Cutting edge Phone and go in Jersey taxibus City launch

The newspaper of

Issue 52 Autumn 2003 Now it’s ‘click and go’ with UK internet first tagecoach has launched .com adds new dimension Sthe UK’s first internet- only operation, offering to inter-city bus passengers travel between major cities for just £1. Megabus.com uses the same low- cost, no-frills approach of the budget – and passengers have already voted the service a hit. The web-based ticketless service provides passengers with cheap travel between major cities. A trial was launched on the popular Oxford- route in August and 3,000 tickets were sold in three weeks. Megabus.com has now been introduced in – with services linking , , Perth and . The concept could be expanded to other parts of the UK if it proves a success. The distinctive blue and yellow Megabus vehicles which run on the routes feature the eye-catching 13ft- Toddler Elly takes high Megadriver character. Ease congestion

Stagecoach Chief Executive Brian early retirement Souter said: “This is a totally new concept and heralds a new era in low- cost inter-city bus travel. Brian and Megadriver are all smiles for the launch of Megabus.com One of ’ effort for Elly at Christmas and on “We’ve looked at the way the cheap youngest commuters has taken her birthday by decorating the airlines run their operations and we established. The company will then David Whitley, Marketing Manager early retirement from her daily carriage with balloons and believe there is a big market out there yield manage the seats in the same way for Midlands, said commute into London – at the banners. that doesn’t use the bus at present but as the budget airlines, with slightly the feedback from the first passengers grand old age of three! Elly’s mum, Diane, said: “I can be attracted to our new product. higher for last-minute bookings in Oxford had been positive. Ellyse Marsh started have been overwhelmed by how “We feel young people, and or popular journeys. “Everyone who has used the service commuting on the 7.21am from everyone has taken to Elly and students in particular, will catch on to Airlines have been criticised in the so far seems to have been impressed – Fleet to London Waterloo at the joined in with her games and the service and the bargain-basement past for advertising low prices but not least because there really isn’t a tender age of four months, due to nursery rhymes even though it is prices will be ideally suited to their offering only a handful of seats at the catch. It really does cost just £1 to mum Diane’s work commitments early in the morning! Most people budget. We also hope the low cost will bargain fares. travel by air-conditioned bus.” in the city. just want to read their paper but encourage car drivers to switch to However, Mr Souter said: Megabus.com is the second UK first Being a regular face on the everyone has made such an effort public and help ease “Megabus.com is a genuine bargain. At for Stagecoach in only a few weeks. train, Elly – as she is known – has to entertain Elly and make her congestion on our roads. ” least 40 per cent of our seats will The company recently launched its had the chance to form special journeys even more enjoyable.” The 94-seat vehicles can carry always be at the lowest £1 and the ‘phone and go’ Yellow Taxibus, a bonds with everyone in the almost double the number of highest prices will still be extremely combined taxi and bus operation carriage, so much so they named • Our photograph above shows Elly and passengers than a traditional express competitive at around £3 to £4.” running from Fife to Edinburgh, with it ‘Elly’s Carriage’. mum Diane, with Station Manager Alison , allowing megabus.com to The no-frills have no toilets, fares as low as £2. Passengers made a special Ives, waving goodbye to Waterloo. target high-volume, low-cost business. although the refurbished interiors All megabus.com fares will be £1 in feature comfortable seats and air-con- the short-term until the service is ditioning. • ‘Phone and go’ taxibus – p6&7 New ventures Government Group agrees $48m ruling Coach USA deal affects ESOP New Government rules mean that the tagecoach Group has additional 58 vehicles, representing $5m , South Central and West Stagecoach Employee Share Ownership Plan (ESOP) is now Sstarted the final phase of of the purchase price. regions, along with the disposal of taxi Meanwhile, the extensive taxi operations in Kansas City, Long Island closed. its restructuring of Coach operations in Texas have been sold to and Indianapolis. This means no further free share USA and continues to make private investment group Texas Taxi Inc The latest sales, which are part of allocations will be made to existing excellent progress with the for $28m. Stagecoach Group’s strategy to refocus members and the company is not able sales programme. its US business on the North East and to offer participation in the ESOP to any new people. Terms have been agreed for the sale North Central regions, bring the total The Government has introduced a of the South East region of Coach USA, proceeds from disposals to date to new scheme called the Share while the major taxi operations in Texas around $300m. The cash proceeds will Incentive Plan (SIP), which replaces have also been sold. initially be used to reduce the Group’s Starting something new in business the old ESOP. The Stagecoach Board The new owners of the South East outstanding net debt. is always a challenge. But it’s also has considered the benefits of the new region are an affiliate of Lincolnshire , Stagecoach Group exciting and it gives you a real arrangements but has decided not to Management Inc, Echo Bridge LLC, and Chief Executive, said: “We are now in buzz when you see the positive offer the new scheme at this time. private investors, who have teamed up the final phase of the delivery of our response of the people that matter Free shares allocated to ESOP par- with management to acquire the The Texas operations, which cover North American sales programme. – our customers. ticipants in previous years will operations. Houston, San Antonio and Austin, are “We are making good progress in That’s exactly how I feel about continue to be held in trust for the full The $48m deal covers operations in the largest of Coach USA’s taxi negotiations for the sale of our megabus.com. It’s a new concept three years at which time a share Florida, Maryland, Georgia and North businesses. The Texas business has remaining taxi operations in Florida, San in bus travel, with an attractive certificate is issued. The last batch of Carolina, which involve more than 500 around 350 employees and operates a Diego, Minneapolis, Pittsburgh and combination of low-cost fares, a share certificates should be issued in vehicles and employ 620 people. A total total of 2,100 cars. Denver, and are continuing to pursue simple internet-based booking autumn 2005. of eight businesses are included in the Stagecoach Group has previously opportunities for the disposal of the system and a straightforward The Sharesave scheme is not sale as well as the purchase of an announced the sale of the Transit, New Canadian region.” timetable. affected by these changes. Stagecoach has always been ahead of the pack in spotting a gap in the market and I’ve no doubt megabus.com will grow the Bright start to the school term number of people who see the bus Stagecoach as an attractive option. Megabus.com is already proving Scotland has made a tees-off in a hit with customers in Oxford. In bright start to the school term with the little more than three weeks, we launch of its Yellow School Buses. have taken around 3,000 bookings The Trident double-decker buses, South Wales and had an impressive 11,000 eight in total, have been painted visitors to the website. yellow to make road users aware that We’ve already had a good mix the vehicles are carrying school August saw 82 golfers descend on the of customers, including commuters children. It is hoped the eye-catching St Pierre championship old course who live in Oxford and work in design will reduce accidents during near Chepstow to compete in the 7th London, and the feedback has school journey times when children CPT Wales Golf Classic. been very positive. will be crossing the road. A sunny day and a course in What’s even more encouraging The Stop, Look and Listen Green pristine condition offered high hopes is that this has been achieved Cross Code message is also displayed of good scores. As others wilted, the during what is a quieter time of on the sides of the vehicles to make Stagecoach in Wales team remained year. Students are now returning pupils more safety conscious about rock steady and creditable scores were from their summer break and this is getting on and off school vehicles. posted by newcomer Kevin Taylor of exactly the profile of passenger we Emma McNae, Marketing Manager Brecon. Telling contributions were believe will be attracted to for , said: also made by Viv Mendes, Operations megabus.com. “Safety is a key aspect of our operation Manager Methyr/Aberdare, and David Customers in Scotland are also and we hope that by making our Lang of Merthyr. now able to sample megabus.com. school vehicles as distinctive as An impressive team performance It really seems to have captured the possible, they will act as a reminder to saw Stagecoach come out joint imagination of the public and the school pupils and drivers to be more winners of the infamous yellow ball media, who see similar potential to alert to the dangers on the road during competition and be crowned CPT that tapped by the low-cost airlines. school journey times.” A distinctive yellow bus takes to the road. Wales Golf Classic Champions 2003. New ventures don’t just happen by themselves. They take planning, attention to detail and bag-loads of Contacts enthusiasm. One of the great things about Stagecoach is how quickly The Editor, On Stage, Stagecoach Group, National Transport Tokens Sajda Khan 01254 680180 we get things done: from coming 10 Dunkeld Road, Perth PH1 5TW. up with a new idea, through to Tel: +44 (0)1738 442111, Fax: +44 (0)1738 580407 UK Rail developing the concept and then to www.stagecoachgroup.com South West Trains Kathryn Rowe 0207 620 5238 getting the product on the road. If you have a story for On Stage please get in touch with 01983 812591 I would like to thank everyone Stephen Wade involved in megabus.com, from your local contact below. Stagecoach Supertram Julia Shaw 0114 2759888 our drivers and frontline Stagecoach Group Steven Stewart 01738 642040 operational team to the people Overseas who have brought their UK Bus Coach USA Patty Kalich 001 713 860 1763 commercial and marketing Scotland 01592 261461 New Zealand Dennis Elliot 00 649 309 3500 expertise to the project. We have Lisa McCloy made a great start and with Stagecoach West Scotland Emma McNae 01292 613515 everyone’s commitment I hope we Paul de Santis 0191 566 0209 can make megabus.com a mega Colin Nicholson 01772 255752 success. Karen Best 0161 276 2727 On Stage is published four times a year. Phil Cartwright 01246 222018 Advertising connected directly or indirectly with Stagecoach is accepted. Stagecoach South Midlands David Whitley 01865 716030 Charitable adverts will be included without charge, otherwise Stagecoach East Philip Norwell 01604 676060 rates on request. Stagecoach West & Wales Stephen Evans 01291 623565 On Stage is distributed free to Stagecoach staff. Public subscrip- tions are available at £12 for one year or £20 for two years. Cheque Benjamin Franklin 020 8477 7249 payable to Stagecoach Group plc at the editorial address. The Helen Martin 01243 536161 Editor is unable to enter into individual correspondence concerning Stagecoach South Helen Martin 01243 536161 the affairs of The Stagecoach Group. Brian Souter Designed by Catchline PR and Communications, Scotland. Chief Executive Mark Whittle 01392 889747

