Morebus crowned UK's bus operator of the year

The Poole-based operator’s owner Go South Coast scooped the prestigious accolade at an awards ceremony for the UK Bus Awards. 

As well as being named the nation’s best, it also received the title of the Top Shire Operator. 

Morebus’ managing director Andrew Wickham said: “We’re absolutely thrilled to receive these prestigious awards - and they are thoroughly deserved by our excellent team, here at Morebus in Dorset and across our operators on the south coast. 

“It is the third time we have won this accolade - with awards also in 2017 and 2018 - and only two other companies have ever achieved this.

“It is wonderful recognition for the talents of all my colleagues here - from our skilful engineers, to the managers who ensure everything runs smoothly, the cleaners who keep our buses looking good, and of course our drivers who are the daily contact point for our passengers. 

“The award is also a nod to the mammoth mobilisation of new routes across our region, just one day after Yellow Buses ceased trading here. 

“To be named top operator is an incredible achievement - and I am very, very proud of each and every one of my colleagues.” 

The UK Bus Awards scheme was founded in 1996 and was designed to develop further the Bus Good Practice Awards - which were set up by the Association of Metropolitan Authorities in 1991.  

Judging is stringent: as well as assessing buses and drivers, the judges look at operators’ mobile apps, customer services and public relations. They also carry out mystery journeys across bus networks. 

“We want to keep this momentum,” added Andrew.

“From introducing brand new additions to our fleet to helping reduce congestion and improving air quality, we won’t stop looking for ways to further enhance Morebus’ reputation in Dorset, across the UK and beyond.” 

The news follows Morebus’ recent success in the RouteOne Awards - where its parent firm was named Large Bus Operator of the Year.