Storm Dennis

Stagecoach in South Wales staff are praised for their assistance during ‘Storm Dennis’

10 March 2020

Storm Dennis descended upon the UK in February and caused extensive damage and flooding to many areas. Stagecoach in South Wales, Aberdare depot experienced major damage to the building, electrics and equipment in the excess of £50,000.

During the period of adverse weather, Stagecoach continued to try and serve its customers as best as it could - still operating over 1,700 miles on Sunday 16 February on bus services in and around the Rhondda Valleys and Aberdare, which were the worst hit areas.

Customers were kept up to date through the Stagecoach website, and weather reports were posted on their Twitter profile @StagecoachWales throughout the storm. The Stagecoach APP provided customers with real time information on their services, which was invaluable to their journeys. 

Two drivers from Porth depot were also affected by the storm. Kelvin Greening is currently living in temporary accommodation as both his house and his car were severely damaged by floods. Julian Dickman suffered ground floor damage to his property. Both drivers are dealing with their insurance companies and Stagecoach granted them extra leave on an exceptional basis to help them through the tough period. Two supervisors from Aberdare depot were awarded commendations from Aberdare’s Fleet Engineer, Stuart Bruce for assisting with the flood damage.

Nigel Winter, Managing Director of Stagecoach in South Wales said: “Storm Dennis presented us with a very challenging and difficult period in South Wales. I am very impressed and appreciative for the way our staff rose to the challenge and tried to keep services operating wherever possible and look after our vehicles and properties. They are a credit to themselves, their communities and to Stagecoach.

“I’d also like to thank Rhondda Cynon Taf Council for keeping people informed and safe and for working with the Highway Authorities to keep the roads open as best as they could in the circumstances. They have continued to work together to clean up the aftermath of the storm so Stagecoach can continue to serve the County”.

ENDS

NOTES TO EDITORS

Stagecoach South Wales 

·         At Stagecoach South Wales, we are proud to serve communities throughout South East Wales covering Blaenau Gwent, Bridgend, Caerphilly, Cardiff, Merthyr Tydfil, Neath, Newport, Monmouthshire, Powys, Rhondda Cynon Taf, Torfaen and services into Herefordshire.

·         Our team of 880 people help to connect over 23 million passengers every year in South Wales across a fleet of 340 buses.

·         We connect people with jobs, skills and training, bring customers to our high streets, connect tourists with visitor attractions, and draw families, friends and communities together.

·         We are committed to helping the environment, and our investment in cleaner technology will see 16 new electric buses introduced in Wales this year. By the end of 2020, over a third of our buses will be low or zero emission.