THE IBUS OPEN DAY EXPERIENCE! - GO-AHEAD GOES-ZAMBIA A LOOK AT THE NEW 24-7 CCTV SUITE AT CAMBERWELL - Go-Ahead London
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ISSUE #58 - JUNE 2019
GO-AHEAD
GOES-ZAMBIA
THE IBUS OPEN
DAY EXPERIENCE! A LOOK AT THE NEW 24-7
CCTV SUITE AT CAMBERWELL
2
WELCOME 2 November 2018 check that everybody was out and
was a day that Nick that the fire brigade had been called.
TO Withers will never I was informed that we were one
ZAMBIA
man missing! My colleague Mick
forget. He recollects
Leighton was trying to tackle the
the night... blaze from the other side. I went
"It was 0250 when I arrived at work back to see if I could find him
when he emerged from the back
T
ready to start my shift as Duty
Controller at ORPINGTON. I recall gate saying that there was nothing
ransaid work with governments and other organisations to create
speaking to some colleagues about he could do. By now the fire was
and promote far-reaching improvements in driving standards.
the previous night's events, when we spreading quickly from bus to bus
They also work on transport management systems, joining with and tyres were exploding!
began to smell smoke.
partners to increase efficiency, reduce costs, and improve the
management and maintenance of vehicles. To support this work, Go- I firstly assumed that someone had The fire brigade arrived and started to
Ahead Group Managing Director for Bus Development, Martin Dean yet again tried to microwave an fight the fire but soon it became clear
MB
un-microwaveable dinner! Soon the that we needed to create a firebreak
donated LDP292 (pictured below) to Transaid.
seriousness of this incident came by moving some of the closest buses
On April 2, the selected bus was sent to Immingham docks to be shipped to to light. Within seconds, a colleague to the fire in order to save the rest of
Walvis Bay, Namibia where it began its 1300 mile trip to Lusaka in Zambia, started banging on the window the fleet. This allowed the brigade
NICK WITHERS
arriving on 20 May. shouting, "FIRE!" The fire alarms who were trying to douse the flames ORPINGTON
sounded and at this point I knew this from the road, better access. More
Accompanying the vehicle and tasked with delivering the training at the
would be a day like no other. volunteers were gathered consisting
Industrial Training Centre in Lusaka was CAMBERWELL engineer, Robert of both Metrobus and Cordant
A GREAT
Watson. The aim of the training is to improve competence in drivers and to We cleared the building in record cleaning staff.
make their vehicles safer. There were many applicants to undertake this time. Outside, I saw an ever-growing
challenging role and after much deliberation, it was decided that Rob would fire coming from some buses parked Working together as a team, we went
near the top gate. I grabbed a fire back into the yard and managed to
be the best person for the job.
TEAM
extinguisher and headed into the get 35 buses out and clear space for
“Rob came across as an the fire brigade to do their job.
experienced and knowledgeable
yard where I tried to get to the fire Incredibly, we still ran a limited
I can honestly say it was between the buses. As I approached, Incredibly, we still ran a limited
service until around 1045 when
engineer, a very good
a well and truly amazing communicator and we decided
it became obvious that I was not service until around 1045 when a
a full service resumed....
suitably armed to tackle this blaze. full service resumed. This is one
experience...
EFFORT
he would be very effective on Fire was billowing down from the working day that I would never want
delivering the project as well roof of the bus, so I quickly made to repeat." NICK WITHERS
ROBERT WATSON as a great ambassador for my way out to the assembly point to
DUTY CONTROLLER
O R P I N GTO N
ENGINEER
CAMBERWELL our company,” explains Chief
Engineer Chris McKeown.
Rob prepared LDP292 for its long journey and the accident centre ensured
the bodywork was in good order. It was imperative that we delivered a WORKING AS
vehicle to be proud of. ONE TEAM
T Fancy a
w
We are now pleased to announce that Rob has successfully returned to the lti sign-on site is no
UK from Zambia. After completing his travels, Rob gives us an overview of he new Woolwich mu bu s ro ute s an d
WHA RF
open for MORDEN
cuppa?
pr ou d of
his experience and his involvement in this project: Nicola Phipps is
Operating Manager
“I'm safe and sound after returning from Zambia and I can honestly say the new addition...
, one
it was a well and truly amazing experience. Things got off to a good start d for many reasons
"It has been designe se wh o live in or
and the first day at the Industrial Training Centre was remarkable; how
ing a be tte r wo rk/life balance for tho nt fac ility
be excelle
those guys operate brings to mind the saying: ‘Necessity is the mother of area. It provides an
around the Woolwich on ly us ed by
invention.’ I had a big task ahead in getting LDP292 back to its original state relief, as the room is
for drivers on meal ague s. We loo ked at several
as they did a few modifications. Overall it was a great experience and on co lle
our Go-Ahead Lond rre nt ro om was in a
I would do it all over again, if given the opportunity.” that the cu
properties but found ms of distance
ease of access, in ter
perfect location for ll as, main
geover points, as we
from the route chan
transport hubs. THE WOOLWICH HUB PROVIDES EXCELLENT FACILITIES
multi sign-on
ne into setting up the
FOR OUR DRIVERS IN A RELAXED ENVIRONMENT.
A lot of work has go room, in addition
k at the layout of the
room. We had to loo olwich hub has
re needed. The Wo
to what facilities we ce of entertainment,
table to provide a sour
its ow n po ol ge sofa, which will
BEING , toilets, TV and a lar
CAN-DO resting area, kitchen
to the room.
be a positive addition
ive and the multi
has been very posit
So far the feedback rs on routes
n-o n site wi ll be used by the ive dr
room sig rrying out route
in the process of ca
178 and 291. We are st in drivers
we have a lot of intere
learning on 178 and ta.
to this particular ro
wishing to be put on
set up of
ught has gone into the
A lot of effort and tho
ROBERT WATSON
hu ge su cce ss that is
CAMBERWELL
re it will be a
Woolwich and I am su
s."
