefed the Treasury on the economic benefits of a reduction in fuel duty. Two studies – the first by the Centre for Economics and Business Research and the second (on the Treasury’s recommendation) by the National Institute for Economic and Social Research – have shown that a change of approach could deliver significant benefits including creating jobs, boosting GDP, and in

some circumstances, delivering a net increase in tax revenues. The modelling shows the effects to be optimised at a reduction of 3ppl - this is the amount by which FTA has urged the Chancellor to reduce fuel duty.

Theo de Pencier concluded: “When the Chancellor delivers his Autumn Statement on December 5, he must take the steps needed to ease the burden of fuel duty and help hard working families and the countless businesses which rely on road transport to deliver their goods and services.”

www.coachandbusweek.com

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

Birmingham Mobility Action Plan: Details of the proposals Birmingham City Council has created a vision of a fully integrated mass transit system which it believes is the way forward to make the city more sustainable and to work for the people (CBW1114).

Contained within the proposals is an element of Bus Rapid Transit and buses also play a major role in feeding the BRT or providing the links with other public transport such as rail, Metro and BRT. The Birmingham Mobility Action Plan (BMAP) envisages the creation of attractive interchanges between transport modes – including community transport operations, extensive park and ride capability, transit priority corridors, smartcard ticketing with zonal fares, real-time information, cycleways, cycle hubs and cycle parking areas.

The report suggests the predicted rise in car journeys could add 80,000 vehicles in the city by

2035 and another 200,000 daily journeys – estimating congestion would increase by 85%.

Primary objectives are: Equitable Birmingham - to create a 21st Century transport system, linking communities together and improving access to jobs and services; Efficient Birmingham – BMAP will help to facilitate the city’s growth agenda by moving people and goods in the most efficient and sustainable way possible, strengthening the economy and boosting jobs; Sustainable Birmingham – BMAP will reduce the impact of greenhouse gas emissions and energy consumption from transport, as well as making the most sustainable use of city resources; Healthy Birmingham – BMAP will contribute to a general raising of health standards cross the city through the promotion of cycling

Abellio London will have to procure at least 20 new hybrid buses by September 6, 2014 after it won route 49 from London United.

Abellio West London has lost route 112 (Ealing Broadway Station – Brent Cross) to Metroline, with effect from August 2. On July 12 London Central takes over the operation of route 286 (Greenwich – Queen Mary’s Hospital) from Arriva Kent Thameside using 13 new single-deckers. London United has retained route 71 using existing single-deckers Epsom Coaches’ Quality Line has retained route 418 (Kingston – Epsom), which will be run using a mixture of new and existing

double-deckers.

In a similar vein, London United has kept hold of 24-hour service 281 (Hounslow – Tolworth) using existing double-deckers.

Metroline has also retained its school route 611 (Bishop Douglass School) using existing doubledeckers.

Another educational run remaining with the same operator is London United’s service 681 to Teddington School. Service 232 will continue to be run by Metroline using a mixture of new and existing single-deckers.

The bus type for routes 112 and 232 will be confirmed at a later date.

TfL contract tender changes

and walking, the reduction of air pollution and improved safety for all users; and Attractive Birmingham – BMAP will contribute to enhancing the attractiveness and quality of the urban environment: in local centres, key transport corridors and in the city centre.

Funding for the project is likely to come from multiple sources, such as: local growth funds; city deal arrangements with government with long term block allocations for transport and powers to retain revenue streams locally; incremental financing or ‘earn back’ type arrangement; contribution from local businesses; shared priority/hybrid funding arrangements and public/private sector partnerships; and European Investment Bank funding.

The plan is both intricate and complex and before it can progress it has to discussed with the people concerned. Consultation with

the public is the first step to be followed by engagement with stakeholders to determine the best system to deliver the aims of BMAP. The final stage will be to work with the government about allowing Birmingham the freedoms and flexibilities it needs to deliver the quality of transport system required.

Birmingham has already conducted detailed case studies of other cities where radical measures have been implemented to develop sustainable transport systems. They include: Stockholm, Zurich, Lyon, Amsterdam, Madrid, Chicago, Montreal and Osaka.

Birmingham City Council Leader, Sir Albert Bore, said the scheme was a plan not for tomorrow, but a vision for the next 25 years.

He said it was what had been happening in France and Germany for 20 years and the key reason their transport infrastructure was so much better.

Abellio won route 49 from London United, but lost route 112 to Metroline

Vehicle Inspection & Maintenance Compliance Services

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

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November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 5 25/11/2013 16:17

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NEWS › BUS

Borismaster in Ipswich Passengers on Ipswich Buses town centre shuttle service 38 are being treated to a New Bus for London this week. Metroline’s LT100 is operating on the service from Monday November 25 to Friday November 29.

Ipswich Buses’ Managing Director Malcolm Robson said: “We’re extremely excited to have the use of one of these gorgeous vehicles in Ipswich for our customers to experience.

We’re passionate about buses and we want to fire people’s imagination by showing them just how comfortable, modern and convenient bus travel is today. “We’re confident that the ‘Borismaster’ is going to make quite a stir on the streets of Ipswich, and we’re thrilled at the prospect of getting people thinking, talking and even tweeting about buses. We decided to use the bus on route 38 because it’s a free service, so people can experience the pleasure of travelling on this cutting edge vehicle at no cost to themselves.

“There’s no doubt about it, bus travel is ‘cool’ in London, and the New Bus for London is the epitome of London style. As it turns heads on the streets of Ipswich, we hope the NBfL will attract people who don’t usually take the bus, as well as delighting our current customers, and we hope everyone who uses it or sees it – and you can’t exactly miss it – will tell their friends!”

Lothian app

Lothian Buses has announced the launch of its official app.

It claims the new app, available free on Apple and Android smartphones, is a first in Scotland for public transport. It allows passengers to easily pre-purchase SINGLEtickets, DAYtickets, DAY&NIGHTtickets, NIGHTtickets and FAMILYDAYtickets straight onto their mobile phones.

Ian Craig, Chief Executive, said: “This is another step forward for us and our passengers as we drive further innovation in the service we provide. The ability to travel conveniently without change or a season ticket is very important of course, but the app offers so much more.

“This app will be a valuable practical tool for all our customers.”

South Yorkshire smartcard scheme moves forward

Annual TravelMasters to be sold as smart tickets, initially available on Stagecoach Bus and Supertram services System should be ready for roll out by the end of November South Yorkshire Passenger Transport Executive (SYPTE) and its project partners YorCard and TravelMaster are developing an integrated system for multioperator smart ticketing products to ultimately be used on all modes of public transport across South Yorkshire.

The system will allow passengers to buy their multioperator travel tickets on smartcards instead of using the scratch cards and paper tickets currently available.

Many buses have already been fitted with necessary equipment to process smart transactions, and hand held devices are available to be used by tram conductors. Multi-operator products will be made available as part of the TravelMaster ticketing range.

All English National Concession Travel Scheme (ENCTS) passes in South Yorkshire are now ready to use as smartcards on most bus and tram services, while Stagecoach has its own range of smart products already in use.

By the end of November, 2013, SYPTE will have completed the

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The number of drivers employed

by Cardiff Bus

work necessary to introduce the sale of multi-operator smartcards in all Travel South Yorkshire Information Centres. During November Annual TravelMasters will start being sold as smart tickets.

Initially, these passes can be used as smartcards on Stagecoach Bus and Supertram services, but are also valid for travel on other bus and train services in the traditional way.

As part of a phased roll out of products, the project will continue to make additional ticketing products available as smartcards throughout 2014. The ultimate goal is for customers to be able to load ticketing products onto their smartcards in various ways, including online, on mobile phones and via dedicated kiosks across South Yorkshire.

TravelMaster Chairman, Duncan Roberts, said: “This marks the important first step along a path which we have been developing since the Yorcard Pilot and heralds new opportunities for ticketing. As other operators adopt smart equipment in the next few months we will convert a range of products to smart format and be able to look at enhancing the TravelMaster

range and opportunities to purchase them.”

SYPTE Interim Deputy Director General, David Young, said: “We take very seriously our responsibility to continue to improve travel for the people of South Yorkshire and the introduction of smart ticketing will revolutionise the way that passengers pay for their transport needs.

“It’s our customers that matter to us the most so we are taking care to ensure these products meet their needs, therefore we want to make sure each development is operating to its full potential before we expand the complexity, so a phased roll out is the most appropriate approach.

“The introduction of this new technology demonstrates SYPTE’s commitment to making travel easier and more convenient for customers and we hope it will encourage even more people to give public transport a go. This, in turn, will help reduce congestion and carbon emissions and help deliver a better transport system for the whole county.”

For more information visit travelsouthyorkshire. com/smart

www.coachandbusweek.com

25/11/2013 16:14

175

The number of vehicles operated

by West Coast Motors

£3.5bn

The combined turnover of members of the Original Equipment Suppliers Aftermarket Association (OESAA)

Yellow Buses introduces new airport service A new contract to run the A1 shuttle bus for the owners of Bournemouth Airport has commenced from the town centre.

Yellow Buses began operating the new-look service after landing the deal with airport owners, Manchester Airports Group (MAG).

The hourly service runs from 0700 to 1900hrs seven days a week.

It links Bournemouth Airport, the Aviation Business Park and Hurn with Bournemouth Town Centre and main hubs within the Yellows’ network, including the Royal Bournemouth Hospital.

The new service was launched

by Paul Knight, Managing Director of Bournemouth Airport. He was accompanied by senior Yellow Buses’ management including Mark Ambler, Head of Network Development, Mike Conroy, Operations Manager, and Gareth Edwards, Customer Services Manager.

Mr Knight said: “We are delighted to welcome Yellow Buses to the Airport. As well as providing a real bene�it for our passengers, this new service will also be a boost for those working on the business park and

SHARE WATCH Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, November 25. Synectics saw the greatest proportional rise, while 21st Century saw the greatest proportional drop.

Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk

434.75p

Price: Year High: 471.00p Year Low: 300.80p

118.00p

Paul Knight, Bournemouth Airport’s MD (third right) launches the new Yellow Buses’ A1 service with (l-r) Gareth Edwards, Mark Ambler and Mike Conroy of the Yellows with Mark Buxton at the wheel. the residents of Hurn village.”

Yellow Buses is running a dedicated single-decker on the service, initially using its eyecatching Jubilee liveried bus. The bus which features leather seats and wood effect �loors became a popular attraction on the roads

during last year’s Queen’s Diamond Jubilee.

Mark Ambler, Yellow Buses’ Head of Network Development, said: “We will be working closely with the airport to increase the number of bus passengers travelling to and from the airport and business park.”

Cardiff Bus unveils 30 new city buses

Price: Year High: 183.03p Year Low: 90.30p

1626.50p

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259.10p

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356.80p

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0.265p

Price: Year High: 0.65p Year Low: 0.25p

56.50p

The new vehicles represent an investment of £3.5m by Cardiff Bus which has also refurbished 108 buses Cardiff Bus launched its 30-strong �leet of brand new single-decker buses on Friday (November 22).

The shiny new �leet, a mixture of Euro 5 Mercedes-Benz Citaros and ADL Enviro 200s, represents a £3.5 million investment. The new buses have been acquired for use primarily on routes 38 (Heath hospital – city centre), 44/45 (St Mellons/Rumney – city centre) and 61 (Pentrebane – central bus station). However, Cardiff Bus told CBW they will also be used across the network as a whole.

All the new vehicles come complete with CCTV, contemporary fresh interiors, comfortable seating, low and wide �loor access, www.coachandbusweek.com

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dedicated wheelchair and buggy space, real-time information systems and audio and visual next stop announcements in both English and Welsh.

The new buses will not only make a huge difference to passengers in terms of comfort and reliability but will also further improve the operator’s environmental credentials.

Cardiff Bus Managing Director Cynthia Ogbonna said: “This investment supports our plans to improve our network, customer experience and environmental impact. It also demonstrates our commitment to providing a public transport network which rivals the

best in the UK and is �itting for a dynamic European capital city.”

As recently featured in CBW, in addition to this latest investment, over the past two years Cardiff Bus has refurbished 108 buses as part of the company’s ongoing commitment to improve its �leet and service.

On that note, Cynthia commented: “This is a continuation of investment that has been happening over the last couple of years to improve the comfort, look and life of our current �leet.

These new vehicles complement that investment in vehicle refurbishment which has been welcomed by customers.”

Price: Year High: 60.00p Year Low: 42.00p

602.50p

Price: Year High: 620.00p Year Low: 277.00p

7.62p

Price: Year High: 16.50p Year Low: 4.65p

-11.30 on last week

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-0.38 on last week

FTSE 100

6,694

Index: Year High: 6,840 Year Low: 5,786

-27

on last week

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 7 25/11/2013 16:14

NEWS › COACH RO A D WATC H ■ WIDENING WORK on the Edgebold roundabout on the A5 in Shrewsbury has started, which should be completed by February 2014 subject to weather conditions.

Work takes place overnight between 2000 and 0600hrs, except on Wednesdays until Christmas when work starts at 2200hrs. The scheme is part of a national £317m pinch point improvement programme, designed to boost local economies, reduce congestion and improve safety on the strategic road network in England. Various diversions, traffic management and closures are in place. Until Friday, December 20, the A488 southbound approach to and north departure from Edgebold island is under two-way traffic light control between 2000 and 0600hrs. A 30mph speed limit is also in place on the A488. Work then continues from January 6 when the A488 southbound approach to and northbound departure from the roundabout is closed overnight.

■ WORK ON JUNCTION 40 OF THE M1 at Wakefield has commenced and is expected to be completed by the end of March 2014. During the work there are lane closures on the M1 junction 40 southbound exit slip road and on the roundabout during the day and night at off-peak times. The southbound exit slip road will be closed overnight at times.

■ OVERNIGHT WORK ON THE A120 in Essex is ongoing and due to be completed by 0600hrs on Thursday, December 12. Some work will require a full closure of the A120 and clearly signed diversions will be in place.

The work will be performed overnight between 2000 and 0600hrs. From December 2-5 the A120 will be closed eastbound then westbound alternately between Priory Wood and Panners interchange.

On December 6, 9 and 10, single lane closures will be used to carry out work between Panners interchange and Marks Farm roundabout.

On Wednesday, December 11 the A120 is closed in both directions at Wix.

Shearings: 38 new Setras for 2014

A Shearings Setra S416GT-HD is seen at the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway in Porthmadog

Shearings has announced it is continuing to invest signi�icantly in its coach �leet and hotel portfolio on the back of further growth in customer volumes and forward bookings.

The Wigan-based Group – which focuses on the rapidly-expanding over 50s market – said it would take delivery of 38 new Setra coaches early in the new year with an order value of £10.5m. Of these, 15 are tri-axle S416GT-HD models for the blue-liveried Shearings Holidays �leet and 23 are two-axle S415GT-HDs for National Holidays.

The deal, which follows on from the delivery of 30 new Setras and a major lease �inancing agreement secured earlier this year, takes its �leet to 240 coaches, of which 200 are less than four years old.

The Group, which also operates 50 hotels under the Bay and Coast & Country brands, said it planned to accelerate its investment in room and facilities upgrades across the hotel portfolio to £5m

during 2014. This follows £3.6m of investment in the current year, during which time occupancy levels have reached over 90% – the highest since 2008.

Following a record one million passengers last year, Shearings said it expected customer volumes to increase by a further 2-3% in the current year. It also reported 2014 bookings were currently over 10% ahead of the same time last year.

Sales of UK and European Grand Tourer breaks from its Shearings Holidays brand were said to have played a major part in the growth story, while the strong British summer drove positive sales for its UK-focused value brand, National Holidays. New products in 2014 include additions to its premium Grand Tourer programme such as escorted tours of the Spanish gardens, Ireland’s country houses and the history of south-east Italy, while new river cruises include trips along the Danube and to Europe’s battle�ields. It also said that its trips to Highclere Castle – the setting of Downton Abbey which has just returned to TV screens – were proving popular.

Denis Wormwell, Chief Executive

of Shearings Group, said: “Our continuing focus on providing great value and exciting new holiday product across our programmes has kept our customers loyal and attracted thousands of new people to our portfolio of brands. Similarly our multi-brand strategy, and ability to serve the UK and overseas markets with short and long breaks with such a wide range of product, gives us an even bigger market to address across a demographic that continues to expand.

“While conditions remain challenging, this has given us the con�idence to continue our investment through 2013 and accelerate our commitment further next year, making sure we deliver ever greater quality to our growing customer base.”

In a separate development, Shearings was crowned Domestic Travel Supplier of the Year at the TTG Travel Awards earlier this year and won gold at the recent British Travel Awards for ‘Best Large Coach Holiday Company’. Its Coast & Country hotel brand was also awarded bronze in the Best UK Mid-scale Hotel Group category.

There are less than two weeks to go before entries close for the UK Coach Awards 2014 competition, but that’s still plenty of time to enter. The award categories cover the full range of services provided by and for coach operators and their customers, recognising excellence in a wide range of

disciplines.

UKCA Chairman Allan Edmondson said: “The prestige afforded by being a �inalist cannot be overstated, so I would encourage all those who have yet to enter to do so now. It’s a worthwhile investment in time because it can raise the pro�ile of

your business with customers and stakeholders alike. It’s also a great way to reward coaching people for their dedication and hard work.”

Full details of all categories and entry criteria, along with entry forms, can be found on the awards website at www.ukcoachawards. co.uk

Optimism as Group reports bookings for 2014 currently over 10% ahead of the same time last year

UK Coach Awards 2014: Deadline approaching

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www.coachandbusweek.com

25/11/2013 15:36

West Coast Motors expands again Bakers Dolphin wider travel options Campbeltown-based West Coast Motors has expanded its business further by acquiring Glasgowbased Fairline Coaches.

The acquisition allows other divisions within the Group to expand their touring programmes and private hire offering as well as put the company in an excellent position to take advantage of major upcoming events in 2014 and beyond including The Commonwealth Games, The Ryder Cup and Homecoming.

Speaking about this latest development, Managing Director Colin Craig said: “I am delighted with this acquisition as it complements our recent purchase

of Bowman’s Tours, renamed West Coast Tours, and strengthens our offering company-wide and at a local level by introducing a further 16 vehicles to our 175 fleet.

“The new vehicles also offer greater flexibility for group hire, transfers and tours as they range from 16-seat mini-buses right through to 70-seat coaches – all offering a very high specification.

“While Fairline Coaches is Glasgow-based I am keen to ensure that the whole business benefits from this acquisition, particularly where the new additions to the fleet will offer opportunities for group travel to and from the areas we serve.”

Bakers Dolphin has launched its ‘Summer Collection 2014’ featuring 40 new tours plus some old favourites. The company has expanded its offering with more UK breaks, continental holidays and themed weekend tours for Spring/Summer 2014.

The new programme also focuses on its Gold Coach Service which offers travellers a luxury experience and the company has invested in several new coaches ready for next year’s busy season.

Sales and Marketing Director Amanda Harrington said: “The new Summer 2014 brochure is packed with more destinations than we’ve ever had before. We’ve made sure

to keep all the old favourites but we’ve also bolstered them with new ideas, exciting destinations and even more luxury.

“This year we’ve also put more into our Home Link service, offering free home pick-ups for all holidays of five days and more. We believe holidays should start from the moment our customers close their front door, which this service allows.

“We’ve spent countless hours sourcing the best hotels and trawling the places we think our customers would love to visit.

New featured tours include Cornish Pasties and Pixies, Beautiful Bantry and Coastal Cork.

Kings Ferry North Somerset nominated for sustainability award

A newly launched coach commuter service is in the running for a top sustainable transport award.

The commuter service which is run by The Kings Ferry provides a new link between North Somerset and North Bristol business areas.

It has been nominated for the ‘Most innovative sustainable travel measure’ category of the Travel West Business Travel Awards.

TravelWest - a website based journey planning organisation for people living in the West of England – was looking for companies which had developed an innovative service that provided a benefit to sustainable travel. The panel thought the coach service met all the award criteria.

Launched last month, the coach service - run in partnership with North Somerset Council and funded by the Local Sustainable Transport Fund - provides commuters with a link between North Somerset and North Bristol.

It is already proving popular with customers and playing its part to ease congestion by taking cars off the road.

Eight routes a day carry passengers from Weston-super-Mare, Clevedon and Portishead to business parks in North Bristol and back.

Previously thousands of commuters in North Somerset had

www.coachandbusweek.com

008_009_CBW1115_News.indd 9

The Kings Ferry is already well known for its commuter services from Kent to London. Bristol services run in conjunction with North Somerset Council

little option other than to travel by car but now they can travel by a coach offering a guaranteed seat, WiFi and air conditioning.

The Kings Ferry Commercial Director Danny Elford said: “We believe commuting by coach is the future of getting to work. People increasingly care about sustainable travel and ever-increasing numbers of cars on the nation’s roads are both

undesirable, from an environmental point of view, and untenable. We are thrilled to be shortlisted for this award, which clearly recognises the vital role coach travel is already playing in North Somerset’s commute to work.

“This nomination is a credit to the people who have worked tirelessly to get this project off the ground and is the result of

months of planning and work with our partners at North Somerset Council. Our fingers are crossed for success at the ceremony.”

The award winner will be announced at the Guildhall, Bath on November 28.

For more on the commuter service visit www. bristolcommute.com

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 9 25/11/2013 15:36

NEWS

Welsh bus market could drop by a quarter Councils in Wales are warning they have no money to rescue services which bus operators will deregister if the Welsh Government goes ahead with a planned 37% concessionary fares reimbursement cut, the Western Mail has reported.

Managers claim the Welsh bus network could reduce by a quarter in the next few months.

First Cymru said it would have to look at reducing its services by 25% to 30% if the Welsh Government decides to reduce the concessionary reimbursement from 73.59% of the average fare to just 46% from April 1. This proposed cut follows a 25% drop in grants to bus operators and councils over the last two years which resulted in First Cymru reducing many services in the greater Swansea area.

Stagecoach South Wales said the company had applied the future 46% reimbursement rate to its costing model.

“The end result would be that we would be operating 25% less on commercial routes from the end

of March than we are currently doing,” said MD John Gould.

“As far as tendered services go, that’s subject to us going to each local authority and negotiating with them.”

Legal challenges to the cut are likely, because the law requires the government to reimburse operators by an amount which leaves them no better or worse off than they would be if the scheme did not exist. However, the Welsh Government did not mention the 37% cut to operators until October, more than six months after the bus industry asked to start negotiations over the scheme’s future. This leaves too little time for legal challenges to be resolved before the deadline when bus companies must notify the Traffic Commissioner and local authorities of the service cuts they will make by April 1.

