Skills snaps up Patron Travel – and a giant coach

NOTTINGHAM-based Skills Holidays has acquired the business and principal contracts of Patron Travel of Newark.

No jobs will be lost and Skills' fleet will be increased with the acquisition of the largest coach in the Midlands.

The 102-seat double decker, along with seat belts and coach-style seating, will mainly be used for contract customers including schools.

Already nicknamed "Hong Kong Fuey", the coach began its working life in the former crown colony before being repatriated in 2000.

Chairman Nigel Skill said: "Its layout, safety features and size make it ideal for the daily school run to Nottingham from eastern parts of the county."

He says the acquisition will add an asset and driving skills to his team.

"This deal will allow us to improve our already considerable contract hire division by maintaining parents' child transport costs and offering new opportunities for large scale business, recreation and entertainment travel."

The routes will continue to operate as Patron Travel.