Coach & Bus Week : Issue 1010

Wednesday November 2, 2011 Issue 1010 | £2.95 www.coachandbusweek.com

COACH:

INDUSTRY:

BUS:

Cambridgeshire to Vision Travel and its DfT responds to trial DRT in place of drivers face tachograph Transport Select fraud charges p8 Committee report p34 subsidised buses p6

PRODUCTS:

New TfL-approved CCTV recorder from Timespace p45

for recru i

NEWS FLASH

JOB ADV tment EVERY WERTS EEK

Parrys to get first Van Hool TX in UK p8

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552992-1010-Timespace

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THIS WEEK

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

EDITORIAL Publisher Jonathan Taylor 01733 293240 jonathan.taylor@rouncymedia.co.uk Editor Gareth Evans 01733 293243 gareth.evans@rouncymedia.co.uk Industry Editor Meera Rambissoon 01733 293240 meera.rambissoon@rouncymedia.co.uk Technical and Minibus Editor Martin Cole 01733 293245, 07885 692144 martin.cole@rouncymedia.co.uk News Reporter James Day 01733 293240 james.day@rouncymedia.co.uk News Reporter Callum McDonald 01733 293244 callum.mcdonald@rouncymedia.co.uk Art Director Keith Simpson Contributors Richard Charnley, Gabriel Conway, Alan Payling

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The opinions and views expressed by authors and contributors within Coach & Bus Week are not necessarily those of the Editor or its publisher Rouncy Media Ltd.

Scrap the planned fuel duty rise

I

n his ‘autumn briefing note’ on fuel and forecourt taxation, Brian Madderson of the RMI (Retail Motor Industry), the trade body which represents garages, is urging the government to abandon the planned fuel duty increases in 2012 and focus on the faltering UK economy.

“The Government is currently sitting on plans, revealed in the 2011 Budget, to increase fuel duty on January 1 and August 1, 2012,” he says. “This will increase retail prices by as much as 8.00 pence per litre (ppl).

“Prices at the pump have remained stubbornly high this autumn with current averages of 135ppl for petrol and over 140ppl for diesel. With just a small upward adjustment to global oil prices, the UK will be facing average prices of 150ppl for diesel and 145ppl for petrol by next summer unless the Government reverses its plans to

increase fuel duty.”

Yikes! It’s easy for some to welcome the duty rise as they will believe more people will be forced out of their cars and onto buses. However, it must be remembered this will be in the face of a 20% cut in BSOG from April 2012. Combined with slashed concessionary fare reimbursement rates thanks to government spending savings, bus cash fares will inevitably rise, so the balance won’t be tipped to the same extent.

A rise in fuel duty will also hit the important coaching sector, which of course does not benefit from BSOG – despite its green credentials in removing private cars from the road.

As Madderson rightly concludes: “Cancelling the tax duty increase is the only sensible decision that the country urgently awaits.”

Gareth Evans Editor

CONTENTS 4

32

42

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

18

A Setra S431DT double-decker coach occupies the centre spread

34

How to avoid costly contractual disputes - from Backhouse Jones

...From tourist attractions and events. Plus ideas for group visits

20

The government reponds to the Transport Select Committee report

38

Timespace’s new CCTV recorder and Stertil Koni’s wheel dolly range

Debate over plans to scrap unfair dismissal for lazy workers

22

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

40

A lighthearted look at the industry.

Plus Gareth’s Diary!

CBW looks at training suppliers for drivers and engineers

Passengers give retiring Anglian driver a very public send off

All the latest people moves from across the industry

News

Tour News

Business News

Essential Guide

The Big Picture

TSC Report Update Deliveries Drivers

Legal Update

45

Products

60

Last Stop

61

People

www.coachandbusweek.com

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4 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 2, 2011

nEWS

BriEfly Go-Ahead has announced Andrew Allner, chairman of the group’s audit committee, has been appointed senior independent director with immediate effect, following the group’s AGM. Andrew, who has been a non-executive director since October 2008, is also a member of Go-Ahead’s remuneration and nomination committees. He is a chartered accountant and a former partner at PricewaterhouseCoopers. He was group finance director of RHM plc between 2004 and 2007, and previously chief executive of Enodis plc. Andrew was also a non-executive director of Moss Bros Group plc and chairman of its Audit Committee until 2005.

UK government emissions data has revealed buses outside of London are less efficient in emissions per passenger than cars.The figures show buses outside of London emit an average of 221g/km CO2e (CO2 equivalent) per passenger km compared to a small petrol car (201g/km), a small diesel car (172g/km) and a medium diesel car (215g/km). A car containing two people would obviously halve these figures.

London buses, because of their higher average occupancy, fare better at 102g/km.

Scottish transport minister, Keith Brown said extra gritters and additional road salt have been put in place to help tackle severe winter weather.

During a Holyrood debate, Brown gave details of the Scottish government’s preparation for heavy snow and harsh conditions, in a bid to avoid a repeat of last year’s chaos. During December major routes had been gridlocked and the Army was called to dig out parts of the capital, over which Brown’s predecessor Stewart Stevenson resigned from his post amidst complaints the government had not managed the situation well. “From November 1, 23 additional gritters will patrol strategically important routes ahead of and during, morning peak when there is risk of snow and ice, adding to our ploughing capability during snowstorms,” said Brown. www.coachandbusweek.com

News4-5.indd 4

Clayton Jones alleges CPT collusion with TC Controversial operator uses Freedom of Information Act to obtain correspondance Colourful Welsh bus operator Clayton Jones claims he has found evidence of collusion between trade body the Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) and the Traffic Commissioner (TC) for Wales.

It could be said the revelations are the latest twist in Clayton Jones’ fight with the TC. As reported in CBW1008, Clayton Jones called for new transport secretary Justine Greening to “sack” the TC. In an email sent to CPT members from the Heart of Wales Bus & Coach company on Sunday morning (October 30), Clayton Jones wrote: “We attach correspondence with Secretary of State for Transport Ms. J. Greening , copied to the chief executive of The Confederation of Passenger Transport.

“We originally requested to place a complaint before CPT Wales Committee resulting from a personal E-mail (obtained by a FOI request) from TC (1/8) to paid official of CPT Mr. J.Pockett (copied to Local Authority officer Mr. Charlie Nelson RCT Transport Manager whose decision making process we had challenged at the original inquiry) there had

been liaison with the Welsh T.C. without this company’s knowledge apparently to undermine a member company’s appeal at a Transport Tribunal hearing on August 10th.

This deceit reported to the excellent Mr Steve Salmon who’s advice and support has been exemplary prior to our PI and Appeal, he indicated to us by email on September 28 the chairman of Wales CPT would contact us to discuss our concerns, regretfully no contact, thus we believe all CPT members should be aware of these facts.

“Attached confirmation of a Traffic Commissioner with his mindset at an Operators throat

CPT chief exec Simon Posner says he is aware of the facts of the case and is wholly content that all CPT staff have acted properly

Norman Baker takes to the wheel Transport minister and Lewes MP Norman Baker has taken time out from his ministerial schedule to try his hand at driving a bus.

Baker was in his Lewes constituency for the day and visited Brighton & Hove’s new outstation at Newhaven before spending time putting the company’s Routemaster, RML2317, through its paces around the Port.

Norman Baker fulfills his ambition to drive a Routemaster

AFTER his decision, working in tandem with Mr.Pockett when we pay his CPT wages. In Wales in particular we should be aware of this abdication of transparency, when accepting the regulatory framework we cannot allow any member being taken down by a ‘friend” Clayton Jones rather bluntly concluded: “I hope you never go before Mr. Nick Jones at a P.I., however, if you won’t lick certain backsides you now know the score, in any event clearly John Pockett’s tongue must be brown and CPT London officials faces red.”

Responding to the allegation by email to members on Monday morning, Simon Posner, CPT chief executive wrote: “I am sorry that some members have received an email from the Heart of Wales Bus and Coach Company Limited which contains some intemperate language.

“I must inform you that, whilst I have seen a copy of the letter that was sent to the Secretary of State by that company, I have received no direct contact or complaint from Heart of Wales. I should also say however that I am aware of the facts of the case and am wholly content that all CPT staff have acted properly and correctly throughout the proceedings.”

Paul Carter, Brighton & Hove Buses’ VOSA-approved driving test examiner took the minister through an intensive familiarisation session with the bus so he could get to know the controls and try his hand at reversing manoeuvres as undertaken on a formal PCV test.

Baker then took the bus on his own around the Port’s private roads and was impressed with its handling and obviously enjoyed himself.

“He soon picked up the controls and was very eager to have a test drive,” said Carter. “I was very impressed.”

Baker has long had an ambition to drive a Routemaster and was thrilled at the opportunity to have a go.

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November 2, 2011 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 5

“It’s vital the government maps the impact of the cuts in funding properly and publishes the information it gathers.”

Louise Ellman TSC

TSC Report Update p34

Optare’s new factory opens as Crossgates closes

Busworld Kortrijk beats financial gloom

Optare has hailed a “new chapter in the history of British bus manufacturing” with production now in full swing at its brand new factory at Sherburn-in-Elmet.

The manufacturer also paid tribute to the closure of its Crossgates works in Leeds where the company has been building buses since 1985. The site’s history dates back to the early 1920s when Charles H Roe started the construction of charabanc vehicles on the eight-acre site. The company was soon building both single and double-deck bodies and established itself as a supplier of high-quality buses to large and small operators in Yorkshire and the north of England.

Over the years the Roe business also built trolleybuses, articulated buses, coaches and a small number of trams. During World War II, the factory produced over 650 utility bus bodies and also manufactured

The 21st Busworld Kortrijk trade show was an outstanding success, organisers said.

The nine halls and a marquee covered 61,000 square meters and held 340 exhibitors coming from 32 countries, including 70 busbuilders with important premieres.

Approximately 31,698 visitors came to Busworld Kortrijk from 118 countries, as far away as China, Japan, India and South America. In addition, 145 specialist journalists from all over the world were at Kortrijk Xpo to cover the event.

During the week-long event (October 20 – 26), the event’s website busworld.org was visited by nearly 28,000 visitors, 30% up on the previous show in 2009.

Reflecting the changing nature of communication, Busworld also embraced social media, with extensive use made of Facebook and Twitter. Indeed, for the first time ever, all information about the event was available on a mobile app. The full exhibitor list, floorplans, news and everything visitors needed to know about the fair and relaxing in Kortrijk, was combined in a handy tool.

Interestingly, the app was used by 1,200 people.

Chris Wise, Optare’s commercial director and longest serving employee shuts the gates of Crossgates works in Leeds other specialised vehicles to support the war effort, including trailers for use as mobile map printing units, which supported the D-Day landings.

The Roe business became part of Associated Commercial Vehicles in the late 1940s, and then part of what became the British Leyland Motor Corporation in 1961.

However, a reduction in demand prompted Leyland to streamline its manufacturing facilities and the Roe plant was an unfortunate casualty.

It was closed in 1984, but a group

AdBlue prices to increase with costs of raw materials Air1, Yara International’s AdBlue brand across Europe, announced a price increase for AdBlue from November 1 due to rising urea costs. Urea is the key raw material used in AdBlue production.

A number of AdBlue suppliers across Europe have announced price increases since September.

Rolf Isberg, global head for Air1 said: “There has been a strong demand for urea all summer

of former employees and managers saw an opportunity and revived the business as Optare in 1985.

Optare quickly established itself with early models such as the CityPacer, StarRider, Delta and Spectra and the company says such focus on style has continued in the current range of Solo, Versa and Tempo.

“Those who have worked at Crossgates over the years can take justifiable pride in their achievements,” said Jim Sumner, the company’s CEO. and prices have continued to go upwards. Yara will continue to deliver value to customers using its vast production and supply network.”

New prices are being communicated on a country-bycountry basis.

Visit Air1’s UK website at http://uk.air1.info/en/

The date for the next Busworld Kortrijk has also been confirmed - October 18 to 23, 2013

www.coachandbusweek.com

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6 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 2, 2011

nEWS › BUSeS

£2.4m

The value of Epsom Coaches’ Quality Line vehicle order for Mercedes-Benz Citaros and Optare Versas

BriEfly The Twitter following of Reading Buses has never been higher, the company said.

The number of followers has now reached 2,000, the bus operator proudly tweets. “This is great news,” said Reading Buses CEO James Freeman. “We are finding that in our busy world this is what more and more of our customers want. Social media networking is an invaluable way for us to keep in touch with our customers.

Twitter is quick and fast as it has a limitation of only 140 characters,” he continued. “One of the added benefits is when we reply to one person’s Twitter enquiry everyone who follows Reading Buses gets to see the answer.” He added that Facebook was also growing steadily with over 1,400 ‘likes’.

From Monday January 2, 2012, Royston, Hertfordshire will become the 293rd rail-served town covered by PLUSBUS ticketing. From the same date PLUSBUS season tickets for seven days, a month, three months and a year will be available for Bathgate, Falkirk, Larbert, Linlithgow, Livingston and Stirling in Scotland.

Also from the New Year, the famous 11-mile Blackpool tram route will accept PLUSBUS tickets for the first time. As a result the Blackpool travel zone will be extended to include Fleetwood and Lytham, making a Blackpool PLUSBUS ticket even better value.

Arriva midlands has launched an online quiz to test a theory suggesting bus commuters are smarter than the average person. The theory comes from the observation that bus commuters have more time to catch up on current affairs or read a book, amongst other things, due to not being stuck behind a steering wheel. Passengers who answer all 20 questions correctly can win a prize. Bob Hind, managing director for Arriva Midlands, said: “We hope our passengers have fun taking part in the online quiz, which has been designed to put their grey matter through its paces and help find out who will be crowned cleverest commuter.” The quiz can be taken at arrivabus.co.uk/ clevercommuter/ www.coachandbusweek.com

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Cambs DRT pilots may bridge bus cuts Proposal approved which could see £34m of public sector transport contracts put up for tender Cambridgeshire County Council has approved three Demand Responsive Transport (DRT) pilot projects, which it hopes to develop to replace subsidised bus routes.

The trials are part of the Cambridgeshire Future Transport scheme which could see £34m of public sector transport contracts put up for tender if the services are approved.

Entrepreneurs or charities will be handed a minibus which they will use to honour a contract, such as a school run or taking patients to hospital, but would then be free to use the vehicle for other purposes, such as launching timetabled routes or running a dial-a-ride service.

The first two pilots will launch in December, with one providing

Passenger growth in Leeds

First West Yorkshire has seen an encouraging increase in passenger numbers on two key routes in Leeds.

In May this year, First carried out some service changes to its number 56 service (Whinmoor – Leeds – Moor Grange) and Service 6 (Leeds - Holt Park).

Service 56 had its frequency increased to every eight minutes (from ten minutes) Monday to Friday daytime, along with additional buses on weekends and evenings.

Service 6 was also given extra buses on a Sunday (a bus every 20 minutes from 30 minutes) plus extra journeys on weekday evenings.

The latest customer figures show the number of people using the two services, popular with commuters, leisure users and students, has increased. At least 5% more people used each service in the past five months than in the equivalent period of the previous year.

connections to Whittlesford station for villagers from the Duxford and Linton areas. The other will link Swavesey and Longstanton to guided busway stops and carry out county council work linked to Over Day Centre.

The third pilot, which will launch in January, will act as a community bus in the Haddenham and Wilburton areas.

It is expected setting up the three franchises will cost around £160,000.

When Cambridgeshire Future Transport is fully up and running, franchisees will pay an annual fee, but this will not be charged during the trial.

The County Council’s cabinet approved the pilots last Tuesday.

Planning chief cllr Ian Bates said: “The franchise idea will not only help create local transport but encourage enterprise and therefore the economy as well.

“I am pleased we are making progress in bringing pilots forward as well as the work going on with other partner councils and agencies to look at how local transport solutions can be created.

“This nationally recognised project could bring together the millions of pounds local public bodies spend on transport and use it to help create more locally targeted schemes.”

Support to franchisees will include vehicle tax, insurance and maintenance, business support and administration, and access to a strong brand.

The cabinet was also updated on the progress of a partnership designed to examine public sector transport co-ordination, which will be known as Transport for Cambridgeshire. NHS and district council contracts will be included, taking the total value of the work available to around £34m.

First records 5% passenger growth achieved on routes 6 and 56 in Leeds Dave Alexander, regional managing director for First in the North of England, said: “I am delighted we have seen this encouraging passenger growth on two key routes in Leeds.

“This is a welcome boost for First in its efforts to stimulate growth across its Leeds bus networks, as well as a real positive sign for the

Leeds economy where more people are travelling to and from Leeds.

“I am sure our customers appreciate the extra choice we are giving them by increasing the frequency of our buses. We believe this offers car users in the area a very real alternative form of transport, especially in terms of price and frequency.”

31/10/2011 23:04

31,698

The number of visitors who attended Busworld Kortrijk 2011 – excluding journalists

Paul McGowan

Abellio London’s bus MD says farewell Paul McGowan, Abellio London and Surrey’s managing director, is to leave the group at the end of 2011.

Paul has been responsible for the strategic development of Abellio’s bus portfolio for a year, a role which has involved a significant amount of travel throughout Europe to help develop a wider European bus strategy for Abellio.

Paul was previously the MD of London and Surrey bus operations under National Express ownership following its acquisition from Connex in 2004. Abellio acquired the operation under its previous Ned Railways umbrella, in June last year.

Abellio said Paul now feels that the time is right to use his 30-plus years’ experience to focus his career back in the UK, which suggests he will stay within the UK bus industry but for a UK based operator.

Epsom £2.4m new bus order

Epsom Coaches Group has placed bus orders worth over £2.4m to service TfL bus routes X26 and 465 run by the firm’s Quality Line operation, starting in April and July 2012 respectively.

Ten Mercedes Benz Citaros have been specified to operate route X26, an express link between Croydon and London Heathrow. The vehicles will be fitted with luggage racking and their spacious interiors will be of the highest quality, as to be expected from a premium manufacturer.

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1

November 2, 2011 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 7

The UK’s first Van Hool TX coach is to be delivered to Parrys International next year

New Enviro 400s for Stagecoach Lakeland route A scenic Stagecoach bus route in the Lake District has benefited from a £1.5m investment in nine new buses.

The new ADL Enviro 400-bodied Scanias have entered service on route 555, which links the city of Lancaster in Lancashire with Grasmere in Cumbria. The vehicles have replaced old Trident 2s.

The route has been branded ‘555 Freedom of the Lakes’, with each of the dedicated buses named after a famous mountain in the Lake District, including Coniston Old Man, Langdale Pikes and Helvellyn.

Nigel Winter, MD of Stagecoach Cumbria and North Lancashire, said: “This is a significant investment in one of our most picturesque and popular routes, which serves Lancaster through to Keswick via Kendal, Windermere, Ambleside and Grasmere.

“We have renamed the service 555 Freedom of the Lakes to reflect what is arguably the most scenic route that Stagecoach runs. The new buses will compliment the very best of the British countryside, with their distinctive green livery.”

SHARE WATCH

Industry share prices at the close of the Stock Exchange on Monday, October 31. 21st Century saw the greatest proportional rise and Optare the biggest proportional drop.

Most figures obtained from www.iii.co.uk

276.60p

Price: Year High: 574.37p Year Low: 257.70p

334.25p

Price: Year High: 416.90p Year Low: 305.36p

1389.0p

Price: Year High: 1540p Year Low: 1034.p

231.10p

Price: Year High: 272.10p Year Low: 212.70p

248.35p

Price: Year High: 257.70p Year Low: 158.30p

Go North East recent branding called “Pronto”, will start on Monday on fast direct routes from Bishop Auckland to Durham and then either Sunderland (X20) or Newcastle (X21). The Pronto buses will each have an Italian word or phrase on the back with the English equivalent. Pictured here by Steve Hodgson is Plaxton President-bodied Volvo B7 no. 6024, which is branded “coveiniente”, meaning of course, a convenient service Route 465, which links Kingston with Dorking will see the introduction of five new Optare Versa dual-door buses, similar to those already operated on Quality Line’s TfL route 411.

The investment in new buses will also see 50 new jobs created in the Epsom area.

Commercial director Steve Whiteway commented: “We are delighted to be investing in these new vehicles which will bring our fleet up to over 110 buses and coaches. We intend to ensure the highest quality of service to our customers and these new buses will help us to continue that aspiration as well as being very environmentally friendly.”

