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This category recognises the use of innovative and original ideas in development and implementation of programmes of coach tours and/or excursions. The judges look for programmes that are well-researched, and developed in partnership with quality suppliers and attractions.

Winner: Epsom Coaches for Epsom Coaches Excusions

Epsom Coaches says of itself: “we are committed to providing good quality, reliable and cost effective coach services to all our customers. Our core business strategy is to increase passenger numbers and encourage a greater move towards the use of coach transport. This will in turn support the needs of society to achieve more sustainable travel.”

The company uses a tried and tested formula of popular day excursions picking up locally, but using a focus group to discuss issues and opportunities. One outcome of this process was the introduction of tour managers on certain day trips to provide an appropriate commentary.

Customer feedback is also analysed to refine the programme and the judges felt that this and other features of the Epsom Coaches offer made it a worthy winner.

Runner Up: Woods Coaches, Leicester

Woods Coaches runs over 550 day excursions per year, but the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee in 2012 provided an opportunity to do something special.

Woods therefore devised a “Once in a Lifetime Opportunity” excursion to join in the celebrations. The company worked with Hospitality Line to produce a Jubilee Cruise, complete with champagne and a packed lunch, as part of the flotilla procession along the Thames.

Despite the premium price, the excursion was hugely successful and the judges liked the innovative thinking behind the product.

Who can be nominated?

The award was open to operators of coach tour and excursion programmes on sale to the general public.

… and by whom?

Nominations were accepted from all eligible organisations, and self-nomination was acceptable.