We”re familiar with the phrase ”nanny state” referring to an overly-pampering and meddling government. Well, brace yourself for Stagecoach”s foray into ” what shall we call it - ”nanny travel”? An online guide on how to catch a coach.
”Using the bus could not be easier,” it begins. ”First of all decide what bus you need.”
It”s solid advice, granted. Think of the wasted hours you”ve spent deciding to catch the number 15 to Charing Cross two hours after you hopped on a London-Edinburgh service.
But that would never happen if you take the following precaution: ”Tell the driver where you are going.” If you have a ticket, ”simply show this to your driver” ” they make it sound so easy. And let”s be honest, it is, really.
Isn”t this all a bit unnecessary? To increase passenger numbers, did Stagecoach staff brainstorm and identify ” under a metaphorical stone ” a sizeable, hidden market of bumbling idiots who”ve completely forgotten what buses looks like?
A Stagecoach spokesman said its research shows many members of the public no longer knew how to use public transport.
Steven Stewart said: ”If we look back 30 or 40 years, catching a bus was part of our daily routine from when we were children. Our guide is not designed to be patronising ” now there is a fear factor because it”s something some people have never done before. People felt there were barriers.”