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The newsletter of Issue 113 | January 2016 ON STAGE INSIDE Great service rewarded page 2 | Retired bus goes back to school page 8 Nominate your 2016 Stagecoach Champions THE SEARCH is under way for the Stagecoach more be calling on the help of the millions of ‘Media’, at www.stagecoach.com. Champions of 2016 – so make sure you passengers who use our bus and rail services Then email the completed form to champions@ nominate someone you think is deserving of a each year, inviting them to put forward their stagecoachgroup.com or send it by post to Champions Award. recommendations for their Stagecoach Champion. Lindsay Reid, Corporate Communications Manager, Now in their seventh year, the awards have already Their views and those of our own team of Stagecoach Group, 10 Road, Perth, PH1 seen more than 120 employees from across the employees will be considered in deciding the 5TW. You can nominate yourself or one of your Group being honoured for their outstanding efforts award. colleagues. in a number of fields. Gold, Silver and Bronze awards are presented for For innovation nominations we would like to hear The 2016 awards will again recognise success in each category and shortlisted entrants receive a about employees who have ideas that could make the categories of Safety, Environment, Community, trophy and a cash prize. a difference to the business and our customers Health, Customer Service and Innovation. We are giving employees plenty of time to submit in the future. Simply give details of the idea being Employees from across the Group’s bus and rail their nominations. This year, the deadline for put forward and explain whether it has been businesses in the UK and North America are invited nominations is the end of May with an awards implemented within the business yet or not. to nominate colleagues who they believe are ceremony to follow later in the year. Nominations close on Friday 27 May 2016. making a real difference in any of these areas. To nominate your Champion, just download a Turn to page 3 to find out more about the For the Customer Service category we will once nomination form from the FAQ section under Stagecoach Champions Awards 2016. Bus travel has Improving accessibility never been easier STAGECOACH is supporting a new campaign to MILLIONS of Stagecoach bus passengers improve transport accessibility for young wheelchair are benefiting from easier journeys after the users. company launched a new responsive website A report from disabled children’s charity Whizz- that lets customers check live running times for Kidz found that many wheelchair users, as well as their services and buy travel straight from their their families and carers, are unable to travel as smartphone. independently as they would like and do not feel As part of a new online platform at confident enough to use public transport. www.stagecoachbus.com Stagecoach launched The Get on Board report shows that barriers in the UK’s first nationwide online bus planning accessing public transport remain, despite significant service to help its two million daily customers investment in accessibility improvements in recent access journey and ticketing information more years. Issues can include a lack of accessible transport near where respondents live and the Stagecoach Director of Communications Steven Stewart easily for Stagecoach services across the with Katie and Karl who are involved in the Whizz-Kidz country. attitude of staff or other passengers. campaign The new website is designed to make it as Stagecoach, which operates around 8,500 buses and simple as possible for passengers to plan and coaches across the UK, has invested more than £650 Stagecoach is backing the Whizz-Kidz campaign, book their Stagecoach bus travel across the million in past eight years to introduce more low-floor which recently formed a national Accessible Travel UK. The site is also accessible from mobile buses and coaches to help wheelchair users and Alliance – an industry-leading group made up of devices, allowing customers to call up journey people with mobility difficulties. forward-thinking travel operators, to make a real and information and buy tickets while on the move. The company has dedicated disability helplines and lasting difference to disabled people’s experience of The website is part of a three-year, £11 million has taken steps to enforce wheelchair spaces on its travel. digital investment strategy which includes buses. Stagecoach has also invested in a sector- Steven Stewart, Director of Communications for investment by Stagecoach in redeveloping its leading driver training programme, which includes Stagecoach Group, said: “Everyone involved in UK Bus online platform, delivering real-time employees receiving dedicated guidance on the transport has a responsibility to work together to Continued on page 2 challenges faced by people with disabilities and how make the door-to-door journeys of people with to help them. disabilities better.” 1 Did you know? Stagecoach HQ staff raised £1,000 for Women’s Aid in Perth through a Christmas raffle and Christmas Jumper Day ON STAGE

What a Joining forces to benefit customers Contactless travel could be in place on every bus in legislation would be needed to ensure contactless Laugh! Britain by 2022 under ambitious multi-million-pound ticketing was offered by all individual bus operators. plans being developed by the country’s major transport The development of the bus contactless plan comes Heard on board a train… groups. just weeks after the major operators completed the Customer: “These Virgin go Britain’s five main bus operators – Stagecoach, First introduction of smart multi-operator bus ticketing in just about everywhere, don’t they?!” Bus, Go-Ahead, and – are all nine of ’s smart city regions with support If you have seen or heard something funny – working together to produce a business case which is from local transport authorities. It is making public online, in the papers, on social media or just expected to be completed by late spring 2016. transport more accessible in regions which account while out and about – send your contributions for The scheme could see new EMV contactless for around 15 million people – over a quarter of the ‘What a Laugh’ section in the next edition to technology installed on every one of the UK’s buses England’s population. A similar project is now underway in to deliver the same benefits [email protected] outside and would offer cashless travel for those who want it and capped pay-as-you-go-fares in to , , and . all urban areas. Robert Montgomery, Stagecoach UK Bus Managing n French connections Contactless transactions are already accepted on Director and chair of the major operators’ steering London’s buses. This new project would complement group on smart ticketing, said: “This contactless .com has opened its 50th domestic that scheme, covering more than 1,200 bus operators initiative would be the biggest smart ticketing journey in France. in England, Scotland and Wales, and making project ever delivered in Britain and a major Prior to the liberalisation of the coach market, contactless travel available for 5.2 billion bus passenger milestone in providing simpler travel for the millions megabus.com ran only one domestic journey. The journeys a year across Britain. Associated government of people who rely on buses.” latest announcement means that the company now offers more than 50 domestic journey pairings in France, between 27 destinations, with fares from Great service rewarded just €1. The new routes are being delivered from megabus. Trains staff recently gathered in com’s existing Lyon depot, with a new crew base Nottingham for the company’s annual Great Service established in Tourcoing, near Lille. The company Awards. also recently opened an operating base in Bordeaux Now in their fourth year, the awards recognise staff and a crew base in Nantes, and has so far created who ‘go the extra mile’ and really make a difference employment for around 180 French staff. to customers and improve the service on offer. megabus.com Managing Director Edward Hodgson A record 1,616 nominations were received from said: “The decision by the French government to customers and colleagues across 26 award open up coach travel is proving to be a massive categories. Each runner-up and winner received The winners of the Great Service Awards 2015 boost for the country. megabus.com is delighted to a trophy and certificate presented by Jake Kelly, be a big part of that.” Managing Director of East Midlands Trains. Host of the Year and this year’s winner was The main award of the night was the ‘Outstanding Charlotte Cordner from station. Individual’. The winner was Kim Cinavas from Joy Iggleden from Nottingham was named Train Sleaford station who received more than 100 Manager of the Year, while Stephen Carlyle-Hearn, nominations from customers and colleagues. a senior based in Norwich scooped the Kim was also named the Ticket Office Staff Member brand new ‘Voice of East Midlands Trains’ award. of the Year. Liz Haynes, a greatly valued member of East Other notable winners included Wendy Midlands Trains was also presented with a special Cunningham, based in Derby, who received Lifetime Contribution Award. n Waterloo wedding bells the Unsung Hero Award, and Karen Miller from Jake Kelly said: “We have some fantastic station who won the Outstanding people and Great Service Awards are a fantastic LONDON’S Waterloo Station Contribution to the Community Award. Kevin Arthur opportunity to recognise all the hard work and was the venue for a romantic from Derby was named as Fleet Staff of the Year. commitment that they put in on behalf of our marriage proposal, with a Over 90 nominations were received for Welcome customers.” bit of help from . Bus travel has never been easier The train company helped Continued from page 1 customer Kevin Coleman information and improving payment options. journeys – from planning pop the question to girlfriend In 2016, the transport group will also introduce a their trip and buying tickets, Emma-Louise Ward by mobile app for customers as part of its strategy. to getting real-time travel displaying the proposal on the Key features of the new website include a clearer, information and catching the bus. customer information screens more user-friendly journey planner allowing “That’s what we are aiming to deliver and we believe at the station while Kevin got customers to plan journeys across a number of this new website will help make life easier for all of down on one knee. Stagecoach bus companies. There’s also an online our passengers, no matter how often or how little Emma-Louise was delighted to accept, and the fare calculator, a simple online booking system and they use the bus. couple are now planning their wedding. a tool to download personalised timetables. “We’ll also continue to embrace further developments Kevin got down on one knee at Waterloo Station while his Stagecoach UK Bus Managing Director Robert in technology to ensure we can deliver even better proposal was displayed on a customer information screen. Montgomery said: “Our customers want seamless bus services for our customers in the future.” 2 Lifesaver awarded ... find out more on page 5. ON STAGE n Train services transformed Nominate your 2016 SOUTH West Trains passengers in the west of England are benefiting from extra seats, new Stagecoach Champions services and more frequent connections to Continued from page 1 London following the introduction of an improved Look out for updates on the awards and the Community Champion: Recognises employees timetable. shortlisted nominees in future editions of On Stage. who have made a significant contribution to the The increase in services, which adds 8,000 Nominations close Friday 27 May 2016. local community through charitable fundraising or seats every week across the region, was volunteering. developed with local stakeholders and followed Categories for 2016 Health Champion: For employees who have done extensive consultation with local communities – Safety Champion: Awarded to employees who most to promote employee health within the Group. transforming services for passengers throughout have championed good safety or excelled in Customer Service Champion: Presented to the West of England. dealing with a specific situation or incident. individuals who have gone the extra mile to deliver In addition to the extra services, passengers will Environment Champion: Presented to individuals exceptional customer service. also be travelling on a fleet of newly refurbished who have championed greener working practices Innovation Champion: For employees who can trains. and sustainability, such as improving energy suggest the best new ideas across any area of the Tim Shoveller, Managing Director for South West efficiency, reducing the company’s carbon