What do people think of these guys as an operator?
They have come a long way since operating dodgy old coaches on the 94; to these days operating in my view much better standard of transport on the 94/55/71 etc ?
Agree totally, an operator that has carved itself a very useful niche in east Birmingham by being a high quality operator.
Quite possibally one of the West Midlands operators.
When they first came out, it used to be like riding one of those dodgy old school coaches with loads of people smoking and the old people couldn't get on them as the stairs were so high.
Quote from: monkeyjoe on May 02, 2012, 10:11:41 PM
When they first came out, it used to be like riding one of those dodgy old school coaches with loads of people smoking and the old people couldn't get on them as the stairs were so high.
Funny you should say that as Claribels did for a time in the 1990's operate a Leopard coach (PHH 613R) that I went to school on when it was with Tanners International of Banbury and then Midland Red South. Ahh happy days!
Quote from: monkeyjoe on May 02, 2012, 10:11:41 PM
When they first came out, it used to be like riding one of those dodgy old school coaches with loads of people smoking and the old people couldn't get on them as the stairs were so high.
It is understandable though. Diamond probably had clapped out bangers when it first started too, oh wait, it still does.
But the point still stands, when an operator starts up, chances are they'll have tat, or near enough to tat. The modern day equivalent would have M/N reg darts, or possibly P reg early low floor darts if they're lucky. Once they start pulling up the customers, whether it be through comprehensive marketing, and a reliable route, as well as undercutting NXWM, then they can or will soon enough invest in better vehicles. A good (maybe not so good) example is GRS who've got some or one low floor bus now. Joes Travel have also upgraded from their ancient Darts, to some less ancient Darts, so it is understandable.
The royale centro's and hybrid versa's are very clapped out Im suprised they climb hills with any gradient :)
Never used Claribels but the buses look awesome and always seem very full is the max fare still £1.30 or has it increased
Claribel fares now £1.50. My first experience of them it was a child fare of 20p from ward End Park to Saltley gate!
Here are some old Claribel photos for you all to enjoy
http://www.flickr.com/photos/discogareth/6928174277/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/discogareth/6782053750/
http://www.flickr.com/photos/discogareth/6782053480/
I'm sure they used ex-London Routemasters briefly if my memory serves me right.
Also their departure times on their 71 are two minutes ahead of NXWM 71 to obviously cream off the passengers. At times,instead of going to Solihull station,they turn round at Poplar Road island to get to the stop when there seems to be a large loading. I thought these practices had stopped yonks ago. :-\
Quote from: suavegarv on May 03, 2012, 10:21:13 PM
I'm sure they used ex-London Routemasters briefly if my memory serves me right.
Also their departure times on their 71 are two minutes ahead of NXWM 71 to obviously cream off the passengers. At times,instead of going to Solihull station,they turn round at Poplar Road island to get to the stop when there seems to be a large loading. I thought these practices had stopped yonks ago. :-\
No they don't.
The 37 also does this and they do it because a lot of buses have clogged up, or is late to get them back on time. The 37 turns right at the end of Warwick Road and comes back through the Town Centre avoiding the station. I don't think it's because of Claribels.
Quote from: suavegarv on May 03, 2012, 10:21:13 PM
I'm sure they used ex-London Routemasters briefly if my memory serves me right.
It was Frontline buses who used Routemasters on the 94, along with other ex WMT buses. Fleetlines (PR, MCW and EL bodied) and Nationals.
Any plans on Claribels extending their route network? Would like to see them compete with NXWM on the 37. I think with their lower fares, immaculate vehicles and excellent service I think they will do very well and will certainly give NXWM a run for their money unlike Blue Diamond.
Claribels are excellent. The buses are always smartly turned out and well maintained. Recently rode on one of their 12 reg Pulsars and I must say they are similar to the Commanders. I only wish they operated the S2 and S3 round by me!
Claribels Silverline Solo YJ56 APK was broken down in the middle of the road at the Wheatsheaf Junction yesterday (Friday) about 11:15, thankfully not in the middle of the junction but in the middle of Lode Lane (is it Lode Lane where the NX 957 turns off? I forget now).
(Posted in the wrong section with the wrong name because I'm a fool! *Puts on Dunce hat*)
Quote from: Ally on May 26, 2012, 12:48:12 AM
Claribels Solo YJ56 APK was broken down in the middle of the road at the Wheatsheaf Junction yesterday (Friday) about 11:15, thankfully not in the middle of the junction but in the middle of Lode Lane (is it Lode Lane where the NX 957 turns off? I forget now).
Claribels do not operate any Solos, don't blame them for that.
LOL I've gone and posted it in the wrong one :-[
Silverline NOT Claribels! I shouldn't be allowed on the internet...
That might go some way to explaining why their Blythe Valley Enviro200 is out on the 36 today. 8)
If the 49 is late running, it wont go into the station, it will come into the town from the ring road and go straight onto the next trip. As for Claribels, couldn't fault them at all, the queue for the 71/72 is quite long at most times of the day, Claribels leaves with standing loads and then the NXWM bus does the same. ''coughs'' double deckers
I went on them recently and was highly impressed. Tho I preferred the commanders to the pulsars......
Quote from: Ashley on July 02, 2012, 02:41:51 PM
If the 49 is late running, it wont go into the station, it will come into the town from the ring road and go straight onto the next trip. As for Claribels, couldn't fault them at all, the queue for the 71/72 is quite long at most times of the day, Claribels leaves with standing loads and then the NXWM bus does the same. ''coughs'' double deckers
It's not just the 49 that does that. The 37 does that often enough as well as a load of other Solihull routes.
I havent been on a pulsar yet, they sound like a Commander but the rear end of a pulsar for me personally lets it down for me, would be better with the B7RLE style rear, thats just me though and yes they probably are the same
Quote from: Ashley on July 02, 2012, 11:52:59 PM
I havent been on a pulsar yet, they sound like a Commander but the rear end of a pulsar for me personally lets it down for me, would be better with the B7RLE style rear, thats just me though and yes they probably are the same
I'm sorry to be so tedious but this is the B7RLE style:
http://www.volvobuses.com/SiteCollectionImages/VBC/Brasil%20-%20ILF/566x228%20and%20566x303/chassis%20B7R%20e%20B7RLE%20lam1_566x5611.jpg
I think you mean the Wright Eclipse style.
The Pulsars are good looking from the front but the backs are ugly. Overall, I do prefer the commanders.
Nice to see a brand new Claribels at this years show.
Seen on the VDL stand. This operator has come along way in recent years. One of Birminghams best, if not the best!
http://www.flickr.com/photos/chrisbell50000/8162226610/
Very nice, as per usual. Especially like the new VDL badge
I like the VDL badge and I still think the Pulsar is a good bus type
I remember how dodgy they were when they started 20+ years ago. Thought they would have gone the same way as the Tame Valley's and the Burmans on the 94's.
Have no recollection of Burmans on the 94! Only Tame Valley and Frontline. Claribels were the company my primary school used to the Swimming baths at George Arthur and Stechford in the mid-late 80's
Yes Burmans used to run 2 coaches on the 94 & 2 on the 14 which extended to Chelmsley Wood @ a time twm only went to Tile Cross
Couldnt find any photos of Burmans on the 14 or 94, but found these gems
On the 73 in Chelmsley Wood
http://www.flickr.com/photos/walsall1955/4641943019/
On the 339 in Streetly
http://www.flickr.com/photos/walsall1955/4641943033/
On the 7 in City Centre
http://www.flickr.com/photos/60694482@N04/6229722383/
Seems that Frontline had their origins in Burmans.
Frontline was formed when Alan hodnet bought out Burman Travel
YJ56KCV unexpectedly came up my road late this afternoon because of traffic on Sheaf Lane in Sheldon it came up Rectory Park Road then turned right onto Coalway Avenue then it got stuck halfway down and then backed up all the way back to the top of Coalway Avenue then it carried on backing up until it was facing down Rectory Park Road and then went back down Rectory Park Road to rejoin Sheaf Lane
Brand new YJ62JZH is on the 94 today.
Claribels new one is YJ62 KZG or they have had 2 as I saw this today on the 94 this lunchtime & earlier this week on Wednesday.
Sorry JZG not KZG
Must have 2 then, as I've seen JZH twice too
Clariblels are doing what diamond should do. They concentrate on building a good customer base on high frequency core routes and using good decent kit. Yes any dunce can set up a route against NXWM but Claribels are doing something right and make money and with regards to the 2 mins infront of NXWM they are not much better if they cannot put short turning E buses on they will flood the route or sections with other different services (Walsall/Bloxwich is a prime example) do not slag off an operator trying to make cash. NXWM and other big boys are just as bad.
Quote from: Discodave on December 21, 2012, 08:46:27 PM
Clariblels are doing what diamond should do. They concentrate on building a good customer base on high frequency core routes and using good decent kit. Yes any dunce can set up a route against NXWM but Claribels are doing something right and make money and with regards to the 2 mins infront of NXWM they are not much better if they cannot put short turning E buses on they will flood the route or sections with other different services (Walsall/Bloxwich is a prime example) do not slag off an operator trying to make cash. NXWM and other big boys are just as bad.
My problem with operators registering a service 2 minutes in front is nothing to do with loyalty to a particular operator or 'big boy', it is the fact that it offers absolutely no benefit whatsoever to the passenger. A good example is VIP on the 966. 5 minutes in front of nearly every NX trip on a half hourly service. Why not register at 15 minute intervals? That would increase frequency and probably increase passenger base overall. As things stand you still have to wait 25 minutes if you've just missed one. Where's the benefit of then having 2 arrive together? It's lazy competition.
Fair enough it just seems a lot of posts just bash an operator usually a small independent yes there are a lot of cowboys around but claribels is trying to show a better image.
Andy regards the registering 2 mins in front of another operator, well west midlands travel has also done this in the past. The 119 & 638 against Petes travel springs to mind.
Both of these were Petes Travel routes which did not copy TWM so it can't be seen as diffensive.
So everyone is guilty of that little action, it's called gaining a commercial competitive edge & is good business sense. I agree not an ideal situation for passengers but then that's the way it's been since 1986.
Quote from: Steveminor on December 26, 2012, 08:30:41 AM
Andy regards the registering 2 Min's in front of another operator, well west midlands travel has also done this in the past. The 119 & 638 against Petes travel springs to mind.
Both of these were Pete's Travel routes which did not copy TWM so it can't be seen as defensive.
So everyone is guilty of that little action, it's called gaining a commercial competitive edge & is good business sense. I agree not an ideal situation for passengers but then that's the way it's been since 1986.
Proves my point the I was at Pete's when the 119 was doing well as soon as NXWM went on revenue dropped like a stone commercial advantage yes I agree but Andy looks like NXWM are Lazy competetors too.
Quote from: Discodave on December 26, 2012, 06:17:28 PM
Quote from: Steveminor on December 26, 2012, 08:30:41 AM
Andy regards the registering 2 Min's in front of another operator, well west midlands travel has also done this in the past. The 119 & 638 against Petes travel springs to mind.
Both of these were Pete's Travel routes which did not copy TWM so it can't be seen as defensive.
So everyone is guilty of that little action, it's called gaining a commercial competitive edge & is good business sense. I agree not an ideal situation for passengers but then that's the way it's been since 1986.
Proves my point the I was at Pete's when the 119 was doing well as soon as NXWM went on revenue dropped like a stone commercial advantage yes I agree but Andy looks like NXWM are Lazy competetors too.
I get annoyed when any operator does this, however big or small. It annoys me on 2 fronts. Firstly the one I've already explained, where there is no overall frequency benefit to the passenger. And secondly where an operator registers 2 minutes in front for only the profitable periods, leaving the other operator to run the service when it isn't so lucrative. That operator then neglects the service as overall it isn't as profitable.
The 1986 act is well overdue an overhaul and in my opinion it should include a clause whereby an operator can still register on any route and compete, but to have the registration accepted they should also have to present a business case to the authority to evidence how their introduction is going to benefit the passenger and provide growth in overall passenger numbers. If the business case doesn't add up, then the authority should have the ability to insist that the operator registers at intervals that are beneficial to the travelling public, making sure of course that the journeys will fit onto the required amount of running boards that the operator was looking to use, but if necessary reducing it.
This would put an end to people registering only on profitable sections or at profitable times, unless the operator could prove that numbers warranted it (ie where there is regular overcrowding of vehicles).
Its a good idea look at the 301 my local route NX and diamond together and no bus for ages supposed to be diamond 6 buses any hour NX between 8 and 12 an hour but forever in 2 and 3 bunches either operator then you cant breath for buses along bloxwich road the area is over bussed. Operators need to be forced to re route some along A34 into Walsall from Bloxwich. Arriva only run to the 4 crosses but turn off to bloxwich road the only alternative is quality contracts one operator set frequency and route monitored by authority and VOSA compliance officers.
Quote from: Discodave on December 27, 2012, 03:03:23 PM
Its a good idea look at the 301 my local route NX and diamond together and no bus for ages supposed to be diamond 6 buses any hour NX between 8 and 12 an hour but forever in 2 and 3 bunches either operator then you cant breath for buses along bloxwich road the area is over bussed. Operators need to be forced to re route some along A34 into Walsall from Bloxwich. Arriva only run to the 4 crosses but turn off to bloxwich road the only alternative is quality contracts one operator set frequency and route monitored by authority and VOSA compliance officers.
Bunching is due to traffic congestion and often congestion along Bloxwich high street, normally when its quite bad NXWM turn buses around just before Bloxwich or start them from there, diamond buses seem to just to operate in 2's or 3's when the congestion is bad so in theory you could be waiting 20/30 minutes for a diamond bus. NXWM have started on the 4H which has been ran by ludlow and then diamond for a long time as the 417 by the looks of patronage NXWM seems to be suffering between Halesowen and Blackheath section where diamond seems to pick up alot of passengers between Halesowen and Hayley Green section and probably due to running every 20 minutes and not using the same stop at Halesowen to pick up passengers heading in the West Bromwich direction. Also the 4H of both diamond and NXWM at some points on the timetable run at the same time so you end up with 2 buses together not ideal and certainly not increasing passenger numbers. Centro did get involved on the 226 when diamond registered there services a few minutes before Hansons looking at the loadings today diamonds 226 seems to have picked up not sure about Hansons as i dont use the 226 service so rarely see their buses.
Hansons seem to be getting a load of pax on the 226 and 225. Most of the trips are standing only on Hansons
Quote from: andy on December 27, 2012, 02:49:56 PM
The 1986 act is well overdue an overhaul and in my opinion it should include a clause whereby an operator can still register on any route and compete, but to have the registration accepted they should also have to present a business case to the authority to evidence how their introduction is going to benefit the passenger and provide growth in overall passenger numbers. If the business case doesn't add up, then the authority should have the ability to insist that the operator registers at intervals that are beneficial to the travelling public, making sure of course that the journeys will fit onto the required amount of running boards that the operator was looking to use, but if necessary reducing it.
This would put an end to people registering only on profitable sections or at profitable times, unless the operator could prove that numbers warranted it (ie where there is regular overcrowding of vehicles).
To be honest we are way past the point of no return with this. Competition is a way of life everywhere - the public would ask why buses are that different. They provide an essential service, but so do Tescos, Sainsburys and Aldi.
Between 1931 and 1980, when applying for a Road Service Licence an operator had to prove that there was an unmet need, and that an existing service would not be adversely affected. This brought stability, but also made innovation difficult and there was little incentive to improve 'the product'. In 1980 the rules were changed so that the onus was on an objector (i.e. the operator of an existing service that would be affected) - the assumption was that a licence would be granted unless it was against the public interest - whatever that was.
One effect of competition, even from those running two minutes ahead, is to keep operators on their toes. Without it, would NXWM have introduced leather-seated buses, or stepped up their bus refurbishment programme?
Competition can work but it doesn't necessarily keep other operators 'on their toes', it just encourages over bussing of coridors by all concerned while others are left neglected.
My point is that the current system is all centred around profit margins of operators and not needs of present and future passengers, and I'm calling for some realignment, not the old system.
But isn't a bus operator a business & isnt a business about profit margins?
For what it's worth I do agree that the current system needs an overhaul. The local authorities have been given the power by the government to set frequency and fare standards for bus routes but in the most part choose not to use them.
The closest we have come is the SQP in Birmingham City Centre but even that is flawed.
What we really need I believe is a system like TFL.
Everyone bids for a route as a gross tender with the authority setting out fares vehicle standards and timetables. It is then upto the winner to meet these contractual standards or risk losing the
route. Also as the network is operating as gross tenders the authority don't have to worry about reimbursing the operators for all the concessionary passes allowing this extra money to be ploughed back into bus infrastructure I.e bus stops, roadside information etc.
Can't see it ever happening though as there seems no political will
Quote from: Steveminor on December 28, 2012, 06:40:45 AM
But isn't a bus operator a business & isnt a business about profit margins?
For what it's worth I do agree that the current system needs an overhaul. The local authorities have been given the power by the government to set frequency and fare standards for bus routes but in the most part choose not to use them.
The closest we have come is the SQP in Birmingham City Centre but even that is flawed.
What we really need I believe is a system like TFL.
Everyone bids for a route as a gross tender with the authority setting out fares vehicle standards and timetables. It is then upto the winner to meet these contractual standards or risk losing the
route. Also as the network is operating as gross tenders the authority don't have to worry about reimbursing the operators for all the concessionary passes allowing this extra money to be ploughed back into bus infrastructure I.e bus stops, roadside information etc.
Can't see it ever happening though as there seems no political will
Why on earth do we want a TfL style system. Even Metro admitted it would cost more and Bus Users Uk said it would not be interest of passengers. Why on earth do we want a TfL style system where transport is controlled by policians as opposed to by transport and industry experts?? I personally don't rate London's transport system greatly-I far prefer the Go-Ahead group, Stagecoach and Rotala's operations outside London-I know rotala dont run in London but still. Let's face it, you dont need costly re-regulation to get passenger numbers up-NCT does it in a dergegulated environment and so do many other operators and I dont see leather seats, stagecoach gold, trent barton, black diamond royale buses in central london. I see a fleet of well used and tired looking buses. There are deregulated environments where similar levels of passenger growth have been achieved as London without the associated costs. However, I do think we need to address market dominance and ensure that there is an environment in which people are able to compete. Competition, where it exists, works and drives up passenger numbers-eg oxford. Plus, not only would council taxes have to go up if reregulation were introduced so would fares! I personally do not think there is a great deal wrong with the current system. In most places, competition exists and passenger numbers are going up. I do think however that we need more SQBPs and co-ordination which CAN and should take place in a deregulated environment.
I think more competition within the West Midlands would be good but would like to see operators such as diamond create their own services try them out and may be get a subsidary for them for a bit off centro too encourage operators to create new services for 6 months lets say if they then can run on their own that bus company continues to operate them as their own service commerically if not they get withdrawn. For example centro could subsidise an express service between Walsall and Wolverhampton lets say the X529 and use NXWM or another operator such as Arriva or Rotala. If it's commerically viable they continue the service without centro's help if not its gets withdrawn but at least the network grows and gives other operators the chance to try out newly created services with less risk.
Bet i will get absolutely slaughtered over this idea but suppose it's a forum for discussion and debates.
Quote from: Ash on December 28, 2012, 04:19:15 PM
I think more competition within the West Midlands would be good but would like to see operators such as diamond create their own services try them out and may be get a subsidary for them for a bit off centro too encourage operators to create new services for 6 months lets say if they then can run on their own that bus company continues to operate them as their own service commerically if not they get withdrawn. For example centro could subsidise an express service between Walsall and Wolverhampton lets say the X529 and use NXWM or another operator such as Arriva or Rotala. If it's commerically viable they continue the service without centro's help if not its gets withdrawn but at least the network grows and gives other operators the chance to try out newly created services with less risk.
Bet i will get absolutely slaughtered over this idea but suppose it's a forum for discussion and debates.
What a good idea! This would encourage innovation on the part of operators without such a great amount of financial risk. Perhaps this would also succeed in growing the bus network which is only a good thing. I like this idea providing it is the operators deciding which routes to try out not the pte-the pte just cough up the money.
So are Claribels doing the right thing then ? ?
Quote from: monkeyjoe on December 28, 2012, 05:15:11 PM
So are Claribels doing the right thing then ? ?
Yes. Undoubtedly. They have entered into the spirit of deregulation and offer choice and competition and quality all of which is in the interest of the passenger.
Quote from: Ash on December 28, 2012, 04:19:15 PM
I think more competition within the West Midlands would be good but would like to see operators such as diamond create their own services try them out and may be get a subsidary for them for a bit off centro too encourage operators to create new services for 6 months lets say if they then can run on their own that bus company continues to operate them as their own service commerically if not they get withdrawn. For example centro could subsidise an express service between Walsall and Wolverhampton lets say the X529 and use NXWM or another operator such as Arriva or Rotala. If it's commerically viable they continue the service without centro's help if not its gets withdrawn but at least the network grows and gives other operators the chance to try out newly created services with less risk.
Bet i will get absolutely slaughtered over this idea but suppose it's a forum for discussion and debates.
There is enough buses down the 529 route or parts of it already I am not knocking the idea it is good just a wrong choice trying express routes everywhere when there is no room for bus lanes etc or cause more problems than they solve mentioned before about the 529 route bus lanes into Wolves traffic queues miles before them and the ones local to me on the 301 are being taken out as they always parked in as they run right next to houses most have no driveway so have no choice but to park in them and look at the tyburn road ones they did not last long and caused chaos.
Quote from: Discodave on December 28, 2012, 06:09:37 PM
Quote from: Ash on December 28, 2012, 04:19:15 PM
I think more competition within the West Midlands would be good but would like to see operators such as diamond create their own services try them out and may be get a subsidary for them for a bit off centro too encourage operators to create new services for 6 months lets say if they then can run on their own that bus company continues to operate them as their own service commerically if not they get withdrawn. For example centro could subsidise an express service between Walsall and Wolverhampton lets say the X529 and use NXWM or another operator such as Arriva or Rotala. If it's commerically viable they continue the service without centro's help if not its gets withdrawn but at least the network grows and gives other operators the chance to try out newly created services with less risk.
Bet i will get absolutely slaughtered over this idea but suppose it's a forum for discussion and debates.
There is enough buses down the 529 route or parts of it already I am not knocking the idea it is good just a wrong choice trying express routes everywhere when there is no room for bus lanes etc or cause more problems than they solve mentioned before about the 529 route bus lanes into Wolves traffic queues miles before them and the ones local to me on the 301 are being taken out as they always parked in as they run right next to houses most have no driveway so have no choice but to park in them and look at the tyburn road ones they did not last long and caused chaos.
I was think more using the black country route from junction 10 and leaving for willenhall and rejoining for Wolverhampton so not using any bus lanes just using whats actually already there. So would cover all stops only between Walsall and Junction 10.
Quote from: Ash on December 28, 2012, 06:37:37 PM
Quote from: Discodave on December 28, 2012, 06:09:37 PM
Quote from: Ash on December 28, 2012, 04:19:15 PM
I think more competition within the West Midlands would be good but would like to see operators such as diamond create their own services try them out and may be get a subsidary for them for a bit off centro too encourage operators to create new services for 6 months lets say if they then can run on their own that bus company continues to operate them as their own service commerically if not they get withdrawn. For example centro could subsidise an express service between Walsall and Wolverhampton lets say the X529 and use NXWM or another operator such as Arriva or Rotala. If it's commerically viable they continue the service without centro's help if not its gets withdrawn but at least the network grows and gives other operators the chance to try out newly created services with less risk.
Bet i will get absolutely slaughtered over this idea but suppose it's a forum for discussion and debates.
There is enough buses down the 529 route or parts of it already I am not knocking the idea it is good just a wrong choice trying express routes everywhere when there is no room for bus lanes etc or cause more problems than they solve mentioned before about the 529 route bus lanes into Wolves traffic queues miles before them and the ones local to me on the 301 are being taken out as they always parked in as they run right next to houses most have no driveway so have no choice but to park in them and look at the tyburn road ones they did not last long and caused chaos.
I was think more using the black country route from junction 10 and leaving for willenhall and rejoining for Wolverhampton so not using any bus lanes just using whats actually already there. So would cover all stops only between Walsall and Junction 10.
During the peak heading towards Walsall the 529 route is quicker than the Black Country Route approaching Junction 10. An express route was tried on Deregulation in 1986 (966) but didn't work because not that many people actually do the full length of the route. Most of the 529 business is from intermediate stops to Walsall, Willenhall and Wolverhampton
Ok thanks Tony for the Information
Quote from: Tony on December 28, 2012, 06:53:21 PMAn express route was tried on Deregulation in 1986 (966) but didn't work because not that many people actually do the full length of the route. Most of the 529 business is from intermediate stops to Walsall, Willenhall and Wolverhampton
My own experience of the 966 is of heaving Timesavers, with the load not easing until Erdington. I've used it many a time to get back from Wolvo' to (what is now) the Spitfire Island.
Whilst it may not be beneficial to the operator concerned (hence why the 900, 966 etc are now split into several 'short' sections), the long routes were useful for ad-hoc journeys. I've previously used the 900 (using the 28xx 'Timesavers') for Quinton - Coventry trips en route to Brandon for the Speedway, & I wasn't the only one to do so. Incidentally, there used to be special services laid on between Pool Meadow & Brandon (Special Bus services to sporting venues, anyone else on here old enough to remember them ? ;-) ), hence the 900 being more convenient than the Train!
Two Claribel Optare Versas were in Solihull showing 'Shuttle Bus' - long wheelbase, I think, 13 reg.
Quote from: Stevo on May 09, 2013, 09:14:11 PM
Two Claribel Optare Versas were in Solihull showing 'Shuttle Bus' - long wheelbase, I think, 13 reg.
YJ13HJC/D, V12100 models. Tony understands there to be three of them, but I've only seen these two so far.
They are replacing the ageing excels for school work only & will NOT be used on service work so I understand.
Quote from: Steveminor on May 09, 2013, 09:32:59 PM
They are replacing the ageing excels for school work only & will NOT be used on service work so I understand.
Jaguar/Land Rover contract, although I do have a photo of them at the Black Country Museum ;-)
Wonder what Claribells will b using on the WCC1 service
In June it runs on 3 Saturday's
Reported on GM buses Yahoo group: JPT Travel, Middleton have acquired the last remaining 3 x Optare Excel from Claribels V385/387KVY the third is reported as V388KVY. But I suspect that is an error & it should be V386KVY
is common to see most of the Claribels 94 Journeys of an evening running to Bacons End ? if not then most Claribles 94 journeys were running to there ?
Quote from: Nathan4775 on October 30, 2013, 09:50:32 PM
is common to see most of the Claribels 94 Journeys of an evening running to Bacons End ? if not then most Claribles 94 journeys were running to there ?
I think it is yes. I have heard of them running to there before off a mate
Maybe it is easier for them to get back to their garage of an evening from Bacon's End rather than Chelmsley Wood
Quote from: John on October 30, 2013, 09:54:49 PM
Quote from: Nathan4775 on October 30, 2013, 09:50:32 PM
is common to see most of the Claribels 94 Journeys of an evening running to Bacons End ? if not then most Claribles 94 journeys were running to there ?
I think it is yes. I have heard of them running to there before off a mate
Maybe it is easier for them to get back to their garage of an evening from Bacon's End rather than Chelmsley Wood
Seen one an thought it was running late so to make up time it cut short then several more afterwards and wondered whats going on, now I know thanks John
I've never seen the evening Claribels run to Bacons End, but there is one most late afternoons. Or when there is late running.
Another late running tactic by Claribels is to load up full in The City Centre and run as 'Drop off only'
Does anyone know if Claribels have their own website, or at least an email address?
Regarding the discussion in the Diamond thread, and rather than hijacking that particular thread, I'm curious to discover if this Facebook page claiming to represent them is actually a bogus one:
https://www.facebook.com/cityfoxtraining?ref=stream
Quote from: Stu on November 15, 2013, 06:41:21 PM
Does anyone know if Claribels have their own website, or at least an email address?
Regarding the discussion in the Diamond thread, and rather than hijacking that particular thread, I'm curious to discover if this Facebook page claiming to represent them is actually a bogus one:
https://www.facebook.com/cityfoxtraining?ref=stream
Well they dont seem to know their own timetable, as they replied to someone saying the laste 71E depature on a Saturday was 20:08, when in fact is 17:15. Only a few hours different!
Quote from: neale95 on November 15, 2013, 06:44:45 PM
Quote from: Stu on November 15, 2013, 06:41:21 PM
Does anyone know if Claribels have their own website, or at least an email address?
Regarding the discussion in the Diamond thread, and rather than hijacking that particular thread, I'm curious to discover if this Facebook page claiming to represent them is actually a bogus one:
https://www.facebook.com/cityfoxtraining?ref=stream
Well they dont seem to know their own timetable, as they replied to someone saying the laste 71E depature on a Saturday was 20:08, when in fact is 17:15. Only a few hours different!
I commented on this post which was on their wall:
Quote from: Stu on November 12, 2013, 07:03:26 PM
QuoteDelays on the 71E - police have closed Dansbury Avenue, buses are diverted round Snuff Square until further notice. Delays of up to 10 mins. Sorry
What?
All I said was that those places didn't exist, their post has now been removed. ;)
Also, 'Abbie Davies' who asked about the 71E, according to her Facebook profile, used to work for Wessex Bus and now works for CityFox as a bus cleaner. Definitely a 'fake' page, but why, I really don't know!
Quote from: Stu on November 15, 2013, 06:50:09 PM
Quote from: neale95 on November 15, 2013, 06:44:45 PM
Quote from: Stu on November 15, 2013, 06:41:21 PM
Does anyone know if Claribels have their own website, or at least an email address?
Regarding the discussion in the Diamond thread, and rather than hijacking that particular thread, I'm curious to discover if this Facebook page claiming to represent them is actually a bogus one:
https://www.facebook.com/cityfoxtraining?ref=stream
Well they dont seem to know their own timetable, as they replied to someone saying the laste 71E depature on a Saturday was 20:08, when in fact is 17:15. Only a few hours different!
I commented on this post which was on their wall:
Quote from: Stu on November 12, 2013, 07:03:26 PM
QuoteDelays on the 71E - police have closed Dansbury Avenue, buses are diverted round Snuff Square until further notice. Delays of up to 10 mins. Sorry
What?
All I said was that those places didn't exist, their post has now been removed. ;)
Also, 'Abbie Davies' who asked about the 71E, according to her Facebook profile, used to work for Wessex Bus and now works for CityFox as a bus cleaner. Definitely a 'fake' page, but why, I really don't know!
I wonder if Claribels knows about this?
Is it that same 'Reiss' / 'Rhys' ?
What's wrong with the youngsters now a days?
I have to admit though, its a damn good logo. A bit too good. I wonder what plagiarism they got it off
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 07:25:02 PM
Quote from: Stu on November 15, 2013, 06:50:09 PM
Quote from: neale95 on November 15, 2013, 06:44:45 PM
Quote from: Stu on November 15, 2013, 06:41:21 PM
Does anyone know if Claribels have their own website, or at least an email address?
Regarding the discussion in the Diamond thread, and rather than hijacking that particular thread, I'm curious to discover if this Facebook page claiming to represent them is actually a bogus one:
https://www.facebook.com/cityfoxtraining?ref=stream
Well they dont seem to know their own timetable, as they replied to someone saying the laste 71E depature on a Saturday was 20:08, when in fact is 17:15. Only a few hours different!
I commented on this post which was on their wall:
Quote from: Stu on November 12, 2013, 07:03:26 PM
QuoteDelays on the 71E - police have closed Dansbury Avenue, buses are diverted round Snuff Square until further notice. Delays of up to 10 mins. Sorry
What?
All I said was that those places didn't exist, their post has now been removed. ;)
Also, 'Abbie Davies' who asked about the 71E, according to her Facebook profile, used to work for Wessex Bus and now works for CityFox as a bus cleaner. Definitely a 'fake' page, but why, I really don't know!
I wonder if Claribels knows about this?
Is it that same 'Reiss' / 'Rhys' ?
What's wrong with the youngsters now a days?
I have to admit though, its a damn good logo. A bit too good. I wonder what plagiarism they got it off
Ahem! ;)
I have asked my friends at FixMyTransport to see if they can provide me with the email address they have on record for Claribels Coaches, as I seriously want to contact them to inform them about this impersonation / misrepresentation, but don't have time during working hours to either call them by phone or visit them in person.
City Fox has now been set up as a company
http://wck2.companieshouse.gov.uk//compdetails
hope that link works to go direct to details if not go to
http://wck2.companieshouse.gov.uk//wcframe?name=accessCompanyInfo
and put 08143091 in the company number box.
Rhys Hands has also bought two buses off Rotala P401 MLA & R220 MSA
The company, the address of the company, nor any of the directors appear to have applied for an operators license yet with VOSA though
This really is weird. So CityFox is a legitimate company that bought two rotala darts-their fb page shows them using ex diamond publicity as well which isn't on. The same company has also set up a fake claribels fb page. And a guy called Rhys appears to be behind all this.
Is this correct or is there anything I've missed out? Correct me if I'm wrong. Seems very very strange though..
Quote from: DiamondDart on November 15, 2013, 08:57:16 PM
This really is weird. So CityFox is a legitimate company that bought two rotala darts-their fb page shows them using ex diamond publicity as well which isn't on. The same company has also set up a fake claribels fb page. And a guy called Rhys appears to be behind all this.
Is this correct or is there anything I've missed out? Correct me if I'm wrong. Seems very very strange though..
This is their website
http://cityfoxgroup.com/home/4572859018
latest news - 31508 (P401MLA) repainted
Board of DirectorsRhys Hand
Regional Managing Director
Aged 18, has operational responsibility for the business of the group. He has been employed in the transport industry all of his working life and has been working for transport businesses since 2007. He previously worked for various businesses such as National Express, Rotala Plc & Western Greyhound.
Christopher Bearman
Non-Executive Director
Aged 26, has had 6 years experience in the transport industry in which he is a well-known figure. Chris has worked for First Group, National Express, Rotala Plc & Western Greyhound. He retains an active role in the CityFox businesses, all of which companies he remains a director.
John Smith
Engineering Director
Aged 43, John has a responsibility for the engineering side of the group. He has been employed in the transport industry all of his working life and has been working for the CityFox Group since 2012. He previously worked for various transport businesses such as Badgerline which is now the transport giant, First Group.
Piers Benedict Pickering
General Manager - West
Aged 36, Piers is our General Manager. He has over 15 years experiance within the transport industry and has the responsibility for service delivery in the region. Piers has worked for First Group, National Express & Rotala Plc. Piers has been involved with CityFox since 2013 where he was a Non-Executive Director from March until July.
Quote from: Tony on November 15, 2013, 09:11:56 PM
Quote from: DiamondDart on November 15, 2013, 08:57:16 PM
This really is weird. So CityFox is a legitimate company that bought two rotala darts-their fb page shows them using ex diamond publicity as well which isn't on. The same company has also set up a fake claribels fb page. And a guy called Rhys appears to be behind all this.
Is this correct or is there anything I've missed out? Correct me if I'm wrong. Seems very very strange though..
This is their website
http://cityfoxgroup.com/home/4572859018
latest news - 31508 (P401MLA) repainted
Board of Directors
Rhys Hand
Regional Managing Director
Aged 18, has operational responsibility for the business of the group. He has been employed in the transport industry all of his working life and has been working for transport businesses since 2007. He previously worked for various businesses such as National Express, Rotala Plc & Western Greyhound.
Christopher Bearman
Non-Executive Director
Aged 26, has had 6 years experience in the transport industry in which he is a well-known figure. Chris has worked for First Group, National Express, Rotala Plc & Western Greyhound. He retains an active role in the CityFox businesses, all of which companies he remains a director.
John Smith
Engineering Director
Aged 43, John has a responsibility for the engineering side of the group. He has been employed in the transport industry all of his working life and has been working for the CityFox Group since 2012. He previously worked for various transport businesses such as Badgerline which is now the transport giant, First Group.
Piers Benedict Pickering
General Manager - West
Aged 36, Piers is our General Manager. He has over 15 years experiance within the transport industry and has the responsibility for service delivery in the region. Piers has worked for First Group, National Express & Rotala Plc. Piers has been involved with CityFox since 2013 where he was a Non-Executive Director from March until July.
Thanks for the link Tony-its pretty much a copy of the rotala website. And do we think they are actually intending to run in half these places as it seems a weird mix of reality-ie they have buses and fiction...
Where has that child got the money to buy vehicles and rent/buy land? He's 18?!
No, its not impossible, but has anyone called Rhys won the euro millions ?
I think its just a bus nut who's got overwhelmed when daddy bought him a dart
Quote from: DiamondDart on November 15, 2013, 09:14:23 PM
Quote from: Tony on November 15, 2013, 09:11:56 PM
Quote from: DiamondDart on November 15, 2013, 08:57:16 PM
This really is weird. So CityFox is a legitimate company that bought two rotala darts-their fb page shows them using ex diamond publicity as well which isn't on. The same company has also set up a fake claribels fb page. And a guy called Rhys appears to be behind all this.
Is this correct or is there anything I've missed out? Correct me if I'm wrong. Seems very very strange though..
This is their website
http://cityfoxgroup.com/home/4572859018
latest news - 31508 (P401MLA) repainted
Board of Directors
Rhys Hand
Regional Managing Director
Aged 18, has operational responsibility for the business of the group. He has been employed in the transport industry all of his working life and has been working for transport businesses since 2007. He previously worked for various businesses such as National Express, Rotala Plc & Western Greyhound.
Christopher Bearman
Non-Executive Director
Aged 26, has had 6 years experience in the transport industry in which he is a well-known figure. Chris has worked for First Group, National Express, Rotala Plc & Western Greyhound. He retains an active role in the CityFox businesses, all of which companies he remains a director.
John Smith
Engineering Director
Aged 43, John has a responsibility for the engineering side of the group. He has been employed in the transport industry all of his working life and has been working for the CityFox Group since 2012. He previously worked for various transport businesses such as Badgerline which is now the transport giant, First Group.
Piers Benedict Pickering
General Manager - West
Aged 36, Piers is our General Manager. He has over 15 years experiance within the transport industry and has the responsibility for service delivery in the region. Piers has worked for First Group, National Express & Rotala Plc. Piers has been involved with CityFox since 2013 where he was a Non-Executive Director from March until July.
Thanks for the link Tony-its pretty much a copy of the rotala website. And do we think they are actually intending to run in half these places as it seems a weird mix of reality-ie they have buses and fiction...
Am i reading that correctly or is it a typo, there regional managing Director is only 18 & has already worked for National Express, Rotala & Greyhound?
Stu - Simon @ Rotala has confirmed he's worked for them. He's older then 18 which he believes, and he was only a cleaner for the summer.
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:28:50 PM
Stu - Simon @ Rotala has confirmed he's worked for them. He's older then 18 which he believes, and he was only a cleaner for the summer.
Here he is
https://twitter.com/RhysHand
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on November 15, 2013, 09:35:04 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:28:50 PM
Stu - Simon @ Rotala has confirmed he's worked for them. He's older then 18 which he believes, and he was only a cleaner for the summer.
Here he is
https://twitter.com/RhysHand
Some interesting tweets on there.
Abuse of passengers on the whole and mainly conversations between him and his boyfriend...
No comment!
(What's the idea of the poses in NX uniform on a coach? Got some bad news Rhys, NX + all NX contractors dont take on in Coach until the age of 21. So if that's true, you're older then 18.)
Have you seen the other CityFox subsidiaries on FB?
https://www.facebook.com/cityfoxltd?ref=profile
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Transbristol/444707478946613?ref=profile
https://www.facebook.com/Kernowbus?ref=profile
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:44:28 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on November 15, 2013, 09:35:04 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:28:50 PM
Stu - Simon @ Rotala has confirmed he's worked for them. He's older then 18 which he believes, and he was only a cleaner for the summer.
