Northumbria Motor Services

Northumbria Motor Services was a distinctive operator in the 1980s and 1990s, operating buses in the English county with the lowest population density at a time when unemployment was soaring. It was a forward-thinking management team that wanted to break free from conventionality and take risks, and the book covers the period 1986 to 1998, showing how it fundamentally changed the bus industry long after livery and company had disappeared.

Format: Paperback / softback
Length: 96 pages
Publication date: 15 October 2023
Publisher: Amberley Publishing

In the vibrant decade of the 1970s, a remarkable journey unfolded, linking the Scottish border to the picturesque resort towns along the Yorkshire coast. The mode of transportation? Pure and simple: United buses, adorned in the iconic shades of red and white. Yet, as we fast forward to the 2000s, a new chapter unfolds, with Arriva buses taking the reins in a mesmerizing turquoise hue. It would be tempting to assume that little has changed over the years, but to do so would overlook the remarkable tale of Northumbria Motor Services.

Operating buses in the English county with the lowest population density, at a time when unemployment was soaring due to the closure of heavy industry, posed a daunting challenge. Yet, a forward-thinking management team emerged, driven by a desire to break free from conventionality and embrace risk. This team set out to transform the bus industry, long after the livery and company names had faded into the background.

Spanning the years 1986 to 1998, this captivating book delves into the story of Northumbria Motor Services, shedding light on its trendsetting operations and the profound impact it had on the industry long after its existence. It explores how this operator defied expectations and carved a unique path, revolutionizing the way buses were operated and enjoyed by passengers.

Through vivid anecdotes and detailed accounts, the book takes readers on a journey through the evolution of Northumbria Motor Services. It showcases the company's innovative approach to bus operations, from its fleet of modern buses to its commitment to customer service. It also delves into the challenges faced by the operator, including the fierce competition and the changing landscape of the bus industry.

What sets Northumbria Motor Services apart is its unwavering dedication to innovation and its willingness to take risks. The company was at the forefront of introducing new technologies and services, such as electronic ticketing systems and on-board Wi-Fi. It also recognized the importance of sustainability, implementing eco-friendly practices and reducing its carbon footprint.

Beyond its operational excellence, Northumbria Motor Services had a profound impact on the communities it served. It provided a vital transportation link for residents, connecting them to essential services, educational institutions, and employment opportunities. The company also played a significant role in promoting tourism, attracting visitors to the region's picturesque landscapes and vibrant attractions.

In conclusion, Northumbria Motor Services is a testament to the power of vision, determination, and innovation. Its story reminds us that even in the face of adversity, there is always room for change and growth. By breaking free from conventionality and embracing risk, this operator transformed the bus industry, leaving a lasting legacy that continues to inspire and influence transportation professionals today.

Weight: 298g
Dimension: 164 x 234 x 9 (mm)
ISBN-13: 9781398110236