business, whether it’s the launch of a new product, Trains, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to be emissions or developing innovative ways to get the introduction of a new system or a way of introducing a much improved timetable for the people to switch from the car to public transport. saving the company money. West of England which transforms the services on offer for many stations and the local communities they serve.” First stop for n Santa’s golden carriage SANTA set a new ‘gold Tram Train standard’ in travel when THE UK’S first Tram Train has arrived in he arrived in on a from Spain and is now based at Supertram’s luxury bus, encouraging Nunnery depot. shoppers to donate and Passengers in the county will be the first in the UK to decorate themselves for benefit from the innovative vehicles which have the charity. signalling, power supply, control and communication Teaming up with Exeter technology to run on both street tram lines and the Tram Trains are set to run between Sheffield and Rotherham in 2017 Leukaemia Fund (ELF), rail network. West Santa meets a young fan Painted in Stagecoach Supertram’s blue, orange Speaking on behalf of the Tram Train project team, brought Santa to Exeter in Exeter and red, three Tram Trains an hour will run between SYPTE Executive Director Steve Edwards added: on one of the company’s Sheffield and Rotherham from 2017. “Tram Train will demonstrate the potential of this new Gold buses, which feature leather seats, extra The arrival of the first of seven Tram Trains marks an new technology to deliver value-for-money services. legroom, free Wifi and USB ports. important landmark for the two-year pilot scheme, And, if the pilot is successful, it opens the way for The event was in aid of ELF’s EARS 4 ELF day, delivered by South Passenger Transport Tram Trains to be introduced in other parts of the which is helping to raise awareness and funds Executive (SYPTE), , Stagecoach country.” to help families across affected by blood Supertram, and the Department for Major works to make the scheme a reality also cancers and blood disorders. Transport. include the electrification of the rail network between Transport Minister Andrew Jones said: “This is a Sheffield and Rotherham, building new Tram Train n Midnight bus marks great milestone in the pioneering Tram Train project platforms at Rotherham Central and Parkgate, and which, when complete, will mean better journeys for the construction of a new 160-metre section of track end of era passengers in , as well as helping to called the ‘Tinsley Chord’, linking the tramway to the BUS enthusiasts gathered at Stagecoach boost the economy of the local area and beyond.” train line near Meadowhall. and South ’s Eaves Lane bus depot for a midnight ride to mark the closure of the depot. A Stagecoach bus branded with traditional Old Top attraction Ribble Conservation Trust colours made its final journey to Eaves Lane. It was followed by a new City Sightseeing operation, run by Gold bus which drove to the depot to mark the end and South Lancashire, of operations there. recently won the award for Small Visitor Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire Attraction of the Year at the Marketing Managing Director Elisabeth Tasker said: “It Awards. was right that we marked the relocation of The team will now go on to represent Cheshire this engineering facility with this special event The Chester City Sightseeing team, including Stagecoach at the national VisitEngland Awards for showcasing Stagecoach’s heritage and the Merseyside and South Lancashire Managing Director Excellence 2016 which will take place during company’s ongoing commitment to innovative Elisabeth Tasker (centre), collect their award English Tourism Week in March. engineering.” 3 Did you know? megabus.com ran services throughout the whole of the festive season, including on Christmas Day ON STAGE

n Edward’s a star driver Run-in with is proud to have yet another employee named Driver of the Year by the world-beaters Motor Coach Association. STAGECOACH Cumbria stepped into help two Edward Rodrigues earned the accolade thanks world record holders recently as they took part in a to his friendly, punctual, dependability and running and cycling challenge. having a very positive attitude. Rob Young (also known as Marathonmanuk), who He is often requested for multi-day trips, and holds the record for the most marathons run in a receives many letters from customers praising year, and Adam Holland (AKA Tango), who is the Rob (left) and Adam with Amanda Kirtley, Engineering him and his abilities and professionalism. Administration Co-ordinator with Stagecoach Cumbria record holder for the fastest 10 marathons run & North Lancashire on 10 consecutive days, recently passed through on the UK leg of Walk for Peace. a mechanical problem with their bike which n Show on the road The Walk for Peace started in Kenya and Rob engineering manager Carl Thornborrow helped and Adam ran and cycled 1,900 miles between arrange to be fixed before they headed off to SHOPPERS, workers and visitors to Leeds, them in just 25 days. While in Carlisle, they had continue their challenge. and Sheffield were offered some exciting prizes during a series of special festive megabus.com roadshows. FOLLOWING a £7.5 million investment, The Merry Mega Roadtrip visited the locations Golden generation Stagecoach Merseyside and South along with mascot Sid, who was Santa for has rolled out the first ‘next-generation’ brand of the day and enjoyed giving out sweets and luxury busses. Christmas stockings filled with megabus.com The company has added 18 brand new Enviro goodies and taking selfies with visitors. 