Welwyn co-op sells out to competition
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• Busmen's co-operative Welwyn Hatfield Line sold out to its main competitor this week, after two years of battles with London Country North East.
The co-op was set up in August 1987 by 12 bus drivers, most from LCNE. Initially a fleet of 11 Optare City Pacers was used; the fleet has since expanded to 22 buses.
LCNE parent AJS Holdings restructured the Welwyn operation as Sovereign Bus, and competition hotted up over the past few months. Competitive routes are now due for rationalisation next month and fares will increase. The company claims that passengers will benefit from a more regular service, even though fewer buses will be used.
WHL will retain its identity and fleet; Bob Chavner will stay on as local manager, but will report to Sovereign old John Wilson who will take on the job of nid at Welwyn.