Arriva backs 'Catch the Bus Week' and hosts new Buses Minister

Now in its 5th year, ‘Catch the Bus Week’ – spearheaded by Greener Journeys – aims to raise awareness of the vast economic, environmental and social benefits of taking the bus as well as encouraging the public to give bus travel a try.

The Minister was joined on the visit by Arriva UK Bus Managing Director, Kevin O'Connor, and Greener Journeys CEO, Claire Haigh, together with colleagues from Arriva and other transport operators. Launching the campaign, the Minister spoke about the important contribution made by buses and met with Arriva employees and apprentices to hear about their roles and Arriva's operations.

During ‘Catch the Bus Week’, which takes place 3-9th July, Arriva is offering a £1 all-day ticket deal across its UK bus network outside of London. Customers can access this offer by using the Arriva m-ticket app (available for iphones and android devices) to purchase the ticket and enter the code CTBW. Passengers need to activate the day m-ticket before travel, and present to the driver on their phone when boarding the bus.

The launch kicks off a series of events for Catch the Bus Week being held by Arriva across the UK:

• Northumberland Street South, Newcastle - 4 July
• Albion Street, Leeds - 5 July
• HumberstoneGate, Leicester - 6 July
• High Street, Guildford - 6 July
• St George’s Square, Luton - 7 July

Jesse Norman, the Buses Minister, said:

“Catch the Bus Week is an important initiative and I’m pleased to be launching it. Buses are vital for connecting people, communities, homes and businesses. I warmly encourage commuters to try the bus this week.”

Kevin O’Connor, Arriva UK Bus Managing Director, said:

“Arriva fully supports ‘Catch the Bus Week’, which provides a perfect opportunity for people who don’t normally use the bus to enjoy the benefits it can bring. With around 5 billion journeys made each year, bus is the most frequently used form of public transport. This week provides a great opportunity for us to celebrate the importance of bus services and their valuable role in tackling urban congestion and improving air quality.”

Claire Haigh, Chief Executive of Greener Journeys, a coalition of the UK’s leading public transport organisations, user groups and supporters dedicated to encouraging people to make more sustainable travel choices, said:

“We’re really excited about this year’s Catch the Bus Week. From deals to competition and yarnbombing to green hands, the creativity on display during Catch the Bus Week is astonishing and this year will be no different.”