2 Autumn 2003 Stranded choir sings a song of praise

A stranded choir has been singing the Highlands fell through. since its inception. As old friends of praises of and the However, help was at hand. the Festival, we were pleased to University of for stepping in Stagecoach Bluebird stepped in with welcome the choir into the University.” to solve a travel and accommodation the offer of a free bus to take the The bus was laid on after Pat dilemma. group to London for the next leg of McMullen, Stagecoach Bluebird The University of the Philippines their eight-month world tour and the Operations Supervisor in Aberdeen, Concert Chorus, which was one of the University of Aberdeen offered three realised the group’s plight. most popular attractions at the nights of accommodation at its Festival Transport Director Pete Aberdeen International Youth Festival, Hillhead Halls of Residence. Wiltshire said: “It is really good of was left short of funds for accommo- Lori Manders, Director of External Stagecoach Bluebird and the university dation in the Granite City and Affairs at the University of Aberdeen, to do this. The group would have had transport to London when part of a said: “We were delighted to help. a big problem without their The choir enjoying a calmer moment on their Scottish visit. planned three-day tour of the We’ve supported the Youth Festival generosity.” Fraught South West Trains flautist saved by seals new franchise the No.55 Stagecoach London Supervisor tagecoach Group has Alan Mould, recently played an Sclosed a deal with important part in the safe return the Strategic Rail of a priceless flute. The flute – which was made in Authority for a new 1870 by esteemed French manu- South West Trains facturer Louis Lot – had gone franchise. missing during a bus journey The deal, involving the between Oxford Circus and Old country’s biggest rail franchise, Street. will come into effect on 1 Its owner, BBC Symphony February 2004 and is for a Orchestra principal flautist minimum term of three years. Michael Cox, had given the There is also an option to extend priceless instrument to a the deal for a further five years specialist shop in London for subject to the agreement of both minor repairs, ahead of two parties. planned solo performances at the Stagecoach Group is Last Night of the Proms. confident that the agreement will The craftsman transporting it provide significant benefits for had fainted on the bus and when passengers, improve the he came around the flute had gone. In a desperate bid to trace its whereabouts Mr Cox got in touch with BBC Radio 5 and news of the flute’s disappearance was broadcast. By a sheer coincidence, a colleague of Alan’s at Leyton Garage, John Fall, heard about the lost flute on a 55 bus and mentioned it when he got into work. Upon hearing the news, alarm bells started to ring with Graham Eccles – ‘This cements our Alan who knew that a flute was position as a major operator.’ secured in the garage’s lost property office. financial prospects of the Group, Alan immediately rang the and deliver value to sharehold- Radio Station, but got an answer ers. What the new deal will include: phone! Undeterred, Alan looked The franchise places responsi- That’s a fact! through the bag and came across bility for funding and delivering • The replacement of Mark 1 trains • A commitment to carry out a a mobile phone bill. He rang the infrastructure projects with the with a new £645million fleet of repainting programme at 75 mobile number and left a ◊ SRA, leaving South West Trains modern Desiro trains, Britain’s stations South West Trains message asking the person to get to focus on delivering a better biggest order for new trains operates more than in touch. Around an hour later, a train service to passengers. • The introduction of new state-of- 1,700 services a day very relieved craftsman contacted Brian Souter, Stagecoach • A comprehensive plan to the art automatic ticket machines into and out of Alan! improve punctuality Group Chief Executive, said: “We London Waterloo. Alan, who has been a • Continued funding for a number are delighted to have signed the supervisor at Leyton Garage for • Measures to boost rolling stock of evening and late night services, ◊ Around 142m new South West Trains deal, reliability bus links and small car schemes the last eight years, said: “It’s which is a major step forward for passenger journeys a always nice to be able to reunite the Group. It is an excellent deal •Timetable initiatives •Continuation of the Passengers’ year are made across someone with their lost for Government, our passengers, Panel. 11 counties in the belongings, but this one has got our shareholders and our •Refurbishment of the inner south and south west to be my most special.” people.” suburban 455fleet Optional projects: of England. Barry Arnold, Managing Graham Eccles, Executive Director for Stagecoach London •£6 million to fund on-going fleet •Work to improve passenger ◊ Director Rail at Stagecoach Stagecoach Group added: “Alan is clearly a credit to reliability improvements circulation at Waterloo Station Group, added: “South West took over operation the company, since without his Trains is the busiest rail franchise of the franchise in quick thinking and brilliant piece •Revenue and profit-sharing •The recast of the Windsor line February 1996. in the country and this cements agreement with the SRA services to provide more track of investigative work the Last our position as a major operator capacity for additional peak Night of the Proms would never within the UK rail market.” services. have sounded right.”

