Southampton-based Angela Coaches unveiled its latest coach last week (20 April).
The new coach, which cost £250,000, is the first VDL for the operator.
Speaking of the latest addition, Angela Coaches’ Managing Director, Robert Pressley, says: “I wanted to invest in another vehicle and I looked at the market and I felt that this was a step forward.
“The design is different from the traditional straight lines, it’s evolving and is the future.”
A special tribute
The day was particularly special for the operator, as it revealed the new coach has been named after Dave Spencer, one of Angela Coaches’ drivers who died in January.
Speaking about the decision for the tribute, Mr Pressley says: “Here at Angela Coaches and Angela Holidays we’re not just a business – we regard all who have been with us part of the family.
“Dave was one of our longest serving drivers and I hope our tribute will help Dave’s spirit live on through the Angela family.”
Around 60 people attended the day, including Eastleigh MP Mims Davies and Mr Spencer’s friends and family.
His two daughters, Elizabeth Pritchard and Vicky Spencer attended the unveiling.
Ms Spencer says: “We’re a bit overwhelmed, it means a lot to us that dad is going to still be off touring all over.”
A new journey
The coach set off on its first tour to Scotland on Sunday (23 April).
Paula Roe, Managing Director of Angela Holidays, the sister company of Angela Coaches, says: “We’re really proud of this new coach. We’re looking forward to sending it out and having lots of people travelling on it and hope our passengers like it.”