A Welsh Government spokesman said: “We are currently in negotiation with bus operators and local authorities on the terms for concessionary bus travel reimbursement for 2014-15. No decisions have yet been taken.”

First Cymru’s main services in south Pembrokeshire – linking Haverfordwest to Milford Haven

and Tenby – are now threatened because high proportions of the passengers are pensioners on free passes. Also vulnerable are extensions of urban services to outlying communities.

Justin Davies, MD of First Cymru, said: “We will be handing back tendered services to local authorities, because when we bid we took the revenue risk. The pensioner will still be turning up at the side of the road but they will be worth a lot less in reimbursement.

We will say to the local authorities, ‘We can’t do this any more’ but they’re already reducing services anyway.”

Chairman Richard Cope said: “Faced with unprecedented financial pressures, many local authorities are looking at options to reduce their overall expenditure.

Proposals to reconfigure, cut, reduce or modernise all levels of council service provision are being considered.

“It is therefore unlikely that local

Bus workers’ union GMB and Stagecoach have joined forces to present a petition to Tyne and Wear’s transport authority calling for controversial bus contracting plans to be dropped.

More than 7,000 people across the region signed a petition opposing Nexus proposals, raising concerns over bus fares rises, council tax increases, and threats to bus workers’ jobs and pensions.

GMB representatives were part of a delegation of bus workers who delivered the petition to Nexus HQ in Newcastle. The delegation included GMB Branch Secretary Matthew Laws, Stagecoach North East Managing Director Phil Medlicott and concerned bus passengers.

Private consultants have so far received around £300,000

in fees for developing the Nexus contracts plans without any bus improvement being made. Nexus has confirmed in a Freedom of Information response that the bill

by April 2014 is expected to top £1million.

Phil Medlicott said: “Bus workers, from drivers to managers, are united in opposing the flawed plans for bus contracts. We have also listened to thousands of our customers raise concerns over the past few months.

“Together, they have a simple message for the transport authority: ‘we don’t want bus contracts or the fare increases and council tax rises that come with them.’ It is time Nexus put people first instead of politics and listened to those who understand buses and use them.”

Matthew Laws said: “We have real concerns about pay and conditions, pensions and long-term job stability if we have to change companies all the time as they do in London.”

Unite Newcastle Branch Secretary Tom Shoesmith, also Chairman of the Central Negotiating Committee for Stagecoach depots in Tyne and Wear, added: “Our members are at the sharp end, providing bus services in local communities.

They care about their passengers and the bus network.

“Bus workers also want the best deal to bring stability for their families and not risk their financial future. This is why they are against the contract plans. Contracts will damage the bus network, hit living standards, and push up bills

for everyone. “Instead, we want Nexus to work in partnership with the bus companies to deliver improvements.”

Bus operators in Tyne and Wear have proposed a comprehensive package of improvements to services. Under a proposed partnership with the transport authority, they claim customers would benefit from: • smarter ticketing and better value fares; • commitments on investment in extra buses and new low carbon vehicles; • better information, on-board facilities, and a formal customer charter; • financial savings for taxpayers; and • better voice for customers and local communities in the network.

Wales’ largest operators claim the cut would force them to reduce their services by 25-30%

Insufficient money to support services in Wales could see services cut by 25%

GMB and Stagecoach petition against Nexus Quality Contract

10 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013 010_011_CBW1115_News.indd 10

www.coachandbusweek.com

25/11/2013 18:56

TRAINING UPDATE

Winter Driving – just drive slower! Right?

Lauren Claiden of AA DriveTech looks at driving in poor weather, and often in the dark

authorities will be in a position to support additional bus services through their own funding.”

A spokeswoman for Arriva Buses Wales said: “It will become almost pointless having the concession of free travel on buses for concessionary pass holders if there are fewer buses, or even no buses, for them to catch.

“Any reduction in the amount of reimbursement paid to operators in lieu of a fare for journeys undertaken by concessionary

pass holders will have an effect on the levels of service which bus companies, big and small, can provide. The concessionary fares scheme is, after all, a subsidy given by bus operators to the Welsh Government.”

“The reduction in the level of reimbursement recently quoted would have a very serious impact on service levels across the whole of Wales and will not only put jobs at risk, but put levels of investment under scrutiny as well.”

Transdev launches m-ticketing Transdev has launched a mobile ticketing payments service for its customers in association with Corethree and Barclays Pingit.

Transdev has signed up to Corethree’s m-ticketing service to provide mobile ticketing using Barclays Pingit ‘mobile checkout’ payment service. This feature enables travellers to make an instant payment via a ‘Pay with Barclays Pingit’ button and is available to all UK bank account holders.

Passengers purchasing tickets in the Lancashire Bus region will be first to access the Corethree m-ticketing service. It will be available on the Mainline, Starship, Lancashire United, Lancashire Way and Hyndburn Connect services, as part of the Lancashire Bus region serving Manchester, Burnley, www.coachandbusweek.com

010_011_CBW1115_News.indd 11

Blackburn, Preston, Bolton and the surrounding area.

The solution follows Transdev’s recent launch of its new Witch Way fleet which includes 15 vehicles with free WiFi onboard as part of a £3m investment in the X43 route.

Nigel Eggleton, Sales and Marketing Director at Transdev said: “We are very excited to be deploying Corethree’s award winning m-ticketing solution with Barclays Pingit mobile payment.

The partnership offers passengers a simple and trusted mobile solution that is available to all.

“Our m-ticketing solution creates cost savings which can be used to improve services and keep ticket prices low. Real-time data provides passenger insight allowing Transdev to offer relevant ticketing solutions to passengers.”

W

inter driving, especially in icy conditions, can sometimes leave us in difficult situations. An effective knowledge of how to prepare for winter driving, as well as a few safety tips, can make sticky situations much more manageable and a driver far more aware.

The change of weather at this time of year presents bus and coach drivers with many driving hazards, creating different challenges from driving during the rest of the year. Days are shorter, yet ironically, winter sun can also cause problems due to low angled sun or glare from the road; in short, the weather is less predictable and the nights drawing in each day create poor driving conditions. Drivers need to be fully prepared and have the skills available to cope with all types of inclement weather.

Driver knowledge is a musthave in ensuring the safety of passengers and the safety of other road users, as well as environmental and economical benefits when it comes to fuel consumption and CO2 emissions.

Be prepared – things to think about Like the rest of the year, it’s essential to ensure that the vehicle you’re driving is in good working order by performing a walk around inspection. When approaching bus stops, consider the road conditions, do you need to allow room for extra stopping distances? Are the bus aisles wet? If yes, they’re probably slippery so try to avoid braking suddenly. Are the mirrors clear

of snow and ice? Other road users such as cyclists, and pedestrians crossing the road, may have their heads down to shield themselves from the weather... indeed, they might not even see you!

A Winter Driving course developed by AA DriveTech, and approved by JAUPT for Driver CPC, can help you with knowledge and essential skills. Course content includes, appreciation of driving risks, defensive winter driving techniques for icy conditions, the use of traction control devices such as ABS, route planning, skid control and planning & identifying grip levels, as well as dealing with other road users Remember, winter days and nights can be treacherous, so drive slower and make sure you’re fully prepared.

For a free copy of our one page Winter Driving Tips guide, please email AA DriveTech – tellmemore@AAdrivetech.com.

How AA DriveTech can help.

AA DriveTech is the posttest training arm of the AA with extensive experience of delivering top quality, value for money and useful driver training to professional drivers whether they are bus, coach or truck drivers. The company offers training courses both at a client’s business premises as well as ‘open’ courses via a UK-wide network of training venues which any driver can attend. To understand more, or book a course, call 0845 345 9626 or go to www.

AAdrivetech.com

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 11 25/11/2013 18:56

NEWS › INTERNATIONAL

PolskiBus expands with new hub Wroclaw hub

PolskiBus.com operates a fleet of impressive Van Hool coaches. With the addition of 30 more, the fleet now stands at 75 vehicles Coach network extended as PolskiBus targets and links new destinations with 30 new coaches POLAND Sir Brian Souter’s PolskiBus.com operation in Poland has seen a £10m investment which will create 160 new jobs. A second hub has been opened in Wroclaw alongside the launch of four new routes and investment in 30 new coaches‘ taking the number of new coaches ordered by PolskiBus in 2013 to 75.

The new PolskiBus.com routes connect Wroclaw with Bydgoszcz, Gdansk, Katowice, Krakow, Opole, Poznan, Rzeszow and Zakopane plus Berlin and Prague. Existing services to Lodz, Warsaw and Prague will also be enhanced with increased frequency. Many of the new services will bene�it from free on-board catering and refreshments.

PolskiBus.com operates fast,

cheap and comfortable intercity express coach services across Poland and Central and Eastern Europe. Fares start at 1zl plus a 1zl booking fee with no hidden luggage charges, free Wi-Fi access and in-seat electric charging points. Tickets can be booked online at www.Polskibus.com.

Sir Brian Souter, President of PolskiBus.com, said “We are extremely excited by the launch of our second PolskiBus.com hub in Wroclaw. We know our customers love our low fares, comfortable coaches, free Wi-Fi access and friendly drivers.

“Instead of the stress and rising cost of travelling by car, an ever increasing number of people are turning to PolskiBus.com’s fast, convenient journey times, competitive low fares and stressfree journeys.”

Since its launch in June 2011, PolskiBus.com has generated more

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than 500 new jobs across Poland.

Barry Pybis, PolskiBus.com CEO, said: “This major new investment responds to thousands of requests from our customers to expand our services and introduce new routes.

It continues our commitment to driving up the quality of travel for our customers.”

In total, �ive PolskiBus.com services will operate from the Wroclaw hub: • Prague – Wroclaw – Bydgoszcz – Poznan – Gdansk • Wroclaw - Krakow - Rzeszow • Wroclaw – Katowice • Berlin – Wroclaw – Opole – Katowice – Krakow – Zakopane • Wroclaw - Lodz – Warsaw Mr Pybis added: “Since PolskiBus. com launched in June 2011 we have carried almost 5 million passengers.”

The 30 new PolskiBus.com coaches are high speci�ication, fuel ef�icient and environmentally

friendly Van Hool TDX27 Astromegas. Each vehicle is speci�ied with free Wi-Fi and in-seat electric charging points for laptops and mobile phones.

In addition, the coaches offer reclining leather seats, air conditioning, toilet facilities and disabled access.

Piotr Bezulski, PolskiBus.com Managing Director, said: “As well as offering the best value intercity fares in Poland across the most comprehensive national network of services, we want to play our part in reducing the environmental impact of travel.

“We believe there is a big opportunity to attract car users to the bene�its of PolskiBus.com’s fast, cheap and comfortable intercity coach travel, making it easy for people to get quickly from city centre to city centre whilst at the same time cutting their carbon footprint.” www.coachandbusweek.com

25/11/2013 18:38

Scania breakthrough with BVG order SWEDEN Scania has received an order to provide 156 articulated buses to Berlin’s public transport provider, Berliner Verkehrsgesellschaft (BVG). The buses are scheduled for delivery between 2014 and 2017.

“This order is strategically important for establishing Scania in the German bus market,” says Fredrik Dahlborg, Sales Director for Europe and Eurasia, Buses & Coaches at Scania.

The delivery to BVG is of 156 Scania Citywide articulated buses powered by Euro 6 engines and automated gearboxes, as well as a close co-operation for repair and maintenance needs. Scania claims predictable maintenance costs and good fuel economy were the decisive factors in winning the BVG order.

The BVG order is Scania’s second major bus contract in Germany over a relatively short period of time. In May 2013, transport operator ADAC Postbus ordered more than 60 express buses for delivery by early 2014. The

Bus lanes bring savings for Calgary

156 Scania artics are to a enter service with BVG in the German capital majority of these buses have already been put into operation in 30 major German cities.

“This means we have strengthened our position in two key segments. We can supply

Major BRT contract signed for Martinique MARTINIQUE Caraibus, a subsidiary of Vinci Concessions, has signed a 22-year partnership contract with Martinique’s transit authority (SMTCSP) to finance, design, build, develop and maintain a Bus Rapid Transit system – including the construction of multi-modal hubs in Mahault and Carrere. It will also finance the acquisition of buses and their onboard systems.

The entire project requires investment of Euro 98.6m, comprising Euro 18.4m contribution from SMTCSP, equity of Euro 5.6m and financing totalling Euro 74.6m, which will come 50/50 from the Agence

Française de Développement (French Development Agency) and the Direction des Fonds d’Epargne (savings fund department of the Caisse des Dépôts) when the system is commissioned.

Caraibus will receive fees for each of the services it provides.

Eurovia and Vinci Construction, through their subsidiaries Caraib Moter and SOGEA Martinique respectively, will design and build the bus rapid transit system within 23 months; the 24-metre BRT buses will be designed and built by Van Hool. Caraibus Maintenance, another Vinci Concessions subsidiary, will be responsible for light and heavy maintenance.

NEW ZEALAND Police in Wellington believe the fire which destroyed four new buses and damaged a fifth from the Go Wellington fleet was suspicious.

The damage caused was said to have been valued around $1.6m, but could have been absolutely catastrophic had the fire spread to nearby residences. Police investigators are following several lines of inquiry to find who was responsible for the damage.

However, at this stage it was too

early to conclude whether an accelerant was used to light the fire and police are appealing to anyone with more information to come forward.

Talking to local press, Rachel Drew, Chief Operating Officer for NZ Bus in Wellington, said all five buses hit by the blaze were brand new single-decker Alexander Dennis Enviro200s, worth about $400,000 each. Furthermore they were only between three and six months old.

solutions featuring our vehicles and service for city and express bus services that are attractive to passengers, and ensure high availability and low operating costs for our customers,” says Dahlborg.

CANADA While Calgary Transit originally felt the introduction of bus priority lanes was not a major project the results after 12 months indicates around 63,000 hours of passenger travel time has been saved. The lanes, reserved for buses and cycles only, run along a significant stretch of Centre Street. The company said reliability had been significntly improved with an 80% reduction in the number of times buses stopped as their progress was unimpeded.

Furthermore, strong passenger growth along the corridor has seen rush hour frequencies increased to a bus every 90 seconds. Despite this, there is still not enough capacity to pick up all waiting passengers.

Arson suspected in Wellington bus blaze

www.coachandbusweek.com

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November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 13 25/11/2013 18:38

NEWS › REGIONAL SOUTH EAST A CYCLIST IN OXFORD has told a judge he committed a public order offence because he was angry at being knocked off his bike by a bus – according to The Oxford Mail.

Robert Lee admitted using threatening abusive or insulting words or behaviour, or disorderly behaviour, within the hearing or sight range of a person likely to be caused harassment, alarm or distress.

Sarah Mackay, prosecuting, said the 33-year-old approached and shouted at a female bus driver at the Water Eaton park-and-ride site on July 25.

The former HGV driver defended himself during the hearing at Oxford Magistrates’ Court on Tuesday.

He told the court he was sorry for his behaviour, but had been riding his bike when the bus driver tried to fit through a tight gap and knocked him off.

Lee said: “I tried to talk to her and she said she didn’t care and to report her.

“It was quite a serious thing to happen to me and it shook me up.

I complained to the company and the bus driver was sacked, but she got her job back on appeal.

“She got a second chance so I’m just asking for one for me. I sincerely apologise to everyone.”

District Judge Tim Pattinson gave Lee a six-month conditional discharge and told him to pay a £15 victims’ surcharge and £35 costs.

CBW has been unable to confirm which bus operator the case concerned.

MIDLANDS

THE £5M DEVELOPMENT scheme on the A426 creating bus lanes into and out of Leicester, through Aylestone and Glen Parva is now complete and the refurbished Arriva buses designated to operate along the corridor were launched last week.

The double deckers, branded ‘Breeze’ for the service, have been fitted with new seating and passenger information screens.

The creation of the bus lanes caused controversy and were highly unpopular with motorists and many residents.

Arriva hopes it can bring a smile to people’s faces with attractive fares deals planned for the first month. Routes 84, 84A, 85 and 87 are included in the ‘Five for a Fiver

KEY

NORTH

Return’ which offers a group ticket for up to five people making a return trip along the route after 1800hrs.

Officials believe the work carried out on the A426 will make bus journeys in and out of the city much faster. It included modification to junctions, crossing points and bus stops.

BUS AND RAIL PASSENGERS in the West Midlands could face increased fares and see some free services dropped under budget cuts.

Centro, the West Midlands Integrated Transport Authority, is attempting to save £14m over the next two years, and is consulting residents on where the axe should fall.

Centro has been tasked with reducing its budget by 10% by the leaders of the seven West Midlands district councils, including Coventry City Council.

The proposals put forward by the Midlands councils could see children paying two-thirds of adult bus fares instead of half, free rail and tram travel for eligible people such as pensioners removed or a nominal annual charge of around £30 introduced, and the grant for Ring and Ride reduced or scrapped.

Other possible changes include a reduction in funding for child bus fare concessions, cutting the number of taxpayer funded bus services and removing the funds for some free travel on buses after 2300hrs.

Centro has already saved nearly a

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with resistance and was turned down. A subsequent appeal by Omnium Ilfracombe was also rejected. The site was then purchased by the council and the building demolished. Over the years, different proposals for its development have been aired and rejected so the council is now putting the matter to public consultation in order to achieve a satisfactory outcome which is acceptable to the majority of residents.

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

third of its operational expenditure over the last four years.

Centro Chairman John McNicholas, said: “These are difficult options and if implemented would have a significant impact on the travelling public.

“That’s why it’s so important for people to tell us through the forthcoming consultation where they think we should make the savings and what effect those reductions would have on the way they travel.”

Cllr Roger Lawrence, Chairman of the West Midlands Joint Committee, said: “Right across the country local authorities are being forced to make extremely tough choices because of the spending cuts being imposed by Government.

“The West Midlands is no exception and all areas of expenditure including transport need to be looked at to see where potential savings can be made.

“The options are not easy but I’m afraid this is the financial reality that has been imposed upon local Government.”

SOUTH WEST

NORTH DEVON JOURNAL reports the Ilfracombe Bus Station, which has stood derelict for 10 years, is to be retained by the local council as a car parking site until public consultation decides on its future.

The original owners of the site, Omnium Ilfracombe Ltd, had applied for planning permission to build flats but the application met

THE WAR OF WORDS between Mayor Joe Anderson and Arriva over the future of Liverpool’s bus lanes intensified last week.

The operator has started an online petition to try to secure the future of bus lanes in Liverpool.

Arriva was opposed to the ninemonth suspension of all lanes in the city, which started at the end of October. The petition is labelled “The Bus Lane Debate Are You up to Speed?”

On Tuesday, November 19, the Mayor tweeted: “Drove behind and filmed Arriva 10a bus No 2692 all the way down Prescot Road this morning travelling in outside lane slowly. #watchingyou.” It led to some Twitter followers asking whether he was behind the wheel or being driven.

A spokesman for Arriva said the company had seen the Mayor’s tweet about one of its buses on Prescot Road.

He said: “We are already investigating this and will be looking at the CCTV footage from the vehicle in order to provide a response to the mayor’s inquiry.

The bus lane trial suspension commenced at the end of October and we are working with the city and others to gather data which will enable suitable measurement of the impacts of the trial.”

Bus companies and taxi operators have said they are experiencing problems with congestion on Saturdays in front of Lime Street.

Arriva confirmed the company had rerouted buses because of traffic.

The spokesman told the Liverpool Daily Post: “We are already seeing increased congestion within the city centre around Lime Street and have had to divert some services away from this area in the last couple of weeks, something that has not been required for some years.

“We are continuing to monitor the effects of the trial on our services.” www.coachandbusweek.com

25/11/2013 16:18

Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek The developments follow a public fallout between the Mayor and Arriva last month, when he accused the company of ‘lying’ with its claims it had not been consulted about the decision to scrap the 24 lanes.

He fired off three tweets to Arriva claiming the company was “griping about (how) stopping bus lanes will hurt them,” adding” (the) same company and others receive subsidy of £17m from Merseyside taxpayers.”

Arriva’s petition is available at www.arrivabus.co.uk/ saveourbuslanes CHRISTOPHER BOWLES, Managing Director of Stagecoach Manchester, has said congestion has cost the operator £6m this year – almost double the bill which seen in previous years.

He said putting on more buses and staff to cope with busy roads cost 10% of its total outlay – a cost ‘inevitably passed on to customers,’ the Manchester Evening News reported.

He said: “Our biggest challenge is congestion – it’s getting worse by the day.

“The costs add up – it’s cost us about £6m over the last year, increasing from £3m over

the last three years. It causes inconvenience to our customers and it’s difficult for us to maintain punctual schedules. We must work with the authority to do something about it.”

Chris claimed journeys in Manchester now take 40% longer than they did 20 years ago.

He added: “That money goes just on making our timetables work.

If there was no congestion that money could be saved and there would be immediate benefit for everyone.”

Chris said not tackling congestion could cost Manchester ‘jobs and investment’, but he praised Transport for Greater Manchester’s (TfGM) ongoing work for more priority bus lanes on Rochdale Road and other corridors. He said Stagecoach Manchester was ‘growing slowly’, with passenger numbers up 3.6% on last year.

A spokeswoman for TFGM said: “We are tackling congestion through a combination of improved public transport and road-based measures.

“Overall we are halting the trend for traffic growth and making inroads to reducing traffic on some key routes, with an overall 1% reduction across Greater Manchester last year.”

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

Ensign Bus’ Christmas Vintage Bus Running Day takes place on December 7, 2013 on routes X55 and X81

2013 n December 7 Ensignbus Christmas Vintage Bus Running Day on routes X55 and X81.

Call 01708 86 56 56. Visit www.

ensignbus.com

2014 n January 1 Friends of King Alfred Bus Running Day. Winchester.

Free bus rides & transport enthusiasts bazaar. n January 1 Oxford Bus Museum New Years Day & free vintage bus rides. 01993 861 617. www. oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk

n May 12-14 ALBUM Conference.

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

n January 25 Excursions 2014 Alexandra Palace, London www.excursions.org.uk n February 1, 2014 LTCOA Dinner Dance The Royal Garden Hotel, Knightsbridge. Call Sue Reynolds on 07932 158999 or email ltcoa@btinternet.com

014_015_CBW1115_Regional News.indd 15

n April 29-May 1 The Commercial Vehicle Show NEC, Birmingham.

01634 261262 www.cvshow.com n May 10-11 UK Coach Rally.

Alton Towers. 01753 631170. www.coachdisplays.co.uk

www.cpt-uk.org

www.coachandbusweek.com

n April 10 UK Coach Awards.

