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The newsletter of Group Issue 122 | July 2017 STAGE ON page 3 page 7 INSIDE A fond farewell to | Green week launch Innovative anti-bullying UK bus tour launched Chief Executive Martin Griffiths said: “Most young people live their lives online these days, whether that’s using the wifi on the bus to school or checking emails and social media when they get home. This means they are better connected than any previous generation, but unfortunately it can be another platform for bullying to take place. “We’re delighted to be working with The Diana Award on this campaign and I really hope it helps make people think about their behaviour and take responsibility for their actions online.” TV presenter Ferne McCann, who previously (l-r) The Diana Award Chief Executive Tessy Ojo, TV presenter Ferne McCann and Stagecoach Group Chief Executive gained her bus driving qualification with Martin Griffiths launch the #BeNiceBus Stagecoach, and actor Layton Williams will both STAGECOACH and The Diana Award charity have Following each session, pupils will also be invited to feature in the videos to be shown on board the partnered to launch a ground-breaking anti-bullying sign a ‘Be Nice’ pledge, marking their commitment to bus during the workshop sessions. bus tour designed to encourage thousands of young behave online in a way that will not cause offence or Ferne McCann said: “I’ve experienced first-hand people to be nicer online. upset to others. the impact that negative, hurtful online comments The project has launched the UK’s first and only The Diana Award was set up in memory of Diana, can have but I also know from experience that #BeNiceBus which has now embarked on a Princess of Wales, and her belief that young people kind, supportive and positive comments can give 12-month educational tour of secondary schools have the power to change the world for the better. It you a real boost and make you feel great. Most across , and Wales where it will is committed to fostering, inspiring and developing people would never dream of trolling someone reach thousands of school pupils as part of The positive change in the lives of young people through but there are people who seem to think they can Diana Award’s anti-bullying campaign. practical social action. say what they like online and almost forget that During the innovative project, young people will be The project is being funded by Stagecoach and has there’s a real person on the receiving end of their invited on board the refurbished bus to take part in involved the interior refurbishment of a single deck comments. I am totally behind this campaign and an interactive session to encourage positive online bus to include a number of educational resources to I really hope it will help young people across the behaviour and to warn of the consequences of help deliver the sessions. Content will be delivered country think even more carefully about what they cyber bullying. They will also be given advice on the through video, presentations and interactive are saying online and the impact it can have on steps to take if they are experiencing online bullying. sessions. others.” Scottish Transport Awards success STAGECOACH’S bus and rail services were and her four-year-old son, was commended in recognised with top honours at the 2017 Scottish the Frontline Employee of the Year category at the Transport Awards. awards. – of which Stagecoach is a major Mark Whitelocks, Stagecoach North Scotland shareholder – was named Operator Managing Director, said: “This award is great of the Year at the 15th annual event. recognition of the hard work our staff put in every Stagecoach North Scotland’s Jet 727 service, which day to deliver a high quality, reliable service for operates to Airport, won the Best Bus passengers travelling to the airport and to continue Service award at the event. The company was also making customer improvements.” part of the winning Transport Team / Partnership David Horne, Managing Director of Virgin Trains’ East of the Year entry alongside Aberdeenshire Council, Coast route, added: “We started our Virgin Trains Aberdeen City Council and First Bus for the journey just over two years ago and have already introduction of the Grasshopper multi-operator smart seen a root-and-branch overhaul over the service we ticketing scheme. provide to customers. We couldn’t be more pleased The Stagecoach North Scotland team receive their In addition, Virgin Trains employee Matt Litton, who to be recognised by Transport Times for putting those award at the event intervened to stop the racist abuse of a mother improvements in place.”

1 Did you know? Stagecoach Group made a donation of £10,000 to the London Community Foundation’s fund to support victims of the Grenfell Tower fire ON STAGE

