Ride the bus of the future

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

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

The three pairs of 'bus testers' will have the chance to inspectthe first of the new buses for themselves during an exclusivepreview 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 totake a ride on a bus which will represent the future of local bustravel in the Medway Towns. We are committed to a major investmentin excess of £10 million in the region which includesintroducing 61 brand new buses and making a number of other serviceimprovements including route upgrades and additional customerservice training.

The new fleet of vehicles will include 49 double-deck buses and12 single buses, all of which will feature easy-access entrances tohelp those who find boarding difficult. Another 40 existing modernvehicles will undergo a complete refurbishment.

Local people who want to take part should call the Arriva Bus ofthe Future hotline number0121 362 4036 and leave their name and telephonenumber. The chosen pairs will be drawn at random.

–ends–