Mercure Piccadilly Hotel, Manchester. www.ukcoachawards.co.uk

www.fokab.org.uk

n January 23 CPT Annual Dinner.

The Grange Tower Bridge Hotel, London. 020 7240 3131.

‘QUEEN ELIZABETH’, well, almost, has stepped aboard Arriva North East’s upcoming route 7 Sapphire service.

Along with her great-grandson, the ‘monarch’ stepped aboard the Sapphire service 7 set to enjoy a day out in Durham City Centre where she planned to show ‘George’ some of the sights of his future kingdom.

‘Her Majesty’ said; “Since the Royal Yacht Britannia was decommissioned in 1997 one has used a variety of ways to get around. But to be frank it is quite difficult to get the buggy folded up into the back of the Rolls and one can’t seem to get away with fastening up the car-seat!

“The Sapphire buses are marvellous, the young gentlemen Neil put down the ramp and one was able to roll right on. Lovely journey! One put ‘In the Night Garden’ on the IPad for George using the free WiFi to keep him entertained and I was able to sort out my wagers for the 10:15 at Aintree.”

The new Sapphire service launches on route 7 on December 6.

For more information on Sapphire go to http://www.arrivasapphire.co.uk/

n April 5 South East Bus Festival.

Kent Showground, Maidstone. www. facebook.com/southeastbusfestival

n March 4–7 QV Associates’ course Introduction to Bus & Crew Scheduling. Birmingham. 01905 613527. www.qv-associates.com/

qvcourses.htm

n March 18-19 Young Bus Managers Network Conference.

Reading. www.youngbusmanagers. org.uk n March 25–28 QV Associates’ course Route & Timetable Planning Birmingham. 01905 613527. www.qv-

associates.com/qvcourses.htm

n July 6-7 North Norfolk Railway Bus Rally. Heritage bus service both days, transport Festival on Sunday. Email bus@johnrstewart. co.uk for an entry form. n July 12–13 Routemaster 60.

Finsbury Park, London. Organised by the Routemaster Association, the event will commemorate the 60th anniversary of the unveiling of RM1. www.routemaster.org.uk n July 20 Alton Bus Rally.

Anstey Park, Alton, Hants. www. altonbusrally.org.uk n September 10-11 Low Carbon Vehicle Event, Millbrook, Bedfordshire. 01509 635 750. www. cenex-lcv.co.uk n September 21 Showbus 2014.

Imperial War Museum, Duxford. www.showbus.com n September 25 - October 2 IAA Commercial Vehicle Show.

Hannover, Germany. www.iaa.de

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

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 15 25/11/2013 16:18

UK BUS AWARDS 2013

Celebrating

success Gareth Evans reports on the prestigious UK Bus Awards 2013 held last Tuesday at London’s popular Hilton Park Lane hotel

T

he UK bus industry marked another year of success and innovation last Tuesday (November 19), as over 650 industry movers and shakers gathered at London’s prestigious Hilton Hotel on Park Lane to acclaim the winners of the UK Bus Awards (UKBA). There were prizes in 21 categories covering all aspects of planning, delivering, marketing and operating bus services. The �inalists were chosen from over 250 entries by panels of independent judges.

Congratulating all the successful �inalists, UK Bus Awards Chairman John Owen commented: “Once again the awards have provided a magni�icent showcase for the many projects and organisations delivering quality and innovation in a wide range of disciplines.

It’s more than clever marketing and embracing new technology – it’s about the people delivering excellent standards of service, 24 hours a day, seven days a week.”

“Few would have believed the current dif�icult economic

conditions would last this long, yet we see evidence everywhere of optimism and investment,” he continued.

John Owen added: “Being our 18th year, it could be said the UK Bus Awards have truly come of age.

Each year we have seen the bar being raised, which now makes every �inalist a true winner. I’m delighted the Hilton is packed once again.”

Transaid CEO Gary Foster announced the award for the person who had raise the most money. It turned out the accolade had been won by not one but two people – Malcolm Robson and Trevor Roberts. The Managing Directors of Ipswich Buses and Blackpool Transport respectively, had between them had raised over £10,000.

It was then time for the winner of the so-called ‘Traf�ilog Challenge’ to be announced. Commercial Director Howard Young declared: “The safest, most ef�icient and skilful driver is... Ian Holmes of London United.”

Announcing the ROSCO award,

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Peter Shipp mused: “I hope we’re not in competition with Traf�ilog.

Seriously, we’re very different.”

He continued: “ROSCO is now a charity. We’re keen to engage more with our members. In fact, we’re discussing a key issue with the Parliamentary Advisory Committee – pedestrians walking with mobiles glued to their ears.

We’re now doing much more than awarding certi�icates and badges.”

Jane Hill, of BBC News was compering for her third successive year. Every bit as approachable and down to earth in the �lesh as she sounds on TV, she said: “Working in television, I’m very selective about what I watch. I loved the six-part ‘The Route Masters.’

Seeing all the challenges was really interesting. It served as a great testament for everything people do.”

Welcoming Baroness Kramer, John said: “I believe this is your �irst formal bus industry event.”

Echoing the thoughts of many in the industry, John paid tribute her predecessor Norman Baker MP. “Life is tough for local bus

operators but it would have been so much harder without him.”

John added: “The bus industry is now every bit as dynamic as the top retailers. Passenger Focus surveys show operators are achieving customer satisfaction rating at levels which the big retailers can only dream of.”

After asking for BSOG to be retained for commercial services after 2015, John described the current concessionary fare reimbursement formula as “totally �lawed.”

“The industry badly needs stability. Management time needs to be spent growing services – not dealing with decline. Customers want bus services they can rely on.

“We hope you can convince local authorities that removing bus lanes is a retrograde step. Please remind your colleague Mr Pickles that public transport can improve town centres – free parking is not the answer.”

Baroness Kramer went up on stage to present what was termed the ‘�irst special award’, as John explained: “For the �irst time in www.coachandbusweek.com

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Results List

Volvo ‘s Nick Page and Adrian de Courcey with the Top Express trophy • Compass Travel • Ensignbus • Perryman’s Buses

OPERATING AWARDS Top Express Operation Winner: National Express operation, Travel de Courcey Runner-up: Express City Connect, Stagecoach East Scotland Highly Commended: Greyhound Express, First Cymru

Top National Bus Depot

its history, the UKBA would like to give an award to someone who has not entered the category.”

As the audience waited with bated breath, John said it was for Western Greyhound after the �ire at its Summercourt depot.

“To the reporters, there was this bizarre sight of undamaged buses being driven out the garage for service before the �ire had even been extinguished. To help maintain services buses came from far and wide and competitors offered �lexible ticketing.”

The Keynote Address was given

by Baroness Kramer, who was of course recently appointed Minister of State for Transport, believed to be her �irst appearance at a major industry event since her appointment. As she took to the lectern, she remarked: “What an extraordinary story that was.

I admire Norman Baker and in whose footsteps I intend to follow.

I’m passionate about public transport and the role buses play in both urban and rural areas.

They play an instrumental role role in society – they’re a lifeline www.coachandbusweek.com

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for many. I will champion buses in government. It’s to the industry’s credit that there is such high – 84% – levels of customer satisfaction – scores which are craved by many other sectors.

“However, we live in challenging times. Despite these dif�iculties, government recognises buses have kept the country moving.”

She added: “Our vision will be focused on further improving the passenger experience.” She also said accessibility was an issue close to her heart.”

Acknowledging the levels of innovation, she said: “You don’t get to be here at the UKBA without excelling.”

Notably, Lord (Peter) Snape, the respected Labour peer and Chairman of the Bus Appeals Board, who was in attendance to presen the awards, said: “I don’t think you will ever �ind a chancellor of the exchequer willing to fund an industry of this size in the same way London is supported.

He added: “The bus really is the workhorse of this country and will remain so.”

Winner: Crawley, Metrobus Runner-up: Blyth, Arriva North East Highly Commended: • Bolton, First Manchester • Hengrove, First Bristol • Newport, Southern Vectis • Southport, Arriva North West

Top City Operator

Winner: Stagecoach Manchester Runner-up: Lothian Buses Highly Commended: • Abellio London • Go North East • Stagecoach Merseyside & South Lancashire

Top Shire Operator

Winner: Reading Buses Runner-up: Stagecoach South West Highly Commended: • Metrobus • Travel de Courcey • Transdev Burnley & Pendle

Top Independent Operator

Winner: Norfolk Green Runner-up: Courtney Buses Highly Commended:

UK Bus Operator of the Year Winner: Stagecoach Manchester Runner-up: Reading Buses

TECHNICAL & PROFESSIONAL AWARDS

+Environment Award Winner: Leading the way for greener transport, Lothian Buses Joint Runners-up: • A breath of fresh air, Reading Buses • Sustainability success, Stagecoach Group Highly Commended: • Reduce, re-use, recycle programme, FirstGroup • NOx abatement programme, Transport for London • Coventry Park & Ride South electric vehicle project, Travel de Courcey & partners

+Innovation Award

Winner: uTrack & National Express, uTrack Software Solutions Runner-up: The Shef�ield Bus Partnership, South Yorkshire PTE & partners Highly Commended: • The Safer Travel Command Centre, Centro • Bus for Us, Confederation of Passenger Transport UK • Hybrid power �lywheel project, Go-Ahead Group & Williams Hybrid Power • Bus for Jobs, Greener Journeys Special Commendation: Denis Noble, First Aberdeen

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The Claudia Flanders Memorial Award for Putting Passengers First Winner: Dedicated to accessibility for everyone, Reading Buses Runner-up: Star access, Bluestar Highly Commended: • One-way £1 fare for under 19s, Dales Integrated Transport Alliance • Delivering service and innovation, Go North East • The digital customer, Lothian Buses • Ride around for £1, North Yorkshire County Council • Improving customer relations through social media, Stagecoach East Scotland

Making Buses A Better Choice: the Peter Huntley Memorial Award Winner: The Sheffield Bus Partnership, South Yorkshire PTE

& partners Runner-up: SupertramLink, Stagecoach in Sheffield Highly Commended: • Using demand-responsive transport to meet the needs of rural communities, Essex County Council • Eclipse, First Hampshire & Dorset and Hampshire County Council • Service 10 - buses for everyone, Lothian Buses • Go2 Yellow Line, take the weight off your feet and be sure of a seat, Nottingham City Transport • A platform for growth, Unilink and Bluestar • The Busway, Stagecoach East

Local Authority Bus Project of the Year

Winner: Sheffield Bus Partnership, Sheffield City Council & partners Runner-up: The improved A65

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– travel the easyway, Metro & partners Highly Commended: • Birmingham City Centre Interchange, Centro • Integrating transport in Devon, Devon County Council

The Eureka! Award for Marketing Initiatives

Joint Winner: The Green Angels, Go North East Joint Winner: Bus for Jobs, Greener Journeys Highly Commended: +It’s alive, it’s electric, Frankenbus, Arriva North East & Arriva Yorkshire • Save Manchester, First Manchester • Your bus ticket on your mobile - simply buy, show and go, Go North East • Adoption of social media for business and consumer benefit, Stagecoach UK Bus • yLink youth travel card, Translink

The Marketing Excellence Award Winner: Maximising the brand, Go North East Runner-up: Creating strong passenger growth, Stagecoach in Sheffield Highly Commended: • more, more more!, more bus • Creating a strong brand image, Lloyds Coaches • Digital integration, Megabus UK • The brighter bus company, Yellow Buses

The Bus and the Community Award

Winner: Go Learn, Go-Ahead Group Runner-up: Making the grade, First West Yorkshire Highly Commended: • Police liaison officer initiative, Brighton & Hove • Go blue for Prostate Scotland, www.coachandbusweek.com

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1: Western Greyhound’s Mark Howarth with the Special Award for Overcoming Adversity. 2: The Sheffield Partnership was recognised.

3: Simon Carlisle of First West Yorks won Engineer of the Year. 4: Transaid’s Gary Foster with Malcolm Robson and Trevor Roberts. 5: Stagecoach Manchester won Top City Operator and was crowned with the utlimate accolade – UK Bus Operator of the Year.

6: Howard Young presents the Traffilog Challenge prize to Ian Holmes. 7: James Freeman accepts the Putting Passengers First Award. 8: Go-Ahead won the Bus in the Community Award. 9: First West Yorks’ John Croxford was crowned Young Manager of the Year. 10: Top National Driver wen to Lothian’s Raul Campos Folgado. 11: John Ward (centre) was presented with the ROSCO award. 12: Peter Newman received an Award for Services to the Industry. 13: John Owen with Baroness Kramer. 14: Norfolk Green won Independent Operator of the Year. 15: Jason Rayner & Tom Waterhouse of Stagecoach South. 16: The Brighton & Hove crew. 17: The team from Reading Buses with their prizes.

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18: Newport’s finest – Morgan Stevens, Gleni Dudek & Harmesh Chand. 19: Ed Willis & Nikki Honer of Go South Coast with their plethora of certificates. 20: Southern Vectis’ Unsung Hero Vernon Gibbs. 21: Ian Jones with the Winner of the Unsung Heroes Award Brian Dawber and Lord Snape.

22: Runner Up Engineer of the Year Martin Dixon of Abellio London & Surrey. 23: The crew from Arriva North West’s Southport depot were Highly Commended as Top National Bus Depot. 24: The Perrymans of Berwick upon Tweed team were Highly Commended as the Top Independent Operator.

Lothian Buses • Clifton Diamond Jubilee Celebrations, Nottingham City Transport • Bus driver cycle awareness, Stagecoach London

AWARDS FOR INDUSTRY PEOPLE

The Young Manager of the Year Award Winner: Jon Croxford, First West Yorkshire Runner-up: Tom Waterhouse, Stagecoach South Highly Commended: • Simon Goff, First Berkshire • Morgan Stevens, Newport Transport

The Unsung Heroes Award

Winner: Brian Dawber, Reading Buses

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Special Commendations for Outstanding Service: • Alan Black, Lothian Buses • Gieni Dudek, Newport Transport • Vernon Gibbs, Southern Vectis Highly Commended: • Kenneth Monaghan, Stagecoach West Scotland • Jason Rayner, Stagecoach South

The Chris Moyes Memorial Award for Top National Bus Driver

Winner: Raul Campos Folgado, Lothian Buses Runner-up: Barry Polkey, Nottingham City Transport Highly Commended: • Jaison Annear, First Bristol & Avon • Harmesh Chand, Newport Transport • Gino Contrino, First Devon & Cornwall • Augusto Iandi, First Hampshire & Dorset

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• Phil Millard, First Manchester

The Engineer of the Year Award

Winner: Simon Carlisle, First West Yorkshire Runner-up: Martin Dixon, Abellio London & Surrey Highly Commended: Jason Dixon, Arriva Yorkshire

Services to the Bus Industry • Peter Newman, Ensignbus • Barrie Etchells, Belmont International

LONDON AWARDS

London Bus Garage of the Year Award Winner: West Ham, Stagecoach London Runner-up: New Cross,

Go-Ahead London Highly Commended: • Barking, Stagecoach East London • Cricklewood, Metroline • Hounslow, London United • Orpington, Metrobus

Luke Rees-Pulley Charitable Trust Award for Top London Bus Driver Winner: Steve Riches, Go-Ahead London Joint Runners-up: • Jason Bond, Abellio London • Lesley Peacock, Metroline Highly Commended: • John Anderson, Quality Line, Epsom • Pat Connolly, Go-Ahead London • Ian Holmes, London United • Thomas McDonnell, Arriva London • Andrew Samuel, Go-Ahead London www.coachandbusweek.com

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We welcome contributions for this column. Please email your missive to gareth.evans@coachandbusweek. com or by post to The Editor, Coach and Bus Week magazine, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough, PE7 8GX. Alternatively, feel free to use the ‘private message’ function on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek and Twitter @CBWtweets.

INBOX

Media biased towards cyclists

I have recently driven in London and was terrified by the of the week disregard for their own safety and that of all other road users shown by some cyclists. They go through red traffic lights, regardless of oncoming traffic; weave in and out of slow-moving traffic, quite often wearing earphones so they are unable to hear what’s happening around them; pull out of side turnings without looking, ride at night in dark clothing with no lights on their bikes, overtake on both offside and nearside of vehicles ignoring any indicators and countless other highway code violations.

Large vehicles such as buses, coaches and LGVs have huge blindspots due to their size – see TfL’s video Lorry Blind Spots film. It is impossible to constantly check for cyclists in mirrors as attention also needs to be paid to what is happening on the road in front. In a 15-minute period I had three cyclists jump into road directly in front of me from the pavement, one pull out of a junction in front of me as I was proceeding through a green traffic light (who promptly stuck two fingers up at me and shouted abuse as I only missed her by millimetres, this despite the fact she had just gone through a red traffic light); one ride up my nearside even though there was only a six-inch gap between myself and the kerb, which is insufficient clearance for overtaking a cyclist, two pull out from between parked vehicles while using mobile phones, one pass on my nearside, get six-inches in front of my coach and promptly cycle across a zebra (pedestrian) crossing, and several pass so close alongside that their pedals damaged my vehicle.

We (Coach Drivers Named & Shamed)

LETTER

The unfortunate deaths of cyclists in London has caught the attention of mainstream media in recent weeks are also frustrated by the cyclists who persist in riding two or three abreast which makes it impossible to overtake them safely, particularly on country roads. This of course, contravenes Highway Code rule 66. This minority of cyclists also seem to have no regard for pedestrians who are on the pavement.

One of the forum members witnessed a cyclist knocking over a pedestrian as the cyclist jumped onto the pavement from the road. It has also been noted that some think riding the wrong way up a one-way street lined with parked vehicles is also acceptable behaviour.

Our opinion is that cyclists need to be made aware of the difficulties faced by drivers of large vehicles, and some sort of registration scheme introduced so that those who do violate

the rules of the road can be identified and penalised in the same way as all other road users are, whether by static cameras or police officers. It would also be helpful if representatives of all groups of road users were canvassed during discussions of this nature. This is not a problem unique to London, but is countrywide, and prevalent in all towns and cities. I would like to suggest that you find a coach or bus company willing to allow you to film a drive through London to highlight the issues we face as drivers.

The following paragraph is a comment from a member of the forum and in my opinion is something that every road user needs to be aware of: “I was involved in a collision with a young cyclist nearly 12 years ago

whilst driving a tipper. He was killed instantly. I lost my life too that day in a very different way. It took a long time to rebuild my life and my children were the inspiration for that. Aside from the emotional aftermath I also had a full inspection of my tacho’s and route, phone bill and witness statements.

They impounded the vehicle for inspection. I was self-employed at the time and so I lost wages etc etc.

“I couldn’t claim anything from his insurance because he was a cyclist and so didn’t have any! Unless you’re involved in such an accident you cannot begin to imagine the despair it brings and depths your mind sinks to. I rebuilt my life and returned to driving with the support of family and colleagues.”

Claire Trelease

Unfair advantages for Section 22 ops?

I enjoy reading CBW every week and I must say, I do like the new look front cover. I am always seeing articles of interest, the latest being Pat Harris’ comments about the lack of a level playing field between commercial and non-profit-making operators in last week’s issue.

Anyway, I am the Managing Director of a local bus operator in a major English conurbation. During the latest

round of tendering we failed to gain any contracts because of the price we had to bid at to cover our costs. The lion’s share of awards instead went to our local Section 22 operator.

While I don’t want to appear to be a sore loser as I am not, certain things strike me as being a little unfair about this situation.

I know money is a big issue for the local councils, but surely there should

be a level playing field when it comes to tendering?

I have recently spent £13,000 on Driver CPCs only to find out that Section 22 operators do not have to have them. I was told this by our local Traffic Commissioners Office.

Surely the DCPC was a European Directive and would therefore not fall under VOSA jurisdiction except for enforcement.

I understand that Section 22 operators don’t need to have the same financial standing as other operators and also only have to give 28 days notice, instead of the 56 days notice we have to give of changes to services.

At a time when we are all trying to give a good service while being hit by ever decreasing revenue, surely this position is counterproductive.

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ENVIRONMENT › READING GAS BUSES

Reading Buses

commercially green

With the imminent completion of its on-site refuelling station, Martin Cole reports on Reading Buses’ transformation into a gas bus operator while Andy Izatt looks at the �leet of CNG-fuelled ADL Enviro300SG-bodied Scanias purchased and takes one for a test drive

R

eading Buses has a history of trying new ideas and technologies, showing a desire to develop a greener environmental presence while staying �irmly onside with its customers and stakeholders. Combine this with its innovative and forward-thinking Chief Executive Of�icer James Freeman, who also has a reputation for progressive thinking and you end up with a formidable entity which breeds success and respect throughout the industry.

Having invested in 31 Alexander Dennis (ADL) Enviro400H hybrids, Reading quickly concluded the technology was a stage along the road to greener public transport. It does work and offers a lower carbon footprint, but as James pointed out, the capital cost is not reducing to a level which makes it commercially sustainable.

“The extra £120,000 for a double decker is just not a viable cost,” he said. “Without continued grant support covering the additional cost of purchase you cannot justify their operation.

They do perform their job very well and the drivers love them, but they are subject to so many variables which affect consistent fuel economy. The routes themselves either do or do not suit hybrids. The number of stops, local topography, traf�ic density and even different drivers all have a signi�icant bearing on their ef�iciency.”

After being closely involved with gas bus experimentation in the mid 90s using converted Cummins engines, which returned disappointing

Three of the 11 Greenwave gas buses for the Green Park contract

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results, James admitted, he wasn’t too keen at looking at the technology again. However, presented with a strong �inancial case in favour of using CNG/Biogas in bespoke engines with the additional bene�its of vastly reduced emissions, he was persuaded to look again.

“It was really all down to the good work of Tony Grif�iths, who was with MAN at the time and is now with The Gas Bus Alliance,” said James. “He put forward a very strong case and organised a visit to Augsburg (Germany) where the operator has its whole �leet fuelled by gas.

Their engineer swore by their reliability and cheaper running costs so went a long way to convincing us it was worth consideration. We had already taken the MAN demonstrator and had it for seven weeks. We were extremely impressed by the whole package.

“All this coincided with us looking into gaining the Green Park contract (from Reading Borough Council) and we felt offering something as innovative and low emission as gas buses would act in our favour. We did win the contract. To justify the infrastructure investment we needed 20 vehicles so we have split that between the Greenwave (11 Green Park buses), Scarlet 9 (six buses) and Bronze 11 (two buses) services. The 20th bus is a generic spare.”

James pointed out that Reading’s generic spares – around 12% of the �leet – are increasingly utilised for ‘queue busting’.