What a TV star Jessica Wright Laugh! recruits her Stagecoach As a bus driver many years ago, Supertram Tram Train Integration Manager Mick Price recalls style squad overhearing a small boy ask his mum: TV AND fashion celebrity Jessica Wright has recruited “Mum, how does the bus driver know where her style squad from bus passengers across the UK everybody lives?” after teaming up with Stagecoach. If you have seen or heard something funny The four squad members were chosen at an – online, in the papers, on social media or just exclusive event which celebrated individual style, while out and about – send your contributions for body confidence and fashion creativity. The squad the ‘What a Laugh’ section in the next edition to then attended a photoshoot in London with Jessica [email protected] and her clothing range Sistaglam, and will shortly feature in an advertising campaign on buses across Jessica (centre) and her Stagecoach style squad in the the country. photo that will appear on buses across the country n Rail franchises The project aimed to highlight and applaud the diverse range of fashion tastes that exist among the moon to have these four lovely ladies in our squad.” THE has announced country’s bus passengers. Lynne Harrop, Stagecoach UK Bus Head of Marketing the shortlists for the new The four squad members chosen by Jessica and Customer Experience, said:“This campaign is and South Eastern rail franchises. are Shannon Stewart from Hull, Jodi Eyre from a great opportunity to do something different to get Stagecoach Group has received an Invitation to , Rosie Rose from Warrington and Megan people excited about taking the bus. We are really Tender for the new . The Johnstone from Logan in East Ayrshire. excited that Jess has found her style squad and look franchise, which runs from 2018, incorporates After the event, Jessica said: “We had the best forward to seeing the final advert on our buses.” rail services in south east London, Kent, the afternoon at our #SquadOnBoard event talking body Medway towns and East Sussex. confidence, fashion, style....and buses. I’m over the In addition, Stagecoach, Virgin Group and SNCF, bidding as West Coast Partnership Limited, have been shortlisted for the West Coast Partnership franchise. Stagecoach has a 50% share in the bid Top award for vehicle, with a 30% share held by SNCF and the remaining 20% owned by Virgin. The franchise, due to run from 2019, will include current West Michelle Coast services and the first few years of operation of High Speed 2 services. STAGECOACH Managing Director Michelle Hargreaves has won a national award which celebrates successful women in business. Michelle Hargreaves with her award n Martin’s arty talent Michelle was named as the winning Leader in the Passenger Award category at the 2017 FTA Michelle said: “There are so many strong and EAST Scotland driver Martin Søreide has raised Everywoman in Transport and Logistics Awards. successful women working in the transport and £510 for the TAY FM Cash for Kids charity The event, which is in its 10th year, showcases logistics industry and my key message is that the campaign for 2017 - 500 Faces, which has been the achievements of women in the industry and transport and logistics industry is not just for the sponsored by the company. highlights role models to inspire others. boys – it offers opportunities for all. I am absolutely Martin, from the Perth depot, was recently Midlands’ Commercial Director delighted to have won this award, it was fantastic commissioned by Operations Manager Louise Dave Skepper nominated Michelle after she led even to be part of this event so winning was an extra Simpson to create a portrait of Stagecoach a number of innovative campaigns which helped bonus”. Chairman Sir . The drawing was revolutionise the company’s approach to marketing. “I am fortunate to work with a great team at presented to Sir Brian and the Stagecoach In addition, she has improved the commercial and we work hard Charitable Committee donated £300 to the charity. performance of the business and created a positive every day to deliver even better services for our organisational culture. customers.” In training .COM US teamed up with the Illinois State Police to practice their anti-terrorism and anti-drug techniques using double decker buses. They took part in two days of training with multiple police units including state, county and local police officers Sir Brian Souter with Martin Søreide and his portrait participating. Police and their sniffer dogs take part in the training 2 Tourists are dotty about Dotto...find out more on page 5 ON STAGE Thanks for the memories – a look back at 21 years of South West Trains IT WAS 05.10 on 4 February 1996 when the more capacity, station modernisation, improved challenges along the way, South West Trains has Western franchise began – 21 accessibility and customer service, improved training created a legacy for the future. Even now, the years and many achievements and successes later, and development opportunities for staff, more company has continued commissioning new trains it will soon be time for the Group to hand over the depot space and better facilities, digital technology and other improvements for the new franchise franchise to a successor. improvements across the network, the introduction operator to build on. The new franchise, run by First/MTR, will begin on of smart ticketing and taking the first important At the heart of South West Trains has always been 20 August and while we are sad to say goodbye steps in integrating the former Waterloo International its staff, hundreds of whom have been with the to the many colleagues who have been part of the station. company throughout the full length of the franchise. Stagecoach family for years, we are also extremely Over the years, South West Trains has worked with In that time, passenger numbers have doubled proud of what the company achieved during that thousands of stakeholders including politicians, user and there have been challenges along the way, but time. groups, suppliers, charities, rail enthusiasts and other employees have worked as a team, and shown great During the length of the franchise, Stagecoach interested parties, each of whom made their own dedication to their role and a strong commitment to introduced a series of improvements for customers contribution to the franchise. delivering for customers. and staff that have transformed the travel The focus has always been to deliver even better As a farewell tribute, On Stage wanted to share some experience. These included new improved trains, services for customers and while there have been memorable moments from the last 21 years.

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6 9 10 1. Waterloo Station buzzed with activity during 2012 London Olympics 2. Even the trains have enjoyed dressing up from time to time, as seen here for Movember 3. Stagecoach Chairman Sir Brain Souter in the early days of the South West Trains franchise 4. Millions of passengers a week travel through Waterloo Station in London 5. The opening of the new training centre in 2015 6. One of the very first South West Trains timetables 7. Staff got involved in the fun as South West Trains played a key role in the 2015 Rugby World Cup 8. Charitable fundraising has always been a huge part of the South West Trains franchise including Christmas Jumper Day 9. A new operations training centre, with driver simulators, opened in 2002/3 10. Millions of passengers a week travel through Waterloo Station in London 3 My Guide training raises awareness...find out more on page 6 ON STAGE

