STUB IT OUT! Stagecoach workers have joined forces to quit smoking. Find out how you can kick the habit with a little help from your friends.

SPECIAL FEATURE PAGES 8&9 The newspaper of Stagecoach Group Issue 70 Spring 08 Drivers’ blaze rescue 6 Megabus soap stars 11 60 years on the road 13 Reader offer 16 SCHEME DELIVERS BUMPER PAYOUT Employees benefit from Stagecoach success and share £15.1 million as SAYE matures

More than 2,400 Stagecoach Group share in the success of the business employees are set to share in a £15.1 through this scheme. million payout under the company’s “Giving employees a stake in their Travellers find love on the line Save As You Earn scheme. company and offering them an Bus and rail drivers, engineers and effective way of saving for the future A COUPLE who started chat- other workers will receive average is part of our wider reward package ting on a train didn’t realise they payouts of around £6,300, making that recognises the key role our were en route to marriage. average gains of more than £3,600, people play in making Stagecoach a And the happy couple’s journey after the Group’s 2005 SAYE scheme market-leading transport group.” of love was celebrated on matured on 1 April. Meanwhile, Stagecoach Group gave Valentine’s Day when they were Under the SAYE scheme, staff can a positive update on its trading at the presented with the very seats set aside a fixed sum of up to £250 end of February. they met on! from their salary every month for a An Interim Management Statement, Jacqueline and Jonathan three-year period. When the scheme covering the period since October Roberts began chatting on their matures they have the option to buy 31, 2007, said trading had remained journey from London Waterloo Stagecoach shares at a price set when strong and the Group’s overall to Gillingham in Dorset. And a they joined the scheme. financial performance had been “at passing comment from transport Stagecoach Group’s share price has the top end of management’s expec- lobbyist Jonathan (57) about his more than doubled over the period, tations”. dodgy knee was to prove fateful. rising from around 115p in April 2005 Like-for-like revenue growth in the Jacqueline, who’s a physiothera- to 242.0p on 31 March, and at that main divisions was 7.4% at UK Bus pist, explained: “I suggested share price employees would achieve (40 weeks ended February 3, 2008), Jonathan make an appointment a return of around 145% on their 14.0% at UK Rail (40 weeks ended with me, so he booked the last investment under the scheme. February 3, 2008), 4.2% in North appointment of the day so we At a share price of 242.0p, staff who America (nine months ended January could travel back together. saved the maximum amount of £250 31, 2008) and 12.4% at Virgin Rail “It went from there. We went per month in the company’s scheme Group (40 weeks ended February 3, out a few times and, before too will receive payouts of £22,000, rep- 2008). long, Jonathan proposed…and I resenting a gain of more than £13,000 said yes!” each. Their wedding, in September John Hamilton, Director of Pensions 2006, had a rail theme running and Benefits, said: “Our employees throughout, including a huge have been at the heart of the cake in the shape of a train and growth of our company and some South West Trains guards it is right that they can invited as wedding guests. Then, when South West Trains was refurbishing its Class 159 train fleet, it agreed to A first-class marriage: Jacqueline and Jonathan receive their seats from Salisbury Depot give the pair their First Class Manager Lisa Hindley and South West Trains Engineering Director Mac Mackintosh. compartment seats in return for a donation to charity. Pettitt with £1,000. South West Trains Engineering They chose the Railway The seats now have pride of Director Mac Mackintosh to Children, which supports street place in the Roberts’ sitting present the seats to the couple – children living in and around room. added: “This is a bit of a fairytale railway stations, and presented Salisbury Depot Manager Lisa and, like all fairytales, it has a charity representative Gordon Hindley – who accompanied happy ending.” The increase in Stagecoach Group’s share price could give staff a return of 145%. STAGECOACH has thrown its weight as much work out of them as they behind a new Samaritans campaign to Putting the emphasis on stress possibly can, even when they see Stations have reduce workplace stress in Scotland. they are already very stressed. The company sponsored pocket- More than 20% have also taken time Steven Stewart, Director of Almost three quarters of people a brush with sized ‘emotional health cards’ off sick due to work-related stress, half Corporate Communications for feel unable to cope with distressed encouraging people to ‘Speak up, Step say their jobs are getting more stressful Stagecoach Group, said: “We are colleagues and 34% say employers greatness Up’. and 32% feel work rules their lives. delighted to be able to work closely do not take workplace stress The cards, which were handed Samaritans Scottish Development with Samaritans for Stress Down seriously, turning a blind eye to the VIRGIN Trains has teamed up out to mark Stress Down Day on Manager Frances Simpson said: Day. As a business, we take stress problem. with Staffordshire University’s February 1, urged people not to bottle “Job-related stress has a serious and in the workplace very seriously and Samaritans are experienced in Art, Media and Design depart- up emotions and to share them with unrecognised impact on the health of feel it’s important to be there to help workplace issues and run WorkLife, ment to provide an artistic others where they can. the nation and the economy, affecting people when they need it most.” a training course to tackle stress welcome to customers using New figures from Samaritans reveal concentration and efficiency. Samaritans found that more than in the workplace and provide Stoke-on-Trent station. that Scotland’s workers are so stressed “Positive workplaces are a big factor half of Scottish workers have seen practical skills for managers and Students from the BA(Hons) a quarter of them dream of quitting in keeping everyone emotionally colleagues cry over pressure and team members. Log on to www. Photography course were the country for a life abroad. healthy. “ 45% say their employers try to get samaritans.org for more information. invited to come up with a series of images that would enhance the newly refurbished station. An exhibition, appropriately entitled ‘The Waiting Room’, and documenting the everyday life and work of the station, is now megabus heads on display in the waiting room on Platform 1. Meanwhile, jewellery and ceramics created by the students – and reflecting the rich craft traditions for which Stoke- east in the usa on-Trent is famous – are also on Stagecoach Group has announced a Since its launch in the United States in display in the First Class Lounge. major expansion of its growing megabus. April 2006, megabus.com has welcomed Virgin Trains Station Manager com budget coach operation in the United on board more than 900,000 passengers, Karen Grimshaw said: “It has States with a new network of routes on including commuters, students and been a pleasure working with the East Coast. business and leisure travellers. the students from Staffordshire From May 30, customers will be able to Research by Stagecoach Group has found University. The results of many travel for as low as $1 from New York City that 52% of megabus.com passengers have hours of work are now available to seven key cities. switched from using the car as the high for everyone to enjoy as they New services will run to Boston, price of oil continues to put pressure on pass through the station.” Washington, Philadelphia, Baltimore, fuel prices and climate change concerns Buffalo and Atlantic City, New Jersey, as increase. A megabus.com coach filled to well as a cross-border service to Toronto, capacity, removing 56 cars from the road, Canada. saves around 1,750kg of carbon emissions Appreciating megabus.com will offer up to 55 daily for every 100 miles travelled. departures from New York in new greener, The latest expansion of megabus.com apprentices state-of-the-art coaches, with free wi-fi and in the United States comes only days on-board video. after services started running to four new WOULD-BE apprentices have All seats reserved for the first week of locations in the Midwest. Sam Dixon, Operations Manager at Stagecoach Leamington, even more reason to train with service are being given away free as an The budget express coach service now presents the prizes to the lucky students. Stagecoach. introductory offer, with passengers paying operates daily services between its hub Stagecoach UK Bus was only the standard 50 cent booking fee. in Chicago and 16 other Midwest cities, recently awarded Centre status The expansion means the growing including Ann Arbor, Mich.; Bloomington- Prize students by the Institute of the Motor low-cost coach network will cover 31 key Normal, Ill.; Chicago; Champaign, Ill.; Industry – a role normally cities across 17 states – seven locations in Cincinnati; Cleveland; Columbia, Mo.; THREE university students from Warwickshire won great reserved for educational institu- the East Coast, 17 Midwest cities and seven Columbus, Ohio; Detroit; Indianapolis; prizes simply by riding the buses to their place of learning. tions. West Coast cities. Kansas City, Mo.; Madison, Wis.; Memphis, Lucy Jones of Kenilworth, who studies at Coventry This means Stagecoach can Brian Souter, Stagecoach Group Chief Tenn.; Milwaukee; Minneapolis; St. Louis University, won a 20” LCD HD-ready television, while certificate the 4th-year appren- Executive, said: “megabus.com is the and Toledo, Ohio. University of Warwick students Matthew Holland, of Shipston ticeship programme. market-leading budget coach service in In August last year, megabus.com on Stour, and Chris Kemp, of Leamington Spa, each won iPod The company can also both the UK and the United States, offering launched a major new West Coast hub, Nanos in a Stagecoach prize draw. certificate current engineers by unrivalled value for money and a high- allowing passengers to travel from Los Sam Dixon, Stagecoach Operations Manager in Leamington, putting them through part of quality travelling experience for customers. Angeles to six major cities, including Las said: “We ran this competition as a way of thanking Coventry’s the 4th-year programme. “We have been delighted with the Vegas; Millbrae, Calif.; Oakland, Calif.; San university students for their loyalty in using our Unirider The 4th year involves a series response of passengers to the product in Diego; San Francisco; and San Jose, Calif. double-decker service. of manufacturers’ short courses North America and we believe the new The North American expansion follows “The service runs from the centre of Leamington straight to and an assessed workshop to East Coast routes have the potential to sig- the UK success of megabus.com, which the uni and back every day during term time and it is very develop skills in, for example, nificantly expand the market for low-cost carries around two million passengers a popular with students in our town and in the Coventry area.” planning, problem solving, PCV travel.” year on a network of inter-city services. legislation and coaching and mentoring. This week-long workshop is MORE people than ever are leaving aimed at giving apprentices the their cars at home and taking the bus Kickstart your day with a hassle-free journey skills to help new colleagues on in Swindon and Wiltshire since the the programme and to develop launch of the Route 55 “Kickstart” Now, nearly 18 months into the Picture by Tony Barrett them into well-rounded, skilled scheme. project, that target has been exceeded individuals. The service between Chippenham – with passenger growth standing at and Swindon, which was launched just over 23% and the service carrying Would you like to share your in August 2006, was a joint initiative over 1.4 million passengers each year. experiences of working with Stagecoach? between Stagecoach West, the Stagecoach West Managing Director Department for Transport and Ian Manning said: “We are very Checkout p16 for a full list of your Wiltshire County Council. pleased to have beaten our passenger On Stage contacts. The aim of the £1 million-plus, targets already so early into this three-year Kickstart scheme is to Kickstart project, which vindicates A tale increase passenger numbers on this the hard work of our staff and the to tell? key route by 18% and be completely effectiveness of our marketing Kickstart buses in Swindon and Wiltshire – pictured with a C130J Hercules aircraft self-financing within three years. campaign.” at the local RAF Lyneham – are really taking off! 2 Spring 08 Best rail link has X factor KIDS URGED TO WHEN Neil Tayton began driving Stagecoach East’s X1 rail link from Corby town centre to Kettering rail station he never thought he would soon be driving DUNK THE JUNK the best rail link service in the UK. AN ENERGETIC campaign Neil (53) began driving buses designed to steer youngsters three years ago and was asked to away from bad behaviour is be part of the route X1 driving scoring a big hit in the south of team in January 2007. England. The route – which connects For the second year running, Corby town centre, Kettering rail South West Trains has sponsored station and Kettering General basketball team Guildford Heat Hospital – provides a vital link for to the tune of £12,000 to run the commuters, patients and their ‘Dunk the Junk’ programme of families. workshops on social responsibil- The recent honour, at the ity. national bus industry awards, The project includes basketball proves the importance of the coaching and a tournament service. between Surrey and Berkshire Neil said: “Because the service schools. is linked to the rail station and Guildford Heat are already hospital we have several regulars local heroes, having won both the who travel with us every day so British Basketball League Cham- you get to know them by name. pionship and Cup. Christian Neill, Area Manager for South West Trains in Windsor, joins young basketball players enjoying a ‘Dunk the Junk’ workshop at “Also the two services work And Heat’s Head Coach and Garth Hill School, Bracknell. together, so if the trains are General Manager Paul James delayed then we will wait for said: “It’s fantastic to be working programme and really show same time.” “They are idols to many them to arrive and vice versa. in partnership with South West young people just what they can Christian Neill, Area Manager youngsters so they are just the “It’s a really good service and Trains on this community project. achieve in life given the right for South West Trains in Windsor, people to not only give these kids I’m proud to be part of the team “We now want our success on situation. added: “It’s great to see the advice on healthy living but also which has managed to secure this the court to spill off the court “Who knows – we might even Guildford Heat stars heading into to turn them into basketball stars prestigious award,” added Neil. through the Dunk the Junk find the next Heat star at the local schools. of the future.” Food for thought Police partnership cracks crime With love from BUS drivers who feel they need a little help in the kitchen could get CRIME on the South West Trains valuable and highly-visible extra Commander Chief Superin- Stagecoach! the chance to appear on the hit network fell by 12.2% in 2007, resources which can be targeted tendent Steve Morgan added: TV show The F Word on Chan- compared with recorded crime on problem areas. “We’ve done a great deal of STAGECOACH wowed nel 4. in 2006. Stuart Giddings, South West work around theft of bicycles and wooed its customers on TV Production Company South West Trains and British Trains’ Head of Security and and line of route offences across Valentine’s Day. Optomen TV, which produces the Transport Police’s efforts in Crime Prevention, said: “This the South West Trains network. Free chocolates were handed popular Gordon Ramsay reality combating crime have seen a is a positive result and we will “There have been regular out to delighted passengers by show, is looking for enthusiastic 16.2% reduction in bike thefts, a be working hard, alongside the crime reduction surgeries at members of staff dressed in full bus drivers who want to learn 62.8% reduction of robbery and a British Transport Police (BTP), stations, educational visits evening costume. about new and exciting ways of 39.5% reduction in line of route to reduce crime further and to local schools warning Mark Crannis, Operations cooking. crimes such as trespassing and continue the work of providing a youngsters of the dangers of Manager for Nuneaton, said: Anyone interested should stone throwing. safe railway. trespassing, and reassurance “We thought it would be a email fwordcooking@optomen. The figures point to the “Whilst partnership is easy policing through increased nice touch to introduce a little com including name, a daytime positive effects of safety and to say it can be hard to achieve late-night patrols when anti romance on Valentine’s Day. contact number, a recent security improvements such and this example shows that social behaviour and drunk and “We hoped all the customers photograph and a paragraph as CCTV on stations and partnership delivers.” disorderly incidents can be an who received their free explaining why you deserve TravelSafe Officers, who provide BTP London South Area issue.” chocolates would enjoy them Gordon’s help. that morning or, even better, save them and share them with Free football travel promotion a loved-one.” is truly in a league of its own