1.88p

Price: Year High: 6.75p Year Low: 1.62p

40.00p

Price: Year High: 43.50p Year Low: 24.90p

95.00p

Price: Year High: 99.57p Year Low: 66.86p

11.12p

Price: Year High: 16.60p Year Low: 5.75p

The order for Quality Line comprises five new Optare Versas and 10 new Mercedes-Benz Citaros, an example of which is pictured here at Epsom’s open weekend in June 2010

-8.10 on last week

+2.70 on last week

-14.00 on last week

-0.10 on last week

-0.40 on last week

-0.12 on last week

+0.00 on last week

+0.00 on last week

+0.50 on last week

FTSE 100

5544

Price: Year High: 6,105 Year Low: 4,790

-4

on last week

www.coachandbusweek.com

31/10/2011 23:05

8 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 2, 2011

nEWS › coaches

BriEfly A maintenance project to resurface a 3.7 mile section of the A1 near Morpeth, between Capri Lodge and Blackwood Hall, will be undertaken by the Highways Agency. Roads studs and road markings will also be replaced. Work began on October 31, and will be carried out at night between 2000 and 0600hrs until the end of November. For the works between Warreners House Junction and the Hebron staggered junction, a closure of either the northbound or southbound carriageway will be required. A signed diversion will be in place. For works local to junctions, individual side road closures will be required with signed diversions in place.

Electrical cabling renewal along the M180 near Scunthorpe began on October 31. The work is expected to be completed by December 18. The work will take place in the central reservation of the motorway for approximately a mile around the interchange at J5 of the motorway at Wrawby Moors and will require constant closure of the outside lane in each direction. Traffic management along the eastbound carriageway where the motorway joins the A180 will be removed at peak hours to minimise inconvenience to motorway users leaving the motorway. A 50mph speed limit will be in place through the roadworks.

Overnight work to resurface the carriageway and carry out bridge repairs along the A19 at Killingworth near Newcastle will begin on November 7. The work will take place along a mile-long section of the A19 at Seghill Bridge north of Newcastle and should be completed by November 28. The work, which includes resurfacing, replacement of bridge joints and drainage repairs and cleaning, will be carried out around the clock with overnight closures between 2000 and 0600hrs each night. Off-peak lane closures will also be in place during the day with a 40mph speed limit through the roadworks at all times when the route is open outside the overnight closures.

Diversions will be in place when the road is closed. www.coachandbusweek.com

News8-9.indd 8

Parrys to get UK’s first Van Hool TX Dave Parry tells CBW he’s “committed to Van Hool” Renowned West Midlands coach tour operator Parrys International is to get the UK’s first Van Hool TX. The TX, which is the model name for the Belgian manufacturer’s restyled coach range, was launched at last week’s Busworld Kortrik, as reported in CBW1009.

Tim Fairless, sales director at Pontefract-based dealer Moseley PCV, told CBW: “I wish to confirm the TX is not being launched into

the UK market until March 2012 (at the earliest) and the first one, a TX17 Astron, to be delivered will be to Parrys International. The next off the production line are three TDX27 Astromega coaches, which we have sold to Siesta Holidays.

“I appreciate your article doesn’t say the Eavesway one is the first however it does give that impression.”

Explaining why his company runs a fleet of Van Hool coaches, Dave Parry, managing director of Cheslyn Hay-based Parrys

International told CBW: “We’re committed to Van Hool – it’s a matter of residual value, reliability and the integral build. We’ve also got the continuity of an MAN power unit we had when we ran a fleet of Neoplans. The backup from MAN and Van Hool is superb – it’s spot on.

“Van Hool is now the only manufacturer who will build a bespoke coach. That’s why so many football team coaches are made by Van Hool. A Van Hool is a classic build – the style doesn’t date.”

Commenting on the new TX coaches, Mr Parry said: “Our new coach will replace an existing member of the fleet. We’ve had at least 20 enquiries for it and it has now been sold. However, the vehicle will remain part of the operational fleet until December.

We’ll take delivery of the new TX in March in time for the new season.

Once we’ve analysed the TX, we will consider adopting it as our standard vehicle type.”

Mr Parry also revealed the UK premiere of the TX will take place at Parrys’ popular open day on Sunday, January 10. “I’m sure customers and a few operators will want to view it,” he said.

Parrys International is well known for the immaculate presentation of its vehicles and friendly, professional staff. Driver John Harvey is seen here with a Van Hool coach after taking part in the UK Coach Rally 2011

Visit www.parrysinternational.co.uk , www.moseleycoachsales.co.uk

Vision Travel and 11 drivers ‘put the lives of others at risk’

how the companies were visited by VOSA officers on February 23 and 24 and asked to provide tachograph recordings for all journeys in November and December 2010.

She said: “These have been huge undertakings requiring a lot of manpower.

“The officers took away a vast amount of information which they then spent months analysing.

“If information is altered or not entered properly there are huge knock-on effects as far as enforcement goes. It’s not just putting other road users at risk, it’s the passengers and the drivers as well.”

The investigation has reportedly cost £57,873. VOSA said it would not comment on an ongoing case.

Vision Travel International and its sister company Vision Travel Minibuses, along with 11 coach drivers, are facing dozens of charges and accusations they put passengers’ lives at risk.

After an investigation by VOSA, the companies face 132 charges between them, with the 11 drivers facing a further 83 charges.

Eight other drivers have already pleaded guilty or been convicted at Fareham Magistrates’ Court.

The remaining 11 drivers and both companies are due back at Portsmouth Magistrates’ Court for a

hearing next month.

Charges against individual drivers include knowingly making a false record and taking insufficient rest, while the two companies are charged in relation to rest breaks and the falsifying of tacograph charts. Most of the charges come under the Transport Act 1968.

Vision Travel was also making headlines in August, when two drivers were seen switching seats on a bus travelling at 60mph.

Outlining the case against the drivers and the two Vision Travel firms, prosecutor Felicity Hine told

31/10/2011 22:42

November 2, 2011 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 9

“High volumes of sales are only half the story – you must make sure that you get paid or have other rights in the event that you don’t.”

Nick Hodgson Backhouse Jones

Legal Update p42

Lucketts Travel provides free coach Lucketts Travel provided a complimentary coach to transport a group of year 11 pupils from King Richard School in Portsmouth to Heathrow airport, where they will embark on a life changing expedition to Nakuru, Kenya.

The group will be looking after orphaned children, teaching in schools, coaching sports sessions and building homes in Nakuru, which is the fourth largest town in a significantly deprived area.

Funds were raised for the trip through charity events such as car boots sales, car washes and bag packing. Lucketts Travel stepped in to help them on their way with the first leg of their journey.

Paul Barringer, sales director

New LEZ regulation for Denmark

Fareham based Lucketts Travel provided a complimentary coach to the group of Year 11 pupils from King Richard School in Paulsgrove of Lucketts Travel, said: “Lucketts Travel is delighted to have helped make this opportunity of a lifetime a reality for King Richard School.

Being a local, family owned business we are always keen to support local schools and we wish the pupils all the very best for the commendable trip they are

undertaking.”

John Fullick, Director of Extended Schools, said: “On behalf of the pupils and the school, I’d like to thank Lucketts Travel for providing courtesy coach travel and transporting the children smoothly and safely on their way on this dream trip.”

All foreign coaches and buses driving in low emission zones (LEZs) in Copenhagen, Aarhus, Odense and Aalborg must carry a Danish LEZ label.

The new legislation came into effect on November 1 and means having a coach or bus which meets the Euro 4 standard or has an approved particle filter is no longer enough. A vehicle which does not carry the new label can be impounded and attract a combined fine of up to DKK 20,000 for the driver and operator.

An information pack download and application for an LEZ label is at i.cptenewsline.co.uk/ CmpDoc/2008/3743/56099_e_ newsline_135.pdf.

www.coachandbusweek.com

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nEWS

Scania finalises global engine platform Work on the new platform began in the early 2000s and aims to cater for all markets Scania is taking the final steps towards a global engine platform based on the latest technology for all markets and for all emission standards.

Strength, high performance and fuel efficiency are key characteristics, and easier servicing and parts supply contribute to improved uptime for operators, the manufacturer said.

“After several years of development, we are taking the final steps towards a common global engine platform which is designed to meet all emission standards worldwide,” said Jonas Hofstedt, Scania’s head of engine development.

Customer benefits include enhanced robustness, performance and fuel economy, as well as easier access to parts and servicing via Scania’s global network.

“Work on Scania’s new engine platform started in the early years of the new Millennium to take us to Euro 6 and beyond,” continued Hofstedt. “In parallel, several auxiliary technologies have been developed in-house to create the flexibility needed.

The technologies include engine management, fuel injection and

Five new CILT board members

The Chartered Institute of Transport and Logistics (CILT) has changed its governance structure and has elected five new trustees.

At last week’s EGM the membership overwhelmingly accepted the recommendation of the council and board to change the governance structure of the institute.

The original ambition was voiced some three years ago by the then President, Graeme McFaull, to enhance relevance, simplify www.coachandbusweek.com

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exhaust aftertreatment, all of which are used in different combinations to suit market conditions.”

The engines are manufactured at Scania’s factories in Europe and South America, using the same production methods and interchangeable parts and components.

“The engines and all other technologies have been developed for use in trucks and buses, as well as for industrial and marine engine applications. Combined

with the latest gearbox generation, which is being introduced in Latin American production, Scania now has a global product range which can be supplied independently of production site,” concluded Hofstedt.

As announced earlier this year, the development of the new engine generation and the technology to meet future emission legislation took more than five years and involves costs for Scania of approximately SEK 10 billion.

Jonas Hofstedt, Scania’s head of engine development, says the platform is designed to meet all emission standards, worldwide processes, speed up decision making and better reflect the views of the members. Following a period of consultation with the membership, the council and board recommended a number of changes to its governance structure, as well as putting in place a vision and set of values for the institute.

The new structure features a directly elected board of trustees, the first five of whom have been named following the recent election, who will join the transitional board members at their first meeting on November 3 this week.

The successful five members are: John Boulter FCILT, Margaret Everson FCILT, Jane Green CMILT, Chris Loder MILT and Professor

Richard Wilding FCILT. They will join Neil Ashworth FCILT, David Grahamslaw FCILT, Bill Acres FCILT, Ian Barclay FCILT , Martin Evans MILT and David Pugh.

Another major feature of the change is that the council is now dissolved and CILT will soon put in place a representative advisory group with clear member representation and influence, constituted of members from nations, regions, professional sectors and forums. Additionally all institute committees, such as audit and finance, will in future report directly to the board.

For more information on CILT, visit www.ciltuk.org.uk or call 01536 740104

Scottish traffic commissioner Joan Aitken would have considered disqualifying Nordi Travel but directors have said they do not intend to operate in the future

Nordi Travel loses license after driver shortage Livingston-based Nordi Travel has had its licence revoked by the Scottish traffic commissioner Joan Aitken for failing to follow timetables and delaying its vehicle maintenance programme.

Ms Aitken called the operator to a public enquiry in Edinburgh on October 13 following an adverse VOSA report by bus compliance officers and a traffic examiner.

The inquiry found, of 71 journeys monitored between Livingston and Ocean Terminal in Leath, and between Livingstone and Dunfermline, 28 were either running late or not at all. Examiners also noted delays in assessing the road worthiness of some vehicles, finding that although four of Nordi Travel’s buses had passed their annual test first time round, there had been delays of up to 17 weeks in inspections for roadworthiness taking place in some cases.

Directors Norman and Diane McCulloch said a driver shortage made it difficult to adhere to timetables and they planned to shut down the firm due to health reasons. Both services ceased operation without notification on October 4.

Ms Aitken said: “Given the manner in which this operation came to an end, disqualification is something which I could have in mind. However, the directors have stated they have no intention of bus or coach operating in the future.”

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nEWS › financial

Cash fare revenue rises at Go-Ahead Company holds cautious optimism on the result of the financial year Go-Ahead has released its interim management statement for the period from July 3 to October 26.

The firm said trading in the first quarter has been robust and its expectations for the full year to June 30, 2012 remain unchanged.

David Brown, group chief executive of Go-Ahead, said: “I am pleased to report growth across all our businesses. A range of factors, including the quality of our services and high motoring costs for car drivers, has attracted passengers and we continue to perform well.

“Our bus services continue to perform robustly and our efforts to make travel simple and straightforward are being embraced by passengers. We are already witnessing significant takeup of our new smartcards, with over 200,000 passenger journeys a day now taking place using smartcards outside of London.

“Our rail businesses are performing strongly. We are also seeing some interesting passenger trends with our high speed services in Kent and the Gatwick Express showing good growth demonstrating that passengers want to use fast rail links.”

According to the statement, outside of London, the majority of growth in Go-Ahead’s bus operations came from fare paying, rather than concessionary

Bus services continue to perform robustly, according to Go-Ahead Group chief executive David Brown

passengers, raising deregulated revenue by over 4%. Passenger numbers were consistent with the same quarter last year.

In London, Go-Ahead’s revenues were marginally up, with reductions in quality incentive contract bonus payments due to road works in central London being largely offset by additional contract work. Mileage was slightly down compared to the equivalent period in the previous year but is expected to increase as new contract wins begin in the second quarter.

Speaking of the firm’s outlook, the Go-Ahead statement said: “While we are encouraged by our performance in the first quarter, our expectations for the full year to remain unchanged as we continue to be cautious about the medium term wider economic outlook.

“We continue to emphasise service quality. Our balance sheet and cashflow generation are strong and we remain focused on maintaining financial discipline.”

Go-Ahead ‘s operating companies include Brighton & Hove, Go North East, London Central, Oxford Bus Company, konect bus and Thames Travel. Visit www.goahead.com

Higher sales for Volvo Buses

Volvo Buses reported an increase in deliveries for Q3 compared with the same period in 2010. A total of 2,954 buses were delivered, an increase of 37%.

North American and European markets continue to display a negative trend, with tough competition in the latter and no sight of recovery in 2011. By contrast, South America and Asia are expanding rapidly.

The market in Mexico recovered from a very low level in 2010. In Brazil, the market increased, driven by pre-buying before the transition to Euro 5 and several on-going BRT (Bus Rapid Transit) tenders. In the rest of South America, the city-bus market is also positive.

Deliveries during Q3 of 2011 amounted to 2,954 buses, compared with 2,151 in the year-earlier period, up 37%, with www.coachandbusweek.com

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Volvo launched its new 7900 hybrid bus at Busworld Kotrijk. A total of 32 hybrids are currently on order for service in Tromsö South America accounting for the largest increase. The order intake for Q3 amounted to 2,580 buses, compared with 2,845 buses in the year-earlier period, down 9%.

During the quarter, a number of significant orders were received, including 90 buses for New York City. In Mexico, an order was received for 54 buses, of which eight are hybrids; the first Volvo hybrids outside Europe. Another

order was signed for 91 buses to Nobina in Norway, of which 32 hybrid buses for use in Tromsö.

Net sales in Q3 rose 12% to SEK 5,157 M (4,594). Operating income for Q3 amounted to SEK 185 M (155). Compared to Q3 of 2010, operating income was negatively impacted by changes in currency exchange rates in an amount of SEK 46 M. The operating margin was 3.6% (3.4).

Daimler releases Q3 financial report Daimler, parent company of Mercedez-Benz and Setra, said it has had a very successful third quarter according to its latest financial statement, released last week.

Group EBIT (Earnings Before Interest and Tax) amounted to €1,968m (Q3 2010: €2,418m), although once adjusted for special factors it was higher than the previous year at €2,110m (Q3 2010: €2,022m). Net profit for the period was €1,360m (Q3 2010 €1,610m) with earnings per share at €1.21 (Q3 2010 €1.44).

Total unit sales were up 11% in the third quarter compared with the same time in the previous year, with 525,500 car and commercial vehicle sales worldwide. Group revenue increased significantly by 5% to €26.4 billion (Q3 2010: €25.1 billion). Adjusted for exchange-rate effects, the increase was 8%.

Daimler Buses increased its unit sales to 9,200 complete buses and chassis (Q3 2010: 9,100), mainly because of the positive development of chassis sales.

Revenue of €1,041m was also higher than in the prior-year period (Q3 2010: €1,007m).

The division achieved EBIT of €25 million (Q3 2010: €11 million).

Its return on sales therefore increased from 1.1% to 2.4%.

As well as the overall increase in unit sales, this welcome earnings development was precipitated by recent positive exchange-rate effects.

Daimler Buses assumes it will sell more than 40,000 complete buses and bus chassis in the year 2011, with a structural shift towards bus chassis.

On the basis of current estimates, the Daimler Group said it continues to assume it will post EBIT from the ongoing business in 2011 which will be significantly higher than the level of 2010. Targets for return on sales are 10% for Mercedes-Benz Cars, 8% for Daimler Trucks, 9% for Mercedes-Benz Vans and 6% for Daimler Buses; the target for return on equity for Daimler Financial Services is 17%.

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nEWS › international

Stagecoach expands megabus North America Growth will result in service linking 72 cities in the United States and Canada via seven hubs USA Stagecoach Group is expanding its North American megabus.com network run by its budget coach operator megabus.com into the southern United States.

Low-cost coach services will start running out of a new hub in Atlanta, Georgia, to 11 cities in the states of Alabama, North Carolina, Tennessee and Florida from next month.

More than 500 new jobs have been created by megabus.com throughout North America as the successful brand has expanded rapidly to service new cities. The latest expansion means megabus. com – which offers daily, express coach travel for as low as £1 in the UK and from $1 in North America – will link 72 cities in the United States and Canada via seven hubs.

Services already operate out of hubs in Chicago, New York, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Washington DC and Toronto. The Atlanta hub will offer services to Birmingham, Ala.; Charlotte, N.C.; Chattanooga, Tenn.; Gainesville, Fla.; Jacksonville, Fla.; Knoxville, Tenn.; Memphis, Tenn.; Mobile, Ala.; Montgomery, Ala.; Nashville, Tenn.;

36 extra buses for Arriva Malta

MALTA Thirty-six buses are to be added to the existing Arriva Malta fleet following an agreement between the Transport Ministry, Transport Malta and Arriva.

In a statement, the ministry said the government’s decision to change the network, introduce new routes and increase frequencies on some routes, as well as a greater number of commuters, led to more buses being needed.

The increase, it said, should meet the demand of passengers on certain popular routes during the morning rush hour. www.coachandbusweek.com

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and Orlando, Fla. Services will start running from 16 November and customers can begin booking travel now at www. megabus.com.

Dale Moser, president and chief operating officer of megabus.com in North America, said: “megabus. com has rapidly become the travel option of choice for millions of people and we’re delighted to expand our great value services to Atlanta and the south-east region.

“Americans are continuing to look for ways to stretch their income, and we look forward to

providing safe, convenient and affordable travel to millions of new customers.” megabus.com is supporting the latest expansion by offering 10,000 free seats on the new routes for travel between November 16 and December 16, 2011.

More than 13 million customers have travelled with megabus.com in North America since the brand was launched on the continent in April 2006. megabus.com coaches offer free Wi-Fi, power outlets and restrooms. They are are “Green Coach Certified”.

Van Hool has become the new vehicle supplier of choice for megabus USA The first eight buses were due to enter service on Monday, October 31, with the rest gradually introduced before the end of November.

The ministry said 17 of the 36 new buses will be articulated, which Arriva confirmed to CBW will refurbished ex-London MercedesBenz Citaros. The remainder will be 12-metre buses borrowed from various Arriva companies in the UK. The Transport Ministry stated that, to avoid delays in introducing the extra buses, aesthetic and equipment requirements will be temporarily suspended, resulting in a short period where some buses will not have the official Arriva colours and will lack air conditioning. Engines will be between Euro III and IV instead of Euro V, which is the fleet standard,

Pictured by Nick Larkin, one of the 174 King Longs run by Arriva Malta although all specifications will be met by May. In the meantime, Arriva said it will continue to employ and train addittional drivers.

Transport Malta and Arriva are also discussing the introduction of bus priority measures due to traffic congestion affecting schedules.

APTA successful for E-Leather USA Peterborough-based E-Leather enjoyed a successful debut at the recent APTA (American Public Transportation Association) trade fair in New Orleans, launching the firm’s eco-friendly product into the US ground passenger transport market.

Both driver and passenger seats were on display, supplied by Michigan-based manufacturer USSC Seating.

E-Leather’s sales and marketing director Nico Den Ouden told CBW he was extremely delighted with the reception from the visitors to the show. “The interest in our product was much more than we could have expected on our first appearance,” reported Nico.

