Omega Owners Forum
Chat Area => General Discussion Area => Topic started by: splott on 12 March 2010, 20:14:10
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Some pics of a local rally here on the Wirral.
I , up until 2 years ago lived on the village shown here.
Used get this bus to school.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/06122009023.jpg)[/img]
The fare to school was 1.1/2d roughly 1/2 a new penny!
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/06122009024.jpg)[/img]
The greenCrosville bus would take my sister and I to Chester for 6d ( 2.1/2 new pennies) return. That would be our day out.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Picture032.jpg)[/img]
The yellow one was a Wallasey bus that would take my sister and I to New Brighton for 2d (roughly 1 new pence) were there was two fair grounds.
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Very nice too!! :-* :-* :-* :-*
My childhood always comes fooding back when I see those type of buses 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
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Had the privilege of working on one of that type of Buses when I was an apprentise ;) although they do remind me of On the Buses ;D
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Very nice too!! :-* :-* :-* :-*
My childhood always comes fooding back when I see those type of buses 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
They're still state of the art in Malta now aye Lizzie :y
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I used to get the ferry to Birkenhead, and then the crosville to Chester zoo. Took ages but it was part of the day out. rather knackered on the way back though.
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Had the privilege of working on one of that type of Buses when I was an apprentise ;) although they do remind me of On the Buses ;D
They were Router London buses( I think ) in "On the Buses" :-?
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Very nice too!! :-* :-* :-* :-*
My childhood always comes fooding back when I see those type of buses 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
They're still state of the art in Malta now aye Lizzie :y
Ah, in Malta they were always single decker coaches, but of course just as old Pete! 8-) 8-) 8-)
No when I was small in this country the buses of London, Tunbridge Wells, then Dartmouth were I travelled with my parents were all of this era, if not older!! :D :D :-* :-*
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Had the privilege of working on one of that type of Buses when I was an apprentise ;) although they do remind me of On the Buses ;D
They were Router London buses( I think ) in "On the Buses" :-?
Routemaster IIRC.
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Had the privilege of working on one of that type of Buses when I was an apprentise ;) although they do remind me of On the Buses ;D
I still have every episode, including the B/W ones, and the three movies, brilliant.
A bit of useless info, the actress who played the mother, Doris Hare, (not Ceclily Courtlidge, who only played 'mam in the 1st series) went to school with my grandmother, St Gwladys School Bargoed.
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Had the privilege of working on one of that type of Buses when I was an apprentise ;) although they do remind me of On the Buses ;D
They were Router London buses( I think ) in "On the Buses" :-?
Routemaster IIRC.
Well they look the same but just red ;D
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Had the privilege of working on one of that type of Buses when I was an apprentise ;) although they do remind me of On the Buses ;D
I still have every episode, including the B/W ones, and the three movies, brilliant.
A bit of useless info, the actress who played the mother, Doris Hare, (not Ceclily Courtlidge, who only played 'mam in the 1st series) went to school with my grandmother, St Gwladys School Bargoed.
Great stuff Di, I will sleep better now ;D :-*
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Had the privilege of working on one of that type of Buses when I was an apprentise ;) although they do remind me of On the Buses ;D
I still have every episode, including the B/W ones, and the three movies, brilliant.
A bit of useless info, the actress who played the mother, Doris Hare, (not Ceclily Courtlidge, who only played 'mam in the 1st series) went to school with my grandmother, St Gwladys School Bargoed.
Great stuff Di, I will sleep better now ;D :-*
I did say was useless info ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Had the privilege of working on one of that type of Buses when I was an apprentise ;) although they do remind me of On the Buses ;D
I still have every episode, including the B/W ones, and the three movies, brilliant.
A bit of useless info, the actress who played the mother, Doris Hare, (not Ceclily Courtlidge, who only played 'mam in the 1st series) went to school with my grandmother, St Gwladys School Bargoed.
Great stuff Di, I will sleep better now ;D :-*
I did say I was useless info that I needed to get off my chest ;D ;D ;D ;D
Well if you need any help getting anymore off your chest just say the word ::) :-*
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There arent any pictures of my old school bus - we burnt it. ;D ;D ;D
Oh those far off innocent schooldays in Belfast. :)
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I used to get the ferry to Birkenhead, and then the crosville to Chester zoo. Took ages but it was part of the day out. rather knackered on the way back though.
I asume you lived Liverpool way ,then?
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I used to get the ferry to Birkenhead, and then the crosville to Chester zoo. Took ages but it was part of the day out. rather knackered on the way back though.
I asume you lived Liverpool way ,then?
Born and bred. :y
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I used to get the ferry to Birkenhead, and then the crosville to Chester zoo. Took ages but it was part of the day out. rather knackered on the way back though.
I asume you lived Liverpool way ,then?
Born and bred. :y
That explains your sense of humour then. ;D Should have guessed, :y :y :y
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Oooh!!
I spot a "Bristol (Eastern coachworks) Lodekka there!!
They were built up the road from me when I was a kid, used to pay 2d a day return to go to school on one.
Yep. I'm old.
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Oooh!!
I spot a "Bristol (Eastern coachworks) Lodekka there!!
They were built up the road from me when I was a kid, used to pay 2d a day return to go to school on one.
Yep. I'm old.
Me too :y
Those buses were very plush, they all had leather seats. :y
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For anyone who particulars likes big lorries and buses this is well worth a vist http://www.llantransfest.co.uk/
My Father used to take a Dennis "toastrack" bus to this event most years.
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A classic British bus indeed!
It's a late-model Leyland Titan PD2 with bodywork by Massey Bros of Wigan.
The Crosville bus on the left is a Bristol Lodekka FS with body by Eastern Coach Works of Lowestoft.
Passed my PSV driving test on a longer variant FL which had been converted into a driver trainer.
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A classic British bus indeed!
It's a late-model Leyland Titan PD2 with bodywork by Massey Bros of Wigan.
The Crosville bus on the left is a Bristol Lodekka FS with body by Eastern Coach Works of Lowestoft.
Passed my PSV driving test on a longer variant FL which had been converted into a driver trainer.
See your pm's :y
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This is a model of the buses i remember from my childhood in my area, made by a local model shop. The fare cost 2d ::)
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i247/mysticfred/bs02front1.jpg)
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Very nice too!! :-* :-* :-* :-*
My childhood always comes fooding back when I see those type of buses 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
They're still state of the art in Malta now aye Lizzie :y
Ah, in Malta they were always single decker coaches, but of course just as old Pete! 8-) 8-) 8-)
No when I was small in this country the buses of London, Tunbridge Wells, then Dartmouth were I travelled with my parents were all of this era, if not older!! :D :D :-* :-*
Would have been the buses of London Transport, Maidstone & District, and Devon General respectively then.
:y
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Oooh!!
I spot a "Bristol (Eastern coachworks) Lodekka there!!
They were built up the road from me when I was a kid, used to pay 2d a day return to go to school on one.
Yep. I'm old.
You might be interested to know that the erstwhile Red & White company used Bristol Lodekkas on the 73 Cardiff - Gloucester service, passing through Lydney en-route.
They also had a depot in Lydney too.
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Sethsmate's Renovation of an old bus:-
Autumn 1988, and basically in 'as acquired' condition.
Seating has already been refurbished, and one panel changed
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img048.jpg)[/img]
A former colleague applying the finishing touches.
Peter actually traced the sole-remaining company scroll transfer to
achieve this!
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img049.jpg)[/img]
Changing a rear spring - a heavy, but straightforward task with the
help of another colleague!
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img050.jpg)[/img]
The traditional back end of a Brewers bus - as accurate as we could
possibly get it!
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img051.jpg)[/img]
NOW SCROLL DOWN TO SEE THE FINISHED PRODUCT:
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img052.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img053.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img054.jpg)[/img]
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This is a model of the buses i remember from my childhood in my area, made by a local model shop. The fare cost 2d ::)
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i247/mysticfred/bs02front1.jpg)
Thought it was a real bus at first :y
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Thanks for posting these photos of my former bus Kev :y
The finished job was totally brush-painted and then over-varnished, again by brush.
The penultimate photo is of my former MD and myself stood in front of the bus.
He was a top bloke, who put the Companies' facilities at my disposal, and even gave me the keys to the depot.
The final shot is of myself and Mrs Sethsmate relaxing at a steam rally near Chippenham.
She helped me wherever possible - even breaking her finger nails assisting me changing the radiator!
For the technically minded:
Chassis: AEC 'Reliance 505' 6MU3R
Body: Willowbrook 45-seat BET-style
Engine: AEC's own 8.2 litre AH505 unit - 154BHP version
Transmission: AEC's own D171 5-speed synchromesh 'box and 4.7:1 ratio differential.
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Sorry mate, I oviously missed the technical bit . :-[ It looks good though :y
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No problem bud :y
I'll add that this bus was very economical to run.
Locally, she'd always return 13/14mpg.
On a non-motorway run to Manchester, she covered the 212 miles consuming a frugal 10.5 gallons of diesel.
In fact, a Reliance 505 was about as good as you got for 'local bus' work.
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Funnily enough, I have a bus too!!!!!
Its a Leyland "swift" converted to a luxury 4 berth motorhome, with 4ltr six cyl cummins, with a 3 sp auto box, and returns 20 mpg anywhere.
Took me 2 years to convert, and now I have to sell it to make up the 25% deposit on a new house (boo-hoo).
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Funnily enough, I have a bus too!!!!!
Its a Leyland "swift" converted to a luxury 4 berth motorhome, with 4ltr six cyl cummins, with a 3 sp auto box, and returns 20 mpg anywhere.
Took me 2 years to convert, and now I have to sell it to make up the 25% deposit on a new house (boo-hoo).
Like this one?
http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/9/9d/Leyland_Swift.jpg
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Nice one! Loos like Kos airport??? :-/
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Sorry Kev, but it's the Channel Islands here! :y
It seems that these Leyland Swifts were not paricularly happy bunnies here in the UK.
That said, their 7'6" width would be useful over there.
Mainland operators didn't seem to keep them for long.
:(
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Sorry Kev, but it's the Channel Islands here! :y
It seems that these Leyland Swifts were not paricularly happy bunnies here in the UK.
That said, their 7'6" width would be useful over there.
Mainland operators didn't seem to keep them for long.
:(
May be wish full thinking then on my part Byron, as it looks nice and sunny there. :y
Fed up with this crap weather :( :(
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Yep Di, EXACTLY like that one, only white, and now has lounge, toilet, shower, kitchen, and dining room areas!!
(oh, and only 9 seats..................)
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Yep Di, EXACTLY like that one, only white, and now has lounge, toilet, shower, kitchen, and dining room areas!!
(oh, and only 9 seats..................)
Bodywork by Wadham Stringer I believe?
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Yes'm!!
Has two walled and wallpapered seperate bedrooms, one with 4'6" double bed, and the other with full size pine single bed, kitchen with fullsize fridge freezer and proper gas cooker on lpg, microwave, and all the toys like flat screen tv's and freeview in all rooms!!
And I've got to sell it.............(sob)
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Yes'm!!
Has two walled and wallpapered seperate bedrooms, one with 4'6" double bed, and the other with full size pine single bed, kitchen with fullsize fridge freezer and proper gas cooker on lpg, microwave, and all the toys like flat screen tv's and freeview in all rooms!!
And I've got to sell it.............(sob)
That is worth seeing some pics of young man. I remember driving one of them for Martin Howarth. He was a big noise in 60 60, but Gareth always knew who was boss, and it was not Martin.
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When you come over to get car kit done, I'll show you it.
Havent got any "fifshed" pictures, just w.i.p ones from two years ago to about six months ago. Its taken me two years of evenings and weekends to get it ready to be m.o.t'd and used!!
Seriously, "young man"???...........i'm a year older than you!!!
(but I love being called young)
you're a sweetie, Di. xx
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Got to get my teeth in.....I meant "finished", sorry.
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Yes'm!!
Has two walled and wallpapered seperate bedrooms, one with 4'6" double bed, and the other with full size pine single bed, kitchen with fullsize fridge freezer and proper gas cooker on lpg, microwave, and all the toys like flat screen tv's and freeview in all rooms!!
And I've got to sell it.............(sob)
That is worth seeing some pics of young man. I remember driving one of them for Martin Howarth. He was a big noise in 60 60, but Gareth always knew who was boss, and it was not Martin.
Wasn't he a former Merthyr Corporation bus fitter, who left to start the Silverline operation?
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Yes'm!!
Has two walled and wallpapered seperate bedrooms, one with 4'6" double bed, and the other with full size pine single bed, kitchen with fullsize fridge freezer and proper gas cooker on lpg, microwave, and all the toys like flat screen tv's and freeview in all rooms!!
And I've got to sell it.............(sob)
That is worth seeing some pics of young man. I remember driving one of them for Martin Howarth. He was a big noise in 60 60, but Gareth always knew who was boss, and it was not Martin.
Wasn't he a former Merthyr Corporation bus fitter, who left to start the Silverline operation?
You got him. That went tits up and he now works for Silverline again, actually called 1st Call Silverline, they took over the Merthyr Swansea route couple years ago after Stagecoach said it was not viable.
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Bloody Hell!! isn't it a small world...................bought mine from a garage in carlyle, drove it home overnight from there. found out since it was a northern ireland bus, and before that a channel island one from jersey. BUT......I was put on to the bloke i bought it from by Martin after a chance conversation in the bus depot..........!!
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Yes'm!!
Has two walled and wallpapered seperate bedrooms, one with 4'6" double bed, and the other with full size pine single bed, kitchen with fullsize fridge freezer and proper gas cooker on lpg, microwave, and all the toys like flat screen tv's and freeview in all rooms!!
And I've got to sell it.............(sob)
That is worth seeing some pics of young man. I remember driving one of them for Martin Howarth. He was a big noise in 60 60, but Gareth always knew who was boss, and it was not Martin.
Gareth Handy of 60-60 coaches ..........
Have you heard of a chap from Troedyrhiw by the name of Glyn Bowen?
Some years back he had a bus in 60-60s depot for spares. I went there and removed the gearbox for a friend's Leyland Tiger Cub. That same gearbox has now been further transplanted into a Stratford Blue Leyland Leopard.
Tidy bunch of chaps at 60-60 - even gave us a shout for a cuppa :y
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I know GLYN Bowen VERY VERY VERY well, He was responsible for giving me my 1st taxi licence. He was licencing officer for Merthyr Council, retired about 6 -7 years ago.
Always at the Merthyr bus show.
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Hi you bus anoraks
You know who I mean AKA :-
sethsmate :y
onherown :y
sixstring :y
See this link
http://www.truckandbusforum.com/forumdisplay.php?f=9
and this
http://tangytango.proboards.com/index.cgi
and this
http://sickcert.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=viewprofile&user=admin
and this
http://www.busandcoachforum.net/
and this from the USA
http://www.britishbusclub.org/
These should keep you amused :y :y :y :y :y
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I know GLYN Bowen VERY VERY VERY well, He was responsible for giving me my 1st taxi licence. He was licencing officer for Merthyr Council, retired about 6 -7 years ago.
Always at the Merthyr bus show.
That's the fella :y :y :y :y :y
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Yes'm!!
Has two walled and wallpapered seperate bedrooms, one with 4'6" double bed, and the other with full size pine single bed, kitchen with fullsize fridge freezer and proper gas cooker on lpg, microwave, and all the toys like flat screen tv's and freeview in all rooms!!
And I've got to sell it.............(sob)
That is worth seeing some pics of young man. I remember driving one of them for Martin Howarth. He was a big noise in 60 60, but Gareth always knew who was boss, and it was not Martin.
Gareth Handy of 60-60 coaches ..........
Have you heard of a chap from Troedyrhiw by the name of Glyn Bowen?
Some years back he had a bus in 60-60s depot for spares. I went there and removed the gearbox for a friend's Leyland Tiger Cub. That same gearbox has now been further transplanted into a Stratford Blue Leyland Leopard.
Tidy bunch of chaps at 60-60 - even gave us a shout for a cuppa :y
I remember when Gareth lived in the GURNOS. As far as I know he still does. All that money, all them coaches and he lived in the Gurnos. It takes all sorts.
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Hi you bus anoraks
You know who I mean AKA :-
sethsmate :y
onherown :y
sixstring :y
See this link
http://www.truckandbusforum.com/forumdisplay.php?f=9
and this
http://tangytango.proboards.com/index.cgi
and this
http://sickcert.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=viewprofile&user=admin
and this
http://www.busandcoachforum.net/
and this from the USA
http://www.britishbusclub.org/
These should keep you amused :y :y :y :y :y
Forgot to add this
http://www.games2win.com/en/car/play-london_bus.asp
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Hi you bus anoraks
You know who I mean AKA :-
sethsmate :y
onherown :y
sixstring :y
See this link
http://www.truckandbusforum.com/forumdisplay.php?f=9
and this
http://tangytango.proboards.com/index.cgi
and this
http://sickcert.proboards.com/index.cgi?action=viewprofile&user=admin
and this
http://www.busandcoachforum.net/
and this from the USA
http://www.britishbusclub.org/
These should keep you amused :y :y :y :y :y
Be careful now fella!
You don't wanna go upsetting the Valleys folk ..........
Just remember who started this topic pal 8-)
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I've been reading you posts with interest, not having a go. I posted the links for your entertainment.
The four buses in one picture was taken at the Llandudno steam rally( which one of you mentioned) last year They had some old cars there too, most of which I have owned or wished I'd had!
I wasn't taking the pee, honest Byron! ;) ;) ;) ;)
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Talking of buses and taxi's in Merthyr, wer'nt we?
I think Merthyr has the fastest Taxi in the UK.
1st Call taxi's have a licensed SUBARU IMPREZA for TAXI use, and it is used everyday, in fact my son was just in it, and from where you comee on the Heads of the Valleys at Rocky Road to the bridge going to Pant they were doing 110 mph, MENTAL. SHOULD never have been plated.
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I've been reading you posts with interest, not having a go. I posted the links for your entertainment.
The four buses in one picture was taken at the Llandudno steam rally( which one of you mentioned) last year They had some old cars there too, most of which I have owned or wished I'd had!
I wasn't taking the pee, honest Byron! ;) ;) ;) ;)
Aye, okay Kev, you fell for that wind-up mate ;D
Try looking at this website:
www.wellandsteamrally.co.uk
We make a holiday of it, and being a member, I'm a campsite steward at the event.
Easy to get to from The Wirral too!
:y
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I've been reading you posts with interest, not having a go. I posted the links for your entertainment.
The four buses in one picture was taken at the Llandudno steam rally( which one of you mentioned) last year They had some old cars there too, most of which I have owned or wished I'd had!
I wasn't taking the pee, honest Byron! ;) ;) ;) ;)
Aye, okay Kev, you fell for that wind-up mate ;D
Try looking at this website:
www.wellandsteamrally.co.uk
We make a holiday of it, and being a member, I'm a campsite steward at the event.
Easy to get to from The Wirral too!
:y
£10 quid to get in, blo*dy hell, do you get a free steam engine with that. ;) ;)
Joking apart might give it a go, I love steam rallies :y
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There arent any pictures of my old school bus - we burnt it. ;D ;D ;D
Oh those far off innocent schooldays in Belfast. :)
were you anywhere near Wales at the weekend?
Doug
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I've been reading you posts with interest, not having a go. I posted the links for your entertainment.
The four buses in one picture was taken at the Llandudno steam rally( which one of you mentioned) last year They had some old cars there too, most of which I have owned or wished I'd had!
I wasn't taking the pee, honest Byron! ;) ;) ;) ;)
Aye, okay Kev, you fell for that wind-up mate ;D
Try looking at this website:
www.wellandsteamrally.co.uk
We make a holiday of it, and being a member, I'm a campsite steward at the event.
Easy to get to from The Wirral too!
:y
£10 quid to get in, blo*dy hell, do you get a free steam engine with that. ;) ;)
Joking apart might give it a go, I love steam rallies :y
Is there camping facilities there as we could bring the caravan? Need hook up tho'. :y
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We could even organise a Miggy meet. Its quite central for quite a few OOF members :y
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I've been reading you posts with interest, not having a go. I posted the links for your entertainment.
The four buses in one picture was taken at the Llandudno steam rally( which one of you mentioned) last year They had some old cars there too, most of which I have owned or wished I'd had!
I wasn't taking the pee, honest Byron! ;) ;) ;) ;)
Aye, okay Kev, you fell for that wind-up mate ;D
Try looking at this website:
www.wellandsteamrally.co.uk
We make a holiday of it, and being a member, I'm a campsite steward at the event.
Easy to get to from The Wirral too!
:y
£10 quid to get in, blo*dy hell, do you get a free steam engine with that. ;) ;)
Joking apart might give it a go, I love steam rallies :y
Is there camping facilities there as we could bring the caravan? Need hook up tho'. :y
Go back to the website, and look at 'Accomodation'
Full details there - however - there's a MASSIVE DISCOUNT if a group of ten camping units book-in as a club.