LINCOLN City Football Club and Stage- agreement, and one that will give benefits coach East Midlands have teamed up to help to our season ticket holders and encourage fans reach home ties much more easily. people to use public transport, which can Season ticket holders will get free travel only be good for the environment.” on Stagecoach bus services within the City Dave Skepper, Stagecoach East Midlands of Lincoln, and from Sudbrooke, Welton, Commercial Director, added: “This is an Dunholme, Nettleham, Waddington, innovative scheme to encourage city people Bracebridge Heath, Branston, Washingbor- to use buses as an alternative to taking the ough, Heighington, Cherry Willingham, car to matches, helping to reduce traffic Reepham, Fiskerton, and Skellingthorpe on congestion and pollution in Lincoln on Saturday home match days, and after 6 p.m. Saturdays. on the days of evening home matches. “We’re very pleased to be working with Debonair Phil Richards and elegant Gillian Merron – the MP for Lincoln and an ardent LCFC sup- Dave Roberts, City’s Chief Executive Lincoln City Football Club to introduce this, Melody Norton hand out chocolate porter – celebrates the new deal with Gary Nolan, Managing Officer, is delighted with the deal. and we wish the team every success this love hearts at Nuneaton bus station. Director of Stagecoach East Midlands. He said: “This is a ground-breaking season.” Spring 08 3 Rooms just Canon fired with enthusiasm A CLERGYMAN’S prayers were an- Stagecoach East Midlands a click away swered when he fulfilled a lifetime’s Commercial Director, Dave Skepper. ambition to drive a bus. On the day, the Reverend drove A NEW website partnership Stagecoach East Midlands was the company’s training bus around deal with late-availability pleased to help the Reverend Canon a specially prepared course in hotel room specialists Councillor Richard Eyre from the Stagecoach East Midlands Lincoln LateRooms.com is giving Hykeham Team Ministry make his Depot under the supervision of megabus.com passengers childhood dream a reality. Training Manager Wayne Lively and direct access to discount The special training session was Driving Instructor Andy Searby. accommodation. arranged as part of the celebra- Wayne and Andy confirmed that Customers booking low-cost tions for the new Mayor of North the Reverend’s driving skills were travel through the megabus. Hykeham, Ken Smith. certainly very good and, if he wanted com and megatrain.com Tradition has it that the new Mayor to take up running bus services in websites in the UK can search makes a gift to the local clergyman addition to church services, they were and book hotel rooms direct and, to make the Reverend Eyre’s sure that he would make a great bus from the websites. Revving up! Reverend Canon Councillor Richard Eyre trains for a different kind of service. dream come true, Ken contacted driver. The partnership will give passengers access to over 6,500 hotels with reductions of up to 70 per cent off standard prices. megabus.com and megatrain.com offer 500 daily departures to more than 50 ON-DEMAND BUS locations across the UK from just £1 (plus 50p booking fee) and LateRooms’ technology enables true last-minute booking for hotel rooms in TIMES ON-LINE destinations covered by the travel websites. A HIGH-TECH data system is more accurate information to our Duncan Barraclough, giving bus passengers the best customers. Partnerships Manager and latest travel information. “The system will also improve for LateRooms.com, said: Stagecoach is the first British the way we work with transport “Customers want the best bus operator to go live with the authorities and other key stakehold- deal for their travel, so adding electronic system, which can ers, as well as improving the design the option of booking best deliver faster, more accurate and operation of our bus networks. value accommodation on information via the internet, “It is a great step forward for our the same site provides a mobile phones and at bus stops. business and for our customers.” complete cost-effective travel Developed in partnership with EBSR is based around the package. the Department for Transport, National Bus Stops database “To ensure the best booking VOSA and transport authorities, (NAPTAN), which is maintained by experience, it’s important the Electronic Bus Service local authorities across the UK. that the savings customers Registration (EBSR) was first The system uses sophisti- make through booking with introduced in Stagecoach’s cated mapping and database megabus.com and megatrain. operations in Cambridge and management tools to deliver com are not wiped out by Peterborough. data electronically between bus extortionate hotel prices at And Stagecoach is planning operators, transport authorities, and Devon-sent sponsorship for rugby kids their destination.” a national roll-out of the new real time information and journey George Connell, Stagecoach technology across its UK bus planning systems. YOUNG rugby enthusiasts from Devon are training in style, thanks to a Group Programme Manager, operations, with Oxford, the East Previously, data had to be helping hand from Stagecoach. added: “LateRooms’ of England, Wales, Manchester re-entered manually into systems Stagecoach Devon has sponsored Torquay Athletic RFC’s under-10s technology is extremely user- and West Scotland set to go from paper records, eating up time team for the last three years, and the youngsters proudly sport the friendly and offers fantastic on-line later this year. and resources, and was vulnerable company’s name on their smart strips. deals for hotels of all types. Robert Montgomery, Service to typing errors. Pictured with the team are, from left: Under-10s coach Peter Hamer; “Customers can book right Performance Director for The new system will also help Bryan George, former Assistant Operations Manager for Stagecoach up to the moment of staying, Stagecoach UK Bus, said: “Our speed up the Traffic Commissioner Devon; Malcolm Rundle, Engineering Manager for Stagecoach Devon, which fits with our vision of customers want buses that turn bus registration process and, in Torquay; Kai Hunt, Manager of fellow team sponsors the Belgrave Hotel, maintaining low costs but up on time and high-quality conjunction with other software, Torquay, and Head Coach Chris Coverdale. also a high level of customer information about our services. help bus operators in planning Chris said a big thank you to Stagecoach for the valuable support the satisfaction.” “The new electronic data system their networks and making more company had given to the squad. will ensure we deliver faster and effective use of vehicles and drivers. Healthy check-ups on the doorstep

