Published: Tuesday, 11th November, 2008 12:00
All change for Reading Buses
By Adam Hewitt
Comments (0)
Print Article
Stuart Singleton-White
THERE has been a smooth transition at the helm of Reading Buses.
Chairman Tony Jones announced his departure from the role after three years on Monday, and from December 1 will be replaced by his deputy, another former Labour councillor, Stuart Singleton-White.
Chief executive James Freeman confirmed the changeover on Tuesday.
Mr Singleton-White, an important figure in Labour politics in Reading, has run several election campaigns and has been non-executive director at Reading Buses since 2001.
He now runs an ethical and environmental marketing company.
He told The Chronicle: “I’m very pleased and honoured to be taking up the role as chairman, and I pay tribute to Tony Jones who did a fantastic job – I have big boots to fill. It’s a hugely significant company in the life of the town.”
On stepping down after his promised three-year term, independent Battle ward councillor Mr Jones said: “I’m grateful to the staff of Reading Transport Ltd and Reading Borough Council for the way they have supported the work of the company and me personally over that period. It has been a real pleasure to work with them all in such an exciting and challenging environment.”
Reading Buses, nominated for two national awards, recently increased fares for the second time in six months to pay for a badly mistimed decision to stockpile fuel when it was at its most expensive in the summer.
Mr Jones said: “The company never seeks fare rises for the sake of it, and the early indications are that the fairly significant increases in passenger numbers over the past year have been continuing.
“I also do hope that some of the promises that are being made about central Government funding in the future come to fruition, allowing fare cuts and increased capacity.”
Link: www.reading-buses.co.uk
Further Details
Gaza protest in town centre