300 luxury vehicles to its Merseyside fleet and, Several lucky winners also received £500 of to celebrate, handed out around 500 ‘golden high street vouchers. tickets’ giving customers the chance to win Edward Hodgson, Managing Director for prizes. megabus.com UK and Europe, said: “This was “This is an exciting time for the business,” our opportunity to get right to the heart of the said Elisabeth Tasker, Managing Director for communities we serve. By visiting cities across Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire. the country with Sid and the gang we hope we Merseyside Managing Director Elisabeth Tasker with “Our new fleet of Gold-standard buses are top of raised a smile with our customers.” Operations Director Rob Jones and Engineering Director the range and will deliver a new level of quality Tony Cockroft megabusGold.com – which operates overnight for passengers.” sleepercoach services – also recently held a series of successful roadshows in several locations across Scotland including Aberdeen, Birthday celebration Edinburgh and Glasgow. GRIMSBY’S Simplibus network celebrated its first anniversary by inviting people to a Christmas- themed birthday party on one of the biggest n Meals on wheels shopping days of the year. A £4m investment saw a fleet of 28 new buses PECKISH passengers are tucking in to a new introduced last year, with one bus hidden by on-board catering service on East Midlands wrapping paper unveiled in the centre of Grimsby as Trains services between Nottingham and an early ‘Christmas present’ for the town. . One year on, Stagecoach staff were in Grimsby An at-seat catering trolley service is now The Simplibus party gets under way running competitions and games for shoppers, and provided on 24 trains every weekday, offering providing travel information about Simplibus. people who use Simplibus to shop, visit friends and hot and cold drinks, snacks and sandwiches at Jon Donnelly, Midlands Commercial commute – and remind shoppers that getting the competitive prices. Manager North, said: “The Christmas Party is a bus is a great way to beat the parking log-jam at This is the first time a catering service has ever chance to say thank you to some of the many Christmas!” been offered on this part of the busy to Norwich route by East MIdlands Trains, and Stagecoach and Virgin were part of a small represents the company’s major investment Hackers get on board number of rail operators sponsoring the to deliver an improved experience for its SOME of the world’s most skilled computer HackTrain Event event earlier this year. customers. programmers, designers and entrepreneurs James Vickers, Commercial & Business Adrian Allen, Service Proposition Manager travelled with South West Trains and Development Director for South West Trains, for East Midlands Trains said: “We know how recently. said: “As part of Stagecoach, we have a good important it is for our customers to be able The company supported this year’s HackTrain, a reputation for coming up with innovative to have a drink or a snack whilst they’re on 48-hour event involving a team of 120 ‘hackers’ solutions and we’re therefore pleased to be the move, and the new service will deliver a travelling up and down the country working on playing a part in this exciting initiative that significantly improved service for the thousands solutions for a range of challenges faced by the rail will hopefully deliver new ideas to benefit our of people who use this route every day.” industry. customers.” 4 Do we have the X Factor? ... find out more on page 6. ON STAGE

n picture this

THIS edition’s Picture This winner was taken by Neil Mackinnon, UK Bus Data & Market Analyst. It shows a Stagecoach Cumbria service on the Honister Pass in the Lake Distict. Congratulations to Neil who will shortly receive his prize of £50 in M&S vouchers. Peter Levesque receives his award If you have any good photos for Picture This, please n send them to Lindsay Reid, On Stage, Stagecoach Lifesaver honoured Group, 10 Dunkeld Road, Perth, PH1 5TW, or email A LIFESAVING Stagecoach driver received special them to [email protected] recognition at the Chief Constable Award Ceremony. Peter Levesque helped save the life of a customer Footie fundraisers who became ill on board his vehicle and was STAFF from kicked off a presented with an award at the ceremony in sporty charity fundraising event. Hampshire Constabulary’s HQ. Employees from the Lincoln Depot took to the The event allowed Chief Constable Andy Marsh to football field to raise more than £500 for the Bransby reward those who had gone above and beyond the Horses rescue and welfare charity. call of duty to make their community safe. Marc Harris, Lincoln driver and organiser of the event, said: “Overall the match was played in good n spirit and at a high tempo. Unfortunately Stagecoach Little voices make Lincoln lost 2-1, however Bransby Horses were the big impression real winners”. East Midlands Managing Director Michelle SOUTH West Trains got into the spirit of Children in Hargreaves said: “After the success of the first East Midlands staff limber up for the charity football match Need in advance of the national fundraising day. football match, played in memory of one of our A group of Year Two pupils from St Mark’s drivers Paul Farrell, we decided that it would be great looked like they were having a great time. It’s Preschool in spent time with the Wessex to hold another one to support a great local charity. fantastic that the match has raised a significant Integrated Control Centre (WICC) team, recording PA “The match was a lot of fun and the players all amount of money for Bransby Horses.” announcements that played across the network. The excited group of five children and their families boarded a train from Salisbury to Waterloo and began learning their lines as soon as they arrived. Red hot and blue After a few practice runs, the youngsters got on VIRGIN Trains unveiled some colourful new with recording some important messages which train identities recently. were played out during Children in Need day on 13 The Red Hot Flying Scot, the company’s new- November. look Flying Scotsman train, was launched by Arthur Bonczoszek said his announcement was Scotland’s First Minister Nicola Sturgeon. ‘easy peasy lemon squeezy’! Meanwhile Christmas-themed trains Claus The group then spent the rest of the day sightseeing 91 and the Penguilino were in-service in London, courtesy of South West Trains. throughout the festive season on each coast. The Pendolino and Class 91 locos showcased n Capital carol-oke the artistic talents of nine-year-old Amber Maxfield and Madeleine Deakin (11), and the PASSENGERS at London’s Waterloo Station enjoyed striking blue liveries combined with the kids’ a special musical treat over the festive season. drawings certainly turned a few heads. The Virgin Trains Christmas locomotives Two school choirs led a Christmas carol concert, accompanied by a full-sized traditional organ. The Open for competition employees enjoyed event raised money for food banks in Waterloo their annual open golf day recently. and Sherborne and all donations were gratefully Five of the six local depots were represented received. with a total of 30 golfers enjoying the The finale included a ‘Carol-oke’ session, with sunshine at Stocksfield golf course. passengers, staff and station visitors encouraged The winner on the day was J.P. Mayne from to join in. depot with a points score of Chris Loder, Head of Service Strategy for South 39. Second and third place went to Peter West Trains, said: “The choirs and musicians helped Wilkinson and Kev Middlemiss, both from to create a really fantastic festive atmosphere in Depot, with scores of 36 and 35 London Waterloo while helping to raise funds for two respectively. very worthwhile charities.” North East staff at their open golf day Well done to all involved. 5 ran a record number of special coach Did you know? services on New Year’s Eve green scene

