'Left out in the cold': Coach company says it's struggling to survive during Covid-19

With no clear guidance or advice by the authorities, family-run Maxfields Travel in Swallownest said they were considered a "grey area" by the councils.

Its Senior Travel Consultant, Ben Maxfield said while focus was mainly given to pubs, restaurants, theatres or gym, the coaching industry has been "absolutely left out."

And with the national lockdown already in force the future for the industry seems blurry.

"It's about advice. I have had several conversations with Sheffield and Rotherham councils.

"They all said the same thing, that we're in a grey area and they don't know what to tell us and I don't think it's the councils' fault," he said.

He said the coaching industry should be given priority as the buses have been an essential mode of transport for children and students.

"It is absolutely distressing to me. There should be some recognition that we actually exist as an industry and the services we provide.

"We must have taken hundreds of children from different schools every year. If our industry did not exist, how would the children go from one place to another for study or field visits?"

He said despite the lack of guidance and financial assistance from the government, some companies had to take their own initiatives by adhering to the safety measures.

"I know a coach company decided to put plastic visors up behind every seat and some companies are running the coaches full as long as everyone wears masks.

"While I don't think that's correct, how am I to judge them if they're not being given any guidance?" he said.

He also said some financial aid from the government to the industry would be great as they are all "fighting to survive.

"I know my drivers' names, I know their families and I know their highs and lows.

"We are fighting to survive and for our drivers to support their families and put food on the table."

He said while the company has not laid off any of the employees yet, they could be forced to make that call if the situation persists.