Coach & Bus Week : Issue 1119

The BIG Question: 2013 and Optare double looking forward to 2014 p26 decker due p4

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Woodstones Coaches on parade p20

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Graham Smith connects p44

BYD electrified in London King Alfred splash of colour 001_CBW1119_Cover.indd 1

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Arriva pulls out of Malta opp

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Beestons buys John’s Tours

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www.coachandbusweek.com ISSN: 1351-3877 © 2014 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.

Not if but when

I

’m sure I’m not alone in believing Arriva’s exit from Malta was not entirely unexpected – a classic case of ‘not if, but when.’ At the risk of taking sides when I’m not privy to the minutiae of insider details, it seems that this was an operation that was always being asked to do the impossible.

I guess it’s an occupational hazard of working on a model which is not too dissimilar to that of a Quality Contract – Nexus please note. It’s about dancing to the tune of those who pay your bills (read political interference), while being shackled.

I also believe there are parallels between the Maltese saga and the campaign waged by the Evening Standard on the artics in London. Of course, in both cases, but especially Malta, one could argue the media was responding to the calls of a section of its readership, which of course taints the opinion of the uninformed – such is life.

The same arguments were recycled with the artics – fires being literally blown out of all proportion (apparently only three, with arson not ruled out) and their unsuitability for local roads.

From a media perspective, it seems Arriva being an ‘outsider’ was an easy target, a scapegoat even. It would appear that, initially at least, there were scores to

CONTENTS

be settled, not least amongst some former route bus owners and drivers who, although well compensated at the time, had lost their independence – and who, faced with having to work to a different set of rules not unusual elsewhere in Europe, were not happy.

It seems Arriva tried long and hard to bring sanity to the operation. In the end it brought in one of its big hitters, Mark Bowd who cut his teeth in the post UK bus deregulation era, including time at one of the most commercially astute of the former National Bus Company subsidiaries, Midland Fox alongside Arriva CEO David Martin and other now well known industry names.

On a separate note, in this issue (p44) you’ll find the first of a new feature series looking at Young Managers. While we’ve got a ‘hit list’ I would welcome any suggestions for potential candidates.

We’ve also got what I think is an interesting feature on Woodstones Coaches of Kidderminster (p20). A familiar sight on the M5, I enjoyed hearing it from the man behind what is undoubtedly a small but smart operator.

Gareth Evans Editor

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

10

New Year’s report from the final Kings Alfred’s Bus Running Day

20

A look at suppliers of passenger comfort and entertainment

Two & a half years down the line, Arriva’s Maltese adventure is over

12

The story behind Woodstones Coaches of Kidderminster

26

Graham Smith, Commercial Manager of Go Ahead in East Anglia profiled

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

14

The thoughts of industry figures on 2013 and their outlook on 2014

36

A lighthearted look at the industry, plus Office Diary column

BYD’s new electric bus launched with Go-Ahead in London

A Stanley Travel Solo SR operating on the Durham Cathedral Service

All the latest people moves from across the industry

News

International News Regional News News Focus

Heritage News

Industry Guide

44

Operator Profile Big Question Big Picture

Young Manager

67

Last Stop

68

People

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January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 3 06/01/2014 19:21

NEWS B R I E F LY l CLAYTON JONES has applied for a new O-licence – according to the latest Notices & Proceedings for the Welsh Traffic Area. His application is due to be heard before a Traffic Commissioner at Public Inquiry at Cardiff Magistrates Court on February 4 at 1000hrs. The two areas to be covered during the case include ‘Consideration of new application under Section 14 of the The Public Passenger Vehicles Act 1981’ and ‘Objection received against new application under Section 14A.’ l POSSIBLY for the first time in its own right, Stagecoach has ordered Wrightbus-bodied vehicles in the shape of 32 Gemini 3-bodied Volvo B5LH hybrids for its London operation.

According to the London Omnibus Traction Society (LOTS), they will operate from Catford Garage on routes 54 and 75.

It’s the first time Volvos have been acquired since the last Olympians in 1999. Stagecoach London is also buying 45 ADL Enviro400H hybrids. l WITH IMMEDIATE EFFECT both Norfolk Green and Sanders have come to an agreement whereby tickets issued by either operator will be accepted, by each other on all journeys between King’s Lynn and Cromer. l NATIONAL EXPRESS STAFF, based at their head office in Birmingham, have collected hundreds of pounds worth of food items, toiletries and other groceries for a local foodbank in Aston. The collection was organised by Deputy Payroll Manager Debbie Linnecor across the bus and coach operator’s Bordesley Green and Digbeth head offices. Debbie, who is the firm’s Deputy Payroll Manager, said: “It seemed such a little thing to do but it will have such a big impact for the Aston foodbank team.” l NEWS YEARS HONOURS have gone to David Waboso, Capital Programmes Director for London Underground, who has been recognised with a CBE. An MBE has been awarded to Joseph Elliott, Chairman of the Board of Trustees at Coventry Transport Museum for services to museums.

Optare decker in first quarter

Optare’s new double-decker has been in development for some time

In announcing its interim results for the six months to the end of September 30, 2013, Optare has reiterated its plans to introduce its new double-decker product in the first quarter of 2014.

It also says that it has been successful in winning initial orders in Australia for the whole of its single-decker range. “Further sizeable orders are expected in 2014 through our dealers in Australia,” said John Fickling, Optare’s Non-Executive Chairman.

“We are excited about the growth prospects and market demand in this part of the world for Optare’s products.”

Results for the six months to September 30, 2013 saw losses before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortisation cut by a third to £0.8m as a stronger product mix and cost savings helped gross profit margins to almost double to 10.3%.

Revenue was down 31% to £32.4m.

Administration costs reduced by 10% as overall headcount reduced from 443 to 396. Further cost reduction programmes are in place to deliver over £1.0m of fixed costs savings in the full year of 2013/14.

The loss per share has been cut from 0.15p to 0.08p.

Optare’s banking arrangements were renegotiated by Barclays with a total bank facility of £23m now available. This includes additional facilities of £7m which has been put in place to meet the company’s

liabilities as they fall due and investment in new products.

“I am pleased with the progress we have made to improve efficiency and reduce fixed costs,” said John.

“We continue to invest in people, innovation and new product opportunities for the UK and export markets we look to the future of the company with increased confidence.”

The Board said it still anticipates an increase in UK demand in 2014, particularly for single deck buses as the larger operating Groups invest in new vehicles. Additionally, an increasing proportion of future sales are expected to come from export markets which will help to de-risk the Group’s current dependency on a cyclical UK market.

The DfT has recommended tyres over 10 years old should not be fitted to front steered axles of buses and coaches.

The guidance comes in the wake of the September 2012 coach crash on the A3 due to loss of control following a blow-out. Three people lost their lives and others were seriously injured.

The coroner concluded the catastrophic failure of the nearside front tyre was the result of deterioration due to its age. It was

also noted there were no obvious signs of tyre defects prior to the incident.

Now, the DfT has said such tyres should be fitted only to the rear axles of vehicles as part of a twin tyre combination.

Finding out the age of a tyre is simple – according to the DfT. Those manufactured after the year 2000 have a four digit code with the first two digits representing the week of manufacture and third and fourth

digits representing the year.

Tyres made before the year 2000 have a three digit code with the first two digits representing the week of manufacture and third digit representing the year.

Therefore, 258 means week 25 of 1998.

“If you are not sure about the age of your tyres, their general condition or suitability for use seek professional guidance from your tyre contractor or supplier,” the DfT concluded.

Gross profit margins almost doubled as export market set for further growth

DfT advises on older front tyres for PSVs

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CBNW ceases

The IRTE Skills Challenge Bus and coach operators are being invited once again to take up the IRTE Skills Challenge. The competition allows technicians to test their expertise in a series of mechanical, electrical and bodywork tasks, and see who is up to the challenge of maintaining a modern passenger carrying fleet.

Sponsored by Allison Transmission, BAE Systems, Bridgestone, Knorr-Bremse and Shell Lubricants, the Challenge has been embraced by operators as a way of promoting their companies’ commitment to skills and training. 2013 saw technicians and apprentices from the likes of Arriva, Go-Ahead London, Reading Buses, Translink and FirstGroup battle it out. The top award, the IRTE Award for Outstanding Achievement, went to Arriva team-mates Glenn Cooke, Colin Harris and Stephen Hall. This year, technicians will compete for prizes from Teng Tools as well as the chance to say they’re the best in the business.

A professional Sector of SOE (Society of Operations Engineers), IRTE (Institute of Road Transport Engineers) supports the development of engineering professionals. Ian Chisholm, Head of Operations at SOE, said: “The Skills Challenge mirrors IRTE’s aims of encouraging best practice, inspiring lifelong learning, and promoting the value of technical skills in the road transport industry. By offering a benchmark against which individuals and companies can measure themselves, (it) encourages technicians and operators to strive for the best – and rewards those who achieve it.”

Chief Operating Officer for VOSA, Alex Fiddes, added: “The IRTE Skills Challenge is a fantastic event which recognises everything that’s good about the bus industry. It’s a chance to celebrate the people who strive to achieve the highest professional standard, something that VOSA and I strongly encourage.”

Catherine Mason, Group Chief Executive of Translink in Northern Ireland, is leaving in March to take up a post in England with provider of Air Traffic Management (ATM) services, NATS. “It is with mixed emotions I am making this move; firstly genuine sadness, I have enjoyed my time in Translink and Northern Ireland,” she said. “I also feel huge pride in the success Translink has had, during very difficult economic times. We have grown passenger numbers and

customer satisfaction is very high due to major investment programmes in new buses and trains, infrastructure works and passenger facilities and huge innovation in ticketing and customer information.

However, none of this would have been possible without the professionalism and expertise of everyone in Translink and all done with a warmth to, and care for our customers. I wish to thank all my colleagues in Translink for their friendship, support and hard work over the past years; I

IRTE Skills Challenge is already widely recognised by industry Entry to the IRTE Skills Challenge is free, and the competition will take place at SW&B Automotive Academy, Bristol from June 2 to 6.

To enter a team, go to www. soe.org.uk/irteskills or contact Sheena Patel on Sheena. patel@soe.org.uk or 020 7630 2174.

Catherine Mason to leave Translink can confidently say Translink is among the best when it comes to passenger transport.”

John Trethowan, Chairman of the Northern Ireland Transport Holding Company, said: “The Board is sorry to learn Catherine is leaving but understands that high calibre executives move on to advance their careers, and would like to thank Catherine for her contribution to Translink’s success in delivering growth in passenger numbers, improved efficiency, and high customer satisfaction.”

In a message posted on its blog before Christmas, Blackpoolbased Classic Bus North West Ltd (CBNW) advised it had stopped trading.

“On December 18 following consultation with the finance company that underwrites our VOSA financial standing and invoice discounting facilities, a decision was made for CBNW to suspend trading,” it said. “The services being operated on the CBNW Ltd licence were therefore suspended, affecting services 80 (Blackpool – Poulton – Preston) and the Red Rocket Express (although the operation of this was going to be paused after Xmas).

“The decision was taken against a background of increasing amounts owed to the business and losses on the bus refurbishment side of the business, affecting cash flow and our ability to keep pace with payroll obligations. Some staff have been laid off and it is likely there will be redundancies. The decision does not affect service 22, which operates on the Oakwood Travel licence, and we are now working closely with our principal stakeholders to develop a fresh and sustainable operation through Oakwood Travel Services Ltd.” Blackpool-based Oakwood Travel Services has an O-Licence for eight vehicles. Philip Higgs is listed by VOSA as a Director while Transport Manager is Frank Steele. Philip Higgs is Director and Transport Manager of CBNW with a 10-vehicle O-Licence.

On its website Lancashire County Council said route 80 would cease at the end of December 20. “CBNW has terminated the service without the required 56 days notice to the Traffic Commissioner,” said the Council.

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January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 5 06/01/2014 19:12

£17,545

NEWS › BUSES

The sum raised by the Transaid Christmas Appeal 2013

Norfolk Green operates around 70 buses across northern East Anglia

Stagecoach buys Norfolk Green The strength of the brand is underlined by the decision to retain Norfolk Green’s livery Stagecoach Bus Holdings acquired Go West Travel Ltd trading as Norfolk Green last month, just after CBW’s last issue of the year went press and not long after the firm was named Independent Bus Operator of the Year at the UK Bus Awards.

Norfolk Green operates commercial, tendered and school services in northern East Anglia with a fleet of around 70 buses and employs more than 160 people. It

D&G gains Plumline D&G Bus is now operating the Plumline service in the Trentham lakes district of Stoke-on-Trent. It had been operated by Wardle Transport, later taken over by Arriva using a Stoke-on-Trent City Council-owned Optare Versa with leather-trimmed seats and wood-effect laminate flooring. D&G has produced a combined route 500/Plumline timetable from January 4, 2014.

has a leased depot and bus station facilities in King’s Lynn as well as a number of small out-stations.

The livery and separate identity is being retained by Stagecoach, which already operates 360 vehicles with 950 staff in the east of England.

Robert Montgomery, Managing Director of Stagecoach UK Bus, said: “Norfolk Green is an awardwinning, high-quality bus operator.

The business is well-run and has been successful in attracting more people to the benefits of bus travel.

“The acquisition will allow us to expand our operations in the

east of England, where we have achieved good passenger growth by focusing on good value fares, investing in our networks and delivering punctual and reliable services.

“Our people are central to our growth plans and we are delighted to welcome our new employers to the business.”

Norfolk Green, which was bought by the previous owners 17 years ago with three coaches, had become available for purchase due to the retirement following ill health of main shareholder, Ben Colson. It took over the King’s

Lynn-based services of First East England in April 2011 and is now being managed separately by Andrew Dyer, a former Go West Travel shareholder who continues to be Managing Director of Stagecoach South.

Ben Colson said: “We have built a strong brand in the area with a larger network of bus routes than was here in 1996, attracting new customers to using the bus and increased employment. The company goes forward into new hands in good shape, and will benefit from being owned by a major transport company.”

13 projects are to benefit from a share of £4.2m of grants allocated

by Transport Minister Keith Brown under the first round of Transport Scotland’s Bus Investment Fund (BIF). The BIF was set up to encourage partnership working to help improve bus services, standards and infrastructure for communities across Scotland.

The successful applicants were: 100% bus stop information in Fife; Kingswell Park and Choose (Aberdeen); Ring of Breadalbane Explorer (Perth & Kinross and Stirling); A81 Quality bus corridor (East Dumbartonshire); Rural

Transport Solutions (Dumfries & Galloway/East Ayrshire); A947 Mini-interchange hubs (Aberdeenshire); Muchart and West Kinross-shire demand response transport (Clackmannanshire/Perth & Kinross); East Inverness bus improvement corridor (Inverness); Service 4 – passenger growth through better bus priority (Edinburgh); Service 24 – Bus priority, infrastructure and frequency (Edinburgh), SEStran regional real time passenger information (various areas); North Lanarkshire connector bus

service (North Lanarkshire) and Deeside community transport (Aberdeenshire).

Keith Brown said: “I would like to congratulate all 13 applicants who have secured substantial funding from this year’s Bus Investment Fund. The projects are spread across the country from Dumfries & Galloway to Inverness. This fund provides local authorities, RTPs (Regional Transport partnerships) and bus operators with the opportunity to apply for grants which will help to increase the standard of bus services and patronage.”

£4.2m in grants to help develop buses in Scotland

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250km

More Stagecoach hybrids

Stagecoach Manchester has introduced 13 Alexander Dennis Enviro400H hybrids to route 256 between Trafford and Manchester city centre.

Speaking at the launch of the new buses, Stagecoach Manchester Managing Director Chris Bowles said: “As a company we are constantly striving to improve our services, this includes making new routes available for popular routes such as the 256.

“We do our best to respond to our customer requests and on this occasion we were not only able to introduce a signi�icant number of new buses, but also to do so in an environmentally friendly way thanks to the hybrid vehicles Stagecoach has invested in.“

The expected range of the BYD eBus, which made its first journey in service in London on December 20

52

Number of years which former John’s Tours proprietor John Cresswell has held a PCV licence

Ipswich Buses freezes fares

Ipswich Buses has announced a fares freeze for the start of 2014 and an extension of the popular 10 trips for a tenner deal.

Malcolm Robson, Managing Director, said: “2013 has been a busy year for Ipswich and Ipswich Buses and we are excited to carry on bringing great fares and bus services to the Town in 2014 to get more people on board buses.

“This year has seen us try out new fares, new and improved routes, customer service training, the new Park and Ride and for the �irst time we are getting ongoing feedback from our customers.

“We really want to make people think twice about bus travel and we can see that people’s perceptions are starting to change.

“We want to keep that good work

SHARE WATCH

going by freezing the fares and extending our popular Christmas offer right through to the end of January, all with the objective of getting people around for work, leisure and socialising in the most affordable way.”

The two main adult fares of £1.00 and £1.80 have not increased since October 2009 and there were a number of promotional tickets and fares throughout 2013 – the latest being Ten trips for £10 which after great success in December is being extended through to January 2014.

On top of the fare freeze, the results of Ipswich Buses’ winter customer survey will be reviewed by the team to take on board feedback make improvements to the East Ipswich network.

Bridgestone making capital gain with ‘breakthrough’ bus partnership in the London market Bridgestone has con�irmed making a signi�icant breakthrough into the City of London, after expanding its bus �leet contract with Metroline.

The manufacturer has been chosen to maintain 500 extra Metroline vehicles, which operate predominantly in the north west of the city, from �ive different locations.

It represents an extension of an existing two year deal with Metroline which already involves a ‘full maintenance package’ with 1,200 buses across London.

Metroline’s Head of Purchasing Derrick Halsey said a refreshing attitude and level of diligence separated Bridgestone from its competitors during negotiations.

He added: “There was a level of maturity and intensity about the conversations we had with Bridgestone. Their ethos was based around building a lasting partnership that transcended any talk of pro�it, which was refreshing to hear.

“The word passion is an overused one, but Bridgestone’s dedication to the life of each and every tyre they maintain has already rubbed off on our own technicians.”

Derrick said that the integrity of Bridgestone’s products, coupled with a holistic tyre management programme was too compelling to ignore.

“A number of marginal gains, such as vehicle correctly aligned steering/ geometry, all add up in fuel savings and the overall life of the tyre itself.

These make a huge difference in the www.coachandbusweek.com

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Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, January 6. Go-Ahead Group saw the greatest proportional rise, while Optare saw the greatest proportional drop.

Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk

432.70p

Price: Year High: 471.00p Year Low: 324.70p

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long-term and are added services that offer a level of transparency.

“London is probably the harshest environment in Europe for bus tyres.

The vast majority of roads are not built for the motorcar, let alone the bus, with high kerbs and awkward areas to navigate.

“Our buses can operate for 22 hours each day, so we require a holistic tyre maintenance offering for each bus. Bridgestone provide this.”

Bridgestone’s Fleet Operations Manager Matt Millington said: “We are very appreciative of Metroline for the faith they have shown in us.

This announcement represents a big breakthrough for us in the London area and we couldn’t be happier to be strengthening our relationship with the company.

Price: Year High: 0.55p Year Low: 0.20p

“We do feel we have the capacity to grow with Metroline too, and can adapt to meet their needs as and when they require us to. Our operations team has played a huge part in this announcement and must be congratulated for the efforts they have made over a long period of time.”

Metroline’s Chief Engineer Richard Shillingford said: “In the short time we have worked with the team at Bridgestone it is apparent how professional and dedicated they are. They have a very switched on management team at both local and regional levels. Regular service review meetings and direct contact means they are alive to our operational needs and can react quickly when required.

