GREENER ANd SMARTER Special feature on green issues Centre pages The newspaper of Issue 74 Spring 09 £1 goes a long way 3 Investing in success 5 Driver’s MBE honour 12 Route to romance 13 Franchise bid’s fresh challenges LET’S GET GOING STAGECOACH Group has submitted its bid for the South Central passenger rail franchise, giving a fi rm commitment to deliver the complex projects set by the Government while maintaining high- FOR GREEN WEEK quality services to passengers. A Stagecoach Group spokesman Group-wide week Declan McDermott, said: “The South Central franchise .com’s 10 presents signifi cant challenges and of action aims to millionth customer, is set will be a period of major change. for a dream trip to the “Our priority has been to ensure raise awareness USA. passengers have seamless access to a consistently safe, high-quality, fast, at work and home frequent and reliable railway during this time of transition. PLANS are under way for “Stagecoach already has strong Stagecoach’s fi rst ever Group-wide links with the franchise through Green Week. its existing transport services and Between April 20 and 24, staff we have worked closely with local and customers across all areas of stakeholders in developing our the business are taking part in a proposals. week of environmental awareness “We have an excellent track record activities. of delivering complex and technical These highlight the many projects, from new timetables to benefi ts of using public transport, smart ticketing, while maintaining as well the advantages of being excellent service to customers. environmentally friendly in other Ten million reasons to celebrate! “We also believe our insight into areas of life. what drives consumers’ lifestyle And the event shows everyone MEGABUS.COM has welcomed its 10 millionth global brand which is still growing. choices can help encourage people how seriously Stagecoach takes customer on board. “We wanted to recognise the achievements of to reduce car use and get on board its commitment to reducing the The market-leading budget coach service is megabus.com over the last fi ve years and what greener, smarter rail travel. company’s carbon footprint. now attracting around two million passengers better way than by rewarding our 10 millionth “We understand there are no easy a year in the UK, and Stagecoach has recently customer with a wonderful prize?” solutions, particularly in the current SUSTAINABLE expanded its North American services. Lucky Declan said: “I was overwhelmed to be economic environment. Declan McDermott of London was the told I had won the prize as I had simply logged “But we have a fully costed, Having recently appointed energy company’s 10 millionth customer, winning a on to the megabus.com website to book a trip sustainable plan and we are consultancy Inenco to undertake holiday of a lifetime to New York, complete home to London from . confi dent we can play a signifi cant a three-year Carbon Management with a trip to Boston on a megabus.com “To think that I only spent £20 on my tickets part in improving the experience for Programme, Stagecoach announces service direct from the Big Apple. and now I’m heading over to America is rail passengers in London and the its Group-wide carbon footprint in Stagecoach Group Chief Executive Brian unbelievable. south of .” the spring. Souter said: “Since its launch in 2003, “I can’t wait to visit New York and I’m sure the From there, Inenco will put megabus.com has grown into a successful trip to Boston will be fantastic too.” in place new processes, key On Stage news performance indicators, targets and Stagecoach Group Chief even more sustainable.” initiatives to drive improvements Executive says: For customers, the main Green Champion going on-line across the Group, reduce the “Green Week is a chance for us highlights of Green Week are a Staff are also invited to nominate their Green Giveaway Day – when FROM now on, On Stage is to company’s carbon footprint and all to learn how we can improve Green Champion – the employee they 20,000 ‘green kits’ will be handed become an online only publication, use energy even more effi ciently. our green credentials. feel contributes the most towards out – and the chance to win a in keeping with Stagecoach’s Stagecoach’s aim to encourage “At Stagecoach we are already reducing the company’s carbon year’s free travel on Stagecoach commitment to reducing its carbon people out of their cars and on working hard to reduce our footprint. services in an online competition. footprint. to public transport is one of the carbon footprint. We want to The winner receives a luxury share this work with our staff Schools across the UK are also Future editions of On Stage will be solutions to the ever-increasing two-night stay at an environmentally and customers. being invited to get involved. available on the Stagecoach Group challenge of climate change. friendly hotel, including travel costs “We also want to continue to Stagecoach employees are website at www.stagecoachgroup. During Green Week, staff and and spending money. improve our environmental being provided with top tips com/scg/media customers are encouraged to think To request a Green Champion performance. There are more on the best ways to save energy A print-out will also be posted on about other ways in which they can nomination form, please email: energy savings we can make via a poster campaign featuring noticeboards at depots. reduce their carbon footprint – both [email protected] at work and at home. to ensure our business is staff. uk bus ’s buses boast the S-factor STAGECOACH in Oxfordshire has Marketing Manager Chris Child waiting facilities. re-launched a number of major said: “Many people already see the The re-launch see buses routes to further develop the benefits of using public transport renumbered to become part of a core network of services carrying to get to and from work, go family of ‘superior’ routes known passengers from towns and shopping or have a night out. It’s as ‘S-Series’. villages such as Witney, Woodstock fast, cheap and environmentally Chris added: “All the buses used and Bicester. friendly and drops you in the heart on these services are low-floor and The focus is on providing the best of the city. have easy access for pushchairs possible service to passengers and “However, there are people who and the disabled. attracting new customers who have are often still welded to their car “They are driven by a group of previously rejected the thought of seat and dismiss public transport regular drivers who live in the Chris Mallender, Chief Executive of taking the bus in favour of the car. too quickly.” local community and have good Corby Borough Council (left) and The routes already take around Over the last three years, relationships with passengers. Council Leader Councillor Pat Fawcett 53,000 travellers a week into Stagecoach has invested over £4 “The focus of S-Series is giving enjoy a quick read. Oxford and the hope is to entice million on new buses, and worked the majority of passengers what many more people out of their closely with Oxfordshire County they want, and that’s a good, One of Oxfordshire’s S-Series Buses open a cars. Council to improve bus stops and reliable bus service.” branded S5 buses. new chapter BUS bookworms enjoyed a good Elf service aids read when travelling around Corby, thanks to a special festival. baby treatment Books on the Buses, part of the BALAMORY’S FOUR bus drivers from Newcastle Play on Words Corby Literacy Festival 2009, was a fun and found a fun way to raise £5,250 educational event in which easy- for the Baby Unit at Newcastle’s to-browse ‘Quick Read’ books Royal Victoria Infirmary. were left on local bus routes for A total of £2,625 came from all to enjoy. STAR DRIVER donations collected at the The books included works by A former children’s TV star is one of Stagecoach’s driver is way tougher than being an actor. Walkergate depot and on the personalities such as Tanni Grey- newest recruits. “You are responsible for everyone on the bus, then buses by drivers Stuart Cooper, Thompson, Colin Jackson and For four years, actor Rodd Christensen was better there's the routes to try to remember and other people on Dave Kenny, Ron Oxburgh and Fiona Phillips. known as Spencer the Painter, who lived in the orange the roads to deal with. Mark Rutherford, who dressed up Launching the event, Corby house on the BBC TV show Balamory. “I definitely now have a new respect for bus drivers. as elves during the festive season. Borough Council’s Lead Member The series – which was watched by two million viewers “I've had people tooting their car horns and pointing, This figure was matched by for Community, Cllr John a week – came to an end in 2005 and Rodd has now mums come up and ask because their children have to give a McGhee, said: “The Books on the started work as a driver with Stagecoach in Perth. recognised me and a little girl gave me a picture she had final donation of £5,250. Buses event is our way of bringing However, he has found he is still as popular as ever drawn of Spencer.” Ron Oxburgh said: “Last year we the magic of the Play on Words with Balamory fans, with youngsters queuing up to Following his time on Balamory, Rodd worked on the raised £1,700 on the buses and we festival to everyone in Corby. get a sneaky peek at him as he drives around Perth. stage and did some film work. However, he was keen to were hoping to beat that sum this “We want residents to look out Rodd, a professional actor from Las Vegas, said: secure a steady income. year, so we were thrilled to find for the books next time they are “Being a bus He said: “I didn't have the luxury to wait for the next out that we had raised £2,650. on their local bus route, pick one panto or whatever to come along. “It’s also great that Stagecoach up and have a read. Don’t forget “I had done a bit of bus driving in the States and then I has agreed to match fund the to get off at your stop, though!” saw the advert on the back of a Stagecoach bus.” figure again, as the Baby Unit is Rodd joined the Stagecoach training scheme and such a deserving cause and needs hasn’t looked back since. all the help it can get.” A sound step He added: “There were rumours going around the Dave Kenny added: “Not only depot that I had been on television, but some was it great to raise so much of the guys reckoned they didn't know what money for charity but it was for safe buses Balamory was. also good fun dressing up and STAGECOACH is “I suppose that would mean putting a smile on the faces of our introducing a new safety feature having to admit they'd customers over Christmas. to protect its drivers. watched children's “We hope that we managed to Microphones have been television!” spread a little festive cheer and installed in drivers’ cabs to work Perth Operations showed that real Christmas spirit alongside the CCTV cameras Manager, Gus Beveridge, does still exist.” already on all of the company’s said: “I am highly John Conroy, Managing Director buses in Stockport. delighted with Rodd. of Stagecoach North East added: Mark Threapleton, Managing He's like a breath of fresh “We are proud to have such Director for Stagecoach air – full of life, popular spirited and dedicated drivers.” and incredibly friendly.” Manchester, said: “Whilst CCTV Rodd Christensen, aka Spencer the Painter. cameras have significantly improved both passenger and STAGECOACH North East has driver safety, we still receive collaborating with key retail and invited companies to help create an an unacceptably high amount leisure outlets we could bolster internal staff discount scheme for Loyalty scheme provides of comments from both our trade during the current economic employees. passengers and our staff about climate and in the future. In a difficult economic climate, the manner in which they have great discounts for staff “Finally, we wanted to further Stagecoach believes that the been treated. enhance and develop the benefits business community should the Stockton-based Teal Arms, and of the company involved and, “These are notoriously difficult we offer all our staff and a work together in implementing is looking to recruit around 100 in where possible, there will be no to resolve one way or the other discounted loyalty scheme will more innovative methods of total. duplication of services. but, with the ability to record offer something unique and useful generating market growth, such as All 1,700 staff will be kept up Jodine Milne, Marketing Manager, incidents between drivers and to everyone. partnerships and joint promotions to date with offers and discounts Stagecoach North East, said: “We passengers in both picture and “I believe it’s a fantastic that can significantly increase from participating companies via created our internal staff discount sound, we hope to improve opportunity for local businesses revenue and raise brand awareness. internal newsletters and depot scheme for three reasons. this critical area of customer to increase revenue and engage The company has already signed updates and will be able to use “Firstly, we wanted to create and interaction and reduce the level regularly with a large captive up some great brand names, their Stagecoach employee card to build strong working relationships of unsubstantiated complaints we audience and I hope that we can including Vision Express, Martino’s access the offers. with like-minded businesses across have to deal with.” add to the catalogue of businesses Restaurants, fashion accessory Each offer will be unique and the region. that have already signed up to the retailer All Dressed in Love and negotiated to suit the requirements “Secondly, we hoped that by scheme.” 2 Spring 09 UK bus / uk rail DEFEATING THE CREDIT CRUNCH WITH £1 FARES HARD-PRESSED consumers can beat the credit crunch by The Megaplus bagging bargain £1 fares to routes and from London with an n Hull-Doncaster-Scunthorpe- innovative budget coach and A carriage became East Midlands Parkway-London rail service from Stagecoach. St Pancras a padded cell for the day. Megabusplus.com is the first service of its kind in the UK n York-Harrogate-Castleford- and will offer passengers a fast, East Midlands Parkway-London Hard message St Pancras integrated journey between Yorkshire, and n Halifax-Huddersfield- from soft cell London by comfortable coach Bradford-East Midlands and high-quality train, provided Parkway-London St Pancras. SHEFFIELD commuters were by . surprised to find themselves With quick journey times from travelling to work in a padded cell! £1 can go far: Stagecoach Group The centre carriage of a just three-and-a-half hours, the Chief Executive Brian Souter new service will be faster than Sheffield Supertram was launches the new service at London transformed for a stunt by Time existing coach links to London St Pancras Station. and even some rail services. to Change – a campaign to tackle It is also a major boost for Halifax and Huddersfield. people looking to travel between between the coach and the train. the stigma and discrimination travellers, as the last remaining The first services began on London and the North of England. The station is one of the faced by people with mental direct flights between Yorkshire’s March 30, with all megabusplus. “You can get on a comfortable greenest ever built, using new health problems. Leeds-Bradford airport and com travel during the first week coach, transfer easily to a technology to minimise its impact The mobile ‘cell’ was London Heathrow are axed. of the service costing just £1*. high-speed train and make the on the local environment. emblazoned with provocative Passengers using megabusplus. Stagecoach Group Chief 200-mile trip to London in just Passengers will travel on 49-seat slogans such as: “One in four com will be able to travel between Executive Brian Souter said: three-and-a half-hours for the coaches equipped people will have a mental health London’s modern St Pancras “It’s really tough for families price of a loaf of bread.” with toilets and seatbelts and problem in their life. That’s 50 on Station and nine key locations across Britain at the moment and Megabusplus.com will use the transfer on to East Midlands this tram – but they don’t need to in the North of England – Hull, everyone is looking for ways to brand new East Midlands Parkway Trains’ HSTs direct to London. spend their days in a padded cell.” Scunthorpe, Doncaster, Castleford, make their pound go further. station as an interchange to allow *All megabusplus.com fares are The message was that people Harrogate, York, Bradford, “Megabusplus is a real boost for passengers to move seamlessly subject to a 50p booking fee. who have experienced very common mental health problems are typically getting on with life and travelling to work, just like New timetable’s record score everybody else. It’s thought that some 2000 EAST Midlands Trains has announced its best “And it is not just a one-off. Our average shoppers and commuters ever reported figures for train punctuality. punctuality over the past 12 months also stands travelled on the special tram and The company introduced a new and at 89% and is on the rise across our route. had a chance to chat to Time to improved timetable in December 2008 and, “We’re going to be working very hard, Change volunteers during the during the first full reporting period, it has not just to continue to operate at this level of day-long event. recorded an amazing 95.16% of its London performance but also to build on it. Julia Shaw, Supertram’s services on time. “To help achieve this we also have an Commercial Manager, said: This is the best punctuality figure since the extensive programme of investment taking “Everyone reacted very positively franchise started in November 2007 – and a place during our franchise.” to the tram interior and it significant improvement on the same month This programme will see the company invest certainly got people talking last year when punctuality on the London route £90 million, making improvements in areas and raised awareness about the was 89.47%. which impact directly on performance and message behind the campaign.” The company is also recording punctuality reliability. Time to Change is England’s figures on its local routes that see above 90% of These include an upgrade to Derby train biggest and most ambitious trains on time, again the best since the franchise maintenance depot, providing efficient campaign to end mental health started. in-house overnight maintenance and greater discrimination. East Midlands Trains Managing Director Tim Shoveller East Midlands Commercial Director David flexibility. with Pete Waterman at the opening of the company’s Horne said: “The news comes as no surprise A full refurbishment of East Midlands Trains’ new head office. to us as it’s something everyone who works fleet, including technical modification work Key services for East Midlands Trains has at the forefront of to improve engine performance, will also take Hitman jumps on board their mind. place. go greener GETTING around Celebrity rail enthusiast Pete Waterman officially staff with no understanding of what East became even easier after opened East Midlands Trains’ new Derby head office – Communications Midlands Trains stood for. Stagecoach in South Prospect House, on Pride Park. The internal communications team worked launched a new fleet of 17 Pete said: “Being invited to this event was a team hits top spot to turn this around and achieve an engaged low-floor buses onto wonderful way to come back to the city. EAST Midlands Trains’ internal and committed workforce. five key services. “It's really interesting to see Pride Park again as I communications team has scooped a top Anna Richardson, Employee Engagement Stagecoach’s £1.5 million fleet was actually the first business based here! award at the prestigious HSBC Rail Business Manager for East Midlands Trains, collected investment follows a series of “It's also nice to see the railway brought back to Awards. the award at a ceremony in February. major investments throughout Derby – a railway city – in a modern and comfortable The accolade, which was for Internal She said: “We’re very proud to receive this , including way. Communications Excellence, was awarded in award and would like to thank the judges for millionpound investments “Sometimes we have to break with tradition and recognition of the team’s work in launching recognising the achievements we have made. in Newport, Pontypool and history, which is what East Midlands Trains has done the new organisation. “The key to good customer service is Blackwood services over the past with these new offices. East Midlands Trains, which launched on committed staff who feel truly part of the two years. “I used to work as a DJ in the city in the 60s and 70s, November 11, 2007, was formed from three company they work for, and we’re delighted These investments aim to so I know the place really well. companies – , Maintrain that our investment in staff communications encourage more people to leave “I also used to come from Coventry, where I grew and Central Trains – and involved merging has helped to play a real part in pulling their cars at home and travel by up, to Derby to do some train-spotting.” together three very fragmented groups of together a unified and dedicated workforce.” bus instead.

