MOREBUS is celebrating after its Poole-based parent company was named the best in the industry.

Go South Coast came away with the trophies for both the Best Operator of the Year and Employer of the Year at the National Transport Awards.

Andrew Wickham, managing director of Go South Coast, said: “This is fantastic recognition for the entire Go South Coast team – and not least all my colleagues at Morebus here in Poole.

“Morebus has been at the forefront of new bus technology over recent months. We have invested heavily in new vehicles for our M1 and M2 services to encourage more people to leave their cars at home and use public transport instead.

“As an employer, we know it takes a great deal of hard work to attract and retain the very best talent. We are committed to developing our team, ensuring they have every opportunity to reach their career goals.

“I’m delighted judges at the National Transport Awards have recognised our efforts. I’d like to congratulate everyone at Morebus and thank them for everything they have done to establish us as the UK’s very best – both as a bus operator and an employer.”

Earlier this year, Morebus introduced a £7.2million fleet of 41 new low-emission buses to serve on the M1 and M2 routes between Bournemouth and Poole.

It has pioneered technology such as free Wi-Fi, USB charging points for mobile devices and contactless ticketing.

The latest awards follow first places in both the UK Bus Awards and RouteOne Awards.

Mr Wickham added: “We’re thrilled by this success, but we won’t stop here. Go South Coast will continue to introduce new buses with the very latest in new technology – including free WiFi, USB charging points, contactless ticketing and low emissions Euro 6 engines.

“Our aim is also to ensure people in Bournemouth and Poole enjoy comprehensive bus services – and that means listening and responding to our customers’ needs wherever possible.”

The National Transport Awards were handed out at a ceremony at London’s Westminster Park Plaza Hotel.