Fare prices will not rise following Fairbrothers takeover

The management team at the bus service, which has been operating in the town for more than 25 years, have reached the agreement with the company, which was formerly known as Network Warrington.

Owner David Fairbrother thanked the staff and passengers for their support after reaching the difficult decision earlier this month.

He said: “It is with a heavy heart to announce that after 26 years of serving the Warrington area Fairbrothers will no longer be operating.

“Due to personal reasons we have had to scale down the business.

“With the help and cooperation of Warrington Own Buses they have agreed to take over all local services and school services.

“We have also been in negotiations to relocate Fairbrother drivers to secure jobs with Warrington Own Buses.

“I would like to take this opportunity to thank everyone who have supported our services over the years.”

As part of the takeover, the company will continue to work with the management team at Fairbrothers to secure job security for the staff.

A Warrington’s Own Buses spokesman added: “We can confirm an agreement between Warrington’s Own Buses and Fairbrothers Ltd has been made.

“There are no plans to change fares, and all school services will continue to operate as normal.

“Once the final details have been agreed, Warrington’s Own Buses will take control of existing Fairbrothers’ routes and services.

“This will ultimately mean a better experience for passengers.

“It will also mean more connected routes throughout the borough with no fare increase in 2018, as the company has already promised customers.

“On top of this, existing discounts such as the £1 off day tickets will also apply on current Fairbrothers routes and services.”

It is understood the deal was closed at the end of last week following lengthy negotiations between the once rival bus companies.

The coach and private hire departments at Fairbrothers will remain in operation.