Spring 09 3 uk rail eAST midlands Trains recently held East Midlands Trains to have so many a special thank you lunch to honour staff who have stayed with us for so thirteen of its longest-serving staff, long and who can draw on many years who between them have notched up of experience on the railways. an incredible 407 years of service. “Over the years, the rail industry Staff from Derby, Sheffi eld, has seen many changes, and it’s still Nottingham and Lincolnshire attended changing now. the special lunch at Makeney Hall “But one factor that I believe has in Derbyshire. Some staff were remained a constant for companies like celebrating 25 years’ service while East Midlands Trains is the dedication others were due to retire. and professionalism of staff who are The longest-serving of those being part of the ‘railway family’ and this honoured was Derby-based train event is all about recognising their driver Keith Woodcock. achievements.” Keith, who lives in Mickleover with Tim Shoveller, East Midlands Trains, Managing Director (centre), paid tribute to long-serving staff at a special lunch. Those honoured at the event were: his wife Eileen, started work for British Keith Woodcock, Driver, Derby; Rail as an engine cleaner some 48 years Everitt Ebanks, Customer Information, ago. Sheffi eld; David Chappell, Riding One of Keith’s colleagues said: “He is Assessor, Derby; Peter Hadley, Retail a gentleman driver, willing to pass on THANK YOU ALL Manager, Derby; his knowledge to other drivers.” training, moved to Leeds. He went now for seven and a half years. “Everitt has a wonderful way with Robert George, Technician, Keith said: “I really enjoyed my on to work in various roles, including Dave said: “I always said we could the general public and is a really Nottingham; Ray ‘Garth’ Clarkson, time driving trains and the proudest being one of the fi rst engineers to work get married when I retire, so I guess charming man. Customer Service Assistant, Lincoln; moment of my career was when I on HSTs (High Speed Trains) when the time has now come and we’re “Even though we know he will still Richard Rice, Treasurer, Derby; David ‘passed out’ to be a train driver back they were introduced in the 1970s. very excited! We’re going to start pop in to see us, we’re going to miss Wilkinson, Project Manager, Derby; in 1978.” More recently, he has been a riding our married life together with a tour him dreadfully and we’ll never forget Michael Lockwood, Duty Retail Also retiring in March this year after inspector and assessor, travelling all around the UK in our caravan.” the service he gave not just to us as Manager, Sheffi eld; John Hillman, 44 years’ service was Dave Chappell, over the East Midlands Trains route. Everitt Ebanks retired in January a company but also to the people of Stakeholder Manager, Derby; Karl who joined British Rail in August 1964, David lives in Ripley, Derbyshire, after 29 years working at Sheffi eld Sheffi eld.” Brailsford, Driver Standards Manager, aged 15. with his fi ancée Susan, who he railway station. Tim Shoveller, East Midlands Trains, Derby; Nick Green, Senior Team He started as an apprentice fi tter at plans to marry next year. Both Claire Ansley, Route Manager Managing Director, who hosted the Member, Derby, and Derrick Rawlings, York Training school and, after a year’s widowed, they have been together for Derbyshire and Sheffi eld, said: event said: “We are very fortunate at Senior Conductor, Nottingham.

