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The newspaper of Stagecoach Group Issue 63 Summer 06

London bus sold off in £264m deal

Move will allow further innovation and growth in provincial services by Steven Stewart

tagecoach Group has agreed a £263.6m deal to sell its bus operations have been a highly London bus operations to focus on growing its provincial successful part of Stagecoach’s S UK Bus division since 1994. services in the UK. “We were approached about the possible Australia-based Macquarie Bank dependent on the net assets of sale of the business and, after assessing Limited is buying the business, which Stagecoach London at completion. Macquarie’s offer and the prospects Stagecoach has operated since 1994. As part of the deal, Stagecoach for the London bus operations, we Stagecoach has a 16% share of the bus London will establish a new defined concluded that the disposal was in the market in London. benefit pension scheme for its best interests of our shareholders. It is expected the sale, which is employees. “The sale of our London business subject to the approval of Transport Stagecoach will initially use the will allow us to build on our successful for London (TfL), will be completed in proceeds from the deal to reduce the growth strategy outside London, where around three months. Group’s net debt. The company has also we have demonstrated our strength in Stagecoach London operates 1300 confirmed it will conduct a review in delivering innovation, investment, and buses and employs around 4300 staff, the next six months to ensure that the strong marketing. providing bus services under contract Group is operating with an optimum “We will continue to look for further to TfL. capital structure. organic growth and bolt-on acquisition Total proceeds for the sale are Brian Souter, Stagecoach Group opportunities in our UK and North £263.6m in cash, subject to adjustments Chief Executive, said: “The London American bus businesses and additions to our rail portfolio.” Stagecoach has completed the acquisition of significant bus operations Non-executive director joins Board in Merseyside, Yorkshire, Lincolnshire Sir George Mathewson has joined Stagecoach Group’s Board and Tayside within the past year. The as a Non-Executive Director. Group believes the UK bus market Chairman of The Royal Bank of Scotland Group plc outside London has scope for further until his retirement in April, Sir George (66) is currently an growth in an environment where advisor to the Royal Bank and also a director of the Scottish Stagecoach can capitalise on its industry Investment Trust plc. leadership, entrepreneurial flair and Commenting on the appointment, Robert Speirs, Chairman innovation. said: “We are delighted that Sir George has joined the Board. Stagecoach currently operates more “He brings a formidable range of skills to Stagecoach than 8000 buses and employs around Group, including substantial experience of working with 20,000 people at its UK Bus division, Sir George Mathewson. major UK-listed companies.” which includes 20 regional operating A capital deal: The sell-off of Stagecoach's London bus operations will companies. allow the company to sharpen its focus on growth outwith the city. Car and train users By tyre and track switch to megabUS Megabus.com USA – the recently- is just the ticket launched budget coach service offering fares from just $1 – is winning over pas- sengers from cars and trains, according to new research. New deal on bus and trams opens up Sheffield Passengers can travel on daily non- stop express coach services between Chicago and eight other Midwest cities. y bus, by tram, buy just one fares. These changes will help restore local The network covers Cincinnati, Cleveland, ticket – that’s the simple people’s confidence in the city’s public Columbus, Detroit, Indianapolis, B transport network. Milwaukee, Minneapolis and St. Louis. but clever slogan behind a new “Passengers will now enjoy cheaper Research by Stagecoach Group integrated service in Sheffield. prices, new routes and more frequent has found that 45% of megabus.com Launched in May, Stagecoach’s bus and services. With Stagecoach buses and passengers previously travelled by car and tram network is delivering cheaper fares and Sheffield Supertram, we are able to offer 24% are former train users. better services to people in the city. a comprehensive, value-for-money and A further 17% used to travel with The company already operated integrated public transport network for another bus service, while 13% were Sheffield’s Supertram service but the people in the city. This is just the start of former airline passengers. innovative integrated plan now offers a our vision for better services in Sheffield The findings were included in a combined bus and tram network covering and we will be looking to make further survey of more than 1600 megabus.com most major routes to and from the city improvements in the future.” passengers in the United States, following centre. its launch earlier this year. It’s a major boost to locals who rely on Sheffield facts The new research also found that: public transport after suffering four bus fare • megabus.com is popular with rises in the last 12 months by the dominant • Stagecoach operates a fleet of more than women, who account for 59% of city bus operator, First. 100 buses from depots at Ecclesfield in customers The reliable, value-for-money the north-east corner of the city and • 94% of all passengers were Stagecoach network offers weekly tickets Holbrook in the south-east satisfied or very satisfied with the nearly 40% cheaper than prices charged by This is a job for super ticket: The official launch of Sheffield's new, integrated service. service First, with Stagecoach passengers travelling • Sheffield Supertram is Britain’s first • 97% of customers would travel on day tickets also saving around 20%. seven corridors into the city centre during are being rebranded as Stagecoach Sheffield state-of-the-art tramway, which runs 25 with megabus.com again Stagecoach passengers have the added the week. with a new fresh livery. trams on three routes across the city • 96% believed megabus.com bonus of their tickets also being valid on the The improvements follow the acquisition Brian Souter, Stagecoach Group offered value for money fares company’s trams in Sheffield. of Traction Group, which includes Chief Executive, said: “For too long bus • First has more than 80% of the bus • most people (40%) used megabus. A ‘turn-up-and-go’ package of services Yorkshire Terrier services, by Stagecoach passengers in Sheffield have had to put market in Sheffield. com for social trips. has buses running every 10 minutes on last December. Vehicles on these services up with poor services and rocketing bus

