Third-generation Lincolnshire-based transport service supplier Hunt’s is going from strength to strength. As it celebrates its 90th year it is in the running for yet another top award
Family-run operator Hunt’s Coaches of Alford has launched its 2020 brochure in style, with a celebratory evening for guests including staff, and passengers old and new.
“It was a great turnout,” says Lindsay Linder, Business Development and Marketing Manager. “We raised £145 for the raffle on behalf of Louth and District Hospice and there were 160 people in attendance.”
Established in 1930 by Fred Hunt, the award-winning business has come a long way since its early days when it started with just one vehicle – a Bedford Coach.
Now boasting 35 vehicles the company remains a family business with the youngest of three generations, Joe Hunt, at the helm, along with his father Mick.
The business grows
In the beginning Fred operated a three-times daily bus service to the market town of Boston. He soon built up a loyal following. Ambitious to build the business Fred continued to expand, buying out other local bus operators.
By 1941 Hunt’s was operating 16 vehicles. These vehicles transported workers to the local factories, school children to local schools and people to the larger surrounding towns.
Soon after the war he started planning holiday tours throughout England and Scotland. Today the coaches go even further afield with Northern Ireland, Ireland, France, Canary Islands and Madeira on the itinerary.
During the 1960’s a petrol station was also built and a repair centre for commercial vehicles – now a familiar landmark in the town.
The next generation
In the 1970’s Fred’s sons Charles and Michael took over the business and continued to build and develop the company. They built a network of bus services as well as a programme of holidays and excursions using modern touring coaches.
Michael’s son Joe joined the company in 2008 ahead of Charles’ retirement in 2013. Joe became Director along with his father.
“The best thing about working in this industry is the people, the passengers,” says Joe. “And it’s nice working with family and continuing to expand the business.”
Retired driver, Mike Ruffle was at the celebration evening. “Unfortunately, I had to retire because of illness,” he says, “But it was a very special time working here.
“I can honestly say it was the best time of my life driving for this company.”
The company celebrates its heritage with the tag line ‘The Spirit of Lincolnshire’ which can be seen on the fleet of vehicles.
The firm’s fleet includes vehicles ranging from eight seats to 70. This includes several 49-seat executive coaches with a toilet which are used mainly for holidays.
It prides itself on providing high quality transport services. These include private hire, group travel, education transport, coach holidays, day excursions, theatre trips, public buses and tour planning.
Excellent feedback
“Last year was a great year for us we won East Lindsey’s Business Awards – Independent Retailer of the Year and a Bronze award in the Armed Forces Covenant employer recognition scheme,” says Lindsay.
“In our tour questionnaires passengers scored us at 90% good and excellent rating for tours/holidays and we have listened to the feedback for 2020.
“This year we have been shortlisted for East Lindsey’s Business Awards Employer of the Year and our very own Michael Hunt for a lifetime achievement award. Furthermore, we are up for the Midlands Family Business Awards – Best Small Family Business and the Family Business Awards People’s Choice Category.”
