Reliance Motor Services, one of Yorkshire’s longest-established bus operators, has been sold to Transdev.
Under the terms of the deal, Transdev’s subsidiary, Yorkshire Coastliner, has acquired 11 buses from family-owned Reliance, which has operated from its depot at Sutton on the Forest, north of York, for 94 years.
Transdev has also acquired Reliance’s well established network of bus routes serving Easingwold and Thirsk, along with several villages north of York.
All jobs are being retained as a result of the agreement between Reliance and Transdev.
The Reliance business was bought by John and Margaret Duff in 1980, having first been established by Edward Sheriff in 1930, who started out with three buses. It has remained a family business since the Duffs took over, with John’s grandson, Gary Newby, and his wife, Hollie, running the current business.
Gary and Hollie Newby were advised on the sale of Reliance by a multi-disciplinary team at Andrew Jackson Solicitors, led by corporate partner, Susie Mortonson, who was supported by Benn Shilleto (corporate), Gillian Markland (employment) and Robert Hill (real estate and property). Transdev’s legal advice was provided by Womble Bond Dickinson.
Gary Newby said: “We are sorry to say farewell to our loyal customers on the routes which will see a change of operator, and to our drivers, whose loyalty and hard work is reflected in Reliance’s excellent reputation.
“However, we know they will be in the best hands with Transdev, which has invested significantly in an impressive depot in York and has a strong track record of delivering for its customers.
“We are grateful for the valuable guidance and support provided by Susie Mortonson and the rest of the team at Andrew Jackson Solicitors, who ensured that our best interests were protected throughout the transaction.”
Susie Mortonson added: “I was delighted to see this transaction go smoothly for Gary and Hollie. It has been a pleasure to work with them and I’m sure that the business will continue to flourish under Transdev.”