BUS TALK | PAGE 2 beneficial to all partie BUS TALK | PAGE 3
THE ONLY
WAY IS UP WORKING AS
ONE TEAM
MORDEN WHARF
DQM'S ON THE RISE!
A
t the start of TfL financial year 2018/2019, third place out of all 16 Go-Ahead London
MORDEN WHARF was at the bottom of garages; one of their best results, showing
Transport for London’s league table and further signs of improvement.
since August last year, they were under
“The drivers deserve massive praise for PART OF THE MG TEAM! LEFT TO RIGHT: DANIEL CUTTS, KIRSTY
network average for DQM's almost every month
their incredibly hard work and dedication WATTS, MARK FORRESTER, PETER SKUDDER AND THOMAS ARIKU.
(excluding December and January). Disappointed
to safe driving and helping to improve LEFT TO RIGHT:
with such results, the team at Morden Wharf
our previous results,” said Operating DANIEL CUTTS,
identified that clear and positive changes had to be
Manager Nicola Phipps.
implemented to improve results.
“The management team would like
“Key from the very start was to draw a line under
to thank each and every driver as we
the past and start afresh. We arranged an IAM’s
couldn't have achieved this without
accredited mentor to conduct covert assessments and
them,” she concludes.
the management team provided feedback,” explains
Assistant Operating Manager Daniel Cutts.
“We conducted nearly 60 assessments with most
Something to
achieving pleasing results. Morden Wharf had
to finish below network
average for three months
in a row (leading up to OPEN AND
December) which we did. As APPROACHABLE
a thank you to drivers and to Key from the very start was
shout about!
raise awareness, we bought to draw a line under the
25 pizzas for both Morden
Wharf and Waterloo drivers.
past and start afresh...
This offering was known DANIEL CUTTS
as the ‘pizza initiative’ in
December,” reveals Daniel.
AOM
MORDEN WHARF
HA T ’S BX
From February this year W
ING
HAPPEN
(2019), Morden Wharf have also been at the forefront
I
of a brand-new scheme involving the Institute of
Advanced Motorists (IAM’s). They were to conduct n Period 1, BEXLEYHEATH finished top out of all
129 covert driving assessments over a period of 6
months. The scheme follows the exact same idea
AT... other Go-Ahead London garages on BCES and
impressively pushed their way from position 70
NATALIE MILSOM
BEXLEYHEATH
as DQM assessments, but with an added bonus. to 6 in the league throughout all London garages.
Every driver who receives a box 1 assessment is Oz, Natalie and the team at Bexleyheath have been
entered into a draw with the chance to win a racing focusing heavily on BCES with monthly performance
day at Thuxton; there’s 3 places up for grabs. So far, updates via emails and notices to drivers including
80 assessments have been completed. top tips, route ratings and a full breakdown on areas
“The scheme is aimed directly at training, with of improvement.
constructive feedback being the number one “Assistant Operating Manager, Natalie Milsom
priority. The scheme so far has been a huge said: “We fully engage with our colleagues on
success,” exclaims Daniel. We fully engage with our every assessment and all feedback is welcome and
After a great team effort and much hard work, colleagues on every assessment acknowledged. Those with great scores are mentioned
we are pleased to report that Morden Wharf and all feedback is welcome... on our BCES ‘shout out’ notice.”
garage were ranked 24 for the period ending May, A helpful BCES leaflet is also handed out and posted
(previously ranked 81). They finished very strongly NATALIE MILSOM
AOM for all colleagues to review, and it doesn't stop there! OZ HASSAN
with a garage average of 1.33 for May and in B E X L E Y H E AT H
Bexleyheath is currently looking at setting a "Bexley BEXLEYHEATH
challenge" for the coming months with treats in store
for reaching performance targets!
BUS TALK | PAGE 4 BUS TALK | PAGE 5
AL
SI
PASSENGER
KEITH MERCER
JERMAINE WILKES "This bus driver was
"The bus driver showed kind enough to wait at the
patience and concern. His Q WAYNE WAYNE
C A M B E R ROBSON bus stop in a timely manner
COMMENDATIONS attitude stood out so I wanted ROBSON WELL
for me and my kids to board.
to make sure I took the time "This driver had He is a credit to the service
to write in so that you know exceptional customer and he made the journey
he is an asset." service skills and he very enjoyable."
waited for all the elderly
to sit down before
Congratulations to all our drivers who have received praise driving off."
from customers. Here is a selection of those received...
MG "She
KIRSTY WATTS
was so polite,
AF MISS JWAN CHRISTOPHER
C PAUL DAVEY
PL
RR ABDULLAH LAWRENCE
helpful and nice and I'm "Lovely drive, chirpy "Super nice and PAULE DA VEY
SONIA BOND "Wonderful bus driver! W AT R S I D E W AY
convinced your passengers chappy behind the smiley. He was very
"Twice this week Very courteous to elderly
(including me) would be really wheel. Very smooth kind and helpful, lowering
I’ve been on a 101 and passengers who got on,
happy to have such kind throughout. Enjoyable the ramp for my very heavy
especially around the hospital.
experienced a top service.
Your driver waited for me
drivers operating your
routes. Thank you!"
Gentle acceleration and braking, experience." double buggy. I really
appreciated his kindness. PETER NP
from across the road and was etc. She also waited for people BURKE
Thank you to this lovely
very patient with my little one to cross the road safely who "A great driver who
driver!"
when boarding. Top marks wanted to get the bus." was friendly and gave
to the 101 drivers! people time to get on. It's
LLAH
Thank you!" k Drin ABDU really lovely to see a
Drain
ter watekr
Drinkr
wate
A N
JWT N E Y driver enjoying
w
Drink
water
KIRST
M O R DY WA TS
E N WT
HARF
PU
THOMAS PETR
PM his job!"
"He gave everyone
a big smile and a 'good
A
morning'. It cheered up my
EVA HYATT
RA NX otherwise stressful morning!