Brian Souter, Stagecoach Group Chief Executive, said: “These are impressive findings. As well as helping to cut congestion on the roads, megabus. com is already winning passengers from Watching out for passengers… trains and airlines. “We are delighted with the response Security has taken a giant leap forward with end of February 2007. to the safety and security of passengers and down offenders.” of passengers to the high-quality of Stagecoach signing the UK’s largest single As well as monitoring the buses our drivers. Andrew Prince, Managing Director of service and low-cost fares. Women, in order for CCTV in buses. internally, the systems feature external He added: “Buses are the country’s most LOOK CCTV, said: “We have enjoyed particular, are responding to the safe The £1.2m deal, with LOOK CCTV, will facing cameras to check the movement of popular form of public transport and crime a long and productive relationship with and comfortable travelling environment ensure all new buses ordered by Stagecoach traffic and pedestrians as part of an accident on buses is extremely low. However, even Stagecoach over a number of years. Their on board. in the coming year will be fitted with state- prevention campaign. the fear of crime can act as a deterrent to decision to award us this largest ever “We believe there is significant of-the-art digital CCTV systems. Managing Director of Stagecoach UK travel. CCTV has a proven track record of contract for CCTV is recognition of our potential to attract more people in the And that includes the 460 new vehicles Bus Les Warneford said the investment was making passengers feel safe, cutting crime ability to deliver cutting-edge systems and United States to the benefits of low-cost that will be bought between now and the part of the company’s ongoing commitment and anti-social behaviour and helping track support services.” inter-city coach travel.” The North American launch followed the UK success of megabus.com, which Contacts carries around two million passengers a year on a network of inter-city services The Editor, On Stage, Stagecoach Group, Stagecoach South Helen Martin 01243 536161 covering 40 locations nationwide. 10 Dunkeld Road, Perth PH1 5TW. Stagecoach South West Mark Whittle 01392 889747 Since its launch in the States, more Tel: +44 (0)1738 442111, Fax: +44 (0)1738 580407 National Transport Tokens Sajda Khan 01254 680180 than 575,000 people have visited the US secure e-commerce site, which provides www.stagecoachgroup.com full information on arrival and departure If you have a story for On Stage, please get in touch with your UK Rail times. Passengers can quickly book their local contact below: South West Trains Lisa Davies 0207 620 5892 travel and purchase tickets from the Stagecoach Group Steven Stewart 01738 642040 Island Line Stephen Wade 01983 812591 comfort of their home, office or wireless Stagecoach Supertram Julia Shaw 0114 2759888 handheld device. UK Bus Stagecoach East Scotland Lisa Henry 01383 516454 North America Stagecoach West Scotland Allan Henry 01292 613515 Coach USA Dale Moser 001 201 225 7575 Stagecoach North East Jodine Milne 0191 566 0236 Coach Canada Jim Devlin 001 705 748 1170 Once Mayor Stagecoach North West Colin Nicholson 01772 255752 Stagecoach Manchester Karen Coventry 0161 276 2727 into office! Stagecoach East Midlands Phil Cartwright 01246 222018 On Stage is published four times a year. Advertising connected directly or Congratulations to Clive Elsmore, who Stagecoach Oxfordshire Chris Child 01865 405511 indirectly with Stagecoach is accepted. Charitable adverts will be included has been elected Mayor of Coleford in Stagecoach in Warwickshire Adam Rideout 01604 702112 without charge, otherwise rates on request. the Forest of Dean. Stagecoach East Adam Rideout 01604 702112 On Stage is distributed free to Stagecoach staff. Public subscriptions Clive, who currently manages day- Stagecoach Cambridgeshire Zoe Paget 01223 423578 are available at £12 for one year or £20 for two years. Cheque payable to to-day operations at Stagecoach West’s Stagecoach West Anthony Evans 01443 687682 Stagecoach Group plc at the editorial address. The Editor is unable to enter recently acquired Coleford outstation, into individual correspondence concerning the affairs of The Stagecoach is quite accustomed to holding public Stagecoach Wales Anthony Evans 01443 687682 Group. office, having previously served as Mayor Stagecoach London Benjamin Franklin 020 8477 7249 of Coleford up until a year ago. Stagecoach South East Helen Martin 01243 536161 Designed by Catchline Communications Group, Scotland. Many congratulations, Clive! 2 Summer 06 Better, bigger and stronger... megatrain keeps on growing Stagecoach Group’s innovative budget Virgin Trains to bring even cheaper The expansion of megatrain follows more than 280,000 hits in five months. rail service, megatrain.com, is being fares to passengers on their inter-city the success of the two initial trial routes The budget rail service follows the 'The megatrain concept extended across the country. CrossCountry services. from London to Southampton and huge success of Stagecoach’s market megatrain.com, which is being piloted “The initial pilot routes we have Portsmouth – launched in October last leading low-cost inter-city coach service, has the potential to at South West Trains, the UK’s biggest launched at our South West Trains year – which have now taken more than megabus.com, which now has a national rail franchise, offers tickets for as little as franchise have proved extremely popular, 26,000 bookings. network covering 40 UK cities and transform the way fares £1and more than 1700 seats a week will attracting new passengers to the railways Budget prices are now available on carries around two million passengers be available on new routes. and helping to make the most of the a number of off-peak services Monday a year. are managed for the And the growing success of capacity on the network. to Saturday. And the rail initiative just seems keep megatrain.com now sees fares selling “We believe the megatrain.com megatrain.com offers seats through going from strength to strength, winning benefit of passengers and from just £1 on Virgin Trains services concept, using flexible, value-for money a dedicated website and phone hotline, a national award for innovation. as well. pricing, has the potential to transform with the cheapest fares available the megatrain.com was a category winner rail operators' Ian Dobbs, Chief Executive of the way fares are managed on the rail earlier customers book. at the Railway Industry Innovation Stagecoach Group’s rail division, said: network for the benefit of passengers The service has proved a huge hit with Awards, winning the Ian Allan Publishing Ian Dobbs “We are delighted to be working with and rail operators.” customers, with the website clocking up Award for Innovation in Marketing. Soccer school children Hovercraft plan have a ball Stagecoach has once again dem- onstrated its support for the local community by providing free transport for Swindon Town FC’s Soccer Schools for children aged five to 15. ventures Forth Around 2000 children enrolled on the courses held during the Whitsun holidays, and they were transported from the County Ground to Dorcan •150-passenger link could run from Kirkcaldy to Leith from late 2007 Technology College by two new Trident double-deckers purchased •Trial planned for September 2006 to test innovative proposals for the forthcoming Chippenham- Swindon service. Commenting on the partnership, adical new proposals for a Clive Maguire, from Swindon Town’s Rcross-Forth hovercraft link Football in the Community team, between Fife and Edinburgh said: “The short trip to and from the venue on the buses added to the have been unveiled. excitement of the day for our soccer- Stagecoach believes a 150-passenger mad children.” hovercraft running between Kirkcaldy and Leith could put long-standing proposals for a cross-Forth link back on track. Paul's triumph Research suggests regular services could be operational by late 2007 and plans are already being drawn up for a trial later this behind year. Scottish-based marine consultant Alistair the wheel Macleod has carried out detailed exploratory work on behalf of Stagecoach and a service Congratulations to Paul Ward for could run on a similar timetable to that driving away with Stagecoach North proposed for a ferry. West’s Driver of the Year title. While the service would require initial Paul, from Chorley Depot, faced public subsidy, a hovercraft would signifi- stiff competition, especially from Peter cantly cut the infrastructure costs of current Nowak, from West Cumbria, who was ferry-based proposals. second, and third placed Sarah Helm, A Stagecoach Group spokesman said: from Preston. The trio now goes “A cross-Forth link can deliver significant Venturing Forth: A computer-generated image of the type of hovercraft proposed for the cross-Forth service. forward to represent the North West transport, economic and social inclusion in the national finals in Blackpool in benefits and we are very excited by the delivered in as little as 18 months, with signifi- ing the latest diesel engine technology, as a related to a fast ferry link. September. potential of a hovercraft. cantly less cost to taxpayers than ferry-based potential craft for use on the planned service. The crossing time between Kirkcaldy and Other runners-up were Wayne “We are seeking the support of all parties alternatives.” A similar craft is being operated by Isle Leith would be approximately 20 minutes and Hold and Andrew Killshaw, both involved in making a cross-Forth link a reality Stagecoach has earmarked the BHT150 of Wight-based Hovertravel between Ryde the craft, with normal operating speeds of Morecambe; Andrew Stewart and to back a hovercraft trial later this year. If hovercraft, manufactured by Isle of Wight- and Southsea. The company’s hovercraft around 35 knots, could run in sea conditions David Richardson, both West Cumbria; successful, this innovative solution could be based Hoverwork Limited and incorporat- services have successfully carried 21 million with waves of up to two metres. and Ray Jones, Barrow. passengers in the past 40 years. Stagecoach has written to Forth Ports, Stagecoach has identified the site of its Edinburgh City Council, Fife Council, the former bus depot in Kirkcaldy, just off the Forth Estuary Transport Authority and the Extra trains A921, as a potential departure point on the Scottish Executive seeking their backing for Fife side of the Forth. As well as having easy a three-day hovercraft trial in September. The access to the estuary, it is close to a main dual trial would use a smaller BHT130 hovercraft, for airshow carriageway, has space for maintenance and is currently being constructed on the Isle of South West Trains has strengthened an ideal location for a park and ride facility. Wight. services by adding extra carriages On the Edinburgh side of the Forth, a to help passengers attending the potential landing point has been pinpointed Farnborough Airshow. at a beach area on the East Sands of Leith. If you have been involved in a project Some services will be making The area, which is owned by Forth Ports, is aimed at improving performance then additional stops at Farnborough Main close to the site for the new National Library we’d like to hear about it. to help the crowds on their way, while of Scotland. Your On Stage contact is listed there will be a special early morning A hovercraft operation would require a on p2. train on the weekdays travelling direct concrete ramp and relatively low-cost waiting from Waterloo.. facilities at either side of the Forth, which Trains to and from Basingstoke will would be significantly cheaper than the cost A tale also be strengthened to accommodate re-developing Kirkcaldy harbour and other to tell? extra passengers. A shore bet: The former bus depot in Kirkcaldy that has been identified as the potential departure point. infrastructure work on the Edinburgh side Summer 06 3 Coach USA throws another hot event Holidays With the management team serving up Koval were overseeing the cooking, which the burgers, Coach USA’s annual employee was carried out by the facilities office staff, trim the barbecue couldn’t fail to be a sizzler of while Video Technician Ronald Curry was an event. on hand as the DJ to make sure the day Staff took it easy for the day at the went with a swing. summer Elizabeth depot in New Jersey, while Guests included Director Roger senior members of the team cooked up a Bowker; Chief Operating Officer of US timetables feast fit for a king. Operations Dale Moser; Vice President It followed on from the success of Maintenance Rich Vihonski; and Don Quicker journey times are on the cards of last year’s event – held to thank all Carmichael, Vice President of Operations. for Manchester passengers thanks to Olympia Trails, One and Independent Southern District Administrative the school summer holidays – which Bus employees for their hard work during Assistant Angela Venice said: “Although means a longer lie for Stagecoach the year. the weather wasn’t as hot as the grill, the customers. District General Manager John rain couldn’t dampen the spirits of our Because the roads are quieter, the Emberson, General Manager Jim employees and a good time was had by buses are leaving later in the mornings Rutherford and Maintenance Manager Al all.” Staff tuck in at the Coach USA barbecue. and arriving at their final destination at the usual time or, on some routes, slightly earlier. To reflect the change, Stagecoach has introduced a new summer timetable as of June 12, which will run until September 1. The times have changed on a Eco-friendly Lions number of services and mainly affect weekday rush hour journeys. Network Manager John Young said: “This is the third summer we have adjusted our timetables to reflect the fact that the roads are quieter at this time of year. Feedback from our roar into action customers has been extremely positive on these seasonal changes, which are now well established. “As road conditions and unpre- Green buses set new standards for UK dictable congestion is an increasingly serious issue for us all during the rest ew buses taking to the road model, with a striking new design and of Scotland. It is the first order with East Lancashire of the year, we have added so much extra time into our schedules that to in September will be among interior. Les Warneford, Managing Director Coachbuilders Ltd. The Blackburn-based N The new 43-seater buses, which will be of Stagecoach UK Bus, said: “We have manufacturer will supply the bodies and not review this during the summer the UK’s most environmentally introduced on Stagecoach’s Ayr-Girvan- invested more than £150 million in new MAN will produce the chassis for nine months would be unworkable. friendly. Stranraer service, are the result of a vehicles for the UK over the past three Neoman 18.240 single-decker vehicles. “The new times will reflect the They will feature state-of-the-art £1 million investment venture with the years as part of our drive to make our The Barrow depot currently operates faster journeys that are possible, exhaust gas re-circulation (EGR) engines Strathclyde Partnership for Transport, the operations greener and attract more people a number of vehicles manufactured by which, for most of our customers, and are based on the MAN Lion City regional transport partnership for the West to public transport.” East Lancashire Coachbuilders, which means buses set off a little later in the were ordered by Cumbria County Council. mornings and arrive at the destination However, the new buses are the first at the same time. On the afternoon ordered directly by Stagecoach to its own and evening services, the opposite specification. usually applies – buses set off at the The announcement comes only three same time but passengers will get months after Stagecoach Group placed home quicker.” £50 million of orders with four other Stagecoach has produced a selection vehicle manufacturers for more than 460 of posters, leaflets and timetables, new buses for the UK. which are being circulated on the buses Vehicle manufacturers Alexander to inform everyone of the change. Dennis, Optare, Plaxton and Volvo are already supplying a total of 13 single- deckers, 160 double-deckers, 165 midi- Keeping UK buses, 95 minibuses and 31 coaches, which will be delivered by the end of February business 2007. The Strathclyde Partnership for Transport is one of seven partnerships on the established under the Transport (Scotland) Act 2005 covering the country. right track Respected trade journal Business Travel World (BTW) has named Virgin Trains within the top 50 people Dart-ing here and there! and things that have done most to influence business travel over the past Around £700,000 has been invested The improvements follow a 12 months. in seven new Dennis Dart buses for successful joint bid between Stagecoach BTW says the introduction of Stagecoach South. and Hampshire County Council, the Pendolino fleet in 2003 was the The easy access single deckers, supported by Surrey County Council, beginning of a new age of business which complement the existing 75- for £228,000 from the Department for rail travel with the market returning strong fleet, have been earmarked Transport’s Kickstart initiative. to West Coast routes because of the for the improved service that covers Hampshire has also invested high-quality offering on board. Aldershot, Ash, Frimley Park Hospital, £200,000 in bus stop and infrastruc- The move to rail is reflected in Camberley, The Meadows and Yateley. ture improvements between Yateley the rail/air market on the prestigious The new additions enabled and Blackwater, while Surrey has Manchester to London route. In increased frequency between Yateley undertaken improvements to Route 3 September 2004, Virgin Trains had and Camberley as part of the region’s bus stops in its region. just 40% share compared with 60% Quality Bus Partnership scheme. Stagecoach South Managing Director in March 2006. Passenger volumes Yateley residents can now catch a Andrew Dyer officially launched the on its West Coast franchise moved up bus to The Meadows and Camberley buses in Yateley, alongside Hampshire 21.6% in the last financial year ending every 15 minutes, each day. From County Council’s Executive Member March 2006. Camberley, the service continues to for Transport, Councillor Tim Knight, BTW is a magazine containing Frimley, Ash and Aldershot every half and Surrey County Council’s Executive news, views, forecasts and features on hour, giving direct access to Frimley Member for Transport, Councillor the business travel market and is aimed Park Hospital. Helyn Clack. Three and easy: The new Darts receive their official launch. at the buyers of business travel.