Pedal plaudits for rail companies

RAIL companies from Stagecoach Group came Jonny Wiseman, was named UK Rail Cycle out top at the annual National Cycle Rail Awards, Champion for his extensive work to improve cycling scooping three winner’s awards and four Highly facilities at stations across the East Midlands Trains Commended honours. network. East Midlands Trains and South West Trains picked Meanwhile, Malcolm Page, Estates Development up awards in six out of the ten categories, and were Manager for South West Trains, was also highly recognised for delivering good customer service commended in this category. The judges praised The Green Team with their and significantly improved cycle facilities. Malcolm for working with stakeholders to Regeneration Award South West Trains won first prize for Best Customer successfully deliver new cycle schemes at stations. n Service for looking after passengers during the Phil Dominey, Stakeholder & Accessibility Manager First regeneration annual Prudential Ride London event, a two-day for South West Trains, said: “Since the start of the THE GREEN Team from Stagecoach West won festival of cycling over the summer. South West Trains franchise, we have added around the Believe in ‘Regeneration Award’ The company also picked up top prize for Cycle- 6,000 extra cycle spaces to our stations, and we for their work on the regeneration of St James Rail Photo of the Year for ‘Flamme Rouge’ (with have worked in partnership with local authorities City Farm last year. permission of Ride London), an image taken during and partners such as ATOC to improve the quality of Three of the team – James Williams, Graeme the Prudential Ride London event. In the Operator our facilities for cyclists.” Allardyce and Mike Tandy – attended the event of the Year category South West Trains was highly Jonny Wiseman, General Manager North for East to collect the accolade. commended. Midlands Trains, said: “It’s a real honour to be Stagecoach West driver Mike Foran also East Midlands Trains’ General Manager North, recognised as UK Rail Cycle Champion this year.” scooped top spot in the Customer Service category. Well done to all. Showbiz stars have n Action on climate change the X34 Factor STAGECOACH is supporting pledges to help STARSTRUCK passengers experienced a taste implement the world’s first universal climate of the ‘X Factor’ during the launch of the new change agreement signed in Paris recently. combined 34 and X34 services from Leigh to The Group is among 800 companies, cities, Manchester. regions and investors from around the globe An impromptu ‘X34 Factor’ show added showbiz who have signed The Paris Pledge for Action, glamour to the regular morning commute, with Olly while its train companies are among 66 Murs impersonator and 2015 ‘X Factor’ contestant Jamie Benkert performing a string of hits under the international operators backing the Railway ‘Olly Murs’ and ‘Simon Cowell’ took centre stage in the Climate Responsibility Pledge. critical eye of Simon Cowell lookalike Andy Monk, ‘X34 Factor’ Following the United Nations COP21 talks who judged from the back of the bus. in Paris, Stagecoach has also called on has invested £1.5 million also features on the new buses, along with USB governments to prioritise public transport and in a fleet of new buses with Euro 6 engines to charging points. take urgent, practical steps to incentivise the serve the X34 and 34 routes. The buses have been Stagecoach Manchester Managing Director use of greener buses, coaches, trains and designed to significantly reduce the level of carbon Christopher Bowles said: “It’s down to local trams instead of cars. emissions and also provide upgraded levels of transport providers to make sure there are regular East Midlands Trains, South West Trains and safety and comfort. and accessible transport links for local people Virgin Trains have also signed the Railway Complimentary Wifi, which is now present in travelling into Manchester, which will help the wider Climate Responsibility Pledge. Presented at over half of the Stagecoach Manchester fleet, region grow together with the city.” the Paris climate summit by the International Union of Railways (UIC), it commits companies Sparkling new buses to reduce their carbon footprint and contribute Stars sponsored to global targets to limit climate change. for STAGECOACH Group sponsored the “It is vital the momentum of the agreement WINCHESTER was buzzing recently as Stagecoach South Contribution to Sustainability Award in Paris is maintained so it becomes a launched 18 brand new buses onto the city’s streets and at the 2015 Business Star Awards real and lasting turning point. That means suburbs. held by the Perthshire Chamber of turning pledges into practical action,” said The new fleet is part of a new £2.5 million package of Commerce. Stagecoach Group Chief Executive Martin improvements for the Winchester Community. Lindsay Reid, Stagecoach’s Senior Griffiths. In addition to the customary CCTV and GPS tracking Group Communications Manager, “Many individuals, organisations and technology, the buses have been customised with USB handed over the award to the winning businesses, like Stagecoach, are making charge ports and WiFi. team from Comrie Croft, a popular changes in the way they live and work to Stagecoach South’s Managing Director, Michael Watson, eco-friendly facility which offers help protect the future of our planet. That said: “The launch event was very well attended, which camping, wildlife viewing, mountain commitment must be matched by government demonstrates how important buses are to the residents biking and other outdoor activities. action to prioritise public transport.” and businesses of Winchester.”