"The driver saw me
BX DANIEL
CAUDWELL
STEPHEN DIZY LAGO
His driving was excellent,
calm and mindful of the
running for the bus and
stopped for me to cross the
TAYLOR "Your driver was very "Your driver was passengers. Fantastic
"I saw the driver of helpful and knowledgeable helpful and kind to road safely to the bus stop. She
driver, I shall hope I see
this bus get out and when I asked him for some passengers throughout also greeted me with a 'good
him again!"
help an elderly lady directions. He should be the journey. Well morning' and shared a little
get off the bus! What
a lovely act of
commended." done!"
SW DAMIAN JATTAN
MB joke saying my running was
impressive and that I was
kindness!" "I was going to probably faster than the
Wandsworth shopping VICTOR D'AMICO bus! Great sense of
centre and we got stuck in "Your route 51 driver humour!"
EPHEN the traffic. The driver was really was most welcoming
CAUDWELL ST
You can see the latest driver WATERLOO polite, he made me feel welcome and very friendly. He was
and was communicating with greeting everyone who
commendations on Go-Ahead
Drink Dwrink
us all the time. Exceptional boarded and even said Drinkr
London’s Twitter account
T hank you!
(@Go_Ahead_London)
customer service. I really 'thankyou' to me
VICPTO R D'AMICOater ater
w wate
liked that." when I left." OR I N GTO N Drink
wate
or by searching for r
#GoodGALbusdriver REMEMBER TO
KEEP HYDRATED!
Q CAMBERWELL
MG MORDEN WHARF MB ORPINGTON A SUTTON RA WATERLOO BX BEXLEYHEATH PM PECKHAM C CROYDON
SW STOCKWELL PL WATERSIDE WAY RR RIVER ROAD NX NEW CROSS SI SILVERTOWN AF PUTNEY AL MERTON NP NORTHUMBERLAND PARK
BUS TALK | PAGE 6 BUS TALK | PAGE 7
F
ollowing the popularity Piotr Szczepanowski Pleased with the feedback, Allan
CROYDON
of Croydon’s last event,
Performance Manager
Allan White decided to
run another "iBus Experience"
DRIVER
"Now things make sense to me! I think
everyone should experience this as part
of the training we receive; even before we
go out in service for the first time."
"
concludes: “I would like to thank all
those who took part and if you
missed out, we will be running
another session soon."
GARAGE
W pace!" t h i s
between 25-29 March.
t c h
Delroy Headman
“I wanted to provide colleagues the DRIVER
a
s
opportunity to gain an insight into what "I wanted to do this for a while now, partly
happens in the iBus room. For example, because the knowledge will help me
why and how decisions are made, the understand my own job better as a driver;
effects on the overall service by keeping it is also an opportunity to experience
good headways, and how the iBus room another role in the depot. It was an
acts as a busy communications hub for opportunity to see if iBus is a role I could
all colleagues, be it driving, engineering, consider in the near future."
operations, or external stakeholders
such as TfL, and other support services,” Gilroy Dedier
explains Allan. iBUS CONTROLLER
“The iBus experience week was well
An impressive number of colleagues took attended and I am still getting drivers
part in the iBus experience week and requesting to take part! I find it is
THE
provided some really positive feedback: beneficial for both drivers and the iBus
team to have these open days for all to
Babatunde Madariola
iBUS
get a much better understanding
DRIVER GILROY DEDIER AND BABATUNDE MADARIOLA
of each other’s roles and build
"It was good to see why we get the
positive relationships.”
instructions. It now makes more sense
E
to me when I think back to some of the
R SID
instructions I've been given in the past."
E OTHE
ON TH
OPEN AND
APPROACHABLE
EXPERIENCE
PICTURED ON THE FRONT COVER.
L TO R. ALLAN WHITE, DANIEL BUTTERFIELD,
MARTIN MINERS AND BRADLEY FAITHFULL.
and
een driver
relationships betw es the fact
E
on the hasis
IC
were amaze e,
d It also emp
O
controller. a team.”
V
ance team of
THE
on art
The perform as receive d b y e ve ry
that we are
all p
w e ll it w ll e a g ues
a t h ow ing co oke
e long serv
incl u d in g so m
o f ex perience. It a ls o Michael Co ing
with a we a lt h to mee t DRIV E R understand
n tr o ll e rs the chance la in th e as g iv e n m e a clearer ve .”
gave co s and exp “It h achie
are trying to
59241 59242 59243 59244 59245 59246 59247
g colleague
+9:00 +2:00 +9:00 -1:40 +9:00 +1:20 +9:00 +2:00 +9:00 +2:00 +9:00 -1:40 +9:00 +2:00
.
f what iBus
0:50 1:50 1:20 2:20 0:50 1:50 2:20
with drivin d e ci si o n s are made o
certain ormance
reason why rter
plained perf Graham OPoN T R O L L E R
59253 59252 59251 59250 59249 59248
+7:00 -0:50 +7:00 +2:00 +8:00 +0:30 +7:00 -0:50 +7:00 -4:00 +8:00 +8:00
ex
0:10 2:50 4:10 0:10 2:50 4:10
e rs a ls o them;
Controll a ch ie ve
good
LEFT TO RIGHT: MARTIN MINERS, MICHAEL how best to iBUS C k is a really
MEADOWCROFT, KAREN TAYLOR AND ANDREW BARNES. targets and in g o f QSI points
and
ink th e Open Wee oll e rs to
ta n d “I th n tr
the unders r a ch ie ves the w s u s as iBus co ieve
that workin
g toge th e idea. It al lo to face, h ac
d rivers face day
ORPINGTON best result
s.
o provid e d
eng ag e
a greater u
w ith
n de rs ta n ding of th e d ay
and g es
to
iv
GARAGE ic ip ant was als d w h e n on the road
M
Each p a rt ck with fu ll issues fa ce insight into
onday 8 Apri
l a n in fo rmation pa a g e vi n g co lleagues an imise
w it h nce, m il e our d ri es and max
w th e sta rt of ta il s o n performa w e re g ulate servic is ru ption.”
