L J Edwards Coach Hire has ceased operating. The Polegate, East Sussex business says it is now dealing with refunds of payments against day trip and holiday bookings, for which an extensive 2023 brochure had been produced.
No reason has been given for the decision to cease trading, but in a statement via social media on 5 January the operator says it was taken “with immediate effect.” The L J Edwards name is a long-established part of the coach industry, with the business having been purchased by Ancass Ltd in 2018 as a management buyout, official documents show.
Ancass Ltd holds an international O-Licence authorising 12 vehicles, with its Directors listed as Antony Burkill and Cassandra Burkill. In late 2022, L J Edwards added a high-specification Van Hool tri-axle to its fleet with 42 seats and a number of tables alongside a rear servery.
The 2023 brochure outlines an expansive programme of day trips, and door-to-door holidays at the higher end of the market, that was planned to operate throughout the year. Private hire was also offered.
The operator’s statement has thanked customers and apologised for the inconvenience caused by its decision to close. It will first directly refund payments made via card, with those made by cheque, voucher or cash to be dealt with “later.”
Refunds will be made “as quickly as possible,” the operator notes. Suppliers are advised to make contact via email, an answerphone message states.
L J Edwards Coach Hire has no connection with any other coach or bus businesses of a similar name.