Read all about it n Bride on board and north east employer A HAPPY bride travelled in style to her wedding Azko Nobel worked with Westoe Crown Primary venue on a Stagecoach bus. School in South Shields to help transform a double- When Hollie Childs married Thomas Keen in decker bus into a much needed library for pupils, Whitstable, instead of taking a horse-drawn with the help of Sunderland Football Club. stagecoach she opted for the double deck variety. Janine Fowley, Operations Manager for Stagecoach Hollie, who stayed at her grandmother’s house North East’s South Shields depot, said: “We’re thrilled to prepare for the big day, caught the 13:03 to have helped deliver this creative and inspiring ‘Triangle’ bus from the bus stop at Westbrook learning environment for the children at Westoe Farm. Crown Primary School. Learning should be fun and “Stagecoach buses have always been special to exciting; this is an important initiative and a great us”, said Hollie. “My fiancé and I met almost ten way to use bus vehicles that have come to the end of L to R): Jody Graham (Azko Nobel), Lynden Gooch years ago on the number 6 bus from their normal service. “ (SAFC), Janine Fowley (Stagecoach North East), Jack to Herne Bay and we spent many, many hours Rodwell (SAFC) with Max Graham (aged 4) travelling the whole Triangle route during school holidays.” To help make the trip special, local Stagecoach manager Danny Millis made the bus fit for the Train into work occasion, decorating it with white ribbon and A NEW work placement scheme has been launched posh bows. by to help military personnel in the last year of their service to make the transition to civilian life. The ‘Train into Work’ programme’s latest cohort will work with the customer experience team at the train company. Lance Corporal Mark Bunning and Lance Sergeant Andrew Finlan will be based at Nottingham Station. Warrant Officer Mark Evans has served since 2007 and will be based at Lincoln Central Station. Christopher Buckley, Talent Manager for East Lance Sergeant Andrew Finlan (left) and Lance Corporal Mark Bunning (right) at Nottingham Midlands Trains, said: “Mark, Andrew and Mark are all obviously exceptionally driven and committed so we opportunity - whether that be with East Midlands wanted to channel this enthusiasm and help develop Trains or within the wider transport sector. It’s the their customer-focused skills. least we can do considering what a great sacrifice “We’re confident that the programme will be they have made for their country over many years.” invaluable in helping them find a new career Bride Hollie with her bridesmaids, mum and Celebrating our forces on Reservists Day grandmother

n Railway volunteers

STAFF from Virgin Trains on the east coast recently volunteered to help drive steam trains and work as “navvies” at Middleton Railway in Leeds. Virgin Trains’ Major Projects Director Tim Hedley- Jones said: “While we’re planning to launch the next exciting chapter of rail travel with our brand new Azuma trains from next year, our ‘steam Stagecoach representatives met with reservists as part of a continued effort to support their commitments team’ took time out from the day job to get back to basics with this fantastic and historically very ALL of Stagecoach Group’s serving reservists were Andrew and Lieutenant General Richard Nugee, the significant railway. invited to an event in London on Reserves Day. Chief of Defence People – the person in charge of “It’s important to Virgin Trains that we promote The group, which included representatives Reservists for the Ministry of Defence. and protect the history and heritage of our east from 14 bus and rail companies, took part in a The team then headed to the Thames where they coast route – and the experience of acting workshop to share best practice and to look at how boarded HMS Belfast for a visit around the ship. as railway navvies and even driving a steam Stagecoach can work to support them further in their The majority of UK Bus companies and Stagecoach locomotive has been inspiring for our people.” commitments. Supertram also offered free travel to military The 25 reservists met at Waterloo Station for a photo personnel and veterans travelling to Armed Forces with UK Bus Scotland Managing Director Robert Day events on Saturday 24 June. 4 Did you know? Stagecoach was among Scottish bus operators to sign an RNIB charter to improve services for visually impaired people ON STAGE