“Environmentally friendly products are being very well received in the US transport market and coupled with the light weight and high durability of our material, we are confident that we have the key ingredients to grow our business in North America.”

The show itself centred on the mass transit industry of North America and attracted exhibitors from the bus tram and rail sectors with over 17,000 visitors expected during the three days.

E-Leather’s is no stranger to the US however, for it’s products are used extensively in the US aviation industry, where weight is critical.

E-Leather is an eco-friendly, lightweight and scuff resistant man made alternative to traditional leather. The costeffective material is made from recycled wet blue, which has been discarded by the leather industry. It is then upgraded in a patented process utilising eco friendly technology that physically interlinks the fibres without the use of adhesives. The end result is composition leather, a man-made material which outperforms traditional leather in most end use scenarios. The eco credentials of E-Leather, its high performance levels, low cutting wastage, weight saving and ease of cleaning increasingly make it the material of choice for upholstery. Visit www. eleathergroup.com

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nEWS › REGIONAL

nORTH

Sheffield Council may be forced to refund fines paid by hundreds of drivers for using bus lanes after it was revealed the restrictions could have expired 11 years ago.

Motorist Paul Heathcote challenged his fine, claiming officials accidentally used the wrong piece of law in completing the legal order paperwork, rendering the bus lane temporary rather than permanent, with it expiring after 18 months in mid-2000. The legal order covers the Queens Road bus lane Mr Heathcote used, as well as six other lanes in the city, though none of the other locations have camera enforcement. The Queens Road bus lane has only had camera enforcement since January.

Should Mr Heathcote win his case, it would be the third successful challenge over Sheffield bus lane restrictions. Two other claims were successful after an adjudicator said warning signs and markings at the locations were not clear enough. The signs have since been improved.

Mr Heathcote said: “According to the Traffic Regulation Order for the bus lane, which is a legal document, it was made under Section Nine of the Road Traffic Regulation Act 1984.

“This is an order for an ‘Experimental Traffic Scheme’ which can last no longer than 18 months meaning the order for Queens Road, made by Sheffield Council in December 1998, expired in June 2000 along with the council’s power to enforce it.”

Simon Green, Sheffield Council executive director, said: “This seems to be a simple clerical error which does not affect the legality of the bus lane at Queens Road. That being said, we are taking this very seriously.

“Any error would appear to be an historical one going back over 10 years, we have always sought to act in accordance with the law and of course we are investigating this.”

Between January and December 2010, the council received £601,227 in fines - an average of £50,102 per month, for enforcement of the Wicker, Bridge Street and Hillsborough Corner bus gates, plus Glossop Road bus gate, where enforcement was started in June 2010.

The total fines collected in 2011 up to the end of July stood at £478,156 - £68,308 per month www.coachandbusweek.com

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as a company.

“We have decided to carry on the route until Christmas to see if we can sustain it. The fare prices have been frozen at £1. We felt we couldn’t increase them because we would risk not having any passengers at all.

“There are about 90 people using that service every day and it’s important to them. We are going to try to attract a few more customers to make the service commercially viable and look at it again after Christmas.”

KEY

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

MIDLAnDS

on average and 36 per cent higher than last year, boosted by cameras covering the extra two locations.

East Yorkshire Motor Services (EYMS) is making several alterations to its services.

The 128 service between Scarborough, Thornton Dale, Pickering and Helmsley started its new winter timetable on Monday (October 31). EYMS has added an additional late evening journey in each direction from Monday to Friday, between Scarborough and Pickering.

The Scarborough Park & Ride will also run a winter timetable, starting on Sunday (November 6).

Buses will run every 15 minutes instead of every 12.

In a separate development, EYMS is asking passengers for feedback about potential changes to routes 155, 156 and X55 services travelling from Hull to Goole. The company has asked passengers: “Are you happy with the current services? Are there enough buses, too few or too many? Do they run at the right times? We need to hear from you.”

EYMS is running three separate consultation events for passengers to discuss changes to the three routes.

Cheshire East Council has cut bus services in the county in order to save £500,000. The savings are being made by cutting subsidies given to companies to run certain services, the majority of which are

school routes seen as low priority due to students living within 3 miles of their school.

The authority said it is under no statutory obligation to ensure these services are provided and evaluations of other transport services and value for money were considered when making the decision.

Cabinet member councillor Rod Menlove said: “Some other local authorities have completely stopped such subsidies.

“Withdrawal of subsidy does not mean the bus service ceases, which is a business decision for bus operators.

“The council has to make some tough decisions in the light of the challenging financial times.

“All departments are under pressure to make savings where they can to ensure best value for money for taxpayers.”

The council says it has cut funding to routes with the highest level subsidies because they are least used, representing the least value for money.

The authority’s local transport plan is still investing £2.5m in services, providing subsidies for around 15 per cent of local buses.

Stanways Coaches in Rode Heath is continuing its 103 service to Eaton Bank High School from the Bromley Estate on a trial basis.

Office manager for the operator, Matthew Smith, said: “This is the first subsidy cut we’ve experienced

Gloucestershire council has revised bus timetables as part of a plan to cut down on its £5m annual transport budget.

The re-timing of buses to improve connections, along with a reduced frequency for less-used services, will save £2m by 2013, the council said. The adjusted timetables were released on November 1.

Councillor Chas Fellows, cabinet member for economy and environment, which includes transport, said: “We’ve managed to redesign a bus network which really works for passengers and helps the county council to save £2m.

“There are some real improvements among these changes and the council has worked very hard to get the best deal possible for all.”

In August, the council revealed it was removing two routes; the 612 between Bourton and Evesham and the 666 from Newent to Ross-onWye. The alterations to bus services are part of Gloucestershire County Council’s four-year programme of cuts totalling £114m.

SOUTH EAST

The managing director of the Brighton and Hove Bus and Coach Company, Roger French, has branded plans to allow bikers to use bus lanes as ‘crazy’.

The proposal was brought forward at a council meeting by lobbyists for motorcycle and scooter riders as a way to reduce inner-city congestion, after a petition by The Motorcycle Action Group (MAG) reached 800 signatures. It received tentative support from councillors, but Roger French told the Brighton Argus the plans were “neither appropriate nor suitable.”

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MAG asked for a trial run of the scheme on the A259 bus lane between Ovingdean and Newhaven, as well as the A23 bus lane, before the proposal is given the go ahead across the city. They argue the move would encourage more car owners to switch to bikes and reduce congestion and carbon emissions.

An 18 month trial of a similar proposal was launch on selected bus lanes in London in July 2010, while other trials have been carried out in Sheffield, Hull, Birmingham and Bedford.

A group of German transport professionals have visited Reading Buses to gain a firsthand insight into operations and marketing, with a special emphasis on customer service techniques, at the renowned UK municipal operator.

The seven senior executives from the German bus and tram industry chose to visit Reading for their fourth and final day in Britain.

Their four day study tour to Britain, organised by Probst Und Consorten, a consultancy firm from Dresden, was designed to take in locations in the UK which were in their view exponents of ‘best practice’ in bus operation.

James Freeman, chief executive officer of Reading Buses, said: “They were particularly impressed by our branding and marketing and also by

November 2, 2011 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 17

Coach & Bus Week takes a look at the big issues where you live in our round-up of the regions. If you’ve got a local issue you would like us to cover, contact Gareth Evans at gareth.evans@rouncymedia.co.uk.

DATES FOR YOUR DIARY

our customer service.

“The group rode on our new purple 17 BAE Systems ADL Enviro 400 Hybrid double decker buses and were impressed by the next stop information system, commenting that it was the first time they had seen the technology on a British bus.”

Stagecoach Oxfordshire has announced its 200 service will be running at an increased frequency, starting on November 28.

The improvement to the Banbury, Woodford Halse, Daventry service follows the anticipated completion of the A361 roadworks in early November, which has seen the buses diverted through the Bourtons and Cropredy since they began earlier this year.

Banbury manager Trevor Bayliss said: “We are pleased to be able to provide a faster more direct service between Daventry and Banbury.

We are aware that this may prove unpopular with residents in Cropredy, who have benefited from this diversion. However, the original route will provide a more reliable service for passengers.”

Stagecoach said the service offers “an excellent range of fares” from £5.50 return between Banbury and Woodford Halse, to 12 journey passes and season tickets providing value from as little as £2.29 per day for an Oxfordshire Megarider Gold annual pass.

2011 n November 6 Lincolnshire Road Transport Museum Open Day. Running day with stalls and opportunity to see workhops. 01522 500566. www.lvvs.org.uk n November 7-10 World Travel Market. ExCeL, London. www.wtmlondon.com n November 22 SMMT Annual Dinner. Hilton Hotel, Park Lane, London. 0808 1788818. annualdinner@smmt.co.uk n November 24 ATCO Winter Conference 2011 ‘Can a leopard change its spots?’ Local Government Association House, Smith Square, London SW1. www. atco.org.uk n November 29 UK Bus Awards.

Hilton Park Lane, London. www.ukbusawards.org.uk

2012 n January 1 King Alfred Bus Running Day. Broadway and bus station, Winchester. www.fokab.org.uk n January 14 CPT North Western Region Annual Dinner. Southport Theatre & Covention Centre. 1830 for 1900hrs – until late. Contact Phillipa Sudlow, CPT NW regional manager email phillipas@cpt-uk.org or call 01925 229497. n January 26, 2011 CPT Annual Dinner. Hilton Park Lane, London.

www.cpt-uk.org

n February 4 Mid Anglia Coach Operators Association Dinner Dance. The Bedford Lodge Hotel, Newmarket. Contact Bridget Paterson on 01638 780066 or email sales@nealstravel.com n March 14 – 15 Best of Britain and Ireland (BoBi). Travel Trade Forum. NEC, 01926 834796. www. bestofbritainandirelandevent.co.uk n March 15 Volvo Bus social evening in aid of Teenage Cancer Trust’s Warwickshire Appeal.

Century Court House, Warwick. Pam Matthews 01926 414 553 or e-mail pam.matthews@volvo.com

Staff at Lothian Buses’ Annandale depot wore pink attire on Wednesday October 26 as part of their efforts to raise money and awareness for breast cancer research. All 2,000 of the municipally-owned operator’s staff took part, wearing pink to raise money for a department at a city hospital run by breast Cancer Care. Some drivers went the extra mile in their efforts to support the cause by dying their hair pink.

Ian Craig, Lothian Buses managing director, said: “The research unit at the Western General hospital does great work and we’re confident our staff will get into the spirit by making a contribution to this fantastic charity.”

Breast Cancer Care thanked the operator for their support.

n March 18 Leyland National 40th Anniversary. Organised by the Leyland National Group, Nationals on static display and working in service.The British Commercial Vehicle Museum in Leyland. www.leylandnational group.co.uk n March 31 ‘M&D and EK 60’.

Kent Showground on the A249 near Maidstone. www.mdekbusclub.org, contact mdekbusclub@gmail.com

UK Bus Users chair Gillian Merron will be presenting the prizes at this year’s UK Bus Awards at the London Hilton on November 22 n April 14 Paul S Winson Coaches Running Day. Loughborough and local area. www.busrunningday. co.uk, contact info@busrunningday. co.uk n April 19, 2012 UK Coach Awards. Ramada Jarvis Piccadilly Hotel in Manchester, 0870 900 1450. www.ukcoachawards.co.uk n April 19-21 Busworld Turkey.

Istanbul Expo Center, Turkey. www.busworldturkey.com/en/ index.html n April 21-22 UK Coach Rally.

East of England Showground, Peterborough. 01753 631170. www.coachdisplays.co.uk n April 24-26 CV Show. NEC, Birmingham. 01634 261262. www.cvshow.com n May 22-23 ALBUM Conference.

– Forest Pines Hotel, near Brigg, North Lincolnshire. www.album-bus.co.uk n August 27 The National Association of Road Transport Museums gala day. The Transport Museum, Wythall, near Birmingham. www.wythall.org.uk n September 20-27 IAA Commercial Vehicles. Hannover. +(00)49 30897842. www.iaa.de n October 14 Midland Red Centenary of the Reintroduction of Motorbuses. The Transport Museum, Wythall, near Birmingham. www.wythall.org.uk n November 6 – 8 2012 Euro Bus Expo. NEC, Birmingham. 01926 834790. www.eurobusxpo.com

2013 n May 26-30 UITP Congress & Exhibition. Palexpo, Geneva. www.uitp.org. +(00)32 2673 6100.

Do you have an event to promote? Send details to gareth.evans@rouncymedia.co.uk www.coachandbusweek.com

RegionalNews.indd 17

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18 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 2, 2011

nEWS › TOURISM

50

Bond cars will form the ‘Bond in Motion’ exhibit at Beaulieu

BriEfly The Wembley Stadium tour gives groups the chance to relive the ground’s greatest moments as they go behind the scenes at one of the world’s most famous stadiums. The tour now includes a new Exhibition of Champions, celebrating the 56 UEFA Champions League finals from 1956 to 2011. Visitors can see the changing rooms, take photographs from some of the best views in the stadium and climb the 107 sacred trophy winner’s steps. Groups of more than 30 are eligible for 10% off standard tour price, and groups of more than 40 are eligible for a 15% discount. Call the groups line on 0844 847 2478.

Heartlands Cornwall, a new free admission visitor attraction and World Heritage Site, is set to open in Cornwall at the end of March next year.

Located between Redruth and Camborne, just three minutes from the A30 and with free on-site coach parking, Heartlands will make a great addition to a south west England tour programme.

Covering 19 acres, the £35m Big Lottery-funded development is in the heart of a former mining community and offers something for visitors of all ages and interests. Attractions include a World Heritage Site exhibition and shop, botanical gardens, park, adventure playground, art studios, galleries, café and bar. Visit www. heartlandscornwall.com for full details.

Throughout the year, the Cumberland Pencil Museum offers a programme of free demonstrations, tuition workshops and family fun days. The free demonstrations offer visitors quick and easy-to-follow steps to create a drawing, letting the whole family learn simple drawning techniques.

The tuition workships offered are run by professional artists and are a great way to improve drawing techniques or try out a new type of media or drawing style. They give the opportunity to discuss and practice drawing with colleagues and the tutor in a relaxed and informal atmosphere. Go to www. pencilmuseum.co.uk/whats-on/ to find out more. www.coachandbusweek.com

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Bond cars at Beaulieu Iconic vehicles will assemble to celebrate the 50th year of James Bond The world-famous National Motor Museum at Beaulieu, and EON Productions have announced an exciting new exhibition of 50 James Bond vehicles, known as ‘Bond in Motion’, which is to be unveiled to the public on January 18 next year.

The exhibition is the largest of its kind staged anywhere in the world. It will showcase many of the most loved and iconic James Bond vehicles in celebration of the 50th year of James Bond. Bond in Motion will run for the length of 2012 at

Beaulieu.

2012 also marks the 40th anniversary of the National Motor Museum, making it a fitting year to be hosting a major new car exhibition with some of the most familiar vehicles in film to mark 50 years since the first Bond film was released.

The Bond in Motion exhibition will feature a wide range of vehicles which have made appearances in Bond films over the years including cars, boats, motorbikes, sleds, jets and many more.

This collection of iconic movie vehicles will include the 1964 Aston Martin DB5 and the 1937

The Quantum of Solace’s Aston Martin DBS V12 can be seen at Beaulieu

Making the most of the south west Two excellent attractions in the south west, while very much different to each other, present the makings of a very enjoyable day out for any tour group.

McArthurGlen Swindon Designer Outlet hosts over 100 stores selling designer and high street brands at discounted prices, with up to 60% off all the big names.

When a group visit of greater than 20 people to Swindon Designer Outlet is booked, extra savings can be made on shopping.

Contact the centre at least 48 hours in advance of a visit and it will send a group pack providing the information needed to plan a visit.

Plus, if the group pack letter

Groups can arrange to have out-ofhours access to the Stone Circle at Stonehenge is presented at the Customer Information Desk on the day of the visit, a special 10% Discount Card for everyone on board the coach can be collected, entitling visitors to further discounts and special offers in selected stores.

A brief 45 minute drive away, Stonehenge requires almost no introduction. However, the opportunities at hand for group visits at the UNESCO World

Phantom III Rolls-Royce both from Goldfinger, the Lotus Esprit S1 affectionately nicknamed ‘Wet Nellie’ from The Spy Who Loved Me, the Bede Acrostar jet famously flown in Octopussy, the BMW 750iL from Tomorrow Never Dies, the original Parahawk featured in The World is Not Enough and the original SFX Celle Case Ski, famously navigated by Timothy Dalton in The Living Daylights.

Stephen Munn, commercial director at Beaulieu said: “2012 is going to be a very exciting year for Beaulieu. After many months of planning, the preparation of the Bond exhibition area is about to begin and the first consignment of vehicles, on their way from the USA, will be arriving in a few weeks.”

Beaulieu has a collection of over 250 vehicles telling the story of motoring on the roads of Britain from the dawn of motoring to the present day. There are historic racing cars, modern rally cars, the latest F1 machines, record breakers and family cars from every era of motoring. The museum is open every day, except Christmas Day, from 1000hrs.

For more information phone 01590 612345 or visit www.beaulieu.co.uk

Heritage Site are certainly newsworthy. Groups will be wowed

by Britain’s most remarkable and intriguing prehistoric monument, at the centre of the site.

Groups can arrange to have Stone Circle access outside of normal opening hours, making for a truly memorable experience.

Furthermore, a 10% discount is available for groups of 11 or more visitors paying together, and entry is free for the coach driver and tour leader.

To make a group booking for Swindon Designer Outlet, go to www. swindondesigneroutlet.com/ tourism/group-bookings/ and for more information on Stonehenge visit www.english-heritage. org.uk/daysout/properties/ stonehenge/. To make an outof-hours booking for the stone circle, call 01722 343834

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1612 60% Year Robert Dover’s inaugural Cotswold Olimpicks were staged

Discount available at the McArthurGlen Swindon Designer Outlet

Visit Essex’s Tourism & Leisure show in 2012

Visit Essex’s successful Tourism & Leisure Show will make a return in 2012, with many new exhibitors attending for the first time. After 17 years as the sole group travel show in the East of England, the event is still providing exhibitors with quality group travel organisers, all seeking short breaks and great days out.

The event, running from 1000 to 1530hrs on February 23, showcases attractions, destinations, coach and tour operations throughout the east and south east of the country.

As well as tourism businesses, the Taste Essex area gives visitors the chance to “try before they buy” some of the wonderful Essex produce available.

The newly refurbished Crowne Plaza Resort will do “show rounds” of the new facilities at various times throughout the day, with an opportunity to take a mini familiarisation trip to Layer Marney Tower, the UK tallest Tudor Gatehouse in the UK. To book the Marney Tower trip or for free show tickets, call Carol Jolly on 01245 435152

dEAlS OF THE WEEK The Wedgwood visitor centre and museum is set in over 240 acres in the heart of the Staffordshire countryside. A craft demonstration area showcases a selection of skills including throwing, turning, figure making and painting, ornamenting, enameling, lithography, jewellery and hand painting.

There are also have-a-go activities for visitors to experience, and factory tours for those visitors who want to get even more involved in seeing Wedgwood’s fine porcelain products being made.

Visitors have access to the world’s largest selection of Wedgwood group products, including collections exclusive to the visitor centre.

diESEl priCES

Sudeley Castle will host a Tudor-themed Katherine Parr Festival

Jubilee celebrations in Cotswolds Sudeley Castle in Winchcombe is to offer its visitors one of the most significant monarchy tourism events of the Diamond Jubilee year in 2012. The year-long celebrations at the castle to mark the 500th anniversary of Katherine Parr will also add to The Cotswolds’ other two big tourism draws next year.

The Broadway Arts Festival in The Cotswolds was inaugurated in 2010 as a celebration of the village’s artistic heritage and its enduring relationship with a world-famous colony of American artists and

For groups of 12 or larger, special-price day tickets are on offer, at £8 and adults and £7 for concessions. There is dedicated free coach parking and a range of incentives for drivers and organisers. Wedgwood is offering a Christmas meal package this year in its restaurant, with a free meal for every 10 booked. n To make a booking email bookings@wwrd.com, or phone 01782 282986. n To book a combined meal package please contact the restaurant manager on 01782 282413.

In its heyday in the late 18th century, Stowe in Buckinghamshire was the most magnificent landscape garden in Britain. Indeed, it was able to rival the grandest royal gardens of Europe.

The Temple family was the owners of Stowe, and spent a

writers who visited and worked there in the 19th century.

