GRS have acquired a former London dart which was on the 16 today. Reg of it is R128RLY.
ex AMPM
4177 isn't hidden
Looks as they're expanding
QuotePD1084253/4 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38, BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Registration Accepted by SN
Starting Point: Hamstead
Finish Point: Birmingham
Via:
Service Number: 16
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 16-OCT-2012
Other Details:
Thought they already did the 16?
guess its good to seem them expanding
maybe some new buses too
means now the 75 has 3 operators , 16 has 3 operators too! :L
Will they do the 600 along with Blue Diamond or is there service withdrawn, remember Central Buses tried the 600 before and didnt last long. Even still, good to see a bit of compotition.
75E from Wednesbury to Birmingham? Surely that's just a normal 75?
Sounds like good reasoning to me.
Agreed :)
Quote from: vinh1000 on October 15, 2012, 05:06:45 PM
guess its good to seem them expanding
maybe some new buses too
means now the 75 has 3 operators , 16 has 3 operators too! :L
I wonder whether they will simply run 75E as placement journeys from depot in Wednesbury down to Birmingham to pick up the 16 and 600. Since operations began the fleet has become low floor Darts and a standard fleet livery and names is being applied to buses. There does however seem to be a very high turnover of drivers.
Are there any links with VIP as GRS buses are often seen parked outside VIP depot, they have the same livery?
Quote from: fleetline6477 on October 15, 2012, 09:29:50 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on October 15, 2012, 05:06:45 PM
guess its good to seem them expanding
maybe some new buses too
means now the 75 has 3 operators , 16 has 3 operators too! :L
I wonder whether they will simply run 75E as placement journeys from depot in Wednesbury down to Birmingham to pick up the 16 and 600. Since operations began the fleet has become low floor Darts and a standard fleet livery and names is being applied to buses. There does however seem to be a very high turnover of drivers.
Are there any links with VIP as GRS buses are often seen parked outside VIP depot, they have the same livery?
VIP is GRS's maintenance provider
Quote from: Tony on October 15, 2012, 09:38:30 PM
Quote from: fleetline6477 on October 15, 2012, 09:29:50 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on October 15, 2012, 05:06:45 PM
guess its good to seem them expanding
maybe some new buses too
means now the 75 has 3 operators , 16 has 3 operators too! :L
I wonder whether they will simply run 75E as placement journeys from depot in Wednesbury down to Birmingham to pick up the 16 and 600. Since operations began the fleet has become low floor Darts and a standard fleet livery and names is being applied to buses. There does however seem to be a very high turnover of drivers.
Are there any links with VIP as GRS buses are often seen parked outside VIP depot, they have the same livery?
VIP is GRS's maintenance provider
LOL, Explains a lot.
Saw a GRS Dart on the 16 this evening about 6.30 heading up towards Hamstead with a 600 number pritnt out stuck in the windscreen.
Does anybody know the times they run on the 600, live near the route and have never seen one on it.
Quote from: Lukeee on October 26, 2012, 02:55:18 PM
Does anybody know the times they run on the 600, live near the route and have never seen one on it.
Try looking around 20 minutes in front of the Connect service - that's if it hasn't got 'lost' again!
Quote from: Lukeee on October 26, 2012, 02:55:18 PM
Does anybody know the times they run on the 600, live near the route and have never seen one on it.
Are you asking so you know what to avoid? :P
Quote from: nx4737 on October 27, 2012, 04:09:58 AM
Quote from: Lukeee on October 26, 2012, 02:55:18 PM
Does anybody know the times they run on the 600, live near the route and have never seen one on it.
Are you asking so you know what to avoid? :P
I am indeed :D
Quote from: NEL111P on October 26, 2012, 08:02:20 PM
Quote from: Lukeee on October 26, 2012, 02:55:18 PM
Does anybody know the times they run on the 600, live near the route and have never seen one on it.
Try looking around 20 minutes in front of the Connect service - that's if it hasn't got 'lost' again!
Sounds about right that does, mind you i remember seeing a BCC Lance lost on the 600 years ago with a bus full of bermused pensioners.
No sign of it for the hour I was in Erdington today
Quote from: Tony on October 27, 2012, 09:03:53 PM
No sign of it for the hour I was in Erdington today
You do surprise me!
It has been known to appear though, this was their 1st day of operation:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/58130037@N02/8094528634/in/photostream
Been trying to post this for while, but couldn't attach the picture due to the issues Tony has now resolved
The accident happened last Friday, the GRS Dart ploughed in to the back of my neighbours stationary HGV waiting to turn right in Hamstead, the bus driver apparently saw the HGV but couldn't stop in time; the bus driver was 74 years old. Quite a nasty smash, I understand both my neighbour and a number of people on the bus were hurt, mainly whiplash injuries etc
Quote from: Winston on June 12, 2013, 11:28:01 PM
Been trying to post this for while, but couldn't attach the picture due to the issues Tony has now resolved
The accident happened last Friday, the GRS Dart ploughed in to the back of my neighbours stationary HGV waiting to turn right in Hamstead, the bus driver apparently saw the HGV but couldn't stop in time; the bus driver was 74 years old. Quite a nasty smash, I understand both my neighbour and a number of people on the bus were hurt, mainly whiplash injuries etc
Mr. Ram I believe it is as locals refer
Hes always on usuailly the 9:15am 16 journey
Quote from: vinh1000 on June 13, 2013, 06:36:49 AM
Quote from: Winston on June 12, 2013, 11:28:01 PM
Been trying to post this for while, but couldn't attach the picture due to the issues Tony has now resolved
The accident happened last Friday, the GRS Dart ploughed in to the back of my neighbours stationary HGV waiting to turn right in Hamstead, the bus driver apparently saw the HGV but couldn't stop in time; the bus driver was 74 years old. Quite a nasty smash, I understand both my neighbour and a number of people on the bus were hurt, mainly whiplash injuries etc
Mr. Ram I believe it is as locals refer
Hes always on usuailly the 9:15am 16 journey
Not sure what time of day it was, I think the photo was posted lunchtime/mid afternoon on FB?
Hope those hurt r now ok I have 2 questions
Why was a 74 year old driving a bus &
How fast was the bus going as he saw the hgv but couldn't
Stop
Quote from: Winston on June 13, 2013, 09:27:20 AM
Quote from: vinh1000 on June 13, 2013, 06:36:49 AM
Quote from: Winston on June 12, 2013, 11:28:01 PM
Been trying to post this for while, but couldn't attach the picture due to the issues Tony has now resolved
The accident happened last Friday, the GRS Dart ploughed in to the back of my neighbours stationary HGV waiting to turn right in Hamstead, the bus driver apparently saw the HGV but couldn't stop in time; the bus driver was 74 years old. Quite a nasty smash, I understand both my neighbour and a number of people on the bus were hurt, mainly whiplash injuries etc
Mr. Ram I believe it is as locals refer
Hes always on usuailly the 9:15am 16 journey
Not sure what time of day it was, I think the photo was posted lunchtime/mid afternoon on FB?
Any one know what has happened to the
bus now as my friend said it's not at their
yard
Whats wrong with a 74 year old driving a bus?
I would imagine that the bus will be scrapped and another dart bought. Anyway, this isn't really of much importance. What is important is that the driver and any passengers are unhurt and I hope that this is the case or if not that they recover well.
Quote from: Solo1 on June 14, 2013, 07:09:38 AM
...Why was a 74 year old driving a bus..
There is no age limit to PCV driving, as long as you pass the medical every year after 65 years old you can carry on. Please dont show age discrimination.
Unidentified bus on 16 T201 xxx
Believe it is GRS Travel's latest addition to their fleet
Quote from: vinh1000 on July 06, 2013, 01:46:42 PM
Unidentified bus on 16 T201 xxx
Believe it is GRS Travel's latest addition to their fleet
You may well have seen Dart P 201 OLX in sky blue / white livery which came from the AMPM fleet and they have been operating for a year or more now.
Quote from: fleetline6477 on July 06, 2013, 06:02:33 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on July 06, 2013, 01:46:42 PM
Unidentified bus on 16 T201 xxx
Believe it is GRS Travel's latest addition to their fleet
You may well have seen Dart P 201 OLX in sky blue / white livery which came from the AMPM fleet and they have been operating for a year or more now.
Incorrect
It was in brown and red
lol ;)
Quote from: vinh1000 on July 06, 2013, 06:03:27 PM
Quote from: fleetline6477 on July 06, 2013, 06:02:33 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on July 06, 2013, 01:46:42 PM
Unidentified bus on 16 T201 xxx
Believe it is GRS Travel's latest addition to their fleet
You may well have seen Dart P 201 OLX in sky blue / white livery which came from the AMPM fleet and they have been operating for a year or more now.
Incorrect
It was in brown and red
lol ;)
Was It Marshall bodied? The only Dart in the country I know of with a reg starting T201 is T201 AFM. New to Warrington, but latterly with Charlton Minicoaches of Ormskirk
Quote from: Tony on July 06, 2013, 07:11:17 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on July 06, 2013, 06:03:27 PM
Quote from: fleetline6477 on July 06, 2013, 06:02:33 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on July 06, 2013, 01:46:42 PM
Unidentified bus on 16 T201 xxx
Believe it is GRS Travel's latest addition to their fleet
You may well have seen Dart P 201 OLX in sky blue / white livery which came from the AMPM fleet and they have been operating for a year or more now.
Incorrect
It was in brown and red
lol ;)
Was It Marshall bodied? The only Dart in the country I know of with a reg starting T201 is T201 AFM. New to Warrington, but latterly with Charlton Minicoaches of Ormskirk
Yes it was. I saw one on the 16 this afternoon, only from the side. It was still in Network Warrington livery
according to Trident4370 GRS have got two new Marshall's, ones out and about now and the other should be soon :)
Quote from: BU07 LGO on July 07, 2013, 02:53:48 PM
according to Trident4370 GRS have got two new Marshall's, ones out and about now and the other should be soon :)
Yes, he told me he was buying two darts. I suspect the other is twin T202 AFM which follows T201 around!
Must admit I am quite a fan of GRS-they do well on the 16 and have built up a loyal following, helped by really friendly drivers and cant wait to go on one on the 16 as I have never been on a marshall bodied dart
Quote from: Peter123 on July 07, 2013, 04:56:28 PM
Must admit I am quite a fan of GRS-they do well on the 16 and have built up a loyal following, helped by really friendly drivers and cant wait to go on one on the 16 as I have never been on a marshall bodied dart
I hope you are not very tall. Marshall darts never seem to have much leg room
Tony
Quote from: Tony on July 07, 2013, 04:58:25 PM
Quote from: Peter123 on July 07, 2013, 04:56:28 PM
Must admit I am quite a fan of GRS-they do well on the 16 and have built up a loyal following, helped by really friendly drivers and cant wait to go on one on the 16 as I have never been on a marshall bodied dart
I hope you are not very tall. Marshall darts never seem to have much leg room
Tony
Haha Ive heard there were quality issues with some marshall bodies but with darts I always sit on one of the sideways seats near the front so legroom isnt an issue.
how do GRS manage to get away with running there buses in Birmingham city centre, surely they don't comply with the euro 3 regulations?
Saw T201AFM today sporting fleet No 1
It's not just that Danny, they break other SQP rules. Buses are in former operators colours they don't have destinations on several buses & they are not using they new wayfarer tgx machines.
Quote from: Steveminor on July 09, 2013, 09:15:59 PM
It's not just that Danny, they break other SQP rules. Buses are in former operators colours they don't have destinations on several buses & they are not using they new wayfarer tgx machines.
Fair few don't use Wayfarer 3 sadly
I know first dont but who else dont?
Hi-Ride
Quote from: dannygill on July 10, 2013, 02:21:22 AM
I know first dont but who else dont?
I believe Joe's Travel don't either (who also if doing 75E journey shoe 11A on blinds incorrect lol)
First have a similar system (the new worcester ones are different now)
Sunny Travel also?
Thandi Buses maybe not have wayfarer
Select Buses and Coastal Liner don't either I believe likewise central logistics/Redwing
Select have Almex machines similar to what first potteries have had
T202AFM seen in grs yard at holloway bank.john
Noticed this evening that GRS vehicles are parked up in Joe's Travel's yard in Bilston.
Quote from: 37351ml on July 21, 2013, 09:35:08 AM
T202AFM seen in grs yard at holloway bank.john
Now in service
http://wmbusphotos.com/GRS/T202AFM.html
Sorry If I need updating but I havent seen any of their buses recently and the yard at Hill Top has been empy for a while, have they moved or given up?
Quote from: 4006 on August 14, 2013, 01:33:59 AM
Sorry If I need updating but I havent seen any of their buses recently and the yard at Hill Top has been empy for a while, have they moved or given up?
http://wmbusphotos.com/forum/index.php?topic=184.msg53549#msg53549
Why have GRS moved to Joes Travel yard
GRS did share their yard in Holloway Bank with a car wash and a number of old cars and other tat. I think he possibly rented the far corner. Also when coming from Hill Top (which is the direction buses come from) they have to go right around the small island and enter the yard as though they have come from Wednesbury - it is a very tight and potentially dangerous entrance / exit sitting right on that island.
Joe's Travel does have a board outside advertising some mechanical facilities so it could be GRS has switched provider form VIP to Joe's - only a theory.
Anyone know what time the last 16 bus ran by GRS, I was in town today at 20:07 on the 997 an see a GRS still working the 16, I thought they finished at 6
Quote from: Nathan4775 on September 07, 2013, 09:07:29 PM
Anyone know what time the last 16 bus ran by GRS, I was in town today at 20:07 on the 997 an see a GRS still working the 16, I thought they finished at 6
Strange
Maybe ask the gaffa himself? 07737 485593
Quote from: vinh1000 on September 07, 2013, 09:32:23 PM
Quote from: Nathan4775 on September 07, 2013, 09:07:29 PM
Anyone know what time the last 16 bus ran by GRS, I was in town today at 20:07 on the 997 an see a GRS still working the 16, I thought they finished at 6
Strange
Maybe ask the gaffa himself? 07737 485593
;D
GRS operate quite late on into the evening on the 16 for quite a while now not sure how late though.
Quote from: Ash on September 07, 2013, 10:07:07 PM
GRS operate quite late on into the evening on the 16 for quite a while now not sure how late though.
Thats the first time ive GRS around 20:00PM, do Diamond finish earlier or late than GRS
Diamond finish a lot earlier the last departure from Birmingham is at 18:19 but at 18:51 on a Sunday.
Quote from: Nathan4775 on September 07, 2013, 10:08:38 PM
Quote from: Ash on September 07, 2013, 10:07:07 PM
GRS operate quite late on into the evening on the 16 for quite a while now not sure how late though.
Thats the first time ive GRS around 20:00PM, do Diamond finish earlier or late than GRS
GRS finish whenever the driver decides he wants to go home.
According to the NWM GRS Timetable, the last journey on a Saturday departs City at 19:00 arriving at Hamstead for 19:31.
They were operating on Bank Holiday Monday at around 2130 hours in City so I presume the NWM timetable is incorrect
Quote from: gac_uk on September 08, 2013, 07:52:26 AM
They were operating on Bank Holiday Monday at around 2130 hours in City so I presume the NWM timetable is incorrect
As matt said they run to their own timetable and finish whenever they feel so they could finish at 6 or stay out till after 10!
Quote from: Trident 4609 on September 08, 2013, 08:31:40 AM
Quote from: gac_uk on September 08, 2013, 07:52:26 AM
They were operating on Bank Holiday Monday at around 2130 hours in City so I presume the NWM timetable is incorrect
As matt said they run to their own timetable and finish whenever they feel so they could finish at 6 or stay out till after 10!
Why dont GRS have a standard timetable
If they are running to there own timetable what about the
drivers hours
Quote from: Solo1 on September 08, 2013, 10:57:46 AM
If they are running to there own timetable what about the
drivers hours
Out the window I guess
in the bus stops is there a timetable that indicates when a GRS bus is due or does it just say every 1 - 6 minutes
Quote from: Nathan4775 on September 09, 2013, 09:44:39 AM
in the bus stops is there a timetable that indicates when a GRS bus is due or does it just say every 1 - 6 minutes
From memory the timetables have NX, diamond and GRS all lumped in together. Never really pay attention to the timetable in the bus stop if I'm getting the 16, cause I know they're often enough to not have to bother, even sundays!
GRS now got wayfarers :-) bye to the old wayfarer 2/3 for another operator
Since when do GRS operate the 16 at 9:30pm?
Depends what number comes up when he draws cards in the morning.
(He's f***ed) if he pulls out a jack queen or king cause mickeys hands don't point to any of those times)
One of grs travels red single broken down
on corner of bull ring by Selfridges causing
traffic problems saw at 1 still there 1 hour
later
Quote from: Solo1 on December 21, 2013, 03:27:13 PM
One of grs travels red single broken down
on corner of bull ring by Selfridges causing
traffic problems saw at 1 still there 1 hour
later
'R128 RLY'. Completely blocking the entrance to the bus lane, still there around 3.30pm
It had a problem a while ago I beleive when the driver noticed brake pressure was in red zone
Merged btw
Possible connection with a Joes Travel transit van I saw lurking around Moor Street this afternoon?
Quote from: John on December 21, 2013, 04:14:52 PM
Quote from: Solo1 on December 21, 2013, 03:27:13 PM
One of grs travels red single broken down
on corner of bull ring by Selfridges causing
traffic problems saw at 1 still there 1 hour
later
'R128 RLY'. Completely blocking the entrance to the bus lane, still there around 3.30pm
Presumably what I heard on the radios on the NX bus I was on (I was on a WN59 but it had a general call for services using a bus lane in this case I presume they were talking about Moor St) which caused disruption to NX buses
Public Inquiry (47704) to be held at The Public Inquiry Room, 38 George Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 1PL, on 09 January 2014 commencing at 10:30(Previous Publication:(2190) )
PD1084253 SN
GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL
38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP , WEST BROMWICH B70 0PP
PSV - S17 - Consideration of disciplinary action under Section 17 (The Public Passenger Vehicles Act 1981)
PSV - Sch.3 - Consideration of Transport Managers Repute under Schedule 3 (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)
Not sure what's it all about?
I thought VIP would be getting the PI.
what does the following all mean please as there is an operator in the stoke area also in for the same thanks
PSV - S17 - Consideration of disciplinary action under Section 17 (The Public Passenger Vehicles Act 1981)
Revocation, suspension etc. of licences.
PSV - Sch.3 - Consideration of Transport Managers Repute under Schedule 3 (The Public Passenger Vehicles Act 1981)
PSV - S28 - Consideration of disciplinary action under Section 28 (The Transport Act 1985)
Power to disqualify PSV operators.
PSV - S26 - Consideration of disciplinary action under Section 26 (The Transport Act 1985)
Conditions attached to PSV operator's licence.
PSV - S111 - Consideration of disciplinary action under Section 111 (The Transport Act 1985)
Unregistered and unreliable local services; reduction of fuel duty grant.
Thats what I found from a Google search. Correct me if i!m wrong! ::)
That's a lot to answer for!!!!!!!
Would say they are in the s**t.
What about GRS Travel running in other operators
livery like the 2 x ampm & the x warrington
one also some have no blinds Will that be included in the pi
aswell or is that a matter for network westmidlands
Quote from: Solo1 on December 29, 2013, 02:16:38 PM
What about GRS Travel running in other operators
livery like the 2 x ampm & the x warrington
one also some have no blinds Will that be included in the pi
aswell or is that a matter for network westmidlands
This can not be an issue, as a certain other operator runs buses will full fleetnames and route branding of the old operator on them and have done for years now
AE59 EHR is still operating in the old Whippet livery too.
But the other operator isn't breaking SQP rules
Quote from: Steveminor on December 29, 2013, 03:43:28 PM
But the other operator isn't breaking SQP rules
This wouldn't cause the traffic commissioner to intervene though would it? It would surely just be a matter for centro. So comments about fleetnames etc are a bit irrelevant and to be fair to GRS the fleet looks fine.
Wonder if the bit about unregistered and unreliable local services has to do with them running evenings etc as mentioned on here on a seemingly random basis or not running to time. Which seems strange as in my experience GRS seem to just plod round the 16 really slowly, holding back and presumably running to time?
They'll probaly merge with Joes
If I am correct SQP breaches can be investigated by the traffic commissioner
Quote from: Dylan4579 on December 29, 2013, 04:04:18 PM
They'll probaly merge with Joes
That's really not a bad call Dylan as they already seem to share depot space and exchange vehicles. Still surprised GRS chose the 16 to compete on...
And wasn't aware of that trainbasher but thanks for the info :)
Where is the GRS depot these days as the old place by potters lane in wednesbury does not seem to be used anymore.
Quote from: DiamondDart on December 29, 2013, 04:08:02 PM
Quote from: Dylan4579 on December 29, 2013, 04:04:18 PM
They'll probaly merge with Joes
That's really not a bad call Dylan as they already seem to share depot space and exchange vehicles. Still surprised GRS chose the 16 to compete on...
And wasn't aware of that trainbasher but thanks for the info :)
The guy who owns GRS worked for BCC / Diamond for several years on the 16 and I think was known to passengers as did the old guy with the trilby hat who sadly had the RTA a few months back. maybe that was the reason. When they first started they ran all day as 16A to Scott Arms which was trying something a bit different.
When an operator signs up to the SQP they are signing the undertakings with both centro & the tc. Any breaches will firstly be dealt with by centro any continuous breaches will be reported by centro to the tc. It is then upto the tc to decide what action to take & I believe loss of BSOG is one of the lighter fines that can be given with worst cases being the loss of the TMs repute.
Quote from: 37351ml on December 29, 2013, 07:34:05 PM
Where is the GRS depot these days as the old place by potters lane in wednesbury does not seem to be used anymore.
Just before you get to Bilston on the 39/79 heading towards Wolverhampton
They share it with Joe's Travel!!!!!!!!!!!!
Any updates on the public inquiry?
From what I hear he has to remove 2 buses from the 16
Quote from: Steveminor on January 10, 2014, 10:49:02 AM
From what I hear he has to remove 2 buses from the 16
Good news for Diamond then. Clearly they were found to have done something wrong then? Anyone know what it was?