4 Summer 06 Rising costs fail to block growth Stagecoach handles the pressure to deliver strong results Two young visitors enjoy the fun at Carlisle’s open day. tagecoach has posted a Sstrong set of full-year results in the face of rising Depot opens cost pressures. Despite huge fuel cost increases its doors over the past 12 months, the Group profit before tax (excluding disposed The people of Carlisle had a behind-the- New Zealand operations) for the year scenes look at Stagecoach North West at to April 30, 2006 was £115.0m – up an open day held at the town’s depot. from £104.9m in the previous year. Engineering Manager John Gibb and Stagecoach achieved a fourth Assistant Operations Manager Bryan year of successive earnings growth McFarland and their staff were on hand and cheered investors with a 12.1% to ensure a fun time was had by all. increase in the full-year dividend. A range of events and attractions The excellent financial was laid on, with the chance to have performance comes on the back of a photograph taken in front of a bus a string of awards for Stagecoach, with a destination blind of your choice with the company being named Bus proving particularly popular. Charity Operator of the Year and its South stalls and the opportunity to view and West Trains business voted Rail travel on many vintage buses added to Operator of the Year. the fun. Key highlights of the results were: • Headline earnings per share up New deal is 11.6% • Revenue from continuing operations up 8.2% just the ticket • Group operating profit up from £153.1m to £156.6m A £2.3m deal has been signed with the (pre-intangibles and excep- world leader in integrated fare manage- tionals and excluding disposed ment systems for the supply of elec- New Zealand operations) tronic ticketing machines for Stagecoach • 2.1% like-for-like passenger On track: Stagecoach Group Chief Executive Brian Souter with Chairman Robert Speirs (left) and Finance Director Martin Griffiths. Scotland. volume growth at UK Bus The agreement will see ERG Transit (excluding London and Brian Souter, Stagecoach Group UK Bus businesses outside London. Systems (UK) Ltd rolling out around megabus.com) Chief Executive, said: “The Group has “Excellent operational and financial 'The Group has achieved 1600 ticket machines across Scotland • Passenger revenues at UK Rail achieved another strong set of results, performance in our UK Rail division this year. another strong set up 5.7% delivering continued organic growth in means we are well placed to submit a ERG’s TP5000 Electronic Ticketing • £66.7m of revenue and profit our bus and rail operations in the UK strong bid for the new South Western Machine and TRACS Depot software, of results, delivering share payable to Department and North America. Despite continued rail franchise. In North America, we including wireless LAN capability, were for Transport cost pressures, this has been a very have made further progress by growing selected after an extensive appraisal continued organic growth • Strong revenue growth in successful year for the business. revenue and passenger volumes in both process of all potential vendors. North America – overall US$ “Our strong track-record of our scheduled and leisure operations. The ERG Group is a world leader in in our bus and rail revenue up 11.0% investment and innovation is attracting “The Group will continue to look the development and supply of integrated • Improved performance and more people to public transport, par- for further organic growth and bolt- fare management and software systems operations' revenue growth at Virgin Rail ticularly in our bus operations in the on acquisition opportunities in our for the transit industry, and for its smart Group UK. The planned sale of our London UK and North American bus business card systems and services. • Good progress on renegotia- bus business will allow us to concentrate and opportunities to grow our rail tion of West Coast franchise on our successful growth strategy in our portfolio.” Brian Souter Benedito’s a top man On route to innovation award A Coach USA driver’s superb driving and excellent customer service skills have A pioneering North East bus service is upmarket properties, hotels and leisure made him a big hit with the passengers. up for honours at the National Transport venues. The area has over 60,000 visitors Benedito Carvalho has been Awards. on average every week and Quaylink commended for his dedication to Hybrid engine-powered service runs from Gateshead to Newcastle, passenger safety after receiving hundreds Quaylink, launched in July 2005, has linking all the main tourist attractions of thank you letters from satisfied been short-listed for Most Innovative on the route. customers travelling to and from Newark Transport Project – Private Sector in Commercial Director Robin Knight Airport. the awards. said: “This project was the result of Newark Airport Express General Quaylink serves the thriving ‘quayside a very successful partnership between Manager Jim Rutherford said: “Benedito quarter’ of Newcastle/Gateshead, which local authorities, councils and ourselves. is one of our Newark Airport Express has seen an explosive rise in new deve- It has attracted a lot of attention in the drivers. He goes above and beyond the lopments and attractions over the last North East and we are hoping to bring call of duty on a regular basis and is a decade with the introduction of The the award back to the region. It truly is favourite with all our customers thanks to Sage, The Baltic, the award-winning an innovation and everyone has worked his kindness and dedication to safety.” Millennium Bridge and countless extremely hard to bring it to fruition.” Cutting edge: The innovative Quaylink service.

Summer 06 5 Services on Kick-starting growth A £1 million Kickstart initiative has Councillor Stan Waddington said: the up and up been launched on a key cross-town “I am delighted to support this new Punctuality up, passenger numbers up, route at Cheltenham Racecourse. and improved bus service, bringing complaints down – these improvements The new D service increases a better bus route to local people, by Virgin Trains are revealed in a new the bus frequency and is the linking places of work, the railway official report. first initiative of its kind in station, park and ride and the town Improved timekeeping by both Virgin Gloucestershire. centre. West Coast and Virgin CrossCountry is A door-drop teaser campaign “As a county council we have revealed by the Office of Rail Regulation targeting 15,000 homes, a half- worked hard to get this scheme off in the National Rail Trends yearbook, price megarider promotion, and the ground, submitting an excellent covering the 12 months to March 2006. local press advertising encouraged bid to the Department for Transport The report shows that in the an uplift of almost 30% in just and working with our partners to final quarter of 2005-06, the Public three weeks, while the three-year kick start the new routes. Performance Measure (PPM) for patronage growth target is 35%. “We hope that residents will Virgin West Coast improved to 89.3% Speaking at the launch of the give the new route a go and see the from 74.7% since the same quarter Gloucestershire County Council and benefits of what is a really excellent of the previous reporting year, and Give me a D: The launch of the £1m Kickstart inititative. Stagecoach in Cheltenham initiative, new service for local people.” Virgin CrossCountry, Britain’s longest distance operator, improved to 86.4% from 82.7%. In the year to March 2006, passenger journeys on Virgin West Coast increased by 21.6 per cent to 18.5 million and Virgin CrossCountry continued its steady improvement of recent years Pupils tune in to achieve 20.6 million passenger journeys, an increase of 7% on 2004-05. Fewer complaints were received from customers. Light up – and lose £50 by the busload Stagecoach West Scotland is getting omorrow’s stars of the presenter Jenni Falconer, creates an tough with smokers who flout the law airwaves could well partly exciting and creative vocational learning and light up on board. T experience for young people, whilst In a joint operation with local envi- owe their broadcasting careers linking in with their curriculum subjects. ronmental health officers, spot checks to Stagecoach. Michael Cross, Head of Division, are being carried out on all service buses The company gave its backing to Determined to Succeed, said: “Through – and customers caught smoking will be a new Scottish Executive roadshow, real life learning, Determined to Broadcast slapped with a £50 fine. ‘Determined to Broadcast’, that rolled will make a significant contribution to George Connell, Traffic Manager, into Perthshire in June to teach school preparing young people for work and life said: “Since the introduction of the pupils about broadcasting and sound. through developing skills including com- smoking ban on March 26 we have Stagecoach literally put the wheels munication, media literacy, working with worked with the authorities to help in motion for the initiative, donating a others and problem-solving.” ensure customers comply with the double decker bus, as well as providing Max Watson, Determined to legislation. garaging and maintenance. Broadcast Programme Director, added: “We have had some difficulties on And Perthshire pupils, where the “Radio is a powerful tool for com- certain routes, but we are confident that company has its HQ, were some of munication that provides opportuni- issuing fixed penalty notices to offenders the first in Scotland to experience the ties to develop students’ imagination, will help eradicate this problem, allowing roadshow before it officially launches expression, confidence and creativity. passengers to travel in a smoke-free in September. They were given the Wired for sound: The Stagecoach bus that is helping tomorrow's radio stars. The study of radio production enables atmosphere.” opportunity to turn into budding radio young people to experience the roles of Councillor Jim O’Neill, Chair of presenters for the day by creating their Determined to Succeed strategy for Council for the audio visual industries. performers, producers, writers, engineers, East and North Ayrshire Council’s own radio programme, to broadcast enterprise in education and has been The hi-tech, interactive roadshow, listeners and critics. Community Services, added: “I am sure standard, with experienced radio profes- developed in partnership with Radio which has already received the backing “I was really impressed with the pupils this initiative will help to extinguish sionals. Clyde’s Cash for Kids, The Hunter of high profile radio and TV celebrities, and I definitely think there are some the last of the rogue smokers who are Determined to Broadcast is a project Foundation and Stagecoach. It is further such as Radio Clyde’s Ross King, BBC talented radio presenters and producers showing no consideration." funded by the Scottish Executive’s supported by Skillset, the Sector Skills Scotland’s Stuart Cosgrove and GMTV of the future amongst them.” Poetry no longer in motion!

All good things come to an end, so they say, The Ollie was born up in Leyland, But if you become too heavy handed and when it was decided to replace one loyal A wonderful thing to behold. You will find she can still be a bitch. vehicle with a new model on a coastal route They did all the design engineering in Portsmouth, the emotion just welled up. And considered they’d found pure gold. Auntie Ollie is now getting older; So much so, Driver Mike O’Brien She’s no longer the belle of the ball. couldn’t help but commemorate his Now O’lympian sounds rather Irish But she’s comfy, and safe and responsive affection in verse. And we know what rumours are like. And I really think that says it all. Oh no – gasp – oh horror of horrors Read it… and weep. Could it be that mum had use of a bike? So farewell and adieu Lady Ollie And thank you for all you have done. The Olympian Story The Leyland was placed on the market, You’ve carried us there and back safely, (A Portsmouth driver’s light-hearted tale.) A worrying thing at the time. Whatever the state of the run. But as people all noticed in hindsight, Our Olympian Coastliner’s ending, For Ollie the ending was just fine. Once again, cheerio Auntie Ollie They’re taking our Ollies away. As you trundle away down the road We are getting brand new Dennis Tridents, Volvo adopted the orphan; On your journey to some other depot Time for some memories I say. They took note of her lines trim and neat To carry your share of their load. And, with one or two modifications, Dennis makes very fine dustcarts They made her the queen of the fleet. And fire engines too, so we hear. But when we are speaking of buses, So Ollie grew up as a lady; Mike O’Brien Olympian’s the name that we cheer. Treat her gently and there’ll be no hitch. Driver, Stagecoach in Portsmouth Beauty in the eye of the penholder: The faithful Olympian. 6 Summer 06 century ago bus travel was rev- Aolutionising ordinary people’s lives across Britain. Stagecoach celebrates its role in The first service had begun in London two years before and, by 1906, when the first underground electric train hit the rails, folk up Britain’s public transport tradition and down the country were climbing aboard the bus. Stagecoach is now very much part of that historic tradition, keeping the country on the move in cities, in towns and in the countryside where the bus is not just a convenience but a lifeline to millions. We’ve certainly come a long way to reach today’s low level, easy access vehicles, online booking, and park and ride schemes, but one thing has stayed the same – taking passengers from where they are to where they want to be! However, the world has changed a little since those first optimistic years of a new century. Back in 1906 politics was very much in the news with the Liberals having won a landslide victory, Russia had its first elected parliament (lasting for just a couple of months before the doors were firmly slammed shut and with the Tsar declaring martial law), a general strike brought Spain to the brink of chaos and 500,000 women marched on Downing Street in demand of the vote. But making the news on a local level was the expansion of the nation’s bus routes that were going where the train lines couldn’t. Britain’s travel network was expanding at an astonishing rate and opening up, as well as linking, the country. In this special feature we proudly celebrate a number of centenaries from our operating companies, which have played an important part in the country’s public transport heritage and are still doing today what they’ve always done – serving the public.

