GUERNSEY’S buses are not too big. Island Coachways launched a charm offensive yesterday aimed at quashing a perception that its vehicles were too large.

Managing director Hannah Beacom said this was damaging her company’s reputation and the issue of size had been blown out of all proportion.

‘The size is right both in terms of the number of passengers we are now carrying and the need to accommodate future growth,’ she said.

‘Even during the winter months at peak times, there is standing room only on popular routes.’

Buses of up to 8ft 2in. (2.49m) wide can be used on Guernsey roads though the new vehicles are 7ft 8.5in. (2.35m). The current buses are no more than six inches bigger than their predecessor – the Metrorider – though they are about 4ft longer.

The misconception appeared to be affecting some people’s driving, said Mrs Beacom.

Bus drivers were reporting that more people were driving aggressively and less courteously.

‘It is going to be an uphill task convincing people that our buses are not too big but when it affects our reputation and people’s driving, we have to do something.’

The new buses were more environmentally friendly and provided access for the disabled and for people with buggies, she said.

‘These advantages are being overlooked and our passenger growth backs up the fact that the right vehicles were selected.’

Two cars were unable to pass each other on some island roads let alone commercial vehicles such as the buses, she said.

‘We are reliant on other drivers to help us through the day and we are appreciative when they do.’

The footprint of the new buses is very similar to that of the Bristol LH – those that preceded the Metrorider.

The biggest expense of running a bus company was the staff, which meant capacity had to be maximised for each driver.

‘Aside from that, bus drivers are a rare commodity anyway and Wales is recruiting from Malta and the north of England from Poland.’

Island Coachways’ board had been closely involved with the purchase of the buses [paid for by the States] and it was adamant that they were the right ones.

‘These vehicles are full at peak times, even during the winter.

‘If we were operating only Metroriders now, we would be leaving people at bus stops.’

Buses were no larger than other commercial vehicles such as skip lorries and people did constantly complain about those she said.

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