Successful service delivery is being rewarded by year-on-year passenger growth just short of 9%

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Six of the Scania ADL gas buses are red for Scarlet 9 serving Shinfield Park. David Bell although the last few weeks are following an 18 day closure of the Oxford Road, a key artery in and out of town. Road closures, usually occurring without notice, are a constant challenge.

Commercial investment

What makes Reading Buses’ initiative stand out is that it wanted to make the ‘green’ investment on a commercial basis. “We were faced with a very dif�icult choice because the MAN had been so good, but Scania announced its own CNG

version of the ADL Enviro300 in time for us to meet our obligations so we looked closely at their offer,” said James. “What really swung the deal was our already strong reliance on Scania products and the fact there were so few different parts used in the CNG version – around 40.

“The MAN would have meant taking a nonstandard product into our �leet and it came with a Caetano body – and while we couldn’t fault it, a decision to buy would have given us no parts compatibility with our existing

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ENVIRONMENT › READING GAS BUSES ADL bodied vehicles. So we ended up ordering the Scania ADL package and we currently have another 14 on order for February next year. These will also be the Euro 5 versions we currently operate.”

The installation of on-site facilities to cater for CNG buses has taken time and money – an estimated £800,000 in infrastructure costs.

Delays in completing the work has meant much longer than predicted filling by road tanker – which is workable, but not ideal. The pressure in the tanker has to be considerably higher than that in the tanks on the bus in order to transfer the fuel. As fuel is dispensed it begins to lose pressure and eventually it reaches a point where it balances out with the level of on-board fuel.

That leads to part full buses which rather than top up their own tanks could end up refilling the tanker instead!

When CBW visited Reading in mid-November the infrastructure works were nearing completion. Offsite, the connection of a 315mm gas main was almost ready. The pipe had been buried in the road running behind the Great Knollys Street depot. It just required connecting to the town domestic main at one end and to the inlet valve and meter system installed in the gas compression and storage site at the other.

The incoming gas at a pressure of 1.75-2.0 bar will be fed directly to a containerised three-stage water-cooled, six cylinder compressor through a gas dryer to remove any moisture from the incoming supply. The site has its own electricity substation to drive the compressor. It houses an 800kVA transformer delivering a low voltage capacity of 310kVA with 250A output to feed the 90kW motors. The compressor alone cost £325,000.

Compressed gas at 250 bar will be fed directly into the banks of CNG cylinders, which provide storage for the equivalent of 10,000 litres (water equivalent) or 1,000kg of gas. The compressor will run during the fuelling window (as buses return from service) and will have an output of 210kg per hour. This ensures all 20 vehicles can fast fill as they arrive back at the depot and it will take usually around three minutes per vehicle – much the same as filling with conventional

A brown-based livery is carried by the two gas buses dedicated to the Bronze 11 route David Bell diesel.

Gas from the storage tanks is fed via stainless steel pipes which run, knee height, along the perimeter of the site between the compression/ storage plant and the three fuelling islands.

The piping is protected by an Armco barrier.

Adjacent to the islands the pipework is directed upwards and carried across the yard on a gantry giving more than sufficient clearance for the company’s double-deckers to pass safely underneath. One fuel dispenser has been placed on each of the islands and are located at the farthest end from the entry to the area.

Because the fill point on the buses is on the rear offside corner, it means they’re positioned well forward of any diesel buses returning and fuelling at the same time. Consequently they won’t get in the way by causing hold ups in the queue. There are gas censors above each fill point and ‘explosion proof’ lighting, but further

Scania K270UB ADL Enviro300SG gas bus: A developing opportunity

Reading isn’t the only customer for the ADL Scania gas bus combination. Stagecoach placed an order for 17 earlier this year for operation in Sunderland. They’re part funded by the Green Bus Fund. A company spokesman has told the Sunderland Echo in recent days that another 40 buses have been ordered.

Scania UK Sales Director Bus, Coach & Engines, Tony Tomsett echoed the points James made about the potential of supplying other users once a gas station is installed. Waste disposal is a key issue for many towns and cities so the case for building a local anaerobic digester that can turn it into a commercial fuel is a compelling one – a scenario already well established among gas bus operators in Sweden. Scania’s first bespoke gas engine was

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built in 1940 and in excess of 3,800 have been supplied to customers globally since.

While it’s widely rumoured that Scania is investigating the feasibility of a gas-fuelled double-decker, Tony wouldn’t be drawn, but he sees considerable potential for developing the gas bus market in the UK. A Scania ADL demonstrator has been visiting operators for a month at a time since the spring and has been very well received. Scania is offering a combined vehicle and fuelling infrastructure package.

“It’s such an exciting project to be involved in,” said Tony. “Gas is a more efficient way of being green without such a significant step change in technology. Because it’s commercially viable, you’re not relying on grants.”

precautions weren’t necessary because of the open nature of the site.

Additional requirements for the safe maintenance of the vehicles include a set of mobile platforms which link around a bus.

Costing £10,000, they were designed in-house

by Chief Engineer Keith Ward and built by a local fabricator. Keith retires from the frontline role of Chief Engineer at the beginning of December, but will remain involved full time as Consulting Engineer. His successor is John Bickerton. The platforms allow regular periodic inspection of the roof-mounted gas tanks without the use of ladders and are compliant with current Health & Safety regulations.

Keith also designed a special canopy, referred to by James as the ‘tin hat’, covering the three inspection pits which have been designated specifically for gas bus maintenance. The canopy was necessary to ensure safe working in an area where any escaping gas, which is lighter than air, would accumulate. As the depot roof space above the vehicles also houses an overhead heating system and electric lighting there is a potential for explosion and a means to provide absolute safety had to be compliant under explosive regulations.

Keith’s £30,000 canopy, which was built in the company’s workshops at Reading over three months, effectively funnels any escaped gas towards a central flue vent. In the flue is a sensor which can detect gas down to a 1% concentration in air. If it detects any it automatically sounds an alarm and starts the extraction fan in the flue.

Staff can then investigate the source of any leak.

Lighting now installed in the area has certified shrouding and is also compliant under legislation covering explosives.

Despite six months of operation Reading Buses is still not in a position to give wholly accurate figures on running costs. James said: “The issues we’ve had over the prolonged installation of our filling plant mean we are subject to pressure fluctuations which make www.coachandbusweek.com

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Three dedicated pits in the workshop are protected by Chief Engineer Keith Ward’s ‘tin hat’

Compartment ‘packaging’ is less of a premium with a gas engine, making buses easier to work on

Sensors have been installed above the refuelling bays and are designed to detect any gas leakage

Gas refuelling islands ae at each of the three refuelling lanes at Great Knollys Street depot

As well as a dewatering facility (centre), the fans Storage cylinders are used to ensure that the piped used to cool the compressed gas can be seen (left) gas will remain at the correct compression

it very difficult to get accurate fuelling figures.

I am confident we are saving around 15% on our fuel costs but the exact figure will not be available for a while. The payback on the installation will be inside five years.

“With the 14 additional buses on order it means we will need to add another compressor to ensure we can maintain the fast fill facility for all 34. This additional investment has also won support from the Department for Transport whose Green Bus Fund has contributed to the cost of the second batch of 14 buses currently in build.

“The gas buses’ introduction has also caused a great deal of interest and we’ve had good exposure from the publicity. It works well with the Council because it’s helping address the air quality issues. We have a strong relationship with them and with the public.

Reducing emissions and improving air quality is something we want to do anyway – without any external pressure. So the move to gas has also aided the Council in meeting its air quality objectives and reduced pressure on it too.”

Although the gas supplied to Reading Buses is sourced directly from the mains the purchase contract with the Gas Bus Alliance is with a renewable energy supplier. This means each kilogramme of gas used is matched by an equivalent amount of bio-methane produced by an anaerobic digester and injected into the national gas grid. That makes fuelling the buses carbon neutral, but means the cost is slightly greater than it might be otherwise.

James explained he was also keen to develop other outlets for the ‘green’ fuel as there was an opportunity to supply other users with retailed fuel. He said: “One thing which really impressed

Reliable operation

“Operationally, these buses have been very good,” James continued. “We’ve had virtually no issues with them at all. One had something wrong with a seat, which was promptly fixed, while another required some tappet adjustments. Other than that they have worked straight out of the box – which is very rare. We’ve certainly found them much more dependable than hybrids – which have been fraught with a variety of issues. Hybrids need a lot of TLC and are not easy to manage. www.coachandbusweek.com

024_029_CBW1115_Reading Bus.indd 27

us during our visit to Augsburg was the amount of business the company was doing supplying other users. There was a constant stream of vehicles throughout the day.

“With the Council now being extremely keen on investigating CNG fuelling for its municipal vehicles, there will be a source of carbon neutral fuel available close to hand. It is an option we can provide for a number of other local businesses or private users. For our own purposes the filling station stands idle most of the day. It would make sense to utilise its potential.

“I’m convinced there is huge potential for gas as a vehicle fuel and ideally I’d like someone to come up with a gas double-decker. It probably wouldn’t suit everyone but for us it would be ideal. Our key interest in the downstairs layout lies in having the longest practical wheelbase to ensure the maximum low-floor area for those who have buggies or wheelchairs. Everyone else always goes upstairs anyway, so I feel the area behind the rear wheels and ahead of the front wheels could potentially be used as gas storage space. It is something we would seriously consider.” n

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 27 25/11/2013 18:40

ENVIRONMENT › READING GAS BUSES

Scania K270UB ADL Enviro300SG gas bus:

Reading Buses’ vehicles in detail

Keith Ward and James Freeman are both committed to the successful operation of gas buses. Keith becomes Consulting Engineer from the start of December

W

hen its order for 14 additional ADL Scania gas buses is fulfilled early next year around half the Reading Buses fleet will be ‘green’ – a combination of hybrid or CNG vehicles. All its full size single-deckers will be gas fuelled. With a high proportion of Scania and ADL product already in the fleet, the Scania ADL gas bus combination was the right fit.

What’s more, they have a high percentage of British-build.

ADL builds the Enviro300SG body with a strengthened roof and GRP fairing around the gas tanks at its Falkirk factory, but as the right-hand drive Scania K270UB4x2LB is a special build, final assembly for Scania is by LPD (Leyland Product Developments) at Preston. LPD worked with Scania on the right-hand drive OmniCity, the first of which entered service with Nottingham City Transport more than a decade ago.

With no requirement for a diesel particulate filter, AdBlue system or Exhaust Gas Recirculation (EGR), the engine compartment of the K270UB4x2LB is less tightly engineered than a diesel equivalent. The five-cylinder, 9.3-litre, spark ignition engine is mounted longitudinally and is slightly inclined. The eight roof storage tanks have a combined capacity of 1,200 litres giving the bus a range of about 300 miles. The gas fill point is at the rear offside, battery access and screen washer filler at the front offside. Engine air filter and radiator access is at the rear on the nearside. The radiator swings out for cleaning.

The Enviro300SG has a jig-built extruded aluminium body structure. Exterior panels are made from aluminium sheets butt-jointed and bonded to the frame. Side skirt panels are 28 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013

024_029_CBW1115_Reading Bus.indd 28

designed to be easily detachable for ease of replacement. Low level front and rear moulded panels are in three sections allowing for quick removal or replacement.

Both bonded and gasket glazed side windows are available. Reading’s vehicles have bonded single glazing with five hoppers each side.

As well as the 1,330mm-wide entrance and 615mm offside emergency exit, the rear window is an emergency exit as are two windows each side. Kneeling suspension reduces the passenger entry height from 342mm to 250mm.

As well as wood effect flooring, Reading has specified Lazzerini Practico seats covered in its standard moquette, but with leather inserts – part of an interior and exterior look heavily influenced by Ray Stenning of Best Impressions.

The result is a distinctive and attractive saloon in which to travel.

Seating is for 40 with space for 28 standees, reducing by two for a wheelchair passenger.

Four of the eight forward-facing seats in the low-floor area are priority seats with armrests.

A mother and child seat is over the nearside wheel arch, a single seat on the offside. The wheelchair position is on the nearside where there are no seats. Five tip-ups on the offside create space for pushchairs minimising the likelihood of any potential conflict for space.

Up to five pushchairs can be accommodated or three with a wheelchair.

Another Reading feature is two additional LED ceiling lights illuminating the entrance area. Ticketer ticketing and card readers are used, James describing the equipment as very intuitive. Ticketer has a telematics capability although Reading Buses is a partner with

Reading Borough Council and Wokingham District Council in a full AVL (Automatic Vehicle Location) system. The introduction of ‘wave and pay’ (contactless card payment) is planned for next year.

A standard Scania dashboard has ADL body switches on the right for lighting, ventilation and heating. It’s also where the control is for lowering front nearside suspension. Under the signalling window are opening and closing buttons for the entrance door – rather confusingly red to open, green to close, controls for the ZF EcoLife automatic gearbox, parking brake and prominent red buttons that are radio and assault alarms.

Overhead in the cab is a monitor for the six-camera Synectics CCTV system, controls for the Hanover LED destination displays, loudspeaker and radio link with Reading Buses’ control centre. The fire extinguisher is placed sensibly behind the KAB driver’s seat. It’s a very comfortable seat and a Reading Buses standard.

There’s space for a bag between the seat and the cab door and there is a hook for a coat by the signalling window which has its own pull-down blind.

Good size bus-style side mirrors, a singlepiece windscreen and relatively little ‘A’ pillar intrusion make for excellent all round viability.

Adjusting the driver’s seat and steering wheel was quick and easy. This is a cab that delivers an excellent working environment. One nice touch is that the saloon wood effect flooring, which isn’t the easiest to clean, extends to the cab as well. After pressing the isolation switch the bus started on two turns of a key ignition, a pause after the first necessary to allow the vehicle’s systems to power up. www.coachandbusweek.com

25/11/2013 18:40

Scania K270UB ADL Enviro300SG gas bus: Test driving a Reading vehicle Driving a Scania is always something to look forward to and this vehicle was no exception.

Under James Freeman’s guidance from Reading Buses’ Great Knollys Street depot we made our way through the town centre making use of the bus priority measures that help give public transport an edge. The bus only lane at The Forbury is welcome, but a parked lorry made for a tight left-hand turn by the Market Place bus stops.

Then it was left onto the Kings Road and on to the route of one of Reading’s best known services, the 17, once home to trolleybuses and now operated by Enviro400H diesel-electric hybrids. We joined the A329 Kings Road, a main artery in and out of the town centre and traffic was heavy. The bus lane on this section of road was welcome, but not always wide enough to accommodate a bus.

At the junction with London Road we joined the Wokingham Road continuing along the alignment of the 17. There’s plenty of traffic calming along this section, but a notable local landmark was a pub with a banner flagging up route 17 – there’s respect for you. Service 17 terminates at the borough boundary. Just beyond it, and now in Wokingham, we turned right on to the B3350 Wilderness Road.

After the busy A329 traffic here was light as we headed south west, but the B3350 is punctuated by mini roundabouts. After joining the A327 Shinfield Road for a short distance south, we branched off west on Whitley Wood and then Hartland Roads. Our objective, the Madejski Stadium could be seen in the distance.

At the T-junction with the B3031 Basingstoke Road we turned south again, then on to Imperial Way before navigating a roundabout on the busy A33 dual carriageway to make the final approach to our objective. Having made use of the afternoon autumnal sunshine to take photographs, we rejoined the A33 dual carriageway, peppered as it is by traffic lights to make our way back to Great Knollys Street.

The Scania ADL gas bus is a heavy-duty city bus over 12-metres long with a wheelbase of 6.1m, but it manoeuvred with a precision and ease that belied its size – more like a midibus. The steering lock is 52 degrees, while the bus has a kerb radius 9,312mm and swept turning circle 11,157mm.

www.coachandbusweek.com

024_029_CBW1115_Reading Bus.indd 29

Greenwave runs between central Reading and Green Park, Madejski Park and Ride, Reading International Business Park and Kennet Island.

An attractive spacious interior seating 40 reflects the input of Ray Stenning and Best Impressions There was no shortage of power available when it mattered.

Acceleration was immediate and plentiful although gear changes were noticeable. While the engine delivered a very distinctive note, it was neither unpleasant nor overly intrusive and the bus was noticeably vibration free. Ride quality over a variety of road surfaces was excellent and there were few rattles.

Braking combined with integrated retarder was delivered immediately and smoothly. There is no sequence to be followed opening and closing the passenger door, which will please some although it would have been nice if the door and suspension controls were closer together. James says Reading’s drivers like the gas buses and it’s easy to see why.

This was a bus that drove like a

A standard Scania dashboard means there are no surprises for drivers. Controls are well laid out and fall easily to hand

responsive diesel, which sounds almost like a negative, but is anything but. It’s a driver’s bus.

Combined with all the other benefits – proven engineering and expected operational savings of around 30% once the refuelling station is functioning – there is a powerful case for gas. Its green technology that’s commercially viable and it’s available now.

“There have been no unexpected pitfalls,” said James. “It’s a tidy operation and it’s doing everything I want it to do.”

Scania K270UB ADL Enviro300SG gas bus: Specification details Length: 12.265m Wheelbase: 6.1m Width: 2.526m Height: 3.515m Engine: Scania OG9 GO4 BO2 nine-litre, six-cylinder

Power: 270bhp Torque: 1,100Nm @ 1,400rpm Gearbox: ZF EcoLife 6HP1200B Retarder: ZF Intarder (hydraulic: integral with gearbox) Fuel tank: Roof-mounted eight 150-litre cylinders 1,200-litre capacity (213kgs) Steering: Hydraulic assisted ZF8090 Brakes: Air operated disc. Dual circuit EBS Suspension: Air front and rear with anti-roll bar Axle front: Scania AMA780 beam Axle rear: Scania ADA1300 Tyres: Continental HSR 275/70 R22.5 GVW: 19,100kg ULW: 12,030kg Warranty: Two-year body, twoyear chassis and three years on driveline

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 29 25/11/2013 18:40

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REVIEWS › BOOKS & MODELS

BBP collection update Titles reviewed are priced from £16.25 to £18.75 and cover Wales, London, England’s smaller groups and Stagecoach British Bus Publishing (BBP) was established in the early 1990s to continue the Bus Handbook series of guides established by Capital Transport.

With the growth of the internet information is now available online in away that would have been inconceivable 20 years ago, and that includes operator fleetlists. Much of that information is free, so the continuing success of the BBP series of books underlines that there is always a market for well presented, accurate material.

As the publisher points out, the books are a quality product aimed at the bus and coach industry as well as transport enthusiasts. Accurate information at the time of publication is something in which it prides itself. That combined with excellent photographs make these publications

A right Royal Tiger

are the vehicles in the Centrebus, EYMS Group, National Express Group, Le Group RATP, Rotala, Transdev, Wellglade and YourBus fleets. Diverse businesses, this publication provides a valuable overview of what and where they operate.

The 2013 Stagecoach Bus Handbook was published in February. As well as detailing the firm’s UK fleets, there is a useful history of this fascinating company that builds a picture of just how it grew from very humble beginnings.

valued points of reference.

Published in August, the sixth edition of the Welsh Bus Handbook includes fleetlists for 82 operators ranging from one of the largest family-owned businesses in the country, Edwards Coaches of Llantwit Fardre and municipals Cardiff Bus and Newport to Pwllheli-based Caelloi with 10 vehicles and Citysightseeing, Cardiff with seven. John’s Coaches of Blaenau Ffestiniog has just five.

The sixth edition of the London Bus Handbook lists 17 operators. As well as all the Transport for London route contractors, Arriva – The Original Tour and the Big Bus Company are included, as is London Dial-a-Ride and Tramlink. This book was published in September.

The fourth edition of the English Bus Handbook Smaller Operators was also published in September. Outlined

BBP is based at 16 St Margaret’s Drive, Telford, TF1 3PH. Further details about the firm and its publications are available from its website at www. britishbuspublishing.co.uk where it’s also possible to place book orders

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Oxford Diecast has just released its Leyland Royal Tiger PSU1/15 coach model in Ribble livery in 1/76 scale.

This fills a gap in the 4mm or ‘00’ scale model bus market, depicting one of the 145 early 1950s Leylandbodied C41C vehicles used on its express routes, in this case the X16 to Blackpool. Leyland’s coach body, with its severe but attractive lines and ‘lantern’ front screen, was the last new design to come out of the company’s Faringdon bodyworks.

Not many of these Leyland coach bodies were built, mainly going to BET company’s, like Ribble, Southdown, Trent and Hebble, plus W Alexander in Scotland, where they lasted well in frontline service. As an early heavyweight underfloor-engined www.coachandbusweek.com

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chassis, the Royal Tiger set the scene, and became the export Worldmaster, but was superceded by the lighter Tiger Cub in the home market.

The model captures the look of the vehicle very well, with all the relevant details, badges, trim, interior, as well as the overall shape. There are no gimmicks, like opening doors, to spoil the lines. Overall, this is an excellent model, especially at the recommended price of £14.95 or less.

Other liveries are on the way, but the first version of the Royal Tiger was in Southdown colours and quickly sold out, so if you want this one, don’t delay. The first 1/76 scale bus model from Oxford was the wartime Bedford OWB and a Weymann Fanfare coach is also promised in a month or two.

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NEWS › LEGAL

No action against First Scotland East after wheel loss Public Inquiry �inds there is no evidence of any failure in the maintenance systems in place Following on from a wheel loss incident on March 12, 2013 involving a vehicle operated

by First Scotland East, and on consideration of the associated report dated July 16, 2013 prepared by a Vehicle Examiner of VOSA, the Traf�ic Commissioner (TC) called the company to Public Inquiry (PI) on November 8, 2013.

The Company was put on notice that the TC was concerned about the wheel loss incident, the circumstances of which were fully set out in the Vehicle Examiner’s report, the roadworthiness prohibition notices issued to vehicles operated by it in the last �ive years and, in particular, whether the company had failed to comply with the undertaking given at the time of application for the O-licence.

The Public Inquiry

In attendance for First was Neil Barker (Regional MD for Scotland), Paul Thomas (MD), John Gorman (Operations Director), Victor Duddy (Quality & Environmental Standards Manager), Ms Fleming (PR Manager) and Danny Pointon (Partner in Burgoynes, Consulting Scientists and Engineers, Glasgow).

The Company was represented by Peter Woodhouse, solicitor, Bath.

In attendance for VOSA was the author of the Vehicle Examiner’s report, William Allan.

Findings in fact

The following facts were established:● The nominated Transport Manager for First Scotland East is Mr Thomas. ● On March 12, 2013, driver Cummings was assigned to vehicle registration number SN55 HFB, a double deck Volvo B7TL, which was operating out of the company’s premises at Livingston.