sa s
d e
S a n d DQM. h ow
d u rin g times o f d
iB u B C E ce
Orpington’s Q&A’s , perform an
as
e e k . attendees w nt Operatin
g
Experie n ce w The fe ed b ac k fr om
w or d h as ce rtai n ly
K ar en Ta ylor, Assista m e of the open
a m in v it ed el y p ositive and 20 w h o attended so ve
ance te ex trem ow have ov er Man ag er say a assi
m
The perform th e iB u s ar ou nd as they n n d th e n ext sa id : “I would like to sed their
es to visit g ot at te d ay s ho u
scheduled to everyone w
all colleagu a c o n tr o ller colleagues thank you to th ei r knowledg
e and
s it w ith p en D ay . e to b ro ad en fu ll
room to ce of their
iBu s O own ti m
ance Team
for th eir
x p e rie n a n d e z P er fo rm
and gain e Jorge Fern
to th e .”
tions and this project
a s k q u e s R iv e , support on er
role , DR I V E ry info rm at ance Manag
e m th e op portunity e ex p e ri ence was ve re o f an ar tin M in ers, Perform al l d ri ve rs
give th c k. A ll 3 0 “T h
id e a as it gave m o
.”
M
y th an ks go out to
ing
edba and a gre at oller’s ro le added "m part in m ak
to provide fe fill e d n d in g of the contr n trol lers who took t w eek
GRAHAM PORTER AND HANNAH WEST
a te d s lo ts were unde rs ta an d co
open week th e b es
allo c pson Orpingto n IB u s
within a we
ek! Peter Thom by far."
DRIVER ri ve r sh ou ld
eve every d
“I truly beli ain a better
u s room to g to build
PETER THOMPSON AND WENDY STATHAM visit the iB as it will help Continue to the next page
ta n d in g ,
unders to see how Bexleyheath got
on with their iBus Experience.
BUS TALK | PAGE 8 BUS TALK | PAGE 9
B
exleyheath completed a James Vidal Gary Tuvey OPEN AND
two-week iBus Experience P M E N G I N E E R I N G S AT E L L I T E BX iBUS CONTROLLER APPROACHABLE
which ran from 29 April MANAGER "It’s not often we get to see our driving
"I never knew how much work goes into team in person. Here at Bexleyheath,
until 10 May 2019.
managing buses when they have delays, we are well aware of how important our
The event was extremely positive, with a it definitely opened my eyes!" drivers are to ensure the performance
whole host of colleagues attending from of our routes are kept at the top. It’s
garages associated with the Bexleyheath Trevor Steadman been really positive to see them, and
iBus hub, including Bexleyheath, Morden BX DRIVER I've had the opportunity explain what
Wharf, New Cross and Peckham garages. "This has certainly given me a better I do and also get to hear the drivers
insight of how important my headway is!" challenges as well." MARTIN HARVEY
Colleagues were given a specific time SUTTON HUB
slot and part of their experience was Keith Ayriss Daniel Butterfield, Performance CRISTIAN MANOLACHE
to pair up with an iBus controller to MG DRIVER Manager who was delighted with STOCKWELL HUB
see the challenges they face first hand. "What a good bunch of guys you have in the success of the two-week iBus
Participants observed Controllers dealing there! Please pass on my thanks. It opened experience at Bexleyheath said: "This NTROLLER
COth ALFRED WOOLWARD
with diversions, events in Central London, my eyes to the way iBus works. I now event has been extremely positive for all of e month RIVER ROAD HUB
roadworks and even Taxi Demonstrations! see that iBus controllers are not making concerned. I therefore urge colleagues NTROLLER
COth
They also got the rare opportunity to relay drivers late for their breaks or making us to check their emails and notice boards of e month
NTROLLER
COth
Martin Harvey
instructions to their colleagues on the road. finish late. They’re just trying to do their for details of our next event which will
Some of those who attended provided the
jobs by keeping the service moving.” take place in the coming weeks.” of e month
Cristian Manolache
following feedback: S UTTO N
“Martin listens attentively and carries
BEXLEYHEATH
GARAGE
out guidelines given by Performance
Managers. He is punctual and always
demonstrates a professional attitude
STO C K W E LL
“Cristian goes above and beyond, and he
is always willing to help fellow controllers
Alfred Woolward
R I V E R ROA D
whilst on duty.” with extra routes. During demonstrations "Alfred is a very hard worker and is
Alex Johnson, PM. in Central London, he is always available always willing to take on extra routes
"The job can be stressful, but it is a to help Roadside cover.” which is very helpful. He was asked to
challenge. I always try to do the best I Ahmed Mustafa, PM. control several routes on Friday 17 May
can, so it reflects well on the company." “Thank you very much to my managers with heavy delays from the closure of the
Martin Harvey. for the nomination. This achievement is A13. He willingly took on the task and
the result of a combined effort between handled it very well."
all my colleagues. I enjoy the job so I will Meandad Matthew, PM.
Follow us on Twitter! always try my best.” "I'm very thankful for being nominated
@Go_Ahead_London Cristian Manolache. for controller of the month. It's nice to
SHAIK RAHMAN AND PAUL ELLIOTT have my hard work recognised. It is
however a team effort and I also wish
to thank my team and PM."