Cutting costs Net result for teen team in recession has hit the Waterlooville Football Club, said: “I back of the net for local teenagers would like to say a big thank you to A REVIEW of costs is under way in Portsmouth by supporting the South West Trains for their support at Stagecoach Group’s rail division Havant and Waterlooville Football over the last few years and I hope to meet the challenges of the Club’s Under-16s team for the second that we can now form a strong bond economic downturn and protect year running. as the money goes to a good cause the business in the long term. The train company donated almost which helps local children. More effi cient ways of working £1,000 to sponsor their training “We run 16 football teams, ranging are being put in place, but the equipment, rain jackets and the club's from mini soccer to men’s youth company remains focused on annual 6-a-side tournament to be football and all support is very delivering a good quality of service Athletes Dean Showler-Davis and Alexander Goodman held in July 2009. welcome.” to ensure customers continue to with Chris Haresign from South West Trains. The club was founded in 1963 and, Steve Hampson, South West Trains’ be attracted to our services. last year, 182 teams took part with Area Manager, said: “It is easy to South West Trains and East youngsters from and forget that all our greatest football Midlands Trains propose to reduce Running support for athletes the competing from all stars of today started at this level. the number of jobs at their age groups, as well as some players “We are keen to support grass-roots businesses by 380 and 160 people SOUTH West Trains is supplying Young Person’s Railcards to over 200 with short-term contracts with local football and we are pleased to respectively. talented sportspeople across its network for the second year running. professional clubs. sponsor the club’s many aspiring Consultation with staff The Hampshire Talented Athlete Scheme, the fi rst of its kind in the Paul Harman of Havant & young footballers.” representatives is under way, country, was formed to ease fi nancial burdens on budding Olympians and each business is focusing and give them support to smooth their journey towards a gold medal. on meeting its responsibilities Chris Haresign, South West Trains Area Manager, said: “This is a to employees by giving them as fantastic scheme and we believe Sport Hampshire and Isle of Wight are much information and support as giving young people something to aim for. possible. “By providing discounts for the 200 young people we believe this The recession is affecting the demonstrates our commitment to helping them achieve their full global economy and it is key that potential.” everyone across the Group works Sportsmen Dean Showler-Davis, who received a gold award for in the smartest and most effi cient athletics, and Alexander Goodman, silver award-winner in disability way. Our priorities are to maintain swimming, went to Winchester station recently to meet Chris and customer service, protect jobs thank him personally for the ongoing support from South West Trains. for the majority of our people Angela Cooper of Hampshire Talented Athlete Scheme said: “South and provide a strong foundation West Trains' continued support of the scheme is key, enabling us to for growth when the economy provide tangible benefi ts to our talented athletes to reach their full The Havant and Waterlooville Under-16 team with former Southampton and England improves. potential in the lead-up to London 2012.” footballer Matt Le Tissier. (Picture courtesy of The News, Portsmouth) Meanwhile, changes under the cost review have led to Ian Dobbs, Chief Executive Offi cer, SOUTH West Trains is extending and we are delighted to expand Stagecoach Group Rail Division, a trial of a new cashless payment Park-and-dial trial extended this convenient payment option leaving the business. system to eight more station car to more stations.” Brian Souter, Stagecoach Group parks on its network, bringing technology provider RingGo, the scheme are Eastleigh, RingGo’s Project Manager, Chief Executive, will directly the total to 18. started in December 2008 and Salisbury, Guildford (long stay, Alex Walker added: “The uptake oversee management of the South The scheme allows customers originally involved the stations Farnham Road and Premium car of RingGo at existing South West Trains franchise. simply to turn up and park. They of Basingstoke, Farnborough, parks), Fareham, Brockenhurst, West Trains’ stations has been Group Finance Director Martin can then call the number on the Southampton Parkway, Woking, Farnham, Esher and Winchfield. fantastic. Griffi ths will undertake the same car park ticket machine, provide Winchester, Surbiton, Havant, South West Trains Project “We are delighted that even role for East Midlands Trains and their car and parking details and Andover, Richmond and Manager Andy Naylor said: “We more rail travellers are now the Group’s light rail operations. pay with a credit or debit card. Junction. are really pleased with just how being given the chance to use The trial, in partnership with The eight stations now joining popular this scheme has been phone parking instead of cash.” 4 Spring 09 Uk bus investING for SUCCESS IMPROVED services have Bus Ltd was approved by employee followed Stagecoach’s acquisition shareholders in January. Leighe Tompkins helps Mick Johnson of bus companies in Sussex and The company has around 300 make his smooth transition for charity. . employees and a fleet of some 120 The Group is investing £1.5 million vehicles running on 14 key routes in in new, greener buses after buying and South Ribble, and the A close shave Buses from Eastbourne annual turnover of the business is Borough Council. around £11 million. for rescue dogs And Preston passengers have been Stagecoach already operates around BEDFORD bus driver Mick promised a more integrated service 160 vehicles in the Preston, Johnson helped some four-legged following the recent purchase of and Fylde areas, and the Preston friends after opting for a new Ltd. Bus operations have become part of Phil Medlicott with image. has some 150 , headed by the first of the new With a little persuasion from employees and a fleet of nearly 70 Managing Director Chris Bowles. buses representing his daughter, he took the brave vehicles based at Birch Road depot in Local passengers will benefit from a fresh start in decision to have his beard shaved Eastbourne. plans for a more integrated network Eastbourne. off while raising money for local The company’s annual turnover on all main corridors with the merger dog rescue charity the Animal is around £5.6 million and, while of the two operations, both of which Rescue Advisory Service. the acquisition will see changes in have high quality low-floor bus Eastbourne’s dynamic dozen Fellow bus driver Leighe management and administration, fleets. Tompkins volunteered to wield there will be no compulsory Fares and ticket ranges are being AS new owners of Eastbourne Buses Ltd, & the razor, and the event raised redundancies amongst driving and simplified, promising lower-cost has introduced 12 new single-deck, easy-access Enviro over £700.00. engineering staff. bus travel for many people, and 300 buses to replace some of the older vehicles on the fleet. The contract to purchase Stagecoach has given a two-year Phil Medlicott, regional Managing Director for Stagecoach, said Eastbourne Buses is subject to no compulsory redundancies the new vehicles in the orange, blue and white Stagecoach livery Your friendly approval by the Department for commitment to driving and will now become a familiar sight in the region as the Eastbourne Transport. engineering staff. fleet of 48 cream and blue vehicles are phased out. local bus driver Les Warneford, Managing Director Les Warneford, Managing Director, “The £1.5 million investment in these new buses is just the start of Stagecoach UK Bus, said: “We Stagecoach UK Bus, said: “In the past of a package of improvements to services we have planned to the bus driver Karen are committed to ensuring that local two years alone, we have invested Eastbourne bus network,” said Phil. Hunter has proved an instant hit people have access to a sustainable, around £4 million in improving bus “The amalgamation of Eastbourne and Cavendish Motor with local passengers. comprehensive, high-quality and services in Preston by introducing Services Ltd acquired this month will benefit the bus using public Karen has been a bus driver with affordable bus network. new vehicles, expanded high- in the region.” Stagecoach North East for just 18 “Stagecoach already has a frequency services, better-value months, but has already received successful bus operation in the travel and improved links into our other local stakeholders to attract offered the best opportunities for three official commendations south and south-, wider bus network in the North more people to the benefits of our staff. from her employer. employing more than 2,000 people. West. greener, smarter bus travel.” “This is a positive move The plaudits came after Karen, “Eastbourne Buses will enhance our “While there will inevitably be Peter Bell, Managing Director which will ensure the continued from Eston, received letters of position as a major employer and bus some changes for our employees and of Preston Bus Ltd, added: “We delivery of high-quality bus thanks from passengers for her operator in the region.” for some of our passengers, we look are pleased to have sold the services to the people of friendly and cheerful disposition Stagecoach’s acquisition of Preston forward to working with staff and business to Stagecoach, which Preston.” and her high standard of driving. One passenger sent her a gift for cheering her up after countless West trips to James Cook Hospital, Managing Drivers keep a clean sheet while another passenger wrote Director Sam THE impeccable driving standards impressive as he has received an to the Teesside depot declaring: Greer with “This lady wants a medal for recently retired of 82 bus drivers award for almost every year on the Jack Ronald. have been recognised at an awards road. outstanding service.” ceremony. A special award was also Karen said: “I am a little The Stagecoach North East drivers presented to Sharon Dyer for overwhelmed by the kind were honoured at the special event dedication and commitment. response from the passengers, as I held in the local Trams Club. Ex-driver Sharon is battling cancer believe I am simply doing my job. The awards acknowledge and but has chosen to remain at work, “A smile and quick ‘hello’ when reward excellent health and safety taking on an administrative role at people get on my bus takes no records and are accredited by the the depot. effort and it’s nice to get a smile Royal Society for the Prevention of Her commitment to Stagecoach back in return. Accidents (ROSPA). has inspired many of her colleagues “One of the main reasons I love To receive the accolade, drivers and is testament to the community being a bus driver is you get to must achieve at least 42 weeks spirit at the company’s South meet so many different people driving in a year having committed Shields depot. every day and I’d like to think that no traffic offences and without Brian Sleightholme, Operations a few kind words and a friendly Hanging up his L-plates being involved in an accident that Manager at South Shields, said: face makes their journey a bit was deemed their fault. “The awards are a great way of brighter.” After more than 30 years’ service, Scotland SNVQ Some drivers received a one-year recognising the high standards our Frank Price, Operations Scheme Coordinator Jack Ronald has retired. driving award, while seven drivers uphold every day. Manager at the Teesside depot Jack began his employment as a driver with West Scotland’s predecessor employees achieved 25 years or “It’s a great achievement by added: “Karen is a real asset to Western SMT, working on the London Express routes as well as local more and South Shields driver the depot and a reflection of the the depot and the company as a services, and even stepping in as an engineer from time to time to help Brian Stanton was presented with motivation all our staff feel to whole, and sets a great example recover broken-down vehicles. a 33-year award for exemplary operate to the very best of our to all our new recruits by clearly He later became a driving instructor and, throughout his career, was driving. ability at all times demonstrating the need for well known and well liked. Brian has been a driver with “I’d like to congratulate all the providing the best customer All his colleagues from the depot wish him all the best for a Stagecoach North East for 38 years, drivers once again and thank them service at all times.” long and happy retirement. which makes his award all the more for their commitment and efforts.” Spring 09 5 Uk bus

Competition for Santa drivers’ graduate spots Charity boost NINE North East bus drivers helped STAGECOACH has seen a raise over £7,300 for charity after huge increase in the number dressing up as Santa and encouraging of applicants for its UK Bus passengers to donate to good causes graduate development over the festive period. programme. Teesside bus drivers John Bell, Ian This year, 527 applications were Ferguson, Richard Marks, Nick Eland submitted for the six places and Sarah Westmoreland helped to available on the scheme – almost raise £4,044.58 for the Butterwick three times as many as last year’s Hospice. total of 178. The drivers and customers raised These figures appear to support £2,022.29 from collections and recent evidence suggesting that this figure was then matched by there are fewer graduate places Stagecoach North East. available in the UK as a result of Colin Bateman, a driver from the current economic climate. Newcastle, helped to raise £1,043.92 According to a recent survey for the city’s Royal Victoria Infirmary by the Association of Graduate (RVI) after his initial collection of Recruiters, overall graduate £521.96 was matched by Stagecoach vacancies are expected to Members of the Accra Women’s North East. decrease by 5.4% in 2009. Transport Cooperative. Meanwhile, David Hands, Ray Green Just under half of 245 organi- and Barry Brewis from Stagecoach’s sations surveyed expected to depot raised £1,120.16 hire fewer graduates this year, from collections on the buses and with two thirds saying this was at the depot. This was matched due directly or indirectly to the SAFER STANDARDS by Stagecoach North East to give economic downturn. a grand total of £2,240.32, which The Stagecoach UK Bus STAGECOACH has united with international forward to sharing my skills with the women to was divided between St. Benedict’s graduate recruitment initiative development charity Transaid to provide vital driver increase their knowledge of how to keep themselves Hospice and Macmillan Cancer Care. was established in 2002 and now training for a female market traders’ project in and other road users safe, as well as increasing offers six graduate trainee places Ghana. their awareness of efficient vehicle handling when per year. The Group has provided funding for Stagecoach transporting goods to and from the market. The two-year programme driver training officer Tricia Brennan to spend two “This is a wonderful opportunity for me to make a Sweet-smelling offers hands-on involvement months training drivers from the Women’s Transport difference to others and I’m really looking forward to within the business, complement- Cooperative in Ghana’s capital city, Accra. it.” scheme spreads In addition to her driver training role, Tricia – who is In Accra, women are the lifeblood of the community ed by off-the-job development A FRAGRANT pilot project is based at Stagecoach’s depot – is working with and provide the majority of goods bought and sold at and training room-style tuition. enjoying the sweet smell of success. three key transport and road safety organisations to the markets. The course covers training Following a successful trial on help develop unified private and commercial driver However, the lack of an appropriate and affordable on operations, engineering, the buses in Nuneaton, aromas of training standards across Ghana. transport service forces them into a punishing daily commercial and marketing ylang ylang, ocean, spring and other The first stage of training was delivered by Transaid routine which reduces their profits and leads them to operations and finance, and relaxing smells will soon be wafting to the cooperative in March 2008 and focused on basic work long and dangerous hours, often from 4am until has allowed a number of through vehicles further afield. techniques for commercial van driving. 11pm. graduates to progress into Stagecoach ran the Nuneaton trials Tricia is implementing the second part of the project Stagecoach UK Bus Managing Director Les senior management roles within earlier this year and the customer to again provide training for new drivers and further Warneford said: “Transaid and its partners have made Stagecoach. feedback was so positive that special improve the knowledge and skills of those in the huge strides by establishing the Women’s Transport Matt Darroch, Training and dispensers are now being installed on original team. Cooperative in Accra. Development Manager for buses in Rugby. She is further assisting the National Road Safety “Now we must make sure the drivers are trained Stagecoach UK Bus, said: Julie Gwynne, Stagecoach Rugby Commission (NRSC) to develop commercial driver to a high standard and that their vehicles are well- “Evidently, with fewer graduate Operations Manager, said: “We take training standards and is tasked with helping to maintained. schemes around, competition for great pride in our vehicles and we improve driving standards at West Africa’s largest bus “We’re delighted that Tricia has the opportunity places is stronger than ever. undertake stringent cleaning routines operator, Metro Mass Transit (MMT). to pass on her knowledge to local people and to the “Despite the economic daily. And Tricia is working with Road Safety Limited Ghanaian transport bodies, and we hope that her visit slowdown, we are fully “But we feel that the addition of (RSL), a truck driver training institute, to strengthen will go some way to improving road safety across committed to the continuation of these subtle fragrances will enhance commercial truck driver competence. Ghana as well as bringing long-term benefits to the our graduate programme. the travelling experience.” “We see it as a vital way of Before leaving for Ghana, Tricia said: “I’m looking Women’s Transport Cooperative.” developing the managers of the future.” Engineering Director John Taylor hands the bus over to Jeff Owen of Bus helps firefighters save lives On their bikes Humberside Fire and Rescue Service, LIFESAVERS training for road accident emergencies have been given a huge helping hand. along with members of Red Watch. Stagecoach East Midlands Engineering Director John Taylor presented firefighters with a for charity double-decker bus to be used in simulated crash scenes. Jeff Owen from the Humberside Fire and Rescue STAGECOACH in Peterhead Service said: “Bus accidents are very rare but when stepped in to help raise £9,500 they do happen, because of the number of casualties for Marie Curie Cancer Care. involved, the main concern is getting people out.” Peterhead depot provided a The Fire Service will use the bus – which was bus to transport a 40-strong withdrawn from the fleet for disposal – in a variety group of local fundraisers to of scenarios using cosmetic smoke, dummies and Dyce. Once there, they cycled ‘real-life’ casualties played by volunteers. the 45 miles back to Peterhead John Taylor said: “The Fire and Rescue service attend along a disused railway track to a wide range of incidents including vehicle fires and raise money in memory of Peter road traffic accidents. Buchan, a Peterhead local. “The practice vehicle will help them become familiar With the help of collections at with the mechanical layout of the bus and, in particular, both Peterhead and the location of fuel tanks, emergency doors and engine depots, the total rose to an stops. amazing £9,500 and organisers “They will also be able to identify the best points of entry thank everyone who contributed. should they need to use cutting gear.”