It's our AGM tomorrow evening, and I'll be in a position to confirm further on Wednesday.
It would be great to have a few OOFers there, and I'll make a post very soon.
:y
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We could even organise a Miggy meet. Its quite central for quite a few OOF members :y
All under control Kev - see my post mate. :y
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We could even organise a Miggy meet. Its quite central for quite a few OOF members :y
All under control Kev - see my post mate. :y
Where, in meetings? :-/
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/889aax02.jpg)[/img]
Is this a Leyland Tiger cub that you guy's were talking about? 8-)
See' now I'm getting to be a bus anorak :'(
More pics of Welsh Buses on this link
http://www.showbus.com/gallery/wales/index.html
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We could even organise a Miggy meet. Its quite central for quite a few OOF members :y
All under control Kev - see my post mate. :y
Where, in meetings? :-/
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/889aax02.jpg)[/img]
Is this a Leyland Tiger cub that you guy's were talking about? 8-)
See' now I'm getting to be a bus anorak :'(
More pics of Welsh Buses on this link
http://www.showbus.com/gallery/wales/index.html
OOOPS, you guy's were talking about Leyland Swifts. ::)
http://mike323.photos.me.uk/
Hundreds of different welsh buses on this site :y
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http://mike323.photos.me.uk/p58492437.html
I used to drive this coach on Merthyr Cardiff every day.
Now that brings back memories.
D.
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http://mike323.photos.me.uk/p58492437.html
I used to drive this coach on Merthyr Cardiff every day.
Now that brings back memories.
D.
How long ago was that then? ::)
Well, I'm also glad I found something local for you guy's. :y
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You're a real girly then Di............!!
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You're a real girly then Di............!!
Down boy.............behave! ;) ;) ;)
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;D all this talk of busses and no one has said" I HATE YOU BUTLER" !
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We could even organise a Miggy meet. Its quite central for quite a few OOF members :y
All under control Kev - see my post mate. :y
Where, in meetings? :-/
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/889aax02.jpg)[/img]
Is this a Leyland Tiger cub that you guy's were talking about? 8-)
See' now I'm getting to be a bus anorak :'(
More pics of Welsh Buses on this link
http://www.showbus.com/gallery/wales/index.html
That's the jobbie Kev!
This particular bus was one of three with semi-automatic transmissions that were originally an export order for Trinidad that fell through.
The trio was snapped-up by our subsidiary company, Jones Omnibus Services of Aberbeeg, and has the ubiquitous Weymann 'Hermes' 44-seat body.
The parent Western Welsh Omnibus Company, (where I served my apprenticeship, and stayed on for 18 years), had the largest fleet of Tiger Cubs in the world. No less than 180 outwardly-similar Weymann-bodied Cubs were delivered in several batches from 1953 onwards. The final batch of Tiger Cubs arrived in 1968, at which point nearly 300 of this model had entered service.
All the Western Welsh ones had the Albion constant-mesh gearbox though.
I could take a Tiger Cub apart with my eyes shut! :y
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;D all this talk of busses and no one has said" I HATE YOU BUTLER" !
None of us are old enough to remember that..........what was the programme? ::) ::) :D :D :D ;) ;)
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http://mike323.photos.me.uk/p58492437.html
I used to drive this coach on Merthyr Cardiff every day.
Now that brings back memories.
D.
Ah ....... The Leyland 'Royal Tiger Doyen' integral (ie. chassisless construction).
Not Leyland Bus' most successful offering, though with well-proven and familiar running gear.
Horizontally-mounted Leyland TL11H engine at the rear, driving through the renowned ZF S6-80 'box.
I think that this particular coach was a former demonstrator.
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;D all this talk of busses and no one has said" I HATE YOU BUTLER" !
None of us are old enough to remember that..........what was the programme? ::) ::) :D :D :D ;) ;)
I am :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/HolidayOnTheBuses061.gif)[/img]
And there you go :yRedelitev6
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PM sent Kev. :y
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Had the privilege of working on one of that type of Buses when I was an apprentise ;) although they do remind me of On the Buses ;D
I still have every episode, including the B/W ones, and the three movies, brilliant.
A bit of useless info, the actress who played the mother, Doris Hare, (not Ceclily Courtlidge, who only played 'mam in the 1st series) went to school with my grandmother, St Gwladys School Bargoed.
'On the buses' was filmed using Eastern National's Wood Green depot.
The earlier series (with red-liveried buses) featured Bristol KSW5Gs with lowbridge ECW open-platform bodies.
Later episodes (green-liveried buses) featured late-model Bristol Lodekka FLF6LXs, whose usual domain was ENOC's flagship London-Southend service.
Splendid vehicles with semi-automatic transmissions.
:y
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Had the privilege of working on one of that type of Buses when I was an apprentise ;) although they do remind me of On the Buses ;D
I still have every episode, including the B/W ones, and the three movies, brilliant.
A bit of useless info, the actress who played the mother, Doris Hare, (not Ceclily Courtlidge, who only played 'mam in the 1st series) went to school with my grandmother, St Gwladys School Bargoed.
'On the buses' was filmed using Eastern National's Wood Green depot.
The earlier series (with red-liveried buses) featured Bristol KSW5Gs with lowbridge ECW open-platform bodies.
Later episodes (green-liveried buses) featured late-model Bristol Lodekka FLF6LXs, whose usual domain was ENOC's flagship London-Southend service.
Splendid vehicles with semi-automatic transmissions.
:y
Found this:-
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/onthebusestitle1.jpg)[/img]
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I have spent over an hour looking at all the bus photo's on the link given...... :-[ :-[ :-[ but I enjoyed looking...... :y
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Had the privilege of working on one of that type of Buses when I was an apprentise ;) although they do remind me of On the Buses ;D
I still have every episode, including the B/W ones, and the three movies, brilliant.
A bit of useless info, the actress who played the mother, Doris Hare, (not Ceclily Courtlidge, who only played 'mam in the 1st series) went to school with my grandmother, St Gwladys School Bargoed.
'On the buses' was filmed using Eastern National's Wood Green depot.
The earlier series (with red-liveried buses) featured Bristol KSW5Gs with lowbridge ECW open-platform bodies.
Later episodes (green-liveried buses) featured late-model Bristol Lodekka FLF6LXs, whose usual domain was ENOC's flagship London-Southend service.
Splendid vehicles with semi-automatic transmissions.
:y
Found this:-
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/onthebusestitle1.jpg)[/img]
And this from Wiki :-
THE BUSES
The red "Town & District" buses were Bristol KSWs with Eastern Coachworks bodies. These were ex Eastern National. Stan and Jack's "regular" bus appeared to be VNO 857.
The Green "Luxton & District" buses were Bristol Lodekkas with bodywork by Eastern Coach Works of Lowestoft. In reality these were Eastern National buses (in some episodes buses could be seen with Eastern National on the side), although as mentioned earlier, some of those in the interior depot shots were in fact "dummy" buses. Some "dummy" buses were real single deck buses with a wooden frame on top, such as in the episode Series 3 Episode Radio Control, when the bus has crashed into the bridge. The most commonly used bus in the series was AVW 399F.
The open top bus in 'Holiday on the Buses was XFM 229, a Bristol LD new to Crosville Motor Services.
The bus at the safari park in 'Mutiny on the Buses' was NRN 607, a Leyland Atlantean/Metro Cammell, new to Ribble Motor Services.
:y
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Had the privilege of working on one of that type of Buses when I was an apprentise ;) although they do remind me of On the Buses ;D
I still have every episode, including the B/W ones, and the three movies, brilliant.
A bit of useless info, the actress who played the mother, Doris Hare, (not Ceclily Courtlidge, who only played 'mam in the 1st series) went to school with my grandmother, St Gwladys School Bargoed.
'On the buses' was filmed using Eastern National's Wood Green depot.
The earlier series (with red-liveried buses) featured Bristol KSW5Gs with lowbridge ECW open-platform bodies.
Later episodes (green-liveried buses) featured late-model Bristol Lodekka FLF6LXs, whose usual domain was ENOC's flagship London-Southend service.
Splendid vehicles with semi-automatic transmissions.
:y
Found this:-
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/onthebusestitle1.jpg)[/img]
And this from Wiki :-
THE BUSES
The red "Town & District" buses were Bristol KSWs with Eastern Coachworks bodies. These were ex Eastern National. Stan and Jack's "regular" bus appeared to be VNO 857.
The Green "Luxton & District" buses were Bristol Lodekkas with bodywork by Eastern Coach Works of Lowestoft. In reality these were Eastern National buses (in some episodes buses could be seen with Eastern National on the side), although as mentioned earlier, some of those in the interior depot shots were in fact "dummy" buses. Some "dummy" buses were real single deck buses with a wooden frame on top, such as in the episode Series 3 Episode Radio Control, when the bus has crashed into the bridge. The most commonly used bus in the series was AVW 399F.
The open top bus in 'Holiday on the Buses was XFM 229, a Bristol LD new to Crosville Motor Services.
The bus at the safari park in 'Mutiny on the Buses' was NRN 607, a Leyland Atlantean/Metro Cammell, new to Ribble Motor Services.
:y
Yes indeed, Ribble and the associated Standerwick company built-up a sizeable fleet of these.
Christened 'Gay Hostesses' by the company, they were put into service on their Lancashire-London express services.
The chassis also featured air suspension, the higher-powered 0.680 engine, (as opposed to the usual 0.600), and higher-ratio diffs.
Outwardly similar vehicles of a lower spec were used on their substantial 'limited stop' service network.
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Can you equate to the reg mumbers in any way. Is there a way of tracing them :-? :-?
-
Can you equate to the reg mumbers in any way. Is there a way of tracing them :-? :-?
I'd imagine that the PSV Circle would have comprehensive records.
Or the Ribble Preservation Trust possibly.
:y
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Can you equate to the reg mumbers in any way. Is there a way of tracing them :-? :-?
I'd imagine that the PSV Circle would have comprehensive records.
Or the Ribble Preservation Trust possibly.
:y
Just thought that you may be able to trace those buses, see if they are still going. :y
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The open top bus in 'Holiday on the Buses was XFM 229, a Bristol LD new to Crosville Motor Services.
:y[/quote]
IIRC this was in fact the comparatively rare 30' LDL variant.
Was the location Butlins at Pwllheli, or Pontins at Prestatyn?
;)
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The open top bus in 'Holiday on the Buses was XFM 229, a Bristol LD new to Crosville Motor Services.
:y
IIRC this was in fact the comparatively rare 30' LDL variant.
Was the location Butlins at Pwllheli, or Pontins at Prestatyn?
;)
[/quote]
FM reg, the bus has got to have come from Chester, so could be either :-/ :-/
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The open top bus in 'Holiday on the Buses was XFM 229, a Bristol LD new to Crosville Motor Services.
:y
IIRC this was in fact the comparatively rare 30' LDL variant.
Was the location Butlins at Pwllheli, or Pontins at Prestatyn?
;)
[/quote]
It was Pontins at Prestatyn
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FM reg, the bus has got to have come from Chester, so could be either :-/ :-/
[/quote]
That's correct mate!
Crosville, like many of the big concerns pursued a policy of registering it's buses centrally at head office (Chester).
Similarly, Western Welsh registered all it's new buses at Cardiff (with BO, KG or UH).
However, our associated Rhondda Transport registered it's deliveries with Glamorgan suffixes (NY, TG or TX). RTC being based at Porth.
:y
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Merthyr Council buses were registered withthe local HB, as in HB 1 which is still on the Mayor's limosine. I remember The late Tony Hart painting a car and he put HB1 on the car he painted, (Hart Beat 1) and the BBC were forced to offer an apology.
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Can you really remember that???
Bristol's mayor has "AE1" on his official car, but my uncle has AE2,AE4,and AE6, but unfortunately AE5 was written off and disposed of before the plate could be transferred off of it. Dunno what became of AE5, they were originally all on Bristol milkfloats owned by Unigate I was told.
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Can you equate to the reg mumbers in any way. Is there a way of tracing them :-? :-?
I'd imagine that the PSV Circle would have comprehensive records.
Or the Ribble Preservation Trust possibly.
:y
Try looking at these:
http://www.rvpt.org/standerwick-25.htm
http://www.rvpt.org/p1.htm
:y
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Can you equate to the reg mumbers in any way. Is there a way of tracing them :-? :-?
I'd imagine that the PSV Circle would have comprehensive records.
Or the Ribble Preservation Trust possibly.
:y
Try looking at these:
http://www.rvpt.org/standerwick-25.htm
http://www.rvpt.org/p1.htm
:y
An old yellow Wallesey Corp Bus in the front, followed by a Birkenhead Corp Bus :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/3959761339_f9c339cace1.jpg)[/img]
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If I remember, I will get some pics of the buses at the heritage centre at the weekend
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I just looked at that pic, and some were taken in FRECKLETON. Now that brings back memories because my grandparents lived in Freckleton and I lived with them for a short while.
My grandad was Steward of Freckleton Sports and Social club, and my grandmother was warden of Naze court. I dragged an unconsious lady out of her flat in Croft Court one sunday morning as her flat was on fire, got a mention in local paper for that.
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Nice site full of buses and coaches from all over the UK
http://mainlybus.photos.gb.com/list_collections.php :y :y
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Hey Smethsmate
Any news yet on the discount for Miggies from OOF yet? :y
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Hey Smethsmate
Any news yet on the discount for Miggies from OOF yet? :y
PM sent as promised mate :y
Has also just been posted in 'Meetings etc' section on here 8-)
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Hey Smethsmate
Any news yet on the discount for Miggies from OOF yet? :y
PM sent as promised mate :y
Has also just been posted in 'Meetings etc' section on here 8-)
No PM as yet :'(
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Hey Smethsmate
Any news yet on the discount for Miggies from OOF yet? :y
PM sent as promised mate :y
Has also just been posted in 'Meetings etc' section on here 8-)
No PM as yet :'(
I bet he forgot to put the phucking stamp on it.
He is from MAESTEG after all
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Hey Smethsmate
Any news yet on the discount for Miggies from OOF yet? :y
PM sent as promised mate :y
Has also just been posted in 'Meetings etc' section on here 8-)
No PM as yet :'(
I bet he forgot to put the phucking stamp on it.
He is from MAESTEG after all
Calls me mate then lets me down, some mate!!! ;) ;) ;) ;) ;D
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[size=14]Can any of you " Bus Anoraks " or " BAs " for short, name these types of buses[/size]
Bus One
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img121.jpg)[/img]
Bus Two
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img120.jpg)[/img]
No prize but you can gloat and call yourself a Smart a**se BA 8-) 8-) 8-) :y
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Ahhh ...........
If ever there was a classic Western Welsh bus, then this is what we're looking at folks!
Both are Leyland Tiger Cubs with Weymann 'Hermes' 44-seat all-metal bodies, and are two examples from an order that totalled 180 near-identical buses delivered between 1953 and 1957.
Photo 2 shows fleet no 1026 laying-over at Station Square, Neath. This was one of those that entered service in 1953. The 1953/4 bodies had an angular cantrail profile above the side windows, and their registrations were HUH or JBO prefixed.
Photo 1 shows 1177 at Cardiff's Central Bus Station blinded-up for the three-hour trek westwards to distant Ammanford. It's another Tiger Cub/Weymann, and being MUH-prefixed, entered service in 1957. Note the curved cantrail profile. This route was the hourly flagship 301 limited-stop service, which extended to Carmarthen on a two-hourly basis.
If you look closely aft of the driver's window, you'll see the fleet number with a coloured diamond positioned above that. The colour denoted the vehicle's home depot - 1026 would have almost certainly displayed a red one, being allocated to Neath. Judging by the lightness of 1177's diamond, I reckon that it's fair to assume that it was orange, and therefore based at Cardiff (Penarth Road).
8-)
Phew - anyone wanna know more?
-
Ahhh ...........
If ever there was a classic Western Welsh bus, then this is what we're looking at folks!
Both are Leyland Tiger Cubs with Weymann 'Hermes' 44-seat all-metal bodies, and are two examples from an order that totalled 180 near-identical buses delivered between 1953 and 1957.
Photo 2 shows fleet no 1026 laying-over at Station Square, Neath. This was one of those that entered service in 1953. The 1953/4 bodies had an angular cantrail profile above the side windows, and their registrations were HUH or JBO prefixed.
Photo 1 shows 1177 at Cardiff's Central Bus Station blinded-up for the three-hour trek westwards to distant Ammanford. It's another Tiger Cub/Weymann, and being MUH-prefixed, entered service in 1957. Note the curved cantrail profile. This route was the hourly flagship 301 limited-stop service, which extended to Carmarthen on a two-hourly basis.
If you look closely aft of the driver's window, you'll see the fleet number with a coloured diamond positioned above that. The colour denoted the vehicle's home depot - 1026 would have almost certainly displayed a red one, being allocated to Neath. Judging by the lightness of 1177's diamond, I reckon that it's fair to assume that it was orange, and therefore based at Cardiff (Penarth Road).
8-)
Phew - anyone wanna know more?
There you go Byron................ BA Honours :y :y :y
-
Ahhh ...........
If ever there was a classic Western Welsh bus, then this is what we're looking at folks!
Both are Leyland Tiger Cubs with Weymann 'Hermes' 44-seat all-metal bodies, and are two examples from an order that totalled 180 near-identical buses delivered between 1953 and 1957.
Photo 2 shows fleet no 1026 laying-over at Station Square, Neath. This was one of those that entered service in 1953. The 1953/4 bodies had an angular cantrail profile above the side windows, and their registrations were HUH or JBO prefixed.
Photo 1 shows 1177 at Cardiff's Central Bus Station blinded-up for the three-hour trek westwards to distant Ammanford. It's another Tiger Cub/Weymann, and being MUH-prefixed, entered service in 1957. Note the curved cantrail profile. This route was the hourly flagship 301 limited-stop service, which extended to Carmarthen on a two-hourly basis.
If you look closely aft of the driver's window, you'll see the fleet number with a coloured diamond positioned above that. The colour denoted the vehicle's home depot - 1026 would have almost certainly displayed a red one, being allocated to Neath. Judging by the lightness of 1177's diamond, I reckon that it's fair to assume that it was orange, and therefore based at Cardiff (Penarth Road).
8-)
Phew - anyone wanna know more?
There you go Byron................ BA Honours :y :y :y
But tell me this..................
Regarding the system of coloured diamonds that are on the buses above the fleet numbers. How many colours and depots were in the Western Welsh empire!
Gotchya, ;) I've done my homework on this :y
-
Ahhh ...........
If ever there was a classic Western Welsh bus, then this is what we're looking at folks!
Both are Leyland Tiger Cubs with Weymann 'Hermes' 44-seat all-metal bodies, and are two examples from an order that totalled 180 near-identical buses delivered between 1953 and 1957.
Photo 2 shows fleet no 1026 laying-over at Station Square, Neath. This was one of those that entered service in 1953. The 1953/4 bodies had an angular cantrail profile above the side windows, and their registrations were HUH or JBO prefixed.
Photo 1 shows 1177 at Cardiff's Central Bus Station blinded-up for the three-hour trek westwards to distant Ammanford. It's another Tiger Cub/Weymann, and being MUH-prefixed, entered service in 1957. Note the curved cantrail profile. This route was the hourly flagship 301 limited-stop service, which extended to Carmarthen on a two-hourly basis.
If you look closely aft of the driver's window, you'll see the fleet number with a coloured diamond positioned above that. The colour denoted the vehicle's home depot - 1026 would have almost certainly displayed a red one, being allocated to Neath. Judging by the lightness of 1177's diamond, I reckon that it's fair to assume that it was orange, and therefore based at Cardiff (Penarth Road).
8-)
Phew - anyone wanna know more?
There you go Byron................ BA Honours :y :y :y
But tell me this..................
Regarding the system of coloured diamonds that are on the buses above the fleet numbers. How many colours and depots were in the Western Welsh empire!
Gotchya, ;) I've done my homework on this :y
A fiver say he know's................ :y
-
A fiver say he know's................
Your right, didn't think any different really............. :(
-
A fiver say he know's................