Alfred Woodward
Bradley Faithfull, General
A
Manager (Service Performance)
fter working closely with ViaVan and
gives his summary of The iBus Transport for London over the last
ANTHONY GILBERT AND ALAN WHITTINGTON Experience... year, we are pleased to announce
"It is important that we ensure iBus hubs that Go sutton was successfully launched on
remain transparent, open and accessible Friday 24 May; the trial will last for 12 months.
to all. The iBus Experience provides FORWARD Go sutton is a brand new and innovative way
an opportunity for us to showcase this. LOOKING to travel. The service, known as Demand
The experience allows driving colleagues Responsive Transport (DRT) are comfortable
to get some invaluable one to one time 13 seated, air-conditioned Mercedes Benz
with their route controllers through pre- mini-buses, boasting accessible USB ports
booked slots, and in turn ask questions. In and Wi-Fi.
doing so, they gain a better understanding Pre-booked passengers from a specific
of the many issues faced by the control location within the borough of Sutton can
team on a daily basis. This also provides be transported to and from any location of
the opportunity for them to feedback to their choice. DRT standing and bus stopping
the controllers on the challenges they points have been located around the
face on the road daily. borough for the convenience of passengers.
The sessions were extremely well During this trial, we aim to deliver a smart
ANTONIO QUARESMA-LABARSEDAS received and the positive feedback is and efficient service and provide those in
AND WENDY MATTHEWS
testament to their success. the Sutton area with a new and innovative
I would further like to thank everyone who way to travel.
participated and made these events the
success they were."
BUS TALK | PAGE 10 BUS TALK | PAGE 11
Many thanks to everyone who sent in selfies with their beloved pets.
They are spetacular!
1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18.
MB HO C AF BX AL A MG MB SW SW AL
Dave Terry Beata Sowinska-Shelle Cadhene Lubin- David Walker Natalie Milsom Ricardo Barros Albert Coveley Daniel Cutts Christopher Morris George Rodriguez- Hannah Man Paul Sadler
Operating Manager Payroll Administrator Hewitt Bus Driver Assistant OM Bus Driver Bus Driver AOM Bus Driver Guerrero General Manager Bus Driver
Tommy & Molly Fluffy Bus Driver Coco and co. Milo & Millie Panda Hugo & Rubble Star Tizzy Bus Driver Jeff Henry
Benjamin/Benji Zeus
7. 19.
1. 2. 3. 13. 14. 15.
MB Q
Amanda Brandwood Sharon Hawkins
Bus Driver Mileage Clerk
Junior Freya
fluffy
star
8. hugo rubble
20.
benji
tommy molly
BX BX
Oz Hassan tizzy Steve Quinn
Interim OM Bus Driver
Bertha, Layla & Iggy Jax
4. 5. 6. 16. 17. 18.
9. 21.
SW RA
coco
Jose Ribeiro-Costa Lance McFarlane
Bus Driver AOM
Tiger, Lily and tom zeus Ruby
panda jeff
milo millie
anabel henry
amy
10. 22.
7. 8. 9. 19. 20. 21.
HO A
Greg French lily Ray Taskas
Communications Bus Driver
Coordinator Ocean
Daly tiger jax
tom
11. freya 23.
junior
ruby
RR C
bertha layla iggy
Mihaela Gogioiu James Barlow
APA Operating Manager
Maxamillion 10. 11. 12. 22. 23. 24. Brutus
brutus
12. ocean 24.
max
A cleo
HO
Martin Fleming captain fritz Nikolett Ungravi
Bus Driver Trainee SGA
Cleo Captain Fritz
daly
Welcome to WHAT
HAPPEN
AT...
’S
ING
ROUTE 100
TRANSFERRED
FROM SI TO Q
Gurnam Singh joined the Communications Mark Brown joined the team at PUTNEY Helen Kinch joined the team at RIVER ROAD Route 100 transferred from Silvertown to CAMBERWELL
Department at HEAD OFFICE as a Graphic Designer on as Accident Prevention Manager on 3 June 2019. and SILVERTOWN as an Accident Prevention Manager on Saturday 15 June 2019.
20 May 2019. on 15 April 2019.
Mark previously worked as a Police Officer in the Met for It moved with the current fleet and a large majority of rota drivers.
He graduated from university last year with a Bachelors 16 years. He spent his last two years as a surveillance Helen started working for London Buses in January 1989 Prior to its relocation, work was underway to fit the cradles to
Degree and prior to joining Go-Ahead London, worked as operative working within covert operations. and has held numerous roles including Garage Support vehicles which now accommodate the new pre-service app that is
a freelance designer for various clients. Assistant, Bus Driver [Route 29], Mobile Inspector (now in operation with all other vehicles in Camberwell.
Mark was kind enough to share a little more of his life
known as a Controller), Risk Management Supervisor for
“I have a passion for art and love to draw or paint in my outside of work: “I am a member of a social club that meets Buses were transferred from Docklands with the assistance of
Arriva London and Risk Manager for RATP London.
spare time, whilst listening to music. I also have a great on Monday evenings and I enjoy days out with my wife and Engineers and Drivers in preparation for route learning (for
interest in football (Arsenal), both playing and watching.” children. (3 with the 4th due 27 August 2019!)” Most of Helen's spare time is taken up with her family and part-time and Camberwell drivers) and inductions.
her passion for animals. "I regularly ride my horse, I have 2
Eager to get involved in a variety of company projects, Mark continued with a few words on his team and how he In September 2019, a new fleet of fully electric vehicles will replace
dogs and a cat that that keeps everybody in check!"
Gurnam continues: “I am learning more and more about is settling in: “My team at Putney have been fantastic and the existing diesel fleet. These vehicles will enter service with the
the business every day. My team have been very helpful have helped me settle in taking on board my ideas and "I am looking forward to the challenge I have ahead of me latest new and exciting transport technology which includes side
and accommodating, and they have made it easy for me opinions. My General Manager and Area General Manager in my new role as Accident Prevention Manager." cameras (no mirrors). Camberwell will be first garage to operate
to settle in.” have been very supportive.” service vehicles of this kind.
’S
WHAT
ROUTE 51 HAPPEN
ING
TRANSFERRED AT...
FROM MB TO BX
Route 51 transferred from Orpington to BEXLEYHEATH
on Saturday 22 June 2019.
In late May, Bexleyheath garage were busy making space
for Route 51. There was both an element of excitement and
Rebecca-Anne Diner joined the Mohammad Chaudhary joined Andy Johns joined the team at RIVER ROAD
positivity as plans were underway to welcome the new route.