6 Spring 09 SOUTH West Trains has launched the UK rail network’s first green cycle hire initiative. Rail rubbish The Stagecoach Group train company has joined forces with is recycled Brompton Bicycle to encourage Green pages passengers to cycle as part of a EAST Midlands Trains is fully integrated low-carbon journey helping the environment and Green issues are at the combining bike and train. saving money by recycling South West Trains has invited some more waste from its trains top of the agenda for of its season ticket holders to take and maintenance depots. Stagecoach. part in a free three-month trial of the A new recycling scheme With this in mind, the scheme, which will use Brompton’s implemented at the Group is holding a special iconic folding bikes. company’s Neville Hill Depot in Leeds is expected to result Green Week from April 20 CTC – the UK’s national cyclists’ organisation – has given the in 90% of the company’s and 24. thumbs up to the scheme, which on-train waste arriving there Packed with events to follows extensive research by being recycled, delivering a Stagecoach Group that has identified cost saving of £150,000. encourage customers and Stagecoach Group Chief Executive Brian Souter launches the new initiative at London growing consumer support for Previously, waste was employees to become Waterloo station along with Will Butler-Adams, Managing Director of Brompton Bicycle, healthier and greener lifestyles. compacted at the depot and passengers taking part in the trial and Dave Holladay of CTC. (Picture by Ian Stoner, Rail more environmentally The number of people cycling on then taken to a landfill site, Images) friendly, Green Week London’s major roads has nearly a costly and environmentally marks the latest move in doubled since 2000 and Transport inefficient system. the Group’s ongoing drive for London (TfL) is targeting a 5% But the new scheme involves a contractor collecting the to ease its impact on the mode share for cycling by 2025. Cycle hire schemes are popular BIKE HIRE waste daily and taking it away planet. elsewhere in Europe, with initiatives to be recycled. Stagecoach’s launched in major cities such as Waste gathered from East management and staff Paris, Brussels, Barcelona and Berlin. Midlands Trains services, along with other general waste at have already taken a The idea for the South West Trains scheme followed research ROLLS OUT the depot, amounts to some wide range of steps to involving 13,000 people across the is designed to make it easier and contribute to a healthier lifestyle. 480 tonnes annually. improve its environmental UK, including consumers in the for travellers to make a greener, “We hope this innovative initiative Ted Ingle, Safety and Quality credentials. South West Trail rail franchise area, integrated journey. will make it easier for people to take Manager at the depot, said: On Stage’s special green focusing on public attitudes to green Stagecoach Group Chief Executive the greener, smarter travel option, “We used to send all the issues. Brian Souter said: “Our extensive stay healthy and help save the waste from the depot to supplement highlights Health emerged as a significant consumer research around the planet.” landfill, at significant expense some of the important factor in convincing people to UK has found that environmental Passengers will be able to hire to both the company and the progress we’ve made so ditch the car and switch to public concerns are growing. People are the South West Trains’ branded environment. far. transport. With growing interest looking for travel choices that will Brompton bicycles from the Lost “By putting this scheme in in cycling, the bike hire initiative help reduce their carbon footprint Property Office at Waterloo station. place we’re not only helping to meet our franchise target to recycle 15% of waste across the whole of our company, Green buses boost route after we’re also making business cost savings at the same time. “Another benefit has been £1.5m investment the elimination of previous STAGECOACH North West has invested Mr Varley said: “We are very grateful compactor maintenance £1.5 million in nine new greener buses for the investment in these vehicles which costs and vermin problems for its X2 route linking Preston to will improve traveller experience and help that were associated with via and Crosby. reduce traffic congestion. compacting waste for landfill.” The new Scania Enviro 400 double- “The new buses provide lower emissions During Green Week, East deck, low-floor vehicles are the first and greater passenger access and represent Midlands Trains is holding of their kind to feature Stagecoach’s a significant step forward in public activities across the company, Interurban specification, offering coach transport provision.” helping people to reduce their seating with seatbelts throughout. Stagecoach North West Managing Director environmental impact. Joining one of the buses on its Chris Bowles said: “This investment is The activities will include maiden voyage were Preston City testimony to the phenomenal success story information and advice for Councillor Matthew Tomlinson and of the X2 service, which has seen passenger customers on how they Andrew Varley, Group Manager usage grow by 27% since it was launched can save energy, reduce the for Lancashire County Council two years ago to its current 800,000 amount of waste they create Information and Marketing Group. passengers a year.” and travel in more environ- mentally friendly ways. Launching the new buses are (from left): Alex Crane of Stagecoach, Matthew Tomlinson, Andrew Varley, Chris Bowles and Alan Stilwell from Mersey Travel.

STAGECOACH Group's Conducted by Nottingham commitment to sustainable business, Business School, the survey enhancing local communities and Recognising our responsibilities looked at a range of performance helping meet the global challenge of criteria, including community and climate change is outlined in a new involvement, people, accessibility people are making in our bus, coach, document is only being published environmental responsibility. publication. and affordability, health and safety, rail and tram operations in the UK online at www.stagecoachgroup. Stagecoach was rated the most Greener Smarter Together provides and the environment. and North America. com ethical of the UK's big five public an overview of the Group's values, Steven Stewart, Director of “However, we know that, while The document is available to transport groups in a survey carried stakeholders and the way the Corporate Communications, said: we are getting a lot right, we have download as a pdf at: www.investis. out by the Observer newspaper in company does business across its “We pride ourselves on delivering further improvements to make. We com/scg/media/publications/ conjunction with Co-operative Asset bus, coach, rail and tram operations high-quality greener, smarter travel. will continue that journey with our policydocs/csr2009.pdf Management in November 2008. in the UK and North America. Not only that, we also recognise our stakeholders and strive to make the In December last year, Stagecoach The Group was rated in the top The 2009 Corporate Social wider social responsibilities. Group an even more responsible, was named one of Britain's top ten 10% of UK plcs in the second annual Responsibility Report includes “Responsible business is what we sustainable and successful Most Admired Companies in an Good Companies Guide, which a range of information and case do every day and this new report business.” authoritative survey of corporate assesses the performance of all the studies highlighting Stagecoach's demonstrates our commitment in In keeping with the Group's drive reputation by Management Today shares in the FTSE 350 index against commitment and success in many action. to improve the environmental and also collected an award for top a range of social, environmental and areas, including community “It reflects the real difference our sustainability of its operations, the company in the transport sector. ethical criteria. Spring 09 7 £70m to boost green travel ECO-FRIENDLY STATION STAGECOACH is planning a multi-million-pound investment in new vehicles for its growing bus operations in the UK. An initial £70 million order for around 420 buses and coaches in SET TO TEMPT DRIVERS 2009-10 will benefit Stagecoach customers across Britain, East Midlands Parkway helps drive delivering some of the greenest motorists off-road and onto railway vehicles in Europe. Each of the new buses will meet EAST Midlands Trains and Network new Euro 5 emissions standards Rail have officially opened theE ast which come into force in Midlands’ newest and greenest rail September, further improving the station. sustainability of Stagecoach’s bus The multi-million-pound East and coach fleet. Midlands Parkway station will give Full details of vehicle manufac- hundreds of thousands of people turers and the areas in which the across the region easier and better new buses will be put into service access to train services. will be announced later this year Owned by Network Rail and as orders are confirmed. managed by East Midlands Trains, Bus passenger numbers on the station aims to get people off the Stagecoach services grew by M1, out of their cars, and on to trains. around 4% last year, driven by continued fleet investment, invaluable innovative marketing campaigns, partnerships with local authorities, It is one of the greenest stations ever value-for-money fares and built, and is served by over 100 East additional travel under concession- Midlands Trains services per day. ary fares schemes. Trains run to and from London Les Warneford, Managing every 15-20 minutes at peak times, Director of Stagecoach UK Bus, with a journey time of around 1 said: “This planned multi-million- hour and 30 minutes. pound investment will bring The facility significant benefits to passengers serves as and the environment in local communities where we provide bus services. “We are committed to Great news on paper recycling reinvesting our profits to boost our quality of service to NEWS-hungry train travellers can do their bit for the environment, thanks to a passengers, even in the current new recycling scheme. economic downturn Around 75,000 issues of the free Metro newspaper are handed out at South “These buses have some of West Trains’ stations every day. That’s around 12 tonnes of paper – equivalent the cleanest engines in Europe to a fully loaded Routemaster bus. and this investment will support Now, a joint initiative between South West Trains and Network Rail allows our drive to reduce the carbon passengers to recycle their newspapers at Waterloo station. footprint of our business.” Recycling bins have been placed on platforms serving suburban routers as Mr Warneford added: part of a six-month trial which started in September. “Stagecoach is leading the way Head of Stations Andrew Fairbank said: “The vast majority of our passengers in getting Britain back on board are responsible and help keep our trains and stations clean. the bus and we are helping make “But adding this facility can only improve this further and help the people’s pound go further by environment at the same time.” offering excellent-value fares and a The trial has generated around 1.5 tonnes of paper waste each day from range of budget products.” just four platforms. The success of the scheme will be reviewed and both companies will examine ways of progressing it in the future.

Paper project Stagecoach bio-buses played a key role aids recycling in a major environmental conference. DURING 2008, South West Trains recycled 20% of its waste – a big Bio-buses in action at eco-conference improvement on the previous year. This year, the company hopes to ’s partner, Stagecoach provided two of recycle even more. Bio-buses were on hand to transport its innovative Bio-buses to transport To help achieve that goal, South delegates to the 2009 Scottish Energy delegates to and from the event. West Trains has recently started and Environment Conference in Sam Greer, Managing Director recycling trials at Clapham Depot . of Stagecoach West Scotland, said: and Clapham Junction Station. The conference, which took “Public transport has a vital role These locations produce 800 place at the Glasgow Hilton Hotel, to play in tackling the challenge of tonnes of waste per year but, so tackles energy and environmental climate change and our Bio-buses far, recycling has managed to halve issues with a particular focus on have proved a great success, having the amount of waste – preventing renewable energy, energy efficiency, carried more than 600,000 passengers 400 tonnes of recyclable paper or environmental management, safety, to date. card waste being sent to landfill. health and the environment and “Environmental issues are of Farnham depot is next on the technical innovation. great importance to our customers list, with recycling trials due to This year’s hot topic was sustainable and Stagecoach is committed to start there soon. Special bins allow passengers to read and then recycle. transport and, as sustainable transport promoting greener, smarter travel as 8 Spring 09 green pages