Here he is
https://twitter.com/RhysHand
Some interesting tweets on there.
Abuse of passengers on the whole and mainly conversations between him and his boyfriend...
No comment!
(What's the idea of the poses in NX uniform on a coach? Got some bad news Rhys, NX + all NX contractors dont take on in Coach until the age of 21. So if that's true, you're older then 18.)
Can't imagine anyone of his age (whatever that may be) having the maturity to actually be a Regional Managing Director & those tweets certainly show it.
I would have thought he needs two Twitter accounts, one for the business and one personal, not mix the two.
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on November 15, 2013, 09:49:31 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:44:28 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on November 15, 2013, 09:35:04 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:28:50 PM
Stu - Simon @ Rotala has confirmed he's worked for them. He's older then 18 which he believes, and he was only a cleaner for the summer.
Here he is
https://twitter.com/RhysHand
Some interesting tweets on there.
Abuse of passengers on the whole and mainly conversations between him and his boyfriend...
No comment!
(What's the idea of the poses in NX uniform on a coach? Got some bad news Rhys, NX + all NX contractors dont take on in Coach until the age of 21. So if that's true, you're older then 18.)
Can't imagine anyone of his age (whatever that may be) having the maturity to actually be a Regional Managing Director & those tweets certainly show it.
I would have thought he needs two Twitter accounts, one for the business and one personal, not mix the two.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=535091746576990&set=a.103200869766082.6596.100002285083839&type=1&theater
Worrys
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=469380179814814&set=pb.100002285083839.-2207520000.1384552342.&type=3&theater
A Strange coincidence is the given ages of the 3 directors of City Fox. 18, 26 & 43
Now read this article and check the ages of the three arrested!
http://www.westbriton.co.uk/arrested-Western-Greyhound-bus-depot-Newquay/story-19557261-detail/story.html
Quote from: Tony on November 15, 2013, 09:51:33 PM
A Strange coincidence is the given ages of the 3 directors of City Fox. 18, 26 & 43
Now read this article and check the ages of the three arrested!
http://www.westbriton.co.uk/arrested-Western-Greyhound-bus-depot-Newquay/story-19557261-detail/story.html
and they come from Bristol.
Does this guy even have a PCV licence?
In wonderment if the TC knows about this & the history?
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:55:24 PM
Does this guy even have a PCV licence?
In wonderment if the TC knows about this & the history?
https://www.facebook.com/rhyshand37/posts/459817770771055
This post sort of confirms what Tony was saying???
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:00:16 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:55:24 PM
Does this guy even have a PCV licence?
In wonderment if the TC knows about this & the history?
https://www.facebook.com/rhyshand37/posts/459817770771055
This post sort of confirms what Tony was saying???
Well I hope the Detective Inspector knows of these comments!!
Do those 'Facebook friends' exist, one wonders.
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 10:04:00 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:00:16 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:55:24 PM
Does this guy even have a PCV licence?
In wonderment if the TC knows about this & the history?
https://www.facebook.com/rhyshand37/posts/459817770771055
This post sort of confirms what Tony was saying???
Well I hope the Detective Inspector knows of these comments!!
Do those 'Facebook friends' exist, one wonders.
Who knows?
How old must you be before you can apply or even have say a PCV license?
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:00:16 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:55:24 PM
Does this guy even have a PCV licence?
In wonderment if the TC knows about this & the history?
https://www.facebook.com/rhyshand37/posts/459817770771055
This post sort of confirms what Tony was saying???
Whoops!!!
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:06:35 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 10:04:00 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:00:16 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:55:24 PM
Does this guy even have a PCV licence?
In wonderment if the TC knows about this & the history?
https://www.facebook.com/rhyshand37/posts/459817770771055
This post sort of confirms what Tony was saying???
Well I hope the Detective Inspector knows of these comments!!
Do those 'Facebook friends' exist, one wonders.
Who knows?
How old must you be before you can apply or even have say a PCV license?
Now with the new DVLA rules to have a PCV licence you have to be 24 unless you're going for CPC and drive professionally. In which case you can get the provisional PCV licence up to 3months prior to your 18th birthday ready for your first lesson on your 18th birthday, after medical examinations and such. Now you can get a manual bus licence if you have a manual car license from 2014 I've heard. (Sorry for spelling mistakes)
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on November 15, 2013, 10:06:59 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:00:16 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:55:24 PM
Does this guy even have a PCV licence?
In wonderment if the TC knows about this & the history?
https://www.facebook.com/rhyshand37/posts/459817770771055
This post sort of confirms what Tony was saying???
Whoops!!!
Please note this page
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/rhys-hand/50/b22/a29
Clearly he is OVER 18
More sort of 21/22 mark i had thought
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:15:04 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on November 15, 2013, 10:06:59 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:00:16 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:55:24 PM
Does this guy even have a PCV licence?
In wonderment if the TC knows about this & the history?
https://www.facebook.com/rhyshand37/posts/459817770771055
This post sort of confirms what Tony was saying???
Whoops!!!
Please note this page
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/rhys-hand/50/b22/a29
Clearly he is OVER 18
More sort of 21/22 mark i had thought
Well, from the date he started at college, he must-- so he's at least 20.
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:15:04 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on November 15, 2013, 10:06:59 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:00:16 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:55:24 PM
Does this guy even have a PCV licence?
In wonderment if the TC knows about this & the history?
https://www.facebook.com/rhyshand37/posts/459817770771055
This post sort of confirms what Tony was saying???
Whoops!!!
Please note this page
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/rhys-hand/50/b22/a29
Clearly he is OVER 18
More sort of 21/22 mark i had thought
But is he, it shows him being at Redland Green School between 2008 & 2011, but then again he was also at South Bristol between 2009 & 2010. It doesn't really make sense, plus if he is the person in that newspaper article, it shows him as 18.
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:15:04 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on November 15, 2013, 10:06:59 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:00:16 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:55:24 PM
Does this guy even have a PCV licence?
In wonderment if the TC knows about this & the history?
https://www.facebook.com/rhyshand37/posts/459817770771055
This post sort of confirms what Tony was saying???
Whoops!!!
Please note this page
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/rhys-hand/50/b22/a29
Clearly he is OVER 18
More sort of 21/22 mark i had thought
According to that his still working for Wessex Bus (Rotala Plc). Simon Dunn confirmed he no longer works for Rotala
This guy seems to have taken over the whole forum!!! Maybe whether we think some of what he has done is legit or not, linking him to arson is a step too far and is slanderous. Maybe the subject should just be left...As much as playing detective is fun.
https://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=759764180704715&set=a.593900330624435.147463.589656001048868&type=1&theater
Heres a shot of P401 MLA
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on November 15, 2013, 10:21:50 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:15:04 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on November 15, 2013, 10:06:59 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:00:16 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:55:24 PM
Does this guy even have a PCV licence?
In wonderment if the TC knows about this & the history?
https://www.facebook.com/rhyshand37/posts/459817770771055
This post sort of confirms what Tony was saying???
Whoops!!!
Please note this page
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/rhys-hand/50/b22/a29
Clearly he is OVER 18
More sort of 21/22 mark i had thought
But is he, it shows him being at Redland Green School between 2008 & 2011, but then again he was also at South Bristol between 2009 & 2010. It doesn't really make sense, plus if he is the person in that newspaper article, it shows him as 18.
Why would he only of went to secondary school for 3 years?
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on November 15, 2013, 10:21:50 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:15:04 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on November 15, 2013, 10:06:59 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 15, 2013, 10:00:16 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 09:55:24 PM
Does this guy even have a PCV licence?
In wonderment if the TC knows about this & the history?
https://www.facebook.com/rhyshand37/posts/459817770771055
This post sort of confirms what Tony was saying???
Whoops!!!
Please note this page
http://www.linkedin.com/pub/rhys-hand/50/b22/a29
Clearly he is OVER 18
More sort of 21/22 mark i had thought
But is he, it shows him being at Redland Green School between 2008 & 2011, but then again he was also at South Bristol between 2009 & 2010. It doesn't really make sense, plus if he is the person in that newspaper article, it shows him as 18.
In 2010 while he was at School, and College, he was also Working in various aspects of the business, involving customer service, revenue, dispatch & clerical at First Great Western. I wonder when he did his homework?
Quote from: nitromatt1 on November 15, 2013, 08:12:32 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 15, 2013, 07:25:02 PM
Quote from: Stu on November 15, 2013, 06:50:09 PM
Quote from: neale95 on November 15, 2013, 06:44:45 PM
Quote from: Stu on November 15, 2013, 06:41:21 PM
Does anyone know if Claribels have their own website, or at least an email address?
Regarding the discussion in the Diamond thread, and rather than hijacking that particular thread, I'm curious to discover if this Facebook page claiming to represent them is actually a bogus one:
https://www.facebook.com/cityfoxtraining?ref=stream
Well they dont seem to know their own timetable, as they replied to someone saying the laste 71E depature on a Saturday was 20:08, when in fact is 17:15. Only a few hours different!
I commented on this post which was on their wall:
Quote from: Stu on November 12, 2013, 07:03:26 PM
QuoteDelays on the 71E - police have closed Dansbury Avenue, buses are diverted round Snuff Square until further notice. Delays of up to 10 mins. Sorry
What?
All I said was that those places didn't exist, their post has now been removed. ;)
Also, 'Abbie Davies' who asked about the 71E, according to her Facebook profile, used to work for Wessex Bus and now works for CityFox as a bus cleaner. Definitely a 'fake' page, but why, I really don't know!
I wonder if Claribels knows about this?
Is it that same 'Reiss' / 'Rhys' ?
What's wrong with the youngsters now a days?
I have to admit though, its a damn good logo. A bit too good. I wonder what plagiarism they got it off
Ahem! ;)
Oop, sorry Matt (lol) ;) you're not all bad :p
Don't worry LS :) We knew you weren't talking about all young people ;)
It's fine LS, I was only messing haha. You were right on the whole though......
This is fascinating and really rather worrying. The bus pictures on this chap's various websites have a photoshop of the circular spiral present on Hallmark's coaches (another Rotala reference) and those various other websites have endorsements from so-called employees of CityFox, seemingly masquerading as customers.
This chap seems to be worryingly delusional.
What is more disturbing is that linkedin appears to have accepted the account - I have joined just to point it out. Can I suggest anyone here who is a member does the same?
Quote from: Winston on November 15, 2013, 09:44:55 PM
Have you seen the other CityFox subsidiaries on FB?
https://www.facebook.com/cityfoxltd?ref=profile
https://www.facebook.com/pages/Transbristol/444707478946613?ref=profile
https://www.facebook.com/Kernowbus?ref=profile
Clearly these are all fake pages too. With the same handful of people posting on each one.
For a company based in Bristol, and with the financial clout to 'acquire' other businesses such as Claribels and Kernow Bus ( ::)), its strange that CityFox themselves operate 1 bus service, in Reading.
http://cityfoxgroup.com/services/4572912059
And that service, according to Traveline, doesn't even exist. And neither does CityFox.
On VOSA the only 98 in Reading is run by Reading Buses for V Festival!
Guys guys guys, I can shed some light on this whole saga. Part of a business course at UWE calls for the student(s) to set up a bus/coach operation. The requirement is that they should set it up as if it is a real business with all the pr etc. This has caused some confusion before with people in Weston Super Mare turning up for their new bus service from W.C buses only to find the company didn't exist.
So now that's all cleared up we can move on.
Sorry for the late reply, just got back from the states.
Quote from: Steveminor on November 18, 2013, 08:39:38 AM
Guys guys guys, I can shed some light on this whole saga. Part of a business course at UWE calls for the student(s) to set up a bus/coach operation. The requirement is that they should set it up as if it is a real business with all the pr etc. This has caused some confusion before with people in Weston Super Mare turning up for their new bus service from W.C buses only to find the company didn't exist.
So now that's all cleared up we can move on.
Sorry for the late reply, just got back from the states.
It doesn't tell you to put false information about good companys miles away from Bristol, or do anything some of these people have been accused of by the police.
intriguing that the course requires it to be so public, surely they know the public are going to get confused if it goes too far
Well surely CityFox should be hosted on the School Network and only teachers/students can access it?
Steve Minor, if that's the truth, its bloody stupid idea.
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 18, 2013, 10:47:04 AM
Well surely CityFox should be hosted on the School Network and only teachers/students can access it?
Steve Minor, if that's the truth, its bloody stupid idea.
The other issue is why register the CityFox Bristol Ltd on companies house? As accounts still have to be submitted even if dormant and who pays the costs of registering/accounts etc
Quote from: Tony on November 18, 2013, 09:03:35 AM
Quote from: Steveminor on November 18, 2013, 08:39:38 AM
Guys guys guys, I can shed some light on this whole saga. Part of a business course at UWE calls for the student(s) to set up a bus/coach operation. The requirement is that they should set it up as if it is a real business with all the pr etc. This has caused some confusion before with people in Weston Super Mare turning up for their new bus service from W.C buses only to find the company didn't exist.
So now that's all cleared up we can move on.
Sorry for the late reply, just got back from the states.
It doesn't tell you to put false information about good companys miles away from Bristol, or do anything some of these people have been accused of by the police.
Possibly the most chilling thing so far is the picture of the toasted NXWM President on that spurious 'Claribels' facebook page.
Y'know, I can't stand the Prodigy, but I'm bu$$ered if I can get one of their tracks out of my head.....
Quote from: Winston on November 18, 2013, 11:09:20 AM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 18, 2013, 10:47:04 AM
Well surely CityFox should be hosted on the School Network and only teachers/students can access it?
Steve Minor, if that's the truth, its bloody stupid idea.
The other issue is why register the CityFox Bristol Ltd on companies house? As accounts still have to be submitted even if dormant and who pays the costs of registering/accounts etc
Indeed. I'm sure the college wouldn't want this fake company being taken seriously? Surely it takes more to set up a company then what these dodgies are doing?
And Dave, I love that reference!
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 18, 2013, 12:00:35 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 18, 2013, 11:09:20 AM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 18, 2013, 10:47:04 AM
Well surely CityFox should be hosted on the School Network and only teachers/students can access it?
Steve Minor, if that's the truth, its bloody stupid idea.
The other issue is why register the CityFox Bristol Ltd on companies house? As accounts still have to be submitted even if dormant and who pays the costs of registering/accounts etc
Indeed. I'm sure the college wouldn't want this fake company being taken seriously? Surely it takes more to set up a company then what these dodgies are doing?
And Dave, I love that reference!
It costs circa £100 to register a limited through an accountant, then £30 per year to submit dormant accounts
Quote from: Winston on November 18, 2013, 12:06:54 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 18, 2013, 12:00:35 PM
Quote from: Winston on November 18, 2013, 11:09:20 AM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 18, 2013, 10:47:04 AM
Well surely CityFox should be hosted on the School Network and only teachers/students can access it?
Steve Minor, if that's the truth, its bloody stupid idea.
The other issue is why register the CityFox Bristol Ltd on companies house? As accounts still have to be submitted even if dormant and who pays the costs of registering/accounts etc
Indeed. I'm sure the college wouldn't want this fake company being taken seriously? Surely it takes more to set up a company then what these dodgies are doing?
And Dave, I love that reference!
It costs circa £100 to register a limited through an accountant, then £30 per year to submit dormant accounts
And the point is...
It would be easier, and cheaper, to design a website/fake twitter/Facebook account and for it to be hosted locally on the school system. What benefit is there for this thing to registered and for it to be in the public domain?
Personally, I think its more then what Steve Minor is letting on.
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 18, 2013, 12:23:42 PM
Personally, I think its more then what Steve Minor is letting on.
I'll put it down to senility, but I'm struggling to remember the 'unnamed' partners of Inonespin Travel. I'm not squaring 2 & coming up with 5 am I ?
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on November 18, 2013, 03:06:54 PM
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 18, 2013, 12:23:42 PM
Personally, I think its more then what Steve Minor is letting on.
I'll put it down to senility, but I'm struggling to remember the 'unnamed' partners of Inonespin Travel. I'm not squaring 2 & coming up with 5 am I ?
David, I think you're coming up with 4!
Smells Fishy!!
Quote from: Rhys Hand's twitter account
Silly boy putting that on a open forum.. I never caused a problem for you but maybe it's about time I did.
Has he noticed us??
Quote from: Dylan4579 on November 18, 2013, 06:00:28 PM
Quote from: Rhys Hand's twitter account
Silly boy putting that on a open forum.. I never caused a problem for you but maybe it's about time I did.
Has he noticed us??
No, I think the date of that tweet is older then this topic.
Its probably about the previous arson-related tweets or his boyfriend getting his claws out! /facepalm
Quote from: Steveminor on November 18, 2013, 08:39:38 AM
Guys guys guys, I can shed some light on this whole saga. Part of a business course at UWE calls for the student(s) to set up a bus/coach operation. The requirement is that they should set it up as if it is a real business with all the pr etc. This has caused some confusion before with people in Weston Super Mare turning up for their new bus service from W.C buses only to find the company didn't exist.
So now that's all cleared up we can move on.
Sorry for the late reply, just got back from the states.
That does make sense, however what I object to is the fact that Claribels are being falsely misrepresented on Facebook by someone with the 'CityFox Training' Facebook page who has edited it to appear as the Claribels page. And as Claribels themselves don't appear to have any 'web-presence' ie a website, official Facebook page or Twitter feed of their own, this fake Facebook page is turning up in Google search results, and could mislead genuine people looking for information on Claribels to go there and be misinformed.
So these people have had to buy buses just for a uni project??!!
Don't know all the details about the course. I'm pretty sure you don't have to buy buses though. I do know that you are expected to set up a limited company & run it as if it were real. It is possible that some students take it a bit too far ie taking over already running business. There are several of theses companies out there if you look hard enough for them
Quote from: Steveminor on November 18, 2013, 07:34:04 PM
Don't know all the details about the course. I'm pretty sure you don't have to buy buses though. I do know that you are expected to set up a limited company & run it as if it were real. It is possible that some students take it a bit too far ie taking over already running business. There are several of theses companies out there if you look hard enough for them
The company has bought two buses off rotala though...
Quote from: Steveminor on November 18, 2013, 07:34:04 PM
Don't know all the details about the course. I'm pretty sure you don't have to buy buses though. I do know that you are expected to set up a limited company & run it as if it were real. It is possible that some students take it a bit too far ie taking over already running business. There are several of theses companies out there if you look hard enough for them
Well what sort of bloody stupid idea is that? I'm sorry Steve, but I'm totally against that. It makes no sense. And are the students supposed to fund this themselves? It costs real money you know.
And my point is; Run it as if it were real - but do it on a Closed Circuit. In addition if it has to be within the public domain - make a point of saying its fictional and make up "taken over" company names.
Not saying I agree with it I'm just trying to clear up any confusion on here.
Have they really bought any buses or is this just what is being said?
Quote from: Steveminor on November 18, 2013, 07:57:38 PM
Not saying I agree with it I'm just trying to clear up any confusion on here.
Have they really bought any buses or is this just what is being said?
No, its true. And there's pictures on Twitter of the Darts with their 'logo' on
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 18, 2013, 07:59:16 PM
Quote from: Steveminor on November 18, 2013, 07:57:38 PM
Not saying I agree with it I'm just trying to clear up any confusion on here.
Have they really bought any buses or is this just what is being said?
No, its true. And there's pictures on Twitter of the Darts with their 'logo' on
Yeah diamond sold them R220MSA and P401MLA
https://twitter.com/CityFoxLimited
Quote from: Liverpool Street on November 18, 2013, 07:59:16 PM
Quote from: Steveminor on November 18, 2013, 07:57:38 PM
Not saying I agree with it I'm just trying to clear up any confusion on here.
Have they really bought any buses or is this just what is being said?
No, its true. And there's pictures on Twitter of the Darts with their 'logo' on
And confirmed on the Rotala fleetlists
Quote from: vinh1000 on November 18, 2013, 08:01:27 PM
https://twitter.com/CityFoxLimited
Well according to that they're affiliated with GreenBus, Kernowbus, National Express Coach, Claribels, and others. and even trained to give CPC Accredited Training!!
This Mr Hands must be very Handy as his specializes in everything. But he must be doing something with the bank manager as I'm sure the College doesn't pay for used PCV's
Just looked at the twitter account & the photo of the cpc training is interesting as 5 of those people used to drive for the now defunct Acl travel & one of them left Acl to work for us at inonespin. So don't think it's his staff.
On another note I've just got off the phone to Matthew at claribels who has seen the Facebook site & is getting in touch with Facebook to get it closed down
Quote from: Steveminor on November 18, 2013, 08:40:14 PM
Just looked at the twitter account & the photo of the cpc training is interesting as 5 of those people used to drive for the now defunct Acl travel & one of them left Acl to work for us at inonespin. So don't think it's his staff.
On another note I've just got off the phone to Matthew at claribels who has seen the Facebook site & is getting in touch with Facebook to get it closed down
Thanks Steve, I had already emailed him with the details and a link to the Facebook page, have not yet had a reply back off him. Was hoping for an official response before I start posting on that page! ;D
Just to put an end to this saga, the offending page has now been removed from Facebook. 8)
Have you seen this :)
Quote
Rhys Hand @RhysHand 13h
Dylan4579, Liverpool Street and the rest of you muppets, yes I have noticed you and yes I'm looking to sew you all for slander! :)
Posted on Twitter 13 hours ago
Quote from: John on November 20, 2013, 07:01:37 PM
Have you seen this :)
Quote
Rhys Hand @RhysHand 13h
Dylan4579, Liverpool Street and the rest of you muppets, yes I have noticed you and yes I'm looking to sew you all for slander! :)
Posted on Twitter 13 hours ago
I wonder who let him out of Bedlam?
Quote from: John on November 20, 2013, 07:01:37 PM
Have you seen this :)
Quote
Rhys Hand @RhysHand 13h
Dylan4579, Liverpool Street and the rest of you muppets, yes I have noticed you and yes I'm looking to sew you all for slander! :)
Posted on Twitter 13 hours ago
lol 8) He should be lucky that Claribels don't 'sew' him for false misrepresentation. ;D
Bring it on t@¥t
Quote from: Stu on November 20, 2013, 07:05:08 PM
Quote from: John on November 20, 2013, 07:01:37 PM
Have you seen this :)
Quote
Rhys Hand @RhysHand 13h
Dylan4579, Liverpool Street and the rest of you muppets, yes I have noticed you and yes I'm looking to sew you all for slander! :)
Posted on Twitter 13 hours ago
lol 8) He should be lucky that Claribels don't 'sew' him for false misrepresentation. ;D
And there was me thinking slander was for the spoken word!
Libel and Slander - http://www.yourrights.org.uk/yourrights/right-of-free-expression/defamation/defamation-elements-of-a-claim.html
If the publication is in a permanent form (for example in a book, magazine or film), then the defamation is libel. It is slander if the publication is in a transient form (speech). Signs, gestures, photographs, pictures, statues, cartoons etc. can also give rise to a claim for defamation, but the most obvious types of defamatory statements are written or spokenwords.
IANAL
Quote from: Rhys Hand's Facebook, 13 Hours Ago on November 20, 2013, 08:03:22 PM
Yes, Yes I've seen all your comments on your little forum.. and yes I'm gonna sew you for them too #money
How will he 'sew' for money ;D
Quote from: John on November 20, 2013, 08:19:21 PM
How will he 'sew' for money ;D
Well he did say he was going to 'stitch' us up.
Is this guy for real or did the paramount comedy channel make him up
Oh well, in for a penny in for a pound!
Haha love all the people that make up stories to try and look important
Quote from: BU07 LGO on November 20, 2013, 09:59:02 PM
Haha love all the people that make up stories to try and look important
Eh?
""Contracts Manager
18/11/2013
Daniel Wood is our new contracts manager for the group. We look forward to his exciting ideas that he brings from the entertainment industry!""
More ..
"Entertainment industry"
Well they've been keeping us entertained.
Quote
Rhys Hand @RhysHand 13h
Dylan4579, Liverpool Street and the rest of you muppets, yes I have noticed you and yes I'm looking to sew you all for slander! :)
Wow.
Hahaha, excellent post Dylan. I'll let you off with the picture upload ;)
One of Claribels Optares seen at th Hunters Moon at 3:15 towards Chelmsley Wood & it looked like it had a service destination in the blind.Never seen one in public service yet.
Wasn't one (or more) of the clowns behind CityFox arrested on suspicion of causing the Western Greyhound fire? Was anyone ever convicted?
Quote from: nitromatt1 on December 05, 2013, 04:48:15 PM
Wasn't one (or more) of the clowns behind CityFox arrested on suspicion of causing the Western Greyhound fire? Was anyone ever convicted?
All the people arrested for the Western Greyhound fire are currently on Police Bail until 16th December if the local press reports are correct
Quote from: Tony on December 05, 2013, 08:04:04 PM
Quote from: nitromatt1 on December 05, 2013, 04:48:15 PM
Wasn't one (or more) of the clowns behind CityFox arrested on suspicion of causing the Western Greyhound fire? Was anyone ever convicted?
All the people arrested for the Western Greyhound fire are currently on Police Bail until 16th December if the local press reports are correct
Bail has been extended until 18th February!
claribels are offering a £1 single fare on the 71E on 2nd Jan
Quote from: Matt.N0056 on December 24, 2013, 01:43:56 PM
claribels are offering a £1 single fare on the 71E on 2nd Jan
Is that from 2nd Jan or 2nd Jan only?
Quote from: Winston on December 24, 2013, 02:54:16 PM
Quote from: Matt.N0056 on December 24, 2013, 01:43:56 PM
claribels are offering a £1 single fare on the 71E on 2nd Jan
Is that from 2nd Jan or 2nd Jan only?
I think it's the 2nd Jan only. I'll have to read the notice properly when I see it again
From 2nd Jan
A. B7rle just left on the 55, second time I've seen on on there
Quote from: Nathan4775 on December 31, 2013, 02:20:28 PM
A. B7rle just left on the 55, second time I've seen on on there
A B7RLE on the 55 would be unusual, since Claribels don't have any
Quote from: Nathan4775 on December 31, 2013, 02:20:28 PM
A. B7rle just left on the 55, second time I've seen on on there
Surely you mean a Wright Eclipse Pulsar VDL SB200? The bodyworks look similar so you that's why you probably mistaken it for a B7RLE :)
Quote from: Nathan on December 31, 2013, 02:42:36 PM
Quote from: Nathan4775 on December 31, 2013, 02:20:28 PM
A. B7rle just left on the 55, second time I've seen on on there
Surely you mean a Wright Eclipse Pulsar VDL SB200? The bodyworks look similar so you that's why you probably mistaken it for a B7RLE :)
Yeah, that's one nath :p thanks
Quote from: Nathan on December 31, 2013, 03:43:46 PM
No problems Nathan :) I can see why you thought why it was a B7RLE as the Urban and Pulsar Bodyworks look similar
Technically, B7RLE is just the chassis type, and can have a variety of bodyworks depending on the bus manufacturer.
The Wrightbus Eclipse 2 (as used by National Express and Diamond) is built on the Volvo B7RLE chassis.
The Wrightbus Pulsar 2 (as used by Claribels and Arriva) is built on the VDL SB200 chassis.
The bodywork is essentially the same, so to the untrained eye both buses look exactly the same. The chassis type is basically optional, depending on the operator, if they desire a fleet with the same chassis, as mechanical parts will be interchangeable.
Sorry if this sounds a little pedantic, but when people talk about B7RLE, this is what a B7RLE actually looks like:
(https://wmbusphotos.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.volvobuses.com%2FSiteCollectionImages%2FVBC%2FGlobal%2520-%2520ILF%2F752x228%2FU2006_10621.jpg&hash=86655fffb9d4bcc62feef6d53cf469961d1c1e8b)
Thought the pulsars were only on 71e & 94 service's
Quote from: Solo1 on January 01, 2014, 10:31:36 AM
Thought the pulsars were only on 71e & 94 service's
They usually are, but I have also noticed a few on the 55 lately as well
Quote from: John on January 01, 2014, 10:39:41 AM
Quote from: Solo1 on January 01, 2014, 10:31:36 AM
Thought the pulsars were only on 71e & 94 service's
They usually are, but I have also noticed a few on the 55 lately as well
Also I like how they are using some of the elder pulsars on the 71E aswell makes a change from the YJ12 reg ones YJ58FDV was on the 71E today :)
Another new bus for Claribels, VDL SB200/Wright Pulsar YJ14CCF
http://malsfotofile.smugmug.com/HeyshamDocks/Heysham-Docks/27816939_rvssTn#!i=3101315476&k=7G9XRNp
Quote from: Winston on March 02, 2014, 03:19:33 PM
Another new bus for Claribels, VDL SB200/Wright Pulsar YJ14CCF
http://malsfotofile.smugmug.com/HeyshamDocks/Heysham-Docks/27816939_rvssTn#!i=3101315476&k=7G9XRNp
Looking forward to seeing this about when entered service :)
Also I've noticed the Pulsars are not being used on the 71E lately its gone back to Commanders. Does anybody know why? :)
Quote from: Winston on March 02, 2014, 03:19:33 PM
Another new bus for Claribels, VDL SB200/Wright Pulsar YJ14CCF
http://malsfotofile.smugmug.com/HeyshamDocks/Heysham-Docks/27816939_rvssTn#!i=3101315476&k=7G9XRNp
Unrelated but on the same photostream...
http://malsfotofile.smugmug.com/HeyshamDocks/Heysham-Docks/i-X8C7hDT/0/M/London%20Borough%20of%20Redbridge%20LL11XPX%20130210%20Heysham-M.jpg
Ugliest bus ever?!
Quote from: Rob H on March 06, 2014, 03:05:55 PM
Quote from: Winston on March 02, 2014, 03:19:33 PM
Another new bus for Claribels, VDL SB200/Wright Pulsar YJ14CCF
http://malsfotofile.smugmug.com/HeyshamDocks/Heysham-Docks/27816939_rvssTn#!i=3101315476&k=7G9XRNp
Looking forward to seeing this about when entered service :)
Also I've noticed the Pulsars are not being used on the 71E lately its gone back to Commanders. Does anybody know why? :)
Not sure but with NXWM offering new buses on the 71, it's more of a competitive advantage to use the newer vechicles on the 94 where nxwm are offering dreg buses. I have certainly noticed increasing fuller loads on their 94 services vs nxwm's.
YJ62 JZH appeared on the 71E today to my knowledge thats only the second time a 62 reg pulsar has gone onto the 71E.
Quote from: Winston on March 02, 2014, 03:19:33 PM
Another new bus for Claribels, VDL SB200/Wright Pulsar YJ14CCF
http://malsfotofile.smugmug.com/HeyshamDocks/Heysham-Docks/27816939_rvssTn#!i=3101315476&k=7G9XRNp
Another one YJ14CCE:
http://malsfotofile.smugmug.com/HeyshamDocks/Heysham-Docks/27816939_rvssTn#!i=3124936057&k=dbh85TG&lb=1&s=A
Claribels is a better company then I thought then with new buses of a frequent happening. (I know there is more to a quality operator then just new buses...)
Why no website?
Quote from: Liverpool Street on March 16, 2014, 04:49:52 PM
Claribels is a better company then I thought then with new buses of a frequent happening. (I know there is more to a quality operator then just new buses...)
Why no website?
Im sure they used to have a website although with very little on it!
Yes they had a website & when will the 2 new 14 reg'd be out in service
Quote from: Solo1 on March 16, 2014, 06:58:05 PM
Yes they had a website & when will the 2 new 14 reg'd be out in service
http://web.archive.org/web/20090203163433/http://www.claribelcoaches.co.uk/
PD0000087/38 - CLARIBEL COACHES LTD, 10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS, BIRMINGHAM, B33 0JT
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: Birmingham New Street Station
Finish Point: Warwickshire Cricket Club
Via: Bristol Road
Service Number: WCC1
Service Type: Limited Stop
Effective Date: 23-MAY-2014
Other Details:
is this for specific cricket games?
On Saturday afternoon in Solihull around 430, Claribels pulled in behind Sunny Travel and opened the door. He waited about 10 to 15 seconds and no one go on. He pulled out leaving Sunny behind and went around the block and parked behind an NX 72 a few minutes later!! Tut Tut...
That's nothing new
Quote from: OH25 on April 08, 2014, 10:10:22 PM
PD0000087/38 - CLARIBEL COACHES LTD, 10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS, BIRMINGHAM, B33 0JT
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: Birmingham New Street Station
Finish Point: Warwickshire Cricket Club
Via: Bristol Road
Service Number: WCC1
Service Type: Limited Stop
Effective Date: 23-MAY-2014
Other Details:
is this for specific cricket games?
They've provided shuttle services from the city centre to Edgbaston cricket ground the last few years when test matches are being played there, maybe it's just an official registration of service?
Quote from: suavegarv on April 08, 2014, 11:34:51 PM
On Saturday afternoon in Solihull around 430, Claribels pulled in behind Sunny Travel and opened the door. He waited about 10 to 15 seconds and no one go on. He pulled out leaving Sunny behind and went around the block and parked behind an NX 72 a few minutes later!! Tut Tut...
I think it's been mentioned before on here, but someone made a complaint on FixMyTransport last week:
http://www.fixmytransport.com/campaigns/fix-this-other-operators-sunny-trave--2
(Ironically as FMT don't have Sunnys or Claribels 71E routes in their database, it was NXWM who provided contact details!)
Have the 2 14 reg'd buses entered service with claribells yet
If so which service are they to be found on
Quote from: Solo1 on April 11, 2014, 02:19:11 PM
Have the 2 14 reg'd buses entered service with claribells yet
If so which service are they to be found on
When they enter service (if they haven't already) you'll most likely find them on the 94 :)
Quote from: Stu on April 09, 2014, 07:16:03 PM
Quote from: OH25 on April 08, 2014, 10:10:22 PM
PD0000087/38 - CLARIBEL COACHES LTD, 10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS, BIRMINGHAM, B33 0JT
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: Birmingham New Street Station
Finish Point: Warwickshire Cricket Club
Via: Bristol Road
Service Number: WCC1
Service Type: Limited Stop
Effective Date: 23-MAY-2014
Other Details:
is this for specific cricket games?
They've provided shuttle services from the city centre to Edgbaston cricket ground the last few years when test matches are being played there, maybe it's just an official registration of service?
i like my cricket and this year they are doing all ODI and T20 before the test match's ( it been the other way around before)
Birmingham International's covering the 409 Birmingham to Aberystwyth (national express) on Friday using Yj11yok, very nice coach I must say!
Just seen a 71E turn onto the Coventry road off Horse shoes lane!
Wonder what has happened at the Wheatsheaf then for it to
do that or it was only running from chelmsley wood to wheatsheaf
Quote from: Solo1 on April 14, 2014, 01:17:38 PM
Wonder what has happened at the Wheatsheaf then for it to
do that or it was only running from chelmsley wood to wheatsheaf
Probably the traffic, he had passengers on...
Quote from: Matt.N0056 on April 14, 2014, 03:05:13 PM
Quote from: Solo1 on April 14, 2014, 01:17:38 PM
Wonder what has happened at the Wheatsheaf then for it to
do that or it was only running from chelmsley wood to wheatsheaf
Probably the traffic, he had passengers on...
No queues at the Wheatsheaf today. With the schools off traffic was light there
Quote from: Tony on April 14, 2014, 03:33:44 PM
Quote from: Matt.N0056 on April 14, 2014, 03:05:13 PM
Quote from: Solo1 on April 14, 2014, 01:17:38 PM
Wonder what has happened at the Wheatsheaf then for it to
do that or it was only running from chelmsley wood to wheatsheaf
Probably the traffic, he had passengers on...
No queues at the Wheatsheaf today. With the schools off traffic was light there
No idea then, maybe was turning short at the Wheatsheaf
2 Pulsars out on the 71E today rather than the usual 1 YJ58FDV which is usually on almost everyday and YJ12CKN was the other.
Finally seen one of the new vehicles JY14 CCF on the 94 from the city at the Hunters Moon at 16:25.
here is that bus https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanjack/13950728634/in/photostream/
YJ57BOH made an appearance on the 71E today alongside YJ58FDV
With the 2 new 14 reg'd at claribell what will
be withdrawn
noticed one of their VDL YJ54 buses out on 94
Ant seen one on here in ages
YJ57BOF was out on the 55 yesterday. First Pulsar I've witnessed on there
Pulsars on the 55 are uber rare! Only personally seen twice since they first entered service in 07/08 and both of those have been in the last year or so.
A Claribels Pulsar which looked like YJ58FDV took a short cut up my road today around 12:10pm turned left off Sheaf Lane came up Rectory Park Road (my road) then turned right onto Coalway Avenue then continued down Coalway Avenue then turned left onto A45 by the Morrisons Store not sure where it went after that.
YJ57BOH on the 55 today.
Now that the 14 reg examples have been delivered, the Pulsars have started to sneak onto the 55.
BOH, again on the 55 today. I wonder which. If any of the Cadets have been withdrawn or off the road.
BOF and BOH now seem to be regulars on the 55.
YJ10DHX has a small '94' on its rear. Is this a fleetnumber or an indication that the bus is only to be used on that route?
@Gareth I think its so its only used on that route, I've seen the same for the 71, which had an advertisement for somewhere in Sheldon I believe which may have been why
Thanks for that.
I think DHX has an advert for somewhere in the city centre, so it seems to make sense.
I have noticed on my way to the gym that the old vehicles are now tending to appear on the 71s and the new plates on the 94 i guess to give some of USP for customers, do people agree?
YJ56KCV was parked outside off Coventry road opposite Sheldon tescos at 0835 after getting off 900 to school
YJ54CEA took a quick route into Chelmsley Wood this morning from The Radley's it took the 17 Route to Tile Cross seen it turn onto Mackadown Lane while operating a 71E
YJ12CKO out on 71E yesterday and today along with YJ58FDV yesterday good to see more than 1 pulsar out on the 71E
Which services benefit from the newer vehicles then ?
YJ10DHX came up my road this afternoon around 15:20 with Shuttle Bus displaying
Quote from: Rob on July 17, 2014, 07:46:09 PM
YJ10DHX came up my road this afternoon around 15:20 with Shuttle Bus displaying
They are sub contracted by Silverline on the JLR shuttles, along with Hollywood Travel
YJ10DHX out on the 71E today alongside the usual pulsar YJ58FDV
YJ12CKN out on the 71E today alongside YJ58FDV
Todays Allocations
YJ58FDV , YJ54CEA , YJ59BCU- 71E
YJ14CCE , YJ10DHX , YJ1xxxx- 94
YJ54CKL parked at depot
haven't seen what's on 55
PD0000087/16 - CLARIBEL COACHES LTD, 10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS, BIRMINGHAM, B33 0JT
Variation Accepted by SN: Operating between Solihull, Chelmsley Wood, Chelmsley Circus and Solihull, Station given service number 71E effective from 02-Mar-2015. To amend Route.
Looking on Tonys fleetlist
looks like claribels have a new bus
FJ54ZTX VDL SB200 Wright B30D
Quote from: nxwmbusfan1999 on March 29, 2015, 04:54:50 PM
Looking on Tonys fleetlist
looks like claribels have a new bus
FJ54ZTX VDL SB200 Wright B30D
Ex Tamworth Coach & Bus,
http://www.wmbusphotos.com/heartlands/222.html
Is it just for School or will we see it on the 71/55
Quote from: John on March 29, 2015, 04:59:26 PM
Ex Tamworth Coach & Bus,
http://www.wmbusphotos.com/heartlands/222.html
Is it just for School or will we see it on the 71/55
Ignore that one, just catching up on a load of reports for smaller operators and realised that one was fake
Little look at claribels depot today and
YJ56KCV parked outside
YJ54CKL , YJ13HJD , YJ13HJE in Pits
Now this was unexpected!