THERE was a healthy develop- in Leicester, which staff will “Part of our plans for the ment at East Midlands Trains visit for routine medicals and future will be to investigate recently. health advice. the possibility of organising a Employees can now enjoy the “As an employer we want to number of health and well-being benefits of a new in-house oc- be known as a company that initiatives coordinated by the cupational health centre in King invests in its people and I see team at the centre, which we are Street, Leicester. this as the first major project in very excited about.” Margaret Kay, HR Director our franchise that does this. Staff at the centre will provide for East Midlands Trains, “By bringing occupational a full occupational health performed the opening health in-house we hope to offer service for the company’s 2,000 ceremony. a more complete and seamless employees. She said: “I’m very proud to be service for our staff, enabling The team is made up of a A picture of health: Centre staff, from left: Katie Wood, Medical Administrator; Barbara opening this new centre for our them to receive the prompt and number of healthcare profes- Davenport, Head of Employee Well-being; Dr Ogunyemi, Occupational Health Physician, staff today. accurate medical attention they sionals, supported by adminis- and Jacqui Rice, Occupational Health Nurse Adviser. “We have a great facility here need to do their jobs. trative and management staff. 4 Spring 08 SOUTH West Trains has received campaign to reinforce the message special recognition for winning A decade of dominance that every second counts when it more honours than any other or- comes to trains departing on time. Main route ganisation over the past 10 years of recognition of the six awards the 159/1 diesel trains carried out Stewart Palmer, South West the HSBC Rail Business Awards. company has scooped over the last in partnership with Wabtec and Trains’ Managing Director, said: “I to success To mark a decade of the 10 years, including Rail Business of Porterbrook. am delighted and proud to have prestigious awards, South West the Year in 2005. South West Trains and Network this award, but let’s not forget A NEW bus service has Trains received a “winner of The company also collected a Rail were also highly commended we would not have it if it weren’t earned high praise. winners” award at the 2008 event, highly commended certificate at the in the Internal Communications for the hard work and passion of Gillian Merron, Lincoln hosted by BBC News 24 presenter 2008 awards in the Rolling Stock Excellence of the Year category everyone, past and present, who MP, launched seven new Nicholas Owen. Excellence of the Year category for the ‘Right Time Railway has played their part in helping low-floor double-decker The honour was presented in for the refurbishment of the class Internal Communications’ – a joint South West Trains progress.” buses for Stagecoach Lin- colnshire’s InterConnect route between Lincoln and PROJECT REACHES OUT TO SCOTLAND’S YOUTH Grantham. Speaking to councillors, local business leaders, and representatives of the parishes along “the 1” route, Ms Merron said she was pleased that Lincoln- CHANGING LIVES shire was setting a good example using innovative bus service planning, design, and investment to achieve significant growth in bus use. FOR THE BETTER All of the InterConnect routes were founded using STAGECOACH Group has thrown changing their lives. Nineteen-year- Kickstart funding, and its weight behind a major initiative old Steven Robertson got involved demonstrated that strong to encourage young people in in volunteering after seeing an growth and commercial Scotland to volunteer in their local advert for ProjectScotland on TV success could be achieved communities. and was put in touch with the Web through using this approach The company has signed up to the Project. to bus services. Catalyst for Change programme, “I loved that the placement was Run in partnership which is run by ProjectScotland flexible and if I was having a down between Stagecoach and – the revolutionary organisation day I knew I could pick up the Lincolnshire County Council, connecting 16 to 25-year-olds with phone and ask if I could come in the Lincoln to Grantham full-time voluntary placements. another day,” he said. service became one of the Stagecoach is one of 50 businesses “I had an idea to start a football key InterConnect routes in ProjectScotland is hoping will pledge tournament as I have a qualification November 2002, when the to support 50 local volunteers and in coaching.” frequency was increased to take the lead in changing the face of He contacted a string of local every 30 minutes and the Scotland’s communities. businesses and very quickly first low-floor single-deck The Web Project – which offers drummed up support and funding buses were introduced. drop-in support for young people in On board: Ruth Allan, Head of Supporter Relations at ProjectScotland, volunteer Steven for his project. Passenger numbers have Milnathort and Kinross in Perthshire Robertson and Steve Stewart, Stagecoach Group Director of Corporate Communications. “I was in a residential care home grown by 70% since then – is one of the many local organisa- when I was younger and made some and currently around 11,000 tions to benefit from businesses, ship that the organisation is hoping thousands of people rely on every good contacts. I was involved with people travel on the route charities and volunteers working to encourage. day. a Reintegration Team that helped each week, making the intro- together. “We really want the model to be “We also believe strongly in being young people coming straight out of duction of double-deckers Devon-sent sponsorship for rugby kids Web Project Manager Paula Moore that business is helping to fund an active member of the community school and care. Most people I know essential. said: “The young volunteers bring volunteers who are then working in and many of our own employees have been in and out of jail since something different and really the community. volunteer to help local projects in then, but I came out on the good enhance our offering. It enables our “By funding a placement, their own time. side,” he said. service users to engage with others of Stagecoach are not only changing the “Helping young people build their “I want to get an SVQ in youth Summit to a similar age. life of the volunteers, but they’re also skills and confidence is central to a work, helping people with “By taking our project out to helping a charity out, and therefore lot of our community support and behavioural and drug problems. I do in Africa them we are involving people that helping the local community.” we are delighted to give our backing hope to work in a residential home wouldn’t access our traditional Steve Stewart, Stagecoach Group to the ProjectScotland Catalysts for as I was in one when I was younger. A SCOTS driver has set his services.” Director of Corporate Communica- Change initiative.” “My cousin died of a heroin sights on Africa’s highest Ruth Allan, Head of Supporter tions, added: “Stagecoach is at the The skills volunteers gain from overdose and if I can make a peak. Relations at ProjectScotland, said it is heart of the community, running their experience enable them to difference in one person’s life then Alex Mackenzie, a bus this kind of multi-beneficial relation- lifeline transport services that move on, with the process often he won’t have died for nothing.” driver with Stagecoach in Inverness, was set to climb Kilimanjaro for charity in March. Dover moves over to new base The 48-year-old has already completed two challenges to raise money for his local DOVER drivers are departing from a operated lighting and heating, will Highland Hospice in the last new, and greener, depot. reduce energy consumption and two years – cycling through The town’s new bus base is much overheads. the Canadian Rockies and more environmentally friendly than And Stagecoach Regional walking the famous Inca Trail the Russell Street depot, which was Managing Director Paul Southgate to Machu Picchu in Peru. home to Dover’s bus operators since is confident the improved working Looking forward to his 1956. conditions will benefit both staff and five-day trek up Kilimanjaro, The new facility houses the fleet of the local environment. Alex said “I hope to raise 46 buses and the team of 110 drivers, “This marks a new era for bus VIP visitors take a tour of Dover’s new bus depot. £5,000 this year. 21 engineers and 10 administrative operations in the Dover area,” he “I think I will achieve that personnel following Stagecoach’s said. and economic engine and fuel Hastings later this year.” as bus passengers have been £3.2 million investment. “A greener depot is part of our technologies. Paul was joined by Gwyn Prosser donating and my company State-of-the-art fuel storage policy to regularly upgrade our “We will also be investing in 15 MP, councillors and officers from has been good to me, as well facilities and oil waste reduction vehicle fleet to take advantage of new buses for routes between the local authorities to unveil a plaque at as local businesses.” systems, combined with sensor- more environmentally friendly port and Folkestone, Hythe and the official opening of the new depot. Spring 08 5 Low-floor, high-quality service Saltire cross A NEW low-floor town bus service has Nottinghamshire County Council, aiming been launched in Retford by Stagecoach to improve access for people to healthcare services sold East Midlands. services, employment, education and retail The buggy-friendly buses, with dedicated outlets. SCOTTISH Citylink Coaches branding for the new route 47/47a, run Bassetlaw Primary Care Trust has Limited has sold some of its up to every 30 minutes between Ordsall, contributed £180,000 of funding towards inter-city coach services. Hallcroft, Retford town centre and the the new service over three years, and A number of Saltire Cross Primary Care Centre on North Road. Nottinghamshire County Council is services – which link Aberdeen, The new service has been introduced upgrading bus stop infrastructure, including Glasgow, Inverness and through a partnership between Stagecoach, the installation of raised kerbs and Edinburgh – have been sold Low-floor buses are out and about in Retford. Bassetlaw NHS Primary Care Trust, and timetable information. to Parks of Hamilton (Coach Hirers) Limited. The move follows the Competition Commission’s confirmation in May 2007 that some services on the Saltire Cross network should be BRAVE DRIVERS’ divested. Scottish Citylink is the leading provider of express coach services in Scotland, linking around 200 towns and cities and carrying more than three BLAZE RESCUE million passengers a year. Stagecoach owns 35% of the TWO South Yorkshire coach drivers gregation of Jehovah’s Witnesses share capital of Scottish Citylink have been honoured for their who were already suffering from the Coaches Limited, while interna- bravery after giving life-saving affects of black, toxic fumes. tional transport group Com- assistance during a coach fire. Allan ran up the side of the coach fortDelGro owns the remaining Jamie Addison from Rawmarsh in against the fast flow of oncoming 65%. Rotherham and Allan Sawyer from motorway traffic, opened the rear Tom Wileman, Managing Low Edges in Sheffield – who both emergency door and shouted clear Director of Scottish Citylink work for Stagecoach Yorkshire on safety instructions. Coaches Limited, said: “We the National Express network – have Meanwhile Jamie, amidst ever- are pleased that the agreement been hailed as heroes and given two increasing smoke, gave loud and allows customers to access and separate industry awards. clear instructions at the front to get book the full range of Scottish In recognition of the dedication everyone into their National Express inter-city coach services through they showed, the Confederation of coach as the need to flee the smoke the citylink.co.uk and megabus. Passenger Transport’s Dennis Ellis and potential fuel explosion became com websites and to benefit Memorial Award 2007 was presented more pressing. from an integrated timetable. to them at a special dinner along with He then entered the coach and “Coach travel is growing as a prize of £200 and a trophy each. carried the last remaining passenger, motorists and other passengers They also won the National Express a disabled gentleman, to safety. Allan Sawyer and Jamie Addison are congratulated for their bravery by Paul Lynch are attracted by better Network monthly Employee Award Allan said: “I just went into managing director of Stagecoach Yorkshire (right). connections and faster and and a cheque for £100 each and were autopilot. I felt quite calm and more regular services. We look shortlisted for the national annual collected. to breathe or see, but I just moved and Jamie did that day. forward to welcoming even prize. “It was only later when I realised I as quickly as I could to get the “Without them they really don’t more customers to our package The drama unfolded back in July had stood on the M1 with fast-flow- gentleman to safety. know what would have happened. I of high-quality and excellent this year when Jamie and Allan were ing traffic still whizzing past me that I “I don’t think either of us feel like couldn’t let this go unnoticed so put value travel in the future.” passing junction 38 of the M1 in their realised exactly what we had done. heroes, but it has been nice to be them forward for the two awards. empty coach and noticed another “I’m just glad everyone was OK. I recognised with these awards.” “It was a horrendous situation for operator’s coach on fire. would do it again – no question.” Dawn Murphy, coaching manager them and they did put themselves at They promptly pulled up ahead Jamie added: “It was a bit scary for Stagecoach Yorkshire, said: risk, but they didn’t leave until the Ad campaign’s of it, quickly assessed there was an towards the end, especially when “We received a letter from the very last person was off that coach. extremely dangerous and urgent a lady came up to me and said her Mexborough Congregation of “They are two great blokes and just the ticket situation and beckoned to the driver disabled husband was still on the bus Jehovah’s Witnesses and lots of their bravery was tremendous – they to pull over in the hard shoulder. and he wouldn’t be able to walk off. individual letters from people who really went the extra mile that day CAR drivers are being lured back On board the coach were 46 “The coach was very much on fire were actually on the coach to let us and I know everyone involved is on the buses with some clever members of the Mexborough Con- at that point and I was struggling know what an exceptional job Allan extremely grateful.” direct marketing. Keen to highlight the economic and environmental benefits of bus travel, Stagecoach South Good Godfathers Wales launched an advertising campaign on the back of Pay and GANGSTERS made Stagecoach the party, we decided that the Al Display parking tickets. staff an offer they couldn’t Capone look would work well More than 450,000 tickets in refuse. for our own Valentine’s Day Caerphilly and Merthyr Tydfil will Supervisors Fred “The Massacre,” said Fred. carry the important message Persuader” Tinsley and John “We just added the fedoras during the two-month campaign. “Niceman” Wilcox, enjoyed and had great fun demanding wearing their tuxedos so much money with menaces from our for the depot Christmas party colleagues.” that they pulled them out of mothballs again on Valentine’s Would you like to share your Day to raise money from staff at experiences of working with the Thanet depot. Stagecoach? It was the latest Stagecoach in East Kent fund-raising stunt Checkout p16 for a full list of your On Stage contacts. for Demelza Hospice Care for Children, and it made nearly Car park tickets are spreading the word Gangsters Fred “The Persuader” Tinsley and John “Niceman” Wilcox tool up for a hard £150 for the good cause. A tale on cheaper and greener bus travel. day’s fundraising. “After a few glasses of wine at to tell? 6 Spring 08 Passengers TRAINS’ TIMING are pleased PASSENGERS’ overall satisfac- tion with Stagecoach Group’s South West Trains services has reached an all-time high. And this confidence is signifi- IS FIRST CLASS cantly above the national average, according to official figures. East Midlands Trains staff praised for punctuality pick-up The National Passenger Survey Autumn 2007 showed that overall satisfaction with South PASSENGERS travelling on satisfied and we have made years. Improvements over the Tim Shoveller added: “One of West Trains jumped 3% to 85% East Midlands Trains enjoyed a commitment to improve next year include: the most interesting opportuni- – 4% higher than the national improved punctuality just three punctuality even further. I want • Opening of East Midlands ties for East Midlands Trains will average. months after Stagecoach Group us to be the operator that runs a Parkway station near J24 of be the focus on our relationship It’s the highest rating achieved took over the franchise. ‘right time railway’. the M1 with stakeholders and community so far by the company, which is Average punctuality under East “We’ve faced some challenges • Introduction of a new partners along our route. investing millions of pounds in Midlands Trains was 87.15%, over these first three months, the timetable in December 2008, “We believe external funding delivering a safe, punctual and 86.09% and 88.13% for the first most testing of which was the providing more capacity and is available for improvements, reliable service. three periods, compared with derailment at Barrow on Soar on improved journey times subject to us creating positive re- Stewart Palmer, South West 81.31%, 84.95% and 86.15% for February 1. • Continued success of lationships and providing a good Trains’ Managing Director, said: the same periods last year, under “I believe that our staff megatrain.com, offering over case for investment from business “I am extremely pleased with previous operators Midland provided the best service 3,000 tickets to London from partners. the continued progress we are Mainline and Central Trains. possible service in very difficult key cities from just £1 (plus “During the life of our franchise, making as a company and this Tim Shoveller, Managing circumstances.” 50p booking fee) every week Stagecoach Group is investing £90 survey is our most valuable Director for East Midlands Stagecoach Group took over • Start of work to refurbish million in stations and services. feedback from the people who Trains, said: “We have a great responsibility for the East the Class 158 fleet, providing I am sure we have the right team matter most – our passengers. team in place to move the Midlands rail franchise on significantly upgraded trains in place to deliver this and more, “I would like to thank every November 11, 2007, and is for the Connect fleet exceeding what our passengers company forward successfully single South West Trains • Launch of a new catering are hoping for and bringing new and this is a great achievement. investing £90 million in stations employee for their hard work in offer on train. passengers to rail.” “However, we are still not and services over the next seven helping us achieve this result.” Runcorn Ex-Beatle’s ticket to ride THE MAN who put the beat in “What attracted me to this was it renewed the Beatles was taken on a magical brings easier access to the suburban mystery tour around his home city, sites – the places we frequented as RUNCORN railway station courtesy of Stagecoach. youths. has a new look, following the Drummer Pete Best helped launch a “There’s a lot of history, a great completion of a £650,000 re- new daily and weekly Megarider bus story to tell, and it opens up furbishment programme. ticket designed to give visitors and Merseyside.” The work reflects the regular passengers the chance to see Stagecoach spokesman Mark importance of the station to more of the city during its year-long Bushell added: “People should a growing number of business stint as Capital of Culture. know about these places. It’s a very and leisure customers. The bus took Peter from the Casbah important year for Liverpool, and it is A First Class Lounge and Club to old haunts including Penny such an incredibly historical city.” Standard Class waiting area Lane and Strawberry Fields. After leaving the Fab Four, Pete have been provided, which And the ex-Beatle – whose place in forged a successful career in the civil will be served by a new retail the band was taken over by Ringo service, but returned to performing outlet. The booking office Pete Best drums up support for Stagecoach with Tom Wileman, Managing Director of Starr in 1962 – had high praise for the after being persuaded to drum at a and retail area has been Stagecoach Merseyside. new initiative. Beatles convention in 1998. moved and upgraded, and access improved for mobility impaired customers. Station staff have also Seven’s heaven for bus service You say, we pay benefited from the refurbish- A PREMIUM bus service has SOUTH West Trains has refurbished the First ment work with a much-im- proved a big hit with the peo- Class area on its fleet of 30 Class 458 Juniper proved ticket office and staff ple of Perth. trains as part of a two-year improvement project. accommodation. Stagecoach has announced First Class compartments were upgraded with Externally, the dated 1960s the first quarter results of the new seats, tables and a coat of paint, while the appearance of the station innovative goldline bus service, train’s disabled toilets were made more user- has been enhanced with the which operates on service 7 in friendly. provision of new cladding. the Fair City. CCTV was installed in every carriage to Funding for the work has also By tempting motorists out improve security. come from Network Rail. of their cars with the promise And the units all had a ‘C4’ overhaul – removing The new station facilities of luxury comfort, service components such as the wheels, axles and were jointly opened by Derek guarantees and state-of-the Setting the Gold standard: goldline Driver of the Month winners, from left: suspension for inspection and renewal, as Twigg, MP for Halton, and art green travel, service 7 has Gavin Harper (January 2008), Lorriane Skene and Peter Von Savageri (joint appropriate. Virgin Trains Station Manager experienced passenger growth winners, Dec ember 2007) and Darren Sharp (November 2007) celebrate In addition, lights were added near the base of (Runcorn and Liverpool) of 5.6% since its launch in with Robert Andrew, Regional Director, Stagecoach Scotland (far left). the passenger doors to improve visibility in the Keith Millard. November, an increase of 1,100 footstep area at night. Keith said: “We are passengers each week. carrying more than 21,000 encouraging results of the first The work took place at South West Trains’ confident that the improved A £1million fleet of eight passengers every week. quarter. Bournemouth Traincare Depot. facilities at the station will 12-metre next-generation Robert Andrew, Regional “It’s a real team effort to Mac Mackintosh, South West Trains’ Engineering encourage more environmen- Alexander Dennis Enviro Director, Stagecoach Scotland deliver this successful product Director, said: “This First Class upgrade is in tally-conscious motorists to 300 buses operate goldline, said: “The launch of goldline – from the engineers and response to passenger feedback and they now ditch the car and take the which runs on the Hillend- has been an exciting project cleaners who work on these have a newly refurbished area with tables that train.” City Centre-Scone route every for those involved and we buses daily to the team of can fit more laptop computers than before.” 10 minutes during the day, are extremely pleased at the drivers working on the route.” Spring 08 7 STAGECOACH STAFF JOIN FORCES TO ENJOY A BREATH OF FRESH AIR STOP SMOKING GROUP MAKES A FRESH START