It could be that, as his buses are Euro 2, he should not be running any more than every 30 mins.
Quote from: John on December 29, 2013, 02:34:22 PM
Quote from: Solo1 on December 29, 2013, 02:16:38 PM
What about GRS Travel running in other operators
livery like the 2 x ampm & the x warrington
one also some have no blinds Will that be included in the pi
aswell or is that a matter for network westmidlands
This can not be an issue, as a certain other operator runs buses will full fleetnames and route branding of the old operator on them and have done for years now
The 'no blinds' bit can, as it is classed as a 'non-compliant' journey.
I notice two of their buses in red have now obtained electronic blinds
Is this a result of TC outcome?
Public Inquiry (47704) held at The Public Inquiry Room, 38 George Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 1PL on 09 January 2014 at 10:30 hours
(Previous Publication:(2192)
PD1084253 SN
GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL
38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP , WEST BROMWICH B70 0PP
- That the licence is reduced from 5 vehicles to 4 vehicles with effect from 14 January 2014;
- That the operator's repute is retained albeit tarnished;
- That the operator no longer satisfies the requirement of professional competence under Section 17(1)(a) and 14ZA(3)(b) of the Act as his TM has lost his good repute and professional competence as a Transport Manager.
- That the operator is granted a period of 3 months grace to appoint a new Transport Manager;
- That adverse findings are made out under Sections 17(3)(a), (aa), (b), (c) and (e) of the Act;
- That no adverse findings are made out on effective and stable establishment and financial standing;
- That adverse findings are also made out under Sections 26(1)(a), (b) and (c) of the 1985 Act and that a financial penalty of £2,750 is imposed (£550 x 5) under Section 155 of the Transport Act 2000, which is to be made payable to the 'Secretary of State'. The fine is to be paid in full within 3 months and failure to do so goes towards the repute of the operator;
- That an order is made out that by 12 January 2014 all PSV vehicles will run in accordance with the Statutory Quality Partnership Scheme as a complementary (compared with core) service as defined in the Birmingham SQP scheme. This means that the operator will not be departing from the area of the SQP more than twice an hour, other SQP rules will continue to apply;
- That formally the short notice variation of registered timetable is approved by the Traffic Commissioner w.e.f Sunday 12 January 2014 – slots are to be agreed with Centro.
Other decisions...TM Enquiry
TM Public Inquiry (EpisodeId:2302 DecisionId:1402) for GURDAVER RAM held at The PI Room (Birmingham) 38 George Road Edgbaston Birmingham B15 1PL, on 09 January 2014 at 10:30 (Previous Publication:(6093))
Declared Unfit under Article 6 of Regulation (EC) No 1071/2009
I can't see how they can allow Mr. Ram to carry on as transport manager for three months - or am I misunderstanding the decision.
Great news for diamond on the 16 then!
Quote from: DiamondDart on January 24, 2014, 11:34:29 PM
Great news for diamond on the 16 then!
Long Acre should take the opportunity to put out better buses over Solos which can frequently appear on the route
Quote from: Winston on January 24, 2014, 11:48:05 PM
Quote from: DiamondDart on January 24, 2014, 11:34:29 PM
Great news for diamond on the 16 then!
Long Acre should take the opportunity to put out better buses over Solos which can frequently appear on the route
I agree there but more longer vehicles would have to be acquired for this to even be a possibility and I would have thought the 4/4H, 42, 43 etc are more likely recipients of newer long buses. Unless they could get some more eclipses/centros and then all of the cadets could move over to Long Acre repainted and refurbed for the 50/16 and there would probably be enough for other routes as well, including some tendered routes whose buses go onto the 108 where extra capacity is also apparently needed.
If you got a out of date pass , nx pass or in one case a guy who used a piece of paper swiped it over the reader and nothing happened as if it were a concessionary card grs is the bus for you
Literally was a walk on service
Didn't even need to swipe my swift or anything :)
Quote from: vinh1000 on February 01, 2014, 03:18:39 PM
If you got a out of date pass , nx pass or in one case a guy who used a piece of paper swiped it over the reader and nothing happened as if it were a concessionary card grs is the bus for you
Literally was a walk on service
Didn't even need to swipe my swift or anything :)
I hope you put your SWIFT card on the reader anyway, just for your own peace of mind.
Quote from: Stu on February 01, 2014, 05:54:36 PM
Quote from: vinh1000 on February 01, 2014, 03:18:39 PM
If you got a out of date pass , nx pass or in one case a guy who used a piece of paper swiped it over the reader and nothing happened as if it were a concessionary card grs is the bus for you
Literally was a walk on service
Didn't even need to swipe my swift or anything :)
I hope you put your SWIFT card on the reader anyway, just for your own peace of mind.
Yes but went RED
one of the 2 x ampm buses now in fleet livery http://www.flickr.com/photos/stanjack/12548083233/
PD1084253/4 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Cancellation Accepted: Operating between Hamstead and Birmingham given service number 16 effective from 08-Apr-2014.
PD1084253/5 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: DUDLEY BUS STATION
Finish Point: STOURBRIDGE BUS STATION
Via:
Service Number: 246
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 08-APR-2014
Other Details: MONDAY TO SATURDAY EVERY TWENTY MINUTES
Quote from: Winston on February 17, 2014, 12:00:14 PM
PD1084253/5 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: DUDLEY BUS STATION
Finish Point: STOURBRIDGE BUS STATION
Via:
Service Number: 246
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 08-APR-2014
Other Details: MONDAY TO SATURDAY EVERY TWENTY MINUTES
Now that is a good choice of route to compete on!! Means of course that their buses don't have to comply with the sqbp rules. Hopefully diamond will do better on the 16 as a result...
Great, we got there rubbish coming to Stourbridge!!!
Quote from: Winston on February 17, 2014, 12:00:14 PM
PD1084253/5 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: DUDLEY BUS STATION
Finish Point: STOURBRIDGE BUS STATION
Via:
Service Number: 246
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 08-APR-2014
Other Details: MONDAY TO SATURDAY EVERY TWENTY MINUTES
AMPM had a bash at running on the 246, didn't carry many passengers and was only fairly short lived as I remember.
They did of course have far longer dead mileage from Tyseley as opposed to Bilston.
I'm looking forward to using them on my commute home from work each day
Am pm drivers only ever ran their mileage while I was there, however since the other routes were so far away I could be in Dudley often enough to look after 2 buses. So the drivers would often cut mileage or just park up. When I was there takings were significantly higher than even the 14 but as has been said the dead mileage was quite significant
When am/pm did the 246 there should have been two buses on but very regular there was only one on some days there was none on
And whats the odds that NXWM will give a few extras just to improve passenger provision? :-)
Quote from: Winston on February 17, 2014, 12:00:14 PM
PD1084253/5 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: DUDLEY BUS STATION
Finish Point: STOURBRIDGE BUS STATION
Via:
Service Number: 246
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 08-APR-2014
Other Details: MONDAY TO SATURDAY EVERY TWENTY MINUTES
I understood that following the recent Traffic Commissioner ruling that Gurdaver Ram had been banned from acting as Transport Manager. Doesn't that mean that a name other than his should appear on the licence?
Quote from: fleetline6477 on March 18, 2014, 10:04:59 PM
Quote from: Winston on February 17, 2014, 12:00:14 PM
PD1084253/5 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: DUDLEY BUS STATION
Finish Point: STOURBRIDGE BUS STATION
Via:
Service Number: 246
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 08-APR-2014
Other Details: MONDAY TO SATURDAY EVERY TWENTY MINUTES
I understood that following the recent Traffic Commissioner ruling that Gurdaver Ram had been banned from acting as Transport Manager. Doesn't that mean that a name other than his should appear on the licence?
not on service applications because GRS is not a limited company so the license will remin in the name Gurdaver Ram. Vosa currently does not record a Transport Manager, so is presumably allowing him some grace to find a new one
Quote from: Winston on February 17, 2014, 12:00:14 PM
PD1084253/5 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: DUDLEY BUS STATION
Finish Point: STOURBRIDGE BUS STATION
Via:
Service Number: 246
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 08-APR-2014
Other Details: MONDAY TO SATURDAY EVERY TWENTY MINUTES
Not long now...odds on it going missing after a few days (like the 600!)?
Just found this on facebook ' What's with the busses today? The 246 has old busses with different drivers who were telling people to get on for free? '
Quote from: Andrew on April 08, 2014, 06:28:30 PM
Just found this on facebook ' What's with the busses today? The 246 has old busses with different drivers who were telling people to get on for free? '
Both 202s (t202 and p202) have been spotted on it
Quote from: Andrew on April 08, 2014, 06:28:30 PM
Just found this on facebook ' What's with the busses today? The 246 has old busses with different drivers who were telling people to get on for free? '
Glad to see grs have started and have done what tgb and diamond did in the past. Weirdly though in the case of diamond on the 301 it was until the registration kicked in whereas according to the registration listed by trainbasher they should be able to charge as the registration is active. Unless it is a marketing technique... Good luck to them I say and I hope they do well on there. They've left the 16 now haven't they?
Nothing out of the ordinary yet?
Quote from: Matt on April 08, 2014, 06:36:13 PM
Nothing out of the ordinary yet?
Does the fact it's running count as out of the ordinary?
Or there being no visible timetable on Centros site count?
:)
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 08, 2014, 06:43:54 PM
Quote from: Matt on April 08, 2014, 06:36:13 PM
Nothing out of the ordinary yet?
Does the fact it's running count as out of the ordinary?
Or there being no visible timetable on Centros site count?
:)
Better than tgbs wrong timetables tho...
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 08, 2014, 06:43:54 PM
Quote from: Matt on April 08, 2014, 06:36:13 PM
Nothing out of the ordinary yet?
Does the fact it's running count as out of the ordinary?
Or there being no visible timetable on Centros site count?
:)
The former yes, the latter no!
Noticed a GRS bus still on the 16 earlier :/ hmm
Seen a couple of the GRS buses on the 246 yesterday, they seemed to be doing quite well looking at the amount of passengers on them, then again if they are letting people on for free that would probably explain that one. Best of luck to them though, hope they can make the 246 work for them 8)
Quote from: Metrorider on April 09, 2014, 09:27:29 AM
Seen a couple of the GRS buses on the 246 yesterday, they seemed to be doing quite well looking at the amount of passengers on them, then again if they are letting people on for free that would probably explain that one. Best of luck to them though, hope they can make the 246 work for them 8)
They didn't offer to let me on for free today, theres a red p reg dart and is it a marshall bodied dart ?
Quote from: Metrorider on April 09, 2014, 09:27:29 AM
Seen a couple of the GRS buses on the 246 yesterday, they seemed to be doing quite well looking at the amount of passengers on them, then again if they are letting people on for free that would probably explain that one. Best of luck to them though, hope they can make the 246 work for them 8)
I Live on the 246 route and seen not 1 yesterday but this i have seen on off the dart today out off my window and just a few people on the bus
Been told they forget to go in Russell's hall hospital when it's busy at 1400 in both directions so already missing part of the toute out
Quote from: karl724223 on April 10, 2014, 08:54:27 PM
Been told they forget to go in Russell's hall hospital when it's busy at 1400 in both directions so already missing part of the toute out
And their timekeeping is atrocious...9 down off Stourbridge on the 1848...even after his 6 min layover on the X96 stand yesterday.
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 10, 2014, 09:00:24 PM
Quote from: karl724223 on April 10, 2014, 08:54:27 PM
Been told they forget to go in Russell's hall hospital when it's busy at 1400 in both directions so already missing part of the toute out
And their timekeeping is atrocious...9 down off Stourbridge on the 1848...even after his 6 min layover on the X96 stand yesterday.
Come on! They've only been on the route a couple of days. There will inevitably be some timekeeping issues to resolve as out of service tometable predictions are never going to correspond with the reality in service with traffic and passengers etc.
Quote from: DiamondDart on April 10, 2014, 09:07:51 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 10, 2014, 09:00:24 PM
Quote from: karl724223 on April 10, 2014, 08:54:27 PM
Been told they forget to go in Russell's hall hospital when it's busy at 1400 in both directions so already missing part of the toute out
And their timekeeping is atrocious...9 down off Stourbridge on the 1848...even after his 6 min layover on the X96 stand yesterday.
Come on! They've only been on the route a couple of days. There will inevitably be some timekeeping issues to resolve as out of service tometable predictions are never going to correspond with the reality in service with traffic and passengers etc.
So you call a 6 minute timetabled layover which he did plus a extra 9 mins because he was waiting to pull out before a NX bus was due out
Ie timetabled arrival (according to the driver) 1842, actual arrival 1840, timetabled departure (according to the driver) 1848, actual departure 1857
I thought the 246 was Mon - Fri? I've just seen T202 AFM on there.
Quote from: Matt on April 12, 2014, 10:23:05 AM
I thought the 246 was Mon - Fri? I've just seen T202 AFM on there.
Registration is Mon-Sat
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 12, 2014, 10:51:18 AM
Quote from: Matt on April 12, 2014, 10:23:05 AM
I thought the 246 was Mon - Fri? I've just seen T202 AFM on there.
Registration is Mon-Sat
Hmm. Must be thinking of something else.
By 1030 the centro supervisor up dudley had booked grs for not having ticket machines fitted to buses not running to time not having destination blinds on one bus and having a paper 246 in the window of another
Quote from: karl724223 on April 12, 2014, 09:00:21 PM
By 1030 the centro supervisor up dudley had booked grs for not having ticket machines fitted to buses not running to time not having destination blinds on one bus and having a paper 246 in the window of another
Good start!!!!
Hang on a second, i thought that Centro provided all bus companies (except NE) with ticket machines, so if they weren't fitted in the buses, where were they???
I thought it was up to the operator to have their own ticket machine , buses in livery& blinds I know before u say cost they are quicker enough to buy a bus & run without them
Quote from: karl724223 on April 12, 2014, 09:00:21 PM
By 1030 the centro supervisor up dudley had booked grs for not having ticket machines fitted to buses not running to time not having destination blinds on one bus and having a paper 246 in the window of another
They would have a field day if centro looked after telford bus stn, arriva run all the time with out a blind working!
Here's a stupid question.... Is there a copy of the 246 GRS timetable available? Can't find it on NWM website.
Quote from: the trainbasher on March 30, 2014, 12:46:41 AM
Quote from: Winston on February 17, 2014, 12:00:14 PM
PD1084253/5 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: DUDLEY BUS STATION
Finish Point: STOURBRIDGE BUS STATION
Via:
Service Number: 246
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 08-APR-2014
Other Details: MONDAY TO SATURDAY EVERY TWENTY MINUTES
Not long now...odds on it going missing after a few days (like the 600!)?
Well...it's lasted 10 days and counting....
From what I am told he is taking 3x as much as on the 16, so I don't think he'll be coming off the 246 any time soon
The driver of the red dart today is letting people on for free again
there blue and white dart broke down.. towed away from stour bus station tonight
Interestingly, saw a GRS bus on the 246 in Stourbridge bus station this morning, there was a queue of around 20 people waiting but only one got on the bus. As soon as it had left, an NE 246 came in and everyone got on that.
Saw an advert on the bus today 'follow us on twitter / Facebook' Facebook.com/grstravelblackcountry Only got 4/5 likes so far. Don't know what the twitter link is.... Can't find it!
https://www.facebook.com/grstravelblackcountry
Love it! Cover photo shows tatty old bus with paper route number in windscreen, and profile pic shows route they no longer operate! Classy! :D
(Liked as my page, just for amusement!)
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on April 22, 2014, 02:52:21 PM
Interestingly, saw a GRS bus on the 246 in Stourbridge bus station this morning, there was a queue of around 20 people waiting but only one got on the bus. As soon as it had left, an NE 246 came in and everyone got on that.
This always happens, it's sort of similar to when VIP ran the 101. If one shows up, a NX one is not far behind! :D ::)
Has this thread just turned into us just slagging off pointing out the faults with grs
Intrestingly on the 246 I saw a grs travel dart with about 9 people on and a paper number in the side screen there was a paper bus number
When did grs travel start the 246 ?
Quote from: Daniel w on April 26, 2014, 08:12:59 PM
Intrestingly on the 246 I saw a grs travel dart with about 9 people on and a paper number in the side screen there was a paper bus number
When did grs travel start the 246 ?
Early April Daniel, when they pulled off the 16 in Birmingham.
I don't like keep slatting operators, but would have thought they would have got the destination displays sorted out by now, seeing bits of paper stuck in the windows doesn't look very professional.
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on April 26, 2014, 08:17:12 PM
Quote from: Daniel w on April 26, 2014, 08:12:59 PM
Intrestingly on the 246 I saw a grs travel dart with about 9 people on and a paper number in the side screen there was a paper bus number
When did grs travel start the 246 ?
Early April Daniel, when they pulled off the 16 in Birmingham.
I don't like keep slatting operators, but would have thought they would have got the destination displays sorted out by now, seeing bits of paper stuck in the windows doesn't look very professional.
Although you said a bout the destination displays the front was led screened but the side by the doors was a paper number and the back nothing at all
wonder how long the operator will last though?
Quote from: Daniel w on April 26, 2014, 08:20:28 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on April 26, 2014, 08:17:12 PM
Quote from: Daniel w on April 26, 2014, 08:12:59 PM
Intrestingly on the 246 I saw a grs travel dart with about 9 people on and a paper number in the side screen there was a paper bus number
When did grs travel start the 246 ?
Early April Daniel, when they pulled off the 16 in Birmingham.
I don't like keep slatting operators, but would have thought they would have got the destination displays sorted out by now, seeing bits of paper stuck in the windows doesn't look very professional.
Although you said a bout the destination displays the front was led screened but the side by the doors was a paper number and the back nothing at all
wonder how long the operator will last though?
The one i saw in Stourbridge this morning had a paper 246 in the front window.
How long they will last for is a difficult one, it was mentioned on here that they are doing better on this route than they were on the 16, not surprising considering that NE & Diamond are also on the 16. If they are serious on wanting to compete on the 246, then they need to get all the destination screens working, smarten there buses up a bit and maybe even up there frequency slightly.
Looking at it, the Marshall Dart has a BrightTech destination display system
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 26, 2014, 11:03:31 PM
Looking at it, the Marshall Dart has a BrightTech destination display system
Whats that??
Quote from: NXDom on April 27, 2014, 06:32:06 AM
Quote from: the trainbasher on April 26, 2014, 11:03:31 PM
Looking at it, the Marshall Dart has a BrightTech destination display system
Whats that??
http://www.candella-group.co.uk/
T202 AFM currently blocking stand S and the lane that runs down the side of it in Dudley bus station
I have been reliably informed that GRS are serious about staying on the 246. They have had some timetable issues with Centro but that has now been resolved. GRS also has plans to expand onto other services around Dudley in the near future. They have recently acquired 1 or maybe 2 low floor vehicles previously with Joes Travel (which have recently had their licence surrendered). Work is being carried out on these buses and once they have recruited enough drivers, keep your eyes open for them on route 222.
222 is a good call! Quite a lot of elderly residents use it round Russell's Hall, Pensnett and imagine there are possibly a greater amount of fare paying passengers that use it as the 246 is a lot of students/workers who travel to Stourbridge who have Travelcards.
It always seems to be quite busy as well as NXWM over the last few years have reduced the frequency twice leading in some cases for some quite crowded buses leaving Dudley
GRS were out on the 246 today with R182YLA. It only had one passenger on board when approaching Russells Hall from Dudley with a NXWM Trident about a 1min behind
Quote from: Winston on May 05, 2014, 03:15:34 PM
GRS were out on the 246 today with R182YLA. It only had one passenger on board when approaching Russells Hall from Dudley with a NXWM Trident about a 1min behind
I thought it was R182VLA but I could be wrong (always get Y's and V's mixed up!)
Quote from: Matt on May 05, 2014, 04:14:22 PM
Quote from: Winston on May 05, 2014, 03:15:34 PM
GRS were out on the 246 today with R182YLA. It only had one passenger on board when approaching Russells Hall from Dudley with a NXWM Trident about a 1min behind
I thought it was R182VLA but I could be wrong (always get Y's and V's mixed up!)
Ta, no it's me, it should have been
R182VLA
P202 OLX also on 246 - just left Stourbridge without even going into the bus station
Are they registered to run a service on a bank holiday Monday ????
Quote from: karl724223 on May 05, 2014, 08:21:58 PM
Are they registered to run a service on a bank holiday Monday ????
I don't think so
Quote from: Matt on May 05, 2014, 08:30:37 PM
Quote from: karl724223 on May 05, 2014, 08:21:58 PM
Are they registered to run a service on a bank holiday Monday ????
I don't think so
They are registered to run Mon - Sat every 20 mins, whether the fact it makes a difference being a bank holiday Monday I'm not sure?
All afternoon running right in front of a nx 246
Quote from: karl724223 on May 06, 2014, 06:16:51 PM
All afternoon running right in front of a nx 246
Are GRS having much impact on NX's passenger numbers at present?
Just saying despite it being a few days ago GRS operated the 246 on monday despite it being sunday service. There being really serious about it, aren't they.
Last time I seen one was. Russels hall hospital with 1 passenger on but left before 15:50 time left 15:41
Seen 3 grs buses today, all were running just in front of nx services, the trident i was on over took a grs dart just before russels hall hospital, as we went into the hospital grs missed the turning and carried onall the way around the island and back to the hospital and dropped one person off
Four buses out today right in front of a nx bus all afternoon
They've also found where collis st takes them more off route antics
Also T202AFM has it's LEDs working now!
Quote from: the trainbasher on May 10, 2014, 08:46:57 PM
Also T202AFM has it's LEDs working now!
According to the rear of one of them this afternoon, it was on route 16246. More idleness not removing the previous route number!
Quote from: the trainbasher on May 10, 2014, 08:46:57 PM
Also T202AFM has it's LEDs working now!
Had them last weekend I think
Having spoken to the owner I can confirm, he will NOT be buying ANY ex joes buses as they are "in too bad a condition to be worth any where near his asking price"
Quote from: Steveminor on May 11, 2014, 07:13:47 AM
Having spoken to the owner I can confirm, he will NOT be buying ANY ex joes buses as they are "in too bad a condition to be worth any where near his asking price"
Thanks for that info Steve. I did think the Marshall one in particular seemed overpriced but the Crusader looked in good condition. Do you know whether Mr GRS was referring to mechanical or interior condition or a combination of both of them.