Number one service gets ECO-FRIENDLY STATION even better A MAJOR investment has paid off for . The company spent £2.5 SET TO TEMPT DRIVERS million on 17 new buses – a East Midlands Parkway helps drive access, a station building with ticket move which has brought 3,465 office, 850 car parking spaces and other new passengers on board the motorists off-road and onto railway facilities. Stagecoach North East vehicles East Midlands Trains Managing during their first month on the a park and ride station for Leicester, Director Tim Shoveller said: “This road. Derby and Nottingham, reducing car is the first new station in our region The new Enviro 400 double- use into the major cities and taking for many years and I am sure we’ll deck, low-floor vehicles are the traffic off the M1. attract more passengers to rail from the some of the most advanced Dyan Crowther, Network Rail surrounding roads. models available. Route Director, said: "East Midlands “Perhaps more importantly in the And, while they are some of Parkway signifies our commitment current economic climate, the station the most energy-efficient and to improving the rail network and will offer businesses in the region an easily-accessible, they are also providing high-quality accessible invaluable link to attract new business fitted with the latest CCTV stations. to the region from London. With as an extra health and safety “It is a great facility which provides journey times to London of around 90 feature, and accommodate nine new choices for passengers and will minutes and prices to London starting more passengers on the lower tempt motorists from the nearby M1 at just £8 we expect it to be a very busy deck than previous models. to use a greener form of travel and station.” A new quarterly magazine aims to reduce congestion in nearby created for the launch of the city centres."” flourishing new services to keep passengers The station uses new technology up to date with news and vital – including a ground-heat heating East Midlands Development Agency ticket information proved very system and locally sourced and (emda) is one of the funders of East emda has invested in East Pictured at the opening of the new East popular. recycled materials – to minimise its Midlands Parkway. Commenting on Midlands Parkway. Midlands Parkway Station are (from left): Stagecoach has also received impact on the environment. the new station, Steve Brown, emda’s “The new station is an excellent Stagecoach Group Chief Executive Brian Souter, lots of feedback via email and It has four platforms, with step-free Deputy Chairman, said: “Good example of what can be achieved Network Rail Route Director Dyan Crowther, letters from passengers praising transport connectivity is important through sustainable design and East Midlands Trains Managing Director the new vehicles and noting to create a successful economy and high environmental standards and Tim Shoveller and Deputy Chairman of East great improvements in their flourishing region, which is why will help support regional growth.” Midlands Development Agency, Steve Brown. journeys. Geoff Taylor, a driver with the company for 35 years, said: “Lots of people have passed comment about how comfortable and cosy the new buses are and that there is much more room during rush hour journeys.” John Conroy, Managing Director of Stagecoach North East, added: “We have invested over £9 million in our fleet across Tyne & Wear over the last eighteen months and, as a result, have seen passenger numbers increase considerably. “We are delighted that so many people are using and enjoying the benefits of our new buses so soon and hope more people take advantage of the service in the coming months.” Operations Manager Gus Beveridge (left), Roseanna Cunningham MSP and Managing Director for Charlie Mullen officially launch the new vehicles in Perth. Bins banish STAGECOACH in Perth recently aware of the environmental impacts more waste Bio-buses in action at eco-conference unveiled five new vehicles for route of our lifestyles and of the money 15 between Perth, Crieff and Comrie. A fresh fleet we spend, we want to ensure that SOUTH West Trains has worked well as reducing our own carbon Three Enviro 400 double-deck switching to the bus can be a viable with Metro newspapers and footprint. vehicles and two Enviro 300 for the Fair and enjoyable option for as many TRANSEC to develop paper “The conference was a great single-deck buses will be used on the people as possible.” recycling bins that can be used opportunity for delegates from a recently revised service 15. Perth MSP Roseanna Cunningham at stations, without being in variety of industries to share their The state-of-the-art buses not only City of Perth said: “I am a big supporter of public breach of security guidelines. knowledge of environmental issues ensure the route is fully accessible transport and I firmly believe that The new bins will be trialled and learn from each other.” to wheelchairs and buggies, but passenger numbers continue to investment in modern vehicles is an at Southampton Central, Vicki Dowling, Director of also have the latest environmentally grow on our services, we realise that essential step to making bus travel Richmond and Wimbledon conference organisers Washington friendly engines which are fitted we need to present travellers with more attractive and accessible to as stations this spring. Dowling Associates, said: “We with Euro 4 engines – which meet the choices that are comparable to the wide a group of users as possible. They will not only provide were delighted to have Stagecoach current European directive standard private car. “Utilising the newest engine recycling facilities for our on board as sustainable transport – and CCTV equipment to ensure “By heavily investing in the technology means, that alongside the customers, but will also help to partner and hope that in future maximum passenger and driver Stagecoach in Perth network and benefits of persuading folk to leave reduce the amount of waste years this important initiative can be safety. fleet we aim to further achieve modal the car at home and take the bus, sent to landfill and keep trains developed further.” Charlie Mullen, Managing Director, shift. these new vehicles will provide a cleaner. Stagecoach East Scotland, said: “As “At a time when we are all very double environmental bonus.” Spring 09 9 Green paGes

DALe moser, Chief operating consumers. They see our fares, they economical than any other offi cer of Coach USA, has see the value and the concept of low travel mode when measuring overseen the rapid growth of cost. comparable distances. Stagecoach’s megabus.com But, in our society, some think if Every trip has a top end. New services in the US. it’s cheap it can’t be that good. In York to Toronto is more expensive Around 150,000 people a month this economy, they’re willing to try than Boston to N.Y. are now using the market-leading it. Then, once they’re aboard, they ■ In 2006, less than three years budget inter-city coach service see the fl at-screen DVDs, WiFi, ago, the travel landscape was which links 30 cities between the the comfortable seating and other quite different. Was there Midwest and Northeast. of our overall base of riders. things they didn’t expect. reticence back then to launching Not only does megabus.com We have young professionals Plus, we’re convenient, serving megabus in North America? provide high-quality, budget under 30, the ‘silver surfer’ senior city centre locations and not remote There was no doubt in our minds travel, it is also a much greener segment of leisure travellers and, bus terminals removed from centre that we could puncture the car mode of transport, with the most notably, the 30 to 55-year-old cities. We service spots with other culture. majority of passengers choosing female who has left her $35,000 intermodal connections from trains We Americans are quite megabus.com as an alternative to SUV in the driveway to get on the to taxis, or within walking distance acclimated to our autos. But, cars and planes. motorcoach because it’s a hassle- to attractions. in 2006, with the signifi cant Megabus.com research shows free, safe, reliable travel option that We found it successful in the UK, congestion in urban areas, a that 90 percent of customers gets them where they want to go Frontiers and we’ve implemented it here. signifi cant strain on energy have used the budget service as with a lot more money left in their ■ With routes in the Northeast sources and the mainstreaming an alternative to the car, train or pocket for sightseeing, theatre, and midwest, what cities do you of the environmental movement, plane. dining and shopping. expanded connect? our timing was good, although we Some 60% are former car users, ■ Do you see evidence that you’ve Chicago is the hub to 17 cities via view those as ancillary reasons for 19% previously travelled with an gotten people to fi nally leave the spokes throughout the Midwest. In the decision. airline and 11% used to take the car at home for an trip, in the uSA the Northeast, New York City is the The real initiative was targeting train. opting for megabus instead? If so, hub for 11 cities by spokes. We are consumers economically. The following is an extract from what’s behind that choice? now serving 30 cities. Then came taking cars off a magazine interview with Dale Consumers are looking for a deal just reinventing bus travel, but the ■ Are you starting to feel like the highways, followed by achieving Moser in which he gives his view in this economy, but they want view of bus travel compared to fi eld is getting crowded? the highest passenger miles-per- on the continuing growth of safe transportation, reliable travel other modes as well. Megabus came out fi rst with the gallon of any travel mode. We megabus.com in the US. choices, and they love leaving their Our targets are consumers who $1 fares and the yield-managed are the greener, smarter form of cars at home so they can relax, not have never taken motorcoaches, or pricing, and we are delighted that transportation. We are trying to ■ To what do you attribute pay for parking and tolls, and save have a misperception of what it’s other companies have copied our change a car culture that has been the rapid growth of megabus, on fuel. all about. We are trying to attract business model. We take it as a a century in the making. which started in the United Our independent surveys ask someone who has not previously compliment, and it is excellent for We’re trying to reinvent what States in 2006 and since then has riders after they take Megabus: “If felt comfortable on this mode. the travelling public to have those has been successful in Europe. expanded more than 200 percent? you had taken this trip today and ■ How successful is megabus in options. In under three years, we’re There seems to be a signifi cant not taken Megabus, how would you retaining customer loyalty after There are $1 fares offered on every approaching three million demand for the value-type have travelled to your destination?” their fi rst trip? bus on every trip every day in our passengers, from a baseline service Megabus offers. They all say if it weren’t for us, After the customer tries Megabus service, and that will continue. It’s of zero, and with no brand We’re quite delighted. they’d have taken their cars. once, 98 percent say they’d do it great that people have hitched their recognition. We’ve hit a niche in ■ With such phenomenal This says we are seeing a modal again. We like the repeat numbers wagon to our horse, especially in satisfying travel needs. growth, you’ve obviously tapped shift, and that the fi rst choice we’re getting. these economic times. ■ What is the most common into new demographic groups. after the personal auto is now the Almost 100 percent of our ■ megabus fares start at a buck. thing customers tell you about What customer bases does motorcoach. That’s a clear fl eet is new, with luxuries and Please share how things vary from choosing megabus? your service resonate with? indication of how conveniences that are quite that price point. Women say: “I’ve got more Three core demographic we’re frankly surprising Then it increases incrementally, money to spend on the theatre, groups are key components not to some but even our top fare is more restaurants and shopping.”

Braking news A new class of coaches AN investment of £3.5m has brought 17 brand new coaches to on the tracks the popular X5 Cross County route. Tony Cox, Managing Director of Stagecoach East, explained: SOUTH West Trains has “We have upgraded the entire fl eet on our Cambridge to St explored a new, greener way to Neots, Bedford, Milton Keynes, Bicester and Oxford route. bring trains to a halt. “The new coaches boast greener engines, leather seats, Regen (regenerative) braking free Wi-Fi, power sockets, air-conditioning and access for involves the motors which wheelchair users. normally drive electric trains “We hope that these improvements will change people’s being used as generators to perceptions of coach travel and encourage greater use of this brake them. form of transport. The electric current generated “The coaches have Euro 4 engines, which means less would normally be wasted as pollutants will be pumped out of the exhausts and passengers heat but, with this method, it Managing Director Mark Threapleton can reduce their carbon footprint. is fed back to the third rail to shows off one of the company’s newest vehicles. “And all of the 70 or so drivers on this route have been put power other trains, reducing through extensive training on safe driving, manual handling total electrical demand from the and customer care. National Grid. “The investment in the new coaches is opening up Regen braking trials were Big investment in new buses accessible public transport to more and more people. recently completed in the STAGECOACH Manchester is buying 88 environmental impact and quality “Commuters love Weymouth area, and early new buses to complement the £15 million standards of our bus services. the free Wi- Fi analysis of the results suggests already invested in 100 vehicles in 2008. “The new fl eet will replace our older and power the test train regenerated The move represents a signifi cant fl eet buses and start to provide additional sockets. They effectively, safely and smoothly, renewal and growth by the company, capacity on key routes into Manchester can start work without any noticeable impact and will bring its total investment to £28 city centre. as soon as on braking performance. million. “It will also allow us to cope with the they get on the South West Trains is now Mark Threapleton, Managing Director expected rise in bus use over the next coach.” producing a test report for of Stagecoach Manchester, commented: few years, as more and more people partner organisations and hopes “This additional investment further appreciate the fi nancial advantages One of the to carry out a passenger service demonstrates our commitment to the and convenience bus travel can bring, new X5 trial in the near future. future, even in these recessionary times, together with its environmental vehicles. by continuing to improve the reliability, benefi ts.” 10 Spring 09 uk rail