A GROUP of employees at Stagecoach Group’s headquarters in Perth have joined Health benefits forces to help each other quit smoking. Staff have joined a smoking cessation group Smoking is the UK’s number one and attended weekly meetings to share cause of avoidable premature death, experiences and offer each other support in linked to a range of serious and of- their bid to make a fresh start. ten fatal conditions. Backed by NHS Tayside, the group started But the good news is that the the one-hour weekly sessions just after the health benefits begin almost as soon festive break in January of this year. as you quit. The meetings, which are organised by NHS Tayside’s Smoking Cessation Co-ordinator for After... Perth and Kinross, Judy Robertson, cover a range of issues. 20 minutes Blood pressure Topics have included the support and and pulse return to medication currently available, how to cope normal. with cravings, and the health and financial benefits of stubbing out. 8 hours Nicotine and carbon Stagecoach has also helped the group by monoxide levels in providing a financial contribution towards the the blood are halved, medical prescriptions. oxygen levels in “The group has been fantastic. It has the blood return to worked really well,” said Judy. “When I first normal. Stubbing out: Members of the Stagecoach Group HQ smoking cessation group say no to Big Cig (alias Glenys came in I wasn’t sure they would all commit MacKreth). Pictured, from left, are Sandra Mudie, Sylvia O’Connor, Pauline Stephen, Tracey Furness, Agnes Munss, to it. But stopping in a group has really 24 hours Carbon monoxide is Maureen Duncan, Amy Paterson and Irene Graham. benefited all of them. eliminated from the “If you use a product such as nicotine body and the lungs replacement therapy (NRT) or Zyban or the start to clear out the new stop smoking medication Champix and build up of tar. attend a stop smoking group you are four times more likely to quit. That has proven true 48 hours There is no nicotine in this case. And even if everyone doesn’t stop left in the body. Taste the first time they try, lessons will be learned and smell are greatly and they may go on to succeed next time.” improved. Twelve members of staff at the Stagecoach Group HQ originally took up the challenge 72 hours Breathing becomes and nine have stuck with the programme and easier, bronchial tubes have been meeting for the past 12 weeks. begin to relax, energy Receptionist Irene Graham, who had been a levels increase.

