MPs from the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Bus and Coach assembled in Westminster yesterday to show their support for Catch the Bus Month.
The politicians were joined at the photoshoot by representatives from Bus Users UK, which is leading the annual initiative.
Also present were representatives from Dawsongroup, which supplied the backdrop of the specially branded bus.
Among the group was Labour MP Ruth Cadbury, Chair of the Transport Committee, and Paul Sainthouse, Dawsongroup Managing Director.
Meanwhile, included in those in attendance for Bus Users UK was Chief Executive Claire Walters and Director for England Lydia Horbury.
Mike Wood MP, Bus and Coach APPG Chair, says: “Buses are the backbone of our communities – connecting people to jobs, education, healthcare and each other.
“As we mark Catch the Bus Month and celebrate 50 years of Bus Users UK, it’s the perfect reminder of just how vital reliable, affordable and accessible bus services are.
“The APPG for Bus and Coach is proud to stand alongside operators, passengers and campaigners in championing the role of the bus – past, present and future.”
Catch the Bus Month began on 1 September and was officially launched a day later in Coventry. The campaign is marked by hundreds of activities across England to promote bus as a means of travel. Promotions and special offers will also run online.
Ms Horbury, who will take over as Bus Users UK CEO in October, says: “Buses are nothing short of societal lifelines. They alleviate congestion, reduce emissions and underpin access to employment, education, healthcare and social connection.
“Catch the Bus Month is an opportunity, not only to highlight their immense social, economic and environmental value, but to champion the safe, reliable and affordable services that are fundamental to thriving, inclusive communities.”
Mr Sainthouse adds: “We are delighted once again to support the APPG for Bus and Coach and Bus Users UK in delivering real impact through this wonderful initiative.
“We all know the true value of effective public transport and its huge contribution towards delivering society’s economic and environmental objectives, as well as being a key contributor to social cohesion and personal mobility. Assisting in getting that message across is something we are very proud of.”