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Price: Year High: 1833.00p Year Low: 1258.00p

Bridgestone’s fleet Operations Manager Matthew Millington shakes hands with Metroline’s Head of Purchasing Derrick Halsey, to the delight of (from left) Gordon Norris (Bridgestone), Tony Wright (Metroline) and Justin Mason (Bridgestone)

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FTSE 100

6,840

Index: Year High: 6,840 Year Low: 6029

-84

on last issue

January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 7 06/01/2014 19:13

NEWS › COACHES RO A D WATC H n DRIVERS ARE ADVISED to allow extra time for their journeys as three major road improvements start this week in the Midlands – namely the A14 J7-9 Kettering Bypass widening in Northamptonshire, the M1/M6/A14 interchange improvements at Catthorpe, Leicestershire, and A45/A46 Toll Bar improvement at Coventry. A contraflow will be in operation 24 hours a day from January 13 on the A14 J7-9. A series of overnight closures will be in place on either the M1 or M6 at the M1 J19 Catthorpe interchange from Monday (January 6) while work on the A45/A46 Tollbar improvement starts the same day, with narrow lanes and a 40mph speed limit in place. There will also be some off-peak closures on that scheme. n A SERIES OF PLANNED overnight closures is to take place on the M6 in Birmingham, as part of the J5 to J8 smart motorway scheme, so overhead gantry equipment can be installed and a new road surface laid. The disruption will be in force between now and Friday, February 28. The scheme links to the already completed smart motorway schemes between J4-5 and J8-10a. Closures on Friday and Saturday nights will start at 2200hrs if traffic flows are low enough, through to 0800 the following day. Closures from Monday to Thursday nights will be implemented from 2200, if traffic flows are low enough, through to 0530 the following day. The third lane of the southbound carriageway between J8 and 7 was reopened before Christmas, though a 50mph limit remains in place. Testing work on signs between J6 to 8 is being carried out in January and February, with the signs going ‘live’

by March. Tests on the signs between junctions 5 and 6 will take place in March, going live around one month later.

The whole project should be completed by Easter weekend, weather permitting.

Beestons takes over John’s Tours

Beestons is one of the oldest independent operators in the country Proprietor of John’s Tours, Stowmarket retires after over half a century as a PCV driver From the January 1, 2014, Beestons (Hadleigh) Limited has taken over the established coach business of John’s Tours of Stowmarket.

John’s Tours was founded by John Cresswell in April, 1990, as a family run business in Stowmarket, Suffolk. Over the years, the company has grown to be a well-established name in Stowmarket and has expanded to be known throughout East Anglia.

In recent years the company has gained recognition by receiving the official usage of the town crest to be displayed on all of its coaches.

John is now retiring, having achieved 52 years as a PCV driver.

He passed his test with Mulley’s of Ixworth in 1962.

Beestons has taken on four vehicles, all of which are to be replaced. The company has also

n ONE LANE of the westbound A38 at Colesluggett, near Bodmin is shut until January 24. A 30mph limit is in force.

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won one of John’s Tours’ school contracts.

Beestons is taking on John’s son Kevin Cresswell, who will operate outstanding tours, day excursions and private hires using a vehicle which is retaining the John’s Tours livery.

Tom Munson, Beestons Operations Director, said: “Further acquisitions within our operating

territory are a possibility. We are looking to expand.”

Beestons of Hadleigh claims to be the oldest established, privately-owned coach and bus company in the UK. It operates vehicles ranging in size from 33-seater coaches to 79-seater double-deck coaches, which are available for private hire, school transport and contract work.

John’s Tours was established in April 1990

Maynes Coaches chooses Navman wireless Maynes Coaches of Buckie has chosen Navman Wireless to be its real-time vehicle tracking and telematics partner over the next five years.

This partnership will not only benefit the Maynes team, but will see the company gain the option to allow its customers to view the location of its vehicles in real time, when on specific journeys.

Navman Wireless Fleet

Tracking capabilities currently track over 175,000 vehicles and assets owned by over 14,000 different companies all over the world. The wireless technology makes it possible to view coach locations in addition to controlling costs such as fuel and operating expenditure.

Communication directly between drivers and the operations team is possible, which allows routing to a

specific address, featuring turnby-turn instructions. There may be detours or delays which the driver may not be aware. Any obstacle, accident or change in weather conditions can be relayed to the driver in advance so they can take corrective actions.

For more info on Navman Wireless visit www. navmanwireless.co.uk

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06/01/2014 19:14

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Operators choose Tourismo CoachMarque for Coliseum Pulham’s Coaches of Bourton on the Water has taken delivery of its first Mercedes-Benz coach, a 49seat, high specification Tourismo that has been finished in the operator’s distinctive livery and is being used on holidays and private hire.

Managing Director, Andrew Pulham said: “We look foward to building a good business relationship with EvoBus (UK) for the future. The coach is powered by a Mercedes-Benz PM457hLA 300kW Euro 5 engine driving through a Mercedes-Benz GO-240-8 eight-speed PowerShift gearbox.

Standard safety systems include ASR, Brake Assist and ESP. The saloon specification includes Luxline seats with leather headrests and a Professional Line 3 radio/CD/ DVD entertainment system linkied to a pair of 19-inch monitors.

Longmynd Travel, based just outside Shrewsbury in Shropshire has also bought a Tourismo.

Managing Director Mark Sheppard had requested a trial in June and a two-week demonstration was enough to convince him of the

Carmel Coaches expands

Carmel Coaches is taking over Nailsea-based North Somerset Coaches and will develop it as Carmel Bristol. It will be run by Carmel founder Hazell’s daughter Carolyn Alderton. The vehicles, staff and premises are being taken on along with the X5 school service, day trip programme and private hire work.

“We look forward to continuing the hard work that Dave Fricker (previous owner) has put in to the business the last seven years, and driving our business forward with further opportunities that exist in the Bristol and surrounding areas,” said Michael Hazell. Dave, who announced that he was ceasing all bus work last October (CBW, October 9, 2013), has decided to pursue a career in the rail industry.

He has an O-Licence for five vehicles

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vehicle’s merits. It’s being used on private hire school trips and holidays.

Mark said: “The ZF automatic option and the seat flexibility were the key features for us.” As well as a ZF automatic gearbox, his coach has 51 Travel Star Xtra-upholstered seats. Again there is a Professional Line 3 radio/CD/DVD system with a pair of monitors. Hot drink facilities, a fridge and footrests all add to the passenger appeal.

Ellesmere, Shropshire-based Lakeside Coaches bought its first Mercedes-Benz coach, a 49-seat Tourismo, in 2011. Positive customer feedback and excellent fuel consumption has led to the purchase of another and it’s being used on all types of work including private hire, school and college contracts, and tours and holidays.

Seats have Luxline upholstery with leather headrests and wood effect flooring has been specified.

The coach has a leather steering wheel and Bluetooth. Like the other two coaches, there is also a Professional Line 3 radio/CD/ DVD system linked to two 19-inch monitors.

Southampton-based Coliseum Coaches, which is part of Lucketts Travel Group, has received CoachMarque accreditation from the CPT. CoachMarque is a widely recognised ‘kite mark’ for quality in the coach industry.

Coliseum received the award after undergoing an audit carried out by a third party, which measures the company on its standards of safety, systems of work and promoting good quality travel.

Mark Pitter, Coliseum’s General Manager, has been with the

High Christmas stats for National Express

handheld apparatus.

The award-winning Coach Tracker tool, which allows people to follow their coach in real-time, is also proving a major draw.

Provided by Traffilog and recently launched as an iPhone app, the system has seen its usage increase almost five-fold in the last quarter of 2013 compared to the same period last year.

National Express UK Coach has revealed positive performance over the Christmas period.

The firm said running services on Christmas Day was a huge success. It also said transactions made from mobile devices, including phones and tablets are up 90% year-on-year with millions of visits to www. nationalexpress.com made on

BUUK offers National Express discount card

David Fricker, pictured driving his Berkhof Volvo, is pursuing a new career in his own name trading as North Somerset Coaches.

Carmel Coaches was started

by Tony Hazell in Northlew near Okehampton, Devon 30 years ago. He had previously worked in insurance. A larger workshop was constructed at Northlew six years later. Crockernwell Motor Company was acquired in 2001, the work and four coaches of Blue Line Coaches,

business his family started more than 80 years ago since leaving university.

On being presented with the CoachMarque certificate, he said: “I was confident that the audit team wouldn’t find anything to worry them, but it was still great to hear we had passed with flying colours!

“Coliseum Coaches has always prided itself on delivering the highest levels of safety and customer service, and recognition of that by the CPT is testament to the hard work of our dedicated staff.”

North Tawton being added with the retirement of its proprietors three years later. Since 2006 an additional operation has developed in Exeter with the takeover of Tedburn Coaches. It moved to larger premises in Marsh Barton, Exeter three years later. An O-Licence for 40 vehicles covers 20 at Northlew, five at North Tawton and 15 at Exeter.

Bus Users UK and leading National Express have launched a brand new discount card.

The card entitles Bus User members to a third off all National Express coach travel for a full year from the date of purchase. Costing £5, it is offered as part of the Bus Users UK membership package and sent to members direct by post for £1.50 p&p.

Claire Walters, Chief Executive of Bus Users UK, explained: “This initiative will give our members some great discounts on the cost of transport.

“Coaches are an economical and extremely comfortable way to travel. By saving our members a third off the cost of each journey we’ll be making essential trips, weekend breaks and holidays even more affordable.”

January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 9 06/01/2014 19:14

NEWS › INTERNATIONAL Solaris to deliver 300 to Riga

LATVIA Solaris Bus & Coach is to supply 300 vehicles into Latvia. Rigas Satiksme, the municipal public transport operator in the capital, has ordered 175 diesel buses.

That’s 115 Solaris Urbino 18 articulated buses and 60 Solaris Urbino 12m rigids.

Solaris will also participate with Škoda Electric in deliveries of 125 trolleybuses to Riga. The contracts are to be completed in tranches between 2014 and 2018.

There is an option to increase the orders by 30% “We are proud to have won these contracts and would like to thank our customer from Riga for entrusting us with this order,” said Solaris Director Martin Gruber. “Our long-term co-operation dating back to 2001 proves the quality and reliability of our vehicles.

We are delighted to continue this co-operation in such an impressive way.”

So far, 253 Solaris vehicles have been delivered to Latvia, of which 223 were bought by Rigas Satiksme. This includes both buses and trolleybuses.

Solaris vehicles also operate in Daugavpils.

CityBus pioneers smart travel

KUWAIT CityBus has completed the roll-out of a smartcard scheme in partnership with ticketing technology firm, Parkeon.

The bus company, which completes over 65 million passenger journeys each year, is now operating a smartcard scheme across its network, optimising operational efficiency and enabling customers to create their own smart journey ‘packages’.

At the heart of the smart transition is Parkeon’s Wayfarer150 ticketing, which has been upgraded across the fleet of around 400 buses to meet the requirements of the new system. There are currently over 25,000 active cards in circulation in Kuwait – with transactions reconciled using Parkeon’s back office reporting suite.

Arriva leaves Malta

68 Mercedes-Benz Citaro artics taken off the road last September Arriva leaves Malta and Gozo after accumulating significant losses after a difficult two and a half years MALTA Arriva has left Malta and Gozo after reaching an agreement with the island’s government to take over its operation around two and a half years into what was to have been a 10-year contract.

“After careful consideration, agreement has been reached to transfer the whole of the shareholding of Arriva Malta to the Government of Malta, taking effect from January 2, 2014,” said the company in a statement.

“We have considered every alternative together with Government representatives and have entered into long and detailed negotiations to try and find a satisfactory outcome for all parties. We believe this decision will be in the best interests of all stakeholders and ensure continuation of the provision of bus services on Malta and Gozo for the travelling public.

“Services continue to operate as normal and, as part of the agreement, Arriva will provide operational management advice to the Government of Malta over the coming weeks to ensure a smooth transition for customers and employees.”

Arriva, owned by Deutsche Bahn, is one of the largest transport services organisations in Europe,

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employing some 55,900 people and delivering more than 1.5bn passenger journeys across more than a dozen countries.

Arriva Malta operated 264 buses including 172 King Longs and 10 Optare Solo hybrids bought new, and employed around 900 staff.

Since it took over running the islands’ bus services in July 2011, there have been four Managing Directors, Keith Bastow, Dave Kaye, Richard Hall and most recently, Group Engineering Director Mark Bowd all of whom have had to deal with numerous challenges.

An early set back was the decision by around 180 bus drivers, many of whom had worked under the old ‘route bus’ regime, not to turn up for work once their new employer started operating. Arriva had to subcontract and initiate an intensive recruitment and training programme to cover the shortfall.

Deficiencies in the new route network agreed with the government have led to several revisions. Then in September last year the 68 former London Mercedes-Benz Citaro artics operated were taken off the road following three fires. Despite the buses meeting all safety requirements and their use being agreed before the contract started, the government refused to allow their reinstatement. Again, alternative provision had to be resourced to cover the shortfall.

Arriva’s subsidy, agreed with the government, assumed a dual ticket pricing policy where locals were eligible for a discounted fare on production of valid ID. Visitors paid more. Controversial, it led to numerous complaints and a European Union Commission inquiry as to whether it violated EU discrimination laws. A formal letter of complaint was sent to Malta early last year and fares for non-residents were finally reduced to match that of residents from January 6.

There has been a change of government since Arriva’s contract started and Transport Minister Joe Mizzi also wanted to introduce new routes which would require more buses and drivers. He claimed to local media that Arriva had lost €68m (£56.5m) in Malta.

Press reports suggest that the agreement doesn’t include the articulated buses but does include around €15m (£12.5m) of debt. The Malta Independent says a nominal €1 fee was set for the transfer of shares. It says sources have told it that Arriva was losing €1.8m (£1.8m) a month. This is expected to rise to €2m (£1.7m) under government control, says the paper.

A call for expressions of interest to take over the network is expected to be made public this week. Services are now being run

by Malta Public Transport Services Ltd according to the Times of Malta. www.coachandbusweek.com

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Swansea Coachworks New 16 seat Mercedes Sprinter with large boot and side lockers.

New Mercedes Sprinter 16 seat with tables

Based on the Mercedes Sprinter 516, we have designed a truly unique mini-coach. First of all we have added our coach style body extension to facilitate the luggage requirements, then we have created an interior capable of seating 16 passengers in extreme comfort but added the option of 4 tables, 2 double tables and 2 single tables.

Based on the Mercedes Sprinter 516, we have designed an extension to fit onto the rear of the vehicle which adds to the length of the vehicle but also transforms the vehicle from a van look into a mini-coach. By adding this extension it enables us to construct a vehicle capable of carrying 16 passengers in total luxury with legroom that has never been achieved in a mini-coach before, and a luggage area of enormous proportion. Also when you take into account the re designed sides of the vehicle which house the coach style lockers this is truly a vehicle that will not be beaten on luggage space.

Once again you decide what options you require from a vast list available and then pick your own colours to match your requirements.

One thing you can be sure about is that a Swansea Coachworks mini-coach stands out in a crowd.

Just like all our vehicles you decide what you want in the vehicle and you choose your own colour scheme to suit your needs.

www.swanseacoachworks.com

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January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 11

NEWS › REGIONAL NORTH SOME ARRIVA BUS FARES, including the Discover North Northumberland day ticket, increased on January 5.

Most adult Zonal day tickets rose by 10 or 20 pence and weekly tickets by 50p, with some single and return fares seeing rises of 10p and 20p respectively.

Nick Knox, Area Managing Director for Arriva North East, said: “We are committed to providing value for money fares and high service standards. However, continuing inflationary cost pressures mean we need to revise some fares this January.

“We recognise that the current economic climate is tough for all, and therefore we have kept any increases to a minimum, with many fares remaining unchanged.

“Most adult fares below £3 have been frozen, with many of these fares now remaining the same as at the start of 2012. We have also frozen all child fares across the region.”

MIDLANDS

FARES on some of National Express’ buses in the West Midlands have increased.

An adult single ticket has gone up by 10p and weekly travel cards have increased by 50p. The operator said the new fares reflect rising business costs.

SOUTH EAST

TITCHFIELD RESIDENTS and users of the 4A bus have been urged to attend a meeting to decide the service’s fate.

First announced its intention to reroute the 4A service after £100,000 of damage was caused by parked cars to buses as they went along the narrow South Street in Titchfield. It said that unless a solution could be found to remove parked cars, then the route would have to be cut. Since then, the county council has been deliberating whether to lose the parking or the bus.

Traders argue a loss of parking could mean a drop in custom, while bus users are concerned about potentially losing vital transport links.

Cllr Sean Woodward said: “The current situation cannot continue – either we remove car parking on South Street or we lose the 4A on its current route.”

County councillor Geoff Hockley

KEY

said: “We need both the bus and the ability for people to come in and park and spend money to keep life in the village. If we lose the shops by putting double yellow lines outside them, then the village will struggle to survive.”

Cllr Hockley has been working with Community Action Fareham to come up with a solution, involving its minibus service, should First pull out.

Titchfield resident Michael Gausden said: “We don’t want parking on South Street, there’s only a few people, mainly traders, that do. We would rather keep the bus.”

A First spokesman said: “As far as we’re concerned, it is currently business as usual with the 4A. We shall continue working with the council towards a resolution for the parking issues in South Street.”

The CAT meeting is at 1845hrs on Friday, January 17 at the Parish Room, the Square, Titchfield.

SOUTH WEST

A NEW BUS GATE will be installed in Dorchester Street in Bath this month.

The experimental bus lane running eastbound will begin operating on January 20. Bath and North East Somerset Council said it will help create a safer, more welcoming environment for pedestrians and cyclists, as well as speeding up buses.

The bus lane, which will also be used by taxis, operates between 1000 and 1800hrs seven days a week for an 18-month experimental

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Early morning and late evening Sunday services on Service 16 are to be withdrawn, although they will be replaced by new early morning and late evening Service 13A and 14A Sunday journeys. The last Sunday buses from Fleming Way will be at 2200hrs to Eldene and 2245hrs to Haydon Wick.

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

WALES

period.

Cllr Caroline Roberts said: “There are a number of potential benefits to the environment of the city centre by introducing this measure.

People on foot and on bike should be able to cross the road with ease from our major transport interchanges towards the city centre and vice-versa.

“Buses should reach their destination more quickly, moving through Dorchester Street and towards Manvers Street in moments. Overall, the council wants to make this location a more pleasant environment for the people using it and will be closely monitoring the scheme during the experimental period as well as listening to people’s views about the scheme.”

Work on signs, resurfacing, lining and traffic signal amendments starts on January 13 and lasts for five nights, with the road shut between 1900 and 0700hrs.

THAMESDOWN TRANSPORT has made some service amendments.

Funding from Swindon Council will benefit services 19 and 22 with new late evening journeys from Mondays to Saturdays. Service 19 will run hourly until 2250hrs and service 22 will run half-hourly until 2319hrs.

To improve timekeeping, the timetables for services 12 and 15 will be changed before 0900hrs on Mondays to Fridays. Many buses will now leave earlier. Service 3 will also see a change to the 0845hrs journey, with it now leaving 10 minutes earlier at 0835hrs.

FIRST CYMRU claimed it has done its best to limit fare increases which come into force on Sunday – with all-day ticket prices slashed for 16 to 18-year-olds at the same time.

On Sunday, January 5, some of its adult fares increased by between 5p and 30p, while others dropped between 10p and 30p, with the remainder staying as they were.

As part of First’s bus fare changes, a Swansea all-day ticket was cut from £4.20 to £4, although the same ticket for Swansea Bay will go up 20p to £4.70. An all-day child ticket in Swansea is now £3, down from £3.10, and will be available for 16 to 18-year-olds.

Taken as a whole, First Cymru said 28% of its fares went down and 21% didn’t change.

“The positive changes and the reductions here should not be underestimated,” said Justin Davies, First Cymru Managing Director.

“They are significant and underline our efforts to get people back on the buses, back into the city centres, to jobs, education and leisure facilities.”

The firm said it was introducing 108 new buses in 2013 and 2014.

“We expect the next 12 months to be challenging as cuts to the concessionary fare reimbursement rate are made compounding recent changes to things like the bus service operators grant,” added Mr Davies.

“That said we recognise we must do what we can to encourage people to use public transport.”

SCOTLAND

COMPARED to the same period last year, First is now welcoming on board an extra 1,000 customers a day in Aberdeen.

The news was welcomed by First Aberdeen Director and General Manager, Duncan Cameron, who said he was pleased that First’s bus services are encouraging more people out of their cars and therefore helping the city’s congestion problems.

First Aberdeen also confirmed record customer satisfaction levels, with 87% of customers reporting

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06/01/2014 15:10

Join the discussion on Twitter by following us at @cbwtweets and find us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/coachandbusweek they are either ‘quite satisfied’ or ‘very satisfied’ with First Aberdeen’s services.

Over the last 12 months First has introduced a range of service improvements and investments, including an enhanced network with services on many routes running more often, a 10% increase in the number of buses on the network, a £3.5m investment in 23 new buses, a host of fares promotions across most routes, more journeys starting on time and the introduction of First’s Platinum services, which since launching in November are delivering an extra 1,000 customers on average per week.

Duncan Cameron, Director and General Manager of First Aberdeen, said: “Everyone at First Aberdeen is focused on delivering a better service for our customers.

I’m delighted that we have conclusive proof that our efforts are being rewarded - we are not only attracting more customers

Stagecoach Manchester and Francis House are celebrating the launch of a brand new fundraising collaboration.

The operator officially announced Didsbury-based Francis House as its chosen charity, following a call-out to the public for nominations and an internal vote by staff members.

The charity provides care for children and young adults with life threatening conditions - helping more than 239 sick children and their families across the North West every year.

Stagecoach Manchester will raise money for its new charity of the year, which runs at an annual cost of £3.5m, with a number of fundraising activities taking place over the next 12 months.

Fundraising officer for Francis House, Emma Siddle, met with Managing Director of Stagecoach Manchester, Christopher Bowles, at the Stagecoach depot in Stockport to mark the beginning of the fundraising venture.

Talking about the new partnership, Christopher said: “Francis House is such a worthwhile cause and I know all Stagecoach Manchester staff are looking forward to coming up with some fantastic fundraising activities over the next year.

“Francis House is a local charity which makes this partnership even more special to everyone at Stagecoach Manchester, as we will be helping local children and their families through our work.” www.coachandbusweek.com

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but we’re also enjoying record customer satisfaction scores.

“I’m extremely proud that the wide range of initiatives we’ve introduced to improve bus travel are succeeding. The increase in customers on our Platinum services is exceptionally pleasing given it was launched just last month.

“Bus services are one of the solutions to improving congestion issues and therefore the increase in customers is extremely encouraging. Our buses are moving an extra 1,000 people daily – that’s up to 1,000 less car journeys on the city’s road network every day.

“We are determined to keep up the momentum and will continue working hard to improve our services. We want to encourage more people out of their cars and onto our buses, which will help free up road space for all and help ease congestion. We are moving in the right direction and our customers can look forward to a host of exciting improvements in 2014.”

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

The 2014 Commercial Vehicle Show takes place from April 29 – May 1 at the NEC in Birmingham

2014 n January 23 CPT Annual Dinner.

The Grange Tower Bridge Hotel, London. 020 7240 3131. www.cpt-uk.org n January 25 Excursions 2014 Alexandra Palace, London www.excursions.org.uk

n February 23-24 Coach Holiday Conference & Workshop. Best Western Premier Queen Hotel, Chester. www.coachtourismcouncil. co.uk n March 4–7 QV Associates’ course Introduction to Bus & Crew Scheduling. Birmingham. 01905 613527. www.qv-associates.com/

qvcourses.htm

n March 19-20 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 April 5 South East Bus Festival.

Kent Showground, Maidstone. www. facebook.com/southeastbusfestival n April 10 UK Coach Awards.

Mercure Piccadilly Hotel, Manchester. www.ukcoachawards.co.uk n April 29-May 1 The Commercial Vehicle Show NEC, Birmingham.

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

n May 12-14 ALBUM Conference.

Murrayfield Stadium, Edinburgh. www.album-bus.co.uk n June 15 Welsh Coach Rally, Swansea. ntfwswansea.co.uk Contact Ashley Lovering 07814 958379

n February 1, 2014 LTCOA Dinner Dance The Royal Garden Hotel, Knightsbridge. Call Sue Reynolds on 07932 158999 or email ltcoa@btinternet.com

Emma commented: “This marks the start of an exciting new partnership and we can’t wait to kick things off and raise as much money as possible.

“We are so grateful to the members of the public who nominated us and to the Stagecoach staff who also voted. Fundraising will be even more vital in 2014 when we open a new seven bedroom extension doubling the size of Francis House. Money raised over the next year will enable the children and young people to spend even more nights respite at the hospice.”

Stagecoach Manchester’s new partnership comes after raising £20,000 for its previous nominated charity, St Ann’s Hospice.

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

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 9 Association of Trainers AGM. Birmingham. 01797 344251 www.asot.org.uk/index.php/ asot/come-to-meet-us-menu 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

January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 13 06/01/2014 15:10

NEWS FOCUS › BYD eBUS LAUNCH

London’s first electric buses were launched on December 18, 2013 at Go-Ahead London’s Waterloo depot

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London T Electricity James Day reports on the launch of the BYD eBus with Go-Ahead in London

ransport for London (TfL) and Go-Ahead London began a trial of the Capital’s �irst electric buses with a well-attended launch at GoAhead London’s Waterloo depot on December 18, 2013. The �irst vehicle entered service on December 20, 2013.

The two 12-metre single deckers were built

by Chinese manufacturer BYD Auto. The BYD eBus has zero tail pipe emissions, resulting in lower carbon emissions. Routes 507 and 521, former Red Arrow routes are trialling the new buses as the technology is particularly suitable for busy short commuter services which operate between Victoria, Waterloo and London Bridge stations. Route 507 connects Waterloo Station and Victoria Station via Lambeth Bridge and Horseferry Road. Route 521 connects London Bridge Station and Waterloo Station via Monument, Cannon Street, St Paul’s, Chancery Lane, Holborn, and Aldwych London Underground Stations TfL said the trial will help it develop plans for greater use of electric buses in central London in the future, supporting the Mayor’s vision of a central London ‘Ultra Low Emission Zone.’

The trial will be used to establish whether the technology can stand up to the rigours of operating in an intense urban environment such as London. If successful, BYD’s own tests claim there is a potential running cost saving of around 75% compared to a diesel bus.

The buses take around four to �ive hours to fully charge overnight and with the help of regenerative braking should have a range of 250km (155 miles), which would be suf�icient to operate these buses for a full day on these routes without the need to recharge. The special Fe battery is designed by the manufacturer for a life of more than 4,000 cycles. Battery life can exceed 10 years under normal operating conditions.

Former Red Arrow routes are trialling the buses as they are particularly suitable for short commuter services

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The vehicles are being maintained by EvoBus, which already maintains the �leet of Citaros based at Waterloo.

In addition to the two buses in this trial, six additional electric buses will be introduced into the TfL �leet in early 2014. Four of the buses were secured with funding from the Department of Transport (DfT) Green Bus Fund with a further two funded from TfL’s technology demonstration budget.

Around 600 hybrid buses now operate on the capital’s roads, including the New Routemasters, with more being introduced in a rolling programme. By 2016 there are expected to be more than 1,700 hybrid buses in service on London’s streets representing 20% of the total bus �leet.

Phil Margrave, Go-Ahead’s Engineering Director, told CBW: “It’s �itting that the �irst two fully electric buses are being trialled by a Go-

January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 15 06/01/2014 14:52

NEWS FOCUS › BYD eBUS LAUNCH TFL TO TRIAL INDUCTION CHARGING In a separate development, TfL has proposed a trial of wireless (induction) charging, to assess its suitability to extend the zero emissions range of diesel-electric hybrid buses.

The trial would examine the technical capability, environmental performance, operational suitability and regulatory requirements of wireless charging technology for electric vehicles. TfL estimates the charging systems will be capable of a minimum of 50 kW (peak) power transfer and probably no greater than 120 kW. TfL is expected to initiate the project in the financial year 2013/14, with an intention to install primary charging infrastructure – wireless charging stations – in two bus stations in London, the locations of which are to be confirmed. TfL also intends to purchase up to four hybrid double-deck buses fitted with a secondary charging system to recharge from the wireless charging stations. The buses should be capable of running in both electriconly mode for an extended range (to be determined, but expected to be a minimum of 10km) or a combination of electric and diesel mode. The buses must meet the standard TfL specification for operating in London.

The buses would be in regular passenger service for up to 24 months as part of this trial.

The livery of the vehicle certainly deviates from that of a standard single-decker London bus

Cyclist safety has been highlighted as an important issue in London recently and is not an afterthought on the vehicle

iBus is included on the vehicle as is standard for London buses Ahead company as we have strong credentials in embracing innovation and new technology.

We are also good at working in partnership with industry suppliers and stakeholders, so will be working closely with TfL and BYD to learn as much as we can during the trial to help with any decisions made about expanding the fleet of these buses.”

Mike Weston, TfL’s Director of Buses, said: “We will be closely monitoring the performance of these vehicles while they are being trialled here in London.

“Should the performance and reliability of these buses meet London’s challenging requirements, this could be a very important step towards adopting this new clean technology in the Capital.”

John Trayner, Managing Director of Go-Ahead

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The vehicle is clearly branded as an electric bus

The interior reserves plenty of space for wheelchair-bound passengers

London, said: “We are delighted to be partnering TfL and BYD on this exciting new project to run the first electric buses on London’s streets.”

Isbrand Ho, Managing Director of BYD Europe, said: “We are convinced that widespread adoption of the BYD ebus could have a dramatic effect on lowering pollution levels in major cities so this development in London, one of the world’s top cities, is of tremendous importance.

“We look forward to a long and positive relationship with Transport for London and GoAhead London and to further deliveries of our market leading products in London and other UK cities.”

Matthew Pencharz, Senior Environment and Energy Advisor to the Mayor of London, said: “Electric buses could help deliver the cleaner and greener bus fleet we need to cut carbon

emissions and improve air quality.

“If these prove successful we plan to see more introduced over the next few years to run alongside the hybrid and hydrogen bus technology that is already tackling air pollution and carbon emissions across the Capital.”

The Vehicle

The version on trial with TfL has been specifically adapted for the London market. It is 12m long, 2.55m wide and 3.36m high with the roof battery attached. The vehicle has a 5.95m wheelbase and has a turning radius of approximately 12m. It weighs 14,000kg.

The vehicle is powered by a Permananet Magnet Synchronous AC Motor, which is integrated in the rear axle. It has a top speed of 70km/h (43.4mph), with maximum power

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Attendees queue for a brief journey on the eBus

One of the eBuses waits at a crossroads while demonstrating to the press output of 90x2kW and a maximum torque of 350x2Nm. The BYD AC on-board charging system is newly developed for the ebus. BYD claims the cost and space occupied are much less than off-board DC counterparts, while being easier to operate. It includes safety systems for protection against short-circuits, leakage, overheating and lightning.

The eBus features two doors – one doorforward near the driver’s cab and another in centre of the vehicle. There is also a clear emergency exit on the right hand side.

The interior seems very spacious with 21 seats of which just four are in the low floor area, and a quite generous space for disabled passengers. Much of the vehicle’s capacity is likely to be for standing passengers. www.coachandbusweek.com

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I chose not to board the vehicle for a brief drive around London in favour of taking some extra shots of the vehicle as it left the Waterloo depot. From what I could tell, it seemed to be a bit louder than other electric vehicles I have seen, such as the Optare Solo SR, but I don’t necessarily think this is a bad thing. Cyclists and pedestrians are much more likely to hear the vehicle approach, without it needing to carry any loudspeakers to generate artificial noise. A near silent vehicle has its merits too, of course, with little-to-no noise pollution.

Preparation

As reported in CBW1100, the vehicles were prepared by Eastleigh-based repair and modification specialists Hants & Dorset Trim.

The team at Hants & Dorset Trim were joined by

The second eBus parked up at the depot two Chinese technicians to ensure that the two eBuses were equipped to VOSA standard and met the specifications required by TFL and GoAhead Group in London. Dave Clack, Managing Director of Hants & Dorset Trim, said he and his team were delighted to play their part in the introduction of pure electric buses in the city.

Other options

BYD offers several alternative configurations of the vehicle, although they are not currently available in the UK. A low floor three door version has been developed, with a different battery layout adopted for improved passenger flows. There is also a 7.0m midicoach varient, a shorter 8.0m two-door bus and an 18m articulated bus designed for bus rapid transit. n

January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 17 06/01/2014 14:52

NEWS › HERITAGE

When it seems the heavens opened January 1 2014 marked that last of Friends of King Alfred Buses’ (FoKAB) annual New Year day running events in Winchester, Hampshire.

FoKAB is dedicated to preserving King Alfred buses and coaches and the memory of King Alfred Motor Services, taken over by Hants & Dorset in 1973. As we reported in issue 1117, it now looks as if the long-threatened redevelopment of the bus station is going ahead so a different format and date is anticipated for future running days. As FoKAB founder and Chairman, James Freeman said when making the announcement, it will be at a time when the weather is kinder and with less risk of it causing disruption. The rain added to the atmosphere of this year’s event, which was again memorable, not least for a complete turnout of surviving preserved King Alfred vehicles. Andy Izatt was there

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One of two 1964 Park Royal AEC Renowns in the FoKAB fleet. They have semi-automatic gearboxes www.coachandbusweek.com

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Alder Valley Leyland Nationals were well represented. Route 214 ran to Winchester

Hants & Dorset Bristol FLF originally Leyland powered

Rebodied FoKAB Plaxton Bedford VAL14

Portsmouth Atlantean prized badge

Mervyn’s Coaches Duple Bedford OB is still a PSV www.coachandbusweek.com

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Setting the blinds on a 1965 Hants & Dorset Bristol FLF. The Older LD on the right was new to Southern Vectis

1935 Albion Victor now with FoKAB was owned by David Hurley January 8, 2013 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 19 06/01/2014 15:12

OPERATOR PROFILE › WOODSTONES COACHES

Going its own

way

Woodstones Coaches is small, but perfectly formed. Director Richard Meredith talks to Andy Izatt about the firm’s carefully thought out approach

P

laxton’s new Leopard coach body and the Euro 6 Volvo B8R were unveiled at Coach & Bus Live 2013 last October.

First to order was Woodstones Coaches of Kidderminster, which is buying a pair of 12.8m, 57-seaters due for delivery in March.

“We could have bought Leopard and stayed with Euro 5 Volvo, but what’s that going to do for us?” Managing Director Richard Meredith told CBW. He added how much he’s looking forward to the arrival of the new vehicles having driven the demonstrator exhibited at the show.

The handling had impressed, not least the excellent steering lock.

Targeted at the day hire, short duration touring and home to school transport markets, Leopard is the Plaxton Profile replacement that many operators have been waiting for.

Woodstones has standardised on Profile-bodied Volvo B7Rs over the past 10 years, buying 22 with either 53, 57 or 70 seats. “We replace our vehicles after three years,” explained Richard.

“Two coaches at a time – it’s important to remember that as it’s a third of the fleet. We don’t want to be any bigger. I’m happy with the size of our operation.”

The firm’s distinctive red, orange, yellow and white livery including the euro-cruiser branding at the rear was inspired by a well known operator from the 1970s and 1980s, Derek Randall European. Richard understands the marketing power of a properly-liveried coach.

“It’s a £200,000 advertising board,” he said.

“Our coaches can go countrywide. Although we operate only six, we run them as if we have 12.

“With the cession of production of the Profile – B7R, we looked at a variety of products, none of which were ideal for our needs. The new Leopard – B8R combination gives us the 20 | COACH & BUS WEEK | January 8, 2014

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features we need and the opportunity to standardise long-term. With our previous experience, we have the confidence in the support from Volvo and Plaxton to be the first customer.”

A tailored specification

Woodstones prides itself on its flexibility, working for whoever pays a commercial rate. It covers National Express duplicates and works for rail replacement companies when the money is right, but its core specialism is day, particularly school transport.

The specification of the coaches it operates reflects that.

There are no ‘executive’ trappings such as on-board toilets or air-conditioning – features that can no longer be sold as extras. Although two stock coaches in today’s line up do have air-conditioning it remains switched off. Video monitors are also no longer specified because Richard feels they don’t add value – whatever is shown pleases some passengers, but not others.

Onboard CCTV is limited to reversing cameras and ones facing forward down the saloon from the rear. Richard sees no requirement for anything more extensive. Equally he doesn’t feel a need for vehicle telematics tracking. “It shows where a vehicle is, but not why,” he observed.

“To find that out, you still need to phone the driver.”

Although we operate only six, we run them as if we have 12 What he does operate is new or nearly new ‘standard’ coaches with 53, 57 or 70 seats and three-point seatbelts. DDA features include compliant Hanover destination equipment, additional grab rails and, in the case of four of the six vehicles, side-mounted PLS passenger lifts. Seating is on floor tracking so space can be created for a single wheelchair user although, as Richard explained, sometimes they can slide across on to a seat once they’re onboard. There is regular demand for the coaches particularly from schools that expect disabled children to be able to travel with their classmates.

The electronic destination equipment is popular with customers who like to see their names displayed. While the 70-seaters have narrower fixed seats, they are also used on adult private hire. “It all depends on how far people are travelling,” Richard pointed out. “I explain to them beforehand what they’re getting so there is no misunderstanding.”

Buying new coaches primarily for schools work marks Woodstones out. Volvo displayed a Jonckheere-bodied B7R for the operator on its stand at the Coach & Bus show in 2001, the last time a non-Plaxton coach was acquired. Then Traffic Commissioner for the West Midlands and Wales, David Dixon looked it over and was amazed to learn from Richard that it was for a school run just like the firm’s other vehicles.

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Woodstones livery was inspired by that used by Derek Randall European

Above: Woodstones three-lane workshop can accommodate double-deckers and has two 40-feet inspection pits Left: Clear branding helps sell what the firm has to offer and is placed where following car drivers are most likely to see it www.coachandbusweek.com

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January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 21 06/01/2014 15:08

OPERATOR PROFILE › WOODSTONES COACHES

The newest coaches are a pair of Volvo B7R Plaxton Profile 70-seaters. Fleet standardisation helps create a strong image for the company

A 70-seat configuration has worked well for Woodstones Coaches regardless of age group Today’s line up comprises a pair of 10-plate coaches seating 57 with side-mounted PLS passenger lifts. Then there are two 11-plate lift-equipped vehicles, one with 53 reclining seats, the other seating 57. Both have floor tracking enabling them to be up-seated to 70 – a contingency as the impending introduction of Whole Vehicle Type Approval at the time signalled the end of new-build 70 seats in a 12m coach. Two 12-plate 70-seaters are the air-conditioned stock vehicles. They have DDAcompliant destination equipment and grab rails like the others, but no lifts.

Woodstones buys its coaches outright with the vehicles replaced going in part exchange. Selling through a dealer gives a degree of flexibility on when the deal is actioned, which can be useful to a small operator balancing resources with a busy workload. It’s not unknown for a traded-in Woodstones coach to cover a morning school run and its new replacement to cover the same contract in the afternoon.

“We don’t do tours and excursions because we don’t have the coaches for that kind of work,” said Richard. “I don’t see the point buying £400,000 coaches if you don’t have specific

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Being able to offer 53, 57 or 70 seats ensures flexibility and gives customers choice jobs for them. If I had coaches with toilets we wouldn’t stop at motorway services. Passengers wouldn’t have the opportunity to get off and stretch their legs and the driver wouldn’t get a free meal.”