2 - 12 weeks Circulation improves, making walking and Financial benefits running a lot easier. Stopping smoking isn’t about losing 3 – 9 months Coughs, wheezing and something – it’s about gaining a lot! breathing problems A packet of cigarettes costs improve as the lungs around £5.20 so quitting will have room for up to give a 20-a-day smoker an 10 per cent more extra £36.40 a week. oxygen. The benefits of stopping smoking soon start 1 year Risk of heart attack is adding up ... halved. One day £5.20 – 10 years Risk of lung cancer is a movie rental or a few halved. magazines

15 years Risk of heart attack One week £36.40 – is at the same level as a cheap flight abroad or a non-smokers. few CDs

8 Spring 08 STAGECOACH STAFF JOIN FORCES TO ENJOY A BREATH OF FRESH AIR TOP 10 TIPS TO STOP SMOKING

1 Set a date to stop and stick to it. Pick a day that will be STOP SMOKING GROUP relatively stress-free. 2 Write down all the reasons you want to stop smoking. There are lots of benefits of quitting smoking and yours might include saving money, being healthier, or for the sake of your family. Keep your list somewhere handy to use as a reminder if you are tempted to have a cigarette.

3 Keep a diary for a day or two. Note down all the MAKES A FRESH START times and places you smoke, with a note of how much you needed each cigarette. This will help you plan for tricky moments.

4 Get help. Let friends and family know you’re quitting and tell them what they can do to help. Your GP, nurse or pharmacist can give you advice about stop smoking support and to let you know about specialist services and helplines. You could even get some sponsorship for your quit attempt.

5 Quit together. Find others who would like to give up smoking and agree to support each other. Keep in daily contact and make a pact not to let each other down.

6 Ease the withdrawal symptoms and plan some help. Nicotine is addictive and you may experience withdrawal symptoms like irritability, lack of concentration and sleeping problems. These effects of stopping smoking are temporary and can be greatly eased with treatments like NRT, Zyban or Varenicline.

7 Prepare to stop smoking. Get rid of lighters, ashtrays and matches and make sure you don’t have any cigarettes around. Remove any stale smoke smells by spring-cleaning your house and clothes.

8 Take it one day at a time. Concentrate on getting through each day without a cigarette. Know what you are going to say if someone offers you a cigarette - enjoy saying, “No thanks - I don’t smoke”.

Colleagues who joined a smoking cessation group found the process was easier ... and fun! 9 Break the links that create the habit. Most smokers will have times and places when they always have a cigarette, like after a meal or when you are out with smoker for over three decades since she was who used to smoke up to 25 cigarettes a day. friends. Try to avoid these situations at first if you think you will be tempted to 17, said: “I initially went along out of curiosity ““The over-riding factor is that you don’t smoke, or do something different –you could go for a short walk after a meal. just to see what it was going to be like. I had want to be the one that comes in on Monday tried a few times to give up and then started morning to say that you have started 10 Learn to relax! Try this simple breathing exercise: up again.” smoking again. We’ve had a lot of laughs If possible, sit down with feet flat on the floor, hands resting on knees. Breathe As well as the official support sessions, the doing it as well and that has helped us get slowly in and out through the nose a couple of times, concentrating on the group meets together at 10.30 am every day in through it.” sensation of air moving in and out of the body. Start to breathe more deeply, still the office canteen for a chat when they would Irene has banked around £420 in just 10 through the nose, consciously letting the air fill the abdomen, then the lower and otherwise have gone for a cigarette outside. weeks after kicking the habit, while some upper chest in sequence. Breathe out the same way, expelling the air from the ”We’ve all supported each other,” said Irene, staff have managed to save enough money abdomen, lower and upper chest in turn. Repeat this breath three or four times, for a holiday because they have convinced and then return to normal breathing. their partner to stop smoking as well. She added: “I’ve definitely noticed a big Financial benefits difference in my breathing and I’ve even Follow the 10 top tips above and then: joined the gym, although I’ve already used One month £156.00 – a shopping the money for other things!” • Reward yourself! Save the spree or the monthly food bill money that you would have spent on cigarettes for a Three months £468.00 – two weeks treat such as a new outfit, in the sun or a new computer National helplines going out for a meal or taking a holiday. Six months £936.00 – a family • And remember – once holiday or some new furniture NHS stop smoking helpline (England stopped, stay stopped. and Wales): 0800 169 0 169 Remember that ‘just one One year £1898.00 – a second-hand cigarette’ can lead to car or the start of a deposit for a Smokeline (Scotland): 0800 84 84 84 another. Keep reminding house. yourself of the health and The national helplines can provide other benefits of stopping And don’t forget you’ll also save telephone counselling, information smoking. Make sure you take money in other ways. Life, fire and car by post, and details of local services. the full course of any nicotine insurance can all be cheaper when you Recorded information is available out of replacement treatment you are quit. hours. using.

Spring 08 9 Lincoln loves bus services scheme delivers

STAGECOACH East Midlands has introduced more Sunday and evening bus services in Lincoln. more passengers The move follows discussions with Lincoln’s Business NEW figures released by is reflected by our decision to launch Improvement Group and Stagecoach in South Wales reveal a similar enhancement scheme Lincolnshire County Council, that its Kickstart scheme, launched to Route 151 which runs from and comes in the wake of the three years ago with the help of Blackwood to Newport. success of the high-frequency, public investment, has exceeded “The frequency of the service was better-quality bus services its growth targets and is now improved to every 10 minutes from previously introduced to the completely self-financing. December 3 and the service will be city. The first bus enhancement operated by 14 brand new low-floor “Bus use in Lincoln has initiative of its kind in Wales, the Optare Versa buses, our first increased by 25% year Kickstart scheme was launched in service buses in South Wales that on year, and that growth November 2004 and was a joint comply with the Euro IV emissions trend is continuing,” said initiative between Stagecoach, the standard. Dave Skepper, Commercial Welsh Assembly Government and “We hope that this significant Director for Stagecoach East Caerphilly County Borough Council investment will result in a Midlands. to encourage more people to leave substantial increase in the number “We are carrying around their cars at home and travel by bus. of passengers on the service.” 120,000 passengers every The £1.5 million three-year Ieuan Wyn Jones, Deputy week on Lincoln’s buses scheme aimed to increase passenger First Minister and Minister for and selling 6,000 weekly numbers on two key routes Justgo… services are now carrying over 1.3 million passengers a year. Economy and Transport, said: “The megarider tickets every connecting Senghenydd and Graig- Welsh Assembly Government is month. Our modernisation y-Rhacca to Caerphilly town centre, been exceeded, with passenger bus network and, as the passenger committed to developing integrated of bus services complements the University Hospital of Wales growth currently standing at 31.6 growth numbers show, has made local transport and improving the work of local businesses, (Heath) and Cardiff, by 22 per cent per cent, and the two justgo… a real difference to people in South public transport throughout Wales. councils, retailers, and and be completely self-financing services carrying over 1.3 million Wales. “By making public transport more developers who are all within three years. passengers each year. “New buses and more frequent accessible we can encourage more investing in making Lincoln Sixteen state-of-the-art, easy-access John Gould, Managing Director services are key to encouraging people to take advantage of the a vibrant, fashionable, and low-floor buses, branded justgo…. of Stagecoach in South Wales, said: people to leave their cars at home many benefits it provides. Justgo… attractive place to live, work were bought to operate a more “This partnership approach has and use public transport. is an excellent example of this and and visit.” frequent service on the two routes. been a practical way to deliver a “Our commitment to improving demonstrates what can be achieved Three years on, that target has much-needed boost to the Welsh bus services in Caerphilly Borough through partnership working.” Passengers connected Under the Megabus skies megabus.com, Stagecoach’s hugely popular budget inter-city VIRGIN Trains has teamed up with mobile telephone coach service, has opened up new travel opportunities for operator T-Mobile to provide thousands of people across the UK and in North America. improved Wireless Broad- Here regular passenger Leda Parker, who has made more band (Wi-Fi) in all of its First Class lounges. than 300 journeys between Exeter and London, gives a And the facility is available personal perspective on what megabus.com means to her. free to all with WiFi-enabled Laptops and PDAs – not just THERE are many reasons to be bursting forth in a hundred different T-Mobile users. grateful to Megabus, not least its sweetshop hues. Virgin Trains New Product pivotal role in enabling a return On clear summer nights the Development Manager ‘to the dubious joys of property sun’s slow descent in the sky has Victoria Mawson said: ownership. thrown up canvasses of celestial “We know that our First Riding the London-Plymouth route majesty that would seem to defy Class customers value the bi-weekly over the last three years the artist’s palette. Vast crimson and After the fresh and vibrant summer later I had found a happy, ability to work onboard our has, moreover, been an awe-inspiring gold sunscapes on a backdrop of scenes, autumn’s subdued, metallic two-bedroom Victorian terrace in trains and in our First Class way of experiencing nature and brilliant, azure blue; creamy cotton tones of bronze, gold, copper and rust a desirable area, close to a park lounges. her seasons, all too easily lost in the wool clouds hanging carpet-like blanket the landscape, alternately with ocean views, and close to the “That is why we have metropolitan gloom. in the sky with blazing red and muted and gleaming in a marvellous university which provides a steady upgraded the Wi-Fi facility in Spring delights include miles of gold undersides; improbable last textured tapestry. stream of well-mannered, largely our lounges. We also intend sun-dappled bluebell woods, rolling light shades of deep and sombre Wintry dawns reveal languid, foreign postgraduate lodgers. to roll out Wi-Fi across our rape-emblazoned hills of dazzling blue-green washing eerily into mist-engulfed swamps, lonely My 300-plus journeys have always trains and routes starting yellow and glittering spring blooms murky mustard yellow. stag-headed trees whose bony been made pleasant by unfailingly later this year.” arthritic branches occasionally helpful and cheerful Megabus Virgin Trains is also enthrone a solitary buzzard scanning drivers. improving mobile phone the naked landscape. I once Megabus clientele have been an reception on board its trains. counted nine birds of prey interesting assortment of characters between Plymouth and Exeter. which seldom fail to entertain. If you have a story you would like The affordability of Megabus Voyagers have included wizened

to see included in the next issue travel permitted a more expansive academics, a suspected mail-order of On Stage, then we want to hear approach to the home ownership bride couple, a jolly-spirited gang of