Your right, didn't think any different really............. :(
Just let me know when to PM my Paypal details...... :D :D :D
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i would like to say thanks guys for bringing back all the old memorys of buses and coaches .i past my psv test on a pd2 in 1972 .nottingham city transport .we use to call them backenders .they have crash gearboxes .you had to double the clutch when changeing gear. no power steering in them days .the windsceen use to open forward nice inthe summer .you had to be carefull when you got in because some times you could not find the gearstick ? it was up your trouser leg .i drove buses and coaches fo twenty nine fantastic years .brilliant job .i pack it in because i could not stand people talking behind my back? :D ;D ;D :y
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Very nice too!! :-* :-* :-* :-*
My childhood always comes fooding back when I see those type of buses 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
mine comes back when i see a 1998 S reg ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Very nice too!! :-* :-* :-* :-*
My childhood always comes fooding back when I see those type of buses 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
mine comes back when i see a 1998 S reg ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Rug Rat....... :D :D :D
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i would like to say thanks guys for bringing back all the old memorys of buses and coaches .i past my psv test on a pd2 in 1972 .nottingham city transport .we use to call them backenders .they have crash gearboxes .you had to double the clutch when changeing gear. no power steering in them days .the windsceen use to open forward nice inthe summer .you had to be carefull when you got in because some times you could not find the gearstick ? it was up your trouser leg .i drove buses and coaches fo twenty nine fantastic years .brilliant job .i pack it in because i could not stand people talking behind my back? :D ;D ;D :y
Suppose you have been going through all the links for the past couple of days ;) ;) ;) :y
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A fiver say he know's................
Your right, didn't think any different really............. :(
Just let me know when to PM my Paypal details...... :D :D :D
Hey, looks like I've got him :y He hasn't answered yet ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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yes some nice buses i am not an anorak .still like looking at them driven a few in my time on the continent .i never had a bump or got done for anything .i have taken a few celebs around ! roy wood .lionel blair bugger wouldant stop dancing .we had a contract with central tv and use to take the cast and extras out on location .one was shine on harvey moon can you remember that one sp?took them to loughborough they was filming on the steam train at the railway museum.i have also done a fair bit on the mecanical side .immet byron at the newent meet last year .he has been around a bit good lad we had the same colour migs :y . :y
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yes some nice buses i am not an anorak .still like looking at them driven a few in my time on the continent .i never had a bump or got done for anything .i have taken a few celebs around ! roy wood .lionel blair bugger wouldant stop dancing .we had a contract with central tv and use to take the cast and extras out on location .one was shine on harvey moon can you remember that one sp?took them to loughborough they was filming on the steam train at the railway museum.i have also done a fair bit on the mecanical side .immet byron at the newent meet last year .he has been around a bit good lad we had the same colour migs :y . :y
Are you going to Wellands, Byron is trying to organise an OOF meeting there. See " Meetings " as he has posted the arrangements on there. We're taking the caravan and going to stay over for a couple of nights :y :y
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not sure yet i will have to have a look. i am having head gasket problems with my miggy and i havent had much time to sort her out yet .you no starts up lumpy and steam comin from the exhaust. i am disabled so i am a bit slow getting things done i will have to let you no ? :y
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not sure yet i will have to have a look. i am having head gasket problems with my miggy and i havent had much time to sort her out yet .you no starts up lumpy and steam comin from the exhaust. i am disabled so i am a bit slow getting things done i will have to let you no ? :y
I have probs with my car too, but I will sort it out by then. I hope :y
-
But tell me this..................
Regarding the system of coloured diamonds that are on the buses above the fleet numbers. How many colours and depots were in the Western Welsh empire!
Gotchya, ;) I've done my homework on this :y
If we take the mid-1960s, (just before I started working for WW), there were some 20 depots situated across a large swathe of southern Wales.
The total fleet strength was around 560 buses.
If you drew an imaginary line from Aberystwyth to Hereford, then another line south to Newport, then the area bounded by it was Western Welsh territory. The only exclusion was Swansea and the Gower peninsular - this area was the preserve of the South Wales Transport and United Welsh concerns.
A system of coloured diamonds was used to denote the area to which a bus was allocated thus:
Green:
Ammanford, Carmarthen, Fishguard, Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Newcastle Emlyn, New Quay, St David's.
Blue:
Bridgend, Kenfig Hill, Port Talbot.
Red:
Aberdare, Neath.
Grey:
Cross Keys, Cwmbran, Pontypool.
Black:
Barry.
White:
Brecon.
Orange:
Cardiff (Penarth Road).
Interestingly, the coach fleet never carried the coloured diamonds, and was generally based at the Head Office & Central Workshops at Cardiff (Ely).
Western Welsh was keen to support a thriving staff sports & social scene.
Accordingly, Bridgend's rugby team was fielded in a blue strip, with Haverfordwest's similarly in green, and so on.
-
But tell me this..................
Regarding the system of coloured diamonds that are on the buses above the fleet numbers. How many colours and depots were in the Western Welsh empire!
Gotchya, ;) I've done my homework on this :y
If we take the mid-1960s, (just before I started working for WW), there were some 20 depots situated across a large swathe of southern Wales.
The total fleet strength was around 560 buses.
If you drew an imaginary line from Aberystwyth to Hereford, then another line south to Newport, then the area bounded by it was Western Welsh territory. The only exclusion was Swansea and the Gower peninsular - this area was the preserve of the South Wales Transport and United Welsh concerns.
A system of coloured diamonds was used to denote the area to which a bus was allocated thus:
Green:
Ammanford, Carmarthen, Fishguard, Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Newcastle Emlyn, New Quay, St David's.
Blue:
Bridgend, Kenfig Hill, Port Talbot.
Red:
Aberdare, Neath.
Grey:
Cross Keys, Cwmbran, Pontypool.
Black:
Barry.
White:
Brecon.
Orange:
Cardiff (Penarth Road).
Interestingly, the coach fleet never carried the coloured diamonds, and was generally based at the Head Office & Central Workshops at Cardiff (Ely).
Western Welsh was keen to support a thriving staff sports & social scene.
Accordingly, Bridgend's rugby team was fielded in a blue strip, with Haverfordwest's similarly in green, and so on.
Close enough................ another BA Honours :y
Did you know that, during the war, the Western Welsh bus company had their own Home Guard Regiment. It was based in Barry 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
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Yes indeed come to think of it!
:y
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Yes indeed come to think of it!
:y
Couldn't find out much about the home guard at Barry but I found this site that may be of interest. :y
Its more buses ::)
http://www.bus-and-coach-photos.com/index.asp
:y :y :y :y
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Can anyone come up with anything about this bus? Where I got the picture, the people are looking for information on it!!! :y :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/12411.jpg)[/img]
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It's a Bedford OB with a Duple Vista body.
Usual seating capacity was 29 passengers.
Looks like this one has the optional sliding roof.
-
Can anyone come up with anything about this bus? Where I got the picture, the people are looking for information on it!!! :y :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/12411.jpg)[/img]
In 1964/5 I went to school on a bus like that from Haselmere to Midhurst and back again!
A lovely cute coach :-* :-* :-*
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These were simplicity themselves!
28hp 4-cylinder OHV petrol engine.
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It's a Bedford OB with a Duple Vista body.
Usual seating capacity was 29 passengers.
Any idea where from, Reg number G*N 707? :y
-
Gotta be worth trying to Google GAN 707, then GBN 707 etc etc.
-
Gotta be worth trying to Google GAN 707, then GBN 707 etc etc.
Hmm, tried it - no luck!
:(
-
Gotta be worth trying to Google GAN 707, then GBN 707 etc etc.
Hmm, tried it - no luck!
:(
I tried all the possible combinations and it was not on any database. :'( :'( :'( :'(
-
Gotta be worth trying to Google GAN 707, then GBN 707 etc etc.
Hmm, tried it - no luck!
:(
It actually looks like the middle number is split and the front of the middle letter has fallen to wards the first letter????? :-? :-?
-
Gotta be worth trying to Google GAN 707, then GBN 707 etc etc.
Hmm, tried it - no luck!
:(
It actually looks like the middle number is split and the front of the middle letter has fallen to wards the first letter????? :-? :-?
I tried all possible combinations, All to no avail.
I believe there are a few vintage buses and coaches in Gwalia's yard in Merthyr, near the old Theatre Royal.
-
Gotta be worth trying to Google GAN 707, then GBN 707 etc etc.
Hmm, tried it - no luck!
:(
It actually looks like the middle number is split and the front of the middle letter has fallen to wards the first letter????? :-? :-?
I tried all possible combinations, All to no avail.
I believe there are a few vintage buses and coaches in Gwalia's yard in Merthyr, near the old Theatre Royal.
The 1st letter could be a C and the middle letter a D.
ie CDN 707 or GDN 707 :-/ :-/
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Another bus for you welsh Bus Anoraks. :y :y
Which one of you was the driver and which one the clippie? :-/ :y
What was the colour of the other Streets. ;) ;)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img122.jpg)[/img]
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All is not what it seems here .......
No 1233 is not a Leyland Tiger Cub at all.
It is in fact a Leyland Olympian, and one of 40 identical buses delivered in 1956, when the mass arrival of the 180 Weymann-bodied Tiger Cubs was still in full swing. These Olympians carried fleet numbers 1200-1239, and were registered LKG 200-239.
This photo was taken sometime in the mid-1960s, judging by the newer WW front motif, the 'boxed' WW side fleetname, and all-over dark red livery. Operational economies dictated the abolition of the cream waistbands with black lining-out. The location was Carmarthen, and judging by the destination display, 1233 was working on one of the town services, and would have therefore carried a green diamond.
The Olympian was a chassis-less version of the Tiger Cub, being a joint venture between Leyland Motors and Weymanns. The basic idea was to reduce the vehicle's unladen weight, and thereby increase fuel economy and improve operating costs. In reality, there was relatively little reduction in the unladen weight, and I distinctly recall that the Weymann-bodied Tiger Cubs tipped the scales at 5 tons, 14 cwt; 1 qt; unladen.
Although Western Welsh took more Olympians into stock in smaller numbers over the ensuing years, the Tiger Cub adequately satisfied the companies' requirements, and continued to be ordered in quantity right up until 1968.
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All is not what it seems here .......
No 1233 is not a Leyland Tiger Cub at all.
It is in fact a Leyland Olympian, and one of 40 identical buses delivered in 1956, when the mass arrival of the 180 Weymann-bodied Tiger Cubs was still in full swing. These Olympians carried fleet numbers 1200-1239, and were registered LKG 200-239.
This photo was taken sometime in the mid-1960s, judging by the newer WW front motif, the 'boxed' WW side fleetname, and all-over dark red livery. Operational economies dictated the abolition of the cream waistbands with black lining-out. The location was Carmarthen, and judging by the destination display, 1233 was working on one of the town services, and would have therefore carried a green diamond.
The Olympian was a chassis-less version of the Tiger Cub, being a joint venture between Leyland Motors and Weymanns. The basic idea was to reduce the vehicle's unladen weight, and thereby increase fuel economy and improve operating costs. In reality, there was relatively little reduction in the unladen weight, and I distinctly recall that the Weymann-bodied Tiger Cubs tipped the scales at 5 tons, 14 cwt; 1 qt; unladen.
Although Western Welsh took more Olympians into stock in smaller numbers over the ensuing years, the Tiger Cub adequately satisfied the companies' requirements, and continued to be ordered in quantity right up until 1968.
I didn't know what it was but I thought you might Byron :y
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Gotta be worth trying to Google GAN 707, then GBN 707 etc etc.
Hmm, tried it - no luck!
:(
It actually looks like the middle number is split and the front of the middle letter has fallen to wards the first letter????? :-? :-?
I tried all possible combinations, All to no avail.
I believe there are a few vintage buses and coaches in Gwalia's yard in Merthyr, near the old Theatre Royal.
I can recall these, as well as Morlais, Hills and R I Davies.
The latter concern being something of a pioneer in continental operations.
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New twist on this bus...............................where is it? ::)
And what they going to do with the building this year?
::)
Come on you BA's :y :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/24441.jpg)[/img]
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New twist on this bus...............................where is it? ::)
And what they going to do with the building this year?
::)
Come on you BA's :y :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/24441.jpg)[/img]
Well, I think I have seen the converted bus that is 'Towing' and the bus at the rear of the main bus is in my opinion an old RVDC bus. The rest of it I am at a loss. My ££££ are on Byron telling us. Is HWO a Newport Registration Number? I had a motorcycle from Newport (Blackwood) and the number on that was EWO177V, so my guess it is in the old Islwyn Borough Council Depot.
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In this clip of buses in my area you will see, soon after it starts, a No.51 bus. That bus is the actual one pictured at the start of this thread. Later in the clip you will see a No.58 bus turning to its right. There is a pub behind it, it is called The Three Stags, that is my local.
I live about 1/2 a mile from there, my wife thinks I live at the Stags.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FBjpUkH1Uuw
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Well, I think I have seen the converted bus that is 'Towing' and the bus at the rear of the main bus is in my opinion an old RVDC bus. The rest of it I am at a loss. My ££££ are on Byron telling us. Is HWO a Newport Registration Number? I had a motorcycle from Newport (Blackwood) and the number on that was EWO177V, so my guess it is in the old Islwyn Borough Council Depot.
I will have to give Sethsmate a chance, Di.
Clue for location......................... near an island.
Ps they have already converted the building, last year. Oooops :-[
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Well, I think I have seen the converted bus that is 'Towing' and the bus at the rear of the main bus is in my opinion an old RVDC bus. The rest of it I am at a loss. My ££££ are on Byron telling us. Is HWO a Newport Registration Number? I had a motorcycle from Newport (Blackwood) and the number on that was EWO177V, so my guess it is in the old Islwyn Borough Council Depot.
I will have to give Sethsmate a chance, Di.
Clue for location......................... near an island.
Ps they have already converted the building, last year. Oooops :-[
Gotta be BARRY then.
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Well, I think I have seen the converted bus that is 'Towing' and the bus at the rear of the main bus is in my opinion an old RVDC bus. The rest of it I am at a loss. My ££££ are on Byron telling us. Is HWO a Newport Registration Number? I had a motorcycle from Newport (Blackwood) and the number on that was EWO177V, so my guess it is in the old Islwyn Borough Council Depot.
I will have to give Sethsmate a chance, Di.
Clue for location......................... near an island.
Ps they have already converted the building, last year. Oooops :-[
Gotta be BARRY then.
Give that lady a prize :y
There is a link, which I will post soon, explaining :y
What did you think of my home town buses then? 8-) 8-)
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Well, I think I have seen the converted bus that is 'Towing' and the bus at the rear of the main bus is in my opinion an old RVDC bus. The rest of it I am at a loss. My ££££ are on Byron telling us. Is HWO a Newport Registration Number? I had a motorcycle from Newport (Blackwood) and the number on that was EWO177V, so my guess it is in the old Islwyn Borough Council Depot.
I will have to give Sethsmate a chance, Di.
Clue for location......................... near an island.
Ps they have already converted the building, last year. Oooops :-[
Gotta be BARRY then.
Give that lady a prize :y
There is a link, which I will post soon, explaining :y
What did you think of my home town buses then? 8-) 8-)
I just love buses, no matter which town they are from, but I try and savour the Welsh Bus Circuit. A lot of them bring back memories. I bet Byron cannot remember Tudor Davies's buses from Bedlinog. I remember them on the Deep Navigation and Taff Merthyr colliery runs when I was a saucepan. There is also a story to be told there, but that is for a pm and not for broadcast as it may be a little long winded.
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Okay, okay, okay ..........
The location is the former Western Welsh depot at Barry - now a bus museum project.
Centre-stage in the photo is an ex-Red & White 1950 Leyland Tiger PS1 with rare Lydney Coachworks body, which can easily be mistaken for the contemporary Duple A-type offering.
Behind it is a former RVDC Bristol RESL6G with ECW body.
To the right is one of the former National Welsh Leyland Leopards of the 1971 batch which were converted to towing buses, and allocated to most of the depots. I think that the one pictured here had been with 60-60 coaches at Merthyr for a while.
To the left of the R&W PS1 is former Western Welsh 177.
Registered OUH 177G, it was once the sole coach allocated to my home depot at Bridgend.
It's from the 1969 delivery, and is a 36' Leyland Leopard with Plaxton Panorama Elite body, Eaton 2-speed rear axle and no power steering!
I fitted a reconditioned Leyland 0.600 engine into it, prepared it for MoT; and after a successful pass it was immediately withdrawn and sold to Dunvant School in Swansea.
It's presently finished in the fabulous Peacock Blue/Royal Ivory livery as delivered.
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Well, I think I have seen the converted bus that is 'Towing' and the bus at the rear of the main bus is in my opinion an old RVDC bus. The rest of it I am at a loss. My ££££ are on Byron telling us. Is HWO a Newport Registration Number? I had a motorcycle from Newport (Blackwood) and the number on that was EWO177V, so my guess it is in the old Islwyn Borough Council Depot.
I will have to give Sethsmate a chance, Di.
Clue for location......................... near an island.
Ps they have already converted the building, last year. Oooops :-[
Gotta be BARRY then.
Red & White's head office and Central Workshops were located at Bulwark, Chepstow, which was then in the county of Monmouthshire.
Consequently, it's new buses were registered in that county, and had AX and WO plates.
You mention 'island' .....
By coincidence, there's also a bus museum at Canvey Island in Essex!
Think it's called the Castle Point Transport Museum - or similar.
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Okay, okay, okay ..........
The location is the former Western Welsh depot at Barry - now a bus museum project.
Centre-stage in the photo is an ex-Red & White 1950 Leyland Tiger PS1 with rare Lydney Coachworks body, which can easily be mistaken for the contemporary Duple A-type offering.
Behind it is a former RVDC Bristol RESL6G with ECW body.
To the right is one of the former National Welsh Leyland Leopards of the 1971 batch which were converted to towing buses, and allocated to most of the depots. I think that the one pictured here had been with 60-60 coaches at Merthyr for a while.
To the left of the R&W PS1 is former Western Welsh 177.
Registered OUH 177G, it was once the sole coach allocated to my home depot at Bridgend.
It's from the 1969 delivery, and is a 36' Leyland Leopard with Plaxton Panorama Elite body, Eaton 2-speed rear axle and no power steering!
I fitted a reconditioned Leyland 0.600 engine into it, prepared it for MoT; and after a successful pass it was immediately withdrawn and sold to Dunvant School in Swansea.
It's presently finished in the fabulous Peacock Blue/Royal Ivory livery as delivered.
I fekking knew I had seen it before.YESSSS :y :y :y :y
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Okay, okay, okay ..........
The location is the former Western Welsh depot at Barry - now a bus museum project.
Centre-stage in the photo is an ex-Red & White 1950 Leyland Tiger PS1 with rare Lydney Coachworks body, which can easily be mistaken for the contemporary Duple A-type offering.
Behind it is a former RVDC Bristol RESL6G with ECW body.
To the right is one of the former National Welsh Leyland Leopards of the 1971 batch which were converted to towing buses, and allocated to most of the depots. I think that the one pictured here had been with 60-60 coaches at Merthyr for a while.
To the left of the R&W PS1 is former Western Welsh 177.
Registered OUH 177G, it was once the sole coach allocated to my home depot at Bridgend.
It's from the 1969 delivery, and is a 36' Leyland Leopard with Plaxton Panorama Elite body, Eaton 2-speed rear axle and no power steering!
I fitted a reconditioned Leyland 0.600 engine into it, prepared it for MoT; and after a successful pass it was immediately withdrawn and sold to Dunvant School in Swansea.
It's presently finished in the fabulous Peacock Blue/Royal Ivory livery as delivered.
Red & White Leyland Tiger
Preserved Red & White Leyland Tiger with Lydney Coachworks bodywork, HWO323, in the former Western Welsh depot at Barry, South Wales on 14th June 2009. The depot is now being converted to a bus museum by the Cardiff Transport Preservation Group.
Jeeze I was only asking about the Red one!!!! ;) ;)
Did you see the link I posted for my local area? :y
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Well, I think I have seen the converted bus that is 'Towing' and the bus at the rear of the main bus is in my opinion an old RVDC bus. The rest of it I am at a loss. My ££££ are on Byron telling us. Is HWO a Newport Registration Number? I had a motorcycle from Newport (Blackwood) and the number on that was EWO177V, so my guess it is in the old Islwyn Borough Council Depot.
I will have to give Sethsmate a chance, Di.
Clue for location......................... near an island.
Ps they have already converted the building, last year. Oooops :-[
Gotta be BARRY then.
Only thing at Barry I know if is the famous scrap yard
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Yep - Dai Woodham's - long gone now :y
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Yep - Dai Woodham's - long gone now :y
My late brother bought Swansea Vale No1 from Mr Woodham. It is I believe fully restored on the Gwili Railway.
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Yep - Dai Woodham's - long gone now :y
Dai Woodham, MBE, BEM I'll have you know. (1919 - 12 September 1994) RIP!!!!!! Good Man
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There was also Bill Way's scrapyard at Cardiff Docks.
Many buses ended their days there, though long gone now :y
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There was also Bill Way's scrapyard at Cardiff Docks.
Many buses ended their days there, though long gone now :y
My ex wifes uncle used to live in Cardiff! In Blackwier, North Rd No 59.http://maps.google.co.uk/maps?sourceid=navclient&oq=blackwier&rlz=1T4ADFA_enGB357GB366&q=blackweir+cardiff&um=1&ie=UTF-8&hq=&hnear=Blackweir,+Cardiff,+South+Glamorgan&gl=uk&ei=ksGjS7jKJob80wTwheXxCQ&sa=X&oi=geocode_result&ct=image&resnum=1&ved=0CAgQ8gEwAA
Which is why I'm interested in your banter for this area :y I know it well :y
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There was also Bill Way's scrapyard at Cardiff Docks.