With around 67 open rota lines, Bexleyheath adopted the can-do
Commercial Department at our HEAD OFFICE as a the team at RIVER ROAD as an Assistant Operating as a Operating Manager on 3 June 2019.
Commercial Assistant on 13 May 2019. Manager on 29 April 2019. approach with open forums and members of management visiting
Andy has been working in the bus industry for a little over stands to help push the recruitment process to build the team.
A far cry from joining Go-Ahead London, Rebecca-Anne Having joined the bus industry from the age of 21 as a 10 years, having worked previously in driver training where
previously worked for Gucci, Sloane Street as a Sales driver for stagecoach, Mohammad then moved onto the he ran his own driving school. “We reached out to Bexleyheath job centre and had a positive
Assistant. She also has experience as a PA and PR for role of Counter Supervisor before joining us. meeting where we provided staff with details of our apprentice
Andy, who prides himself as a family man also sheds a little scheme,” said Interim Operating Manager Oz Hassan.
fashion company, Gray & Osbourn.
“I have a huge passion for Boxing and UFC and try to light on some of his time away from work, “I’m married with
“In my spare time, I enjoy playing the piano and video attend as many events within the UK as I can.” Explains two young children who both keep me really busy. I live “Our open day at the job centre was most beneficial as we
games. I also have a huge interest in the study of Martial Mohammad when asked about his interests. close to Epping Forest and enjoy trail running there in all had the opportunity to use their facilities and help applicants
Arts,” explains Rebecca-Anne. weathers which keeps me fit.” complete application forms. We were also on-hand to answer
Showing a great keenness to get stuck in, Mohammad went queries and offer advice and guidance.”
Keen to learn more about her call of duty within the on to say: “I have been made to feel very welcome and now Impressed with the new apprenticeship program,
company, she continues: “I have a very supportive, helpful look forward to building strong relationships with everyone Andy concludes: “I feel it will make a real difference in “With a lot of planning and preparation, the route is now running
and understanding team. I have learned a lot. It has been and contibute to delivering success at Go-Ahead London.” encouraging people to consider bus driving as a career smoothly from Bexleyheath. Drivers on route 51 are providing
an amazing start!” The skyrim's the limit for Rebecca-Anne! and should improve staff retention." management with positive feedback and we look forward to
providing all users of this route with the best possible service,”
concludes Assistant Operating Manager, Natalie Milsom.
BUS TALK | PAGE 14 BUS TALK | PAGE 15
YOUR STORY CCTV
1
8 months ago, Security Manager Douglas
Dobb submitted a business proposal to
CHRISTOPHER WILSON RAL
CENT
centralise CCTV operations to the company
Directors. The objective was to assure the
company has standardised CCTV processes
and to reduce the turnaround time of data
collection. This proposition was approved.
DOUGLAS DOBB
CCTV SUITE AT Q Today, we now have a dedicated team consisting of seven
analysts who work in the CCTV Suite based at CAMBERWELL.
The department is covered by an analyst 24-hours a day, 7
days a week, much to the benefit of the business.
Saysenh Sam was recently based at Orpington garage, and
was one of the analysts who transferred to the new CCTV
FORWARD
LOOKING suite. With 13 years’ experience working for both Metrobus
and Go-Ahead London, he states: “The processes have
been streamlined and the introduction of cloud-based
systems has helped speed up some of the processes.
The job itself has also changed due to the introduction of
24-hour shift work, including weekends, which
benefits the business as it is now possible to
order CCTV with minimal delay.”
Speaking of the positive change in processes,
Douglas continues: “We have a close working
CCTV centralisation has relationship with The Metropolitan Police
CHRISTOPHER proven benefits and going including Counter Terrorism. Until recently, the
Police had to collect CCTV from 17 bus garages
WILSON
WATERLOO forward, we hope to build but now we are utilising new technology (cloud-
on its success.. based products). This eradicates the process
of burning CCTV footage to DVD’s, as we now
DOUGLAS DOBB process all police requests by simply uploading
SECURITY MANAGER
the data to The Metropolitan Police cloud.”
The analysts also supply CCTV footage to our
claim handlers for incidents involving our vehicles.
Footage is transferred to them via Cryptshare. This
REDARR W
procedure ensures they have all the relevant information
regarding any incident so it can be dealt with accordingly
based on physical evidence.
BUILDING
RELATIONSHIPS CCTV centralisation has proven benefits and going
CCTV ANALYSTS WORKING forward, we hope to build on its success.
Waterloo 507 IN THE NEW CCTV SUITE
How do you prepare How busy do the buses get? What was it like to work
A andrew brownn!
for your day? on route 507 during the ndrew Brown started a
Very, they are constantly full, as they
career in engineering and The role of engineer is
serve the key commuter hubs. You have protests in London?
to silvertow
I always prepare the night before! My has accumulated around 20 challenging at the best of
actual day starts 2 hours before the start to factor in that passenger’s board by
The route took a lot longer to complete. years’ experience. He joined Go- times; Andrew illustrates this
time of my duty. First things first; a cup of the rear doors too.
