The Confederation of Passenger Transport (CPT) London and South East Region’s Ride-and-Drive event returned on the evening of 24 July after a pandemic-induced hiatus.
Founded in 2012 by Regional Manager for CPT London and South East and CPT East Midlands Karen Tiley and former Chair of CPT Essex Robert Lodge, of Lodge’s Coaches, the event this year returned for its ninth iteration to North Weald airfield in Essex’s Epping Forest. Over 160 CPT members attended with the opportunity to test drive nine vehicles brought by five suppliers and manufacturers.
They included coaches, buses and minibuses loaned by Volvo Bus, Daimler, EVM, Jones Bus and Coach Sales and Dawsongroup Bus and Coach.
As in years before, refreshments and a hog roast were provided on a hardstanding beside the control tower.
“The great thing about this event is that it’s unique. There’s nothing like it in the UK,” says Ms Tiley, who this year celebrates 25 years with CPT. “It’s one of those events that works. Manufacturers normally come, but this year, they haven’t got the vehicles, which is a shame. But it’s been great to catch up with everybody.”
Mr Lodge touts the green credentials of the event. “It’s a unique location, close to the M11 and not far from the M25,” he says. “We’re safe here; anybody can drive any vehicle. For the manufacturers and the dealers, it’s good for them. They get to meet the other dealers and manufacturers as well as coach operators from the south east in the one venue. You could say this is a green event, because look at the miles it saves reps from driving.”
More coverage of the event will be available in the August issue of routeone.