Regarded by some as the origin of the modern Olympic games, meanwhile, Robert Dover’s inaugural Olimpicks were first staged on a Cotswold hillside in 1612. They have survived to this day – providing a remarkable link between the Olympics of ancient Greece and the Olympic Games of today.

Sudeley Castle and neighbouring village Winchcombe are planning to welcome the world to a very special Tudor-themed Katherine Parr Festival, which coincides with the current Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012.

Visit www.cotswolds.com for additional details

The Temple of Concord and Victory in Stowe Landscape Gardens fortune creating and extending the garden to further their political ambitions. They employed the most talented architects and designers of the era, together with a small army of staff, in order to

Cost per litre in pence: Sweden Great Britain Belgium Italy Germany France Ireland Netherlands Czech Republic Greece Portugal Austria Hungary Spain Slovenia Luxembourg Poland

139.64 139.60 130.63 128.71 127.58 125.92 124.61 123.65 121.41 121.30 119.64 117.38 114.71 111.62 110.66 102.55 102.02

HOlidAy pOUnd £1 will get you: Euro 1.14 Switzerland (Franc) 1.40 Norway (Kroner) 8.83 Hungary (Forint) 348.30 Czech Republic (Koruna) 28.35 Poland (Zloty) 4.97

ensure they stayed at the forefront of gardening excellence.

A new entry point and visitor centre is to open from the New Year onwards, completely transforming visits to the world-famous gardens.

Restored buildings recreate the experience of arriving at an 18th century coaching inn, and include a new restaurant and shop which will greatly enhance garden visits.

Stowe offers a range of experiences and opportunities, including tours, catering and special rate tickets to visit Stowe House. There is ample space for parking for three coaches and a 50-cover tea room. The average length of a visit is four hours. For trip organisers, free visits around the gardens and other facilities are on offer to ensure a visit for a large group can go smoothly. n Call 01280 822850 or email stowe@nationaltrust.org.uk to organise a group visit. www.coachandbusweek.com

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nEWS › BUSINESS

£20bn

The amount medium-sized business have potential to inject into the economy by 2020

BriEfly A fee for bringing an employment tribunal will be charged for the first time from April 2013, Chancellor George Osborne has announced. There will be a refund for any individual who wins their case. The amount which will be charged and how it should be paid will be subject to consultation starting by the end of November.

There is currently no fee for an applicant who wants to make an employment tribunal claim. The low-paid, or those without an income, may also have the fee waived or reduced at the start of the process, under the new scheme.

“We are ending the one way bet against small businesses,” Mr Osborne had told the Conservative conference in Manchester.

Business Secretary Vince Cable has called on businesses to champion UK manufacturing by showing the best of British industry throughout 2012.

‘Make it in Great Britain’ is a new initiative aimed at transforming outdated opinions of UK manufacturing, in a bid to promote long term growth within the sector.

Cable said: “Despite popular belief, Britain still does make things and has outstanding manufacturing companies, large and small. Our world-beating companies have an excellent reputation for innovation.

I want our young people and those who hold outdated views of British manufacturing to see that reality.”

Business secretary Vince Cable was fined £500 after alerting Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs that he hadn’t paid sales tax on some of his earnings from media appearances and speeches. Cable’s office said today the fine related to earnings while his Liberal Democrat party was in opposition before the May 2010 election. Parliament’s register of interests shows that between March 2009 and March 2010, Cable earned £13,000 for broadcast appearances and newspaper articles. He paid additional earnings of as much as £44,000, mainly for speeches to financial institutions, to charity. The balance after tax from a £51,333 fee for a weekly newspaper column went to his local party. www.coachandbusweek.com

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Scrap unfair dismissal claims for lazy workers Unproductive workers should lose their right to claim unfair dismissal, a leaked government report says.

The report - commissioned by the prime minister - argues this would mean more capable people would replace those sacked, boosting economic growth.

The Daily Telegraph quoted the report as saying that under current rules workers are allowed to “coast along” with some proving impossible to sack. Downing Street says changes to unfair dismissal rules are “unlikely”.

Currently, workers who feel they were unfairly dismissed can make a claim after 12 months in a job.

The report - which has not been

made public - was written by Adrian Beecroft, a venture capitalist and Conservative Party donor.

The coalition government has previously stated it is committed to reforming employment laws.

Chancellor George Osborne recently announced new measures aimed at restricting the number of unfair dismissal claims. He announced that, from April 2011, an applicant must have been in their job for at least two years before being able to make a claim for unfair dismissal.

However, Mr Beecroft’s report goes further - calling for an end to unfair dismissal, a regulation that the report’s author thinks is particularly abused by some in the public sector.

There were fewer than a million unfair dismissal claims last year which was “absolutely nothing” out of a large workforce, said Sarah Veale, TUC head of the equality and employment rights

‘Forgotten army’ holds key to future UK growth, says CBI Medium-sized businesses are the UK’s “forgotten army”, too long overlooked by government but with the potential to inject between £20bn and £50bn into the economy by 2020, according to the CBI. Firms with a turnover of between £10m and £100m represent less than 1% of businesses but generate 22% of economic revenue and 16% of all jobs.

The CBI has published a report, ‘Future Champions: unlocking growth in the UK’s medium-sized businesses’, which uses new analysis conducted with the help of McKinsey & Company.

The CBI is calling for a broader range of finance to be made available to medium-sized businesses (MSBs). With banks’ lending constrained, these firms

The Daily Telegraph says a final draft of the document, dated 12 October 2011, argues the first major issue for British enterprise is “the terrible impact of the current unfair dismissal rules on the efficiency and hence competitiveness of our businesses, and on the effectiveness and cost of our public services.”

Mr Cameron and others in the cabinet are considering the recommendations.

But Downing Street sources told BBC political correspondent Robin Brant no decisions had been made, and added it is “unlikely we would go further on unfair dismissal”.

Sarah Veale, head of the equality and employment rights department at the TUC, described the proposals as “profoundly unjust” and said Mr Cameron should “throw the report straight in the bin”.

“We think it’s offensive to huge numbers of hard-working people and actually I would also think it was offensive to the majority of employers who treat their staff fairly,” Ms Veale told BBC Radio 4’s Today programme.

“I really do wish that the government would stop going on about how if you reduce employment protection laws somehow it will make the economy boom again and create growth - it’s absolute rubbish.”

There were less than a million unfair dismissal claims last year which was “absolutely nothing” out of a large workforce, said Ms Veale. can no longer rely solely on bank lending for long-term growth capital to invest in their companies.

John Cridland, CBI directorgeneral, said: “MSBs are truly a forgotten army, and now is the time to unlock their potential.

“We should be championing, nurturing and encouraging our medium-sized firms so that more of them grow and create jobs. For too long these companies, which could inject tens of billions of pounds into our economy, have fallen under the radar of policymakers.

“I want the UK to have its own

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30%

The proportion of the UK’s manufacturing base represented by mid-sized firms

November 2, 2011 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 21

£84m

Cost to the taxpayer of running employment tribunals and the Employment Appeal Tribunal in England, Wales and Scotland

Concern over local authorities keeping business rates A rush toward ill-thought out development to generate quick revenue will damage regions in the long run, the Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) has said in its consultation response to a government review.

The Local Government Resource Review, which looks at the way local authorities in England are financed, proposes that councils will be able to keep the additional business rates they generate through economic growth. More businesses would mean a greater amount of income for the region.

While the FSB is supportive of a system which incentivises local councils to prioritise business growth, it is imperative any incentive encourages small business growth, not just largescale developments especially out of town developments.

However, the FSB is concerned that the incentive system could actually deter local authorities from promoting and utilising the reliefs

The aim of the scheme should be to encourage councils to promote long term sustainable economic growth, says the FSB’s John Walker version of the German “Mittelstand” - a backbone of medium-sized firms which export, innovate and generate growth. These future champions would help the UK weather unexpected economic shocks, and act as a new engine for growth.”

“To achieve extra growth, medium-sized firms must have access to new kinds of finance.

This means opening UK bond markets to MSBs, encouraging use of venture capital, and making it easier for large companies to invest in medium ones, possibly in their supply chains.”

BusinessNews.indd 21

available to small businesses such as small business rate relief, rural rate relief and hardship relief.

The current proposal suggests benchmarking the amount of relief a local authority currently grants at the start of the scheme, with councils receiving the same amount each year until the system is reset, regardless of how much extra they award to help small businesses.

It would mean that a local authority would lose out on income if it increased the proportion of businesses that received rate relief or would make money if the number of businesses able to get relief fell.

To avoid this, FSB has proposed that there should be an annual rebate process, where the amount awarded would be reconciled with the year one baseline figure. The local authority would then either receive payment for the additional relief it has awarded, or have to pay back any excess to the treasury if it awarded less.

Councils should also be rewarded for increasing the number of small businesses in their area by creating a small business bonus scheme similar to the proposed new homes bonus. This could be funded out of the business rates revenue surplus projected to emerge from 2012.

John Walker, national chairman of the FSB, said: “The whole focus of this scheme should be to encourage councils to promote long term sustainable economic growth. This can only be done if it is built upon a bedrock of stronger small businesses and through encouraging the creation of new firms.”

CBI director-general John Cridland says he wants the UK to have its own version of the German “Mittelstand”

reading Buses use strong colour branding such as their jetblack service

BLOG of the week

A QUiCK GUidE On HOW tO BACK yOUr BrAnd

Branding is one of those areas in business that remains inspiring purely because its definition, thankfully, does not preside in a box, yet we know somehow we are all part of the realisation of this evolving concept, says Leanne Jory - communications manager for MiX Telematics International - on www. mixchatter.com WhAT’S In A BrAnd? A brand has been described as a set of promises in the mind of the consumer; it’s also been defined as an organisation’s reputation, or personality.

Blackcoffee, brand management and design consultancy, describes a brand as “an experience living at the intersection of promise and expectation.” Here are some tips on getting started in your efforts to ‘Back Your Brand’…

A useful way of understanding the importance of branding is to view it as the golden thread which runs seamlessly across all aspects of your business: from the way we run our daily activities and the way we build our relationships with suppliers and partners, to the experience end-users have of our products and services. Be mindful of the benefits you promote and whether or not they match and live up to your customers’ expectations.

Another powerful tool is to be aware of how different departments and employees contribute to the building of a powerful brand.

I know what you’re thinking…

‘Easier said than done.’ This is true. When it comes to the real

thing, there are many obstacles that threaten the building of a strong brand. Strong internal communication, buy-in from senior management, sufficient resources and some type of measurement strategy are key ingredients to keep in mind when deciding to embark on a formal brand strategy.

When it comes to branding, a good starting point (ironically) is the end result. Look at the value you deliver to customers. Be aware of perceived value versus real value and stay alert to the fact the needs of end-users change constantly, and so will their idea of the value they’re receiving.

Find ways to talk and listen to ALL your stakeholders, while planning an effective followthrough. Everyone on-board has something to offer – some kind of direct or indirect link to the customer. Use innovative internal communication to get everyone involved and motivated in improving and realising new and revised brand objectives.

Embarking on a brand assessment initiative is almost always an exciting step in the right direction. Back your brand and benefit from the many hidden opportunities that lie just beneath the surface!

Leanne’s passion for branding is supported by experience in the fields of internal and external communication. Industries in which Leanne has gained experience include technology, logistics and advertising. Follow Leanne on Twitter @LeanneJory www.coachandbusweek.com

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ESSENTIAL GUIDE

› training

The skills to succeed This week Coach and Bus Week’s Essential Guide takes a detailed look at the world of driver training in the coach and bus industry. The current focus of training organisations centres on bringing all PCV drivers up to the required CPC qualification level, but don’t forget engineering staff who can progress via IRTE. www.coachandbusweek.com

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D

riving is a rewarding profession, though piloting a PCV of any size or variety is a great responsibility.

Buses and coaches are some of the largest vehicles on the road; driving them requires a great degree of situational awareness. In addition to this passengers, almost always being paying customers, will also expect a comfortable journey and a friendly, helpful service.

Good driver training will succeed in imparting the necessary skills into a trainee driver, allowing him or her to drive safely, confidently and reliably.

After completing their vocational qualification, new drivers must take what is known as the Driver Certificate of Professional Competence (CPC). This is a qualification for LGV and PCV drivers who drive professionally throughout the UK. It was developed as a requirement of the

EU Directive 2003/59 which is designed to improve the knowledge and skills of professional LGV and PCV drivers throughout their career.

The CPC performs three key tasks. It improves the knowledge and skills of drivers before they begin driving, develops their knowledge and skills throughout their working life, and improves road safety through better-qualified drivers being on the road.

The initial Driver CPC qualification is split into four parts: test (multiple-choice 1 Theory and hazard perception) studies presenting 2 Case relevant scenarios examination of 3 Practical driving ability safety demonstration 4 Vehicle daily check procedures Drivers must pass all four parts to be able to drive professionally.

Existing PCV drivers must complete their Periodic Training by September 2013.

New drivers who acquire a

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PCV vocational entitlement (D1, D1+E, D, D+E licence) after the 10 September 2008 will have to obtain the Initial Qualification in addition to their licence to drive professionally. Existing PCV drivers who held a vocational licence prior to the 10 September 2008 are exempt from the Initial Qualification. This is known as “acquired rights.”

In recent changes to legislation, it is not a requirement for all professional drivers (new and existing drivers) to complete a total of 35 hours Periodic Training every 5 years following their “acquired rights” or Initial Qualification to keep their Driver CPC valid. For more information on the Driver CPC, visit http://www.drivercpc. org/en/home/.

There is a massive range of companies offering training services for PCV drivers. The style and methods of teaching naturally vary, though the ultimate goal will always be the awarding of the CPC to a driver.

Companies from across the UK have contributed to this week’s essential guide which is dedicated to training. Between them, they possess a wealth of experience, and explain their products and services to help bring current and potential drivers up to speed on the fundamentals of the training process.

AA DRIVETECH

On the basis of a driver needing to undertake mandatory Driver CPC training, why wouldn’t they select the best possible quality of course available, providing the cost was competitive?

After all they may as well get something out of it, something that gives both the driver and their employer an edge. Otherwise it’s a wasted opportunity to add to their skill set and increase their employability.

There are no such fears though if a driver chooses a Driver CPC course from AA DriveTech, the

specialist commercial driver training arm of the AA. The AA is the largest and most experienced provider of cradle to grave driver training in the country and is a brand that drivers of all persuasions know and trust.

AA DriveTech’s Academy has devised a range of Driver CPC courses which should provide something of value for even the most experienced professional driver.

Full Day Courses: Safe Culture Workshop: The commercial and social benefits of everybody in an

“AA DriveTech’s Driver CPC courses can be delivered at customers’ premises or through open sessions at a number of regional centres.”

organisation being committed to driver safety Speed Control Workshop: The facts surrounding, and benefits of, proactive speed management Urban Driving Workshop: Covers all the safety and regulatory concerns whilst operating in an urban environment Customer Service Workshop: Developing customer carerelated skills specifically for the PCV driver Real World Training Course: Defensive driving techniques tailored to the everyday working environment Economy Driving Course: A practical training course helping to make every litre count, without compromising journey times Half Day Courses: Tachograph and Driver’s Hours Workshop: An abbreviated review of legislative requirements, their raison d’être and procedures for

www.coachandbusweek.com

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ESSENTIAL GUIDE

› training

compliance Economy Driving Workshop: Classroom-based but still crammed full of hints and tips to help make every litre of fuel go further Mobile Phone Workshop: The truth behind the danger of using a mobile phone inappropriately Vehicle Checks and Effective Loading Workshop: Everything you need to know to ensure your vehicle and passengers are always safe and secure Good Samaritan Workshop: Equipping all drivers with the ability to react correctly when first on the scene at a road collision Reversing and Manoeuvring Course: Improving technique in the most common collision scenario AA DriveTech’s Driver CPC courses can be delivered at customers’ premises or through open sessions at a number of regional centres.

T: 0845 345 9626 E: drivercpc@AAdrivetech.

com W: www.aadrivetech.com/ drivercpc/index.asp

MOTTS TRAVEL Motts Travel of Aylesbury, Buckinghamshire understand the importance of training within any company. This is why we invest so much time and money into training and developing our drivers; from newly-qualified PCV licence holders to existing experienced licence holders who need refresher courses.

In 2006, we appointed Darrell Minett as training manager to oversee the training and development of our staff, specifically our drivers.

We are committed to continually improving the standard of our drivers’ professional capabilities in order to provide superb coach hire solutions for our customers. All our drivers are periodically assessed, to ensure we work to a high standard and understand the importance of the legalities within the driving profession.

We provide nationally recognised qualifications to our own drivers but also to other organisations.

Operators will improve their businesses by investing in their drivers’ training and development.

Courses on offer include www.coachandbusweek.com

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Motts Travel offers driver CPC courses, customer care, disability awareness, tacho training and much more customer care/disability awareness, drivers’ hours and emergency situations, emergency first aid at work, essential information for continental coach driving, personal health and wellbeing, safe fuel efficient driving and tachograph training.

A printable version of all the training courses on offer can be found at www.mottstravel.com/ training_50_3775366801.pdf Motts Travel’s trainers are not just qualified CPC trainers; they also have the crucial industry experience which adds real value to compulsory training.

All Motts courses are designed and delivered by Industry professionals to give maximum value for money to every CPC trainee. Beyond this, Motts offers fantastic discounts for group bookings. Just get in touch with Darrell Minett at the following number.

T: 01296 390193 E: darrellm@mottstravel.com W: www.mottstravel.com/ training/

GAP TRAINING LTD The requirement for Driver CPC is not going away - this is the message which VOSA is trying to get across to operators and drivers who have yet to engage with training ahead of the September 2013 deadline. The

“Gap Training’s collision reduction accident prevention course has led to significant reductions in insurance claims for one customer.” haulage sector deadline is 2014, but their sector skills council is already warning there is a ‘real danger of a last minute surge in demand for training’.

Leaving training until the last minute is of no benefit to drivers or operators – who run a real risk of not being able to work from 10 September 2013 due to a lack of legally qualified drivers. There is a mistaken belief that doing the training early means it lasts for five years from the date it is undertaken; this is not so. Acquired rights cover existing drivers until September 2013 – training commenced now will cover drivers for five years from September 2013.

The other risk is demand for training will likely outstrip supply, leading to sharp increases in the cost of acquiring the DQC as the deadline approaches. By starting DCPC training now, operators could actually save money.

It is understandable when the cost of everything is going up and

the only thing coming down is the fuel rebate, that bus and coach firms are reluctant to spend money on something which may not appear to bring any benefit to the company; however, good quality training delivered by experienced trainers can actually save operators money. For example, Gap Training’s collision reduction accident prevention course has led to significant reductions in insurance claims for one customer.

Customer service is at the heart of the coach and bus industry; as one driver recently noted; ‘It is good to refresh our knowledge about what we do. We may have forgotten some of the things we learned a long time ago.”

Gap Training has recently held talks with representatives from disabled groups who made it clear that a major barrier to using public transport is a general lack of awareness of how to help passengers with disabilities. The company’s disability awareness course addresses these issues and aims to help dispel uncertainty about the right and wrong way to offer assistance.

Customers who have a positive experience of travelling with operators are customers who come back – so investing in customer service training is important.

Gap Training’s health & safety and legislation courses make complex topics such as the

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ESSENTIAL GUIDE

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Novadata offers nationwide multi-discipline transport consultancy and a comprehensive range of training courses working time directive, drivers’ hours and tachograph rules as straightforward as possible, giving drivers a clear understanding of how legislation affects them.

The company runs DCPC courses in its York and Gateshead centres, but it is happy to travel to customers anywhere in the UK. Gap Training is flexible in its delivery times, and wherever possible, will work around the needs of operators.

The firm’s message is simple: “Good training is an investment and can bring real benefits to your company.”

T: Gateshead - 0191 4956235 York - 01904 424730 E: info@gap-training.co.uk W: www.gap-training.com

OMNIBUS TRAINING Over the past decade Omnibus Training Ltd has been at the forefront of the road transport industry. We were instrumental in formulating the Workforce Development Plan for the industry, which led to the development of the occupational standards upon which the NVQ qualifications are based.

We are an approved centre for the delivery of the new Drivers CPC training programme and have been recognised as an example of best practice by awarding bodies, having won the Learning and Skills Council London West ‘Champions of www.coachandbusweek.com

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“Omnibus Training Ltd are experts at funded training, providing costeffective training packages to meet the needs of your organisation.”

Learning’ award.