The order for Euro 6 coaches nearly went to another manufacturer, but Volvo and Plaxton won through on the strength of promised better fuel efficiency despite not yet being able to offer a side-mounted passenger lift in the Leopard.

Volvo is talking in terms of a 12% improvement for Euro 6 over Euro 5, but what’s impressive is the fuel efficiency Woodstones is already achieving with its Volvos – an average of 11-12mpg. Not using air-conditioning helps, but Richard is sure that what really makes the difference is specifying ZF automatic transmission incorporating an integral intarder.

What he has discovered is that if the driver uses the 1, 2, and 3 settings where possible rather than Auto, the intarder automatically comes in when the accelerator peddle isn’t being pressed. The result is smoother, more fuel efficient braking and it’s that combined with cruise control which he believes delivers the reduced fuel consumption.

Additional floor tracking in the 11-plate coaches means they can always be up-seated to 70 What’s more, the heat generated by the intarder is dissipated by the onboard cooling system, water that’s also used for the saloon heaters so in the winter months passengers benefit from a warmer saloon more quickly.

Market understanding

Woodstones Coaches relationship with Warwickshire and Worcestershire County Councils is longstanding and built on mutual understanding. Five local authority home to school contracts are currently fulfilled. While Richard would prefer to have all six of his coaches out on such work each day, he isn’t prepared to compromise on rates.

“Both local authorities place work through e-auctions,” he explained. “We know how much we need to do a contract. We’ll bid if the price is right, but below that we won’t go. Some contracts are fixed term, fixed price. No one is interested in the fuel price increases that we have to absorb.

He highlighted some of the vagaries of the system. “A special needs contract came up with a start price of £90 a day,” he recalled.

“An assistant with a daily wage of £45 would

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The new Leopard B8R gives us the features we need – Richard Meredith be TUPE’d across so with fuel, the vehicle and insurance, straightaway you would be paying the assistant more than your own driver.

“A while ago we lost a contract for 50p a day.

The operator that took over from us was using a coach that was 12 years older than ours. County Councils are run more like businesses now which has to be better. They’re not just there to give handouts, but e-auctions are all about price.

“In 1996 we lost all our school contracts.

For a year and a half we had none apart from a small one for special needs and another to an independent college, but we went out and found other work. That included a lot of rail replacement, but then Frazer Eagle came into the market and took the opportunity. It wasn’t worth getting out of bed for the rates they were paying. They brought down prices for operators so there was a better price for train operators.

Towards the end, we had to say to them put some money into our account and then we’ll come out. We’re prepared to help anyone, but we don’t like to chase payment. There are local operators that we’re always happy to work with

A BRIEF HISTORY

like Whittle’s, MHS and Dudley’s.”

Drawing on 30 years experience, Richard has seen many changes, not least how the relationship with customers has evolved. Technology has made a difference and it’s not always been for the better.

While he sees having a website as a valuable shop window for the business, the shift away from phone enquiries in favour of e-mail messaging has been less welcome.

With a phone enquiry it’s possible to build rapport with the enquirer in a way that’s more difficult when e-mails are being exchanged.

Often a job can be accommodated by making minor adjustments that represent no inconvenience to customers – easy to talk about, but more difficult to explain in writing. It’s also easier to agree a deal verbally.

“I’ve been in this business a long time,” said Richard. “I have a good understanding of where I can get coaches to work and how to talk to customers. I know what I have to earn.

“I’ll be asked for a quote. Then they’ll come back later and ask for another one with a slight difference such as a time change. They won’t say

who they are initially the second time around.

When I give them the new price, they ask why it’s different. That’s when I have an opportunity to explain how these changes can make such a difference.

“It’s easy to take on new work, but keeping it is the hard part. It’s important not to be complacent and do what you can when you can, but the coaches don’t go out unless the price is right.

Value of experience

“My Transport Manager Allan Passant used to work for Whittle’s,” Richard continued. “We’d heard that he had left so we offered him a job.

He’s my right-hand man. He gets the job done.”

Help and advice also comes from Richard’s father Ivan who continues to have a close interest in the business.

“Compliance is something that you just have to get on with,” said Richard. “We have a very good relationship with VOSA, but it’s a little vexing seeing some of the things that are out on the road.

“Look at the introduction of digital

Woodstones Coaches Woodstones Coaches was founded by Richard Meredith’s grandfather, Harold Meredith in partnership with a Mr Wood in 1957 using two Bedford OBs. A Commer and Bedford SBs were early acquisitions as well as a new Ford Burlingham in 1960.

Following Harold’s death in 1963, two years after his business partner, a limited company was formed with Harold’s son Ivan and his mother as directors. At the time there were five single-deckers and four minibuses operated.

As well as undertaking school contracts and private hire, there were a number of excursion licences and contracts to the nearby RAF maintenance unit. Operations were based at a garage in Offmore Road, Kidderminster. A town centre site, access became increasingly restricted. The firm’s current home, a threequarter acre site at Hoo Farm Industrial Estate, was acquired in 1983.

Three new 41-seat Duple-bodied Fords were added in 1965. Because they were new people wanted to hire them and they generated work.

They represented 50% of the fleet at the time, the small vehicles having been sold. A fleet size of half a dozen coaches had been established.

New vehicles were bought every year until 1979, mostly Plaxton or Duple-bodied Fords although there were two Bedfords in 1974.

Standardisation brought valuable economies of scale.

Woodstones didn’t buy new bus grant vehicles because Ivan saw it as a distortion of the market. Nearly new Fords were acquired from 1980, but with Ford pulling out of the bus and coach market, it was time to go heavyweight Volvo. Initially they were second-hand coaches, but a new Plaxton Paramount-bodied B10M was purchased in 1984. Ivan’s son, Richard had joined the business the previous year. The relationship with Volvo and Volvo Bus Sales Consultant, Brian Walker in particular has been

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The two 70-seat Plaxton Prima-bodied Dennis Javelins bought in 1998 took the business in a new direction. However, its preference was for Volvo. As soon as it could it bought Plaxton Volvo 70 seaters long and enduring.

From 1985 to 1997 one or more, usually two, nearly new Volvos were purchased a year with the oldest coaches going in part exchange. Each new addition represented an improvement in quality and age over the vehicle it replaced.

With the exception of a Duple Laser, coachwork was always Plaxton with most having been new to Wallace Arnold or Excelsior.

In 1996 Worcestershire County Council asked its school service contractors to retrofit seat belts to their vehicles. It then retendered all its school contracts. Woodstones, which had five contracts at the time, two of which dated back to 1958, put in prices that reflected the extra cost, but lost everything.

The business was on a sound financial footing and it was also able to find other work, but to find a new way to get back into home to school transport, it tendered for two Warwickshire County Council double-decker contracts on the basis of providing 70-seat coaches with three-

point belts and no standees.

It was successful and a pair of new 70-seat Plaxton Prima-bodied Dennis Javelins were purchased from Kirkby Coach & Bus in 1998.

Buying new was seen as a better way to retain residual value and the coaches could always be re-seated as 53 or 57-seaters.

The 70-seat configuration quickly proved its worth attracting plenty of additional private hire work. Because seatbacks were moulded inwards legroom was better than in a 57-seater.

The coaches also had double-glazing and thermostatically controlled heating.

However, Woodstones’ preference for Volvo remained. After being told that a 70-seater wasn’t possible on a B7R because of the position of the emergency door, it was Richard Meredith who studied the measurements and pointed out that that number of seats could indeed be accommodated. The first Plaxton Profile-bodied B7Rs were delivered to the operator in 2003.

January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 23 06/01/2014 15:08

OPERATOR PROFILE › WOODSTONES COACHES

A wash down before it goes out on a job for the 11-plate 53-seater. Presentation and experienced drivers are key elements of what the firm offers tachographs. When we bought new coaches in 2006, the law said that we had to have them.

It didn’t earn us any more money, but we had to put in a computer system and card readers.

We had to stand that extra cost. The alternative would have been to buy second-hand vehicles.

Now we think digital tachographs are great.

Why is it that when an analog tacho needs replacing, it’s not replaced with a digital one?

“All our drivers know the job. We have 16 of which six are fulltime. They have their CPCs, but what can you really teach them? You can put anyone with a licence behind the steering wheel of a coach, but you can’t show them how to be a coach driver. They need people skills and hands on experience.

“We paid for our drivers to do the Driver CPC, but I think it was a complete waste of time

Preparation and support

that you’re allowed to sit the same module five times. Why don’t they give us training in something that’s worthwhile such as managing people, looking after people with disabilities or how to deal with school children?

“Our fulltime drivers have been here a long time. The price of everything is always going up and we try to reflect that with the wages, but those are governed by the rates that we are able to achieve. That’s the industry, but driving new coaches is important to them. They know that they’re going out in something that’s a maximum of only four years old.”

welcome although few visit. A separate toilet block includes facilities for the disabled and there are restroom facilities for drivers.

Bunded fuel storage is on site as is AdBlue storage.

Vehicles, all under manufacturer three-year or extended four-year warranties, are on three-weekly inspections, a combination of full six-weekly inspections carried out by the Hartshorne Group dealership at Pensnett and those carried out by Richard or Allan in the workshop. Maximising vehicle availability is vital. The last thing he wants is to have to turn

Woodstones’ depot on Hoo Farm Industrial Estate, Kidderminster could accommodate a fleet several times that currently operated.

It’s a secure site protected by CCTV, security fencing and what Richard describes as ‘Police assistance wire’. It would be foolhardy for anyone to attempt unauthorised entry.

The purpose-built three-bay workshop can accommodate double-deckers and there are two connected 40-foot inspection pits and a rolling road. A stock of new tyres, some already mounted on wheels, is kept in adjacent stores. It’s all about being prepared for any eventuality and minimising the cost of keeping vehicles on the road if there is a problem.

Next to the stores are offices including a visitors’ reception. Customers are always

You can put anyone with a licence behind the steering wheel of a coach, but you can’t show them how to be a coach driver

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work away because a vehicle must go for an inspection or risk becoming overdue.

Funding cutbacks mean local authorities aren’t maintaining roads like they used to and that includes verges and hedgerows. Scratched coach paintwork as a result can represent thousands of pounds worth of damage and is a real concern.

A badly kept hedgerow on an S-bend has become a real problem in recent months, but despite endless correspondence even involving the local MP and instructions from the Council to the landowner to do what’s necessary, the work still has not been carried out. It’s just another of the many daily battles that rural operators are continually having to fight.

“We used to be in the CPT (Confederation of Passenger Transport), but we pulled out,” said Richard. “They don’t talk coach, nor do they make a stand on issues like tachograph abuse.

We’re members of BUSK’s Simply Safe. I’ve known Pat Harris for years. She has made a massive difference to this industry. She forced the issue of seatbelts and without that the practise of three children to one double seat would still be operational for school journeys etc. Simply Safe membership does make a difference, but you have to explain to schools what it’s all about. It helps you make the deal.

“I think we’re still in a recession. I just have a feeling that something is going to happen this year. Despite what they saying now, I think they will start putting up interest rates and that will make it tougher for everyone. It could make a massive difference to bookings.

“My job is to transport people from A to B and from B to A. We fight every day to get work doing that which is cost effective. We’re still here and I’m looking forward to those new Leopards coming.” n www.coachandbusweek.com

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January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 25

THE

BIG QUESTION

An end of year reflection

As 2013 came to a close and the industry looks ahead to 2014 Gareth Evans asked a cross-section of industry figures for their memories of the last year and their hopes and concerns for the months ahead 1 2 3 4

What do you consider to be your best personal achievement of 2013?

What do you consider to be your best professional achievement of 2013?

What are you looking forward to in 2014?

What are your prime concerns for 2014?

CHRIS OWENS MD, Alpine Travel, Llandudno learning to ride a road bike.

1 Simple, Sally bought me one for Christmas 2012 because she was fed up of me coming home covered in bumps and grazes from falling off my mountain bike. And then joining the Transaid team raising just over £4,000 cycling from London to Amsterdam, not that I was fit for anything by the time I made it to Amsterdam, I simply spent the night in the hotel bar relaxing in a very comfortable armchair. elected CPT President for the 2 Being ensuing year while at the same time ensuring that our management team had the necessary support to maintain business growth.

Such an election is a huge honour for such a small provincial business but at the same time it is paramount that our business does not suffer as a result of my election. on the role of CPT President, 3 Taking travelling around the country and meeting like-minded industry professionals. We work in an absolutely fantastic industry – I’ve met so many fellow operators that I am now honoured to be able to call friends. I am looking forwards to 2014 with eager anticipation, although perhaps not the CPT Annual Dinner on January 23 when I must address an audience of around 550. from January 23? I’ve discovered 4 Apart that the role of CPT President will involve a great deal of travelling to and from HQ in London as well as to the regions, Scotland and Wales. A major concern has to be that I do not allow this office to detract too greatly from the two most important aspects of my life – those being family and business. I am most fortunate that my wife and two children (aged 22 and 19) have already grown accustomed to my absence and as such are fully supportive. Likewise Alpine Coaches appears to run far better in my absence.

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ANDY CAMPBELL MD, Stagecoach East the ripe old age of 60 and still 1 Reaching going to the gym before work each day. three million customers a year 2 Carrying on (a white elephant) – Cambridgeshire’s Guided Busway.

An upturn in the economy.

3

Local authorities making cuts that achieve a short term fix but leave long term problems.

4

ROGER FRENCH awarded a Freeman of the City of 1 Being Brighton & Hove in May. asked to take part in the CILT Big 2 Being Bus Debate with Sir Brian Souter in November. travelling around the UK in 3 More retirement. enough rural bus services will 4 Whether survive upcoming local authority cuts for me to enjoy travelling on.

CHRIS BOWLES, MD, Stagecoach Manchester two difficult and quite different 1 Surviving business acquisitions and coming out the other side with my health and sanity (almost) intact.

– winning the UK Bus Awards’ City 2 Easy Operator and Best UK Operator awards at the London Park Lane Hilton in November.

I dedicate them to all the staff, managers and directors who have been at Stagecoach Manchester over the past 15 years because it’s that continuous effort which has made the difference.

3

Living up to the inevitable expectations.

The inexorable increase in traffic congestion and the costs and punctuality risks that go with it, more local authority funding cuts, and ensuring the bus partnership agenda continues to be progressed in the face of challenges.

4

PETER NEWMAN Chairman, Ensignbus Still being here.

1

Receiving the ‘Services to the Bus Industry’ award at UK Bus Awards this year. This was a real surprise and I felt honoured and privileged to be presented with it.

Still being here in 2015.

2 3

I am concerned for the independent operator, as we are being squeezed more and more from every angle. It’s pretty common knowledge that at least two well respected operators are in the process of selling their businesses, and I suspect there will be few more before the end of 2014.

4

Stagecoach Manchester being crowned City Operator and Best UK Operator ranked as Chris Bowles’ (centre) professional achievement

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Carrying three million passengers a year on the Cambridgeshire Guided Busway was Andy Campbell’s professional achievement

IAN CRAIG CEO, Lothian Buses the Edinburgh Seven Hills 1 Completing Challenge and living to tell the tale. appointed CEO of Transport for 2 Being Edinburgh and being part of a team which has seen bus patronage reach record levels in a quarter-of-a-century and Edinburgh Bus Tours retaining its five star visitor attraction status. the Edinburgh Tram into 3 Bringing operational service and integrating this with our bus network.

Edinburgh Tram into operational 4 Bringing service and integrating this with our bus network.

KEVIN MAYNE Maynes of Buckie ending my two-year term as 1 Probably Chairman of the CPT Scottish Coach Commission. I had some great meetings, with some fantastic folks and helped push things forward to benefit coach operators north of the border. do everything as a team and any 2 We achievement would not be possible without the effort everyone puts in. However, www.coachandbusweek.com

026_034_CBW1119_Big Question.indd 27

getting on stage to collect an award for the company at Alton Towers, then a few hours later be in the final of the rally would be close. On a personal note it could be watching the clock tick past the DCPC deadline knowing our team had completed it 17 months early – and of course being the marvellous Maynes Movember team. that’s a hard one to ask. Later in the 3 Well year I’m reaching a certain age, but that’s an industry secret. Actually, we have some exciting challenges for our company from trying new technology to new vehicles arriving. We also have the referendum to deal with and our country has a chance to decide where Scotland’s future roads will lead. where the country’s future is 4 Knowing heading. The future of coaching is on a knife edge too. It’s about time the towns and cities which need coaches for the footfall and revenue that we bring, realise our industry needs the respect it deserves. It’s all been for too long that coach operators just roll over and get our chassis rubbed to benefit others, the only way we can improve our own industry’s future is if the whole industry stand together and create it.

RICHARD GREY MD Greys of Ely of my personal achievement has been 1 Part finally obtaining planning permission on a building project for a new home, which I have been working on for 12 years, but the best ‘achievement’ of 2013 was the healthy arrival of our daughter Charlotte, now six months old. professional achievement for 2014 2 My would be the continued healthy growth of our business, (now 67 years young), coupled with a very unexpected second award of Coach Manager of the year, all of which would not have been possible without the great team of staff we have at Grey’s. seem to be emerging steadily from 3 We the recession and with this I think 2014 will be a period of continued growth with a predicted increase of 2.4% in GDP. Certainly for us the business / private sectors use of coach travel is really taking off and this will continue into 2014. whimsical concern would be missing 4 My an opportunity in 2014 as I have great hopes of things to come. That said, I am mindful of all the cost increases every

January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 27 06/01/2014 17:47

THE

BIG QUESTION

Pat Stringer said his best professional achievement was obtaining his CPC

Richard Bamber is proud of the work his firm does to support local good causes, including sponsoring Omar Haddad

operator faces, some of which are often not apparent – German VAT being an example. I’m a hopeful cynic.

PAT STRINGER Head of Operations, Brighton & Hove Bus & Coach Company Getting married.

1

Obtaining my CPC – and giving advice to other people taking theirs. really move forward with my new 3 To position at B&H and take a key role in the company’s continued development. funding for bus services in some 4 That areas continues to be cut when as an industry we want to grow.

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Although we have seen an encouraging upturn in 2013 for our coach business, I fear for the industry as a whole with ongoing austerity measures. Local authorities continue to cut funding to bus services and with bus travel being wholly undervalued in my humble opinion, the government must step in – James Hyde

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RICHARD BAMBER Anthony’s Travel a guest speaker at Pat Harris from 1 Being BUSK’s conference and not collapsing with fright. Climbing Snowdon with my wife Dawn and our friends from The Mark Gorry Foundation. Anyone who knows me is aware that I have the �itness levels of a slug so it was quite an achievement. Also, having three lovely kids who try their best in everything they do and a lovely wife, parents, family and close friends, couldn’t be prouder. best achievement has been not 2 Our only keeping going through the dif�icult �inancial years but making 2013 one of our best years for Anthony’s Travel on record. We have done this through remaining �lexible, proactive and identifying new markets – plus with a bit of good luck on our side. Also, I am extremely proud of the work we continue to do with our charities and causes in the local community. It’s great that a small coach company like Anthony’s Travel is still able to make a signi�icant contribution and difference for the better of others.

I am looking forward to our 3 Personally family holiday in California and a few ringside seats at boxing throughout the year and being a huge Beatles fan going to see Paul McCartney again. Business wise I can’t say too much at this early stage but we have a few projects, partnerships and ideas that we are excited about.

My prime concerns are not really any different then they have been for the past few years. They include the state of the economy, local authority cutbacks, insurance and fuel costs. However, we will roll with the punches, take a few blows, adjust our style and come out �ighting like we have for the past 28 years.

4

JAMES HYDE Coach Sales Manager UK & Ireland, Volvo Bus and after a very long �ive years, 1 Finally managing to �inish off the en-suite for my bedroom. My 15 year old daughter is especially pleased as I have been using her shower room for all this time. would have to be Volvo achieving its 2 Itbest ever result for our used vehicle business. A testament to all those involved, too many to mention here, but you know who you are. Also, being part of our successful Euro 6 product range launch at Coach & Bus Live which was very well received by our customers.