n Time to change New depot for VIRGIN Trains has signed the Time to Change Stagecoach Midlands has moved to a brand new pledge and named a train in a commitment to multi-million pound bus depot in Trident Park, tackling the stigma around mental health. Warwick. As a signatory, Virgin Trains on the east coast The New £5millionfacility was built by Deeley will invest over £700,000 a year to improve the Construction, as a result of partnership working physical and mental wellbeing of its people. As between District Council, AC Lloyd, part of this investment, the train operator will Waterloo Housing and Stagecoach Midlands. The commit to educate over 3,000 employees in new site will accommodate 88 buses, 140 drivers recognising and taking on mental health issues and 30 engineering/admin staff. in both colleagues and customers. Over 3 million miles will be covered annually Virgin Trains has also appointed two Mental by buses operating from the depot. Services The new state-of-the-art depot at Warwick Health Champions who are members of the from the depot cover cities, towns and villages firm’s east coast board. as widespread as Evesham, Redditch, Banbury, and external lighting and sustainable materials Clare Burles, People Director and Executive Chipping Norton, Southam, and . throughout. Mental Health Champion at Virgin Trains on the The state-of-the-art engineering department is Stagecoach Midlands Managing Director, Steve east coast said: “Our commitment to working kitted out with six pits – each featuring emission Burd said: “We are delighted to announce the with Time to Change underlines the importance testing and lubricant hoses, hywemas to raise opening of the our new Leamington depot, which of mental health not only for our own people but buses for maintenance and a brake testing area. will provide bus services in Leamington, Warwick the rail industry as a whole – we’re proud to be The new depot has numerous environmental and the surrounding areas for many years to leading the way.” credentials with a bus wash that harvests rain come. The new facility has been built to high water, electric vehicle charging bays for employee environmental standards and provides much cars, intelligent heating, energy efficient internal improved engineering facilities.” n Team Walkergate on the run TEN employees from a Newcastle bus depot Beloved Dotto rides again tackled a tough 10km race in South Shields to raise funds for poorly youngster Kian Musgrove. Kian’s grandfather and bus driver Alan Gordon, who completed his fifth race this year, was joined by teammates Nick Monte, Danny Routledge, Geoff Willis, Kenny Johns, Paul Gray, Peter Younger, Dennis Patterson, Lisa Younger, David Baldwin and Julie Baldwin. The team hoped to raise as much money as possible to support the ongoing treatment for Caring for Kian, which was set up for five-year old Kian Musgrove to help raise funds in his The iconic Dotto mini-train fight against cancer after being diagnosed with stage 4 neuroblastoma in October 2013. ’S much loved mini-train returned to the season – ten percent more than in 2014. David Wakefield, Operations Manager, seafront promenade recently. “We’re looking forward to another fantastic season”, Stagecoach North East’s Walkergate depot, The hugely popular road train has become a key said Philip Norwell, Managing Director of Stagecoach said: “We are always very happy to support the highlight of the town’s tourist season and . “Dotto isn’t just about getting from place fundraising efforts of our staff and well done stepped in when the iconic mini-train came close to to place – it’s about having fun and enjoying the once again to the Walkergate team for taking being scrapped in 2014 after Eastbourne Borough seaside experience. As well as a must-do for visitors part.” Council failed to find an operator to take it on. and tourists, it’s loved and supported by local people. Over 32,000 passengers climbed aboard Dotto last Our staff have a real affection for Dotto too.”

Special visit Special visit CONGRESSMAN Donald Payne and members of the U.S. House of Representatives Transportation and Infrastructure committee recently visited Coach USA’s Elizabeth, New Jersey Depot. Congressman Payne received a briefing from Coach USA President and COO Linda Burtwistle, RVP Bryony Chamberlain, GM Jim Rutherford and Director of Corporate Affairs Sean Hughes. He was very impressed with how seriously The Newcastle fundraising team the company takes safety, and was especially The Coach USA representatives with Congressman Payne impressed by the GreenRoad programme. (centre) during his visit 5 All ears for improved serice...find out more on page 9 ON STAGE

n My Guide training PICTURE THIS A UK-wide series of ‘My Guide’ training events a row of four buses at Middleton Depot with the has been provided by Guide Dogs for the Blind to We Love Manchester message on the destinations dozens of Stagecoach employees. screens in support of those affected by the Those who attended were considering becoming Manchester attack on 22 May. ‘My Guide’ volunteers who work with Guide Congratulations to Matt who will receive a £50 cash Dogs for the Blind to help support blind and prize on this occasion which he has offered to donate partially sighted people to gain/regain a level of to the We Love MCR Emergency Fund. If you have independence. any good photos for Picture This please send them The training focused on what is known as ‘sighted to Lindsay Reid, On Stage, Stagecoach Group, 10 guiding’ which allows blind and partially sighted THIS edition’s Picture This winner was taken by Matt Dunkeld Road, Perth, PH1 5TW, or email it to individuals to be guided by a sighted helper either Hodson from . It shows [email protected] because they are waiting to be allocated a dog or for whom a dog may not be suitable. Paul MacKay, Deputy Training and Development Manager (Operations), took part in the final All aboard for a school day out training session in Perth and said: “We had the chance to wear blindfolds and practice guiding and being guided. The day was a great experience and has certainly raised my awareness of the huge challenges that are faced by blind and partially sighted people every day”.

n New route for The school pupils from Merrydale Infant School enjoying their day out megabus.com A GROUP of primary school children got team. From there they travelled to Eastcroft Train the chance to ride a special train and learn about the Depot to see where trains are fuelled, serviced and MEGABUS.COM has announced the introduction railway as part of an educational study day led by washed and find out more about the work that goes of a new route across the and East East Midlands Trains. on to keep the trains running on time. of England. Around 60 children from Merrydale Infant school in Ian Beck, Driver Manager for East Midlands Trains The company has again partnered with Leicester travelled from East Midlands Parkway to in Nottingham, said: “This event was clearly very Freestones Coaches to deliver the new route that Nottingham station on a hot and sunny morning for special for the children and they loved seeing how links Birmingham to Norwich. a briefing and learned all about the different types of everything works to get the trains moving.” megabus.com Managing Director Edward trains on the network from the drivers and stations Hodgson said: “This new route is great news for customers wanting to travel between the West Midlands and East Anglia. Also, by offering a new route at the University of East Anglia we’re giving Reaching out Charitable a new affordable transport option to students MEGABUS.COM continues to reach out to state wanting to get home at the end of term.” elected officials to unveil the megabus.com coach donation named after their state. Most recently the vehicles SOUTH WEST Trains marked a year-long relationship n Top team fly with in Texas and NY were unveiled to LT Governor of with Havant based charity, Active Communities new service New York Kathy Hochul and Executive Director of Network, by handing over a cheque for £10,000. Transportation of Texas, Marc Williams. Active Communities Network was one of four COACH USA’S Shortline Bus has teamed up with charities adopted by South West Trains in 2016 Norwegian Airlines after the airline announced as part of the train operator’s 20th anniversary services from the UK, celebrations. Ireland and Norway to Sharon Vye-Parminter, Safety and Assurance Director Stewart International Airport at South West Trains, handed over the cheque. She in New York. said: “We’re pleased to be able to make a donation Shortline Bus will be to a charity that has such a positive impact on people offering a bus service living within our own community. The charity does from Stewart International Director of Corporate Affairs Sean Hughes, LT Governor critical work supporting and nurturing young people Airport into the heart of of New York Kathy Hochul and Coach USA RVP Bryony in Havant and their hard work, enthusiasm and effort Chamberlain unveil the re-named coach New York City. is obvious in everything they do.” 6 Did you know? Mobile ticketing through the Stagecoach Bus app is now available at all of the Group’s UK Bus companies GREEN SCENE