Autumn 2003 3 Cutting edge research proves ‘bus is best’

Stagecoach is getting scientific about and Development Manager Elaine more about customers and how they Paul Bunting, Stagecoach UK Bus persuading more people that bus travel Rosscraig. make decisions. Customers can now be Business Development Director, said: is best. Stagecoach has been making use of profiled on a geographical basis and the “We are delighted Alison is joining UK Bus has strengthened its sophisticated research and marketing information used to devise tailor-made Stagecoach at a time when we are commercial team with the appointment techniques pioneered by the retail marketing campaigns. leading the way in the UK bus industry of Alison McLeod as Data and Market industry to attract more people to In trial campaigns in Perth and with innovative approaches to Insight Analyst. . Grimsby, between seven and nine per generating passenger growth. She Based within Stagecoach’s central Lifestyle information from sources cent of customers targeted have brings a wealth of experience in market Diane Beddall commercial team at its headquarters in such as the census and economic trends switched to the bus. Further campaigns analysis from other major corporate Driver Diane Perth, Alison will report to Research data is being used to help understand are planned for later this year. organisations.” scoops top award Passengers help shape Congratulations to Diane Beddall of Bedford depot, who bagged a top accolade in the Welcome Aboard Awards. Winning the title of Best British Staten Island service Driver Large Companies was all the more satisfying for Diane as she only recently became a , much ed&Tan Tours paid to the astonishment of friends and Rrespect to its customers family! when it launched a newly After bringing up her children, Diane decided it was time to look for refurbished Staten Island a new job. Initial ridicule from her Express at the beginning husband when she suggested of September. becoming a bus driver only made Recognising the importance of the her more determined and after a people using the service, the company spell in Bedford’s driving school, asked one of the passengers to cut the Diane qualified as a PCV Driver. ribbon at the waterfront ceremony in Sponsored by the National Jersey City. Federation of Bus Users and Debra Zito, who lives on Staten Group, the Welcome Aboard Awards Island and works in Jersey City, was are awarded to companies and delighted to perform the honours and drivers who, according to their in turn paid tribute to Red&Tan, in customers, provide an exceptional particular to General Manager Emory service. Edwards and his staff. “They really listened to our concerns about the previous buses Students and have come through with flying colours,” she said. Debra was one of many eager passengers who joined management snap up teams from Red&Tan and Coach USA at the launch. The new service represents a ticket deal $130,000 investment by Coach USA and will take commuters on two routes across Staten Island to Jersey Stagecoach has achieved a fantastic City, where many offices have response to an e-marketing Debra Zito prepares to make the all-important snip during the waterfront ceremony. relocated since the attacks on the campaign in Manchester targeted at World Trade Centre. package offers a discounted ticket for Hoboken and we will continually grow, we’re going to be there.” students staying on in the city over Red&Tan also announced a new those passengers taking advantage of work to improve our service. Roger Bowker, Senior Vice the summer break. partnership with NY Waterway. The the new connections. “We have worked very closely with President of Coach USA NE Region, A summer holiday ticket, priced two companies are to offer a Emory Edwards said: “It has been passengers to address their concerns said: “We had problems with some of at £35 and offering unlimited travel / fare that will our goal to bring upgraded coaches and it is great to see them so excited the previous buses and worked very on Stagecoach services during July allow Staten Island Express passengers into this service and we are pleased about the result. The move is a hard to have them replaced. Our and August, was marketed at 900 to transfer to the Manhattan ferry on that they are finally here. We want to reflection on the growing economic passengers are always our top priority students via-mail. Some 400 in Jersey City. ensure our passengers are well served importance of the Jersey City and it is wonderful to see them so students took up the ticket in just This new bus/ferry combination between Staten Island, Jersey City and waterfront. As Jersey continues to enthusiastic about the upgraded fleet.” three weeks. Paul Bunting, Stagecoach UK Bus Business Development Director, said: “Stagecoach sees huge potential in the student market Knockout time had by all and in marketing our products through new channels, such as the The good old days of British television were brought back to internet. Our experience in life on a bank holiday Monday by members of Stagecoach’s Manchester has been phenomenal Supertram staff. and this is an unprecedented Sheffield’s Grave Park was witness to a real life version of response for an e-marketing ‘It’s a Knockout’ in which Dave Marrison’s intrepid team campaign in any sector.” secured third place competing against 11 other teams from Internet-based services are across Sheffield. becoming an increasingly important Under the guise of ‘R’ Us, the Supertram team battled channel in meeting the needs of huge amounts of water, washing up liquid and an inflatable customers. In Manchester, around assault course, all in the name of charity. An exhausting day 15 per cent of Stagecoach’s total saw each team raise between £800 and £2,000 for the Children student revenue is via the stage- Today charity. The efforts of all involved will enable the coachbus.com website. purchase of twice the original estimated quantity of motorised Stagecoach’s Unirider campaign wheelchairs for local children. – which picked up the UK Bus Industry Award for Marketing at the If you have been up to something unusual to aid your local end of 2002 – is also being rolled charities then we’d like to hear about it. Your On Stage contact is out in other student centres, such as listed on p2. Newcastle, Warwick, Lancaster, Exeter, and Aberdeen. Game for a laugh: Supertram staff have fun raising money for charity. A tale to tell? 4 Autumn 2003 Tomorrow’s managers mean business today Graduates give big thumbs-up to company training programme.

arah Longair, Simon Mathieson and Joe Davies Smay have been attracted to Stagecoach’s Management Training Programme for a number of different reasons, but they do have one thing in common – they love their jobs! The training programme – programme is determined by the which covers both Stagecoach discipline chosen but, in all UK Bus and South West Trains – cases, time is initially spent is very much focused on people. working with experienced staff The transport industry is and managers. about employees getting The programme includes a customers to their destinations – substantial amount of project or put simply, people moving work and skills in working with people. and leading people are The training programme lasts developed on a series of two years and combines courses. practical experience with off- Many participants are ready the-job training courses. It’s for their first management role at designed to build management the end of the programme. skills rapidly, while providing a In this feature we get the thorough grounding in the inside story from Sarah, Simon business as a whole. and Joe on how they feel about The exact make-up of the the programme.

