EUROTUNNEL has slightly increased its coach fares for 2008 following the launch of its latest fares calendar for coach tour operators.

In comparison to its 2007 fares, prices have only increased by a further £5 to £15 depending on the time of travel and vehicle type. The calendar includes published fares for standard coaches and midi coaches for both standard single journeys and 1- and 2-day return fares. Individual set prices for coaches measuring more or less than 9.0m in length continue, and are valid until 31 December 2008.

Continuing its trend, Eurotunnel has opted to publish its fares early to ensure that operators can calculate prices and plan brochures to include itineraries using the Folkestone to Calais service.

The complete price calendar is available directly from Eurotunnel, or by logging onto the company’s website.

Meanwhile, special promotional online fares are currently available to coach operators until 30 November.

www.eurotunnel.com

TWO NEW coach operators have recently joined as members of CoachMarque - the Confederation of Passenger Transport’s quality assurance scheme for operators.

The acceptance of Alpine Travel of North Wales and Durham City Coaches now bring to 34 the total number of coach operators accredited by CoachMarque.

Michael Lightfoot of Durham City Coaches says: “Being a member of the CoachMarque scheme allows us to promote our business to a wider audience. It also gives our customers the assurance of a guaranteed minimum standard demanded by scheme membership.”

Alpine Travel’s Chris Owens also expressed his delight and says: “Seeking CoachMarque accreditation created a framework around which to structure our internal company policies and procedures, highlighting areas which were maybe not immediately apparent to us as coach and bus operators, as opposed to service providers.”

CoachMarque has been specifically designed to enable passengers to recognise which operators have passed strict standard tests on safety and customer care.

www.cpt-uk.org

THE COACH Tourism Council will host its inaugural Summer Garden Party complete with barbecue on Friday 10 August. The event is open to CTC members and will take place at the Ramada Hotel and Resort Birmingham, situated just outside Sutton Coldfield.

The residence is set within spacious private grounds, overlooking a picturesque lake in a peaceful setting, and boasts an indoor swimming pool, spa bath, sauna, and even a Sebastian Coe [London 2012 organising committee chair] health club.

The CTC party will take place in the Penns Quay Suite, which holds direct access to a private decking area overlooking the lake. The barbecue will be held outside on the decking, and a jazz band will add to the party atmosphere.

Tickets are priced at £30 per person and includes overnight accommodation, BBQ and breakfast. This will be payable direct to the hotel in the usual way on departure. To reserve a place, members should email admin@coachtourismcouncil.co.uk

www.coachtourismcouncil.co.uk