Jeff’s Bus Lane Awards 2008

Well, it’s that time of the year again (I know, it’s flown over!), so again I have put together some awards to review the happenings of the last year. You may not agree with all these, but they are purely my opinions and are presented for your enjoyment and entertainment.

Best Performing Large Company

Sorry if this award is getting a little dull, but I think it has to be Stagecoach again. More strong investment, continued provision of a quality service and nothing too gimmicky or confrontational. Getting on with the job as it knows best.

Best Performing Small Company

This year I think I’ll opt for Weardale, as their presentation is faultless, their vehicles are treated with care and their quality of service is very well regarded.

Most Improved Company

With clear, substantial investment in new vehicles (at last!) this year and the promise of many more to come over the next three years, plus some quite interesting service improvements (Sunday 501s etc) it has to be Arriva. There’s still plenty of ground to make up, but things are moving in the right general direction.

Most Under-whelming Company

This might surprise some people, but I have to go for Go North East this year. Their escalation of pointless competition with Arriva in South East Northumberland, their continual meddling with service patterns and the never ending stream of liveries are not really to my liking.

The Most Impressive New Purchase by a North East Company

This year I think it’s the new VDL DB250 / East Lancs that Arriva has purchased for the 518. Good solid machines, excellent performance and comfort – such a shame they were the last of their line.

The Most Impressive Second Hand Purchase by a North East Company

This must be the welcome return to the region of former United Leyland Olympian / ECW 252 (B252PHN) with Tees Valley Coach Travel. Many were impressed with its performance at the Belmont rally.

The Most Missed Withdrawal of the Year

Following on from the previous loss of Arriva’s Lynxes, Stagecoach and Go North East withdrew their last service examples this year – all are sadly missed.

The Least Missed Withdrawal of the Year

Arriva have made significant inroads into their Optare Metrorider stock this year, but it’s not these that will be missed the least – that’s the two Mercedes Varios they’ve withdrawn. The rest need to leave the fleet as soon as possible!