Do you know if he plans to buy more buses as suggested, for additional routes?
Thanks Steve
He is looking at buying more buses in the near future but from what he said the jobs ones were not upto scratch mechanically.
4 of them had prohibitions which needed clearing & the others were out of mot (don't know which ones). That could be the reason jobs decided to throw in the towel , if they had no roadworthy buses what's the point.
He told me his next buses will be dda compliant & maybe looking at something other than darts.
He is very happy with the way the 246 is going & is dedicated to making the route work. He lost a lot of money trying 1st the 16A then trying to take on diamond & nxwm on the 16, now it's about building up the cash reserves so that he can do some of the things that people on here have critisied him on.
Quote from: Steveminor on May 11, 2014, 10:20:18 PM
He is looking at buying more buses in the near future but from what he said the jobs ones were not upto scratch mechanically.
4 of them had prohibitions which needed clearing & the others were out of mot (don't know which ones). That could be the reason jobs decided to throw in the towel , if they had no roadworthy buses what's the point.
VIP take note! :P
Quote
He told me his next buses will be dda compliant & maybe looking at something other than darts.
He is very happy with the way the 246 is going & is dedicated to making the route work. He lost a lot of money trying 1st the 16A then trying to take on diamond & nxwm on the 16, now it's about building up the cash reserves so that he can do some of the things that people on here have critisied him on.
That's good to hear, best of luck to him!
Quote from: Steveminor on May 11, 2014, 10:20:18 PM
He is looking at buying more buses in the near future but from what he said the jobs ones were not upto scratch mechanically.
4 of them had prohibitions which needed clearing & the others were out of mot (don't know which ones). That could be the reason jobs decided to throw in the towel , if they had no roadworthy buses what's the point.
He told me his next buses will be dda compliant & maybe looking at something other than darts.
He is very happy with the way the 246 is going & is dedicated to making the route work. He lost a lot of money trying 1st the 16A then trying to take on diamond & nxwm on the 16, now it's about building up the cash reserves so that he can do some of the things that people on here have critisied him on.
Very interesting. Best of luck to him, I say! Do you know why he stayed on the 16 for 2/3 years if the route was loss making? And why he tried it in the first place, when diamond and NX pretty much had the 16 sewn up?
the GRS owner used to work for Diamond so that may be the reason why he picked the 16 as i saw him on the 16 service with diamond
The older guy who drove for him for a long time was also a long standing Diamond driver on 16.
When he started he ran as 16A with all journeys running to / from Scott Arms, so he did try a variant on the main route.
That's correct. He saw the diamond takings & thought he would give it a go firstly by trying the 16A all day which failed miserably then the 16 itself. I think he stuck it out for so long after seeing diamond withdraw off so many other routes, if they had pulled their 16 he would have been quids in. Can't blame him really.
Quote from: Steveminor on May 12, 2014, 06:11:18 PM
That's correct. He saw the diamond takings & thought he would give it a go firstly by trying the 16A all day which failed miserably then the 16 itself. I think he stuck it out for so long after seeing diamond withdraw off so many other routes, if they had pulled their 16 he would have been quids in. Can't blame him really.
I imagine back in BCC days ie when cadets arrived, shift totals were relatively high. No, you can't. It could have paid off had diamond withdrawn. To be honest, when the route was transferred to Long Acre, it seemed pretty dead, especially after the MCVs left. Ultimately, the current situation is better for both operators...
I say fair play to him, he has admitted there are problems, and when I have personally spoken to him he has admitted the buses need a livery and improvements. Hopefully now the 246 will help him implement those improvements and set GRS apart from other shall we say "competitors" Also turning down Joe's buses must go to prove that he only wants good quality vehicles.
Quote from: trident4370 on May 12, 2014, 07:52:56 PM
I say fair play to him, he has admitted there are problems, and when I have personally spoken to him he has admitted the buses need a livery and improvements. Hopefully now the 246 will help him implement those improvements and set GRS apart from other shall we say "competitors" Also turning down Joe's buses must go to prove that he only wants good quality vehicles.
I couldn't agree more. It would be nice to see GRS competing on some of the busier routes around Dudley. I think it's fair to say they could become a high quality operator in a short space of time. Maybe some weekly tickets at a good price could help them to stand out against the competition?
A quality operator does not have drivers who abuse passengers at bus stops who prefer not to board his P-registered bus (P202 OLX) as a competitor's much newer (and recently refurbished) Trident on the same route is right behind it. This happened in Brierley Hill High Street yesterday morning on a service 246 heading towards Dudley, and suggests that GRS are desperate to get passengers.
Quote from: Roy on May 14, 2014, 12:21:02 PM
A quality operator does not have drivers who abuse passengers at bus stops who prefer not to board his P-registered bus (P202 OLX) as a competitor's much newer (and recently refurbished) Trident on the same route is right behind it. This happened in Brierley Hill High Street yesterday morning on a service 246 heading towards Dudley, and suggests that GRS are desperate to get passengers.
happened to me bank holiday Monday too
Every company has a bad driver working for them at some point, the manager probably isn't aware. However if they do know what is going on then yes I agree it isn't a good sign.
And they wonder why they get smacked in the mouth in their sh!tty Dart with no assult screen!
Sorry for saying that but they have no right to say stuff like that, it's a consumer right to choose whatever operator they wish to, and shouldn't be subject to abuse if you chose otherwise.
Imagine if EE swore at customers whom were leaving them for, say, Vodafone? I dare say the flipping company would get a fine!
P202 OLX thats the bus the manager drivers. he has an hands free kit stuck to his ear!
The manager has been off sick for a couple of days. so it couldn't have been him.
seeing as i spoke to him and iv been sat behind him yesterday and today i can safley say hes back at work. Gram
The boys call him Gaddaffi lol
Quote from: driver on May 14, 2014, 05:50:30 PM
seeing as i spoke to him and iv been sat behind him yesterday and today i can safley say hes back at work. Gram
I got flashed (easy now, I mean with the headlights) by P202 today @ Dudley. Nice to know I'm still remembered by someone !
As far as all the competition routes in the Black Country goes, GRS on the 246 seem to be doing pretty well! Two fairly full loads coming into Stourbridge in the last half hour, in comparison to Hansons on the X96 and TGB on the 22 they are positively thriving!
Either this is the 1830 late running 246 off Stourbridge or the 1850 early running 246.
Either way it left Stourbridge at 1840!!
Also...a little hint at what he's looking at next?
https://fbcdn-photos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1.0-0/10329276_781985991812078_3966531836483248080_n.jpg
Quote from: the trainbasher on May 19, 2014, 06:49:06 PM
Also...a little hint at what he's looking at next?
https://fbcdn-photos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1.0-0/10329276_781985991812078_3966531836483248080_n.jpg
See the last reply on page 11 :)
Quote from: Nathan on May 19, 2014, 06:55:29 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on May 19, 2014, 06:49:06 PM
Also...a little hint at what he's looking at next?
https://fbcdn-photos-a-a.akamaihd.net/hphotos-ak-prn2/t1.0-0/10329276_781985991812078_3966531836483248080_n.jpg
See the last reply on page 11 :)
Given the service has not yet been registered it will be July at the earliest.
The driver of the ex ampm bus seems to have picked up one of the local females to ride round with him on the platform all day
Quote from: karl724223 on May 21, 2014, 09:45:03 PM
The driver of the ex ampm bus seems to have picked up one of the local females to ride round with him on the platform all day
Talking to him and distracting him from his driving no doubt, the law enforcement authorities should clamp down on this. Have noticed a TGB driver has a girl travel around with him, who is heavily pregnant, very dangerous.
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on May 21, 2014, 09:51:35 PM
Quote from: karl724223 on May 21, 2014, 09:45:03 PM
The driver of the ex ampm bus seems to have picked up one of the local females to ride round with him on the platform all day
Talking to him and distracting him from his driving no doubt, the law enforcement authorities should clamp down on this. Have noticed a TGB driver has a girl travel around with him, who is heavily pregnant, very dangerous.
Who sits in a seat like any other passenger
Quote from: Matt on May 21, 2014, 10:25:09 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on May 21, 2014, 09:51:35 PM
Quote from: karl724223 on May 21, 2014, 09:45:03 PM
The driver of the ex ampm bus seems to have picked up one of the local females to ride round with him on the platform all day
Talking to him and distracting him from his driving no doubt, the law enforcement authorities should clamp down on this. Have noticed a TGB driver has a girl travel around with him, who is heavily pregnant, very dangerous.
Who sits in a seat like any other passenger
Who for periods stands at the front and talk to the driver! Saw her when i travelled on the 14:01 from City on 452 the other week.
Saw GRS again las night and either he left Stourbridge 12 down or 8 early....as the 1827 X96 was coming in behind him (to wait on stand for a few mins...)
the blue and white dart obviously forgot that he had to go to the hospital after leaving dudley twice today going straight over holly hall island towards Brierly hill.. Bet he's gutted i come out the hospital with a standing load!
I've had fun with them on the 246 too
Quote from: pensnettdriver on May 25, 2014, 01:12:13 AM
I've had fun with them on the 246 too
Plus with the 297 also getting any Hospital to Brierlley Hill passengers, I'm surprised about the claims he's making 3 times the money than what he did in City!
Maybe he will get the lights fixed on his buses if he's making that much money two buses been running round all week with defective front and rear lights
And from 15.30 yesterday only two buses out
2 red darts parked up in king street this afternoon.
The marshall dart on the route left dudley bus station without stopping and parked up at queens cross cenetary until the nx e400 im on got to the traffic lights, the driver then pulled out to get to russells hall first but back fired as he ended up leaving with 0 passengers
Quote from: karl724223 on May 25, 2014, 11:08:51 AM
Maybe he will get the lights fixed on his buses if he's making that much money two buses been running round all week with defective front and rear lights
And from 15.30 yesterday only two buses out
According to a piece of paper on the back window of one of the red darts they 'repaire' buses and coaches so there shouldn't be anything wrong with their fleet
Looks like centro had enough of them they've banned them from picking up in bus stations
Quote from: karl724223 on May 26, 2014, 05:43:12 PM
Looks like centro had enough of them they've banned them from picking up in bus stations
Why do you say this?
Has this turned into the GRS hate club? It's getting a bit boring...
So doing what they are doing is ok then ?
Quote from: karl724223 on May 26, 2014, 06:40:43 PM
So doing what they are doing is ok then ?
No, but some balance is needed.
When somebody sees grs doing something legal can they report it for diamonddart
They have been banned from using bus stations for constant failing to adhere to departure times and using two bus stops in dudley and two in Stourbridge
Their days on the 246 and other Dudley routes are numbered then if they can't use stops in bus stations. At Stourbridge they can unload opposite the entrance to the bus station but in Dudley they are snookered because they can unload by the shops opposite the car park but need to enter the bus station to turn around due to road closures.
The older white guy who used to drive for Joe's Travel is excellent and I would feel certain he follows the rules. I think the biggest problem could be with the antics of the owner, hence why I understand he needed to find somebody else to act as Transport Manager following a recent Traffic Commissioner ruler. Lead by example and others follow!
Wonder if GRS will b called to another PI due to failing to run to a registered
timetable
Quote from: fleetline6477 on May 26, 2014, 08:26:14 PM
Their days on the 246 and other Dudley routes are numbered then if they can't use stops in bus stations. At Stourbridge they can unload opposite the entrance to the bus station but in Dudley they are snookered because they can unload by the shops opposite the car park but need to enter the bus station to turn around due to road closures.
The older white guy who used to drive for Joe's Travel is excellent and I would feel certain he follows the rules. I think the biggest problem could be with the antics of the owner, hence why I understand he needed to find somebody else to act as Transport Manager following a recent Traffic Commissioner ruler. Lead by example and others follow!
If that's the same Joe's driver I'm thinking so then I agree he is absolutely fantastic. He doesn't drive fast but when I went on their 11 he thanked and greeted every passenger and always waited for them to sit down...
@karl724223 @DiamondDart @fleetline6477 looking it from an objective point of view, yes sometimes the GRS bus hasn't ran to its timetable, but on the other hand, at least it's more reliable than ampm. At one stage AMPM spent more time on the patch than in service.
When ampm could be bothered to turn up
Quote from: the trainbasher on May 26, 2014, 08:40:36 PM
@karl724223 @DiamondDart @fleetline6477 looking it from an objective point of view, yes sometimes the GRS bus hasn't ran to its timetable, but on the other hand, at least it's more reliable than ampm. At one stage AMPM spent more time on the patch than in service.
Indeed- don't think
@karl724223 that I'm some great ambassador for GRS. After all, I was annoyed when elderly darts rocked up on the 16 competing against diamond's evolutions and versas!
I say give them time-if after 6 months the issues you mention haven't been resolved, I'll side with you 100%
Sorry but operators like that should not be on the road in this day and age what they are getting up to
Quote from: karl724223 on May 26, 2014, 09:05:32 PM
Sorry but operators like that should not be on the road in this day and age what they are getting up to
It is not like he is a brand new operator. He has just been to a PI and told by the TC how to run a service. Breakdowns and bad traffic aside, if you can not make a profit by running to your timetable which is registered a few minutes in front of an existing operator you need to go and look somewhere else
They also only had 3 busses out today instead of the usual 4 so some journeys must have been missed!
Quote from: driver on May 27, 2014, 12:36:10 AM
They also only had 3 busses out today instead of the usual 4 so some journeys must have been missed!
Either that or they tightened the times up a bit today?
Saw the same two buses this morning still with the same light defects as last week
A passenger in a taxi tapped the driver on the shoulder to ask him something. The driver screamed, lost control of the cab, nearly hit a bus, drove up over the curb, and stopped just inches from a large plate glass window.
For a few moments everything was silent in the cab, then the driver said, "Please, don't ever do that again. You scared the daylights out of me." The passenger, who was also frightened, apologized and said he didn't realize that a tap on the shoulder could frighten him so much, to which the driver replied: "I'm sorry, it's really not your fault at all. Today is my first day driving a cab. I have been driving a hearse for the last 25 years!"
Dont no whats happened but only 2 busses out all day today! so not running to there 20 min frequency!
@driver Perhaps they were repairing the lights on the other two. :)
doubt it the marshall dart still has a none working break light and that was out
@driver P202 and T202 were out, R182 was in the workshop and R923 was in the yard
GRS are a laughing stock it's like they don't want passengers. The other day I tried to flag down one of them at the first stop after Dudley bus station. The turban guy driving looked and decided he didn't want me so drove past. Joke was on him as I got on the 310 behind which promptly overtook allowing me to swap onto his bus at Russells Hall. Was expecting him to not bother going into the hospital.
There's also a notice on one of their buses advertising a holiday with GRS for £15 lol.
Took a visit to GRS Travels depot as they wanted the Hanover LEDs reprogrammed.
https://www.flickr.com/photos/tomsbusphotos/sets/72157644501012077/
Quote from: Matt on May 29, 2014, 10:19:15 PM
GRS are a laughing stock it's like they don't want passengers. The other day I tried to flag down one of them at the first stop after Dudley bus station. The turban guy driving looked and decided he didn't want me so drove past. Joke was on him as I got on the 310 behind which promptly overtook allowing me to swap onto his bus at Russells Hall. Was expecting him to not bother going into the hospital.
There's also a notice on one of their buses advertising a holiday with GRS for £15 lol.
Thats for when he took the bus to Blackpool last year!
Quote from: the trainbasher on May 29, 2014, 10:27:20 PM
Quote from: Matt on May 29, 2014, 10:19:15 PM
GRS are a laughing stock it's like they don't want passengers. The other day I tried to flag down one of them at the first stop after Dudley bus station. The turban guy driving looked and decided he didn't want me so drove past. Joke was on him as I got on the 310 behind which promptly overtook allowing me to swap onto his bus at Russells Hall. Was expecting him to not bother going into the hospital.
There's also a notice on one of their buses advertising a holiday with GRS for £15 lol.
Thats for when he took the bus to Blackpool last year!
They used a dart for a 100 mile plus trip up the M6?
Quote from: Matt on May 29, 2014, 10:30:19 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on May 29, 2014, 10:27:20 PM
Quote from: Matt on May 29, 2014, 10:19:15 PM
GRS are a laughing stock it's like they don't want passengers. The other day I tried to flag down one of them at the first stop after Dudley bus station. The turban guy driving looked and decided he didn't want me so drove past. Joke was on him as I got on the 310 behind which promptly overtook allowing me to swap onto his bus at Russells Hall. Was expecting him to not bother going into the hospital.
There's also a notice on one of their buses advertising a holiday with GRS for £15 lol.
Thats for when he took the bus to Blackpool last year!
They used a dart for a 100 mile plus trip up the M6?
That i am not sure. I think he might have took HIL6975 or something similar
@the trainbasherI see on your photostream you programmed R404FFC with GRS displays-do you know if this has been acquired by them or is still part of the assets of the defunct Joe's Travel?
Cheers :)
Quote from: DiamondDart on May 29, 2014, 10:32:06 PM
@the trainbasher
I see on your photostream you programmed R404FFC with GRS displays-do you know if this has been acquired by them or is still part of the assets of the defunct Joe's Travel?
Cheers :)
Its GRS now same with T201
Quote from: the trainbasher on May 29, 2014, 10:33:12 PM
Quote from: DiamondDart on May 29, 2014, 10:32:06 PM
@the trainbasher
I see on your photostream you programmed R404FFC with GRS displays-do you know if this has been acquired by them or is still part of the assets of the defunct Joe's Travel?
Cheers :)
Its GRS now same with T201
Thanks-glad it has been acquired!! :)
Quote from: DiamondDart on May 29, 2014, 10:41:04 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on May 29, 2014, 10:33:12 PM
Quote from: DiamondDart on May 29, 2014, 10:32:06 PM
@the trainbasher
I see on your photostream you programmed R404FFC with GRS displays-do you know if this has been acquired by them or is still part of the assets of the defunct Joe's Travel?
Cheers :)
Its GRS now same with T201
Thanks-glad it has been acquired!! :)
Just uploaded a couple of more pics on to my flickr
So what do folks think of the new destination display style?
Quote from: the trainbasher on May 30, 2014, 12:46:55 PM
So what do folks think of the new destination display style?
Really like it tbh!! Clear and wasy to read though it would be nice to see the areas either side of the new display painted black. The key will be ensuring text isn't cut off on certain buses and that all drivers use them correctly!!
Shouldn't the numbers be on the near side ??
MR GRS wanted the old school style!
Quote from: baker_06 on May 30, 2014, 02:28:59 PM
MR GRS wanted the old school style!
Good lad! Repping 2008 ;) ;)
Quote from: baker_06 on May 30, 2014, 02:28:59 PM
MR GRS wanted the old school style!
Yes. Those people with poor eyesight are a pain. They might fall over when he's racing other buses. Better not let them see the service number
Now now Tony.... Opinions opinions!! LOL!!
When you went to program the blinds did you install V.O.R as they are nowhere to be seen on the 246 today. Who said they were a quality operator?
Quote from: richie on May 31, 2014, 02:28:10 PM
When you went to program the blinds did you install V.O.R as they are nowhere to be seen on the 246 today. Who said they were a quality operator?
Well NXWM4368 has "Vehicle Under Repair" on the destination..
The hanovers are programmed with it yes
@richie @Liverpool Street
How about call fire brigade for the tridents and mercs or on tow again
Public Inquiry Staff Shuttle
I like destination 9999 on my grs programming! Mainly as it's a way to check for dead LEDs!
@the trainbasher all LEDs lit I'm guessing
Yes
@Matt it should (when I set it up on Helen)...then it says "This Sign is Under Test". Just depends on if it's translated over...
T201AFM is back in GRS service as seen on the 1825 ex Stourbridge to Dudley
Three parked up in king st together waiting to go back to stour earlier
@karl724223 had I known I could have sent my lads down if they were on my double yellows!! :-)
Interesting that according to the Network West Midlands website, the GRS 246 doesn't exist.
Quote from: the trainbasher on June 03, 2014, 10:32:14 PM
@karl724223 had I known I could have sent my lads down if they were on my double yellows!! :-)
they park just up from the motorbiike shop
3 buses out monday morning then magically 4 out monday afternoon and a mix of 3 and 4 out all week. there obviously not running all there mileage daily
Mr Ram's health isn't too good at the minute that's why there's a shortage.
So timetable depends on managers health that's good for the public
Quote from: baker_06 on June 10, 2014, 01:36:47 PM
Mr Ram's health isn't too good at the minute that's why there's a shortage.
So do they have no spare drivers?
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on June 10, 2014, 03:15:05 PM
Quote from: baker_06 on June 10, 2014, 01:36:47 PM
Mr Ram's health isn't too good at the minute that's why there's a shortage.
So do they have no spare drivers?
A good company should have a system in place just incase of this sort of problem.
Not a good company
No spare drivers. Mr Ram has 3 regular drivers and himself to make the 4th. Occasionally he can manage to acquire drivers from elsewhere.
Mr Ram is out today on the 246
Saw a notice on the back of one of there buses saying that they repaired vehicles to VOSA standards?
I find it difficult to believe grs are making money on the 246 every bus ive seen today have only had a couple of pensioners on
I saw two of there buses following each other at holly hall going to dudley both in service
Has the registration for the 222 gone through VOSA yet, although presumably they will be banned from Merry Hill bu Station to!
@Stuharris 6360 I haven't seen anything on there and I check daily for registrations twice each day
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on June 16, 2014, 07:10:36 PM
Has the registration for the 222 gone through VOSA yet, although presumably they will be banned from Merry Hill bu Station to!
Well that is never going to work then, as where's the nearest stop they could use? No one is going to want to walk into Merry Hill from a distance
Quote from: wilmotm (Matt Wilmot) on June 16, 2014, 07:49:05 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on June 16, 2014, 07:10:36 PM
Has the registration for the 222 gone through VOSA yet, although presumably they will be banned from Merry Hill bu Station to!
Well that is never going to work then, as where's the nearest stop they could use? No one is going to want to walk into Merry Hill from a distance
Suppose they could always surprise us and actually ask Centro for some slots in the bus stations.