Summer 06 7 Tale of the cent South Wales celebrates Rhondda’s tram and b

By Christina Ratcliffe

outh Wales recently turned Sback the clock 100 years to celebrate the centenary of Rhondda Transport. The highlight of Stagecoach’s celebra- tions was a three-day event, kindly hosted by the Rhondda Heritage Park in Trehafod. The key attractions included a bus rally, showcasing 18 classic South Wales vehicles, an extensive selection of local bus industry memorabilia, bus models and recorded interviews with former and long-standing employees. Around 100 of the 600 competition entries from seven local infant and junior schools, describing in words or pictures a bus journey through the Rhondda, were displayed at the event. Younger visitors were also invited to participate in a treasure trail throughout the park and bus-themed Souvenirs from yesteryear: A variety of memorabilia captu art and crafts. Pride of place at the event was reserved Launched in January 2006 by Stagecoach in for a former Rhondda Buses 1961 AEC South Wales Managing Director John Gould, Regent V double-decker. Rhondda AM Leighton Andrews and the Mayor This vehicle had originally operated out of Rhondda Cynon Tâf, this current service of Porth depot before being used as a vehicle includes large interior coving vinyls Travelling back through time training vehicle in Sheffield, and is currently depicting trams and buses from throughout the owned by the Heritage Park. It was carefully company’s history. It turned out to be a great day but refurbished by Stagecoach engineers at The event proved to be a major success, getting ready for April 1 was no joke Porth and Brynmawr depots during the attracting 2200 people over the three days, for staff at the Dean Road depot in spring. and the celebrations will be long remembered South Shields. The Brynmawr paint shop also restored thanks to Porth County Community School To celebrate its centenary, the a Rhondda Buses 1966 AEC Regent V for which is producing a centenary DVD. depot opened its doors to the local the event. Stagecoach in South Wales published a community. Attractions included a Also integral to the event was the souvenir programme – Tramcars and Clippies display of buses through the ages, repainting of a Stagecoach Volvo B10M – and a complementary set of six ceramic fairground rides, refreshments, single-decker in the original maroon and coasters depicting Rhondda vehicles was given stalls and memorabilia. yellow livery of the Rhondda Tramways to all current employees at Porth depot. A vintage bus from the main Co. A small number of both items are still square transported young and old alike to and from the festivities. The day was very well attended, Gleaming with pride: The buses through the ages on show at the Dean Road depot’s centenary with every visitor receiving a com- celebrations. memorative leaflet, designed by the Stagecoach graphics department. rative plaque by South Tyneside Mayor have included horse trams and electric The event was marked officially Councillor Bill Lynch. trams, trolley buses and, of course, the with the unveiling of a commemo- Over its 100 years, the depot’s fleets current fuel-operated buses. Youngster's vision of the future wins art prize A young girl with an eye to the future has won a picture competition celebrating the centenary of the depot at Dean Road, South Shields. The theme of the competition was Buses from Past, Present or Future and nine-year-old Lynn Davidson beat off stiff competition with her entry of a futuristic bus, which was very innovative in design – even featuring a robot at the wheel. Her skills won her £100 towards art materials for her Biddick Hall Juniors School. Stagecoach North East Marketing Manager Jodine Milne said: “We had tons of entries, all very impressive, and Lynn has done really well to win the competition. Who knows, with design skills like these we might ask her to do our future bus liveries for real!” Lynn’s picture was printed in a special commemorative leaflet distributed at the Centenary Open Day and it was planned to display entries for the competition inside local Stagecoach tomorrow: The multi-coloured bus of the future, complete with robot driver! buses.

8 Summer 06 tury bus heritage

Colonel Nigel Josling OBE cuts the cake at Aldershot Bus Depot with, from left, Jason Bush, Engineering Manager Aldershot; Andrew Dyer; and Jim Mortimore, Operations Manager Aldershot. Ton up for bus travel ured the imaginations of visitors. in Hampshire town available to buy from Anthony Evans at Porth depot, Aberrhondda Road, Porth CF37 0LN. The souvenir programme costs £2 (postage Aldershot bus depot reached 100 depot in June. free) and ceramic coasters £10, plus £1.14 not out this summer and celebrated And thousands of local residents postage and packaging. in style. and bus enthusiasts enjoyed the John Gould said: “The Rhondda To mark the centenary, the chance to see behind the scenes at today differs tremendously from Aldershot and District Bus the depot. the community served by the Interest Group and The highlight of the day, though, Tramways Company, but the Stagecoach South was the opportunity to view the 50 interest generated by this event organised an classic buses from across the UK clearly demonstrated pride in our open day that were on display and offering history and heritage. at the free rides to the public. “With Stagecoach now One of those vehicles was Bill firmly established in the Tutty’s Dennis LoLine 3 double driving seat of the Rhondda decker. Bill was the first driver to bus network, we look forward take the brand new vehicle out of to a further 100 glorious the Aldershot depot back in 1965. years.” He bought the bus in 1998 and now attends bus rallies and events around the country as events manager for the interest group. Along with Bill, many of the depot’s long serving drivers and staff helped out at the open day. They were on hand to show visitors around and answer the many questions on the day-to-day running of the depot. No celebration, though, is complete without a ceremony and Aldershot Garrison Commander Nigel Josling OBE duly cut the commemorative cake to mark the 100th anniversary of bus travel in the Hampshire town. Andrew Dyer, Stagecoach South’s Managing Director, said the event was an important milestone for public transport in Hampshire. “We, as bus operators, are always looking forward to improve and enhance services in the region yet it is important to recognise the achievements of those who pioneered bus transport over the century,” he said. More than £1000 was raised from the sale of programmes and bus artefacts for enthusiasts and will be donated to the Phyllis Tuckwell Hospice in Farnham to cover running costs.