The vehicle, �irst registered in

September 2005, had two axles – the rear �itted with twin wheels on each of the nearside and offside of the vehicle, with the nuts securing them to their respective hubs �itted with Ric Clips. Prior to the commencement of his driving duties at 0447hrs, he checked the vehicle, including the wheel nuts, and found nothing wrong, nor did not notice anything wrong while driving it. ● At the end of driver Cumming’s shift he handed the vehicle over to driver Garner. On the conclusion of his driving duties at 1140hrs, he informed the next driver, namely driver Kowalski, that there was a wheel shudder. The vehicle continued in service and was taken to Bathgate and back after which control took it out of service for its brakes and suspension to be checked at the workshop. ● The suspension and brakes were checked. No faults were found with the front suspension.

The vehicle passed a roller brake test. It was driven in the yard.

It was then signed off as �it for service. ● The vehicle was returned to service at 1430hrs with driver Farrell who detected no faults with it during his shift prior to handing the vehicle over to driver Johnston at 1731hrs.

The incident

At approximately 2000hrs, as driver Johnston negotiated the vehicle round the left hand bend from Princes Street onto Lothian Road, Edinburgh, he was not aware of anything untoward with it. Approximately 200-300 yards along Lothian Road, he thought the suspension at the rear of the vehicle had dropped. He stopped the vehicle. In the nearside mirror he observed the rear outer wheel topple over.

Driver Johnston exited the vehicle. He moved the detached wheel from the nearside lane and placed it to the rear of the vehicle.

At no time did he touch the wheel

32 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013 032_035_CBW1115_Legal News.indd 32

nuts which were lying on the road.

At the time of the wheel detachment there were two passengers on the vehicle. No one was injured. No damage was caused to any property.

Approximately 10 to 15 minutes after the incident the police attended. They issued an immediate road worthiness prohibition (PG9) to the vehicle which was later varied to allow the vehicle to be recovered to its depot.

The police located the 10 wheel nuts approximately two bus lengths away from the rear of the vehicle. They had been found in pairs within the clips.

From First, the General Manager of Livingston Depot, Neil McNaught, attended at the place of the wheel detachment and was joined a short time later by Acting Engineering Manager Michael Brodie.

On the return of the vehicle to the Livingston Depot, by suspended tow, it was placed over an inspection pit and quarantined for investigation.

The following day (March 13,

Key Points

■ The incident occurred on March 12, 2013, on a Volvo B7TL ■ A driver reported a wheel shudder to the next driver, who took the vehicle out of service at the end of his shift ■ No faults were found by the maintenance team and no further faults detected until the incident ■ All 10 nuts appeared to come off the wheel simultaneously ■ Three separate inspections after the incident revealed no primary cause for the wheel detaching ■ While more comprehensive checks could have been carried out on the vehicle, it was agreed this statement was made with the benefit of hindsight, leading to no action being taken

2013) the Company’s Engineering and Quality Auditor, Mr Chris Kidd, and outside Consulting Engineer, Mr Pointon, carried out an inspection of the vehicle and investigation into the circumstances of the incident.

Mr Kidd’s investigation revealed: the rear nearside wheels were last removed on March 5, 2013 when the vehicle’s odometer reading was 683,461kms to facilitate the replacement of the nearside air bag top plate; ● subsequent to the wheels being re�itted the wheel nuts were torqued and retorqued; ● the vehicle had travelled 245kms before the wheel nuts were retorqued for the third and �inal time on March 6; ● the torque wrenches were correctly calibrated; ● the nuts had minimal, if any, damage to their threads; ● one nut had damage to its lower �langed area; ● all 10 wheel studs showed excessive wear and damage as did the stud holes on the wheels which damage for both items is consistent with the wheels moving on the hub; www.coachandbusweek.com

25/11/2013 17:42

The incident saw all 10 of the nuts on the wheel come off simultaneously, an event which the VOSA examiner said he had never seen l both the wheel rim mating surfaces were reasonably clean with signs of polishing where they had been rubbing together; l there were no rusting marks on the surfaces of the outer wheel; l the clips had failed to prevent the nuts rotating; and l no primary cause for the loosening of the wheel nuts was identified.

Mr Pointon’s findings were very much in accordance with those of Mr Kidd. He noted: l the 10 wheel nuts were all in a similar condition with signs of minor surface corrosion – nothing excessive; l one nut was damaged at one end of its thread – possibly the last nut to be pulled off its stud; l minor polishing on the nut edges and the inner face of the clip where the two surfaces had rubbed against each other as the nuts had rotated inside the clips; l the studs were all worn in a similar pattern with gross flattening of the majority of the threads particularly in the “braking” direction – most studs had the last two or three threads www.coachandbusweek.com

032_035_CBW1115_Legal News.indd 33

largely intact suggesting they quickly wound off at the end of the failure process; l the nuts could be rotated within the clips using relatively small forces/torques; and l the start of the failure process could have occurred after the vehicle had been checked and returned to service.

The company afforded Mr Allan full access and co-operation to enable him to carry out his own inspection of the vehicle and a full maintenance investigation which he undertook on March 13, 2013.

The findings of Mr Allan, following on from his inspection of the vehicle, very much mirror the findings of Mr Kidd and Mr Pointon. He too was unable to identify any specific explanation for the detachment of the wheel.

During his maintenance investigation Mr Allan inspected the vehicle – he did not inspect any other vehicles. He checked the systems that the company has in place and found all the systems to be satisfactory and that there were good systems and procedures in place to refit and record wheel

removal and refitment. These procedures had been followed in this case. He did not identify any shortcomings in any of the systems and had no recommendations where improvement(s) could otherwise be made.

Since November 7, 2011, a total of 12 prohibition notices had been issued to vehicles operated by First Scotland East (three immediate and nine delayed), including the prohibition notice issued on March 12, 2013. The circumstances giving rise to the issue of the other 11 prohibition notices, none of which were “S” endorsed (otherwise indicating a significant failure in the maintenance system), could have occurred between safety inspections. No prohibition notices have been issued since the date of the wheel loss incident.

Discussion, considerations and reasons for decision

The Deputy Traffic Commisssioner (DTC) Richard McFarlane indicated he was content to focus on the principal issue of the wheel detachment incident and any

other maintenance related issues associated with it, making it clear the Transport Manager was at liberty to lead whatever evidence he deemed appropriate to ensure that he was fully discharging his duty to the company as its representative at the public inquiry.

It was clear neither the company, Mr Pointon nor Mr Allan were able to identify the cause of the wheel detachment. Mr Woodhouse was in a position to accept Mr Allan’s report, the content of which was not controversial.

Since there had to be a reason or explanation for the detachment, the DTC said he would be entitled to treat such an event as prima facie evidence of a failure in the maintenance systems of the company.

Mr Allan had no concerns what so ever about the maintenance systems which First has in place to ensure compliance. He was entirely satisfied that all maintenance procedures have been followed and of equal importance they have been fully recorded and/or documented.

He did, however, observe that notwithstanding the procedures having been adhered to “the inescapable fact is that the wheels became insecure due to the lack of clamping force.”

Another factor in the case was the 10 nuts used to clamp the wheels to the hub were fitted with the Clips. These clips are fitted over adjacent wheel nuts. 5 such clips are required on a 10 stud hub. They are fitted over the nuts and locked by hand or with a pair of pliers. Their purpose is to stop nut rotation while the vehicle is in service and damp out any vibration frequency in the nut/stud and any attempted loosening rotation of the wheel nuts should increase the locking action of the clips. Five such clips were fitted to the 10 studs on the hub in question.

The unique feature in this case is that all 10 wheel nuts appeared to have simultaneously detach from their studs and were found lying on the road in pairs retained within the clips. In all his 28 years service as a vehicle examiner, Mr Allan said he had never come across such a situation.

On the face of it, it appeared that the clips had failed to prevent the nuts rotating. There was evidence that it was possible to rotate the nuts with not a great deal of force within the clips.

On one view, the DTC said the company should

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 33

25/11/2013 17:43

NEWS › LEGAL

I do not accept that wheels become detached without a cause, but on some occasions it is not possible to identify with any degree of certainty what that cause is…

It is never going to be possible to reduce to nil the incidences of wheel losses occurring...

be applauded for having the clips fitted in the first place. The experts agree that such clips have a use in trying to enhance wheel security. It is however also clear, and recognised by the company, that they should not be relied on in isolation. Mr Allan stated in his report “While these devices can compliment a good maintenance system they do not indicate or eradicate the problems of settlement. They should only be used to compliment a full maintenance programme and never replace it.” The DTC said in fairness to the company he did not think that they relied on the clips to safeguard wheel security.

With such clips in a position it would be difficult to ascertain whether there was any problem with any individual nut with a visual inspection and indeed it would be difficult for a driver to check whether there was a problem with any nut as he or she would not be able to turn the nut when a clip is fitted.

In his report Mr Allan also stated “While it is difficult to put a timescale on the nuts becoming loose the operator missed several opportunities to identify this defect.” Mr Woodhouse discussed these ‘lost opportunities’ with Mr Allan.

The first opportunity was driver Garner informing control that there was a grinding noise when braking. Control had not informed engineering of this.

The vehicle was allowed to be driven to Bathgate and back by another driver before it went to the workshop. The second driver also reported loose suspension or brake. Mr Allan believed that the grinding noise should have been investigated further when reported by the driver. It was a

There are many products on the market to prevent wheel loss 34 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013 032_035_CBW1115_Legal News.indd 34

specific noise for the workshop staff to investigate - while they had identified a brake issue he did not consider that was a satisfactory conclusion in respect of the incident (the grinding noise) that had been reported. Mr Woodhouse pointed out that the driver defect card referred to “front suspension loose or brake.” Mr Allan agreed but was of the view that the comment should have been looked at in more at detail. He accepted that the source of such a noise is notoriously difficult to locate. The driver thought that the noise was at the front of the vehicle but that may or may not have been the case.

Mr Woodhouse also pointed out that after the investigation and checking of the brakes, the noise was no longer present. Mr Allan agreed with Mr Woodhouse that if there had been a problem with the wheels in question it could possibly have been detected when the vehicle was on the roller brake tester – Mr Allan was aware that a brake test had been undertaken and the vehicle had passed that test. In light of that answer, Mr Woodhouse was at a loss to understand how this could have been a “lost opportunity.”

of the vehicle and that the source of such noises can be difficult to spot. Mr Allan agreed that once the brakes and suspension at the front of Vehicle had been investigated there were no further reports of noises. He did, however, qualify his position by suggesting that the clips may have given a false security to the staff.

The statement of driver Kowalski refers to driver Garner informing him that when he had been applying the brake there was a wheel shudder (he does not identify which wheel), which did not appear to have been picked up.

The main focus had been on the grinding noise. Driver Kowlaski took the vehicle to the workshop where it was examined, brake tested, driven in the yard and then returned to service at 1430hrs.

Thereafter it continued in service and was driven by two more drivers until the wheel detachment which occurred at about 2000hrs.

From the time it returned to service none of the drivers report any problems with any aspect of the vehicle.

It could not be determined when the problem with the nearside rear wheels started. Systems were in

In all his 28 years service as a vehicle examiner, Mr Allan said he had never come across such a situation The second such opportunity was against the background that two drivers had reported a fault and the workshop could find no faults. He considered that it would have been good practice to give the vehicle a road test, not just a short test drive in the yard, so the mechanics could have the same experience of driving the vehicle as the drivers. Mr Allan was clear that if the vehicle had been road tested the mechanic would have had to satisfy himself about its road worthiness. Mr Woodhouse suggested that a road test would not have established anything more than the test in the yard. Mr Allan replied “possibly.”

Mr Allan’s main concern was that drivers had reported a grinding noise and brake problems and he was worried that nothing had been found. He did, however, agree with Mr Woodhouse that on the information available to the workshop staff there was nothing to direct their attention to the rear

place to deal with situations where drivers have concerns regarding the safe operation of their vehicles.

In this case the vehicle was taken out of service, it was checked over, it was tested on a roller brake and given a short test drive in the yard.

Mr Allan believed it should be road tested but the vehicle thereafter continued in service for some five and a half hours, with no concerns being identified by either of the drivers who had collectively driven it for that period of time.

Mr Allan believed that prior to the vehicle being returned to service there should have been a more thorough examination and that the nuts on all wheels should have been checked and retorqued, but readily accepted that he expressed the view with the benefit of hindsight. However, the fact that all 10 wheel nuts left their respective wheel studs in pairs in the clips at the same time suggests that something catastrophic occurred very quickly, but occurred www.coachandbusweek.com

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First Scotland East was found to have adequate procedures in place. A more thorough examination of the vehicle could have been made because the wheels at some point failed to be properly mated to the hub. In these circumstances and, on the balance of probabilities, the DTC determined that the root cause of these wheels becoming insecure occurred sometime after the vehicle was returned to service.

The DTC was satisfied First had proper and robust systems in place to ensure its vehicles were kept in a serviceable condition.

Mr Thomas advised that company procedures had not been properly followed with regard to the issue of the prohibition notice to the vehicle by the police – it had not been documented as it should have on the company records.

As a consequence of this, after the vehicle was repaired, it was returned to service on March 22, 2013 without having the prohibition cleared. The matter was investigated; disciplinary procedures were implemented culminating in the termination of the employment of the person responsible for ensuring the information was documented in the company records. This is something which the company picked up and volunteered to VOSA, meaning there was quality control in place to ensure the systems and procedures were being adhered to and a willingness to be open and candid with VOSA and in turn the TC. At a previous PI called after a separate wheel loss incident on December 7, 2004, the TC www.coachandbusweek.com

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Joan Aitken said: “I am always concerned about wheel loss incidents. I give credit to these operators for fulfilling their obligation to advise VOSA of the incidents…I have taken careful note of Mr Brown’s conclusions as presented by Mr Paterson and I am satisfied that I do not need to make an adverse finding against the operator in respect of that incident

warnings have been acted on and continue to be acted on.

“The core issue in this case is the wheel detachment. I deal with each case on its own merits.

The circumstances of the wheel detachment in this case are unusual if not unique.

“While Mr Allan is absolutely correct when he states that the wheel detachment in itself

though it underscored the need for training and audit of workshop staff competence.” She decided that case could be concluded with a warning.

is evidence of a failure in the system he is, however, unable to specifically identify the cause of the detachment.

“He is supported in this by Mr Pointon where he states: “I do not accept that wheels become detached without a cause, but on some occasions it is not possible to identify with any degree of certainty what that cause is… It is never going to be possible to reduce to nil the incidences of wheel losses occurring but due to this continuing drive for improvement, it is clear that wheel loss happens much less frequently than in the past.” I am in doubt this statement is a fair assessment of the whole circumstances of this case.

“Having carefully considered all of the evidence, even on the balance of probabilities, I

There should have been a more thorough examination and the nuts on all wheels should have been checked

The Deputy Traffic Commissioner’s decision

In his written decision, Deputy Traffic Commissioner Richard McFarlane said: “Having carefully considered the issues in this case it occurs to me that it is very much a rerun of the circumstances on December 7, 2004.

“In the absence of any recommended improvements to the maintenance systems, I am satisfied that the systems that are in place are appropriate and sufficiently robust and that it would appear the previous

cannot make an adverse finding against company. I arrive at this determination not overlooking Mr Allan’s evidence that the company’s investigation of the vehicle could/should have been more comprehensive and that the wheel nuts should have been checked prior to the vehicle being returned to service. He graciously acknowledged that he had arrived at this view very much with the benefit of hindsight. There is, of course, evidence to suggest that any noises present in the vehicle were eliminated before it was returned to service and there were no further concerns identified or reported prior to wheel detachment incident.

“There is no evidence of any failure in the maintenance systems ahead of the said incident. There is therefore no evidence upon which I could make a determination that the maintenance undertaking recorded in the licence had not been fulfilled.

“Accordingly, I am prepared to accede to Mr Woodhouse’s invitation and take no action against the licence.

“Reference was made to appropriate financial standing in the “call-up” letter. I am satisfied that company continues to be of appropriate financial standing.

“I grant the applications to add each of Mr John Gorman and Mr Victor Duddy as Transport Managers to the Licence and to the licence held

by Midland Bluebird.” n

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 35 25/11/2013 17:43

THE BIG PICTURE We’ve brought you a seasonal scene this week – depicting a coach which forms part of the fleet of a renowned West Midlands-based family-run operator. In his trademark ‘jaunty’ angle, this autumnal photo was taken by Editor Gareth Evans during a comfort stop on his way up to visit Alpine Travel of Llandudno. We are reliably informed Gareth was quite literally unable to ‘leave’ without recording the sight for posterity.

On a serious note, Irizar PB-bodied Scania ‘YT09FLP’ run

by Johnsons of Henley-in-Arden is seen in the coach park at Betws-y-Coed, North Wales on the morning of Thursday, November 14. The driver, Richard, was friendly and seemed pleased when he was informed his coach would appear in CBW’s popular centre spread. He had brought a party of university students from the Midlands and was about to show them the scenic delights of Snowdonia.

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25/11/2013 16:33

INSIGHT › OESAA

Ensuring quality&

safety

James Day looks at the purpose of the OESAA and which original equipment suppliers are currently members

T

he Original Equipment Suppliers Aftermarket Association (OESAA) comprises well known component manufacturers which have joined forces to raise awareness of the differences in quality between components supplied for original fitment and their ‘matching quality’ equivalents.

The OESAA claims its work is meant to benefit the entire automotive industry. The association says it wants to be a competent and fair partner for the automotive parts industry, the spare parts market, and the motor trade in general.

Since its foundation in April 2013, OESAA has been intensively involved in various workshops and working groups with current issues impacting the independent aftermarket. It is a non-profit organisation, which does not engage in political activities or in any commercial business operations.

OESAA Q&A

1. What are the aims and ambitions of OESAA? Very simply to increase awareness at workshop level of the difference in quality and testing between genuine OE Parts and those parts claiming to be ‘Matching Quality’.

It is our intention to give both distributors and independent workshops the information, training and tools to ensure a professional repair and to explain the difference to the end user.

2. How will OESAA achieve this?

We are formulating our plans. We have already exhibited at Mechanex and created great interest. OESAA will run an awareness campaign in the major industry magazines, including technical articles illustrating the key differences between OE and ‘Matching Quality’ parts. Members will prepare cut-away samples of genuine OE Parts and the so called ‘Matching Quality’ product to clearly show the material and manufacturing differences.

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3. Why form an association?

We recognise the increasingly varied choices of brands and quality that are now available to the Independent Aftermarket. We are convinced and concerned that distributors and installers are being mis-sold products which claim to be of ‘OE Matching Quality’. The phrase ‘Matching Quality’ is a catch-all and does not quantify or qualify how this standard is achieved or measured.

In order to win OE business, OE Suppliers have to meet the hugely challenging standards set by the vehicle manufacturers with zero defects.

We firmly believe it is our responsibility to make the Aftermarket aware of the different qualities and the inherent risks of fitting second quality parts.

We believe that we can raise awareness by having a united marketing and advertising campaign.

4. What are the criteria for membership?

Members must have substantial, relevant OE volumes in Europe / UK and their Aftermarket offering must be the same OE Parts. Membership is by Invitation from the Committee of OESAA.

5. Are all members’ brands OE? No they are not. Some members have non-OE brands which do not meet our criteria and are therefore excluded. Members declare the brands that qualify. For instance, the KYB and ZF ranges of coil springs are not included. Members can only use the OESAA logo in advertising for their OE brands.

6. Is OESAA a selling group?

No. The OESAA is purely an association of OE Manufacturers concerned with ensuring that independent workshops are aware of the difference between genuine OE Parts and those claiming ‘Matching Quality’.

7. Some of you are competitors - Is this difficult?

OESAA recognises no boundaries in this respect.

We share a common concern which is safety critical – does someone have to lose their life before we all recognise the risk of fitting inferior/sub-standard non-tested parts?

We are also very aware of competition law and all members must sign a compliance document before every meeting.

8. Why is brand X not a member of the group?

Interest in joining the group has been exceptional since launching at Mechanex Manchester and as a result we have put on hold the incorporation of new members while we establish the group in the UK market.

9. Is the Original Equipment product actually the best product for the customer, particularly from a cost perspective as the vehicle ages?

Vehicle Manufacturer and OE Suppliers invest millions in R&D as well as testing to ensure that the product offers the highest levels of performance and safety to the consumer.

We also recognise that as the vehicle ages it loses value, making repair costs more sensitive.

We should not assume that the cost of the OE product supplied in the aftermarket is so high as to be prohibitive to this repair. We can do our best to address this while recognising that customers have the freedom to make a choice to fit a second line product - but it has to be an informed choice.

10. Are you saying that all second line products are poor quality?

Absolutely not, although some second line brands might be, rightly, feeling uncomfortable!

However, there are some brands which will actually benefit from the clarification that we seek. These are the brands that actually sell good quality products, or are even re-sellers of OE quality.

Our primary objective is to stop certain brands from claiming a ‘Matching Quality’ level when they / their sources are not OE Suppliers and have no means of validating their spurious claims.

11. How is the market reacting to the launch of OESAA? There has been great interest at both distributor and workshop level.

Distributors see the opportunity to explain differences and to justify why an OE Product may be a few percentage points more expensive than a second line brand. They are also interested to understand that vehicle manufacturers do not necessarily always sell an OE Part.

Independent workshops want to source OE parts, but they are not always given the choice by the Distributor.

We learned from workshops visiting Mechanex in Manchester that they are prepared to pay for an OE part as any small premium (if there is one) would not really affect the fitted price once labour is taken into account.

Fit OE - fit it once and forget it. Workshops www.coachandbusweek.com

25/11/2013 19:47

understand it is their reputation which is at stake if the product fails.

12. Is this not just an example of large European companies trying to dictate to the UK market?

No, we are actually concerned with safeguarding the future of the UK Independent Aftermarket.

While many of our members are not UK headquartered companies, we do employ many personnel, have manufacturing bases in the UK and contribute a significant UK turnover, which may not be the case for a number of second quality brands.

OESAA members employ in excess of 8,300 people in the UK, with a combined UK turnover of around £3.5 Billion.

We will jointly undertake almost 10,000 hours of training at workshop level this year.

Members

Banner Batteries – Banner Batteries in the UK is a wholly owned subsidiary of Banner Batterien GmbH in Linz, Austria. Founded in 1937, Banner manufactures over four million automotive batteries per annum.

Bosch – Bosch is one of the world’s largest suppliers of automotive parts to vehicle manufacturers in the OE sector.

Bosch also works extensively in the automotive aftermarket, providing parts, workshop test equipment and a range of services for use in the repair and servicing sector.

Bosch’s extensive range covers all parts from wiper blades, batteries and bulbs, to braking systems, filtration, starter motors, alternators and engine management system components for both petrol and diesel engines.

