Coach industry professionals met up at the CTA’s AGM in Oxford last month and welcomed a new member
The Coach Tourism Association (CTA) has welcomed its newest board member at its AGM held at Jurys Inn, Oxford on 22 May.
Graham Howatson from Wigan-based Shearings Holidays joins the board of 13 Directors, along with returning Director, Richard Hill from Coaches Excetera.
The new recruitments come as Alun Jones from Jones Coaches steps down after nine years on the board.
CTA Chair Denise Bridges presented Mr Jones with a pot plant as a parting gift at the AGM and he was thanked for his long service.
Over 80 delegates attended the AGM, including some of its newest members, welcomed by Chris Wales, the CTA’s Chief Executive.
Following its successful Coach Tourism Survey, Ms Bridges confirmed that there will be a new survey specifically about the CTA sent to its members. A new mission statement will also be created to continually ensure the CTA is value for money for members.
Says Mr Wales: “Member numbers are steady and supplier membership is increasing, but we need more coach tour operators.
“We’re going to do a targeted recruitment campaign to increase numbers by offering more reasons to join and for existing members to get more benefits.”
Paul Ovington recapped the Coach Tourism Survey and reminded members of the ways in which the CTA promotes coach tours, such as national media coverage of fam trips that include CTA operator and supplier members.
Simon Smith from the Confederation of Passenger Tranport (CPT) discussed the impending introductions of Ultra Low Emission Zones (ULEZs) in London and other cities in England, and the impact they will have on visiting coaches.
He also stressed the importance of attractions being coach-friendly and urged attractions to work with local councils to ensure there is adequate coach parking in their towns and cities.
A fam trip was organised for the day before, with a guided walking tour of the city centre, including some of the famous colleges and film locations for TV shows, as well as a visit to Continuum Attractions’ Oxford Castle.