Summer 06 9 When it comes to getting a message strategy and key drivers” content. across, Stagecoach is a world leader. Last year the company also picked The group has won more interna- Yet another prize vehicle up the top prize at an international Local legend tional recognition for the high standard competition for corporate websites. of its corporate and investor communi- The Videographer awards are for Awards, which were organised by the Steven Stewart, Stagecoach Group in line for cations. business communications and highlight Investor Relations Society and attracted Head of Media and Public Affairs, said: It lifted an Award of Distinction in companies whose video-based communi- 750 nominations, honour companies “We are delighted to be recognised for the Company Overview Video category cation is “outstanding”. leading the way in best practice investor the high standard of our communica- national at the 2006 Videographer Awards. The Stagecoach’s corporate video, communication and providing clear, tions with these two awards. company was also commended at the Delivering Innovation, provides an timely and transparent information. “Stagecoach has built up excellent recognition 2006 Investor Relations Best Practice overview of the company and uses three Stagecoach Group’s website was relationships with its investors, Awards for the corporate website www. case studies to demonstrate its flair for completely redesigned last year, with customers and other key stakehold- A North East driver has become a stagecoachgroup.com. It was one of four generating new ideas on how to improve more comprehensive information ers, and our commitment to clear legend in his own lifetime! companies shortlisted in the Best Website public transport. and additional functions. The judges and open communications has been a David Hands has made the FTSE250 category of the awards. The Investor Relations Best Practice commented on the website’s “excellent central part of that success.” headlines with the local media and is famous throughout the region for his ‘on bus’ commentaries, filling passengers in on their surroundings as they travel on their journey. Now he’s in line for wider Nation pays tribute recognition after being short-listed for Frontline Employee of the Year in the National Transport Awards. The title is awarded to an employee who has gone beyond the call of duty and delivered a better service as a to bombing victims result – and Stagecoach thinks David fits the bill. Operations Manager David Wakefield said: “He is one of the 7/7 remembered in day of poignant commemoration most respected and well-known by Steven Stewart employees in Stagecoach North East and we are extremely proud to be able to put his name forward. tagecoach employees in "He delights in his work and con- SLondon were among millions sistently goes beyond the call of duty of people who paid their to improve the service on his route.” respects to the victims of the David also takes time out to collect for charity and recently July 7 bombings by taking part helped to raise £2000 for Macmillan in a national two-minute silence Cancer Relief with a collection on on the first anniversary of the the buses. attacks. The award results will be Buses pulled over at the side of the road announced on July 18. in London and elsewhere in the UK at 12 noon during a day of poignant events to commemorate the attacks and remember those lost and injured. Rail-air link Memorial plaques were laid at the blast sites, with survivors and victims’ families among Heathrow those present. The day of remembrance began with Flyer takes flowers being laid at King’s Cross station to coincide with the timing of the attacks. Mayor of London Ken Livingstone and to the road the capital’s transport chief, Peter Hendy, also laid flowers in Tavistock Square, a year to the Virgin Trains has relaunched its minute after a bomb exploded on the number Watford Junction to Heathrow Airport 30 Stagecoach bus. link as Virgin Trains ExpressCoach. Stagecoach driver George Psaradakis, at the The new branding emphasises the wheel when the bus exploded, killing 14 people, rail-air link is part of a family of also laid flowers. add-on services that enhance the core Plaques carrying the names of all those Virgin Trains rail business. who died in the July 7 explosions were laid at The four coaches used on the King’s Cross, Russell Square, Edgware Road and Watford to Heathrow Airport route Aldgate Tube stations, and at Tavistock Square. entered service last year and are Relatives of those killed were invited to finished in a colour scheme that several private events, including a lunch provided matches Virgin’s Pendolino trains. by Transport for London (TfL). They provide connections with The day ended with a public ceremony at train services at Watford Junction. Regent’s Park in west London when the names Coaches run half-hourly through most of the 52 people who died were read out. of the day seven days a week, with an Two weeks after the 7/7 bombings, a average journey time of 40 minutes number 26 Stagecoach bus, driven by Mark to Terminal 4 and 65 minutes to Maybanks, was the target of a failed bomb Terminal 1. They also serve Terminals 2 and 3. attack in Shoreditch. Engraved in the nation's memory: The devastated number 30 Stagecoach bus that has become an iconic image of 7/7. Connecting with Virgin’s long-distance Pendolino services More than 50 first year engineering Activities during the week included from the West Midlands, North Apprentices just wild about training apprentices have taken a walk – and a abseiling, raft building, team assault West and Cumbria/Scotland at climb – on the wild side. course, climbing, team challenges and Watford Junction, the Virgin Trains They recently headed to an outward the infamous ‘high ropes’. ExpressCoach provides a car-free, bound centre in Appledore, North The apprentices were supported at hassle-free alternative for holiday- Devon, as part of their block release different times during the week by Service makers and business executives course at S & B Training in Bristol. Delivery Director Paul O’Callaghan, heading to Heathrow Airport. Three apprentices from Yorkshire Engineering Director Mark Horide, The coaches also connect with Traction and one from Strathtay also Deputy Training and Development the Silverlink County outer suburban joined the group. Manager Dorothy Hermiston, and Clare rail network, serving stations in The week-long event was aimed at Willis, Training Co-ordinator. Northamptonshire, Buckinghamshire team building, motivation and leadership. The centre and company staff were and Hertfordshire. It was also the first opportunity all the very impressed by the enthusiasm and The service also offers a way of first years had to meet with the other attitude of all of the apprentices and all getting to the airport without having Stagecoach apprentices from around the agreed they were a credit to Stagecoach to cross London. Outward emotion: The apprentices show their enthusiasm during the teambuilding week. country. UK Bus. 10 Summer 06 Bus names given the thumbs-up Drivers in the North East aren’t just climbing behind the wheel of Newcastle City Council, Kingston Park Community when they start a shift but taking to the road with Tootie Fruity, Association, Stagecoach and Nexus. Bubbles, Buster the Bus, Bess the Express and Sparkle! Robin Knight, Commercial Director for Stagecoach in That’s the names local kids came up with in a competition to Newcastle, said: “The Kickstart government-funded bus celebrate the launch of a new service. route has been developed in direct response to increased Marketing Manager for Stagecoach North East Jodine levels of congestion within the area and it is hoped that Milne said: “We had a great response level, although some of investment in new vehicles and a targeted marketing the names were a little unusual to say the least! We chose these campaign will encourage people to use public transport ones because we thought they gave a nice, friendly feeling to the rather than take their cars. buses – even the bus drivers are becoming quite attached.” “Everything has been designed to appeal to the modern The buses, which make up the fleet on a new bus service traveller, with buses and timetables structured to fit in with to the Kingston Park area of Newcastle, have been made even contemporary lifestyles.” more eye-catching with distinctive green livery. The service started at the end of May and has been The launch ceremony was attended by representatives doubling its passenger targets. What’s in a name? Three of the local youngsters who came up with the winning name for buses on a new service in Newcastle. Passengers to benefit from £6m Sheffield unfurls rail upgrade Stations across the South West Trains network have been given a new lease of life, thanks to an investment of SAFE travel flag around £6 million. Included in the ambitious improve- ments programme was a £1 million heffield’s secondary schools have signed up to contribution from Transport for Sbe SAFE. London (TfL) towards safety and They will work with local bus operators and the Transport security, which will benefit the metro Executive as part of the Supporting A Friendly Environment area. (SAFE) scheme to promote good practice in home-to-school Improvements included enhanced transport. subway and overbridge lighting, Staff and pupils will work with SAFE officers to encourage more additional cycle facilities, CCTV and people to use public transport, ensure a safe environment on the improved waiting accommodation. school buses and deal with anti-social behaviour by drawing up and Other major projects with TfL implementing transport-related policies and initiatives. have also been undertaken, such as Schools will be awarded the SAFE Mark for recognising pupil the refurbishment of the booking transport issues and addressing them with a plan of action. hall at Vauxhall station to help relieve The SAFE Partnership is responsible for promoting and congestion. maintaining personal safety on all public transport in South Several partners joined forces to Yorkshire. make the improvements possible, Its partners include the Transport Executive, Stagecoach including Hampshire, Surrey and Supertram, First Group, Yorkshire Traction, Bus Operators Serving Dorset county councils, Royal Borough South Yorkshire (BOSSY), British Transport Police, South Yorkshire The twilight zone: The young Fifers who sharpened up their football skills with Dunfermline Athletic. of Kingston, Southampton City Police and Northern Rail. Council and Network Rail. They’re helping schools in a number of ways, which include Some stations have undergone providing regular drivers who’ve completed customer care courses From the Twilight to the bright side of the road major works, whilst a fresh coat of with special sections on transporting young people. paint has brightened up others. Stocksbridge is just one of the high schools to sign up for the A football initiative to give teenagers a healthy alter- “Our community initiative is extremely important to South West Trains’ Customer scheme. Assistant Head Margaret Lowe said: “We are very pleased to native to life on the streets has had a successful run Dunfermline so to allow us to extend this through Service Director Ian Johnston said: be working in close co-operation with the Transport Executive and in Scotland. our links with Fife Police into this area is great. I can “I am delighted with the work we to be part of the SAFE Mark scheme. The Twilight League, organised by Dunfermline only thank Stagecoach again for its contribution to have achieved and, of course, with the “At Stocksbridge High School, we are committed to ensuring Athletic and sponsored by Stagecoach, ran in allow this initiative to take place.” support of our partners and associates. that home-to-school transport of our students is safe and effective. conjunction with Fife Police for 10 weeks until the Steven Stewart, Stagecoach Group’s Head of I am glad local stations are recognised We work with students, parents and governors to ensure everyone end of June. Media and Public Affairs, added: “Stagecoach is a as a worthwhile investment and am adopts a responsible and safe response to public transport.” Dedicated sessions were held from 8pm until 10 major part of communities across Fife, where we keen to continue improving conditions SAFE Liaison Officer Fran Cockerill, who works at the school, pm every Friday evening, providing youngsters with run lifeline bus services. We have a strong track and facilities across the network.” said: “I’m delighted that Stocksbridge has joined the SAFE Mark football skills and development training. record of supporting young people, who are the The improvements have obviously scheme and I’m looking forward to working with students, teachers The Twilight League was targeted at teenagers future of our country. hit the mark with the public, as a recent and parents at the school to encourage safer public transport use. aged between 14 and 18 and aimed to provide them “We hope our backing for the Twilight League National Passenger Survey shows “We’ve had an excellent response to the SAFE programme in with a healthy alternative to life on the streets and will help local youngsters be their best. As well as overall satisfaction has risen from 78% Sheffield and now, with Stocksbridge signing up, it means every help them avoid the dangers of being drawn into staying fit and out of trouble, sport is a great way to 83% in a year. school in the city has joined the scheme. This is an excellent anti-social behaviour. to learn important skills that can help you achieve Ian Brown, Managing Director, TfL achievement and Sheffield secondary schools are really flying the Dunfermline Athletic’s Jim Leishman commented: success in your life.” London Rail said: “Passenger safety and flag for SAFE travel.” security is a top priority for TfL. We hope the improvements will reassure passengers and encourage more people to use London’s rail network.” Fife’s stationery vehicle… Work is expected to continue throughout the rest of the year. A group of enterprising pupils in a Scottish said: “Heather King, a third year pupil, secondary school are really on the ball… wrote to us directly, inviting us to take part If you are making improvements point, thanks to Stagecoach in Fife. in the project and Stagecoach was more to benefit your passengers, we The Inverkeithing High School than happy to help with this worthwhile would like to hear from you. students, with a range of social problems assignment. Your On Stage contact is listed and learning difficulties, were taking part “By donating this stationery we are on p2. in a business project. The cash raised went assisting in maximising the money raised to Guide Dogs for the Blind. through this project.” To help keep the overheads at a minimum, Stagecoach donated pens, A tale pencils and rulers to fill the stationery Pens at the ready: Stagecoach graduate trainee to tell? holders that were handmade by the pupils. Mark Whitelocks presents the pupils with a Operations Director Doug Fleming selection of Stagecoach stationery. Summer 06 11 Scots receive Making a quicker connection Passengers will be quicker off the mark Managing Director for Stagecoach some canny thanks to Stagecoach South, which has South Andrew Dyer and Councillor Helyn just introduced nine new single-deckers Clack, Surrey County Council’s Executive advice on into its 75-strong stable. Member for Transportation, launched the The easy access Solo models, which buses. retirement collectively cost £675,000, will be used Andrew said the investment, and between North Town, Aldershot, Sandyhill additional resources required for the The Scottish Transport Credit Union and Farnham. And they will now run new Connect service, demonstrat- is providing all Stagecoach employees every 10 minutes, instead of every 15. ed Stagecoach’s commitment to the in Scotland with free pension informa- Government’s Kickstart initiative and tion to help them plan for retirement. ongoing Quality Bus Partnership with A dedicated pension website has Solo celebrations: Stagecoach South's new fleet both Surrey and Hampshire county been set up at www.mycu.co.uk where is given the big send-off. councils. they can access a pension forecast, pension tracing if they’ve lost contact with an old provider, a state pension calculator, and other helpful advice. Stagecoach employees in Scotland are represented on the Credit Union Board of Directors through two Improvements win prominent employees and union rep- resentatives, John Fotheringham from Stagecoach in Fife, and Jimmy Young from Stagecoach Western. Scottish Transport Credit Union is based in Glasgow with more than 8000 passengers' backing members in Scotland. It provides many services to employees, including savings accounts ore passengers are giving and general insurance. Also available are free life insurance, MVirgin Trains the thumbs- free financial advice, free money advice, up. free legal advice, mortgage set-up free The latest survey by an independent of broker charges, and an interest free national rail consumer watchdog reveals starter loan of £300. that more people have become satisfied Every Stagecoach depot and office with Virgin Trains West Coast and has a local officer who can advise on all CrossCountry services during the past aspects of the Credit Union, including year. signing up new members. With punctuality up by around 18% The website www.scotcu.co.uk year-on-year, overall satisfaction with the details what’s available and a personal West Coast journey experience rose to enquiry line allows direct contact with 90%, up 10 points from spring 2005, a member of staff at local call rates on and to 84% with Virgin CrossCountry, 0845 45 00 933. up one point. Customer satisfaction with the cleanliness of trains rated particularly highly at 90%. Some 89% of West Coast Passenger and 82% of CrossCountry customers were satisfied with punctuality and saved from reliability, which regularly exceeds 90% on a daily basis. her indoors! Improved journey times were reflected in satisfaction scores of 88% on West As a passenger, Paul Smith has a lot Coast and 86% on CrossCountry, up to thank Stagecoach Bluebird driver eight and four points respectively. Graeme Milne for. On board, more customers were Paul is the first to admit that he has satisfied with the helpfulness of staff a glorious history for falling asleep on and information given, and satisfaction Sir Richard pledges commitment buses and, on more than one occasion, with information provided at stations has required the assistance of Graeme! also recorded significant increases. And a recent email to the East Passengers said they were more to CrossCountry rail network Scotland Customer Services praised satisfied with the value for money of Graeme for his help in escorting him to the price of their ticket, up 10 points Passenger satisfaction with Virgin CrossCountry might be on South Coast, South West of England and South Wales. From the right stop in Aberdeen to catch his on West Coast and five points on a high, but Sir Richard Branson wants it to be even better. November 2007, the new CrossCountry franchise will also bus home after a night out… sure that CrossCountry compared with a year ago. On a tour of the Virgin CrossCountry network, Sir include services from Nottingham to Hereford and Cardiff if he missed it and had to wait for the This reflects sales of the bargain Virgin Richard said he was committed to the rail industry long-term via Birmingham and on the busy Birmingham-East Anglia next, his wife would divorce him! Value tickets, particularly since these and that Virgin Rail Group intended to pre-qualify for the link, which serves Leicester, Peterborough, Cambridge and Paul said: “In an age where people were made available for sale up to 6pm new CrossCountry franchise. Stansted Airport. really have lost the ability to provide on the day before travel in a simplifica- He said: “We should see the competition to find an and promote good customer service, tion of the booking system from last operator for CrossCountry from the end of next year as a he really stands out and should be September. Investments real challenge and an opportunity for Virgin, our partners at Virgin Rail Group launched the CrossCountry franchise in applauded on the part of the customer This has driven down the average Stagecoach and our people to show what we can offer.” and commended by his employers. price paid for a Virgin West Coast ticket January 1997. Since then it has replaced its entire train fleet Sir Richard continued: “Our passengers have voted and improved services and connections. Virgin CrossCountry “Graeme, well done. I look forward by 6.5% year-on-year to February 2006. with their feet and we have just celebrated carrying 20 to you looking after me the next time Virgin Trains Chief Executive Tony has invested over £1bn in 78 Virgin Voyager and tilting Super million passengers in a year. We now need to build on our Voyager trains and now operates 184 services every day. my wife offers me a green card to go Collins said: “We have worked hard in all successes and look at how we can get more capacity onto the out!” areas to improve quality of service for CrossCountry network. We’ve started so we’ll finish!” our customers and these results show our He made his comments as he joined staff at Reading Measuring success efforts are achieving measurable success. Passenger numbers have increased from 12 million in 1997 to If you have got a funny story to before travelling on a Virgin Voyager train to Birmingham, “We, however, shall not be content more than 20 million in 2005/06 as Virgin CrossCountry has tell about your passengers, then where he met with both frontline and support staff before until our customers tell us they are 100% created massive growth on the regional inter-city network. we’d like to hear about it. spending time with Virgin Rail Group’s other train franchise satisfied with all aspects of the service – West Coast. Since September 2004 numbers have increased by 621% Your On Stage contact is listed they receive.” between Derby and Leeds; 259% between Birmingham on p2. The survey was carried out by and Newcastle; 100% between Preston and Birmingham; Passenger Focus. The network 72% between Exeter and Plymouth and 126% between Stagecoach has a 49% sharehold- Virgin CrossCountry operates a ‘golden thread’ of train Manchester and Oxford. Business travel now accounts for ing in the Virgin Rail Group, which services across mainland UK, linking Scotland with the almost 40% of CrossCountry journeys. Ten years ago it was A tale runs the West Coast and CrossCountry North East/North West and Birmingham down to the less than 5%. to tell? franchises.

