The successful transport operation for Eurovision required our Gillmoss depot to operate a substantial number of additional vehicles and maintain the core network; over 25 additional vehicles were operated daily. The transport and coordination for this event was widely commended in the local area.

Midway through the year, we acquired Peoplesbus, who were a local quality independent operator. This acquisition is an excellent strategic fit for our business as we expand our portfolio of Merseytravel tendered operations across the City region. It also makes for an excellent bolt-on for our Gillmoss depot in Liverpool. We were delighted to welcome new colleagues to our Stagecoach team who were quickly made to feel at home.

There have been many events covered on top of running our regular bus routes, thanks to the extraordinary efforts of all our teams. The Open Golf, which required the operation of 60 additional vehicles at various stages of the prestigious event, was another example of excellent management, leadership, and stakeholder delivery.

I’m sure you can see the hard work that our team have put into delivering bus services, some of which are recognised in the recent shortlists for the UK Bus Awards; they really are proud to serve our communities.

We are thankful to our customers and stakeholders for their ongoing support and for being there to bring the most popular public transport option back to life following some difficult years. There is always more to do; we are ready to deliver better services and create new opportunities, working in partnership with you.

Read below more of the latest Business Bulletin from Stagecoach Merseyside and South Lancashire which includes local initiatives supporting both consumers and visitors to the Liverpool city region.