Young Louis ready to drive Go Goodwins
It’s a new era for the family business as 16-year-old Louis Goodwin prepares to take the helm from dad Wes in just five years’ time. After all, he’s been learning the ropes since he was 12
Eccles-based operator Go Goodwins has made its stamp on the Manchester and Bolton transport scene over the last 40 years.
And its youngest family member Louis Alan Goodwin is preparing to take on the legacy, learning the business inside out, during school holidays, and now as an apprentice in the workshop.
In 1976 Alan Edward Goodwin started working with his granddad at York Motors in Chorlton-cum-Hardy as a mechanic. A year later he started Goodwins Coaches from his home in Benchill, Wythenshawe.
Within a year his son Geoffrey Alan joined the business, aged 19 and by 1980 the company was developing further and needing new premises.
In 1983 the operation was moved to Stockport and got a new garage and workshop.
Alan’s grandson Wesley (Wes) says: “Grandad was always buying and selling and had between five and ten coaches at any given time.
“It was anything and everything. We had a lot of AEC’s and Plaxton Elites – all 53-seaters.
“It was all used vehicles until 1989 when he bought a new Volvo B10M Jonckheere.”
High-end contracts
As the operation grew it started picking up new contracts along the way. One of which was Altrincham Aces Ice Hockey which turned to Trafford Metros. By 1985 the firm had built up a solid reputation and began to earn high profile contracts, one of which was Manchester United Football Club.
In 1994 it bought Erics Way Coaches and moved to larger premises in Salford. Just after that Geoffrey’s 18-year-old son Wes joined the company.
Times weren’t always easy. In 1995 the whole fleet was destroyed in a fire on the eve of Bonfire Night.
However, the family was determined to continue the Goodwins name despite having to start from scratch again. With the strong connections they had built over the years and the trusted client base the firm was soon back on track.
Over the next few years the coaches became more and more bespoke for higher end use. The company began renting its luxury coaches to some of the biggest artists in the world at the time including Justin Timberlake and Britney Spears.
Goodwins also obtained the official coach contract for the England Cricket Board (ECB)
Read the full article here – https://www.route-one.net/operators/young-louis-ready-to-drive-go-goodwins/
Turkey & Tinsel, Dec 3rd 2021 @ The Chatsworth House Hotel, Llandudno
TURKEY and TINSEL AT THE CHATSWORTH HOUSE HOTEL – LLANDUDNO
CELEBRATE WITH A PRE – CHRISTMAS FESTIVE BREAK
Leaving on the 3rd December 2021 for a 3 nights stay at the Beautiful Victorian CHATSWORTH HOUSE HOTEL in Llandudno , enjoy all the fun and festive cheer !!
While your lovely Hosts at this Family run hotel make your stay a memorable one.
Enjoy the Festive dinner with the traditional Roast Turkey with all the trimming , delight in the Christmas tree and decorations and the fun packed entertainment will surely get you in the mood for the real event a few weeks later . So join us this fun packed stay in the elegant and stunning coastal Town of Llandudno.
There’s also plenty of time for rest and relaxation……take a dip in the pool or delight in the amazing & breath taking welsh scenery , the Great Orme , Snowdonia mountain range in the distance and the stunning pebble & sandy beaches.
With its splendid pier & promenade……..With its vast array of independent shops and coffee shops a brisk stroll with family and friends is a perfect way to build up your appetite ready for an early evening drink then dinner.. A fabulous holiday break for young & old alike…
COST £229.00 PP
SPS/PP/PN £5.0
Shared Room per person.
Single Room per person.
Pay a £100 deposit, on checkout add a note to which holiday you’re booking.
£100.00Add to basket
Comedy Dining Evening, “Allo, Allo”
COMEDY DINING EVENING – ‘ALLO ‘ALLO! 2 DAYS TRIP 28th November 2021.
Escape for a two night break filled with laughter and fun with a ‘ALLO ‘ALLO dining experience , Listen Very Carefully I Will say this only Once …….
Pop along to this ‘ UMBLE CAFE’ for a night to remember as Rene juggles the Gestapo, the Resistance, his Secret Affairs , and his wife Edith.
The hilarious comedy Dinner Show —- Is Not To Be Missed !!!
Nestled in the beautiful Shropshire country side , the Four star stunning Telford Hotel & Golf Resort property overlooks the UNESCO World
Heritage Site of the Ironbridge Gorge..
Set in 170 acres of beautiful grounds with landscaped gardens , this warm & welcoming hotel is a perfect destination for your relaxing break ..
With Complimentary Tea/Coffee on Arrival, Dinner, B&B each night in the 1779 Restaurant this Autumn Break will sure to Delight .
Cost £ 179
PP/pn /sp/supplement £ 25.00
Shared Room per person.
Single Room per person.
Pay a £100 deposit, on checkout add a note to which holiday you’re booking.