We have provided small and large organisations with training and support services throughout the UK, predominantly in the Greater London area, striving to make learning an enjoyable and rewarding experience for all learners. We have successfully delivered to over 6,000 employees.

Working with our network of employers has enabled us to offer a range of qualifications leading to the continued professional development of drivers, driver trainers, support staff, and management in the road transport industry. We have the single highest achievement ratio from registration to qualifications.

Omnibus Training Ltd are experts at funded training, providing costeffective training packages to meet the needs of your organisation.

All our courses are bespoke developed with the employer to ensure minimum disruption to daily activities whilst maintaining levels of support to ensure quality

of success. Classroom activities can be delivered at one of our local training sites or at the employer’s workplace.

Omnibus Training Ltd has a strong commitment to the safeguarding of all its learners and staff are required to share this commitment. Training Venue takes place at the Omnibus training offices in Croydon, in a drivers’ workplace or at a convenient venue closer to the workplace. The duration of training is five one-day courses of seven hours. For cost details, contact Omnibus. Part funding may be available, subject to contract terms and conditions.

T: 020 3006 7259 E: enquiries@omnibusltd.com W: www.omnibusltd.com

NOVADATA TRANSPORT TRAINING Novadata is one of the country’s leading providers of transport training, resources, services and products. We operate a nationwide multi-disciplinary transport consultancy with a first class reputation for training. At Novadata, we are continuously striving to exceed today’s drivers’ needs including planning and innovating for the needs of tomorrow.

Novadata has been providing transport training for over 20 years. Our courses are tailored to suit all levels of transport personnel. The structured one

day and half-day courses can be held at your company offices or at one of our training facilities. Both, practical and theoretical topics are covered throughout all the courses, certification and follow up assessments are also conducted for candidates, as required.

Not only do we run an extensive range of Driver CPC courses but we also offer Management CPC. Other courses available to managers include; Operator licence undertakings and drivers hours law & tachographs. The latter teaches drivers the correct use of popular digital tachograph systems and highlights the differences between the various manufacturers and models. Additionally it introduces them to the latest products to the market which conform to the new legislation (including the new One-minute rule and easier manual entries).

Our highly popular Driver CPC week offers drivers the opportunity to complete their 35 hours by attending a different courses each day, Monday to Friday. These courses are run to coincide with school holidays to suit many bus and coach operators.

Our trainers, specialist transport consultants and legal advisers have been carefully selected to offer an unrivalled combination of experience and expertise.

T: 01376 552999 E: enquiries@novadata.co.uk W: www.novadata.co.uk/index.htm

CLASS ONE DRIVER TRAINING Class One of Craigavon, County Armagh, offer comprehensive commercial training to drivers of all categories of vehicles, including coaches, buses and minibuses.

With 26 years of knowledge and an experienced team of staff, Class One is proud to train drivers from across Northern Ireland to a high standard.

The family-run Joint Approvals Unit for Periodic Training (JAUPT)certified training centre has succeeded in developing a trusted reputation through an

“Class One offer to teach drivers offsite, at a discount, if an operator has the appropriate facilities available for training.”

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excellent pass rate, and it is often the case for drivers to return to take extra qualifications or renew them after having a good initial experience with Class One. Training days for coach and bus drivers are run monthly at a cost of £60 per day. Included in the cost is the registration fee and trainer drivers are made to feel comfortable with price-inclusive food and refreshments throughout the day.

Class One are keen to impart awareness of Driver CPC training into drivers coming to take their tests, even if a CPC qualification is not their primary ambition when taking a training course.

From 2014, professional drivers of all vehicles must complete a total of 35 hours periodic training every five years to keep their Driver CPC valid. This new legislation will apply even to drivers who acquired a vocational licence before the last round of legislation made a Driver CPC a requirement for new drivers.

Class One are concerned by the number of drivers that are totally unaware of these changes. As such, the company does its best to remind drivers of their obligations and offers the opportunity to take a CPC test early to avoid later complications, ensuring they are not left in a difficult situation in the future.

It may at times be the case for travel operators to be unable to allow a driver to leave work for a prolonged time to take training in Craigavon. For added flexibility, Class One offers to teach drivers off-site, at a discount, if an operator has the appropriate facilities available for training, with out-ofhours Saturday and Sunday training being a further option. Contact Ken Irwin on 07850 003838 for price information.

T: 02838 345 670 E: reben@talktalk.net W: www.classonehgv-lgv.co.uk

INSTITUTE OF ROAD TRANSPORT ENGINEERS The Institute of Road Transport Engineers (IRTE) is supporting engineering professionals in the vital bus and coach sector, with a suite of membership and technician licensing opportunities, as well as producing the IRTE Skills Challenge 2012.

One of the most respected names in the industry, the IRTE has partnerships with leading www.coachandbusweek.com

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“The IRTE Skills Challenge 2012 is inviting operators to enter its engineers into the team and individual categories of the competition.” companies and training providers, and can work with employers and individuals to develop, recognise and highlight competence to peers, customers and the public.

Training and development, leading magazines, events, an online resource and access to a wealth of networking opportunities are just some of the benefits members and Industry/Academic Partners receive. And with decades of experience in representing and supporting the careers of engineering professionals, from apprentices to company directors, the IRTE has become the first port of call for those in the bus and coach industry wanting to progress.

Illustrating this, the IRTE, as part of the Society of Operations Engineers (SOE), has registered more members at EngTech level with the Engineering Council than any other professional engineering institution for the past five years.

Similarly, the IRTE’s technicianlicensing scheme, irtec, is also going from strength to strength, with operators and training providers nationwide using the irtec Licence to recognise and reward the competence of PCV technicians.

Available at different levels, with a marked route of progression, irtec firmly demonstrates the skills of licence holders.

More excitingly for the entire sector is the recent launch of the IRTE Skills Challenge 2012. Specifically aimed at engineers in the bus and coach industry, the first IRTE Skills Challenge was a runaway success.

Now, aiming to return bigger and better, the competition is already getting lots of attention from both press and industry, as it strives to celebrate the people that keep the country moving.

The IRTE Skills Challenge 2012 is now inviting operators to enter its engineers into the team and individual categories of the competition. This year, sponsored by Allison Transmission, Bridgestone, Knorr-Bremse and Shell FuelSave Diesel, the practical elements of the

challenge are based upon the irtec assessments and will take place at S&B Automotive Academy in Bristol.

Finally, winners will be announced during a ceremony in July 2012, where they will be presented with some fantastic prizes generously donated by Halfords Trade. The 2011 event saw operators big and small compete, with the finalists and winners coming from Arriva North West & Wales, First Glasgow, Go-Ahead London, Ipswich Buses Ltd and Northern Ireland operator Translink, who scooped two of the top prizes.

Gerry Fleming, engineering training manager for another of last year’s big winners, Go-Ahead London, recently said the IRTE Skills Challenge is “not just a competition between operators. It is an important stepping stone in informing the general public of the high standards we as operators are required to meet, and for us to reinforce the confidence the travelling public put in us and our vehicles, to get them to where they want to be.”

T: 020 7630 1111 E: soe@soe.org.uk W: www.soe.org.uk

PHOENIX TRAINING Phoenix Training was founded over 25 years ago as the training wing of Phoenix Transport, one of the largest providers of Local Authority contract transport services in North Wales. Its remit was to deliver professional and accredited training to the growing number of Phoenix employees as there was a lack of available and accredited training from existing companies.

The training gained a strong reputation for depth and quality and we were soon being asked by other authorities to provide a similar service to resolve their own training needs. The success of the training arm meant we quickly outgrew Phoenix Transport to the extent we are now an independent organisation.

Phoenix Training has a body of professional and experienced

Ken offers training for:-

Minibus (D1), Minibus & Trailer (D1E), Coach/Bus (D), 7.5 Ton Lorry (C1), 7.5 Ton & Trailer (C1E), Rigid (C), Artic (CE), Car & Trailer (BE).

We do training for all of the above including the Show Me Tell Me training.

Class One Driver Training 2 The Glebe, Portadown, BT63 5HN Tel: 02838 345670 / 07850 003838 / 07808 808013

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“Phoenix Training has a body of professional and experienced staff skilled in passenger transport service provision.” staff skilled in passenger transport service provision. We provide training manuals and training; corporate risk assessment reviews, route monitoring, individual transport assessments amongst many other services to authorities throughout the UK and have been successfully doing so for the past twenty years.

Phoenix is a leading accredited and independent UK based consultancy providing professional services to Local Authorities and Governmental agencies. We are there to help drivers become aware of and understanding the risk, meet the duty of care and reinforce the confidence of users and providers.

Phoenix Training is offering, via its dedicated EasyCPC.com website, two days of Driver CPC periodic training starting at £35 a day, and will guarantee this price for the training content until 2013. Easy CPC are a leading independent training company for “after test” Driver CPC periodic training for the vocational driver.

We have been training Driver CPC subjects for over 20 years for the municipal and commercial markets. With 19 established driver CPC training venues in England, Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, drivers are never much more than 50 miles from a driver CPC periodic training centre.

Courses are available ‘off the peg’ or bespoke to fit relevant needs, with evening and weekend courses available.

T: 01745 870456 E: john@phoenixtraining.

co.uk W: www.phoenixtraining.co.uk, www.easycpc.com

BOURNVILLE COLLEGE As a result of EU directives affecting LGV and PCV drivers, Bournville College is now offering the Driver CPC qualification to meet the demand and help organisations to improve the knowledge and skills of their drivers throughout the course of their careers.

The programme is accredited by JAUPT and designed to complement the individual driver’s work.

The programme covers modules including health & safety with manual handling, driver’s hours and tachographs, fuel efficient driving,

“In addition to Driver CPC, Bournville College also offers other corporate training packages and staff development programmes.”

customer service and emergency first aid, making it very relevant to a driver’s every day job.

Bournville College understands the necessity to be able to deliver this training flexibly to suit each organisation’s needs and therefore is able to offer this training at a company’s premises or its own brand new £66 million campus in Longbridge, Birmingham.

In addition to Driver CPC, Bournville College also offers other corporate training packages and staff development programmes.

Some of them include the NVQ Diploma in Passenger Carrying Vehicles (Level 2) and diplomas in customer service or administration and IT skills.

Debbie Small, Driver CPC Coordinator at Bournville College, commented: “Bournville College understands in the current economic climate it is even more important to offer cost-effective training solutions to organisations.

Our expert staff are able to access and deliver a

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range of funding options that may be available to deliver an organisation’s training” To discuss Driver CPC, or Transport related qualifications please contact Debbie Small directly on 07513 469154 or debra.cts@gmail.com.

Alternatively for any other training and development needs of your organisation, please contact the business development team at Bournville College on 0121 477 1400 or bdt@bournville.ac.uk.

T: 07513 469154, 0121 477 1400 E: debra.cts@gmail.com, bdt@bournville.ac.uk W: www.bournville.ac.uk

WESTERN TRAINING SERVICES Western Training Services (WTS) is the premier training centre for the passenger and freight transport and construction industries in the South West. WTS provides crucial training

to ensure legal requirements and continual best practice are upheld.

WTS’s expertise in these areas has been recognised and accredited by a number of governing and industry-led bodies. These include JAUPT, Department for Transport, Driving Standards Agency and OCR Examinations.

Western Training Services has added coach driver training to the portfolio of courses it offers from its training centre in Exeter, Devon.

Western Training Services, based at the Matford Business Centre on the Marsh Barton Industrial Estate, opened earlier this year to offer online testing for a range of courses and accreditations required by haulage and passenger vehicle drivers and construction site workers.

Its range of courses include Driver CPC and ADR testing, as well as Association of Lorry Loaders Manufacturers & Importers (ALLMI), Construction Plant Competence Scheme (CPCS), Construction Skills Certifications

“WTS has added coach driver training to the portfolio of courses it offers from its training centre in Exeter, Devon.”

Scheme (CSCS), Independent Training Standards Scheme and Register (ITSSAR), Dangerous Goods Safety Advisers (DGSA) and first aid qualifications.

Western Training Services also offers large goods vehicle (LGV) training and has recently added passenger carrying vehicle (PCV) training to its course list too.

Western Training Services training manager Daniel Lavery said: “We are now able to offer coach driving training and have recently helped two new drivers pass their tests on their first attempt. We provide a coach specifically for training purposes and look forward to welcoming

more learner drivers to Western Training Services driving school.”

In addition, the UK’s largest coach drivers’ agency, The Freelance Coach Drivers Team, has selected Western Training Services as its preferred training provider in a deal worth around £90k a year.

Del Haggerty, of The Freelance Team based in Exeter, said: “We use a couple of instructors around the country, however for simplicity, and following drivers’ feedback and understanding; the Freelance Coach Drivers Team decided to use solely Western Training Services as its dedicated training provider which we will treat as part of our in house team. The feedback from drivers has been very positive and their new coach driver training facility will only strengthen this bond.”

T: 0845 894 0844 E: info@westerntraining services.co.uk W: www.westerntraining services.co.uk/contact/

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THE BIG PICTURE

The Setra S431DT is without doubt an attractive double-decker coach, making an impressive sight out on the road. The example pictured here is sporting branding commemorating the renowned German manufacturer’s 60th anniversary, which it is celebrating this year. While the S431DT is not available in right-hand drive, it would be wrong to dismiss the vehicle as being of no relevance to UK readers. Indeed, a number of the type are in service as band buses with UK operators. Perhaps highlighting the popularity of the S431DT among such operators, an example was memorably displayed on the Setra stand at last year’s Euro Bus Expo in Birmingham. As reported in CBW at the time, Coventry-based Evobus UK supplied the coach to Phoenix Bussing of Romsey in Hampshire.

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UpdAtE› tsc report

Lip service from the DfT on bus cuts?

The government has now responded to the Transport Select Committee’s report into local bus services and the impact the Spending Review will have on them. While the DfT agrees with many of the TSC’s conclusions, operators shouldn’t expect any decisive moves to help.

Coach & Bus Week’s Meera Rambissoon reports

T

he Department for Transport has defended the way it has dealt with the reduction of BSOG, in its response to the Transport Select Committee’s (TSC’s) inquiry into bus services after the Spending Review.

Commenting on the response which was published last week, committee chair, Louise Ellman said: “Our inquiry examined the initial impacts of cuts in spending on supported bus services this year. The reduction in services already seen will only get worse as the deeper cuts in funding take effect next year. It’s vital the government maps the impact of these cuts properly and publishes the information it gathers.”

Ellman continued: “It’s also crucial the Department for Transport (DfT) actively encourages local authorities and integrated transport authorities to use the provisions of the Local Transport Act as a means to make better use of limited resources, especially in areas where ‘supported services’ are under threat.”

A local Merseyside newspaper said the TSC chair had condemned the ongoing threat to vital bus links, including the number 1 LiverpoolRuncorn route and school runs.

She was reported as saying: “The government needs to understand

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these cuts will hit deprived families and the elderly the hardest, undermining its own policies on jobs, education and carbon emissions.”

Impact of the Spending Review

Acknowledging the inevitability of deeper cuts to tendered services, the TSC recommended DfT and the Local Government Association (LGA) implement its recommendations “as a matter of urgency.” It also asked for confirmation showing lessons have been learned from the mistakes made during the current round of cuts to bus services, and warned

Louise Ellman, Labour/Co-operative Party MP for Liverpool Riverside says it is vital for the government to map the impact of cuts to supported bus services and publish this information

the combined impact of funding changes will, in some parts of the country, have an adverse impact on the provision of local bus services and the level of bus fares. Some of the most vulnerable people in society, including the elderly, will be most affected by these changes, the TSC emphasised.

The department said: “Good bus services can contribute to both the government’s key transport priorities: creating growth and cutting carbon. We understand buses are a lifeline for many people in both rural and urban areas providing access to jobs, schools, health care and social activities.”

The DfT said this is why it staggered the 20% BSOG reduction: “This 20% reduction, after a notice period of 16 months, represents a manageable impact on bus operators and passengers, when compared with reductions to budgets elsewhere.

“The government does not accept the committee’s criticism of its handling of reductions in BSOG. Every sector has had to play its part in reducing the budget deficit we have inherited. After the spending review was announced, the industry itself said it felt able to absorb this reduction without raising fares or cutting services.

However, we recognise the recent local authority funding settlement has been challenging.”

The DfT acknowledged rural

areas appear to have been particularly vulnerable to such re-prioritisation of funding but added: “Nonetheless, it should be recognised, even in rural counties like Devon, less than a quarter of journeys are made on supported services. This means over three quarters are made on commercial services unaffected by any budget reductions local authorities may be implementing.

“Despite these concerns, the government maintains local authorities must be free to make their own decisions about the provision of local bus services.”

The DfT agreed it needs to gain a better understanding of the overall impact of decisions taken by local authorities with respect to the tendered bus networks in their own areas. It said it is now working with ATCO to collate such information across England.

In response to a call for the

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DfT to identify best practice, to be disseminated by the LGA, the department pointed out best practice is not always universally applicable due to the variance of budgetary pressures and local circumstances from area to area.

It did pledge to work with ATCO to identify examples of local authorities which have “responded innovatively to these pressures to provide a cost-effective, flexible mix of integrated local transport services”.

“Defra is also ensuring the government’s key transport programmes and policies fully account for the needs and aspirations of rural communities,” said the DfT. “In addition, Defra alongside DfT, is developing research to investigate the state of the rural community transport sector and how rural communities are responding positively to deliver innovative local community

DfTresponse.indd 35

“The government does not accept the committee’s criticism of its handling of reductions in BSOG. Every sector has had to play its part in reducing the budget deficit we have inherited.”

Above: The DfT says it will work with operators and local authorities to understand where guidance on concessionary fares can be improved to ensure reimbursement is fair for both parties

transport services.”

The DfT noted the Competition Commission has indicated that one of its remedies to address barriers to entry into the market may be through updated guidance to local authorities on tendering for bus services. “We therefore wait for such remedies to be confirmed before making any further comments.”

Regarding a suggested new approach towards BSOG, the DfT welcomed the committee’s support for the government’s decision “to review BSOG more widely.”

However, it stressed: “The purpose of the review is not to identify further savings in government support for buses beyond those already announced.

“Instead we are looking at whether the current approach to distribution of available funding is the most appropriate and effective one. In reviewing BSOG, we will

work closely with the bus industry, local Government and passenger representatives to understand the impact of possible changes to the existing arrangements, including how payments are currently targeted and distributed.” The department said it aims to complete the review in March next year.

Consultation with local communities

Local people should have the opportunity to give their views on the relative importance of different bus services and to suggest innovative approaches, the TSC said. The committee also recommended the department task Passenger Focus to develop a ‘consultation toolkit’ within the next six months for local authorities, with best practice guidance on “meaningful consultation processes with local communities about bus service proposals.” www.coachandbusweek.com

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The LGA should disseminate this guidance to local authorities prior to budgetary preparations for the 2012-13 financial year.

Welcoming the toolkit recommendation, the DfT said Passenger Focus has started work on it. The DfT also welcomed the recommendation for operators to be as open as possible about changes to services before they occur but will first await the Competition Commission’s final report “which may contain changes in the way bus services are registered”.

Community transport

The TSC said evidence suggests community transport schemes are unlikely to replace more than a small fraction of withdrawn local authority-subsidised bus services.

The DfT said government “certainly sees a role for community transport in filling gaps left by the withdrawal of commercial and supported bus services”, hence the £10m community transport fund, which the TSC had welcomed.

“Recent figures from VOSA suggest this is already happening, with the number of section 22 community bus permits issued each year increasing significantly.”

In 2010/11, 114-permits were issued; over 90-permits have been issued so far this year [since April 1 to end of September 2011].

Between April 2007 and March 2010, only 40 section 22, community bus permits were issued in total. There are around 160 registered bus routes in England and Wales run by CT organisations under a section 22 community bus permit.

The government is also keen to encourage a more sustainable operating model for community transport, making the sector less reliant on public subsidy. The DfT said it is working closely with the Community Transport Association (CTA) and has part-funded its Rural Social Enterprise Programme, which aims to establish and embed social enterprise in rural community transport, allowing organisations to become financially sustainable. The DfT agrees with the committee’s conclusion the community transport sector should be developed in tandem with conventional bus services and will look to work alongside the LGA and CTA to support the dissemination of examples of best practice.

However, the department

The DfT acknowledges the benefits which partnerships between local authorities and operators have brought to bus services said extending the statutory concessionary travel scheme to a wider range of community transport services would be prohibitively expensive, and would raise wider policy questions.