6 This month’s claim to fame ... find out more on page 8. ON STAGE n Christmas spirit letters of praise South Wales’ Aberdare depot If you or one of your colleagues has received a letter of praise from a customer, Green Road champion Gareth please email a copy to [email protected] or post it to Walker (pictured) got into the Lindsay Reid, Senior Group Communications Manager, Stagecoach Group, 10 spirit of Christmas at the depot’s Dunkeld Road, Perth, PH1 5TW. We will publish as many as possible. annual admin staff Christmas lunch. One driver stands out as just the nicest person. For Hi, instance, yesterday he helped with great patience a I wanted to pass on my compliments to whoever lady who was not sure she was on the correct bus. n Pictures at the park thought up StagecoachSmart. I have not had any She gave him a rather complicated story of where issues with it and have been really impressed by the she wanted to be and he sorted it out for her, and and ride service I have received. then told her when to alight then gave directions of FESTIVE film magic filled Stagecoach Manchester’s Also, I have recently started a newish job that is where she wanted to go! Hazel Grove Park & Ride when it was transformed further away so I take several buses to and from work On the same journey the bus became packed with into a drive-in cinema for a special charity event. and have no complaints! school children. A lady with a pushchair wanted to get More than 450 movie-loving motorists flocked to Though the buses can be a little annoying at times, on the busy bus and he politely asked the youngsters the facility to watch ‘Frozen’, ‘How the Grinch Stole traffic and congestion is normal so I don’t mind. The if they would go upstairs to let the lady on, which Christmas’ and ‘Elf’. bus drivers are mostly lovely and considerate and the they did. When most of them alighted at Bracebridge The event raised more than £2,300 for Stagecoach buses are often very clean and work well. Heath he thanked each and every one of them. Manchester’s charity partner, Genesis Breast Overall, a great service and I simply wanted to say He is very pleasant and handles even difficult people Cancer Prevention. thank you to everyone who works at Stagecoach – with diplomacy and tact. “It really felt like Christmas came early for the yes, even you, you lovely customer service person. I saw him on the bus today, his usual cheery and people of , as we all enjoyed some festive Many thanks, name supplied pleasant self. He really seems to love his job and film classics while raising money for such a worthy Email sent to StagecoachSmart customer service take a professional pride in it. I just feel he should be cause,” said Stagecoach Manchester Managing recognised for the brilliant work he does, turning a Director Christopher Bowles. Dear Sir/Madam, bus journey into a pleasant experience. I travel on the Grantham bus from Waddington to Name supplied Lincoln on a regular basis. Email sent to Group Communications team Charity ball earns awards KATRINA Leese, Stagecoach Group’s Deputy Treasurer, picked up two awards recently for her charity fundraising work. She collected an individual award as well as an award on behalf of Stagecoach Group, for Best Third Party Event at the South West Trains is investing to offer passengers more space annual Down’s Syndrome Scotland Fundraising Awards. The accolades followed a successful ‘Down Right Fabulous n Big investment means Ball’ organised by Katrina and her friend Sarah Robertson with help and support from a team at Stagecoach, including Katie more room for travellers Loudon. THE £65 MILLION roll-out of extra carriages for Katrina Leese (left) and Sarah Robertson Both Katrina and Sarah have young children with Down’s South West Trains passengers has passed an collect their award Syndrome who have been supported by the charity. important milestone with the delivery of the final refurbished Class 456 train, providing more space for passengers. All new at Virgin Trains The extra and refurbished carriages come as Virgin Trains has launched its brand new part of the Government’s High Level Output services to London from Sunderland and Specification Programme (HLOS), adding 108 as well as unveiling the first of its newly refurbished carriages across the network. All refurbished trains as part of a £40 million project feature wider doors to help passengers get on and to improve its customers’ experience. The ‘Spirit of Sunderland’ train off more easily, plus improved seating, full CCTV Business, civic and community leaders joined and new flooring. Virgin Trains on-board the inaugural services, invest £140 million over eight years. A fleet of 65 This is the first stage of the multi-million-pound with the new Sunderland service being met brand new Virgin Trains will also be introduced investment which ultimately will see more than 250 at London King’s Cross Station by the UK Rail on the east coast from 2018. additional carriages in use across the network. Minister, Claire Perry MP, who named the Virgin David Horne, Managing Director of Virgin Trains Christian Roth, Engineering Director for South Train ‘Spirit of Sunderland’. East Coast, said: “This is a hugely exciting for West Trains, said: “This roll-out is an absolutely The new services mark a major milestone in us as we launch more services. Our new fleet crucial part of the biggest improvements made Virgin Trains’ ambitious plans to transform of trains arrive in 2018, but we want to ensure to this network since the 1930s which, when services on its east coast route, which include a the trains people are catching right now deliver completed, will provide a 30% increase in space for £21 million overhaul of its fleet of 45 trains. the same comfort and glamour for which Virgin passengers during the busiest times of the day.” In March 2015 the company spelt out plans to Trains is known.” 7 Did you know? Staff at Stagecoach East Midlands have raised almost £2,000 for UK war veterans ON STAGE

Huw Stephens

