Operator launches limited edition merchandise to commemorate the occasion
Respected Telford-based coach operator Elcock Reisen has quite literally started its 90th celebrations in model fashion – with the launch of a limited edition miniature coach and commemorative teddy bear.
Made by OTO Holland, the 1/87 (3.5mm to the foot) scale model of a VDL Futura 2, 49-seater executive 12.2 m is selling fast at £28.99 – with 100 having been made.
Also available from Elcock Reisen are limited edition teddy bears made locally by Merrythought.
Jenny Elcock, MD of Elcock Reisen: “Merrythought was a part of everyone’s life who lived and worked in the Ironbridge Gorge. My family worked at the factory and I have great memories of watching the teddies being made through the open doors on summer days walking home from school.
“The best present ever as a child was a Merrythought toy. Elcock Reisen regularly took the factory staff out on days trips out. With all this past history, it felt right to have a teddy created to be part of our company’s 90th year celebrations.
“We are thrilled with the bears, each one sporting its genuine tie, embroidered with the company logo on one paw and the trusted Merrythought woven label on the other. A Merrythought teddy is not just a toy, but an exquisite piece of British heritage to cherish and pass on to the next generation.”
Sarah Holmes, MD of Merrythought commented: “Both Merrythought and Elcock Reisen have been part of the fabric of the Ironbridge Gorge for many decades and it is wonderful to see our heritage brands brought together for the coach company’s 90th anniversary – a milestone that Merrythought is due to reach in only two years’ time. We have created an adorable dove grey teddy bear to celebrate the occasion, with part of the each sale going to Parkinson’s UK.”
Parkinsons UK is the chosen charity for the 90th Year in memory of John Elcock. ‘JCE’ and ‘CJE’ bears will be travelling on the company’s coach holidays. The public is being invited to get involved by guessing the mileage they