Thankfully, passengers were generally and revisits a day when working
tea followed by preparations to ensure I
Ahead London as an Engineer at
OK - I expected a lot more confrontation, as one team really came into
look presentable for another unpredictable What is it like to drive the SILVERTOWN in December 2018 after play: “Some of my challenges
but I was pleasantly surprised. This sort of
day on route 507. I try to prepare myself for electric buses? working in a similar role with Arriva. since being at Silvertown is working on
thing adds pleasure to one’s day.
any eventuality as the day always presents He reveals that working at Silvertown is a the AdBlue system and doing clutches on
If I can be cheeky - it is like driving the
me with a new challenge. What makes the Red Arrow good experience and surrounding himself the ZF lite gearbox. I also recall working
biggest bumper car you could imagine.
with a team with all round knowledge has one day when the garage suddenly suffered
What part of your job do But on a serious note, it is unlike driving (Waterloo) routes different? a power loss - this definitely made me see
anything else. It brings home the huge enabled him to adapt and further his skills.
you most enjoy? investment that the company has put Our buses are so consistent, and during peak
"It’s great working here - my colleagues
what real team work means!"
in, as I certainly feel somewhat special hours they run every 2 to 3 minutes. We’ve
The banter at the garage with my are all very friendly and a great group. Outside of work he is kept busy by his 3
sat comfortably behind the wheel of got a different type of passenger as well!
colleagues, which can be quite humorous We are a very small team and work well grown up children aged between 19 and
an electric bus. It is also a joy to see the The biggest difference is at Tenison Way,
and my interactions with the passengers. together to ensure each job gets done 25. Andrew also has a keen interest in
excitement on the face of visitors from Waterloo. The way the passengers queue up
This combination always makes up a to the high standard expected by the basketball and plays in a team once a
abroad when they travel on an electric in an orderly line to board is unlike anything
good day. company,” says Andrew. fortnight depending on the demand of work.
bus for the first time. else – I see many other drivers pass this stop
and look at our route in awe. Colleague and Workshop Manager Jon
ANDREW BROWN
Edwards affirms: “Andrew is a lovely guy SILVERTOWN
and is a good asset to the team.”
BUS TALK | PAGE 16 BUS TALK | PAGE 17
11
Knowing your
R
colleagues
Not in a workplace pension? obert Brown has
been an Engineering
Administrator based in
CROYDON since 2013.
Government regulations He’s also been in the music industry
L E
E
since the age of 18, some 30 years ago
B B
and first started out as a 'toaster' and
require employers to
BU
'MC'. Confused? Over to you Robert…
S tarts “In today's terms, I was a rapper to
reggae/ragga, rock steady and roots
automatically re-enrol 29 J une
music, performing live with sound
ON THE
E systems such as Quadrophonic, Sir
Radics and Different Strokes to name
certain employees 2019
I M
M
but a few. My job as the MC/Toaster
D D
was to hype the crowd, or as we would
RI
say back in the day, 'bubble on the
every three years.
riddim.' Literally, holding the mic
and performing live to an audience,
showcasing my own lyrics.
Music has always been an important
inspirational part of my life from
We’ll start automatic re-enrolment on a very young age stemming from
ROBERT BROWN
29 June 2019. my dad who used to buy records
from labels including Treasure Isle,
AKA
Studio One, Blue Beat, Crab Records
If you are not currently a member of and Fashion label. He held lots of
SGT BILKO
The Go-Ahead Group Pension Plan, functions and parties and at times, he
would let me make the selections and
you are likely to be auto-enrolled in the DJ at family functions as I got older.
Workplace Savings Section (WSS) if, Founded by my nephew Clive
Campbell approximately 1 year ago, I
on 29 June 2019, you’re: L I S T E N TO S GT B I L K O AT W W W. C R O Y D O N F M . C O M now host the show 'Revival Rundown'
B E T W E E N 1 7 0 0 - 1 9 0 0 E V E R Y S U N DAY ! under my DJ name, SGT Bilko on
• aged at least 22 but you’re under Croydon FM; a Community Radio
station with a musical genre of revival
State Pension Age style reggae and old reggae from
the 60's, through to the 90's. I was
• earning more than £10,000 a year given this opportunity by Clive as he
(£833 a month or £192 a week) was aware of my capabilities since
previously co-hosting a show
• working, or usually working, in the UK. on TrustMe Radio.
Listeners can stream Croydon FM 24
hours a day, 7 days a week. There is
Even if you’ve accessed your pension a mixture of shows including Urban
savings, if you’re still working for us, we’re music and talk. (Past shows can be
accessed via MixCloud and Sound
obliged to re-enrol you. But if you don’t Cloud). It takes me approximately 2
meet the criteria above, then we won’t hours to prepare for the show and
this includes selecting and blending
re-enrol you. the tunes.
I invite you to comment and post
Once you’ve been re-enrolled into the reactions to the show by WhatsApp,
WSS, you’ll receive a joiner pack. FaceBook, Instagram: @croydonfm
and Twitter.”
This will include information about how
your pension works, and how you can ask SGT BILKO
to opt-out if you’d like to. CROYDON.FM
My top 5 Studio One songs are subject to
ROBERT BROWN change at anytime because it is so hard to
CROYDON come up with a definitive list. However (in
If you would like any further the voice of Peter Dyneley the man who did
the 'Thunderbirds are Go' countdown):
information, please contact: 5 ALTON ELLIS - HURTING ME
The Personnel Department 3
4 JERRY JONES - STILL WATERS
3 JOHNNY OSBOURNE - JAH PROMISE
Tel: 020 8545 6121 2 CARLTON & THE SHOES - ME & YOU
1 DENNIS BROWN - IF I FOLLOW MY HEART
Email:personnel@goaheadlondon.com BUS TALK | PAGE 19KEEP IT BUILDING
RELATIONSHIPS
Sivley Rainford
Sivley elaborated on
his emotions upon
T
MB
FE C
being told he achieved
THE PER
a perfect score, "I felt
an overwhelming sense
of pride and honour to
RE !
receive this award for just
BCES S CO
doing my job."
Sivley accredited his
training as the contributing
factor to his success.
"I guess it's all down
to the training!" SIMON ELLIS
CROYDON
Steven Sakala
When asked what motivates Steven,
he replied, "I am always
Michael Box
When asked how he achieved his score
he replied, "I was told not
OUTSTANDING
NEWCOMER
enthusiastic about keeping long after I started, never to
passengers happy. As a
former cabin attendant, RR rush to reach my destination
and to this day, I drive the MB
smiling comes free and same as I did then."
helps ease the tensions
Michael's advice offered SIMON ELLIS'
S
amongst people."
in relation to mystery
imon Ellis joined Go- and passion for the job is phenomenal.
