Dave Parry tells CBW he’s “committed to Van Hool”
Renowned West Midlands coach tour operator Parrys International is to get the UK’s first Van Hool TX.
The TX, which is the model name for the Belgian manufacturer’s restyled coach range, was launched at last week’s Busworld Kortrik, as reported in CBW1009.
Tim Fairless, sales director at Pontefract-based dealer Moseley PCV, told CBW: “I wish to confirm the TX is not being launched into the UK market until March 2012 (at the earliest) and the first one, a TX17 Astron, to be delivered will be to Parrys International. The next off the production line are three TDX27 Astromega coaches, which we have sold to Siesta Holidays.
“I appreciate your article doesn’t say the Eavesway one is the first however it does give that impression.”
Explaining why his company runs a fleet of Van Hool coaches, Dave Parry, managing director of Cheslyn Hay-based Parrys International told CBW: “We’re committed to Van Hool – it’s a matter of residual value, reliability and the integral build. We’ve also got the continuity of an MAN power unit we had when we ran a fleet of Neoplans. The backup from MAN and Van Hool is superb – it’s spot on.
“Van Hool is now the only manufacturer who will build a bespoke coach. That’s why so many football team coaches are made by Van Hool. A Van Hool is a classic build – the style doesn’t date.”
Commenting on the new TX coaches, Mr Parry said: “Our new coach will replace an existing member of the fleet. We’ve had at least 20 enquiries for it and it has now been sold. However, the vehicle will remain part of the operational fleet until December. We’ll take delivery of the new TX in March in time for the new season. Once we’ve analysed the TX, we will consider adopting it as our standard vehicle type.”
Mr Parry also revealed the UK premiere of the TX will take place at Parrys’ popular open day on Sunday, January 10. “I’m sure customers and a few operators will want to view it,” he said.
Visit www.parrysinternational. co.uk , www.moseleycoachsales.co.uk
