The owner of Earnside Coaches is bidding an “emotional” farewell to the family-run business which will sadly close after more than 50 years in operation.
The business was founded by Stewart Rutherford in Bridge of Earn in 1968 before moving to its present depot in Glenfarg two years later.
David Rutherford was the second generation of the family to run the business with son Gary (49) the current boss.
After over two decades with the company, Gary said many factors including rising costs forced the decision to close the depot for good with the last day of trading on March 31.
He explained: “A number of the firm’s local authority contracts are up for renewal soon after the process started just before Christmas.
“Half our vehicles are committed to school runs but costs have gone up this year again.
“If we put in a realistic bid I wasn’t sure we’d win the contract. If we did it would have been difficult to manage.
“Another main issue is staff shortages. There is also an increase on wages and parts.
“There are many factors involved.
“But we have been key for people in the local area for over 50 years and have also gone further afield, like taking pupils on French exchange trips in the past.
“I have driven people to school having driven their father before them.
“I’ve been directly involved for 20 years. We’ve been in Glenfarg for over 50 years.
“It was a very difficult decision but it is the right decision.”
Gary, who has 19 staff in total including himself, dad David (70) and mum Fiona (69), has sold off three of the 10 buses in his fleet so far.
He describes watching the buses leave the depot as “emotional” and that selling the business was never an option.
“I didn’t like the idea of seeing someone else drive around with our name on the coaches,” he said.
“We felt it was best to just close the business.
“My mum and dad are still working with us and it is more than a business – it is a way of life.”
Mr Rutherford even called up loyal customers personally to break the news, highlighting the close bond the depot has with the community.
“Those conversations were very difficult and emotional,” he said.
“We wanted to give them plenty of notice as they will have plans for the summer.
“I appreciate the customers we have had.
“The drivers we have had over the years have been great, so thank you to them.
“They are all like an extended family to us.
“Some have worked with us for over 20 years and will be going into retirement as they can’t imagine driving for anyone else.”
From next month David and Fiona plan to enjoy their own retirement.
“It is nice for them to get that chance to retire,” Gary concluded.
“They have worked so hard and they deserve it.”