£100.00Add to basket
Turkey & Tinsel, Nov 22nd 2021 @ The Chatsworth House Hotel, Llandudno
TURKEY and TINSEL AT THE CHATSWORTH HOUSE HOTEL – LLANDUDNO
CELEBRATE WITH A PRE – CHRISTMAS FESTIVE BREAK
Leaving on the 8th November 2021 for a 4 nights stay at the Beautiful Victorian CHATSWORTH HOUSE HOTEL in Llandudno , enjoy all the fun and festive cheer !!
While your lovely Hosts at this Family run hotel make your stay a memorable one.
Enjoy the Festive dinner with the traditional Roast Turkey with all the trimming , delight in the Christmas tree and decorations and the fun packed entertainment will surely get you in the mood for the real event a few weeks later . So join us this fun packed stay in the elegant and stunning coastal Town of Llandudno.
There’s also plenty of time for rest and relaxation…… taking in the amazing & breath taking welsh scenery , the Great Orme , Snowdonian mountain range in the distance and the stunning beaches.
With its splendid pier & promenade……..With its vast array of independent shops and coffee shops a brisk stroll with family and friends is a perfect way to build up your appetite ready for an early evening drink then dinner.. A fabulous holiday break for young & old alike…
COST £229.00 PP
SPS/PP/PN £5.0
Shared Room per person.
Single Room per person.
Pay a £100 deposit, on checkout add a note to which holiday you’re booking.
£100.00Add to basket
Newquay Turkey & Tinsel
4 nights NEWQUAY TURKEY AND TINSEL November 22nd– 26th 2021
Celebrate a Pre-Christmas warm up to the festive season & join us at The Sandy Lodge Hotel in stunning NEWQUAY
A Great location for sightseeing this family run 3 star hotel situated close to the seafront of Newquay Bay is one of the friendliest hotels around.
From this location this hotel provides a great base to explore everything Cornwall has to offer.
Cost £249 – SPS £20
DINNER / B& B / Ensuite accommodation .
Shared Room per person.
Single Room per person.
Pay a £100 deposit, on checkout add a note to which holiday you’re booking.
£100.00Add to basket
Turkey & Tinsel, Nov 8th 2021 @ The Chatsworth House Hotel, Llandudno
TURKEY and TINSEL AT THE CHATSWORTH HOUSE HOTEL – LLANDUDNO
CELEBRATE WITH A PRE – CHRISTMAS FESTIVE BREAK
Leaving on the 8th November 2021 for a 4 nights stay at the Beautiful Victorian CHATSWORTH HOUSE HOTEL in Llandudno , enjoy all the fun and festive cheer !!
While your lovely Hosts at this Family run hotel make your stay a memorable one.
Enjoy the Festive dinner with the traditional Roast Turkey with all the trimming , delight in the Christmas tree and decorations and the fun packed entertainment will surely get you in the mood for the real event a few weeks later . So join us this fun packed stay in the elegant and stunning coastal Town of Llandudno.
There’s also plenty of time for rest and relaxation…… taking in the amazing & breath taking welsh scenery , the Great Orme , Snowdonian mountain range in the distance and the stunning beaches.
With its splendid pier & promenade……..With its vast array of independent shops and coffee shops a brisk stroll with family and friends is a perfect way to build up your appetite ready for an early evening drink then dinner.. A fabulous holiday break for young & old alike…
COST £229.00 PP
SPS/PP/PN £5.0
Shared Room per person.
Single Room per person.
Pay a £100 deposit, on checkout add a note to which holiday you’re booking.
£100.00Add to basket
Llandudno, North Wales – Oct 22nd
LLANDUDNO – NORTH WALES – 3 Nights
Situated between the Little Orme and the Great Orme Llandudno is the largest resort in North Wales and is considered to have the most amazing scenery incorporating the beautiful Welsh Mountain range and the outstanding Coastlines.
Llandudno boasts two superb Beaches , the Shingly and busiest to the North and the quieter Sandy Beach to the West.
This Highly Attractive Resort with its Tree lined Streets, Crescent of Hotels, Elegant Boulevards & shops, all combine to make for a delightful 3 nights break .
Staying at The Chatsworth House Hotel , Central Promenade, Llandudno. This Victorian property has the enviable position over looking the stunning Sea front Promenade.
The Hotel has all the comforts to keep everyone entertained including Free Wi-Fi. Flat screen TV.Indoor Heated Swimming Pool, Range of facilities, & splendid views of the Bay.
DATES For this Holiday –
- AUG 6TH-9TH 2021 – £199
- OCT 22ND– 25TH 2021 – £189
Shared Room per person.
Single Room per person.
Pay a £100 deposit, on checkout add a note to which holiday you’re booking.
£100.00Add to basket
St Andrews All Stars Football Club (Team Sponsors)
Go Goodwins Coaches of Manchester are St Andrews All Stars Football Club, Team Sponsors.
Click here to visit the St Andrews All Stars Football Club website.
More information to come.
Reddish North End F.C
Go Goodwins Coaches of Manchester are Reddish North End F.C, Team Sponsors.
Click here to visit the Reddish North End F.C website.
Oldham Athletic FC
Go Goodwins Coaches of Manchester are Oldham Athletic FC, Team Sponsors. Click here to visit the Oldham Athletic FC website, for more information.
