Booking fears as Telford coach firm goes into administration

The firm has been operating since 1928

A Shropshire coach firm operating for almost 100 years has gone into administration with all future bookings cancelled.

Elcock Reisen, in Telford, made the announcement on social media and said its offices would close on Friday.

The firm said it was contacting customers as quickly as possible, but said there was no guarantee they would get their money back.

Thirty two staff members are expected to be affected by its closure.

The firm said administration was a result of a takeover falling through after it ran in to financial difficulties due to rising prices and wages.

'Valued custom'

It said it had also seen a fall in securing contracts, especially with Shropshire Council.

The local authority said it was aware the firm, "a valued partner for a number of years", was ceasing trading before the September school term and would now look to work with other companies.

Elcock Reisen had operated school bus routes for a number of years and the council said it would look to work with other companies to fill those before the new term.

The firm's website was advertising trips to various locations up until summer 2024, but was taken down on Wednesday.

Established in 1928, the company also thanked people for their "loyalty and valued custom over the many years we have been in business".

The announcement was met with sadness by past customers who commented that they had enjoyed holidays and schools trips with the firm over the years.

School buses

Director Nick Prince said administrators would be in touch with current customers in the coming days who could also call the firm's head office before 16:00 BST on Thursday.

Councils and other clients have also been informed, he said.

In a statement, Shropshire Council said it was made aware on Wednesday that the firm would unfortunately cease trading before the beginning of the school term in September.

"Following today's announcement, we will now work with other bus and coach companies to cover the [15] school transport contracts that Elcocks has been operating," it said.

"We will ensure details of the new providers are confirmed before the beginning of the new school term, to provide reassurance to pupils and parents."