New Forest Tour has record passenger numbers

Aug. 12, 2010 - PRLog -- Thursday 5 August, was the Tour’s busiest day in its 5 year history, carrying over 350 passengers. The season to date has seen passenger numbers up 30% on 2009 figures.

In addition to the rise in passengers, a record number of people are also choosing to take their bikes on board. The bus has room for up to four bikes and has been designed to link into the Forestry Commission’s comprehensive off-road cycle network. So far this year, the number of people taking a bike on board has increased from 22 in 2009 to 120 this year, an increase of 450%!

The Tour stops off at visitor attractions - the National Motor Museum, Beaulieu and Exbury Gardens and Steam Railway, which have also seen record numbers of New Forest Tour customers passing through their gates.

Chris Gregory, Tourism and Transport Officer for the New Forest National Park Authority, said: ‘So far the New Forest Tour has had its most successful season ever. It’s good to see that so many people are choosing to leave their cars at home and seek a memorable and unique way of experiencing the National Park.    

‘This year we’ve made it even easier for people to join the Tour, now they can buy their tickets on selected bus services leaving Southampton, Bournemouth and Hythe and enjoy free bus travel to and from the Tour.’

Once on board the passengers receive a re-designed and updated complimentary Official Guide to accompany the Tour commentary.  The guide-book is jam-packed with information, facts and figures, walking and cycling routes, games and exclusive Tour offers valid at a range of places en route.

The New Forest Tour runs until the 12 September, so don’t miss out, jump on board today.

For more information on ticket prices and timetables visit www.thenewforesttour.info
-ends-

Notes to Editors:
The New Forest Tour is run by BlueStar on behalf of the New Forest National Park Authority, New Forest District Council and Hampshire County Council,
Media Contact:

Karen Evans, Communications Officer, New Forest National Park Authority
Tel: 01590 646650
Email: karen.evans@newforestnpa.gov.uk

# # #

The New Forest National Park lies mainly in south-west Hampshire; it is famous for its stunning landscapes,wildlife,coastline & picturesque villages. It is the eighth national park in England and the first in the south-east to be created for nearly 50yrs.