Partner Article

Double triumph for Belle Vue at industry awards

Transport firm Belle Vue Manchester is celebrating after winning two accolades at a national awards ceremony.

The company, based in Stockport, won the technology and innovation category at the UK Coach Awards, while maintenance director Kenny Walsh was named engineer of the year.

The awards were presented at a gala dinner at the Mercure Piccadilly Hotel in Manchester.

Belle Vue’s use of tracking software to help improve driving standards, increase passenger satisfaction and cut fuel costs earned it the technology and innovation award.

The system, provided by telematics firm Traffilog, involves the use of vehicle sensors to gather information on the way Belle Vue’s coaches and buses are being driven, including braking and acceleration.

Director Phil Hitchen said studies have shown that monitored drivers tend to moderate their driving style, and this leads to better safety and fuel consumption.

He added: “Traffilog provides us with effective data to help achieve optimal driver performance and customer satisfaction.

“We plan to develop this technology and use it for further driver development and fleet management.

“We are thrilled that our efforts to remain at the forefront of passenger safety have been recognised by the industry with this award.”

Kenny, who lives in Droylsden, leads a team of 13 staff who maintain Belle Vue’s fleet of more than 70 vehicles, including executive coaches, Yellow School buses, minibuses and vintage buses.

Under his leadership, the team has reduced maintenance costs by 35 per cent.

Kenny, aged 61, who joined Belle Vue in 2001, has also led in-house training programmes, has helped launch company apprenticeships and has spearheaded the implementation of the firm’s environmental policy.

Phil said: “Kenny is an inspiration and fully deserves this prestigious honour.

“He has vast knowledge, and great leadership and management skills. He ensures our fleet is maintained to the highest standards of safety and roadworthiness, and is a tremendous role model to younger staff.”

Belle Vue also collected bronze in the medium fleet operator of the year category at the UK Coach Awards.

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Belle Vue Manchester .