‘There’s always a new challenge’ ‘The programme offers great opportunities’

Twenty-two-year-old Sarah Longair daily challenges as she gets to grips The attraction to Stagecoach for 25- from Dundee, was attracted to with life as an Assistant Operations year-old Joe Davies from Paisley Stagecoach after reading about the Manager. was simple – it offered him the company’s rags-to-riches origins. She In year one graduates spend most of chance to join one of the biggest entered the training programme their time working with experienced and best transport companies in the immediately after graduating from staff and managers and in year two UK. Heriot Watt University with a BSc Hons trainees are offered the chance to take He explained: “I was impressed in Mathematics and Finance. on a more substantive role. by Stagecoach’s reputation and I’ve “I just love it,” she said, “I’m Sarah said: “During my first year I always wanted to work in the thoroughly enjoying it and I really took received training on everything from transport industry, it’s something to it from the very beginning. I’m doing operations to learning to drive a bus! I I’ve always been fascinated by. I something different every day and spent two-and-a-half weeks at the think transport is a growth industry there’s always a new challenge. I would drivers’ training school and then spent and things are looking good for the encourage other graduates to join. If time learning how to operate the ticket future.” you’re prepared to put the work in then machine. After that I was on the road Joe graduated from Paisley you’ll definitely reap the benefits.” during the first stages of her training. again with a mentor driver. It was great University with a BA Hons degree Sarah remained close to home, She is currently based in Manchester’s and it gave me a real insight into the in Politics and Social Policy. During working at depots throughout Fife, Charles Street depot and is relishing the job.” his degree, he took a year out to work as a bus driver in Glasgow and also worked as a loader with a ‘I would definitely encourage other graduates to join’ flight services company. In his first year, Joe was based at the task of introducing a new night a depot in Oxford and followed a service. It’s going to be a Simon Mathieson’s interest in the sharp end of the business and the day- clear structure and you get a lot of very similar programme to Sarah challenging role, but I’m really travel industry goes way back. to-day running of things. As well as support, especially from Alison Spooner, and Simon. He will complete his looking forward to it. I like being in Even as a youngster he felt drawn to taking a turn behind the wheel of a bus, the Training and Development Manager. second year of training in operations and it’s where I a career in transport and completed a Simon completed two months training in I always know that I can call her office Newcastle, where he will divide his ultimately see myself working. This work placement at a local engineering. if I have any questions or concerns. time between and new placement should be brilliant!” during his schooldays. He said: “It was really hard work and That’s a big positive for me.” Walkergate depots. In summing up his experiences And when it came to choosing a I’ve got a lot of respect for the guys who He said: “My office will be at the so far, Joe said his first year on the degree course, Simon opted for do that job all year round. Only by doing Slatyford depot, but my time will be graduate training programme had Transport Management at Aston the job can you appreciate what’s split between the two biggest been both hard work and enjoyable University. During the completion of a involved.” depots in Newcastle. There is one and added: “If anyone out there BSc Hons, he enjoyed a placement at Simon did his commercial training in Operations Manager for Newcastle, wants a career in the transport Travel . Chichester, where he got to grips with who is supported by three Assistant industry I would definitely say ‘Go Towards the end of his degree, timetables and route planning. He also Operations Managers – and I’ll be for it!’. You’ve got to really want to Simon decided to pursue a career in the spent some time in the marketing one of them. do it and it’s a lot of hard work, but bus industry and looked into a number department learning how special offers “As well as doing general the programme offers great oppor- of training programmes. He opted for are devised and advertising promotions operations work, I’ll be taking on tunities for graduates.” the package offered by Stagecoach. are handled. During his first year with the He said: “I would definitely company, he was based in the Aldershot encourage other graduates to join. It’s If you would like to follow Sarah, Simon and Joe’s lead, you depot and he will move over 600 miles not a nine-to-five office-based job with a can find more information about the training programme north to begin his second year in lunch break at the same time each day, by logging on to www.stagecoachgroup.com and selecting Inverness and Elgin. but for me, that’s what makes it so careers from the main menu. During the first three months of the exciting. programme, trainees are involved in the “This graduate programme has a very Autumn 2003 5 Routes revamp New ‘phone a sharpens service

A major revamp of bus routes in South has given Abington its best ever service into Oxford. helps cut capit The launch of a new service means that buses run every 10 minutes during the day, with further departures until 1am during the week and 3am at the weekends. The new arrangements accommodate early morning I commuters between Abington and London too, with the first departure into Oxford leaving at 5.45am on weekdays. o David Whitley, Marketing Manager for Stagecoach in Oxfordshire, said: “This will set new standards in quality and E reliability. It is part of a major change in the way we serve the needs of South Oxfordshire people.” S The launch of the new route Ed coincides with the reintroduction of a a regular night service to the town. Nightbuses proved a huge ser success when they were re- the launched earlier this year, following of a large investment by Stagecoach in fle extra buses and extra supervision pic on the busiest nights. “We promised our regular late se night customers that we would be ca expanding the nightbus concept if fre it proved successful and the incor- Du poration of our new Abington ca route is the first stage of this process,” said Mr Whitley. Ed co ma the Searching Fo ad lan for the Ed Stagecoach Chief Executive Brian Souter with Transport Minister Nicol Stephen at the Yellow Taxibus launch. Ta winning op 21 wi formula Service earns Minister’s praise run be an Stagecoach is hoping to Scotland’s Transport Minister, Nicol Mr Stephen said: “I congratulate operators developing new Mo discover a winning formula for Stephen, has welcomed the UK’s Stagecoach on developing this approaches to meet the transport Fr increasing passenger numbers. first commercial flexible transport innovative new service which needs of today. ex An on-bus questionnaire is service which will take its combines the benefits of a “The Scottish Executive is ab to be used to discover how a passengers direct from their door to traditional, fixed route bus service committed to improving public we key route’s success has grown the heart of Edinburgh. with the flexibility of pre-booked transport. Spending on public by 60 per cent. The Minister praised Stagecoach pick-ups from home. transport – which is top of our ev It is 18 months since when he attended the official launch “Yellow Taxibus is a UK first – priorities – will rise by over 70% in mi Stagecoach South Midlands of the service at Ferrytoll Park and an entirely commercial transport three years. Initiatives such as the pe doubled the frequency of its Ride along with Brian Souter, Chief service which is demand responsive. Yellow Taxibus complement this off award-winning 500 service Executive of Stagecoach It is an excellent example of commitment.” between Banbury and Brackley tra and introduced easy-access alt low-floor buses. the David Whitley, Marketing co Manager for Stagecoach South Another capital idea! on Midlands, said: “We want to Sc find out where the 60 per cent The taxibus service has added passenger who is waiting for the signs – similar to those ‘Do not co growth has come from and another dimension to travelling pick-up while the driver searches disturb’ ones you’ll find in a hotel ro whether we can encourage into Scotland’s capital. for that house number in identical room. more people to travel on the Easy to book and easy to use, rows and blocks of houses. Printed in bold yellow and ac route. At the same time, we the service really is tailored as Well, Stagecoach has simplified blue, it clearly stands out from pe would like to know how we much as possible to the needs of this stage as well. that ‘crowd’ of similar doors. as can apply the success of the the passenger. By taking a leaf out of the So ‘phone and go’ can now br 500 to other routes in the However, one problem facing hotel trade’s book, the taxibus add to ‘easy to find’ to its many ve network.” every operator is locating that service has issued door handle advantages for city travelling. Au the 6 Autumn 2003 TransBus contract nd go’ taxibus secures Scots’ jobs

