The Reunion to end all Reunions
On Saturday 6th November, almost 300 former members of staff from Epsom Coachers and its bus division, Quality Line, gathered to celebrate the founding of the company in 1920. The event was delayed due to the Covid Pandemic.
The reunion was supported with displays of the company’s long history and record of innovation. A nostalgic treat for many, as friends old and new made their acquaintance again and recalled their time spent with the firm. The founding Richmond family were also in attendance.
In a speech to mark the occasion, former Managing Director and 37-year veteran of the company, Steve Whiteway, recalled the early day of the business and its roots in Epsom High Street. Its high-quality ethos and innovative development long led the coach and later the bus industry. Mr Whiteway read out a long list of firsts for the business which in addition was noted for its unique combination of old-fashioned levels of service, with cutting edge technology.
Steve Whiteway concluded that the firm had never wavered in its determination to be the best and to change direction when necessary. Such is that determination the company chose to sacrifice itself and bow out on a high, with the last coach service running in on Sunday 25th June 2017 after 97 years. Whilst Quality Line functioned under the parent group for a few more years, that too closed in 2021 and with it the curtain came down on the firm’s long-time home in Longmead after 50 years on that site. The road leading to the garage is named after son of the founder, the late Roy Richmond MBE.
Most importantly of all, Steve Whiteway paid tribute to those gathered and those unable to join the reunion. It’s people were the firms most prized asset. A period of silence reflected on the many friends who have passed on.
The firm is remembered in its dedicated website, which will be the lasting record of its considerable achievements. The intention is that all the company’s extensive archive will be loaded onto the site and a trust formed to look after it for future generations.