from you. conundrum. Outpriced by the marathon runners and most notably a Your On Stage contact is listed London market, a more creative Plain Jane who after four hours meta- on p16. solution was called for. morphosed into a stunning‘ Fetish And, thanks to Megabus, there Queen of crimson red, skin-tight A tale was a way out. Plymouth here I latex couture, (which, apparently, she to tell? Leda’s snaps capture the natural come. made and designed herself, although splendour on view from her Megabus seat. Two weekends and 30 viewings not on the Megabus). 10 Spring 08 Next stop’s Sun Hill HOVER PROJECT thanks to TV soap UP IN THE AIR PLANS for a new hovercraft service across Scotland’s Firth of MEGABUS.COM is set to feature Station located in the fictional Forth have been frozen for the in an episode of the hit TV soap Borough of Canley, East London. time being. The Bill. megabus.com driver Jane Stagecoach is putting all Producers shot a scene for an Brown, from Rugby, was at the research and development on the episode in the latest series of wheel for a scene when a criminal project on hold until it receives Britain’s longest-running police on the run tries to escape by clarification over the future drama series at Victoria Coach getting on the coach. public sector role and investment, Station in London earlier this The Bill has been running on both of which are key to taking year. ITV for more than 20 years and Graham Cole, who plays PC Tony Stamp in the TV series, megabus.com driver Jane the project forward. The Bill features the goings-on one-hour dramas are broadcast Brown, megabus.com Network Manager Ian Laing and Melanie Gutteridge, who plays The Group unveiled a detailed at Sun Hill, a Metropolitan Police twice a week. PC Emma Keane. business plan in autumn 2007, outlining how a link could be established between Fife and Edinburgh using a 150-passenger PALS PLEDGE POUNDS FOR PADDLING PLAN craft with a crossing time of just 20 minutes. It offered to invest more than £10 million to make the project a reality, with limited short-term public sector support of around £3.3 million to bridge the gap in CANOE BELIEVE IT? the first three years to reach the point where it became commer- TRAIN workers are going off that many have told me is a bit cially viable. the rails and on to the water for mad. Around £500,000 has already a kayaking marathon. “That may be so, but I wanted been invested by Stagecoach This July, Dave Stannard and to do something different and to in the plans, which could boost Adam Plant will set sail on a raise as much money as possible transport links and the economy 300-mile trip from London to for BLISS. for communities on both sides of Sheffield to raise money for the “My wife Cath and I can never the Forth. premature baby charity BLISS. thank them and Jessops Hospital Stagecoach recently chartered The East Midlands Trains in Sheffield enough for the care a hovercraft to carry out a survey employees will start their epic they gave to Corey and the of wintering birds on the Forth journey at Chiswick Road Bridge advice and support they gave us. estuary as part of an environ- in London, travelling via the “This challenge is nothing mental impact study. Thames, Grand Union Canal, compared to what Corey And the vessel also carried out River Trent, Nene, the Wash and overcame with their help.” a trial run from Kirkcaldy to Alloa then on to Sheffield. Dave and Adam have already to demonstrate the technology Krazy kayakers Adam Plant (above) and Dave Stannard (below) Dave’s usual role for the been pledged over £1,000 in to councillors and officials from company is as an Operations sponsorship by colleagues and Clackmannanshire Council, as Trainer, whilst Adam works as a friends and East Midlands part of Stagecoach’s longer-term Train Manager. Trains are making a donation vision for a network of sea-based Neither has any experience and paying for a radio training links on the Forth. with a paddle, but Dave is well course. However, this will be the last aware of the fantastic support Tim Shoveller, Managing planned work for the time being. BLISS provides, as his own son Director of East Midlands Trains, A Stagecoach spokesman Corey was born prematurely at said: “We’re all very proud of said: “There has been wide just 28 weeks in November 2003, the supreme effort that Dave support from across the political weighing just 2lb 2ozs. and Adam are making for this spectrum for our proposals for a Dave said: “I have previously very worthy cause. I can’t even permanent cross-Forth link and completed various challenges for imagine walking this far, let we have been working on the charity – including cycling from alone making the journey by concept for nearly a decade. London to Sheffield last year – canoe.” “We have presented our but this is the most extreme yet. proposals to the Scottish “Paddling some 30 miles a day Find out more and make a Government, South East of over sea and canal and even donation by visiting www. Scotland Transport Partnership crossing the Wash is something krazykayaks.blogspot.com (SEStran), Fife Council and Edinburgh Council. “However, we are unable to progress the project further until Announcing a very special character we have clarity from the Scottish Government and public sector BEESTON-based station announcer Dave nouncements I make. agencies on their delivery role Smith prides himself on making cheerful “It might be a wet, miserable Monday and the funding process, which announcements for passengers using the morning at the start of another working is critical to the future of the station. week, but I hope I can put a smile on initiative.” And now his announcements have their faces as they pass through the become so well known and loved that a station.” If you have a story you would like local radio station has featured him on Nigel Carlisle, Route Manager for East to see included in the next issue their Monday morning breakfast show. Midlands Trains, added: “We know of On Stage, then we want to hear With East Midlands Trains’ permission, that people want accurate and reliable from you. BBC Radio Nottingham recorded Dave information about their journey and we Your On Stage contact is listed during a busy Monday morning. train our announcers to do that consist- on p16. Dave said: “The people here at Beeston ently. are great. Lots of the passengers are “But it’s great that Dave manages to A tale regulars now and I find that people pass that information on to passengers to tell? respond very well to the happy an- with so much personality and character.” Dave Smith’s on-air charm has earned him a place on local radio. Spring 08 11 Leave the car behind and Key appointments travel solo STAGECOACH in South Wales at East Midlands recently launched its brand new fleet of 16 Optare Solo buses to EAST Midlands Trains has made run on three key busy routes in two new appointments and one South East Wales. promotion within its Customer The £1.25 million investment is Service Team. part of an ongoing campaign to Cheryl Exley, Head of On-train encourage more people to leave Services, joins the company from their cars at home and travel by First Transpennine Express. bus. Cheryl started her railway career at The new low-floor buses will GNER some ten years ago, working run on three services between in roles first as a Customer Service Torfaen and Newport. Manager on-train and later as Last year, 1.1 million passengers Business Manager looking after the were carried on Stagecoach on-train team. services 15/23/30, and it is hoped Her last role at Transpennine that this investment will boost Express was as Head of On-Board numbers further as people are Services. encouraged to travel to work, Cheryl said “I’m looking forward shop or during their leisure time to working at East Midlands Trains. on the new state-of-the-art bus With the right direction and support, Cheryl Exley. Kelly Jennings. Steve Hampson. fleet. we will be able to achieve our goal To mark the investment, John of consistently delivering excellent variety of roles. Early jobs included colleagues and stakeholders to secure I’ll be working to build and improve Gould, Managing Director of customer service on every service we Train Guard and Shunter. More success for our business and the all aspects of customer contact, Stagecoach in South Wales, operate. Achieving this is going to be recently he worked for South Eastern communities we serve.” including telesales, customer Rt Hon Paul Murphy MP and a challenge for us, but I’m confident Railway as Terminals Manager, Steve, who lives in Kent, enjoys relations, revenue protection and Councillor John Cunningham, we’ll get there.” managing the operation of large running and has completed a number information security.” from Torfaen County Borough Cheryl – who lives in Baildon, West stations such as London Bridge and of half marathons. Jake Kelly, Customer Service Council, officially launched the Yorkshire, with her partner and two Cannon Street. Kelly Jennings, Head of Customer Director for East Midlands Trains, new fleet in Pontypool. Yorkshire terriers – enjoys running Steve said: “A key challenge for our Service, has been promoted from the said: “I’m delighted to welcome John Gould commented: and cooking. new business will be the merging of role of Customer Relations Manager Cheryl and Steve to the company “These new buses are some Steve Hampson, Head of Stations, our local Connect services with our – a job she held for six years, working and to congratulate Kelly on her of the most modern in our has been promoted from within Mainline business. We need to bring for both East Midlands Trains and the promotion. entire South Wales fleet and Stagecoach Group, having previously together these two quite different former franchise operator Midland “These three roles will be key to demonstrate our commitment been employed as Area Manager services, whilst making improve- Mainline. our success in customer service, to providing quality bus travel to (suburban) for South West Trains. ments in quality and standards. I am She said “I’m looking forward to providing renewed and dedicated residents here.” Steve has 20 years’ experience excited about the new franchise and working with my team to make a management commitment to these within the rail industry working in a looking forward to working with real difference for our passengers. areas.” Caring collection Computer coach Signs of better on nostalgic trip boosts learning things to come VIRGIN Trains has listened to A NOSTALGIC journey has helped to boost a kind- DRIVERS are on the information its passengers and is trying out hearted collection for a late colleague’s loved-ones. superhighway thanks to a joint venture improved information signs on Hartlepool employee James Nielsen co-owns a between a trade union and managers. one of its Pendolino trains. former Hartlepool Transport / Stagecoach Hartlepool Stagecoach in East Kent has donated a Last year, members of the Bristol RE bus – the last of its type to operate. 49-seat coach to Unite, which is now busy Virgin Trains Passengers Panel Last November, 10 years after the vehicle’s transforming its interior to create a fully- suggested the information labels withdrawal from service, he helped organise a re- equipped IT learning centre. both inside and outside of the enactment of its final afternoon’s run. Stagecoach will provide fuel and train could be further improved Passengers travelled free, but donations to a continue to maintain the new Skills to help passengers locate the collection tin were added to the fund set up by Coach for Unite. right part of the train, and the Hartlepool staff for the family of colleague Ronnie And Unite’s Union Learning Repre- onboard facilities they needed. Stokell, who passed away shortly before. sentative Ricky Hawes will drive the The new labels on the The bus, which is currently stored at Hartlepool coach to depots in Kent so that many outside of the train signpost the Depot, is due to be further restored and refurbished of the 850 drivers in the region will have location of disabled areas, shop, and will play a part in the launch of the Radio the chance to learn computer skills, quiet coaches, cycle area and Hartlepool community station this spring. tutored by professional trainers. the seats accessed from each “We are delighted to support Unite entrance door. in this initiative to develop IT skills for Inside the train, ‘You are Here’ drivers,” said Operations Director Neil signs in the vestibules allow Instrall. passengers to easily find their “Whilst many of our younger team way around. members will be used to using laptops Improved door-opening and PCs, previous generations may not buttons have also been fitted to have had the opportunity to learn.” the outside of the train. Ricky Hawes accepted the coach from Chris Gibb, Virgin Trains Chief Neil Instrall at Stagecoach’s Thanet depot Operating Officer, said: “This recently. is an example of where the The exterior of the Plaxton Volvo B10M views of our passengers really has been re-sprayed to a design by the count. We have listened to what company’s Marketing Assistant Kristina they told us and this trial is the James Nielsen (right) hands over the collection tin to John Harrison. Neil Instrall (left) hands over the keys to Ricky Hawes. result.” Hudson, who arranged the main fundraising. 12 Spring 08 New fleet in the Granite City A blooming TEN new buses have been launched within Aberdeen and Aberdeenshire in Aberdeenshire, allowing the in 2007. The new addition to the great appeal service to operate with a fully fleet means that 45 brand new fully wheelchair-accessible timetable. accessible low-floor buses and Northampton was blooming The state-of-the-art, easy-access coaches have been introduced in the recently as a special Enviro 300 buses also have the latest area since April 2006 at a cost of over Marie Curie Cancer Care environmentally friendly engines £6.4 million. Stagecoach bus helped launch and CCTV equipment to ensure Charlie Mullen, Managing Director the charity’s Great Daffodil maximum passenger and driver of Stagecoach Bluebird, said: “At a Appeal. safety. time when we are all very aware of Fundraisers, Marie Curie The new buses operate on service the environmental impacts of our nurses, local supporters and 307 between Aberdeen, Bucksburn, lifestyles, we want to ensure that mascot Daffy asked the people Blackburn, Kintore and Inverurie. switching to the bus can be a viable Charlie Mullen, Managing Director, Stagecoach Bluebird (left), Councillor Kitts-Hayes of Northamptonshire to make More than 7 million bus journeys and enjoyable option for as many (centre) and Councillor Cowling (right), launch the new buses at the bridge over the a donation to the good cause were made with Stagecoach Bluebird people as possible.” River Don, Port Elphinstone. in return for a daffodil pin. The charity hoped to raise £5.5 million throughout the month-long UK appeal, to help give thousands of people free specialist end-of-life care from Marie Curie nurses. OH LORD – WHAT Irene Booker, local Marie Curie nurse, said: “This year is the Diamond Jubilee of Marie Curie Cancer Care so it is fantastic to have this colourful bus to launch the Great A LONG CAREER! Daffodil Appeal. “All donations will help us LANCASTER driver Cliff Lord working full-time. Ribble Motor Services at Ingleton in early 1970s before being appointed a provide thousands of free passed a remarkable milestone It’s now believed he’s the Group’s 1949, he moved companies and has permanent Inspector in 1972. nursing care hours, allowing recently – clocking up 60 years in longest-serving employee. been with Ribble (and subsequently Over the past few years, Cliff has people to pass away in the the bus industry. Cliff began his career in 1947 when Stagecoach) ever since. hung up his Inspector’s hat and comfort of their own home, Cliff’s Stagecoach North West he became a conductor with Pennine Cliff transferred to Lancaster, has been driving every evening on surrounded by family and colleagues marked the extra- Motors based at their Gargrave depot becoming a driver in 1956 and the women-only bus for Lancaster friends.” special event in October, when the in North Yorkshire. spending summers as a seasonal University. Tony Cox, Stagecoach East’s 79-year-old driver finally finished When a vacancy came up with Inspector at nearby Morecambe in the Stephie Barber, Operations Manager Managing Director, said: “It’s at Stagecoach in Lancaster, revealed great to be able donate the that, while Cliff had finished working bus advert space to such a full-time, he had no intention of worthwhile charity.” stopping work and could often be seen driving around the city on the local bus network. Christopher Bowles, Managing Bus bouquets Director of Stagecoach North West, described Cliff as a well-known and put to the test popular figure, not only with his colleagues at Stagecoach in Lancaster, SPRING is in the air – and but also with the travelling public Nuneaton bus passengers are throughout North Lancashire. experiencing a breath of fresh Colleagues presented Cliff with air. a framed montage of pictures of For a trial period, Stagecoach preserved Ribble buses, and he was customers are being asked to also taken for lunch, driven in a rate their preferences for ylang 1954 Leyland Tiger Cub – complete ylang, ocean, spring and other with bus conductor – courtesy of the relaxing fragrances sprayed Cliff Lord and some of his colleagues in front of the 1954 Leyland Tiger Cub. Ribble Vehicle Preservation Trust. into the bus by automatic dispensers. Nuneaton Stagecoach Operations Manager Mark Dial-A-Bus bonus Crannis explained: “This is ABERDEEN drivers have been praised All aboard! an interesting experiment to for going the extra mile. see if our customers like their Drivers for Stagecoach Bluebird help A DAY care centre has its very own bus stop, transport to be scented or not. with the local Dial-A-Bus services in thanks to Stagecoach in Warwickshire. “We take a great pride in conjunction with Aberdeen City Council, The Cherry Trees day care respite centre in Rugby our vehicles and we undertake giving local people an on-demand cares for people who suffer from Alzheimer’s stringent cleaning routines transport facility across the city. disease and dementia, giving their families and daily, but we feel that the The scheme is funded by the Council carers the chance to take a break. addition of these sweet smells and Stagecoach Bluebird assist with Adam Rideout, Marketing Manager for might enhance the travelling the journey booking service, as well as Stagecoach in Warwickshire, explained: “We were experience. providing drivers for the journeys. approached by the manager of Cherry Trees who “It is something other The increased use of the Dial-A-Bus asked if Stagecoach would be able to donate a bus industries have been doing service fuelled the launch of a second flag, as he wanted to put it up inside the doors to for years. We’ll monitor the vehicle in 2007 and trials of special events assist the residents. response and if it’s a hit with and seasonal services. “The idea is to help them recognise the centre as our customers then we will Over the past year, the service has been a meeting place and that a bus will come and pick continue.” praised for increasing accessibility in the them up at the end of the day to take them home. Respondents will be entered area and the Stagecoach Bluebird drivers “We were very happy to help.” in a prize draw to win £40 are commended for the excellent service worth of Boots vouchers and they continually provide. Cherry Trees carer Emily Gibson and Enid Dumbleton, who uses three months’ free bus travel. the centre, meet at the bus stop. Spring 08 13 BUS INDUSTRY’S ‘ON THE MOVE’