QuotePublic Inquiry (50669) to be held at The Public Inquiry Room, 38 George Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 1PL, on 22 May 2015 commencing at 10:30(Previous Publication:(2225)
)
PD0000087 SI
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Director(s): N WATKISS, M WATKISS, A WATKISS, MARGARET WATKISS , DAVID WATKISS .
10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS , BIRMINGHAM B33 0JT
PSV - S17 - Consideration of disciplinary action under Section 17 (The Public Passenger Vehicles Act 1981)
PSV - S28 - Consideration of disciplinary action under Section 28 (The Transport Act 1985)
PSV - S26 - Consideration of disciplinary action under Section 26 (The Transport Act 1985)
PSV - S111 - Consideration of disciplinary action under Section 111 (The Transport Act 1985)
Does anyone know off the top of their heads what the various offences are with those transport act sections? Or is it a google job?
Quote from: Gareth on May 01, 2015, 12:01:55 PM
Does anyone know off the top of their heads what the various offences are with those transport act sections? Or is it a google job?
Section 111 is unregistered or unreliable timetables
The other sections refer more to actions the tc can take i.e attach conditions to license revoke license etc.
There was a Cadet on the 94 this afternoon. Been a long time since I saw one of those allocated.
What's a Cadet then sorry?
Quote from: monkeyjoe on May 06, 2015, 10:04:28 PM
What's a Cadet then sorry?
Think Gareth may be referring to a Wright Commander bodied DAF/VDL SB200
http://wmbusphotos.com/Claribels/yj54cen.html
Yes, sorry they are commanders on the SB200. Was getting confused with all the various different body names. Cadet is of course on the SB120
Anything to report on the outcome of the transport commissioner's public enquiry meeting?
QuotePublic Inquiry (50669) held at The Public Inquiry Room, 38 George Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 1PL on 22 May 2015 at 10:30(Previous Publication:(2232)
)PD0000087 SI
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Director(s): N WATKISS, M WATKISS, A WATKISS, MARGARET WATKISS , DAVID WATKISS .
10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS , BIRMINGHAM B33 0JT
1. The Operator retains its repute and remains professionally competent.
2. The TM retains his repute and remains professionally competent.
3. The Operator, having without reasonable excuse operated a local service in contravention of section 6 Transport Act 1985, shall pay a penalty of £11,375 pursuant to section 155 Transport Act 2000.
PD0000087/31 - CLARIBEL COACHES LTD, 10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS, BIRMINGHAM, B33 0JT
Cancellation Accepted by SN: Operating between Cheswick Green and Solihull Station given service number 894 effective from 27-Jul-2015.
PD0000087/32 - CLARIBEL COACHES LTD, 10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS, BIRMINGHAM, B33 0JT
Cancellation Accepted by SN: Operating between Cheswick Green and Solihull Station given service number 822 effective from 27-Jul-2015.
PD0000087/33 - CLARIBEL COACHES LTD, 10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS, BIRMINGHAM, B33 0JT
Cancellation Accepted by SN: Operating between Cheswick Green and Solihull Station given service number 823 effective from 27-Jul-2015.
Report about Claribels
http://www.route-one.net/legal/11375-penalty-for-claribel-coaches/
Tut tut tut naughty naughty not running to the registered route. If you can't do it right, it shouldn't be done at all
Arh shame
If they "didn't know" they should have been going to solihull station why was it on their destination blinds?
Quote from: Steveminor on September 15, 2015, 02:24:30 PM
If they "didn't know" they should have been going to solihull station why was it on their destination blinds?
The TC admitted there may have been some confusion over that. The fine seems fair to me. Their drivers were doing their own thing running whenever they felt like.
The difference between Claribels and the other local operators caught out recently is Claribels were doing it with well maintained vehicles and once they were found out they took actions to remedy the situation. Perhaps if GRS & Travel Express had done what Claribels have done since October they might still be running buses
I think to be honest it's the "confusion" at the tc end that has saved them. As for gps well they've had that on for years so hardly a remedy & they only stopped it cause well the solihull regeneration.
I agree though that they have got their act together & had grs & tx done the same when they got called up first time then they would still be with us.
I guess the lesson is if the tc says jump into line, you'd better jump into line or he won't give you a second chance.
Enviro 300 MX55XGM
parked at Chelmsey Wood
If anyone wants a photograph
YJ12CKO was on 71E today
YJ12CKO possibly allocated on 71E now
haven't seen YJ58FDV in a while
Quote from: James4368 on December 01, 2015, 11:36:18 AM
YJ12CKO possibly allocated on 71E now
haven't seen YJ58FDV in a while
Has been for months.
Quote from: countryliner on December 02, 2015, 04:04:38 AM
I have just noticed that the three 12.1m Optare Versa buses that Claribels have - YJ13 HJC / YJ13 HJD / YJ13 HJE - all have single width narrow doors instead of the double width wider doors that most (maybe all) other Optare Versa buses have. These may well be the only Optate Versa buses in the UK with these types of doors. Does anyone know why they were ordered like this. It does seem strange that a larger bus like these would have this type of door - normally you can only find this type of door on smaller Optare Solo buses (such as some of the 7.1m Optare Solo or 7.2m Optare Solo SR) or on Plaxton Primo buses.
@Tony - Also just to let you know these three 12.1m Optare Versa buses are are actually B48F seated. I saw that you listed them in your fleet list as B38F seated but they are actually B48F seated. I hope that this helps.
Claribels purchased them solely for schools contract work, I have never seen one in normal service, so they don't need the wider doord
They are used for school swimming contracts mainly with the odd one doing closed door school contracts
Since the machines have in built GPS trackers this could be the reason. Other than that I don't know
Centro supplies the machines, right? It's not like Claribels have blown money over machines that won't be used much. Plus they would act as spares if needed.
I haven't seen
YJ54CKL VDL Decker in a while
not sure if Claribels still own it or not
Quote from: James4368 on December 03, 2015, 08:12:57 AM
I haven't seen
YJ54CKL VDL Decker in a while
not sure if Claribels still own it or not
Saw it in Birmingham City Centre yesterday
Claribels have another addition to fleet
YJ60GHF VDL Pulsar
On 71E today
Quote from: James4368 on December 04, 2015, 08:53:35 AM
Claribels have another addition to fleet
YJ60GHF VDL Pulsar
On 71E today
Ex John Fishwicks & Sons. Was it in fleet livery or allover white?
It's in livery
Quote from: Winston on December 04, 2015, 09:59:58 AM
Ex John Fishwicks & Sons. Was it in fleet livery or allover white?
I was wondering why they weren't for sale at the auction. Have they all gone to Claribels?
Quote from: Michael Bevan on December 04, 2015, 01:15:00 PM
I was wondering why they weren't for sale at the auction. Have they all gone to Claribels?
@Michael Bevan So far ive only seen YJ60 Pulsar or possibly claribels did buy all Pulsar fleet but awaiting livery
Quote from: Michael Bevan on December 04, 2015, 01:15:00 PM
I was wondering why they weren't for sale at the auction. Have they all gone to Claribels?
The Pulsars weren't included in the auction as they were leased & returned to Arriva Bus & Coach, Gomersal
Quote from: Winston on December 04, 2015, 04:56:48 PM
The Pulsars weren't included in the auction as they were leased & returned to Arriva Bus & Coach, Gomersal
@Winston Been told by a friend of mine
Claribels have brought 4 VDL Pulsars which are Ex John Fishwicks
2x YJ60's ( one of them is YJ60GFH)
2x YJ12's
Quote from: James4368 on December 04, 2015, 06:06:09 PM
@Winston
Been told by a friend of mine
Claribels have brought 4 VDL Pulsars which are Ex John Fishwicks
2x YJ60's ( one of them is YJ60GFH)
2x YJ12's
Cheers
@James4368.
I assume they've bought them to replace older Commanders?
Quote from: Winston on December 04, 2015, 06:09:51 PM
Cheers @James4368.
I assume they've bought them to replace older Commanders?
Possible
@Winston Might head to depot tomorrow. Only problem is I don't know what time all buses depart depot?
Quote from: James4368 on December 04, 2015, 06:13:36 PM
Possible @Winston
Might head to depot tomorrow. Only problem is I don't know what time all buses depart depot?
@James4368 they would make useful replacements for 53/54 plate Commanders, I'd be surprised if they were fleet additions as isn't it already pretty cosy in the depot with the current bus & coach fleet?
Quote from: Winston on December 04, 2015, 06:17:27 PM
@James4368 they would make useful replacements for 53/54 plate Commanders, I'd be surprised if they were fleet additions as isn't it already pretty cosy in the depot with the current bus & coach fleet?
@Winston I will try and visit the depot about 8ish tomorrow and get some photos
Quote from: James4368 on December 04, 2015, 06:31:33 PM
@Winston
I will try and visit the depot about 8ish tomorrow and get some photos
@James4368 Most if not all the bus fleet should still be there, as most routes don't start until 9.30 - 10am on a Sat
Quote from: Winston on December 04, 2015, 06:47:11 PM
@James4368
Most if not all the bus fleet should still be there, as most routes don't start until 9.30 - 10am on a Sat
Okay cheers
@Winston hopefully all 4 Pulsars are present
Here is YJ60 GHF
http://wmbusphotos.com/Claribels/YJ60GHF.html
Looks very fresh.
Quote from: James4368 on December 04, 2015, 06:48:38 PM
Okay cheers @Winston
hopefully all 4 Pulsars are present
Guessing the other three are YJ60GJF and YJ12CHG/H as these were the only 60-plate and 12-plate examples at Fishwicks.
YJ60GHF , YJ12CHH are at depot ( fleet livery)
YJ60GJF is in John Fishwicks livery still
YJ12CHF gone for repaint
Quote from: James4368 on December 05, 2015, 09:09:28 AM
YJ60GHF , YJ12CHH are at depot ( fleet livery)
YJ60GJF is in John Fishwicks livery still
YJ12CHF gone for repaint
@James4368 did you find out what they were replacing?
Quote from: Winston on December 05, 2015, 09:52:50 AM
@James4368 did you find out what they were replacing?
@Winston No I didn't
Few of commander's are still at depot
Probably extra fleet additions
Heres photos of 3 recent VDL's to Claribels fleet on photo link thread
http://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?topic=3954.0
Quote from: James4368 on December 05, 2015, 06:19:30 PM
Heres photos of 3 recent VDL's to Claribels fleet on photo link thread
http://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?topic=3954.0
Cheers
@James4368 some good pics there, some of the buses are parked quite tightly together. Claribels have a smart / modern fleet,
I wonder if the two Commanders parked behind YJ60GJF are out of use / potential disposals? Did you happen note what they were?
Quote from: Winston on December 05, 2015, 06:24:34 PM
Cheers @James4368 some good pics there, some of the buses are parked quite tightly together. Claribels have a smart / modern fleet,
I wonder if the two Commanders parked behind YJ60GJF are out of use / potential disposals? Did you happen note what they were?
@Winston Claribels rented some extra space by a small building which is top of road from main depot.
Mainly all of BHX coaches and most of claribels buses are parked on main depot premises and decided to take some of fleet up to rented space
buses at rented bit were
YJ54CKL
YJ53VDL
YJ58FDV
YJ12CHH
YJ60GHF
YJ60GJF
YJ13HJE/HJC
YJ56KCV
MX55XGM
RX14AOE (BHX Mini coach)
didn't see reg's of 2 commanders behind GJF
Quote from: James4368 on December 05, 2015, 10:14:11 AM
@Winston
No I didn't
Few of commander's are still at depot
Probably extra fleet additions
Saw two commanders on the M25 this morning, couldn't see the registrations
Quote from: Ex BC driver on December 07, 2015, 07:49:45 PM
Saw two commanders on the M25 this morning, couldn't see the registrations
Looks as though they were heading to Southdown PSV - 4 x 2005 (54 plate) Commanders are currently for sale
http://www.southdownpsv.co.uk/sales/bus_details.php?bus=278
YJ12CHG ( Ex Fishwicks) out on 71E today
Currently at Solihull now
@Solo1 @Rob2832
YJ60 GHF is on the 94 today
Seen a versa on the 197 to Marston Green earlier in Solihull
Quote from: RS on December 16, 2015, 06:58:56 PM
Seen a versa on the 197 to Marston Green earlier in Solihull
197?
Whats the 197
@RS?
Quote from: Matt.N0056 on December 16, 2015, 07:17:53 PM
School Service
To Marston Green? Is there a timetable for it?
Didn't know they operated a school service in Marston Green.
@Matt.N0056
Quote from: 2206 on December 16, 2015, 07:18:48 PM
To Marston Green? Is there a timetable for it?
Didn't know they operated a school service in Marston Green.
@Matt.N0056
@2206 theres no timetable for it since its a school contract it could do any school in that area
@RS Good spot of versa on 197 as its mostly Enviro 300 MX55XGM on it
Quote from: James4368 on December 16, 2015, 07:31:08 PM
@2206 theres no timetable for it since its a school contract it could do any school in that area
@RS Good spot of versa on 197 as its mostly Enviro 300 MX55XGM on it
Ok thanks for the information
Claribels out on the 71E today!
Quote from: Matt.N0056 on December 28, 2015, 11:09:32 AM
Claribels out on the 71E today!
They are also on the 55 and 94 today.
The 55 looked fully Pulsar operated today. Strange seeing the bright blue on the 55's.
Does anyone on this forum know if YJ13 HJC / YJ13 HJD / YJ13 HJE are DDA compliant. I know that they do not have to be as they never get used on registered public bus services. However i am just wondering if they are as they appear to have been ordered to a very different specification to most other Optare Versa buses. Thank you.
They must be as they are only nearly 3 years old. I would assume that it would a standard of all buses built after the DDA Compliance was brought in.
This web page and attachment will probably answer most your questions of which vehicles are and aren't compliant.
https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/bus-coach-accessibility-faq
I wouldn't think Claribels would purchase these buses so close to 1st Jan 2016 if they were not compliant. I could understand you questioning older vehicles but these are 13 regs and i would think they would be built to dda regs
@Chris - Thanks for the info and the link to the document. Much appreciated. I know that these are quite new 13 registered vehicles but i was just not sure because they are not ever used on any registered public services and because they appear to have a very different specification and design and layout to most other Optare Versa buses.
Quote from: countryliner on January 06, 2016, 04:03:21 PM
@Chris - Thanks for the info and the link to the document. Much appreciated. I know that these are quite new 13 registered vehicles but i was just not sure because they are not ever used on any registered public services and because they appear to have a very different specification and design and layout to most other Optare Versa buses.
Apart from significant batches delivered to Belle Vue, Goodwins and First Manchester on YJ12 and YJ14 plates to the exact same school spec, albeit with 57 seats?
@646 - Thanks for the info. I see that www.buslistsontheweb.co.uk lists these three buses (YJ13 HJC / YJ13 HJD / YJ13 HJE) as having 48 seats. However i do not see how you can fit 48 seats in to a 12.1m Optare Versa and still be DDA compliant.
Quote from: countryliner on January 06, 2016, 07:14:24 PM
@646 - Thanks for the info. I see that www.buslistsontheweb.co.uk lists these three buses (YJ13 HJC / YJ13 HJD / YJ13 HJE) as having 48 seats. However i do not see how you can fit 48 seats in to a 12.1m Optare Versa and still be DDA compliant.
Well you can buy DDA compliant 60 seater E300s so doesn't look too difficult
Quote from: Tony on January 06, 2016, 07:25:52 PM
Well you can buy DDA compliant 60 seater E300s so doesn't look too difficult
Well Surley there cant be much legroom in that
@Tony
@Tony @RS - Ok. Thanks for the info. I never realised that it is possible to fit this many seats in to a bus and still be DDA compliant. Yes i imagine that with that many seats there would probably only be a very small amount of legroom. I do not know why any bus operator would want a bus with such a large amount of seats - with less seats the bus would be more spacious and there would be much more room to stand - which would then increase the overall capacity of the bus.
Quote from: countryliner on January 06, 2016, 07:46:32 PM
@Tony @RS - Ok. Thanks for the info. I never realised that it is possible to fit this many seats in to a bus and still be DDA compliant. Yes i imagine that with that many seats there would probably only be a very small amount of legroom. I do not know why any bus operator would want a bus with such a large amount of seats - with less seats the bus would be more spacious and there would be much more room to stand - which would then increase the overall capacity of the bus.
For the same reason as Claribels wants 48 seats in it's Optares! Fairly obvious. They are for school work, you get all the Children in seats and with seat belts.
If that isn't obvious, no wonder you have so much trouble with working out most of your other fantasies don't work
Quote from: countryliner on January 06, 2016, 07:46:32 PM
@Tony @RS - Ok. Thanks for the info. I never realised that it is possible to fit this many seats in to a bus and still be DDA compliant. Yes i imagine that with that many seats there would probably only be a very small amount of legroom. I do not know why any bus operator would want a bus with such a large amount of seats - with less seats the bus would be more spacious and there would be much more room to stand - which would then increase the overall capacity of the bus.
As they are school buses & children have smaller legs / need less legroom, it's not an issue!
@Tony @Winston - Thanks for the info. I do see what you mean. However if the buses had a normal seating layout with less seats then it would enable more school children to stand and therefore the bus would have a larger overall capacity. For example with the current arrangements some schools might have to use two buses but if the bus had less seats and more room for the school children to stand then the capacity would be increased and the school would be able to use just one bus. Also i have never understood why some buses have seatbelts. I know that they are fitted to coaches but surely they are definetly not neccesary to use on a bus. The majority of buses in the UK do not have seatbelts and everyone manages fine.
It's the law if you are operating either a closed door contract or private hire for school children the vehicle MUST be fitted with seat belts whether it's a coach minibus single decker or double decker bus
@countryliner - people do not see standing on public transport as acceptable in the UK, they want a seat.
If you want more capacity you add another deck, it's called a double decker, not rip seats out & make people stand to cram more on - hardly a safe proposal is it?
@Steveminor @Winston - Thanks for the info. However can i ask are you sure that these buses must be fitted with seatbelts as i know quite a few bus operators in the UK who operate buses without seatbelts on private unregistered school bus contract routes. Also i know that elderley and disabled passengers will definetly need to sit down but surely other passengers can manage fine to stand for their journey if there are no seats available (which happens every day on buses all over the UK including on both registered and unregistered school bus routes).
Quote from: countryliner on January 07, 2016, 02:30:17 PM
@Steveminor @Winston - Thanks for the info. However can i ask are you sure that these buses must be fitted with seatbelts as i know quite a few bus operators in the UK who operate buses without seatbelts on private unregistered school bus contract routes. Also i know that elderley and disabled passengers will definetly need to sit down but surely other passengers can manage fine to stand for their journey if there are no seats available (which happens every day on buses all over the UK including on both registered and unregistered school bus routes).
My Question to you
@countryliner is... Would a passenger on Stagecoaches UniBus services want to stand for upto 50 minutes getting from Sydenham to The University of Warwick? I certainly would not.
Quote from: Winston on January 07, 2016, 11:04:19 AM
@countryliner - people do not see standing on public transport as acceptable in the UK, they want a seat.
If you want more capacity you add another deck, it's called a double decker, not rip seats out & make people stand to cram more on - hardly a safe proposal is it?
The platinum mmc's can take 23 standing which I thought was a lot
Can we please get back on topic i.e. Claribels, Winston
Quote from: Winston on January 07, 2016, 05:24:09 PM
Can we please get back on topic i.e. Claribels, Winston
do they give change ?
@karl724223 these type of comments are as annoying as the crap posts you frequently complain about, Winston
If anyone is interested YJ03 PKA and YD02 RCY have now moved to Kent Coach Tours and they are mainly used on rural bus routes around the Ashford and Tenterden areas of Kent and East Sussex.
A 57 plate was parked outside stechford swimming baths today doing a school service/private hire
I think it was YJ57BOH.
Never seen them do one before.
d
PD0000087/16 - CLARIBEL COACHES LTD, 10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS, BIRMINGHAM, B33 0JT
Variation Accepted: Operating between Solihull, Chelmsley Wood, Chelmsley Circus and Solihull, Station given service number 71E effective from 27-May-2016. To amend Timetable.
Displaying results 1 to 1 out of 1 results found
Quote from: 2206 on February 01, 2016, 04:10:35 PM
A 57 plate was parked outside stechford swimming baths today doing a school service/private hire
I think it was YJ57BOH.
Never seen them do one before.
You've not been looking then, they've been serving the baths for years.
Quote from: Solo1 on April 06, 2016, 02:10:51 PM
PD0000087/16 - CLARIBEL COACHES LTD, 10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS, BIRMINGHAM, B33 0JT
Variation Accepted: Operating between Solihull, Chelmsley Wood, Chelmsley Circus and Solihull, Station given service number 71E effective from 27-May-2016. To amend Timetable.
Let me guess, they're going 5 mins in front of Sh*tty Travel ??
(In joke, considering what I saw yesterday)
Oh right what company name was on the back lol
D0000087/9 - CLARIBEL COACHES LTD, 10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS, BIRMINGHAM, B33 0JT
Variation Accepted: Operating between City Centre, Lower Bull Street and Chemsley Wood MEB From City given service number 94 effective from 06-Jun-2016. To amend Timetable.
PD0000087/10 - CLARIBEL COACHES LTD, 10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS, BIRMINGHAM, B33 0JT
Variation Accepted: Operating between Birmingham, City Centre, Lower Bull Street and North Solihull,Chelmsley Wood, Pine Square given service number 55 effective from 06-Jun-2016. To amend Timetable.
Chelmsley Wood MEB, now that's a blast from the past! I remember that being on timetables along with 'Labour Exchange' in the early 1990's.
Frequency increases or reductions???
Quote from: monkeyjoe on April 25, 2016, 07:07:00 PM
Frequency increases or reductions???
A change from running a few minutes behind a certain operator to running a few minutes ahead instead???
Timetables are altered to improve reliability :D
Quote from: Steveminor on April 26, 2016, 07:45:04 PM
Timetables are altered to improve reliability :D
Do we take it you're working at Claribels now?
No comment :D
Quote from: Steveminor on April 26, 2016, 07:45:04 PM
Timetables are altered to improve reliability :D
Well, I believe you.
Quote from: Winston on April 26, 2016, 08:06:09 PM
Do we take it you're working at Claribels now?
See previous page of this thread ;-)
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on April 06, 2016, 06:56:22 PM
You've not been looking then, they've been serving the baths for years.
I meant I hadn't seen a 57 plate pulsar on it before. Usually the E300 or, Double Decker.
The E300 has now left the fleet & the decker only does baths if it isn't busy on private hires.
Quote from: Steveminor on May 02, 2016, 11:28:04 AM
The E300 has now left the fleet & the decker only does baths if it isn't busy on private hires.
When did it leave the fleet?
What do the Versa's do can't they do the baths as well
The E300 left 2 weeks ago.
The versas do a mixture of school contracts private hire & JLR work. When the versas & decker are on other work (which is quite regular lately) then the commanders or pulsars are used.
Mote the E300 has been replaced with a brand new wheelchair accessible vdl coach for Birmingham International fleet.
@Steveminor I bet Claribel's is a totally different kettle of fish compared to when you were there previously i.e. when the operated Leyland Leopard & Ford coaches of the 55 & 94
Yeah it's a much improved company now much more professional. Not just with Claribels but Birmingham International coaches as well. Not a Leyland Doyen in sight lol
2. PD0000087/16 - CLARIBEL COACHES LTD, 10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS, BIRMINGHAM, B33 0JT
Variation Accepted by SN: Operating between Solihull, Chelmsley Wood, Chelmsley Circus and Solihull given service number 71E effective from 10-Jun-2016. To amend Route
For new solihull bus lane. Also jxx is repainted into the pulsar livery
Quote from: Steveminor on June 10, 2016, 04:17:55 PM
For new solihull bus lane. Also jxx is repainted into the pulsar livery
Sorry if I've not been keeping up with the latest, but I'm a bit puzzled how this new bus road will work; is it just one way for buses heading towards Solihull town centre from Lode Lane?
Quote from: Stu on June 10, 2016, 07:37:41 PM
Sorry if I've not been keeping up with the latest, but I'm a bit puzzled how this new bus road will work; is it just one way for buses heading towards Solihull town centre from Lode Lane?
Looks as much, saves going to the roundabout and waiting for a vehicle to let you do the right turn there. Looks lies they're signalling it all so that buses coming from the town cayman turn right there as well instead on left and all the way round the island to come back on themselves
YJ14CCF in service on the 94 with a chipped windscreen this afternoon
Anyone interested jxx is on 71 today sporting her new pulsar style livery
Quote from: Steveminor on June 16, 2016, 07:29:58 AM
Anyone interested jxx is on 71 today sporting her new pulsar style livery
Seen jxx at The Radley's head for Chelmsley Wood it looks fantastic couldn't get a pic as I was on Sunny Travel KV03ZFU at the time heading towards Solihull
PD0000087/9 - CLARIBEL COACHES LTD, 10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS, BIRMINGHAM, B33 0JT
Variation Accepted: Operating between City Centre, Lower Bull Street and Chemsley Wood MEB From City given service number 94 effective from 09-Sep-2016. To amend Timetable.
PD0000087/10 - CLARIBEL COACHES LTD, 10 FORTNUM CLOSE, TILE CROSS, BIRMINGHAM, B33 0JT
Variation Accepted: Operating between Birmingham, City Centre, Lower Bull Street and North Solihull,Chelmsley Wood, Pine Square given service number 55 effective from 09-Sep-2016. To amend Timetable.
As repaints seem to get everyone's juices flowing, for anyone interested JXX is on the 55 today, first time I've seen it on there since it was completed a few weeks back.
YJ54CEO was on the 94 today, very rare for a Commander to be on the 94. Entering Chelmsley Wood at around 19:00.
Quote from: 2206 on August 16, 2016, 08:52:40 PM
YJ54CEO was on the 94 today, very rare for a Commander to be on the 94. Entering Chelmsley Wood at around 19:00.
Yes, I saw it when it was at Saltley. In fact it's rare for a Commander on either the Washwood Heath routes these days.
Quote from: Gareth on August 16, 2016, 09:39:24 PM
Yes, I saw it when it was at Saltley. In fact it's rare for a Commander on either the Washwood Heath routes these days.
It was on there yesterday too. I saw it going round Old Square at about 12.30. How many commanders have they got left now?
Quote from: Gareth on August 16, 2016, 09:39:24 PM
Yes, I saw it when it was at Saltley. In fact it's rare for a Commander on either the Washwood Heath routes these days.
Yes I agree its rare to get one on the 55 as well, both the 55 and 94 are usualy completely Pulsar operated now.
What routes do Claribels run other than the 55 & 94?
Quote from: MW on August 17, 2016, 03:07:41 AM
What routes do Claribels run other than the 55 & 94?
71E
Commander kzx now repainted into new livery.
Quote from: Steveminor on August 17, 2016, 05:18:50 PM
Commander kzx now repainted into new livery.
Seen KZX at Marston Green this morning and got a pic I'll upload it a bit later :)
KZX on the 55 today if anyone is interested. Seen 12.35 at Saltley from City.
Quote from: Gareth on August 22, 2016, 12:38:28 PM
KZX on the 55 today if anyone is interested. Seen 12.35 at Saltley from City.
It was in the City Centre at 15:30.
Quote from: Gareth on August 22, 2016, 12:38:28 PM
KZX on the 55 today if anyone is interested. Seen 12.35 at Saltley from City.
On the 55 again today.
It was in the City Centre at about 14:15 and has just passed the Fox and Goose going towards the City Centre.
YJ54CKL was in Kidderminster earlier today. Looks like it was on a Private Hire to the West Midlands Safari Park.
Quote from: Gareth on August 22, 2016, 12:38:28 PM
KZX on the 55 today if anyone is interested. Seen 12.35 at Saltley from City.
Sorry if I have missed something is this KZX a new type of bus, any pics?
READ IT NOW opps
Quote from: monkeyjoe on October 20, 2016, 07:07:13 PM
Sorry if I have missed something is this KZX a new type of bus, any pics?
Its this one, but with a new lick of paint:
http://wmbusphotos.com/Claribels/yj55kzx.html
Bus coming past Saltley Gate outbound 17:30 displaying "Drop off only"
Something I've never seen on their buses before
Quote from: Kevin on November 01, 2016, 05:31:47 PM
Bus coming past Saltley Gate outbound 17:30 displaying "Drop off only"
Something I've never seen on their buses before
I've seen that many times before.
Commander is out on the 94, 18:30 in city centre, been a while since I've seen one out and about
YJ56JXX has been fitted with LED hannovers.
They're Centrad units not hanovers. Kzx is due to get a set soon.
Kzx on 55 today with its new led blinds
YJ12CKO was on the Priory Queensway on the 94 at 17:15 with its destination displays not working with 2 pieces of paper on the windscreen with the route number on.
Quote from: 2206 on December 17, 2016, 05:55:15 PM
YJ12CKO was on the Priory Queensway on the 94 at 17:15 with its destination displays not working with 2 pieces of paper on the windscreen with the route number on.
Must be catching then, YJ62JZG had a similar display in PG9 configuration earlier this week. - that was the least of the woes, being piloted by some mad b*stard with a penchant for heavy acceleration / braking, throwing the bus into corners, cutting up cyclists when pulling out, & most blatant of all, aiming at a schoolgirl stood in the middle of the road when gunning away from a stop.
Steve, this was on the 15:44 (?) 94 ex - Chelmsley on Thursday, driven by the beret-clad driver in need of an Xmas P45, you need to have words....
Thanks for the info. A quick download of the cctv will have him bang to rights.
A claribels 94 was on Bromford Lane this afternoon with passengers on going towards Chelmsley Wood at about 16:30 - 17:00.
Does anyone know what it was doing as all other buses (both Claribels and NX) were using the normal line of route at that time
YJ55KZX was on Shirley Road in Acocks Green at 08:50 today with 71 on the destination display. Does anyone know what it was doing?
You must be mistaken as it hasnt been anywhere near acocks green. The tracker confirms that
Quote from: Steveminor on February 01, 2017, 06:14:49 PM
You must be mistaken as it hasnt been anywhere near acocks green. The tracker confirms that
Definitely was a commander repainted with an LED with 71 on the destination display in Acocks Green on Shirley Road at 08:50 today.
Maybe YJ56JXX then, unless there are any others?
Yeah was jxx on a contract run. Then called in to replace fdv which suffered a breakdown
Yes also seen on Cov Road showing destination T1 Claribels only noticed because the destination was so bright in the gloom!
YJ56JXX was on the 55 today.
looks like Claribels have realised tender work is quite a good little income
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/browse/results/?fields%5Bstatus%5D=&fields%5BacceptedDate%5D=2017-02-22&fields%5BtrafficAreas%5D%5B0%5D=D&security=5a3cb09a552453ffd8a4684fb4807e71-38980c7f402f11d7ecb364cda2ff7441&form-actions%5Bsubmit%5D=
The Chelmsley Wood MEB lives on it seems!
Lol, according to that the 94 is limited stop
Quote from: Kevin on February 24, 2017, 07:51:04 AM
Lol, according to that the 94 is limited stop
It is when some of the drivers just drive by the stops when you've got your arm out for them!
Service Changes From 23/04/2017,
55 - Saturday Service Withdrawn.
94 - Reduction in Saturday Service.
71 - Saturday frequency reduced.
Quote from: 2206 on March 01, 2017, 05:19:15 PM
Service Changes From 23/04/2017,
55 - Saturday Service Withdrawn.
94 - Reduction in Saturday Service.
71 - Saturday frequency reduced.
That's sad news. I'm glad that I only have to catch one bus late afternoon on a Saturday. There's going to be quite a lot of extra people to squeeze on NX now.
Unless Saturday loadings are that low?
The changes are required to cover for the tendered duties.
Quote from: Steveminor on March 02, 2017, 01:32:19 PM
The changes are required to cover for the tendered duties.
Really? Even though the tendered services are all week not just Saturday?
Quote from: Steveminor on March 02, 2017, 01:32:19 PM
The changes are required to cover for the tendered duties.
Why take on tendered work if is leading to Claribels having to reduce frequencies on their commercial services?
Quote from: Winston on March 03, 2017, 11:22:01 AM
Why take on tendered work if is leading to Claribels having to reduce frequencies on their commercial services?
The tendered work must be expected to make a greater financial return than the commercial services being withdrawn.
Tendered work gives you a garuteed stable income allowing you to make better future financial planning. Something that operators dont get on commercial services. It will also give us a wider area to promote our coach business and grow our that side of the business quicker as well.
The future is bright the future is blue & white.
Quote from: Steveminor on March 03, 2017, 06:32:33 PM
Tendered work gives you a garuteed stable income allowing you to make better future financial planning. Something that operators dont get on commercial services. It will also give us a wider area to promote our coach business and grow our that side of the business quicker as well.
The future is bright the future is blue & white.
Why are the frequency reductions only required on Saturday though, as the tendered services operate all week?
Quote from: 2206 on March 03, 2017, 06:35:35 PM
Why are the frequency reductions only required on Saturday though, as the tendered services operate all week?
Drivers hours
Quote from: Steveminor on March 03, 2017, 06:32:33 PM
Tendered work gives you a garuteed stable income allowing you to make better future financial planning. Something that operators dont get on commercial services. It will also give us a wider area to promote our coach business and grow our that side of the business quicker as well.
The future is bright the future is blue & white.
I would have thought that Claribles have been running 55, 71E and 94 for enough years now for the levels of income to be reasonably accurately predictable.
Quote from: fleetline6477 on March 03, 2017, 07:39:39 PM
I would have thought that Claribles have been running 55, 71E and 94 for enough years now for the levels of income to be reasonably accurately predictable.
I would also expect the levels of income generated from established commercial routes to be far greater than tendered work, particularly in the current climate.
Quote from: Winston on March 03, 2017, 07:44:49 PM
I would also expect the levels of income generated from established commercial routes to be far greater than tendered work, particularly in the current climate.
Just seen the timetables now on NWMs website from 23/04/17 the 55 will be come a Monday to Friday peak time only service.
City Centre - Chelmsley Wood, 06:53, 07:56, 08:16, 16:50 and 17:20.
Chelmsley Wood - City Centre, 06:15, 07:15, 07:36 and 08:55. Quite sad news.
The 71E is being reduced from every 20 minutes to every 30 minutes all week.
Quote from: 2206 on March 04, 2017, 07:41:00 PM
Just seen the timetables now on NWMs website from 23/04/17 the 55 will be come a Monday to Friday peak time only service.
City Centre - Chelmsley Wood, 06:53, 07:56, 08:16, 16:50 and 17:20.
Chelmsley Wood - City Centre, 06:15, 07:15, 07:36 and 08:55. Quite sad news.
The 71E is being reduced from every 20 minutes to every 30 minutes all week.
Claribels can't have been doing as well as we all thought on their commercial network, if they now withdrawing some of it in favour of tendered work.
Quote from: Winston on March 04, 2017, 07:59:09 PM
Claribels can't have been doing as well as we all thought on their commercial network, if they now withdrawing some of it in favour of tendered work.
Some of the journeys on the 55 being withdrawn do carry a full load Monday to Friday daily. Many journeys are well used Monday to Friday from what i've seen.
Quote from: 2206 on March 04, 2017, 08:07:26 PM
Some of the journeys on the 55 being withdrawn do carry a full load Monday to Friday daily. Many journeys are well used Monday to Friday from what i've seen.
There can't be enough of those journeys to warrant a full service, otherwise you would be expecting Claribels to be making more money from the 55 etc than the tendered work.
I thought that Claribels were expanding in to tendered work, but that doesn't seem to be the case, more like replacing commercial work.
I'll say it
They've been doing the same routes forever and now suddenly a shift from commercial services to tendered services
It seems very strange and I think it's a bit of a shame, hope it works out for them and we don't just see them on the constant merry-go-round of tendered work
Quote from: Kevin on March 04, 2017, 08:25:01 PM
I'll say it
They've been doing the same routes forever and now suddenly a shift from commercial services to tendered services
It seems very strange and I think it's a bit of a shame, hope it works out for them and we don't just see them on the constant merry-go-round of tendered work
Ironically a bit like Hansons and the group of out of area tenders recently taken on!
Quote from: 2206 on March 04, 2017, 07:41:00 PM
Just seen the timetables now on NWMs website from 23/04/17 the 55 will be come a Monday to Friday peak time only service.
City Centre - Chelmsley Wood, 06:53, 07:56, 08:16, 16:50 and 17:20.
Chelmsley Wood - City Centre, 06:15, 07:15, 07:36 and 08:55. Quite sad news.
The 71E is being reduced from every 20 minutes to every 30 minutes all week.
NWM website is incorrect its only sayurday thats reduced on 71e
No hope for the Sunday service to take on NXWM fully on the 94 then. How sad.
When the 55 is withdrawn during the day and on Saturdays next month and only peak journeys remain what will happen to the spare full size single deckers? Also will Claribels get some midi buses for the, S16, 424 and 604?
School work or may be sold as 604 might do the pm 55 service not sure about the am service but I may be wrong
I remember Diamond using 10.7m darts on the 424 and 604 so maybe possible to squeeze claribels slightly longer current fleet round them routes
There is absolutely no way to get our pulsars or commanders round either the 424 or 604. The commanders will be leaving the fleet shortly to be replaced with brand new e200s.
Quote from: Steveminor on March 21, 2017, 06:18:22 AM
There is absolutely no way to get our pulsars or commanders round either the 424 or 604. The commanders will be leaving the fleet shortly to be replaced with brand new e200s.
** personal opinion alert **
And so begins the decent of this established and fairly respected operator into one of minibuses and tendered routes.
I think it's a shame to see
Quote from: Kevin on March 21, 2017, 07:32:11 AM
** personal opinion alert **
And so begins the decent of this established and fairly respected operator into one of minibuses and tendered routes.
I think it's a shame to see
** personal opinion of someone who's used them since day 1 alert **
As much as I loved riding around in the early days on Fords & Bedfords etc (and even a treat on a Tiger Doyen), that's not what J.P. wants, & certainly not what TfWM will countenance.
It's a shame the E20MMC's are named as such, as they get tarred with the same brush as the Dart-derived tat that is an E20D. The MMC's (fair enough, I don't have to maintain them) are a pleasant enough experience. Yes, an improvement on what they'll be replacing. There'll even be a couple of feet extra space in the yard as well ;D
YJ57BOH operating a 55E to Kingshurst passed Ward End, The Fox and Goose about 10 minutes ago. Never seen that before.
Quote from: 2206 on March 21, 2017, 04:41:02 PM
YJ57BOH operating a 55E to Kingshurst passed Ward End, The Fox and Goose about 10 minutes ago. Never seen that before.
In the last couple of weeks, I've noticed so many 94's (not 94E though) terminating at Bacons End.
Quote from: Gareth on March 21, 2017, 09:15:53 PM
In the last couple of weeks, I've noticed so many 94's (not 94E though) terminating at Bacons End.
Yes it just said 55 Kingshurst on the display.
Those 94's terminating at Bacons End have occurred quite often over the last couple of years from what i've seen. Usually during the peak hours.
Quote from: 2206 on March 21, 2017, 09:19:23 PM
Yes it just said 55 Kingshurst on the display.
Those 94's terminating at Bacons End have occurred quite often over the last couple of years from what i've seen. Usually during the peak hours.
These are daytime Bacons End I've seen. I'm used to seeing the usual Peak ones.
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on March 21, 2017, 08:36:22 AM
As much as I loved riding around in the early days on Fords & Bedfords etc (and even a treat on a Tiger Doyen), that's not what J.P. wants, & certainly not what TfWM will countenance.
In terms if buses fair enough, but it's the route thing that gets me:
From competing against the monopoly holder on fairly major routes with a fairly solid local base around the east of the city - to suddenly cutting some of them so they can carry fresh air around estates unfamiliar with them for a few years before they, like every operator before them, lose the tender to another minibus company
Quote from: Gareth on March 21, 2017, 10:55:32 PM
These are daytime Bacons End I've seen. I'm used to seeing the usual Peak ones.