Newton Le Willows Cricket Club (Team Sponsors)
Go Goodwins Coaches of Manchester are Newton Le Willows Cricket Club, Team Sponsors.
Click here to visit the Newton Le Willows Cricket Club website.
More information to come.
JNS Football
We are proud to have JNS Football, as one of our sponsors.
JNS Football brings Premier League Academy level training to the local community. We are committed to youth player development with an emphasis on developing W.I.N.N.E.R.S. We create high intensity sessions that are fun, competitive and accompanied with positive reinforcement. This creates what we believe is an ideal learning environment where players can push themselves and fulfil their potential. Our coaches strive to improve the players they coach both on the pitch and to further develop them socially away from the pitch, all the staff are DBS checked, UEFA licensed/FA Licensed coaches. We cater for all abilities and all sessions are designed around that particular players needs.
JNS Football has used the experience gained by its coaches working within the Academy system of different Premier League clubs and also of experiences of working around the world to produce a coaching a platform for footballers to develop all areas of their game. Players should be encouraged to become masters of the ball, they should be supported in developing the ability to dominate their opponent both in possession and out. We want to give players the tools to replicate the way football should be played, to entertain, to inspire and to capture the imagination. The JNS way.
West Wythenshawe Boxing Club
We are proud to have West Wythenshawe Boxing Club, as one of our sponsors.
Amateur boxing club ran by coaches: Clive Smith, Andy Parry and Kevin Prendergast.
State-of-the-art MOT test station
We appeared in the Messenger Newspaper the other day, see what we are up to here at Go Goodwins Coaches! Our brand new state-of-the-art MOT test station is now ready to go!
Best Executive Coach
We won the “Best Executive Coach” for the past few years running, Go Goodwins!
Coach holiday enquiries
Please fill out our coach holiday enquiry form below, we will do our best in responding within 24-48 hours.
Ensure you fill in the fields with a ‘*’ next to the description.
Quote request
Please fill out our form below to request a quote.
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Excursions enquiries
Please fill out our excursions enquiry form below, we will do our best in responding within 24-48 hours.
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Classic tour dates
More content coming soon.
Van Hool TX16 Astron MAN – A quality all-rounder
Some months ago we had plans to evaluate a stock Van Hool TX16 Astron with Moseley (PCV) Ltd, having previously sampled the lower height TX16 Alicron (B&CB issue 1190, 7 September 2012). Finding a mutually suitable date proved difficult and before we were able to conduct the test the coach was bought by Go Goodwins of Manchester. Hearing of the situation, Wes Goodwin offered to make the Astron available once it had been painted and prepared for his family’s Eccles based company and at the end of last month Andrew Fowler and I went to Manchester to try it out.
GoGoodwins to continue the Regency Road tradition
Eccles, Manchester based GoGoodwins Coaches is to start a new heritage coaching arm that will carry on the tradition of the
Regency Road Pullman Touring Company, which marketed itself using the slogan, ‘Possibly the only Tour Company of its kind in the World.’ The new operation will trade as Goodwins Classic Coach Tours (incorporating Regency Road Pullman).
Northwich, Cheshire, based Regency closed earlier this year having provided it own brand of specialist touring using ageing Plaxton bodied AEC and Volvo coaches for the previous 14 or so years. Before that, Clive Screaton and his daughter, Sarah, had been involved in the Grand Edwardian Touring Company, using even older AEC stock. It was Sarah’s decision to finish. The operator’s licence was up for renewal and having married Robert Phillips in December, she wanted a more ‘normal’ life.
There was also a recognition that the coach industry is changing and they were finding it difficult to keep up with all of the new requirements.
Click on the link below to read the full magazine.
Enquiries
Spotters Fan Page ‘On the road’
Content coming very soon! Be sure to visit our Facebook page and follow us on Twitter in the mean time!
We are running a monthly draw for the best image of one of the coaches from our fleet. To submit your image, email the following address with the subject ‘On the road’
You might see these QR codes around on some of our coaches, give them a try. Click below.
Consistently on target delivery
Go Goodwins Coaches, an independent operator until recently better known for its coaching activities than for bus operation, topped the Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM) supplier ratings throughout the year running from April 2011 to the end of March 2012. Calculated on the basis of an operator’s performance against 15 key indicators, supplier rating scores (Go Goodwins’ is currently 95.93%) are more than just an ego boost for the operator concerned. They are important because in order to be invited to tender for TfGM minimum subsidy tenders, the organisation requires that in addition to qualifying for its preferred suppliers list (PSL) the supplier rating should be 72.5% rising to 75% from October this year.
Coaching roots
Go Goodwins is a family business with three generations involved, all of them mechanically minded. A couple more generations worked in coaching before them, albeit in a very different business environment to that of today. Now in his seventies, Alan Goodwin is the eldest of the trio. He still provides advice (and interference) for his son Geoff, Geoff’s wife Suzanne, grandson Wesley and Wesley’s wife Sally, who manage the business today.
CLICK ON THE LINK BELOW TO READ THE FULL MAGAZINE.