12 Summer 06 Bus girls go on the run Businesses Ten female members of Stagecoach, the runners were hoping to raise £1000 choose the along with friends and family, have been for the charity. donning their trainers in preparation for “We are delighted with the response a Race for Life event. so far from our colleagues,” she told green option The three-mile run at Herne Bay in On Stage. “Not only are many donating More and more Greater Manchester busi- mid July, in aid of Cancer Research UK, money, but they have pledged to cheer us nesses are jumping on the bandwagon has meant the bus girls racing to raise as on at the event.” to take full advantage of Stagecoach’s much sponsorship as possible from their business travel discount scheme. colleagues at Stagecoach’s six depots in Ready to race: Sandra Taylor, Sam Wigley, Sales have increased by 25% in East Kent and Hastings. Stacey Hall, Paula Blake and Sandra Rushton the last 12 months with organisations Marketing Assistant Stacey Hall said show off their racing numbers. adopting the scheme as an alternative to motoring costs and parking problems. The scheme provides discounted travel tickets for staff and, by increasing the use of public transport, reduces the pressure on employers to provide and Record breakers on fund car parking spaces. It’s available to any organisation with more than 100 employees and there are currently around 20 working with Stagecoach so far. They include councils, health authorities and local businesses. Stagecoach works with these organi- fast track to success sations to tailor the packages most suitable to them and gives support to promote the scheme internally. ir Richard Branson envisioned a bigger and better Virgin Trains The biggest growth area has been Snetwork as he joined colleagues in celebrating record-breaking monthly and annual Megarider tickets, performance improvements and passenger growth. which are sold exclusively through the travel scheme. Discounts are also Announcing that Virgin Rail Group Three services an hour will run available on daily and weekly tickets and intends to pre-qualify for the expanded between Birmingham and London under when bought in bulk. CrossCountry franchise, he said customers plans being finalised with Government Travel Co-ordinator at Stockport have seen only the start of plans to attract and Network Rail. Faster and more Primary Care Trust Mary Brooks millions more to the railways. frequent services will also be offered explained: “Stagecoach’s business travel Around £2 billion has been spent from London to Liverpool, Glasgow and discount scheme has enabled us to sell bus replacing all trains on Virgin CrossCountry North Wales. tickets to our employees at a discounted and Virgin West Coast routes and trans- Other plans include an hourly service rate. This is of great benefit in helping forming the travel experience. This has from London to Chester, more trains us to encourage our employees to use brought a 50% increase in passenger between London and North Wales, first public transport and is in line with NHS numbers and both companies have trials of e-ticketing, a new website to make Corporate objectives in encouraging hit peak performance, now regularly ticket-buying easier, trial of a personal healthy lifestyles, reducing pollution and achieving more than 90% punctuality. chauffeur service, mobile telephone links protecting the environment.” Sir Richard said: “There were many and wi-fi trials on trains. cynics who just laughed at our plans when More plans are being made for Virgin we launched the franchises. They said it CrossCountry ahead of the refranchis- could never be done and, at one point, ing process but Sir Richard added: “We Buying a train even I briefly wondered if they might are not giving away any secrets to our have been right. But we persevered and rivals!” the Virgin rail operation of today is a Setting out a long-term vision, Virgin ticket is now shining example of what can be achieved Trains Chief Executive Tony Collins said Mini drivers: The youngsters take a break from exploring the visiting double decker. with the right vision. action is now required to ensure the even easier “We have developed close partner- train service grows to meet the massive ships with Government, Network Rail increases in demand. South West Trains has invested a total and key suppliers such as Alstom and He said: “We need to look at more of £6.7 million in 259 new ticket Driving a bus is kids’ play Bombardier to bring huge improvements Pendolino trains and increasing carriages vending machines to make buying a ticket as hassle-free as possible. Inquisitive tots were able to clamber said the children had a fantastic time. to customers.” on the existing trains, otherwise we will These will replace all the Quick- aboard and explore a Stagecoach in “When one of the dads heard about our Highlighting a range of innovations inhibit further growth. We also need to Fare machines currently at stations Cheltenham double decker when it project, he suggested asking Stagecoach planned over the next three years, he said improve car parking at stations. These and will offer a whole host of fantastic visited Arthur Dye Little Learners pre- to send one of its buses along,” she that now that the two new fleets of trains are not vague ideas for the future but real benefits including: school. said. had bedded in there was more to do to issues we are already progressing. • The choice to buy your ticket About 30 children, aged three to four, “The driver and support staff were make rail travel irresistible. “We also have trains that can travel at using cash or card were allowed to roam the bus, and even extremely friendly and the children were This includes plans to run trains every 140 mph, but are restricted to 125 mph. • The option to buy a seven-day sit in the driver’s seat. given the chance to have a look around 20 minutes between Manchester and We are talking with Network Rail about season ticket The bus was taken to the school as the bus and to sing songs. It was a great London by 2008 – the highest frequency running at 135 mph on some parts of • Tickets to the most popular des- part of youngsters’ term-long project on day – the children were so excited when anywhere in the world for a journey of the route – we believe we can do this tinations in the country transport and play leader Kerry Blindell the bus pulled into the yard.” more than 300 kilometres (189 miles) on a and build on the success we have already route used by more than one operator. seen.” • The option to use Railcards when buying your ticket • English, French and German language options Sunderland says 'you’re hired!' • Tickets to London Underground destinations • Same day car park permits from Sir Alan Sugar might have hired Michelle the supervision of mentor Neil McLeary, the station you are travelling Dewberry but Sunderland has its own Engineering Manager. from successful home-grown apprentice. Neil said: “Dan is an excellent worker Some 58 new ticket vending Twenty-year-old Dan Clark has just who is very quick at grasping new tasks machines are already benefiting received confirmation of completion of and systems, much like The Apprentice passengers at 13 South West Trains his engineering apprenticeship, which he winner, Michelle. He has had to prove stations, including London Waterloo has been studying for the last four years. himself time and time again, not just in and Clapham Junction. This is by no Incorporating NVQ Levels 1, 2 and the classroom but also on the job. The means the end, as there are well over 3, Dan split his time between studying in difference is that this is real life and 100 stations due to have the new Coventry and gaining practical experience Dan’s tasks have been integral to the One of the elite: Sunderland’s latest successful apprentice and now fully qualified engineer, Dan Clark. machines installed. in the workshop at the depot. work we do here. I’m over the moon The touch-screen machines He is one of an elite squad, with only to see him come all the way through I’m pleased the classroom based part is “Having a trade under your belt is are easy to use and while they are one apprentice every four years making his apprenticeship to become a fully over. I think with a job like this you’ve a real advantage in this day and age. being introduced at stations there it through the ranks at the Sunderland qualified engineer.” got to enjoy getting your hands dirty Doing something like this gives you will be designated staff to help guide bus depot. Dan is equally happy, and said: and I loved the practical side in the skills you can carry throughout your passengers through the process. His final year was spent solely under “Although I loved the apprenticeship, workshop. whole life.” Summer 06 13 Crime-busting New airport service initiative on the buses Crime on Stockport’s buses could be a thing of the past as Stagecoach joins offers a flying start forces with Greater Manchester Police to tackle anti-social behaviour. It's investing £5000 to support an increased police presence on buses in Stockport. Uniformed and plain clothes ‘Hopair’ people carriers put a new buzz into Scottish business police officers will travel on a number of routes in and around the area during the school half-term and summer holidays. cotland now has its first High frequency services will be Sdedicated bus service for targeted initially, but this will extend to business jetsetters travelling to other less frequent and night services and from Glasgow Airport. over the course of the campaign. The ‘Hotel Hopair’ service, run by Stagecoach’s Operations Director, Scottish Citylink, is aimed specifically at Elisabeth Tasker, explained: “As part of business people, providing frequent and our ongoing commitment to safety and inexpensive daily runs between Glasgow security, and the prevention of crime city centre and the country’s busiest and anti-social behaviour on board our international airport. buses, we’re naturally very happy to be The service works to a seven-day working with Greater Manchester Police timetable with pick up points at Glasgow again. Airport, the Scottish Exhibition and “Uniformed officers will provide a Conference Centre and George Square. high-visibility presence to reassure our It also operates on demand, picking customers as well as acting as a deterrent, up when required at several major city while the non-uniformed officers will be centre hotels which are participating in helping to perform covert operations in the initiative. problem areas. Steve Walker, General Manager “Stockport has no lesser or greater of Scottish Citylink, said: “Glasgow threat of this type of problem but Airport is a vital gateway for people the opportunity arose to work with visiting or leaving the city on business. Stockport Police following similar That is why we were keen to launch a campaigns in the past that have proven service to ensure they have a hassle free, to be of great value. fast and inexpensive way to get to their “Feedback from previous campaigns destinations. has been very positive from both our “We are delighted to have several top staff and customers in terms of actual city centre hotels on board for this – results, general reassurance and from a the first service of its kind in Scotland crime deterrent perspective.” – and one which, we hope, will be well Inspector David Sutcliffe, who is received by the business community. responsible for Stockport Central’s “Depending on its success, there is Neighbourhood Policing Team, added: every possibility we could roll it out to “Stockport Police are determined to other busy airport locations across the ensure that people feel safe in their country.” communities and that includes feeling Seven-seater people carriers run the safe on public transport, which provides route, with the fare costing just £5 a real lifeline to many residents. single and £9 return. At your service: Citylink Commercial Manager Graeme Hoggan behind the wheel of the new Hopair bus. “We are pleased to be working in There are nearly 50 daily departures partnership with Stagecoach to make life and passengers can use the service link to the call centre for bookings. Sawers stated: “Improving connections Airport predicted to virtually double to difficult for people who want to indulge from the named pick-up points without The increased travel links between between the city and Glasgow Airport over 15 million a year by 2030, we need in anti-social behaviour against bus booking. Glasgow Airport and the city have been is vital to facilitate good working links to ensure Glasgow is an easy city to visit passengers and drivers. This initiative is The hotels that have signed up have welcomed by Glasgow Chamber of nationally and internationally. and do business in, and improving links only one of many planned to tackle anti- a dedicated phone line giving a direct Commerce and Chief Executive Lesley “With passenger numbers at Glasgow to the airport is vital.” social behaviour and to bring to justice those who are making other people’s lives a misery.” Eager Beavers It's the longest serving party in town... quiz staff Stagecoach North West recently paid tribute Managing Director Les Warneford. The Recipients who attended the dinner Inspector – 30 years. David Seed, to its long serving employees and retirees at number of years of unbroken service of were: Coachbuilder – 30 years. Dennis in Newcastle a special dinner at Penrith, Cumbria. those who attended totalled 776 shared by Pritchard, Driver/NVQ Assessor A sett of ‘badgers’ was the unusual In all, 24 staff were present on the employees from Carlisle, Chorley, Kendal, Carlisle: Richard Irving, Driver – 35 – 35 years. Barry Blakeley, National wildlife to be found recently at evening, attended by UK Bus Division Morecambe, Preston and West Cumbria. years. Gordon Bateman, retired Driver Express Driver – 40 years. Stagecoach Newcastle. – 25 years. However, the badgers in question West Cumbria: Mark Bell, Workshop happened to be the name of a group Chorley: Ian Pendlebury, Fitter – 25 Manager – 25 years. Colin Johnstone, of youngsters from the 1st Westerhope years. Martin Jolly, Chargehand/ Driver – 25 years. Michael Turner, Beaver Scout Group. Bodybuilder – 30 years. Douglas Bailey Driving Instructor – 25 years. Philip Assistant Beaver Leaders Christine MBE, retired Driver – 35 years. Wilson, Engineering Manager – 25 Wilson, Suzanne Gordon, Sheila Watson years. William Hughes, Fitter – 30 and helper Claire White accompanied Kendal: Trevor Pennington, years. Gordon Gray, Driver – 35 years. the nine boys on a tour of the depot, led Operations Manager – 40 years. Frank Derbyshire, Driver – 35 years. by Customer Service Manager Graham Anthony Draper, retired Driver – 27 Richard Robinson, Driver – 40 years. Robertson. years. Edward McMullen, retired Driver Graham was ably assisted by – 40 years. Derek Glaister, retired Control Supervisor Gordon Turner, Morecambe: Malcolm O’Halloran, Driver – 41 years. William Malkinson, Depot Fitter Chris Johns and Driver Assistant Operations Manager – 25 retired Driver – 43 years. Syd Bolton, who all answered questions years. about their jobs put to them by the Head Office: Nigel Barrett, Managing eager Beavers, who received Stagecoach Preston: Satyanarayana Padala, Depot Director – 35 years. tee-shirts as a memento of the visit.