Is Bacons End a good place to meet Peppa Pig? ;-)
Quote from: Other Walsall Tony on March 22, 2017, 08:14:22 AM
Is Bacons End a good place to meet Peppa Pig? ;-)
Good place to go for a fried brekky
@Other Walsall Tony
YJ59BCU was operating a 55E to Kingshurst on the Priory Queensway in the City Centre at 16:43.
Displaying 55 Kingshurst on the destination display.
Quote from: Steveminor on March 21, 2017, 06:18:22 AM
There is absolutely no way to get our pulsars or commanders round either the 424 or 604. The commanders will be leaving the fleet shortly to be replaced with brand new e200s.
Will they be E200, or E200 MMC
@Steveminor ?
Will the 55 come of any of the tendered services?
Coming home from Stoke on the M6 this afternoon, my mate saw a Claribels Commander heading north (I think we passed it around Stafford), he said it had a white display and looked freshly repainted
They are e200s & yes the 55s interwork with the tendered routes with the 71s & 94s interworking some journeys on saturdays to cover rta breaks
Quote from: Steveminor on March 30, 2017, 08:11:56 PM
They are e200s & yes the 55s interwork with the tendered routes with the 71s & 94s interworking some journeys on saturdays to cover rta breaks
Ah. Not so much E200MMC then, more like E200FFS.... ;)
There are still some question marks over 200mmc reliability so we're going for a tried tested & reliable vehicle
Quote from: Steveminor on March 30, 2017, 11:14:39 PM
There are still some question marks over 200mmc reliability so we're going for a tried tested & reliable vehicle
You'll have to give them some calgon in the morning to get them working
Quote from: Steveminor on March 30, 2017, 11:14:39 PM
so we're going for a tried tested & reliable vehicle
- & then gave up & got E20D's?
Quote from: John on March 30, 2017, 06:44:54 PM
Coming home from Stoke on the M6 this afternoon, my mate saw a Claribels Commander heading north (I think we passed it around Stafford), he said it had a white display and looked freshly repainted
It was kzx which has now left the fleet
Quote from: Steveminor on March 30, 2017, 11:14:39 PM
There are still some question marks over 200mmc reliability so we're going for a tried tested & reliable vehicle
and considerably cheaper! (which is understandable on a low margin tender)
YJ54CEO is on the 55 today, parked up at the Woodcock Street stop on Jennes Road going into the City Centre at 17:05. So will have operated the 17:20 from the City Centre.
Is the claribels fleet list up to date on the main site
@Tony @Steveminor
Quote from: Chris on April 04, 2017, 02:49:30 PM
Is the claribels fleet list up to date on the main site @Tony @Steveminor
It still has the latest disposals on as current vehicles, but I believe otherwise it is correct unless Steve tells me otherwise
Quote from: Tony on April 04, 2017, 03:10:18 PM
It still has the latest disposals on as current vehicles, but I believe otherwise it is correct unless Steve tells me otherwise
Thanks
@Tony have seen most of the pulsars but no commanders but reading the thread they have gone?
First time I have used Claribels and must stay very punctual, decent loadings and nice vehicles
Quote from: Chris on April 04, 2017, 03:42:26 PM
Thanks @Tony have seen most of the pulsars but no commanders but reading the thread they have gone?
First time I have used Claribels and must stay very punctual, decent loadings and nice vehicles
YJ54CEO was on the 55 yesterday, parked up at the Woodcock Street stop on Jennes Road going into the City Centre at 17:05. So would have operated the 17:20 from the City Centre. Its quite rare for them to get onto the 55 and 94 now. So not all have them have gone. May have the last time a Commander will get into the City Centre on either the 55, or 94 as well.
YJ53VDL was on the 71E yesterday morning.
At present its just kzx that has left the fleet. The other 3 are spare vehicles & schools. Jxx is due to leave the fleet at the end of this week with vdl & ceo due to leave shortly after. So yes yesterday was probably the last occasion a commander was in city.
Quote from: Steveminor on April 04, 2017, 07:43:48 PM
At present its just kzx that has left the fleet. The other 3 are spare vehicles & schools. Jxx is due to leave the fleet at the end of this week with vdl & ceo due to leave shortly after. So yes yesterday was probably the last occasion a commander was in city.
Will the E200 be arriving soon?
They are due to arrive this weekend
If anyone is looking for Commander's today, YJ53 VDL is on the 71E today whilst YJ54 CEO is on the 55.
Commander jxx & pulsar boh have now both left the fleet
.
@Steveminor. are the Enviro 200's 17 plates or second hand?
Quote from: Steveminor on April 07, 2017, 01:53:53 PM
Commander jxx & pulsar boh have now both left the fleet
.
Will both of the 57 plate pulsar leave the fleet?
YJ 53 VDL on the 71E again today.
Quote from: Eric Shaw on April 10, 2017, 10:19:31 AM
YJ 53 VDL on the 71E again today.
YJ54CEO is on the 55. Passed Ward End, The Fox and Goose at about 09:50 this morning.
Quote from: 2206 on April 10, 2017, 01:29:43 PM
YJ54CEO is on the 55. Passed Ward End, The Fox and Goose at about 09:50 this morning.
On still today, 12:55 city centre
Quote from: Kevin on April 11, 2017, 12:57:28 PM
On still today, 12:55 city centre
YJ54CEO was At Ward End, The Fox and Goose going towards Chelmsley Wood at about 10:00 on the 55.
YJ53VDL was on Lode Lane going towards Solihull on the 71E at about 15:30 by the JLR Factory.
YJ53VDL is on the 71E today. At Sheldon Wheatsheaf going towards Solihull at 15:05.
YJ54CEO is on the 55 today. At Ward End, The Fox and Goose at 15:20 going towards Birmingham City Centre.
Quote from: 2206 on April 12, 2017, 03:49:08 PM
YJ53VDL is on the 71E today. At Sheldon Wheatsheaf going towards Solihull at 15:05.
YJ54CEO is on the 55 today. At Ward End, The Fox and Goose at 15:20 going towards Birmingham City Centre.
Saw a 60 plate on the 94 yesterday. YJ60GHF, I think. The 94 is usually always 12 plate, or newer.
Claribels are not operating today.
Quote from: 2206 on April 14, 2017, 10:26:39 AM
Claribels are not operating today.
Any reasons why?
Quote from: Trident 4194 on April 14, 2017, 03:10:49 PM
Any reasons why?
It's a Bank Holiday and their registration says not Sundays & Bank Holidays
Quite correct tony
But Good Friday is a Common Law Holiday, not a Bank Holiday...
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 14, 2017, 10:50:37 PM
But Good Friday is a Common Law Holiday, not a Bank Holiday...
Banks are shut "bank holiday" in that sense. End of the day most business class it as a bank holiday and one of five bank holidays I have to work. So does not matter if it is a common law holiday or a bank holiday claribels state operational they don't operate on bank holidays therefore there is no need for them to run. Hansons, diamond, nx could say the same I.e. They could just run a Sunday service or not at all (Hansons case as they don't do Sunday's
@Tony does this apply to the other operators in the West Midlands or does tfwm state a Saturday service must run on a Good Friday
@ChrisExample from one of the April 17 Tender Specifications
"These journeys are to be operated in accordance with the attached timetable. No service will be required on the 25 December. Normal Saturday service will be required on Good Friday. A Sunday service will be required on all other Bank Holidays and 1 January, unless otherwise advised by TfWMto the Operator in writing."
True, that would apply to TfWM tendered routes, but Claribels operate their routes commercially.
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 14, 2017, 10:50:37 PM
But Good Friday is a Common Law Holiday, not a Bank Holiday...
The Government says it's a Bank Holiday
https://www.gov.uk/bank-holidays
So whatever silly name you come up with If the registration states not Bank Holidays then they don't run!
Quote from: Stu on April 15, 2017, 07:09:38 AM
True, that would apply to TfWM tendered routes, but Claribels operate their routes commercially.
They used to operate on bank holidays. I'm sure I remember them operating on a bank holiday (a Monday) a couple of years ago, while NX operated a Sunday service. So it must have changed.
GRS also used to operate a normal service, every bank holiday.
True we used to but the registration was changed to not operate bank holidays.
Quote from: Steveminor on April 05, 2017, 05:47:50 PM
They are due to arrive this weekend
Have the new E200 arrived yet?
YJ57BOH is for sale
Link - https://www.facebook.com/procterscoachandbussales/photos/pcb.2342208169251434/2342204672585117/?type=3&theater
YJ53VDL still with Claribels, on the 71E again today.
Quote from: Eric Shaw on April 18, 2017, 03:43:25 PM
YJ53VDL still with Claribels, on the 71E again today.
YJ54CEO is still in service with Claribels today, passed Ward End, The Fox and Goose at about 17:00 going towards the City Centre.
Quote from: 2206 on April 18, 2017, 05:54:07 PM
YJ54CEO is still in service with Claribels today, passed Ward End, The Fox and Goose at about 17:00 going towards the City Centre.
YJ54CEO is still in service in service with Claribels today on the 55, passed Ward End, The Fox and Goose at about 15:20 going towards the City Centre.
Quote from: 2206 on April 21, 2017, 04:35:05 PM
YJ54CEO is still in service in service with Claribels today on the 55, passed Ward End, The Fox and Goose at about 15:20 going towards the City Centre.
Medal for most tracked Buses...
@2206 ,
@Steveminor will tell the forum the last time when the older pulsars are going to be running. If anyone wanted to know they would aak
Quote from: Chris on April 21, 2017, 05:34:49 PM
Medal for most tracked Buses... @2206 , @Steveminor will tell the forum the last time when the older pulsars are going to be running. If anyone wanted to know they would aak
Its a commander not a pulsar.
It'll go any day as the E200 will enter service on the, Peak 55, 424 and 604 on Monday morning. So today, or if it comes out tomorrow will most likely be its last day, so therefore I don't see any reason why it should not be reported that its still going.
Quote from: 2206 on April 21, 2017, 05:44:56 PM
Its a commander not a pulsar.
It'll go any day as the E200 will enter service on the, Peak 55, 424 and 604 on Monday morning. So today, or if it comes out tomorrow will most likely be its last day, so therefore I don't see any reason why it should not be reported that its still going.
Ok Commander, but like I said if people want to know they only need to ask!!! Instead of daily reports when no one has asked for it.
Are the E200s going to be 17 plates or second hand ones
@Steveminor
Will the S16 use the Plaxton Centro
@Steveminor (heard it will)?
Vdl & ceo are now due to stay for a short period of time however it is unlikely they will see much service.
We have 5 17 plate e200s & an 11 plate as a spare bus. All 17 plates will be on road monday morning.
Quote from: 2206 on April 21, 2017, 07:08:38 PM
Will the S16 use the Plaxton Centro @Steveminor ?
The centro has had the vault & machine plate removed so will no longer be available for stage work
Quote from: Steveminor on April 21, 2017, 07:31:54 PM
The centro has had the vault & machine plate removed so will no longer be available for stage work
Thanks for the info.
Will be interesting to see what the S16 gets then.
There is no specific allocation for the s16 so could either be a pulsar or the 11 plate e200 if its available. Obviously if a 17 plate is off for inspection then the spare 200 would be on 604 or 424 as neither of those routes could use a pulsar.
Quote from: Steveminor on April 21, 2017, 08:02:37 PM
There is no specific allocation for the s16 so could either be a pulsar or the 11 plate e200 if its available. Obviously if a 17 plate is off for inspection then the spare 200 would be on 604 or 424 as neither of those routes could use a pulsar.
@Steveminor is the S16 being rerouted in to the main town centre then, as a full size bus would be tight in Mell Square?!
Quote from: Matt.N0056 on April 21, 2017, 08:14:34 PM
@Steveminor is the S16 being rerouted in to the main town centre then, as a full size bus would be tight in Mell Square?!
The NWM timetable says it will still terminate in Mell Square by the High Street were it currently does.
A full size bus there would be tight.
@Matt.N0056Thanks for the info
@Steveminor
@Steveminor Will the S16 be running daily or just a Friday , as IGO operated it on a Friday only.
Its a friday only contract
1122 no show at perry barr 1 on 424 went past the front not in service on the front
YX17NYV all over white on the 424 today.
YX17 NYZ is on the 604 and peak 55 today.
See link.in photo link for pics of the new envrios
YJ57BOF is on the 94 today. For a long time now the 94 has been 12 plate and newer.
YX17NYY is on the peak 55 and 604 today, operated the 16:50 55 from Birmingham City Centre.
Quote from: 2206 on April 25, 2017, 05:41:27 PM
YJ57BOF is on the 94 today. For a long time now the 94 has been 12 plate and newer.
YX17NYY is on the peak 55 and 604 today, operated the 16:50 55 from Birmingham City Centre.
Another older pulsar is on the 94 today. Looks like its usual now the 55 (which used older pulsar) has been withdrawn other than the couple of peak E200 55 journeys.
'YJ56 JXX' with Llew Jones in North Wales
https://www.flickr.com/photos/arrivanorthwestwaleswrexhamdepotfleet/33445435354/
Are you keeping your 94 route the same i.e Cooks Lane from 4th June??
We have no plans to change our 94 route at this time.
Keep up with the new buses and introduce a Sunday service make NXWM sweat for neglecting the corridor for so long.
Former Claribels YJ55KZX will new owner:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/jongraham890/34064247412/in/dateposted/
Quote from: Steveminor on April 26, 2017, 08:24:21 PM
We have no plans to change our 94 route at this time.
In Shard End will Claribels peak 55 journeys be rerouted, as NX, or stay the same?
No I dont personally believe the nx changes benefit the passengers or is what most passengers want from.the 55 route.
Won't it make it slower , if you don't believe in the changes isn't it a chance to capitalize on that then?
Will your 71E be renumbered 72...?
Having not lonv seen changes we are currently looking at our options. Thats all i can say at present
With NXWM changing there services in June, why don't you merge your 71E and 94 as a 95 (City-Chelmsley-Solihull) at a frequency of every 15 mins and include there peak-period 55 to and from Solihull as 93.
Good to see brand new Enviro 200s operating the tendered routes. Looking at pictures of YY 17 NYV / NYZ what a shame they haven't bothered to put fleet names and paint them in fleet livery. Claribels have worked hard over many years to provide smart, modern buses smartly turned out on established routes. Well at least they're maintaining 1 of the 3 things that have earnt them a good reputation.
Quote from: fleetline6477 on May 04, 2017, 07:09:52 PM
Good to see brand new Enviro 200s operating the tendered routes. Looking at pictures of YY 17 NYV / NYZ what a shame they haven't bothered to put fleet names and paint them in fleet livery. Claribels have worked hard over many years to provide smart, modern buses smartly turned out on established routes. Well at least they're maintaining 1 of the 3 things that have earnt them a good reputation.
They don't have any fleetnames that are the right size for them at the minute, the fleetnames on they've got for the pulsar are to big for the E200.
I think they've not been painted into the livery because they are leased.
Quote from: Steve3229vp on May 01, 2017, 01:59:17 PM
With NXWM changing there services in June, why don't you merge your 71E and 94 as a 95 (City-Chelmsley-Solihull) at a frequency of every 15 mins and include there peak-period 55 to and from Solihull as 93.
I like that idea but can't see it happening
2206 is correct about fleetname size. Regarding livery, well unfortunately they arrived late to our depot with only a few days before entering service there wasn't enough time to send tgem to the paintshop.
Its unfortunate but it was beyond our control.
Quote from: Steveminor on May 04, 2017, 08:06:01 PM
2206 is correct about fleetname size. Regarding livery, well unfortunately they arrived late to our depot with only a few days before entering service there wasn't enough time to send tgem to the paintshop.
Its unfortunate but it was beyond our control.
You've known about these routes for how long??
We ordered the vehicles upon award of the tenders. However we had to wait for delivery.
Quote from: fleetline6477 on May 04, 2017, 08:07:29 PM
You've known about these routes for how long??
He could have known about the routes for 10 years. Like he said, the physical vehicles arrived later than expected which doesn't leave enough time to get them painted straight away. I presume they'll be done one at a time.
YJ57BOH,
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/2007-VDL-Wright-Pulsar-44-seat-service-bus/152515401177?_trksid=p2047675.c100005.m1851&_trkparms=aid%3D222007%26algo%3DSIC.MBE%26ao%3D2%26asc%3D43781%26meid%3De176b3eb7fbd4f5583f8fd725fadf12a%26pid%3D100005%26rk%3D1%26rkt%3D6%26sd%3D152523188564
Quote from: Steveminor on May 04, 2017, 08:37:17 PM
We ordered the vehicles upon award of the tenders. However we had to wait for delivery.
Just get them wrapped. Saves paying for a respray at the end of the contract too.
(& that's from someone who hates wraps)
Alternatively just hire a E200 in and send the new ones into the paint shop one after the other. Obviously would mean hire costs but would at least be better than having them go around in plain white for the duration of the contract.
Not sure it makes that much difference if they are white or fleet livery, igo's Solo SR's on the 424 were plain white just with some branding stuck on.
Quote from: V89MOA on May 04, 2017, 10:56:49 PM
Not sure it makes that much difference if they are white or fleet livery, igo's Solo SR's on the 424 were plain white just with some branding stuck on.
But it was at least branding, and had the company name on
YJ10DHX is on the S16 today
Will be operating 09:45 from Yardley Swan
Quote from: Kevin on May 05, 2017, 07:09:10 AM
But it was at least branding, and had the company name on
Well People were talking about resprays and vehicle wraps that's more the point I was aiming at. Anyway from what I can gather above they are having Company names on when they have received logos in the correct size.
Rode YJ10DHX on S16 on 11:45 from Yardley Swan
Really good route from Yardley to Solihull
£2 for a Adult single
Shame the route only runs Friday.
@James4368 that's bigger than what igo supplied for the route. When I caught it with Igo it was a Ring and Ride van
The tender spec says that it required a 16 seater because of some of the roads
Is there any confirmation that the 71E will be extended to Kingshurst?
Quote from: Jack D on May 17, 2017, 08:43:09 PM
Is there any confirmation that the 71E will be extended to Kingshurst?
Extended to Kingshurst via, Chelmsley Road, Cooks Lane, Fordbridge Road, Gilson Way, Marston Drive and Overgreen Drive where it will terminate.
Also rerouted via, Berwicks Lane.
Are they re- numbering it too?
Will be renumbered 71A
PD0000087/16 Registered (Short notice)
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Route: Solihull, Chelmsley Wood, Chelmsley Circus to Solihull via Radleys
Service number: 71A
Service type: Normal Stopping
Effective date: 04 Jun 2017
YJ59BCU is today's bus on the S16
Claribels S16 will operate, Monday to Saturday daytimes from Monday 5th June.
Quote from: 2206 on May 26, 2017, 05:23:06 PM
Claribels S16 will operate, Monday to Saturday daytimes from Monday 5th June.
Interesting, where's that one come from?
Trying to set up some.sort of Yardley - Solihull competition against NX?
Quote from: Kevin on May 26, 2017, 07:29:53 PM
Interesting, where's that one come from?
Trying to set up some.sort of Yardley - Solihull competition against NX?
Steve Minor posted it on the NX West Midlands facebook page.
"Sky ross claribels S16 which runs along lyndon rd ulleries rd to solihull & swan yardley on fridays
Will be extended to run monday to saturday from 5th june to partially cover for tge changes to the 58"
https://www.facebook.com/nxwestmidlands/photos/a.373247266053647.97051.204017859643256/1535668436478185/?type=3&theater
71A timetable on network West Midlands website.
https://journeyplanner.networkwestmidlands.com/Timetables/Download/cen_1371A_%20_H_y11/2/Claribel%20Coaches_71A/True
Versa YJ13HJE was on the S16 yesterday.
Quote from: 2206 on May 17, 2017, 08:47:01 PM
Extended to Kingshurst via, Chelmsley Road, Cooks Lane, Fordbridge Road, Gilson Way, Marston Drive and Overgreen Drive where it will terminate.
Also rerouted via, Berwicks Lane.
Extended via Moorend Avenue, Chester Road, Cooks Lane then Fordbidge Road then as above.
I have noticed that the 94 destination display has been updated. It now shows via Auckland Drive and Cooks Lane on display
YJ13HJE is out on the S16 again.
Just departed 12:15 from Solihull.
YJ13HJE on the S16.
@Steveminor is this going to be the main bus allocated for S16?
It could be any of the optares as the S16 is now allocated to optare operation monday to friday but any vehicle Saturdays
Claribels no longer sell the cheaper ticket 50p ticket for a child and £1 ticket for an adult with an NX pass, you now have to buy a normal single fare ticket.
YJ54CEO was my chariot home from work on the 07.25 city departure on the 94. Been a long time since I sampled one of their Commanders. Is this the last one left?
A white Enviro 200 on the S16 today SN65***.
Quote from: Steveminor on May 04, 2017, 08:06:01 PM
2206 is correct about fleetname size. Regarding livery, well unfortunately they arrived late to our depot with only a few days before entering service there wasn't enough time to send tgem to the paintshop.
Its unfortunate but it was beyond our control.
So this was 6 weeks ago, any plans to actually paint them anymore?
I travelled on
I travelled on YJ 13 HJE yesterday on the S16. Have some seats been removed to make a wheelchair space? I thought they had 48 seats and now it says 42 plus 2 standees.
If you look it has tracking on the floor in the wheelchair area & a flip over seating capacity sign which allows us to put seats in & take them out depending on what work the vehicle is being used on.
Thanks for the information Steve. It must make it a very useful vehicle to have.
Yes thats why we have the 3 optares.
YJ57BOF was out on the 71A today first time I've witnessed a 57 reg pulsar on there
there was a bus at the radleys and it had 55 on the back of it.
it was heading to solihull at about 11.00
So Claribels still haven't got any fleet decal or livery for their E200s but that's fine because they've now plastered the side of one with an advert instead
Quote from: Kevin on August 08, 2017, 08:07:31 AM
So Claribels still haven't got any fleet decal or livery for their E200s but that's fine because they've now plastered the side of one with an advert instead
At least two have adverts
Quote from: Kevin on August 08, 2017, 08:07:31 AM
So Claribels still haven't got any fleet decal or livery for their E200s but that's fine because they've now plastered the side of one with an advert instead
One was on the 424 which had a pink advert on the nearside. They do look like a ghost operator around here.
Claribels Service Changes.
October 2017.
- Claribels have won the 600 (Erdington - Brookvadle Park).
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/508970/
- A variation for the 94.
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/508973/
- Claribels have also won the (Erdington to Sutton) 167.
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/508969/
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/508968/
Quote from: 2206 on September 01, 2017, 04:40:52 PM
Claribels Service Changes.
October 2017.
- Claribels have won the 600 (Erdington - Brookvadle Park).
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/508970/
- Claribels have also won the (Erdington to Sutton) 167.
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/508969/
Just the 167? Not the 168 that it interworks with?
--Edit -- scrap that I've just seen the TfWM document saying it is both
What's the betting the change to the 94 is fewer buses so they can run these instead?
Interesting 94 says limited stop so maybe make the route faster take 2 buses out of the pvr?
Interested to know how the 71a is performing what's the betting frequently leaves kingshurst empty
Quote from: monkeyjoe on September 03, 2017, 08:49:30 AM
Interested to know how the 71a is performing what's the betting frequently leaves kingshurst empty
Ive seen it Solihull a lot lately and its been running empty. Unless its just the holidays or if Sunny just hog the stand for 10 minutes and then leave with a full load.
Vosa have as ever got a few details wrong as 94 is not registered as limited stop & they have 600 & 167(/168) down as not receiving subsidy. These details are not correct.
There are only slight changes to 94 service. Also missing of vosa site is the cancellation of service 71A from 22nd October.
Quote from: Steveminor on September 03, 2017, 03:05:11 PM
Vosa have as ever got a few details wrong as 94 is not registered as limited stop & they have 600 & 167(/168) down as not receiving subsidy. These details are not correct.
There are only slight changes to 94 service. Also missing of vosa site is the cancellation of service 71A from 22nd October.
Are claribels comming of the Chelmsley - Solihull corridor completly in October, or just the Chelmsley - Kingshurst section?
The whole service is cancelled
Quote from: Steveminor on September 03, 2017, 04:32:32 PM
The whole service is cancelled
Thanks for the info.
Whats this registration for then? -
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/508968/
When will the 17 plate e200s be painted! Not even a company logo....
Are Claribels gaining more E200s for the 167/8 and 600 when they takeover? Judging by the '61' plate on the 424 it looks like more are coming.
Can they at least have a company logo stuck on them, they look terrible just being white, aka the Ghost Operator on the 424 I nicknamed them.
Quote from: Steveminor on September 03, 2017, 04:32:32 PM
The whole service is cancelled
Because they care about the East Brum area that much....
Claribels are comming onto the 71, Chelmsley Wood to Sutton Coldfield.
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/508968/
PD0000087/44 Registered
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Route: Chelmsley Wood to Sutton Coldfield via Minworth
Service number: 71
Service type: Normal Stopping
Effective date: 22 Oct 2017
Quote from: Steveminor on September 03, 2017, 04:32:32 PM
The whole service is cancelled
So I take it despite all the 'hoo-hah' regarding some of the East Birmingham changes, your extension wasn't used enough to make it worthwhile?
Fair play for giving it a go though.
Quote from: 2206 on September 04, 2017, 06:23:57 PM
Claribels are comming onto the 71, Chelmsley Wood to Sutton Coldfield.
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/508968/
PD0000087/44 Registered
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Route: Chelmsley Wood to Sutton Coldfield via Minworth
Service number: 71
Service type: Normal Stopping
Effective date: 22 Oct 2017
Positioning trips on/off the 167/8 ??
Well let's just say if the amount of people that had complained about the removal of the 72 & subsequently x70, had used the 71A, it would not have been cancelled.
How long had Claribels been running on the Chelmsley
Wood - Solihull corridor? Like, not this 71A but the 71E previous as well
Quote from: Steveminor on September 05, 2017, 07:56:23 AM
Well let's just say if the amount of people that had complained about the removal of the 72 & subsequently x70, had used the 71A, it would not have been cancelled.
Nx have to much monopoly power unfortunately
Quote from: Trident 4194 on September 05, 2017, 08:27:17 AM
Nx have to much monopoly power unfortunately
Sunny Travel too. They hog the stand in Solihull for about 10 minutes and leave with a full load, then a 71A turns up and leaves with no more than 4 people.
Quote from: Steveminor on September 05, 2017, 07:56:23 AM
Well let's just say if the amount of people that had complained about the removal of the 72 & subsequently x70, had used the 71A, it would not have been cancelled.
Thanks for that, it is as I suspected then.
Quote from: Trident 4194 on September 05, 2017, 08:27:17 AM
Nx have to much monopoly power unfortunately
NX altered some services in the Old Hill area, I recall, same pattern again, petitions and protests got a link restored, then subsequently had to get cut again due to a lack of use.
So its nothing to do with NX having a monopoly (other operators are available you know), just passengers not using the services they say they need.
I think it is almost inevitable that consultations will result in responses from the few with pet schemes and no response from the vast majority until they turn up on the first day to find their journey altered.
Claribels have MX61 BAV on the 424 today,seen in town at midday.
Quote from: broma1k on September 06, 2017, 01:50:04 PM
Claribels have MX61 BAV on the 424 today,seen in town at midday.
That's been with them for a week now. Saw it on Monday. Has horrible Urban 90 seats.
Nyy was subject to an rtc with an Nxwm platinum in Sutton Coldfield & is currently off road having the rear end damage repaired.
Quote from: Tony on September 06, 2017, 06:14:55 PM
Yes, Just two trips a day
Ooh, never saw that coming.
Whoops
West Midlands Police Twitter feed reporting they have stopped a Claribels bus for going the wrong side of a keep left bollard
https://twitter.com/Trafficwmp/status/909779962403713024?s=04
Quote from: Tony on September 18, 2017, 05:34:34 PM
Whoops
West Midlands Police Twitter feed reporting they have stopped a Claribels bus for going the wrong side of a keep left bollard
https://twitter.com/Trafficwmp/status/909779962403713024?s=04
What is this world coming too? There are much more concerning things that happen on the road than that
Quote from: Trident 4194 on September 18, 2017, 05:48:44 PM
What is this world coming too? There are much more concerning things that happen on the road than that
Like a bus happening to have 129 on its destination in Stourbridge I presume?
Quote from: Tony on September 18, 2017, 05:34:34 PM
Whoops
West Midlands Police Twitter feed reporting they have stopped a Claribels bus for going the wrong side of a keep left bollard
https://twitter.com/Trafficwmp/status/909779962403713024?s=04
In all fairness, I've done that in a NXWM bus. I don't understand how that is wrong. What are you supposed to do in a situation like that. Especially on the ghettos of the 11 route where it's basically a free for all on the roads. In fact, that day I was in a convoy of 3 buses and we all did that.
Quote from: Tony on September 18, 2017, 05:34:34 PM
Whoops
West Midlands Police Twitter feed reporting they have stopped a Claribels bus for going the wrong side of a keep left bollard
https://twitter.com/Trafficwmp/status/909779962403713024?s=04
I've seen NXWM buses do this on the 22/23 on War Lane before when some dickhead has parked so close to the central bollard (near the junction with Hartledon Road) that it's difficult to get a bus through without inching through at a snail's pace - and risking taking the corner off the car. As MW says, it's unavoidable sometimes. The bin lorry has stopped in an inconsiderate place there - although at the moment I'm probably not being impartial given that until today it was over 5 weeks since my bins were last emptied.
If we're on the subject then I'll throw in the 66 trying to get along Rupert Street, numerous times I've been on the bus where it would have been physically impossible to get around the cars parked by the leisure centre without performing this illegal maneuver, same with city bound buses trying to make the corner from Oliver Street further up
Should I report NXWM for every infringement or should we only pick on the little guys?
Quote from: Kevin on September 21, 2017, 08:03:13 AM
If we're on the subject then I'll throw in the 66 trying to get along Rupert Street, numerous times I've been on the bus where it would have been physically impossible to get around the cars parked by the leisure centre without performing this illegal maneuver, same with city bound buses trying to make the corner from Oliver Street further up
Should I report NXWM for every infringement or should we only pick on the little guys?
It's quite common, diamond do it unavoidably by hasbury tesco when the delivery lorries are parked outside, I wouldn't exactly classify it as a serious offense to commit
Quote from: Kevin on September 21, 2017, 08:03:13 AM
If we're on the subject then I'll throw in the 66 trying to get along Rupert Street, numerous times I've been on the bus where it would have been physically impossible to get around the cars parked by the leisure centre without performing this illegal maneuver, same with city bound buses trying to make the corner from Oliver Street further up
Should I report NXWM for every infringement or should we only pick on the little guys?
I wasn't picking on the little guys. I personally think the police were being very harsh on him, not just stopping him, but shaming him on Twitter, I think the twitter bit was totally unneccessary.
To be honest the bin drivers think they own the roads and they can break every law in the book, and instead of the police standing up to them, they persecute everybody else.
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on September 21, 2017, 07:23:19 PM
To be honest the bin drivers think they own the roads and they can break every law in the book, and instead of the police standing up to them, they persecute everybody else.
The police said on the twitter page that the bin lorry has a lawful exemption due to the nature of its use.
To be honest if the bin lorry was there to empty the bins they could have been a bit more patient and waited 2 minutes for the bin lorry to empty the bins and move on and usually they do.
Quote from: 2206 on September 21, 2017, 07:44:43 PM
The police said on the twitter page that the bin lorry has a lawful exemption due to the nature of its use.
To be honest they could have been a bit more patient and waited 2 minutes for the bin lorry to empty the bins and move on and usually they do.
Yes more interested in posting on there twitter page than actually getting out there and solving crime.
They should put there foot down with the bin lorry drivers, but they frightened in case they throw there dummy's out of the pram like they have been doing. Should have sacked the lot of them and gave the jobs to people who really want to work.
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on September 21, 2017, 07:49:57 PM
Yes more interested in posting on there twitter page than actually getting out there and solving crime.
Because their social media team are the same people as their front line officers....
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on September 21, 2017, 07:49:57 PM
They should put there foot down with the bin lorry drivers, but they frightened in case they throw there dummy's out of the pram like they have been doing. Should have sacked the lot of them and gave the jobs to people who really want to work.
So you want bin men who are underpaid, taking time off with illness due to the stress of the job and are forced to lose their jobs because of some money saving scheme which costs more than keeping the status quo
I'm with my brother workers every day of the week. They were forced to struggle under the threat of losing their jobs so why should they work like that. The industrial action was needed in my view.
Quote from: 2206 on September 21, 2017, 07:44:43 PM
To be honest if the bin lorry was there to empty the bins they could have been a bit more patient and waited 2 minutes for the bin lorry to empty the bins and move on and usually they do.
Yes, they shouldn't of just done an impatient turn. Quite selfish, that driver must of been in a rush then to do that.
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 22, 2017, 06:51:43 PM
So you want bin men who are underpaid, taking time off with illness due to the stress of the job and are forced to lose their jobs because of some money saving scheme which costs more than keeping the status quo
I'm with my brother workers every day of the week. They were forced to struggle under the threat of losing their jobs so why should they work like that. The industrial action was needed in my view.
I'm sorry but I thought the Industrial Action was a disgrace. People are paid to empty wheelie bins, not protest. When I lived in Perry Beeches the rubbish wasn't that bad but in areas, say Alum Rock, the rubbish was taking over the pavements. The smell was atrocious being in heat. People who live in Birmingham pay Council Tax and expect bins to be emptied, not to just sit in the street. I'm so happy I'm in Sandwell!
I thought this forum was about buses not about the industrial dispute in Brum. I live on the A34 on the outskirts of Stafford and every Monday morning the bins are emptied, household 1 week, garden and recylcle the next and every week the bin lorries cause a couple of minutes delay when near to pedestrian refuges in the middle of the road. Unless the bin lorry in question was parked up and not emptying bins then the drivers of the vehicles that the police pulled up should have waited, I do think though that the police action ended up being heavy handed and a warning should have sufficed.
What's going to be used on the new contract services 167/8 600 n
more envrio of buses from the fleet
Quote from: Solo1 on October 02, 2017, 09:56:47 AM
What's going to be used on the new contract services 167/8 600 n
more envrio of buses from the fleet
E200's. Claribels have received some '61' plate second hand vehicles.
Quote from: Jack on September 23, 2017, 09:28:45 AM
in areas, say Alum Rock, the rubbish was taking over the pavements. The smell was atrocious being in heat.
Simple answer, stay away from Alum Rock the next time you're in heat....
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on October 02, 2017, 04:39:38 PM
Simple answer, stay away from Alum Rock the next time you're in heat....
Lol, I don't go round there that often anymore, was a regular on the 14. The Industrial Action has stopped now anyway.
And the enviros are still white and logoless, has claribels got no money to paint them or at least put a company decal on the bus
Quote from: Chris on October 02, 2017, 06:35:09 PM
And the enviros are still white and logoless, has claribels got no money to paint them or at least put a company decal on the bus
Agreed, claribels used to always have their fleet looking smart before the enviro invasion
Notices on the buses about October changes. Slight reduction in frequency on Saturday 94's and from 23rd October, the £1 supplement for NX tickets and passes will no longer apply. So everyone will have to pay the correct fare.
Quote from: Lukeee on October 02, 2017, 10:26:06 PM
Agreed, claribels used to always have their fleet looking smart before the enviro invasion
Ghosts more like!
Someone get a sharpie and write claribels on them :D
Are you getting any 67 plate E200 for the new journeys on the 600, 167, 168 and 71
@Steveminor ?
Quote from: 2206 on October 06, 2017, 06:31:52 PM
Are you getting any 67 plate E200 for the new journeys on the 600, 167, 168 and 71 @Steveminor ?
They're getting some second hand '61' plate E200's.
Quote from: Jack on October 06, 2017, 07:10:21 PM
They're getting some second hand '61' plate E200's.
What 61 plates are these, they got MX61BAV, but what other 61 plates are they having, as one isn't going to be enough?
We are not purchasing any more buses the 60,167,168 will use buses displaced by the 71A withdrawal
Quote from: Steveminor on October 06, 2017, 07:37:55 PM
We are not purchasing any more buses the 60,167,168 will use buses displaced by the 71A withdrawal
Will they at least get Claribels written on them, rather than being completely plain? I've got some spare Sharpies if you need someone to do it for you. ;)
Quote from: Steveminor on October 06, 2017, 07:37:55 PM
We are not purchasing any more buses the 60,167,168 will use buses displaced by the 71A withdrawal
So the Pulsars are going to be put on Midibus routes? Wonderful. It would make sense if the 55 had Pulsars in the Peak judging by the loadings.
Quote from: DJ98 on October 06, 2017, 08:07:27 PM
Will they at least get Claribels written on them, rather than being completely plain? I've got some spare Sharpies if you need someone to do it for you. ;)
Lol, I've got some too, nice dark blue for 'CLARIBELS'.
Quote from: Jack on October 06, 2017, 08:13:15 PM
So the Pulsars are going to be put on Midibus routes? Wonderful. It would make sense if the 55 had Pulsars in the Peak judging by the loadings.
Lol, I've got some too, nice dark blue for 'CLARIBELS'.
The 55's come of the 604. Pulsars wouldn't be able to get round the 604 route?
Quote from: 2206 on October 06, 2017, 08:20:02 PM
The 55's come of the 604. Pulsars wouldn't be able to get round the 604 route would they @Jack ?
You don't think I'm that daft do you? I know the 604 can't have them but I didn't know the 604 boards went onto the 55. I do miss Claribels on the 55 fully, miss their Commanders too.
Commanders ceo & vdl have now left the fleet. The decker has also been sold.
One of the '17' plate E200's has a huge green advert applied to its nearside. Just seen it go past me on a 424.
Looks like the end of Claribels as we've known it. Years of building up a good reputation on key commercial routes slowly disappearing.
Quote from: fleetline6477 on October 07, 2017, 07:55:57 PM
Looks like the end of Claribels as we've known it. Years of building up a good reputation on key commercial routes slowly disappearing.
I had a similar thought. It's a shame to see their commercial network in decline!
I hope that their tendered work is more profitable.
I honestly think the 55 should be served by claribels again. I also think Claribels would make profit on routes like the X70 as its not that regular so having a bus inbetween would make Claribel loadings bigger.
Also
@Steveminor , every time I'm waiting for a Claribel bus there is always this one driver that skips passed me at a bus stop. He does it every time. He was on the 94 this morning got the Hunters Moon at 7:55 and drove straight past me!
Quote from: Jack D on October 09, 2017, 09:58:20 PM
I honestly think the 55 should be served by claribels again. I also think Claribels would make profit on routes like the X70 as its not that regular so having a bus inbetween would make Claribel loadings bigger.
Also @Steveminor , every time I'm waiting for a Claribel bus there is always this one driver that skips passed me at a bus stop. He does it every time. He was on the 94 this morning got the Hunters Moon at 7:55 and drove straight past me!
I think the 55 should be going again. I think they should do more routes as well, but not the X70. I would like them to be in competition with NX on the 37.
Quote from: Jack on October 09, 2017, 10:00:34 PM
I think the 55 should be going again. I think they should do more routes as well, but not the X70. I would like them to be in competition with NX on the 37.
37 has too high frequency in my opinion. Diamond couldn't make it profitable
97 maybe?
Quote from: 2206 on October 09, 2017, 10:28:16 PM
97 maybe?
They would look good on the 97. I think they should do the 37 still though, with a newish fleet of Pulsars they would do well.
Make a profit on the x70 that's an interesting concept , that I don't think quite works for me. East Brum bus usage in general must be in serious decline , I wonder if any of the routes are profitable.
Quote from: monkeyjoe on October 23, 2017, 10:51:44 PM
Make a profit on the x70 that's an interesting concept , that I don't think quite works for me. East Brum bus usage in general must be in serious decline , I wonder if any of the routes are profitable.
