Rover European Travel has ceased trading after 73 years in business, the Nailsworth, Gloucestershire-based operator has announced.
A statement on the firm’s Facebook page says that the coronavirus COVID-19 pandemic has had a “devastating effect” across all areas of its operation, “with a complete loss of revenue for our private hire, day tours and holidays in what is usually our busiest time of the year.”
Directors Carole and David Hand add that they have taken the decision to close the business “with the heaviest of hearts.” Mr and Mrs Hand have thanked customers and staff for their loyalty.
“We have operated for over 70 years and have proudly taken hundreds of school and private groups, holiday passengers and more across the county, the country and the continent – but not, we are sorry to say, this year, due to the pandemic.”
Applegates Coaches – based 12 miles away in Berkeley – has taken on work formerly with Rover European, including home-to-school services. All Rover European staff have also been offered jobs by Applegates, which says it has been working with the Nailsworth operator “for some time” to enable the transfer of work.
Rover European Travel was established in 1947. Mr Hand took the helm from his father in 1968. At the time of closure an O-Licence authorising the use of 16 vehicles was held. The operator entered the European and UK holiday market in the 1980s. It was well-known for continuing to specify new coaches with manual gearboxes well beyond the time that other operators had moved away from them.
