Andrew, who died last month following a long battle with illness, remained in post and heavily involved in the day-to-day running of the business, which included Bluestar, right up until his death.
He was loved and respected by colleagues and stakeholders alike, a company statement said.
His funeral cortege, which included the hearse and 14 buses and coaches, made its way through Poole bus station for a final salute, and on to a church service in Andrew’s home village of Sturminster Marshall – with a police escort to ensure minimal disruption along the way.
Morebus, a subsidiary of Go South Coast, said: “His outstanding leadership drove forward his team – with colleagues utterly dedicated to Andrew’s vision to improve services and increase the popularity of bus travel.”
“Andrew was, above all, a lifelong public transport enthusiast – and this was reflected in his journey from Poole to St Mary’s Church in Sturminster Marshall,” said Morebus interim managing director, Ben Murray.
“There were also buses and coaches from each of the other operators Andrew led – including Bluestar, Southern Vectis, Damory, Swindon’s Bus Company, Salisbury Reds and Excelsior.
“He was one of a kind, and we were incredibly fortunate to have him at the helm. He was also a great family man, and we hope we did them proud with this wonderful procession.
“Our thoughts are with them as they come to terms with this incredibly sad and untimely loss.”
Those present at the church service later attended a special celebration of life event at Upton Country Park – with a special bus service arranged to transport them between various location.