I don't think the X70 is profitable unless Claribels make it more frequent. 15 minutes during the day perhaps? Unless NX decide to make it more useful than a poor 2 buses an hour! I remember the days of Sunny Travel on the 14
Having worked for Claribels I know that the brothers are pretty shrewd bus men.
Being a smaller company they are able to adjust and react to changes in the market quicker than the dominant local operator.
This ongoing assessment of the business and the slight downturn in passenger numbers in East Birmingham is probably the reason why they have increased the amount of tendered mileage in the last few months.
This of course gives them a guaranteed contract life income and reduces the commercial risk.
I wouldn't be expecting them to make any speculative commercial registrations for new routes in the near future.
Quote from: Jack on October 25, 2017, 10:47:56 AM
I don't think the X70 is profitable unless Claribels make it more frequent. 15 minutes during the day perhaps? Unless NX decide to make it more useful than a poor 2 buses an hour! I remember the days of Sunny Travel on the 14
So where would all of the extra passengers in Coleshill and Water Orton needed to make it viable to operate at a 15 minute frequency appear from?
Quote from: 2206 on October 25, 2017, 11:14:10 AM
So where would all of the extra passengers in Coleshill and Water Orton needed to make it viable to operate at a 15 minute frequency appear from?
I was talking more about Chipperfield Road and Bromford Estate. The X70 is that poor that only picks up a few compared to the X12 which carries way more.
Quote from: Jack on October 25, 2017, 11:20:19 AM
I was talking more about Chipperfield Road and Bromford Estate. The X70 is that poor that only picks up a few compared to the X12 which carries way more.
Picks up the same number of passengers going to Bromford as the X12, from what I've seen, unless the X12 gets into the City Centre and picks up the passengers before the X70, they both go the same way out of the City Centre so people are going to get whatever bus comes first.
They've already got the X12, so why would they need a more frequent X70 as well, surely it'd just pick up passengers who would have got the X12.
Quote from: 2206 on October 25, 2017, 11:25:08 AM
Picks up the same number of passengers going to Bromford as the X12, from what I've seen, unless the X12 gets into the City Centre and picks up the passengers before the X70, they both go the same way out of the City Centre so people are going to get whatever bus comes first.
Well tbh even though Washwood Heath Road can cope with the 55 and 94 now three routes have been taken off it, I would remove that 'X' and send it back down the road where it got good loadings, and the route was frequent. Don't really like the X70 compared to the original 70. When I last caught the X70 a few weeks ago I was the only passenger on from Water Orton to City. Most of the Easts network is in shambles.
So if you were the only passenger again how would putting more buses in it suddenly make it profitable?
Just seen one of the 71s from Sutton at Castle Vale. Quite a good crowd on board. Maybe they would be better off running on the Sutton end of the 71 a bit more
Appear to not be running today? Been in city centre about half an hour and haven't seen any of their 94s
Quote from: Kevin on January 02, 2018, 07:56:36 AM
Appear to not be running today? Been in city centre about half an hour and haven't seen any of their 94s
Odd, as this pic of christmas and New Year services shows they're supposed to be operating a normal service today?
https://www.flickr.com/photos/thestrev/38463105801/
Quote from: 2206 on January 02, 2018, 11:22:18 AM
Odd, as this pic of christmas and New Year services shows they're supposed to be operating a normal service today?
https://www.flickr.com/photos/thestrev/38463105801/
Claribels are operating today.
All Claribels services are operating as normal, including the 94.
Would anyone be able to tell me what routes I would find Claribels Wright Pulsar's on now please?
From what I can make out since my last visit they have dropped a couple of routes? the 71? one of the Birmingham routes? and now run some tendered routes instead?
I'm planning a trip out probably next week so any information would be a great help.
The pulsars operate routes 94 600 167 & 168.
Quote from: Steveminor on February 09, 2018, 09:39:57 AM
The pulsars operate routes 94 600 167 & 168.
S16 as well.
Quote from: Jack on February 09, 2018, 04:32:49 PM
S16 as well.
I thought the SWB E200's were for the tendered routes
Quote from: Winston on February 09, 2018, 04:42:10 PM
I thought the SWB E200's were for the tendered routes
No. They're found on the 55, 424 and 604 only.
Quote from: TOF719S on February 09, 2018, 08:47:35 AM
Would anyone be able to tell me what routes I would find Claribels Wright Pulsar's on now please?
From what I can make out since my last visit they have dropped a couple of routes? the 71? one of the Birmingham routes? and now run some tendered routes instead?
I'm planning a trip out probably next week so any information would be a great help.
The tendered routes that operated by Pulsars are the 600, S16, 167 and 168.
Yes the commercial Birmingham Route is the 94, the 94 and 71 are both operated by Pulsars.
There are only 5 17 plate SWB E200 and they are found, only on the, 55, 424 and 604.
Quote from: Jack on February 09, 2018, 04:32:49 PM
S16 as well.
S16 normally an Optare when I've seen it
Quote from: Tony on February 09, 2018, 04:50:14 PM
S16 normally an Optare when I've seen it
It gets both.
Quote from: 2206 on February 09, 2018, 04:47:19 PM
No. They're found on the 55, 424 and 604 only.
The tendered routes operated by Pulsars are the 600, S16, 167 and 168 are all operated by Pulsars and tendered routes.
Yes the commercial Birmingham Route is the 94, the 94 and 71 are both operated by Pulsars.
There are only 5 17 plate SWB E200 and they are found, only on the, 55, 424 and 604.
MX61 BAV, as well. The second hand E200.
Quote from: 2206 on February 09, 2018, 04:47:19 PM
No. They're found on the 55, 424 and 604 only.
The tendered routes that operated by Pulsars are the 600, S16, 167 and 168.
Yes the commercial Birmingham Route is the 94, the 94 and 71 are both operated by Pulsars.
There are only 5 17 plate SWB E200 and they are found, only on the, 55, 424 and 604.
6 with MX61BAV
Quote from: 2206 on February 09, 2018, 04:50:36 PM
It gets both.
Pulsar only operates the s16 on a Saturday & occasionally during school holidays.
Quote from: Steveminor on February 09, 2018, 06:08:59 PM
Pulsar only operates the s16 on a Saturday & occasionally during school holidays.
Thanks for the replies guys, will probably be over on Tuesday.
MX61BAV took a rather strange route back going to the depot after finishing the 424 the other week, think it was 6PM on Wednesday 8th.
https://www.google.co.uk/maps/dir/52.4953816,-1.8192944/265-213+St+Margaret's+Rd,+Birmingham+B8/@52.4916713,-1.8243584,15z/data=!4m14!4m13!1m5!3m4!1m2!1d-1.8237058!2d52.4953789!3s0x4870bae76b645d25:0x5b42215cf783a3f2!1m5!1m1!1s0x4870bade1ddd81fb:0x24de0061b0d7525c!2m2!1d-1.8259837!2d52.4963779!3e2
Up St Margarets Road and then straight up to the Fox And Goose, they usually go direct in the morning and evening via Bromford Lane, strange seeing it do that.
Quote from: Tony on April 15, 2017, 08:41:24 AM
The Government says it's a Bank Holiday
https://www.gov.uk/bank-holidays
So whatever silly name you come up with If the registration states not Bank Holidays then they don't run!
Didn't look like they are operating this year again today when I was in Sutton earlier, the 94 won't be operating because its Good Friday, but I didn't see any sign of the 604, 600, 167 and 168?
Quote from: 2206 on March 30, 2018, 04:46:45 PM
Didn't look like they are operating this year again today when I was in Sutton earlier, the 94 won't be operating because its Good Friday, but I didn't see any sign of the 604, 600, 167 and 168?
424 didn't run at all today either.
Quote from: 2206 on March 30, 2018, 04:46:45 PM
Didn't look like they are operating this year again today when I was in Sutton earlier, the 94 won't be operating because its Good Friday, but I didn't see any sign of the 604, 600, 167 and 168?
BECAUSE ITS A BANK HOLIDAY they don't run on bank holidays why state they aren't running this year when Good Friday occurs every year......
Quote from: Chris on March 30, 2018, 06:37:08 PM
BECAUSE ITS A BANK HOLIDAY they don't run on bank holidays why state they aren't running this year when Good Friday occurs every year......
Well let's hope Transport for West Midlands are aware then given all other TfWM contracts are in operation to a Saturday timetable today.
Quote from: Chris on March 30, 2018, 06:37:08 PM
BECAUSE ITS A BANK HOLIDAY they don't run on bank holidays why state they aren't running this year when Good Friday occurs every year......
The registration states the 94 doesn't run on bank holidays.
But the tendered routes should have run today, shouldn't they, 424, 604, 167, 168 and 600.
TFWM require a Saturday service on Good Friday on tendered services don't they?
"These journeys are to be operated in accordance with the attached timetable. No service will be required on the 25 December. Normal Saturday service will be required on Good Friday. A Sunday service will be required on all other Bank Holidays and 1 January, unless otherwise advised by TfWMto the Operator in writing."
Still no livery for the E200s? Or are they now operated by Amantia Restaurant or Star Cars? Because they're the most prominent logos
Quote from: Kevin on April 11, 2018, 08:00:26 AM
Still no livery for the E200s? Or are they now operated by Amantia Restaurant or Star Cars? Because they're the most prominent logos
Presumably advertising Taxi's is more luractive than trying to attract Customers to use their services!
No wonder they are always empty.
Quote from: Kevin on April 11, 2018, 08:00:26 AM
Still no livery for the E200s? Or are they now operated by Amantia Restaurant or Star Cars? Because they're the most prominent logos
also missing are the claribels logos only takes 10 mins to put 3 stickers on could of done it same time
the ad was put on the side
Quote from: Kevin on April 11, 2018, 08:00:26 AM
Still no livery for the E200s? Or are they now operated by Amantia Restaurant or Star Cars? Because they're the most prominent logos
A joke if you ask me. They'll probably never be getting painted or even a company logo.
Quote from: Solo1 on April 11, 2018, 09:27:09 AM
also missing are the claribels logos only takes 10 mins to put 3 stickers on could of done it same time
the ad was put on the side
As you've said it only takes a good few minutes to apply some logos. It's a shame because in my opinion Claribels have been good but since the evolution of the E200's they've gone down.
Quote from: Jack on April 11, 2018, 09:48:26 AM
A joke if you ask me. They'll probably never be getting painted or even a company logo.
As you've said it only takes a good few minutes to apply some logos. It's a shame because in my opinion Claribels have been good but since the evolution of the E200's they've gone down.
There's no point of painting them now. They'll have to be painted again into Diamond blue..
Quote from: MW on April 11, 2018, 09:55:37 AM
There's no point of painting them now. They'll have to be painted again into Diamond blue..
Blue paint is in short supply in the Midlands at present.....
Quote from: Straightlines on April 11, 2018, 08:14:34 AM
Presumably advertising Taxi's is more luractive than trying to attract Customers to use their services!
No wonder they are always empty.
The Star Cars internal adverts state that it might be cheaper to catch a taxi than a bus if you are travelling as a couple / group..
Quote from: Solo1 on April 11, 2018, 09:27:09 AM
also missing are the claribels logos only takes 10 mins to put 3 stickers on could of done it same time
the ad was put on the side
It does mean every journey on the 424 is in breach of AQPS rules, as prominent fleet names is one of the rules
Quote from: MW on April 11, 2018, 09:55:37 AM
There's no point of painting them now. They'll have to be painted again into Diamond blue..
Are Diamond acquring the vehicles?
MW obviously knows something even our directors don't.
Maybe he could tell us when NX are selling to Rotala lol
In recent years Claribels have always impressed me with their livey and fleetnames on modern buses. Whilst they've maintained the modern vehicles fleetnames and a basic livery is standard.
If they continue to break AQPS rules on tendered route 424 can / should the contract be revoked? Are they in jepody of facing a ban from City Centre?
Quote from: Steveminor on April 11, 2018, 07:42:45 PM
MW obviously knows something even our directors don't.
Maybe he could tell us when NX are selling to Rotala lol
Steve,
If this is helpful - I will confirm that we have no dialogue with any Director or Shareholder of Claribels over the acquisition of their business.
I try not to respond to every rumour as I would be sat all day everyday responding. However, I have seen multiple comments on multiple platforms about this.
As always, we are looking at opportunties but Claribels is not one we are looking at.
Simon
Thank you for that confirmation Simon.
Now can all the rumour mongers please put this to bed once & forall
When will the buses be painted into claribells livery or have the logos put on
@Steveminor have the 424E's been withdrawn? As the flags just say 424 now and the timetables just have 424 and no 424E
The flags on Hassop Road now say that the 424 stops there. Timetables don't. Either TfWM have made an error as the 424 currently doesn't serve Hassop Road.
The 424 route & timetable are amended from 29th April. All am 424e journeys are withdrawn pm peak 424e are converted to 424. Pear tree estate will no longer be served neither will the markets. One stop will only be served from city with buses going towards city going straight to crown & cushion then off towards the Broadway . In perry beeches the route has been extended via hassop rd, beeches rd & Aldridge rd to serve the Asda Queslett.
Quote from: Steveminor on April 13, 2018, 03:04:30 PM
The 424 route & timetable are amended from 29th April. All am 424e journeys are withdrawn pm peak 424e are converted to 424. Pear tree estate will no longer be served neither will the markets. One stop will only be served from city with buses going towards city going straight to crown & cushion then off towards the Broadway . In perry beeches the route has been extended via hassop rd, beeches rd & Aldridge rd to serve the Asda Queslett.
I agree with all of these amendments you doing. The 424E is a little inconvenient. I think the 424 being extended to Asda Queslett is a great idea and I'm sure elderly people here will be happy there is a bus that goes to Asda. A lot of the elderly people here have said they'd like a direct bus service to Asda, so I'm sure it will be useful.
Quote from: Steveminor on April 13, 2018, 03:04:30 PM
The 424 route & timetable are amended from 29th April. All am 424e journeys are withdrawn pm peak 424e are converted to 424. Pear tree estate will no longer be served neither will the markets. One stop will only be served from city with buses going towards city going straight to crown & cushion then off towards the Broadway . In perry beeches the route has been extended via hassop rd, beeches rd & Aldridge rd to serve the Asda Queslett.
The 424 reliability has been woeful for a number of years. The changes sound sensible and should hopefully address the majority of issues
Thanks both of you for your comments it shows we are on.the right track with the amendments. The post office & chemist in the beeches have got some of the new timetables.
Quote from: Steveminor on April 13, 2018, 04:56:39 PM
Thanks both of you for your comments it shows we are on.the right track with the amendments. The post office & chemist in the beeches have got some of the new timetables.
Correct, as has the Haddon Road terminus Stop.
PD0000087/47 Registered
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Route: Birmingham International Station to Birmingham Busuness Park
Service number: 75
Service type: Normal Stopping
Effective date: 04 Jun 2018
Wonder why they are only doing the peak running unless extra
Quote from: Solo1 on April 24, 2018, 07:15:09 PM
Wonder why they are only doing the peak running unless extra
I assume different tenders
The 424 extension to Queslett Asda seems to be doing well. Saw about 8/9 people on it towards the Asda when it passed me on Hassop Road earlier.
Credit to
@Steveminor, you seem to be making the route better, even better there's no pointless 424E's.
Not used it yet but the 424's new terminus seems to be the old 934 terminus looking at the route map, will be weird seeing buses using that terminus again.
Quote from: Jack on May 02, 2018, 09:16:57 PM
The 424 extension to Queslett Asda seems to be doing well. Saw about 8/9 people on it towards the Asda when it passed me on Hassop Road earlier.
Credit to @Steveminor, you seem to be making the route better, even better there's no pointless 424E's.
Not used it yet but the 424's new terminus seems to be the old 934 terminus looking at the route map, will be weird seeing buses using that terminus again.
It's a shame TFWM can't update the roadside publicity in good time. One of the flags along Aldridge Road heading towards Asda now served by the new 424 route is still showing "School Buses only"
Quote from: metrocity on May 02, 2018, 09:30:47 PM
It's a shame TFWM can't update the roadside publicity in good time. One of the flags along Aldridge Road heading towards Asda now served by the new 424 route is still showing "School Buses only"
Same can be said with the Monsal Road stop for the 952.
But the 15:26, 424 yesterday from Grindleford Road towards City was around ten minutes late. The 15:01 424 I saw this afternoon had around 8/9 people aboard and was around twelve minutes late. Great Barr school traffic must be taking its toll, not like the long layover they had at Haddon Road.
The stop on Aldridge rd will I'm assured have the 424 flag put on by next week plus timetable cases on the poles where tgere currently aren't any.
The pole in old horns rd (inside asda) has had the timetable case attached today.
Hopefully we can build a good customer base from this extension in order to ensure the long term survival of the service.
Great barr school traffic is causing a few delays however the new timetable is more resilient & has time built in to the run to allow the bus to catch up time.
Quote from: Steveminor on May 02, 2018, 09:53:41 PM
The stop on Aldridge rd will I'm assured have the 424 flag put on by next week plus timetable cases on the poles where tgere currently aren't any.
The pole in old horns rd (inside asda) has had the timetable case attached today.
Hopefully we can build a good customer base from this extension in order to ensure the long term survival of the service.
Great barr school traffic is causing a few delays however the new timetable is more resilient & has time built in to the run to allow the bus to catch up time.
A lot of happy people here that they've now got a direct bus to Asda.
Wouldn't it make sense if the route turned left onto Beeches Road, right onto Sandy Lane and left onto Aldridge (vice versa) to miss out the bulk of the Great Barr school traffic?
It's better than what the drivers previously use to do, miss out the Haddon Road stop and turn around at The Beeches.
You then have beeches junior & infant school traffic to deal with & really the inbuilt timing doesn't cause any real delay further down the route I.e we give the bus 10 mins between queslett & beeches pub where you only really need 5.
Quote from: Steveminor on May 02, 2018, 10:22:14 PM
You then have beeches junior & infant school traffic to deal with & really the inbuilt timing doesn't cause any real delay further down the route I.e we give the bus 10 mins between queslett & beeches pub where you only really need 5.
Fair enough, just a suggestion.
Plus going the way we do gets some funny looks from the residents of 424 beeches rd 🤣🤣🤣
YX17 NYU came up Hassop Road towards Asda running around 7/8 minutes late at 15:01 this afternoon. An elderly lady told me that the route takes to long and gets snarled up in traffic on the Aldridge Road, can't make my own judgement yet as not done it but will hopefully be able to do it tomorrow afternoon to see what it's like.
There's a Pulsar 2 on the 604 today. Just seen it heading through Kingstanding on a service to Warren Farm.
Pulsar on 55 this morning was a bit wierd to see it on there after all this time having the white E200s
E200 Parked up in the layby section at 10 presuming it had broke down normally dont sit there MX61BAV
I mean chelmsley wood it was sat with the school buses
Re 424
The pole stop opposite Great Barr School heading towards Asda, still has 'School Buses Only' on the flag although the 424 serves it. All the stops on Aldridge Road between Shady Lane and Dyas Road don't have any timetables whatsoever. Not really Claribels fault, but not really acceptable considering the route has been going to Asda for the last two weeks.
TfWM are aware & I'm assured they are in production currently.
A woman got on the 424 on Hassop Road this afternoon without paying or with a pass and stood by the driver right down till Asda. Seriously this woman has not heard of a bus fare. But there is nothing advertising fares on the E200 I was on same as there is nothing advertising Claribels operate the route, which they must not want to have an identity.
All of the E200's have had company logos applied under the front windscreen.
@Steveminor the Dyas Road Stop on Aldridge Road for the 424 towards Beeches doesn't have a timetable.
Quote from: Winston on April 23, 2018, 02:55:23 PM
PD0000087/47 Registered
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Route: Birmingham International Station to Birmingham Busuness Park
Service number: 75
Service type: Normal Stopping
Effective date: 04 Jun 2018
Competition for Diamond..
Can't find a timetable for the 75, I seen the Diamond one but not the Claribels one
Quote from: Steve3229vp on June 08, 2018, 05:40:32 PM
Can't find a timetable for the 75, I seen the Diamond one but not the Claribels one
Peak time journeys between Business Park and International Station timed 2 minutes ahead of Diamond's 75
Quote from: metrocity on June 08, 2018, 09:19:41 PM
Peak time journeys between Business Park and International Station timed 2 minutes ahead of Diamond's 75
Can Claribel's not show a little more initiative, what use is that service to passengers, buses will end up following each other around that close together.
Is the Claribels service matching the 12 minute Diamond frequency at peak times?
Quote from: sonic84 on June 09, 2018, 09:28:00 AM
Is the Claribels service matching the 12 minute Diamond frequency at peak times?
Yes
Quote from: metrocity on June 09, 2018, 10:23:38 AM
Yes
Thats a lot of buses going around the business park. Having worked and used that bus when it was a 30 minute frequency the business park can become like a car park at times. What will go in Claribels favour is most who use the 75 will have nbus or nnetwork passes and so will get on the first one that comes.
Good luck to Claribels. It is certainly an improvement on the 30 minute frequency from when I used to work on the business park a few years back!
The 15:01 424 from Hassop Road to Asda never turned up yesterday, as per usual.
@Steveminor is the extension working ok?
Bus NUY was there at 15.08 & 48 seconds.
Quote from: Steveminor on June 16, 2018, 09:07:58 AM
Bus NUY was there at 15.08 & 48 seconds.
Be good if you told the drivers not to skip out the Haddon Road stop.
424 only makes this stop by request only. Normal line of route will turn left at the beeches pub.
Quote from: Steveminor on June 16, 2018, 09:20:34 AM
424 only makes this stop by request only. Normal line of route will turn left at the beeches pub.
Thanks for confirming that - I was rather puzzled by the fact they weren't using that stop, so good to know.
Are the same enviros used on the 424 & 604 daily or are they moved about
Quote from: Solo1 on June 18, 2018, 08:02:43 PM
Are the same enviros used on the 424 & 604 daily or are they moved about
Moved about.
No bus has any set route & any vehicle can go on any route (providing it will physically fit).
We try not to use enviros on 75 or 94 though due to capacity issues.
Quote from: Steveminor on June 19, 2018, 07:30:18 PM
No bus has any set route & any vehicle can go on any route (providing it will physically fit).
We try not to use enviros on 75 or 94 though due to capacity issues.
The 75 already that busy?
Quote from: Trident 4194 on June 19, 2018, 07:36:32 PM
The 75 already that busy?
Seems to be carrying good loads
YJ12CKN was operating out of service along Stechford Lane this morning via the Fox and Goose at about 09:00 this morning with 424 Scott Arms on the display, the SWB E200 usually operate out of service along there to go and operate the 424.
Did they put this on the 424 this morning?
Quote from: 2206 on June 22, 2018, 05:35:38 PM
YK12CKN was operating out of service along Stechford Lane this morning via the Fox and Goose at about 09:00 this morning with 424 Scott Arms on the display, the SWB E200 usually operate out of service along there to go and operate the 424.
Did they put this on the 424 this morning?
If it was on the 424 then it would have a job getting round some of the very tight residential streets! The SWB E200's can just get about get on them.
This bus was on the 600 driver probably selected wrong destination number
Question for
@Steveminor:
Two of my relatives who live on the Whitecrest Estate have heard rumours that the 424 maybe getting taken off the estate completely, they've heard that it's been taken off many roads, like the Pear Tree Estate. They are extremely worried as this bus is their lifeline and will struggle to get anywhere without paying for taxis. Is this happening or not?
At present the 424 is under contract until October 2020 so there is no threat to the service until that date at least. However after that date who knows.
Quote from: Steveminor on July 05, 2018, 10:42:29 PM
At present the 424 is under contract until October 2020 so there is no threat to the service until that date at least. However after that date who knows.
Thanks for the confirmation, that should cheer them up.
Claribels seem to have completely given up picking passengers up along the Washwood Heath Road between Ward End and the City Centre today.
4 buses, which I think were CCE, JZG, JZH and CKO have been only serving that whole stretch unload only displaying Private Hire and Drop of only over the last 2 hours.
outbound is rather congested at the moment and there was a police car blocking it inbound for half an hour or so earlier, but they gave up before that as I didn't see any in service while I was going into the City Centre on 1809 earlierand they were all operating unload only with "Private Hire" on the destination display, and it was all clear by Drews Lane then. If NX can still manage to serve it, how come claribels can't?
With no buses in service in either direction for over an hour the Claribels service is hardly a service anybody could rely on.
There has been a serious accident by ward end park several buses from both operators that's us & nxwm were stuck in the chaos for over 75 minutes. That's what you saw were buses being adjusted to bringing them back in line. All claribels buses are now back in service & on time ready for peak time running while nxwm are still trying to adjust there service to plug the gaps.
Thinking of popping across on Friday and looking for my last 2 Pulsars in the fleet, would anyone know if YJ60GHF and YJ12CHG should be about in service (mechanical failure excluding) and if so where do they normally operate??
I know from previous visits the older stock seems to operate in Eardington but a recent photo of GHF shows it on an S16 in Solihull??
Any help would be grateful ;D
Quote from: TOF719S on July 30, 2018, 07:39:32 PM
Thinking of popping across on Friday and looking for my last 2 Pulsars in the fleet, would anyone know if YJ60GHF and YJ12CHG should be about in service (mechanical failure excluding) and if so where do they normally operate??
I know from previous visits the older stock seems to operate in Eardington but a recent photo of GHF shows it on an S16 in Solihull??
Any help would be grateful ;D
Either the 94, or the 600 Erdington Circular or the 167/8 Erdington to Sutton is where it may be. I don't know if it is the spare bus for the S16 when the usual Versa is not available? As It is the only other bus I have seen on there
There is no set allocations for the pulsars & they do switch around depending on where they are parked on the evening for morning allocations, this does generally lead to them staying on the same routes but as stated they could go anywhere.
If I remember I will pm you on Friday to let you know where they are.
Tof719s a range of different pulsars have been on.the S16 reprising for the optares if they are on private hires. Fdv has been the most prolific on there though.
Quote from: TOF719S on July 30, 2018, 07:39:32 PM
Thinking of popping across on Friday and looking for my last 2 Pulsars in the fleet, would anyone know if YJ60GHF and YJ12CHG should be about in service (mechanical failure excluding) and if so where do they normally operate??
I know from previous visits the older stock seems to operate in Eardington but a recent photo of GHF shows it on an S16 in Solihull??
Any help would be grateful ;D
There are pleanty of Older Pulsars on the 94 these days, I caught YJ59BCU into the City Centre earlier today and have been on pleanty of them on the 94 in the past, so it could well be on there. I've also been on newer pulsar on the 167/8 as well. Plus I often see newer pulsars out of service going to Erdington to operate the 600.
They could be on any service that gets pulsars.
- 94.
- 167/168 plus peak workings on the 71.
- S16.
- 600.
Not sure if the 75 uses them as well?
Quote from: Steveminor on July 30, 2018, 07:53:31 PM
There is no set allocations for the pulsars & they do switch around depending on where they are parked on the evening for morning allocations, this does generally lead to them staying on the same routes but as stated they could go anywhere.
If I remember I will pm you on Friday to let you know where they are.
Tof719s a range of different pulsars have been on.the S16 reprising for the optares if they are on private hires. Fdv has been the most prolific on there though.
Is BOF still in normal service?
I don't recall seeing that one for some time now?
It was on the 167/168 today although it tends to mainly be used for schools & shuttle bus/spare duties these days as she is quite old now.
Quote from: Steveminor on July 30, 2018, 11:24:03 PM
It was on the 167/168 today although it tends to mainly be used for schools & shuttle bus/spare duties these days as she is quite old now.
Thanks for the info
@Steveminor .
Quote from: Steveminor on July 30, 2018, 07:53:31 PM
There is no set allocations for the pulsars & they do switch around depending on where they are parked on the evening for morning allocations, this does generally lead to them staying on the same routes but as stated they could go anywhere.
If I remember I will pm you on Friday to let you know where they are.
Tof719s a range of different pulsars have been on.the S16 reprising for the optares if they are on private hires. Fdv has been the most prolific on there though.
Thanks for the reply Steve, hopefully I will find them. if you could let me know via this post what they're on that would be great as I can't seem to log in on my phone to the pm section.
I always seem to get the 57 plate and 58 plate in Eardington also seen BCU a couple of times too with the 14 plates on the 94 everytime I visit.
Thanks again.
Quote from: TOF719S on July 30, 2018, 07:39:32 PM
Thinking of popping across on Friday and looking for my last 2 Pulsars in the fleet, would anyone know if YJ60GHF and YJ12CHG should be about in service (mechanical failure excluding) and if so where do they normally operate??
I know from previous visits the older stock seems to operate in Eardington but a recent photo of GHF shows it on an S16 in Solihull??
Any help would be grateful ;D
Chg is on 94s today & ghf is on 167/168
Quote from: Steveminor on August 03, 2018, 09:10:51 AM
Chg is on 94s today & ghf is on 167/168
Many thanks for your reply, just boarding the train from Shrewsbury so will be about shortly.
Didn't realise you can use buses without a ramp in service. Optare Versa in Solihull today unloading a wheelchair passenger with no ramp. Looked closer at bus to check and there was no ramp at all. Thought it may have had an electric one like the ex Central Versas, but it didn't.
YJ13HJD was the bus.
Quote from: MW on September 05, 2018, 10:54:08 PM
Didn't realise you can use buses without a ramp in service. Optare Versa in Solihull today unloading a wheelchair passenger with no ramp. Looked closer at bus to check and there was no ramp at all. Thought it may have had an electric one like the ex Central Versas, but it didn't.
YJ13HJD was the bus.
I went on one of the Claribels Optare Versa today; YJ13HJE on the S16 today and YJ13HJE has a ramp (a manual one).
Quote from: MW on September 05, 2018, 10:54:08 PM
Didn't realise you can use buses without a ramp in service. Optare Versa in Solihull today unloading a wheelchair passenger with no ramp. Looked closer at bus to check and there was no ramp at all. Thought it may have had an electric one like the ex Central Versas, but it didn't.
YJ13HJD was the bus.
That's disgusting by Claribels. I wonder what TfWM or rven the Traffic Commissioner would think of that.
All buses in.thr Claribels fleet are DDA compliant.
@Steveminor if that is the case, what is your other boarding device?
''The Public Service Vehicle Access Regulations (PSVAR) 2000 demand that all single decker buses have accessibility standards including a wheelchair bay; a wheelchair ramp or other boarding device, and priority seating''
Quote from: Steveminor on September 18, 2018, 07:35:30 PM
All buses in.thr Claribels fleet are DDA compliant.
Really? I do recall there was a Versa that wasn't, and was only to be used on school / private hire work
Quote from: Dom on September 18, 2018, 07:39:29 PM
@Steveminor if that is the case, what is your other boarding device?
''The Public Service Vehicle Access Regulations (PSVAR) 2000 demand that all single decker buses have accessibility standards including a wheelchair bay; a wheelchair ramp or other boarding device, and priority seating''
HJE most certainly has a ramp.
Is HJE the same as HJD?
Did HJE always have the ramp, or has HJE been modified since it was new
@Steveminor?
Quote from: 2206 on September 18, 2018, 07:44:13 PM
HJE most certainly has a ramp.
Is HJE the same as HJD?
Did HJE always have the ramp, or has HJE been modified since it was new @Steveminor?
Not on about HJE though are we?
All 3 Versas are idintical
Quote from: Steveminor on September 18, 2018, 08:07:15 PM
All 3 Versas are idintical
Thanks for the info
@Steveminor.
Quote from: Dom on September 18, 2018, 08:03:27 PM
Not on about HJE though are we?
I was just wandering if there was any difference between the 2.
Quote from: Steveminor on September 18, 2018, 08:07:15 PM
All 3 Versas are idintical
So is it just incompetence from your drivers to not use the ramp?
A PCV holder has identified that there is no ramp on said vehicle. Why would he make this up?
All i will say is with the knowledge that these forums are monitored by different authorities, people use them for their own agendas. It has been confirmed by a member of this forum that HJE has been observed with a manual ramp & I have confirmed that all the optares are identical. In fact before our first wheelchair accessible coach was purchased the optare were used for private hires that required wheelchair access. Do you really think that with the value of contracts that Claribels & Birmingham International Coaches has we would be stupid enough than to put a non DDA bus on stage carriage service.
I thought not!!!
Quote from: Dom on September 18, 2018, 08:09:15 PM
So is it just incompetence from your drivers to not use the ramp?
A PCV holder has identified that there is no ramp on said vehicle. Why would he make this up?
And you wonder why certain operators take a dim view towards bus enthusiasts? Your views are based on third party observations and could well be completely unfounded
Quote from: metrocity on September 18, 2018, 10:02:23 PM
And you wonder why certain operators take a dim view towards bus enthusiasts? Your views are based on third party observations and could well be completely unfounded
Not in the slightest. I am simply asking about this claim.
Quote from: Dom on September 18, 2018, 10:18:02 PM
Not in the slightest. I am simply asking about this claim.
So when you said "that's disgusting by Claribels" that was just asking? :o
Quote from: Dom on September 18, 2018, 10:18:02 PM
Not in the slightest. I am simply asking about this claim.
Really?
Doesn't look like you were just asking here.
Quote from: Dom on September 18, 2018, 04:24:59 PM
That's disgusting by Claribels. I wonder what TfWM or rven the Traffic Commissioner would think of that.
Quote from: 2206 on September 18, 2018, 10:27:03 PM
Really?
Doesn't look like you were just asking here.
Yh I think you owe Steve an apology really
I only asked on here because I thought maybe you can use buses without a ramp when there's no alternative, but wasn't sure.
I was stood outside William Hill in Solihull Town Centre. The bus was on the S16 and the driver was stood on the pavement reversing the wheelchair out. I looked at the bus and saw no ramp.
You're saying that it's got a ramp. Is it a typical manual folding one? I walked up to the bus and couldn't see a ramp fitted, and I couldn't see an electric style one either underneath the doors.
Quote from: Dom on September 18, 2018, 10:18:02 PM
Not in the slightest. I am simply asking about this claim.
Empty vessels make the most noise I guess...
Quote from: MW on September 18, 2018, 10:35:57 PM
I only asked on here because I thought maybe you can use buses without a ramp when there's no alternative, but wasn't sure.
I was stood outside William Hill in Solihull Town Centre. The bus was on the S16 and the driver was stood on the pavement reversing the wheelchair out. I looked at the bus and saw no ramp.
You're saying that it's got a ramp. Is it a typical manual folding one? I walked up to the bus and couldn't see a ramp fitted, and I couldn't see an electric style one either underneath the doors.
HJE has a manual fold up ramp with a metal flap for lifting up the ramp.
@Steveminor has said they're all identical, so HJD will be the same.
Quote from: 2206 on September 18, 2018, 10:44:52 PM
HJE has a manual fold up ramp with a metal flap for lifting up the ramp.
@Steveminor has said they're all identical, so HJD will be the same.
So this driver was assisting a wheelchair passenger coming off the bus, bearing in mind the kerbs in Solihull Town Centre aren't "Kassel-Kerbs" so a fair drop even with the floor lowered.
I'm gonna check one of these Optares out the next time I see one in Solihull as I'm certain HJD had no ramp.
Since this route has many regulars I believe I know the passengers you are referring to, they prefer the personal touch of driver assistance as they are untrustworthy of ramps after a prior experience with one on another operators service.
A simple PM to me with a query could have answered this without the need to throw wild accusations & make yourself look foolish to others on the group.
Quote from: Steveminor on September 19, 2018, 08:34:28 AM
Since this route has many regulars I believe I know the passengers you are referring to, they prefer the personal touch of driver assistance as they are untrustworthy of ramps after a prior experience with one on another operators service.
A simple PM to me with a query could have answered this without the need to throw wild accusations & make yourself look foolish to others on the group.
The passenger prefers the wheelchair being manually guided off the bus with no ramp? I wasn't saying much before, but since you're getting personal now I'll say it. You're full of shit pal. There was no ramp. The driver was struggling. You can fool all these lot on the forum but I've seen it with my own eyes. Maybe this alleged ramp was defected at the time, maybe it was temporarily removed for whatever reason, but the fact is that bus did not have a ramp at that particular time. One of the back wheels (for the wheelchair) was off the platform and the other three wheels were still on. The gentleman was still in the wheelchair and the driver couldn't manage as he struggled to balance the wheelchair. Yeah, those passengers like the personal touch do they? Stop waffling.
How long has it taken you to respond to this? I originally posted on 5th September, and I know you keep an eye on this thread like a hawk. Calculated response from you, only because other members have engaged in what I've said?
I'm not interested in what you've got to say about it. What I saw was what I saw. You don't have to accept it publically on this forum but you and I know it's true.
I didn't mean to bad mouth the company, I was genuinely asking but with your bullshit response, well I have to give it back now.
I have got better things to do than reply to things that are quite obviously not true which is why I didn't comment before. Plus contrary to popular belief in not always on these forums. I do have a 9 month old baby to take care of.
I also have not sworn at you so would ask that you kindly do not swear at me & ask the moderators to look at that please..
Claribels driver trying to bully a NX X12 off of the X12 stand on Priory Queensway. Blasted his horn 3 times despite it not being his stand.
Quote from: Dom on September 18, 2018, 08:03:27 PM
Not on about HJE though are we?
Here's 'HJD when two months old. It has a ramp. It has 'easy access' stickers.
Now are you & others going to tell me otherwise? 'cos i'm really not in the mood to nip across to their yard for further supporting evidence.
Surely if they had been running non DDA buses on the S16 (which I don't believe they have) tfwm's own data collectors would have noticed by now? ???
Quote from: V89MOA on September 19, 2018, 06:41:31 PM
Surely if they had been running non DDA buses on the S16 (which I don't believe they have) tfwm's own data collectors would have noticed by now? ???
Why would they? Not part of their job.
Quote from: Dom on September 19, 2018, 06:48:30 PM
Why would they? Not part of their job.
What actually is your job? Being serious here
Quote from: Dom on September 19, 2018, 06:48:30 PM
Why would they? Not part of their job.
Actually that IS part of their job "ensuring route & vehicles are compliant to the contract as signed.
Quote from: Steveminor on September 19, 2018, 08:24:41 PM
Actually that IS part of their job "ensuring route & vehicles are compliant to the contract as signed.
Not at all. All we do is check they run.
No the data observers check time destination displayed & correct all round registration & if network stickers are on the bus.
Companies send registration marks off to TfWM who tgen check vehicle compliance I.e DDA & Euro rating.
So to summarise if a non compliant vehicle was being used on a service it would be picked up VERY quickly.
Dave has already posted a photo of the bus which clearly shows the bus is compliant so no idea why this thread is continuing on this theme.
Because a Diamond employee points the finger at another operator suggesting they're doing something wrong when they aren't, maybe they should look closer to home.
Quote from: Steveminor on September 19, 2018, 09:02:02 PM
No the data observers check time destination displayed & correct all round registration & if network stickers are on the bus.
Companies send registration marks off to TfWM who tgen check vehicle compliance I.e DDA & Euro rating.
So to summarise if a non compliant vehicle was being used on a service it would be picked up VERY quickly.
Dave has already posted a photo of the bus which clearly shows the bus is compliant so no idea why this thread is continuing on this theme.
Because a Diamond employee points the finger at another operator suggesting they're doing something wrong when they aren't, maybe they should look closer to home.
Correct. You said that it is our job to check the DDA complience of a vehicle. No it isn't. That is down to who the data is passed onto after it has been processed.
YJ13 HJE on the S16 today seen driving without a destination on the blinds and past people at a bus stop with their hand held out
Should point out I know its on the S16 because I saw it in Solihull earlier, plus it was turning onto the S16 route from the Cov Road not a dead route back to Solihull
Can you confirm a time because we have hasn't a private hire today which would require a bus to turn off down part of the S16 route.