Many buses ended their days there, though long gone now :y
When was that in operation? :-/
I wish I had known during my trips to Dia Woodhams yard in the late 70s, early 80s. I would definately been intrested in seeing a bus scrap yard 8-) 8-) 8-)
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There was also Bill Way's scrapyard at Cardiff Docks.
Many buses ended their days there, though long gone now :y
When was that in operation? :-/
I wish I had known during my trips to Dia Woodhams yard in the late 70s, early 80s. I would definately been intrested in seeing a bus scrap yard 8-) 8-) 8-)
Certainly up until the late-1970s :y
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There was also Bill Way's scrapyard at Cardiff Docks.
Many buses ended their days there, though long gone now :y
When was that in operation? :-/
I wish I had known during my trips to Dia Woodhams yard in the late 70s, early 80s. I would definately been intrested in seeing a bus scrap yard 8-) 8-) 8-)
Certainly up until the late-1970s :y
Thanks! In that case I only just missed them :'( :'(
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Well, I think I have seen the converted bus that is 'Towing' and the bus at the rear of the main bus is in my opinion an old RVDC bus. The rest of it I am at a loss. My ££££ are on Byron telling us. Is HWO a Newport Registration Number? I had a motorcycle from Newport (Blackwood) and the number on that was EWO177V, so my guess it is in the old Islwyn Borough Council Depot.
I will have to give Sethsmate a chance, Di.
Clue for location......................... near an island.
Ps they have already converted the building, last year. Oooops :-[
Gotta be BARRY then.
Di, here is the link I promised.
I forgot, sorry :-[ :-[
The are many buses on this link but it does go direct to the picture of the bus at Barry :y
http://www.bus-and-coach-photos.com/picture/number2444.asp
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Some more to test our resident BA's
Name the bus company.......................................
Ps you are cheating if you go into properties
http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/MerthyrTydfil_Buses_HarrisGeorge_Va.jpg[/IMG]
http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/MerthyrVale_HarrisGeorge_SafetyCoac.jpg[/IMG]
When did they have sunshine in Wales ::) ::)
http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/MerthyrVale_HarrisGeorgeCharabancVM.jpg[/IMG]
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Ah a charabanc in the last picture! 8-) 8-) :y
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My Home town, I think. :) :) :)
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My Home town, I think. :) :) :)
Your right :y
What is the company name?????? ::) ::) ::)
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I was thinking Harris Coaches, but they were from Pengam I think, cannot be Parfitts of Rhymney Bridge, or could it? Harry Evans, New Tredegar. Ernie Snow,
Beats me
Sethsmate will know. :y
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I was thinking Harris Coaches, but they were from Pengam I think, cannot be Parfitts of Rhymney Bridge, or could it? Harry Evans, New Tredegar. Ernie Snow,
Beats me
Sethsmate will know. ;) ;) ;) :y
Who needs smethsmate............. close..............Harris George
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What I have always wondered is what happened to all the BUSTLERS that were in the valley's when Council's de-regulated, there were hundreds of em, all Yellow.
Where the hell did they all go? Disappeared overnight. BYRON :-/ :-/ :-/ :-/
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What I have always wondered is what happened to all the BUSTLERS that were in the valley's when Council's de-regulated, there were hundreds of em, all Yellow.
Where the hell did they all go? Disappeared overnight. BYRON :-/ :-/ :-/ :-/
Thankfully, most went when the National Welsh empire collapsed spectacularly and went into receivership early in 1992.
Those that survived didn't seem to last long with their successive owners either.
The Freight Rover Sherpas were simply not man enough for the job, and the Transits and Ivecos faired little better.
I was assigned as 'Flying Tail End Charlie' one dismal Sunday in 1990.
The task in hand was to get 10 D-reg 16 seaters in convoy to Carlyle in Birmingham as part-exchanges for 10 brand-new 20-seaters. Fine in theory, but so was Hitler's plan to invade Poland!
That's a story for another day, though I will add that the patience of one West Mercia traffic officer was severly tested.
Another time possibly .......... :-X :-X
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This very nostalgic thread has reminded me to get my picture out of the 1958 Duple 56 seater coach I once part owned and get it transferred to electronic form.
I will then post it Sethsmate next week as I once promised you many moons ago! ::) ::) ;) ;)
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Is HWO a Newport Registration Number?
I will have to give Sethsmate a chance, Di.
'WO' (and 'AX') were Monmouthshire. Newport was 'DW'.
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This very nostalgic thread has reminded me to get my picture out of the 1958 Duple 56 seater coach I once part owned and get it transferred to electronic form.
I will then post it Sethsmate next week as I once promised you many moons ago! ::) ::) ;) ;)
Okay Lizzie, do the biz, and I'll eagerly anticipate receipt. :y
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changing the subject ever so slightly, this thread about buses has made me a senior member. Its thanks to you Bus anoraks.
I have also become a BA aswell. ;D ;D ;D :y :y :y
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changing the subject ever so slightly, this thread about buses has made me a senior member. Its thanks to you Bus anoraks.
I have also become a BA aswell. ;D ;D ;D :y :y :y
Indeed, 'tis said that every cloud has a silver lining! :y
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Here are two more for you guys to come up with some interesting information.
Where and what is the building behind, is it actually the Barry Hotel???? :-? :-? :y
What type of buses????? :-? :-? :y
http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img123.jpg[/IMG]
Same type of bus,I think, but again where? :-? :-? :y
http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img124.jpg[/IMG]
By the way I know what buses they are but I haven't got a clue where the pictures were taken or thier history :-/ :-/ :y
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The top photo shows 1956 Leyland Tiger Cub 475 in 'as delivered' condition at Cardiff Central Bus Station.
It's from a batch of around a dozen, but with Willowbrook bodies, and finished to 'dual-purpose' spec (coach-seated buses).
Allocated to Barry, (black diamond), it's blinded-up for the then 15-minute headway 'bottom road' (via Dinas Powys) service. Not long after, it was re-numbered as 1475, and re-liveried into 'true' dual-purpose livery similar to 489 pictured below.
The building under construction in the background was to be Western Welsh's head office, until extensions to the Central Works and offices at Ely were completed a few years later.
This entire office block was demolished in 2009, in readiness for a major bus station make-over.
The bottom shot is of 489, (later re-numbered 1489), and my guess is that it's on a Day Tour duty to somewhere on Gower.
The bus is another of the chassisless Leyland Olympians, with Weymann dual-purpose body, and one of around a dozen delivered in 1958.
Take note that DPs had the company crest affixed centrally on the body sides with no WW fleetnames.
The livery being wine red and royal ivory at this time. This batch was the first to incorporate route number blinds within the destination display.
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But tell me this..................
Regarding the system of coloured diamonds that are on the buses above the fleet numbers. How many colours and depots were in the Western Welsh empire!
Gotchya, ;) I've done my homework on this :y
If we take the mid-1960s, (just before I started working for WW), there were some 20 depots situated across a large swathe of southern Wales.
The total fleet strength was around 560 buses.
If you drew an imaginary line from Aberystwyth to Hereford, then another line south to Newport, then the area bounded by it was Western Welsh territory. The only exclusion was Swansea and the Gower peninsular - this area was the preserve of the South Wales Transport and United Welsh concerns.
A system of coloured diamonds was used to denote the area to which a bus was allocated thus:
Green:
Carmarthen, Fishguard, Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Newcastle Emlyn, New Quay, St David's.
Blue:
Bridgend, Kenfig Hill, Port Talbot.
Red:
Aberdare, Ammanford, Neath.
Grey:
Cross Keys, Cwmbran, Pontypool.
Black:
Barry.
White:
Brecon.
Orange:
Cardiff (Penarth Road).
Interestingly, the coach fleet never carried the coloured diamonds, and was generally based at the Head Office & Central Workshops at Cardiff (Ely).
Western Welsh was keen to support a thriving staff sports & social scene.
Accordingly, Bridgend's rugby team was fielded in a blue strip, with Haverfordwest's similarly in green, and so on.
Research suggests that I needed to make a correction as now shown above.
Ammanford's buses carried a RED diamond, as the 'parent' depot was in fact Neath, and not Carmarthen as I originally assumed.
:-/ :-/ :-/ :-/
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But tell me this..................
Regarding the system of coloured diamonds that are on the buses above the fleet numbers. How many colours and depots were in the Western Welsh empire!
Gotchya, ;) I've done my homework on this :y
If we take the mid-1960s, (just before I started working for WW), there were some 20 depots situated across a large swathe of southern Wales.
The total fleet strength was around 560 buses.
If you drew an imaginary line from Aberystwyth to Hereford, then another line south to Newport, then the area bounded by it was Western Welsh territory. The only exclusion was Swansea and the Gower peninsular - this area was the preserve of the South Wales Transport and United Welsh concerns.
A system of coloured diamonds was used to denote the area to which a bus was allocated thus:
Green:
Carmarthen, Fishguard, Haverfordwest, Milford Haven, Newcastle Emlyn, New Quay, St David's.
Blue:
Bridgend, Kenfig Hill, Port Talbot.
Red:
Aberdare, Ammanford, Neath.
Grey:
Cross Keys, Cwmbran, Pontypool.
Black:
Barry.
White:
Brecon.
Orange:
Cardiff (Penarth Road).
Interestingly, the coach fleet never carried the coloured diamonds, and was generally based at the Head Office & Central Workshops at Cardiff (Ely).
Western Welsh was keen to support a thriving staff sports & social scene.
Accordingly, Bridgend's rugby team was fielded in a blue strip, with Haverfordwest's similarly in green, and so on.
Research suggests that I needed to make a correction as now shown above.
Ammanford's buses carried a RED diamond, as the 'parent' depot was in fact Neath, and not Carmarthen as I originally assumed.
:-/ :-/ :-/ :-/
Your slipping young Sir ;) ;) ;)
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Here is another quiz for you Welsh Western fanatics. See if you BAs can get this one...........................
What is the location for each bus.
Why do they have a different body style.
Do they have a clippie or are they a one-man operation and if one-man, when did it come into force?
Bus 1
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img125.jpg)[/img]
Bus 2
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img126.jpg)[/img]
No prize, but you might have to buy me a pint at Welland :y :y :y :y
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He will know :y Do you think you will stump him.... :D :D
Keep it going though, I find it interesting, but not driven any bus older than 1963..... :D :D
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He will know :y Do you think you will stump him.... :D :D
Keep it going though, I find it interesting, but not driven any bus older than 1963..... :D :D
He made a little mistake on the diamonds question. Almost had him ;) ;) ;)
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He will know :y Do you think you will stump him.... :D :D
Keep it going though, I find it interesting, but not driven any bus older than 1963..... :D :D
He made a little mistake on the diamonds question. Almost had him ;) ;) ;)
Yes, but he corrected himself, can't knock a chap for that..... :D ;) :D
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He will know :y Do you think you will stump him.... :D :D
Keep it going though, I find it interesting, but not driven any bus older than 1963..... :D :D
He made a little mistake on the diamonds question. Almost had him ;) ;) ;)
Yes, but he corrected himself, can't knock a chap for that..... :D ;) :D
I know............ the bast**d ;) ;)
He will struggle with the last one I posted ;D ;D
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He will know :y Do you think you will stump him.... :D :D
Keep it going though, I find it interesting, but not driven any bus older than 1963..... :D :D
He made a little mistake on the diamonds question. Almost had him ;) ;) ;)
Yes, but he corrected himself, can't knock a chap for that..... :D ;) :D
I know............ the bast**d ;) ;)
He will struggle with the last one I posted ;D ;D
We will see ;D Mind you they look like the same body to me, the only difference being some form of sign / flap on the front and side. :-/ :-/
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The top photo is of Leyland Tiger Cub 1245 - one of a batch of 24 delivered in 1959, and wearing 'as delivered' livery.
It has a Park Royal 43-seat body of the newly-introduced BET Federation style, and were the first WW buses to enter service equipped for one-man operation. I reckon that the location is Brecon Square, and being a Brecon-allocated vehicle would've sported a grey diamond.
These were delightful buses to drive, with beautifully light steering, (no PAS in those days), and also had Eaton 2-speed rear axles. When I joined the company, four of this batch were still in all-day service at 15 years old, beings nos 1243, 1252, 1253 and 1260. They were especially popular with our drivers on the intense Bridgend town services.
Bridgend also had 1249 on shed, which wore an all-yellow livery and had been converted for towing duties at Ely Works in the early '70s.
The lower shot was definately taken on Broad Street, Barry sometime in the early '60s.
Barry-allocated 1495 was working one of the cross-town services, and the route number should've displayed '349'. It was one of around six similar buses delivered in 1959, and again of the ubiquitous Tiger Cub/Park Royal combination. This batch were sumptuously-appointed 41-seat dual-purpose vehicles, with amazingly-comfortable suede-covered seats. It should have displayed a black diamond.
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He will know :y Do you think you will stump him.... :D :D
Keep it going though, I find it interesting, but not driven any bus older than 1963..... :D :D
He made a little mistake on the diamonds question. Almost had him ;) ;) ;)
Yes, but he corrected himself, can't knock a chap for that..... :D ;) :D
I know............ the bast**d ;) ;)
He will struggle with the last one I posted ;D ;D
We will see ;D Mind you they look like the same body to me, the only difference being some form of sign / flap on the front and side. :-/ :-/
Yep, it was an illuminated sign which said: "Pay as you enter - please tender exact fare"
Obviously, if a conductor was on board, the flap was fastened shut to hide the sign!
:y
By the way, at this point in time, all Western Welsh vehicles fitted with route number blinds, sported yellow-coloured numerals on a black blind. Destination blinds were the customary white characters on black backgrounds.
8-)
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Does the old man remember Tudor Davies from Bedlinog? He owned a few buses, and also Keith Brown. I believe that Keith Brown took over Traction Yard after the demise of Morlais Coaches.
I bet he is stumped on these.
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I remember Morlais, and the 'Traction Yard' address certainly rings a bell.
Unfortunately, that's about it regarding these two ......
:-/
Now, if we were to get more WW Tiger Cubs posted-up, then I'd probably be able to quote chapter and verse - well, probably!
8-)
-
I remember Morlais, and the 'Traction Yard' address certainly rings a bell.
Unfortunately, that's about it regarding these two ......
:-/
Now, if we were to get more WW Tiger Cubs posted-up, then I'd probably be able to quote chapter and verse - well, probably!
8-)
There you go, Morlais Coaches................
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/3084938063_e1bb0788df1.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2292222040_65c58251661.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2264918209_459413f7b9_b1.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2258416051_77794f15c7_b1.jpg)[/img]
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The second picture from the top look very aerodynamic... NOT.
Way before my time, but I remember them well, Yellow and White/Cream livery if I remember them correctly.
Keith Brown took over the yard when the went bust, Then Allen's Builders Merchants, and now there is amongst other things a Cafe and a Pine furniture store there.
Ahhh memories.
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F*ckin ell. You wait ages for a reply to your bus thread and then 181 come along.
-
The top photo is definately a Plaxton 'Embassy'- bodied Bedford SB.
These simple vehicles were the mainstay of many independents' fleets, basically derived from the 'TK' truck chassis, and with many common parts.
Next is a Rowe 'Hillmaster'.
Rowe was a small (Cornish?) concern who made a brief foray into PSVs.
FWO 634 is, I reckon, a former Red & White Albion with Lydney Coachworks body, reminiscent of the contemporary Duple 'A-type' offering.
I'm pretty sure that the bottom shot is of a former Southdown Leyland PS Tiger half-cab rebuild.
The rebuilding involved lengthening to 30' and rebodying - all work being done by Beadle of Dartford.
Morlais Services eh? - c'mon Mr Splott, let's have a final fling of Western Welsh Tiger Cubs!
:y
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Mr Splott, find us the following if you can......
Evans Of New Tredegar
Parfitts of Rhymney Bridge
60 60 Merthyr
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Best I could do on short notice :'(
Evans of New Tredegar
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w7FuouIezOw[/media]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/1637625170_02b080c15d1.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/3177118959_18df3210af1.jpg)[/img]
Mofitts
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2098348160_ce6cf454001.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/3335052989_a4ba2e69b81.jpg)[/img]
Couldn't get 60 60, all modern buses. They didn't start up until 1978! :y
Nice picture of some buses
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2836506877_6517ac5cde1.jpg)[/img]
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Here's another tester for the old man.
East Glam Motor's Nelson. Owned by a guy called Glyn Rees from Ystrad Mynach I believe.
And the pics of them old Evans Buses, I used to travel to school with them in my Afon Taf days. Always had a coach, can never remember them using a bus on our school run.
Thanks. :y :y
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Beat you to it Splott
http://www.flickr.com/photos/34239514@N07/4206917124/
I can remember that coach well.
A good friend of mine, sadly now deceased Alfie Davies was mechanic for them.
Good Old Days. :y
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Here's another tester for the old man.
East Glam Motor's Nelson. Owned by a guy called Glyn Rees from Ystrad Mynach I believe.
And the pics of them old Evans Buses, I used to travel to school with them in my Afon Taf days. Always had a coach, can never remember them using a bus on our school run.
Thanks. :y :y
There you go Di
East Glamorgan Motors bus.................. best I could find :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/4206917124_8976ed193c1.jpg)[/img]
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If I am correct the third still down is atop Hanbury Square Bargoed, and I was actually stood on that spot just over a year ago. Just above Bargoed Bus Station.
Used to be a Cinema there years ago called The Hanbury but I think it is a Bingo Hall nowadays.
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Here's another tester for the old man.
East Glam Motor's Nelson. Owned by a guy called Glyn Rees from Ystrad Mynach I believe.
And the pics of them old Evans Buses, I used to travel to school with them in my Afon Taf days. Always had a coach, can never remember them using a bus on our school run.
Thanks. :y :y
There you go DiEast Glamorgan Motors bus.................. best I could find :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/4206917124_8976ed193c1.jpg)[/img]
Look at the link before, I had already posted that pic, sorry mate, you were to slow on that one, Brownie points for me off the old man.
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I remember Morlais, and the 'Traction Yard' address certainly rings a bell.
Unfortunately, that's about it regarding these two ......
:-/
Now, if we were to get more WW Tiger Cubs posted-up, then I'd probably be able to quote chapter and verse - well, probably!
8-)
There you go, Morlais Coaches................
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/3084938063_e1bb0788df1.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2292222040_65c58251661.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2264918209_459413f7b9_b1.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2258416051_77794f15c7_b1.jpg)[/img]
That old Plaxton bodied Coach is like the one I passed my test on........ :D :D
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Here's another tester for the old man.
East Glam Motor's Nelson. Owned by a guy called Glyn Rees from Ystrad Mynach I believe.
And the pics of them old Evans Buses, I used to travel to school with them in my Afon Taf days. Always had a coach, can never remember them using a bus on our school run.
Thanks. :y :y
There you go DiEast Glamorgan Motors bus.................. best I could find :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/4206917124_8976ed193c1.jpg)[/img]
Look at the link before, I had already posted that pic, sorry mate, you were to slow on that one, Brownie points for me off the old man.
Good one Di :y
You see the reason for being slow is that I am collecting/saving all these pics I find for you guys. When this thread dies I will e-mail them to you and Byron and anyone else if interested. :y
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Here's another tester for the old man.
East Glam Motor's Nelson. Owned by a guy called Glyn Rees from Ystrad Mynach I believe.
And the pics of them old Evans Buses, I used to travel to school with them in my Afon Taf days. Always had a coach, can never remember them using a bus on our school run.
Thanks. :y :y
There you go DiEast Glamorgan Motors bus.................. best I could find :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/4206917124_8976ed193c1.jpg)[/img]
Look at the link before, I had already posted that pic, sorry mate, you were to slow on that one, Brownie points for me off the old man.
Good one Di :y
You see the reason for being slow is that I am collecting/saving all these pics I find for you guys. When this thread dies I will e-mail them to you and Byron and anyone else if interested. :y
This thread will NEVER die my friend, too many BA's here to let that happen.
-
Here's another tester for the old man.
East Glam Motor's Nelson. Owned by a guy called Glyn Rees from Ystrad Mynach I believe.
And the pics of them old Evans Buses, I used to travel to school with them in my Afon Taf days. Always had a coach, can never remember them using a bus on our school run.
Thanks. :y :y
There you go Di
East Glamorgan Motors bus.................. best I could find :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/4206917124_8976ed193c1.jpg)[/img]
A 1972 Bedford YRQ with Plaxton 'Elite Express 2' body to Bus Grant spec.
