A COACH company boss has apologised to customers for cancelled Christmas trips.
David Davies, managing director of Huddersfield-based Abbeyways Tours Ltd, has also promised full refunds and a free trip in compensation.
The Examiner has been contacted by several customers who were left out of pocket when trips were cancelled.
Many had been to the firm’s offices at Huddersfield Bus Station only to find it shut.
Mr Davies yesterday told the Examiner that he wanted to apologise to all affected customers.
He said he had personally posted refund cheques yesterday morning – second class – along with a letter of apology.
He was sure he had refunded all customers but anyone who doesn’t receive their money back should contact the office.
Mr Davies said: “When a trip is abandoned we nearly always offer a free trip and that’s what has been sent out to all these people.
“We had a lady who we let down very badly last year and she travelled with us free all year. In fact, she travelled with us about 20 times free of charge.”
Mr Davies said all the refunds had been dealt with personally by himself from home but could not say how many refunds he had sent out.
“There was a pile,” he added.
Mr Davies’ letter of apology reads: “With respect to your recently abandoned excursion I apologise on behalf of Abbeyways for the unfortunate incident.
“As part of this apology we invite you to travel with us on an excursion of your choice and absolutely free at no cost.
“This is in addition to the full refund you will receive as normal.
“This applies to all passengers on your ticket. To claim your free excursion you will need to take your ticket into the Abbeyways office at the Huddersfield Bus Station and choose your new excursion.
“Once again I apologise for the inconvenience and hope you will be pleased with the outcome.”
Mr Davies told the Examiner the office would be open today at 10am.
Customer Bronwyn Brook, 62, of Golcar, owed a refund over a cancelled trip to Driffield on December 20, said she was prepared to “wait and see.”
She added: “It could take four or five days to arrive second class, then you have to pay the cheque in and see whether it is cashed.
“We’ll wait and see.”
Mr Davies has said his company has no financial problems. He said the office was usually closed in January as it was a quiet time for the business.