14 Summer 06 Changing faces and places London MD reaches his bus stop

Stagecoach London Managing Director Director of Stagecoach North North West, and I am delighted he worked for more than two years as General Barry Arnold is retiring in the summer West, has been appointed will be heading up our operation Manager of Feltham Division of South after a 42-year career in the bus industry. Managing Director designate in the area.” West Trains, the UK’s biggest commuter And his contribution to the industry for Stagecoach London and will Barry has worked for rail franchise. has received Royal recognition with the work closely with Barry over the Stagecoach for 12 years and has Stagecoach London, which employs award of an OBE in the Queen's Birthday next three months before taking headed up the company’s London around 4300 staff, operates contracted Honours List. over on August 1. business since 1997. bus services for Transport for London Barry (60), who has lived in Stagecoach North West He started his bus industry in East, South East and Central London. Hertfordshire since 1974 and is married Commercial Director Chris career in 1964 after leaving school The company’s 1300 buses carry around with two children and one grandchild, said: Bowles will succeed Nigel Barrett when he became a clerk for 300 million passengers a year, giving it a "I'm really pleased to have received such as Managing Director for the Barry Arnold. Chris Bowles. London Transport and during the 16% share of the London bus market. recognition. It came as a surprise. regional operating company. past four decades he also worked Chris Bowles (53) has more than 30 "I have had more than 40 years' service Les Warneford, Managing Director of our succession planning, Nigel will be in Hong Kong and Singapore. years’ experience in the bus industry in the bus industry, but I have been very Stagecoach UK Bus, said: “Barry has been working closely with Barry over the next Nigel Barrett (53), originally from and joined Stagecoach in 1996 when fortunate to have worked with a lot of a key part of our success in growing our few months to ensure there is a smooth London, has more than 35 years’ experience the company acquired operations in very talented people. I've had a great time London bus business over the past few transition. in bus and rail operations in the UK. A Manchester where he was one of three working with Stagecoach since 1994 and years. He has built up excellent relation- “Nigel is an excellent public transport former London Transport bus conductor, Area Traffic Managers. Chris became over the years my career has taken me ships with Transport for London and we professional and I am sure he will further he has held a number of senior managerial Operations Director at Stagecoach’s overseas to Hong Kong and Singapore. would like to give him our best wishes for enhance our reputation as one of the best positions for Stagecoach and also spent Ribble business in 2000 before becoming "It's a job I've loved doing and it's given his retirement. bus operators in the capital. time working for the business in Malawi. Commercial Director for the North West me a lot of satisfaction." “Stagecoach London is our biggest “Chris has a wealth of experience in He was previously Managing Director in 2001 when the Ribble and Cumberland Nigel Barrett, currently Managing bus business in the UK and, as part of the UK bus industry, particularly in the for Stagecoach in Teesside and also operations were merged. West Scotland New look to Scotland’s top team UK Bus strengthens Management in Scotland’s bus operations company. He became Engineering Director appointments will be strengthened thanks to a number of of Strathtay in 1997. Along with Sandy new appointments. Brydon, he will now share responsibility for New key members of the Stagecoach Charlie Mullen (54) – Managing Director the East Scotland divisions. management team West Scotland management team have of Strathtay since 1989 and a former finance Jim Gardner (53) has become been appointed. director – has been appointed Managing Commercial Manager for Stagecoach Two new directors have been appointed Sam Greer has become the new Director of Stagecoach Bluebird. Bluebird. He’s worked in the bus industry at UK Bus – helping to strengthen the Managing Director and John Harper has Doug Fleming (58) is now Managing since 1970 and with Strathtay since 1985. He management team. taken up the position of Engineering Director for Stagecoach East Scotland became Commercial Manager for Strathtay Tom Wileman is the Regional Director Director following the promotions of – which includes the Fife and Strathtay in 1993 and will continue to be involved in for the North West and Robert Andrew is Tom Wileman and Robert Andrew. divisions. He was previously Operations commercial and network issues at Strathtay. Scotland’s new Managing Director. Sam was Engineering Director for Director for Stagecoach in Fife and has held Lisa Henry (28) – former Marketing Tom has enjoyed a 35-year career West Scotland for nearly 10 years after senior positions with Travel Dundee. Manager for Stagecoach Bluebird and Fife – with Scottish Bus Group and joined joining Stagecoach in 1992 and has 22- Sandy Brydon (63) has become is now Marketing Manager for Bluebird and Stagecoach in Fife in 1990. years’ experience in the bus industry. Engineering Director for Stagecoach East East Scotland. She’ll also take on additional He’s held positions as Operations His successor, John, has 25-years’ Scotland. He has held the same post in Fife marketing responsibilities at Strathtay in her Director for the East Midlands, Robert Andrew. industry experience and has been with since 1991 and also held a variety of posts in expanded role. Managing Director with Stagecoach’s Stagecoach since 1991. the Scottish Bus Group. Managing Director for Stagecoach Fife, Bluebird and Manchester divisions Tom Wileman was promoted Tom Robertson (54) has been appointed Scotland Robert Andrew said: “These appoint- and, more recently, Managing Director from Managing Director for Scotland Assistant Engineering Director for ments will strengthen our management team for Scotland. to Regional Director for the North Stagecoach East Scotland. He began his across Bluebird, Fife and Strathtay and ensure He now retains responsibility for West, while Robert Andrew – career with Strathtay in 1968 and has held we continue to offer high quality services that the Scottish Citylink joint venture and formerly Deputy Managing Director a number of engineering posts within the attract more passengers to bus travel.” is helping UK Bus Managing Director – has become Managing Director for Les Warneford with other business Scotland. development projects in the expanded New Managing Director for northern region. Scotland Robert Andrew said: “I’d like Further developments in Training He also has specific responsibility to wish Sam and John every success in It’s all change at UK Bus’ Training and Former S/NVQ Administrator Clare for Cumbria, Lancashire and Merseyside their new roles. I’d also like to recognise Development Department. Willis has been appointed Training Co- operations. Tom Wileman. the significant contribution made by The department has been undergoing ordinator and, in that role, will provide a full Robert started out in 1985 with Tom Wileman to the Stagecoach West a restructuring since the appointment of support service to both Matt and Dorothy Scottish Bus Group’s Kelvin and Western Bluebird, Strathtay, Fife and Western Scotland business.” Matt Darroch as Training and Development with the help of Rhona Rattray as Training companies and joined Stagecoach in 1992. divisions. Also joining the team is former Manager towards the end of last year.. Administrator. He was Operations Manager in Inverness Les Warneford said: "I would like graduate trainee Sarah Longair who has D o r o t h y H e r m i s t o n , t h e f o r m e r Two in-house Trainers are also being before becoming Operations Director for to congratulate both Tom and Robert been appointed Operations Director. S/NVQ Manager, is the new Deputy recruited to ensure that, where possible, Bluebird and Fife and Managing Director on their deserved promotions. These Sarah, who is currently Operations Training and Development Manager. She’ll management and supervisory training for Fife and East Scotland. appointments will further strengthen Manager at Stagecoach Manchester's help Matt across the full range of training and programmes are delivered internally by He’s now been promoted from Deputy our UK Bus management team as we Princess Road depot, will take up the development activity – with a particular focus Stagecoach staff in a way that’s more relevant Managing Director to Managing Director continue to grow our successful bus post on September 1. on engineering training. to the company’s operating environment. for Scotland and is responsible for the operations across the country.”

