Jane Cole reflects on 2021 as her time as CPT President draws to a close and Ralph Roberts takes the reigns
I am really looking forward to 2022. In particular, transforming and reinventing the plans that Blackpool Transport has committed to, which will enable the business to start thriving again.
My time as CPT President comes to an end this month (27 January) and I shall hand over the reins to Ralph Roberts.
I have had an incredible year as President, and I have thoroughly enjoyed working alongside Graham Vidler and his team, together with the elite industry professionals who make up the CPT Council and Committees.
We have created clear strategies with CPT members’ input and have achieved this by adopting a hybrid model of communication using online and face-to-face meetings, which has kept members engaged, safe and fully informed.
This way of working will continue throughout the year starting with the CPT conference on 25-26 January.
I was honoured to be asked to chair the CPT Governance committee which has worked methodically to implement revised policies and procedures which now ensures that the CPT Governance structure is robust, transparent and equal for all.
I continue to be inspired by the pace at which the CPT Regional Managers, Graham and his team frequently engage with members and react to their requests for information. During COVID-19 this has been no easy task as Scotland, England and Wales have had different pieces of advice, legislation and timescales which CPT has disseminated with clarity and offers of support.
The most enjoyable part of my Presidency has been getting out and about when COVID-19 permitted and meeting so many people for the first time.
I have enjoyed learning more about the about the coach industry and the vital lifeline that it provides to the UK economy. I will continue to work with Blackpool Borough Council to help ensure that Blackpool remains accessible and welcoming to all coach operators.
I have fond memories of my coach tour with Bibby’s of Ingleton with Andrew McGuiness as my chaperone and I shall be planning another coach trip this year.
Karen Tiley organised the Eastbourne Annual Dinner and members were extremely grateful to Karen for the hard work and planning that she put into it to make it a roaring success.
The North West Annual Dinner will be held in Blackpool at the Winter Gardens on 5 March and members will be offered the opportunity to make it a weekend break with Visit Blackpool providing a reception and discounts to other events in the town.
I am looking forward to continuing my membership and I wish Ralph Roberts an enjoyable and productive year as the new CPT President.