“The government feels the current approach, which allows travel concession authorities the discretion to extend their concessionary travel schemes to include community transport services in response to local needs, remains the most sensible option,” said the DfT. On the TSC encouraging local authorities and ITAs to use the

comment

provisions within the Local Transport Act as means to achieve better working partnership, the DfT whole-heartedly agreed. “We have seen in places like Brighton, Oxford, Birmingham and, most recently, Sheffield, how when local authorities and bus operators come together in partnership, passengers benefit from improvements to bus services, from real-time information at bus stops to integrated timetables and ticketing. Statutory partnerships, such as those in Nottingham, Barnsley, Bath and most recently Liverpool can also lock in quality standards in both roadside infrastructure and the onboard passenger experience.”

The DfT said it encourages greater partnership working and coordination of demand responsive vehicles and drivers for community transport.

Concessionary travel scheme

The DfT sees a role for Community Transport in bridging the gaps left between cuts to bus services, both supported and commercial, while evidence suggests this role will be limited, according to the TSC

A disappointing but not surprising damp squib

I find the government response highly uninspiring and actually quite frustrating. The department does not seem to have anything tangible or helpful to add to the cost-cutting measures - not a great surprise - despite the Transport Select Committee’s efforts. The DfT is digging its heels in about BSOG, in fact it has long seemed veritably proud of its staggered 20% cut, with an ‘operators should be grateful’ attitude.

Yes, there will be a review on BSOG but be warned, this could easily signal the path to devolving the distribution of BSOG to local authorities.

The DfT refuses to commission any further research into the impacts of the concessionary fares scheme – although I’m sure most operators would agree action not research is needed. In fact, apart from ruling out a change in legislation to allow concessionary fares for community transport, nothing decisive crops up on this subject.

There is a lot of agreement with TSC conclusions and a lot of statements about working with ATCO, the LGA or CTA on points such as best practice dissemination, and several cases of deferring to the Competition Commission final package of remedies. The one point the government does seem to whip up a bit of gusto on is the role of Community Transport in bridging the gaps which will arise in cuts to tendered and commercial services. The result of this gusto – it is working with the CTA… While it is right for select committees such as the TSC to hold government to account, the result seems to be nothing short of a damp squib.

While endorsing the government’s commitment to protect the concessionary fares scheme, the TSC stated in its report: “There is likely to be scope for further cost savings in the management and administration of the scheme, particularly with advancements in smartcard technology, and there may be a case for a one-off payment for the card.”

The government’s only comment was a pledge to continue to work with both local authorities and bus operators to “understand where this guidance can be improved to ensure reimbursement is a fair deal for local authorities and operators”.

In response to the recommendation the DfT had commissioned further detailed research into the benefits, and usage, of the scheme, it said information is collected on patterns of usage through the annual National Travel Survey.

An assessment of such information was carried out in August 2010 by the Institute for Transport Studies in Leeds.

Separate studies have been carried out and in short: “The Department does not intend to commission further research into the scheme at the present time.”

To view the TSC’s ninth special report of session 2010–12, bus services after the spending review: government response to the committee’s eighth report of session 2010– 12, go to www.parliament.uk

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Here is your chance to experience a full cruise at a very special price.

Exclusively for you from Coach World and Coaches Etc. Prices starting at £399 for a balcony cabin for a full 7 days Mediterranean cruise on board MSC Flagship Splendida MSC Cruises continues to astound with its cutting-edge ʻFantasiaʼ class of cruise ships. After the success of MSC Fantasia we were immensely proud to introduce her sister, MSC Splendida, a cruise ship where technology and comfort are spectacularly combined. Futuristic, yet retaining its classic simplicity and elegance. A cruise ship that promises the ultimate cruise experience.

MSC Splendida also features 4 swimming pools, a squash court, a Formula 1 simulator and much, much more... there are 5 restaurants to chose from, and 13 bars, as well as a magnificent theatre where top class shows take place very night, a large casino and plenty of shops.

This trip gives you the chance to experience the luxury of a balcony cabin.

Balcony Cabin Outside with Balcony

All beds can be both single or double (on request). Spacious wardrobe. Bathroom with shower or tub.

Interactive TV. Telephone. Availability of internet connection by your own laptop (on payment). Mini bar and safe. Air conditioning. Size: approx 22 square metres.

Sailing Dates: 28th January 2012 sailing from Genoa Italy

25th February 2012 sailing from Genoa Italy

Ports en route: Genoa, Barcelona, at sea, Casablanca, Gibraltar, Valencia, Marseille, Genoa

Ports en route: Genoa, Barcelona, at sea, Casablanca, Gibraltar, Valencia, Marseille, Genoa

Prices including flight only £599 per person on the 28th January and £649 on the 25th February and this is unbelievable, but no single supplement !!!!!

Or travel by coach stopping en route in the magnificent Park Inn Macon Hotel, on a dinner, bed & breakfast basis for just £525 per person on 28th January and £569 on 25th February, or arrange your own flights and pay just £399 on 28th January and £439 on 25th February.

Theses prices are for a balcony cabin with either flights or coach travel included, and are amazing, so to book now before the cabins sell out please call Richard or Tasha on 0208 665 5561 or email Richard@coachesetc.com There is limited availability so please call us as soon as you can

There are also some free places for group organisers who meet the criteria so get a group together and get on board.

38 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 2, 2011

DELIVERIES

COMMANDERY COACHES Commandery Coaches LLP of Worcester has added another Scania Irizar luxury coach to its touring fleet.

Supplied by Scania (Great Britain), the 12m coach is based on a Scania K320 EB 4x2 chassis equipped with a 320 horsepower Scania Euro 5 engine and a fully

automated Scania Opticruise gearbox.

The vehicle’s Irizar Century bodywork features 53 passenger seats with leather headrests and three-point seat belts, power doors and main lockers plus a zoned climate control system.

The new vehicle’s livery, as with all of Commandery’s large coaches, is based on a representation of the battle flag of the 17th

Century Royalist army in the English Civil War, when the City of Worcester resolutely supported the King against Cromwell’s forces.

Now more than 30 years old, Commandery Coaches operates 11 PCVs with all its large coaches being Scania Irizars of various model types. The latest addition to the fleet has been made in anticipation of a growth in business next year from work associated with the Olympics.

KM TRAVEL KM Travel of Chesterfield has recently taken delivery of a Bova Futura FHD 120.365 PR integral 12m luxury coach from Moseley PCV. The coach is fitted with a Euro 5 DAF 365bhp engine and manual GO-170 SGS gearbox with Voith retarder.

The vehicle seats 49 in Vogel Conturo reclining seats

with piping to moquette seams. The seats also have adjustable footrests, magazine nests and tip up tables. The interior holds an off-side centre sunken demountable toilet with stepwell and powered continental door, as well as a water boiler for a drinks facility and a fridge.

A Blaupunkt travel pilot navigation system is included to assist the driver, along

FACT FILE

CHASSIS/BODy Irizar/Scania

K320 EB 4x2

EngInE Scania Euro 5 TRAnSmISSIOn Scania

Opticruise SEATS 53 SpEC Leather headrests, power doors, main lockers SUppLIED By

Scania 01908 210210 www.scania.co.uk

GO GOODwiNS Manchester-based Go Goodwins has added its first new Neoplan Tourliner for use on its exclusive, justrenewed, five-year contract with the England & Wales Cricket Board.

Selection of the two-axle, 49-seater executive luxury tourer was due in part to an “extremely attractive” wholelife package which included a four-year bumper-to-bumper warranty.

“It’s a good-looking machine,” said MD Geoff Goodwin, “although it’s the overall deal which is extremely attractive. It’s not often a manufacturer provides a four-year bumperto-bumper warranty.”

“On the road,” he said, “the Tourliner’s doing very

well, and is already returning over 11mpg. Plus, there’s no AdBlue to worry about, something which is proving to be a distinct advantage.”

He added: “I was at the recent Coach & Bus Live show in Birmingham, and I definitely liked the look of the Neoplan Starliner – I’m sure it would fit in with our fleet profile.”

FACT FILE

CHASSIS/BODy Neoplan

Tourliner

EngInE MAN D2676LOH TRAnSmISSIOn MAN 12-speed

TipMatic SEATS 49 SpEC Kiel Avance reclining seats, water boiler SUppLIED By

MAN Truck & Bus 01793 448000 www.mantruckandbus.com/ en/en.jsp

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

www.coachandbusweek.com

www.coachandbusweek.com

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

Email all the details and pictures to cbwinbox@ rouncymedia.co.uk

Margaret Hanson said: “It’s fantastic that we’ve been successful in some local tenders which enables us to continue with our fleet investment. We’ve acquired buses through Mistral a number of times now.”

Hansons run several services within the Black Country and Worcestershire.

Operating from their depot in Lye, Stourbridge, they run a fleet of around 20 single decker buses.

with a rear view camera.

Passengers can enjoy a radio, PA and CD system. The coach is also fully air conditioned. A Bovacare extended warranty covers the vehicle.

KM Travel of Chesterfield was established in 2006. The operator works in association with KM Motors of Barnsley, which has over 40 years experience of running coach tours and private hire services in Yorkshire.

FACT FilE

CHASSiS/BOdy Bova Futura

FHD 120.365 PR Integral 12m EnginE DAF 365bhp Euro 5 TrAnSmiSSiOn Manual GO-170 SGS & Voith retarder SEATS 49 SpEC Blaupunkt nagivation, radio, PA and CD system SUppliEd By

Moseley Coach Sales 01977 609000 www.moseleycoachsales.co.uk

INTRODUCING

HANSONS Mistral Bus and Coach Plc has supplied Stourbridgebased Hanson Wordsley Ltd with two new 8.9m ADL Enviro 200s for use on its 228 route from Merryhill to Kinver.

The buses are believed to be the first in the area to reach Euro 5 emission levels,

V

joining five other Enviro 200s in a fleet consisting enitirely of ADL buses.

The Enviros are powered

by Cummins engines, coupled to Allison 2100 transmissions. The buses seat 29 passengers, with the ability to carry a further 17 standing, while being DDA compliant. A Mobitec LED destination screen is fitted on

the front. Also on board is a 220-litre fuel tank The company is run by mother and daughter Margaret and Louise Hanson.

Margaret has been in the bus industry for 25 years, while her daughter Louise Starkey joined the firm three years ago.

Celebrating the firm’s 25th anniversary in business,

e olution

FACT FilE

CHASSiS/BOdy ADL Alexander Dennis Enviro 200 EnginE Cummins Euro 5 TrAnSmiSSiOn Allison 2100 SEATS 29 SpEC Mobitec LED destination screen SUppliEd By

Mistral Bus and Coach 0800 781 4144 www.mistral-bus.com

• NEW GENERATION • NEW DESIGN • NEW IMAGE

DESIGNED TO LEAD. BUILT TO L AST.

www.coachandbusweek.com

Deliveries.indd 39

31/10/2011 21:52

40 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 2, 2011

DRIVERS

Send your driver news and stories to gareth.evans@rouncymedia. co.uk or call 01733 293 243.

To advertise on this page, contact team leader Harley Denham on 01733 293 249 or e-mail harley.denham@ rouncymedia.co.uk

Tribunal rules driver must pay costs after losing claim Former National Express West Midlands employee sacked for using phone whilst driving ordered to pay £5,000 costs A Birmingham bus driver has lost a compensation claim against West Midlands Travel Ltd (trading as National Express West Midlands) for unfair dismissal after a tribunal judge said he did not believe he was using a mobile phone whilst driving to hear about an alleged burglary at his home.

Mr Issa Naser, who had driven with West Midlands Travel for almost five years, was also accused

by Birmingham employment tribunal judge Mr Peter Rose of threatening a witness at a previous hearing. He has been ordered to pay

First driver attacked while bus in motion

A First bus driver in Scotland was attacked by a knife-wielding man while still driving along a busy road.

The suspect had been warned ten minutes prior to the incident about smoking on board, with the driver shouting at him to put his cigarette out. He allegedly waited until the bus was empty before launching the attack against the 35-year-old driver as the bus travelled through Blackridge in West Lothian.

The suspect punched the driver several times, then pulled out a kitchen knife and waved it at him.

He then jumped off the stationary bus after the driver was forced to brake suddenly.

John Gorman, First’s operations director for Scotland East, said: “I can confirm that one of our drivers was assaulted on our service 800 on Saturday.

“The safety of our staff and passengers is of paramount importance and we are looking for assistance in identifying the individual who injured a member of our staff.” www.coachandbusweek.com

Drivers.indd 40

the respondents’ £5,000 costs after they requested £10,000.

The previous hearing had been told Mr Naser was sacked for gross misconduct after sending messages on his mobile phone whilst driving his bus. His offence had been proven by CCTV footage and the tribunal rejected Mr Naser’s compensation claim.

At the latest hearing Mr Edward Nuttman, representing the respondents, said Mr Naser had no prospect of winning his case from the start and said National Express was requesting £10,000 costs.

Mr Naser did not attend the latest hearing after telephoning the tribunal to say he had to take a daughter to hospital.

Mr Rose said Mr Naser had lied

at the previous hearing about using the mobile phone in an emergency about a burglary at his home.

He said: “Mr Naser has failed to comply with tribunal requests to submit details about his financial situation and he also failed to name the hospital today or seek an adjournment of the hearing.

We do not know much about him, therefore, except he appears to have another job and has four children.

“Normally, the tribunal approves a costs claim only in unusual and exceptional circumstances but as Mr Naser lied at the previous hearing and had no reasonable prospects of winning his case the tribunal is awarding £5,000 costs against him instead of the requested £10,000.”

ASoT chairman sheds light on licence exchange Responding to last weeks article on Driver Qualification Cards (DQCs) Alec Horner from the Association of Trainers (ASoT) wrote into CBW to say the ‘free’ paper licence exchange on offer from the DSA may have been misleading.

Mr Horner said although the information provided by the DSA may have been technically correct, some points required clarification.

He said: “Firstly there is an inference where by exchanging their paper licence, the DQC is issued ‘at no cost’. There is still the £43.75 upload fee to be paid.

“If the driver has completed 35 hours of periodic training then the system is ready to print a DQC, but can’t because of the lack of a signature and photo. Once the paper licence is exchanged with the DVLA for a new photocard licence the system is able to print and send out the DQC automatically.

“A driver with a paper licence would previously have had to complete a DQC1 application form to obtain a DQC and pay £25 administration costs, whereas now the DQC is issued and triggered automatically on exchange of the licence for a photocard version.”

Alec Horner said although the information provided by the DSA may have been technically correct, some points required clarification Mr Horner said the £30 saving over 10 years is calculated on the basis where if a driver obtains a photocard licence, they could receive two DQCs without having to apply manually. With two DQCs at £25 each equalling £50, less the licence exchange at £20, this leaves a £30 saving.

“While diminishing in numbers, for those drivers who wish to retain their paper licence there is still no legal requirement to exchange a paper licence to obtain the DQC,” he concluded.

Martin Harvey drove an Optare Solo similar to the one seen here

Retiring Anglian Bus driver rewarded Popular Anglian Bus driver Martin Harvey, 64, was given a special sending off on Wednesday (October 26). Martin had announced his retirement after seven years driving the number 1 service.

Passengers came out in force to flag Martin’s Optare Solo down outside the Rockland St Mary’s post office at 0935hrs. He was handed a £150 collection and a card made by a student and signed by passengers, along with a home-made cake.

One memorable message read: “You deserve your rest after learning all our names.” Other messages in the card were written

by French and Spanish passengers, who Martin would greet in their native language.

Passengers said they were always astounded by how Martin would consistently remember names and often remembered the exams the students on his bus were taking, always asking if the right questions came up. He would wait if he saw someone approaching the stop and always allowed passengers to sit down before departing.

Andrew Pursey, MD of Anglian Bus, told CBW: “Martin is well liked by the public and has been a credit to the firm over the seven years he has driven the number 1 route. He has done sterling work on building the patronage the route has today.

“We were very moved by the scenes we saw last week. It’s difficult to find someone able to establish such a rapport with the community. We are sorry to see him go and wish him all the best with his retirement.”

Martin said he had a “fantastic time” on the buses, and described his passengers as “lovely people”.

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42 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 2, 2011

LEGAL UpdAtE

In association with

Making Terms and Conditions work for you Nick Hodgson, from the corporate department at solicitors Backhouse Jones, writes about how to avoid costly contract disputes In times of economic uncertainty, businesses must look at what options they have in order to navigate through the difficulties and place themselves in a position where whey will be able to benefit from an upturn in the market at some stage in the future.

There are several means by which businesses can do this. One way is to ensure that your terms and conditions work for you. High volumes of sales are only half the story – you must make sure that you get paid or have other rights in the event that you don’t.

In some cases the terms may be based on an informal, verbal arrangement. However, these are a recipe for dispute which can be expensive and time consuming.

There is less chance of a dispute arising if the agreement is clearly set out in writing. It is therefore advisable to seek appropriate

Battle of the forms

Once you have a set of standard terms and conditions, how do you ensure that they are incorporated into a contract?

There is often a difficulty arising in negotiating contracts where both parties try to insist the contract should be concluded on their own standard terms. This situation is often referred to as the ‘battle of the forms’. If the first time the other party sees your standard terms and conditions is when they receive your invoice, you are potentially walking into a dispute on whose terms apply, which in most cases can be easily avoided.

How do you provide certainty in your commercial dealings?

The most effective and commercially advantageous way of introducing certainty into any contract is to obtain the express www.coachandbusweek.com

LegalUpdate.indd 42

advice in making sure that your terms of business protect your position, even more so where the economic outlook is bleak.

Your terms and conditions should be set up with the aim of protecting your cash-flow. Terms and conditions should cover: n Payment terms; n Delivery arrangements;

n The right to withhold further services or goods until such time as outstanding sums are settled; n Credit limits and periods; n Right to charge interest on late payments and claim compensation for the costs of recovering any outstanding sums; and n A commitment to quality Terms and conditions should

Whether you have signed at the dotted line, made a verbal contract or shaken hands to seal a deal, ensure your terms and conditions are in order acceptance from the other party to your standard terms. If this is not possible, parties should attempt to negotiate whose terms will govern the contract. This ‘battle of the forms’ is often won by the last party to propose its own terms and conditions without its proposal being explicitly rejected by the other party.

However, as we all know, negotiations can be costly and lengthy. Frequently other alternative avenues can be explored in an attempt to ensure incorporation of your terms into the contract.

Firstly remember that a contract can be concluded orally, so make sure that any meetings or telephone calls are expressed to be conducted on the basis of your company’s standard terms, or ‘subject to contract’, so no agreement will be concluded until a written contract is signed.

To avoid a claim that a contract has been formed, ensure all pre-

contractual documentation is stated not to constitute offers. If a supplier, you should also insist that customers place an order which you can accept with an acknowledgement that a contract has come into existence on your own standard terms. If the customer subsequently simply accepts delivery, your terms will usually be held to prevail.

Make sure your sales employees understand the contractual effects of any documents they receive. In particular, they should be aware, when dealing with documentation received from the other party purporting to exclude your own standard terms, they should respond accordingly and insist your terms are applicable.

Include a clause in your standard terms providing they will prevail over any terms issued by the other party. If the other party fails to accept your standard terms this provision may have no effect but can be a useful tactic to persuade

also cover retention of title, which allows you to retain ownership of goods already supplied until they are paid for and gives the right to recover those goods after delivery.

Time limits for raising a dispute or rejecting any goods subject to the contract should also be included, along with the circumstances in which the contract might be breached or come to an end.

Transactions between businesses and therefore terms and conditions are covered by the Unfair Contract Terms Act 1977 (UCTA). In general, businesses are assumed to be free to enter into whatever contracts they agree between themselves, so you should make sure you’re happy with the contracts you agree with other businesses.

However, the UCTA places a number of restrictions on the contract terms businesses can agree to. Specifically, it lays down rules for the ways in which vendor businesses can use exclusion clauses within their terms and conditions to limit liability in certain areas.

It is vital that you ensure that your terms and conditions are incorporated into the contract.

You should therefore make your customers aware of your terms and conditions from the start - for example when they first place an order or when you send them their first estimate or quotation. the other party to agree to your standard terms.

The goal is to ensure both parties to a contract know the terms on which they are doing business.

Dealing with disputes is costly and time consuming, when resources would be better used to grow your business. If you are going to have standard terms and conditions it is advisable to do whatever possible to ensure those terms prevail.

