DartSLF Bus Awards 2012

[First Class]

RE: DartSLF Bus Awards 2012
1) Best company of the year?
Arriva North West. Lots of investment into fleet. Timekeeping has improved markedly. Problems on the QBP route probably more attributable to other parties (First Group/Merseytravel/Councils etc).

2) Best effort of the year?
Again, I think Arriva North West have put a lot of effort into their operations, especially on Merseyside.

3) Best delivery of the year?

Helms of Eastham 121 SN56AWW Alexander Dennis Trident Enviro 400 ex Ensignbus
Very smart buses, in good condition, as well as providing much needed capacity into Chester City Centre from the station.

4) Hardest goodbye of the year?
Doesn't really bother me. Most of the buses that have been scrapped/moved were unsuitable for modern day running.

5) Smartest-looking bus/buses of the year?
I am very impressed with the Arriva Wales Cymru Coastliner fleet operating on the 11 between Chester & Rhyl. Free WiFi and decent leather seating, with plenty of seats available.

6) Rarest sighting of the year?
Not really noticed anything out of the ordinary. Solar on the First 41/42 probably!

7) Surprise of the year?
n/a

8) Disappointment of the year?
Optare Solo Hybrid. Just another bus really!

9) Shed of the year?
Whichever Impera single deck bus has ex-Stagecoach branded seat covers. Really uncomfortable with a very poor ride, looking quite tired overall.