Corby’s on-line STATIONS for new service EAST Midlands Trains has announced the introduction of a single daily GO UP FOR direct return service between Corby and London St Pancras. The company remains committed to providing a full and regular direct service for Corby and this will begin ADOPTION once the three trains required have been secured. eAST midlands Trains has they commit to giving a little of their Contract negotiations are ongoing launched a scheme urging time and lots of their enthusiasm. but, in the meantime, the company communities to get involved in “In return, we will provide has worked with stakeholders volunteering to care for and take adopters either with a The Friends of Alsager station adopters. including the North Northants pride in their local railway stations. complimentary travel pass for use Development Company (NNDC) to Through the Station Adoption on our services as part of station one of our larger stations such as developing their local station.” discuss a number of interim service Scheme, the company hopes to fi nd adoption duties or a complimentary Sheffi eld, Derby or Nottingham. Peter Smith of the Friends of options and to establish a preference individuals and groups who want return ticket for two to London with “We very much see our stations Alsager station group said: “As a – the daily direct return service. to volunteer to become the ‘eyes and East Midlands Trains.” as a vital part of the community group we're enjoying looking after Tim Shoveller, Managing Director ears’ of their local station. Once accepted, station adopters and look forward to joining forces the station gardens. Passengers of East Midlands Trains, said: “We see Through their voluntary work are required to carry out regular with new friends to help keep and residents have expressed their this fi rst daily direct train as a ‘taster’ they can also help to ensure that the basic checks relating to the tidiness them to the standard expected by appreciation and support and we of the full service we will introduce in station is well presented and looked and cleanliness of the station. These passengers.” believe it's also playing a real part the near future. after. checks are additional to those Faye Lambert, Project Offi cer for in the ongoing enhancement of our “We remain committed to being John Hillman, Stakeholder already carried out at all stations by North Staffordshire Community town.” the operator that brings rail back Development Manager for East East Midlands Trains. Rail Partnership, said: “Station Brian Barnsley, Operations to the town and look forward to Midlands Trains, said: “We already “Any issues that may need adoption is the lynchpin of Manager, Association of Community welcoming lots of new passengers have around 15 people or groups addressing are then passed on to the community rail. Rail Partnerships (ACoRP), added: once we are in full operation.” who have successfully ‘adopted’ a local manager. This is particularly “We have many volunteers “Evidence elsewhere around the Simon Evans, Chief Executive of station. helpful at smaller, unstaffed stations helping out at stations along the country indicates that stations that NNDC, added: “The interim service “But, with 88 stations, we still have on the network.” Crewe-Derby line and the support have been adopted have become a will operate while East Midlands a fair number that could benefi t John added: “We’re now taking they provide is tremendous, part of the community they serve. Trains concludes negotiations to from the additional support and applications from people to adopt whether it's tending platform “They suffer less from vandalism enable the introduction of the full enthusiasm that station adopters their station. gardens, checking station facilities and anti-social behavior simply timetable for Corby. can bring. “In general, people are more or helping to distribute our visitor because they are cared for and “This remains the overriding “Anyone can volunteer to adopt likely to think of smaller, unstaffed guide and rail timetable. help the train operator to provide objective for all partners but, after a station, whether they are an stations needing someone to ‘adopt’ “For our Partnership, station a fi rst-class service to their existing nearly two decades without a individual, a community group or them – but we see no reason why adoption has been a great way and future customers. passenger train service, we welcome a rail enthusiast. All we ask is that a group of people couldn’t adopt of involving the community in “Oh yes, and it’s also good fun!” the commencement of this direct commuter service to London as a positive step towards a fully Customers are Arctic role for transport workers connected Corby.” kept satisfi ed WHEN Britain was hit by its worst snowfall for 20 years, it caused more than a few problems for the country’s Car parks pull OVERALL passenger satisfaction transport network. with South West Trains services has However, many Stagecoach bus services braved the reached an all-time high, according weather to serve as many passengers as possible, while in the plaudits to the latest offi cial statistics. South West Trains and East Midlands Trains also did EAST Midlands Trains has announced Figures contained in the National what they could to keep people moving in the extremely that 17 of its car parks have received Passenger Survey Autumn 2008 diffi cult conditions. the prestigious Park Mark Award for show that overall satisfaction with South West Trains Managing Director Stewart Palmer safer parking. South West Trains jumped 2% to said: “I want to thank all the people who kept our train The accolade, which is awarded 87%, which is 4% higher than the service operating during the severe weather. by the Safer Parking Scheme, national average. “I am pleased to say that we kept going through the recognises car parks which have low It is the highest passenger overall Britain’s big freeze snow on many of our routes, showing that, when the chips crime fi gures and signifi cant security satisfaction rating achieved so far failed to put the brakes are down, we try to do our very best.” measures, including good lighting and on all bus and rail services. by the company, which is investing vegetation management. millions of pounds in delivering a Arthur Pretorius, Head of Stations safe, punctual and reliable service. THE ENTIRE fl eet of Super space has been created. for East Midlands Trains, said: “We Passenger satisfaction with South Voyager diesel trains operated Early refresh To commemorate the completion recognise that safety and security is West Trains’ punctuality and by has now been of the contract, Super Voyager a key priority for passengers using reliability also increased by 5%, refreshed. train 221144 was named our stations and it’s great that we compared with autumn 2007. The work, undertaken by for Super ‘Bombardier Voyager’ prior to now have this offi cial accreditation to Other highlights include a 5% Bombardier at its Litchurch being handed over to Virgin Trains prove how safe our car parks are.” increase in passenger satisfaction Lane works in Derby, has been Voyager fl eet Chief Operating Offi cer Chris Park Mark Awards have been with the amount of space on trains, completed two weeks early Gibb. granted for station car parks at and a 1% increase in satisfaction against the contract. onboard offer being provided. Chris said: “Bombardier have Alfreton, Beeston, Burton (2 car with comfort of seating. The 18 fi ve-coach and three CCTV has been fi tted throughout done a great job and I congratulate parks), Chesterfi eld, Derby (3 car Stewart Palmer, South West four-coach trains have had the each train, including the vestibule them in completing the work a full parks), Hinckley, Kettering (2 car Trains Managing Director, said: Shop vehicle moved to be next to areas. two weeks early, earning them a parks), Leicester, Lincoln, Lough- “I am extremely pleased we the First Class accommodation, Forward-facing cameras have delivery bonus.” borough, Melton Mowbray, Market have achieved our highest ever creating a 'hybrid' coach. also been fi tted to the driving cabs, Mark Williamson, President of Harborough and Spalding. passenger satisfaction score. The seats in this coach are now recording every journey the Super Bombardier's Passengers Division The Park Mark Safer Parking “We are making progress as a in bays of four, with new laptop- Voyager trains make. in the UK, added: “This has been a Award is awarded by the Safer company, but there are some areas friendly tables and revised seat Also upgraded is the galley area, great project and we are delighted Parking Scheme, which is run by the where we need to work harder cushions and backrests. with a double sink, water boiler, that we have completed it to our Association of Chief Police Offi cers, and the challenge now will be On busy peak-time trains, convection oven and improved customer's satisfaction – bringing supported by the Home Offi ce and maintaining this high result through this coach can be used to lighting. major improvements for Virgin's managed by the British Parking tough economic times.” provide additional First Class There are ten more seats on each customers – working closely with Association. accommodation, with the normal fi ve-coach train and more luggage our UK supply chain.” Spring 09 11 uk bus

STAGeCoACH bus driver robert fletcher recently had a royal appointment after being made an mBe in the Queen’s New Year Honours. Bob, as he is more commonly known, made the trip to Buckingham Palace to collect the honour, which he received for services to public transport in Liverpool after a career spanning 46 years. Bob, who is based at the company’s depot, Tireless charity fundraiser Mike Reid. thoroughly enjoyed his visit to the Palace and even enjoyed a lengthy chat with Her Majesty as he was Mike provides presented with his MBE. He said: “It was a hectic day and Bob and his family enjoyed a lovely day out at Buckingham Palace. a charity boost I was just gobsmacked to be there. A CHILDREN’S charity has “I was delighted to meet the received a cash injection, thanks to Queen and spoke to her for about Stagecoach bus driver Mike Reid. three minutes. It was a wonderful Mike, chairman of the fundraising day that I’ll never forget.” BOB DELIGHTED committee of Stagecoach at St The 65-year-old began his Andrews depot, has raised thousands transport career in 1963 as a bus of pounds throughout the last conductor with what was then twenty years for many good causes Liverpool City Transport. and is renowned for dedicating his After gaining his bus driver’s BY MBE HONOUR spare time to organising events licence in 1965, he became a model “It’s a great honour and I was 1963, there was only one set of exemplifi es the traditional role of across , often enrolling the help driver whose enthusiasm for his amazed when I received the letter. traffi c lights between the bus driver. of his family, friends and Stagecoach job has never diminished. “I’m absolutely delighted and and . How “His attendance, appearance colleagues. For the past 18 years Bob has it’s nice to be recognised for things have changed!” and attitude have won him Leading children’s cancer charity driven on Stagecoach services in doing a job I enjoy so much. the respect and admiration CLIC Sargent was the latest to the Fazakerly, Croxteth, Maghull “I’d like to thank everyone at Operations Director Les Burton of passengers, fellow drivers, benefi t from his work when a and areas of Liverpool Stagecoach for their support over added: “Not only has Bob been other employees, managers and cheque for £1800 was presented where he is a favourite among the years, along with everyone an excellent ambassador for the directors. to Hamish Alldridge, Scottish passengers, both young and old. else I have worked with. local community, for Liverpool “He is a model employee in community fundraiser for the Speaking of his MBE, he said: “When I fi rst started the job in and for the company, but he also every respect.” charity, recently. Steve Walker, Operations Director, Stagecoach East Scotland, said: “Mike Reid’s fundraising efforts Change at the top are highly commendable and, at Stagecoach, we feel extremely proud to have an employee who shows for Thanet depot such dedication to fundraising, both THE 140 drivers and support staff at in and out of work.” Stagecoach’s Thanet bus depot have a new Operations Manager after Michael Denne, who has held the position for fi ve years, Big-hearted retired after 42 years in the industry. Simply the Michael began his career at the Westwood best: Maria Garage depot as a conductor with the East receives her donations Kent Road Company in September 1966. award from Two years later, he trained as a driver Professor SUNDERLAND bus driver Alison Watkins. Conlan raised £180 for Macmillan and, like his father before him, drove Cancer Care by asking her fellow coaches in the UK and mainland Europe drivers to donate £1 to the ‘Big before returning to buses when Stagecoach Maria’s top of the class Friday’ initiative. acquired the company in 1993. West employee Maria Alison has been a driver with He was promoted from driver to Relief Svabova has been awarded the prestigious Stagecoach North East for nine Controller and then Controller. Michael Denne (left) welcomes Paul Clark as title of Student of the Year at Exeter . years and regularly raises money And, in 2001, he gained his fi rst Thanet’s new Operations Manager. Maria works at the company’s Exeter for the Macmillan Nurses. managerial role as Operations Manager depot to help support her family back home Big Friday was the charity’s in , before returning to Thanet, “I’m leaving an excellent team of drivers in Slovakia and attended classes to improve Christmas fundraising appeal and where he started his career as Operations to Paul,” said Michael. her English. supporters were encouraged to ask Manager in 2003. “I worked with a handful of those drivers After impressing everyone at the College their co-workers to donate £1 or Michael, from , handed over in my driving days. with her excellent attendance and high whatever they could to the cause. the operation of the depot to Paul Clark “My time at the Westwood Garage depot standard of work, she was awarded the Alison collected £90 from the staff who has been promoted after managing has seen a lot of changes – mainly for the Student of the Year title by Professor at the depot and then Stagecoach the Depot for a year. Prior to that, better – with new buses and improved Mary Watkins, Deputy Vice-Chancellor of North East rounded the fi gure up he was Assistant Operations Manager for routes that have attracted passenger University. to £180. Stagecoach in Bedford. growth.” Alison said: “I am a big supporter of Macmillan Cancer Care and all they do for those suffering from the Santa Bus helps raise hospice cash illness and their families. STAGECOACH Portsmouth’s Santa Bus raised £400 for a Hampshire “After a fellow bus driver was hospice over the festive period. diagnosed with terminal cancer last Driver Tom Lowe was assisted by trusty Elf and colleague Sue Dryden, and year, I decided that I wanted to do the pair encouraged customers to notice the Rowan’s Hospice collection box more to help. at the front of the bus. “I hope that the money the “We are grateful to our generous passengers who made donations and Stagecoach staff at Sunderland were keen to support the important work of the hospice,” said Tom. donated will help provide more “The atmosphere on the bus was great and appreciated by kids and care in our local community.” Santa (Tom Lowe) with adults who enjoyed the sweets we handed out, which were donated by the the Christmas bus. company and the Drivers Sports and Social Club.” 12 Spring 09 uk bus