PASSENGER FEEDBACK
A very simple yet travellers was to, "Relax,
important philosophy take your time and the drive Ahead London as He has already received so many ROUTE 127
commendations where passengers refer
that every bus driver will be as smooth for the an apprentice on 3 to how helpful, professional, passionate, "He is the best driver I have had
should embody. passengers as it is for you." December 2018. He all year, the most enthusiastic."
kind and happy he is. I feel he is going
was passed to garage as the to be someone special in our industry.”
“This driver really made my day.”
company’s first apprentice Hannah Man, General Manager
and in the last 2 months, has Croydon, concludes: “Simon should be “Fantastic customer service!”
Mark Hughes Charmaine Stanford generated an impressive 6 public
commendations at CROYDON
very proud of his achievements to date,
he has a personality that really shines
through. There is appreciation from all,
“He waits for the elderly to sit down
and buggies to get into place before
Mark was kind enough to share some tips We asked Charmaine what this achievement where he is based! especially older and mobility-impaired he moves off.”
when asked to comment on his achievement, meant to her, "It was a proud moment when I He is known to be a very likeable users, which is great to see. They feel
received 100%. My hard work and dedication respected and valued by Simon’s great
“Everyone left the bus with a smile
"Acknowledge every passenger as they character by his co-workers and is
board the bus, answer any questions they has paid off. This scoring has also built my described as a ‘humble colleague' by service. He has also secured the respect on their face.”
may have, make eye confidence and self steem." his management team. of his experienced colleagues.”
“Please give him a massive pat on
contact and smile/nod to
BX RR
Charmaine then went on to “I am overwhelmed by the positive Simon has also been shortlisted for the the back!”
them - anyone could be a express how committed she "Outstanding Newcomer" category at
comments I have received by drivers,
mystery traveller!" is to maintaining such high the London Bus Awards 2019 on 9 July.
managers and passengers alike! The
ha ve
standards, "I will continue
s
majority of my commendations are
fo rt
He also shared a little
insight given to him over
30 years ago! "My first
to do my best not only in
driving but also in other
from passengers on route 127. I am
pleased that people are recognising
Goo d lu ck S im on , yo ur ef
clearly no t go ne unno ticed.
manager always advised areas within the industry." the efforts I put into this role. I did not
me to; K.I.S.S (Keep It think at the age of 52, I would be an
Simple Stupid). In other apprentice and generating so many
words, just keep to commendations,” Simon confesses.
the basics." Peter Merchant, Croydon’s Senior
Garage Mentor adds: “His commitment
BUS TALK | PAGE 20 BUS TALK | PAGE 21TENDER
NEWS
A yellow highlight indicates an involvement with Go-Ahead London.
All are retentions unless stated otherwise.
ROUTE 29/N29 | Lordship Lane to Trafalgar Square. ROUTE C10 | Canada Water Bus Station to Victoria Station.
ARRIVA LONDON NORTH. Contract retained. ABELLIO LONDON. Contract retained.
Contract begins on January 11, 2020. Contract begins on March 21, 2020.
Using 2013 Euro V hybrid double deck (36 PVR). Using new electric single deck (22 PVR).
ROUTE 34 | Barnet Church to Walthamstow Bus Station. ROUTE P5 | Elephant & Castle to Patmore Estate.
ARRIVA LONDON NORTH. Won from Metroline. ABELLIO LONDON. Won from London Central.
Contract begins on November 9, 2019. Contract begins on May 2, 2020.
Using hybrid double deck (details TBC) (22 PVR). Using new electric single deck (9 PVR).
ROUTE 52 | Victoria Station to Pound Lane. ROUTE 126 | Ringer's Road to Eltham High Street.
METROLINE. Contract retained. METROBUS. Contract retained.
Contract begins on December 7, 2019. Contract begins on March 21, 2020.
Using 2014 Euro VI hybrid double deck (18 PVR). Using 2013 Euro V diesel single deck (11 PVR).
ROUTE 102 | Edmonton Green to Brent Cross Centre. ROUTE 212 | Chingford Station to St James Street Station.
ARRIVA LONDON NORTH. Contract retained. LONDON GENERAL. Won from Tower Transit.
Contract begins on November 9, 2019. Contract begins on March 7, 2020.
Using hybrid double deck (details TBC) (26 PVR). Using new Euro VI hybrid double deck (12 PVR).
ROUTE 109/N109 | Katharine Street to Brixton Station. ROUTE 444 | Turnpike Lane Bus Station to Chingford Station.
ABELLIO LONDON. Contract retained. LONDON GENERAL. Won from Tower Transit.
Contract begins on February 1, 2020. Contract begins on March 7, 2020.
Using 2015 Euro VI hybrid double deck (26 PVR). Using new electric single deck (11 PVR).
ROUTE 192 | Little Park Gardens to Tottenham Hale Stn. ROUTE 657 | Salisbury Hall Sainsbury's to Bancroft's School.
ARRIVA LONDON NORTH. Won from London General. LONDON GENERAL. Contract retained.
Contract begins on November 9, 2019. Contract begins on March 7, 2020.
Using new Euro VI diesel single deck (15 PVR). Using 2010 Euro V diesel double deck (1 PVR).
THANK YOU FOR
YOUR SERVICE
Night driver Paul McGrane has recently Described as a workaholic by his co-
retired after joining the bus industry 41 workers, Paul was best known for coming
years ago! in to work in a good mood and always
being willing to help.
Paul’s brother suggested he join ‘the
buses’ after previously working in the As he enters his well-earned retirement,
construction industry. He commenced a his plans are to spend some time in the
period of driver training at the Chiswick Caribbean where he has a property, as
Training Centre in January 1978 where well as spending some time with his
he trained on the RT type vehicles and brother, who lives in Australia. PAUL MCGRANE AT HIS LEAVING DO
was soon passed on to PECKHAM to PICTURED WITH TREVOR JOHNSON
drive Routes 36, 78, 63 and 12.
BUS TALK | PAGE 22
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