The YRQ was Bedford's attempt at an assault on the underfloor engine layout, and featured their own '466' engine vertically-mounted amidships, and driving thro' a Turner 5-speed all-synchromesh gearbox. They also had air-assisted hydraulic brakes, and you needed to really keep on top of them maintenance-wise. These were indeed lightweights, and were very popular with the independent sector, probably due to low initial purchase costs, (compared to the likes of the contemporary heavyweights like AEC and Leyland), plus good availability of spare parts. Economical on fuel too, but no power steering.
The later YMQ model was a great improvement, with the '500' engine, power steering and full air brakes.
I've quite a soft spot for these, but would rather some more WW Tiger Cub photos - c'mon Mr Splott!
:y
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Here's another tester for the old man.
East Glam Motor's Nelson. Owned by a guy called Glyn Rees from Ystrad Mynach I believe.
And the pics of them old Evans Buses, I used to travel to school with them in my Afon Taf days. Always had a coach, can never remember them using a bus on our school run.
Thanks. :y :y
There you go DiEast Glamorgan Motors bus.................. best I could find :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/4206917124_8976ed193c1.jpg)[/img]
Look at the link before, I had already posted that pic, sorry mate, you were to slow on that one, Brownie points for me off the old man.
Good one Di :y
You see the reason for being slow is that I am collecting/saving all these pics I find for you guys. When this thread dies I will e-mail them to you and Byron and anyone else if interested. :y
This thread will NEVER die my friend, too many BA's here to let that happen.
:-? :question :question
-
Here's another tester for the old man.
East Glam Motor's Nelson. Owned by a guy called Glyn Rees from Ystrad Mynach I believe.
And the pics of them old Evans Buses, I used to travel to school with them in my Afon Taf days. Always had a coach, can never remember them using a bus on our school run.
Thanks. :y :y
There you go DiEast Glamorgan Motors bus.................. best I could find :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/4206917124_8976ed193c1.jpg)[/img]
Look at the link before, I had already posted that pic, sorry mate, you were to slow on that one, Brownie points for me off the old man.
Good one Di :y
You see the reason for being slow is that I am collecting/saving all these pics I find for you guys. When this thread dies I will e-mail them to you and Byron and anyone else if interested. :y
This thread will NEVER die my friend, too many BA's here to let that happen.
:-? :question :question
BA's Bus Anoraks my friend.
-
The Evans/Parfitts photos:
Top is a former Cumberland Motor Services Bristol RELL6G with ECW body.
Next down is a former West Yorkshire Road Car Co RE/ECW - again Gardner powered.
Third is a former Rhymney Valley (shorter) RESL6G/ECW combination of Parfitts in Bargoed.
Last, a former Bristol Omnibus Co/Badgerline RELL6L/ECW - this time with a Leyland 0.680 motor.
C'mon Splotty, I need my 'fix' of WW Tiger Cubs mate!
:'( :'( :'(
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Hope it doesn't, its very interesting, but the offer still stands for you BAs. If you want copies I will e-mail them to you or anyone else that wants them. Some are high quality and would make a good picture or a wallpaper for your PC :y
As you can imagine I have a fair few now 8-) 8-)
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Q: What was different about the post1963 Tiger Cubs?
Q: What's the later body style from 1964 onwards?
Q: Which buses carried the blue/white livery?
Clues below.............................................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img133.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img134.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img135.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img136.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img137.jpg)[/img]
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Right 'en you lot - listen up ......
From 1963 onwards, Leyland Motors uprated the Tiger Cub chassis by fitting the roundly 6.5 litre 0.401 'Power Plus' engine. Gone was the sturdy 0.350 unit, and Western Welsh were not surprisingly early recipients of this revamped model. By 1968, when the final Tiger Cub arrived, the Company had taken a further 115 examples, variously bodied, into stock. A new fleet-numbering series was implemented in the 13xx series for them.
However, the 0.401 engine, whilst certainly a reasonable performer, was not without it's problems in this application. We soon had head gasket failures and piston seizures galore, and this scribe could overhaul one with his eyes shut - literally!
The unit was though, a wonderfully-logical piece of engineering for a humble apprentice to cut his teeth on.
Now to the photos:
The top one is of 1307 laying-over at Aberdare Low Level Station Yard, that town's (then) terminus that was shared with the Red & White concern.
The body was by Marshall of Cambridge, of rather spartan appearance, and one of nine delivered in 1963 carrying fleet numbers 1300-1308. This order was the last of the curved-rear BET-style bodies for WW. It's blinded-up for one of the trunk routes down along the Neath Valley to that town - operation of it being shared between Aberdare and Neath depots.
1307 would've therefore carried a red diamond.
1964 saw the arrival of 25 Tiger Cubs with Willowbrook bodies, of the ultimate BET Federation style. The observant will notice that white-coloured window rubbers were in fashion at this time.
Fleet numbers were 1309-1333.
1316 is seen at Cardiff Central Bus Station about to set off for distant Varteg Hill, way up in the Eastern Valleys of Monmouthshire.
Being based at Cwmbran, a grey diamond would have been carried.
The third shot sees 1366, the first WW bus that I ever (legally?) drove on the open road, and one of the 1966 order for 14 Tiger Cubs with fleet numbers 1361-1374.
Bodied by Park Royal to the same style, these featured an (unsuccessful) heating/ventilation system, witnessed by the lack of sliding windows.
Seen here arriving at Newport town centre from Varteg Hill, 1366 was another grey diamond Cwmbran bus.
The fourth view is of 1407 swinging into Bridgend depot off a colliery service.
It's one of the final batch of 20 Tiger Cubs that arrived in 1968 with Marshall bodies, and fleet numbers 1395-1414.
Being a Bridgend-allocated bus, 1407 carried a blue diamond.
The last photo sees 1346 (DBO 346C) heading west through Ely in Cardiff on the 301 limited-stop service to Carmarthen.
It's one of the 27-bus 1965 intake bodied by Park Royal with fleet numbers 1334-1360. Around 10 were finished to DP spec and accordingly wore the fabulous Peacock Blue/Royal Ivory livery then in vogue.
Being a Cardiff (Penarth Road) bus, 1346 had an orange diamond.
The 0.401-powered Tiger Cubs weren't entirely successful on these lengthy services either, and a policy-change was soon to see some rather special replacements arrive for these duties. They were to leave a lasting impression on a youthful Sethsmate!
All will be revealed here in due course .........
;)
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Where are these Diamonds, I never seen them, or cannot see them?
I wanna know where Byron is getting his info from, cannot possibly all be in the head, can it? Well, maybe it can, he is after all from Maesteg, and we all know what Maesteg boys are good for, don't we Mrs Sethsmate?
I think we should leave Tiger Cubs for now and go forward in time to say middle 60's, are you listening Splott old mate?
Some Bristols of that era would be nice.
What was the bus that 60 60 used for Towing, I know a bloody Tiger Cub >:( >:( >:( >:( >:(
I am also sure 60 60 had a Scammell Lorry for towing as well, and I think that has been donated to a museum in Barry.
Gareth Handy getting generous in his old age.
-
Where are these Diamonds, I never seen them, or cannot see them?
I wanna know where Byron is getting his info from, cannot possibly all be in the head, can it? Well, maybe it can, he is after all from Maesteg, and we all know what Maesteg boys are good for, don't we Mrs Sethsmate?
I think we should leave Tiger Cubs for now and go forward in time to say middle 60's, are you listening Splott old mate?
Some Bristols of that era would be nice.
What was the bus that 60 60 used for Towing, I know a bloody Tiger Cub >:( >:( >:( >:( >:(
I am also sure 60 60 had a Scammell Lorry for towing as well, and I think that has been donated to a museum in Barry.
Gareth Handy getting generous in his old age.
They're coloured transfers that are affixed above the fleet numbers.
The shot of Tiger Cub 1316 at Cardiff clearly shows it.
Click and read: http://www.omegaowners.com/forum/YaBB.pl?num=1268424850/165#165:
Simples :y
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Where are these Diamonds, I never seen them, or cannot see them?
I wanna know where Byron is getting his info from, cannot possibly all be in the head, can it? Well, maybe it can, he is after all from Maesteg, and we all know what Maesteg boys are good for, don't we Mrs Sethsmate?
I think we should leave Tiger Cubs for now and go forward in time to say middle 60's, are you listening Splott old mate?
Some Bristols of that era would be nice.
What was the bus that 60 60 used for Towing, I know a bloody Tiger Cub >:( >:( >:( >:( >:(
I am also sure 60 60 had a Scammell Lorry for towing as well, and I think that has been donated to a museum in Barry.
Gareth Handy getting generous in his old age.
There you go Di
A Fine Pair Of Bristols.......................if didn't say it someone else would ::) ::)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2825241957_6495628a801.jpg)[/img]
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Ahhhh, the biggest pair of Bristols I ever did see :o :o :o :o
I think that is Cardiff Central.
Where is the old man today, gone fishing no doubt.
Swear he just had major surgery or summat.
-
Where are these Diamonds, I never seen them, or cannot see them?
I wanna know where Byron is getting his info from, cannot possibly all be in the head, can it? Well, maybe it can, he is after all from Maesteg, and we all know what Maesteg boys are good for, don't we Mrs Sethsmate?
I think we should leave Tiger Cubs for now and go forward in time to say middle 60's, are you listening Splott old mate?
Some Bristols of that era would be nice.
What was the bus that 60 60 used for Towing, I know a bloody Tiger Cub >:( >:( >:( >:( >:(
I am also sure 60 60 had a Scammell Lorry for towing as well, and I think that has been donated to a museum in Barry.
Gareth Handy getting generous in his old age.
You'd be surprised at what's in this fair head missus!
Remember, I spent the best part of 20 happy years working for WW.
;)
The towing-bus which came from 60-60 was actually a Leyland Leopard, this time with Willowbrook 10-metre bodies, and one of 30 delivered in 1971.
I'll do the homework on these very soon, but'll have a nice word with our man on the Wirral to stick up the Tiger Cub replacements, so as to keep some continuity here. Be patient folks!
:y
-
Where are these Diamonds, I never seen them, or cannot see them?
I wanna know where Byron is getting his info from, cannot possibly all be in the head, can it? Well, maybe it can, he is after all from Maesteg, and we all know what Maesteg boys are good for, don't we Mrs Sethsmate?
I think we should leave Tiger Cubs for now and go forward in time to say middle 60's, are you listening Splott old mate?
Some Bristols of that era would be nice.
What was the bus that 60 60 used for Towing, I know a bloody Tiger Cub >:( >:( >:( >:( >:(
I am also sure 60 60 had a Scammell Lorry for towing as well, and I think that has been donated to a museum in Barry.
Gareth Handy getting generous in his old age.
You'd be surprised at what's in this fair head missus!
Remember, I spent the best part of 20 happy years working for WW.
;)
The towing-bus which came from 60-60 was actually a Leyland Leopard, this time with Willowbrook 10-metre bodies, and one of 30 delivered in 1971.
I'll do the homework on these very soon, but'll have a nice word with our man on the Wirral to stick up the Tiger Cub replacements, so as to keep some continuity here. Be patient folks!
:y
There you go............................right again :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/tkg518j1.jpg)[/img]
Former Western Welsh short PSU4 Leyland Leopard 1518 has had its Willowbrook bodywork severely modified into a recovery tender. It is seen in Cardiff at the Centenary Rally in service with local operator Sixty Sixty.
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Where are these Diamonds, I never seen them, or cannot see them?
I wanna know where Byron is getting his info from, cannot possibly all be in the head, can it? Well, maybe it can, he is after all from Maesteg, and we all know what Maesteg boys are good for, don't we Mrs Sethsmate?
I think we should leave Tiger Cubs for now and go forward in time to say middle 60's, are you listening Splott old mate?
Some Bristols of that era would be nice.
What was the bus that 60 60 used for Towing, I know a bloody Tiger Cub >:( >:( >:( >:( >:(
I am also sure 60 60 had a Scammell Lorry for towing as well, and I think that has been donated to a museum in Barry.
Gareth Handy getting generous in his old age.
There you go Di
A Fine Pair Of Bristols.......................if didn't say it someone else would ::) ::)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2825241957_6495628a801.jpg)[/img]
During the late '60's these were Red & White's flagship coaches, and passed to National Welsh with the merging of Red & White, Western Welsh, and Jones of Aberbeeg.
The first batch arrived in 1966, with Gardner 6HLX engines and manual transmissions.
The subjects of this photo were from two batches of 11 delivered in each of 1968/9, being registered OAX 1-11F and SAX 1-11G respectively.
These were a vast improvement on the 1966 batch, and featured 9.8 litre Leyland 0.600 engines horizontally-mounted on the rear overhang, and remotely-mounted semi-automatic transmission. Drive was via a fluid flywheel and cardan shafts to a drop-centre rear axle.
They were extremely lively performers, and capable of cruising at well over 70mph. (Confirmed by young Sethsmate who achieved a tad over 90mph early one sunny Sunday morning on the M4 in SAX 8G!)
The duo pictured here had been down-graded to 'dual-purpose' roles, evidenced by the half-red half-white livery.
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Tiger cub Successor Supplied by Sethsmate.........(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img138.jpg)[/img]
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Tiger cub Successor Supplied by Sethsmate.........(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img138.jpg)[/img]
1967/8 saw the arrival of 15 of these fine machines, which were a vast improvement generally over the Tiger Cubs.
As previously mentioned, they left a lasting impression on the youthful Sethsmate!
Carrying fleet numbers 201-215, and registered KKG 201-5E, and KKG 206-15F, here we see 204 on it's arrival at Cardiff from distant Carmarthen, in 'as delivered' condition, featuring the fabulous Peacock Blue/Royal Ivory 'DP' livery.
They were 30' AEC Reliances with the newly-introduced 8.2 litre AH505 engine. It was the 154 BHP version set at 2400rpm max. AEC's robust 5-speed synchromesh 'box and 4.7:1 diff ratio was specified. A superb full-air braking system also featured.
The body was by Marshalls of Cambridge to the customary BET Federation design, and featured 41 coach-type seats and a rear luggage locker. They were equipped for one-man operation from new.
Popular with the staff, they were equally at home whether utilized on stop-start urban work, or longer-distance express duties. They soon became regular performers on the limited-stop 301 service, which linked the Capital with West Wales on an hourly frequency 7 days a week, and rapidly accumulated colossal mileages. The free-revving and lively '505' ensured no time-keeping problems in service, and this scribe can testify that 20 minutes could easily be clipped-off the last journey from Cardiff to Neath of an evening!
The Reliance would indeed run rings around a Tiger Cub.
Under National Bus Company re-organisation in the early '70s, the entire batch of 15 were transferred to South Wales Transport's Neath depot, where they continued as the mainstays on the 'Cardiff road' for some years.
As my former Chief Engineer once said: "A 505-engined Reliance was about as good as you got!"
I totally agree! :y
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Comments please from the BA guru (honours)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/swt345x128haverfordwest1.jpg)[/img]
Ex Western Welsh Leyland Tiger Cub/Marshall no 345 & former Neath & Cardiff no 128, an AEC Reliance/Duple coach. Seen at Haverfordwest in 1975.
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Here is a red AEC reliance................................ :y
Why's that, I thought they were supposed to be blue :-/(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/wkg2841.jpg)[/img]
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Here is a red AEC reliance................................ :y
Why's that, I thought they were supposed to be blue :-/(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/wkg2841.jpg)[/img]
I would never have known that was red. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D : :y
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Here is a red AEC reliance................................ :y
Why's that, I thought they were supposed to be blue :-/(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/wkg2841.jpg)[/img]
I would never have known that was red. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D : :y
What else do you call it :-/ :-/
Could word this better......................
Byrons is blue and mines red :-/ :-/ :-/ why's that?
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Byron only had blue paint at the time.
That is a good question.
I cannot wait for the answer. :y
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Here is a red AEC reliance................................ :y
Why's that, I thought they were supposed to be blue :-/(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/wkg2841.jpg)[/img]
The Peacock Blue/Royal Ivory livery was introduced around 1964-ish.
As far as I'm aware, 284 shown here was the only one of this batch of 12 that never received that livery, and is in the second-version Wine Red/Royal Ivory livery.
Numbered 276-287, these were powered by the AH470 engine, and were dogged with head-gasket and overheating problems throughout their lives. However, they sounded sweet, and performed well when cool.
As a former preservationist, I'm saying no more about 284 (sore point mate).
Help SHOULD be reciprocal .............. eh!
:y
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Comments please from the BA guru (honours)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/swt345x128haverfordwest1.jpg)[/img]
Ex Western Welsh Leyland Tiger Cub/Marshall no 345 & former Neath & Cardiff no 128, an AEC Reliance/Duple coach. Seen at Haverfordwest in 1975.
Upon the NBC's reorganisation around 1970/1, Haverfordwest depot was transferred to South Wales Transport. Accordingly, many former WW vehicles stayed in West Wales, including 345 and the Tiger Cub to it's left. 345 later adorned an all-yellow livery, and became that depot's towing bus. It's number plate was later transferred to one of SWT's trio of Neoplan double-deck coaches in the mid-1980's.
128, the former N&C Reliance on the right, must've been a right pain to use on service work though.
I'm not really a fan of Duple coachwork, and these would have been a right handful!
:'(
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Found another red one can't find a blue one.......... :'(
Where was this picture taken :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/reliancef_kkg214f_pt_1.jpg)[/img]
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Found another red one can't find a blue one.......... :'(
Where was this picture taken :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/reliancef_kkg214f_pt_1.jpg)[/img]
The location is Port Talbot bus station, which remains in use to this day.
The main subject is one of my favourite 30' Reliances, though by now allocated to Port Talbot. It's been demoted to 'bus' livery at this point, though would have been at home on local duties.
In the background is one of the large intake of Willowbrook-bodied Ford R1014s, and a Leyland National is seen climbing the flyover, probably heading for Neath or Ammanford.
:y
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Yes, it was Port Talbot :y
Found a Blue one..........................bet you don't know where it is though............................ :y(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/1337.jpg)[/img]
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Di, I have finally fond some pictures of some 60 60 coaches.................................................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/SixtySixty004.jpg)[/img]
Two coaches now withdrawn from service are GUI 6060 (now reunited with its
original registration C518WBF) Leyland Tiger with Duple body and DAF / Caetano
NIW6506. The Tiger was the last new coach purchased by Midland Red North.
copyright Glyn Bowen
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Di, I have finally fond some pictures of some 60 60 coaches.................................................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/SixtySixty004.jpg)[/img]
Two coaches now withdrawn from service are GUI 6060 (now reunited with its
original registration C518WBF) Leyland Tiger with Duple body and DAF / Caetano
NIW6506. The Tiger was the last new coach purchased by Midland Red North.
copyright Glyn Bowen
I know Glyn Very well, he was the licensing officer for MTCBC until about 5 years ago, his retirement, but still see him driving buses today for a voluntary group.
And, thanks for the pictures.
D.
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Di
Here is the link to the pictures...............................
http://groups.google.com/group/welsh-bus-photographs/browse_thread/thread/74908e156fc0c7d1/2107c3f98b25c8f2?lnk=gst&q=60+60+coaches+merthyr#
Go to 'home', the site is dedicated to Welsh Buses ;) ;)
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Di
Here is the link to the pictures...............................
http://groups.google.com/group/welsh-bus-photographs/browse_thread/thread/74908e156fc0c7d1/2107c3f98b25c8f2?lnk=gst&q=60+60+coaches+merthyr#
Go to 'home', the site is dedicated to Welsh Buses ;) ;)
Ammendment:- not Home, go to 'Discussions' :y
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Yes, it was Port Talbot :y
Found a Blue one..........................bet you don't know where it is though............................ :y(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/1337.jpg)[/img]
Brecon Square's the location here.
Leyland Tiger Cub 1337, one of the 1965 deliveries with Park Royal bodies to dual-purpose spec; is in 'as delivered' condition, and blinded-up for the marathon 750 service to Haverfordwest, several hours away.
This was routed west from Brecon along the A40, via Sennybridge, Trecastle, Llandeilo, Carmarthen, Saundersfoot and Tenby. No doubt Western Welsh saw the potential for considerable holiday traffic at this time.
Incidentally, 1337 was at Bridgend depot during my early years with the Company, and ended it's days there liveried as a bus in all-over NBC Poppy Red. The sumptuous coach-like seating was retained to the end though.
:y
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At last I've managed to dig out some photos of National Welsh's second-generation of towing buses.
These were converted from members of the 30-strong 1971 delivery of 10-metre Leyland Leopards.
I'm confident that 'our man on The Wirral' will do the business soon enough, and all will be revealed ......
;) ;) ;)
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At last I've managed to dig out some photos of National Welsh's second-generation of towing buses.
These were converted from members of the 30-strong 1971 delivery of 10-metre Leyland Leopards.
I'm confident that 'our man on The Wirral' will do the business soon enough, and all will be revealed ......
;) ;) ;)
Pictures etc. for Smethsmate thread.....................
