Devon General Traffic Down
Page 40
If you've noticed an error in this article please click here to report it so we can fix it.
A BOUT Im. fewer passengers were PA carried by the Devon General Omnibus and Touring Co., Ltd., last year because of a recessiOn in traffic following a fares increase, and the slow start of the holiday season because of the Coronation. On the other hand, the fine autumn weather boosted business. This was stated by the chairman, Mr. W. T. James, at the company's annual general meeting. Revenue from stage-carriage services passed the Elm. mark for the first time. New lightweight double-deckers showed economical fuel costs, but wage awards added some L53,000 to the company's paybill, Because there had been no tax relief in the Budget it might well bc that fares would have to be raised again and services cut. Tour and excursion work was a little late getting into its stride, but revenue was gained by running sightseeing excursions to London to view the Coronation decorations. New 41-seaters enabled the company to take full advantage of the high demand in a short season. Twelve new coaches and 16 doubledeckers were placed in service during the year. The policy of changing from single-deck to double-deck operation had progressed, and at the end of last year 77 per cent, of route mileage was being worked by double-deckers.