THAMESDOWN’S parent company has been named UK Bus Operator of the Year.

Go South Coast, which operates Swindon bus company Thamesdown as well as services in Salisbury and Bournemouth, stormed to the top spot in the UK Bus Awards.

At a glitzy event in East London this week Go South Go managing director Andrew Wickham was handed the cut glass trophy.

He said: “This is wonderful recognition of our team here at Go South Coast. Our focus, always, is on providing our customers with a high quality and reliable bus service.

“Giving visitors to the region the opportunity to leave their cars at home and simply enjoy the array of delights on offer here, is also high on our list of priorities.

“We provide an array of innovative on-board facilities - like free WiFi, USB charging points and contactless ticket payments - to ensure our buses are both comfortable and convenient.

“We won’t be resting on our laurels. Go South Coast is fortunate to have a team of highly skilled and experienced professionals - and every one of them is motivated to further enhancing the services we offer here.

“I’d like to congratulate all those who have contributed to an incredibly successful year. A massive thank you to my 1,900 colleagues. They made these wins possible.”

Earlier this year, Go South Go were named Large Bus Company of the Year at the RouteOne bus awards.