Here's Cwmbran-based 1506 at Crosville's Aberystwyth depot on a private-hire working early on in it's life.
1501-1510 were ten finished to 'dual-purpose' spec; and the last-ever to carry this livery.
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img139.jpg)[/img]
There followed 20 buses in the same order, the final 10 being for the associated Rhondda Transport fleet.
1520 is seen here at Cardiff sometime in 1975 after being renumbered into the Red & White system.
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img140.jpg)[/img]
Here's the first conversion under way at the former Red & White Central Works at Bulwark, Chepstow.
The body was cut-down into a chariot-style body thus.
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img141.jpg)[/img]
Here's a rear end view of the same vehicle.
It's initial allocation was to be Cardiff (Gelligaer Street).
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img142.jpg)[/img]
All subsequent conversions merely involved shortening the rear overhang and body.
Here's Bridgend depot's former Rhondda example at Heathrow Airport in Summer 1991.
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img143.jpg)[/img]
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At last I've managed to dig out some photos of National Welsh's second-generation of towing buses.
These were converted from members of the 30-strong 1971 delivery of 10-metre Leyland Leopards.
I'm confident that 'our man on The Wirral' will do the business soon enough, and all will be revealed ......
;) ;) ;)
Pictures etc. for Smethsmate thread.....................
Here's Cwmbran-based 1506 at Crosville's Aberystwyth depot on a private-hire working early on in it's life.
1501-1510 were ten finished to 'dual-purpose' spec; and the last-ever to carry this livery.
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img139.jpg)[/img]
There followed 20 buses in the same order, the final 10 being for the associated Rhondda Transport fleet.
1520 is seen here at Cardiff sometime in 1975 after being renumbered into the Red & White system.
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img140.jpg)[/img]
Here's the first conversion under way at the former Red & White Central Works at Bulwark, Chepstow.
The body was cut-down into a chariot-style body thus.
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img141.jpg)[/img]
Here's a rear end view of the same vehicle.
It's initial allocation was to be Cardiff (Gelligaer Street).
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img142.jpg)[/img]
All subsequent conversions merely involved shortening the rear overhang and body.
Here's Bridgend depot's former Rhondda example at Heathrow Airport in Summer 1991.
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img143.jpg)[/img]
I was listening to the scanner last night and there was a big fire in Gelligaer Street Cardiff. Dunno what building tho.
Brilliant pics though, climbing into my era now. Job well done. :y :y :y
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Found this one, a nice tow bus. :y Know anything about this ???? ;) ;)
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2298958595_cdec14cd9a_o1.jpg)[/img]
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This was formerly fleet number 1, and was based at the Central Works at Ely, Cardiff.
It's a former WD AEC Matador 4x4 truck, and was one of a duo converted by the company at Ely.
Identical No.2 was based at Neath.
Got a photo here of them both at Ely after repaints.
It ended it's days at Brynmawr depot, in all-over yellow livery.
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This was formerly fleet number 1, and was based at the Central Works at Ely, Cardiff.
It's a former WD AEC Matador 4x4 truck, and was one of a duo converted by the company at Ely.
Identical No.2 was based at Neath.
Got a photo here of them both at Ely after repaints.
I have been quietly watching this thread with interest and just loving all the pictures of all these old charabancs, buses and coaches, and now a beautiful recovery truck! :-* :-* :-* :-*
I love all old transport, especially of course steam driven, but all this combustion engine nostalgia is just sooooo special. Memories of childhood trips to the seaside, around town, to see relatives in London, and transport for school all come readily to mind 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :-* :-*
Just to add another bus to this growing collection, I will add a picture of the type of bus I travelled in Malta to school, and which as far as I know are still in daily use :-* :-* 8-) 8-):
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/y1pk176idNrUKMVq1AuT9b3RJucWEJgGiNV.jpg)
;) ;)
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(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img143.jpg)[/img]
The 30-strong 1971 deliveries heralded the start of a new fleetnumber series from 1501 upwards.
TKG 501J-520J were for Western Welsh, and BTX 324J-334J were for Rhondda Transport.
They were bodied by Willowbrook on the 10-metre Leyland Leopard PSU4 chassis. RTC's 10 had Eaton 2-speed rear axles. All had the 9.8 litre Leyland 0.600 engine with 'close-coupled' semi-automatic transmissions.
Five were converted for towing duties, and variously allocated to Aberdare, Barry (ex-Gelligaer St), Bridgend, Crosskeys and Cwmbran. Despite initial reservations regarding the suitability of their transmissions for towing, they proved to be excellent performers in their new roles. They ousted ageing Bristol MW6Gs in most locations.
We were lucky enough to get a former Rhondda example (with 2-speed axle), at Bridgend, and it's seen here at Heathrow Airport in Summer 1991. Sethsmate and a colleague were on a mission to recover a Leopard coach which had suffered a failed diff; and were about to prepare for the long homeward trek west along the M4.
'Yours truly' had hand-painted the dayglo pink waistband, lined-out in blue, and also fitted a set of Duple wheeltrims to enhance it's appearance!
8-)
Got some 'in action' photos of this voyage to post later! :y
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Very interesting thread and I am not a BA :y :y
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Very interesting thread and I am not a BA :y :y
Nor me Martin - and I certainly don't have an anorak!
Just grew up in the industry - literally 8-)
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Historic transport photos - that does get me looking :y :y
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This was formerly fleet number 1, and was based at the Central Works at Ely, Cardiff.
It's a former WD AEC Matador 4x4 truck, and was one of a duo converted by the company at Ely.
Identical No.2 was based at Neath.
Got a photo here of them both at Ely after repaints.
It ended it's days at Brynmawr depot, in all-over yellow livery.
Byron, PLEASE do not tell me that this beautiful machine has been scrapped :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
If so, the person who authorised that should have his toenails plucked out with a PLIERS one by one. >:( >:( >:(
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More Sethmate pics. :y
Comments please, keep em clean :y
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img144.jpg)[/img]
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img145.jpg)[/img]
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This was formerly fleet number 1, and was based at the Central Works at Ely, Cardiff.
It's a former WD AEC Matador 4x4 truck, and was one of a duo converted by the company at Ely.
Identical No.2 was based at Neath.
Got a photo here of them both at Ely after repaints.
It ended it's days at Brynmawr depot, in all-over yellow livery.
Byron, PLEASE do not tell me that this beautiful machine has been scrapped :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
If so, the person who authorised that should have his toenails plucked out with a PLIERS one by one. >:( >:( >:(
Have seen it in the flesh at Welland over the years.
As well as my campsite duties, I also help marshall the commercial vehicle entries - just over 200 of 'em actually!
;)
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Historic transport photos - that does get me looking :y :y
C'mon then Martin, get the Imbers and caravan over to our show at Welland.
Over 200 entries in the Historic Commercial Vehicle section each year, plus Richard Reads demonstrate their recovery prowess at righting an overturned artic in the arena!
http://www.omegaowners.com/forum/YaBB.pl?num=1268950466
You know it makes sense ..........
:y :y :y :y :y
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More Sethmate pics. :y
Comments please, keep em clean :y
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img144.jpg)[/img]
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img145.jpg)[/img]
The top photo shows 'yours truly' en-route from Heathrow to Bridgend, and taking a well-earned break at Leigh Delamere Service Area.
892, one of our 'Tiger-powered Leopards' was being dragged home to be treated to a reconditioned differential.
The bottom photo was taken at Sutton Scotney Service Area on the A34 north of Winchester, on Sunday 2 June 1991, with Sethsmate 'coining it' again!
The coach on the back had actually been repatriated from Bayeux in Northern France after suffering a transmission failure. It's a Leyland Tiger with Duple 'Caribbean' body which was something of a 'lemon' at Bridgend. It had covered more miles than the Starship Enterprise on National Express duties before we got it, and usually returned home behind the tow-bus.
The Hydracyclic gearbox and it's associated gubbins cost us dearly!
Good ol' days though - 15 hours pay at double time!
:y :y :y :y
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the Coleford festival of transport is very soon (this weekend??) and there is always some lovely old buses there, one year I actually found the bus that used to take me to school displayed.......Bristol LE, bloody lovely.
I love old buses and coaches, it's going to kill me to sell my Leyland Swift motorhome soon, but mortgage beckons.......
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the Coleford festival of transport is very soon (this weekend??) and there is always some lovely old buses there, one year I actually found the bus that used to take me to school displayed.......Bristol LE, bloody lovely.
I love old buses and coaches, it's going to kill me to sell my Leyland Swift motorhome soon, but mortgage beckons.......
What a shame, I suppose priorities prevail :'(
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Took my friends' AEC Reliance to the Coleford event a few years back.
'Twas the epitome of truly British coaching - a late 70's AH760-engined job with Plaxton body that was new to Humphreys of Pontypridd.
12.5 litres of brute power under the floor!
:y
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Although I have posted this picture under another thread, I thought I would drop it into this wonderful thread, and especially for you Sethsmate as promised! :D :D
My ex-part owned 1958 56 seater Duple (MUD 975 I think) pictured in about 1979 on our drive:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
;) ;)
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Well done Lizzie ......
Seems to be an AEC Reliance with Duple 'Britannia' centre-door 41-seat (usually) body.
Has the same 30' chassis frame as the one that I previously restored/owned, but with the earlier AH470 engine, which featured 'wet' cylinder liners. These engines often suffered badly with head gasket failures and overheating problems.
The radiator was usually the root cause of all this though.
Did yours have air or vacuum brakes?
Was it a former Chiltern Queens coach? (Judging by the livery).
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Although I have posted this picture under another thread, I thought I would drop it into this wonderful thread, and especially for you Sethsmate as promised! :D :D
My ex-part owned 1958 56 seater Duple (MUD 975 I think) pictured in about 1979 on our drive:
;) ;)
Had me worried there thought you were starting another bus thread :o
I would love to own a bus but finances won't allow :'(
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Well done Lizzie ......
Seems to be an AEC Reliance with Duple 'Britannia' centre-door 41-seat (usually) body.
Has the same 30' chassis frame as the one that I previously restored/owned, but with the earlier AH470 engine, which featured 'wet' cylinder liners. These engines often suffered badly with head gasket failures and overheating problems.
The radiator was usually the root cause of all this though.
Did yours have air or vacuum brakes?
Was it a former Chiltern Queens coach? (Judging by the livery).
This one definately had 56 seats as I had to count them at the time! :D :D :D :D
Yes SM, it had air brakes, with a cute little metal flag that had to go down before it could be driven 8-) 8-)
Yes again, it was bought direct from Chiltern Queens for £500 with a full tank of fuel, good tyres, and some spares ;) ;).
I drove it for about 3,000 miles in all, but my then husband went to drive it one bitterly cold morning and found the clutch had frozen away from the flywheel! Tried to start it again after first turning the ignition off, and it wouldn't start!
A member of the coaches owning railway society, that we were members of and had contributed to a share of the £500 purchase price, who was an ex-army tank mechanic tried to fix it.
That failed, and in the end I had to use my retail contacts with a coach company we did business with, and organise for them to tow it back to the railway using one of their HGV recovery vehicles! ::) ::) ;) ;) ;)
Ahhhhhhhhhh! What lovely memories!! :-* :-* :-*8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
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Judging by the instrument binnacle below the steering wheel, air brakes and that Westinghouse flag, I'd reckon that it's actually a 1959-model Reliance.
Lovely vehicles to drive though, and with superb brakes. The '470' had to be the sweetest-sounding AEC engine ever!
I've still got a huge box-spanner here to undo the rear hub nut from the axle casing.
Great stuff this:y
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Judging by the instrument binnacle below the steering wheel, air brakes and that Westinghouse flag, I'd reckon that it's actually a 1959-model Reliance.
Lovely vehicles to drive though, and with superb brakes. The '470' had to be the sweetest-sounding AEC engine ever!
I've still got a huge box-spanner here to undo the rear hub nut from the axle casing.
Great stuff this:y
Oh yes she purrrrrrrrrrred when travelling, and was a real pleasure to drive! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
Just wonder if she is still around somewhere! :-/ :-/ :-/ I hope she is still with us, but I moved away from the area and lost touch with the owning society :'( :'(
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At this time, you were the envy of many drivers if you had an AEC or Leyland.
The lion's share of this market was dominated by the likes of the lightweight Bedford and Ford chassis at that time.
IIRC; the front-entrance equivalent Duple body for underfloor-engined chassis was called the 'Elizabethan'
Named in your honour madam 8-)
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At this time, you were the envy of many drivers if you had an AEC or Leyland.
The lion's share of this market was dominated by the likes of the lightweight Bedford and Ford chassis at that time.
IIRC; the front-entrance equivalent Duple body for underfloor-engined chassis was called the 'Elizabethan'
Named in your honour madam 8-)
Fantastic knowlege Sethsmate!! 8-) 8-) 8-) Thanks :y :y :y :y
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Just found this:
http://cgi.ebay.ie/Chiltern-Queens-AEC-Reliance-MUD-975-B-W-Photo_W0QQitemZ270535803404QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_Collectables_Bus_CoachCollectables_SM?hash=item3efd30c20c
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Just found this:
http://cgi.ebay.ie/Chiltern-Queens-AEC-Reliance-MUD-975-B-W-Photo_W0QQitemZ270535803404QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_Collectables_Bus_CoachCollectables_SM?hash=item3efd30c20c
Fantastic SM!! :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
It is so good seeing her again at, I assume, a far recent date compared to my time with MUD 975! I notice she has apparently lost one of those lovely chrome wheel covers from her fns, but she looks very complete 8-) 8-).
I just still wonder where she is?? :-/ :-/
Thanks :-* :-* :-*
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And more buses courtesy of Sethsmate................
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img149.jpg)[/img]
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img150.jpg)[/img]
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This charabanc picture was taken on the Wirral........ :y
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/WICharabanc1-1.jpg)[/img]
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And more buses courtesy of Sethsmate................
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img149.jpg)[/img]
Recently-introduced legislation allowed the maximum length for buses to be increased to 36', and Western Welsh were quick to take advantage of this opportunity.
In 1962, 18 of these PSU3-model Leyland Leopards arrived with 54-seat Willowbrook bodies, 0.600 engines and semi-automatic transmissions, as shown above by 614 outside Barry depot in 'as delivered' condition.
They were numbered 601-618, and registered 601-618 BBO, with the majority being allocated to Bridgend for the three main valleys routes which were heavily-patronised.
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img150.jpg)[/img]
Here's 607 at my local bus station at Maesteg, ready for it's back-working to Bridgend. It's been repainted into the later all-over red livery, and being Bridgend-based, carries a blue diamond above the offside fleet number.
These Leopards ran virtually non-stop for their 18-hour working days on the Bridgend Valleys routes, and were used seven days a week. Most put in a 15-year working life before withdrawal.
Although they could achieve a fair gallop, they suffered from heavy steering for their entire life-span.
On reflection, 'yours truly' must've spent a colossal part of his apprenticeship oiling king pins, and changing thrust pads on these leviathons!
I vividly remember an embossed notice on the drivers' cab demister panel.
It read: "Caution - This vehicle is 36' long x 8'21/2" wide"
8-)
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There is enough of these for a book
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There is enough of these for a book
Yes indeed Martin! :y :y
Brilliant isn't it, and I reckon Sethsmate should be it's chief editor :D :D 8-) 8-) 8-)
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Sethsmate's pics. Come on mate, what are they? :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img151.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img152.jpg)[/img]
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I found a photo of the actual bus I went to school on OUS 13Y
It's a Leyland Tiger with Alexander TS Bodywork.
This is the actual bus I went to school on, but in a diffrent livery
(http://www.centralsmt.co.uk/Photos/Leyland%20Tigers/LT13%20with%20First%20Borders%2012-10-01.jpg)
This is the same livery that the bus above had before moving to another fleet.
(http://www.centralsmt.co.uk/Photos/Leyland%20Tigers/LT17.jpg)
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This charabanc picture was taken on the Wirral........ :y
(http://][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/WICharabanc1-1.jpg)[/img]
Didn't you guys notice that written on this picture it says that my wifes Great Aunt May was sat on this charabanc :'( :'( :y
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I found a photo of the actual bus I went to school on OUS 13Y
It's a Leyland Tiger with Alexander TS Bodywork.
This is the actual bus I went to school on, but in a diffrent livery
(http://www.centralsmt.co.uk/Photos/Leyland%20Tigers/LT13%20with%20First%20Borders%2012-10-01.jpg)
This is the same livery that the bus above had before moving to another fleet.
(http://www.centralsmt.co.uk/Photos/Leyland%20Tigers/LT17.jpg)
Oh no! You mentioned Tigers. ::) ::)
Sethsmate will be on again about them :y
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Sethsmate's pics. Come on mate, what are they? :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img151.jpg)[/img]
Here's 602 running into it's departure bay already blinded-up for another 10-mile journey up the Llynfi Valley.
The location is Bridgend bus station.
This bus was exhibited at the 1962 Commercial Motor Show, which was a regular occurrence for new Western Welsh vehicles. 602 had a leather-covered steering wheel for it's entire life with the company.
The cantrail advert was carried on many WW buses, and said: "Successful cooks use Kardov flour".
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img152.jpg)[/img]
Here's Barry-based 610 at Cardiff Central Bus Station, about to work a 'bottom road' journey to Barry.
It's freshly outshopped from Ely Works following lower front-end accident damage - note the rectangular side-light units and additional moulding below the headlights.
Clearly visible is the Barry depot black diamond on the offside above the fleet number.
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I found a photo of the actual bus I went to school on OUS 13Y
It's a Leyland Tiger with Alexander TS Bodywork.
This is the actual bus I went to school on, but in a diffrent livery
(http://www.centralsmt.co.uk/Photos/Leyland%20Tigers/LT13%20with%20First%20Borders%2012-10-01.jpg)
This is the same livery that the bus above had before moving to another fleet.
(http://www.centralsmt.co.uk/Photos/Leyland%20Tigers/LT17.jpg)
Oh no! You mentioned Tigers. ::) ::)
Sethsmate will be on again about them :y
Sorry ::)
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OK, so your not interested in my wife's Great Aunt May then :'( :'(
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I found a photo of the actual bus I went to school on OUS 13Y
It's a Leyland Tiger with Alexander TS Bodywork.
This is the actual bus I went to school on, but in a diffrent livery
(http://www.centralsmt.co.uk/Photos/Leyland%20Tigers/LT13%20with%20First%20Borders%2012-10-01.jpg)
This is the same livery that the bus above had before moving to another fleet.
(http://www.centralsmt.co.uk/Photos/Leyland%20Tigers/LT17.jpg)
Oh no! You mentioned Tigers. ::) ::)
Sethsmate will be on again about them :y
Sorry ::)
Its Ok! He's on about Leopards at the moment :y
Meant to say before 'nice pictures' :y
How much was your bus fare then? ::) ::)
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I found a photo of the actual bus I went to school on OUS 13Y
It's a Leyland Tiger with Alexander TS Bodywork.
This is the actual bus I went to school on, but in a diffrent livery
(http://www.centralsmt.co.uk/Photos/Leyland%20Tigers/LT13%20with%20First%20Borders%2012-10-01.jpg)
This is the same livery that the bus above had before moving to another fleet.
(http://www.centralsmt.co.uk/Photos/Leyland%20Tigers/LT17.jpg)
Oh no! You mentioned Tigers. ::) ::)
Sethsmate will be on again about them :y
Sorry ::)
Its Ok! He's on about Leopards at the moment :y
Meant to say before 'nice pictures' :y
How much was your bus fare then? ::) ::)
The weekly Bus Pass was 75p :y
-
We had a trio of these Alexander TE-bodied Tigers when I relocated to Brewers Maesteg depot.
They were ex-Eastern National (Thamesway) jobs, which were generally used on the X3 City Runner limited-stop service to Swansea. These were relatively uncommon 11.3-metre versions. Being aluminium-framed, they were considerably lighter than the equivalent Duple/Plaxton offerings. Rear windows used to work loose, though easily rectified.
I'm quite a fan of Alexander products, and their Y-type has to be the best-ever bus body.
-
OK, so your not interested in my wife's Great Aunt May then :'( :'(
Relax my man - still trying to work out what make chara it is!
Answers on a postcard to 'our man on the Wirral' please!
:y
-
We had a trio of these Alexander TE-bodied Tigers when I relocated to Brewers Maesteg depot.
They were ex-Eastern National (Thamesway) jobs, which were generally used on the X3 City Runner limited-stop service to Swansea. These were relatively uncommon 11.3-metre versions. Being aluminium-framed, they were considerably lighter than the equivalent Duple/Plaxton offerings. Rear windows used to work loose, though easily rectified.
I'm quite a fan of Alexander products, and their Y-type has to be the best-ever bus body.