Part of the GRS Scrolling NIS destination display as photographed Wednesday at about 1715ish on a Stourbridge bound 246
https://www.flickr.com/photos/tomsbusphotos/14479028961/
(It says on a full rotation: "Search Facebook for "GRS Travel"" then "GRS Travel - (phone number)")
Grs red dart about to leave dudley as 246E to russells hall hospital
Quote from: Andrew on June 23, 2014, 10:25:57 AM
Grs red dart about to leave dudley as 246E to russells hall hospital
If it's a pointer, it's using led program number 5
Quote from: the trainbasher on June 23, 2014, 10:31:56 AM
Quote from: Andrew on June 23, 2014, 10:25:57 AM
Grs red dart about to leave dudley as 246E to russells hall hospital
If it's a pointer, it's using led program number 5
Yeah it was one of the pointers, only saw it at the last minute, i was looking at the penguins on the nx 246 lol
Seen 3 GRS buses on the 246 today, they all seem to have someone in a hi vis vest with them, was thinking it maybe someone from Centro, but maybe not.
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on June 23, 2014, 01:05:03 PM
Seen 3 GRS buses on the 246 today, they all seem to have someone in a hi vis vest with them, was thinking it maybe someone from Centro, but maybe not.
NXWM drivers possibly? Seen some on there before fraternising with the enemy!
Possibly, but on one of the buses, the person was talking to one of the passengers. Seemed to be wearing something around her neck?
Thought it could be someone from Centro, but why would they have anything to do with Centro when they are not operating into any of there Bus Stations & GRS services are not shown oin there website?
@wilmotm (Matt Wilmot) or investigating the competition...
It's centro, they're waiting at stop in king street
New topic due to the previous one somehow got merged with a totally off topic thread.
Noticed GRS Travel posted this on FB
(https://wmbusphotos.com/forum/proxy.php?request=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.4gp.tw%2Fb036%2F1403730330709.jpg&hash=8ce25add6d5aad608492cd4f28183cae3a6601eb)
Yep, GRS are kinda branching out...
Saw this on the rear of one of there buses the other week, strangely that bus had a brake light not working ??? ???
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on June 25, 2014, 10:12:13 PM
Saw this on the rear of one of there buses the other week, strangely that bus had a brake light not working ??? ???
The irony
Quote from: Liverpool Street on June 25, 2014, 10:31:47 AM
New topic due to the previous one somehow got merged with a totally off topic thread.
@Liverpool Street original GRS thread split from Avin a larf & re-instated/merged with GRS thread ;D
Followed the blue and white heap today no brake lights working
Quote from: karl724223 on June 26, 2014, 08:11:46 PM
Followed the blue and white heap today no brake lights working
Program number 11 (sometimes found on a piece of paper, or in diamonds case some drivers favourite when running empty to depot) most suitable on the hanovers!!
What's that post got to do with the bus running round with no brake lights working????????????
Quote from: karl724223 on June 26, 2014, 08:18:44 PM
What's that post got to do with the bus running round with no brake lights working????????????
Empty to mechanics bay.
karl i stopped the driver and told him and the centro bloke also said it was a pg9 and bus shouldnt be out he told me to mind my own business and carried on all afternoon driving round at 15mph slowing down our busses
Quote from: driver on June 26, 2014, 09:53:14 PM
karl i stopped the driver and told him and the centro bloke also said it was a pg9 and bus shouldnt be out he told me to mind my own business and carried on all afternoon driving round at 15mph slowing down our busses
Professional's
@driver technically it is your business as GRS aren't the only ones who operate on the 246 and not the best by a bloody country mile!
R923RAU was parked up outside Kwiksave driverless about 1940hrs.
Had a ride on their 246 yesterday. They weren't using Stourbridge bus station and most weren't using Dudley bus station either but I did see an AFM dart pull into Dudley pretty fast and leave without picking anyone up-maybe unloading.
There seems to be a lot of potential on this corridor-it's a nice fairly short route so without throwing too much at it, they should be able to match NX bus for bus.
Some of their buses were carrying decent loads yesterday with cash-payers and I had a nice ride on a RAU dart with the brilliant, patient and friendly ex Joe's Travel driver. There seemed to be a fair few GRS's parked up not doing a lot though at certain points of the route.
The LOX/VLA darts are pretty awful but the RAU one I went on was rattle free, clean and tidy and very quiet for a dart.
They could be doing more to help themselves though:
Get the buses allowed into bus stations
Get the VLA repainted red ASAP
1 more bus or so on the route
Some vinyls/promotion etc and potentially a cheaper return fare.
I do like GRS though and would like to see them start on the 222 in the future as when I saw that yesterday it appeared to be pretty busy, especially for e200's.
P202 OLX now has 202 drawn on the side in permanent marker, the driver is having to get out of his cab to pull the doors open and push them shut.
AFM dart/P202/R923RAU on there yesterday. R923RAU had its regular driver who passengers seemed to know. One even remarked to a friend that their drivers were all really nice.
Probably best to ask @the trainbasher but does anyone have any info on what the PVR for their 246 is and what other vehicles are owned. Was the FFC ex Diamond dart ever acquired, along with the blue MPD and T201AFM as I've never seen them out.
Also, are there plans to get them into the bus stations and get the 222 up and running.
If they do that, they'll have a pretty good network of services, preferably followed by something like the X96 or even the X26 run by Hanson's which seemed to be doing ok yesterday whenever I saw them... Strange it's being cancelled...
i have not seen them on the 246 2day at all
Really? Have you travelled the full length of the route?
Quote from: DiamondDart on July 19, 2014, 06:03:08 PM
Really? Have you travelled the full length of the route?
i live on the route i see the nx do the route but not grs
T201 is on the 246 with Joes Travel legals last time I checked
The blue v reg dart is not being used as it's foxtrot uniformed
R404 I'm not sure if he will use it or not but it was one of the darts I programmed
The vehicle requirement for the 246 is 4 (75 minute round trip on a 20 minute frequency)
I don't know what the plan is but he was going to do the 222 before the problems with centro came up
Thanks for the info :)
I guess the blue v reg and the alx200? can be used for spares for the rest of the darts.
Yes, that was why I asked re R404FFC-hope it is brought back into use as it is in brilliant condition.
75 mins is longer than NX allow-for them it is 35 mins each way...
Do you know if and how he intends to solve the issues with centro that arose ie not being allowed into bus stations or even mentioned in timetables?
I don't know what is the plan with regards to dealing with centro, there again I haven't seen Mr Grs as I've been working on a project which concludes the first part in end of august.
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 19, 2014, 07:06:40 PM
I don't know what is the plan with regards to dealing with centro, there again I haven't seen Mr Grs as I've been working on a project which concludes the first part in end of august.
No worries! Thanks for the info anyway :)
Where they hiding today ????????
Quote from: karl724223 on July 21, 2014, 01:16:56 PM
Where they hiding today ????????
Haven't you seen any then Karl?
I've been on 297 all morning till 1230 havnt seen one at all
Unless they're all parking at the Dudley or Stourbridge end all morning!!
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 21, 2014, 01:51:08 PM
Unless they're all parking at the Dudley or Stourbridge end all morning!!
They do seem to spend a fair bit of time parked up waiting to get back/leave on time.
What from 7am to 1230 pm
Been missing since Friday long park up break
I think they need a route map!! ;-)
If they want I'm sure my company can do route training...for a fee :-)
Need closing down giving cowboy operators a bad name
I know the owner hasn't been well. So hoping there isn't bad news & considering it has been mentioned on here about his ill health maybe some people on here shouldn't jump so quickly to joke about grs until we know everything is ok
@Steveminor yes we appreciate that Mr Ram is ill but surely the drivers running in compliance with the timetable registered with VOSA is still a number one priority, especially as the licence could be took off them by vosa if they don't bother with compliance.
I'm sure with your many years in the industry you'd know what I'm talking about on how there is no excuse for non compliance.
The owner drove one bus what about the other three drivers / buses
Like already said could go to pi then looses op licence
I'm not sure on Mr rams health or how serious it is. If serious enough maybe he is unable to continue. All I'm saying is let's wait till we hear more before judging
@Steveminor And all I'm saying is that even though Mr Ram may be ill, it doesn't excuse the other drivers, and I'm sure you'll agree, to run non compliant.
I feel as if i'm talking to a brick wall! There again, if you are truly the professional you make out to be, you'll know that about compliance anyway!
You wouldn't expect all Virgin Trains drivers to stop driving trains if Richard Branson was ill, I think is the point Tom is trying to rightly make.
I am well aware of compliance but remember ram is a sole trader. Remember caves, when George died the company closed overnight. Let's just see what has happened. I have been unable to contact Mr ram has anyone else. I for one am more concerned with the man rather than compliance. Or am I wrong to do that?
@trident4370 exactly. At work, if my boss was off ill for a prolonged period, yes I'd be worried about them but I'd also do the work that I had to do, mainly as otherwise I'd be breaching my contract of employment. My job has items that are a statutory requirement, just like my job dealing with items under the Traffic Management Act (plus various other statutory regulations), a driver on a bus running compliantly is a statutory requirement in the bus industry. And not turning up at all like what grs are doing at times isn't compliant with the terms of the registration and the operating licence.
If the buses aren't running, how are the drivers being paid. Surely GRS can't have that much money to burn.
No grs again today
Quote from: karl724223 on July 22, 2014, 09:28:56 PM
No grs again today
Is this happening because of Mr Ram's health or is there some issue we are unaware of.
If you think about it, GRS have been non compliant for a while, the service is registered between Stourbridge
Bus Station and Dudley
Bus Station, but neither bus station can be used because they have not asked for any stand time at either or have they paid Centro for the bus station use. Before Mr Ram registered the service, Mr Ram must have been aware that the service would need to use the bus stations and the costs etc which would be incurred.
Nothing has been mentioned on the GRS facebook page
any news on whats going on?
problem with there insurance its being sorted then there back
Quote from: driver on July 28, 2014, 06:42:52 PM
problem with there insurance its being sorted then there back
Isn't that how AMPM went?? Insurance problems?
Quote from: driver on July 28, 2014, 06:42:52 PM
problem with there insurance its being sorted then there back
ok thanks
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 28, 2014, 06:45:09 PM
Quote from: driver on July 28, 2014, 06:42:52 PM
problem with there insurance its being sorted then there back
Isn't that how AMPM went?? Insurance problems?
Believe it was
Does anyone know if they've been out the last few days as I have been out of the region parts of this week
Quote from: the trainbasher on August 09, 2014, 09:14:13 PM
Does anyone know if they've been out the last few days as I have been out of the region parts of this week
I was in & around Dudley for a few hours on Thursday and didn't see any GRS buses, so can only assume they are still off the road!
Cheers...let's hope they haven't gone the way of AMPM/Solihull Travel...
Quote from: the trainbasher on August 09, 2014, 09:14:13 PM
Does anyone know if they've been out the last few days as I have been out of the region parts of this week
No i do think they are going the same way as ampm
Quote from: Lance on August 18, 2014, 08:33:53 PM
Does anybody know if grs are coming back to operate there buses on the 246 as over the last month I have noticed that their are non around? Sorry if this has already been asked
Lance
They're under investigation by the regional intelligence unit (whatever that is) apparently.
If that's the case Andrew then somethings up!
Quote from: the trainbasher on August 18, 2014, 08:58:09 PM
If that's the case Andrew then somethings up!
What is the regional intelligence unit?
There are these
https://www5.i-grasp.com/fe/tpl_capita45.asp?newms=info26
Quote from: the trainbasher on August 18, 2014, 09:01:22 PM
There are these
https://www5.i-grasp.com/fe/tpl_capita45.asp?newms=info26
Oh dear oh dear!
They might be gone soon then?
Let's hope they sort it all out and get the all clear to restart operations.
Quote from: the trainbasher on August 18, 2014, 08:58:09 PM
If that's the case Andrew then somethings up!
I'm not sure where I saw it but someone on facebook posted a screenshot of an email from vosa, i'll have a look to see if I can find it but may take a while as I can't remember where i saw it.
Found it
It certainly is strange not seeing their pointers with their scrolling hanovers :-)
the blue and white dart was in Bilston this morning around 10:20, came down the black country route and onto the island, think it went down oxford street but not sure.
Wouldn't be surprised if we see them in the notices and proceedings!
Quote from: Andrew on August 20, 2014, 03:12:31 PM
the blue and white dart was in Bilston this morning around 10:20, came down the black country route and onto the island, think it went down oxford street but not sure.
. Thandi have 1 blue/White dart on
SErvice 334 so might of been that u saw
Quote from: Solo1 on August 20, 2014, 04:55:28 PM
Quote from: Andrew on August 20, 2014, 03:12:31 PM
the blue and white dart was in Bilston this morning around 10:20, came down the black country route and onto the island, think it went down oxford street but not sure.
. Thandi have 1 blue/White dart on
SErvice 334 so might of been that u saw
Oh... Right :/ more than likely then, i was too far away to see it properly.
I see that Thandi dart pretty around half four / quarter to five most days on the Spine Road.
They have started back up when did this happen?
Quote from: Jon on August 27, 2014, 02:24:03 PM
They have started back up when did this happen?
What? Back on the 246?
Yes
yes i was on Stourbridge ring road earlier and saw one disappearing into the distance.
Which vehicles are out today?
Saw a red one about 0730 this morning up dudley
R182VLA freshly painted red.
Buses out on 246 today were T201 / T202 / R923.
R404FFC was undergoing tests today which passed with flying colours.
Tomorrow's allocations are: T201 / T202 / R923 / P202.
R182VLA
https://m.flickr.com/#/photos/64144617@N05/14890369380/
PD1084253/6 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: OXHILL ROAD, HANDSWORTH
Finish Point: ACOCKS GREEN
Via:
Service Number: 11A
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 28-OCT-2014
Other Details: MONDAY TO FRIDAY ONLY
Quote from: 4Q on September 08, 2014, 11:08:41 AM
PD1084253/6 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: OXHILL ROAD, HANDSWORTH
Finish Point: ACOCKS GREEN
Via:
Service Number: 11A
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 28-OCT-2014
Other Details: MONDAY TO FRIDAY ONLY
Yet another one to try their hand on the Outer Circle.
What happened to them putting in an appearance on the 222?
Quote from: Winston on September 08, 2014, 11:14:33 AM
Quote from: 4Q on September 08, 2014, 11:08:41 AM
PD1084253/6 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: OXHILL ROAD, HANDSWORTH
Finish Point: ACOCKS GREEN
Via:
Service Number: 11A
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 28-OCT-2014
Other Details: MONDAY TO FRIDAY ONLY
Yet another one to try their hand on the Outer Circle.
What happened to them putting in an appearance on the 222?
I believe they have deregistered the 246 as well from the same date, looks like the Black Country has too many bus stations!
Quote from: Tony on September 08, 2014, 11:30:30 AM
Quote from: Winston on September 08, 2014, 11:14:33 AM
Quote from: 4Q on September 08, 2014, 11:08:41 AM
PD1084253/6 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: OXHILL ROAD, HANDSWORTH
Finish Point: ACOCKS GREEN
Via:
Service Number: 11A
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 28-OCT-2014
Other Details: MONDAY TO FRIDAY ONLY
Yet another one to try their hand on the Outer Circle.
What happened to them putting in an appearance on the 222?
I believe they have deregistered the 246 as well from the same date, looks like the Black Country has too many bus stations!
Or more likely they have to pay to use them???
I wonder what the new programming on their Hanovers will look like...
Quote from: Tony on September 08, 2014, 11:30:30 AM
Quote from: Winston on September 08, 2014, 11:14:33 AM
Quote from: 4Q on September 08, 2014, 11:08:41 AM
PD1084253/6 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: OXHILL ROAD, HANDSWORTH
Finish Point: ACOCKS GREEN
Via:
Service Number: 11A
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 28-OCT-2014
Other Details: MONDAY TO FRIDAY ONLY
Yet another one to try their hand on the Outer Circle.
What happened to them putting in an appearance on the 222?
I believe they have deregistered the 246 as well from the same date, looks like the Black Country has too many bus stations!
PD1084253/5 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Cancellation Accepted: Operating between DUDLEY BUS STATION and STOURBRIDGE BUS STATION given service number 246 effective from 28-Oct-2014.
Saw a bus come out of the GRS garage by Bilston Bus Station at around 3:30 showing 246E Brierley Hill, Short Journey (Trainbashers handywork:) )
Was it a pointer or the crusader dart? If so yeah I can take the credit for that...
Quote from: Tony on September 08, 2014, 11:30:30 AM
Quote from: Winston on September 08, 2014, 11:14:33 AM
Quote from: 4Q on September 08, 2014, 11:08:41 AM
PD1084253/6 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Registration Accepted
Starting Point: OXHILL ROAD, HANDSWORTH
Finish Point: ACOCKS GREEN
Via:
Service Number: 11A
Service Type: Normal Stopping
Effective Date: 28-OCT-2014
Other Details: MONDAY TO FRIDAY ONLY
Yet another one to try their hand on the Outer Circle.
What happened to them putting in an appearance on the 222?
I believe they have deregistered the 246 as well from the same date, looks like the Black Country has too many bus stations!
No bus sttations on the 11A! :) :)
What would the frequency be?
Quote from: Trident 4194 on September 08, 2014, 06:31:18 PM
What would the frequency be?
Frequency, probably wait till the GRS driver sees a NX 11A in his mirror and then leave, did they ever publish a timetable for the 246?
They used to be hilarious on the 16. There was an oldish guy who drove so slow but made sure he kept ahead of nx. However diamond were a bit to quick for GRS lol
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 08, 2014, 05:12:15 PM
Was it a pointer or the crusader dart? If so yeah I can take the credit for that...
Similar to R404FFC
If it was R404 then yes it's my work!
Outer Circle passengers are going to be spoilt for choice, clapped out old NXWM buses, or clapped out old GRS buses! 8)
Would it have not made more sense to register these as 11E journeys, to operate both ways between Acocks Green and Handsworth?
Quote from: Stu on September 08, 2014, 08:56:04 PM
Outer Circle passengers are going to be spoilt for choice, clapped out old NXWM buses, or clapped out old GRS buses! 8)
Would it have not made more sense to register these as 11E journeys, to operate both ways between Acocks Green and Handsworth?
I would have thought they must have registered both ways otherwise buses will be at the AG end of the route.
I guess if you've been banned from Birmingham City Centre and from both Dudley and Stourbridge Bus Stations you have somewhat limited options. If Joe's loadings on the 11 is anything to go by then GRS will carry very few passengers, especially off peak times. At least the GRS fleet is low floor.
Quote from: Stu on September 08, 2014, 08:56:04 PM
Outer Circle passengers are going to be spoilt for choice, clapped out old NXWM buses, or clapped out old GRS buses! 8)
Would it have not made more sense to register these as 11E journeys, to operate both ways between Acocks Green and Handsworth?
Thats a point Stu, how will buses get back to Handsworth to start on another journey? Perhaps they think if you register on the 11A, then you can run on the 11C to.
Quote from: fleetline6477 on September 08, 2014, 09:11:51 PM
Quote from: Stu on September 08, 2014, 08:56:04 PM
Outer Circle passengers are going to be spoilt for choice, clapped out old NXWM buses, or clapped out old GRS buses! 8)
Would it have not made more sense to register these as 11E journeys, to operate both ways between Acocks Green and Handsworth?
I would have thought they must have registered both ways otherwise buses will be at the AG end of the route.
I guess if you've been banned from Birmingham City Centre and from both Dudley and Stourbridge Bus Stations you have somewhat limited options. If Joe's loadings on the 11 is anything to go by then GRS will carry very few passengers, especially off peak times. At least the GRS fleet is low floor.
Were they actually banned or would they not pay the money to use them, hence why they couldn't operate the 222.
Unless it's going to be a full 11A but with the route being split into 2 parts?
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 08, 2014, 09:16:07 PM
Unless it's going to be a full 11A but with the route being split into 2 parts?
There is nothing to stop them showing 11 A in both directions on half the route. Competitors don't
have to use the same numbers as NX
Quote from: Tony on September 08, 2014, 09:33:59 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 08, 2014, 09:16:07 PM
Unless it's going to be a full 11A but with the route being split into 2 parts?
There is nothing to stop them showing 11 A in both directions on half the route. Competitors don't have to use the same numbers as NX
So if a competitor to NX started on the 9 for example, they could register the route as the 141, even though NX run a 141 on some of the same route but then it goes to Merry Hill.
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on September 08, 2014, 09:38:35 PM
Quote from: Tony on September 08, 2014, 09:33:59 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 08, 2014, 09:16:07 PM
Unless it's going to be a full 11A but with the route being split into 2 parts?
There is nothing to stop them showing 11 A in both directions on half the route. Competitors don't have to use the same numbers as NX
So if a competitor to NX started on the 9 for example, they could register the route as the 141, even though NX run a 141 on some of the same route but then it goes to Merry Hill.
Of course...you can call any route anything you like
Quote from: Tony on September 08, 2014, 10:02:44 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on September 08, 2014, 09:38:35 PM
Quote from: Tony on September 08, 2014, 09:33:59 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 08, 2014, 09:16:07 PM
Unless it's going to be a full 11A but with the route being split into 2 parts?
There is nothing to stop them showing 11 A in both directions on half the route. Competitors don't have to use the same numbers as NX
So if a competitor to NX started on the 9 for example, they could register the route as the 141, even though NX run a 141 on some of the same route but then it goes to Merry Hill.
Of course...you can call any route anything you like
Its just easier to use the same number unless you are going a different way for any length of time due to people getting confused.
(thats is only my opinion not sure if its right to say it like that)
R404 has been out 2day
what times do they run at from Dudley & where do they pick up at at they don't pick up from bus station
unles this has changed
Quote from: Solo1 on September 12, 2014, 03:43:27 AM
what times do they run at from Dudley & where do they pick up at at they don't pick up from bus station
unles this has changed
Should be xx05, xx25 and xx45 off each end with the ring road in Stourbridge and I think Top church in Dudley...