Backhouse Jones acts for clients in the private and public sector, both national and international operators from one to several thousand vehicles. Backhouse is absolutely “industry specific”. Whilst the company can trace its heritage to 1819 it only represented its first Road Transport Operator in 1930. The explanation for this is that the first transport act was only introduced in 1930. n Contact 01254 828300. Visit www.backhousejones.co.uk

31/10/2011 23:21

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November 2, 2011 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 45

PRODUCTS

NEw TimEspacE V400 rEcordEr Huntingdon-based Timespace Technology producT has recently launched of ThE its new V400 digital wEEk video recorder for bus CCTV. Using the latest H.264 compression the V400 exceeds the new Transport for London (TfL) specification for CCTV recording in London.

The V400 is available in 8, 12 and 16 channel configurations allowing bus operators to select the right configuration for each vehicle and use additional internal or external cameras for protection of passengers and staff.

Building on the well established reputation of the X200 recorder for reliability, the V400 incorporates a removable fully suspended disk drive cartridge, eliminating the need for external rubber suspension mounts and ensuring long-term reliable operation in any installation orientation. With cartridge sizes up to 1TB, it allows video footage to be retained in excess of the 240 hours required by TfL.

Email martin.cole@rouncymedia. co.uk to get your new product or service in the spotlight

Features on the recorder include: Up to 200 ips recording for crystal clear recording and playback Dual loop recording to SD card at 25ips for added footage security Hot-swappable fully suspended hard disk cartridge system provides easy offline viewing and archiving Wi-Fi option for remote

data management and Live view with PTZ capability In-built G-sensor to aid driver training and fuel saving using PCLink software Timed shutdown and hibernate with wake on LAN for footage download.

Built to last, the V400 uses industry proven power and signal connectors with short circuit protected camera

The new V400 dVr from Timespace Technology exceeds Tfl requirements and offers 8, 12 or 16 channel configuration for maximum flexibility

inputs.

The inbuilt timer shut down with hibernate mode using Wi-Fi option wake on LAN provides an efficient solution for uploading incident footage and system software updates The industry-leading PCLink viewing software is compatible with all Timespace recorders and displays the V400 inbuilt G-sensor and optional GPS data, providing dynamic map location to assist with driver training and to improve passenger comfort.

Using watermarking with SHA-256 authenticated digital signature, embedded vehicle data (indicators, brakes etc.) and GPS, date, time, speed and location, the V400 recorder footage meets the evidential requirements when needed for court proceedings.

Timespace, which has been designing digital video recorder products for over 10 years, sells its products through authorised resellers, which include 21st Century, Synetics and Active Camera, to name but three.

T: 01480 414147 E: mail@tspace.co.uk w: www.tspace.co.uk

sTErTil koNi ExTENds whEEl dolly raNgE

BluEcol aNTifrEEzE Bs6580 (2010)

Vehicle lifting specialist Stertil Koni has extended its popular range of wheel dollies. Designed to ensure the safe and precise handling of heavy and cumbersome commercial vehicle wheels, the range now comprises three models offering lifting capacities from 500kg to 1000kg.

Stertil Koni’s Standard Wheel Dolly is ideal for low level duties and can be used for work over inspection pits and under raised vehicles. The Hi-Lift has been developed specifically for working with mobile column lifts or surface mounted platform lifts without a base frame. Completing the trio, the Counterbalance Wheel Dolly is ideal for use with recessed platform lifts, scissor lifts and those with a base-frame under the platform. All three models are operated by using a manual hydraulic pump although battery-powered versions are available depending on models and applications.

The Stertil Koni Wheel Dolly range has been specifically designed to tackle all potential wheel and tyre lifting applications within busy

Bluecol Antifreeze now has an improved formula meeting the latest British Standard BS6580 (2010).

This Standard requires antifreeze to be safeguarded by adding a Bittering Agent to the formula to prevent accidental swallowing and consequential harmful effects to humans and animals.

Bluecol is the Original No.1 premium antifreeze brand, caring for and protecting engine cooling systems since 1937. Bluecol Antifreeze for years was original fill in many makes of vehicle and there is a Bluecol winter range to suit every need.

The Bluecol Antifreeze range consisting of Two Year (blue) and Five- Year (red) fluids will carry the new standard for the upcoming winter season. A full range of retail and trade sizes offering winter protection down to -37°C is widely available.

stertil koni’s range of wheel dollies now comprises three models offering lifting capacities from 500kg to 1000kg and promote safer working commercial vehicle workshops. Many of these tasks have traditionally required the involvement of two people to ensure safe handling.

By contrast, the Wheel Dollies are operated by a single person and a previously back-breaking task is now completed fast, precisely and, most important, in complete safety.

Stertil Koni is committed to quality, reliability and improving safety within the commercial workshop environment. Significantly, this commitment is robustly maintained against a background of increasingly stringent lifting and handling regulations.

Tony Edge, general manager, said: “Vehicle workshops present many challenges to those companies

which strive to ensure excellent performance alongside safe working practices. Since their introduction, our Wheel Dollies have been welcomed by customers who share our view that personnel welfare can be assured without compromising on the performance and reliability of the workshop equipment we supply.

Now, by extending the range, our Wheel Dollies can be relied upon to simplify a greater number of wheel and tyre handling applications particularly those involving twin wheeled vehicles.”

Tony Edge, Tel: 01604 662049, fax: 01604 662014, email lifts@stertiluk.com. Visit www.stertiluk.com

Tetrosyl: 0161 764 5981. Visit www.bluecol.co.uk , email automotive@tetrosyl.com www.coachandbusweek.com

Products.indd 45

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46 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 2, 2011

BUS STOPthe place to buy and sell

To advertise on these pages for as little as £20 just call 020 8320 1351 Optare Toro

UNVI GT

Mercedes-Benz 0815 Vario chassis with rear air suspension, 28 passenger seats with 3pt lap and diagonal seat belts, powered entry door, air conditioning, double glazed windows, luggage racks with individual passenger reading lights and adjustable air flow blowers, radio/CD & PA system.

Mercedes-Benz 0816 Vario chassis with rear air suspension, 29 passenger seats with 3pt lap and diagonal seat belts and leather headrest inserts, courier seat, dark tint double glazed windows, air con radio/CD & PA system, DVD player and monitor, grammer luxury heated driver seat, full draw curtains, large boot space and side lockers.

£45,500 +VAT NOW £43,000 +VAT

£69,950 +VAT NOW £67,500 +VAT

Call Dougie at Haggis Adventures on 0131 554 9192 K & E HORTON (GARAGES) LTD WE HAVE FOR SALE THE FOLLOWING COACHES

1998 VOLVO ENIGMA 49 SEATER WITH TOILET MOT MARCH 2012 £27,500

1998 MAN SETRA S250 SPECIAL 48 SEATER WITH TOILET MOT JAN 2012 £17,500

£17,500

CALL 07584 080866

Quality Coach Sales 1997 VOLVO B10M PLAXTON PREMIER 57 or 70 seat coaches CONVERTED TO ORDER

0844 576 3300 57 - £18,000 70 - £28,000

OFFER FOR SALE DUE TO FLEET UPGRADE

2004(04) IVECO BEULAS EL MUNDO, 51 seats, auto, full exec £82,000 now ..............£76,000 2003(53) IVECO BEULAS STERGEO, 49/53 seats, auto , full exec ..............................£75,000 2003(52) DAF SB300 S VAN HOOL T9, 51/53 seats, auto, full exec .................................£79,000 OLD 2002(52) SCANIA K124 VAN HOOL T9, 49 seats, comfort shift, full exec ......................£75,000 2002(02) SCANIA K114 IRIZAR, 49 seats, comfort shift, full exec £68,000 now ............£63,000 (All coaches are in excellent condition with low miles, base white with removable transfers)

PART EXCHANGE CONSIDERED ON ALL ABOVE 2003(03) MERCEDES 311 CDI, 8 seats, MOT Feb 2012 .................................................£3,995 1998(S) IVECO DAILY 2.8 diesel, 15 seats .......................................................................£2,995 1998(S) FORD TRANSIT 2.5 diesel, Jumbo XL, 17 seats ................................................£1,995 SOLD 1991(J) MERCEDESS 814D, 29 seats New MOT ...............................................................£3,250 OLD ALL PRICES ARE PLUS VAT

Due to fleet replacement, we need to sell up to 5 of the following and don’t mind which 5!

2003: 2 x 49/53 seats with WC, 3 x 53 seats 2004: 5 x 53 seats 2005: 1 x 49/53 seats with WC, 2 x 53 seats All are well maintained, low mileage examples (approx 62,000km per annum) with long MoT, air conditioning and AStronic gearboxes.

Owned by us from new and used on our own holiday programme. All over cream. Can be sold with patterns of 2012 tour work if required. Viewing at Thos. Hardie Commercials, Red Scar, Preston.

Priced to sell at £47,000 (03 reg), £58,000 (04 reg) and £74,000 (05 reg) plus VAT (£3,000 premium for WC). Sorry no part exchange.

1998 SCANIA IRIZAR CENTURY 53 SEATER MOT JAN 2012

LOCATED 3 MINS AWAY FROM JUNCTION 11, M6

24 Hrs

Dennis Plaxton R Series

For more details contact Steve or Russ 01884 252646 or 07702 626542

To view contact Tom Smith, Operations Manager, Alfa Travel on 08451 305777

!

R E F F O SPECIAL

t Contac Lara Odumosu

0 1351 020 8@r3ou2nc ymedia.co.uk

lara.odumosu

Telephone Lara Odumosu on 020 8320 1351 or email lara.odumosu@rouncymedia.co.uk

121702-1010-Pembridge

31/10/11

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NEW PRE-REGISTERED FORDS (60) 2010 Ford Transit 17 seat Hi Roof 2.4tdi, Air -con, Bluetooth, tacho, sat-nav, COIF/PSV £23,850

(60) 2011 Ford Transit 15 seat 2.4 tdci minibus, tacho, air-con, Bluetooth, silver £18,995

(10) 2010 Ford Transit 12 minibus 2.2tdci 115ps tacho, air-con, Bluetooth, parking sensors, in silver, 1,400km £17,495

FORD TRANSIT MINIBUSES (08) 2008 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4tdi, tacho, high back seats with three point belts, 33,000kms only, COIF/PSV £15,200

(07) 2007 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4 tdi 115ps, high back seats with three point belts, COIF/PSV, 44,000 miles £11,995

SOLD

(53) 2003 Ford Transit 17 seat 2.4 td minibus, high back seats with three point belts, tacho, COIF/PSV £6,995

(02) Ford Transit 3.5 ton, 15 seat minibus, 2.4 tdi, high back seats with three point belts £2,995

Peugeot Boxer 17 seat wheelchair accessible 2.2 diesel 120ps with six speed gearbox, COIF/PSV. Choice of colours. £23,500 + VAT

OTHER MAKES (55) 2005 Chrysler Grand Voyager 7 seat Auto 2.8 diesel, DVD, heated seats, radio/CD, electric mirrors, electric windows, one owner from new with FSH, silver, 67,000 miles £7,750

WHEELCHAIR ACCESS (09) Renault Master LM39 2.2 diesel, Automatic, inboard lift, air-con, e/w c/l e/m with only 4,500 miles £18,495

(07) 2007 Volkswagen Crafter 8 seat 2.2 diesel inboard lift, fully tracked floor, rear heating, 48,000 miles £13,995

(57) LDV Maxus LWB 9 seats tracking to take two wheelchairs, inboard lift, 49,000 miles, £9,995

LDV MINIBUSES New LDV Maxus 17 seat minibus 2.5 diesel, LWB, twin side loading doors, 2 year mechanical warranty, COIF/PSV £16,995

(57) 2007 LDV Maxus 15 seat minibus, high back seats with three point belts £7,495

(03) 2003 LDV Convoy Maxi XLWB 17 seat mini-coach, 2.4 Tdi, front entry drop step, luggage racks, rear heating, wide aisle, rear row of seats removable, New PSV £7,995

OTHER MAKES New Renault Master 17 seat LM35 / 125PS £21,995

(06) Fiat Ducato LWB, high roof, panoramic windows, inboard tail lift, 6 seats plus wheelchair tracking, 42,000 miles £10,995 (04) 2004 Mercedes Sprinter 413cdi minibus 2.2 diesel, front entry drop step with power door, inboard Clearway lift, fully tracked floor to take 4 wheelchairs, rear heating, 77,000 miles £9,995 (53) 2003 Iveco Daily 16 seat minibus, front entry drop step with power door, wheelchair tracking, under floor tail lift, rear heating, COIF/PSV £9,995 Y 2001 Renault Mascot 2.8 diesel, 16 seat wheelchair accessible minibus, front entry drop step, fully tracked floor to take five wheelchairs, under floor lift, rear heating, COIF/PSV £7,750

Tel: 01633 485858 Mobile: 07866 443304 Contact Graham Thatcher – email: sales@minibussales.co.uk

Pembridge House, The Park Business Centre, Plough Road, Goytre, Penperlleni, Nr Usk, South Wales NPA 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%

121768-1010-Ensign:Layout 1

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Ensig n

DOUBLE DECK E 1997/8 VOLVO OLYMPIANS Seatbe exampleslted no available w

LEZ

LEZ

COMPLIANT

COMPLIANT

Volvo engines, Euro 2, 78 seats, converted to single door, new COIF, tyres included, UK registered ready to work.

1996/7 P/R REG VOLVO BM10M’S

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

1999/2000 T/V/X REG DENNIS TRIDENTS

8.9m, Cummins / Allison, Hanover blinds, 29 seats, full DDA.

2009 ADL ENVIRO 200

ZF automatics, Plaxton Premiere Interurbans, 51 seats, can be upseated to 53 / 55 / 57.

Cummins ISBC engine, repainted white, Hanover destination, MOT August 2012, one only at £28,000.

2004 DART MPD

ZF automatic, Northern Counties body, 48 BELTED seats, repainted white, MOT 09/12.

1995 M REG VOLVO B10M

1995 M REG DENNIS DRAGONS

2006 OPTARE SOLO

Mercedes, 9.2m, 31 individual seats with 3 point belts.

Cummins/Voith gearboxes, Duple Metsec bodies, recent floors and 92 coach seats.

2001 Y REG DART SLF’S 2007 DART MPD

Euro 4, Cummins/Allison, MCV body, 9m, 32 seats.

Cummins/Allison, LEZ compliant for 2012 with traps to Euro 4, CCTV, Alexander ALX200 bodies with either 30 seats and 2 doors or 34 seats converted to single door, ramps, DDA certified and compliant. 10.8m 37 seaters now available.

OPEN TOP BUSES A SPECIALITY - B

Juliette Close, Purfleet Industrial Pa Telephone 01708 865656 Fax: 01708 864 Visit our website for current sto

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K ER SPECIALIST 1994 K REG VOLVO OLYMPIAN

GREAT VALUE DENNIS DARTS!!!

Northern Counties low height bodies, Volvo engines, good selection with long MOTs.

ZF automatic, Plaxton Premiere 350 body, 53 seats.

1997 P REG DAF SB3000

1998-2000 S / V / W reg Darts with Plaxton Pointer 2 bodies, 31 seats, dual door, DDA compliant, exhaust traps fitted so reduced tax, huge choice at an unbelievable £4,500 each plus VAT and tyres (£375).

I-shift, Sunsendengui Sideal body, 49 seats, centre toilet, air-con, very clean and straight inside and outside. £70,000.

2005 55 PLATE VOLVO B12B

Cummins / Allison World Series gearbox , Pointer 2 body, 41 seats.

6 speed ZF manual, Caetano Algarve, 55 seats, recently trimmed.

ZF automatic, Plaxton Excalibur body, 49 seats, NSR toilet, air-con, MOT 05/12.

£7000 just spend on recon engine, MCV Evolution body, 40 seats, DDA, Hanover LEDʼs.

1998 S REG DENNIS DART SPD

2000 W REG VOLVO B10M

Cummins / Allison, Marshall bodies, 37 seats, LEZ post 2012 with traps, from our own fleet and very tidy. £6,000 each.

1998 REG DENNIS DART SLF’S

1999 V REG DENNIS DART MPD’S Cummins/Allison, Plaxton bodies, 8.8m, 29 seats.

1997 R REG VOLVO B10M

2007 MAN 14.220

ZF auto, Plaxton Prestige body, 41 retrimmed seats, MOT August 2012.

1998 R REG DAF SB220 SLF

Mercedes engines, Slimlines, 2.34m wide, 7.8m long, 24 seats, Hanover LEDʼs.

2006 OPTARE SOLO’S

- BRITAIN’S BIGGEST BUS DEALERS

rial Park, Purfleet, Essex, RM15 4YF 708 864340 e-mail: sales@ensignbus.com ent stock at www.ensignbus.com

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Mini Coach Sales

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

BRAND NEW MERCEDES OPTARE SOROCO 19 high back reclining seats, 3 point belts, A/C, D/G, forced air, reading lights, power door, large boot.

BRAND NEW MERCEDES 813 VARIO 24 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, power plug door, luggage boot.

2007 07 REG FORD TRANSIT 14 seats, 3 point belts.

2006 06 REG MERCEDES 413 CDI OPTARE SOROCO 16 high back reclining seats, forced air, reading lights, A/C, power door, large boot.

2006 06 MERCEDES 814D PLAXTON CHEETAH 33 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights D/G, power door.

2005 55 REG MERCEDES 814D VARIO PLAXTON CHEETAH 29 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, D/G, power door and large boot.

2005 05 REG MERCEDES 413 CDI SPRINTER 16 seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, large luggage boot.

2006 06 REG MERCEDES 814D VARIO 24 high back seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights and large boot, analogue tacho.

BARGAIN BUS STOP 2002 52 REG RENAULT 10 SEATS + RAMP 2004 04 REG MERCEDES 413 CDI SPRINTER 16 seats, 3 point belts, forced air, reading lights, luggage racks, coach back end and large boot.

2003 03 REG MERCEDES 413 CDI SPRINTER 16 high back seats, 3 point belts, luggage racks.

2001 51 REG RENAULT 8 SEATS + RAMP

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

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H.W. PICKRELL

MINIBUS AND WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE VEHICLES

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

Email: sales@hwpickrell.co.uk - www.hwpickrell.co.uk

Finance available on all vehicles (subject to status) Written details on request.

WHEELCHAIR ACCESSIBLE MINI BUSES

07 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.2TD

UN REG FORD TRANSIT 4600 GVW 140 PS

6 speed manual gearbox, Chassis Development body, PAS, LWB, ESP, powered side loading door,15 high back seats, fully Unwin tracked floor, Dash air con, heater, underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, COIF, delivery miles only.

Manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 7 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, air con, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 21,435 miles.

06 REG RENAULT MASTER SM33 2.2TD

Manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 6 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, air con, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 21253.441 miles.

07 REG RENAULT MASTER SL33 2.2TD

2008 57 REG RENAULT TRAFFIC LH29 2.2TD

09 REG 2009 IVECO 753416 EUROCARGO

10 REG VOLKSWAGEN TRANSPORTER TDI

Manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 6 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, air con, heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 22,166 miles.

Automatic, high roof, LWB, SCW conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 8 high back seats, Unwin tracking, tinted windows, full air front & rear, Eberspacher heater, Unwin ramps, only 9,000 miles.

Euro 5, automatic transmission, electric windows, Brittipp steel dropside tipper, tow bar and electric, amber light bar, one owner, 39,791 kms only, MOTʼd June 2012.

Manual, low roof, LWB, luxury conversion, PAS, twin side loading door, AVS side step, 8 luxury leather high back seats, air con, removable table in rear, Unwin tracking, Braun tail lift, 7,675 miles.

05 REG VAUXHALL VIVARO SH29 1.9 TD

58 REG 2008 RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.2TD

55 REG CITROEN RELAY 1800 LM35 2.2HSI

2004/05 54 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 416CDI AMBULANCE

Manual, high roof, SWB, Advance conversion, PAS, side loading door, AVS side step, 5 high back seats, Unwin tracking, full air con, Ricon tail lift, ex-charity, 32,675

LWB, PAS, high roof, McNeille PTS multi purpose, SLD with AVS side step, 3 fold back seats plus stretcher postion, piped oxygen, storage, Unwin tracking, Portaramp, as new condition, 10,456 miles.

Manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 9 high back seats plus driver, Unwin tracked floor, Underfloor Ratcliff tail lift, only 38,800 miles.

LWB, Macneillie van conversion, SLD, 2 rear high back seats, Ferno Falcon stretcher & locks, stretcher lift, blue light bars and siren, very high spec, low miles 65-85,000 miles only, choice of 8.