Stagecoach has brought forward a multi-million pound order with bus manufacturer TransBus International to help secure tal congestion hundreds of jobs at its Scottish plant. The Group has placed a £16million-plus contract with TransBus for 150 vehicles to be built at the company’s plant in Falkirk. Stagecoach has advanced its latest bus order by six months to Innovative service help fill a gap in TransBus’s production schedule at its 75-year- old plant. The vehicles, which will be offers flexible introduced into Stagecoach’s high performing bus routes across the UK, are expected to be delivered by April 2004. Edinburgh travel Stagecoach has already placed orders for around 380 buses – worth tressed-out commuters travelling on the £42million – for the current financial year, nearly all with TransBus. Scongested route between Fife and Brian Souter, Stagecoach Group dinburgh are benefiting from a new ‘phone Chief Executive, said: “We are a nd go’ Yellow Taxibus service. Scottish company and have proudly The innovative Stagecoach to run on commercial lines, supported Scottish bus manufactur- rvice – the first of its kind in with other similar schemes ing over many years. e UK – combines the benefits relying on significant taxpayer “It is crucial that we retain bus a fixed bus route with the support to make them viable. manufacturing capability in exibility of pre-booked taxi Brian Souter, Stagecoach Scotland and we hope that by ck-ups. Group Chief Executive, said: bringing forward this major order it A fleet of 13 spacious eight- “The new Yellow Taxibus will help secure the future of the ater Mercedes Vito people service is a real first for plant and hundreds of Scottish rrier vehicles offer a high- Scotland and the UK. It will jobs.” equency service between offer a fast, frequent, flexible A spokesman for TransBus unfermline and the Scottish and convenient service. International said: “Stagecoach has a pital seven days a week. “If you’re a commuter going long-standing relationship with The economic boom in to work, a pensioner going TransBus and we are delighted to dinburgh and the related high shopping or a family having a win the new business. The market ost of property has resulted in day out, you can just phone is currently going through a very any people buying homes in and go. We can pick up difficult period and the decision to e commuter belt north of the customers as quickly as 10 bring forward the order has orth. The new service takes minutes after getting their call undoubtedly had a positive impact dvantage of extensive bus and take them from their door on prospects at our Falkirk facility.” nes on the route into straight to Princes Street in the dinburgh. heart of Yellow Edinburgh. axibus ‘It offers something “We believe perates up to it will prove to Michael hours a day, for everyone, be an attractive ith services alternative to nning particularly our existing masters etween 6am bus services. It nd 3am commuters who offers onday to have to battle the something for his craft iday, plus everyone, par- xtensive avail- traffic jams into ticularly bility at the commuters Michael Lewis of Merthyr Tydfil eekends. and out of who have to Depot has completed his appren- Services run battle the traffic ticeship, achieving City and very 10 Edinburgh every jams into and Guilds Credit passes for the inutes at out of steering, brake and engine units eak times, day’ Edinburgh of his course. fering every day.” Michael’s achievement is avellers a real Yellow credit to his hard work and ternative to Taxibus opens determination as his apprentice- Council welcomes initiative ship did not go as smoothly as it e daily up new travel ommute on Brian Souter opportunities might have. ne of for residents in The new Yellow Taxibus initiative will He said: “Demand responsive transport He started training with a local otland’s most the rapidly complement other plans to encourage such as Yellow Taxibus is, I am convinced, training provider, which changed ongested expanding greater use of public transport, said Fife one of the growth areas in public transport ownership and then closed. Large utes. eastern area of Council. in the coming years. I particularly welcome amounts of Michael’s training had Fares vary Dunfermline Councillor Mike Rumney, Chairman of the opportunities this service offers been missed and Tile Hill College cording to the number of not currently served by public Environment and Development, said the commuters. It will encourage them to leave put together a one year ‘rescue eople travelling and start from transport. inititative was a welcome addition to the their cars at home.” package’. This entailed hours of little as £2. The distinctively- It also complements the Ferrytoll facility, which Councillor Rumney added that the extra study and a lot of support anded Yellow Taxibus Ferrytoll Park and Ride service allows commuters to leave their cars near service would particularly benefit residents from his foreman, Paul Ricketts, ehicles were launched in with the taxibuses being the Forth Road Bridge and catch a bus to in parts of Dunfermline that currently had and Engineering Manager, Mark ugust. The service offered is routed through the popular Edinburgh. limited bus services. Powell. e first of its kind in the UK site. Autumn 2003 7 Buses were the only way to travel for had researched was the time of the bus Keith Merrett this summer. from outside my home to Sandown,” Keith (51) had long wondered if it Keith rises to UK bus challenge Keith said. was possible to travel from his home in During his eight-day expedition, he the to John O’Groats using saw many areas of the country for the only local bus services. After much Keith also raised valuable funds for before they end up on the streets.” Goldrider ticket, which allows first time and made some new friends pondering, he finally set off on a London-based charity Safe in the City, During his , he came across unlimited travel on any Stagecoach bus along the way. personal challenge in August and which works to prevent homelessness. buses of all shapes and sizes, including in the UK (outside London) for up to Keith added: “Now I have returned, discovered that it was indeed possible He said: “Safe in the City is the only the “wee postie” in the Scottish seven days. I have discovered that the routes I had to make the journey by bus – by 49 charity I know that is preventing home- Highlands. Surprisingly, the total cost “My journey also gave me selected both by luck and some buses to be correct! lessness in London. I think it’s vital that of his bus tickets was only £103.30, confidence in my own abilities, bearing judgement, were in fact the only way to As well as satisfying his curiosity, help is given to these young people thanks in part to a Stagecoach in mind the only part of this journey I John O’ Groats by public buses!” On-track rail services pick up prizes galore South West Trains sparkle at national awards event

