Partner Article

Transport firm tees off with major contract

A North East transport firm has won a major contract with one of the world’s most high-profile golf tournaments.

Arriva, based in Sunderland, has won the contract to operate corporate coach services for the 2010 Ryder Cup at The Celtic Manor, Newport, South Wales.

Arriva’s bid will see it supply more than 120 coaches a day during the six-day tournament between a US team, led by captain Corey Pavin and Europe, led by captain Colin Montgomerie, which begins on September 28.

GTS Events, the company appointed by Ryder Cup Europe LLP to implement the Ryder Cup transport policy, has selected Arriva to coordinate and deliver transport for VIPs, the media, and spectators on Ryder Cup Travel Services and Premier Golf Tour packages.

Arriva UK Trains Road Transport Section, which manages the delivery of bus, coach and taxis for rail replacement services and train crew transfer for Arriva’s UK rail businesses, will coordinate the transport for the event.

The services are expected to carry more than 70,000 golf fans and VIPs from their hotels to the tournament.

Martin Gilbert, road transport manager at Arriva UK Trains road transport section, said: “Since our creation one year ago we have established links with more than 450 UK coach, bus and taxi operators.

“They’ve all passed our stringent assessment and audit process to ensure high standards of service and this contract will allow us to use these partnerships to full effect.

“Securing a contract for a major event like the Ryder Cup is a fantastic achievement.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .