Fab Four feature on new buses for Liverpool

A fleet of new buses will hit the streets ofLiverpool this week, all featuring the city’s mostfamous sons - The Beatles.  The fab four will figure in aneye-catching design for a brand new tourist route.

It is hoped the new S1 service, launched by official ’08partners Merseytravel and Arriva, will form a major part of thecity’s 2008 celebrations, offering visitors an easy andconvenient way to take in Liverpool’s celebratedlandmarks.

As well as John, Paul, George and Ringo, the buses themselvesalso show images of the main attractions on view, such as the worldfamous cathedrals, Liver Buildings and Albert Dock.

Other highlights on the circular route include the PhilharmonicHall, Cavern Quarter and St Georges Hall, while all major publictransport links – Lime Street, Queen Square, Norton Street(coach station) and the Pier Head (for Mersey Ferry crossings)– are also catered for.

The project is a unique partnership between Arriva, who willoperate the service, and transport authority Merseytravel.

Phil Stone, managing director of Arriva North West and Wales,said: "With Merseytravel’s support we have been able toprovide Liverpool with a flagship service to be proud of.  Thecity will be the focus of attention during 2008 and we want as manypeople as possible to enjoy all its famous views andlandmarks.”

Councillor Denis Knowles, Chair of Merseytravel’sMerseytram and Bus Committee, said: “This is an importantpart of our contribution to 2008 and will link visitors and localpeople to the superb assets we have across the city. Ensuringpeople can get to and from events, venues and attractions will bevital if we are to help make Liverpool’s European Capital ofCulture celebrations a true success story.”

Neil Scales, Chief Executive and Director General ofMerseytravel added: “Transport will play a vital part in ourCapital of Culture celebrations, which offers us a huge opportunityto showcase all that is good about Liverpool on a globalstage.”

Councillor Colin Eldridge, Liverpool City Council’sexecutive member for leisure, said: “The new buses are afantastic mobile advert for our city, which I’m sure willhelp promote Liverpool as European Capital of Culture for years tocome.”

Picture caption: An image of one ofthe Fab Four vehicles accompanied by Phil Stone, managingdirector - Arriva North West and Wales, Councillor Colin Eldridgeand Councillor Denis Knowles, Chair of Merseytravel’sMerseytram and Bus Committee. (From left to right)