Corteco – Corteco specialises in sealing, vibration control and cabin air filters.

Freudenberg is an original equipment manufacturer of these respective products.

Corteco, as IAM specialist of the Freudenberg Group, has access to the development knowhow and global manufacturing of a company with locations in 57 countries.

Knorr-Bremse – Knorr-Bremse is a manufacturer of braking systems for commercial vehicles. For more than 100 years the company has pioneered the development, production and marketing of braking systems.

Knorr-Bremse employs nearly 20,000 people and spends over £200m per year on research and development.

KYB Corporation – KYB is a global Japanese hydraulic company, specialising in automotive components. KYB is one of the world’s largest suppliers of OE shock absorbers to vehicle manufacturers, with one in four of all cars leaving production lines worldwide fitted with KYB shocks as standard.

Mahle – Mahle is a development partner and one of the 30 largest suppliers to the automotive industry. It produces top quality, tested and

LCV, HCV, off-highway and industrial filtration market segments.

NGK Spark Plugs (UK) – NGK products are used in millions of vehicles on the UK’s roads. It is an OE supplier to most of the world’s leading vehicle manufacturers with whom it works to produce parts which are manufactured to meet their specific requirements, with the same quality products being supplied to the automotive aftermarket.

The company invests around 8% of world turnover into R&D to ensure it can constantly develop spark plugs, glow plugs and NTK Lambda sensors and has recently introduced OE quality ignition coils.

Remy Automotive – Reny has been a rotating electrics manufacturer for over 100 years since the world’s first electric starter for motor vehicles, the Remy Magneto, was developed by company founders, Frank and Perry Remy.

It remains one of the leading suppliers of rotating products to the world’s major vehicle

audited products in line with the current DIN ISO guidelines and the specifications of vehicle manufacturers and corresponding to the permissible requirements for automotive spare parts according to GVO 1400/2002.

Mann-Filter – UK aftermarket brand Mann-Filter meets the requirements of BER, provides genuine OE matching quality engine protection.

Around 15,000 employees at Mann+Hummel sites in over 50 locations worldwide, design, develop and produce original equipment filters and modular filtration systems for all major vehicle and engine manufacturers in the car,

manufacturers and recently received a grant of over $60m from the US Department of Energy to develop rotating electrics hybrid technology.

Schaeffler – Schaeffler is a manufacturer of high-tech, high quality components for both vehicle manufacturers and the automotive aftermarket. Its three brands – LuK, INA and FAG – offer original equipment components directly to the independent motor trade, along with an after-sales package of tools, training and technical support.

Sogefi Group – Sogefi was founded 30 years ago, and is today in partnership with the world’s major car and commercial vehicle manufacturers, developing and producing suspension components, filtration systems, and air intake and engine cooling systems.

Sogefi Aftermarket incorporates four brands: Purflux, Fram, CoopersFiaam, Sogefi Pro, offering a complete portfolio of OE-quality automotive filtration products.

Yuasa Battery Europe –Established in 1895, GS Yuasa Corporation is a global battery manufacturer, with over 40 manufacturing facilities around the world.

GS Yuasa is also heavily involved in battery development for micro-hybrid, hybrid and full electric vehicles.

ZF – ZF is a worldwide automotive supplier of driveline and chassis technology with 121 production companies in 27 countries and 75,000 employees.

The ZF Services business unit ensures that the automotive aftersales market benefits from ZF’s expertise and reputation as an OE manufacturer which supplies major vehicle producers. It offers a comprehensive portfolio of driveline and chassis products under the Sachs, Lemförder, Boge, and ZF Parts brands.

Our primary objective is to stop certain brands from claiming a ‘Matching Quality’ level when they have no means of validating their spurious claims

ZF is a well-known name in the coach and bus industry for their work with axles and transmissions www.coachandbusweek.com

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For more information visit http://oe-suppliers.org/

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 39 25/11/2013 17:37

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

REPAIRS & REFURBISHMENT

Time for a

refresh This week’s Industry Guide examines suppliers of repair and refurbishment services, all geared towards getting vehicles into top condition and back on the road as soon as possible 40 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013

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W

hether a vehicle is becoming run down or suffers repairable damage, the most important thing is to have it back in service and bringing in revenue as quickly as is practically possible. Having miantenance facilities capable of fast turnaround can help operators reduce the number of spare vehicles which they need to have on hand to cover those in the workshop.

Many companies are offering a flexible service to help, whereby they can travel to the operator’s premises to service a vehicle without it needing to travel.

This means no further wear and tear is added by sending the vehicle away and no additional arrangements have to be made to have the vehicle picked up, or to drive it there.

Many companies are happy to simply supply the right parts and materials, allowing operators who already employ experts in the field to do the job, or even provide training so they can do in future.

Renovating older vehicles is one of the best ways of postponing fleet renewal if done well.

Some vehicles have a lifespan which easily outlasts the seating and flooring of their interiors, but this can be solved with renovation, making the vehicle look like new on the inside to the eyes of an average bus or coach passenger, where it counts.

It isn’t just the interior of the vehicle which can be refurbished – taking a look at the drivetrain of older vehicles can extend their service lives and give them a much needed boost in performance, helping them to keep up with fleets of a lower average age. www.coachandbusweek.com

25/11/2013 18:43

WJF TECHNICAL SUPPORT

WJF has a skilled team of coach and bus engineers which have knowledge of working on all makes of vehicles.

The firm specialises in supplying mechanics, coach builders and electricians direct to work on the customers own premises.

The company’s competitive rates come all inclusive for both fixed price and daily/ hourly rates.

WJF is well established and has national coverage working with manufacturers and operators alike; it can usually supply at short notice and for fixed term, covering shift patterns which fit within the confines of any operator’s difficult staffing rotas.

In addition to the core business, WJF can also confidently price for refurbishment work, i.e. seat trimming – floor re-covering etc .with recent successes working around customers’ vehicle availability, utilising weekends if needed.

WJF is reasonably new to the London market, but is already successfully supplying in three locations, with plans to build further relationships with the

larger operators.

WJF certainly has evolved over the last eighteen months by working smarter.

The company believes it is unique, in that its hybrid-style business combines a solid core of existing engineers coupled with an experienced recruitment arm to the portfolio, enabling expansion and contraction if needed to fulfil contracts. This certainly has worked well this year, with campaign work and new business, plus with a willingness to listen to customers’ needs; the firm’s success is borne out of determination to adapt the company in order to succeed.

Finally, the WJF website has now been renewed by its own family web designer – Cfresh Design.

WJF Technical Services looks forward to evolving further this year by building new business relationships and winning work by reputation.

T: 01253 340565 E: enquiries@ wjftechnicalsupport.co.uk W: http://wjftechnicalsupport. co.uk

S&G COACHWORKS

S&G Coachworks would like to take this opportunity to congratulate apprentice James Grayson on his recent achievement at the Skills Competition which was held at the NEC Birmingham this month.

James was awarded gold, and in receiving this award he became the first winner from the commercial refinishing industry.

Not only have James’ skills been recognised but he has made his mark in this sector of the industry by becoming the best in both his category and the country.

He will now go on to compete in Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, in the world finals which are to be held there in 2015.

The above only illustrates and concludes what S&G Coachworks is all about.

The company was founded in 2002 by Michael Grayson, the father of James. In 2005 it became part of Johnson Bros Tours Limited.

S&G Coachworks is proud to boast the highest in quality and standards in state of the art facilities which they can offer to both existing and new customers

from as far afield as Scotland and Ireland, whether it be a small repair or a full restoration project, recognising that the customer needs come first and foremost.

S&G welcomes all types of work regardless of size, with customers ranging from large coach operators to small businesses with one or two vehicles.

The firm has a fully equipped workshop including a brand new 20m spray oven and paint mixing room.

The company specialises in all areas of vehicle paintwork and bodywork, from light cosmetic paintwork to full re-paints and insurance work.

It is a specialist in metallic and pearl paintwork and offers full replacement of coach stretch panels.

Quotes are offered by the company free of charge and at competitive prices. S&G Coachworks offers three different services suitable for any budget.

T: 01623 627653 E: sandgcoachworks@aol. co.uk W: sandgcoachworks.co.uk

Quality mobile bus & coach engineers throughout the UK WJF Technical Support Limited 01253 340565 enquiries@wjftechnicalsupport.co.uk www.wjftechnicalsupport.co.uk Email: sandgcoachworks@aol.co.uk Unit 3, The Sidings, off Debdale Lane, Mansfield Woodhouse, Notts NG19 7FE

Mobile: 07818 421023 for a free quotation www.coachandbusweek.com

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November 27 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 41 25/11/2013 18:43

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

REPAIRS & REFURBISHMENT EASTGATE COACH TRIMMERS

Eastgate Coach Trimmers has been specializing in the refurbishment of coach and bus interiors for 31 years, from small repairs to complete interior retrims including roofs, racks, side walls and so on.

All work is carried out by highlyskilled time-served coach trimmers who began their careers at Plaxton Coach Builders in Scarborough, serving five- year apprenticeships in the factory and the local college.

They can now, after many years experience, retrim any make and model of bus and coach which arrives at the Pickering workshops.

When retrimming the complete interior of a coach, all existing materials are stripped off and if any of the interior can be removed, i.e. the racks, decency shields and toilet cubicle, they are taken out of the coach , dismantled and retrimmed as though they are being installed on the coach on completion, as near a factory finished job as possible.

Even though certain sets of seating can be trimmed in a day, Eastgate prefers to have the seats a little longer as some times the foams can be badly damaged or deteriorated.

Also, as well as transforming tired

coach interiors to look ‘as new’, Eastgate over recent years has been retrimming seats for some of the large bus groups. This has proven very successful as up to five sets of bus seat backs and cushions can be collected and delivered at one time, which significantly reduces the transportation costs, especially when travelling to and from the London area and Scotland.

Up-seating is also a part of Eastgate’s business – removing toilets, building up the floors with steelwork & flooring, re-spacing and fitting extra seats where legally possible.

Bespoke interiors have been built for large band coaches incorporating bunk beds with air conditioning, small flat screen TVs, sound systems, kitchen areas and large leather horseshoe-shaped lounges.

These can be built to customers legal specifications, usually on double deck coaches.

T: 01751 472229 W: www.eastgatecoachtrimmers.co.uk E: info@eastgatecoachtrimmers.co.uk

astgate COACH TRIMMERS LTD

TRANSPORT DOOR SOLUTIONS

Type ‘bus door parts’ into Google and the very first entry is www. transportdoorsolutions.co.uk Transport Door Solutions (TDS) has recently invested much time and money to develop a web presence which drives customers toward its business and provide a helpful web experience when they get there.

The importance of the web is key to TDS continued growth both in the UK home market and internationally.

Since upgrading its website in early September, traffic has nearly doubled and more importantly nearly 50% of visitors are new.

Interestingly also, the visitors in the last month spanned 32 separate countries, giving optimism for more global business in the future.

TDS now has over 500 unique customers in the UK and hopes to increase this number in home and international markets as it continues to grow.

The popular TDS website is regularly updated with new content and the recent major

refresh gives a sharper, more user and mobile friendly experience.

Existing and new visitors are encouraged to bookmark the website as a favourite in their web browser to enable easier access and to help them keep an eye on the latest updates.

A recent example is the launch of a new modular range of filter and regulator units (see advert and website) for the aftermarket.

These products are made to a higher specification than the usual products fitted but with the convenience of coming from one common range which can replace every regulator fitted to any bus on the market.

More product additions to an already large selection of parts are planned soon.

TDS continues to be a very active supplier in the industry helping operators large and small to keep their bus doors operational and vehicles in service.

T: 01787 473000 E: sales@transportdoor solutions.co.uk W: www.transportdoorsolutions. co.uk

www.transportdoorsolutions.co.uk

Your BEST option for BUS DOOR Maintenance, Refurbishment & Service Requirements We now supply over 2600 spare parts including ALL specific items.

We can help you with commonly needed parts for door systems fitted to UK vehicles including: Deans, Peters, Overton, TDS & Ventura – other makes available.

Available Nov13: NEW TDS PNE300 Series Modular Filter – Regulator Units

Supplying the Bus & Coach industry with quality seat retrims and interior Tel/Fax: refurbishment.

Full floors re-laid and centre gangways.

Collection and delivery service anywhere in Email: info@eastgate-coachtrimmers.co.uk the UK, seven days Web: www.eastgate-coachtrimmers.co.uk a week.

These high performance MWP 16bar units replace ALL makes and types.Great prices & quick delivery.

01751 472229

42 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013 040_046_CBW_1115_Industry guide.indd 42

Please contact us on T: 01787 473000 F: 01787 477040 e: sales@transportdoorsolutions .co.uk

www.coachandbusweek.com

25/11/2013 18:43

SOMERSTOTALKARE

As winter starts to bite across the UK, coach and bus workshops are bracing themselves for the busiest times of the year as snow, ice and road grit take their toll on vehicles.

Workshop efficiency is vital at any time of the year, but during the winter months it’s more important than ever due to an increase in weather related repairs alongside more routine maintenance.

Checking that equipment used in the workshop is up to the task ahead is one of the most important steps engineers can take to ensure it all runs smoothly, according to Somerstotalkare, the UK’s leading supplier of heavy-duty vehicle lifts.

James Radford, the company’s Sales and Marketing Director, says that a bus or coach can’t be out servicing customers if it’s stuck on top of a lift that’s not been maintained properly.

“Operators obviously take the maintenance of their fleet very seriously to ensure the safety of customers but the service of equipment used to repair their vehicles is sometimes overlooked,” he explained.

“This can have serious

www.coachandbusweek.com

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Somerstotalkare’s rapid-response motorcycle mechanic, based in London implications, not only for the safety of employees, but also the smooth running of the workshop and the amount of time vehicles spend off the road.”

According to James, an increasing number of operators are realising the importance of introducing a structured maintenance programme for their lifts, similar to the regime they undertake for their fleet.

So far this year, Somerstotalkare has secured more than 620 contracts, alongside record lift

sales over the last four months and James believes this reflects a shift in attitudes within the industry – driven in part by the difficult economic conditions of recent years.

“The recession has certainly made operators think more about efficiency, forcing them to take a more long-term view when it comes to investing and maintaining workshop equipment.

“While sales of new equipment have improved in 2013, we have seen the strongest growth when

it comes to service contracts as customers look to fix their costs over a set time period.”

Of the contracts sold, 157 covered lifts that had never been subject to a service agreement before, while 465 were upgraded to new service contracts. Of these, 182 were on comprehensive fixed contracts which included the cost of labour as well as parts and routine maintenance.

“Starting from as little as £28.50 per month when paid by direct debit, the contracts offer excellent value for money and peace of mind for customers at a time when there is still a lot of economic uncertainty,” James continued.

“At the same time we’ve also been investing in our service support network, including a motorcyclebased rapid response service in the London area.

“This will help to keep any lift downtime to a minimum and help reduce the amount of time buses and coaches spend in the workshop.”

T: 0121 585 2724 E: sales@stkare.co.uk W: www.stkare.co.uk

November 27 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 43 25/11/2013 18:43

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

REPAIRS & REFURBISHMENT THOMAS HARDIE VEHICLE SOLUTIONS

Thomas Hardie Vehicle Solutions (THVS) has over 25 years’ experience in providing a total body and paint service for the commercial vehicle industry.

The ethos engrained in the THC group as a Volvo franchise has been transposed within the sister company THVS. It operates out of Chorley and has two modern high capacity low bake paint booths and chromovision computerised matching paint systems linked to a quality paint supply chain. This is in conjunction with a fabrication facility capable of producing the highest standards of workmanship available in the industry. It has a specialised team of bus specialists who know the industry and its requirements including fabrication of panels etc.

The company was founded out of necessity to offer a ‘one stop shop’ solution to the THC customer base within the Northwest. The reputation of the facility has now transgressed beyond the North West and now generates work from across the UK and the customer base is expanding rapidly.

THVS has recognised the importance of ‘value for money’ and adopts a consultancy style approach to finding a solution for each and every customer dependant on needs, budget and branding.

THVS strives to encourage customers to maximise the ‘brand/image’ of their company as it’s often the condition of their equipment that reflects the image of the company, and you only get one opportunity to make a good first impression.

The company offers a comprehensive package of refurbishment options and strives to give each customer a tailored package. THVS believes the individual nature of each customer should be reflected in its solutions i.e. not a one shoe fits all option.

The highlighted ‘weekend break option’ is a bye product of a similar very successful campaign launched within the HGV sector. It is purely aimed at reducing down time and operating cost. THVS will inspect and quote individual accidents/ repairs pre-order parts, paint and only bring bus/coach into workshop when all is in place for a

44 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013 040_046_CBW_1115_Industry guide.indd 44

Thomas Hardie offers 24 hours workshops Monday-Friday speedy ‘weekend’ turn around.

THVS offers any marque facility and only use genuine parts and warranties including membership of the PPG Nexa Auto colour scheme to protect its customers nationwide. It is happy to visit an operator’s site and quote for any size opportunity. The company now offers a full night shift Mon-Fri at Chorley to match customers’ needs primarily to reduce VOR down time. This is proving to be attractive as it affords a window of work from a Friday lunch through

until Monday morning to meet a customer’s needs.

THVS successfully works with customers on repairs and refurbishments in a planned and coordinated fashion. It strives to understand customers operational needs and offer solutions within workable time frames.

T: 01606 830100 W: http://www. volvotrucks.com/dealers-vtc/ en-gb/thomas-hardie-uk/ Pages/Home.aspx

www.coachandbusweek.com

25/11/2013 18:43

CHECKPOINT SAFETY

The detachment of wheels from moving vehicles, particularly from heavy commercial vehicles or public service vehicles, such as coaches and buses, has been a significant cause of concern for many years.

Detached wheels can just come to rest and cause little or no damage. However, in worst cases it can collide with other vehicles or pedestrians causing accidents and even fatalities.

Research from VOSA/TRL has indicated that a simple cost effective solution is to fit wheel nut movement indictors and retainers to alert drivers and maintenance engineers of any wheel nut movements.

Checkpoint Safety, the leading global manufacturers, suppliers and inventors of the original wheel nut indicator, has championed safety and protection for over 25 years.

This year the company has launched a product called Checkthread, a toolkit which is designed to be used by service staff and engineers to monitor the quality of wheel studs and

www.coachandbusweek.com

040_046_CBW_1115_Industry guide.indd 45

PAUL CLARK SERVICES

Checkpoint Safety is well known for its loose wheel nut indicatiors stud holes, which when worn are a leading cause of wheel detachment.

The kits are easy to use and not only offer a clear way of highlighting fixing problems, but also heighten the awareness of wheel security at an operating level.

The kits also allow fleet managers to train staff in detecting problems early, which in turn allows the opportunity to take remedial action.

T: 015242 71200 E: sales@checkpointsafety.com W: www.checkpoint-safety.com

Paul Clark Services continues to be the preferred choice for quality engineering support services to the coach and bus industry, manufacturers and the NHS Ambulance Service Trusts, including specialist engineering services covering engine overhauls, repairs and many fixed price repairs for most modern bus chassis applications presently being operated in the UK. The type and complexity of the work PCS is now able to undertake means that it gives its customers complete flexibility in how these services are used to best effect for their own operation.

The business continues to invest in customer services and quality systems, and has now been ISO9001 certified since March this year, with further business improvements, including online customer questionnaires accessible through our website www. paulclarkservices.co.uk, and is available now. Customer feedback is vital and helps continue to drive the business in the right direction.

PCS also continues to invest in new engineering service support

vans, specialist equipment and is planning to relocate to bigger premises in the New Year, which will also include a fully functional commercial and bus workshop facility, and plans to gain IRTEC workshop accreditation further strengthening the focus on quality.

Training has always played a significant part in the success of PCS, such as working with ADL/ BAE Systems training engineers to support hybrid vehicles. Over the next two years there are plans for the engineers to gain IRTEC accreditation firstly focusing on service maintenance technician and inspection technician levels, with plans to develop key engineers to advanced and master technician.

This is a major investment in training and will help ensure that the customer is provided with the highest level of services the business is able to provide.

PCS remains number one for engineering support to the coach and bus industry.

T: 0845 6060 474 E: info@paulclarkservices. co.uk W: www.paulclarkservices.co.uk

November 27 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 45 25/11/2013 18:43

INDUSTRY

Features List 2013/2014

GUIDE

Below is the complete list of this year’s CBW issues showing current scheduled dates for Industry Guides. Dates are subject to change.

REPAIRS & REFURBISHMENT MASTERPART

Masterpart is a supplier of a large array of parts and components for any aspect of coaches and buses in the UK. Formed in 2011 to support the UK’s Public Service Vehicle (PSV) and commercial vehicle operators with market leading brands from renowned OEM parts manufacturers, Masterpart is fast becoming a leading supplier to the PSV aftermarket, offering a comprehensive all makes parts program to companies of all sizes and budgets.

Masterpart says it is proud to be the approved parts supply partner to Irizar UK, offering genuine Irizar parts to this rapidly growing market.

It is backed with £100,000 of genuine Irizar parts in its purpose built facility in Worksop, Nottinghamshire.

The company’s aim is to offer its customers only the best in service and support delivered by its customer focused parts team, backed by world renowned part manufacturers.

Masterpart prides itself on the relationships with its supply

partners, offering value for money quality parts backed with full technical support.

Being a OEM part supplier, Masterpart will never compromise quality for price which gives its customer base complete peace of mind knowing that quality components have been fitted to their fleet. Each of these components is backed by comprehensive liability cover at a very competitive price.

The firm offers a 24/7 service to its customers throughout the year.