– embracing Euro 6 technology and 3 Easy taking our new and exciting product range to market. we have seen an encouraging 4 Although upturn in 2013 for our coach business, I fear for the industry as a whole with ongoing austerity measures. Local authorities continue to cut funding to bus services and with bus travel being wholly undervalued in my humble opinion, the government must step in. Yes, I am an eternal optimist. The great advantage for some of the coach business (express services) is that there is no government involvement but many private coach operators do local bus work and that is my worry.

On a personal note, replacing my daughter’s en-suite as it has been battered for the last �ive years by a family of �ive.

ALAN WHITE Director, Minis to Midis major. I haven’t had the time this 1 Nothing year, but having a conversation with my two year old grandson, usually about Thomas the tank engine, has been very rewarding, especially when able to pull him away from the bus/coach magazines.

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Establishing the Noone Turas brand and hitting the 50 Turas sales mark – the target was 20. economic recovery and of course 3 Further the launch of the Noone Turas 900 midicoach. income keeping pace with 4 Operator increased costs – Euro 6 models will have to offer more than cleaner engines. Thankfully, there is evidence of improved fuel ef�iciency which if coupled with increased capacity/ balance with luggage requirement and thus greater utilisation of smaller vehicles, could help balance the sums.

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ALEX HORNBY Commercial Director, trent barton to arrange a conference for 1 Managing over 40 important industry colleagues was humbling and ful�illing, when looking back – especially as the stress, sleep deprivation and alcohol intake made it dif�icult to enjoy at the time. It’s also good to see the Young Bus Managers Network continuing to go from strength to strength.

On a very personal note, I’m always very proud of my wife and our amazing little boy Jack, who are two outstanding people – in spite of having to put up with me (even more than those poor people at work have to). Being trusted to be left alone to have a day out with our Jack for a number of hours – without any resultant catastrophes or visits to the hospital was an important personal milestone... think we’ve all done a great job at 2 Itrentbarton and Kinchbus in 2013. We’ve achieved a really solid �inancial performance, withstood the impact of new competition and gained revenue and customer growth in demanding circumstances through hard work and development, introducing more new brands and products along the way.

I was particularly proud of the roll-out of our new website and seeing the trentbarton live RTI system help to revolutionise the service to our customers. We had some fun along the way with our 100th birthday celebrations. I hope we did those before us proud too – we were reminded of our impressive lineage of great people and the support of the communities around us.

We’re very fortunate to have a consistent, passionate team of �ine people, both on the frontline and behind the scenes, to deliver our products day in, day out. The great service our people deliver on the ground, in an everchallenging environment never ceases to amaze me. They deserve all the praise and plaudits they rightly receive. able to unleash £5.2m worth of new 3 Being buses at our customers, refreshing more of our brands and products – and hopefully attracting more growth. We’re also setting an agenda of improving our focus on the basics – better punctuality through interrogation of our RTI system, better presentation and cleaning standards, as well as more inventive use of our MANGO smartcard products and the data which comes with it, and improved web and email marketing. Despite the progression we’ve made in this area, we’re still only scratching the surface here.

We’re also brightening up our really good academy and enhancing our staff communications – and testing out a few new ideas to improve trip frequency. It’ll all be exciting stuff – but very busy! need to stay focussed on what the 4 We customer wants, but being able to �ind new ideas which truly can tempt people to travel more, and new people to us in the �irst place, can be tough with little low-hanging fruit around. We are �inding some inventive ideas to grow revenue but increasing the number of customer journeys is becoming more dif�icult. And we cannot and will not rely on our reputation – we have to build on what has gone before and create an even better trentbarton, and we are all very much signed up to that.

Considering our service delivery, the impact of tram construction and road works schemes has been a headache towards the end of 2013 for us and our customers – less of that in 2014 would be nice. It would also be remiss of me to not mention the ever-increasing outside interference, time-wasting discussions on control and increasing regulation – look around at the great things many good bus operators do without being leaned on, and consider leaving us to do our job… We’re actually all not too bad at it!

Being able to find new ideas which truly can tempt people to travel more, and new people to us in the first place, can be tough with little low-hanging fruit around. We are finding some inventive ideas to grow revenue but increasing the number of customer journeys is becoming more difficult – Alex Hornby

Alan White’s best professional achievement was selling 50 Noone Turas vehicles – instead of the target of 20 – one of which was this vehicle acquired by Golden Boy Coaches www.coachandbusweek.com

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THE

BIG QUESTION Leeds Utd being promoted to the Premiership in May (you have to have a dream). up to yet another set of challenges 4 Facing in keeping bus services going in Ipswich.

Things are going to get tougher but the bus industry continues to show remarkable resilience. We haven’t seen the end of local authority cutbacks, pro�its will reduce and it will inevitably get harder to continue to invest in the business but eventually local and national politicians will have to appreciate the importance of what we offer.

There continues to be many challenges for the industry, in particular though for our team. The Quality Contracts situation will no doubt play a key role in shaping the focus of 2014. We know that partnership is the surest way of creating a ‘best of class’ bus service for our passengers and we are already providing this in many areas – Chloe Leach

MALCOLM ROBSON MD, Ipswich Buses personal achievement for 2013 1 Best was recovering from a scary illness in November 2012 which took me until June to fully recover from and then in July walking up Snowdon with Trevor Roberts from Blackpool Transport raising just short of £10,000 for Tansaid. professional achievement of 2013 was 2 My carrying out the role of CPT President for the year, getting around all the regions and attending all the specialist committees giving CPT members a chance to let me have their views on the work of CPT. It’s been a fantastic experience which I will miss when it ends this month. a personal basis the wedding of my 3 On oldest daughter on Good Friday and then 30 | COACH & BUS WEEK | January 8, 2014

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CHLOE LEACH O’CONNELL Head of Regional Marketing and Communications, Arriva is an easy one. In March, after a lot of 1 This arduous paperwork, we rehomed a little Spanish sheepdog cross from a rescue home in Alicante, Spain. Fraggle is now a part of the family and his English is coming along very nicely. seeing the new regional 2 De�initely marketing team go from strength to strength, and with an added focus on B2B, there’s been some really exciting projects. The team’s shown a real commitment to deliver innovative, fresh campaigns and the icing on the cake was their visit to the UK Bus Awards in November to celebrate the success of the Frankenbus It’s alive, it’s electric project. When I look back on 2013 I feel really proud of their achievements and they should be too. so much going on, dare I say it, 3 There’s it looks like it’s going to be even busier than 2013. We’re really excited about further investment in the region with a delivery of new buses in the coming weeks. We have a very clear strategy for growth and this of course will continue, as well as a communications plan which will further enhance the brand across our local operating areas. Every year we have more and more platforms for our messaging and each year we try and go bigger and better, so once again the challenge is really on. continues to be many challenges 4 There for the industry, in particular though for our team. The Quality Contracts situation will no doubt play a key role in shaping the focus of 2014. We know that partnership is the surest way of creating a ‘best of class’ bus service for our passengers and we are already providing this in many areas. Sapphire has been a fabulous testament to the dedication and commitment that our local teams have shown in order to deliver innovation and grow passenger numbers.

ALEC HORNER Minimise Your Risk the delivery of Driver CPC 1 Managing courses for over 10,000 drivers. awarded a Fellowship of the 2 Being Association of Industrial Road Safety Of�icers (AIRSO).

A holiday to South Africa.

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That operators haven’t clocked the fact they should be making sure all drivers complete one Driver CPC course every year – instead of thinking they can rest on their laurels again until 2018/9.

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MIKE MORRIS MD, Tanat Valley Coaches best personal achievement is probably 1 My gaining the �irst part of my Yachtmaster Ocean quali�ication. professional achievement is being 2 My able to keep the business alive as it has been probably the most dif�icult year I have experienced. am looking forward to having a good 3 Ilong holiday sometime in the second half of the year and also to start the rebuild of our workshops here at Llanrhaeadr ym Mochnant. prime concern for 2014 is the squeeze 4 My on local authority budgets and the likely reduction in local bus services, particularly in Powys. This will lead to a loss of work to Tanat Valley and the knock on loss of jobs.

PHIL STONE Regional Managing Director, Arriva North West & Wales won one of the big competitions 1 Iatactually the golf club this year. That doesn’t sound great but my partner and I got through a qualifying round, four match play rounds and won the �inal. My partner was my dad – 83 year olds don’t usually win competitions like this. He was made up.

Engagement is really important 2 Employee in this people industry. Arriva North West & Wales achieved Champion Investor In People status this year – quite impressive for a company which employs 3,500 people over 18 locations. industry has gone through four 3 The or �ive tough years, concentrating on cost reduction rather than growth. We have started to see glimmers of hope with growth on our Sapphire routes and Cross River Hybrid routes. I’m looking forward to starting to grow the company again, with investment, some increased frequencies, technology and fare initiatives. Growth is a lot more exciting than cuts. government and local authority 4 Central cuts are the great unknown. I’m not sure we’ve seen the worst of it yet. We are seeing further cuts in tendered opportunities, interesting discussions on concessionary schemes, and the future of BSOG is still hanging over us.

Bring 2014 on! This industry is never boring.

JOHN YOUNG Acting Commercial Director, Stagecoach Yorkshire the half century and celebrating 1 Achieving my 50th birthday in Mid Wales, a land I love, with my family in May. Looking back, I wouldn’t change very much at all. Here’s to the next 50 years. asked to cover the Commercial 2 Being Director position at Stagecoach Yorkshire, where I have joined a strong and enthusiastic team and am enjoying the fresh challenge immensely. seeing a stronger economy, 3 Hopefully continuing the learning curve in my new role and making a positive contribution to our Yorkshire business. ongoing political and adverse cost 4 The pressures affecting our industry. www.coachandbusweek.com

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John Owen fears that short-sighted political and financial decisions will continue to undermine the efforts of the bus industry to meet the needs of the travelling public NIGEL TAYLOR Joint MD, Redwing Coaches what a dif�icult question, do we have a 1 Wow personal life in this industry? If I had to say anything I think it would be �inding the con�idence to go back into coach company ownership. This has a big impact on your personal life, i.e. you don’t really have one anymore. professional achievement has to be 2 My becoming joint MD of one of the most reputable and respected coach companies in Britain, Redwing Coaches. Also, along with the whole team, that’s everyone at Redwing, ensuring the company has gone from strength to strength. promises to be a very busy year and 3 2014 we are looking forward to the challenges from what looks to be an amazing summer season, bookings are already up 12% on this time last year for this period. It might be nice to see a couple of new arrivals as well next year. big concern of mine is the lack of good 4 Aoperations staff. I think this is going to be a big problem in future. It has always been a problem with our industry to attract good reliable staff, with long hours and relatively poor pay, it will always be with us. Having said that, we still have characters and these are the guys and girls that make our industry the greatest there is.

JONATHAN BRAY Director, pteg Surviving a Friday night out in Moscow.

1

Getting a much better deal for local transport outside London in general (and buses in particular) from the Spending Review than was thought possible – including saving BSOG. This was the culmination of several years of hard work in building up and articulating a strong evidence base. more balanced approach from trade 3 Apress to bene�its of having planned and integrated approach to public transport in big cities outside London. I won’t hold my breath... implications of CLG cuts for local 4 The government which are big cuts in

2

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Nigel Taylor (right) said his becoming joint MD of Redwing Coaches with Paul Hockley (left) as part of a management buy-out was his professional achievement for 2013 supported services and fewer of�icers to deliver capital programmes. Buses continue to suffer collateral damage from CLG’s Top Gear policies on parking.

JOHN OWEN UK Bus Awards Chairman to �ind enough to do in my 1 Continuing retirement from ‘a proper job’ to avoid having time to do the garden. bus industry has come a long way in 2 The the 18 years of UK Bus Awards. Yet again this year we were able to recognise and reward even greater creativity and innovation from bus companies and their partners, as well as a continually-growing commitment to quality bus operation by companies and those who actually deliver those services. The bar is constantly being raised, hopefully inspiring more and more to achieve the standards demonstrated by the best our industry has to offer.

Southampton Football Club 3 That continues this year’s superb start in the Premier League – and get into Europe for next season. Oh, and that the Government and politicians of all parties will at last really recognise the major contribution that the bus makes to the well-being of our country, and the absolutely essential part it plays in the lives of individuals and whole communities - and act accordingly. And pigs might �ly on both counts. short-sighted political and �inancial 4 That decisions over issues like BSOG, concessionary travel, bus priorities, quality contracts etc. will continue to undermine the efforts of the bus industry to meet the real needs of the people they serve, and that the bus will still not receive proper credit for what it does now for the economy and the environment – and of course, how much more it could contribute given the opportunity.

RAY STENNING Best Impressions don’t really set goals in personal or 1 2 Iprofessional life. I just get on and do what has to be done with dedication, belief and passion. I’d like to think that my professional

Celebrating my 50th birthday in mid Wales, a land I love, with my family in May. Looking back I wouldn’t change anything as all – John Young

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BIG QUESTION

Martin Griffiths described as a ‘backward step’ recent attempts to water down bus lanes

We have to get past the argument about control and ownership on the bus side, and hopefully put to bed the con of the proposed Tyne and Wear bus contracts scheme which will deliver nothing for passengers in the region – Martin Griffiths

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achievements are all best ones, otherwise I’m probably not doing it properly!

However, it was most heart-warming and �illed me with immense pride to watch my good friend and colleague, James Freeman, win lots of awards this year, and I’d like to think I played a small part in helping him achieve some of those awards. springs to mind, but it will be 3 Nothing good to see the results of some of the work we’re doing to help struggling companies struggle a little less, and send a few ripples through the industry. local and national politicians stop 4 That assuming it is an immutable law of the universe they must, axiomatically, know better than anyone else how to run bus services.

MARTIN GRIFFITHS Stagecoach Group CEO doubt the highlight of my year 1 Without was being given the opportunity to lead Stagecoach. The company has been a huge part of my life for many years now and is an industry-leading public transport operator which plays a hugely important role in the lives of millions of people every day. It is a privilege to now be Group Chief Executive. am proud of many things we have 2 Iachieved at Stagecoach this year. We have introduced some fantastic new bus and coach services for passengers and we have continued to evolve as a business. We have a superb team of employees and an ethos which encourages innovation, environmental stewardship and good customer service. I believe the future is very bright for the Group. Another proud moment was seeing Stagecoach Manchester named Britain’s Best Bus Operator at the UK Bus Awards, again showing we really are the best at what we do. I am a �irm believer that we can always get better though so it’s important that we keep moving forward to deliver even more for our customers. ahead, I am very positive about 3 Looking the future. There will be challenges to face of course, but my view is that we are operating in an environment that provides us with a great

opportunity to encourage greater use of public transport. If you look at factors such as rising road congestion, higher motoring costs and increasing awareness of the environment, all of these are positive drivers for our business. There are also strong growth opportunities ahead for our businesses both in the UK and North America. Our UK Bus business continues to grow organically and we believe we have tapped into very exciting markets with our megabus. com coach services on both sides of the Atlantic which have great potential for further expansion.

Technology will play a very important role in the next year and we are continuing to invest heavily in smart ticketing, WiFi and real-time information to make it even easier for people to access and use our bus services. One thing we know is that the next 12 months will not be dull – it never is at Stagecoach! focus for the next year is very much 4 Our on showing that the private sector is delivering on both rail and bus. We have to get past the argument about control and ownership on the bus side, and hopefully put to bed the con of the proposed Tyne and Wear bus contracts scheme which will deliver nothing for passengers in the region. Instead, we will continue to work constructively with our local authority partners to make real improvements for customers as we have seen in places like Shef�ield and Oxford. The vast majority of our services are run commercially, and we believe that is right.

However, it is crucial Governments in England, Scotland and Wales properly fund their political commitment to concessionary bus fares. Failure to do so is a stealth tax on every other fare paying passenger. An on-going challenge is to encourage wider recognition at all levels of the important role buses play in the UK. It is too easy for people to overlook the contribution the bus industry makes to the economy and the vital links we provide to employment, education, health and leisure facilities for millions of people every day.

To do that as ef�iciently as possible, we need support from local authorities in providing us with the right road conditions to deliver our services. We’ve seen a worrying attempt recently to water down bus lanes which is a backward step. The industry needs to make a strong case for bus priority, not just to retain the measures we have now but also to kick start a new drive for more. These are all challenges rather than concerns. However, one concern I do have for the next year is how to politely say no if our PR team asks me to wear my megabusgold.com onesie again!

DEAN SULLIVAN Sullivan Buses sounds corny, but I think my best 1 Itpersonal achievement is the team of people we have here at Sullivan Buses. When you’re deep in the scrum, its often dif�icult to see the wider picture. Perhaps we all tend to focus on the negatives and they seem to get in the way of the positive achievements we all make. When I stand back and look at what we have achieved, it makes me very proud of the people who work here at Sullivan Buses. the challenges of 2012, last year 2 After seemed like a walk in the park. Following the excitement of 2012, we spent most of 2013 www.coachandbusweek.com

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looking to develop our commercial services.

When we took over route 306 on a commercial basis, passenger numbers were in decline and revenue was below that necessary to maintain its long term future. Route 306 (and its various numbers) has been the main link between Borehamwood and Watford since London Transport’s County days. It was once a busy link using Routemaster buses up until the mid 1970s. Unfortunately, for various reasons the route went into slow decline. As a result, the incumbent operator decided to deregister the route at fairly short notice. However, we have worked hard with the Hertfordshire County Council and Watford Borough to obtain additional funding to increase service levels. As a result ridership has increased by 25% since we acquired the route. We still continue to micro manage the route, but early signs are that this effort is coming to fruition. on holiday. We did not manage 3 Going to get away at all last year. We had planned to visit the Himalayas last autumn, but the tail end of 2013 was very busy with railway replacement work. So despite our best intentions Mala and I failed to get away on holiday. We really must go or she’s going to be very grumpy with me. all the potential uncertainty 4 Despite surrounding the cuts in the governments spending on public transport, as an industry I think we have seemed to have come through this fairly well, even if recovery is still very fragile. Of course, we would all like to see funding levels restored to their pre-austerity days, but that’s unlikely to happen in the near future. However, at least now we have a clearer picture of where we are going.

NICK PAGE MD of Volvo Bus UK & Ireland Sunday football team I manage won 1 The the division 1 title. has to be the honour of being appointed 2 ItManaging Director of Volvo Bus. Driving the Volvo Bus & Coach business 3 forward to new heights.

That GDP growth continues.

4

CHRIS CHATFIELD MD of Compass Bus married. After 53 years of being 1 Getting single I’ve acquired a beautiful wife, Trish, and two lovely step daughters.

‘Highly Commended’ at the UK 2 Achieving Bus Awards – due to the hard work of all our team. on-going challenge (I’d be bored if 3 The it was too easy) of running a pro�itable business, with a strong focus on customer service, in the midst of constant funding cuts and increasing red-tape. the EU will continue to strangle 4 That business initiative with nonsensical rules and regulations. Roll on the EU referendum when we can vote to be free of their shackles and have control of our country back.

ROSS PRENTICE MD of Prentice Coaches best personal achievement has 1 My probably been managing to take more time off, albeit only at selected times, so I can have a bit more family time. our live tracking and app 2 Introducing would be the main one. Winning a major award for the second year in a row and being named ‘Best Family Business’ by our local Chamber of Commerce are up there as well. have a new project which, all being 3 We well, will get off the ground early in the coming weeks and will hopefully bene�it both our company and the local community. prime concern for 2014 is the constant 4 My cost cutting by operators just to get work.

Too often it seems more important to have the coach working no matter how little it’s making.

