Four Plaxton coaches have been honoured with trophies at the UK Coach Rally in Blackpool on 6th and 7th May 2017, recognising not only their operators’ dedication to highest standards of presentation but also the versatility of the coaches offered by Alexander Dennis Limited’s coach brand, Plaxton.
Damory Coaches took away the Top Touring/Express Luxury Coach trophy with their Plaxton Elite, which was also awarded the Top Plaxton accolade. One of four coaches delivered earlier this year to Go South Coast for its Damory and Tourist coach operations, Damory’s Elite is a 12.6m model on the Volvo B11R chassis. Its 51 recliners are trimmed in blue and grey leather and moquette to match the elegant Best Impressions-designed livery.
Top Mini/Midi went to York Pullman for their Plaxton Cheetah XL. After winning with a sister vehicle two years ago, York Pullman took this year’s new delivery to the rally and promptly repeated their feat. Built on a Mercedes-Benz chassis, the 36-seat midicoach has all the attributes of a big coach in a small vehicle..
Moffat & Williamson took home the Tony Roose Trophy for the top coach from Scotland with their three-axle Plaxton Panther. Delivered recently for the 2017 season, this Volvo B11R-based coach has a stunning road presence with a length of 14 metres, allowing it to seat 61 on comfortable recliners.
The winner of the Rita Daziel Trophy for the top coach 25 years or older proved the lasting value of Plaxton coaches. New in 1983 but still going strong, this Plaxton Supreme Express was entered into the rally by Bradshaws Travel, who retain the 53-seat Leyland Tiger as their ‘Heritage Class’ coach.
Mark Ballam, Commercial Manager – Coach at ADL, said: “Congratulations to all winners at the UK Coach Rally and thanks to all operators who entered their Plaxton coaches into the event. It is a delight to see the pride owners and drivers take in their Plaxton coaches and we are honoured to have been chosen to supply them with versatile, elegant and efficient coaches that not only do their job but win awards.”