Quote from: Steveminor on September 24, 2018, 04:29:35 PM
Can you confirm a time because we have hasn't a private hire today which would require a bus to turn off down part of the S16 route.
13:45 journey from Yardley
13:48 at Gilberstone Avenue, bus stop for 58/S16 at Gotham Road "and opposite"
YJ57BOF is on the 94 today, it doesn't get on there very often these days, fairly unusual for it to be on the 94, it passed Ward End, The Fox & Goose about 15 minutes ago, heading for Birmingham City Centre.
Yet another occasion this morning where I've seen a Claribels driver going along NIS, smoking a cigarette.
Seen at the Monkseaton Road at 0920.
Quote from: Dom on October 25, 2018, 09:23:06 AM
Yet another occasion this morning where I've seen a Claribels driver going along NIS, smoking a cigarette.
Seen at the Monkseaton Road at 0920.
I presume you have reported it to the company in that case so that they can investigate?
Quote from: Dom on October 25, 2018, 09:23:06 AM
Yet another occasion this morning where I've seen a Claribels driver going along NIS, smoking a cigarette.
Seen at the Monkseaton Road at 0920.
What's wrong with that?
Quote from: MW on October 25, 2018, 10:06:40 AM
What's wrong with that?
Enough to get the driver's PCV license revoked if seen by the DVSA and get a £1,000 fine for smoking in a workplace if reported to the council
Quote from: metrocity on October 25, 2018, 09:37:17 AM
I presume you have reported it to the company in that case so that they can investigate?
I wouldn’t be sure who to contact regarding this.
Dom perhaps you could maybe give a registration or an actual real road name. Might help investigate.
Whilst you're at it read your employers policy on posting material on social media.....
If you're not sure what your employers policy is on social media maybe I could email someone at your office to explain it to you.......
Quote from: Dom on October 25, 2018, 09:23:06 AM
Yet another occasion this morning where I've seen a Claribels driver going along NIS, smoking a cigarette.
Seen at the Monkseaton Road at 0920.
I'm quite a fan of Claribels, have used them for 25-30 years, but this isn't uncommon. A shame as it isn't representative of their smart and tidy fleet.
There is a way of reporting things though. Anyone witnessing any infractions please note time registration & correct location & report to our office or even pm me on here so that cctv, tracker data can be downloaded & investigated.
Quote from: Steveminor on October 25, 2018, 11:47:46 AM
Dom perhaps you could maybe give a registration or an actual real road name. Might help investigate.
Whilst you're at it read your employers policy on posting material on social media.....
If you're not sure what your employers policy is on social media maybe I could email someone at your office to explain it to you.......
I'm not saying it on behalf of my employer. As I say, opinions are my own.
Didn't get the vehicle registration due to driving at the time, I saw him on the Birmingham Road, just passing Monkseaton Road at 0920 this morning as I had said.
As I said Dom read your employers social media policy or I shall have someone read it to you which may put you in a slightly uncomfortable position with your employer given your role requires you to be impartial & some of your remarks on here are far from impartial......
As I said put it in a pm that's not too difficult to understand is it?
If Dom was driving his own private car and he wasn't being paid at the time by his employer he was a member of the public in which case his employer doesn't come into it
@Dom
Quote from: karl724223 on October 25, 2018, 05:49:35 PM
If Dom was driving his own private car and he wasn't being paid at the time by his employer he was a member of the public in which case his employer doesn't come into it @Dom
And I am sure that if he saw the driver of another company smoking he would also mention it, so he is not being impartial.
Quote from: Steveminor on October 25, 2018, 12:56:15 PM
As I said Dom read your employers social media policy or I shall have someone read it to you which may put you in a slightly uncomfortable position with your employer given your role requires you to be impartial & some of your remarks on here are far from impartial......
As I said put it in a pm that's not too difficult to understand is it?
Rather threatening tone there. Is that within Claribels' social media policy?
Dom might be being a bit indiscrete on social media perhaps but not breaking the law, unlike a bus driver smoking at the wheel.
If I was a bus operator, I would use the info already given to start checking vehicle CCTV to instigate appropriate disciplinary proceedings against the culprit, not blaming someone for noticing the infraction and commenting upon it.
If I were to see such a thing in future, particularly aboard Claribel, I'd be getting phone footage to send straight to police and the DVSA rather than troubling the company.
Oh, and whatever social media policy MY employer might or might not have is absolutely none of Steveminor's business.
Just to clear up we had no buses in that area at that time I know I checked the tracker. So once again as with the suggestion that Claribels were running a non dda bus this is complete rubbish.
I have previously said if anyone spots any infractions please either contact the office or feel free to PM me on here & it will be investigated.
The issue is that on 2 occasions this forum has been used to fabricate things about Claribels & given that one of these people is a person who is in a position which could cause serious problems for operators through his role this SHOULD NOT HAPPEN ON ANY SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM. His employers policy is in place to prevent such things happening.
I'm sure Simon Dunn or Simon Matheson or Tom Stables or Nigel eggerton would agree with me on that.
Quote from: Dom on October 25, 2018, 10:51:28 AM
I wouldn't be sure who to contact regarding this.
Interesting edit
@Dom....
He's not fabricating anything. I regularly see the same few Claribels drivers doing the same, and one of them was the one with the bus with no ramp.
See what I mean now
@Dom, this guy just chats shit on here understandably to protect his company, but none the less it's all bollocks. I know what I saw and I've seen what Dom is saying various times. I just don't want to cause hassle for any drivers.
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on September 19, 2018, 05:35:01 PM
Here's 'HJD when two months old. It has a ramp. It has 'easy access' stickers.
Now are you & others going to tell me otherwise? 'cos i'm really not in the mood to nip across to their yard for further supporting evidence.
The Versa do have a ramp
@MW. They seem to always use HJE on the S16 now and that also has a ramp.
Quote from: Steveminor on October 25, 2018, 08:41:17 PM
Just to clear up we had no buses in that area at that time I know I checked the tracker. So once again as with the suggestion that Claribels were running a non dda bus this is complete rubbish.
I have previously said if anyone spots any infractions please either contact the office or feel free to PM me on here & it will be investigated.
The issue is that on 2 occasions this forum has been used to fabricate things about Claribels & given that one of these people is a person who is in a position which could cause serious problems for operators through his role this SHOULD NOT HAPPEN ON ANY SOCIAL MEDIA PLATFORM. His employers policy is in place to prevent such things happening.
I'm sure Simon Dunn or Simon Matheson or Tom Stables or Nigel eggerton would agree with me on that.
Surely a website complaint form would make more sence, like what First Bus, NX and Diamond have.
Eg - https://www.firstgroup.com/cornwall/help-and-support/#problem-with-your-journey
Quote from: 2206 on October 26, 2018, 09:31:45 AM
The Versa do have a ramp @MW.Surely a website complaint form would make more since, like what First Bus, NX and Diamond have.
Eg - https://www.firstgroup.com/cornwall/help-and-support/#problem-with-your-journey
I know they had ramps when New. What I'm saying is for whatever reason, that day the ramp wasn't operational
@MW . I'm sitting on said bus now with ramp right in front of me
Now it's a manual fold out ramp not an electronic ramp so how could it be non operational.
Secondly as I have pointed out after checking trackers we had NO buses on Markseaton rd at the time in fact we go nowhere near it the only possible buses that would be there would be an optare on a private hire but they were allocated on work elsewhere at that time with only one optare in Sutton at 10 am & that driver doesn't smoke.
I catch anyone or receive intelligence that's leads me to evidence, then action can & WILL be taken but I'm not happy at what is seeming like a witch hunt against Claribels.
I shall reiterate there are ways of reporting issues & ways of investigating issues.
Quote from: Steveminor on October 26, 2018, 10:19:16 AM
@MW . I'm sitting on said bus now with ramp right in front of me
Now it's a manual fold out ramp not an electronic ramp so how could it be non operational.
Secondly as I have pointed out after checking trackers we had NO buses on Markseaton rd at the time in fact we go nowhere near it the only possible buses that would be there would be an optare on a private hire but they were allocated on work elsewhere at that time with only one optare in Sutton at 10 am & that driver doesn't smoke.
I catch anyone or receive intelligence that's leads me to evidence, then action can & WILL be taken but I'm not happy at what is seeming like a witch hunt against Claribels.
I shall reiterate there are ways of reporting issues & ways of investigating issues.
Steve,
You are quick enough to jump on the bandwagon and pass comment about issues/observations relating to Diamond Bus / Rotala's operation, quite why you are an active member of 'The Wyre Forrest Diamond Bus Users Group' on Facebook when you don't use their services / are from the opposite side of Birmingham...............
If you can't take it, don't dish it out!
@Winston im not on that facebook group please look at members list & tell me where it states my name as a member.
Quote from: Steveminor on October 26, 2018, 11:14:18 AM
@Winston im not on that facebook group please look at members list & tell me where it states my name as a member.
@Steveminor - Yes you were & I've seen your comments / likes against certain comments etc. Either that or there's another Steve Minor from Birmingham that's been on there....
Then there's all your professional comments posted on here in relation to Diamond Bus / Rotala, this coming from someone in a senior position at another local operator, need I go on...
Rotala / Re: Preston Bus
« on: August 27, 2018, 06:57:59 PM »
Can't be fleet livery, doesn't Rotala fleet livery have an orange glow lol
Rotala / Re: Diamond Bus - Tividale Depot
« on: August 29, 2018, 08:19:28 AM »
I believe it had front end damage & so had another scrapped enviro front grafted on (you know if had front end damage / you posted a picture of it smashed up)
Rotala / Re: Diamond Bus - Tividale Depot
« on: July 21, 2018, 07:13:01 AM »
That beeping is to let the driver know he is helping to save a tree 😂
Rotala / Re: Diamond Bus - Tividale Depot
« on: July 18, 2018, 09:59:47 PM »
30966.
It's nearside headlight cluster was stuck on with tape yesterday.
Rotala / Re: Diamond Bus - Tividale Depot
« on: July 18, 2018, 09:27:14 PM »
Well Simon did say they were starting a repaint programme.
I just assumed they were going to paint a whole bus at a time.
Rotala / Re: Diamond Bus - Discussion
« on: May 14, 2018, 06:06:46 PM »
Vlz had a bit of a knock.
Please tell me what comment I am supposed to have "made" on that facebook group as I am not a member.
Comments on here well nothing wrong with putting a new front end on a bus due to accident damage Is there. Or that a sensor is beeping because it's doing it's job properly is there. But hey I'm not in a job that could get operators into trouble with things they say. Oh & it's not lost on me that the person who started the suggestion a bus isn't DDA compliant is a Diamond member of staff.
Quote from: Steveminor on October 26, 2018, 12:04:35 PM
Please tell me what comment I am supposed to have "made" on that facebook group as I am not a member.
Comments on here well nothing wrong with putting a new front end on a bus due to accident damage Is there. Or that a sensor is beeping because it's doing it's job properly is there. But hey I'm not in a job that could get operators into trouble with things they say. Oh & it's not lost on me that the person who started the suggestion a bus isn't DDA compliant is a Diamond member of staff.
I think we should agree to disagree here and move on, if anyone has any issues with Claribel's contact Steve directly via a PM first hand before posting on the forum.
The E200 is too small for the 55 that gets into town at 8:16 always rammed and literally no space to breathe needs to be sorted out, driver has been saying for weeks he is getting a bigger bus but never happened.
Quote from: Jack D on November 24, 2018, 05:52:32 PM
The E200 is too small for the 55 that gets into town at 8:16 always rammed and literally no space to breathe needs to be sorted out, driver has been saying for weeks he is getting a bigger bus but never happened.
Presumeably the bus goes onto tendered work after it completes the trip so this may not necessarily be an easy fix..
Quote from: metrocity on November 24, 2018, 06:17:08 PM
Presumeably the bus goes onto tendered work after it completes the trip so this may not necessarily be an easy fix..
They do.
Most of the 55's go of/come onto the 604, I think.
Theses are positioning service for the 424 I believe 2 into town in the morning & 2 out after the service finishes.Might as well earn some money if they have to go that way
Quote from: broma1k on November 24, 2018, 07:16:51 PM
Theses are positioning service for the 424 I believe 2 into town in the morning & 2 out after the service finishes.Might as well earn some money if they have to go that way
Most actually go onto the 604, so not the way they would have to go anyway, unless its changed at some point. Only 1 424 starts Monday to Friday, in the City Centre.
Only one of the AM ones would be I think (08:54 from City), with others doing peak 55's actually going onto the 604's. The other 2 buses for the 424 start at Great Barr and Asda Questlett, I believe at 08:30 and 09:22, as they go out of service to Great Barr and Asda via the Fox And Goose with 424 on the display.
Both PM returns actually are of the 604 as far as I know, with them running dead from Mere Green/Kingstanding to the City Centre to operate the 55.
All 3 424's terminate at Great Barr, in the PM, not the City Centre.
Quote from: broma1k on November 24, 2018, 07:16:51 PM
Theses are positioning service for the 424 I believe 2 into town in the morning & 2 out after the service finishes.Might as well earn some money if they have to go that way
In addition:
https://www.flickr.com/photos/thestrev/41009643435/
This allocation sheet from last year shows that the 55's are on 2 604 running boards - 604/01 (55/11) and 55/10 (604/02) and one 424 running board - 55/08 (424/03).
The one at 8:30 starts in Perry Beeches at Haddon Road. You usually see them parked at the stop itself or under the motorway bridge on Hassop Road before starting.
PD0000087/44 Cancelled
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Route: Chelmsley Wood to Sutton Coldfield via Minworth
Service number: 71 ()
Service type: Normal Stopping
Effective date: 27 Jan 2019
PD0000087/10 Cancelled
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Route: Birmingham, City Centre, Lower Bull Street to North Solihull,Chelmsley Wood, Pine Square via Saltley Gate, Hurst Lane, The Mountfort
Service number: 55 ()
Service type: Normal Stopping
Effective date: 27 Jan 2019
PD0000087/9 Registered
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Route: City Centre, Lower Bull Street to Chemsley Wood MEB From City
Service number: 94 (, 94A)
Service type: Limited Stop
Effective date: 27 Jan 2019
PD0000087/48 Registered
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Route: Chelmsley Wood, Yorkminster Drive to Birmingham City Centre via Bordesley Green
Service number: 97A ()
Service type: Normal Stopping
Effective date: 27 Jan 2019
Isn't there already enough buses on the 97?
Quote from: 4Q on December 12, 2018, 07:11:38 PM
PD0000087/44 Cancelled
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Route: Chelmsley Wood to Sutton Coldfield via Minworth
Service number: 71 ()
Service type: Normal Stopping
Effective date: 27 Jan 2019
PD0000087/10 Cancelled
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Route: Birmingham, City Centre, Lower Bull Street to North Solihull,Chelmsley Wood, Pine Square via Saltley Gate, Hurst Lane, The Mountfort
Service number: 55 ()
Service type: Normal Stopping
Effective date: 27 Jan 2019
PD0000087/9 Registered
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Route: City Centre, Lower Bull Street to Chemsley Wood MEB From City
Service number: 94 (, 94A)
Service type: Limited Stop
Effective date: 27 Jan 2019
PD0000087/48 Registered
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Route: Chelmsley Wood, Yorkminster Drive to Birmingham City Centre via Bordesley Green
Service number: 97A ()
Service type: Normal Stopping
Effective date: 27 Jan 2019
That is a surprise, regarding the 97? Is this a full time service
@Steveminor, or will they be replacing your 55 and 71E trips? If its a full time service presumably you will require some more buses?
What are the 94A and 97A? Shame about those remaining 55 trips, they always seemed well used.
PD0000087/9 Registered
CLARIBEL COACHES LTD
Route: City Centre, Lower Bull Street to Chemsley Wood MEB From City
Service number: 94 (, "94A")
Service type: Limited Stop
Effective date: 27 Jan 2019
Your joking aren't you, 55 cancelled its so busy of a morning, the only bus I get of a morning!
94 and 94A route maps are already on Traveline WM, only difference between the 94 and 94A is minor difference in the Chelmsley Wood area. I wander what the frequency will be?
94 - Will be using NX's route, via Chester Rd and Moorend Avenue.
94A - Will be using Claribels current route via Chelmsley Rd.
Isn't it about time that MEB is replaced on these documents!
@Steveminor are you going to re-consider cancelling the 55, it's to busy of a service to drop!
As you will have seen from the vosa website registrations have now been accepted & take effect in well under 70 days. Therefore all registrations stand as published on vosa.
Quote from: Steveminor on December 15, 2018, 07:28:49 PM
As you will have seen from the vosa website registrations have now been accepted & take effect in well under 70 days. Therefore all registrations stand as published on vosa.
How frequent will the 97A be ?
Quote from: Steve3229vp on December 15, 2018, 08:51:00 PM
How frequent will the 97A be ?
I'm wandering the same for the 94 and 94A, given there will now be 2 routes instead of 1 here? And whether the 97A, 94 and 94A, will all be full time, all day services, or whether some will be using the buses of the 167/168/604 which used to go onto the 55 and 71 and consequently peak time only services? It'll certainly be interesting to see the timetables for these routes.
Plus what the difference between the NX 97 and Claribel 97A are as well?
Quote from: 2206 on December 12, 2018, 08:11:42 PM
94 and 94A route maps are already on Traveline WM, only difference between the 94 and 94A is minor difference in the Chelmsley Wood area. I wander what the frequency will be?
94 - Will be using NX's route, via Chester Rd and Moorend Avenue.
94A - Will be using Claribels current route via Chelmsley Rd.
I also notice, these route maps have been taken down.
Any 97A updates?
Quote from: Jack D on December 18, 2018, 06:58:38 PM
Any 97A updates?
The registration states Yorkminster Drive as the terminus so presumably it will follow the same route as the NX 97A prior to its withdrawal
Claribel 97A timetable.
Only a few journeys, using the buses of the 55 and 71.
http://www.travelinemidlands.co.uk/wmtis/XSLT_TTB_REQUEST?language=en&command=direct&net=cen&line=1397A&sup=%20&itdLPxx_direction=H&project=y11&outputFormat=0&itdLPxx_displayHeader=false&itdLPxx_sessionID=EFA03_26270677&lineVer=2&itdLPxx_spTr=2&itdLPxx_operatorCodeForTTB=NXB
Looking at the new 94 timetables on Traveline Claribels will be rerouting most of there 94's via the same route out of Chelmsley as NX - Moorend Avenue and Chester Rd, from the end of the month.
Just a few school time 94A journeys will continue to serve, Cooks Lane and Chelmsley Rd in each direction - 3 in the morning and 2 in the afternoon.
I'm being told by a driver on 55 Claribel this morning that he thinks 55 Claribel might come back, anyojne heard anything. There will be no profit made on 97 I don't think due to the high amount of NXbuses on there.
Quote from: Jack D on January 24, 2019, 06:14:32 PM
There will be no profit made on 97 I don't think due to the high amount of NXbuses on there.
Though you could use that same argument that there is a large number of NX buses on there for the Washwood Heath Rd 55/94 - 4 minute frequency with NX as far as Ward End, 8 minute beyond there. 4/H, 50, 16 etc, as well, all have a high frequency with NX though presumably Diamond and Claribels are doing ok on these routes, as they have remained on there for years.
Quote from: 2206 on January 24, 2019, 06:17:40 PM
Though you could use that same argument that there is a large number of NX buses on there for the Washwood Heath Rd 55/94 - 4 minute frequency with NX as far as Ward End, 8 minute beyond there. 4/H, 50, 16 etc, as well, all have a high frequency with NX though presumably Diamond and Claribels are doing ok on these routes, as they have remained on there for years.
I think the difference between Claribels on the 55 and the 97 is they have spent years building up a customer base and reputation, with the 97 they are starting from scratch with very limited number of journeys.
Quote from: fleetline6477 on January 24, 2019, 09:26:15 PM
I think the difference between Claribels on the 55 and the 97 is they have spent years building up a customer base and reputation, with the 97 they are starting from scratch with very limited number of journeys.
I suspect the customer base isn't big enough - if they were making a decent enough return on the 55 then why would they withdraw it?
Quote from: metrocity on January 24, 2019, 09:40:14 PM
I suspect the customer base isn't big enough - if they were making a decent enough return on the 55 then why would they withdraw it?
These paticular peak trips are well used from my observations they do carry full and busy loads with an E200 (it used to fill a pulsar from what I remember but that changed when they cut back) so it does seem strange, they are withdrawing these small number of peak journeys to introduce a small number of peak journeys on the 97 - before the buses go onto tendered routes.
You have to remember guys with modern technology we can gather all the information regarding fuel usage per bus operational costs per bus with etm data, all this information quite clearly shows if a route or even an individual journey is in profit break even or loss. The 55 has been operating at a loss for a considerable amount of time now & I had hoped the better fuel economy of the enviros would put it at least to break even. This has not happened & I can not justify operating these journeys at a loss any longer.
The 97A represents a tremendous opportunity to staff at heartlands hospital who currently have no direct link to Yorkminster Drive, since my son has been in & out of there I have had contact with staff & have an idea & knowledge of there greatest needs. This was taken into account with drafting the timetable. The 97A is not just a carbon copy of nxwm 97 & as such has every chance of success.
I'm sure there are many on here that would jump up & down so quickly to criticise me if I failed to cut loss making routes which led to the demise of the business. My job is to ensure Claribels does not operate to a loss, not to make friends.
Fair play and good always been a supporter of yours investing in east Brum, when nxbus doesnt
Quote from: monkeyjoe on January 25, 2019, 07:03:37 PM
Fair play and good always been a supporter of yours investing in east Brum, when nxbus doesnt
NX have invested in and put some new buses in East Birmingham. Coventry Road, X12 and X70 Bromford Express and Outer Circle are using 2 - 3 year old buses.
On the other hand I can't think of what new buses Claribels have put into East Birmingham in the last 5 years.
Only change is them pulling from East B'ham routes to go on tendered routes in North B'ham.
The 57 plate Pulsar I went on the other day (Wednesday) on the 94, was noisy, rattling and the vibrations and noise it was making felt to much, a contast to an E400 MMC.
Quote from: 2206 on January 25, 2019, 07:25:26 PM
NX have invested in and put some new buses in East Birmingham. Coventry Road, X12 and X70 Bromford Express and Outer Circle are using 2 - 3 year old buses.
On the other hand I can't think of what new buses Claribels have put into East Birmingham in the last 5 years.
Only change is them pulling from East B'ham routes to go on tendered routes in North B'ham.
The 57 plate Pulsar I went on the other day on the 94, was noisy, rattling and the vibrations and noise it was making felt to much, a contast to an E400 MMC.
I don't need that spelling out, I am perfectly aware of what investment there has been however in relation to other areas it's ;)(*
Quote from: 2206 on January 25, 2019, 07:25:26 PM
The 57 plate Pulsar I went on the other day on the 94, was noisy, rattling and the vibrations and noise it was making felt to much, a contast to an E400 MMC.
What do you expect from a bus that's turning 12 years old later this year?
Also it's been a while since I last saw YJ57 BOF out on any service, it is even common to see it around now?
Bof doesn't really see much use any more, it's been put forward as third spare at the moment whilst the rest of the fleet goes for Euro 6 upgrade but after that is complete I think it will be very rare to see her put & about. To be fair though most of the rattles come from the bandit screen area & the cash vault rather than any panels
MX61 BAV - S16
Never seen an SWB on here before.
So is the 97 a getting decent loads yet?
57 plate pulsar on 94
Claribels are coming back on 55 according to 3 drivers
Didn't realise you lot were on the 75 is that route working ?
Quote from: monkeyjoe on May 02, 2019, 07:59:02 PM
Didn't realise you lot were on the 75 is that route working ?
They've been on it a while, they 5 mins in front of Diamond 75's
Claribel driver today confirmed they are definitely coming back on 55!
Quote from: Jack D on June 03, 2019, 07:20:48 PM
Claribel driver today confirmed they are definitely coming back on 55!
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/533276/
97A cancelled from the same date.
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/533300/
Same route and timetable as previously or will it be doing the new 55 route as of now?
It will operate along our previous line of route NOT what nxwm currently operate
Quote from: Steveminor on June 06, 2019, 07:34:55 PM
It will operate along our previous line of route NOT what nxwm currently operate
The only thing with that is that by the time your 55 is reintroduced, passengers will be fully used to the 55 serving Coleshil Road. That could get quite confusing for people who can now use the 55 instead of the 94 between Fox and Goose and Huntes Moon. And for those who use Claribels in one direction, but NXWM in the other.
Quote from: Jack D on June 03, 2019, 07:20:48 PM
Claribel driver today confirmed they are definitely coming back on 55!
They have also gained the full 75 service between Sutton Coldfield and Birmingham International from end of next month
Service commences from 22nd July under contract to Warwickshire County Council.
There is a reduction in frequency from the original contract & it now has a pvr of only 1 bus.
Quote from: Steveminor on June 22, 2019, 08:37:06 AM
Service commences from 22nd July under contract to Warwickshire County Council.
There is a reduction in frequency from the original contract & it now has a pvr of only 1 bus.
Does this include the 75A?
Yes it does.
When are new flags and timetables coming for the 55 route as it starts on Monday and nothing has gone up.
The flags & timetables at stops are out of any operators control as it's TfWM who are responsible for these.
I have chased the matter & been told the media has been ordered
New TfWM 55 all operators timetables are in print as we speak & should be in stock very shortly.
Warwickshire County Council have already begun to print their media for at stop information through Coleshill and Water Orton for the 75 with at stop timetables for Curdworth in production in house.
What you mean by New TFWm all operator timetables?
TfWM produce timetable leaflets for routes & if there is more than one operator on a route they include the timetable for both/all operator(s)
More Claribel services on 55 than previously I noticed today, this morning my 55 went Via Hunters Moon, didn't think Claribels was taking this route?
No we're not however this particular journey was diverted due to an rtc
Anyone know how Claribel's 55 is doing this time round?
Quote from: Jack D on July 17, 2019, 06:33:52 PM
Anyone know how Claribel's 55 is doing this time round?
Haven't noticed any difference. They seem to have passengers on them when I see them in City or around Saltley. I'm not sure how the different route to NX in Stechford is working for them though.
Quote from: Gareth on July 17, 2019, 07:50:40 PM
Haven't noticed any difference. They seem to have passengers on them when I see them in City or around Saltley. I'm not sure how the different route to NX in Stechford is working for them though.
there route number is not on stops on Stechford Lane
Claribels caused diamond to use solos on the 75 now? Run by tividale also?
Claribels are pleased to announce we have won the TfWM contract to operate the 36 from Oct.
No idea on vehicle allocations yet but won't be deckers lol
Quote from: Steveminor on August 20, 2019, 08:04:34 PM
Claribels are pleased to announce we have won the TfWM contract to operate the 36 from Oct.
No idea on vehicle allocations yet but won't be deckers lol
Won't be 12m single deck either if the route is the same
Envrio would of thought
Quote from: Steveminor on August 20, 2019, 08:04:34 PM
Claribels are pleased to announce we have won the TfWM contract to operate the 36 from Oct.
No idea on vehicle allocations yet but won't be deckers lol
Thought this was your personal account, not related to Claribel's lol
Quote from: Steveminor on August 20, 2019, 08:04:34 PM
Claribels are pleased to announce we have won the TfWM contract to operate the 36 from Oct.
No idea on vehicle allocations yet but won't be deckers lol
will the times still be the same as the 75 changed to 1from 2 buses on the 36
Quote from: Solo1 on September 16, 2019, 10:42:17 AM
will the times still be the same as the 75 changed to 1from 2 buses on the 36
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/538699/
Variation to Claribel 94 service from the same date. What's changing?
Quote from: Solo1 on September 16, 2019, 10:42:17 AM
will the times still be the same as the 75 changed to 1from 2 buses on the 36
There is no change to the timetable & will operate to the same times & frequency as nxwm currently operate
Maybe its just a change of times on the 94
The 36 has been passed around operators so much over the last eight years, I wouldn't be surprised if it was withdrawn all together.
Figures look ok so doubtful it would be withdrawn, all I can say is that we would be happy if we can it for 8 years as opposed to it having different operators over 8 years.
To be honest I am happy with all our contract services, we have some good routes & some fantastic passengers.
Would you consider extending the 36 to Birmingham? Could be a nice alternative to the 17 during school times.
Quote from: Busboy105 on September 17, 2019, 03:47:23 PM
Would you consider extending the 36 to Birmingham? Could be a nice alternative to the 17 during school times.
:D
Extend to Birmingham from which end?
Heartlands Hospital
Quote from: Busboy105 on September 17, 2019, 07:41:52 PM
Heartlands Hospital
So basically compete with either the 17 or 97. Both have been tried
True... but what if it is extended from Sparkbrook to Birmingham where it will then run to Heartlands Hospital with short journeys at Acocks Green. The frequency will have to be upped to 30 minutes though. Not sure if they have the buses for it.
Quote from: Busboy105 on September 17, 2019, 08:17:13 PM
True... but what if it is extended from Sparkbrook to Birmingham where it will then run to Heartlands Hospital with short journeys at Acocks Green. The frequency will have to be upped to 30 minutes though. Not sure if they have the buses for it.
It's a tendered route for a reason. It needs subsidy to operate, putting an extra bus in would cost a lot of money and if the existing service doesn't cover its costs an extra bus woudln't
Plus operators have thought about extending it to Birmingham before ( when frequency was higher & loading figures were better ) & the amount of passengers required against the extra resources didn't work out then so it's highly doubtful it would work out now.
@Steveminor what's happening with the 94?
Timetable change.
Reduced frequency maybe always seem to be empty these days when I see them in the car, both Nxwm and yours (castle Brom part) Wonder if numbers are falling ?
Quote from: monkeyjoe on September 18, 2019, 09:23:32 PM
Reduced frequency maybe always seem to be empty these days when I see them in the car, both Nxwm and yours (castle Brom part) Wonder if numbers are falling ?
Not true.
55/94 are my local routes, so I use them regularly and they're always full when I use them. NXWM are busier than Claribels and fill a decker at times, between Fox and Goose and City Centre. But even Claribels carry full loads at peak times.
Can get very busy on the NXWM 55/94 during the day at times as well and Weekends and Evenings are also busy.
If nobody was using them, NXWM wouldn't be operating the 55/94 at an every 4 minute frequency
@monkeyjoe.
Quote from: 2206 on September 18, 2019, 09:31:08 PM
Not true.
55/94 are my local routes, so I use them regularly and they're always full when I use them. NXWM are busier than Claribels and fill a decker at times, between Fox and Goose and City Centre. But even Claribels carry full loads at peak times.
Can get very busy on the NXWM 55/94 during the day at times as well and Weekends and Evenings are also busy.
If nobody was using them, NXWM wouldn't be operating the 55/94 at an every 4 minute frequency @monkeyjoe.
I am well aware of that, however my point is when ever I see them a various point during the day they do seem to be empty, my query was wondering if numbers are falling? People like myself deserting the routes.
Any chance 53 could be taken over by Claribels, with maybe slight route change?
No as the tender was awarded to another operator & the service is not commercially viable unfortunately.
I still reckon the 94 will be cut
Who has been awarded the 53?
Quote from: Jack D on October 01, 2019, 09:57:11 AM
Who has been awarded the 53?
See Simon Dunn's reply in Rotala Q&A thread
Quote from: monkeyjoe on October 01, 2019, 06:09:08 AM
I still reckon the 94 will be cut
Frequency slightly reduced from end of October
New 94 timetable is now on bus times.
https://bustimes.org/services/94-birmingham-chelmsley-wood-via-ward-end?date=2019-11-02
I notice there will now be an hour gap around midday as well. Something which they never used to do.
This new timetable will make the claribels service much less convenient.
Quote from: 2206 on October 08, 2019, 11:25:31 PM
New 94 timetable is now on bus times.
https://bustimes.org/services/94-birmingham-chelmsley-wood-via-ward-end?date=2019-11-02
The new frequency is all over the shop, that'll kill what's left of the Claribel's custom on that route.
Their new timetable is very saddening to see. I use Claribels a lot. I hope this isn't the beginning of the end.
Quote from: Gareth on October 09, 2019, 03:19:41 PM
Their new timetable is very saddening to see. I use Claribels a lot. I hope this isn't the beginning of the end.
Probably is. Look what happened to routes like the 55 and the 71E ever since they decided to take the 424, 600, 604 and the S16. They tried to bring back the 97A but withdrew after a couple months.
Rumours of Claribels demise are way off the mark.
Market conditions in any business change over time, as we've seen with house of Fraser Thomas cook etc if you dont alter your business & adapt to changing market conditions well we all know what happens.
That is all we are doing is adapting to the current most favourable market conditions so as to ensure the business maximises profit potential.
Such a same just left with nxbus who don't really care about the corridor. Real shame.
Quote from: 2206 on October 08, 2019, 11:25:31 PM
New 94 timetable is now on bus times.
https://bustimes.org/services/94-birmingham-chelmsley-wood-via-ward-end?date=2019-11-02
I notice there will now be an hour gap around midday as well. Something which they never used to do.
This new timetable will make the claribels service much less convenient.
Quote from: monkeyjoe on October 09, 2019, 07:19:28 PM
Such a same just left with nxbus who don't really care about the corridor. Real shame.
Less convenient? From what I can see of the timetables, Claribels are reducing the frequency of their service from 10-15 to 18 minutes, with what is a near-hour break at lunchtime, presumably so the drivers can have a break.
There doesn't seem to be any change to NX's service, which operates about every 8 minutes with double-decks, so I can't really see this as being an 'inconvenience' for passengers.
While admittedly I don't use the 94 service myself, some of the comments I'm reading here are a bit too doom-laden, and as a businessman myself, I fully appreciate Steveminor's comment above about adapting to difficult market conditions. Reducing your operating costs by altering your timetable - presumably one less bus/driver is then required - seems a sensible move to me. if it keeps a commercially-operated service profitable.
Or would people prefer that Claribels kept things 'as they are' and then end up going out of business, which would mean no service on the 94? I didn't think so.
It's going from every 12 to every 18 minutes with an midday break and the Saturday service is infrequent. When NX run every 4 - 8 minutes monday to saturday, nobody is going to wait for this service anymore, so that makes it less convenient. Some of the Claribel 94's at peak times leave completely full, so less capacity at those times, meaning more people will use the NX bus.
Clearly operating tendered services is more profitable, since each time they win a tendered route they take the buses from the commercial network. The few buses/drivers they take of will most likely go onto the 36. Presumably when they win another tendered route, that will be the end of what's left of there service.
Clearly NX care more about the corridor the Claribels
@monkeyjoe, overall they run a much better service.
Quote from: 2206 on October 09, 2019, 07:50:26 PM
It's going from every 12 to every 18 minutes and the Saturday service is infrequent. When NX run every 4 - 8 minutes, nobody is going to wait for this service anymore. Some of the Claribel 94's at peak times leave completely full, so less capacity at those times, meaning more people will take the NX bus.
Clearly operating tendered services is more profitable, since each time they win a tendered route they take the buses from the comercial network. The few buses/drivers they take of will most likely go onto the 36.
Clearly NX care more about the corridor the Claribels @monkeyjoe
I am sure they care about the corridor but they are a business not a charity. They will care far more about running a viable business
Quote from: Steveminor on October 09, 2019, 05:24:00 PM
Rumours of Claribels demise are way off the mark.
Market conditions in any business change over time, as we've seen with house of Fraser Thomas cook etc if you dont alter your business & adapt to changing market conditions well we all know what happens.
That is all we are doing is adapting to the current most favourable market conditions so as to ensure the business maximises profit potential.
My comment above about hoping it isn't the beginning of the end isn't about Claribel as a business, I'm on about the 94 route. I wish the company all the very best on their new routes, but as an enthusiastic and loyal claribel passenger, I'm saddened to see the new timetable.
*EDIT*
I've just realised it's only the Saturday timetable that has changed dramatically. The week day is only a slight reduction. My apologies.
Quote from: Gareth on October 10, 2019, 01:05:59 PM
My comment above about hoping it isn't the beginning of the end isn't about Claribel as a business, I'm on about the 94 route. I wish the company all the very best on their new routes, but as an enthusiastic and loyal claribel passenger, I'm saddened to see the new timetable.
Just noticed my comments about new 94 timetable being all over the shop, didn't notice that was only the Sat timetable. I can't see anywhere where there's rumours of Claribel's demise, just the start of downward spiral for Claribel's on the 94 route with a less frequent service.
Surprised tendered work is deemed more lucrative than commercial work, the only thing difference from where I'm sat is that tendered revenues are more guaranteed, but equally tenders can easily be lost when they come up for re-tender.
Any business that can guarantee their income is a business on a sound footing, there aren't too many industries where you can guarantee an income amount over 12 months let alone 3, 5 or even 7 years.
Yes true tenders expire but you can always retain the tender or obtain more as theres always plenty of tenders each round.
Guaranteed income doesn't always equate to a profit though, as some costs can be variable over the course of the 12 month period where the tender is a fixed price (I assume).
That's why you got to get your figures right.
Waiting for the 55/94 this afternoon and the 16:38 Claribel's 94 bus at Saltley Gate, drove straight past myself and other waiting passengers, despite the fact I clearly indicated that I wanted the bus to stop.
I have pm you regarding this incident.
Quote from: Winston on October 10, 2019, 02:21:23 PM
Guaranteed income doesn't always equate to a profit though, as some costs can be variable over the course of the 12 month period where the tender is a fixed price (I assume).
i think here the large groups have an competitive advantage over the excellent smaller companies such as Steve's as they are able to hedge their fuels and have much lower average insurance costs they do of course have much higher overhead fixed costs. TfWM tenders are now compared to Centro let for longer and different terms and the other Steve who procures the Black Country tenders very well for TfWM is always open to proposals from operators about how tenders should evolve an example being the business case and tender accepted by TfWM of the 14A replacing the 208 and the 54 & 54A being awarded to NXWM on the basis of a rerouting to cover the 55 tender interworking with some 10s and I think that is a good move forward. Steve is also very good at following up complaints made to him mainly by me of the 55 & 94 of them speeding by the island by the Boultbee Business Centre in Nechells Place I do not think most Claribells drivers except an accountant to be at the bus stop with "N" pass most users at that stop are NXWM ticket holders but Steve is always willing to sort out why his bus didn't stop & I thank him for that.
Currently at beam international, there's a versa parked here looking abandoned, should have gone out at 12:20?
The vehicle allocated to the 75 was a pulsar today. The Versa was on other work.
Noticed recently that claribels 94 service is now showing RTI times on the bus stops and NX App.
Quote from: 2206 on December 12, 2019, 05:05:52 PM
Noticed recently that claribels 94 service is now showing RTI times on the bus stops and NX App.
Ive used Claribels three times today. Timetabled times on the bus stops I've used.
Quote from: Gareth on December 12, 2019, 06:28:45 PM
Ive used Claribels three times today. Timetabled times on the bus stops I've used.
On the NX App today it said a Claribels Coaches 94 service was due in 2 minutes and was showing it in RTI at Fox and Goose at about 14:00.
And it was a Claribels bus that later turned up in 2 minutes, so definitely is there service that is showing RTI times.
Quote from: 2206 on December 12, 2019, 06:36:32 PM
On the NX App today it said a Claribels Coaches 94 service was due in 2 minutes and was showing it in RTI at Fox and Goose at about 14:00.
And it was a Claribels bus that later turned up in 2 minutes, so definitely is there service that is showing RTI times.
How odd, it was Fox and Goose city bound stop that I used too a couple of hours earlier.
Dont know where this has come from as although Claribels buses have trackers fitted they DO NOT feed into the current rti system.
Quote from: Steveminor on December 18, 2019, 08:14:36 AM
Dont know where this has come from as although Claribels buses have trackers fitted they DO NOT feed into the current rti system.
I use the TfWM app and this regularly shows live arrivals of Claribels buses at Nechelles Place Island.
I cant see how as our vehicle location is a closed system without any tfwm access, so how would they know how long till the bus arrives if they have no idea of its location.
Quote from: Steveminor on December 18, 2019, 10:02:01 AM
I cant see how as our vehicle location is a closed system without any tfwm access, so how would they know how long till the bus arrives if they have no idea of its location.
Haven't a clue mate these things are beyond me but mostly.your 94 is shown as timetabled but on.occasions I have had the countdown on in Nechelles Place with 1min then due and its one of yours at the stop not NXWM.I agree though it is odd as I am surprised its yours mind you not as surprised as the driver to find someone boarding there with a shirt and tie on & an Nbus pass!!!!
Lol. I'm currently on paternity leave so probably thought you were one of my hired henchmen to watch them while I'm off :D
Quote from: Steveminor on December 18, 2019, 06:23:49 PM
Lol. I'm currently on paternity leave so probably thought you were one of my hired henchmen to watch them while I'm off :D
Many congratulations and best wishes to you both
Thank you
Anyone know what the paper posters on claribel buses say I saw them but wasn't on the bus so didn't see what it said
Quote from: Steveminor on December 18, 2019, 07:46:44 PM
Thank you
Last one I read was about ticket acceptance but I am sure the excellent
@Steveminor is your man for this
@Jack
Quote from: Jack D on December 27, 2019, 12:26:17 PM
Anyone know what the paper posters on claribel buses say I saw them but wasn't on the bus so didn't see what it said
The one I saw the other day, mentioned the ticket price is going up to £2.40 to bring it in line with NXWM
That is correct 94 & 55 fares are now being bought into line with the fares on all our other west Midlands services of £1.50 & £2.40 Warwickshire fares are being increased by 10p.
Also there will no longer be a discount for purchasing nbus tickets with a swift card.
That is what the poster is telling people.
Quote from: Steveminor on December 28, 2019, 11:06:17 AM
Factual at one time you wouldn't see a diamond bus out of livery then with your purchase of other operators this slipped.
Pre. 2017 you would never see a Claribels bus out of livery either. Then since 2017, this slipped.
When do you intend on repainting those E200's into your livery, as they've been in plain white for nearly 3 years now. Same as some of the RK Travel Darts.
With the question of if when Birmingham was going to go euro 6 the intention was to swap those vehicles part way through the contract that's why they weren't painted into livery, obviously things changed regarding the emission date so they have stayed longer than planned..
Claribels have op0erated plain white buses before generally on buses that are only planned to stay short term
Quote from: Steveminor on December 28, 2019, 03:31:40 PM
With the question of if when Birmingham was going to go euro 6 the intention was to swap those vehicles part way through the contract that's why they weren't painted into livery, obviously things changed regarding the emission date so they have stayed longer than planned..
Claribels have op0erated plain white buses before generally on buses that are only planned to stay short term
What about the pulsars used on the 94, are they being upgraded to Euro 6?
Most of the pulses have now been upgraded to euro 6, at the time I went on paternity leave there were only 2 or 3 left to be retro fitted.
Are claribels reducing the evening service on 55?
No
The 36 is being operated by E200s today. Is there something wrong with the Volvos or are the E200s it's new allocation?
Quote from: Busboy105 on February 01, 2020, 03:00:15 PM
The 36 is being operated by E200s today. Is there something wrong with the Volvos or are the E200s it's new allocation?
Claribel's haven't got any Volvo's
Quote from: Winston on February 01, 2020, 03:03:10 PM
Claribel's haven't got any Volvo's
Wright Pulsar bodied VDL SB200's to save a follow on question.
Quote from: Busboy105 on February 01, 2020, 03:00:15 PM
The 36 is being operated by E200s today. Is there something wrong with the Volvos or are the E200s it's new allocation?
1 E200 (NYU) and one pulsar on the 36 today.
Quote from: 2206 on February 03, 2020, 02:49:30 PM
1 E200 (NYU) and one pulsar on the 36 today.
It's been like that for the last couple of days. Is there something wrong with the other Pulsar?
Claribels now accepting contactless payment cards. New ticket machines and card readers installed.
Quote from: Gareth on February 17, 2020, 02:30:43 PM
Claribels now accepting contactless payment cards. New ticket machines and card readers installed.
That's good to hear. A small operator making big steps.
A big step from only 25 years ago when after the conductors went it was a Gibson ticket machine (or whatever type it was) taped to the grab handle next to the driver!
Are these new machines funded or part funded by TfWM?
Same question for Johnson's, Kevs & LandFlight who have all got new machines in the past month or so as well.
Quote from: MW on February 17, 2020, 05:37:43 PM
Are these new machines funded or part funded by TfWM?
Same question for Johnson's, Kevs & LandFlight who have all got new machines in the past month or so as well.
I don't believe they are
YJ57BOF was on the 94 today. Don't usually see this one on the 94.
Nice to change things around every now & again, also helps our advertisers get coverage in different areas now & again
I saw a 94 this afternoon on Auckland Drive.
It had some writing on the bottom half of the matrix display. I couldn't read what it said as the colours had been inverted and it made it very hard to read. Something about contactless I think?
"Contactless accepted"
Can anybody shed any light on any upcoming changes to the 424? People on Whitecrest have heard its going completely in June, but the drivers seem clueless and theres no notices on the stops?
Due to the ongoing pandemic there is no confirmation yet as to the future of this route. We shall obviously keep our passengers informed when we have finalized details regarding any of our services
"Service withdrawn at Claribel Coaches, service 55 and 94 will no longer operate from end of service on Saturday 4th July.
National Express West Midlands run an alternative service on the 55 and 94"
"From Monday 6th July Service 75 will operate to a reduced timetable. Some parts of this route are operated by Diamond Buses."
(Seen on WM Network Service Updates Page).
Quote from: 2206 on July 04, 2020, 06:59:01 PM
"Service withdrawn at Claribel Coaches, service 94 will no longer operate from end of service on Saturday 4th July."
... that route has been going for nearly 30 years for Claribels. Things can't be good.
Edited to add youtube video of buses from 1993, which feature Claribels on the 94.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4PpuSXwcpX4
Regarding service 424, I can confirm we have agreed an extension with Tfwm which will ensure the routes survival until the end of January 2021
Is the beginning of the end for Claribels?
Quote from: Steveminor on July 04, 2020, 07:11:35 PM
Regarding service 424, I can confirm we have agreed an extension with Tfwm which will ensure the routes survival until the end of January 2021
Claribels are one of the best bus operators I have ever encountered. Steve Minor is one of the most professional members of the industry I have ever met. In this changed world we now live in I wish them both well for the future.
Quote from: Busboy105 on July 04, 2020, 07:16:09 PM
Is the beginning of the end for Claribels?
I sincerely hope not. I've used Claribels only once on the 94 but I must say the impression I got was a good one.
Regarding the video the sherpa on the 101 at about 45 seconds is Claribels.
These are truly unprecedented times we are living in with the biggest contraction in public transport usage there has ever been worldwide.
Bus operators have been surviving off government Grant's since the start of the crisis & I fear since the WHO have warned we're not yet half way through it looks like the commercial bus network wont return for some time & government funds are not unlimited.
There will be survivors & casualties in the transport industry & I believe the survivors will be the ones who take the really tough decisions sooner rather than later (that's not to say it will be enough).
Claribels has a good contract base not only on stage carriage but other work too with recent awards for other work so hopefully we'll be one of the survivors.
For now on commercial work it's best to sit back & ride it out.
We will probably see more cuts in the coming weeks as the severity of the economic crash takes hold.
Now is not the right time, but when it is then we should all rush to use public transport as much as possible & embrace what we've got as no other country in the world has or could pull of such a deregulated network as the uk with such a diverse range of bus rail & tram operators.
Quote from: Steveminor on July 04, 2020, 08:36:06 PM
Regarding the video the sherpa on the 101 at about 45 seconds is Claribels.
These are truly unprecedented times we are living in with the biggest contraction in public transport usage there has ever been worldwide.
Bus operators have been surviving off government Grant's since the start of the crisis & I fear since the WHO have warned we're not yet half way through it looks like the commercial bus network wont return for some time & government funds are not unlimited.
There will be survivors & casualties in the transport industry & I believe the survivors will be the ones who take the really tough decisions sooner rather than later (that's not to say it will be enough).
Claribels has a good contract base not only on stage carriage but other work too with recent awards for other work so hopefully we'll be one of the survivors.
For now on commercial work it's best to sit back & ride it out.
We will probably see more cuts in the coming weeks as the severity of the economic crash takes hold.
Now is not the right time, but when it is then we should all rush to use public transport as much as possible & embrace what we've got as no other country in the world has or could pull of such a deregulated network as the uk with such a diverse range of bus rail & tram operators.
@Steveminor what a post, what a brilliant man you are . How wise to concentrate on contracts in the current climate. I admire you & the company & just hope we all come thru the other side of this crisis.
Quote from: Steveminor on July 04, 2020, 08:36:06 PM
Regarding the video the sherpa on the 101 at about 45 seconds is Claribels.
These are truly unprecedented times we are living in with the biggest contraction in public transport usage there has ever been worldwide.
Bus operators have been surviving off government Grant's since the start of the crisis & I fear since the WHO have warned we're not yet half way through it looks like the commercial bus network wont return for some time & government funds are not unlimited.
There will be survivors & casualties in the transport industry & I believe the survivors will be the ones who take the really tough decisions sooner rather than later (that's not to say it will be enough).
Claribels has a good contract base not only on stage carriage but other work too with recent awards for other work so hopefully we'll be one of the survivors.
For now on commercial work it's best to sit back & ride it out.
We will probably see more cuts in the coming weeks as the severity of the economic crash takes hold.
Now is not the right time, but when it is then we should all rush to use public transport as much as possible & embrace what we've got as no other country in the world has or could pull of such a deregulated network as the uk with such a diverse range of bus rail & tram operators.
At 5:50 there was a Route Master doing the 94 route, running in front of a Claribels' 94.
Claribels was my parents go-to bus in the 90s. Cheap fare and you could for a time smoke at the back of the coach. It's a shame to not see them trundling up and down Auckland Drive from Monday, but completely understandable at the moment.
The routemaster was Frontline Buses which was basically the Phoenix of Tame Valley after its former owner bought & rebranded Burman Travel.
Quote from: Steveminor on July 04, 2020, 09:04:40 PM
The routemaster was Frontline Buses which was basically the Phoenix of Tame Valley after its former owner bought & rebranded Burman Travel.
Midland Red West eventually ran Frontline Buses
@Steveminor at arms length for Badgerline Holdings it was a strategic purchase that was never developed.
As a regular Claribel user, I wish all staff and drivers the very best for whatever the future holds for them. They have served me incredibly well ever since they started running the Washwood Heath routes. Thank you.
I wonder what they'll do now considering that all three of their major routes have now gone. The 55 is still around but is now peak times only.
Quote from: Busboy105 on July 04, 2020, 10:29:25 PM
The 55 is still around but is now peak times only.
WM Network page states that both the Claribel 55 and 94 have now been withdrawn from tonight. So no its not still around at the moment.
Their 55 has been suspended since March as well.
As of tonight the commercial services have been withdrawn. So they will now only operate the tendered services.
Quote from: WyreForestShuttle on July 04, 2020, 07:57:47 PM
Claribels are one of the best bus operators I have ever encountered. Steve Minor is one of the most professional members of the industry I have ever met. In this changed world we now live in I wish them both well for the future.
Its a shame that they are coming off commercial service's completely, it won't be the same not seeing them on the Washwood Heath Road anymore. Ever since the tendered work started the cracks started to show... especially with them on the 424...
I'm happy the 424 is safe until the start of next year, just hopefully if it does have another operator either NX or Diamond can win it back.
55 94 and 94A are still on all of the bus stops with claribel timetables so are they temporarily withdrawn
Quote from: SK68MEV on August 06, 2020, 01:18:17 AM
55 94 and 94A are still on all of the bus stops with claribel timetables so are they temporarily withdrawn
They are permanently withdrawn, TFWM hasn't got round to adding new timetables yet.
Quote from: Busboy105 on August 06, 2020, 02:01:36 AM
They are permanently withdrawn, TFWM hasn't got round to adding new timetables yet.
No, I think they are only temporarily withdrawn for the time being.
No all commercial routes have now been withdrawn permanently now as not viable. Claribells are now concentrating on tendered routes a statement was made by Steve Minor earlier on this thread
Quote from: cris 99 on August 06, 2020, 11:14:15 AM
No all commercial routes have now been withdrawn permanently now as not viable. Claribells are now concentrating on tendered routes a statement was made by Steve Minor earlier on this thread
Oh right. I took Steve's post as if they were coming back on commercial services when the time is right, but obviously not.
Quote from: cris 99 on August 06, 2020, 11:14:15 AM
No all commercial routes have now been withdrawn permanently now as not viable. Claribells are now concentrating on tendered routes a statement was made by Steve Minor earlier on this thread
probably due to COVID must have had a big effect on them
Quote from: SK68MEV on August 08, 2020, 11:27:03 PM
probably due to COVID must have had a big effect on them
Well I doubt it will be anything else.
Quote from: SK68MEV on August 08, 2020, 11:27:03 PM
probably due to COVID must have had a big effect on them
It was. The fact that Claribels operate commercially on 2 high frequency routes, alongside NX would have had a big impact.
Traveline and networkwestmidlands.com (https://www.networkwestmidlands.com/plan-your-journey/timetables/#/route/cen_13094_%20_H_y11_11-0) indicate that Claribels are returning to the 94 on 7 September.
Is this correct?
Following confirmation from dft regarding funding going forward we have decided to reregister service 94. Service 55 remains withdrawn as those vehicles will be used on home to school services.
Other than the 55 Claribels will be operating to 100% of pre covid service levels
Thank you for the confirmation. All the best for the restored service.
Does Anyone know if the Versa's are going to go on the 36 someday.
YJ59 FDV on the 36.Strange seeing Pulsar 1`s on 36.
There are no plans for versas on anything except schools & S16
@Steveminor TfWM are still reporting that the 94 is no longer running (and will continue to report it until the end of October, looking at the dates):
https://www.networkwestmidlands.com/plan-your-journey/disruptions/#/params?TransportModeA=5&DisruptionType=true&when=All#8484_TfWM
https://www.networkwestmidlands.com/plan-your-journey/timetables/#/?mode=Bus&serviceNo=94&limit=6
Thanks for that although timetable is online
YJ59 FDV and a Enviro 200 I think BAV were in 36 yesterday.
MX61 BAV has been on the 36 for a few months now.YJ59 FDV as well but today was a Pulsar 2.
Quote from: bbs on September 27, 2020, 12:00:23 AM
MX61 BAV has been on the 36 for a few months now.YJ59 FDV as well but today was a Pulsar 2.
They do tend to mix the vehicles about and not keep on the same ones on the same routes (apart from where long single decks can't be used, 424/604 etc), Steve pointed this out a while ago.
Also has YJ57 BOF seen service since the pandemic?
Quote from: Jack on September 28, 2020, 12:34:05 AM
They do tend to mix the vehicles about and not keep on the same ones on the same routes (apart from where long single decks can't be used, 424/604 etc), Steve pointed this out a while ago.
Also has YJ57 BOF seen service since the pandemic?
@Jack have a look at the bus times page. You can see where its been used from there as all there routes seem to track on there. The page below tells you were its been used.
https://bustimes.org/vehicles/196465?date=2020-09-24
https://bustimes.org/operators/claribel-coaches/vehicles
Quote from: 2206 on September 28, 2020, 12:38:46 AM
@Jack have a look at the bus times page. You can see where its been used from there as all there routes seem to track on there. The page below tells you were its been used.
https://bustimes.org/vehicles/196465?date=2020-09-24
https://bustimes.org/operators/claribel-coaches/vehicles
Ahh, see its often on the schools then. Surprised they still have it as they got rid of YJ57 BOH a few years back.
Seen MX61BAV On 36 for the Whole week.
Saw a 604 bus in Sutton earlier on Manor Road. Not sure why it was going that way, as its off route and Clifton Road was open.
Noticed smashed up cars/RTC on Clifton Road, so might have been closed earlier on, so might have been diverting for that reason.
Was YX17NYW I think.
MX61 BAV on the 36 nearly 3 Months very odd seeing a bus on one route for 3 months.
Quote from: 2206 on October 23, 2020, 06:28:20 PM
Saw a 604 bus in Sutton earlier on Manor Road. Not sure why it was going that way, as its off route and Clifton Road was open.
Noticed smashed up cars/RTC on Clifton Road, so might have been closed earlier on, so might have been diverting for that reason.
Was YX17NYW I think.
Yes there had been an earlier rd closure, the message that the diversion had finished was sent out but the driver had already started his diversion
Rude driver on the 36 today i know his ID but i dont want to expose him.
Quote from: bbs on October 30, 2020, 02:37:43 PM
Rude driver on the 36 today i know his ID but i dont want to expose him.
Is there really any point in posting this? Every company (just about) has rude drivers.
Quote from: bbs on October 30, 2020, 02:37:43 PM
Rude driver on the 36 today i know his ID but i dont want to expose him.
What did he do for him to be rude?
Please pm me details
Quote from: bbs on October 30, 2020, 02:37:43 PM
Rude driver on the 36 today i know his ID but i dont want to expose him.
Then why mention it on a forum you know that his boss follows??
Quote from: ellspurs on November 04, 2020, 03:10:13 AM
Claribels has been running the 94 route for over 25 years now. The only people that'd think twice about catching one would be ones that already have an NX pass.
And anyone who wants to purchase an NX dayticket. I think the N Bus one is 20p more or so, not everyone would just get on it.
And as well as those with passes that's a lot of people to be fare, NX service is also far busier from what I see, hence every 4 minute frequency on 55/94 and double decker buses.
The only people who'd get the Claribels bus are those with N Bus passes and Concessionary Passes who can get either i'd think.
Whilst it has been running for 25 years, the frequency has also been cut back down to every 18 minutes. And the Claribel 55 on the same corridor has also completely disappeared now. Which probably relates to reduced passengers on the Claribels service.
Quote from: 2206 on November 05, 2020, 05:45:02 PM
The only people who'd get the Claribels bus are those with N Bus passes and Concessionary Passes who can get either i'd think.
And people paying with cash
Quote from: Lukeee on November 05, 2020, 10:40:12 PM
And people paying with cash
Claibels have taken contactless payments for months now.
Claribels has a very loyal customer base hence the longevity of the service.
The 55 was taken back to peak only as that followed the data on when the majority of our customers travelled, however due to covid & the requirement to double up on some schools & cover extra work following the unfortunate failure of decourcey those duties & buses have been redeployed & simply not in the right positions to fulfill that timetable (albeit for 1 am journey).
Like all operators (& everyone else) we hope that an effective vaccine can be found soon so that we can begin to recover & rebuild from the devastating impact this disease has had on our lives.
Quote from: Steveminor on November 06, 2020, 08:03:19 AM
(albeit for 1 am journey).
Not sure where the buses came from on the most recent timetable.
But when they first started running peak time only on the route the buses used to come off the 604 PM I think using E200 at 16:50 and 17:20. Which school routes do those E200 do now?
Also i'm sure i've regularly seen a pulsar running back to the depot on Bromford Lane in the PM peak, so presumably thats another bus that used to be used on the 55?
Just wandering as the tracking seems to suggest these buses run dead back to the depot PM?
So I presume not all of the buses have been redeployed off the PM journeys either. As well as the AM journey?
https://bustimes.org/vehicles/196198?date=2020-11-03#journeys/83063294
https://bustimes.org/services/604-mere-green-kingstanding-via-sutton-coldfield/vehicles?date=2020-11-03#journeys/83148693
https://bustimes.org/vehicles/196196?date=2020-11-02#journeys/82913491
That daf has always done that, it runs over onto the 75 pm peak service.
Recent timetable it was the dafs that ran the 55 peaks with just 1 e200 running off the 424 in the am (8.30) departure from city.
Quote from: Steveminor on November 06, 2020, 11:29:09 AM
That daf has always done that, it runs over onto the 75 pm peak service.
Recent timetable it was the dafs that ran the 55 peaks with just 1 e200 running off the 424 in the am (8.30) departure from city.
Thanks for the info about the pulsar
They definitley used at least one E200 PM, i'm sure. I remember I caught YX17NYY on the 55 on March 9th 2020. In the PM peak. I recorded it on here.
Quote from: 2206 on March 09, 2020, 06:05:00 PM
Washwood Heath Road between Saltley and Ward End, is at a standstill tonight. Got on YX17NYY on the 55 at 17:05 at Priory Queensway and didn't get to Ward End till 18:00. Was operating unload only by the time i'd got off. The one infront - 1800 looked very overcrowded as well.
Worst I've seen it in a long time.
Covering for out of position dafs at times of increased congestion as you pointed out
Quote from: Steveminor on November 06, 2020, 08:03:19 AM
Claribels has a very loyal customer base hence the longevity of the service.
Yea, there were a lot of people local to me that were pleased to see the Claribels running on the 94 again.
Claribels 36 Is Terminating on battery way today as Warwick road dual carriageway is being resurfaced.
Quote from: bbs on December 19, 2020, 01:56:22 PM
Claribels 36 Is Terminating on battery way today as Warwick road dual carriageway is being resurfaced.
As there was a burst water main on Warwick Road yesterday.
The light at the end of the lockdown tunnel just got brighter as one of our drivers has an appointment for his first coronavirus vaccination tomorrow.
As from Monday Claribels will be offering free travel before 0930 to all concessionary pass holders who show a covid 19 vaccination appointment just show your pass & your vaccination appointment confirmation. Those who receive their appointment via telephone can ask at the time for a text or email confirmation to enable them to board the bus.
Quote from: Steveminor on January 22, 2021, 05:53:35 PM
As from Monday Claribels will be offering free travel before 0930 to all concessionary pass holders who show a covid 19 vaccination appointment just show your pass & your vaccination appointment confirmation. Those who receive their appointment via telephone can ask at the time for a text or email confirmation to enable them to board the bus.
Round of applause to be given to you. What a good gesture!
Quote from: Steveminor on January 22, 2021, 05:53:35 PM
As from Monday Claribels will be offering free travel before 0930 to all concessionary pass holders who show a covid 19 vaccination appointment just show your pass & your vaccination appointment confirmation. Those who receive their appointment via telephone can ask at the time for a text or email confirmation to enable them to board the bus.
It's a good idea, and this isn't a knock at the company at all, but how are you getting this information to possible passengers?
Tfwm will help us get the word out, also we already carry some of the vaccination staff to some of the centres who will also communicate that they can get vaccine free travel pre 0930 with us.
Maybe your bosses could also assist with getting the information out via their social media channels.
This just feels the morally right thing for us to do.
Wording on Cheshire website implies operators have no choice in the matter and it applies to all, not just people travelling for vaccination, but discussion on merseyside group and the D&G website both suggest you do have to show proof.
Quote from: Steveminor on January 22, 2021, 11:04:51 PM
Tfwm will help us get the word out, also we already carry some of the vaccination staff to some of the centres who will also communicate that they can get vaccine free travel pre 0930 with us.
Maybe your bosses could also assist with getting the information out via their social media channels.
This just feels the morally right thing for us to do.
Have shared on my WMBU website and Facebook page ;)
Thank you
Just to inform everyone Tfwm have now announced vaccination appointment pre 0930 travel for concessionary pass holders on all buses & trams in the west Midlands
I don't know about anyone else whether they've noticed this before but isn't the route number supposed to be on the near side rather on the offside as stated in the PSVAR guidance.
"Route and destination displays 8.(1) A regulated public service vehicle shall be fitted with a route number
display and a destination display in the following positions
(a) on the front of the vehicle, as close as practicable to that part of the windscreen which is
within the drivers field of vision; and
(b) on the nearside of the vehicle adjacent to the entrance which is closest to the front of the
vehicle at a height of not less than 1.2m to the lower edge of the display characters and not more
than 2.5m to the upper edge of the display characters measured from the ground and, if fitted
with a kneeling system, with the vehicle in the normal condition for vehicle travel."
I just thought it was something to bring up as I've also noticed NX Coventry also have this issue.
Quote from: Bus Spotter Ben on February 10, 2021, 03:30:49 PM
I don't know about anyone else whether they've noticed this before but isn't the route number supposed to be on the near side rather on the offside as stated in the PSVAR guidance.
"Route and destination displays 8.(1) A regulated public service vehicle shall be fitted with a route number
display and a destination display in the following positions
(a) on the front of the vehicle, as close as practicable to that part of the windscreen which is
within the drivers field of vision; and
(b) on the nearside of the vehicle adjacent to the entrance which is closest to the front of the
vehicle at a height of not less than 1.2m to the lower edge of the display characters and not more
than 2.5m to the upper edge of the display characters measured from the ground and, if fitted
with a kneeling system, with the vehicle in the normal condition for vehicle travel."
I just thought it was something to bring up as I've also noticed NX Coventry also have this issue.
I think that is referring to the fitted position of the side display on the vehicle, rather than the positioning of the route number on the display itself.
Quote from: Bus Spotter Ben on February 10, 2021, 03:30:49 PM
I don't know about anyone else whether they've noticed this before but isn't the route number supposed to be on the near side rather on the offside as stated in the PSVAR guidance.
"Route and destination displays 8.(1) A regulated public service vehicle shall be fitted with a route number
display and a destination display in the following positions
(a) on the front of the vehicle, as close as practicable to that part of the windscreen which is
within the drivers field of vision; and
(b) on the nearside of the vehicle adjacent to the entrance which is closest to the front of the
vehicle at a height of not less than 1.2m to the lower edge of the display characters and not more
than 2.5m to the upper edge of the display characters measured from the ground and, if fitted
with a kneeling system, with the vehicle in the normal condition for vehicle travel."
I just thought it was something to bring up as I've also noticed NX Coventry also have this issue.
Correct, route indicator has to be on the nearside, as it's easier for passengers to read. This is a particular pet hate of mine, as it just looks strange. Also, destination indicators shouldn't be in block capitals. Using 'inverted' functions to display information (such as what NX use to display 'Part Route') is also frowned upon.
Quote from: Stu on February 10, 2021, 03:37:55 PM
I think that is referring to the fitted position of the side display on the vehicle, rather than the positioning of the route number on the display itself.
It isn't.
8.1 a, refers to front blind.
8.1 b, refers to the side blind
Quote from: Steveminor on February 10, 2021, 06:13:59 PM
8.1 a, refers to front blind.
8.1 b, refers to the side blind
Thanks, so I was right in my interpretation then!
Yes you were stu.
For anyone that may think differently regarding the placing of the route number I draw your attention to the earlier observation of where nx Coventry place their route numbers. A company like national express are hardly likely to breach PSVAR
Quote from: Steveminor on February 10, 2021, 07:50:28 PM
Yes you were stu.
For anyone that may think differently regarding the placing of the route number I draw your attention to the earlier observation of where nx Coventry place their route numbers. A company like national express are hardly likely to breach PSVAR
It is an advisory, not a compulsory part.
This is taken from the PSVAR regulations:
A good destination and route number display will be clearly legible by day and night and commercial
advertising should not detract from them. A consistent display design is also helpful, therefore the route
number should always be to the right of the destination when viewed. Other major points on the route can
be included but they should not detract from the clarity of the ultimate destination. Destination displays
which simultaneously show both ends of a route are confusing and should be avoided. The destination
appropriate to the direction of travel should be displayed or if a circular route such information necessary
to identify the direction of travel.
Quote from: Pat on February 10, 2021, 07:58:00 PM
This is taken from the PSVAR regulations:
A good destination and route number display will be clearly legible by day and night and commercial
advertising should not detract from them. A consistent display design is also helpful, therefore the route
number should always be to the right of the destination when viewed. Other major points on the route can
be included but they should not detract from the clarity of the ultimate destination. Destination displays
which simultaneously show both ends of a route are confusing and should be avoided. The destination
appropriate to the direction of travel should be displayed or if a circular route such information necessary
to identify the direction of travel.
Emphasis there on the word 'should', as opposed to 'must be'.
My comment was based on what Bus Spotter Ben quoted from the PSVAR guidance, and that specifically refers to the 'fitting position' of displays:
Route and destination displays 8.(1) A regulated public service vehicle shall be fitted with a route number
display and a destination display in the following positions (a) on the front of the vehicle,
(b) on the nearside of the vehicle adjacent to the entrance
Quote from: Stu on February 10, 2021, 08:32:07 PM
Emphasis there on the word 'should', as opposed to 'must be'.
My comment was based on what Bus Spotter Ben quoted from the PSVAR guidance, and that specifically refers to the 'fitting position' of displays:
Route and destination displays 8.(1) A regulated public service vehicle shall be fitted with a route number
display and a destination display in the following positions
(a) on the front of the vehicle,
(b) on the nearside of the vehicle adjacent to the entrance
My apologies Stu, I misinterpreted you there. What i've been referring to is the positioning of the route number on the front destination display, which is what I think Ben was referring to.
What I can't understand is why Coventry have their route number on the left, when WM have theirs on the right. I presume Adeon does the blinds for both?
It seems rather odd to say showing both end points is to be avoided - I would have thought it should be specifically banned.
Quote from: mikestone on February 11, 2021, 01:49:20 PM
It seems rather odd to say showing both end points is to be avoided - I would have thought it should be specifically banned.
This is a practice still used by Stagecoach and Phil Anslow in and around Cwmbran/Abergavenny areas. E.g, the display will read
Knoll Estate
to/from Abergavenny
Quote from: Steveminor on February 10, 2021, 07:50:28 PM
Yes you were stu.
For anyone that may think differently regarding the placing of the route number I draw your attention to the earlier observation of where nx Coventry place their route numbers. A company like national express are hardly likely to breach PSVAR
NX did in Dundee, where they used to use all capitals for the destinations, before changing it. Uno in Northampton did too until they were made to fix their blinds.
Quote from: DJ on February 11, 2021, 04:20:40 PM
NX did in Dundee, where they used to use all capitals for the destinations, before changing it. Uno in Northampton did too until they were made to fix their blinds.
It makes it difficult to read if the display is in block capitals - even more so if you have a visual impairment! Precisely the reason why these sort of regulations are drawn up.
Quote from: Pat on February 11, 2021, 04:59:35 PM
It makes it difficult to read if the display is in block capitals - even more so if you have a visual impairment! Precisely the reason why these sort of regulations are drawn up.
I must admit I have a visual imparement and I find that Block Capitals would probably help more that hinder..but that's my observation of buses... Especially when they are a little furthet away.
Quote from: Bus Man K2 on February 11, 2021, 05:15:00 PM
I must admit I have a visual imparement and I find that Block Capitals would probably help more that hinder..but that's my observation of buses... Especially when they are a little furthet away.
Been proven scientifically the other way
Quote from: Tony on February 11, 2021, 06:10:00 PM
Been proven scientifically the other way
As I said
@Tony It would help me but that's not the normal feneral public with eye conditions.. And as you say it's been proven scientifically the other way... So I can't augue with that.. But if the scientists were to ask me I'd probably sway the other way and say Block Capitals would help.
Again that's just my opinion!!😁
424 curtailed at Perry Barr from the 23rd May 2021.
No longer serving Birmingham City Centre, Aston and Newtown.
http://www.travelinemidlands.co.uk/wmtis/XSLT_TTB_REQUEST?language=en&command=direct&net=cen&line=13424&sup=%20&itdLPxx_direction=H&project=y11&outputFormat=0&itdLPxx_displayHeader=false&itdLPxx_sessionID=EFA03_57801890&lineVer=8&itdLPxx_spTr=8&itdLPxx_operatorCodeForTTB=CLA
Space for an extra bus or two to go on a different route, could we see a return on 55?
Quote from: Jack D on May 09, 2021, 06:47:15 PM
could we see a return on 55?
NXWM run a good service on the 55 and 94, so don't think that's needed.
With 1 bus they aren't really going to be able to provide a good frequency on there, it'd be something like every 2 hours beyond Ward End on the 55 route.
Claribel's should look at running alongside some less frequent NXWM routes, would probably help with revenue or come up with a complete new route
Could we see 75 every hour instead of every 2 hours
Quote from: 2206 on May 09, 2021, 06:25:20 PM
424 curtailed at Perry Barr from the 23rd May 2021.
No longer serving Birmingham City Centre, Aston and Newtown.
http://www.travelinemidlands.co.uk/wmtis/XSLT_TTB_REQUEST?language=en&command=direct&net=cen&line=13424&sup=%20&itdLPxx_direction=H&project=y11&outputFormat=0&itdLPxx_displayHeader=false&itdLPxx_sessionID=EFA03_57801890&lineVer=8&itdLPxx_spTr=8&itdLPxx_operatorCodeForTTB=CLA
<wild speculation>
Potential for the 68A/C to be amended to cover? From PB via Broadway to Villa Park and the estate along the Lichfield Rd, Victoria Road then down to Park Lane and town?
</wild speculation>
Quote from: Kevin on May 10, 2021, 12:43:21 PM
<wild speculation>
Potential for the 68A/C to be amended to cover? From PB via Broadway to Villa Park and the estate along the Lichfield Rd, Victoria Road then down to Park Lane and town?
</wild speculation>
Not to Town, no.
Service 68A will follow the current Route into Aston Lane to the Junction of Wellhead Lane then will follow the Below Route:
Stoneleigh Road, The Broadway, Witton Road - then Service will follow its current Line of Route until Villa Park, Witton Square, The Broadway, Stoneleigh Rd, Aston Lane. Then follow to Perry Barr Interchange
https://www.diamondbuses.com/west-midlands/bus-services/68a/
Quote from: 2206 on May 10, 2021, 12:57:10 PM
Not to Town, no.
Service 68A will follow the current Route into Aston Lane to the Junction of Wellhead Lane then will follow the Below Route:
Stoneleigh Road, The Broadway, Witton Road - then Service will follow its current Line of Route until Villa Park, Witton Square, The Broadway, Stoneleigh Rd, Aston Lane. Then follow to Perry Barr Interchange
https://www.diamondbuses.com/west-midlands/bus-services/68a/
Ah, yeah I'd imagined something that could work with 2 buses, to make a bigger loop of Aston or something into town, forgot that a 45 min frequency could be an option because it's just such an annoying frequency to understand
Regarding service 424. Since covid tfwm have been extending tfwm have been extending contracts to provide continuity & a stable bus network for passengers, however Birmingham becoming a clean air zone puts a spanner in the works as it is a euro5 contract & would be economical to convert buses or procure euro 6 buses for such a short extension. Therefore with very few passengers travelling on the section from bevington rd to city centre this section has been removed. The Broadway section Diamond bus have kindly agreed to cover with the 68 & the 424 will continue to operate between Perry barr and queslett. Times for both ourselves & Diamond have been kept as similar as possible to provide some stability for passengers.
In light of the current uncertainty for the industry during this time we will be returning bus NYZ off lease.
We look for commercial opportunities in the future but like all operators at present we await further guidance from the dft as to the continuation or planned future of the CBSSG scheme.
As for the suggestion of running 75 hourly, its currently tendered to run at its current frequency so unless more money becomes available (highly unlikely) it will remain at this frequency until at least the end of the contract
just a quick enquiry has NYZ returned now?
Quote from: cris 99 on May 27, 2021, 09:15:47 AM
just a quick enquiry has NYZ returned now?
Returned from where?
https://bustimes.org/vehicles/196185
Shows as last used 20th May.
Due to leave next Wednesday although currently not in use.
YJ60GJF being towed through the Fox & Goose this evening by Egertons at 21:45.
Strange time to see a Claribels bus, normally they disappear at about 18:00.
MX61BAV on the 36 but at 15:55 driver decided to take it via Weatherfield road and skipping the entire acocks green.
Quote from: bbs on June 18, 2021, 04:26:10 PM
MX61BAV on the 36 but at 15:55 driver decided to take it via Weatherfield road and skipping the entire acocks green.
Bustimes is often useful for finding out
the route taken (https://bustimes.org/vehicles/196026?date=2021-06-18#journeys/141315736), it still ran back and covered the Acocks Green loop, so only two stops were omitted, not ten, and I guess the driver could have at least visibly checked for anybody waiting at the first omitted stop before deciding to divert for whatever reason, school time congestion I guess, and the second omitted stop has the more frequent service 1/1A for those needing a short journey to Acocks Green.
Edit: Have now noticed this journey also missed out Stockfield Rd and Wharfdale Rd ::)
I am aware of an incident reported by the driver which required a diversion.
The diversion route was set up by myself to cover as many stops as possible and as has been pointed out would give driver visibility over some stops he couldn't serve to look for intending passengers.
I am not sure as to why bus times does not show the vehicle serving Stockfield rd as I have checked the vehicle traffilog tracker which shows the vehicle travelling along Stockfield rd. A possibility is that the ticketer goes went dead for a short period of time so I have no tracker off the etm for that time period, bustimes.org takes its feed from our etm so would not have tracked the bus live at that time either so may have just joined the dots from the data it did recieve
Thanks for the clarification - no pun intended. :)
Has YX17 NYZ been returned off lease?
@Steveminor ?
I saw it today with other E200s belonging to Mistral
It has
@Tony went a week last Wednesday
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/18705/ 36 used to Go Mole street and Birmingham.Happened in 2002 but i think its quite a good idea
Quote from: bbs on July 16, 2021, 11:15:04 PM
https://www.vehicle-operator-licensing.service.gov.uk/search/find-registered-local-bus-services/details/18705/ 36 used to Go Mole street and Birmingham.Happened in 2002 but i think its quite a good idea
Erm... the 36 went to Mole Street until a few years ago... and its not a good idea it was discussed on h to long ago... if it was a good idea then there wouldn't of been an idea to keep shortening it...
Quote from: Jack on July 17, 2021, 12:25:13 AM
Erm... the 36 went to Mole Street until a few years ago... and its not a good idea it was discussed on h to long ago... if it was a good idea then there wouldn't of been an idea to keep shortening it...
Someone said once that there were quite hard turns which was a reason to be shortened
Quote from: bbs on July 17, 2021, 09:48:18 AM
Someone said once that there were quite hard turns which was a reason to be shortened
On occasions I have seen NX buses use Mole Street, either on diversion or to turn round short... its quite wide. There was probably not enough passengers around there for it to work. The current 34 doesn't pick a lot up really either...
Quote from: bbs on July 17, 2021, 09:48:18 AM
Someone said once that there were quite hard turns which was a reason to be shortened
The 36 was shortened due to dwindling passenger numbers and traffic congestion in Sparkbrook, nothing to do with any 'hard turns'.
There were very few passengers to mole street even back when serverse travel operated the 36 back in the 90s
Can we expect Claribels to have anymore service changes in line with NXBUS's changes?
I am working on some changes at present.
Major or minor changes?
@Steveminor
You'll just have to wait
Will it be long 🤣
Can someone explain to me what's happening with the 36 and 41?
I've explained the 36 changes in the other thread..
Quote from: Steveminor on July 25, 2021, 06:10:47 AM
I've explained the 36 changes in the other thread..
New timetables for 36 & 604 are on Traveline WM. 36 still keeps 45 min frequency.
Traveline WM also states the current 424 timetable is running 23/5/21 - 5/9/21. Whats happening to that route after the 5/9 is the timetable/route changing or being scrapped?
Tbc
Quote from: 2206 on July 29, 2021, 11:49:33 AM
New timetables for 36 & 604 are on Traveline WM. 36 still keeps 45 min frequency.
Traveline WM also states the current 424 timetable is running 23/5/21 - 5/9/21. Whats happening to that route after the 5/9 is the timetable/route changing or being scrapped?
Not the 45 min should make it to at least 40
Quote from: bbs on July 31, 2021, 11:40:46 PM
Not the 45 min should make it to at least 40
That makes hardly any difference. It would require an extra bus and driver, increasing costs.
@Steveminor can you please come back on the 55, or when 94/95 inter work perhaps inter work your 94 with a 95?
