Centaur coaches

Looking to lure people from trains and cars

A commuter coach company is giving people the chance to travel on its new London service for two days free of charge.

Centaur Commute says it is so confident that passengers will prefer its executive coaches to the train that it’s even offering to deduct any fees that commuters incur if they cancel their rail season ticket in favour of its service.

The company began its full service from west Kent to Canary Wharf and London following a month of successful test runs but the new link has already sparked a surge of enquiries and dozens of commuters have snapped up tickets.

“The response has been incredibly positive,” said Centaur Commute’s chief executive, Matthew Sims. “Those who have tried our service have been really surprised at how comfortable, fast and relaxing it is, not to mention how much they can save on the cost of their travel.

“Around 7.5 million rail journeys are made to and from Tunbridge Wells and Tonbridge every year*, making them two of the busiest stations in Kent.

“Yet it’s clear from the feedback we’re getting that many people are fed up with rocketing rail fares, delays, cancellations and poor communication on trains when things go wrong. And until now there’s been no quality, value-for-money alternative.”

However train still remains the quickest way to central London from west Kent stations.

Sims added: “We’re also inviting motorists who usually drive to London to give us a try. If you commute by coach you have time to relax, doze, or catch up on some work during your journey. You can’t do that if you’re driving.”

For further details about Centaur Commute’s services to Canary Wharf and London, and to find out how to book a free two-day trial, visit www.commutetolondon.com or call 020 8300 3001.