Stagecoach marks annual n 10,000 milestone AFTER just the first few weeks of service, welcomed the 10,000th Green Week campaign passenger on board one of its seven brand new electric hybrid buses. The vehicle order forms a £2.1m investment by Stagecoach, of which £300k was offered by the ‘Scottish Green Bus Fund’ provided by the Scottish Government. Transport Minister Humza Yousaf said: “I am pleased to be here today to see a further seven green buses introduced into the transport network in Angus. Not only are these modern buses better for the environment but they provide a better experience for the passenger.”

Clockwise from top left: Inspector Rodney Teague and driver Bryn Jenkins from Cwmbran depot grew plants during Green Week; South East operations manager Rob Hutchings hands out info and a goodie bag at Hastings Rail Station ; Managing Director for Scotland, Robert Andrew, with Stagecoach Midlands handed out planting goodies as staff visited a local school; Matthew Hoole, with green giveaways at prize winner Alix Small and Minister for Transport Pontypridd Town Centre; A double deck bus can take up to 75 cars off the road and the Islands, Humza Yousaf, along with pupil representatives from Forfar Academy STAGECOACH Group called for tougher action on air Stagecoach Group Chief Executive Martin Griffiths said: quality to protect local communities across Britain “Our commitment to our environmental responsibility as the company launched its annual Green Week is central to our business and we are continuing to n New indoor Park & campaign. take steps to reduce our carbon footprint as well as As global concern grows over increasing pollution in working more widely with our partners to protect our Ride facility launched towns and cities, Stagecoach said urgent action was environment. Green Week is a good chance for us to A NEW indoor waiting room, cycle lockers, toilets particularly needed by central and local government to highlight our key messages around this but our work and showering facilities opened to the public tackle the public health emergency. to tackle the challenge of climate change is something recently at the £15.2million Park and Ride. Research shows that too many cars and worsening that goes on all year round.” Stagecoach North Scotland’s buses already traffic congestion is a major contributor to the 40,000 Stagecoach’s ninth annual Green Week – with the serve the facility, which has been designed so to 50,000 early deaths a year in the UK from air theme ‘Delivering Solutions’ – took place from 5-9 people can park for free and choose which mode pollution. June. Throughout Green Week, Stagecoach aimed of environmentally-friendly transport to use for To tackle the problem, Stagecoach is calling for: to further raise awareness of environmental issues the remainder of their journey – bus, car-share, • continued investment by public transport operators among staff and passengers through a series of events cycling or walking. in cleaner vehicle technologies across the Group’s businesses. These included green Stagecoach North Scotland Managing Director • tougher tax regimes and use of clean air zones to initiatives and competitions held in partnership with Mark Whitelocks said: “We are delighted to see target vehicles and journeys which contribute most local schools across the country, a series of roadshows the new Park and Ride indoor waiting facility to pollution on a per-passenger basis across the UK, employee and customer competitions, opened to the public making bus travel a more • focused taxpayer support where it will deliver the social media initiatives, interactive online activities and attractive option for commuting to the city. best value environmental benefit participation in local community events by Stagecoach “It is fantastic that we are able to work in • clearer promotion of switching from cars to public employees. partnership with Aberdeen City Council to provide transport as the most effective route to tackling the high quality facilities that will make a huge twin scourges of urban congestion and air pollution difference to easing traffic congestion within the • targeted public investment in bus priority measures city. “ and better transport interchanges Mucking in One full double deck bus can remove up to 75 cars EAST Midlands Trains staff got their hands dirty from the road – thus freeing up road space, reducing at Cromford station as part of a programme of overall emissions levels and helping to improve air community events taking place over the summer to quality. brighten up and improve stations across the Derwent But in order to achieve the kind of reliability and Valley Line (Derby to Matlock). journey times that make buses more attractive to Community will involve gardening and general potential customers, operators urgently need input maintenance, such as painting fences. Staff from from politicians and local authorities to free up road all East Midlands Trains departments, including the space for buses, to deliver bus priority measures and to team of Directors, will be getting involved in the implement bus friendly policies. community days. 7 Great escapes with Virgin Trains...find out more on page 10 ON STAGE