Here one here:
(http://www.centralsmt.co.uk/Photos/Leyland%20Leopards/T409.jpg)
(http://www.centralsmt.co.uk/Photos/Leyland%20Leopards/T430.jpg)
(http://www.centralsmt.co.uk/Photos/Leyland%20Leopards/T370.jpg)
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OK, so your not interested in my wife's Great Aunt May then :'( :'(
Relax my man - still trying to work out what make chara it is!
Answers on a postcard to 'our man on the Wirral'
:y
Limited to 12 MPH, guess it would take some stopping... :)
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I had to get a bus yesterday from Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow, bus travel is not that bad these days it was very comfortable inside:
This is the bus I travelled on:
(http://www.islayinfo.com/images/travel/citylink-bus-300.jpg)
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I had to get a bus yesterday from Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow, bus travel is that bad these days:
This is the bus I travelled on:
(http://l.yimg.com/g/images/spaceball.gif)
An air bus Jim ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
No seriously no picture is showing! ;) ;)
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OK, so your not interested in my wife's Great Aunt May then :'( :'(
Relax my man - still trying to work out what make chara it is!
Answers on a postcard to 'our man on the Wirral' please!
:y
I think it is an Albion circa 1919 :y Not sure though :y
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I had to get a bus yesterday from Edinburgh Airport to Glasgow, bus travel is that bad these days:
This is the bus I travelled on:
(http://l.yimg.com/g/images/spaceball.gif)
An air bus Jim ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
No seriously no picture is showing! ;) ;)
Sorted now ;D ;D
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Re: the top two photos
The Y-type could be specified with the longer panoramic windows, or the shorter multi-bay arrangement as seen on this trusty Leopard.
The third shot is of an Alexander T-type body (fore-runner of the TE) on a Leyland Leopard.
At around this time, Leyland announced that it was to discontinue the 4-speed manual gearbox option on the Leopard.
As the Scottish Bus Group was reluctant to accept the ubiquitous semi-automatic version, it turned to Seddon, who came up with the 'Pennine 7' chassis, powered by the Gardner 6HLX unit. However, this chassis wasn't entirely successful, and SBG returned to semi-auto Leopards for it's requirements.
:y
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Re: the top two photos
The Y-type could be specified with the longer panoramic windows, or the shorter multi-bay arrangement as seen on this trusty Leopard.
The third shot is of a T-type (fore-runner of the TE) on a Leyland Leopard.
At around this time, Leyland announced that it was to discontinue the 4-speed manual gearbox option on the Leopard.
As the Scottish Bus Group was reluctant to accept the ubiquitous semi-automatic version, it turned to Seddon, who came up with the 'Pennine 7' chassis powered by the Gardner 6HLX unit. However, this chassis wasn't entirely successful, and SBG returned to the Leopard with semi-auto 'box for it's requirements.
:y
Byron, Di, Liz and others we are famous 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
Put Bus nostalgia into Google :y
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Fame at last....... :y :y
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Fame at last....... :y :y
So Andy Warhol was right 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
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More Charabancs........................................
Dennis
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/1_sm_1929DennisCharabanc1-1.jpg)[/img]
Ford I Think
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2468008773_709c7c26221-1.jpg)[/img]
Albion at Llandudno
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Lyn20Extrav202009200201-1.jpg)[/img]
Leyland
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2898862401_1833a648b91-1.jpg)[/img]
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to me the white one could be a guy?
-
to me the white one could be a guy?
You could be right, this one I'm not sure, I thought it was made in the States.
The originals, that we called charabancs, came from the states and were mainly Fords. :-/ :-/ :-/
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to me the white one could be a guy?
You could be right, this one I'm not sure, I thought it was made in the States.
The originals, that we called charabancs, came from the states and were mainly Fords. :-/ :-/ :-/
no doubt byron will put us right on it :y
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(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/jonthenut_bucket/ScannedImage-1.jpg)
this is burton corporation no 16 i have shares in. :y
-
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/jonthenut_bucket/ScannedImage-1.jpg)
this is burton corporation no 16 i have shares in. :y
It's a bit old....... :D :D :D
Can I have a drive..... :y
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to me the white one could be a guy?
You could be right, this one I'm not sure, I thought it was made in the States.
The originals, that we called charabancs, came from the states and were mainly Fords. :-/ :-/ :-/
no doubt byron will put us right on it :y
Are you ready for this folks?
It's a Leyland Lioness, and was owned (maybe it still is) by Winkleigh guru Colin Shears.
West of England Transport Collection etc.
:y
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to me the white one could be a guy?
You could be right, this one I'm not sure, I thought it was made in the States.
The originals, that we called charabancs, came from the states and were mainly Fords. :-/ :-/ :-/
no doubt byron will put us right on it :y
Are you ready for this folks?
It's a Leyland Lioness, and was owned (maybe it still is) by Winkleigh guru Colin Shears.
West of England Transport Collection etc.
:y
ok, both wrong then. :y
-
to me the white one could be a guy?
You could be right, this one I'm not sure, I thought it was made in the States.
The originals, that we called charabancs, came from the states and were mainly Fords. :-/ :-/ :-/
no doubt byron will put us right on it :y
Are you ready for this folks?
It's a Leyland Lioness, and was owned (maybe it still is) by Winkleigh guru Colin Shears.
West of England Transport Collection etc.
:y
Right again Byron, just checked :y
All I can add is that it was built in 1929 :y
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Sethsmates pictures
Ok mate do your bit............................................ :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img153.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img154.jpg)[/img]
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Western Welsh waited until 1969 for it's next delivery of 36' service buses.
These duly arrived in the form of 20 PSU3A Leyland Leopards with 51-seat BET-style bodies by Marshalls of Cambridge. Again, the 9.8 litre 0600 engine was specified with 4-speed semi-automatic transmissions, though of the recently-introduced variant. Allocated fleet numbers 619-638, they were registered PKG 619-638G, and all were equipped for one man operation.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img153.jpg)[/img]
Here's Neath-allocated 620 leaving Port Talbot in 'as delivered' condition, crew-operated, and heading for Porthcawl.
It's journey had started almost two hours earlier at Merthyr Tydfil, with around 20 minutes still to go before it reached it's outward destination at the coastal resort. It was dovetailed-in with the 603 service which started from Aberdare, and provided a half-hourly frequency along the Vale of Neath.
Heavy Summer season traffic justified the use of maximum-capacity single-deckers on these routes, as double-deckers could not be used, due to low bridges.
602, like all Neath (or Aberdare)-based buses carried a red diamond affixed above the side and rear fleet number transfers.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img154.jpg)[/img]
Here's the former 635 at Crosskeys depot in the Summer of 1978.
Western Welsh was, by now, part of the National Bus Company and adopted the corporate Poppy Red livery, and the Red & White-inspired fleet numbering system. 635 had been renumbered as U1669, which indicates that it was the 16th underfloor-engined saloon of 1969. In an effort to improve the bland-ness of their appearances, this bus had received a significant amount of Herzim aluminium mouldings to it's bodywork. Although an improved appearance was evident, the experiment was discontinued. The black rectangular units were illuminated in darkness hours, and extolled in amber colour "Pay as you enter" whilst one on the rear displayed "One man operated" in red.
The long 156 route linked Newport with Merthyr Tydfil via the Western Valley and Tredegar, and was jointly operated with the Red & White company.
-
I remember red buses and green buses.
Midland Red and I think Bristol Omnibus - Gloucester
-
I remember red buses and green buses.
Midland Red and I think Bristol Omnibus - Gloucester
A very good friend of mine (a 'native' of Upton-upon-Severn), tells me that both Midland Red (Malvern and Worcester depots) and Bristol Omnibus Co (Gloucester and Ledbury) served his home town.
Neither of these one-time giants serve Upton these days. 'Tis nowadays served by Astons of Kempsey on a 'tendered' basis, and even they have been absorbed by the Veolia conglomerate.
-
I think both did the A38 into Gloucester - I grew up just north of Glos
-
Veolia, I believe they now own the Clayton Jones abortion.
What a man, What a fool.
I intensley dislike that man immensley, and we won't go there with Alison.
-
I think both did the A38 into Gloucester - I grew up just north of Glos
Sounds right Martin, I think that there was some joint working with BOC and MR in the Gloucester/Worcester/Malvern areas.
I got to drive a preserved Midland Red S16, and a Stratford Blue Leopard on the erstwhile free bus link between the Welland Rally and Upton/Great Malvern a few years back.
In latter years, I had a Dudleys of Inkberrow Leopard coach. It used to stay overnight alongside my caravan at the rally.
Alas, the service is no more. A sore point which I won't go into here.
>:(
-
I think both did the A38 into Gloucester - I grew up just north of Glos
Sounds right Martin, I think that there was some joint working with BOC and MR in the Gloucester/Worcester/Malvern areas.
I got to drive a preserved Midland Red S16, and a Stratford Blue Leopard on the erstwhile free bus link between the Welland Rally and Upton/Great Malvern a few years back.
In latter years, I had a Dudleys of Inkberrow Leopard coach. It used to stay overnight alongside my caravan at the rally.
Alas, the service is no more. A sore point which I won't go into here.
>:(
See them regularly
-
Sethmate picture:- ........................................
What do you know about this one then :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img155.jpg)[/img]
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The final order of Leyland Leopard-based service buses arrived in 1972.
They carried fleet numbers 1521-1554, and were registered XBO521-554K.
This delivery comprised of 34 of the 36' PSU3B model, with the beefier 11.1-litre 0.680 engine and 5-speed semi-automatic transmission. The brakes and steering were improved over the previous PSU3A model - basically incorporating Atlantean-derived units. All were bodied by Marshalls of Cambridge, 1521-30 being to DP-spec incorporating 49 coach seats and rear luggage lockers, whilst the remainder were 51-seat buses. Again, all were equipped for one-man operation.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img155.jpg)[/img]
Here's Crosskeys-based 1554 on private hire duty at Porthcawl's Salt Lake Coach Park very early in it's life.
The observant will note that the WW crest motif, which had previously been centrally-affixed to the fronts has been discontinued in favour of the later WW 'lozenge' transfer. The coloured-diamond depot-allocation system had also been dispensed-with at this point in time. The photo also clearly shows the Atlantean-derived higher driving position, though no power steering was specified.
These were the last buses delivered with the ultimate BET Federation 'house-style' bodywork.
The National Bus Company had other ideas for it's future requirements ...............
-
Keep them coming..... :y
-
Whilst I unearth some more Western Welsh material, you might like to have a look here:
http://www.warminstervbrd.connectfree.co.uk/v/Leathers.htm
It's a two-page ditty about our good friends Len and Sylv's former operation in deepest rural Wiltshire.
Damn lovely folk, their fleet was 100% Bedford to the end!
Click on the Maiden Bradley website link, and read Don Newbury's (Sylvia's father) tale of purchasing the OB.
It remains the only OB still with it's original owner! :y
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Some nice Charabanc pictures..........................
This is American
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/lbc141.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/P4292906A1-1.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/victory20garage2019501.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/VulcanCharabanc-Grandfatherdriving-.jpg)[/img]
Come on Sethsmate name them :y :y
-
1) Bus
2) Bus
3) Bus
4) Bus
-
1) Bus
2) Bus
3) Bus
4) Bus
No
1) Chara
2) Chara
3) Chara
4) Chara
;) ;) ;)
-
1) Bus
2) Bus
3) Bus
4) Bus
Is this guy a comedian, or what?
Quiet please gentlemen, this scribe is deep in thought here ........
:D
-
1) Bus
2) Bus
3) Bus
4) Bus
Is this guy a comedian, or what?
Quiet please gentlemen, this scribe is deep in thought here ........
:D
FFS. How the fekk can you be deep in thought, you are from MAESTEG. PMSL ;D
What is having thoughts about? Is it Chinese or Indian tonight. ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
-
Chinese a little earlier on actually missus.
Grand-daughter and youngest grandson here tonight - good ol' grampa's wallet bore the brunt - again!
:D :D :D
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Chinese a little earlier on actually missus.
Grand-daughter and youngest grandson here tonight - good ol' grampa's wallet bore the brunt - again!
:D :D :D
I should think so too! Scrounging off your grandchildren...the very thought ;D
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Tow trucks............................................... :y
Re sethsmate
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/AP-SV-WW-MATS-TEMP.jpg)[/img]
-
Tow trucks............................................... :y
Re sethsmate
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/AP-SV-WW-MATS-TEMP.jpg)[/img]
They are not tow trucks, old man, this is a tow truck.
Scammell. I cannot find his Atkinson.
http://www.hankstruckpictures.com/pix/trucks/len_rogers/july2003/scammell_williams.jpg
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Tow trucks............................................... :y
Re sethsmate
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/AP-SV-WW-MATS-TEMP.jpg)[/img]
They are not tow trucks, old man, this is a tow truck.
Scammell. I cannot find his Atkinson.
http://www.hankstruckpictures.com/pix/trucks/len_rogers/july2003/scammell_williams.jpg
OK! tow truck ish.
My Dad used to drive Scammells during the war. Dragging tanks around Belgium and France. :y
-
Tow trucks............................................... :y
Re sethsmate
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/AP-SV-WW-MATS-TEMP.jpg)[/img]
They are not tow trucks, old man, this is a tow truck.
Scammell. I cannot find his Atkinson.
http://www.hankstruckpictures.com/pix/trucks/len_rogers/july2003/scammell_williams.jpg
OK! tow truck ish.
My Dad used to drive Scammells during the war. Dragging tanks around Belgium and France. :y
One Atkinson Truck...........................................
For Onherown :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/6b94f3b01.jpg)[/img]
-
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/AP-SV-WW-MATS-TEMP.jpg)[/img]
Here's a rare view of Western Welsh's two AEC Matadors posed together outside the Ely Works paintshop in Summer 1966.
Neath-based No.2 had just had a repaint, and is resplendent in the Wine Red/Royal Ivory livery. It has received the later WW motif.
Ely-based No.1 (left), still carries the older company motif, and both were WD-surplus acquired in the late 1950s. The six-man cabs and associated bodywork was completed by WW at Ely, and I'm informed that this was the first reunion of the duo in seven years.
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Found this one aswell Di ....................................... :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/3894737170_88447bb2da1.jpg)[/img]
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(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/6b94f3b01.jpg)[/img]
Another Cummins-powered Atki Borderer!
Back to buses now, have a look here:
http://www.warminstervbrd.connectfree.co.uk/v/Leathers.htm
Our long-time friends Len and Sylv. Lovely people indeed!
-
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/3894737170_88447bb2da1.jpg)[/img]
An AEC Militant 6x6 jobbie.
-
I love the R T Williams stuff, and that Gold and Green Atki is simply stunning.
-
I love the R T Williams stuff, and that Gold and Green Atki is simply stunning.
Now here is a bit of a beast................................... :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/ATKINSON_611.jpg)[/img]
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I reckon that this is actually a Scammell that's had an Atki cab grafted on.
Anyone? :-/
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What you really need is 36 thumping big cylinders running 6000+ bhp
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b394/Marks_DTM_Calib/Ruddington/DSC00007.jpg)
Had a good run with them down to Loughborough yesterday afternoon having got 47292 running again after de-winterisation.
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You want big, here is big...................................
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/worlds-largest-engine1.jpg)[/img]
Total engine weight: 2300 tons (The crankshaft alone weighs 300 tons.)
Length: 89 feet
Height: 44 feet
Maximum power: 108,920 hp at 102 rpm
Maximum torque: 5,608,312 lb/ft at 102rpm
::) ::) ::) :y
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What you really need is 36 thumping big cylinders running 6000+ bhp
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b394/Marks_DTM_Calib/Ruddington/DSC00007.jpg)
Had a good run with them down to Loughborough yesterday afternoon having got 47292 running again after de-winterisation.
Are these trains scrap or waiting to be refurbed.
-
I reckon that this is actually a Scammell that's had an Atki cab grafted on.
Anyone? :-/
Now you say that, you can see the Atki cab. Think your right there Byron :y :y
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What you really need is 36 thumping big cylinders running 6000+ bhp
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b394/Marks_DTM_Calib/Ruddington/DSC00007.jpg)
Had a good run with them down to Loughborough yesterday afternoon having got 47292 running again after de-winterisation.
Are these trains scrap or waiting to be refurbed.
All 3 are full runners, middle one is complete, front and rear awaiting body overhaul.
Not very mobile that large engine of yours....
-
The worlds biggest bus................................... :y
Neoplan Jumbo -cruiser....2 in 1 bus..double deck bus..170 passenger capacity
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/h1.jpg)[/img]
-
What you really need is 36 thumping big cylinders running 6000+ bhp
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b394/Marks_DTM_Calib/Ruddington/DSC00007.jpg)
Had a good run with them down to Loughborough yesterday afternoon having got 47292 running again after de-winterisation.
Are these trains scrap or waiting to be refurbed.
All 3 are full runners, middle one is complete, front and rear awaiting body overhaul.
Not very mobile that large engine of yours....
Reason I asked was that my daughter is at Loughborough Uni. Next time I'm over there I would love to see those trains :y
Effing big engine though, is it not
8-) 8-) 8-)
-
What you really need is 36 thumping big cylinders running 6000+ bhp
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b394/Marks_DTM_Calib/Ruddington/DSC00007.jpg)
Had a good run with them down to Loughborough yesterday afternoon having got 47292 running again after de-winterisation.
Are these trains scrap or waiting to be refurbed.
All 3 are full runners, middle one is complete, front and rear awaiting body overhaul.
Not very mobile that large engine of yours....
Reason I asked was that my daughter is at Loughborough Uni. Next time I'm over there I would love to see those trains :y
Effing big engine though, is it not
8-) 8-) 8-)
It certainly is!
Yes, if your over this way drop me a PM and I will give you the tour.....but bring old cloths! :y
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The series three of this type of bus is supposed to be the fastest standard coach available>.................................... :y
What is it?????
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/4438705660_e2b57e44161.jpg)[/img]
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I should add, we also have these on site at Ruddington:
Operational
Routemaster RCL London Transport CUV 218C built in 1965.
AEC Regent III Nottingham City Transport OTV 161 built in 1954.
Leyland Atlantean open-top ex Northern General and Trent ORC 545P built in 1976.
Trent Buses AEC Militant 'wrecker' GSU 841 "Gus" built in 1952.
Under light work
Leyland Atlantean Nottingham City Transport ARC 666T "Andrew Pickering" built in 1978
Undergoing restoration
Barton Transport AEC Reliance/Plaxton Panorama coach 866 HAL built in 1960.
Leyland PD1 ex Leicester and Barton DJF 349 built in 1947.
Stored
Leyland Lion LT5 South Notts VO 8846 built in 1933.
Leyland National Mk.1 Trent Buses KVO 429P built in 1975.
Leyland Royal Tiger/Duple Roadmaster South Notts MAL 310 built in 1951.
Leyland PD1 Barton Transport JVO 230 built in 1948.
-
I should add, we also have these on site at Ruddington:
Operational
Routemaster RCL London Transport CUV 218C built in 1965.
AEC Regent III Nottingham City Transport OTV 161 built in 1954.
Leyland Atlantean open-top ex Northern General and Trent ORC 545P built in 1976.
Trent Buses AEC Militant 'wrecker' GSU 841 "Gus" built in 1952.
Under light work
Leyland Atlantean Nottingham City Transport ARC 666T "Andrew Pickering" built in 1978
Undergoing restoration
Barton Transport AEC Reliance/Plaxton Panorama coach 866 HAL built in 1960.
Leyland PD1 ex Leicester and Barton DJF 349 built in 1947.
Stored
Leyland Lion LT5 South Notts VO 8846 built in 1933.
Leyland National Mk.1 Trent Buses KVO 429P built in 1975.
Leyland Royal Tiger/Duple Roadmaster South Notts MAL 310 built in 1951.
Leyland PD1 Barton Transport JVO 230 built in 1948.
All based at Loughborough? Where about are they?
-
Bova Futura 2 if I'm not wrong......
BRILLIANT bus, nearly bought one just the same instead of my "swiftie", only reason I didn't, is it would not fit on my drive!!!
-
I should add, we also have these on site at Ruddington:
Operational
Routemaster RCL London Transport CUV 218C built in 1965.
AEC Regent III Nottingham City Transport OTV 161 built in 1954.
Leyland Atlantean open-top ex Northern General and Trent ORC 545P built in 1976.
Trent Buses AEC Militant 'wrecker' GSU 841 "Gus" built in 1952.
Under light work
Leyland Atlantean Nottingham City Transport ARC 666T "Andrew Pickering" built in 1978
Undergoing restoration
Barton Transport AEC Reliance/Plaxton Panorama coach 866 HAL built in 1960.
Leyland PD1 ex Leicester and Barton DJF 349 built in 1947.
Stored
Leyland Lion LT5 South Notts VO 8846 built in 1933.
Leyland National Mk.1 Trent Buses KVO 429P built in 1975.
Leyland Royal Tiger/Duple Roadmaster South Notts MAL 310 built in 1951.
