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National Express launches clampdown on bus smokers ahead of 'No Smoking Day' 2010

National Express West Midlands has launched a major clampdown on bus smokers ahead of national 'No Smoking Day' on Wednesday.
 
The bus company has increased bus inspections to identify smokers and is installing new, high impact anti smoking posters across the network. Over 500 buses in Birmingham already feature the new A3 notices.
 
During 2010 National Express has checked over 5,000 buses across the region for smokers. The anti smoking checks happen every week and anyone caught lighting up will receive a £50 fine.
 
Tony Dallison, Safer Travel Manager, said: “Smoking on buses is not only illegal but highly unpleasant for our customers. We are committed to stubbing out smoking for good and have increased our vehicle checks to target hotspot routes and repeat offenders. We have also launched high impact posters to provide reassurance to customers and deter smokers.”  
 
National Express is the only bus company in England to work with local councils to identify, fine and prosecute bus smokers. Last year 23 people were taken to court for smoking on Birmingham’s bus network and more cases are proceeding for 2010. The company is urging passengers to report all incidents of smoking so the offenders can be identified:
 
Tony added: “Every bus driver has a button on his dashboard to report smoking and we compile this data alongside customer reports to plan operations and catch smokers. It’s vital that passengers continue to provide us with information via the see something, say something text line so we can prosecute people who continue to flout the law.”
 
Passengers who witness smoking can text the ‘see something, say something’ line on 07624818332. Every text is analysed and the information is used to plan anti smoking operations. 
 

National Express believes the zero tolerance approach to smoking is delivering results. Of the 5,000 buses checked to date over 90,000 passengers were on board and just 16 were found smoking.  Each received a £50 fine.

For more information about No smoking Day 2010 visit: ww.nosmokingday.org.uk

Key dates for campaign against bus smokers:

  • March 2010: New high impact posters launched across the bus network
  • February 2010: National Express joins with Solihull Council to prosecute smokers
  • January 2010: Increased patrols launched across Birmingham and Black Country
  • November 2009: Safer Travel reports that ‘See something, say something’ has been a huge success with 1,700 of texts received during the first 12 months
  • April 2009: 23 people taken to court for smoking on Birmingham’s bus network
  • January 2009: National Express joins forces with Coventry Council to prosecute smokers

Last updated: 08/03/2010