outh West Trains has scooped two wins and Sseven commendations in the National Rail Awards. A ground-breaking security “Our passengers have the and anti-crime initiative and a right to use our services £15 million information system, without the need to tolerate came out on top during the anti-social behaviour such as awards ceremony in London. graffiti, vandalism and violence South West Trains – in and TravelSafe Officers are a partnership with the British really effective way of Transport Police – won first combating this behaviour. They prize in the Sir Robert Horton also deserve up-to-the-minute Safety Award, for the introduc- train running information to tion of TravelSafe Officers make their travelling (TSOs), who are employed to experience easier.” patrol the network and help South West Trains won two make passengers and Highly Commended awards in employees feel safer. the Most Significant Passenger In another joint entry – this Development (London) time with Network Rail – South category – for TSOs and the West Trains received refurbishment work at recognition for its Customer Brentford Station. Information System (CIS). Brentford Station was The system – which won highly commended in the the Most Significant Passenger Small Station of the Year Development (London) category. Until recently, the category – has brought audio station was unstaffed and and visual information to all offered few facilities. Now, 176 stations, many of which following a £2.2m facelift, the had outdated equipment. station offers a ticket office, Judges praised the South footbridge, CCTV cameras, lifts West Trains and Network Rail and better lighting. for their partnership working Congratulations also go to and “an information system frontline employees Ian which exceeded expectations Faletto, who works at Sway in in terms of performance and the New Forest and John Low floor buses reach new heights flexibility”. Downes, who is based at Andrew Haines, Managing Guildford. Both picked up Director South West Trains, special commendations in the Stagecoach in Lancaster has double-decker buses to be introduced buses to provide these new single- said: “We are delighted that we Outstanding Personal introduced 13 modern low floor to Lancaster and complement the door vehicles. have won these highly Contribution Award category. double-decker buses to Route 2/2A. existing MAN Lo-Liners. Together they regarded awards, which show The annual awards are The buses will operate between will offer a seven-minute frequency of that our information, safety presented by Rail magazine Heysham, Morecambe, Lancaster and low-floor buses. •Our photograph above shows Managing and security, and customer and Lancaster University. Engineering staff at West Cumbria Director Nigel Barrett and Operations Manager service initiatives, are paying magazine and sponsored by These are the first low-floor depot converted dual door ex-London Stephen Barber with the new fleet of buses. off. Angel Trains. Quick-thinking driver turns medic to save passenger’s life

Bluebird coach driver Simon vouchers from for passenger was ill. While waiting for that without Simon’s quick response drivers has received such high praise. Wiltshire’s quick-thinking actions helping a woman passenger who the ambulance to arrive, he carried and action, the woman would have Simon’s immediate response played a saved a passenger’s life and now his suffered a heart attack while travelling out vital life-saving procedures which died. fundamental part in the passenger’s heroic efforts have been recognised from Aberdeen to Edinburgh. played an important part in stabilising Neil Wood, Managing Director at recovery. He truly deserves this by Scottish Citylink. His first aid training sprung into the woman’s condition. Scottish Citylink, said: “We are recognition for his courageous Simon was presented with action as soon as he saw the The ambulance service commented delighted the actions of one of our efforts.” 8 Autumn 2003 With a little help from her friends, Stella (pictured centre), Stella’s shining example celebrates passing her NVQ Level 2 in the company of Lucy Stella Mitchell is living proof that Leamington Spa depot. Mitchell, NVQ disability can be overcome with hard Now, thanks to hard work and the assessor (left) and work and a little help from your support of her best friend, invoice best pal Tracey Colby friends. manager Tracey Colby, Stella has (right). The 29-year-old from King’s Heath, gained her NVQ Level 2 in driving. Birmingham, never allows her She said: “Sometimes it’s difficult to problems with reading and writing to admit you have a problem. But there hold her back and, for the last three are always ways of getting round it years, she has been working for and it has certainly boosted my Stagecoach South Midlands’ confidence.”

Guide dogs give Rosemary climbs career paws for thought ladder

Hard work and dedication are Stagecoach lends support helping Rosemary Blair from Stagecoach South take another step to Access for All scheme up the career ladder. Currently in post as Assistant Operations Manager, Rosemary t’s all systems go for guide dog owners in Scotland. (pictured) has completed her Staff I Stagecoach Scotland has signed Dennis Robertson, Client Services Development Programme and now up to the Guide Dog Travel Charter. Coordinator (Scotland) of Guide has direct responsibility for the 57 This is a good practice guide Dogs for the Blind, explained: “Like drivers on eight routes, using a fleet recently launched by The Guide a guide dog, accessible transport of 24 buses from the Lewes, Dogs for the Blind Association as provides mobility and independ- Uckfield and Seaford depots. part of its Access for All campaign. ence. Rosemary, from Lancing, joined The aim is to encourage transport “We are delighted that Stagecoach Stagecoach as a trainee driver six operators, including bus, coach, services are accessible to guide dog years ago following a 15-year train, ferry and companies, to owners and to blind and partially driving career in the Women’s Royal sign up and demonstrate their sighted people.” Army Corp. Last year she was commitment to accessible travel for Robert Andrew, Deputy promoted from Senior Controller to guide dog owners. Managing Director of Stagecoach Assistant Operations Manager. Guide dog owners continue to Scotland, added: “Stagecoach Stagecoach South’s Managing experience difficulties when using appreciates that accessible transport Director, Andrew Dyer, said he was all forms of transport, despite is a real concern to many current or delighted that Rosemary’s hard work operators being aware that offering potential disabled passengers. and dedication had paid off. adequate access to disabled people “We are pleased to have received “No one can pretend that it is makes commercial as well as ethical the ‘Access for All’ Travel Charter easy to keep bus services running sense. Certificate as we have made a efficiently within today’s A nationwide survey revealed significant investment in modern ‘lo- environment but the Lewis team that three out of every four guide liner’ buses to provide improved now led by Rosemary will be dog owners who used buses had access for the partially sighted and determined to look after our bus encountered avoidable obstacles or people using various different Stagecoach Scotland has underlined its commitment to good practice by signing up to the customers,” he said. hazards. mobility aids.” Guide Dog Travel Charter. Bosses go Trolley bus given new lease of life walkabout!

A fully refurbished trolley bus took to the streets of Stagecoach bosses in Banbury have New Zealand’s capital city, Wellington, earlier this been going ‘walkabout’ in a bid to year. improve relations with passengers Stagecoach boss Brian Souter presented the and staff. revamped bus to Wellington’s Regional Councillors Depot Manager Gary Cotter and before inviting them to join him on a short journey. Engineering Manager Steve Prewett The refurbished bus is one of a fleet of 59 which have increased the amount of time have been around for almost 20 years. The work was they spend walking around town, carried out by New Zealand company Designline as talking to travellers and drivers. part of a proposed recycling project to update the Mr Cotter, who has been in fleet. charge of the town’s Canal Street bus Brian said: “Trolley buses have become an icon of depot since the turn of the year, said: Wellington and are highly valued by its residents. The “We intend going on walkabouts a worldwide group is fully supportive of our Wellington lot more than has been previously company’s programme to look at re-energising the possible. I believe considerable trolley bus fleet. progress has been made to the “Stagecoach has recognised the benefits of new benefit of the Banbury’s travelling bus design – such as ‘no-step’ floors, ergonomic public, both in terms of reliability seating, and easy access front and back doors – and and the availability of good quality we want to bring the trolley fleet into step with these drivers.” The old and new look trolley bus pictured here in central Wellington. developments.” Autumn 2003 9 Pedal power aids charity Kindness