08 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4TDCI (115)

05 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 CDI

07 REG RENAULT MASTER SM33 2.2TD

54 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.5TD

Manual gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, tacho, side loading door, AVS side step, 17 high back seats, fully Unwin tracked floor, air con, Webasto heater, underfloor AMF tail lift, 110,000 kms.

Manual gearbox, LWB, PAS, O & H conversion, side loading electric power door, AVS electric step, 14 high back removable seats, Eberspacher, PLS underfloor t/tift, ex NHS.

Manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 6 high back seats plus 1 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, air con, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 33,756 miles.

Manual, high roof, Atlas conversion, PAS, side loading door, AVS side step, 8 high back seats, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, Eberspacher air con, only 22,335 miles.

08 REG PEUGEOT BOXER 335 2.2TD

06 REG MERCEDES SPRINTER 411 CDI

08 REG RENAULT MASTER MM33 2.2TD

05 REG RENAULT MASTER LM33 2.2TD

Manual gearbox, high roof, Advanced conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 14 high back removable seats, Eberspacher heater, amf m1 tested tracked floor, new amf tail lift, 29,823 miles.

Manual gearbox, LWB, PAS, O & H conversion, full height side loading plug door, AVS step, 17 seat with 14 high back removable seats, Eberspacher, Ratcliff underfloor t/ lift, ex NHS, COIF'd, tacho fitted, 91,500 kms.

Manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, side step, 6 high back seats plus 2 x w/chair, Eberspacher heater, air con, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 36,831 miles.

Manual gearbox, high roof, O & H conversion, PAS, side loading door, electric side step, 13 high back seats inc driver, Eberspacher heater, full air con, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, 43,306 miles.

09 REG RENAULT MASTER LM35 2.2TD

58 REG PEUGEOT EXPERT TEPEE 19 HDI

58 REG FORD TRANSIT 430 JUMBO 2.4 DIESEL

07 REG RENAULT MASTER LM39 2.5TD

Manual gearbox, high roof, SCW PTS conversion, PAS, side loading door, AVS side step, 4 high back seats plus stretcher position, Eberspacher heater, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon stretcher lift, 10,755 miles only.

Manual 5 speed gearbox, PAS, CD player, air con, twin side loading doors, 2 high back seat in rear plus single passenger seat front, cut out floor, fold down ramp, metallic silver, 12,389 miles.

Manual, LWB, PAS, factory conversion, tacho, electric windows, cruise control, side loading door, 17 high back seats with seat belts, ex local authority, very nice spec, only 80,341 kms (49,000 miles).

Tiptronic auto gearbox, high roof, PAS, LWB, side loading door, AVS side step, 14 high back seats, Unwin tracked floor, Ricon tail lift, full air con & Eberspacher heating, only 35,275 miles, choice of 3.

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Southdown PSV

November 2, 2011 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 53

01342 711840 www.southdownpsv.co.uk

2000 VOLVO B7TL SLF ALEXANDER ALX400 and PLAXTON PRESIDENT 72/74 seats + belts - large choice

• Volvo D7C 215 bhp Euro 2 engine • LEZ compliant to Euro 4 • ZF 5HP500 auto gearbox (56mph) • Major body refurbishment • Retractable lap belts fitted • 12 months Mot • DDA compliant option to 2017+ • Mobitec or Hanover LED destination • CCTV /Radio/PA • Analogue or digital tachograph • Single colour respray • Price – subject to your final specification Prices plus VAT @ 20%

Southdown PSV Silverwood Snow Hill Copthorne West Sussex RH10 3EN

Are you in the South of England and looking to upgrade or convert your vehicle to meet the January 2012 Low Emission Zone?

We may be able to help…

Close Asset Finance

Close Asset Finance are specialist commercial vehicle financers and are able to offer operator solutions to help comply with the new Low Emission Zone (LEZ) regulations.

• Flexible Finance available for new and used vehicles (subject to status) • Release equity for existing fleets to help pay LEZ conversion costs (subject to status) • Stock of Euro 3 vehicles available with the option to finance LEZ conversion costs Talk to us NOW - Don't leave it too long to comply with LEZ regulations…

DAN HADDON on 020 8339 7341 - dhaddon@closeasset.co.uk CHRISTINE CLARK on 020 8339 4823 - cclark@closeasset.co.uk

www.closeasset.co.uk

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THIS WEEK’S SPECIAL OFFERS...

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PROMOTION

LARA

020 8320 1351 lara.odumosu@rouncymedia.co.uk

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58 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 2, 2011

ESSENTIAL PRODUCTS &SERVICES CHECKPOINTS

BUILDINGS HEAVY DUTY STEEL BUILDINGS

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

TO PURCHASE CHECKPOINT/DUSTITE loose wheelnut indicators or to locate your nearest stockist:

BLUELINE BUILDINGS 01709 578333 anytime

www.checkpoint-safety.com

Tel: 01524 271200

ENGINES

Crewe Engines Ltd MERCEDES ENGINE SPECIALISTS

WE ALSO RECONDITION ALL MAKES OF BUS & COACH ENGINES Direct from the UK’s No.1 for 30 years

CRAIG TILSLEY

ENGINES

Tel: 01782 791524 or 01782 791527

Fax: 01782 791316

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

SPECIAL OFFERS

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

GARAGE EQUIPMENT

HEATING

Specialists in Used Commercial Garage Equipment

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

BWS 0117 953 0381 www.bwsequip.co.uk

email: bwsequip@hotmail.com

Tel: 01993 849522 Fax: 01993 706920 Email: sales@thhs.co.uk

www.thhs.co.uk

UNIT 9 NIMROD BUSINESS PARK DE HAVILLAND WAY, WITNEY OX29 0YG

INSURANCE

VOLVO - CUMMINS - SCANIA MAN - DAF - IVECO FULL FITTING FACILITIES

REGISTRATIONS

Getnoticed!

AdvertiseyourProducts &Serviceshere foraslittleas£30.00 aweek!

Call 01733 293484 NOW!

G £750 20 PXV 60 NJX 70 NNX 70 PXA 90 PXL PJZ 88 RJZ 66 RJZ 77 SJZ 22

SPEEDY REGISTRATIONS CO LTD G ‘Buy with confidence – CNDA Member’

£350 £99 £99 £50 ACZ 686 HIG 7331 MJZ 6748 AXZ 5617 AJZ 484 HIG 7332 MJZ 6749 AXZ 5618 CJZ 323 JHZ 6118 MNZ 1195 BXZ 7176 JBZ 383 JNZ 5986 ONZ 1115 CRZ 4816 JJZ 808 JNZ 5987 PEZ 9824 CRZ 4817 KBZ 737 KIG 1310 REZ 3378 DRZ 1338 KCZ 505 KIG 1311 REZ 3379 DRZ 1339 KDZ 929 KIG 1312 RUI 2117 IIG 8763 NUI 636 MHZ 5352 SEZ 4286 IIG 8764 We Buy for Cash, also Part Exchange

Tel: (028) 6638 7124 Fax: (028) 6638 7771

Millwood, Lisbellaw, Co. Fermanagh, N. Ireland BT94 5HQ

£50 JIG 9790 JIG 9791 JIG 9792 KIG 1206 KIG 1207 KIG 1208 SUI 9676 TUI 1522 TUI 1523

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November 2, 2011 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 59

ESSENTIAL PRODUCTS &SERVICES SEATING

ERGONOMIC SEATING SPECIALISTS URBAN

SERVICE

COACH

SERVICE

HAND RAIL PADDING

ACCESSORIES

G Hand Rail Padding G Next Day Delivery G Seat Belt Installations G Double Deckers Seat Belted G Seat Belt Supplies Securon Amsafe/Safetex Fasching ISRI Reflex Schneeweis Orion MCF Fainsa Vogle Keil Politecnica Esteban + many more

The UK’s No1 Seatbelt Installers Call the Experts: 01522 689911 Email: info@bhiuk.com

www.bhiuk.com

Full range of Static, Mechanical and Air Suspension seats available for Coaches, Service Buses, Vans and Trucks

Prices from £150+VAT (No carriage charges)

12 Murray Place, Righead Ind Est, Bellshill ML4 3LP Tel: 01698 845352 • Fax: 01698 844325 Email: TScottco@aol.com

VEHICLE SPARES

TRAINING

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

Don’t forget to mention that you saw it advertised in

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

Recovery

•

Testing

• • • • •

TRIM

• • COACH TRIMMERS LTD

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

Full floors re-laid and centre gangways.

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

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

Tel/Fax: 01751 472229

•

Refurbishment Repairs

Engine/gearbox rebuilds Fault finding

Buying & selling vehicles

DISMANTLING/SPARES: • • • • • •

Reconditioned engines Reconditioned gearboxes Engine spares Windows

Windscreens Seats

Export to foreign markets Repairs

Finance repossession and storage

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

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

60 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 2, 2011

Seen something funny? Send it to gareth.evans@rouncymedia.co.uk, fax 0845 2802927 or write to: Last Stop, Coach & Bus Week, 3 The Office Village, Cygnet Park, Forder Way, Hampton, Peterborough PE7 8GX

A ride to remember A raunchy Pennsylvania woman was arrested for giving her inmate boyfriend a bus token of her affection during a mass transit tryst.

Amanda Confer, 24, was caught on CCTV having sex with her significant other while riding on a bus in Montoursville.

The woman turned her daughter over to another inmate while she gave Randell Peterson, the ride of his life in the back of the bus.

Peterson and Schill were riding the bus as part of a work-release programme which allows inmates to leave the county jail at specific times.

Peterson alerted his girlfriend to his schedule, and the pair were soon sitting together in the proverbial back row. The couple began hugging and kissing before things turned hot and heavy.

The pair are now due in court charged with conspiracy, indecent exposure, open lewdness, and disorderly conduct. They were certainly in the ‘hot seat’ and are now in for an even rockier ride.

Largin’ it!

Professional drivers’ sedentary lifestyles may be some excuse for slightly expanded waistlines, but car manufacturers are also having cope with larger, heavier motorists, the SMMT’s last briefing has flagged up. Cars have become more than a foot wider and almost double the weight over the past 50 years due to the western world’s obesity crisis.

It’s certainly a potentially weighty issue and one which shouldn’t be squeezed out or slimmed down...

Dilbert

Monday: Press day. Referring to my recent generosity, Keith and Martin ask whether I’ve bought any “stale doughnuts” from a local supermarket. All good fun.

The Captain Jack Sparrow look-a-like pictured in Yorkshire to promote First’s new ‘We Believe’ – ‘there has never been a better time to get on board with First’ campaign

FirstGroup turning to pirate bus services?

It was ahoy to First bus passengers in Leeds, who had to do a double take as a Johnny Depp/Captain Jack Sparrow look-a-like, from the Pirates of the Caribbean film, was in Yorkshire to promote First’s new We Believe Campaign – which includes prize giveaways printed on the back of First bus tickets.

TVs, Kindles and iPods are among the prizes being given away

by First. Customers just need to check their ticket to see if it’s their lucky day when they travel, with claims made by December 30.

Customers who get a mystery prize ticket when they get on board will be able to check if the number on their ticket is a winner by logging on to the website - www. firstbus.co.uk

Thankfully customers who do not get a mystery prize ticket won’t need to walk the plank and can enjoy the possibility of the offer on most of the remaining tickets which carry ‘2for1’ deals with firms including Blockbuster and Merlin Entertainments (UK theme parks and attractions).

The competition is part of ‘We Believe’ - ‘there has never been a better time to get on board with First’ - this autumn’s marketing campaign run by First to attract more people to use the bus. A TV advert is also running on ITV channels in Yorkshire, Bristol and the South West (CBW1009). This is supported by a door-drop of a million leaflets, advertising on local buses and local radio station Brandon Jones, sales and marketing manager for First in the North of England, said: “The competition is like something straight from Charlie and the Chocolate factory, but even better as all our customers will get a ticket and the vast majority win a prize.”

Well shiver me timbers!

Tuesday: Take the morning off in lieu. Far from resting, I’m up and away.

Clear a load of jobs in the house before starting in the office at lunchtime. James and Callum are rather taken aback at how on form I am. Tiredness from yesterday only catches me up later.

Wednesday: Spend the day in the office forging on with material for future issues.

Receive a call from a man who claims to be a legal representative for a bus operator and proceeds to give me the run down on a story.

When I ask for his name, bizarrely he says I “won’t be getting it.”

Despite this, I’m still friendly as one should always listen.

Thursday: A day working in the office. Enjoy a chat with a potential columnist.

We agree to meet for a beer in the near future. Reluctantly I have turn down an invitation to join industry friends for a Brick Lane curry.

Friday: Meet two friendly members of staff from an important commercial partner with Jonathan in the morning. Spend the rest of the day working on CBW in the office. Turn travel agent in the evening when I put together an itinerary for a relative. The transport geek in me enjoys doing it.

Saturday: Spend an enjoyable day at the wedding of my fiancée’s brother in Peterborough. I debut as official photographer. I’m in my element.

Far from being nervous, I crack a steady stream of jokes, which keeps everyone calm and smiling.

Rest assured, I also capture candid moments – facial expressions can be works of art. For me, it’s little different from covering a launch or dinner for CBW. I love it.

www.coachandbusweek.com

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RECRUITMENT

DEADlINES Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.30pm

CONTACT Harley Denham 01733 293249

harley.denham@rouncymedia.co.uk

Incorporatewear strengthens buying team

Cameron Forecourt appointments UK fuelling specialist Cameron Forecourt has appointed two new directors. Martyn Gent becomes sales and marketing director and Graham Webb as quality and health and safety director.

Martyn Gent joined the firm in 2009 having spent almost 30 years in the fuelling systems market.

He began his career with Triscan where he was responsible for pioneering pay-at-pump credit card systems with supermarket giant Tesco. He joined Gilbarco VeederRoot (GVR) in 2006, and then moved to Cameron Forecourt when GVR selected them as a partner in the commercial fuelling sector.

Graham Webb has been involved in commercial and industrial fuelling installations, working for major multi-national equipment

November 2, 2011 | COACH & BUS WEEK | 61

Martyn Gent and Graham Webb manufacturers and progressing to senior management.

A qualified electrical engineer, he gained experience in ISO quality systems and health & safety, later becoming a trainer SPA Petrol Retail Safety Passport scheme.

Graham joined Cameron Forecourt in 2002 and has since become involved in many other aspects of the business.

Cameron Forecourt MD director Barry Jenner said: “Cameron Forecourt will benefit greatly from introducing such knowledge and experience.”

Uniform supplier Incorporatewear, has strengthened its supply side with a trio of new recruits.

Three new employees are joining the procurement team, responsible for sourcing clothing worldwide to supply the corporate wardrobes of many of Britain’s biggest companies.

The appointments of Ben D’Oyly, Sue Gladders and Eve Kelman are part of the company’s strategy to strengthen its sourcing and customer service functions.

Incorporatewear - which clothes the workforces of a range of business including Virgin Atlantic, HSBC and Beaverbrooks - has also promoted Joe Barton from supply manager to procurement manager.

Operations manager at the firm, Daren Turner, said: “I am really pleased to welcome our three new recruits to an already strong team,

and to congratulate Joe on his promotion.

“The expansion of our supply functions demonstrates not only Incorporatewear’s success over the last 12 months but also our commitment to deliver high quality, reliable sourcing for our clients.”

Joe Barton’s promotion follows his recent election as a member of the Chartered Institute of Purchasing and Supply, a qualification for which he studied in his spare time.

The former supply manager, who has been with Incorporatewear for six years, said: “I am extremely pleased to have the opportunity to continue my career development here. Gaining my CIPS qualifications while working full time was a challenge, and I am now looking forward to putting all my energy into this new role.”

SUBCONTRACTING The Star Bus Company is looking to work in Partnership with fellow quality contractors in the Hertfordshire and North London areas to service one or more of our contracts.

The value of the work could be substantial and would be for a fixed period.

If you wish to register your interest then please email info@starbus.co.uk with the subject heading SUBCONTRACTING. Please include in your email the name of your company, name and contact number of the prime contact for us, type of vehicles you could supply, number of vehicles in your fleet and any other information you wish to include.

We will request additional information before awarding any work.

We require service providers of passenger assistants, PCO drivers and PCV drivers.

Vehicle requirements would be for saloon cars, MPV’s, accessible cars, mini-buses up to 8 seats, mini-buses 9-16 passenger seats, tail-lift mini-buses, accessible welfare buses, service buses/coaches.

Executive contractors also sought. www.coachandbusweek.com

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62 | COACH & BUS WEEK | November 2, 2011

RECRUITMENT

New dealer development manager for Webasto Automotive and marine heating and cooling specialist Webasto announces the appointment of Max Kratzer to the position of dealer development manager.

He will now be responsible for the management and ongoing development of Webasto’s dealer network for the company’s Automotive, Commercial Vehicle, Motorhome and Marine markets.

Max, 30, was born in Trostberg in Bavaria and has recently moved to Knutsford near Manchester.

Max joined Webasto in 2003 and his career to date has seen him build extensive European and international marketing and sales experience. He started his career at the company in its marketing

department at their Stockdorf headquarters in Germany. From 2004 to 2005 he was in marketing and internal sales with Webasto Product Australia, based in Sydney.

He returned to Stockdorf in 2005 and since then has concentrated the marketing of Webasto’s advanced diesel fuelled interior heating and electrically powered air conditioning systems for motorhomes and trucks, with his final position being sales manager RV OE and RV aftermarket and RoW. Speaking of his latest appointment Max said: “I’m already enjoying my new role immensely, familiarising myself with the UK’s extensive dealer network and planning how best to provide the highest levels of support, development and enhancement to assist with their future sales.

“Fortunately the dealers seem to be located in some of the country’s most appealing areas, so my knowledge of the countryside and coast is growing with every visit.”

DEADlINES Booking: Monday 5.00pm Full artwork: Monday 5.30pm

CONTACT Harley Denham 01733 293249

harley.denham@rouncymedia.co.uk

Roger French is 2012 Omnibus Society president Roger French OBE DL, MD of Brighton & Hove Bus & Coach Company, is to be president of the Omnibus Society for 2012. He is to succeed 2011 president François Xavier Perin, latterly of Transdev.

Roger French is known for managing one of Britain’s most successful bus operations over more than quarter of a century.

Roger French

Working in partnership with Brighton & Hove City Council the firm has achieved notable successes over many years and is held up as one of the best examples of a bus company and local authority working together in voluntary partnership.

Roger French said: “I am delighted to be taking on the role of president – an auspicious year for public transport in the UK, with buses set to play a pivotal role in front of a watching world taking hundreds of thousands of spectators at the Olympics.”

Roger has been a keen supporter of the Young Bus Managers’ Network, and this will be reflected in the programme of London meetings in 2012. Roger himself will give the presidential address on January 30 at 55 Broadway, London SW1 at 1845hrs.

Your First Choice for Recruitment

Coach and Bus Week’s well-established recruitment portfolio attracts candidates across sales, marketing and management, delivering not just quantity but quality candidates, providing exceptional value for money.

In addition to our unrivalled print-based product, at no extra cost recruitment adverts are also automatically placed online at www.coachandbusweek.com, where they remain on view until a position’s closing date.

Coach and Bus Week and www.coachandbusweek.com combine to create the ultimate recruitment solution, guaranteeing your vacancy is seen by every job seeker that matters from sales agents to board level. To get your vacancy seen by quality candidates, call Harley on 01733 293249 (email harley.denham@rouncymedia.co.uk) or Ian on 01733 293254 (email ian.gillis@rouncymedia.co.uk) www.coachandbusweek.com

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Mullany’s Coaches Part of the JJK Group

Experienced PSV Engineers Required We are currently seeking an experienced Night Shift engineer to join our company and contribute in taking our business forward to the next stage of our expansion programme.

You will be working on our fleet of Coaches, Buses and Mini Buses and your regular duties would include Pre MOT inspections, diagnostics, safety inspections, general running repairs and planned maintenance.

The PSV industry is very well regulated and accordingly you will need to demonstrate a very high standard of workmanship.

You would need to be self motivated, enthusiastic, flexible, computer literate and a team player.

In reward you will be offered a very attractive salary and first class working conditions within a family run business.

A PCV licence would be an advantage.

Please telephone 01923-279991 and ask to speak with Mr. Crawford, Mullany’s Coaches, Brookdell Transport Yard, St Albans Road, Watford, Hertfordshire WD25 0GB.

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