RHA Coaches: Leading figure joins Regional Council
Richard Bamber of award-winning coach firm Anthony’s Travel has been co-opted into the RHA’s Northern Regional Council.
The move will see Richard’s wealth of experience as an operator and member of the RHA be at the centre of discussions about the coach sector and driving forward this critical industry with us.
Speaking about being co-opted into the Council, and Richard’s integral role to the setting up of RHA Coaches, he said: “In October 2020 I had a casual meeting with the RHA to discuss the problems the coach industry faced and if there was any scope for a joined up approach.
“Following a series of meetings , our discussion group expanded. Within three months we went from a chat to a trade association for the coach industry combined with the strength and recognition of the RHA brand.
“I believe then and I believe now this is the right way for the coach industry , it’s been a pleasure to be part of the journey of RHA Coaches , sometimes you at first have to standalone to make a difference. Gives me great pride to see RHA coaches going from strength to strength
Bus bias
“The coach industry is a dynamic and competitive sector – vital for the UK economy, especially as we come out of the pandemic restrictions. But there has been a “bus bias” in government, both local and national, and the voice of the coach industry is sadly unheard.
“The RHA is determined to change that and the membership of Anthony’s Travels is very much part of that alliance with the industry. Anthony’s is a superb setup providing first class, safe services for their customers and the RHA is proud to support Richard Bamber and his team.”
National Coach Week
The news comes ahead of National Coach Week on 1 April. We will also be tackling the skills shortage over the week-long campaign, promoting the diverse careers in the coach sector, from drivers and engineers to admin staff and operations. A competition will offer a lucky winner the opportunity to train to become a coach driver for free.
Richard Smith, RHA Managing Director, said: “We’re excited to launch the UK’s first-ever National Coach Week as a way of celebrating and promoting the coach industry after a tough couple of years.
“We’re encouraging everyone to get involved, from people in the sector, to schools, colleges, tourism and many others. It’s going to be a great opportunity to showcase the vital role our industry plays and the career choices it offers.”