There is insufficient running time for the 36 to increase frequency without adding costly resources at this time.
Regarding 55 service, with passenger levels depressed & not expected to return to 100% in the near future it is hard to see any justification in bringing back a previously loss making service.
Quote from: Jack D on May 09, 2021, 06:47:15 PM
Space for an extra bus or two to go on a different route, could we see a return on 55?
Quote from: Jack D on August 01, 2021, 07:45:19 AM
@Steveminor can you please come back on the 55, or when 94/95 inter work perhaps inter work your 94 with a 95?
You've asked the same thing before i'm sure, what do you think is wrong with the NX service on the 55/94?
Quote from: Steveminor on August 01, 2021, 09:16:16 AM
There is insufficient running time for the 36 to increase frequency without adding costly resources at this time.
Regarding 55 service, with passenger levels depressed & not expected to return to 100% in the near future it is hard to see any justification in bringing back a previously loss making service.
With the Government support changing so that operators basically will get a pot of money to last them a few months until they can hopefully get back to break even instead of making up losses on what is being run, which is what has happened for the last year I cannot see any operators starting new commercial services, and services that were marginal before covid are liable to go
Quote from: Steveminor on July 29, 2021, 09:06:31 PM
Tbc
The registration for 424 on the DVSA site is now showing cancelled from the 6th September.
Will some more E200's be leaving the fleet?
The future of route 424 is still yet to be finalised by Tfwm, so I cant comment further at this stage unfortunately
Service 424 will be operated by Thandi commencing next week as part of the Perry Barr service enhanced partnership.
Sorry to hear that.
I look forward to see what enhancements Thandi recan bring to the service.
Quote from: Steveminor on August 31, 2021, 09:14:01 PM
I look forward to see what enhancements Thandi recan bring to the service.
The red one that run the 28A/53 currently I presume? Same timetable & route as well?
No idea I'm afraid.
Red enviros. If it's red thandi
Quote from: Solo1 on August 31, 2021, 10:39:29 PM
Red enviros. If it's red thandi
Tbf to them they have invested in a paint brush and painted at least one of them in white with a black grill/front bumper lol
Quote from: Lukeee on August 31, 2021, 11:15:40 PM
Tbf to them they have invested in a paint brush and painted at least one of them in white with a black grill/front bumper lol
do you know the registartion
Quote from: Steveminor on August 31, 2021, 09:14:01 PM
I look forward to see what enhancements Thandi recan bring to the service.
Probably about as many enhancements as the one who took several years to get a logo on their buses!
Says the man whos buses are in tfl Red
Claribels have provided a good service on the 424 with well presented vehicles. Will be a shame to see them go
Thank you.
@Davismt2000 Mr Thandi has been route learning the 424 today & has suggested he will be allocating 10.2 mtr e200s like those on the 53 to the service
Quote from: Steveminor on September 01, 2021, 04:36:46 PM
Thank you. @Davismt2000
Mr Thandi has been route learning the 424 today & has suggested he will be allocating 10.2 mtr e200s like those on the 53 to the service
The tender specification was for a short wheelbase vehicle if I recall?
Quote from: metrocity on September 01, 2021, 04:53:14 PM
The tender specification was for a short wheelbase vehicle if I recall?
X21 BUS will be allocated soon enough!
Quote from: Steveminor on September 01, 2021, 04:36:46 PM
Thank you. @Davismt2000
Mr Thandi has been route learning the 424 today & has suggested he will be allocating 10.2 mtr e200s like those on the 53 to the service
10.2m. Blimey!!
@metrocity you are quite correct. Although to be fair it did call for a bus no longer than 8.4 mtrs ^ we can currently get an 8.9 mtr round (just)
They've obviously got a plan on how to operate the service with those vehicles otherwise they wouldn't have accepted the tender
Finally caught up with YJ54CKL, with Hilton, Newton-le-Willows, today on Rail Replacement duties in Manchester - like others failing miserably at the U-turn at the bottom of Piccadilly ramp.
I wonder if someone should tell Claribels that their revised 604 doesn't come up Butlers Lane and across a weight limited bridge. It's done so at least three times today. Try Lichfield Road and Hillhook Road, like it says on the timetable.
Just been put on Facebook
@Steveminor
Quote from: Tony on September 20, 2021, 04:43:37 PM
I wonder if someone should tell Claribels that their revised 604 doesn't come up Butlers Lane and across a weight limited bridge. It's done so at least three times today. Try Lichfield Road and Hillhook Road, like it says on the timetable.
Just been put on Facebook @Steveminor
Eesh Butler's Lane is a 3 tonne mgw bridge. And isn't it rather off route over there?
Seems to be a disparity between bustimes.org & our tracker as GPS fare issue locator clearly shows the bus picking up on correct line of route @ the correct time whilst bustimes.org tracked the vehicle elsewhere.
Maybe you should concentrate on your own massive driver shortage & leaving passengers standing everywhere than butt your nose in
@Tony
Quote from: Steveminor on September 20, 2021, 05:26:06 PM
Seems to be a disparity between bustimes.org & our tracker as GPS fare issue locator clearly shows the bus picking up on correct line of route @ the correct time whilst bustimes.org tracked the vehicle elsewhere.
Maybe you should concentrate on your own massive driver shortage & leaving passengers standing everywhere than butt your nose in @Tony
It was seen in person by a very respected member of the local community who lives on Butlers Lane, so perhaps you ought to teach your drivers the correct route.
I will pass your comments on to him, you may find he reports you to the authorities with that attitude
As stated
@Tony the GPS off ticketer which shows the location passengers board the bus shows he must have been following the correct line of route. Do your trackers show buses logged in as on service whilst they're actually running Dead from/to Perry Barr & yes I saw it myself as you see I was in Sutton Coldfield today.
Now I wonder if you can guess which bus I was on?????
People in glass houses shouldn't throw stones at people in brick houses.
Quote from: Steveminor on September 20, 2021, 07:15:13 PM
As stated @Tony the GPS off ticketer which shows the location passengers board the bus shows he must have been following the correct line of route. Do your trackers show buses logged in as on service whilst they're actually running Dead from/to Perry Barr & yes I saw it myself as you see I was in Sutton Coldfield today.
Now I wonder if you can guess which bus I was on?????
People in glass houses shouldn't throw stones at people in brick houses.
Mark 1 eyeballs do not lie. No one was using a tracker to see these
I've sent a pm Tony in it you will see NOT & COULDN'T have been a Claribels bus
Quote from: Steveminor on September 20, 2021, 07:15:13 PM
As stated @Tony the GPS off ticketer which shows the location passengers board the bus shows he must have been following the correct line of route. Do your trackers show buses logged in as on service whilst they're actually running Dead from/to Perry Barr & yes I saw it myself as you see I was in Sutton Coldfield today.
Now I wonder if you can guess which bus I was on?????
People in glass houses shouldn't throw stones at people in brick houses.
https://bustimes.org/services/604-mere-green-kingstanding-via-sutton-coldfield/vehicles?date=2021-09-20#journeys/167851163
https://bustimes.org/services/604-mere-green-kingstanding-via-sutton-coldfield/vehicles?date=2021-09-20#journeys/167879382
https://bustimes.org/services/604-mere-green-kingstanding-via-sutton-coldfield/vehicles?date=2021-09-20#journeys/167922174
As stated by Tony, eyeballs don't lie, it seems trackers don't either!
So by that logic 4581 did actually go to Essex the other day then.
4581's co-ordinates did not change from one set spot all day, I don't think the TC would have any difficulty in determining that it was not in Essex, or that it was not tracking properly, as for YX17 NYY I think the evidence speaks for itself, unless of course the witness on Facebook just saw a stolen ticketer being driven down Butlers Lane in someone's van?
I'm sure people on here can reach their own conclusions!
So on its return journey it went down hill village Rd then across a field then.
Ticketer provides a GPS data tag when passengers board & when they are smart transactions these aren't easily faked even by those in the know & virtually impossible fir ax70 year old with zero i.t skills. Those GPS tags do NOT support bustimes tracker data.
I have to go on hard evidence not rumour or conjecture & the only hard evidence I have at this time suggests the bus didn't do anything untoward.
Note I was on the same bus today & its tracking on bustimes shows different to what I KNOW FOR FACT what the bus did.
Quote from: Marge559 on September 20, 2021, 09:45:22 PM
4581's co-ordinates did not change from one set spot all day, I don't think the TC would have any difficulty in determining that it was not in Essex, or that it was not tracking properly, as for YX17 NYY I think the evidence speaks for itself, unless of course the witness on Facebook just saw a stolen ticketer being driven down Butlers Lane in someone's van?
I'm sure people on here can reach their own conclusions!
Chuffin Nora! If I'd have know that mu [post about 4581 would cause this much of a rumpus, then I'd have tracked more weeks ago!!!!!
I guess some work is being done on the tracking as none of Claribels buses are tracking today.
Tracking issues should be resolved now.
Quote from: Steveminor on September 22, 2021, 12:08:15 PM
Tracking issues should be resolved now.
Yeah they all seem to be back bubbling along now.
Just seen 424 being operated by Thandi Red
Quote from: bbs on September 23, 2021, 11:03:22 PM
Just seen 424 being operated by Thandi Red
has been for a few weeks now
2 Claribel 94's in convey. YJ12CHH and YJ12CHG heading out of City together this afternoon.
YJ59BCU left City Centre on a short working 94 to Ward End Fox & Goose at about 16:40.
I came across former Claribels E200 YX17 NVZ now running for Transdev Airport Services at Heathrow on Sunday
http://wmbusphotos.com/Claribels/YX17NYZ.html
I'm guessing there was another hold up somewhere this afternoon, I saw three Claribels in convoy on Auckland Drive, towards Chelmsley Wood at 1705. I recall seeing that M6 J5-6 had a 20 minute delay when I crossed over coming home from work this afternoon, but that was a couple of hours before it.
Is claribels going to be interested in the 96
@Steveminor
Claribels Pulsar 1 YJ58 FDV Side dest not working
Rotala to acquire Claribels...
https://www.diamondbuses.com/news/rotala-plc-acquisition-announcement/
Quote from: Michael Bevan on February 01, 2022, 10:25:13 AM
Rotala to acquire Claribels...
https://www.diamondbuses.com/news/rotala-plc-acquisition-announcement/
So Diamond will run on the Birmingham - Ward End - Chelmsley corridor alongside NX then? Will it be ran from Tividale?
Quote from: 2206 on February 01, 2022, 10:28:30 AM
So Diamond will run on the Birmingham - Ward End - Chelmsley corridor alongside NX then? Will it be ran from Tividale?
Too early to say, it's just been confirmed rotala are buying claribels but nothing is said to what will happen with the routes commercially operated by claribels, for certain that the tendered routes will run.
Quote from: BK63 YWP on February 01, 2022, 11:26:52 AM
Too early to say, it's just been confirmed rotala are buying claribels but nothing is said to what will happen with the routes commercially operated by claribels, for certain that the tendered routes will run.
All the tendered routes they operate are currently out for tender aswell
Not many small operators left now then, interesting times ahead.
Sad news. I've been a very regular user of them for over 30 years. Longer if you count school transport to the local swimming baths. I hope Diamond carry on their commercial services, to lose 3 or 4 buses an hour on an increasing terrible corridor will make commuting even worse.
Quote from: Gareth on February 01, 2022, 02:22:23 PM
Sad news. I've been a very regular user of them for over 30 years. Longer if you count school transport to the local swimming baths. I hope Diamond carry on their commercial services, to lose 3 or 4 buses an hour on an increasing terrible corridor will make commuting even worse.
I think NX have 12+ buses an hour as well. But i've never found the corridor to be " increasingly terrible" as well.
The service was experiencing delays earlier, affecting both operators. But I think that late running is due to a road closure (Aston Church Rd) and traffic conditions. And of course the buses can't fly over such things.
It's a shame that Diamond are taking them over! Less variety of operators in the west mids
Quote from: Michael Bevan on February 01, 2022, 10:25:13 AM
Rotala to acquire Claribels...
https://www.diamondbuses.com/news/rotala-plc-acquisition-announcement/
Best of luck to them.
Quote from: metrocity on February 01, 2022, 11:40:07 AM
All the tendered routes they operate are currently out for tender aswell
That Includes the 36 right?
Quote from: bbs on February 01, 2022, 04:44:17 PM
That Includes the 36 right?
The 36 is a tendered route, yes.
Quote from: Stu on February 01, 2022, 04:45:42 PM
The 36 is a tendered route, yes.
well that's like the 6th or 7th time that route is getting operator change
Quote from: Michael Bevan on February 01, 2022, 10:25:13 AM
Rotala to acquire Claribels...
https://www.diamondbuses.com/news/rotala-plc-acquisition-announcement/
Well, that's one of my predictions for this year ticked off already :D
http://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?topic=6142.msg297792#msg297792
Like with Hansons before, its never nice to see a smaller operator swallowed up by a bigger group, but these are strange times indeed, and with the direction that bus operators are being guided and demands being placed upon them (namely the push towards zero emission vehicles), it would seem to me that this is designed to squeeze out the smaller operating companies in favour of the 'big groups/companies'.
And if you can't compete, as a smaller operator, your only choice is to go out of business, or sell up.
In this case, it would seem that the owners of Claribels decided that public bus operations are just not worth it anymore, so in a way I can't blame them for offloading that part of their business, in order to concentrate and focus on what is presumably more profitable for them.
I can only hope that the current staff at Claribels retain their jobs with Diamond Bus, and that Diamond continue to operate the services to the standards that Claribels customers have become used to.
Quote from: 2206 on February 01, 2022, 03:24:38 PM
I think NX have 12+ buses an hour as well. But i've never found the corridor to be " increasingly terrible" as well.
The service was experiencing delays earlier, affecting both operators. But I think that late running is due to a road closure (Aston Church Rd) and traffic conditions. And of course the buses can't fly over such things.
It's increasingly terrible. I know buses can't can't fly over cars, I know there's traffic, I know there's also delays to Claribels. I also know that out of 12 buses an hour, 5 or 6 of them turn up within 5 minutes. But that isn't the point here. The point I was making is that if we lose 3 or 4 buses an hour on the 94 route, the people who use those three or four buses will now be using the NX service resulting in far busier buses and Priory Queensway at 4pm being more unbearable than it already is.
Quote from: Gareth on February 01, 2022, 06:17:39 PM
It's increasingly terrible. I know buses can't can't fly over cars, I know there's traffic, I know there's also delays to Claribels. I also know that out of 12 buses an hour, 5 or 6 of them turn up within 5 minutes. But that isn't the point here. The point I was making is that if we lose 3 or 4 buses an hour on the 94 route, the people who use those three or four buses will now be using the NX service resulting in far busier buses and Priory Queensway at 4pm being more unbearable than it already is.
Yes I agree. And it is busy but Priory Queensway at between 3-6PM is rush hour, so lots of people going home, you can't expect any different to be honest. NX also did address the 95 rush hour by replacing the scania single decks with double decks to.
YJ58FDV having an unusual day on the 94 today to, been a while since it was last on there.
Quote from: bbs on February 01, 2022, 04:50:23 PM
well that's like the 6th or 7th time that route is getting operator change
That's how a tender works. Whichever operator bids the lowest wins the tender/route, so nothing special about operator changes.
There's more information about the sale to/purchase by Rotala on the Route One website. The bus business and some assets, including 18 vehicles, are included: -
https://www.route-one.net/news/rotala-agrees-to-purchase-claribel-coaches-bus-business/ (https://www.route-one.net/news/rotala-agrees-to-purchase-claribel-coaches-bus-business/)
It will be the end of an era. I will remember Claribels for their smart and modern fleet, and of course for running bus services for many years - outlasting (almost?) all of their contemporaries.
Does anyone know what vehicles were actually on the 604 today? Bus times shows YX17 NYZ on there this morning, but I photographed that with Transdev late last year.
http://wmbusphotos.com/Claribels/YX17NYZ.html
We only have v & y, my ticketer portal dies not show any vehicle logging in as nyz
Quote from: Steveminor on February 01, 2022, 08:44:46 PM
We only have v & y, my ticketer portal dies not show any vehicle logging in as nyz
It is showing on the BODS feed as both Regional vehicle finder and Bus times showing doing the 09:30 and 11:30 from Kingstanding to Hillhook
Quote from: bbs on February 01, 2022, 04:50:23 PM
well that's like the 6th or 7th time that route is getting operator change
A route being out for tender doesn't mean the operator will change. In this case, it will either way, but Diamond could retain the route if they bid for it.
Quote from: DJ on February 01, 2022, 11:15:44 PM
A route being out for tender doesn't mean the operator will change. In this case, it will either way, but Diamond could retain the route if they bid for it.
Would be very pleased to see NX get it back or possibly Landflight (Silverline)
Do Claribels run evening & Sunday services?
Will it be the same situation in Birmingham, as it is in the Black Country, where evening & Sundays are basically split between Nx & Diamond?
Claribels have only ever briefly operated one bus into the evening over a decade ago & have never operated on.a sunday
Quote from: Westy on February 02, 2022, 09:36:58 PM
Do Claribels run evening & Sunday services?
Will it be the same situation in Birmingham, as it is in the Black Country, where evening & Sundays are basically split between Nx & Diamond?
I can't think of anything Diamond have that runs late evenings in Birmingham. Only NX and Arriva 110 runs late evenings to.
This has just popped up on my Facebook feed, in case anyone wanted their own 'little' Claribels memento... :
https://www.facebook.com/marketplace/item/1334007293711207/
(no affiliation etc)
Spotted FDV on the 36 with the driver giving it some good thrash
News link below shows a picture of a Claribels bus - COMPLETELY UNRELATED to the news story it is shown against.
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/police-probe-after-teen-robbed-23006882
Quote from: Wumpty on February 09, 2022, 11:07:04 AM
News link below shows a picture of a Claribels bus - COMPLETELY UNRELATED to the news story it is shown against.
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/police-probe-after-teen-robbed-23006882
What do you mean? The bookmakers/betting shop is behind it. Just an image screenshotted from google streetview I think.
Quote from: Wumpty on February 09, 2022, 11:07:04 AM
News link below shows a picture of a Claribels bus - COMPLETELY UNRELATED to the news story it is shown against.
https://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/police-probe-after-teen-robbed-23006882
very nice looking pulsar with the white touches
Old photo BOH has not been in the fleet for 5 years now
Quote from: Steveminor on February 09, 2022, 06:06:47 PM
Old photo BOH has not been in the fleet for 5 years now
Well it does say the photo comes from google images.
Quote from: Gareth on February 09, 2022, 06:37:37 PM
Well it does say the photo comes from google images.
That's typical of the Birmingham Mail unfortunately.
I knew it was a Google image. Two things struck me with this;
1. Very rarely see press photos (regardless of source) showing independent operators given the ratio of NXWM to independents;
2. Great to see how good the Claribels bus looked in the photo.
@Steveminor I'm not sure but are KCV and BOF still in service as on the Claribels Fleet page both are displayed as in service?
KCV was never a service bus only used for school contracts. Never seen a pic of it in service apart from when it was new in Solihull. and BOF is still around i saw it tuesday on the 75
Quote from: cris 99 on February 10, 2022, 09:31:35 PM
KCV was never a service bus only used for school contracts. Never seen a pic of it in service apart from when it was new in Solihull. and BOF is still around i saw it tuesday on the 75
ah OK thank you very much
KCV was only ever used once on stage carriage work & was sold to alan Hardwick for scrap several months ago.
As pointed out BOF is still in fleet it was the sister bus BOH that was sold to compass & is now registered PBZ8343
Quote from: Steveminor on February 11, 2022, 11:43:11 AM
KCV was only ever used once on stage carriage work & was sold to alan Hardwick for scrap several months ago.
As pointed out BOF is still in fleet it was the sister bus BOH that was sold to compass & is now registered PBZ8343
BOF is often seen on Blossomfield Road in the morning passing Solihull Swimming Baths as it was this morning.
Quote from: 2206 on February 11, 2022, 12:14:02 PM
BOF is often seen on Blossomfield Road in the morning passing Solihull Swimming Baths as it was this morning.
Would love to see it on the 36
That will never happen as it has not been converted to route 6 & therefore be non compliant on the contract.
Quote from: Steveminor on February 12, 2022, 12:36:59 PM
That will never happen as it has not been converted to route 6 & therefore be non compliant on the contract.
YJ58 FDV isn't Euro 6 either is it? That's a common one on the 36...
It has been converted to euro 6
Quote from: Steveminor on February 12, 2022, 11:34:17 PM
It has been converted to euro 6
You need to tell the DVSA, They still have it chargeable in the Birmingham CAZ, we have had similar problems with a couple of buses
The issue is that this information has to come from the conversion supplier however in this case they have gone bust so its not as straightforward as with nx
@Tony
Quote from: Steveminor on February 12, 2022, 11:34:17 PM
It has been converted to euro 6
if its euro 6 it will be allowed on 94
Quote from: bbs on February 13, 2022, 08:51:06 PM
if its euro 6 it will be allowed on 94
It was on there recently on the 1st February.
Quote from: 2206 on February 13, 2022, 08:53:58 PM
It was on there recently on the 1st February.
oo I'm pretty sure I see it on the 36 usually along with BAV which I always see on the 36
Quote from: 2206 on February 13, 2022, 08:53:58 PM
It was on there recently on the 1st February.
Yeah, I tried to go on it that day but it went past Fox and Goose (around 12 o'clock) with Not In Service on its dest - I am guessing because it was running a bit late.
Does anyone know why the 1406 94 service from Birmingham didn't run, a claribels bus did turn up but it had not in service on its destination blind.
Quote from: GoldenSquid on February 16, 2022, 02:16:57 PM
Does anyone know why the 1406 94 service from Birmingham didn't run, a claribels bus did turn up but it had not in service on its destination blind.
Maybe there was a vehicle or driver issue.
Quote from: GoldenSquid on February 16, 2022, 02:16:57 PM
Does anyone know why the 1406 94 service from Birmingham didn't run, a claribels bus did turn up but it had not in service on its destination blind.
According to bustimes.org, a 1406 did run (though I'm not suggesting that you didn't experience the above):
https://bustimes.org/vehicles/196435?date=2022-02-16#journeys/220929990
Quote from: Wumpty on February 16, 2022, 03:41:13 PM
According to bustimes.org, a 1406 did run (though I'm not suggesting that you didn't experience the above):
https://bustimes.org/vehicles/196435?date=2022-02-16#journeys/220929990
Bustimes didn't record it running (I don't know if it did or didn't). There's no 'actual' times other than those which are actually before the departure time from city
Quote from: Wumpty on February 16, 2022, 03:41:13 PM
According to bustimes.org, a 1406 did run (though I'm not suggesting that you didn't experience the above):
https://bustimes.org/vehicles/196435?date=2022-02-16#journeys/220929990
Yeah I just noticed that, so I am guessing the driver just had Not In Service on his destination then? As that was the bus that showed up in Birmingham.
Looking at the ticketer portal I can see that the bus has picked up passengers (it doesn't show me the destination admittedly although the number of passengers carried would suggest a service number was displayed) it is possible the driver selected the wrong destination from city & it took time to rectify this.
Looking at the log the driver selected the wrong trip number in city therefore had to "ad hoc" his journey. Our trackers do not appear to display on bustimes.org correctly when the driver has ad hoc the journey.
I'm not sure but was BAV a originally delivered Bus to claribels or different operator
Quote from: bbs on February 17, 2022, 09:35:46 PM
I'm not sure but was BAV a originally delivered Bus to claribels or different operator
Another operator it only joined the fleet around 2017 and its a 61 plate. ex first somerset and manchester community transport I think.
I saw HJC at Fox & Goose this morning. I'd not seen one of these round here before. It was out of service.
Claribels FDV strangely diverted via yarnfield Road and briarfield road
A difference in the 36 today NYW and DHX
FDV making weird poof sounds today not sure why
All services have been deregisterd ready for Diamond to reregister
Quote from: the trainbasher on March 04, 2022, 06:34:30 PM
All services have been deregister ready for Diamond to reregister
diamond to regain the 36?
Quote from: bbs on March 04, 2022, 10:00:30 PM
diamond to regain the 36?
Nobody knows yet, as far as I'm aware, the TfWM tendered routes are out for tender. It's possible Diamond could retain some or all of them, or another operator will gain them.
Quote from: DJ on March 05, 2022, 04:08:30 AM
Nobody knows yet, as far as I'm aware, the TfWM tendered routes are out for tender. It's possible Diamond could retain some or all of them, or another operator will gain them.
Hopefully Landflight or NX get the 36 would be a nice touch.
Quote from: DJ on March 05, 2022, 04:08:30 AM
Nobody knows yet, as far as I'm aware, the TfWM tendered routes are out for tender. It's possible Diamond could retain some or all of them, or another operator will gain them.
Not exactly many operators around now to win tenders!!
the school services could be run by green bus
Saw the 604 on Whitehouse Common Road today including the MX61 plate. Never realised it went round there as don't think there are any bus stops for it. Only knew of the 110. Presumably could be mellor minibus ran if it does pass to diamond as well.
Quote from: 2206 on March 09, 2022, 09:10:52 PM
Saw the 604 on Whitehouse Common Road today including the MX61 plate. Never realised it went round there as don't think there are any bus stops for it. Only knew of the 110. Presumably could be mellor minibus ran if it does pass to diamond as well.
36 if diamond gets it may be mellors too
YJ62 JZG on the 604 today.
Your drivers and clarinets plight was highlighted on Central news last week.
Quote from: monkeyjoe on March 23, 2022, 07:03:23 AM
Your drivers and clarinets plight was highlighted on Central news last week.
do you have the link to it
Confirmed on one of my FB groups yday that the S16 service will be taken over by NX at the end of April
Quote from: BrumKev86 on March 29, 2022, 07:47:27 AM
Confirmed on one of my FB groups yday that the S16 service will be taken over by NX at the end of April
S16 i predict it will be operated by Acocks Green Garage not exactly sure but its a guess
looking like the 36 is replaced by service 41
Quote from: cris 99 on March 29, 2022, 03:13:13 PM
looking like the 36 is replaced by service 41
how would that work?
Quote from: bbs on March 29, 2022, 07:35:19 PM
how would that work?
http://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?topic=1937.msg300080#msg300080
Quote from: bbs on March 29, 2022, 11:32:46 AM
S16 i predict it will be operated by Acocks Green Garage not exactly sure but its a guess
If it stays in its current form its only a couple of off peak trips, could be added to the X2 BC peak board perhaps. The one that does 7.53 ex City and finishes in Solihull at about 8.50 normally. Like how 25 uses a X21 board/bus.
I think a lot of that route was previously served by TWM/NXWM, 42, 58 etc.
Quote from: 2206 on March 29, 2022, 07:58:27 PM
If it stays in its current form its only a couple of off peak trips, could be added to the X2 BC peak board perhaps. The one that does 7.53 ex City and finishes in Solihull at about 8.50 normally. Like how 25 uses a X21 board/bus.
I think a lot of that route was previously served by TWM/NXWM, 42, 58 etc.
It's going to be operated by the peak board on the 73 route from AG
Quote from: Tony on March 29, 2022, 08:22:10 PM
It's going to be operated by the peak board on the 73 route from AG
Will it see double decks like the 73 does? Or just single decks?
Must have been a long time since a double decker last went down Coverdale Road.
I guess this confirms this
167/8 and 604 to be partly replaced with 77 extension
36 replaced with 41 extension
https://www.tfwm.org.uk/plan-your-journey/ways-to-travel/buses-in-the-west-midlands/claribel-coaches-service-changes/
Quote from: metrocity on March 31, 2022, 06:42:39 PM
167/8 and 604 to be partly replaced with 77 extension
36 replaced with 41 extension
https://www.tfwm.org.uk/plan-your-journey/ways-to-travel/buses-in-the-west-midlands/claribel-coaches-service-changes/
What route will the 77 take? Will it just be a couple of off peak trips to Erdington?
Quote from: 2206 on March 31, 2022, 06:50:45 PM
What route will the 77 take? Will it just be a couple of off peak trips to Erdington?
Why would it just be a couple of trips. It is replacing the 167/168
Quote from: Tony on March 31, 2022, 06:57:18 PM
Why would it just be a couple of trips. It is replacing the 167/168
They're hourly and services that start late and finish early. Last one is currently timetabled at 14:48. Or will there be a later service?
As far as I know the PB X15 does cover these routes during the peak hours.
Quote from: 2206 on March 31, 2022, 06:57:46 PM
They're hourly and services that start late and finish early. Last one is currently timetabled at 14:48. Or will there be a later service?
As far as I know the PB X15 does cover these routes during the peak hours.
The X15 is being included into the running boards covering all these routes as well. NXWM instead of bidding for all the different routes put one combined bid in to cover the X15, 77, 167, 168 & 604 which will all be run by Walsall garage
Quote from: Tony on March 31, 2022, 07:13:56 PM
The X15 is being included into the running boards covering all these routes as well. NXWM instead of bidding for all the different routes put one combined bid in to cover the X15, 77, 167, 168 & 604 which will all be run by Walsall garage
Oh wow so that means PB will loose the x15 then
@Tony
The list doesn't include changes to Claribels 75 / 75A
Are they retaining the two school services under the coach operations?
Quote from: fleetline6477 on March 31, 2022, 10:34:29 PM
The list doesn't include changes to Claribels 75 / 75A
Are they retaining the two school services under the coach operations?
The 75/75A is going over to Diamond but revised as Route 76/76A Sutton Coldfield - Tamworth via Coleshill
Quote from: fleetline6477 on March 31, 2022, 10:34:29 PM
The list doesn't include changes to Claribels 75 / 75A
I assume that is because the 75/75a is a Warwickshire tendered service, not a TfWM one.
However, I expect that TfWM know that it will be replaced by new Diamond 76, so it runs partly inside the TfWM area, there is no reason why TfWM could not have included it in the list.
Quote from: fleetline6477 on March 31, 2022, 10:34:29 PM
Are they retaining the two school services under the coach operations?
It's more than 2 schools, but answer is no
Off-topic posts about Sutton services split into new topic here:
http://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?topic=6200.0
May I remind members that this thread is for discussing the operator Claribel Coaches and their current services.
For continued discussion of services that are changing operator, please use the thread(s) of that operator.
Quote from: Stu on April 02, 2022, 09:01:18 AMOff-topic posts about Sutton services split into new topic here:
http://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?topic=6200.0
May I remind members that this thread is for discussing the operator Claribel Coaches and their current services.
For continued discussion of services that are changing operator, please use the thread(s) of that operator.
Well seeing as my comment was in reply to the site owner, who was posting in this thread, perhaps you could explain whyI was 'off topic'?
what about 94/94A?
Quote from: SK68MEV on April 03, 2022, 01:22:20 AMwhat about 94/94A?
94A looks like it won't run anymore. Normal 94 only.
https://www.diamondbuses.com/west-midlands/bus-services/94-chelmsley-wood/
Quote from: andy41 on April 02, 2022, 10:28:39 PMWell seeing as my comment was in reply to the site owner, who was posting in this thread, perhaps you could explain whyI was 'off topic'?
I read
@Stu post as a reminder to all members
@andy41 - it's nowt personal. As with all good debates, we can all find new avenues to explore and if, like this one, it creates specific talking points, then moderators will split topics. Some great points all round.
Quote from: Steveminor on April 01, 2022, 06:39:43 AMIt's more than 2 schools, but answer is no
who will run the school services that u run as a guess green bus or nxbus
End of 94 operation has been brought forward to Saturday.
https://www.tfwm.org.uk/plan-your-journey/ways-to-travel/buses-in-the-west-midlands/claribel-coaches-service-changes/
Just 2 buses out today I think. Probably the reason for early termination of the service. In the past was a 5 bus operation I think.
There comes a time when any company is winding down or sold when staff have to make a decision to transfer to the new company or seek employment elsewhere.
That time has come.
It would be unprofessional for a bus operator to prioritise a commercial service (where there is an overlap with a competitor) over services which are unique to that business, hence the early deregistration of the 94.
For anyone on this forum who has used Claribels 94 over the years. Thankyou for your custom and your support through the good times & the bad.
I hope to see you on Diamond buses 94 service which will start injust over a fortnight and take advantage of day weekly monthly tickets & the Diamond app,all the things Claribels was never able to offer.
Quote from: Steveminor on April 07, 2022, 07:38:39 PMThere comes a time when any company is winding down or sold when staff have to make a decision to transfer to the new company or seek employment elsewhere.
That time has come.
It would be unprofessional for a bus operator to prioritise a commercial service (where there is an overlap with a competitor) over services which are unique to that business, hence the early deregistration of the 94.
For anyone on this forum who has used Claribels 94 over the years. Thankyou for your custom and your support through the good times & the bad.
I hope to see you on Diamond buses 94 service which will start injust over a fortnight and take advantage of day weekly monthly tickets & the Diamond app,all the things Claribels was never able to offer.
Would like to thank Claribels though, they may not have been the most technical best operator but surely one of the greatest operators i seen. My favourite FDV has always made it fun. Its a upset to see claribels go
All
I have made the conscious decision that this will be my last post on the forum for Claribels.
I started my career in the bus industry at the same time as Claribels started theirs 30 years ago. On & off over the 30 years I was proud to call myself an employee & this time around manager of what was/is one of the longest serving & original bus operators in the West Midlands.
Those who may know me know I am an emotional person and the end of this chapter is truly heartbreaking for me. whilst myself and staff are extremely grateful to Mr Dunn & Mr Baker for the opportunity of Joing their operation the end of Claribels is something I wished would never have come.
Please listen to the youtube link raise a beer and never forget Claribels.
Goodbye!!!
https://youtu.be/M3mdHmhI3cs
I can understand, Steve, that this moment must be heartbreaking for you, and indeed sad for many others involved. Claribels have done very well to be so long-serving in an area that has seen a rapid turnover of operators over the years, and you can be proud of your part in its story.
I trekked over to Chelmsley Wood on Monday to have a final ride on a Claribels 94, and I am glad I did.
While you have ended posting for Claribels, I hope that you will continue to do posts on this forum on whatever in the future. Your insights are always worth reading!
Quote from: Steveminor on April 07, 2022, 07:59:51 PMAll
I have made the conscious decision that this will be my last post on the forum for Claribels.
I started my career in the bus industry at the same time as Claribels started theirs 30 years ago. On & off over the 30 years I was proud to call myself an employee & this time around manager of what was/is one of the longest serving & original bus operators in the West Midlands.
Those who may know me know I am an emotional person and the end of this chapter is truly heartbreaking for me. whilst myself and staff are extremely grateful to Mr Dunn & Mr Baker for the opportunity of Joing their operation the end of Claribels is something I wished would never have come.
Please listen to the youtube link raise a beer and never forget Claribels.
Goodbye!!!
https://youtu.be/M3mdHmhI3cs
@Steveminor we;ve crossed swords, we've reminisced and we've both offered our own views on the bus industry past and present, though I have a huge amount of respect for you and Team Claribels for the way in which you've conducted yourself since the news of the merger.
Claribels offered a new dimension in bus travel, from conductors on coaches on the 94, to a great investment in fleet renewal for the 94 corridor, and offering a quality alternative to NX. I've shared your frustration in the latter having worked at Midland Choice, though see this as a positive for you all.
Please accept my best wishes and love for the future and hope you'll continue to share your thoughts and experience on here.
Good luck!
Just 10 days left of Claribels, i can't believe it. :(
Again, Last Day of Claribels. Would love to thank everyone who supported Claribels and big thanks to
@Steveminor. I hope the best for BIC.
Thank you all staff and management at Claribels for your service over the last 30 years or so. You'll be very missed!
Just seen the changes to the routes. It seems like pretty much all their routes have been joined up (or nerfed even) with existing services with the exception of the 94,S16 and 600. Kind of weird considering when igo went bust their routes were just passed around with other operators. Will miss Claribels though and does make Birmingham a slightly more smaller pool now with operators.
Quote from: Busboy105 on April 24, 2022, 04:42:47 AMJust seen the changes to the routes. It seems like pretty much all their routes have been joined up (or nerfed even) with existing services with the exception of the 94,S16 and 600. Kind of weird considering when igo went bust their routes were just passed around with other operators. Will miss Claribels though and does make Birmingham a slightly more smaller pool now with operators.
I suppose they've had more time to plan with Claribels than with Igo.
Quote from: Westy on April 24, 2022, 07:56:38 AMI suppose they've had more time to plan with Claribels than with Igo.
True.. igo going into administration was a big shock to me
Yj60ghf has now received its Diamond bus livery.
This marks the end to Claribels livery & the final end of an era
Quote from: Steveminor on October 04, 2022, 06:59:06 PMYj60ghf has now received its Diamond bus livery.
This marks the end to Claribels livery & the final end of an era
That must have been the quickest set of repaints ever, as there is still vehicles in old blue Diamond livery knocking about!
Quote from: Westy on October 06, 2022, 07:03:11 AMThat must have been the quickest set of repaints ever, as there is still vehicles in old blue Diamond livery knocking about!
I would have thought most of the vehicles in the old Diamond blue livery are end of life, in which case why bother repainting them?
Quote from: metrocity on October 06, 2022, 07:39:15 AMI would have thought most of the vehicles in the old Diamond blue livery are end of life, in which case why bother repainting them?
True.
I believe diamond repaints buses that are euro 6
Is this thread moving over to the Diamond section, to keep all their 'companies ' together?
Quote from: Westy on October 11, 2022, 07:06:48 AMIs this thread moving over to the Diamond section, to keep all their 'companies ' together?
No, Diamond did not buy Claribels the company, just their bus service operations.
Claribels as a brand came to an end officially in August 2022 when the company Claribel Coaches Ltd was wound up voluntarily.
https://www.thegazette.co.uk/notice/4138297?mainwebsite=1
I believe they still do business under their Birmingham International trading name?
Quote from: Stu on October 11, 2022, 07:30:02 AMNo, Diamond did not buy Claribels the company, just their bus service operations.
The remaining ex Claribel services with Diamond 94, 600, Coleshill - Sutton are ran from the pre-existing Diamond Tividale/Tamworth depots under Diamond name as well.
Claribels used to operate from Tile Cross.
Quote from: 2206 on October 11, 2022, 11:05:38 AMThe remaining ex Claribel services with Diamond 94, 600, Coleshill - Sutton are ran from the pre-existing Diamond Tividale/Tamworth depots under Diamond name as well.
Claribels used to operate from Tile Cross.
Yes, but Diamond did not buy the Claribels Coaches company as a whole, just the bus service operations (fleet, drivers, routes etc). Same as they did with Johnsons.
Neither Claribels nor Johnsons ever became part of the Rotala group.
It's likely that the name Claribels Coaches Ltd would now be classed as defunct, meaning that the name Claribels could be used again I would guess. With regards to Johnsons, as you say only the bus operations of Johnsons were acquired, although a few have since been lost to Stagecoach under tender (eg X20).
Quote from: Rachvince53 on December 12, 2022, 07:01:35 PMIt's likely that the name Claribels Coaches Ltd would now be classed as defunct, meaning that the name Claribels could be used again I would guess. With regards to Johnsons, as you say only the bus operations of Johnsons were acquired, although a few have since been lost to Stagecoach under tender (eg X20).
Claribel Coaches Ltd is still owned by the Watkiss Family. But there will be covenants in the Rotala sale documents preventing the Watkiss family from re-starting bus operations within a set period of time following the sale to Rotala most likely:
https://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/01310977
Quote from: winston on December 12, 2022, 07:29:31 PMhttps://find-and-update.company-information.service.gov.uk/company/01310977
Interesting , I'm just trying to 'picture' where Darwin House is ? :undecided: :smiley:
Quote from: B61 ANDREW on December 13, 2022, 10:37:40 AMInteresting , I'm just trying to 'picture' where Darwin House is ? :undecided: :smiley:
It's the address of the liquidators, The Timothy James Partnership Limited.
Got it . Thanks.