I know i'm early posting but b4 i got What buses r out today on 246 service
Just saw P202 OLX in Dudley, was surprised to see them using the bus station
Quote from: Kevin on September 13, 2014, 01:02:44 PM
Just saw P202 OLX in Dudley, was surprised to see them using the bus station
In Dudley they have been using the Bus Station to turn around in but not loading. Did the bus stop in the bus station or just turn around?
Anyone noticed what r404 still has on it?
Quote from: fleetline6477 on September 13, 2014, 06:44:56 PM
Quote from: Kevin on September 13, 2014, 01:02:44 PM
Just saw P202 OLX in Dudley, was surprised to see them using the bus station
In Dudley they have been using the Bus Station to turn around in but not loading. Did the bus stop in the bus station or just turn around?
Isn't Dudley Bus station private property, so if they are using it to turn round, aren't they trespassing??
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 13, 2014, 07:16:18 PM
Anyone noticed what r404 still has on it?
here is a pic or R404 https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanjack/15040772350/in/set-72157629134345541/
Quote from: Kevin on September 13, 2014, 01:02:44 PM
Just saw P202 OLX in Dudley, was surprised to see them using the bus station
they unload & use it to turn round as they load up by cousins in Dudley
Quote from: Solo1 on September 13, 2014, 07:48:47 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 13, 2014, 07:16:18 PM
Anyone noticed what r404 still has on it?
here is a pic or R404 https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanjack/15040772350/in/set-72157629134345541/
Yes it still has its little gem branding on it...
No grs at all today again
That red bus mentioned in previous posts, is that the only red bus they have, as I saw a red bus come down the Spine Road around half 4 today?
Quote from: Westy on September 22, 2014, 10:58:35 PM
That red bus mentioned in previous posts, is that the only red bus they have, as I saw a red bus come down the Spine Road around half 4 today?
R404 is the only Red Crusader bodied dart
They have 3 pointers in GRS livery
Also view have the 2 Marshalls in Warrington debranded livery
Only one bus came out today
Quote from: karl724223 on September 23, 2014, 08:41:55 PM
Only one bus came out today
Any idea which one Karl?
They do seem a bit sporadic!!
Quote from: DiamondDart on September 23, 2014, 09:15:50 PM
Quote from: karl724223 on September 23, 2014, 08:41:55 PM
Only one bus came out today
Any idea which one Karl?
They do seem a bit sporadic!!
Going on the Outer Circle is not a cheap option for him. He has to pay centro for bus stop information on all 167 bus stops!
Quote from: Tony on September 23, 2014, 10:38:58 PM
Quote from: DiamondDart on September 23, 2014, 09:15:50 PM
Quote from: karl724223 on September 23, 2014, 08:41:55 PM
Only one bus came out today
Any idea which one Karl?
They do seem a bit sporadic!!
Going on the Outer Circle is not a cheap option for him. He has to pay centro for bus stop information on all 167 bus stops!
bet he doesnt
Quote from: Tony on September 23, 2014, 10:38:58 PM
Quote from: DiamondDart on September 23, 2014, 09:15:50 PM
Quote from: karl724223 on September 23, 2014, 08:41:55 PM
Only one bus came out today
Any idea which one Karl?
They do seem a bit sporadic!!
Going on the Outer Circle is not a cheap option for him. He has to pay centro for bus stop information on all 167 bus stops!
I bet he doesn't, he has never paid Centro to use either Stourbridge or Dudley bus station or to add details of the service on the 246 bus stops, so am sure he won't do it on the 11. Will just wait for an NE11 to appear in the distance and off they will go!!
According to the Facebook page there will be 2 buses each direction
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 24, 2014, 06:52:49 PM
According to the Facebook page there will be 2 buses each direction
Half an hour apart, then a two hour gap! and yes he has contacted Centro and they have told him how much it will cost
I bet he doesn't pay or run to time if he runs at all judging by what's gone on on the 246 route
Bit of a shame really, as I still maintain what I've said for years that there's room for competition on the 246, but GRS have done it absolutely terribly
Quote from: wilmotm (Matt Wilmot) on September 24, 2014, 11:11:01 PM
Bit of a shame really, as I still maintain what I've said for years that there's room for competition on the 246, but GRS have done it absolutely terribly
I'd desperately like to see competition on the 97 again. Having said that, I
wouldn't like to see desperate competition GRS style....
Only saw two out today on 246
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on September 25, 2014, 12:00:10 AM
Quote from: wilmotm (Matt Wilmot) on September 24, 2014, 11:11:01 PM
Bit of a shame really, as I still maintain what I've said for years that there's room for competition on the 246, but GRS have done it absolutely terribly
I'd desperately like to see competition on the 97 again. Having said that, I wouldn't like to see desperate competition GRS style....
Maybe Diamond should never have withdrawn from the 97
Quote from: Winston on September 26, 2014, 06:13:14 PM
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on September 25, 2014, 12:00:10 AM
Quote from: wilmotm (Matt Wilmot) on September 24, 2014, 11:11:01 PM
Bit of a shame really, as I still maintain what I've said for years that there's room for competition on the 246, but GRS have done it absolutely terribly
I'd desperately like to see competition on the 97 again. Having said that, I wouldn't like to see desperate competition GRS style....
Maybe Diamond should never have withdrawn from the 97
Watch out for the revised hanovers from Friday...
Quote from: Winston on September 26, 2014, 06:13:14 PM
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on September 25, 2014, 12:00:10 AM
Quote from: wilmotm (Matt Wilmot) on September 24, 2014, 11:11:01 PM
Bit of a shame really, as I still maintain what I've said for years that there's room for competition on the 246, but GRS have done it absolutely terribly
I'd desperately like to see competition on the 97 again. Having said that, I wouldn't like to see desperate competition GRS style....
Maybe Diamond should never have withdrawn from the 97
Tell me about it.....
Quote from: Winston on September 26, 2014, 06:13:14 PM
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on September 25, 2014, 12:00:10 AM
Quote from: wilmotm (Matt Wilmot) on September 24, 2014, 11:11:01 PM
Bit of a shame really, as I still maintain what I've said for years that there's room for competition on the 246, but GRS have done it absolutely terribly
I'd desperately like to see competition on the 97 again. Having said that, I wouldn't like to see desperate competition GRS style....
Maybe Diamond should never have withdrawn from the 97
It never seemed busy for them though...
Quote from: DiamondDart on September 26, 2014, 10:04:15 PM
It never seemed busy for them though...
When it was regulated/monitored, it ticked over quite nicely & loadings were more than satisfactory. Unfortunately, the regulating/monitoring diminished, the Darts got knackered (par for the course with Darts flogged all day) & were replaced by Solos. The Solos had much reduced capacity & then the timetable degenerated into a work of fiction. Game over.
Much the same could be said about the 17.....
Some would describe that as what's happening on the 226
Quote from: the trainbasher on September 26, 2014, 10:54:59 PM
Some would describe that as what's happening on the 226
Couldn't say. I've not used the route of late, plus It's not been my responsibility to objectively observe the route for 18 months. I will however reiterate that every time I did so, Diamond were the better performing of the two ops on the route.
Watch out tomorrow for some changes on the 246 GRS
Quote from: the trainbasher on October 02, 2014, 06:29:22 PM
Watch out tomorrow for some changes on the 246 GRS
They have paid Centro, so they are going to use Stourbridge & Dudley bus station, they are going to operate to timetable and not run just in front of the NE service and they are going to have the correct number of buses on the road.
Am i close?
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on October 02, 2014, 07:58:54 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on October 02, 2014, 06:29:22 PM
Watch out tomorrow for some changes on the 246 GRS
They have paid Centro, so they are going to use Stourbridge & Dudley bus station, they are going to operate to timetable and not run just in front of the NE service and they are going to have the correct number of buses on the road.
Am i close?
Unfortunately not as close as you think...
Although there is one law he's complying to!
Also, T201 is VOR at the moment.
So what were the changes on the 246 today, haven't managed to get into Stourbridge today?
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on October 03, 2014, 03:29:09 PM
So what were the changes on the 246 today, haven't managed to get into Stourbridge today?
I'll post a picture later.
Your law is The Public Service Vehicles Accessibility Regulations 2000 Schedule 2
Heres the clue...
https://www.facebook.com/trainbasherphotographyofficial/photos/a.348098482037890.1073741829.305944002920005/348098262037912/?type=1&theater
Quote from: the trainbasher on October 03, 2014, 08:59:38 PM
Heres the clue...
https://www.facebook.com/trainbasherphotographyofficial/photos/a.348098482037890.1073741829.305944002920005/348098262037912/?type=1&theater
So what is the destination for Stourbridge bound vehicles?
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on October 03, 2014, 09:09:05 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on October 03, 2014, 08:59:38 PM
Heres the clue...
https://www.facebook.com/trainbasherphotographyofficial/photos/a.348098482037890.1073741829.305944002920005/348098262037912/?type=1&theater
So what is the destination for Stourbridge bound vehicles?
Stourbridge via Queens Cross, Russell's Hall Hospital, Brierley Hil and Amblecote.
The actual thing I was referring to was the positioning of something...
Queens Cross is just a Via Point
Quote from: the trainbasher on October 03, 2014, 09:12:58 PM
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on October 03, 2014, 09:09:05 PM
Quote from: the trainbasher on October 03, 2014, 08:59:38 PM
Heres the clue...
https://www.facebook.com/trainbasherphotographyofficial/photos/a.348098482037890.1073741829.305944002920005/348098262037912/?type=1&theater
So what is the destination for Stourbridge bound vehicles?
Stourbridge via Queens Cross, Russell's Hall Hospital, Brierley Hil and Amblecote.
The actual thing I was referring to was the positioning of something...
Queens Cross is just a Via Point
The route number!
On NWM Site - Timetables
GRS 11A
http://jp.networkwestmidlands.com/centro/TTB/CEN_EFA03__000069ad_TP.pdf
GRS 11C
http://jp.networkwestmidlands.com/centro/TTB/CEN_EFA03__0000147a_TP.pdf
Should read same as Nxwm just add 30 seconds
Quote from: the trainbasher on October 18, 2014, 02:21:01 AM
On NWM Site - Timetables
GRS 11A
http://jp.networkwestmidlands.com/centro/TTB/CEN_EFA03__000069ad_TP.pdf
GRS 11C
http://jp.networkwestmidlands.com/centro/TTB/CEN_EFA03__0000147a_TP.pdf
Says "HTTP/1.1 404 Object Not Found."
Saw P202OLX this morning on the 11C in Acocks Green. Not sure if the driver was entirely sure where he was going; he came down the Warwick Road but from the island just stopped short of heading down Shirley Road, and hesitated by the 37 stop for a few seconds, before pulling back out onto the island and then onto Westley Road!
Followed him on my 31, and he hesitated again going round the island on Fox Hollies Road by LIDL. Could see just one passenger on board. Looking at the timetable on the NWM website, he was running about 8 minutes early.
What do you think of the hanovers Stu?
Quote from: the trainbasher on October 28, 2014, 07:12:45 PM
What do you think of the hanovers Stu?
Not bad, looked almost the same as the NX displays, only with the bottom line scrolling.
The scrolling destinations will have to be removed for next year as they are not dda compliant
Well then kindly tell me where within the relevant act of parliament it says that, and the exact wording it says that?
The way I read the legislation it does not say how a display has to be programmed for via points. The same with the guidelines from centro.
13.—(1) Save as provided in paragraph (2), no vehicle shall be fitted with a lamp which automatically emits a flashing light.
As a scrolling destination requires an led to flash on & off then this would technically not be allowed.
Yes it would be really pinigaty for someone to pull an operator up on, but we all know there can be some awkward people out there with nothing better to do. So why take the chance
Quote from: Steveminor on October 28, 2014, 09:46:34 PM
13.—(1) Save as provided in paragraph (2), no vehicle shall be fitted with a lamp which automatically emits a flashing light.
As a scrolling destination requires an led to flash on & off then this would technically not be allowed.
Yes it would be really pinigaty for someone to pull an operator up on, but we all know there can be some awkward people out there with nothing better to do. So why take the chance
If we are being totally picky then all lights would not be allowed as the current automatically emits a fast flashing light.
It's just how far one wants to go. But if I had to have a scrolling display on a bus I would and if someone tried it I would put up a strong defence to say that that was the only way to show the stops on the display. Which in some cases is true.
The LED still flashes on a static display it just doesn't move.
anyone no the full address of this operator as looking on street view I type in 38 black lake and all you can see is houses thanks.
38 Black Lake is a house which I assume is where the owner lives. The buses are currently parked in a yard in Hare Street, Bilston which was previously where Joe's Travel were. Before this the buses were parked in a yard which doubled as a car wash further down the main road from Black Lake close to Wednesbury centre.
1st GRS Travel Dart I've seen on the 11C seen this morning at Yardley Swan around 9am couldn't get ID.
Quote from: Rob2832 on November 10, 2014, 10:23:20 PM
1st GRS Travel Dart I've seen on the 11C seen this morning at Yardley Swan around 9am couldn't get ID.
Did it have a scrolling display (R182VLA/P202OLX Pointers/R404FFC Wright Crusader with Hanover LEDs) or a static LED Display with a cream curve on the side? (t201/202 Marshalls with Brighttech displays)?
Or R923RAU...best bus in the fleet!
Wright Crusader bodied Dart R404 FFC in Acocks Green on 10 November 2014, working an 11E in a clockwise direction.
http://www.ipernity.com/doc/bryan_a_smith/35855185
I never thought they'd be using that short!
A while since anyone's posted in here!
Anyone seen how the 11's doing? Better than it did under Joe's travel?
I've seen R404FFC has been used, presume the other darts have also been on there at some point including R923RAU, the best of the bunch
@DiamondDart I went on 404 last Friday and it was busy. 15 down but busy.
Quote from: the trainbasher on January 17, 2015, 03:37:20 PM
@DiamondDart I went on 404 last Friday and it was busy. 15 down but busy.
Ooh, an @ mention, how exciting! I'd forgotten that was back!!
That's good, I wonder how many buses they've actually got on there?
The 11 is a busy route undoubtedly it's just hard to compete in terms of level of resources required...
Thanks for the info!
@DiamondDart they've got 4.
2 on the A and 2 on the C.
They run with one starting each way then another one half hour behind then 2-3 hour gap til the next one
Quote from: DiamondDart on January 17, 2015, 03:30:08 PM
A while since anyone's posted in here!
Anyone seen how the 11's doing? Better than it did under Joe's travel?
I've seen R404FFC has been used, presume the other darts have also been on there at some point including R923RAU, the best of the bunch
I don't think anyone told them about the closure of Harborne Park Road/Harborne High Street on Thursday. I was walking down Harborne Park Road and saw one of their darts picking up the pensioners
Quote from: the trainbasher on January 17, 2015, 03:49:27 PM
@DiamondDart they've got 4.
2 on the A and 2 on the C.
They run with one starting each way then another one half hour behind then 2-3 hour gap til the next one
Thanks for the info!
GRS have been called up to Public Inquiry on 2nd April according to today's N&P
Quote from: 3Q on March 06, 2015, 06:33:58 PM
GRS have been called up to Public Inquiry on 2nd April according to today's N&P
Now there's a surprise ??? ???
FOR WHAT REASONS?
Don't think it's been mentioned yet but they have gained X604 and X608 OKH.
@the trainbasher Tom have you any idea what charges GRS are to face?
@Stuharris 6360Public Inquiry (50369) to be held at The Public Inquiry Room, 38 George Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 1PL, on 02 April 2015 commencing at 10:30(Previous Publication:(2055)
)
PD1084253 SN
GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL
38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP , WEST BROMWICH B70 0PP
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 - S111 - Consideration of disciplinary action under Section 111 (The Transport Act 1985)
Quote from: the trainbasher on March 06, 2015, 08:22:57 PM
@Stuharris 6360
Public Inquiry (50369) to be held at The Public Inquiry Room, 38 George Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 1PL, on 02 April 2015 commencing at 10:30(Previous Publication:(2055)
)
PD1084253 SN
GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL
38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP , WEST BROMWICH B70 0PP
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 - S111 - Consideration of disciplinary action under Section 111 (The Transport Act 1985)
@the trainbasher Thanks Tom
@trident4370 watch out quite closely on the 11 this next week!
oooo this sounds good, my camera will be ready and waiting
@the trainbasher :D
Y what happenening
I think I know
Didn't they already have public inquiry similar issues last year?
They have a green and cream liveried Dart on the 11C
it should be by City Hospital now
@OH25 should be one of the 2 X plates with hanovers fitted in it
@the trainbasher yes it did have a Hanover display but I didn't catch the registration number
Quote from: OH25 on March 16, 2015, 04:19:06 PM
They have a green and cream liveried Dart on the 11C
it should be by City Hospital now
I passed it today on Brookvale Road, but can not remember the reg. The livery reminds me of Grant Palmer (Identical but lime green instead of red ) https://www.flickr.com/photos/51738247@N03/14147850946/
The front grille was red with GRS Travel on it
The bus you saw yesterday was X608OKH
Anyone Know what happened at the PI that GRS was at
for those who haven't seen the latest buses of GRS https://www.flickr.com/photos/stanjack/16489316814/
why do u see the grs buses parked up in 2s or 3s on fox hollies road by the park some without any driver in them?
Quote from: Jaysnerz007 on April 15, 2015, 09:44:15 PM
why do u see the grs buses parked up in 2s or 3s on fox hollies road by the park some without any driver in them?
timetabled breaks in service
seems convenient doesnt it
Quote from: Jaysnerz007 on April 15, 2015, 09:53:48 PM
seems convenient doesnt it
@Jaysnerz007 GRS Timings at Acocks Green
11C
AG Dep - - 0828 0858 1140 1210 1445 1515 1705 1735
AG Arr 0828 0858 1048 1118 1400 1430 1705 1735 - -
11A
AG Dep - - 0855 0925 1200 1230 1510 1540 1728 1758
AG Arr 0855 0925 1115 1145 1420 1450 1728 1758 - -
Allegedly, the last two 11A services are due to pass Stechford at 17:42 & 18:12.
... Which doesn't satisfactorily explain why I saw two in service there tonight at 18:35 & 18:39....
Any1 knows what happened at the Public Inquiry?
http://www.route-one.net/legal/tc-not-impressed-by-operator/
QuoteIn reserving decision over what action to take against the licence held by West Bromwich-based Gurdaver Ram, trading as GRS Travel, Traffic Commissioner (TC) Nick Jones said that he was not impressed by his level of professionalism.
Mr Ram, of Black Lake, Hill Top, West Bromwich, had been called before the TC at a Birmingham Public Inquiry (PI).
He appeared at a previous PI in January 2014 when his licence was cut from five to four vehicles, he was ordered to pay a penalty of £2,750, and a condition was placed on the licence in regard to operation in the Birmingham Statutory Quality Partnership Scheme (SQPS) (routeone, Court Report, 29 January 2014).
After financial evidence was heard in private, the TC said that it had been reported that vehicles had not been operated for six weeks or so because they were uninsured.
For Mr Ram, Tim Nesbitt said that the insurance was paid by instalments and there was insufficient money at the time. The insurance had since been paid up front for 12 months. The amount had tripled since 2009 due to claims and accidents by drivers who had since been dismissed.
Vehicle Examiner and Bus Operator Account Manager and service punctuality (BOAM) Andrew Male said that he carried out a maintenance investigation in September following an unsatisfactory investigation into service punctuality. Three vehicles were inspected and given immediate prohibitions.
As there were no inspection records available for a recent addition to the fleet it appeared that it was pressed into service without a safety inspection. Three buses presented for annual test all failed.
Mr Ram did not have sufficient roadworthy buses to maintain his service requirements, with both his spare buses off the road awaiting major repairs and one bus undergoing MoT preparation. That resulted in no buses operating on that day.
There had been little improvement in the maintenance systems since the last PI. At that time Mr Ram was disqualified as a Transport Manager (TM) and he was given a period of grace until the end of May to appoint a new TM, but there was no TM in place at the time of his visit.
Following the last PI, Mr Ram was instructed by the TC to operate route 16 in accordance with the SQPS. In February 2014 Mr Ram gave notice to withdraw that service and registered the operation of four buses on route 246.
In the same month Mr Male was contacted by Centro, which had concerns over buses not displaying the correct destination boards, not being properly liveried, and the reliability of the 16 service.
He monitored the 16 and 246 services on five days. The overall non-compliance rate for journeys which failed to operate, ran early or ran late was 70%. Five of the 45 journeys observed were displaying incorrect destination boards.
Centro had threatened to ban Mr Ram from Dudley and Stourbridge bus stations for non-compliant timetables, but he volunteered to leave. Centro had also received complaints from another operator that GRS Travel buses were deliberately driving just in front of their buses instead of operating to their own timetable.
The monitoring and a bus riding exercise confirmed that GRS buses were running just in front of a rival operator's buses in an attempt to win passengers. On occasions buses were driven at speeds obviously well below normal road speeds.
During a BOAM visit in October, Mr Ram had said he had cancelled the 246 registration and had registered to operate services 11a and 11c, the Birmingham 'outer circle'.
Mr Ram said that during 2014 he had been seriously ill for around five months until September. Although he was able to supervise things a bit, he had to delegate most of the management to his daughter.
They had advertised nationally for a TM but the position was hard to fill. At just about the last minute they found Paul Foley, but he resigned the day after his appointment. They managed to find Anthony Fryett, who had started in January.
As part of their efforts to improve things they had moved to a new bus garage at Bilston, in part because of its workshop facilities. They had taken on the existing mechanic who had worked there. Following the maintenance investigation he had got rid of him, and recruited a new mechanic in November who he believed was doing a good job. He had invested in two new vehicles this month.
Mr Fryett, who was 78 years old, said that he had not been a nominated TM on an O-Licence before. He did not have a contract with Mr Ram but was paid £70 a week for four afternoons. He had obtained his CPC in 1988. He had not had any TM refresher training since the 1990s.
Doesn't look good does it!
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on July 08, 2015, 10:21:30 PM
Doesn't look good does it!
No, and from reading that it would seem that this is a business which has no place in an industry competing with other operators who do bother to run in a compliant manner. It should have led to a revocation of the licence, as simple as that.