BILL HIRON MD, Stephensons of Essex managed to lose some weight. I’ve 1 I’ve rescued a 1985 Ford Transit minibus – a type which was the saviour of many urban networks, particularly in the Midlands and South. And I’ve continued to throw money at restoring our 1870s farmhouse, which will I am sure be lovely one day.

Ian Jones’ proud moment came from dressing as Santa in Bolton town centre and poking out of the sunroof of a vintage 1951 Leyland Tiger owned by Belle Vue coaches www.coachandbusweek.com

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I’ve rescued a 1985 Ford Transit minibus – a type which was the saviour of many urban networks, particularly in the Midlands and South. And I’ve continued to throw money at restoring our 1870s farmhouse, which will I am sure be lovely one day – Bill Hiron I suppose it would have to be the company’s listing in the London Stock Exchange Group’s ‘1000 companies to Inspire Britain’, a list of the thousand most inspiring small and medium-sized companies in the UK, published last month. To be included, companies had to demonstrate not only growth in revenue over the last four years, but also an increase in employee numbers, workspace, or contract wins. It is a real honour to be recognised out-with our own industry, and we were I believe one of only three bus/coach companies included. squeeze in a three-week holiday to 3 To Australia. But at a company level, it has to be moving one of our depots to a new, freehold refurbished site which is due to happen at the end of March, subject to planning consent.

This will have a modern four-bay workshop, purpose-built of�ices, and by our standards will be the height of luxury. However, we’ve had to delete the silver service management restaurant as a result of the prevailing economic climate. have several. The annual battle over 4 Iconcessionary fare reimbursement, the continued ‘race to the bottom’ by some of our neighbouring operators, and on-going meddling by politicians over a variety of issues. I think I, like most of the rest of the industry, would like to be just left alone to get on with serving our customers to the best of our ability. A job that generally we do quite well.

2

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THE

BIG QUESTION

Roddy Perryman (right) is seen at the formal handover of 12 new Optare Versas for the firm’s Scottish operation in September

My prime concerns for 2014 is that my Chairman, Sean Taggart won’t buy his rounds!

Other than that it is loosing sleep over the Euro exchange rate, German VAT and the rising cost of fuel!

– Chris Wales

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IAN JONES Backhouse Jones proud moment came from dressing as 1 My Santa in Bolton town centre and poking out of the sunroof of a vintage 1951 Leyland Tiger owned by Belle Vue coaches. It was all in aid of Bolton’s TowerFM radio Toy Appeal for disadvantaged children. Hiding in plain sight behind a red suit and a white beard inspired the curiosity of adults and the imagination of children as our enchanting bus – with Santa livery – became a treasure trove of wonders for children who deserve more. The experience was uplifting and humbling in equal measure. To the lady pharmacist who whispered in my ear, I con�irm I have contacted Robert Downey Junior’s agent and the answer is an emphatic ‘no’.

President of the CPT joining the BACK 2 The -up subscription service and ensuring BACK up subscribers �ix their annual legal spend and receive comprehensive 24/7 legal advice from expert lawyers from a �ixed price of just 26p per vehicle per day. Why wouldn’t you? my radio career. After a 3 Resurrecting 20 year gap I returned to the airwaves with TowerFM’s breakfast show to talk legal anecdotes as a prelude to their Toy Appeal. I was starry eyed not bleary eyed. I look forward to pitching my idea for a show titled ‘Bolton’s Briefs’ to the radio executives. In other news I am planning to play Widow Twankey in pantomime at Bolton’s Albert Hall.

My big fear is if Ursula, my wife, 4 Twitter. bans me from tweeting on the basis that all words in English beginning ‘tw’ are likely to be silly. I asked tweedledee and tweedledum (the Backhouse twins) who agree I am not a twerp and Ursula is talking twaddle as only a twit world compare twitter to a twaddle box (chatterbox). Tweet me at @backhousejones if you think this is one big whopping yarn.

RODDY PERRYMAN’S Perryman of Berwick upon Tweed calm under the pressures of work 1 Staying and more importantly, staying calm under

the increasing pressure from my wife to �inish the patio. In the end I had to give in and call the experts. is an easy one.... Being part of our 2 This team which returned to Scotland in our 40th year to open a new Scottish depot, deliver a �leet of 12 brand new buses and recruit 27 new members of staff, oh and all within a 10week period – on time and on budget. It doesn’t get much better than that. a personal level the Ryder Cup 3 On and Commonwealth Games being staged in Scotland and maybe even a holiday.

Professionally, I want to keep developing our multi award-winning business. change there.... Fuel increases, the 4 No lack of government help and unjusti�iable insurance claims.

CHRIS WALES CEO, Coach Tourism Council personal achievement was having 1 My a beer with Tim Martin, Chairman of Wetherspoons.

- I am proud of my 2 Professionally involvement in the 2013 Coach Holiday Conference, jointly organised by CPT and CTC, as the delegates raised a considerable sum for Help for Heroes. In 2014 the Conference will be held at the Queens Hotel, Chester on Monday February 24, the theme being “We Welcome Coaches” and the designated charity will be the Family Holiday Association. All CBW readers are most welcome! See: www.coachtourism council.co.uk.

2014 I’m looking forward to seeing 3 For the back of talks of austerity so our mainstream coach holiday makers can again feel comfortable in taking day excursions, short breaks and long stay holidays which they can afford and deserve. prime concerns for 2014 is that my 4 My Chairman, Sean Taggart won’t buy his rounds! Other than that it is loosing sleep over the Euro exchange rate, German VAT and the rising cost of fuel! ■ www.coachandbusweek.com

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2 Bath Road Worcester WR5 3EJ Phone 01905-613527 Fax: 01905-767509 email courses@qv-associates.co.uk

January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 35

THE BIG PICTURE Steve Hodgson has photographed one of the pair of Dawsonrentals Solo SRs that Stanley Travel has been using on the Durham County Councilcontracted ‘Cathedral Bus’ service in Durham since it took the contract over from Yourbus. It’s near the cathedral at the junction of Owen Gate and North Bailey. The diesel buses are a temporary measure while the three local authority-owned Optare Solo EV electric buses that were introduced to the route in 2010 receive work to restore them to peak performance. Two buses are required to maintain the schedule, a third electric being acquired so it can be available for a changeover during the day if required. Once electric bus operation restarts, Stanley Travel will re-charge and garage them at Stanley. Their daily schedule including the distance to Durham is 62 miles. They have a range of 70 miles.

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

PASSENGER COMFORT & ENTERTAINMENT

Providing a passenger comfort zone M

The Scania Irizar i6 has a reputation for quality, which is reflected in this interior example

Luxury interiors are becoming the norm and it’s important to make sure the place your passengers spend the most time is somewhere they’re happy to be.

This week’s Industry Guide features suppliers who are dedicated to making bus and coach interiors a pleasant and comfortable experience www.coachandbusweek.com

039_042_CBW_1119_Industry guide.indd 39

any people view travelling long distances, whether it’s by bus, train or plane, as a chore.

It can be loud, uncomfortable, stressful or boring. Creating an environment which is comfortable to be in and providing something to keep passengers occupied can transform a long journey from something to be endured into something to be enjoyed, or simply allow them to catch up on some sleep.

Proper climate control is becoming standard and expected in the industry, so it’s important to make sure it is well maintained.

Fortunately there are well established and well stocked specialists offering round-the-clock support.

As is widely suggested, the biggest competition faced by bus and coach operators is not other operators, but other forms of transport. One of the best ways to convince potential passengers to leave the car at home and board a bus or coach is to provide a service which passengers are unable to use while at the wheel.

On board WiFi is sure to be a major attraction to the smartphone generation, allowing them to stay connected without eating into the limited monthly internet usage they are given on the mobile phone contracts. It allows passengers to use their travel time for email, banking or other tasks which would otherwise waste valuable time at home or at work, or just sit back on social media, message boards or games.

January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 39 06/01/2014 18:37

INDUSTRY

GUIDE

PASSENGER COMFORT & ENTERTAINMENT AIRCONCO

Airconco Ltd styles itself as the original ‘one stop shop’ for coach and bus heating, ventilation and air conditioning, with the aim of removing the hassle of dealing with multiple suppliers for different manufacturer parts and service needs.

The company is an official dealer for Eberspacher Sutrak (formerly Carrier Sutrak), Heavac, Pedro Sanz, UWE & Webasto and offers after sales service and parts support from its Manchester HQ throughout the North of the UK. Airconco also has direct links to Hispacold and as a Thermo King service affiliate, the company can provide full service and parts support for these brands too.

2013 was a busy year as Airconco moved from its old premises in Middleton to a brand new HQ three miles up the road in Heywood.

The re-location back to Heywood brings Airconco back to where it started on the out-skirts of the Lancashire market town. The new HQ which has around 10,500 sq ft combined in offices, parts and service reception, stores and a large workshop was completed in early July and on July 22 Airconco traded from its new HQ for the first time.

Airconco’s service department is now taking bookings for Air Con servicing as well as dealing with all heating breakdowns. Between now and May is the time to get systems serviced ready for next summer.

The service department added brand new Iveco Daily vans to its fleet in the last 12 months. With an extensive stock kept on its service vans, Airconco has a proud record

Air-conditioning units on board Alfa Travel coaches being serviced by Airconco of completing most jobs it is called out to in one visit. This makes its service department recognised as one of the most skilled in Europe and it is able to offer the following services: Routine preventative maintenance; Warranty support for Eberspacher Sutrak, Heavac & Webasto; 24/7 product support and repair; Unrivalled technical expertise; and All makes of HVAC systems supported.

Computer diagnostic capabilities include: l Eberspacher EDiTH Diagnostics; l Mercedes EvoBus Star System; l Plaxton Actia Coach 2000; l Thermo King Clima Aire & CAN Diag; and l Webasto Thermo Test. l Airconco’s dedicated parts

warehouse has all heating parts a bus or coach will require during the winter. Readily available spare parts include boost pumps, heating valves and heater matrixes.

The company carries large quantities of parts stock for Eberspacher Sutrak, Heavac, Webasto, Bock, Lining, Pedro Sanz, Thermo King, Spal and UWE. So if it’s a compressor and clutch, a filter drier and receiver tank or a climate control ECU, Airconco can supply all with next day delivery or the client can come to its trade counter and have the part the same day.

The company now also stocks radiators, intercoolers and oil coolers for many bus / coach applications.

Work is under way on the fifth edition of Airconco’s parts

Airconco provides after sales service across the North of the UK from its Manchester HQ 40 | COACH & BUS WEEK | January 8, 2014 039_042_CBW_1119_Industry guide.indd 40

catalogue which is hoped to be launched in March 2014. With new products being added to its stock listing all the time, it promises to be the biggest and best catalogue so far. The new edition will be posted out to all customers on the Airconco database as soon as it is printed. A copy of Aircono’s 2013 catalogue or 2014 catalogue can be requested via parts@airconcoltd. com. All items in the catalogue are available to buy online at www.airconcoltd.com. Links are provided on the parts section for the ecommerce site. Non account customers can register and receive a 10% discount on all parts shown and pay by credit or debit card.

Airconco Ltd was formed in 1996

by Eric Stott and youngest son Justin who has now been Managing Director for over three years since Eric’s retirement in 2010, and still keeps its familty roots with one of Eric’s other sons Jaimie now responsible for business development. Over 15 years on, it is now one of the leading specialists of climate control systems in the PSV industry.

Airconco now holds around £250,000 of common stock between its stores and service vehicles and are able to supply most other items next day. It now works for some of the largest coach and travel companies in the UK and prides itself on the personal service it provides, giving the customer complete confidence they can offer a climate controlled vehicle at all times to their customers.

T: 0845 402 401 4 E: mail@airconcoltd.com W: www.airconcoltd.com

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INDUSTRY

GUIDE

PASSENGER COMFORT & ENTERTAINMENT

PIC CAP 1: PIC CAP 2: PIC CAP 3: PIC CAP 4:

The BW116 unit is one of the most compact and economical WiFi systems

MOBILE ONBOARD

Mobile Onboard has been providing Internet access for bus passengers since 2009 through its Beam on-bus WiFi products, which operators have been using as a tool to increase passenger numbers and satisfaction by making journeys more enjoyable.

Innovative and flexible onbus WiFi

Mobile Onboard currently has two powerful and flexible on-bus WiFi products, the very popular, compact BW116 and the larger BW200.

The BW116 unit is one of the most compact and economical WiFi systems available at the moment and is still their most popular unit in the UK. Perfect for commuter and passenger service buses it is the unit of choice for bus operators.

The bigger BW200 unit offers more options over the BW116 including multiple SIMs, USB/ Ethernet ports and more simultaneous connections.

It has become a favourite for coach and tour operators whose passengers spend more time on the bus while the multiple SIMs allow them to automatically switch to a localised data SIM when travelling in another country.

Ready to go in 10 minutes Both the Beam BW116 and BW200 are configured ready to plug and go, so no setup is required.

A simple two wire connection is all that’s needed allowing operators to have WiFi up and running on their bus in 10

minutes. The Beam units are also completely self-contained with no need for external antenna which means the units can be easily moved between vehicles.

Infotainment as standard to engage with passengers

The Beam on-bus WiFi units do more than just provide fast passenger internet access on 3G and 4G networks. They come fitted with an on-board Web server as standard with generous amounts of storage.

This drives the Beam infotainment capabilities builtin to every Beam unit giving operators the power to engage with their passengers, either via information pages, entertainment features or targeted advertising for new tours, trips or routes.

This is also a perfect platform to offer tailored multimedia content such as video destination guides, audio tours, podcasts and even games. The Beam Infotainment capability is a powerful entertainment and marketing tool for keeping passengers up-todate with the operator’s latest news and offers before they’ve even accessed the internet. It seems that we can now go back to being able to get our passengers to select and consume relevant content whilst they are in a state of dwell time. Beam on-bus WiFi really does go beyond Internet access.

Easy management

The Beam WiFi unit’s on-board Web server is designed to be remotely managed allowing the easy transfer and update of content so keeping passengers

42 | COACH & BUS WEEK | January 8, 2014 039_042_CBW_1119_Industry guide.indd 42

The BW200 offers USB and Ethernet ports, capable of more connections

The Beam WiFi portal, viewed through an iPad

up-to-date with the latest news is a simple and straightforward process.

Mobile Onboard continues to develop its services and products and believes it now has one the most innovative and flexible passenger WiFi systems available, which focuses on the needs of the passenger, and provides absolute

simplicity for the operator by managing every aspect of the service. An optional multimedia content add-on will be available later in 2014.

T: 08432 899897 E: contact.us@ mobileonboard.com W: mobileonboard.com/beam

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On-bus Wi-Fi goes beyond internet access Engage your passengers with Beam™ Wi-Fi Infotainment Beam™ Wi-Fi goes beyond offering fast internet access to your passengers.

Inside every one of our compact Beam™ Wi-Fi boxes is an on-board Web server with generous amounts of storage.

This drives the Beam™ infotainment capabilities giving you the power to engage with your passengers, either via information pages, entertainment features or targeted advertising before they’ve even accessed the Internet.

On-bus Wi-Fi made easy

Call us on

+44 (0)8432 899 897

Scan to watch our video and !" $%& '$()

mobileonboard.com @mobileonboard /MobileOnboard

YOUNG MANAGER › GRAHAM SMITH

G

raham Smith is a friendly and highly enthusiastic but very much down to earth individual. He’s a selfconfessed enthusiast, which brings with it the well-known benefits of passion and dedication to serving the needs of his customers and employer alike. He’s also a caffeine addict.

Having gained a degree in Transport Management at Aston University, and a wealth of practical experience, he’s now benefiting from working under the leadership of respected Managing Director Julian Patterson. Indeed, Graham is just the sort of individual our industry needs to take us forward to the future.

Therefore, I felt it was about time his story was told.

Formative years

What sparked Graham’s enthusiasm for the bus and coaches industry? “As a child, for whatever reason, I became interested in the bus industry,” he replied. “Nobody in my family had previously had any connection with the industry.”

He continued: “I went to school in Bury St Edmunds, which involved an hour’s coach journey each way. This was run by Galloway – so we always had nice coaches. I remember thinking what a great operator it was. It remains a company I admire to this day. I’ve seen David Cattermole (Galloway MD) and his wife 44 | COACH & BUS WEEK | January 8, 2014

044_046_CBW1119_Young Manager.indd 44

Eastern enthusiasm In the first of a new series on young managers in the coach & bus industry, Gareth Evans talks to Graham Smith, 28, Commercial Manager at Go-Ahead Groupowned konectbus

said there was a possibility I could in London on coaches – PROFILE be employed, but that it was up they’re lovely people.”

Name: Graham Smith to the local Depot Manager, David “From that, I wanted Age: 28 Longbottom. to get behind the wheel.

Employer: konectbus “I was called to interview and I don’t know why really.

Position: Commercial Manager, got asked when I could start.

Aged 18, I wanted to Go-Ahead in East Anglia Bearing in mind I was studying work for First in Bury St Contact: 01362 851210 A-levels, I knew that while I Edmunds. I was aware they www.konectbus.co.uk didn’t really enjoy it, I had to do only took people on at the it. Writing essays on stuff I was age of 21, but I still wrote not the least bit interested in was a letter of enquiry. They not my idea of fun – as was revising facts parrot responded to that effect but I was persistent. fashion for the sake of exams.

Back then First websites, while templated, had “After the exams in May or June, I learned individual content. I discovered that other First to drive a PCV. I did it privately as I wanted a operating companies trained people from the manual licence. I also didn’t want to be tied into age of 18, so I persevered. a contract.”

“I was really excited when I received a letter “My training vehicle was an old Bedford YNT from John Pope, who is now at Essex County coach. The gears were horrendous,” he recalled.

Council, which provided a glimmer of hope. He www.coachandbusweek.com

06/01/2014 14:53

Prior to joining konectbus, Graham gained experience with a variety of operators

contracts, which meant variety. They ran Leyland Tigers on service routes – vehicles which had more character than those I had driven at First. It was also a very different place to work in that things were far more relaxed.

The staff enjoyed themselves – there seemed to be endless friendly banter.”

His next move took him to another independent. “I then went to Burton’s of Haverhill, which of course is today run by Stephensons of Essex. By now aged 19 or 20, I did bus work.”

He was not wrong when, with a wry smile, he observed: “I’ve worked in so many places.”

“I joined Suffolk County Council (SCC) as Infrastructure Officer. It was still transport but I regarded it as a step up from driving – although there was no real difference in terms of pay.

“Based in Ipswich, I looked after the bus stops, real-time information displays, publicity and so on. I enjoyed it for almost a year. Strangely enough, it was the first time I had had to work 37.5 hours a week. I didn’t know what to do at weekends, so I became a casual driver at Galloway and Ipswich Bus.

a brick had been thrown through a window. You don’t get that in East Anglia.”

He spent his sandwich placement year with Norfolk Green. “I did a bit of everything. I did almost anything and everything I could do – it was great experience. I spent time in the workshop, which I had not done previously.

“Spending Saturday evenings cleaning buses was really enjoyable. There was a sense of a achievement looking at 40 clean buses at 2200hrs. I also enjoyed working with Simon the accountant and on various projects for Ben Colson. That summer I spent three months travelling in the USA.

“When you’re young, other people your age work at Tesco or McDonald’s. Bus driving was amazing”

University

“I failed my test the first time. I was devastated as I had been quietly confident. Two weeks later I had a different examiner for second attempt.

Unlike the first one, he was very miserable. He ordered me not to put the sidelights on – despite it being a dark, miserable day. I was taught that if you’re unsure, it’s best to have the lights on.

Mentally, I just chilled. Having prepared myself for disappointment, I was astonished when he told me I had passed.”

Graham approached his local First depot again. “I went for a second interview at First.

There must have been some miscommunication as the manager thought I needed to go to the driving school. I started at First two days later.

“When you’re young, other people your age work at Tesco or McDonald’s. In fact, I had worked at Waitrose when I was in sixth form.