Congratulations to bus driver Mike have completed the circuit and am Milburn who completed a 56-mile looking forward to hopefully doing praised cycle ride in the summer to raise another one next year. The hardest money for Christies Hospital. part of the ride was between A grateful mum has given a big thank Mike (55), a driver at the Chorley and Preston where there is a you to a Stagecoach driver for Stockport depot, took five hours to steep incline but determination won helping her daughter when she complete the course – from Albert in the end and I finished the course. became ill but had no money for her Square in Manchester to Stanley “I would like to thank my fare home. Park, Blackpool – and raised more colleagues and the management for Howard Deacon from Rugby, than £300. helping me to raise the sponsorship who has been driving with Mike, who has been a bus driver money for Christies Hospital and Stagecoach South Midlands for 10 Mike saddles up for a worthy cause. for 24 years, said: “I am proud to supporting me in the event.” years, made sure 12-year-old Louise Bridges arrived home safely. Her mother, Michelle Bridges, wrote to Stagecoach praising Howard and said: “Not all drivers would do what he did and he deserves a big thank you for his kindness.” Summertime and the Louise was in Rugby town centre when she began to feel very ill and couldn’t manage the walk home. She approached Howard on his bus and explained that she needed to get home but had no money for the fare. Michelle said: “I told Louise on travelling was easy... her mobile to ask the driver if he would allow her to travel home and I would pay her fare when she got off. Thankfully he agreed to bring her Buses ferry the crowds home.” In praising his driver, Nigel Smedley, Stagecoach Rugby Depot to UK’s sunshine events Manager, said: “Howard did exactly what we would want from all our tagecoach played a crucial behind-the-scenes role in the drivers. He displayed an excellent forward-thinking attitude, which is Ssuccess of some of the UK’s biggest summer events. how we want our passengers dealt Drivers and admin staff were narrow access roads and steep site with.” praised for the excellent service they access over hundreds of metal road provided during the Open Golf sections required very skilled Tournament at Sandwich, the driving.” Good working Formula One British Grand Prix at Event organisers and local Silverstone and the Royal agencies commended Stagecoach International Air Tattoo at RAF for their professionalism during the relationship Fairford, Gloucestershire. prestigious south east golfing event. Fifty-four buses, drawn from Stagecoach ’s Managing A couple who spend much of their Stagecoach Kent operations and Director Paul Southgate thanked and working life together have marked a other operators across the UK, were congratulated his drivers and his milestone in a partnership of a used to provide a daily park and administration team for the service different kind. ride service and a rail shuttle from they offered during the Open Golf Merv and Elaine Jordan, who Sandwich Station during The Open. Tournament at Sandwich. work as bus cleaners for Stagecoach, Buses operated from 5.30am to Stagecoach was also in pole recently celebrated their silver 9.30pm. More than 50,000 people position to make this year’s British wedding anniversary. took advantage of the services and a Grand Prix a runaway success. A glimpse of the summer’s most exciting events. They have spent many of their 25 sophisticated radio system was hired Some 150 buses transported years together, working as colleagues so that drivers could stay in touch 9,000 spectators from park and ride also had great support from Stagecoach also played a crucial at the Nuneaton depot. Merv has with field-based control staff. sites in Northampton and Hinton Stagecoach South Midlands and role at the Royal International Air been a bus cleaner and handyman Assistant Operations Manager for Airfield to the Silverstone circuit. their depots in Leamington, Tattoo – Europe’s biggest tribute to for the last eight years, while Elaine Ashford and Folkstone, Kevin Philip Norwell, Commercial Nuneaton, Rugby and Oxford. a century of aviation – where a fleet has been working there for six years. Jenner, said: “It was a tough Director for Stagecoach East, which Overall, the operation went very of 20 vehicles carried a total of Elaine and Merv have known assignment for the drivers. The very coordinated the operation, said: “We well. 4,000 passengers to the event. each other since they were four and five years old and became sweethearts despite Merv teasing Elaine at school! Ton-up Talbot’s Exam success double delight at Stockport Congratulations go to a group of employees from the finance centre in Stagecoach driver Winston Talbot enjoyed a Stockport, which has enjoyed a double celebration earlier this year as he clocked variety of exam successes. up 40 years as a driver and gained his NVQ Level The results included: Alan 2 driving qualification. Walford, HR Manager, BACP Level II He hopes his success, proving it’s never too Couselling Certificate; James Beswick, late to go back to school, will encourage other Management Accountant, ACCA drivers at the Rugby depot to undertake the qual- exams; Faisal Rahmatullah, Assistant ification. Management Accountant, ACCA Over the years Winston has seen many finals; Daniel Slinn, Assistant changes, and many makes of buses come and go. Management Accountant, CIMA For him, part of the good old days of bus driving Foundation; Peter Devane, Cash meant that you could do 100mph down the fast Allocation Clerk, AAT; Andrew lane! Whittingham, Assistant Management “The only car fast enough to go past you was Accountant, CIMA foundation; Shazia an E-type Jag and yet I never remember there ever Khan, Assistant Management being any bad accidents, “ he said. Accountant, ACCA exams; Clare Depot manager Nigel Smedley paid tribute to Wilde, Management Accountant, Winston for his loyal service and said: “After all CIMA Finals; Chuck Lee, Management Still giving his best after 40 years – Winston Talbot celebrates his glowing track record as well as NVQ success. these years he still gives 100 per cent.” Accountant, ACMA. 10 Autumn 2003 Driver clocks up 25 years behind the wheel

Bus driver Bob Jackson is celebrating is one of seven other drivers who member of the 80-strong team, which 25 years service with Stagecoach in have reached the 25-year milestone operates the 12 routes in the the Chichester area. and received a gift of their own Chichester area. Bob joined the bus service as a choice at a company presentation. “In the past there has been Southdown Bus Co driver in the days There is sometimes confusion in confusion as we have the same name when buses still had conductors and the Chichester region, thanks to the but now people within the company fact that Bob’s manager bears the have become more aware of this, Snap! Stagecoach Operations Manager Bob same name! there are fewer administrative errors,” Jackson congratulates driver Bob Jackson on Operations Manager Bob Jackson said Bob Jackson (Bob the manager his 25 years service. said his namesake was a popular that is, not Bob the driver). Staff loyalty honoured

tagecoach North East Srecently presented long STAGECOACH service awards to employees North East in the Busways and Transit divisions. The Transit long service awards were made at an event held at Crathorne Hall Hotel, Yarm, and the 16 recipients, who had clocked up a total of 435 years between them, were:

35 years – Peter Brown (Stockton), Michael McFadden (Stockton).

30 years – James Ian Leslie (Hartlepool), Anthony Moss (Stockton), Alan Murray (Transporter Bridge Supervisor).

25 years – Ian Brown (Stockton), Douglas Charles Daniel (Stockton), Stephen J Drewery (Stockton), Colin Glanville (Stockton), David Hart (Hartlepool), Derek Lloyd (Stockton), Dennis Loynes (Hartlepool), Keith McCarthy (Darlington), Malcolm E Moore (Darlington), Beverley Sigsworth (Stockton), Derek Snowdon (Hartlepool).