Westoe Crown Primary School’s DIY Goldentime Library Club are turning a former Stagecoach bus into a school Radio roadshow library RADIO 1 presenter Huw Stephens got on-board in If you, or one of your colleagues, have n Busy bookworms turn South Wales recently, travelling on the Stagecoach a claim to fame – perhaps a hidden Service 120 as he filmed a documentary about Welsh bus into library talent, a meeting with a celebrity or an Music. interesting hobby – please email details PUPILS from Westoe Crown Primary School in South Staff were pleased to meet him and make sure he got to [email protected] Shields have been working hard to help turn a from A to B smoothly. retired bus into a funky new library for the school. Young DIY-ers gave the bus a marvellous makeover after Stagecoach North East donated the 1995 Volvo Rocky hits the road with VIP passengers Olympian double-decker to the school. Members of the DIY Goldentime Library Club said: CHILDREN receiving treatment for brain tumours “We love working on the bus and it’s just the best were given their very own open-top double-decker lesson of the week. We really want to complete it so bus for the afternoon in Nottingham. we can start using it as our very own library bus.” The youngsters from the Nottingham Queens Medical Centre enjoyed tours around the site on n Mayor’s Award for board Rocky, a member of the Skegness Seasiders family of buses, after fundraising efforts raised GUILDFORD Station has been honoured with £1,000 for the Research Centre from the sales of The Mayor’s Award for Access 2015 – Customer the Stagecoach East Midlands Seasiders Christmas Service. story book. The station was highly praised and recognised for Stagecoach handed over £1,000 as part of ongoing the level of service they deliver in a joint effort from fundraising efforts for the Children’s Brain Tumour all Guildford colleagues. Stagecoach hands over the cheque with help from Research Centre (CBTRC) charity, which has seen Seasider Rocky Nominations for the award were sent to the more than £20,000 raised so far. Guildford Access Group from people with Louise Wright, Publicity Officer for Stagecoach East Leah passed away on January 1 2013, and now disabilities who live in or visit the borough. Midlands, has a personal connection with the CBTRC. Louise continues to raise money for the charity Venkatesh Nathan Sankaran, Flagship Station Her daughter, Leah Brockbank, battled with a brain with support from family, friends and Stagecoach Manager, said: “Our team who are at the front of tumour for three years and was treated at the centre. colleagues and customers. meeting, greeting and helping our customers make all the difference. “This award goes a long way in thanking our megabus.com backs German charity people who passionately put our customers first, ensuring their journey is a safe and memorable MEGABUS.COM has celebrated its first year of is being promoted on-board through the company’s experience.” providing domestic travel in Germany by joining wireless homepage and megabus.com has also made forces with one of the country’s nationwide charities, a financial contribution. n Turkey Trot teamwork Arbeiterkind.de ArbeiterKind.de aims to make academic education Five megabus.com vehicles will promote the charity accessible for everyone, regardless of their social Trolley & Double Decker Company was on routes across Germany with the Arbeiterkind.de background. The charity provides information and again a proud sponsor of the annual Dan Gibbons logo added to the outside of the vehicle. The charity practical support to help and encourage young people Turkey Trot on Thanksgiving morning. from previously non-academic families to go on to The Turkey Trot is a 5K run/walk that raises money further study. to feed vulnerable people in DuPage County, IL, megabus.com Managing Director Edward Hodgson and 2015’s was the 32nd annual event with 8,222 said: “We want to make travel and mobility affordable participants. for as many people as possible. Chicago Trolley & Double Decker provided two “By offering fares from €1, our services are very open-top double-decker buses at the start line popular with young people and we help many as stages for the event coordinators and other students travel home from university to visit their sponsors to view the start of the race. families at little expense. Seven vehicles also provided shuttles for “Education and mobility open up new perspectives for participants to get to and from the race from megabus.com Managing Director Edward Hodgson (right) joins Katja Urbatsch and Wolf Dermann from young people. We are therefore particularly excited to remote parking areas. Arbeiterkind.de along with megabus.com mascot Sid promote the initiative.” 8 Success for graduate managers ... find out more on page 10. ON STAGE

Luxury fleet for Scottish service A £1.6 MILLION fleet of new coaches has been launched by on its express service between and Glasgow. The five new vehicles have free Wifi, power sockets, air conditioning, an on-board toilet and leather reclining seats for up to 68 passengers and one wheelchair. The vehicles also have additional luggage space and bike racks for up n Bake-off bonus to five bikes. Tom Bridge, Managing Director, Stagecoach ’s depot held a West Scotland, said: “It’s important that we cake sale in aid of Children in Need. continue investing in our fleet across West Shown launching the new coaches are (from left): David Stewart, Sales of the tasty treats helped the team raised Stagecoach Engineering Director; Tom Bridge, Managing Director, Scotland and make improvements wherever we more than £320 for the good cause. Stagecoach West Scotland; Alison McCluskie, Stagecoach can to provide luxury travel for our passengers Operations Director; Tom McAughtrie, Chairman of SWestrans and encourage more people to travel by bus.” and William Mainus, Stagecoach Commercial Manager n Green light for bus alliance A NEW Bus Alliance promises big benefits for passengers in the Liverpool area. Pit stop for Stagecoach is part of the new formal alliance with transport body and operator apprentices Arriva, aiming to boost the number of fare-paying passengers, improve customer satisfaction and UK Bus apprentices recently joined Juratek drive up investment for the benefit of all who use Ltd at Brands Hatch Racing Circuit for an bus services. exciting racing day. The alliance has set ambitious growth targets of a Apprentices Ben Dawson, Ben Houghton and 10 per cent increase in passenger journeys – the Alex Booth spent two days around the truck equivalent of over nine million more journeys – by racing paddock and enjoying the racing. April 2017. They were able to see the effort and The Bus Alliance will take a City Region-wide dedication that the pit crew gave to achieve The Stagecoach apprentices with truck racing driver the best truck performance, coupled with the approach looking at matching bus routes to Stuart Oliver demand, the clarity of fare structures and value absolute need for safety and reliability. for money. It will also focus on the quality of vehicles, how easy it is to get information, reliability and punctuality of services and the standard of A time for giving customer service. COACH USA’s employees began a new holiday tradition at their corporate headquarters this year. Instead of exchanging gifts, they opted for a ‘Giving Tree’ that supported local charitable causes. “We wanted to give something back to the community that supports us,” said Van Galder Tammy Dunlavy