Firm loses licence (From Barry And District News)

Firm loses licence

A WELL-KNOWN Barry coach firm has lost its licence after evidence that it tried to conceal vehicle maintenance problems.

Mayfayre Coaches, which undertakes school contracts, airport transfers, railway support and acts as an agent for holidays has had its licence for eight coaches revoked from March 31.

The decision comes after the firm was called to a public inquiry of the Wales Traffic Commissioner for the second time in 12 months.

Vehicle examiner Alan Rustage said there was still concern over maintenance when a fleet inspection was carried out in October and several faults were found on vehicles.

One caused serious concern when the anti-roller bar bushes (rubber rings which act as buffers between the chassis and suspension) had been filled with a 'putty-like' substance and painted over when it went for its MoT.

He said there was a lack of records, maintenance sheets unavailable, those available not completed properly and repairs not signed off as having been undertaken.

"Although there were some improvements since the last public inquiry, with less prohibitions there was still some concern," he said.

Paul Carless, appearing for the company, said it was a brother and sister partnership owned by Julia Zeiber and Gordon Fifield. Mr Fifield was unable to attend the hearing due to health problems.

Mr Carless told traffic commissioner David Dixon the company had now employed a qualified fitter, Keith Davies, and maintenance and repairs for all vehicles were kept up-to-date.

Mrs Zeiber said her brother's health was "very poor".

He suffered from a nervous condition, particularly after the company premises were vandalised and two vehicles written off.

"My brother spread himself too thin, he doesn't take time off, he needs a break of about six months," she said.

But a plea that Mrs Zeiber be given a last chance - with Mr Davies given complete authority - was turned down by the commissioner.

He said maintenance had been a major problem.

"You were given a last chance to put your house in order and had six months to do it but quite clearly you failed," he said.

"I accept there was a modest improvement, but I raise the issue of good repute.

"It was only careful examination by a vehicle inspector that the deliberate concealment and painting of vehicles was spotted."

In delaying the revocation until the end of the school term, Mr Dixon said: "There was no serious threat to road safety."

He said he understood Mrs Zeiber had been in a difficult position, but in the interest of road safety, she should have taken a stand earlier.