Bus and coach industry pays tribute to key workers
National Express West Midlands driver Jo Nelson - still keeping key workers moving and still smiling
The Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) along with operators is today (Tuesday 5 May 2020) thanking everyone in the bus and coach industry for the work they are doing during the Covid-19 outbreak to keep key services running.
Coronavirus has resulted in restrictions on movement across the UK. However, there are many people who rely on these services to make essential journeys. This is why CPT and operators are thanking all workers who continue to make these journeys possible, by sharing messages of support for all teams involved.
Thanks to bus drivers, key workers are able to make their journeys to and from work, and people without access to a car can continue to make vital trips. Behind the scenes there are teams of engineers, cleaners, and transport managers working hard to keep buses safe to be on the roads, adjusting services to best serve the community, and keeping people updated on timetable changes. Coaches have also been crucial in keeping key workers moving, moving supplies of PPE and transporting those returning to the UK from abroad.
CPT’s Graham Vidler said:
“Many people rely on buses to make their essential journeys during the coronavirus crisis. Without the team effort of all those working in the bus and coach industry the emergency network for key workers would grind to a halt. Coaches are also playing a major role moving supplies, key workers and those returning from abroad in a safe and secure environment.
“We just want to say ‘thank you’ to everyone working on the frontline and behind the scenes to make sure these journeys can continue.
“I encourage everyone to visit CPT’s Twitter feed to see the messages of support for the industry, and leave their own message too.”
Andy Street, the Mayor of the West Midlands, said:
“Transport staff across the West Midlands deserve enormous praise for how they have been working tirelessly to keep the network moving for key workers who rely on public transport.
“Buses in particular are the backbone of our public transport network, and I want to say a huge thank you to every driver, engineer, cleaner and manager who is out on the front line helping others.
“It is an incredible challenge but, thanks to the hard work and dedication of so many unsung heroes like our transport workers, we will get through this.”