Press releases

Local people from the Medway Towns could be set for a ride into the future following the launch of a new appeal.

Bus company Arriva, which operates frequent routes throughout the Medway Towns, is searching for three people, plus a guest each, to be the very first to inspect the first of its new generation of buses. The new vehicles, which will go into service on 14 June, will feature car-like levels of comfort including individual seating, tinted windows, an innovative visual announcement system and a distinctive new 'look and feel'.

The three pairs of 'bus testers' will have the chance to inspect the first of the new buses for themselves during an exclusive preview event at the end of April. After touring on the new bus, they will be treated to a champagne reception.

Kevin Hawkins, commercial director for Arriva Southern Counties, said:

This is a great opportunity to be one of the first to take a ride on a bus which will represent the future of local bus travel in the Medway Towns. We are committed to a major investment in excess of £10 million in the region which includes introducing 61 brand new buses and making a number of other service improvements including route upgrades and additional customer service training.

The new fleet of vehicles will include 49 double-deck buses and 12 single buses, all of which will feature easy-access entrances to help those who find boarding difficult. Another 40 existing modern vehicles will undergo a complete refurbishment.

Local people who want to take part should call the Arriva Bus of the Future hotline number
0121 362 4036 and leave their name and telephone number. The chosen pairs will be drawn at random.

-ends-