Virgin Trains has appointed David Lowrie respectively. David then re-financed Milk as Virgin Rail Group Bid Director to lead Link, the UK’s third largest integrated its new franchise bid team. David’s new bid for success dairy business before returning to the rail And one of his first tasks will be to industry as Bid Director, Virgin Trains. oversee the bidding process for the re- As a key member of the management Colgate Palmolive before joining Prism league tables. A married father-of-two, he lives in the mapped and re-tendered CrossCountry team that improved the operating and Rail plc as Group Financial Controller He renegotiated the franchise terms Cotswolds. franchise. financial performance of these businesses, in 1997. and created the Wales and Borders and Virgin Trains Group Finance Director A qualified chartered accountant, David he worked closely with future members of Two years later he became Finance Wessex franchises through a series of Linda Bell said: “We are very excited by has seven years’ rail industry experience, the Virgin Trains senior team. Director of Wales and West Passenger reorganisations and acquisitions, working David’s arrival and the opportunity to bid principally as Finance Director of the David qualified with City of London- Trains, Cardiff Railway Company and with Chris Gibb and Charles Belcher, later for the new CrossCountry franchise. We Wales and West, Cardiff Railway Company, based KPMG and spent the early part of At-Seat Catering Ltd, which his team led appointed Managing Directors, Virgin look forward to working with him and Wales and Borders and Wessex franchises. his career with Powell Duffryn plc and to the top of the national performance CrossCountry and Virgin West Coast wish him every success in his new role.”

Summer 06 15 Keeping cosy on the greens Hanoi hike to

The Hampshire Amy Rose Under 31s Shutler, president of the Hampshire help hospice Bowling Team will now be cosy in their County Women’s Bowling Association. inter-county competitions across the “I’m delighted that Stagecoach is UK. supporting some of our young bowlers,” Stagecoach donated fleeces to the she said. nine team members following a request “We are keen to encourage the next for sponsorship from manager Rosemary generation of players to take up bowling. Corney. It is important that the image changes for She thought that the uniform fleece the sport that no longer requires teams to worn by her bus driver husband Steve play in whites,” said Molly. would be ideal and Pete Robinson, Stagecoach’s Operations Manager in Andover, agreed to support the team. Season warm-up: Steve and Rosemary Corney Attending the presentation at the with Pete, Carley Bishop, Paula Roundtree, Whitchurch Bowling Club was Molly Molly, Georgina Heath and Claire Spreadbury. Peak fitness as staff scale the heights

Eight members of staff from South Hanoi here I come: Paul steps out on his Wales recently left their buses in the fund-raising build-up. valleys to scale the UK’s three highest mountains… in under 24 hours. Support galore for Maria’s charity leap Starting at Mount Snowdon, Dan Paul Southgate, the Managing Director Seymour, Wayne Powell, John Rees Maria Barbosa decided to do her first-ever “My colleagues at work have given me of Stagecoach in Kent, has volunteered and Steve Parry from Brynmawr parachute jump in memory of her late son. huge support and I can’t describe the to join a sponsored walk in Vietnam to depot, Neville Coleske, Mike On the day of her 10,000ft jump her support I have had from Stagecoach itself. raise funds for a kids’ hospice. Anderson and Adrian Mortimer- only child, Steven, would have been 12. “I felt that raising money for the hospice He will be part of a 20-strong Rees from Caerphilly depot, and He passed away a year ago at Helen & by doing a parachute jump on Steven’s team that will spend 11 days in North Area Engineering Manager Mark Douglas House, Cowley Road, Oxford, for birthday was a very positive thing to do. I Vietnam in October, walking more Powell moved on to Scafell Pike whom Maria did her fund-raising leap. am pleased I did it and I would certainly than 100km over difficult terrain that evening before completing the The Stagecoach Oxfordshire bus driver do it again.” from Hanoi to the Pu Luong Nature gruelling challenge on Ben Nevis in has so far raised £1,600 with more money Maria, who completed her tandem Reserve. the early hours of the next day. still promised. parachute jump at Weston-on-the-Green When Paul (51), from Tenterden, The team was ferried between And she has praised the support of her airfield, came to the UK from Portugal checked with Stagecoach’s founder the three countries by two drivers, Stagecoach colleagues, which she described 14 years ago and dreamt of being a bus and Chief Executive Brian Souter that Huw Davies and Mark Paynter, in as ‘amazing’. driver. he could take time off from his duties a minibus funded by Stagecoach in “I want to say a big thank you to every She joined Stagecoach Oxfordshire he was delighted with the response. South Wales. driver and member of staff at the depot nearly four years ago and has recently “Brian has seen the support we It was hoped to raise at least – their support has kept me going and been based at the Bicester depot, driving have offered the Demelza Hospice £1500 for Tenovus, a cancer charity made me feel very close to my work”, said a double decker on the Bicester to Oxford over the years so he immediately promised to match any sponsorship committed to quality research, Happy landing: A relieved Maria after her jump. Maria (37). service. prevention/education, counselling I can raise to boost funds for the and patient care. hospice,” said Paul. “I am already receiving pledges A marathon hike and a severe haircut… from many of our management team that’s what two members of Stagecoach’s Feet first and head first for charity in Canterbury and from our depots team at Hastings depot committed across the region.” Loyal service themselves to in the name of charity. In preparation for his Hanoi hike, Driver and union representative Paul is starting to build up his stamina. Les Smith joined the 17-mile pier to honoured The itinerary for the walk will require pier walk from Hastings to Eastbourne all participants to walk for an average in June and collected over £1000 in of eight to nine hours each day, A total of 17 South Wales’ employees sponsorship that will be donated to often through uninhabited areas with were recently honoured at a long service ECHO, the Evelina Children’s Heart nothing but a satellite phone to use for dinner in Cwmbran. Organisation. emergencies. The distances will vary Collectively clocking up an incredible Alfonso Assorgi, originally from depending on the terrain, which can 590 bus years, the staff were drawn Italy and now a Ninfield resident has, be very steep. from Brynmawr, Chepstow, Cwmbran, over the past six months, grown a full Paul, who admits to being several Merthyr and Porth depots plus the beard and long hair deliberately to raise Happy hiker: Les Smith with his Cut and fund: Alfonso Assorgi, hair today stone overweight and very unfit, regional head office. cash for Cancer Relief. He was hoping sponsorship board. – gone now! says that apart from a multitude of Special mention must be made of to raise over £500 by having it all shaved creepy crawlies to contend with, the Driver Ron Morgan and Storeman John off at the Cancer Research Charity Shop determination to raise funds for the fellow drivers, engineers and the adminis- organisers highlight the humidity as Amos from Cwmbran depot, along with in St Leonards in early July. charities. tration staff here at the depot. Donations one factor that can make the trek Revenue Inspectors Eddie Mullaly from Hastings Operations Manager Tom He said: “They received tremendous were also made by passengers who had exhausting. Whilst that climate cannot head office, all of whom are celebrating Bridge was proud of Les and Alfonso’s sponsorship and support from their heard of their events.” be emulated in Kent, Paul has already 45 years’ loyal service. started his training by walking some of Women from Stagecoach Group’s Perth head- Thousands of women have been involved the bus routes near his home. quarters raised nearly £500 as part of the in similar events across the UK, with a target Sue Bedborough, area fund-raising Running up the cash national Race for Life campaign to boost funds of raising £46m by attracting 750,000 women manager for the Sittingbourne-based for Britain’s leading cancer charity. to get involved. hospice, said she admired Paul for They were among more than 2000 female Cancer Research UK’s Race for Life began taking the challenge: runners who took part in a 5km run around in 1994, with one race in Battersea Park when “We appreciate the friendship and the city’s North Inch in aid of Cancer Research 680 women came together and raised £36,000 support shown by Paul and his team UK. in sponsorship. and the tremendous offer made by The Stagecoach runners – Elizabeth Bain, Twelve years on, Race for Life has grown Brian Souter.” Katie Loudon and Norma Scott – raised £225, to become the UK’s biggest women-only Anyone wishing to sponsor Paul which was matched by the company. They were fund-raising event. can pledge by email at backdemelza. joined on the run by Katie's sister, Edith. The annual event has raised a total of [email protected] or by more than £100m for the life-saving work of post to Paul Southgate, Stagecoach, Perth's pacesetters: The team that took part in Cancer Research UK, with over two million The Bus Station, St Georges Lane, the national Race for Life. women taking part. Canterbury, Kent CT1 2SY.

16 Summer 06