dJ Jeff moves COUPLES up a gear! A VETERAN radio DJ is in top gear after fulfi lling a lifelong ambition with the help of ON ROAD . Jeff Cooper, who has worked at a number of stations across South Yorkshire and North Derbyshire, swapped radio TO LOVE studios for steering wheels when LoVe is just the ticket for a group I never imagined that I’d meet he realised his ultimate dream of of North east drivers who have someone and fall in love at work,” World-beating tennis learning how to drive a bus. proved you can live and work said Carly. “Working and living gold medallist Peter Jeff, who now runs his own together happily ever after. together works well for us.” (left) joins Gerald media company and on-line Rock Donna and Barry Appleby and Meanwhile, couples Kim and Howarth MP (centre) station, Radio2XS, said: “One of Carly Tindale and Jimmy Fisher are Mickey Butler, June and Malcolm and Andrew Dyer at the the regular callers on my show just two of the ‘loved-up’ couples Henderson, Julie and Robert Goldline launch. last year was a bus driver. who work for Stagecoach North East Walt and Leonie Zacharias and “During the many chats we at the depot. Barry Brewes are all employees at Goldline buses for golden stars had I mentioned that, when I Drivers Donna and Barry have Stagecoach North East’s Sunderland was young, driving a bus was been married for sixteen years, depot. FOURTEEN new buses have been named after the some of Hampshire’s something I always wanted to do. and both drivers have worked at Kim Butler is the receptionist at the most talented athletes. Eventually, he challenged me to Slatyford for around four years. Sunderland depot and has worked One of those to have a bus named after him is Beijing Paralympics tennis try it.” Donna says: “Barry started driving for the company for four years, while gold medallist Peter Norfolk, who joined Aldershot MP Gerald Howarth Stagecoach offered to put Jeff buses just a few months before me as her husband Mickey has been a bus to launch the vehicles at a ribbon cutting ceremony at the Kingsmead through a two-week intensive he wanted a change of career. driver for 12 years. Shopping Centre, Farnborough. course culminating in a full bus “As soon as he passed his test The couple are due to celebrate The MAN Enviro 300 single-deck buses have been introduced to driver’s (PCV) driving test. and started driving he loved it and their silver wedding anniversary this Stagecoach’s newly branded Goldline 1 service which operates a high- Jeff said: “I’m talking to persuaded me to apply to join the July and, this summer, their daughter frequency route between Aldershot and Camberley via Farnborough. Stagecoach about learning one or team. Adelle is set to marry Carl Steinberg Andrew Dyer, Managing Director for Stagecoach in southern England, two routes properly, then maybe I “We love our jobs, work the same – also a bus driver at the Sunderland said the launch of the low-fl oor buses, with easy access for wheelchairs and can do some relief bus driving. shift pattern and get to see each other depot! child buggies, was thanks to a £1.75 million investment by the company. “It is certainly a good way to get more than most couples do.” Geoff Reed, Operations Manager He said: “Route 1 is already very successful and has seen passenger to know our listeners and where Carly and Jimmy met at work and at the Sunderland depot, said: growth of over 20% in the last 3 years. they live!” have been together for just over two “Having couples working at the “We hope this further investment in the quality of service, to bring the years now. depot is testament to our desire and route up to our new Goldline standard, will attract a new generation of Carly has been driving buses for commitment to create strong sense of people to the buses. buses Stagecoach for the last four years community and belonging, not only “Not only are the buses more luxurious, with leather seating, they are also while Jimmy is an inspector. here at Sunderland but also at our bigger so there will be 15% more seating every hour.” to the rescue “I love being a bus driver and other depots across the region.” WHEN a freight train carrying fuel came off the rails in , East Ayrshire in January, Stagecoach West toasts its Scotland played an important role in the aftermath of the accident. unsung heroes During the incident, several wagons derailed and the STAGECOACH Devon has helped bridge collapsed, blocking the celebrate the county’s unsung heroes. surrounding roads. The company played a key role in An emergency shuttle bus December’s Toast of Devon Awards, which service was set up, using West recognise ordinary locals who have made an Scotland vehicles, to transport extraordinary difference to the lives of those stranded local rail passengers into around them. Glasgow. The awards were a joint initiative between Due to the scale of damage Stagecoach Devon and Gemini FM, the Andrew Dyer and James Freeman join members of local and caused by the collapsed bridge, county’s main commercial radio station. regional authorities and bus company personnel to launch the surrounding roads were During November, listeners were asked to The Link in Kingsclere. Singer Lee Ryan presents Jack Craw with closed for around three weeks. nominate individuals across six categories: his Toast of Devon Award. However, disruptions to local bus Mum of the Year, Dad of the Year, Child of services were kept to a minimum Companies forge link the Year, Neighbour of the Year, Sportsperson Jack has had to endure a series of operations by using a combination of country of the Year and Teacher of the Year. but continues to enjoy both skateboarding and TWO bus operators who share routes between and farm roads between towns. Nominations fl ooded in and a judging cycling and is currently studying for his GCSEs. Basingstoke and Newbury are working together to Staff did an excellent job of panel – including Richard Stevens, Despite his achievements, Jack thinks he is achieve passenger growth. ensuring passengers were kept Stagecoach Devon’s Operations Director “nothing special” and it was this modest attitude Andrew Dyer, Managing Director of Stagecoach well informed of all the changes – was then faced with the diffi cult task of that helped secure the top prize. South, and James Freeman, Chief Executive of until the roads re-opened and selecting just six winners from a total of over As Richard Stevens commented at the time: Newbury Buses, recently launched newly branded services returned to normal. buses now known as ‘The Link’ to promote the route 200 entries. “With an attitude like that, you can succeed at linking the two towns. All the winners were chosen by the anything you turn your mind to.” The new Link livery has a purple theme which will judges as shining examples of courage, The entertainment for the evening was supplied also be carried on to bus stop fl ags, timetable leafl ets determination and community spirit and the by Lee Ryan, formerly of Blue, who performed and any other marketing or advertising promotions. ceremony itself proved to be a very emotional a live acoustic set then happily posed for photos Andrew Dyer said: “Both companies have seen experience. with all the evening’s winners. some encouraging growth of customer traffi c on this On the night, the judges also chose an Michelle Hargreaves, Stagecoach Devon’s route and we feel that with appropriate attention overall winner from the six categories – Managing Director, said: “I thought the whole to the quality of the product – as well as to its someone they agreed best encapsulated the event was fantastic. marketing – we can attract even more people to try spirit of the awards. “As a company we’re all about connecting the bus instead of the car. This award went to Child of the Year Jack communities and this was a chance to say a big “Experience elsewhere has shown that this strategy Craw who, in 2004 at the age of 11, was hit by ‘thank you’ to people who make a real difference Stagecoach helped ease traffi c disruption can be very successful.” meningococcal septicaemia resulting in the in their communities. after this East Ayrshire bridge collapsed. loss of a leg and his fi ngers. “It really was a night to remember!” Spring 09 13 nOrTH aMeriCa / uk bus

STAGECOACH staff are Supervisor from the Stagecoach accelerating their skills, thanks to a Yorkshire staff accelerate their skills Shafton depot who recently new development course. completed the course, said: “This The course aims to provide staff, both in Barnsley, Sheffi eld and a enables them to maximise their full was a fantastic opportunity for operations supervisors across Chesterfi eld. potential. me to expand on the knowledge Stagecoach Yorkshire depots with Sue Hayes, Operations Director “A course of this nature is a great of the company that I already had, knowledge on bus industry law at Stagecoach Yorkshire, said: “This way to enable the supervisors to and to learn new areas which will and company policies, as well as course is a fantastic opportunity increase their motivational skills. be benefi cial in my role.” customer service training. for staff to gain the knowledge to “This means that the course not Run by an external assessor, the As a mandatory part of an be able to function effectively and only benefi ts the individuals who course takes some six months to operations supervisor’s role, the effi ciently. complete it, but also those who work complete and staff are awarded fi rst six-month course has recently “It focuses on development with them on a daily basis.” with a certifi cate of recognition been completed by Stagecoach in the role that they are in and Andy Lee (47), an Operations on completion.

Angela with her award for A NeW bus for youngsters, aimed Constable Colin Laidlaw from outstanding achievement. at combating youth disorder and Giffnock Police Offi ce said: “This vandalism, has taken to the roads is a really worthwhile project and, Angela achieves in east renfrewshire. thanks to the kind contribution The new ‘Wee G’ bus replaces the from Stagecoach, it is set to college honour original which was fi rst introduced continue having a positive impact STAGECOACH Northampton to the area in 2005. in the community. Engineering Clerk Angela Kilby The idea of was developed by “I know local young people was recently presented with an Strathclyde Police, Stagecoach will look forward to using the outstanding achievement award and East Renfrewshire Council new bus. It’s a great way for from the faculty of Technology following concerns of rising youth them to socialise and get to know disorder and vandalism in local one another, often forgetting the and Enterprise at Northampton The ‘Wee G’ bus areas. differences that can sometimes College. is helping to curb Angela received the award The original ‘Wee G’ bus youth disorder. prevent them from making friends. at a special celebration of provided a platform for police “It’s also an opportunity for us achievement evening. and partner agencies to interact to hear from young people about She said: “I haven’t studied or with young people and offer them what they think and about what’s been to college for many years alternative activities to fi ll their going on in their area.” and have really enjoyed learning free time. KIDS’ ‘WEE G’ Councillor Mary Montague, East again. After three years of constant use, Renfrewshire Council’s community “I have gained valuable and with more than 35,000 children safety convener, said: “The bus knowledge for my job and am passing through its doors, the is just the ticket to help keep our proud I have done so well to gain bus was in need of updating, so IS A BIG HIT young people busy and out of an award.” Stagecoach agreed to supply and features state-of-the-art technology, behaviour speaks for itself, with trouble. Angela has since been asked to refi t a new bus. including wi-fi laptops, an iPod recent statistics showing up to a 50 “The council is delighted to work feature in Northampton college Before going ahead with the refi t, system and modern gaming per cent reduction in the number with all the agencies concerned to literature to promote the course staff from Stagecoach got in touch equipment and games. of youth-related incidents being help make the bus an even greater to future students. with local youngsters to ask what The success of the project and reported to the police for the success than the fi rst one which they would like to see on the bus. the impact it has had in tackling period from January 2008 until had a major and very positive Focus on young As a result, the new ‘Wee G’ bus youth disorder and antisocial June 2008. impact in our area.” megabus.com’s great-value services bus travellers caught the eye of award judges. A STAGECOACH South Megabus running for award employee is set to research bus services for young people, thanks MEGABUS.COM, Stagecoach searching out bargains to make to The Chris Moyes Scholarship Group’s market-leading budget their dollar go further in the current Trust Award. inter-city coach service, has been tough economy.” The Trust was set up in shortlisted for two top honours in Shirley Tafoya, President, North memory of the Chief Executive the 2009 Travelzoo awards. America, Travelzoo, said: “With of Go-Ahead Group, Chris Moyes, The awards, run by global such incredible deals in the market, who died in September 2006 of a internet media company we are thrilled to be able to honour brain tumour. Travelzoo, celebrate the companies and celebrate the top 94 travel Each year, the Trust makes behind the best travel deals. companies who have surpassed our an award of £1500 to allow the megabus.com links 30 cities deal evaluation criteria. recipient to study and report on across North America where “These fi nalists continue to inspire various aspects of road passenger 150,000 passengers a month are consumers to take their next trip and transport to the benefi t to the snapping up bargain travel, with ultimately help drive demand for travelling public. fares from just $1 available via the travel within the US and abroad.” This year’s award is going to internet. Carole Morgan of Stagecoach In the UK, megabus.com South, who plans to look at the connects around 40 locations and Out and about in Nairn way in which the bus industry carries 2 million passengers a year. NURSERY kids enjoyed an extra-special caters for the 16 to 25-year-old Travelzoo evaluated more than outing, thanks to Stagecoach. agegroup. 80,000 offers to uncover the Children at Millbank Nursery in Nairn Speaking on behalf of the companies behind the best deals in asked Stagecoach Inverness for a bus trip Trustees, Iain Macbriar said: “We 23 categories. around their home town. are very pleased to be able to megabus.com is shortlisted in The request came as the children were announce this award, and we the categories of Leading Provider completing a project on transport at the congratulate Carole. of Outstanding Car Rental and nursery, and the company was pleased to “Her proposal is very pertinent Bus Deals, and Outstanding take them on the journey, which allowed to the objectives of the Trust, and Innovation in Creating WOW! them to learn about the bus, driver and we look forward to hearing her Travel Deals. tickets along the way. conclusions. Dale Moser, President and Chief David McCallum, Operations Manager, ”Successful recipients of this Operating Offi cer of megabus. Stagecoach in Inverness, said: “We were award are expected to produce com in North America, said: “We really pleased to be providing the children of a brief written report on their in- are delighted to have independent Millbank Nursery with their trip around the vestigations, and to present this at recognition that megabus.com is town and hope they enjoyed their day out. a meeting of one of the industry’s offering some of the best travel “Hopefully we have encouraged the kids to professional bodies.” deals around. All aboard! Staff and children from Millbank Nursery enjoyed their day out. use public transport from this young age!” “It is great news for consumers 14 Spring 09 uk bus ADS PROMOTE SAFE DRIVING STAGeCoACH has launched to see the relevant speed limit for driving distances among all drivers an initiative to encourage safer the road they are travelling on if in the area, even when they are not driving behind its vehicles in Ab- they are driving too closely behind travelling behind a Stagecoach bus.” erdeenshire. the bus. The safe distances advised on the The project is being supported by As soon as they pull back to a safe buses are based on the Highway Grampian Police and is believed to distance, the speed limit indicator Code’s ‘two-second rule’ and be the fi rst of its kind in the UK. will disappear. assume the drivers looking at them A fl eet of 20 By advising drivers when they are have the legal driving sight. vehicles operating on the Buchan breaching the safe driving zone, the Chief Inspector Forrester, Head of Link between Fraserburgh, scheme has the potential to reduce Roads Policing said: “The vinyls are Peterhead and Aberdeen have been the risk of accidents. an innovative concept that provide Tailguardian inventor Kenny McMillan. fi tted with TailGuardian™ vinyls, Stagecoach Bluebird Operations motorists with a simple yet effective which encourage drivers to keep Manager, Bob Hall, said: “Our reminder of their safe following prepare for perceived hazards. questioned could get within 10% a safe distance when travelling number one priority as a public distances. “Grampian Police are fully of naming the correct braking behind the buses. transport operator is safety – for our “Increasing the following distance supportive of this and other distances for a car travelling at 30, The vinyls, on the rear of the bus, employees, our customers and other between you and the vehicle in initiatives that make our roads 50 and 70 mph. Furthermore, when display three numbers – 30, 50 and road users. front not only affords you more safer and I welcome the shared tested on their ability to judge these 70 – which represent the speed “Stagecoach is proud to contribute time to react and stop safely should responsibility shown by our distances, only 5% were close to the limits when driving on various road to the local communities in which the unexpected occur, but increases partners in this initiative." correct answer and 66% of those types. we operate and I hope this project your view of the road ahead. This A survey by Highway Insurance tested underestimated the distance However, drivers will only be able will help raise awareness of safe in turn provides valuable time to revealed that only 9% of 250 drivers involved. Cheque is just the ticket STAGECOACH West has presented the Leukaemia and Intensive Chemotherapy Fund with a cheque for a fantastic £1,300. To raise the generous donation, Ian Manning, Managing Director of Stagecoach West, agreed to provide a bus to take people on day trips during the Pictured at ’s Crunchbuster prizegiving are (from summer months. All they had to do in return was left): Mrs Craigie, Mr Watson, Marketing Manager Sarah buy a £1 strip of raffl e tickets. Anderson, Mrs Harra and Martin Hall, Operations Manager, Shown with the donation are (from left): Clifford . Lewis, David Thomas, Gill Rouse, Roy Grey, Ian Crunchbusters beat Manning and Michael Long. the economic gloom IT’S ‘all aboard’ for Alison Howard as she joins Stagecoach Yorkshire as Marketing New face at Stagecoach Yorkshire TO beat the doom and gloom of today’s Manager. fi nancial climate, Stagecoach Strathtay ran a Alison will be responsible for leading the Alison Yorkshire’s networks, supported by an Crunchbusters campaign to raise awareness of marketing team, working with Stagecoach’s Howard, investment of almost £14 million in new the great money-saving ticket options available commercial department to implement and Stagecoach buses during the past three years. to customers. communicate new promotions, developments Yorkshire’s Rupert Cox, Commercial Director for The company also wanted to hear what and community activity. new Stagecoach Yorkshire, said: “Alison has a passengers really thought of the bus routes and Alison, who studied marketing at Dearne Marketing wealth of marketing experience and we are the service they received. Valley Business School, joins from Halifax- Manager. confi dent she can bring fresh ideas that will People who lived on the routes of services 39 based Marshalls PLC, having previously enable us to continue providing the best and 73 were also invited to ‘Take The Test’ and worked in marketing for an industrial possible service for our customers. try the bus for a week, getting their entry form consumables business and a well-known “This is a key appointment for the company, stamped on each leg of their journey. Yorkshire-based civil engineering company. around Barnsley, the Dearne Valley, Sheffi eld and I am confi dent that Alison will greatly All entries were then entered into a prize draw, “I am delighted to have joined Stagecoach and Chesterfi eld, particularly at a time when assist with our aim to continue to increase the with the chance of winning a 42“ plasma screen at a time when passenger fi gures continue to the economic climate means that more and number of bus passengers. TV or a cash prize. grow across the region,” said Alison (27), who more people are considering public transport “We pride ourselves on our community role Mr Colin Watson from won the TV lives in Leeds. as a reliable, cost-effective and fl exible travel and Alison’s appointment will enable us to while Mrs A. Craigie from Carnoustie and Mrs E. “One of my key priorities will be looking option.” further develop services that will help people Harra from each won a £50 cash prize. for innovative new ways to promote our The appointment follows a major review of access work, education, health, shopping and extensive network of bus services centred services which has transformed Stagecoach leisure facilities across the region.”