LETTERS OF PRAISE n Stuff a trolley! TV STATION WCIU, partnered with The Greater If you or one of your colleagues has received a letter of praise from a Chicago Food Depository, Chicago Trolley and customer, please email a copy to [email protected] Double Decker Co., or post it to Lindsay Reid, Senior Group Communications Manager, Jewel-Osco and MeTV Stagecoach Group, 10 Dunkeld Road, Perth, PH1 5TW. We will publish FM to end summer as many as possible. hunger threats in Chicago. The below letter, about driver Jeff Morris, was sent to Stagecoach Midlands. Together, the group collected nearly 6,000 Dear sir/madam, lbs of food which was Yesterday, whilst playing in my garden I accidentally how happy I was and say thank you very much. It able to provide more than kicked my ball over the fence and it landed on the was very kind. It was not his fault, it was mine, but I 10,500 meals to those road. One of your bus drivers in a bus drove passed love my new ball better than the other one! who were in need of a at the same time, ran it over and it burst. Later that day though the driver, Jeff, came back to my house Charlie Herdman with a brand new ball for me. Please can you tell him Age 10 n Pitching in for charity Carol’s a top station adopter SOUTH Wales Engineering Apprentice William Hartnett has helped raise money for Children’s Hospital. William, who has personal connections to the hospital, organised a fundraising charity football match and Stagecoach contributed £250 to the fund.

n Starting out with success Carol Sharp and her dogs with a member of East Midlands Trains staff VIRGIN Trains, in partnership with Virgin StartUp, is looking for the very best disruptive innovators A SKEGNESS station adopter has been recognised “Carolyn is so dedicated and loves supporting to participate in PlatformX – a business by East Midlands Trains for her hard work and the team here at Skegness. No one fails to spot accelerator programme designed to find the dedication in keeping passengers informed and the the wonderful flowers that welcome passengers next generation of start-up firms who could help station surroundings bright and welcoming in all as they arrive or depart the station which she so transform the future of rail travel. weather. lovingly looks after through all seasons. The two companies joined forces to identify and Carolyn Sharp has been attending the station every “Carolyn also has two friends who have become inspire start-ups with a series of real innovation Friday through to Monday for the past nine years to local celebrities - her dogs Rupert and Charlie! They challenges set by Virgin Trains. Start-ups were help provide passenger information and advice on have become part of the station team and provide a invited to submit and pitch their ideas to win a local transport connections. Every week, Carolyn friendly welcome to customers who use the station. chance of taking part in Platform X. Over five produces a report of passenger numbers which “We recently decided to reward Rupert and Charlie weeks, the successful start-ups will benefit helps to inform the train operations team in their for their dedication as Skegness station mascots from access to mentoring from Virgin Trains planning. and presented them with special branded East senior management team, external specialists Clive Yates, Service Delivery Manager on the Midlands Trains blue collars and leads which they and experts across the Virgin Group who will Poacher Line for East Midlands Trains, said: wear with pride when on duty.” also help to develop go-to-market strategies. Platform X start-ups will also benefit from office space in London at Virgin StartUp and potential Top fundraisers funding for in-market trials. Warrick Dent, Safety and Operations Director STAFF at Group HQ raised almost £900 for the British at Virgin Trains on the East Coast said: “We’re Heart Foundation through a baking and book sale, as really excited about hearing from the brightest well as a “wear something red” themed day. and best innovators about how we can do things There were lots of generous donations and the differently, and we hope we can help take some amount raised on the day was £447 which was of these start-ups with us on a journey that will matched by the company. Thanks to all who help make their ideas become reality”. contributed. Some of the goodies on display at the baking and book sale 8 Did you know? megabus.com has offered 1million £3 fares in a huge summer promotion ON STAGE

n High fundraising flier SOUTH Wales driver Dominique Farr, who is based at Cwmbran Depot, has performed a parachute jump in order to raise funds for a local school, Crownbridge Special School, Croesyceiliog. Dominique raised £520.35, which Stagecoach agreed to match fund, giving a total of more than £1,000. Stagecoach South East

GOGGLEBOX star Sandra Martin hopped on board one If you, or one of your colleagues, have of Stagecoach South East’s Wave 99 buses recently. a claim to fame – perhaps a hidden The recognisable TV star was heard saying she talent, a meeting with a celebrity or an thought the buses were great during her journey! interesting hobby – please email details to [email protected]