The comprehensive parts package offered by Masterpart covers all of the major brands and products in: l Braking l Steering l Suspension l Chassis components l Transmission l Filtration l Engine parts l Cooling products l Electrical components l Consumables l Genuine Irizar parts T: 01909 511349 W: www.master-part.co.uk

2013 Issue

Issue Date

Product Focus Feature

1116

December 4

December 11

Fuel Management & Emission Control

January 8

Passenger Comfort & Entertainment

1117 1118

2014 1119 1120 1121 1122 1123 1124 1125 1126 1127 1128 1129 1130 1131 1132 1133 1134 1135 1136 1137 1138 1139 1140 1141 1142 1143 1144 1145 1146 1147 1148 1149 1150 1151

Formed in 2011 to support the UK’s PSV & CV operators with parts from Market leading OEM brands from World Wide renowned manufacturers

We off a comprehensive all makes parts program in:

Braking • Steering • Suspension Chassis Components • Transmission Filtration • Engine • Electrical Lubricants • Consumables

1152 1153 1154 1155 1156 1157 1158 1159 1160 1161 1162 1163 1164 1165

EXPRESS PARTS DELIVERY

1166 1167 1168 1169

Master Part | Portland House | Dukeries Industrial Estate | Worksop | Notts | S81 7BQ

46 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013 040_046_CBW_1115_Industry guide.indd 46

December 18 January 15

Vehicle Presentation

January 22

January 29

February 5 Telematics February 12

Training & Safety

March 5

Engines & Transmissions

February 19

February 26 March 12

Seating, Flooring & Interiors

April 2

Digital Technology

March 19 March 26 April 9

GARAGE Equipment

April 16

April 23

April 30

May 7 Tachographs May 14

Fuel Management & Emission Control

June 4

Ticketing & Cash Handling

May 21

May 28

June 11

Repairs & Refurbishment

July 2

Glazing & Entry Systems

July 23

Training & Safety

August 13

Security & Insurance

September 3

Rental Leasing & Finance

June 18 June 25 July 9

Vehicle Presentation

July 16

July 30 August 6

Engines & Transmissions

August 20 August 27 September 10

Seating, Flooring & Interiors

October 1

Digital Technology

September 17

September 24

October 8

Garage Equipment

October 15

October 22 October 29 November 5

Fuel Management & Emission Control

November 12 November 19 November 26 December 3

December 10

Ticketing & Cash Handling Repairs & Refurbishment

December 17 December 24

Senior Sales Executive Caroline Barnes 01733 293248 caroline.barnes coachandbusweek.com

Booking deadline Space should be booked no later than two weeks in advance

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THE MARKET FOR VEHICLES, PRODUCTS AND SERVICES

x4 um First goes Platin in Aberdeen p8

d Altro has it covere on �looring p32

ITMENT FIRST FOR RECRU WEEK JOB ADVERTS EVERY

OW RECRUITN

20, 2013 Wednesday November | £2.95 Issue 1114 week.com www.coachandbus

p26

ers

es Busway experienc 4_Cover.indd

001_CBW111

1

Volvo plug-in deliv

p4

A wise move now for Optare’sp70 Chris?

18/11/2013

✔

✔

Up to 4 5X1 PRINT VEHICLE SALES ADVERTISEMENTS per week in Coach&BusWeek magazine

✔

✔

HALF PRICE RECRUITMENT ADS in Coach&BusWeek magazine

✔

✔

3 ANNUAL DIGITAL SUBSCRIPTIONS to coachandbusweek.com

✔

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1 ANNUAL PRINT SUBSCRIPTION to Coach&BusWeek magazine

ness Balanced busi p18

UNLIMITED ONLINE vehicle for sale advertisments on coachandbusmarket.com

✔ * Excluding VAT. MARKET PREMIUM UNLIMITED price is UK only

21:42

Deadline for vehicle and classified advertisements in the magazine is 1200hrs Friday.

Contact your friendly coachandbusmarket Manager Jade Cassidy via phone, email or fax Tel: 01733 293247 f: 0845 280 2927 e: jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com 047_CBW1115_CBM Cover.indd 47

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2000 Volvo B10M Plaxton Panther

2003 Optare Solo

7HO

49 seats, PA system, DVD player, climate control, toilet, continental door, water boiler, p/plate, not subject to LEZ, recent re-trim. £24,000 + VAT

Steve 0161 775 0800/07445 266345 operations@travel-master.co.uk

2003 Mercedes Cheetah

6FDQ +HUH WR $SSO\ 2QOLQH

Mercedes engine, one owner, good condition and tyres, low mileage 392,955, 29 seated 20 standing, full diptact space for one wheelchair, tested June 2014, taxed end of October 2013. £17,500 o.n.o.

BD23 5BS – 01756 753123

1998 Mercedes Benz 814 Alexander

29 passengers plus courier seat Tax till March MOT till February Large boot New clutch and turbo. £24,000 + VAT Automatic, 27 seats, 3 point belts, power door, perfect for school/private hire, good offers considered.

Volvo B10M

Mercedes Vario 814 Beaver

Two +. 29 coach seats, 3 point belts. Side loading wheel chair lift. 2005/55 reg. Manual gearbox. DDA Accessibility certificate. COIF. Racks, Boot. Best of both coach. Taxed + new MOT. 1 former keeper. May part ex. Call Tim. View Devon.

01404 47502 or 07790 966667

Volvo B10M

88 seats, MOT March 2014, good condition.

£4,995 + VAT

Telephone: 01487 843333

Hailstone Travel Ltd 0845 388 3848

£8,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

2009 MAN Plaxton Centro

2001 Volvo B10M Berkhof Axial

50 reclining seats, TV/DVD, PA, fridge, hot drinks servery, air con, Webasto, alloy wheels.

Last coach remaining. £23,750 + VAT

£4,500 + VAT

38 blue moquette seats, Mobitec LED destination equipment, one year’s MOT. Offers over £45,000

Telephone: 01487 843333

Andy Shaw – 0131 554 5413

Snowcoach Holidays 01727 866177 / 07831 612125

2007 Optare Solo 7.1 SE

2003 Neoplan Starliner

Mercedes Vario 814

37 leather seats around tables, Sky TV/DVD entertainment system, 7 screens, toilet, kitchen, sockets throughout, manual 4 over 4. £39,995 + VAT

Automatic. 2005/05. 33 seat coach, 3 point belts. Racks, boot, tacho, COIF, long MOT & tax.

Very nice tidy coach, one previous owner, drives well, ready to work. May part exchange.

10 minutes Exeter airport. Call Tim.

ZF auto, 84 seater, MOT August 2014.

23 seater + 10 standing, MOT June 2014, full service history from new, Hanover front digital destination board, CCTV – Activ 4 camera system, Mercedes engine, 263,000 miles, can respray in new owners colours. £39,500 o.n.o. + VAT

Ring Graham Croombs 0118 973 3486 graham@courtneybuses.com

Steve 0161 775 0800/07445 266345 operations@travel-master.co.uk

01404 47502 or 07790 966667

Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com 48 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013

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ALFA TRAVEL HAVE FOR SALE DUE TO FLEET REPLACEMENT Dennis Plaxton R Series

Luxury VW Crafter

2007 Scania K340/ Caetano Levante

Cummins 420, AStronic gearbox 2004: 3 x 53 seats £40,000 plus VAT

Volvo B12B Plaxton Paragon Easyshift gearbox, LEZ compliant 2006: 2 x 53 seats £79,000 plus VAT All are well maintained, low mileage examples (approximately 62,000km per annum) with reclining seats, 3 point seat belts and air conditioning. Owned by us from new and used on our own holiday programme. All over cream. Price includes new MoT. Sorry no part exchange facilities!

To view contact Tom Smith, Operations Manager, on 08451 305777

2009 (59) Iveco Daily

16 passenger seats with 3 point belts, front entrance with lowered entry step, extra large boot, panoramic windows, parcel racks with reading lights and blown air, interior lighting with dim facility, CD sound system, tested until 30 September 2014.

£21,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

1998 (R) DAF SB300 Plaxton Excalibur

2007, 16 seats, A/C, DVD, microphone, 135,000 miles, 7 months MOT, excellent condition.

£21,000

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.

£80,000 + VAT each

Slick Rides – 07823 770978

yourbus – 01773 714013

2005 Optare Solo M950 SLF 9.5m

1999 Mercedes 412D

2003 Setra 315 GTHD

33 seats + 17 standees, Mercedes engine, Hanover LED. £32,000 + VAT – ONLY 1 LEFT Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

16 removable seats, or 6 wheelchairs, 5 speed manual, external wheelchair lift, tachograph fitted, very clean condition, MOT June 14. £3,495 + 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.

Chalkwell Coach Hire 01795 423982 andy.bates@chalkwell.co.uk

Paul Watson Travel paul.watson9@btconnect.com

2009 (09) Iveco Daily

2006 Bova Majiq

2002 Bova Futura

53 T&T Auto gearbox (faulty) Spares or repair.

£53,500 + VAT ono

• Air con • Toilet • DVD • Monitor x 2 • Eminox euro 4 • 49 seats • Green cloth • Long MOT

OFFERS + VAT

16 passenger seats with 3 point seat belts, front entrance with lowered entry step, extra large boot, panoramic windows, parcel racks with reading lights and blown air, interior lighting with dim facility, CD sound system, tested to June 2014.

49 seat executive, ZF auto, LEZ compliant, leather headrests, twin monitor DVD, centre sunken toilet, tasteful moquette, excellent condition, MOT & Tax, economical vehicle, ready to work.

Nigel Brown – 01982 570225

£21,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

Travelstar European 01922 647100 / 07779 801862

L.J. Edwards – 07974 369570

1994 Volvo B9M Berkof Excellence

2011 Vauxhall Vivaro 12 seat minibus

VOLVO B12B

2001 MAN Neoplan

12 months MOT & tax, full tank of fuel, one owner driver for the last 5 years, 49 seater, toilet, aircon, drivers bunk, alloy wheels, just refurbished, 2 new 22in Samsung LED monitors, black-out windows, TV tuner, DVD system all fitted 8 months ago, good mpg, 3 new air bags, new belts, hoses and interior LED lights just fitted, 600,000km, based in Glasgow.

£25,000 + VAT

Contact Gary – 07930 377051

£95,000 + VAT

£50,000 + VAT

Good solid engine and gearbox, tidy bodywork, MOT till April 2014, 37 recliners, loads of legroom and a rear toilet.

Full COIF with 8 months PSV/MOT, taxed until December, digital tachograph, 6 speed gearbox, 3 rear seats can be removed (ensuring space for luggage),1 owner vehicle.

£14,000 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

£13,250 + VAT o.n.o.

£120,000

AFJ Travel – 07947 152763

Contact William on 07733 914050

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

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

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 49

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2003 Volvo Jonckheere B12M Mistral 50

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

£39,950 + VAT ono Star Coaches Limited Martin 07831 265804 Adam 0121 350 5555

1996 Volvo Olympian

1998 Volvo B10M Berkhof Axial 50

2011 Irizar PB

Converted to an open top bus, Cummins engine, Voith automa c gearbox, 78 seats, MOT Jan 2014.

POA

Warrington Borough Transport 01925 634296 I.Parker@networkwarrington.co.uk

2008 Optare Solos

1999 (T) MAN 24,400 Noge Triaxle 49 executive seats ZF auto gearbox Alloy wheels No tax or MOT Dry stored past 2 years.

Merc Euro 4 engines, Mobitech LED’s, one M880 28 seats and one M950 31 seats.

POA

EnsignBus 01708 865656

OFFERS + VAT

Nigel Brown – 01982 570225

2010 Volvo B7R

1998 Volvo B10M Caetano Enigma

49 seats, WC, aircon, six speed ZF manual gearbox, first reg 14/04/98, MOT 07/03/14, only one previous owner

December 2011, 59 seats, toilet/servery, 3 DVD screens, Euro 5.

£19,950

£190,000

New Horizon Travel: 01206 255255

Buzzlines Travel - 01303 261870

2003 Alexander Dennis Enviro 300 SLF 12m

2009 Setra 416GTHD

44 seats + 27 standees, DDA compliant, 12 months MOT. £27,500 + VAT Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

June 2009, 49 seats, toilet/servery, 2 DVD screens, Euro 5.

1995 (N) Toyota Optimo III

£150,000

Buzzlines Travel - 01303 261870

2005 Neoplan Skyliners

21 seats White 12 months MOT Ideal school contract vehicle.

ZF automatic, Euro 5, Plaxton Profile body, air-con, 53 seats, very low mileage, new MOT.

POA

EnsignBus 01708 865656

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.

£15,500 + VAT ono

£2,750 + VAT

Paul Watson Travel paul.watson9@btconnect.com

Nigel Brown – 01982 570225

13.8m, MAN engines, 89 seats, toilet, air-con.

POA

EnsignBus 01708 865656

Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com 50 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013

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2004 Mercedes Benz Optare Solera

Page 51

1995 Scania K113 VanHool Alizee

2005 (55) MAN 14.220 MCV Evolution

40 seat SLF service bus, newly repanelled and repainted, 12 months MOT to October 2013, Hannover LED destination, excellent condition, drives superb.

53 plate Mercedes Cheetah

39 reclining seats, air conditioning, owned from new, MOT until September 2014.

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

£25,950 + VAT ovno

29 passengers plus courier seat, tax till August, MOT till June, large boot, low emission exhaust fitted. £26,000 + VAT

P.O.A.

£27,500 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

Llew Jones – 07795 347476 or steve@llewjones.com

Hailstone Travel Ltd 0845 388 3848

2003 Bova Futura

1997 Volvo Olympian open top bus

2001 Salvador Caetano

Lakeside Coaches - 01691 622761

2003 Mercedes Citaros

• Air con • Toilet • DVD • Monitor x 2 • Full exec spec • Eminox euro 4 • 49 seats • Green cloth • Manual • Long MOT

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). £40,000 each + VAT

£55,000 + VAT

Alexander Dennis body, P reg, 75 seats, fitted with a PA system, new MOT on purchase.

Only 2 remaining.

yourbus – 01773 714013

L.J. Edwards – 07974 369570

Bath Bus Company 01225 330444

Mercedes 814D Euro Coach

2005 Setra 315GTHD

1993 Volvo B10M Plaxton Premier

70 seats + driver and crew with 3 point belts, 3+2 config, auto, air-con, good runner, inspection welcome, ready for work. £40,000 + VAT

Steve 0161 775 0800/07445 266345 operations@travel-master.co.uk

1999 Dennis Dart SLF

LEZ

COMPLIANT

49 seat exec, toilet, boiler, cooler, DVD, 2 x monitors, Mercedes engine, A/S Tronic gearbox, intarder, air conditioning, Webasto, alloy wheels, owned & maintained by us from new, repaint by arrangement. Choice of 2.

COID and MOT until May 2014, painted blue and white with blue seats which were retrimmed approx 2 years ago, a reliable and well maintained vehicle, choice of two sister vehicles available.

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

£62,500

49 seats, automatic, good condition for year, available with new test, ideal for upseat.

Choice of 3 – view North Wales/Dublin. £13,000

£58,000

Clarkes of London Call Andy Nixon – 020 8768 9612

Call Anthony Kelly PAB Tours 00353 86 8138165

Country Bus Devon Tel 01626 833664/07872 839530

2003 Neoplan Starliner

2002 Iveco Beulas Stergo

1999 Mercedes Benz 814 Plaxton

Contact William on 07733 914050

1998 (R) Iveco 16 seat Minibus Power door Will have new test.

£5,000 + VAT o.n.o

• Automatic • Air con • Toilet • Monitor x 2

£1,250 + VAT

Nigel Brown – 01982 570225

38 leather seats around tables, Sky TV/DVD entertainment system, 7 screens, toilet, kitchen, sockets throughout, automatic. £39,995 + VAT

Steve 0161 775 0800/07445 266345 operations@travel-master.co.uk

• Non LEZ

27 coach seats with 3 point belts, perfect for school bus and private hire, MOT till April 2014, manual with power door and private plate.

• Long MOT

£30,000 + VAT

L.J. Edwards – 07974 369570

£8,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

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

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 51

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2003 (03) Mercedes 814 Plaxton Cheetah

2006 Transit Tourneo

2003 Scania K114

With Irizar Century 49 seat body with toilet. £45,000

16 full size coach seats with three point belts, rear double and single on quick release, skirt kit and front bumper modification, luggage racks with integrated blown air and reading lights, curtains, roof hatch/sunroof, digital tachograph, COIF, wheeltrims and driver’s lockers. £28,995

Andy Shaw – 0131 554 5413

UK Minicoaches – 01902 631507

2002 Volvo B12M Plaxton Paragon

Scania Omnicity TFL DD

9 seater, air con, alloy wheels, electric windows/mirrors, radio/CD, FSH, 74,000 miles, immaculate, choice of 2, viewing in London.

Automatic, 25 reclining seats, LEZ box, table, air conditioning, good condition. £21,995 + VAT

£7,250 + VAT – PX considered

Lewis Travel – 020 8858 0031

Crystals Coaches Ltd 020 8960 8800/07971 000111

2006 Transit Tourneo

2008 Mercedes Atego

9 seater, SWB, low roof, air con, alloy wheels, electric windows, mirrors, radio/CD, FSH, 74,000 miles, MOT May, immaculate.

Choice of 2, viewing in London.

Crystals Coaches Ltd 020 8960 8800/07971 000111

With Sitcar Marlin 33 seat body in green. £45,000

12.2 long, wheelchair accessible, ZF auto, 53 seats + loo, side lift, retrimmed 2012, good condition. £35,000

Andy Shaw – 0131 554 5413

Lewis Travel – 020 8858 0031

1992 Leyland Lynx

2006 Transit Tourneo

£7,250 + VAT – PX considered

Cummins L10 engine, ZF gearbox.

Sold for spares – 2 available.

Offers invited for engine & gearbox or bus

9 seater, tax till Jan, will have new MOT, 190,000 miles, runs well, front and rear air-con, tow bar. £4,000 + VAT

Hailstone Travel Ltd 0845 388 3848

07802 235778 / 0151 547 2713

2009 Enviro 200

2008 MAN 14:240 MCV Evolution

43 seats + 22 standees, auto box, 3 point belts, DDA compliant with Mobitec display, 8 camera CCTV system,Traffilog tracking & diagnostics, well maintained with long MOT, 4 available.

£47,500

Bakers Dolphin 01934 422400 or 07788 101631

Cummins engine, Allison gearbox, 8.8m, 29 seats, Hanover LED’s.

POA

EnsignBus 01708 865656

Now in stock and available for a fast delivery

Ex-rental, Euro 4, 22 seats lower, 41 upper deck, 1 x wheelchair, 25 standees, Voith auto, air-con, wheelchair ramp, DDA compliant, Mobitech destination, CCTV, single door option, repaint option, MOT 2013, choice of 9.

PURCHASE OR RENTAL OPTIONS

Santander Used Assets 07753 712444

1992 Leyland Lynx

1 ) 0 5 0 4

" / %

' 6

$ 0 0 6 3

" 4

4 5 " / % " 3 %

0 /

"

7 & ) * $ &

' 0 3

4 " &

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

Cummins L10 engine, ZF gearbox.

Sold for spares – 2 available.

Offers invited for engine & gearbox or bus

07802 235778 / 0151 547 2713

1999 Mercedes Optare Solo M850

26 + standees, automatic box, DDA compliant with Mobitec display, 8 camera CCTV system and Traffilog tracking and diagnostics fitted.

MOT to March 2014.

£8,500

Bakers Dolphin 01934 422400 or 07788 101631

1998 (R) Plaxton Premier

D L SO

46 seats with rear toilet & servery, wheelchair lift, most seats on quick releases, takes upto approx. 10-12 fixed chairs, drives really well, tested to Jan. £12,000

Lewis Travel – 020 8858 0031

Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com 52 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013

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VUgYWcUW\gU`Yg#Wc#i_ www.coachandbusweek.com

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 53

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Ensig DOUBLE DECK 2010 ENVIRO 300 Cummins ISC Euro 5 engine, 12m, DDA, 44 seats, Hanover LED’s.

LEZ

COMPLIANT

1999/2000/2001 V/Y REG DENNIS TRIDENTS

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

2005 NEOPLAN SKYLINER’S

2001 Y REG DENNIS DARTS

13.8m, MAN engines, 89 seats, toilet, air-con.

DDA, Cummins / Allison, Alexander ALX200 bodies, 8.8m, 27 seats.

2000/2001 X/Y REG VOLVO B7TL’S

1999 DENNIS TRIDENT

Cummins / Voith, Alexander ALX 400 lowheight body, 84 seats, LEZ compliant.

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

1999 VOLVO B7TL’S

2008 OPTARE SOLOS

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

Merc Euro 4 engines, Mobitech LED’s, one M880 28 seats and one M950 31 seats.

2000 VOLVO B7TL’s

ZF gearboxes, single door, 82 seats fully seated or 80 seats as DDA compliant, supplied with new MOT and COIF, new batch just arriving.

2010 VOLVO B7RLE’S Volvo Euro 5 engine, 12m, DDA, 45 seats, Hanover LED’s.

OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY -

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

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K ER SPECIALIST 2002 DENNIS DARTS

2010 VOLVO B7R

Cummins ISB Euro 3 engines, Plaxton Pointer bodies, LEZ and DDA, ABS fitted.

ZF automatic, Euro 5, Plaxton Profile body, air-con, 53 seats, very low mileage, new MOT.

1998 R REG VOLVO OLYMPIAN

Volvo Euro 2 engine, ZF gearbox, East Lancs body, 84 seats, no side facing.

2003 SCANIA OMNICITY CN94UB

2 door, Euro 3, ZF automatic, 37 seats, 12m, DDA.

2004 MERCEDES CITARO 12m, Euro 3, DDA, 42 seats.

2006 VOLVO B12B’S

Caetano Levante bodies, DDA compliant with lifts, 49 seats, toilet, air-con, recent re-trims, LEZ compliant.

2008 VOLVO B7RLE

Volvo Euro 5 engine, Optare Esteem body, 12m long, 43 seats, Hanover LED’s, low mileage.

2001/2002 DENNIS TRIDENTS

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.

2009 ENVIRO 200

1997 DAF SB3000

Manual gearbox, Van Hool body, 53 seats.

2007 VOLVO B9TL

Cummins engine, Allison gearbox, 8.8m, 29 seats, Hanover LED’s.

Euro 4 Volvo engine, Wrights Eclipse Gemini body, 68 seats or 74 converted to single door.

2008 PLAXTON PRIMO

1998 R REG VOLVO OLYMPIANS

Euro 4 Cummins engines, 8.5m long, 28 seats, DDA, £24,000.

Volvo Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, East Lancs bodies, 72 seats.