Bus driving was amazing. When I get in a bus now, it’s not got quite the same appeal as it used to but I still enjoy doing a duty behind the wheel when I can.”

Graham continued: ”I drove for them (First) for under a year or so, and because at that time, there were only four routes operated using SLF and step-entrance Darts, it became too routine for my liking. I knew each pothole on every route and how to avoid them. As a result, I got itchy feet.

“Therefore, I joined Mulleys – an independent which ran coaches, local buses and school www.coachandbusweek.com

044_046_CBW1119_Young Manager.indd 45

Mid way through working for SCC, Graham successfully applied to go to Aston University in Birmingham to study Transport Management.

While at Uni, he drove for Travel West Midlands (now known as National Express West Midlands) out of Perry Barr Garage.

“I drove routes 7, 65 and 101. I hated the 101 – it was truly dismal. TWM was like no other place I’d seen – it was so incredibly busy. Picking up passengers was easy, however. The exact fare system coupled with the use of travelcards meant a bus could be loaded in no time at all.”

Recalling his inaugural revenue-earning turn behind the wheel in Birmingham, Graham said: “On my first evening on the 7s, I heard a bang, which I assumed was a branch hitting the side of the bus. Someone came down stairs and said

“I came back for my final year at Uni. I was dreading all the essays and revision but it was not actually that bad. My dissertation took up a lot of time but at least it could be on something I was interested in. Bus competition was a decidedly hot topic at the time.”

Graham graduated with a First. “I definitely put the effort in – I spent hours in the library and drank loads of coffee to keep me awake.”

Reflecting on his time at the institution that has shaped many key managers in our industry, he said: “Aston is a great place. Everyone was treated fairly – and I was no exception.

“There were some legendary lecturers – Barry Simpson and John Hibbs were characters in their own right. Everyone respected Professor Hibbs.

Shortly after joining konectbus, Graham’s role widened with the acquisition of Chambers. David Bell January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 45 06/01/2014 14:53

YOUNG MANAGER › GRAHAM SMITH Barry was my personal tutor – he’s a great man.

There’s no doubt he’s incredibly clever.

“James Stone was always a nice, down to earth man. I suspect that because he’d worked in industry, he knew what students were like. He made his lectures interesting and engaging.”

In something which will doubtless strike a chord with those who have graduated in recent years, Graham said: “During my final year, I applied to various graduate schemes, which was almost a full-time job in itself.”

He continued: “I was offered a role on First’s scheme, which I felt was very prestigious.

However, I turned it down as I was anticipating going to work in Australia for a bus operator which specialised in airport transport.”

Current role

As it turned out, Graham’s career took another twist after finishing his exams. “Julian Patterson said I could come to konectbus for the summer to earn some money as a driver. I really enjoyed working here. It was the first company I had worked at which I felt a bus firm was as it should be. We were very good – the vehicles were kept immaculate and the drivers delivered outstanding customer service.

“While employed as a driver, Julian asked to meet me in Greggs in Dereham. He told me the Commercial Manager’s role had come up. I really enjoyed it here and because obtaining an Australian visa was so slow, I didn’t go ‘down under’ as it were – I stayed here. This is where I’ve been ever since.

“Shortly after I took the role, Go-Ahead bought Hedingham and Chambers, which became part

of my responsibilities. Then along came Anglian and my role grew again. I’m now Commercial Manager of Go-Ahead in East Anglia.”

“We’re fortunate to have a really good, experienced team here now. We’re passionate about what we do. Yes we’re enthusiasts but we don’t do chassis and body numbers,” he mused.

“A lot of what we do competes with other operators. Maintaining our position is a constant challenge. It’s better for our customers – frequencies are enhanced and it also keeps operators on their toes.”

“There are always plenty of exciting projects in the pipeline – not just us as an operator but at local authority level too”

So what does his role involve? “I do tenders, which involves preparing bids and pricing work.

I do a lot of work on fares – including changes, introducing new ticket types such as our cityzone for greater Norwich on konectbus and Anglia routes.

“I prepare bus service registrations too which get sent to VOSA and the local authorities. This can be very time consuming, especially when we make a number of service changes on a particular date.

“I’m also responsible for marketing. I

work with our timetable producers – Best Impressions and PB Bus Marketing. My role is constantly evolving.

“I’ll go out driving if required and answer the customer telephones, which involves dealing with timetable, fare queries and general feedback. On that note, we won the tender to run Norwich Bus Station information office. It’s exciting. We want people to use buses. We took over the running of it on December 27.

“I also handle customer complaints. I hate it when I feel we as a company may have let a passenger down.”

Asked what aspects he doesn’t enjoy in his role, Graham replied: “Proofing timetables is monotonous. You think it’s all correct and then someone else spots something you’ve missed.”

Ambitions

Asked about his career ambitions, Graham was his familiar modest self. “I’ve not got any immediate plans – there’s always something to look forward to.

“Each day is different. There are always plenty of exciting projects in the pipeline – not just us as an operator but at local authority level too – such as the Better Bus Area in Norwich.”

Graham concluded: “Of course, there are some bad days too but I find the time really does fly as I’m so absorbed in work.” n

COMING SOON...

An update on Go-Ahead in East Anglia is due for publication in a forthcoming issue.

konectbus was the first company he worked for which Graham felt was run as a bus firm should be. David Bell 46 | COACH & BUS WEEK | January 8, 2014 044_046_CBW1119_Young Manager.indd 46

www.coachandbusweek.com

06/01/2014 14:53

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Contact your friendly coachandbusmarket Manager Jade Cassidy via phone, email or fax Tel: 01733 293247 f: 0845 280 2927 e: jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com 051_CBW1118_CBM Cover.indd 51

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2000 MAN Ayats Bravo 1

1998 Mercedes Benz 814 Alexander

7HO

14/16 berth sleeper, Static AC/heating, 240v, normal band bus stuff! MOT Apr 2014, recon gearbox, good condition.

P.O.A.

Telephone: 01487 843333

6FDQ +HUH WR $SSO\ 2QOLQH

Mercedes Vario 814 Beaver

Volvo B12B Van Hool

Automatic, 27 seats, 3 point belts, power door, perfect for school/private hire, good offers considered.

£8,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

2003 Neoplan Starliner

2000 Volvo B10M Plaxton Panther

37 leather seats around tables, Sky TV/DVD entertainment system, 7 screens, toilet, kitchen, sockets throughout, manual 4 over 4. £39,995 + VAT

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

Steve 0161 775 0800/07445 266345 operations@travel-master.co.uk

2009 MAN Plaxton Centro

2007 Optare Solo 7.1 SE

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. £37,000 o.n.o. + VAT

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.

ZF auto, 14 berth sleeper, Euro 4 LEZ, static AC/heating, 240v, normal band bus stuff! MOT March 2014, good condition.

£25,000 + VAT

38 blue moquette seats, Mobitec LED destination equipment, one year’s MOT. Offers over £45,000

01404 47502 or 07790 966667

Telephone: 01487 843333

Andy Shaw – 0131 554 5413

Ring Graham Croombs 0118 973 3486 graham@courtneybuses.com

2003 (53) Renault Master SWB

2003 Mercedes Cheetah

Mercedes Vario 814

2003 Optare Solo

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.

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.

01404 47502 or 07790 966667

BD23 5BS – 01756 753123

29 passengers plus courier seat Tax till March MOT till February Large boot New clutch and turbo.

2.3 diesel, inboard Ricon lift, 4 seats + tracking for two wheelchairs.

£24,000 + VAT

£5,995 + VAT

Pembridge Vehicle Management 01633 485858

Hailstone Travel Ltd 0845 388 3848

Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com 48 | COACH & BUS WEEK | January 8, 2014

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2001 MAN Neoplan

2006 Bova Majiq

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.

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.

2001 Dennis Darts

1999 Mercedes 412D

£95,000 + VAT

16 removable seats, or 6 wheelchairs, 5 speed manual, external wheelchair lift, tachograph fitted, very clean condition, MOT June 14. £3,250 + VAT

Contact Gary – 07930 377051

Travelstar European 01922 647100 / 07779 801862

Chalkwell Coach Hire 01795 423982 andy.bates@chalkwell.co.uk

2011 Vauxhall Vivaro 12 seat minibus

1994 Volvo B9M Berkof Excellence

Luxury VW Crafter

2009 (59) Iveco Daily

Good solid engine and gearbox, tidy bodywork, MOT till April 2014, 37 recliners, loads of legroom and a rear toilet.

2007, 16 seats, A/C, DVD, microphone, 135,000 miles, 7 months MOT, excellent condition.

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.

£25,000 + VAT

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.

£13,250 + VAT o.n.o.

AFJ Travel – 07947 152763

£11,000 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

2003 Setra 315 GTHD

2009 (09) Iveco Daily

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.

£53,500 + VAT ono

Paul Watson Travel paul.watson9@btconnect.com

1998 (R) DAF SB300 Plaxton Excalibur

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.

£21,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

2004 Optare Solo

Fully DDA compliant, long or new MOTs, 37 seaters, very good order. Choice of 3. £8,500 + VAT

Phone Ian – 07817 683970

£21,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

£21,000

Slick Rides – 07823 770978

2002 MAN Ayats Bravo 1

2002 Bova Futura • Air con • Toilet • DVD • Monitor x 2 • Eminox euro 4 • 49 seats • Green cloth • Long MOT

£50,000 + VAT

14/16 berth sleeper, Static AC/heating, 240v, normal band bus stuff! MOT February 2014, good condition.

P.O.A.

L.J. Edwards – 07974 369570

Telephone: 01487 843333

2007 Scania K340/ Caetano Levante

2005 Optare Solo M950 SLF 9.5m

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.

33 seats + 17 standees, Mercedes engine, Hanover LED.

53 T&T Auto gearbox (faulty) Spares or repair.

OFFERS + VAT

Nigel Brown – 01982 570225

33 seats + 20 standees, Cummins engine, Mobitec LED display, MOT until Dec 2014.

A STEAL AT £18,500 ONO + VAT

£80,000 + VAT each

Glen Valley Tours – 01668 281578

yourbus – 01773 714013

£32,000 + VAT Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

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

January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 49

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Page 50

2005 Volvo B7R

ZF auto, Air-con, LEZ compliant, Plaxton Profile body, 67 seats with 3 point belts.

POA

EnsignBus 01708 865656

1998 Volvo B10M Berkhof Axial 50

2005 Neoplan Skyliners

December 2011, 59 seats, toilet/servery, 3 DVD screens, Euro 5.

49 seats, WC, aircon, six speed ZF manual gearbox, first reg 14/04/98, MOT 07/03/14, only one previous owner

13.8m, MAN engines, 89 seats, toilet, air-con.

£190,000

£19,950

POA

Buzzlines Travel - 01303 261870

New Horizon Travel: 01206 255255

EnsignBus 01708 865656

2011 Irizar PB

2003 Alexander Dennis Enviro 300 SLF 12m

1999 (T) MAN 24,400 Noge Triaxle Passenger and Commercial Vehicles Recovery Dismantlers Parts Sales

Volvo Citybus

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

1995 (N) Toyota Optimo III

Alexander body, 84 seats with belts Tested July 2014. Painted white.

Call: 01226 727769 Mobile: 07912 103497 Email: geoff-ripley@btconnect.com www.geoff-ripleysbuscoachsales.com

49 executive seats ZF auto gearbox Alloy wheels No tax or MOT Dry stored past 2 years.

OFFERS + VAT

Nigel Brown – 01982 570225

2003 Volvo Jonckheere B12M Mistral 50

1998 Volvo B10M Caetano Enigma

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

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.

£37,950 + VAT ono Star Coaches Limited Martin 07831 265804 Adam 0121 350 5555

Paul Watson Travel paul.watson9@btconnect.com

Swansea Coachworks 01792 650258

1996 Volvo B10MA Articulated Coach

2009 Setra 416GTHD

Mercedes Sprinter 311

Plaxton Panther MAN

June 2009, 49 seats, toilet/servery, 2 DVD screens, Euro 5.

New luxury minibus conversion, 17 seats, full COIF and PSV MOT, ready to work.

ZF automatics, 71 seats.

£22,995

49 reclining seats, AS Tronic gearbox, LEZ compliant, A/C, W/C, sat-nav, reverse camera, DVD, 2 x monitors.

POA

£150,000

Swansea Coachworks 01792 650258

Applegates Coaches 01453 810314

21 seats White 12 months MOT Ideal school contract vehicle. £2,750 + VAT

Nigel Brown – 01982 570225

EnsignBus 01708 865656

Buzzlines Travel - 01303 261870

£15,500 + VAT ono

Mercedes Sprinter 516

New 16 seat minicoach, coach rear end with lift-up boot, side body skirts, colour coded bumpers to match skirts + much more.

POA

£95,500

Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com 50 | COACH & BUS WEEK | January 8, 2014

www.coachandbusweek.com

p51_CBW_1119

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15:04

2006 MAN 14.220 SLF MCV Evolution 11.2m

Page 51

1988 DAF MB230 Plaxton

1999 Mercedes Benz 814 Plaxton

1995 Scania K113 VanHool Alizee

40 seats + 21 standees, DDA compliant, Hanover LED. Direct off lease from a major operator. £32,500 + VAT – CHOICE Southdown PSV 01342 711840 email: bussales@southdownpsv.co.uk www.southdownpsv.co.uk

53 seats, automatic, very good condition for year, currently in dry storage, view Dublin.

Additional vehicle also available. £3,000

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

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.

Call Anthony Kelly PAB Tours 00353 86 8138165

£21,000 Milligans Coach Travel 01290 550365

£8,995 + VAT Call Karl at Whitegate Travel Tel: 01606 786833 Mobile: 07841 110426

2002 Volvo B7R Plaxton

Mercedes Vario

2003 Bova Futura

53 seats plus courier, automatic, good condition, used on tour work, new test, seat belts. View North Wales / Dublin. £40,000

Call Anthony Kelly PAB Tours 00353 86 8138165

1993 Volvo B10M Plaxton Premier

2002 Renault Rohill

• Air con • Toilet • DVD • Monitor x 2 • Full exec spec • Eminox euro 4 • 49 seats • Green cloth • Manual • Long MOT

£55,000 + VAT

2.5 diesel minibus with 15 seats, low floor with kneeling facility, 1 removable seat for wheelchair use, destination equipment, ideal multi-purpose vehicle, MOT 25/5/2014. £3,950 + VAT

Phone Ian – 07817 683970

L.J. Edwards – 07974 369570

Chalkwell Coach Hire 01795 423982

2002 Iveco Beulas Stergo

2005 (55) MAN 14.220 MCV Evolution

1997 Volvo Olympian open top bus

29 coach seats with belts, MOT 2014. £2,500 + VAT – OFFERS CONSIDERED

• Automatic • Air con • Toilet • Monitor x 2 49 seats, automatic, good condition for year, available with new test, ideal for upseat.

Choice of 3 – view North Wales/Dublin. £13,000

Call Anthony Kelly PAB Tours 00353 86 8138165

2003 Mercedes Citaros

• Non LEZ • Long MOT

£30,000 + VAT

L.J. Edwards – 07974 369570

1998 (R) Iveco 16 seat Minibus Power door Will have new test.

40 seat SLF service bus, newly repanelled and repainted, 12 months MOT to October 2013, Hannover LED destination, excellent condition, drives superb.

REDUCED TO £23,950 + VAT ovno

Llew Jones – 07795 347476 or steve@llewjones.com

Alexander Dennis body, P reg, 75 seats, fitted with a PA system, new MOT on purchase.

Only 2 remaining.

Bath Bus Company 01225 330444

2005 Setra 315GTHD

53 plate Mercedes Cheetah

LEZ

COMPLIANT

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

yourbus – 01773 714013

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.

£1,250 + VAT

£62,500

29 passengers plus courier seat, tax till August, MOT till June, large boot, low emission exhaust fitted. £26,000 + VAT

Nigel Brown – 01982 570225

Clarkes of London Call Andy Nixon – 020 8768 9612

Hailstone Travel Ltd 0845 388 3848

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

January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 51

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Page 52

2003 Scania K114

2009 Enviro 200

1992 Leyland Lynx

Scania Omnicity TFL DD

Cummins engine, Allison gearbox, 8.8m, 29 seats, Hanover LED’s.

Cummins L10 engine, ZF gearbox.

Sold for spares – 2 available.

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.

POA

Offers invited for engine & gearbox or bus

Andy Shaw – 0131 554 5413

EnsignBus 01708 865656

07802 235778 / 0151 547 2713

Now in stock and available for a fast delivery

2006 Transit Tourneo

2006 Transit Tourneo

2006 Mercedes Sprinter 413 EX

9 seater, tax till Jan, will have new MOT, 190,000 miles, runs well, front and rear air-con, tow bar. £4,000 + VAT

16 seats + driver with 3 point belts, finished in moquette, panoramic glazing, A/C front and rear, radio/CD, decorative curtains, large boot, new engine, clutch & flywheel fitted at 248,000 miles. £15,000 + VAT

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

9 seater, air con, alloy wheels, electric windows/mirrors, radio/CD, FSH, 74,000 miles, immaculate, choice of 2, viewing in London.

£7,250 + VAT – PX considered

UK Minicoaches – 01902 631507

Crystals Coaches Ltd 020 8960 8800/07971 000111

Hailstone Travel Ltd 0845 388 3848

Iveco 45C15

1992 Leyland Lynx

1999 Mercedes Optare Solo M850

16 seater, Elite conversion, 70,000 km, MOT till October 2014, forced air, reading lights, huge boot (barn doors), outstanding condition. £25,995 + VAT

Cummins L10 engine, ZF gearbox.

Sold for spares – 2 available.

Offers invited for engine & gearbox or bus

EVM Direct – 0845 5205160

07802 235778 / 0151 547 2713

2008 Mercedes Atego

2008 Mercedes Sprinter 515 EX

With Sitcar Marlin 33 seat body in green. £45,000

16 recliners with 3 point belts, MOT till May, air-con, double glazing, large drop boot, decorative curtains, 276,000 miles (39,258 on new engine), 1 owner. £22,995 + VAT

Andy Shaw – 0131 554 5413

EVM Direct – 0845 5205160

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

PURCHASE OR RENTAL OPTIONS

Santander Used Assets 07753 712444

EVM Direct – 0845 5205160

2010 Volkswagen Crafter CR50

16 seats + driver, with 3 point belts, finished in moquette, panoramic glazing, forced air, radio/CD, decorative curtains, large boot.

Available for immediate delivery. £26,500 + VAT

EVM Direct – 0845 5205160

2006 Transit Tourneo

2008 MAN 14:240 MCV Evolution

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.

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.

£7,250 + VAT – PX considered

£47,500

Crystals Coaches Ltd 020 8960 8800/07971 000111

Bakers Dolphin 01934 422400 or 07788 101631

Telephone Jade Cassidy on 01733 293247 or email jade.cassidy@coachandbusweek.com 52 | COACH & BUS WEEK | January 8, 2014

www.coachandbusweek.com

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Page 1

681335-1119-Ensign:Layout 1

6/1/14

14:27

Page 1

Ensig DOUBLE DECK 2005 VOLVO B7R

ZF auto, Air-con, LEZ compliant, Plaxton Profile body, 67 seats with 3 point belts.

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

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

Cummins / Voith, Alexander ALX 400 lowheight body, 84 seats, LEZ compliant.

1998 S REG OPTARE DELTA

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

1999 VOLVO B7TL’S

ZF automatic, long MOT, 49 seats with belts.

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.

2007 VOLVO B9TL

Euro 4 Volvo engine, Wrights Eclipse Gemini body, 68 seats or 74 converted to single door.

1998 R REG VOLVO OLYMPIANS

Volvo Euro 2 engines, ZF gearboxes, East Lancs bodies, 72 seats.

OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY -

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

681335-1119-Ensign:Layout 1

6/1/14

14:28

Page 2

nbus

K ER SPECIALIST 2003 52 PLATE MINI POINTER DARTS

1995 VOLVO B10B’S

ZF automatic, Plaxton Verde bodies, 51 seats.

1989-93 LEYLAND OLYMPIANS

Cummins ISB Euro 3 engines, 8.8m, 29 seats.

Cummins L10, ZF 5 speed gearboxes, some 72 coach seats, some 76 bus seats, low height 13 feet 8, long MOT’s.

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.

1997 VOLVO OLYMPIANS

ZF automatic, Northern Counties low height bodies, 77 seats, Volvo Euro 2 engines.

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

Cummins engine, Allison gearbox, 8.8m, 29 seats, Hanover LED’s.

1996 VOLVO B10MA ARTICULATED COACHES ZF automatics, 71 seats.

1997 DAF SB3000

Manual gearbox, Van Hool body, 53 seats.

2010 ENVIRO 300

Cummins ISC Euro 5 engine, 12m, DDA, 44 seats, Hanover LED’s.

2010 VOLVO B7RLE’S

Volvo Euro 5 engine, 12m, DDA, 45 seats, Hanover LED’s.

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

681973-1117-Pembridge

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Page 1

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 (56) 2006 Ford Transit 17 seat minibus 2.3 diesel with six speed gearbox, 40,000 miles, COIF/PSV £8,995 (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%

698440-1119-Connaught

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13:22

Page 1

Mini Coach Sales

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

BRAND NEW MERCEDES BENZ FERQUI SOROCO 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights and boot.

2011 61 REG MERCEDES 513 CDI TRANSFER 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, A/C, parking sensors, side entry with automatic step, luggage space.

2010 59 REG MERCEDES 515 CDI TRAVEL 45 16 high back reclining seats, 3 point belts, A/C, forced air, reading lights, DVD, power door & power step, coach rear, auto.

2010 59 REG MERCEDES 313 CDI SPRINTER AUTO, 16 high back seats, 3 point belts and AC.

2008 08 REG MERCEDES 515CDI SOROCO 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, DG, forced air, reading lights, DVD system, reversing camera, power door, large boot.

2008 58 REG MERCEDES 613D VARIO 24 high back seats, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot.

2007 57 REG IVECO DAILY 45C15 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, large boot.

2007 07 REG MERCEDES 613 VARIO 24 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot.

2006 56 REG MERCEDES 616 CDI RIADA 22 high back seats plus courier, 3 point belts, AC, DVD, forced air, reading lights, power door and boot. New engine Dec ‘13.

2006 56 REG MERCEDES 413CDI SOROCO 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, forced air, reading lights, power door and large boot.

2002 02 REG MERCEDES 413 CDI SOROCO 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, AC, power door, large boot. Choice of 2.

Steve Peach NEW Tel: 01405 814064 Mob: 07836 551020 Email: info@connaughtpsv.co.uk www.connaughtpsv.co.uk

2010 (10) FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT BUS 115 PS DIGITAL TACHOGRAPH COIF/PSV £14,995

2008 (08) IVECO IRIS BUS 50C15 17 SEAT W/CHAIR ACCESSIBLE COIF/PSV 54,000 MILES £16,995

2010 (10) FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT BUS 14OPS DIGITAL TACHOGRAPH COIF/PSV £15,495

05 (05) FORD TRANSIT 13 SEAT INC DRIVER W/CHAIR ACCESSIBLE U/FLOOR LIFT £7,995

MULTIPART & LDV/MAXUS PARTS STOCKISTS

(PONTYPOOL) LTD

P.O.A.

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

NEW MERCEDES SPRINTER TOURLINE 519CDI

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

08 (08) FORD TRANSIT 17 SEAT MINIBUS COIF/PSV TO DECEMBER 2014 26,000 MILES £12,995

2010 (10) FORD TRANSIT 12 SEAT MINIBUS 115PS 49,500 MILES £11,250

05 (05) VW LT35 TDI LWB 16 SEAT NON D1 DRIVER W/CHAIR ACCESSIBLE INBOARD LIFT £15,500

17:26

08 (08) IVECO 50C15 16 SEAT W/CHAIR MINIBUS U/FLOOR LIFT TRACKING FOR UP TO 5 W/CHAIRS COIF/PSV 49,000 MILES £19,995

6/1/14

08 (08) IVECO IRIS BUS 50C15 17 SEAT INC DRIVER W/CHAIR ACCESS PLUG DOOR COIF/PSV £17,995

p59_CBW_1119 Page 1

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14:45

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p62_CBW_1119

6/1/14

17:10

Page 62

2006/7 Scania K340 Caetano Levante

49 seats, rear floor mounted WC, automatic gearbox, air conditioning, DDA compliant

To arrange a viewing call 07760 771285

62 | COACH & BUS WEEK | January 8, 2014

www.coachandbusweek.com

p63_CBW_1119

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17:11

Page 63

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

d reduce

d reduce

2006 Man 14.220 MCV 11.2m

2005 Optare Solo 9.5m

2007 Volvo B7RLE Wrights 12m

£29,000 + VAT – choice

£29,000 + VAT

£57,500 +VAT – choice

40 seats / 21 standees • 220 bhp Euro 3 engine • Voith auto • Hanover destination • DDA compliant

33 seats / 17 standees • Mercedes Euro 3 engine • Allison auto • Hanover destination • DDA compliant

• 44 seats /33 standees • 275 bhp Euro IV engine • ZF auto • Mobitec destination • DDA compliant

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

EVM Sprinter Elegance 16 + Driver

www.coachandbusweek.com

EV VM X-Clusive 16 + Driver

January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 63

p64_CBW_1119

6/1/14

17:13

BUSINESSES WANTED

Page 64

Wanted

insurance

Bus & Coach Businesses

• Are you Retiring • Losing Money • • Need Investment • or Just Had Enough • We have Interested Buyers, Cash Investors Waiting

Reply, in con!idence, to PO Box 7677, Brackley, NN13 9BB

HEAVY DUTY STEEL BUILDINGS

BUILDINGS

snowchains

• 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

checkpoints

heating

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

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64 | COACH & BUS WEEK | January 8, 2014

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In Scotland it seek to address. the system cannot spur activity from local public transport allocation is designed to link for funding some sort of transportoperators seems like the in a bid to maintain With the larger community sector dwindles the and isolated communities. many of its small rural services as support funding minibus once or from than a community backing away be nothing more for people who need shopping only lifeline may which is bad enoughbut as much use as a chocolate twice a week – any appointments attend. While or to attend medicalin education or with a job to very is desirable and teapot to anyone for rural communities term, community form of support if, long for have to wonder as customer demand welcome, you will run into trouble for. Such operations organisations services are called to run under Section have more and regular with this would grow to the emerging to cope and potentially they could begin to full time staff and 22 at the minimum incur. It need to employ point where they commercial operators currently vicious circle. face the overheads promoting another seems like it’s

this week The day we went to Van p8 Stagecoach still achieving organic p10 ilogbothonin the UK Why IBUS growth and abroad prideHool with Mid Anglian ops Traff MINng Movembe Sea View coachi

funding – a road to ruin? stories notice two key eader will undoubted potential news pages show support in this issue’s all transport authority Transport withdrawal of Special Needs for West Midlands Scottish Government is the transport (WMSNT) while to aid community to funding of £1m could be close providing grant effect on WMSNT in Scotland. The socially necessary especially for a catastrophic – even an ef�icient �ills in the gaps service which

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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

Go Compare Tours Anybody who watches television outside of the BBC is sure to be familiar with Gocompare.com’s advertising, which is well known for its love/hate brand ambassador ‘Gio Compario.’

However its latest ad campaign aims to take the brand in a ‘new direction,’ with Gio driving a rather unqiue-looking ‘Go Compare Tours’ branded coach back to his Welsh homeland.

Passengers on the vehicle talk about visiting the site to save money as if visiting a holiday destination. The vehicle eventually arrives at a fictional location ‘LlandofsavingmoneyandgettingtherightdealgogoGoCompare,’ which plays on a famous Welsh lengthilynamed village (ending with ‘gogogoch’).

The vehicle used in the campaign is a 60-seater Scania Marcopolo Paradiso 1200. Although we’re not sure where the coach was filmed, we suspect it might be a South African vehicle, since it is definitely right-hand drive. Do any CBW readers know where?

Anders Nilsson of Go Compare told CBW: “The effect we were after was to have all the charm and character of a retro coach with the up to date-ness of a modern day one.”

Anders said the modifications which

Ever helpful for humourous images, this was spotted on Reddit by our James, once more on the r/ bitchimabus subreddit.

A bus appears to have caused this multi-vehicle crash, judging by the destination blind on the vehicle, which reads ‘Sorry.’

The full destination blind is likely to have read ‘Out of service, sorry,’ with the image captured at the perfect time.

If the comments are to be believed, the accident took place in Vancouver, Canada, where it’s illegal not to give way to a bus.

Dilbert

Monday James here. After we spend the morning tidying away Christmas presents, my better half Laura’s grandparents come to see our home for the first time. They’re joined by more of her family and after a tour of the house we spend some time chatting and playing a few rounds on the Wii U, which has proven very popular with everyone.

The Marcopolo had many modifications made to it were applied included: ● Changed the facia to hold round headlamps; ● Added moulding to the top front of the coach; ● Added chrome wheels; ● Added thick rubber seals at the glass edges; ● Added chrome trim; ● Added a destination board inside the front window; and ● A new livery.

Anders added: “A pre-production before and after mock up was created, using a Sunsundegui Sideral 330, but the vehicle proved quite hard to get hold

How the vehicle originally looked of, so the Marcopolo stepped up to the plate to do the job admirably.”

To see the advert for yourself, visit http://youtu.be/ WOyKN2YARf8

Tuesday Head into Peterborough to attempt some New Year’s Eve shopping, but with the sales still causing pandemonium after five days, it’s worse than it was before Christmas. We stop and enjoy a nice Italian lunch at a pizza restaurant in the centre which I’ve known for years before heading home. Visit Laura’s parents before spending a quiet evening at home with Champagne watching the London fireworks. Happy New Year to all!

Wednesday Rise late on New Year’s Day. Spend some time on my new Wii U game Pikmin 3 (a clever game where you control what is essentially an ant colony) before visiting Laura’s parents for a roast dinner. Return in the evening in time for the last film in ITV’s Harry Potter marathon. The franchise did eventually figure out how to make good films.

Thursday Back in the office, sooner than most judging by the lack of cars in the way in the morning. Make finishing touches to the BYD story I started before Christmas and work on some news and admin. The daunting stack of emails I expected doesn’t quite materialise, which is nice.

Friday Another easy morning commute – guess it’s still too soon to be back at work. Try to finish off as much as possible to get a good head start going into the new year. The constant roaring winds outside throughout the day seem to forebode the dreadful weather in the latter half of 2013 continuing into 2014. Lets hope not.

www.coachandbusweek.com

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January 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 67 06/01/2014 18:38

RECRUITMENT & PEOPLE DEADLINES Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm CONTACT Ian Gillis T: 01733 293484 E: ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com

Alan Chivers joins Stagecoach South as the new Basingstoke Engineering Manager Stagecoach South has welcomed aboard Alan Chivers to its team as the new Engineering Manager, based at Basingstoke depot.

Stagecoach operates seven core routes in Basingstoke, branded as the Jazz network – plus several rural and school routes, with 60 buses and 150 staff.

Alan’s new position at Stagecoach South gives him the responsibility of managing the engineering function at the Rankine Road garage, with the support from a team of 27 skilled engineers and cleaners who together maintain a fleet of 50 single decker and 11 double decker buses.

In 2012 Stagecoach carried more than 4.5 million passengers across

New Exec Director at JMP

Independent transport consultancy JMP has appointed Alan James as an Executive Director. He will join the company’s Senior Leadership Team, alongside Gordon Baker (Chief Executive) and Alan Beswick (Executive Director responsible for public sector clients).

He has responsibility for the growth of the company’s private sector client base. A transport planner by background, Alan joins after five years with AECOM, where he was responsible for the company’s development business across the UK and Europe.

Alan has 25 years’ experience of development and infrastructure projects in both the private and public sectors. His particular areas of expertise include development planning, infrastructure planning, travel planning, public transport and interchanges, regeneration and master planning, and airport surface access.

Beginning his career in transportation in 1989, Alan spent six years in a local authority environment at Warwickshire County Council, before becoming Transport Planning Manager at Birmingham International Airport.

In 1999 he entered the world of consultancy, specialising in land use and real estate development since 2001.

the Basingstoke area and in the last year has invested £2.1m in 17 new vehicles.

Richard Alexander, Engineering Director said: “Alan has over 25 years experience within the bus industry, having worked his way from apprentice to manager.

His extensive engineering knowledge will be invaluable in our commitment to continue modernising and improving our services and vehicles we provide to our customers in Basingstoke and we are pleased to welcome him into the team.”

Alan succeeds Tom Large, a former engineering graduate, who has been promoted to Fleet Engineer for Stagecoach in Aberdeen.

Epsom promotes Phil to instructor Phil Allport has been appointed as Training Instructor at Epsom Coaches. He took up his new post on January 1.

Phil brings with him a lifetime of experience in the bus and coach industry and will be using that to good effect as he trains new entrants to drive buses and coaches – as well as re-training and assessing those who already hold a vocational driving licence.

Phil Allport has worked at Epsom Coaches for many years

Readings Karen’s accounts signed off Auditors have signed off Karen Borton’s first set of annual accounts since her promotion to Reading Buses Chief Accountant.

“It was a very satisfying experience,” commented Karen, a Member of the Chartered Institute of Management Accountants, who has risen to Chief Accountant in her 22nd year with the company.

She joined Reading Buses as a temporary sales ledger clerk to cover maternity leave. When a purchase ledger position arose she moved to that.

Since then she has been finance accounts supervisor and prior to her latest promotion was management accountant and finance manager. In between times, she has studied her

68 | COACH & BUS WEEK | January 8, 2014 068_070_CBW1119_People_Recruitment.indd 68

Phil, will also be responsible for hosting training sessions.

He will work closely with Jon Ball, General Manager, who commented: “I am delighted to have Phil join us after many years of service in various roles within the company.

His exceptional abilities really do put trainees at their ease and I am confident our training programme can only benefit from Phil’s input.”

Karen Borton whose first set of annual accounts, since her promotion, have been signed off

accountancy exams with the support of Reading Buses.

In addition to accounts, she is in charge of both payroll and cash office, heading a team of 10 across the three areas of the business.

“They present different challenges and projects,” said Karen who lives with her husband and three children in Tilehurst.

“We have introduced new systems that will facilitate the automatic enrolment into a workplace pension and ensure that through our fuelling data we can make bus service operator grant claims.”

Since 2003, Reading Buses has invested millions in over 100 newly fully-accessible, ultra-low emission buses for its main routes. www.coachandbusweek.com

06/01/2014 18:52

In association with

To advertise your job vacancy contact Ian Gillis – Tel: 01733 293484 Email: ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com www.coachandbusweek.com

068_070_CBW1119_People_Recruitment.indd 69

Janaury 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 69 06/01/2014 18:52

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

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we require a

contracts manager we require a

contracts manager This new role will be part of the Senior Management within the Commercial Team and will hold responsibility for the management and development of the Go South Coast portfolio of contract work. key responsibilities: investigating new contract opportunities

An attractive salary and relocation package is on offer for the right candidate.

For further information about the role or for any questions please contact Diana Wilks, Human Resources Manager (email below)

maintaining strong relationships with existing customers

Please apply with a CV and covering letter outlining why you would be the right candidate for the role to: diana.wilks@gosouthcoast.co.uk

to devise professional tender documents

Closing date for all applications is 13 January 2014

This role will cover a varied and beautiful geographical area and will be required to work with eight local authorities in addition to numerous schools, colleges and universities.

This will be a challenging and extremely rewarding role that will allow the successful candidate to be directly involved in shaping the success of the company.

SHEARINGSHOLIDAYS Service Delivery Manager Hackney, salary £35k We have a vacancy for a Service Delivery Manager based at our busy Hackney-based bus depot. The successful candidate will be extremely organised, quick thinking and able to work under pressure.

Experience in front line management within the bus industry is essential. The ideal candidate will have experience of operating TfL bus contracts.

For further information and a full Job Description please visit our website at www.hctgroup.org/jobs

Driver Itinerary Planner – European Coach Wigan

£20 - 25K depending on experience plus benefits

Shearings Group is one of the UK’s leading tour operators providing holidays to over one million passengers travelling to hundreds of destinations throughout UK, Europe and beyond.

Working within the operations team you will be responsible for compiling detailed driver itineraries for the River Cruise and European tour programmes, working closely with Product and Transport Managers to design practical and interesting itineraries in adherence with EU driver regulations.

A comprehensive geographic knowledge of mainland Europe, good knowledge of driver hours and regulations, and an understanding of automated route planners of mainland Europe is essential. You will also have a sound knowledge of Microsoft Word, Outlook and Excel and excellent communication skills.

If you wish to apply please send your CV and a covering letter to LawrenceWilson@hctgroup.org. For an informal discussion please telephone Lawrence on 020 7275 2417.

Energy and commitment and an ability to work under individual pressure and as part of a team will be rewarded with a competitive salary and benefits package.

The closing date for applications is Monday 20 January at 5pm.

Please write with full CV and current salary details to Tracy Fearnley, Shearings Holidays, Miry Lane, Wigan WN3 4AG or email hr@shearings.com.

Closing date 24th January 2014.

70 | COACH & BUS WEEK | January 8, 2014 068_070_CBW1119_People_Recruitment.indd 70

www.coachandbusweek.com

06/01/2014 18:52

In association with

RECRUITMENT & PEOPLE DEADLINES Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.00pm CONTACT Ian Gillis T: 01733 293484 E: ian.gillis@coachandbusweek.com

Epsom increases staff pay & pensions Epsom Coaches Group has announced a pay increase for all its staff and a rise in pension contributions.

Steve Whiteway, MD confirmed: “We are pleased to once again increase pay rates and pension levels, despite the economic climate not being kind especially our public sector contracts, with reductions in grant funding. Over the period of the present economic depression, we have in most years raised pay levels, shielding our staff from the economic whirlwind outside.

“I am also pleased that we have been able to bring others within our safe haven with expansion of our services. We continue to offer an industry-leading benefits and welfare package for staff and their families despite the obvious temptation to cut such benefits, our staff are our most important asset and we prioritise accordingly, despite a tight financial situation.

In the current climate, most businesses are not raising pay levels.

Paul McGowan replaces Paul Thomas as MD of First Scotland East

www.coachandbusweek.com

068_070_CBW1119_People_Recruitment.indd 71

Epsom staff continue to be looked after by their employer

Paul McGowan appointed MD of First Scotland East First Scotland East, has announced a replacement for Managing Director, Paul Thomas, who has left to take up a new position elsewhere in the bus industry.

Paul McGowan, who was Regional Project Director for First Bus in Scotland working closely with First Scotland East, took over as the company’s new Managing Director in December.

Commenting on his appointment, Paul McGowan said: “We are operating in a difficult environment and despite recent

improvements there is much to be done to build a strong and successful business. I’m delighted to have the opportunity of leading a fantastic team who are committed to moving First Scotland East forward.”

Regional Managing Director for First Bus in Scotland, Neil Barker, said: “Paul’s appointment is an important one as we look to build on the improvements delivered in the area over the past two years.

He knows First Scotland East extremely well and brings with

him a wealth of experience and fantastic track record.”

Paul, who is based at First Scotland East’s headquarters in Larbert, near Falkirk in the centre of the country, has previously held several Managing Director positions at National Express, Abellio and FirstGroup. He joined First Bus in Scotland as Projects Director in March 2012 from the Abellio Group where he was latterly its European Bus Strategy and Business Development Director.

Janaury 8, 2014 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 71 06/01/2014 18:52

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