Dominique with her certificate following her jump Group financial results n We’re all ears THE GROUP recently announced its preliminary results results that is currently EAST Midlands Trains is reaching out to for the 2016-17 financial year. loss-making. Over the past two years, the team at customers and telling them that they are “all Overall, the results were in line with expectations and East Coast has delivered a huge transformation in ears”. As part of its new initiative to listen and the Group has achieved further growth during the year. the travel experience for our customers and we discover how to improve services for customers, The company posted revenue of over £3.9billion as recently achieved some of our best ever customer they are asking for honest feedback at stations the business continues to grow. Total operating profit satisfaction figures, which are amongst the highest and on trains. (before intangible asset expenses and exceptional of any UK rail operator. But while Virgin Trains East The company is seeking views and engaging items) was nearly £193million. The Group reported Coast has performed better than the UK rail average customers across the network by installing post earnings per share of 24.4p and the total proposed and has continued to meet its financial commitments, boxes with postcards and pencils for customers dividend for the year was up 4.4%. the growth we are seeing has not been at the level to leave their feedback at some of the region’s Chief Executive Martin Griffiths said: “Looking at the to cover current costs. We are making financial largest stations including Derby, Nottingham, big picture, the long-term prospects for the Group are provisions to manage this short-term situation. and Leicester and hiding mini figurines good. There are opportunities from population growth, “While this is disappointing, based on our contractual at stations and on trains and encouraging greater urbanisation, advances in technology, rising position I am confident that Virgin Trains East Coast will customers to take a photo and share it using the road congestion and increasing political concern be profitable from 2019 onwards. And we are focused #LittleFinds hashtag. over air quality. However, there is no question that on completing the remainder of our £140million The idea for the initiative, “It’s the little things” the current environment and short-term outlook for investment plans through to at least 2023. We also came about after feedback from a customer on- the transport sector remains challenging. The tough confirmed today that we are engaged in discussions board a train. They thanked the train team for a economy, political uncertainty and recent terrorism with the government about updating our contract to pleasant journey and when asked what exactly it incidents have had an impact on travel in the UK, reflect changes to ’s infrastructure plans was that made them so happy with the service, particularly the rail sector. on which many of our planned improvements are they said that it was the “little things” that all add “Against that background, you will see from the dependent.” up to make a positive experience. n Keep on running Paul and Frank on course HASTINGS driver John Kane ran 106km in the Challenge and raised a total of £1,618 MERSEYSIDE Driving Instructor and for Marie Curie. Eco Champion Paul Ward and North John’s own Scotland colleague Frank Goodall recently total reached completed a five week residential £809 which course at the DVSA Training Academy in Stagecoach Bedfordshire to become examiners. South East Paul said: “For me this is the top of the match-funded, tree and what I’ve always said I would like bringing the to achieve after starting as a Mentor then total to over qualifying as an Instructor which I have £1,600. Paul and Frank with their certificates following the course been doing for 10 years.”

9 Did you know? Sunderland Apprentice Engineer Chris Stobbs won the North East Apprentice of the Year for the IRTE (Institute of Road Engineers) ON STAGE n Chief’s city Striking new livery in the South

celebration town of into the South Downs National Park via Pulborough, Storrington TWO of ’s new Golden Hop and Petworth to Midhurst. open top buses were used for the Exeter Chiefs The four E300 vehicles, which have free victory parade through the city recently after the wifi, e-leather seats and more space on team won the Premiership title against Wasps at board, feature a striking ‘South Downs Twickenham. Connections’ livery.Tourist destinations along the route are illustrated on each vehicle. Edward Hodgson, Managing Director for Stagecoach South, said: “Tourism is vital to the economy of The South Downs STAGECOACH South has upgraded its bus fleet on National Park which offers some magnificent and the Route 1 which runs from the Sussex Coastal breathtaking views.” Top coach industry award wins Exeter Chiefs being paraded through the city by Stagecoach TWO honours have been presented to Stagecoach at the 2017 UK Coach Awards. The Group’s East Scotland business was awarded the Express Operation of the Year accolade at the 9th n Generous donation annual event held in Manchester for the third year in a row with its Express City Connect network which STAGECOACH head office employee Sandra operates across central Scotland. Mudie has raised £775 for the Cornhill MacMillan In addition, Tube Driver Gavin Francis was Support Centre in Perth after requesting charitable named Top UK Express Driver after gaining praise donations instead of presents for her 60th for his friendly, engaging, patient and reassuring birthday. approach with passengers and for his ability to train Sandra, who has lost close friends and family to and mentor new drivers. cancer, handed over the cheque to the Centre Stagecoach’s Oxford Tube service won the silver with colleagues including Kari Donaldson whose award in Express Operation of the Year category late mum Sylvia was cared for there. while Stagecoach East Scotland picked up the silver Sandra was overwhelmed by the generosity of her award in the Coach Marketing Award category and friends, family and colleagues and expressed her Stagecoach South West scooped the bronze award thanks to all. in the Making Coaches a Better Choice category for its Falcon service. Stagecoach Oxfordshire Managing Director Martin Stagecoach East Scotland Acting General Manager Sutton added: “We’re delighted that Gavin has won Jon Oakey said: “Winning this award for the third this prestigious award which he thoroughly deserves. year in a row is down to the hard work of our It’s also very pleasing for our Oxford Tube service to employees who are at the heart of delivering these be recognised in the Express Operation of the Year services to our customers all year round.” category.”