and Al Fugate with the Giving Tree General Manager Al Fugate. “We live here, we work here and we are proud to the Rock County Cancer Coalition and the Friends of have a positive impact here.” Noah charity. The four organisations supported included student “The response was overwhelming,” said Al. “Proof, charity Parker Closet, teen charity Project 16.49, once again that our employees are truly fantastic!” Assistant Operations Manager, Graeme Muir n and generally keeping the station clean and Graeme’s back on-board Community spirit appealing to the travelling public. GRAEME Muir has been appointed Assistant SOUTH West Trains has joined with the London South West Trains’ Head of Business Operations Manager for the Aberhill and Borough of Hounslow to create London’s first Excellence, Dave Morris, said: “The work depots in East Scotland. ever Community Rail Partnership. of these groups and of station adopters is Graeme began his career with Stagecoach The Partnership aims to bring the community vital in making our stations feel part of the in 2008, based at the former Montrose Depot, and together with the local station as its focus. communities they serve. has now returned to the Group. In other areas, Community Rail Partnerships “We’re pleased that, working with the London He said: “I am excited to be back with Stagecoach. often include station adoption groups – local Borough of Hounslow, we are able to announce I’m settling in and finding my feet and getting to volunteer-led groups who look after the general funding of this group. It’s great to see that work know everyone. It’s a great place to start with a appearance of stations across the network. is already under way with the introduction of friendly bunch of staff.” Their work includes upkeep of flower beds new planter tubs at Hounslow station.” 9 the people page ON STAGE

Getting to know you... Chris Simpson, South West Trains ■■ Who are you? Chris Simpson, Information & I’ve ever visited but the Customer Experience Manager in the Wessex braais (barbecues) and food Integrated Control Centre (WICC). in general is outstanding, ■■ What do you like most about your job? not to mention the I feel genuinely privileged to work with and help incredible wine on offer! The group of long-serving employees with North Scotland lead a brilliant team who are always focused ■■ Most embarrassing Managing Director Steve Walker (second left) and dedicated to delivering excellent customer moment? In my third year service. at University ‘Gangnam n Loyal service ■■ What do you like least about your job? Style’ was the song of the moment. Whilst going hell Stagecoach North Scotland has presented 12 Getting up at 4.50am for an early shift! for leather pretending to ride an imaginary horse in members of staff with commemorative long service ■■ Favourite food? Roast grouse with some root the silent disco I may have extended one of my legs a awards in recognition of their hard work and to vegetables. little high causing my trousers to rip. celebrate their careers. ■■ Least favourite food? I cannot stand meringue! ■■ Favourite music? Anything from the ‘80s. Two members of staff were recognised for ■■ What are you most proud of? When I was ■■ First thing you would do if you won £1m? an impressive 40 years’ service. Iris Durno, younger, I sailed competitively and going to Italy I’d probably be really boring and spend half of it on Administration Clerk from the Peterhead depot, and to compete in the Topper World Championships. an investment property somewhere before blowing Philip Russell, Bus Driver from the Elgin depot, were ■■ Favourite holiday destination? South Africa. the rest on a five-star round-the-world-trip with my both rewarded for over four decades of service. Not only is it one of the most beautiful countries girlfriend! ‘Getting To Know You’ features in every edition of On Stage and we want to hear from as many staff as possible. To suggest the next participant, email [email protected] Alan Plant (left) with Ian Campbell, Graduate programme Operations Manager, keeps delivering at the ALL of the trainees who joined Stagecoach in 2013 Nuneaton Depot through the UK Bus Division’s Graduate Management Programme have now taken up their first management positions. The two-year programme is made up of structured on- job training combined with a series of off-job specialist n management training courses. UK Bus Regional Director Robert Andrew with the Fond farewell to Alan The strength of the programme lies in the fantastic training group of graduate trainees who are now in their first management positions bus driver Alan Plant has support which all of the Operating Companies supply to retired after 35 years at the company’s Nuneaton help with the trainees’ development and progress. Within Stagecoach there are now 13 Directors depot. After completing the programme, trainees are appointed to (including four Managing Directors) and 34 Alan worked for at Hinckley depot for their first substantive management roles with the UK Bus Managers who all began their careers on the five years prior to its closing and had a 12-month Division. graduate management programme. gap in service before re-joining the company at Nuneaton. “Alan’s commitment to the company over the past Centuries of service for Stagecoach South 35 years has been exceptional. I hope he enjoys OVER 700 years of loyal service were celebrated retired recently after also serving over 50 years in his well-deserved retirement,” said Ian Campbell, at a recent Stagecoach South awards ceremony. the business. Operations Manager at the Nuneaton depot. Jenny Harris, who last year reached her 50-year driver Mohammed Raja was joined by Alan added: “It will be really strange not driving milestone, was the longest serving employee, Winchester Engineering Manager Paul Denne in buses any more. I will miss it and my mates at the having spent her career running the travel shop in celebrating 45 years’ service. Meanwhile, Chris depot I am sure but I am also looking forward to Aldershot. Remnant, newly appointed Engineering Director retirement.” Jenny was joined by Richard Alexander, who for Stagecoach South, was one of the youngest award winners, having reached the 20-year mark. n Contacts Mike Watson, Managing Editor: Lindsay Reid, On Stage, Stagecoach Director for Stagecoach Group, 10 Dunkeld Road, Perth, PH1 5TW South, said: “It was great Email: [email protected] to spend time with such loyal employees. We pride If you have a story for On Stage, please contact ourselves in our training and Lindsay Reid as above. The copy deadline for development opportunities the next edition of On Stage will be Wednesday and it is wonderful to see the 17 February 2016. Stagecoach South’s long-serving employees benefits.” 10