FirstGroup transformation continues

Public transport operator FirstGroup, which operates bus services in Staffordshire and Worcestershire, says its transformation plans continued to progress in the six months to the end of September.

The group, which will release its half year results on November 12, said it had experienced a more challenging trading environment in some of its markets.

UK Bus saw passenger revenue growth of more than two per cent and was helped by cost efficiencies from the transformation. Overall revenue growth is expected to be 1.3 per cent.

Rail saw strong passenger revenue growth of about seven per cent.

Chief Executive Tim O'Toole said: "Overall trading for the group during the first half was in line with our expectations. We continue to progress our transformation plans which will drive sustainable improvements in the financial performance and cash generation of the group, despite a more challenging trading environment in some of our markets in the period."

The group has rebranded First Great Western as Great Western Railway, reviving a brand with 180 years of heritage going back to Brunel.