trip will continue this success story. he drove to school each morning in his Alex takes the high Alex, who carries a collection tin on his bus long-serving driver latter years with the company. duties, says he owes much to his passengers. Archie’s co-workers arranged a farewell road to Himalayas “People I know from years back will bids a fond farewell retiral party for him at Crossgates sometimes put in a £10 note, or even £20. British Legion, which was attended by AN INVERNESS bus driver is preparing to There are a lot of extremely generous FIFE’S depot has said a fond friends, family and colleagues. scale Himalayan heights for a great cause. people in the Highlands,” he said. farewell to one of its longest-serving drivers. Sandy Scott, Operations Manager Alex Mackenzie aims to trek to the base Alex also thanked Stagecoach and the Archie Lowe, who retired recently, was a at Cowdenbeath, said “The staff will camp of Mount Everest to raise funds for Gloag Foundation Trust for their continued popular driver and offi cial in the local trade certainly miss such a familiar face. the Highland Hospice in November, just support throughout the years, adding: “I also union. “On behalf of the depot team, I would months after celebrating his 50th birthday. want to thank my colleagues in the depot He drove Stagecoach buses for 40 years like to congratulate Archie on his well- He has already raised over £21,000 for who support me through the likes of raffl es and will be missed by colleagues and deserved retirement and wish him charity over the years, and hopes the latest and car boots sales.” passengers alike, particularly the children happiness in the years ahead.”

Spring 09 15 Uk bus

East Kent and East Sussex managers (from Tony’s stepping up at Cambridge left): Tom Bridge, OM Tony Mears has taken a step up the career Cambridge park & ride services. Canterbury and Herne ladder at Stagecoach in . This year, the company will begin operating Bay; Dutch Docherty, Formerly Assistant Operations Manager on the world’s longest, greenest Guideway – so Assistant OM Canterbury and ; Paul at Cambridge, he has now been appointed Tony will certainly have his work cut out. Clark, OM Thanet; Ian Operations Manager of the same depot. Andy Campbell , Managing Director for Waterfield, OM Ashford; Tony, who takes charge of a multi-award- Stagecoach Cambridgeshire, said: “It is always Managing Director Phil winning depot with over 330 drivers, has been encouraging to see managers progressing Medlicott; Lindsay Parris, with Stagecoach for ten years and is excited by within the company. OM Eastbourne; Mark this challenging position. “Tony’s hard work and commitment – both Spratt, OM ; The company has achieved a staggering in Cambridge and in helping to integrate Ian Day, OM Dover 100% passenger growth in seven years on its Stagecoach in the Fens – have been rewarded, and Paul Harding, OM Cambridge citi network and also runs the and I wish him every success with the . ever-popular challenges ahead.” Tony Mears, Operations Manager at Stagecoach Cambridge. Turner takes on BUS BOSS new appointment MARK Turner has been appointed Commercial Director for Stagecoach South following Edward Hodgson’s SHAKE-UP promotion to Coach USA. Mark is currently Commercial STAGECOACH in East Kent and East Operations Manager in Ashford. Director at First Hampshire Sussex has had its own ‘ministerial Tom Bridge, Mark Spratt and and and many people in re-shuffle,’ with changes to the team Paul Harding remain as Operations Stagecoach South will already managing the area’s seven depots. Managers for Canterbury, Folkestone know him as he was Divisional Phil Medlicott, who was appointed and Hastings respectively, and the Manager of Coastline for regional Managing Director for team also welcomes Lindsay Parris as Stagecoach some years ago. Stagecoach in November, said the Operations Manager of the Eastbourne changes were mainly prompted by depot following the recent acquisition. the retirement of Michael Denne as “I’m delighted to welcome Lindsay Operations Manager for Thanet. Parris and Ian Waterfield to the team Paul Clark has been transferred from of Operations Managers,” said Phil his role as Operations Manager for Medlicott. Picture of Dover to manage the Thanet depot. “Our operation now consists of seven Ian Day has replaced Paul depots that serve the network using a the season Clark in Dover by moving from fleet of 385 double and single-deck buses Ashford, while Ian Waterfield is and over 800 drivers. THIS edition’s winning Picture of the promoted from Assistant Operations “Our aim is to continue to improve the Season was taken by Jason Rayner, Rail Manager at Thanet to become standards and enhance the network.” Replacement Manager at South West Trains. It shows one of Stagecoach South’s rail If you’d like to contribute to On Stage, please take note replacement buses heading out into service of these important deadlines: on a winter’s night. EDITION COPY TO BE SUBMITTED BY ON STAGE PUBLISHED Congratulations to Jason who will shortly receive his prize of £50 of M&S vouchers. Summer 09 First week, June 09 First week, July 09 If you think you have a picture that Autumn 09 First week, September 09 First week, October 09 captures one of the four seasons, please Winter 09/10 First week, December 09 First week, January 10 send your image to the editor at the Spring 10 First week, March 10 First week, April 10 address below.

Contacts Editor: Lindsay Reid, On Stage, Stagecoach Group, Stagecoach South Helen Martin 01243 536161 10 Dunkeld Road, Perth PH1 5TW. Janet Wafer 01392 889271 Tel: +44 (0)1738 442111, Fax: +44 (0)1738 443076 Stagecoach Yorkshire Hannah Thompson 01226 202555 www.stagecoachgroup.com National Transport Tokens Sajda Khan 01254 680180 If you have a story for On Stage, please get in touch with your local contact below: UK Rail South West Trains Lisa Basham 0207 620 5892 Stagecoach Group Lindsay Reid 01738 642019 Andy Naylor 01983 862492 EAST MIDLAND TRAINS Anna Richardson 01332 262010 UK Bus Stagecoach Supertram Julia Shaw 0114 2759888 Stagecoach East Scotland Sarah Anderson 01383 516455 Stagecoach METROLINK Cheryl Hubbard 0161 2058665 Stagecoach West Scotland Allan Henry 01292 613515 Stagecoach North East Jodine Milne 0191 566 0236 North America Stagecoach North West Colin Nicholson 01772 255752 Coach USA Dale Moser 001 201 225 7575 Stagecoach Manchester Karen Coventry 0161 276 2727 Jim Devlin 001 705 748 1170 Stagecoach Merseyside Clare Tresnan 07711 950 019 Stagecoach East Midlands Louise Wright 01522 522255 On Stage is published four times a year. Advertising connected directly or Stagecoach Oxfordshire Chris Child 01865 405511 indirectly with Stagecoach is accepted. Charitable adverts will be included without charge, otherwise rates on request. Stagecoach in Warwickshire Adam Rideout 01604 662283 On Stage is distributed free to Stagecoach staff. Public subscriptions Stagecoach East Adam Rideout 01604 662283 are available at £12 for one year or £20 for two years. Cheque payable Stagecoach Cambridgeshire Ed Cameron 01223 423578 to Stagecoach Group plc at the editorial address. The Editor is unable Stagecoach West Nathan Williams 07753 775 193 to enter into individual correspondence concerning the affairs of The Stagecoach Wales Nathan Williams 07753 775 193 Stagecoach Group. Helen Martin 01243 536161 Designed by The BIG Partnership Group Limited, Scotland.

16 Spring 09