I actually quite liked grs on the 16. I would opt for diamond then grs then nx
Quote from: Trident 4194 on July 10, 2015, 07:20:51 PM
I actually quite liked grs on the 16. I would opt for diamond then grs then nx
So you preferred buses driven by drivers so bad even the owner admits that they were the cause of his massive insurance hike?
Quote from: Tony on July 10, 2015, 07:23:08 PM
So you preferred buses driven by drivers so bad even the owner admits that they were the cause of his massive insurance hike?
it was unbelievable what there drivers were getting up to on the 246 all of them
Quote from: Tony on July 10, 2015, 07:23:08 PM
So you preferred buses driven by drivers so bad even the owner admits that they were the cause of his massive insurance hike?
There was one driver, an old man with a hat, Asian he was so polite even if he did drive unbelievably slowly
Quote from: Trident 4194 on July 10, 2015, 07:57:42 PM
There was one driver, an old man with a hat, Asian he was so polite even if he did drive unbelievably slowly
I believe he was the one in a serious collision that was the main cause of GRS's insurance rise!
Quote from: Tony on July 10, 2015, 08:10:13 PM
I believe he was the one in a serious collision that was the main cause of GRS's insurance rise!
I do apologise I only look the grs because of there low passenger numbers and not dirty disgusting vehicles
I caught GRS a lot during the time they started on the 246 last summer. They appeared to be loading quite well and then they just vanished. I don't imagine the 11 is working well for them but the regular driver of R923RAU was absolutely fantastic, excellent customer service and seemed a very slow, smooth and steady driver. I just hope that such individuals still have a job with GRS or have found another. At the end of the day, it's people's jobs at stake with mortgages, family etc which I'd say people overlook when wishing for revocations or smaller operators off the road etc.
Quote from: DiamondDart on July 10, 2015, 10:02:46 PM
I caught GRS a lot during the time they started on the 246 last summer. They appeared to be loading quite well and then they just vanished. I don't imagine the 11 is working well for them but the regular driver of R923RAU was absolutely fantastic, excellent customer service and seemed a very slow, smooth and steady driver. I just hope that such individuals still have a job with GRS or have found another. At the end of the day, it's people's jobs at stake with mortgages, family etc which I'd say people overlook when wishing for revocations or smaller operators off the road etc.
I can wholeheartedly agree with you there
@DiamondDart. I used to use the GRS 246 quite often (mainly as they would be 99% on time - as opposed to NXWMs reliablity) and I was initally surprised to see them vanish too.
I had a look on 2 separate 11C trips on 2 different days and one (R404) was standing room only, with the other trip (the X plate) only me and one other person.
Only one dart of theirs I didn't like and that was T201AFM as that had a floor which sunk slightly when I walked over part of it.
So are you saying
@the trainbasher @DiamondDart that GRS should be allowed to get away with things, after all the PI report is pretty damning.
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 10, 2015, 10:10:49 PM
I can wholeheartedly agree with you there @DiamondDart. I used to use the GRS 246 quite often (mainly as they would be 99% on time - as opposed to NXWMs reliablity) and I was initally surprised to see them vanish too.
I had a look on 2 separate 11C trips on 2 different days and one (R404) was standing room only, with the other trip (the X plate) only me and one other person.
Only one dart of theirs I didn't like and that was T201AFM as that had a floor which sunk slightly when I walked over part of it.
I thought the 246 had a lot of potential, people were genuinely warming to this one guy's customer service. I remember once a frail old lady got on and he waited absolutely ages for her to sit down and asked her if she was ok. I was astonished to see them vanish, there seemed grand plans for the 222 as well. I'm glad they're doing ok on the 11 in a couple of your observations. R404 is a nice bus, R923 has got to be my favourite though, amazing condition that one!
Thinking back to the last week or so, we've seen a well known Glasgow operator, City Sprinter abruptly shut, Hereford going to shut, potential job contractions in the Potteries, Astons 382 is going, need I go on. The year's also seen Western Greyhound go, First Plymouth thankfully saved, I wish people wouldn't wish the industry to actually diminish!!
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on July 10, 2015, 10:15:02 PM
So are you saying @the trainbasher @DiamondDart that GRS should be allowed to get away with things, after all the PI report is pretty damning.
Nope of course not, I just think it's a bit harsh to slag people off on here completely unable to defend themselves eg drivers. I don't think any operator should be allowed to have low standards of maintenance etc and the KPI's at GRS were obviously going wrong. I do think it's fair to say, as the TC acknowledged, Mr GRS was clearly ill for a substantial amount of time last year. It can't be easy combining trying to manage a business properly to pay the bills and employ people with potentially being ill yourself. Anyone with the guts to go out there, have a go, run a bus business in difficult times I'll always admire. Yes things clearly went wrong, but the company has been running more than 5 years and only had 1 previous PI related largely to SQBP compliance.
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on July 10, 2015, 10:15:02 PM
So are you saying @the trainbasher @DiamondDart that GRS should be allowed to get away with things, after all the PI report is pretty damning.
@stuharris6360 Put it this way, if NXWM or Diamond did some of the stuff that GRS
allegedly did (of course the press can distort facts) then they would (and do) get off with it. Do you remember the situation with diamond losing wheels off buses and their constant lateness on several routes...or NXWM and their bus fires? No PIs for them.
I can only remember one operator that genuinely deserved their licence revoked and that was A2Z...
Quote from: DiamondDart on July 10, 2015, 10:17:18 PM
I thought the 246 had a lot of potential, people were genuinely warming to this one guy's customer service. I remember once a frail old lady got on and he waited absolutely ages for her to sit down and asked her if she was ok. I was astonished to see them vanish, there seemed grand plans for the 222 as well. I'm glad they're doing ok on the 11 in a couple of your observations. R404 is a nice bus, R923 has got to be my favourite though, amazing condition that one!
Thinking back to the last week or so, we've seen a well known Glasgow operator, City Sprinter abruptly shut, Hereford going to shut, potential job contractions in the Potteries, Astons 382 is going, need I go on. The year's also seen Western Greyhound go, First Plymouth thankfully saved, I wish people wouldn't wish the industry to actually diminish!!
I thought it would do well too but of course with Centro and NXWM ganging up on them, conspiring to get them to leave the bus station then the grim reaper would eventually raise its head for that route.
They are complete and utter prats, the drivers are absolutely dangerous. I was coming round the bend and on the straight on Dudley Park/Yardley Road(by stage 27/Francis Road) at around 20mph. You can only fit one bus on this stretch so if one is coming the other way it has to wait.
Anyway I was half way on the stretch and a GRS dart came flying the other side and I quickly braked. When he came close to me he realised he couldn't fit and swerved into the pavement at at least 25mph and drove straight over it and carried on. Absolute morons!
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 10, 2015, 10:26:07 PM
@stuharris6360 Put it this way, if NXWM or Diamond did some of the stuff that GRS allegedly did (of course the press can distort facts) then they would (and do) get off with it. Do you remember the situation with diamond losing wheels off buses and their constant lateness on several routes...or NXWM and their bus fires? No PIs for them.
I can only remember one operator that genuinely deserved their licence revoked and that was A2Z...
I thought it would do well too but of course with Centro and NXWM ganging up on them, conspiring to get them to leave the bus station then the grim reaper would eventually raise its head for that route.
These are not things GRS 'allegedly did' these are things observed by people working for the DVSA and found to have happened at a PI
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 10, 2015, 10:26:07 PM
I thought it would do well too but of course with Centro and NXWM ganging up on them, conspiring to get them to leave the bus station then the grim reaper would eventually raise its head for that route.
"Centro had threatened to ban Mr Ram from Dudley and Stourbridge bus stations for non-compliant timetables,
but he volunteered to leave. "
If he thought they were in the right, then why didn't he stick at the bus station. Simple, if they parked in the road underneath the bus station or in the lay by in Birmingham Street, it was easy to see a 246 about to leave and take off in front of them.
The easy answer to this was for him to make his timetable compliant!
So then, if people don't want to see GRS vanish, what is the solution?
Didn't Banga have problems similar to this in the past? Maybe the solution is there?
Those of you sticking up for GRS are living in a bubble.
No idea why. Just observe them on the 11 for one day.
Your answers lie within this quest.
At the end of the day GRS are being ganged upon because they are a small independent operator. I've seen some dangerous driving from nx and diamond, but nx could afford to get away with it
Quote from: Trident 4194 on July 11, 2015, 08:20:56 AM
At the end of the day GRS are being ganged upon because they are a small independent operator. I've seen some dangerous driving from nx and diamond, but nx could afford to get away with it
No they really are not! NX can not buy there way out of a legal case!
Quote from: Tony on July 10, 2015, 10:29:26 PM
These are not things GRS 'allegedly did' these are things observed by people working for the DVSA and found to have happened at a PI
This is correct, the report is obviously written by someone who attended the PI. In any case, 'distorting facts' in such a case is likely to end up with the publication being sued.
As for job losses if GRS was to cease, think of it like this. If, as seems obvious, GRS doesn't bother playing by the rules, it is able to run its services at lower cost than other operators. That could in theory affect the compliant firms out there as the playing field is not level, potentially compromising the jobs of drivers that work for those who choose to run their business as a bus operator is supposed to be.
GRS clearly has no business being able to compete with properly-run firms and its licence should have been revoked. If it was operating in the NW, and the owner had found himself in front of Beverley Bell, it would have been.
I have to agree that grs should lose his licence I'm afraid. I'm mean to spend several days with no buses on the road I mean imagine if nx or diamond did that. That is totally unacceptable
Quote from: Steveminor on July 11, 2015, 09:30:10 AM
I have to agree that grs should lose his licence I'm afraid. I'm mean to spend several days with no buses on the road I mean imagine if nx or diamond did that. That is totally unacceptable
@Steveminor what company do you run?
I do a bit of casual work for Sunny travel social travel & discount travel & whilst sunny didn't have the best reputation going. They are trying to pull their socks up & have never not run a single bus. That's the main point with grs, he spent half a week with mo buses on the road AT ALL. That is inexusuable
As I said earlier both NX and Diamond have got away with worse. both of those should have had at least their licences reviewed...
Diamond with their wheel loss incidents/late running and NX with their bus fires? They make even First Manchester pale in comparison!
Dear old Beveley would have yanked the licence off diamond in an instant. Yet here we have a traffic commissioner who is more anti independent than not...oh I forgot...the forum is judge, jury and executioner when it comes to the small operators
What routes are in Barnsley
Discount are worse than GRS. They change routes every term, they have buses which stink of diesel onboard I have noticed.
Is there a designated 'emergency' operator, if someone does go 'bump'?
When A2Z went bump, their Walsall work seemed to be split between Nx & Choice(who renamed themselves Midland as well!), plus Diamond started on the 301 as well.
I can't believe some of what I am reading.
Lets forget about non compliant timetables, running right in front of rivals etc and focus on the main point on this report.
"Vehicle Examiner and Bus Operator Account Manager and service punctuality (BOAM) Andrew Male said that he carried out a maintenance investigation in September following an unsatisfactory investigation into service punctuality. Three vehicles were inspected and given immediate prohibitions.
As there were no inspection records available for a recent addition to the fleet it appeared that it was pressed into service without a safety inspection. Three buses presented for annual test all failed."
Are people saying that it is ok to have vehicles on the road which haven't been safety checked when they arrive at the garage or that have serious safety defects.
Yes the owner had a serious illness and had to leave the company in the hands of his daughter, not the best idea in the circumstance, surely another member of his family could have run the company in his absence.
I am sure Mr Male who inspected the vehicles would not want his name mentioned in an article if ALL the facts were not correct, its his reputation that is at stake.
We all know that GRS are not the only ones to have problems, didn't PE get ordered at one time to have all there vehicles MOT'd. However now with AVL, i doubt if they can get away with running early and placing there buses right in front of a competitor.
Quote from: Westy on July 11, 2015, 11:30:31 AM
Is there a designated 'emergency' operator, if someone does go 'bump'?
When A2Z went bump, their Walsall work seemed to be split between Nx & Choice(who renamed themselves Midland as well!), plus Diamond started on the 301 as well.
I don't think GRS will go, if the TC thought there was no hope for them then he would have pulled the plug at the PI.
If anything i think he will further reduce the number of vehicles they can use UNTIL they can prove that things have been sorted.
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 11, 2015, 10:53:40 AM
As I said earlier both NX and Diamond have got away with worse. both of those should have had at least their licences reviewed...
Diamond with their wheel loss incidents/late running and NX with their bus fires? They make even First Manchester pale in comparison!
While wheel loss is indeed inexcusable, the fact that NXWM has had buses catch fire is in no way a definite indictiment on its maintenance standards. It could have happened due to vandalism, a manufacturing defect or several other things, and such instances are of little interest to the TCs. Especially when they have the likes of GRS and other serially non-compliant operators to deal with.
As for Rotala and NXWM 'getting away with worse', I would be interested to hear what either has done which is worse than not operating a single registered service for a significant period of time through having buses which were either not insured or awaiting repair.
Quote from: Westy on July 11, 2015, 11:30:31 AM
Is there a designated 'emergency' operator, if someone does go 'bump'?
It depends. If it's a commercial route which is duplicated by another operator then nothing would happen as it's of no interest to Centro. However, if a company running tenders ceases operation suddenly (as in the likes of Ace in Liverpool, for example) then the normal course of action is for the tendering body (i.e. Centro, TfGM, etc) to issue emergency tenders ASAP. These usually run for a much shorter period of time than a conventional contract would and are often less specific in terms of vehicle requirements as the priority is getting the service running again.
Operators who are able to respond quickly to emergency tenders are often in a good position as they can command significant sums over what might be expected for something tendered in the conventional manner. I imagine it is the reason that some firms often keep a spare bus or two which are worth little more than scrap lying around, especially if they have a bit of 'intel' on other operators.
PD1084253/6 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Cancellation Accepted by SN: Operating between OXHILL ROAD, HANDSWORTH and ACOCKS GREEN given service number 11A/11C effective from 13-Jul-2015.
Quote from: Winston on July 24, 2015, 02:44:13 PM
PD1084253/6 - GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL, 38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP, WEST BROMWICH, B70 0PP
Cancellation Accepted by SN: Operating between OXHILL ROAD, HANDSWORTH and ACOCKS GREEN given service number 11A/11C effective from 13-Jul-2015.
Bye bye GRS :( Seems those who wished harsher TC action may have got their wish anyway ie GRS no longer operating...
Quote from: DiamondDart on July 24, 2015, 03:30:17 PM
Bye bye GRS :( Seems those who wished harsher TC action may have got their wish anyway ie GRS no longer operating...
Let's just hope they're registering another route soon
I've just seen one on the 11. It says 13 July on that cancellation.
Also who are the other company on it. They are exactly the same as GRS.
Quote from: MW on July 24, 2015, 05:27:11 PM
I've just seen one on the 11. It says 13 July on that cancellation.
Also who are the other company on it. They are exactly the same as GRS.
Social Travel
Quote from: MW on July 24, 2015, 05:27:11 PM
I've just seen one on the 11. It says 13 July on that cancellation.
Also who are the other company on it. They are exactly the same as GRS.
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 24, 2015, 05:34:58 PM
Social Travel
Oh no, yet another company to appear on the 11A and 11C who I will bet cease working the route in a few months! Having said that I suspect there are connections between GRS and Social Travel, taking into account both are based in West Bromwich.
The vehicles may provide some variety on the West Midlands roads for enthusiasts, but for passengers who want and need to rely on a company turning up on a regular basis month in, month out, this is not good.
Quote from: Bryan on July 24, 2015, 07:33:59 PM
Oh no, yet another company to appear on the 11A and 11C who I will bet cease working the route in a few months! Having said that I suspect there are connections between GRS and Social Travel, taking into account both are based in West Bromwich.
The vehicles may provide some variety on the West Midlands roads for enthusiasts, but for passengers who want and need to rely on a company turning up on a regular basis month in, month out, this is not good.
Social Travel is the ones with the white and purple livery who are connected to Sunny Travel and they operate the C version only.
GRS is in no way connected km them
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 24, 2015, 07:40:31 PM
Social Travel is the ones with the white and purple livery who are connected to Sunny Travel and they operate the C version only.
GRS is in no way connected km them
There are some links between Social Travel, Discount Travel and Sunny Travel but no links with GRS Travel.
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 24, 2015, 05:34:58 PM
Social Travel
GRS were on the 11 today, and have been on everyday, so I don't understand when the cancellation will commence.
Is 13th July the cancellation date, or the "approval of cancellation" date.
Quote from: MW on July 27, 2015, 08:53:48 PM
GRS were on the 11 today, and have been on everyday, so I don't understand when the cancellation will commence.
Is 13th July the cancellation date, or the "approval of cancellation" date.
Depends on if they've got the paperwork from VOSA to confirm the status of it all
GRS Travel were still operating the 11 today :) :) :)
Quote from: 2206 on July 30, 2015, 06:48:33 PM
GRS Travel were still operating the 11 today :) :) :)
I also saw them with their marshal dart
Quote from: Trident 4194 on July 30, 2015, 06:52:47 PM
I also saw them with their marshal dart
With the destination display not working correctly? I saw it earlier by Acocks Green rail station., empty, following right behind an NX 11A.
Might have a look out for them tomorrow while I'm out and about
Quote from: Stu on July 30, 2015, 06:57:58 PM
With the destination display not working correctly? I saw it earlier by Acocks Green rail station., empty, following right behind an NX 11A.
It was working this afternoon
@Stu the Marshall dart was T202 AFM and operated the 17:28 from Acocks Green. Was full when i saw it.
So are GRS still running an unregistered service?
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on July 30, 2015, 07:26:10 PM
So are GRS still running an unregistered service?
Yes they are still running an unregistered service they operated the 17:28 departure from Acocks Green
Quote from: 2206 on July 30, 2015, 07:33:12 PM
Yes they are still running an unregistered service they operated the 17:28 departure from Acocks Green
T202AFM was on 11 today
Will be interested to see the final result of the PI when it is published.
Would have thought VOSA would have informed GRS by now that there registration is cancelled.
I was on the X51 earlier and not far after scott arms there was a GRS bus broken down with a van attending, I think it had jump leads going around it (I think)
Quote from: Dom on July 30, 2015, 08:09:27 PM
I was on the X51 earlier and not far after scott arms there was a GRS bus broken down with a van attending, I think it had jump leads going around it (I think)
Does the 11 run around there ?
Quote from: Rhys S on July 30, 2015, 08:13:55 PM
Does the 11 run around there ?
No the 11 dose not go to Great Barr
@Rhys S
Quote from: 2206 on July 30, 2015, 08:16:33 PM
Quote from: Rhys S on July 30, 2015, 08:13:55 PM
Does the 11 run around there ?
No the 11 dose not go to Great Barr @Rhys S
Thanks
@2206 just wondered as to why a GRS dart was there
Tomorrow will be the last day of GRS on the 11's.
I think I know where I'm heading tomorrow then!
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 30, 2015, 10:00:19 PM
I think I know where I'm heading tomorrow then!
I will try to get a last ride on them, it will be a shame to see them go.
Quote from: 2206 on July 30, 2015, 10:20:17 PM
I will try to get a last ride on them, it will be a shame to see them go.
No it won't.
They were operating in full force today along with the other cowboys on the 11C.
One of their darts broke down between Jaffery Crescent and Six Ways Erdington on the A causing delays and pain to everyone!
It was probably the same one at Great Barr, must have got it moved?
Quote from: MW on July 30, 2015, 11:19:18 PM
No it won't.
They were operating in full force today along with the other cowboys on the 11C.
One of their darts broke down between Jaffery Crescent and Six Ways Erdington on the A causing delays and pain to everyone!
It was probably the same one at Great Barr, must have got it moved?
It will be sad to see them go, especially when they were a reliable operator when they were on the 246. I actually prefered to use them on there as they would run more to a timetable than NXWM was. I sure will miss them
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 30, 2015, 11:24:27 PM
It will be sad to see them go, especially when they were a reliable operator when they were on the 246. I actually prefered to use them on there as they would run more to a timetable than NXWM was. I sure will miss them
So why did the public enquiry say completely the opposite?
Quote from: Tony on July 31, 2015, 08:04:05 AM
So why did the public enquiry say completely the opposite?
Here we go again...
I give up with this anti independent feeling on here. Just because they weren't NXWM doesn't mean that they automatically deserve a bashing on here for all the ills in the world.
I'm surprised the situation at Calais hasn't been blamed on them, or <insert world problem> as it seems some people one here are overly obsessed with NXWM and they can do no wrong - well if that's the case then surely if GRS can be up in front of the TC for a few little mistakes, which occasionally happen then surely NXWM should be up there for all the fires their Trident and Merc fleet have had over the last few years...oh, I forgot...NXWM do no ill!
Most of the locals round here would have agreed with me that GRS came at a more reliable time than NXWM...in fact reliability on the 246 has got worse during peak hours nowadays...oh I forgot...the lateness is a figment of my imagination!
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 31, 2015, 08:17:46 AM
Here we go again...
I give up with this anti independent feeling on here. Just because they weren't NXWM doesn't mean that they automatically deserve a bashing on here for all the ills in the world.
I'm surprised the situation at Calais hasn't been blamed on them, or <insert world problem> as it seems some people one here are overly obsessed with NXWM and they can do no wrong - well if that's the case then surely if GRS can be up in front of the TC for a few little mistakes, which occasionally happen then surely NXWM should be up there for all the fires their Trident and Merc fleet have had over the last few years...oh, I forgot...NXWM do no ill!
Most of the locals round here would have agreed with me that GRS came at a more reliable time than NXWM...in fact reliability on the 246 has got worse during peak hours nowadays...oh I forgot...the lateness is a figment of my imagination!
I agree with you trainbasher they were reliable, good drivers always friendly and decent buses. I used them when they were on the 16.
I don't know why every sucks up to nxwm for, I find them rude, arrogant and idiots at driving. Nx can't stick to timetables, and it's appalling they are our main operator in the West Midlands. At least GRS drivers seemed to enjoy their jobs, in comparison with nx where a slight smile is an achievement! Nx get paid the most but they look like they get 10p a day!!
This is why I'm all diamond and hansons. Surprised no one has had a go at them for being an INDEPENDENT operator. OH wait... There more reliable than nx
Quote from: Trident 4194 on July 31, 2015, 08:37:47 AM
I agree with you trainbasher they were reliable, good drivers always friendly and decent buses. I used them when they were on the 16.
