First passengers travel on new easyBus service

The easyBus service, which was launched today, will fill a gap in the market for many travellers who have had enough of expensive car parking or taxis from the area to Manchester Airport.

It was the cost of taking a car or taxi to the airport which gave easyBus owner Andrew Martin the idea of cheap mini coach travel at just £2 when a seat is booked in advance.

“I thought if I am in this position, others must also be and this set me thinking about launching this route,” he said today.

“It is not exclusively for people flying out of Manchester, but for those wanting a day out or to watch football. And inbound, easyBus will be good for tourism to this area too.

“Anything that encourages people to visit this area will also be a good thing,” said Mr. Martin who was attending the launch of the service.

He said a lot of research, planning and liaising had gone into the easyBus launch as well as training drivers on the route. For the new commuter service has created 15 jobs – 12 of them full time.

“We are starting in the low season to iron out any wrinkles so we are looking for long term steady growth in passenger numbers.

“The one hour 55 minute journey from Shrewsbury bus station direct to the airport also compares favourably with the train.

“It is an exciting day for easyBus and our initial customers are excited too. Among the comments we have received today is how incredibly cheap it is to get to Manchester Airport.

“People can start their holiday with us and at the same time save a few pounds."