Cresswells Coaches has gone into administration, with several of its school and private hire contracts being taken up by other operators
Leicestershire-based Cresswells Coaches has gone into receivership after administrators could not find a buyer for the company.
Some of the operator’s school and private hire contracts have been taken over by Swadlincote-based Viking Coaches while Roberts Holidays of Hugglescote has taken on a school service to Ashby School and service 7, which runs from Ashby to Nuneaton.
Cresswells, based in Shortheath Road, Moira, ran services from Repton and Willington to John Port School in Etwall, from Rosliston to William Allit School in Newhall and to Ashby School.
It also took pupils from Hartshorne, Willington and Linton primary schools and Woodville Junior School to swimming lessons.
Viking Coaches will take on eight school contracts and private hire contracts.
Andy Garratt, director of Viking, part of Solus Travel, said: “We saw it as an opportunity to save several jobs and take over the private hire and school contracts.
“We are trying to build a company which is a recognised brand and work with the community, by saving local jobs and enabling people to still go on their day trips. Those who have already booked private hire days can give us a call on 01283 217012 — we hope to honour their booking.”
Margaret Bunker, finance director at Roberts Holidays, said: “This is an industry where we are always short of drivers so the wheels are in motion to take on staff from Cresswells.”
A spokesman for RSM Tenon, the administrator acting on behalf of Cresswells, said: “We have tried to speak to several interested parties with a view to taking over the company. However, we have not been able to find a buyer for the business.”
The administrator has sent out letters to customers outlining how they can look at getting refunds and are contacting those who had a tour booked.
The spokesman added travel insurance and credit card guarantees may cover some bookings.