I don't know why every sucks up to nxwm for, I find them rude, arrogant and idiots at driving. Nx can't stick to timetables, and it's appalling they are our main operator in the West Midlands. At least GRS drivers seemed to enjoy their jobs, in comparison with nx where a slight smile is an achievement! Nx get paid the most but they look like they get 10p a day!!
This is why I'm all diamond and hansons. Surprised no one has had a go at them for being an INDEPENDENT operator. OH wait... There more reliable than nx
You've hit the nail on the head there :)
So all the independent observers and centro bus station staff are liers that saw what grs were getting up to on the 246 pity a police car didn't see them jumping red lights
@karl724223 and NXWM drivers obey the law and Centro regulations religiously? If that's true then I'm Obi Wan Kenobi!
I've seen some pretty dodgy driving from nxwm drivers especially when GRS were on the 246...plus the stand blocking NXWM buses do in merry hill and Stourbridge.
Case 1 - When Hansons did the X26 service, every X96 bus that was due off at the same time in merry hill deliberately blocked the stand so hansons couldn't get onto theirs.
Case 2 - 276's Dudley bound go onto stand in merry hill and wait for 5 minutes before departing, blocking the entire bus station
Case 3 - X96 at Stourbridge gets on stand at xx03 towards Wollaston...with a igo bus due at xx05....igo bus either has to wait for the X96 to go or use the 9 stand
Case 4 - merry hill bounds at Stourbridge X96 block the stand meaning that the 1735 228 isn't able to get on stand until the last second...
...oh I forgot NXWM can do no wrong!
Its getting painfully obvious that to be on here you have to have your head rammed up the corporate passage of NX otherwise you aren't entitled to an opinion, and for that reason it has given me strong cause to consider my position on this place as some people are becoming insufferable.
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 31, 2015, 09:47:41 AM
@karl724223 and NXWM drivers obey the law and Centro regulations religiously? If that's true then I'm Obi Wan Kenobi!
I've seen some pretty dodgy driving from nxwm drivers especially when GRS were on the 246...plus the stand blocking NXWM buses do in merry hill and Stourbridge.
Case 1 - When Hansons did the X26 service, every X96 bus that was due off at the same time in merry hill deliberately blocked the stand so hansons couldn't get onto theirs.
Case 2 - 276's Dudley bound go onto stand in merry hill and wait for 5 minutes before departing, blocking the entire bus station
Case 3 - X96 at Stourbridge gets on stand at xx03 towards Wollaston...with a igo bus due at xx05....igo bus either has to wait for the X96 to go or use the 9 stand
Case 4 - merry hill bounds at Stourbridge X96 block the stand meaning that the 1735 228 isn't able to get on stand until the last second...
...oh I forgot NXWM can do no wrong!
Its getting painfully obvious that to be on here you have to have your head rammed up the corporate passage of NX otherwise you aren't entitled to an opinion, and for that reason it has given me strong cause to consider my position on this place as some people are becoming insufferable.
Amazing in the last few days we have had people saying the X96 is always late and needs changing, yet here someone is claiming they are always waiting time. Someone's lying!
I've seen diamond driver driving in merry hill bus station using a phone centro saw him said nothing
Hansons drivers drive round bus station with doors open centro say nothing
We have a 3 minute open door policy at merry hill other operators are regularly parked on stand 5 minutes centro say nothing
I've seen hansons and diamond double park and load up centro say nothing
Quote from: karl724223 on July 31, 2015, 10:00:50 AM
I've seen diamond driver driving in merry hill bus station using a phone centro saw him said nothing
Hansons drivers drive round bus station with doors open centro say nothing
We have a 3 minute open door policy at merry hill other operators are regularly parked on stand 5 minutes centro say nothing
I've seen hansons and diamond double park and load up centro say nothing
Well the solution is to get the traffic commissioner to revoke their licences for these crimes and get the bosses strung up (!) Oh I forgot, they're too busy persecuting smaller operators for making a couple of mistakes which, lets face it, aren't as bad as the stuff NXWM have got up to!
I just came off a trip on the 11A. All of you who defend GRS have no clue of what's going on. Independents in general I have no issue with. All of what I'm saying is in my personal experience, and as a 11 driver, I see them on a daily basis. Today, their T201 dart came and overtook me (I was around 4-5 mins late so their was a small gap in service). The dart kept slowing me down in terms of parking at stops without leaving enough room for other vehicles to overtake and in one case blocked part of the oncoming lane. Then at the stop just after Selly Oak Sainsburys, we both stopped at the stop, and he drove off with a passenger scanning their pass, with the door open, still indicating left almost causing a RTC with an overtaking car. I moved off behind him, when we came to the lights. He was at the front with me behind, as soon as the lights changed, he crawled at a constant 10mph until he saw passengers waiting at a stop, he then floored it knowing I'd have to stop. I caught up again on the Bournville Hill, to which I was doing 30mph and he was accerating away, probably doing 40. Come into Cotteridge, he went straight through the zebra crossing when somebody was crossing.
So whoever says were all sucking up to NXWM, you need to sit in a NX bus behind or near a GRS, and simply observe. I had had enough and waited a couple more minutes at Cotteridge, and suprise suprise he was waiting for me down the road, by Breedon Road/Pershore Road.
As a passenger, GRS might be quicker, but reliability wise and safety wise, they are crap. When I say reliability, I mean how can they be reliable and running to time when they accelerate through the whole route until they find a gap in NXWM 11's. Can their timetable predict the future?
At the end of the day, the TC won't get involved with a company unless they feel something is badly wrong.
They investigated and found a catalogue of problems, not just with there running on the 246, but with the mechanical condition of there buses. Surely if what was found was untrue, GRS would have challenged the ruling itself in some way. Isn't the deafening silence an admisiion of guilt.
Trainbasher are you saying that unfit buses should be allowed to run around in passenger services not only endangering the safety of the driver and passengers, but also any other people or vehicles that that bus may come into contact with.
Quote from: Trident 4194 on July 31, 2015, 08:37:47 AM
I agree with you trainbasher they were reliable, good drivers always friendly and decent buses. I used them when they were on the 16.
I don't know why every sucks up to nxwm for, I find them rude, arrogant and idiots at driving. Nx can't stick to timetables, and it's appalling they are our main operator in the West Midlands. At least GRS drivers seemed to enjoy their jobs, in comparison with nx where a slight smile is an achievement! Nx get paid the most but they look like they get 10p a day!!
This is why I'm all diamond and hansons. Surprised no one has had a go at them for being an INDEPENDENT operator. OH wait... There more reliable than nx
[/b]
Sorry to say this
@Trident 4194 , but some of what you are saying is rubbish.
Nobody is saying that NE are perfect, i doubt ANY bus company is perfect but you only have to look at the result of the PI to see what GRS were doing wrong.
They were ordered off the 16 for failing to have newer buses that met the requirements of the emissions zone in Birmingham. Yes there drivers may be pleasant and smile when you got on the 246, but they didn't show this same courtesy to other drivers in general let alone other bus drivers ( I Had a GRS bus pull out from a stop when i was already overtaking him on Brettell lane just because a NE 246 was right behind me). Remember when they checked up on there running on the 246, they would have also taken an interest in how NE were running to!
Your comment about decent buses seems to go against a professional engineer who when he inspected them, took them straight off the road, I for certain don't want to travel on death traps!!
@Stuharris 6360 GRS have been given a worse punishment than what was allocated to VIP or Thandi.
How many times has Thandi been in front of the traffic commissioner and got a way with it?
Same with Heartlands? He was up for PI virtually every other week!
VIP had their licence reduced when it should have really been revoked. Yes they can't run bus services but they are still allowed to run coaches!
As I said before, NXWM had several fires and guess what...nothing done by the Traffic Commissioner!
@MW I can honestly say that whenever I've been out and about I've never seen any of the actions you have described
@the trainbasher The problem is, we don't know what the punishment is yet, everybody is thinking that the TC has made GRS give up the 11, for all we know, GRS may have decided to give it up themselves. Only when the final report of the PI is published will we know exactly what has happened.
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 31, 2015, 12:37:15 PM
@Stuharris 6360
@MW I can honestly say that whenever I've been out and about I've never seen any of the actions you have described
I think that's the problem then. As enthusiasts we don't see all this stuff, but when I became a driver, it opens your eyes more, and you obviously see more.
Quote from: MW on July 31, 2015, 12:57:06 PM
I think that's the problem then. As enthusiasts we don't see all this stuff, but when I became a driver, it opens your eyes more, and you obviously see more.
both mw and me work at different garages and have described exactly the same standard of driving on different routes
Funny that
Not seeing what grs got up to on 246 is a bit like the traffic wardens not seeing all the illegal parked cars in brierley hill high street
So an nx 141 parked even though he was running late for 5 minutes until a nx 99 could not get past then decided to move off causing the 4H to be late
The thing with grs is he did show a lot of promise but some of the things he's been doing since starting the 11 are really bad. I mean he went for more than a week without running a single bus. His buses are seldom on time when they do run & one driver spent his entire shift one day running just in front of a social travel bus. Even had his break at the same time in bearwood instead of Acocks green.
Quote from: Trident 4194 on July 31, 2015, 04:50:13 PM
So an nx 141 parked even though he was running late for 5 minutes until a nx 99 could not get past then decided to move off causing the 4H to be late
141/99 don't use the same stand so what you on about
Quote from: karl724223 on July 31, 2015, 05:54:51 PM
141/99 don't use the same stand so what you on about
No need to be so rude. I hope your not one of the many arrogant pensnett drivers.
The 141 to merry hill was blocking the 4H from getting into the stand for Walsall. But then the 99 could not get around the 4H because there wasn't enough room, so he saw and moved off stand
No one mentioned grs waiting on double yellow lines in king street Dudley waiting for an NX 246 to get to the traffic lights at vicar street and then moving off in front of it, or the fact they used to miss the hospital out.
Quote from: karl724223 on July 31, 2015, 10:00:50 AM
I've seen diamond driver driving in merry hill bus station using a phone centro saw him said nothing
Hansons drivers drive round bus station with doors open centro say nothing
We have a 3 minute open door policy at merry hill other operators are regularly parked on stand 5 minutes centro say nothing
I've seen hansons and diamond double park and load up centro say nothing
I don't see the problem with this? Hansons leave the middle bit of the bus station at :05 and :35 mainly because it takes them 5 minutes to get round onto the stand with the x96 blocking all the buses
Quote from: Trident 4194 on July 31, 2015, 06:37:11 PM
I don't see the problem with this? Hansons leave the middle bit of the bus station at :05 and :35 mainly because it takes them 5 minutes to get round onto the stand with the x96 blocking all the buses
Thats not a issue no more, the bus station had the railings moved back last month to enable the X96/208/243 to get closer to the stand therefore not blocking buses trying to get to stand B and A
Quote from: Trident 4194 on July 31, 2015, 06:10:41 PM
No need to be so rude. I hope your not one of the many arrogant pensnett drivers.
The 141 to merry hill was blocking the 4H from getting into the stand for Walsall. But then the 99 could not get around the 4H because there wasn't enough room, so he saw and moved off stand
they should run to time then instead if keep waiting for the nx 4H and some 141 do have drop back at Halesowen
Quote from: pndriver on July 31, 2015, 06:32:11 PM
No one mentioned grs waiting on double yellow lines in king street Dudley waiting for an NX 246 to get to the traffic lights at vicar street and then moving off in front of it, or the fact they used to miss the hospital out.
oh where was the traffic wardens again
@the trainbasherAnd the one bus that run round nearly a week no brake lights
The brake lights did work its just the driver never used the brakes lol
Quote from: karl724223 on July 31, 2015, 07:05:41 PM
oh where was the traffic wardens again @the trainbasher
And the one bus that run round nearly a week no brake lights
That was the one advertising that the company does repairs and maintenance to pcv vehicles wasn't it ?
Quote from: pndriver on July 31, 2015, 07:45:52 PM
That was the one advertising that the company does repairs and maintenance to pcv vehicles wasn't it ?
yes to vosa standards pmsl
Quote from: Trident 4194 on July 31, 2015, 06:10:41 PM
No need to be so rude. I hope your not one of the many arrogant pensnett drivers.
The 141 to merry hill was blocking the 4H from getting into the stand for Walsall. But then the 99 could not get around the 4H because there wasn't enough room, so he saw and moved off stand
No he's a legend 8)
Quote from: pndriver on July 31, 2015, 08:02:36 PM
No he's a legend 8)
is that leg end or legend ho ho ho
I'm glad some people on here enjoy the misfortune of people losing their livelihoods and jobs! How very mature!
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 31, 2015, 08:27:10 PM
I'm glad some people on here enjoy the misfortune of people losing their livelihoods and jobs! How very mature!
they should do the job properly then
There is one driver I feel sorry for. Every time I've seen him he's been on time & driving properly
Quote from: karl724223 on July 31, 2015, 08:53:23 PM
they should do the job properly then
I would like to see your driving. I will pm you when I'm available to see your driving
Quote from: Steveminor on July 31, 2015, 09:00:24 PM
There is one driver I feel sorry for. Every time I've seen him he's been on time & driving properly
Oldish guy??
Quote from: Steveminor on July 31, 2015, 09:00:24 PM
There is one driver I feel sorry for. Every time I've seen him he's been on time & driving properly
Which bus does that driver usually drive
Quote from: Trident 4194 on July 31, 2015, 09:00:55 PM
I would like to see your driving. I will pm you when I'm available to see your driving
i don't disclose what routes I drive or times in on sorry children
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 31, 2015, 08:27:10 PM
I'm glad some people on here enjoy the misfortune of people losing their livelihoods and jobs! How very mature!
Yes but in the end, who has caused all this to happen, the TC & the engineer for carrying out there job, Centro, National Express, NO GRS travel have caused all these problems. I don't want to see people loose there jobs, but unfortunately if you read the PI report, GRS have brought it on themselves.
Quote from: karl724223 on July 31, 2015, 09:20:01 PM
i don't disclose what routes I drive or times in on sorry children
Something your hiding?
@karl724223
Quote from: Trident 4194 on July 31, 2015, 09:00:55 PM
I would like to see your driving. I will pm you when I'm available to see your driving
Seeing as Karl will be representing NXWM at the National Bus Driver of the Year contest, I think you will find you don't need to travel on his bus to know he can do the job properly!
Quote from: Tony on August 01, 2015, 08:41:50 AM
Seeing as Karl will be representing NXWM at the National Bus Driver of the Year contest, I think you will find you don't need to travel on his bus to know he can do the job properly!
all the better to see how good his driving is then!
Grs have asked sunny travel if they want his darts as they have now finished trading. RIP GRS
Quote from: Steveminor on August 01, 2015, 12:45:06 PM
Grs have asked sunny travel if they want his darts as they have now finished trading. RIP GRS
I agree Steve RIP GRS Travel, we've seen a lot of operators go bust this year... I wouldnt expect you want ex GRS buses though? DTS Sunny and Social all have either newer buses or buses in better condition. R923RAU is nice though that might be worth going for as a spare? Even that is old and would need DDA mods in 5 months...
Quote from: DiamondDart on August 01, 2015, 01:04:08 PM
I agree Steve RIP GRS Travel, we've seen a lot of operators go bust this year... I wouldnt expect you want ex GRS buses though? DTS Sunny and Social all have either newer buses or buses in better condition. R923RAU is nice though that might be worth going for as a spare? Even that is old and would need DDA mods in 5 months...
On the GRS fleetlist on the main site it says R923RAU Hs been withdrawn I wander what condition that is in I would have thought X604 OKH and X608 OKH are in the best condition and most suitable. Maybe for the 74 if they were to have any. Those two are also the latest aditons to the fleet
The X regs he wants more for them than what he paid. Plus the chassis both show significant rusting. The others aren't even worth scrap value. Considering sunny see withdrawing several darts soon replacing them with dafs. Social will be taking 2 of the best sunny darts & there are thoughts of upgrading the DTS fleet in the near future. We won't be taking any GRS darts. Banga & Travel Express both have better buses so I can see him being stuck with them darts, can't see who would want them.
Quote from: Steveminor on August 01, 2015, 01:30:42 PM
The X regs he wants more for them than what he paid. Plus the chassis both show significant rusting. The others aren't even worth scrap value. Considering sunny see withdrawing several darts soon replacing them with dafs. Social will be taking 2 of the best sunny darts & there are thoughts of upgrading the DTS fleet in the near future. We won't be taking any GRS darts. Banga & Travel Express both have better buses so I can see him being stuck with them darts, can't see who would want them.
local tatters scrap mon
Quote from: Steveminor on August 01, 2015, 01:30:42 PM
The X regs he wants more for them than what he paid. Plus the chassis both show significant rusting. The others aren't even worth scrap value. Considering sunny see withdrawing several darts soon replacing them with dafs. Social will be taking 2 of the best sunny darts & there are thoughts of upgrading the DTS fleet in the near future. We won't be taking any GRS darts. Banga & Travel Express both have better buses so I can see him being stuck with them darts, can't see who would want them.
In that case it looks like scrap for the lot. Theres now a big gap between the likes of GRS and all other competing WM operators. Banga are really upgrading and Travel Express if buses were in a livery would look ok. Then there might be one or two ex Joes buses still on site plus various other assets. Will be interesting to see if he sets up under another name as afaik he still has all important repute?
Repute!! He lost that 2 p.i ago & had to get a new TV. Don't think he'll set up again like joes chalk it up to a tried but not successful.
It is a shame as when he first started he showed a lot of promise.
I think what has happened is what happened to a lot of the others, when money starts running low through bad route choice or whatever. Desperation sets in & corners are cut leading to a poorly run business.
But when you look at clarinets who when they first started had crap Ford coaches, money comes in & everything starts looking more professional. The same can be said of banga & sunny travel. 3 years ago could anyone have seen them even running low floor buses.
The moto I think is ROUTE CHOICE. Get your route right get the money in & you can make a business. Get it wrong too early in your business & you're always going to chase to keep your financial standing & ultimately are doomed.
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 31, 2015, 10:04:51 AM
Well the solution is to get the traffic commissioner to revoke their licences for these crimes and get the bosses strung up (!) Oh I forgot, they're too busy persecuting smaller operators for making a couple of mistakes which, lets face it, aren't as bad as the stuff NXWM have got up to!
Once again, when have the likes of NX or any other operator in the WM ever failed to operate their entire registered network for a number of days through not having any serviceable buses? GRS have done that.
Having read the report in the trade press about GRS's PI, written by someone who was at the inquiry of course, it is quite obvious that there weren't just 'a couple of mistakes'. The business was run in completely the wrong manner would seem to be a more accurate way of putting it, with no regard paid to the legal obligations which come with holding an O-Licence. Had GRS been on Beverley Bell's patch, it would have ended for them there and then.
So far from it being a case of 'RIP GRS', it is more a case of good riddance and may it and the people behind it never have anything to do with the industry again. The very fact that GRS has been allowed to operate for as long as it did makes an utter mockery of the O-Licencing system.
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 31, 2015, 12:37:15 PM
As I said before, NXWM had several fires and guess what...nothing done by the Traffic Commissioner!
I have told you this already, but the TC is not interested if a bus catches fire because it could have happened as a result of vandalism or a defective part of manufacturing process.
Don't take this the wrong way, but it is obvious from reading your contribution to this thread and continuing support for an operator which has been found to be almost completely non-compliant that you know nothing of how the bus industry works. Stop presenting your own opinions as fact.
I think good riddance is a bit strong. After all for a while he had been trying really hard to get things right. But half way through the 246 when money started to run low that's when the business really died
Quote from: Steveminor on August 01, 2015, 11:37:15 PM
I think good riddance is a bit strong. After all for a while he had been trying really hard to get things right. But half way through the 246 when money started to run low that's when the business really died
No it is not.
The likes of GRS have no place in the industry and the sooner they are removed once and for all, the better. The only shame is that it has taken as long as it has done.
The driver I was talking about will be starting for social travel on monday. He has said he had been told off several times for missing a gap in service even though he was on the opposite direction (tells a story really doesn't it).
He has been told that he is expected to keep to his timetable at social travel & we don't expect any dirty driving against other operators.
Quote from: the trainbasher on July 31, 2015, 08:27:10 PM
I'm glad some people on here enjoy the misfortune of people losing their livelihoods and jobs! How very mature!
Anyone who wants to do a job properly in the bus industry will not lose their livelihoods. There are lots of decent operators crying out for good employees in all trades, engineering, driving and admin
Couldn't agree with you more tony.
But conversly if your a dodgy driver there are plenty of not so reputable operators who couldn't care less who works for them.
If anyone is interested in buying grs darts the 4 running darts that's the 2 t reg Marshall & the 2 x reg plaxton are going for £10 grand for the 4.
Quote from: Steveminor on August 04, 2015, 05:49:25 PM
If anyone is interested in buying grs darts the 4 running darts that's the 2 t reg Marshall & the 2 x reg plaxton are going for £10 grand for the 4.
£10k for 4 buses with 4 months' life left?
Quote from: Steveminor on August 04, 2015, 05:49:25 PM
If anyone is interested in buying grs darts the 4 running darts that's the 2 t reg Marshall & the 2 x reg plaxton are going for £10 grand for the 4.
Excuse me whilst I just climb back on my seat.....
... or did you include 'grand' by accident?
Has he tried the scrapman?
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on August 04, 2015, 06:58:32 PM
Has he tried the scrapman?
Four Darts, scrapman would pay about £2,000.
He wants £2000 a piece for the non runners.
The fact is they're not even dda compliant.
QuotePublic Inquiry (50369) held at The Public Inquiry Room, 38 George Road, Edgbaston, Birmingham, B15 1PL on 02 April 2015 at 10:30(Previous Publication:(2232)
)PD1084253 SN
GURDAVER RAM T/A G R S TRAVEL
38 BLACK LAKE, HILL TOP , WEST BROMWICH B70 0PP
1. Adverse findings are made under Section 17 (3) (a); Section 17 (3) (aa); Section 17 (3) (c); and Section 17 (3) (e) of the Act.
