Bus it like Beckham on Shearings new coaches

Shearings Group has invested over £10million in a new fleet of modern coaches so its customers can travel in the same level of luxury as top footballers.

The 45 new coaches, which are the same design as the ones used in the World Cup, have been bought to help Shearings cater for the increased demand for coach holidays this summer.

Caroline Brown, commercial director for Shearings, said: “Demand for our coach journeys has increased dramatically this year as more people choose to save money and enjoy cost effective travel options like coach.

“Our 45 new Setra vehicles, which are some of the most modern and green coaches in the UK, have been designed with luxury in mind and demonstrate the way coach holidays are changing. Our customers choose to travel by coach so they can start their holiday as soon as they get on board when they can sit back, relax and enjoy the journey.”

To coincide with the launch, Shearings asked its customers which England player they would most like to sit next to on a coach journey. David Beckham topped the poll with 23% of votes, closely followed by John Terry (18%) and Steven Gerrard (15%).

Caroline added: “The footballer survey was a fun way to drive the point that the coaches are the same as those travelled on by our own England team. And while we can promise a luxurious and relaxing journey, unfortunately we can’t promise you’ll get Beckham in the next seat.”

The new coaches are powered by Euro 5 Mercedes-Benz engines, which are environmentally friendly, modern and reduce emissions, and offer increased luggage space, extra seats and generous legroom.

The introduction of the coaches also coincides with the launch of Shearings’ Great British Summer campaign, which has been designed to encourage customers to “fall in love with Britain again”.

Shearings were winners of Best Coach Operator in the Globe Travel Awards 2009 and Best Escorted Tours Operator in the British Travel Awards 2008.