MCGILL’S, the Greenock-based bus company, has added a transport industry heavyweight to its board of directors.

The company, owned by former Rangers directors James and Sandy Easdale, has appointed David Martin as a non-executive director. Mr Martin stepped as chief executive of transport giant Arriva until December, and remains an adviser to both that company and DB Group.

Ralph Roberts, managing director of McGill’s, said: “David Martin is one of the leading figures in the transport industry and he oversaw the international development of Arriva across Europe and facilitated its acquisition by Deutsche Bahn in 2010. He brings with him decades of experience and a vast expertise that will help us as we continue to expand.”

Mr Martin noted: “The Easdale brothers have built a fantastic transport company and it has enormous potential for further expansion.

“I am excited to be involved at this stage in their development. The quality of their product is quite exceptional in the bus industry and they are very advanced with their innovative thinking.”

Mr Martin’s appointment comes after McGill’s’, owned by the Easdale brothers’ Arranglen investment vehicle, reported a £3 million increase in turnover to nearly £38.3m in its most recent financial year. Pre-tax profits increased to £3.6m from £3.2m in the year ended December 27, 2015.

Chairman James Easdale said: ““McGill’s is entering a new phase with this appointment. David will be invaluable when it comes to new acquisitions, both here in the UK and abroad. His experience of managing flotations will also prove to be invaluable.”