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

p00_CBW_1090 1000 Vehicles FP

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682251-1115-Ventura

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BUS & COACH

IN THE SOUTH LTD. Euro 5 vehicles available now & into 2014

VDL FUTURA FHD2 129.365PR AUTOMATIC • 57/59 Vogel Conturo reclining seats • Leather headrests and piping • Courier seat • Driver/courier seats leather trimmed • AIR CONDITIONING • Double glazing • Centre demount toilet • Continental exit with powered door • Step access to luggage bay • Central locking to luggage compartment • Webasto heater • Dash mounted fridge • CD/Radio/p.a with Bluetooth • DVD system • Wood effect flooring • Reverse camera • Electric sun blinds • Electric drivers signal window • Carpets • Curtains • ZF Intarder • Euro 5 emission level DAF PR engine • ZF automatic transmission • 860 Ltr Fuel capacity • 12.9mtr Body length

Summerfield Avenue, Chelston Business Park, Wellington, Somerset, TA21 9JF 58 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013

www.moseleysouth.co.uk Follow us @MoseleySouth on

Telephone (01823) 653000 Fax: (01823) 663502 Email: sales@moseleysouth.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com

698440-1115-Connaught

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

2005 (05) Optare Solo 9.5m • 33 seats / 17 standees • Merc Euro 3 engine • Allison auto • Hanover destination • Tachograph fitted £32,000 + VAT

2005 (55) Scania Omnidekka

• 72 seats / 19 standees • Scania DS9 Euro 3 engine • ZF auto • LEZ compliant (to Euro 4)

All sold – more SLF Deckers due in – ring for details

2003 ADL E300 12m • 44 seats + 27 standees • Cummins Euro 3 engine • ZF auto • Hanover destination • Wheelchair ramp & bay £27,000 +VAT

Part Exchange possible | Finance available – subject to status | Full inspection facilities

Viewing by appointment please – we are 10 minutes from Gatwick Airport Southdown PSV Silverwood Snow Hill Copthorne West Sussex RH10 3EN

Back to School Special

Sprinter 513 Cdi LWB 131 bhp. r 6OLGLQJ VLGH GRRU ZLWK (OHFWULF HQWU\ VWHS r 6HDWV 'ULYHU r ,Q 'DVK $LUFRQ r 6DORRQ $LUFRQ Optional Extra’s: r %RG\ &RORXUHG %XPSHUV r /XJJDJH UDFNV r %RG\ 6W\OH 3DFN r :KHHOFKDLU OLIW 2SWLRQ Contact.

Danny: T.(01293)852040 M.(0774)9103203 Peter: T.(01293)852025 M.(0771)5473354

60 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013

www.coachandbusweek.com

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Page 61

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 61

681973-1113-Pembridge

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FORD TRANSIT MINIBUSES (12) 2012 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 135ps air-con, tacho, COIF/PSV £19,995 (12) 2012 Ford Transit 9 seat Shuttle twin side loading doors 18000 miles £12,995 (10) 2010 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 2.4 diesel, six speed gearbox, tacho, 55,000 km £13,495

D SOL

(07) 2007 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 2.4 diesel, six speed, one owner, 64,000 miles, FSH, COIF/PSV £9,950 + VAT (56) 2006 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus, high back seats with three point belts, COIF/PSV £8,995 (02) 2002 Ford Transit 2.4 diesel 3.5 ton, automatic gearbox, 8 seats, inboard Ricon wheelchair lift, rear heating, tracking to take 3 wheelchairs, overhead lockers £5,995

OTHER MAKES

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

(60) 2010 Renault Master 3.5 ton GVW 17 seat minibus, 2.3 diesel, six speed manual, high back seats, tacho, 38,000kms, sat-nav £15,995

(56) 2006 Peugeot Boxer 3.5 ton 17 seat LWB minibus, 2.8 diesel, high back seats with three point seat belts, 19,000 miles only £9,450 (56) 2006 Peugeot Boxer 3.5t on 17 seat minibus 2.8 diesel, high back seats with three point belts, 33,000 miles £8,995

OTHER MAKES

(54) 2004 LDV Convoy 17 seat school minibus, internal racks, roof rack, tachograph, 51,500miles, FSH £4,995 Renault Master 17 seat 2.8 diesel mini coach, full under floor luggage large boot, tachograph, COIF/PSV £5,995 + VAT

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS

(62) 2013 Citroen Berlingo Automatic, 8,000 miles only, low floor, lightweight ramp, electric reals, high spec £12,850

(11) 2011 Renault Master 17 seat 2.3 diesel six speed, tachograph, fully tracked floor inboard lightweight ramp, 37,000 kms £16,995 (06) 2006 Vauxhall Vivaro 1.9 cdti 9 seat, inboard lift, tracking for 2 wheelchairs, 45,000 miles £8,995 (57) 2007 Renault Master MWB 2.5TD 6 speed, tracking for two wheelchairs, in board lift, aircon, rear heating, 35,000 miles, one owner £12,495 (07) 2007 Fiat Doblo 1.4 petrol, 11,500 miles only, five speed manual, three seats plus wheelchair space, low floor, lightweight ramp, electric reals, air-con £6,995

D L O S

(05) 2005 Fiat Ducato 20ltr diesel SWB 6 Seat wheelchair accessible minibus, Unwin fully tracked floor to take two wheelchairs, lightweight fold out ramp, electric winch £3,995

(54) 2004 Renault Master 3.5 ton 2.5 Diesel, five speed manual gearbox,12 seats, tracking to take two wheelchairs, inboard lift, rear heating, low entry side step £6,995

(53) 2003 Renault Master SWB 2.3 diesel, inboard Ricon lift,tracking for two wheelchairs, electric side step £5,995

Contact Graham Thatcher – email: sales@minibussales.co.uk

Tel: 01633 485858 Mobile: 07866 443304

Pembridge House, The Park Business Centre, Plough Road, Goytre, Penperlleni, Nr Usk, South Wales NP4 0AL – 10 minutes from M4 motorway. Viewing by appointment only

Finance Contract Hire and Finance Lease Available. We deliver Nationwide. All vehicles prepared to VOSA standard COIF/PSV specialist

All above prices are subject to VAT @ 20%

699160-1115-Stafford

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FROM £9,950

£12,450

POA

VOLVO OLYMPIAN ALEXANDER BODY 1996 N REG 78 seats with belts, long or new MOT, one repainted white, currently taxed so ready to work.

FROM £7,750

MERDECEDS 413CDI SPRINTER 2007 REG Uvg treka body, 16 seats or upto 6 wheelchairs, low miles and PSV tested £21,950

£13,940

MERCEDES 413 D SPRINTER 2004 REG Extra long body with 16 seats and huge full height boot, COIF and long MOT £13,950.00

£8.950 DENNIS DART PLAXTON MPD 1999/2000 WITH 29 SEATS AND UP TO 24 STANDING, DDA COMPLIANT, LARGE CHOICE INCLUDING MANY “SPD’S” DUE SOON FROM MAJOR BUS COMPANY, CAN BE PAINTED, BELTED ETC ORDER YOURS NOW FROM ONLY £4950 INC TYRES

p64_CBW_1115

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HEAVY DUTY STEEL BUILDINGS

BUILDINGS

ENGINEERING SUPPORT

• Bus Workshops • Secure Storage

• Supplied any width, any length

• Building to BS5590

• Doors high enough for Double Deckers

• Finance available Phone for further information

BLUELINE BUILDINGS 01709 578333 anytime

BUS & COACH RENTAL

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The ABC of Rental Solutions

Under your control.

For the time you need it.

Bus and Coach

01274 681144

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

HEATING

FLEET SALES

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

Tel: 01993 849522 Fax: 01993 706920 Email: sales@thhs.co.uk

www.thhs.co.uk

UNIT 9 NIMROD BUSINESS PARK DE HAVILLAND WAY, WITNEY OX29 0YG

or

CHANGING YOUR FLEET?

Contact Malcolm Harrison Auctions

01630 674326

auctions@malcolmharrison.co.uk MALCOLM HARRISON AUCTIONS

INSURANCE

64 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013

www.coachandbusweek.com

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Driver Licence Checks

LICENCE CHECKS

DRIVING LICE NCE

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

PARTS

Over 17,000 parts lines directly from stock.

Next day delivery as standard.

Bus and Coach

01274 681144

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

Sign Writing Services • School Signs – Hard Back with Suckers, Magnetic or Stick-on • Legal Lettering, Stickers, Notices & Signs • Full Colour Latex Vinyl Printing & Design Service • Vinyl Livery Cut & Posted ready to apply

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

TRAINING

The ABC of Parts Support

SIGNWRITING

SEATING

TRANSPORT MANAGER AVAILABLE

NATIONAL TRANSPORT MANAGER

BUCKINGHAM 3 & 2 • Ideal for 3 & 2 configurations • Ergonomic design for maximum support, comfort and legroom • Tried & tested: fitted into many new coaches as OEM • Full range of legs and fitting options make the Buckingham ideal for upseating to 70+ seats • Lighter weight makes easier for installation Prime Passenger Seating Limited 7 Canalwood Industrial Estate, Chirk, Wrexham LL14 5RL Telephone: 01691 898 665 Fax: 01691 770 798 Email: johnm@primeps.com

www.primeps.com

with 16 years’ experience looking for a part time role.

Ideal for start-up companies.

Based in London.

Please contact Ciro Vidali for more details.

Telephone: 07823 770978 Email: ciro.vidali@gmail.com

VEHICLE SPARES

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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

TRIM

COACH TRIMMERS LTD

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

Full floors re-laid and centre gangways.

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

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

Tel/Fax: 01751 472229 www.coachandbusweek.com

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

www.twigley.com

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 65

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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

New takes on the bus stop Monday Press day. I’m confident we’re on track for a 1730hrs finish – until a frustrating IT problem rears its ugly head, which results in us not leaving the office until 2200hrs. In stark contrast to the past, we’re not used to these ‘late nights’ any more.

Tuesday Rise early to catch a First Capital Connect train down to London for the UK Bus Awards. As always, it’s a prime opportunity to catch up with CBW readers, along with harvesting opportunities for features. After announcing an award, I run at a speed I’ve not done for some time to Green Park tube station and manage to make my train home. I have CBW admin to do when I reach home.

Wednesday Another early start to head to Courtney Buses for an ‘Operator Profile’. I build in enough time for the journey, which is fortunate as I get caught up in the jams spilling out onto the M25 caused by a lorry fire at the bottom of the M40. They’re a friendly crew at Courtney Buses. Before I hit the road back to Peterborough, grab a rateable bacon sarnie at the butty van near the entrance to the business park. I head back via the M1 and A421 and manage to jump straight onto the notorious Black Cat island – and look at the long queue of northbound traffic on the A1.

That could have been me if I would have returned via South Mimms.

Thursday Three long days seem to be catching me up but I plough ahead with compiling the UKBA report.

Krumbach, a small Austrian market town, has been the focus of seven architectural practices who were invited to submit bold new takes on bus stops.

Local association kultur kumbrach invited architects from Belgium, Chile, China, Japan, Norway, Russia and Spain, all of whom responded within four weeks, Der Spiegel reported. The resulting designs varied from practical to pointless... or perhaps not.

The submission from Japan’s Sou Fujimoto was particularly eyecatching, appearing to comprise an exposed stairway to nowhere surrounded by a thicket of vertical spear-like narrow poles. We’re not entirely sure what makes it qualify as a bus stop, though it certainly offers little in the way of shelter and plenty for health and safety departments to be concerned about.

Most of the other submissions were somewhat more practical and one of them was built.

If you’d like to take a look at the submissions, go to http://www. gizmag.com/architect-bus-stopdesigns/29816

A video for Van Hool fans

Dilbert

Fans of Van Hool coaches are not in a minority in our industry, our experience suggests. It’s no exaggeration to say that the popular Belgian marque enjoys a loyal following from operators, drivers and passengers alike.

For those of you who can’t get enough Van Hool action – as it were – read on. One of the friendly tour drivers at Maynes of Buckie, who we understand is called Kevin, has uploaded a clip to YouTube clip at http://youtu.be/MIuVWirZSKs showing some great pictures of a Van Hool against some spectacular backdrops. Just for the record, the Van Hool TX Club concerned is registered ‘M17YNE’.

If you’re interested in the renowned North of Scotland �irm, Kevin’s YouTube channel (user name ‘Deen Tyauvin’) has no fewer than half-a-dozen clips of Maynes.

Friday A busy day in the office trying to get as much done as possible before Monday.

Saturday In my ‘civvies’ I enjoy a day at the Warley model railway show at the NEC, Birmingham. I bump into a surprising number of CBW readers.

67 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013 067_CBW1115_Last Stop.indd 67

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BRISTOL PCV OPERATIONS/BUSINESS MANAGER Dealing with day to day operations with emphasis on sales.

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We offer: • Salary in excess of £31,000 • Private health • Mercedes E Class • Assistance with relocation if applicable.

Please forward CV to Keith Sanzo at keith@eurotaxis.com (Tel: 07970 096262 or 07970 458877)

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Heavy Vehicle Technician - Nightshi� Would you like to join our highly experienced team of engineers, based at our excellent workshop in Lower Sydenham, South East London?

Requirements for the successful candidate will be: • Fully skilled HGV/PCV Technician • Experience of all types of repairs to commercial vehicles • Background in Mercedes/Setra/Scania coaches preferred but not essen al • HGV/PCV licence essen al • Conscien ous and reliable, able to work on own ini a ve We offer: • • • •

Compe ve salary Excellent working facili es, friendly team, modern vehicles Group Personal Pension Scheme Paid holiday

We may have on-site accommoda on available for those applicants who live at distance or may need to relocate.

For more informa on or for an applica on form please call 0208 768 9637 and ask for Steve Holden. Alterna vely please complete an applica on form online at our website www.clarkescoaches.co.uk

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Head of Purchasing The Head of Purchasing will report directly to Engineer Director and will be responsible for providing a robust framework for the tendering for and issue of Metroline external contracts and to provide effective logistic support to the engineering team.

Main responsibilities: • Ensuring that Metroline contracts with external suppliers are robust and comply with contract law.

• Ensuring that current contracts are reviewed and amended where necessary.

• Providing and innovative approach to new contracts to ensure the company receives best value.

• Researching best practice in the market place prior to tendering for contracts.

• Working with the Technical Team to ensure engineering contracts comply with the company procedures.

• Meeting with external suppliers to discuss innovation and technology changes that may affect current contracts.

• Ensuring that contracts are awarded in a fair and open manner, through the management of a robust and visible tendering process.

• The management and development of purchasing staff and stores personnel including sickness and absence, disciplines and back to work interviews.

• Formally briefing the Engineering Director on all engineering material supply issues.

• Overseeing the supply function of company fleet management system.

• Meeting the logistic requirements of the engineering function.

• Planning the spares supply in line with the planned maintenance requirements.

• Identifying new technologies.

• Ensuring that the stores department comply with current Health & Safety Regulations.

Essential Criteria for application: • Established procurement leader.

• Experience in cross functional support.

• Adaptable and open to change.

• CIPS qualified.

Competence & Skills: • Excellent written and spoken English with the ability to communicate clearly and at all levels; • Excellent attention for detail • Ability to operate as a team player • Ability to work well under pressure • Excellent interpersonal and organisational skills; • Must be proactive, methodical and results orientated.

• Highly organised, motivated and able to prioritise workload • Ability to manage own workload effectively and work to strict deadlines; • Exceptional customer service skills with a natural flair of providing support and guidance and going ‘the extra mile’ • Process driven and able to deliver results in a high volume.

• Ability to use initiative and identify solutions when a problem or difficult situation arises • Must be able to demonstrate credibility to build professional relationships with both employees and managers, • Discreet when managing confidential matters.

• Ability to collate and interpret statistical data; • Able to build lasting relationships with internal and external stakeholders/suppliers; • An understanding/appreciation of the service requirements and the management of day to day operational issues; • Ability to influence and persuade key decision makers; • Must be a team player and willing to develop others to increase team and individual performance.

You will work 38 hours per week, Monday to Friday, with a competitive salary.

To apply, please send a covering letter and CV to Nicola Newton, HR Assistant, Metroline, ComfortDelGro House, 329 Edgware Road, Cricklewood, London NW2 6JP. Alternatively, please e-mail nnewton@metroline.co.uk Applications should include the reasons you are applying for the post, why you believe you are a suitable candidate, and any relevant qualifications or experience.

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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

In association with

Change of Directors at Stagecoach East Scotland as Charlie retires Stagecoach East Scotland’s Managing Director Charlie Mullen has retired after eight years’ service. Charlie had been MD of the firm since 2009 having previously run the Bluebird business in the North East of Scotland. Prior to that, he was MD of Strathtay Scottish Omnibuses.

Speaking at his retirement party, Charlie said: “I’ve thoroughly enjoyed my time at Stagecoach, I’ve had the pleasure of working with so many talented and hard working people, who are the real success of the company and it’s the people I’ll miss the most.”

Taking over Mr Mullen’s duties is Andrew Jarvis, who has been working alongside Charlie in as MD since July. Andrew has joined East of Scotland from Stagecoach Bluebird and has spent over 20 years in the bus industry.

Andrew is also joined by Operations Director Mark Whitelocks, another success story of Stagecoach’s popular graduate scheme.

Mark spent a year of his training in East Scotland before a number

Charlie with his with his wife Helen at his surprise retirement party of positions as an Operations Manager, Traffic Manager in Gloucester and has now returned as part of the senior management team.

A new Engineering Director has also been appointed to the area.

John Harper, held the role of MD of Stagecoach West Scotland for seven years, having worked in various managerial roles.

New Director for Distinctive Systems Australia Alan Williamson, well known to many people in the industry as Operations Manager at York-based Distinctive Systems, has been made a Director of the company’s Melbourne based Australian subsidiary.

Alan went out to Australia in June, initially for a trial period of three months, but after applying for and being granted the appropriate visa, has now taken up a permanent position as Sales Director at Distinctive Systems (Australia) Pty. Alan started his career in the coach industry in 1986 as a Traffic Office Trainee at County Durhambased OK Motor Services. He rose to the position of Depot Manager before joining Distinctive Systems in 1997 as an Installation, Training and Support Specialist. In 2005 Alan left to join Selwyns Travel in

Alan Williamson to Australia Runcorn as General Manager, but returned to Distinctive Systems the following year to become Operations Manager.

Alan’s position as UK Operations Manager has now been taken over

by David Humble. David joined Distinctive Systems in 1994 also as an Installation, Training and Support Specialist.

November 27, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 69 25/11/2013 19:40

Book one week, get a second week

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Get your vacancy seen by quality candidates

and a third week

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Full Colour as standard ■ All vacancies posted to www.coachandbusweek.com/jobs ■ Details of all vacancies posted to our Facebook, Twitter & Linkedin pages ■

Contact Ian Gillis 01733 293484 ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com

Compliance Engineer Competitive salary + company vehicle + benefits Immediate Start (Full & Part Time)

Lloyd Morgan Group are the one of the country’s leading PCV/ HGV compliance monitoring and training companies, which is enforced by our Corporate partnership to the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT).

We are looking for a highly motivated specialist to join our expanding team of compliance engineers, who is willing to travel and spend some nights away from home.

The Role.

You will be home based, working throughout the UK, with the opportunity to travel further afield into Europe, USA and the UAE. Although the appointments are pre-planned the role is predominantly self managing your time and meeting deadlines.

You will be a motivated engineer with an eye for detail, have excellent written and verbal communication skills and have a thorough knowledge of not only vehicle inspection but also engineering maintenance systems and best practice. You will ideally will have auditing knowledge and an auditing qualification.

You will be computer literate, have a working knowledge of Word, Outlook, emails and Excel and be a forward thinker.

You must hold relevant PCV/HGV qualifications for engineering, a current UK driving licence and have attention to detail.

If you feel you have the necessary skills, acumen and qualification to meet this exciting challenge please email your CV through to jeanette.groves@lloydmorgangroup.co.uk

70 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 27, 2013 068_071_CBW1115_Peopl_Recruitment.indd 70

we require a

Commercial & Operations Manager

Do you aspire to make a difference?

We need a leader who can continue with the development and growth of the changing face of Damory buses.

3URIHVVLRQDOO\ DQG ZLWK FRQÀGHQFH \RX will deliver Damory into the commercial market whilst continuing the excellent partnership with the local authority.

Damory is a varied and interesting EXVLQHVV ZLWK VLJQLÀFDQW RSSRUWXQLW\ to expand and develop the portfolio of services throughout Dorset.

The right person will need a blend of both commercial and operational attributes alongside people skills to take this exciting challenge forwards.

An attractive salary and relocation package is on offer.

Please apply with a CV and covering letter explaining why you would be able to make a difference, by post to Diana Wilks, Human Resources Manager Go South Coast Towngate House 2-8 Parkstone Road Poole BH15 2PR or email your application to diana.wilks@gosouthcoast.co.uk

by Friday 6 December 2013

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RECRUITMENT & PEOPLE

In association with

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

New Go-Ahead Corporate Communications Director Sarah Boundy has been appointed as Go-Ahead Group’s Corporate Communications Director. She has been covering the role since the departure of Samantha Hodder who left in the summer to be a director of Sydney Trains, Australia.

Sarah has worked in the transport industry for more than ten years, most recently as Head of Communications and Publicity at one of Go-Ahead’s rail companies, Southeastern, where she was part of their executive team.

The role reports to David Brown, Group Chief Executive, and the remit is to work with the organisation’s operating companies and all stakeholders to enhance the reputation of the Group. She has extensive communications and public affairs experience with previous roles

Engineer retires after 48 years

trent barton has bid a fond farewell to one of its longestserving members of staff who has retired after nearly half a century.

Kevin Murphy first started work as an apprentice and has since worked at a number of bus depots before ending his career as Engineering Manager. Now the 63-year-old from Heanor is planning on spending more time on the golf course and playing with his grandchildren, but says

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in PR, publishing and broadcast journalism.

David Brown said: “We’re pleased to have Sarah joining us from Southeastern where she was instrumental in the introduction of the high speed service and in the successful delivery of rail transport for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”

Sarah Boundy added: “I’m delighted to be joining Go-Ahead Group and look forward to working with the outstanding team here. High quality public transport is so important to the people who use it, the local communities it serves and the UK economy as a whole and Go-Ahead has a strong reputation as one of the UK’s leading transport providers with excellent credentials in environmental standards and innovation.” he will miss his colleagues.

“Over the years I’ve worked with some fantastic people, and the company has given me plenty of opportunities to advance my career,” he said. “There have been lots of high points, including helping to build a breakdown truck from scratch, but in recent times I’ve found that nurturing the next generation of engineers has been one of the most rewarding aspects of the job.”

Back in 1965 Kevin went straight from Saint John Horton School in Ilkeston to his first job at Midland General, which became part of trent barton six years later. This was not the only

Sarah Boundy has moved from Southern trains to head office

Jeff Counsell, trent barton Managing Director, with Kevin Murphy change he has witnessed over a 48-year career.

“The buses have changed dramatically; they are much more

comfortable and reliable, and computers have started to play a much bigger role in keeping them on the road,” he explained.

Kevin himself has played a key role in the evolution of the buses, working closely with UK manufacturer Optare on the development of new vehicles.

Jeff Counsell, Managing Director, commented: “For nearly 50 years Kevin has made a tremendous contribution to trentbarton and the wider bus industry. As well as expertly leading a dedicated team that keeps our services running, his knowledge and expertise is widely recognised and respected.

This expertise will be missed,

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