"First" Manchester
I don't really know where to start with this bunch of fucktards, so here's a few lowlights:

The "simplification" of fares a few years ago by completely withdrawing the concept of return tickets. You can still buy them, but they just cost double the single fare making them utterly pointless.

The gradual phasing out of double-decker buses over the last decade or so along my route (81, Oldham-Manchester), meaning rush-hour single-deck buses are usually packed. Other routes operated by First have had lots of new double-deckers, but the 81 only gets a token one every now and then (usually around 11am, so it stays mostly empty and they can 'prove' the extra seats aren't needed)

Recently part of the normal route was closed for water main replacement, so a diversion was put in place. First's official policy (this was actually confirmed in an exchange of emails and posters on the stops) was that they weren't going to bother stopping at any of the 9 stops on the diverted part of the route, because it would slow down their timetable. And GMPTE were apparently powerless to do anything about this.


Will also say a quick thanks to the traffic planners on the council for their sterling work in structuring local roads, meaning that buses have to make tight 90-degree turns at several points near me. Was on one a couple of months ago that managed to kill its drive shaft by clipping the kerb at such a point.

And also the obligatory bus weirdo, again from a few weeks ago, a creepy and smelly old guy eating an uncooked fish pie ready meal straight out of the box with his fingers. Classy.
(Potedeian, Sun 28 Jun 2009, 9:59, 1 reply)

Return tickets are useful sometimes
Especially if going out for a few pints but with limited funds - get your return ticket and at least you know you won't be tempted to spend the bus fare home.

/voiceofexperience
(Capo, Mon 29 Jun 2009, 7:46, closed)