MINISTER for Transport Rosie Winterton MP highlighted Stagecoach’s market-leading Oxford Tube service as a good example of best practice as the UK bus industry announced a record number of passengers. On The Move A new report launched by the Confederation of Passenger facts and stats Transport revealed a boom in bus use, with almost a billion bus • Shopping mad: More people journeys used for shopping last use the bus to go shopping year. than anything else, including On The Move – New Opportuni- going to work or to school ties, New Passengers also highlights the number of people getting on • It’s better by bus: 167,000 board has risen for the second year people work in the UK bus in a row – up three per cent to 4.72 industry, that’s more than billion. The ‘bus bible’ showcases on our railways and airlines successful partnerships between combined local authorities and operators up and down the country that are • Belt up: Once again the bus enticing people back onto the bus. Minister for Transport Rosie Winterton says On The Move is testament to what can be achieved through vision, partnership and creativity. is the safest form passenger Launching On The Move, the transport on our roads Minister for Transport said: “Buses Writing in the foreword to the the bus as a sustainable form of quality bus services they deserve. are a vital part of our local transport publication, she said: “Within the public transport. Bus operators are “It is no coincidence that, where • All aboard: More of our system. Two thirds of public pages of On The Move, readers continuing to invest in younger strong partnerships exist between fleets are now low-floor transport journeys are made by will find a broad spectrum of best models and trailing new low-carbon operators, local authorities and access vehicles than standard bus, connecting people to essential practices from across the UK, ranging fuels to make their fleets greener. other stakeholders, the results are access services, to jobs, to leisure, to friends from bus operator and local authority Simon Posner, Chief Executive, the most rewarding. Voluntary and and family. collaboration on what will be the Confederation of Passenger statutory bus partnerships have • Kings of the road: 48 billion “On The Move is a true repre- longest bus-only route in the world, Transport, said: “For the second year shown it is possible to ensure that kilometres of bus journeys sentation of the merits of our bus to the Oxford Tube commuter coach in a row bus use is on the rise. On ‘putting passengers first’ is not just a were travelled last year – system in the UK and is testament service, which offers free email and The Move illustrates the great strides contrived ideal, but a benchmark the saving 8.1 million tonnes of to what can be achieved through internet access to its passengers.” made in many parts of the country public transport sector is committed CO2 emissions if the journeys vision, partnership and creativity.” On The Move also heralds to provide passengers with the high- to working towards.” were taken by car instead.

STAGECOACH team members who helped fundraise for a Helping hand for hospice Make mine a ninety-nine children’s hospice were given a VIP tour of the facility recently. Ian Manning, Nearly £2600 was raised by Managing Director the 7th Annual Herne Bay of Stagecoach West, Bus Rally last August, and the joins NHS staff to money was given to Demelza help launch the new Hospice Care For Children route 99 service. near Sittingbourne. The presentation brings the total raised for the charity to more than £35,000 thanks to Sue Booth and Director of Fundraising James Hanaway accept the cheque from the bus rallies and fundraising Graham Young and his fellow Stagecoach fundraisers. HOSPITAL visits are easier by bus, free travel to and from work within initiatives from Stagecoach thanks to a new joint project in the county, easing pressure on both staff. for Demelza in 2006. virtually no government or local Gloucestershire. car parks and the region’s roads. The VIP tour was conducted “We are very grateful to everyone authority funding.” During the visit, Stagecoach West and Gloucester- To mark the investment, Ian by Campaigns and Adminis- at Stagecoach who contribute to the new designs to repaint the Volvo shire Hospitals NHS Foundation Manning, Managing Director of tration Manager Sue Booth and fundraising,” said Sue. Olympian double-decker bus which Trust have unveiled a fleet of four Stagecoach West, and Trust Chair one of Stagecoach’s Bus Rally “We must raise £3.5 million each promotes the hospice were unveiled. buses to run on the brand new route Dame Janet Trotter officially organisers Graham Young, year to maintain and improve The bus will feature in this year’s 99. launched the new fleet at who became an Ambassador the facilities at the hospice with Herne Bay Rally on August 3. The investment is part of an Cheltenham General Hospital. ongoing campaign to encourage “This is another excellent example more people to leave their cars at of bus companies working with key home and travel by bus. local employers on green transport Service celebrated This partnership provides plans to cut congestion and benefit LONG-serving employees in Scotland have been passengers with a frequent shuttle the environment,” said Ian. honoured for their outstanding service. bus between two hospitals and Dame Janet Trotter added: “This The Stagecoach Bluebird long service awards were held a park-and-ride service from the scheme will add further options for at The Hilton Treetops in Aberdeen. Racecourse to Cheltenham General people travelling to our hospital sites Eleven members of staff received an award for 20 to 24 Hospital via the Town Centre. and will support our aim to reduce years’ service, while eight employees received awards Hospital staff will also benefit from carbon emissions in our urban areas.” for 25-plus years, three of whom have worked for the company for a fantastic 40 years. 14 Spring 08 Preston passes millionth passenger mark

STAGECOACH North West growth in the Stagecoach fleet since recently welcomed the millionth the Citi network was introduced. passenger on board its Preston Citi The city has also benefited from network. the introduction of a number of To celebrate this milestone, lucky new Optare Solos and low-floor passenger Sam Hodgson from Enviro400 double-deckers, which Bamber Bridge won a Golden have allowed comfortable transport Ticket entitling her to a year’s free for the whole community, with easy Laura Newlyn swapped her bus for a travel on all Stagecoach services access for buggies and wheelchairs. plane to take a 12,000-foot charity throughout Lancashire. Sam is a Managing Director Chris Bowles skydive. regular commuter on the Preston said: “We are delighted to reach Citi network. this landmark figure of one million Passengers have been quick new passengers on our expanded She’s got a to utilise the expanded services network in Preston and to mark this throughout the city and the un- occasion in this special way with a Millionth passenger Sam Hodgson is congratulated by Stagecoach North West Laura bottle precedented demand has led to a loyal customer.” Managing Director Chris Bowles (left) and Operations Manager Rob Jones.