Meanwhile, at the Marriot Park Hotel, long service awards were presented to 27 Busways employees with a total of 760 years service The Transit Division enjoying their get-together. between them. They were:

25 years – Michael Beattie (Walkergate), Kevin Ranson Brown (Walkergate), Peter Cameron (Slatyford), John Conroy (Managing Director), Ronald Davison (Slatyford), Raymond James Emmerson (Walkergate), Leslie Elliot (Slatyford), Jeffrey Fairs (), David Farrier (Slatyford), Stephen Foster (), Paul Ogilvie (Commercial Officer, Head Office), Trevor Patterson (Walkergate), David Peng (Walkergate), Thomas Pilkington (Walkergate), George Morris Robson (Sunderland).

30 years – Alan Dobson (Sunderland), John Featherston (Walkergate), Peter French (South Shields), Grahame Gibbon (Sunderland), David McHadden (Walkergate), Angela McGill (Walkergate), Peter Moore (Sunderland), Richard W Schofield (Walkergate), Edward Tweddle (Walkergate).

35 years – John G Simmonette (Walkergate).

40 years – Edward Davison (Sunderland), Ronald Horsman (Sunderland).

Managing Director John Conroy, who presented the awards, said: “The total number of years of service speaks for itself and displays a true commitment to their careers and to the company by the employees concerned.” Members of the Busways Division with their long service certificates. STAGECOACH East A total of 310 years service was celebrated recently by ten members of staff from Stagecoach East. Gratitude for 40 years service was shown to Graham Coe, while the four members of staff thanked for 35 years service were Alan Hart, Patrick Mustin, Bill Nicholson and Lyn Worboys. Sid Lovitt has clocked up 30 years service and four members of staff, Steve Chambers, Stuart Crawley, Tony Gillett and Aziz Rehman, have reached the 25-year mark. The staff are pictured with their partners and other members of staff at a special dinner held to mark the occasion.

At Stagecoach we are proud of our people. So let us know about all your achievements. You can find your On Stage contact listed on p2. A tale to tell? Autumn 2003 11 Good Employers given northern exposure

Making it possible for employees to The initiative, sponsored by the Nominations were received from organisations that support their John Conroy, Managing Director serve as local councillors has earned Guardian newspaper, is organised throughout the country, from South employees to serve as locally elected for Stagecoach North East, said: “Our Stagecoach North East a public pat by the Improvement and Tyneside to the South Downs. councillors deserve our thanks.” people are the backbone of our on the back. Development Agency (IDeA) and Speaking about the scheme, the Colin Barrow, Chairman of the company. We are committed to The company, which has its main promoted by individual local Rt Hon Gordon Brown MP, IDeA, said: “Employers who play helping them develop their skills office in Sunderland, has been government councillors. Chancellor of the Exchequer, said: their part in local communities and ensuring that their expertise also honoured in the Good Employers Stagecoach was nominated by “Councillors have a vital role to play deserve our support. By supporting benefits the wider community.” The Award 2003 for supporting local Councillor Stephen Forster, of South in leading local communities, staff that serve as councillors, they Good Employers Award is supported government by allowing flexible Tyneside Metropolitan Borough strengthening local democracy and recognise the importance of local by organisations including the CBI, working for employees who are also Council, who works as a driver at securing excellent local services. democracy and value their people TUC, and the Local Government councillors. the South Shields depot. Businesses and non profit-making who engage in it. Association. Stagecoach steps into the awards spotlight Two schemes shortlisted among Scotland’s finest

tagecoach has been shortlisted for two major Sawards in this year’s Scottish National Transport Awards. Here comes... The company is in the running invest-ment doubled the for the prestigious Public frequency of the service and the bus Transport Operator of the Year funded new low-floor buses. for its West Scotland bus The Department for Transport There was only one choice of operation while the successful is now finalising plans to fund wedding transport for Stagecoach Kick Start scheme in Perth is Kick Start projects later this year. bus fitter Carl Jackson and his shortlisted for the Most Transport officials at the Scottish fiancée Zoe Lawson when they Innovative Transport Project in Executive have visited Perth to married at Chichester registrar’s Scotland award. look at the results of the pilot office. The awards, organised by the project and are also actively A vintage open top double Centre for Transport Policy in considering the Stagecoach decker bus was definitely the only Aberdeen, celebrate the achieve- proposal. way to travel! Joining them for the ments of the transport industry in Tom Wileman, Managing ride in the 1964 Leyland PD3 Scotland. Director, Stagecoach Scotland, Queen Mary, were the couple’s Stagecoach West Scotland said: “The awards are a showcase three-year-old daughter Charlie and operates a wide range of services for the best in transport in some 40 family members and in urban and rural areas, a Scotland and we are delighted to friends. network of express coach be shortlisted in two important Following the ceremony, a connections, and low-cost areas. reception was held in Lynshiels frequent Magicbus services in “Stagecoach continues to lead House, near Midhurst. Glasgow. the way in generating new ideas The bus, which is maintained in The Kick Start project in Perth, and improving bus services for Southdown livery, is often hired for which involved pump-priming passengers throughout the UK special occasions. Owned by funding and an innovative tele- and this is a reflection of the hard Stagecoach, the bus is kept at the marketing campaign, marked its work of all our people, from Chichester depot where Carl, who two millionth passenger last year. frontline drivers to our is formerly from Rotherham, has It has seen customer volumes commercial team.” worked as a fitter since January. shoot up by 60 per cent since the Winners will be announced at “It seemed the most apt form of improved service was launched in a special awards ceremony, Making their day unique! Carl and Zoe Jackson with daughter Charlie, pose for a wedding day photo, transport and everyone had a great October 2000. hosted by Professor David Begg, next to the Queen Mary . time,” said Carl. Stagecoach’s pump-priming on 14 October in Glasgow.

YOUR VOICE COUNTS NAME (optional) ………………………………………………………………………...... Senior managers from across Stagecoach Group question you would like answered and an will meet in London in November to exchange indication of which area you work in. It’s AREA OF BUSINESS (eg South West Trains) ideas on successful projects and discuss the way entirely up to you if you want to give your forward for the company’s businesses. name. ………………………………………………………………………...... During the conference on 3 November, the We will report back in the next issue of On senior management team – including Chief Stage about the issues covered in the Question QUESTION Executive Brian Souter, Finance Director Martin and Answer session and the ideas that emerged Griffiths and Rail Director Graham Eccles – will from the conference. ………………………………………………………………………...... answer questions about the company’s Send your completed forms to: businesses in the UK, North America and New ………………………………………………………………………...... Zealand and the overall direction of the Group. Steven Stewart On Stage is giving you the chance to have The Editor, On Stage, Stagecoach Group, ………………………………………………………………………...... your say and put the tough questions you want 10 Dunkeld Road, Perth PH1 5TW. answered to the people at the top of our Tel: +44 (0)1738 442111, ………………………………………………………………………...... company. Fax: +44 (0)1738 580407 Please complete the attached form, with the Email: [email protected] ………………………………………………………………………......

12 Autumn 2003