Sandra and her friends and colleagues with the Joined up approach for Stagecoach and cheque A NEW agreement between Stagecoach Cumbria Cumbria & North said: “These and North Lancashire and Arriva North East means improvements are an example of how working n A Supertram team of that bus customers in the area are benefitting from in partnership with other bus operators and local added convenience through fully integrated ticketing. authorities can deliver practical improvements for walkers The full range of daily and weekly tickets can be passengers.” bought and accepted regardless of which company’s A SUPERTRAM team of Chris Matthews, Bob Beechill, bus customers use. The landmark agreement also James Bowns and Nicky Carr recently completed an applies to M-Ticketing with each operator accepting 87 mile walk from Sheffield to Skegness. the other’s mobile tickets. Despite the aches and pains, they managed to finish To mark the occasion, Stagecoach held a launch the epic walk and raised £1,500 for the Children’s event in City Centre and invited children from Hospital Charity and would like to pay tribute to those Austin Friars School to come and learn more about who supported them from Supertram, colleagues, the birds of prey that can be found on the 685 route. friends and family. Matt Cranwell, Managing Director for Stagecoach The school pupils enjoy the bird of prey demonstration 10 THE PEOPLE PAGE ON STAGE n New East Scotland GETTING TO KNOW YOU... Managing Director Stan Hughes, Cleaner, and South Lancashire STAGECOACH has appointed Paul Thomas as new ■■ Who are you? ■■ What are you most proud of? Managing Director of its East Scotland operations. Stan Hughes – Cleaner, My son’s just had twins and my daughter has Paul began his career as an apprentice mechanic Stagecoach Merseyside, two girls. So my family. in 1985 and worked his way into managerial posts Chester and South ■■ Favourite holiday destination? before reaching managing director level. Most Lancashire. Anywhere hot and sunny. recently, Paul has been Managing Director, UK ■■ What do you like ■■ Most embarrassing moment? Bus for , with responsibility for most about your job? Giving a speech at my daughter’s wedding. It National Express West Midlands, Xplore and Everything – the team is actually went well but I was really nervous. Metro tram operation. Prior to that, Paul great and I do something different everyday. ■■ Favourite Music? spent several years as Managing Director with First ■■ What do you like least about your job? The Rolling Stones. Scotland East. I have no arguments about any of it really, I like it. ■■ Person you would most like to have dinner Stagecoach Scotland Managing Director Robert ■■ Favourite Food? with? Andrew said: “Paul’s vast experience in the industry Curry. My wife. and his previous experience within East Scotland ■■ Least favourite food? ■■ First thing you would do if you won £1m? mean he will be a great asset to our East Scotland I like most foods. Share it with my family. operation. I look forward to working with him to tackle the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.” ‘Getting To Know You’ features in every edition of On Stage and we want to hear from as many staff Paul said: “I am delighted to be taking on this new as possible. To suggest the next participant, email [email protected] role and very much look forward to returning to East Scotland which is an area I know well. I know there’s a great team there already who work hard to deliver excellent customer service and strong Clocking up the years operational performance and I’m looking forward THE Stagecoach Merseyside, Chester and South to working with them, and our many partners in the Lancashire Long Service Awards recently took place area, to deliver even better bus services for local at the Hilton . people.” Managing Director Rob Jones said: “Our Long Service Former Acting Managing Director of East Scotland, Awards are a celebration of those outstanding team Jon Oakey has been promoted to the position of members who have shown exceptional dedication Finance Director Scotland. and commitment to Stagecoach. Collectively the 45 people honoured on the evening had notched up n Loyal service 1,280 years of service. It was a delight to celebrate with them at this special event and a great night was Stagecoach MCSL team members celebrating at the WITH a combined total of 900 years under their had by all.” Long Service Awards belts, East Midlands bus staff qualifying for the Long Service Awards and retiring employees were treated to a celebratory dinner recently. Bridget’s big 6-0 Long service awards Those who attended were presented with EMPLOYEES in Cumbria and North Lancashire with a certificate by Managing Director Michelle HASTINGS depot Hargreaves to celebrate their service. a combined 530 years’ service were recognised admin assistant recently at a long service dinner. Bridget Harris has Commenting on the 22 people attending the long celebrated 60 service event Matt Cranwell, Managing Director, years’ service with said “With so many employees with 20, 25, and Stagecoach. 30 years’ service, and retirees with 21, 23, 26 and Bridget originally 29 years’ service, this is proof of the commitment joined Hastings and dedication our staff have to customers and the Tramway, which later The long-serving East Midlands staff passenger transport industry in Cumbria and North became Maidstone Lancashire. It is with great pride that we presented and District, then so many awards to so many dedicated staff.” n Contacts Hastings and District until 1989 when it Editor: Lindsay Reid, On Stage, Stagecoach was acquired by Stagecoach. Group, 10 Dunkeld Road, Perth, PH1 5TW At an event to celebrate Bridget’s achievement, Email: [email protected] Operations Manager Rob Hutchings said: “We’re If you have a story for On Stage, please contact all very happy to be celebrating this achievement Lindsay Reid as above. The copy deadline for with you today. I would like to add from all of us that the next edition of On Stage will be Friday 18 we’re extremely thankful for all your hard work and dedication over your career.” August 2017. 22 members of staff attended the long service dinner 11