ADVENTUROUS driver Laura Newlyn has completed the biggest challenge of her life – jumping from a plane at 12,000 feet! Laura (24), from Burton PAUL ENGINEERS Latimer, took the tandem parachute plunge over Brackley to raise money for the Lennox Children Cancer Fund. She revealed: “I was very A BIG THANK YOU nervous about doing the jump, but also very excited as it’s ENGINEER Paul Smith owes then treated for multiple broken something I have wanted to do his life to the Great North Air bones in his legs, arms and ribs. for years.” Ambulance. Lucky to be alive, he is now Laura has worked for And his Stagecoach North East undergoing intensive therapy but is Stagecoach East for four years colleagues have expressed their expected to make a full recovery. and all her colleagues were gratitude by staging a live music His colleagues at the Stagecoach keen to support her. event to raise funds for the life-saving Walkergate depot in Newcastle “I would like to thank service. wanted to show their support for the everyone who donated Paul (45) was involved in a serious Air Ambulance crew and organised money,” she said. road accident in October, 2007. an evening of live music at the “Not only was I able to Driving home on his motorbike Shieldfield Club. raise money for a worthwhile along the A69 from Carlisle, he was The event was a huge success, cause, I also fulfilled a lifelong struck by a car that had been hit raising £890, and Stagecoach North ambition.” by another vehicle and sustained East agreed to double that figure to massive injuries. make a marvellous total donation of Fortunately, a passing surgeon £1,780. and nurse stopped to help and John Conroy, Managing Director for Half-century managed to stabilise Paul and call the Stagecoach North East, said: “Paul is emergency services. a valued member of our workforce of service Due to the location of the accident and I am pleased to see his colleagues and the fact that a female passenger rallying together to thank the service STAGECOACH East has said in the car was also seriously injured, that saved his life. a sad farewell to driver Derek the Great North Air Ambulance was “The Great North Air Ambulance Watson, who retired after 51 called and lifted Paul and the lady to is a unique operation that has helped years of service. Paul Smith and Bob Bootiman, Engineering Manager at the Walkergate depot, join the Freeman Hospital in Newcastle. thousands of people across the region Derek (72), from Kempston in fellow engineers and two of Paul’s carers to proudly display the donation to the Great Paul underwent emergency surgery and is a worthy cause that we are Bedford, had the job in his blood North Air Ambulance. to repair a ruptured aorta and was happy to support.” as both his father and uncle worked on the buses. His brother also enjoyed a long-running career as a driver, with the pair clocking up 96 The A-route to success years of service between them. Derek began driving at the A FOOTIE fan kicked the compe- Stagecoach West/CTFC branded age of 21, and was never late tition into touch to win an extra- bus. for his work. He said: “I used to special prize. Nathan Williams, Marketing work on the coaches, travelling To mark Stagecoach West’s Manager at Stagecoach West, said: all over the UK, which I really sponsorship of Cheltenham “We are absolutely delighted to enjoyed.” Town’s Main Stand at Whaddon be the Main Stand sponsor at Most recently, he worked Road, supporters were asked Whaddon Road. on two school runs, and the to say what the team meant to “Like ourselves, Cheltenham children who travelled on his them. Town Football Club is a focal bus gave him a card and present Winner Richard Sterry’s entry point of the community and the to wish him a happy retirement. was: “Travelling the A-route two brands align themselves Zoe Paget, Operations every stage of the way with The extremely well.” Manager for Bedford, said: “I Robins!’ Richard is pictured (centre) would like to wish Derek all the And his way with words earned receiving his prize from best for the future and I hope him a season ticket for the Stagecoach Quality Inspector he is enjoying his retirement – Stagecoach Stand, a Stagecoach Lenny Dance (left) and he definitely deserves it!” megarider ticket and the thrill of Cheltenham Town manager Keith seeing his quote on the Route A Downing. Spring 08 15 READER OFFER CLICK ON A TOUR ON STAGE has teamed up with city favourite tourist cities: known for playing the evil Owen in the guide experts Walk Talk Tours to offer • Five in London take you to the top Archers. you the chance to get the best from your tourist attractions, stopping off along Fellow actor Graeme Mackenzie presents sightseeing around the country at an the way to tell you about interesting, the Edinburgh tours. Graeme has more even cheaper price. informative and, at times, amusing than 20 years’ experience of voiceovers City tours have come a long way from facts. The London tours are also and is also a producer and writer. trudging after a man with an umbrella available in French, German and The tours have all been carefully across town and are now more accessible Spanish. researched, written and produced by Phil than ever. The latest technology enables • There are two tours in Edinburgh, Nash, a history graduate and former tour you to download city guides onto iPods one featuring the Royal Mile in the guide. and MP3 players, revolutionising the way Old Town, the other taking a journey There are plans to add further cities to in which tours are taken. through time from the Old Town’s the Walk Talk Tours portfolio, both in the Walk Talk Tours offers professionally historic Castle to Charlotte Square in UK and abroad, and to translate the tours produced downloadable city guides from the New Town via the Scott Monument into additional languages. its website www.walktalktour.com so that and St Andrew Square. “Customers on Oxford Tube and Scottish you can take a tour at your convenience. • The Best of York tour explores the city’s Citylink Edinburgh-Glasgow services can And until December 31, 2008, Stagecoach rich history, taking in the Shambles – even use the on board WiFi facilities to employees and their families can get a one of the oldest surviving medieval download tours on to their computers on 10% discount. streets in Europe – and continuing with their way into Edinburgh and London,” Each Tour comes with a Walk Talk Tour a walk on the walls to finish outside said Phil. Plan – a downloadable map which is York’s famous Minster. To get your discount, just go to www. easy to follow, ensuring you don’t miss walktalktour.com and key in Promotion anything. All the English tours are professionally Code ZG 065. See the sights with downloadable city tours. The tours cover some of Britain’s narrated by Jonathan Keeble, who is well Happy sightseeing!

Congratulations to Dave PICTURE OF THE SEASON Paterson, a driver based A tale to tell? at Stagecoach’s Arbroath depot, who is the winner We would like to hear from you if you of our Picture of the have an interesting story for On Stage. Season competition. Have you been involved in a novel His shot is of a Volvo project aimed at boosting passenger Whatever tale you have, we’d like to double-decker number numbers or have news about a vintage hear from you. 16925 on Route 73 from bus involved in the community? Write to: Steven Stewart, Editor, On Ninewells Hospital in Perhaps you’re depot has been Stage, Stagecoach Group, 10 Dunkeld Dundee to Newton Road fundraising for a favourite charity? Road, Perth, PH1 5TW. in Carnoustie. The photo was taken in the village of Barry. If you’d like to contribute to On Stage, please take note of these important deadlines: Dave wins £50 of M&S vouchers, which are on EDITION COPY TO BE SUBMITTED BY ON STAGE PUBLISHED their way in the post. If you have a picture Summer 08 First week, June 08 First week, July 08 that captures one of the Autumn 08 First week, September 08 First week, October 08 four seasons, please send Winter 08/09 First week, December 08 First week, January 09 it to the Editor at the Spring 09 First week, March 09 First week, April 09 address below.

Contacts Editor: Steven Stewart, On Stage, Stagecoach Group, Stagecoach South Helen Martin 01243 536161 10 Dunkeld Road, Perth PH1 5TW. Stagecoach South West Janet Wafer 01392 889271 Tel: +44 (0)1738 442111, Fax: +44 (0)1738 443076 Stagecoach Yorkshire Hannah Thompson 01226 202555 www.stagecoachgroup.com National Transport Tokens Sajda Khan 01254 680180 If you have a story for On Stage, please get in touch with your local contact below: UK Rail South West Trains Lisa Basham 0207 620 5892 Stagecoach Group Steven Stewart 01738 642040 Island Line Andy Naylor 01983 862492 EAST MIDLAND TRAINS Anna Richardson 01332 262010 UK Bus Stagecoach Supertram Julia Shaw 0114 2759888 Stagecoach East Scotland Lauren Kobilnyk 01383 516454 Stagecoach METROLINK Cheryl Hubbard 0161 2058665 Stagecoach West Scotland Allan Henry 01292 613515 Stagecoach North East Jodine Milne 0191 566 0236 North America Stagecoach North West Colin Nicholson 01772 255752 Coach USA Dale Moser 001 201 225 7575 Stagecoach Manchester Karen Coventry 0161 276 2727 Coach Canada Jim Devlin 001 705 748 1170 Stagecoach Merseyside Clare Tresnan 07711 950 019 Stagecoach East Midlands Louise Wright 01522 522255 On Stage is published four times a year. Advertising connected directly or Stagecoach Oxfordshire Chris Child 01865 405511 indirectly with Stagecoach is accepted. Charitable adverts will be included without charge, otherwise rates on request. Stagecoach in Warwickshire Adam Rideout 01604 662283 On Stage is distributed free to Stagecoach staff. Public subscriptions Stagecoach East Adam Rideout 01604 662283 are available at £12 for one year or £20 for two years. Cheque payable Stagecoach Cambridgeshire Ed Cameron 01223 423578 to Stagecoach Group plc at the editorial address. The Editor is unable Stagecoach West Nathan Williams 07753 775 193 to enter into individual correspondence concerning the affairs of The Stagecoach Wales Nathan Williams 07753 775 193 Stagecoach Group. Stagecoach South East Helen Martin 01243 536161 Designed by The BIG Partnership Group Limited, Scotland.

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