2. The operator has failed to meet the requirement of financial standing under Section 17 (3) (d) and 14ZA (2) of the Act and is given a period of four months grace from the date of the hearing to address this.
3. The operator has failed to meet the requirement of professional competence under Section 17(3) (d) and 14ZA (2) of the Act since the last public inquiry, but he now has it if, but only if:
(i) he does not operate registered services; and,
(ii) he is restricted to authority for one vehicle available for private hire.
4. The operator has failed to operate a local service registered under Section 6 of the Transport Act 1985.
5. The operator has failed to comply with the requirements of regulations made under Section 6 (9) (i), (j) o (k) of the Transport Act 1985.
6. A financial penalty is imposed under Section 155 of the Transport Act 2000 in the sum of £550 for each of four discs, a total of £2,200 is payable to the Secretary of State within 28 days. Failure to pay in full on time is a matter that potentially goes to repute.
7. An order is made under Section 26 of the Transport Act 1985 restricting the service registrations of the operator. All service registrations are cancelled with effect from 1 August 2015, I waive the need for notice to be given as the travelling public will not suffer as a result of this operator ceasing to run registered services.
8. An order is made under Section 26 of the Transport Act 1985, that no new services can be registered by the operator until 1 August 2017.
9. Authorisation to run vehicles is reduced from four to one vehicle (curtailment), effective from 1 August 2015.
10. I accept Alan John Fryett as transport manager on this licence provided that:
i) he is only responsible for one vehicle;
ii) he is paid above the minimum wage, and is paid no less than any driver working
for this operator; and,
(iii) he is employed on a contract of employment for a minimum of eight hours a week.
As I said last week, too harsh the TC was imo, especially as when other operators have failed to run services they have got touched lighter by the beak...it's not as if GRS did what VIP did and swapped number plates around or ran round in service with broken Windows!
GRS Travel's darts are now for sale
https://www.facebook.com/grstravelblackcountry?fref=ts
Quote from: the trainbasher on August 07, 2015, 12:32:15 AM
As I said last week, too harsh the TC was imo, especially as when other operators have failed to run services they have got touched lighter by the beak...it's not as if GRS did what VIP did and swapped number plates around or ran round in service with broken Windows!
So if that is to harsh, why hasn't he appealed.
To me if he doesn't, he is admitting guilt!
Quote from: the trainbasher on August 07, 2015, 12:32:15 AM
As I said last week, too harsh the TC was imo, especially as when other operators have failed to run services they have got touched lighter by the beak...it's not as if GRS did what VIP did and swapped number plates around or ran round in service with broken Windows!
Yeah but Claribels got fined even more and no one has a bad word to say about them!
Interesting, according to Network West Midlands, GRS finish on the 11 on the 23 August 2015?
Quote from: DiamondDart on August 07, 2015, 01:19:09 PM
Yeah but Claribels got fined even more and no one has a bad word to say about them!
Fines for failing to run registered journeys are based on the number of vehicles authorised on the operators license which is why Claribels' fine was higher. If you check back on here I have stated before that some of their drivers had a habit of going out of service to race to gaps in service of NX, so yes I have had a bad word before. Hopefully the fact these two operators have been found out by DVSA that they didn't attempt to run to registered timetables will concentrate minds of all operators.
If NX were found to be 'not attempting' to run to timetables their fine would be x1800
Quote from: Tony on August 07, 2015, 06:13:33 PM
Fines for failing to run registered journeys are based on the number of vehicles authorised on the operators license which is why Claribels' fine was higher. If you check back on here I have stated before that some of their drivers had a habit of going out of service to race to gaps in service of NX, so yes I have had a bad word before. Hopefully the fact these two operators have been found out by DVSA that they didn't attempt to run to registered timetables will concentrate minds of all operators.
If NX were found to be 'not attempting' to run to timetables their fine would be x1800
@Tony , what is the definition of "failing to run registered journeys", know it's a strange question but at times all operators fail to run registered journeys?
Any journey witnessed running more than 1 min early or 6 mins late is deemed not to have operated. Journeys not seen are deemed not to have operated. On a frequent service any gaps in service of more than 10 minutes is a journey that has not operated.
Quote from: Steveminor on August 07, 2015, 06:44:20 PM
Any journey witnessed running more than 1 min early or 6 mins late is deemed not to have operated. Journeys not seen are deemed not to have operated. On a frequent service any gaps in service of more than 10 minutes is a journey that has not operated.
But there must be more to the definition than that, otherwise virytally ever bus operator in the country would fail at certain times, eg Bad Weather, Diversions, Traffic Jams?
Quote from: Steveminor on August 07, 2015, 06:44:20 PM
Any journey witnessed running more than 1 min early or 6 mins late is deemed not to have operated. Journeys not seen are deemed not to have operated. On a frequent service any gaps in service of more than 10 minutes is a journey that has not operated.
The frequent service definition isn't quite correct, you are allowed a 15 minute gap as long as 6 buses operate in that hour (due to the allowance of a bus being allowed to be 5 min late)
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on August 07, 2015, 06:47:45 PM
But there must be more to the definition than that, otherwise virytally ever bus operator in the country would fail at certain times, eg Bad Weather, Diversions, Traffic Jams?
Every operator does fall foul, but you must have a good reason for any non-compliance.
All the things you have quoted above can be used. Traffic jams is only acceptable if it is not a regular occurrance though.
All my drivers are on holiday is not a valid reason. I have no on road supervision, so drivers do what they like is not a valid reason
If you register every route throughout the day to take 40 minutes end to end, but in the peak it actually takes 50 minutes, then that is not a valid reason. If your registered times are met most days, but on the day being monitored someone comes and digs a big hole in the road unannounced causing a jam, then that is an acceptable reason. It is why all operators should have an accurate recording system of 'lost mileage'. At NX every journey not operated, or not part operated (noted on here as an untimetabled 'E' journey) is logged in a database, so if the TC comes knocking and say NX haven't been complying, they can produce the log and show the exact reason for each one.
The TC isn't looking for 100% compliance & isn't harsh even in really poor reliability if he can see that an operator is actively seeking ways to improve reliability I. e timetable reviews, regular monitoring etc.
What the TC doesn't like is when an operator knows there is a problem & does nothing to resolve it.
It gets even worse if the operator is still claiming fuel rebate on journeys that haven't operated.
The TC also is unimpressed when an operator has vehicle tracking technology & doesn't use it to monitor reliability.
(Cough claribels cough).
It's worth mentioning that Sunny Travel were also asked about reliability on the 71 at the same time as Claribels. The difference between the two was that Sunny Travel had already just submitted a timetable variation where the worst delayed journeys ran private from chelmsley to Radleys to get them back on time.
Quote from: Steveminor on August 07, 2015, 07:34:44 PM
The TC isn't looking for 100% compliance & isn't harsh even in really poor reliability if he can see that an operator is actively seeking ways to improve reliability I. e timetable reviews, regular monitoring etc.
What the TC doesn't like is when an operator knows there is a problem & does nothing to resolve it.
It gets even worse if the operator is still claiming fuel rebate on journeys that haven't operated.
The TC also is unimpressed when an operator has vehicle tracking technology & doesn't use it to monitor reliability.
(Cough claribels cough).
Thanks
@Tony &
@Steveminor , that all makes sense, which makes the TCs ruling in this case make sense (take it having no money to pay the insurance on your buses doesn't go into the acceptable excuse bracket).
For those who are pro GRS, then if the drivers are as good as they say, then i am sure they should have no problems getting alternative employment.
No losing your insurance is totally frowned upon whether it be for lack of money or other reasons it just shows bad repute.
The driver that came to social travel from GRS is doing fine & has been monitored intesly. So far no problems & is proving he can drive a bus to route & timetable. Yet when at GRS he didn't & has said he was actually told off for following his running card if it meant missing any gaps.
So who is at fault the drivers or the company?
Ram had SO many chances to put things right & did nothing. He had more chances & more warnings from centro than anyone else.
For those who thing West Midlands Travel are immune, how about when they were forced to re MOT the entire fleet or the roasting Lea Hall garage got for the number of prohibitions they received in one day. Maybe Tony can shed light as to if this had any bearing on the decision to close the depot. (That's what I would have done to show the TC a proactive approach was being taken to resolve issues)
Quote from: Steveminor on August 07, 2015, 07:54:19 PM
No losing your insurance is totally frowned upon whether it be for lack of money or other reasons it just shows bad repute.
The driver that came to social travel from GRS is doing fine & has been monitored intesly. So far no problems & is proving he can drive a bus to route & timetable. Yet when at GRS he didn't & has said he was actually told off for following his running card if it meant missing any gaps.
So who is at fault the drivers or the company?
Ram had SO many chances to put things right & did nothing. He had more chances & more warnings from centro than anyone else.
For those who thing West Midlands Travel are immune, how about when they were forced to re MOT the entire fleet or the roasting Lea Hall garage got for the number of prohibitions they received in one day. Maybe Tony can shed light as to if this had any bearing on the decision to close the depot. (That's what I would have done to show the TC a proactive approach was being taken to resolve issues)
No influence.
The TC or VOSA actually give a 'traffic light' to all operators depending on on-road and at garage inspection results.
This means that when DVSA visit bus stations first priority is the check 'red' operators, followed by 'amber' and lastly 'green' This can result is some people accusing them of picking on 'small' operators because they have checked all 6 of Bloggs Travel, but only 4 Arrfirststagnat Ltd Buses out of 200. This is not the case, they are picking on operators with a bad history and that can just as easily be one of the big group's subsiduaries
Quote from: dave47549 (no longer NEL111P) on August 04, 2015, 06:44:31 PM
Excuse me whilst I just climb back on my seat.....
... or did you include 'grand' by accident?
what happened to the other darts he has aren't they for sale
Or they all ready scrapped
Quote from: Solo1 on August 07, 2015, 09:48:37 PM
what happened to the other darts he has aren't they for sale
Or they all ready scrapped
The others have been withdrawn for some time probaly are not in good condition.P202OLX has now left the fleet.
GRS travel have put P202OLX up for sale advertised on there Facebook page. This was withdrawn PRIOR to sale.
Quote from: KarlX96 on August 10, 2015, 07:29:20 PM
All buses from GRS are now off the road as Centro/TC have ceased GRS'S trading although they somehow keep on popping up on routes e.g 11A/11C. Only now the 11A or 11C route is now withdrawn.
Centro cannot cease an operator trading, The TC also hasn't ceased him trading, just restricted him to private hire with one vehicle, as per the judgement already posted by some one else
Quote from: KarlX96 on August 10, 2015, 08:05:27 PM
Centro can have some judgment as well as the TC on an operator. As GRS have now withdrawn all public services.
Centro can pass information about an operator on to the TC, but have no judgement on the punishment.
The only restriction centro can put on an operator is to ban them from using their bus stations. Which is what centro done to GRS some time ago on the 246.
What they say to the TC especially at a PI can have a major influence on the decision though.
Anyone notice the total bullcrap in today's online Express and Star about GRS. Talk about inaccurate!
Quote from: the trainbasher on August 11, 2015, 01:10:54 PM
Anyone notice the total bullcrap in today's online Express and Star about GRS. Talk about inaccurate!
http://www.expressandstar.com/news/2015/08/11/bus-drivers-held-up-traffic-to-gain-fares/
They missed out that drivers would change direction half way round the route if there were more passengers on the other side. Would regularly take short cuts or speed to get in front of another bus.
Quote from: the trainbasher on August 11, 2015, 01:10:54 PM
Anyone notice the total bullcrap in today's online Express and Star about GRS. Talk about inaccurate!
That says he can not run more than. 1 route, should say 1 bus and he has to run Private Hires till August 2017.
Quote from: the trainbasher on August 11, 2015, 01:10:54 PM
Anyone notice the total bullcrap in today's online Express and Star about GRS. Talk about inaccurate!
Apart from saying he's is restricted to 'one service' when that should be 'one vehicle' what is inaccurate?
Quote from: Tony on August 11, 2015, 02:07:38 PM
Apart from saying he's is restricted to 'one service' when that should be 'one vehicle' what is inaccurate?
The only other thing I could find is he continues to operate the 11A/C and he has previously operated services in Wednesbury and where the company is based.
Quote from: KarlX96 on August 11, 2015, 03:32:08 PM
The 11A/11C operated by GRS will be withdrawn from 26/08/15. So there is no point in commenting on the services anymore, unless your commenting on the private hire section of the operator.
Wrong...they ended at the end of July...Centro website is wrong...as usual!
Quote from: KarlX96 on August 11, 2015, 03:44:01 PM
I don't think the Centro website is wrong as it is normally up-to date. So I think your wrong.
GRS are no longer on the 11. I'm an 11 driver, in fact I'm having my drop back in Perry Barr as I type...
Quote from: KarlX96 on August 11, 2015, 04:10:36 PM
When did you withdraw the 11 the to clear the date up as the Centro website says it will be withdrawn from 26/08/15 and the trainbasher on this forum says it was end of July?
GRS were supposed to finish on the 13/07/15 wich was on vosa but GRS carried on operating the service to the 31/07/2015. GRS have already put there darts up for sale and have offered them to Sunny Travel who chose not to buy any the only 2 worth buying are X604 OKH and X604 OKH witch for these he wants more than he got them, the others are not even worth there scrap value, if you don't believe me stand in Acocks Green, Erdington, or at the Fox and Goose there will be no sign of GRS only Social Travel and NXWM who currently operate the service why should people on here not comment if they find what is currently going on of interest to them I live on the route and use the service and the last time I saw them was the 30/07/15 though the timetable for GRS is still up on the bus stops.
@KarlX96 .
Quote from: KarlX96 on August 11, 2015, 04:10:36 PM
When did you withdraw the 11 the to clear the date up as the Centro website says it will be withdrawn from 26/08/15 and the trainbasher on this forum says it was end of July?
When did he withdraw the 11?
@MW did not withdraw the 11 I believe he is a driver on the 11 who works for National Express West Midlands Acocks Green
The registration was due to finish half way through August. However the tc has banned them from stage carriage work as of 1st August. So that's when the service must be withdrawn no matter what anyone else says to the contrary.
I would disagree that the 2 x regs are worth buying the chassis are not in a good state at all. If anything the 2 t reg Marshall are a more viable option. We ain't gonna buy em though we've moved on to better things
Quote from: Steveminor on August 11, 2015, 04:32:24 PM
The registration was due to finish half way through August. However the tc has banned them from stage carriage work as of 1st August. So that's when the service must be withdrawn no matter what anyone else says to the contrary.
I would disagree that the 2 x regs are worth buying the chassis are not in a good state at all. If anything the 2 t reg Marshall are a more viable option. We ain't gonna buy em though we've moved on to better things
Do you think the other one up for sale P202 OLX would be worth buying. How likely do you think it is they will sell any of the 5.
Who used to programme the destination blinds for GRS?
Quote from: Stuharris 6360 on August 11, 2015, 07:34:51 PM
Who used to programme the destination blinds for GRS?
I did the Hanovers
https://www.facebook.com/grstravelblackcountry?fref=ts
How can they claim them to be in "Good Condition" If they think they are good, they're blind!
P202 was not in a good way at AMPM. It's hard to see it being a worthwhile purchase now. Even if GRS had done a lot of work to it & a lot of maintenance ( ha ha ). Then vehicles only deteriorate with age.
Quote from: GRS Travel Facebook
The fine has already been paid - but thank you for your concern. And I'm glad you can make fun out of someone's livelihood. Dickhead.
How professional!
Quote from: Kiewii on August 11, 2015, 09:13:37 PM
How professional!
Just seen that comment bus he is not selling them to pay the fine. He is selling them because he has been restricted to 1 veichle and private hires. Has anyone read what he has wrote about the Express and Star.
I think Mr Ram or whomever is on the end of there Facebook Page don't care anymore!
Surely, as some employers check Facebook Profiles etc... This won't help his next job out at "Diamond" as quoted by Jason.
Quote from: Kiewii on August 11, 2015, 09:13:37 PM
How professional!
If he was professional he wouldn't be in this situation
Quote from: Adam 404 on August 11, 2015, 09:24:29 PM
I think Mr Ram or whomever is on the end of there Facebook Page don't care anymore!
Surely, as some employers check Facebook Profiles etc... This won't help his next job out at "Diamond" as quoted by Jason.
Thats false information he will not be working for Diamond he will continue to work for GRS doing private hires.
I won't be hiring him.
You know what, I'm enjoying reading the conversation between
@Dom and the GRS Travel on their Facebook page. Funny.
Lol he doesn't even know his own company he started with 4 lances not 3
Quote from: Adam 404 on August 11, 2015, 09:24:29 PM
I think Mr Ram or whomever is on the end of there Facebook Page don't care anymore!
Surely, as some employers check Facebook Profiles etc... This won't help his next job out at "Diamond" as quoted by Jason.
Didn't ram work for diamond bus before started out on his own
here is the article on GRS in express & star for all to read http://www.expressandstar.com/news/2015/08/11/bus-drivers-held-up-traffic-to-gain-fares/
Quote from: P419 EJW on August 11, 2015, 09:48:27 PM
You know what, I'm enjoying reading the conversation between @Dom and the GRS Travel on their Facebook page. Funny.
;)
Quote from: Solo1 on August 11, 2015, 10:11:32 PM
here is the article on GRS in express & star for all to read http://www.expressandstar.com/news/2015/08/11/bus-drivers-held-up-traffic-to-gain-fares/
Another on Birmingham Mail
http://www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/midlands-news/grs-travel-bus-firm-banned-9835799#ICID=FB-Birm-main
Quote from: Dom on August 11, 2015, 10:12:31 PM
;)
Well proves someone is still looking at the Facebook page, unlike Midland in their final months.
You used to ask a perfectly reasonable question on that page & it still got deleted.
Think I even told Network WM about it at one stage, Can't remember the outcome though.
@clayderman that is the same woefully inaccurate journalism that the Express and Star published
Quote from: Solo1 on August 11, 2015, 10:07:57 PM
Didn't ram work for diamond bus before started out on his own
Yes he did but he is not going back to work for Diamond.
Looking at GRS's Facebook page, I can hardly believe what the owner is posting. Naive hardly comes in to it, particularly where he mentions that his mechanic used to come to work drunk...! :o
The prices he wants for those buses are straight out of la-la land. £1,800 for an 18-year old Dart that is not DDA and has no MoT; £3.5k each for two X-reg, dual-door Darts which would need major work to make them suitable for provincial use and are presumably not DDA compliant; and £2,750 each for two more which, again, are no doubt not DDA compliant and hence have about four months' work left in them.
They are worth about £800 each as scrap, at best.
Wonder what his ex employees would say if they knew what he's posted about them
Like robbing him blind and a drunken mechanic
Like the bit about buses checked everyday the one run around with no break lights for nearly a week
I know what one of them has said but it would be unfair to post it on here.
Suffice it to say. Not good.
Front of the evening mail tonight
Another article on GRS Travel
http://www.route-one.net/legal/licence-slashed-for-shoddy-operation/
Does anyone on this forum know what GRS have done with all of their vehicles. Do they still have any of them at their bus depot or have all of them been sold to a bus dealer. Thank you.
Quote from: countryliner on January 10, 2016, 04:03:56 AM
Does anyone on this forum know what GRS have done with all of their vehicles. Do they still have any of them at their bus depot or have all of them been sold to a bus dealer. Thank you.
They were trying to sell them on their Facebook page if you scroll back through the thread a little. I have no further information. I hope this help
@countryliner
Quote from: Adam 404 on January 10, 2016, 08:21:56 AM
They were trying to sell them on their Facebook page if you scroll back through the thread a little. I have no further information. I hope this help @countryliner
[/quote their ]facebook page not there now
@Adam 404 @Solo1 - Thanks for the info. Much appreciated. From searching all of the registration numbers on flickr none of the vehicles appear to have been sold to any other bus operators. I suppose that they might still be selling them or they might have gone to a bus dealer.
Scrap yard is more likely
@pndriver - Yes you could be correct. I suppose that there is indeed a chance that they have all gone to a scrap yard.
Saw him Friday at birmingham airport. He tried selling them to me. So I guess he still has them lol
@Steveminor - Thanks for the info. That is interesting to hear. It might be harder for him to sell his fleet because as far as i am aware most of his buses are not DDA compliant. However bus operators could still buy them and convert them to DDA compliant or just use them on private hire and private contract services.
Quote from: countryliner on January 11, 2016, 04:13:44 AM
@Steveminor - Thanks for the info. That is interesting to hear. It might be harder for him to sell his fleet because as far as i am aware most of his buses are not DDA compliant. However bus operators could still buy them and convert them to DDA compliant or just use them on private hire and private contract services.
Hasn't his company now ceased trading? Why ask if his vehicles are DDA compliant? Why ask if all "other operators" vehicles are DDA compliant? They all knew the law was coming into effect on 1st January 2016 so i would think that most (if not all) of the operators on the west midlands are now DDA compliant now on the Single Decker Front. They have a year for the deckers to be dda compliant, like central buses are getting there decker fleet done at the moment
@Chris - If you read my post correctly you will see that i did not ask if his vehicles were DDA compliant. I was just simply pointing out that his vehicles might be harder to sell as most of them are not DDA compliant. Also yes GRS Travel have indeed ceased trading.
Quote from: Steveminor on January 10, 2016, 09:49:18 PM
Saw him Friday at birmingham airport. He tried selling them to me. So I guess he still has them lol
Does anyone know whether they still have the Darts or, know whats happened to them?
Quote from: 2206 on March 07, 2016, 06:30:00 PM
Does anyone know whether they still have the Darts or, know whats happened to them?
@2206 I recall that they were selling them... Not sure if that was successful though.
Quote from: Adam 404 on March 07, 2016, 06:41:13 PM
@2206 I recall that they were selling them... Not sure if that was successful though.
Yes I know they were selling them on their Facebook page just after they finished on the 11 but it was said at the start of 2016 they still had not sold them.
https://m.flickr.com/#/photos/128561752@N08/30083667315/
EX GRS Darts on a scrapyard, it did seem very unlikely for them to see service with another operator after!
I'm fairly sure i saw the GRS guy driving a 47 in Hateley Heath at the weekend. Is he on the books at Oak Lane now.
yes hes been there over a year now lol