Leyland PD1 Barton Transport JVO 230 built in 1948.
All based at Loughborough? Where about are they?
All based just up the road at Ruddington (which is where the locos are to).
http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=52.884958,-1.147873&spn=0.001641,0.004812&t=h&z=18
less than 10 miles from loughborough
-
I should add, we also have these on site at Ruddington:
Operational
Routemaster RCL London Transport CUV 218C built in 1965.
AEC Regent III Nottingham City Transport OTV 161 built in 1954.
Leyland Atlantean open-top ex Northern General and Trent ORC 545P built in 1976.
Trent Buses AEC Militant 'wrecker' GSU 841 "Gus" built in 1952.
Under light work
Leyland Atlantean Nottingham City Transport ARC 666T "Andrew Pickering" built in 1978
Undergoing restoration
Barton Transport AEC Reliance/Plaxton Panorama coach 866 HAL built in 1960.
Leyland PD1 ex Leicester and Barton DJF 349 built in 1947.
Stored
Leyland Lion LT5 South Notts VO 8846 built in 1933.
Leyland National Mk.1 Trent Buses KVO 429P built in 1975.
Leyland Royal Tiger/Duple Roadmaster South Notts MAL 310 built in 1951.
Leyland PD1 Barton Transport JVO 230 built in 1948.
All based at Loughborough? Where about are they?
All based just up the road at Ruddington (which is where the locos are to).
http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=52.884958,-1.147873&spn=0.001641,0.004812&t=h&z=18
less than 10 miles from loughborough
Can anyone just roll up and have a look around, or is there a contact number. I would love to nose about there :y
-
I should add, we also have these on site at Ruddington:
Operational
Routemaster RCL London Transport CUV 218C built in 1965.
AEC Regent III Nottingham City Transport OTV 161 built in 1954.
Leyland Atlantean open-top ex Northern General and Trent ORC 545P built in 1976.
Trent Buses AEC Militant 'wrecker' GSU 841 "Gus" built in 1952.
Under light work
Leyland Atlantean Nottingham City Transport ARC 666T "Andrew Pickering" built in 1978
Undergoing restoration
Barton Transport AEC Reliance/Plaxton Panorama coach 866 HAL built in 1960.
Leyland PD1 ex Leicester and Barton DJF 349 built in 1947.
Stored
Leyland Lion LT5 South Notts VO 8846 built in 1933.
Leyland National Mk.1 Trent Buses KVO 429P built in 1975.
Leyland Royal Tiger/Duple Roadmaster South Notts MAL 310 built in 1951.
Leyland PD1 Barton Transport JVO 230 built in 1948.
All based at Loughborough? Where about are they?
All based just up the road at Ruddington (which is where the locos are to).
http://maps.google.co.uk/?ie=UTF8&ll=52.884958,-1.147873&spn=0.001641,0.004812&t=h&z=18
less than 10 miles from loughborough
Can anyone just roll up and have a look around, or is there a contact number. I would love to nose about there :y
Officialy open to the public on Sundays with the trains operating.
Un-officialy open on Saturdays and the guys in the bus group are there then and more than happy to let you have a look round.
-
Bova Futura 2 if I'm not wrong......
BRILLIANT bus, nearly bought one just the same instead of my "swiftie", only reason I didn't, is it would not fit on my drive!!!
Yes your right, and they are lovely coaches :y
-
Isn't it strange.............so many bus nerds on an Omega forum!!!
And what is more sad.........ladies who know about them too........I LOVE IT.
-
Isn't it strange.............so many bus nerds on an Omega forum!!!
And what is more sad.........ladies who know about them too........I LOVE IT.
Bus Anoraks.
You can get a BA honours in this thread :y
There is a couple of ladies on the forum that know more about bus than you could imagine. :y
And then there is Sethsmate he is the local bus guru ;) ;)
-
]I reckon that this is actually a Scammell that's had an Atki cab grafted on[/highlight].
Anyone? :-/
By, I was thinking the same, it does look odd. I looked up J Crow and came back with this.
Here is the history as recorded for the J. Crow Atki's.
James Crow Snr purchased several bonneted Atkinson's, he retained the 6 wheel and the four
wheeler for himself whilst One four wheeler went to Colin Noble for use with his
slip and another 4 wheeler went to Marshalls Amusements here in Yorkshire (there
could be more that he sold on) The Noble vehicle ended its days in the
Hetton Le Hole scrap yard of Jimmy Monte, whilst the Marshall's machine was sold
to a local farmer in York. The farmer although an enthusiast did
nothing with the Atki only used around the farm for tree pulling etc. After
severel attempts this Atki was sold and moved down South, I belive that
restoration is on going or it could even be complete and out now. Both the 6
and 4 wheelers that were still in Crows fleet were sold for scrap when James
Crow Snr passed over. and both went to Jimmy Montes scrap yard at Hetton le
Hole. However both were rescued the six wheeler minus engine. The four wheeler
is still up North and is now preserved back into Pickfords livery and attends
many rallys including Pickering. Restoration of the six wheeler
is still on going I believe. If you want to see pictures of both the former
Crow vehicles in their working days with Pickfords you need to try to find the
now out of print book in the "Trucks in Britain"series titled Pickfords. I
hope that the above is of information to you.
So maybe NOT a cut and GRAFT after all. :y :y :y
-
Another little gem from my model collection (http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i247/mysticfred/smiley23.gif)
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i247/mysticfred/london1.jpg)
-
Another little gem from my model collection (http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i247/mysticfred/smiley23.gif)
(http://i74.photobucket.com/albums/i247/mysticfred/london1.jpg)
Loverly, mate it looks great. Did you make it or is it a Corgi type model? Nice shine on both the bus and the taxi :y :y
-
]I reckon that this is actually a Scammell that's had an Atki cab grafted on[/highlight].
Anyone? :-/
By, I was thinking the same, it does look odd. I looked up J Crow and came back with this.
Here is the history as recorded for the J. Crow Atki's.
James Crow Snr purchased several bonneted Atkinson's, he retained the 6 wheel and the four
wheeler for himself whilst One four wheeler went to Colin Noble for use with his
slip and another 4 wheeler went to Marshalls Amusements here in Yorkshire (there
could be more that he sold on) The Noble vehicle ended its days in the
Hetton Le Hole scrap yard of Jimmy Monte, whilst the Marshall's machine was sold
to a local farmer in York. The farmer although an enthusiast did
nothing with the Atki only used around the farm for tree pulling etc. After
severel attempts this Atki was sold and moved down South, I belive that
restoration is on going or it could even be complete and out now. Both the 6
and 4 wheelers that were still in Crows fleet were sold for scrap when James
Crow Snr passed over. and both went to Jimmy Montes scrap yard at Hetton le
Hole. However both were rescued the six wheeler minus engine. The four wheeler
is still up North and is now preserved back into Pickfords livery and attends
many rallys including Pickering. Restoration of the six wheeler
is still on going I believe. If you want to see pictures of both the former
Crow vehicles in their working days with Pickfords you need to try to find the
now out of print book in the "Trucks in Britain"series titled Pickfords. I
hope that the above is of information to you.
So maybe NOT a cut and GRAFT after all. :y :y :y
Is this it Di..................................................... :y
The only clues I can give you are the words 'Crow Carrying Company' on the door, and the 'Cummins Diesel' badge on the grille.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/wreckercaewgfsed1.jpg)[/img]
-
You don't see many of this type of bus....................... :y
What is it?
I will tell you that it is pictured in Malta :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/loCIMG01661.jpg)[/img]
-
'fraid not lad!
Depicted here is an ex-US Army Diamond T tank transporter tractor.
I'm sure that they were originally powered by a Hercules 'straight-six' petrol engine. Looks like this one's been re-powered with a Cummins diesel unit.
There were quite a few of these around here on heavy recovery work.
;)
-
You don't see many of this type of bus....................... :y
What is it?
I will tell you that it is pictured in Malta :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/loCIMG01661.jpg)[/img]
The prime mover is a Scammell Scarab.
-
'fraid not lad!
Depicted here is an ex-US Army Diamond T tank transporter tractor.
I'm sure that they were originally powered by a Hercules 'straight-six' petrol engine. Looks like this one's been re-powered with a Cummins diesel unit.
There were quite a few of these around here on heavy recovery work.
;)
Oooooops, I'll keep looking :y
-
You don't see many of this type of bus....................... :y
What is it?
I will tell you that it is pictured in Malta :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/loCIMG01661.jpg)[/img]
Converted Scammell Scarab?
-
You don't see many of this type of bus....................... :y
What is it?
I will tell you that it is pictured in Malta :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/loCIMG01661.jpg)[/img]
Looks like British Airways colours????????????
-
'fraid not lad!
Depicted here is an ex-US Army Diamond T tank transporter tractor.
I'm sure that they were originally powered by a Hercules 'straight-six' petrol engine. Looks like this one's been re-powered with a Cummins diesel unit.
There were quite a few of these around here on heavy recovery work.
;)
Oooooops, I'll keep looking :y
Closer this time?................................................. :-/
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Scammell20Pickfords20NGF1201.jpg)[/img]
-
Or this one............................................... ;)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2855848823_1cbd90fd221.jpg)[/img]
-
Another Sethsmate picture:-............................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img162.jpg)[/img]
-
Not many folk realised this, but in 1971, Western Welsh took delivery of 20 Bristol RELL6Ls.
They were registered UKG 801J-820J, and given fleet numbers 801-820.
All were identically-bodied, again by Marshalls of Cambridge, and to the ultimate BET Federation outline.
The chassis was specified with the Leyland 0.680 engine option, and remotely-mounted 5-speed semi-automatic transmission.
All were OMO-equipped.
801-805 were initially allocated to Crosskeys (grey diamond), and were regular performers on the lengthy 303 service to distant Tredegar. 805 is seen here at Cardiff Central Bus Station awaiting departure.
However, 806-820 were not licensed by Western Welsh.
Together with 801-805, the entire 20 were soon transferred to South Wales Transport during NBC's major re-organisation of it's operations within the South Wales area. They were variously allocated to SWT's depots at Gorseinon, Neath and Swansea (Brunswick Street). The Neath-based ones were thence regularly used on their 'mountain' service which linked Swansea, Neath and Maesteg.
-
Here you are Sethmate a Red version.......................... :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/scan0001.jpg)[/img]
-
By now repainted into NBC corporate livery, 630 is seen here at Swansea's Quadrant Bus Station.
It's a Neath-based bus at this point in it's life, and has in fact worked through from my home-town on the 234 service. This service was jointly worked by SWT's Neath depot and National Welsh's Bridgend depot. End-to-end running time was a scheduled 2 hours 15 minutes.
-
Hello all,
Is the Barry festival of transport on this year?
We used to have a bus show in Blackwood but they moved it last year to Llancaiach fawr-hardly any buses there at all.
Always wanted a bus or coach.
-
Or this one............................................... ;)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2855848823_1cbd90fd221.jpg)[/img]
Not interested in trucks or buses, but that is a beauty.
-
Or this one............................................... ;)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2855848823_1cbd90fd221.jpg)[/img]
Not interested in trucks or buses, but that is a beauty.
I think the gold one a page or two back is nicer, only my opinion. :y :y :y
-
I must admit I thought you lot rather sad when this thread first started gaining alot of interest... since then I have changed my mind :-? A few of you have impressed me, especially Sethsmate with your knowledge of these Buses.
My Dad was a bus driver for years through the 70's on. There is a bloke down the road from me who has bought an old Bristol which I was going to take a picture of and post it on here, as my Dad drove it when it was brand new. PMT "Potteries Motor Traction" was the main bus company around here, where I myself served my Apprenticeship.
I had to go into different departments, fibreglassing, stores etc.. when in the stores had to go up to this old room where the cloth for the seats etc was kept. There was a ladder going into what can only be discribed as a cockloft which has a light bulb up there. There was 6 ledgers with gold edging looked like huge Bibles. I was really interested and was reading about Ned had shoes fitted today at 1d, a bale of hay etc would love to know where they are now hope the Library got them else I may aswell of had one :)
-
I must admit I thought you lot rather sad when this thread first started gaining alot of interest... since then I have changed my mind :-? A few of you have impressed me, especially Sethsmate with your knowledge of these Buses.
My Dad was a bus driver for years through the 70's on. There is a bloke down the road from me who has bought an old Bristol which I was going to take a picture of and post it on here, as my Dad drove it when it was brand new. PMT "Potteries Motor Traction" was the main bus company around here, where I myself served my Apprenticeship.
I had to go into different departments, fibreglassing, stores etc.. when in the stores had to go up to this old room where the cloth for the seats etc was kept. There was a ladder going into what can only be discribed as a cockloft which has a light bulb up there. There was 6 ledgers with gold edging looked like huge Bibles. I was really interested and was reading about Ned had shoes fitted today at 1d, a bale of hay etc would love to know where they are now hope the Library got them else I may aswell of had one :)
If you say so Daz ::)
-
There you go Byron, we have converted the Dark One.
He be stripping Bristols( ;D ;D ;D) before we know it. ;D ;D ;D ;D
-
I must admit I thought you lot rather sad when this thread first started gaining alot of interest... since then I have changed my mind :-? A few of you have impressed me, especially Sethsmate with your knowledge of these Buses.
My Dad was a bus driver for years through the 70's on. There is a bloke down the road from me who has bought an old Bristol which I was going to take a picture of and post it on here, as my Dad drove it when it was brand new. PMT "Potteries Motor Traction" was the main bus company around here, where I myself served my Apprenticeship.
I had to go into different departments, fibreglassing, stores etc.. when in the stores had to go up to this old room where the cloth for the seats etc was kept. There was a ladder going into what can only be discribed as a cockloft which has a light bulb up there. There was 6 ledgers with gold edging looked like huge Bibles. I was really interested and was reading about Ned had shoes fitted today at 1d, a bale of hay etc would love to know where they are now hope the Library got them else I may aswell of had one :)
If you say so Daz ::)
Your being serious, never known that since I've been on this forum........................................................
Still waiting for the punch line ;) ;) ;) ;)
-
I must admit I thought you lot rather sad when this thread first started gaining alot of interest... since then I have changed my mind :-? A few of you have impressed me, especially Sethsmate with your knowledge of these Buses.
My Dad was a bus driver for years through the 70's on. There is a bloke down the road from me who has bought an old Bristol which I was going to take a picture of and post it on here, as my Dad drove it when it was brand new. PMT "Potteries Motor Traction" was the main bus company around here, where I myself served my Apprenticeship.
I had to go into different departments, fibreglassing, stores etc.. when in the stores had to go up to this old room where the cloth for the seats etc was kept. There was a ladder going into what can only be discribed as a cockloft which has a light bulb up there. There was 6 ledgers with gold edging looked like huge Bibles. I was really interested and was reading about Ned had shoes fitted today at 1d, a bale of hay etc would love to know where they are now hope the Library got them else I may aswell of had one :)
If you say so Daz ::)
Your being serious, never known that since I've been on this forum........................................................
Still waiting for the punch line ;) ;) ;) ;)
Is it like this Daz..................................................
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/109-DRMCumberland1.jpg)[/img]
-
I must admit I thought you lot rather sad when this thread first started gaining alot of interest... since then I have changed my mind :-? A few of you have impressed me, especially Sethsmate with your knowledge of these Buses.
My Dad was a bus driver for years through the 70's on. There is a bloke down the road from me who has bought an old Bristol which I was going to take a picture of and post it on here, as my Dad drove it when it was brand new. PMT "Potteries Motor Traction" was the main bus company around here, where I myself served my Apprenticeship.
I had to go into different departments, fibreglassing, stores etc.. when in the stores had to go up to this old room where the cloth for the seats etc was kept. There was a ladder going into what can only be discribed as a cockloft which has a light bulb up there. There was 6 ledgers with gold edging looked like huge Bibles. I was really interested and was reading about Ned had shoes fitted today at 1d, a bale of hay etc would love to know where they are now hope the Library got them else I may aswell of had one :)
Well there we are then Daz, we're both NBC-trained :y
Your apprenticeship sounds a lot like the happy four years that I spent - going around the different departments etc.
Best was the Engine Shop and Paintshop during my 13-week stint at the Central Works in Ely, Cardiff.
:y
Plenty of larking around amongst the apprentices too - including the day that I dropped a (broken) box of 5000 3/16" pop rivets all over the stores floor.
:'(
I was made to pick every one of them up too - bugger!
:D
-
Sethsmate's day out..............................................
Pictures by Sethsmate the hard work posting by Splott ( Kev - Byron's mate )................................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/IMG_0115_2.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/IMG_0116_2.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/IMG_0124_1.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/IMG_0125.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/IMG_0126_2.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/IMG_0129_2.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/IMG_0131_2.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/IMG_0132_2.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/IMG_0134_2.jpg)[/img]
Took me a bleedin' hour, you owe my Byron!!! ;) ;) ;) ;)
-
Looks like a drink or two on me at Welland then Kev :y
Got a call from a long-time good mate yesterday .....
"How d'ya fancy a trip up to Dudley's Coaches at Inkberrow today as part of your post-op care?"
How could I refuse, knowing that there's always the very best of welcomes there for this Valleys Lad!
I used to drive their vehicles on the erstwhile free bus link at the Welland Steam Rally, and proprietor Chris Dudley is a super chap. The business was founded by his late father Ernie in 1938, and as you can see from the photos is still going strong. The red/white/blue Volvo/Plaxton is finished in Royal Motorways livery, as a reminder of this former Redditch-based firm which Dudleys acquired some years back.
Presently 19 vehicles, and almost entirely Volvo-based.
Read their story here:
http://dudleys-coaches.co.uk/history.htm
Long may they continue! :y
-
I work in Inkberrow!!!!
-
Looks like a drink or two on me at Welland then Kev :y
Got a call from a long-time good mate yesterday .....
"How d'ya fancy a trip up to Dudley's Coaches at Inkberrow today as part of your post-op care?"
How could I refuse, knowing that there's always the very best of welcomes there for this Valleys Lad!
I used to drive their vehicles on the erstwhile free bus link at the Welland Steam Rally, and proprietor Chris Dudley is a super chap. The business was founded by his late father Ernie in 1938, and as you can see from the photos is still going strong.
Presently 19 vehicles, and almost entirely Volvo-based.
Read their story here:
http://dudleys-coaches.co.uk/history.htm
Long may they continue! :y
Only joking mate, did you have a god time :y
-
I work in Inkberrow!!!!
Well Dudleys are just down the road in Radford!
I'll let you know when I'm there next time Martin, and we could possibly have a 'mini-meet' and a cuppa!
;)
-
Only joking mate, did you have a god time :y
Yes indeed, and it was great reminiscing about the good times we all had 'on the buses' at the Welland Steam Rally!
:y
-
Dudley's have all Volvos now but they originally had Fords.
They now have a Leyand dressed up for the 60th anniversary. They also have a Dennis Javelin Pictured below......................................................................
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/e168dwo1.jpg)[/img]
How's about that then Byron :y
-
The Dennis Javelins have now all gone Kev.
Two of their coaches have passed into preservation, and will send some good photos of them at Welland soon.
:y
-
Sethsmates pictures>........................................... :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img163-1.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img038.jpg)[/img]
-
The bottom of the two pictures shows Dudleys first-ever brand-new full-sized coach.
UWP 96R is a Ford R1114 with Plaxton 'Supreme' 53-seat body to bus grant spec.
It was first registered on 01/09/76, and is currently undergoing extensive restoration with an enthusiast in Gloucestershire.
It's seen here at the 2004 Welland Steam Rally, shortly before withdrawal.
I always declined to drive it, preferring the heavyweight Leopard for the intensive shuttle service that we operated.
The top photo shows our regular steed at Welland.
Acquired with the Royal Motorways operation, STO 244X is a very late-model Leyland Leopard with Plaxton 'Supreme 4' 53-seat body. A PSU3F/5R model, it has the rationalised Leyland 0.680 engine (with Austrian-made Friedmann & Mayer injection pump), and ZF S6-80 'Synchroma' 6-speed gearbox. This model was a stop-gap option, which was basically available between the cessation of AEC Reliance production, and the introduction of Leyland's B43 Tiger chassis.
Totally reliable, this coach always performed brilliantly, and is also presently under restoration with enthusiasts in the Evesham area.
Watch out for it at an event near you soon! :y
-
Come on Sethsmate.........................................
Can you name the coaches at Dudley's :y
-
This is a great thread............BUS PORN!!!
-
Come on Sethsmate.........................................
Can you name the coaches at Dudley's :y
Most of the coaches are named with a local theme, generally after the surrounding villages etc.
In alphabetical order they are:
Alexandra
Cowsden Courier
Dormston Harrier
breakenham Voyager
Grafton Traveller
Inkberrow Cruiser 2
Inkberrow Cruiser 3
Jane
Kington Wanderer
Lady of the Lenches
Pride of Rous Lench
Saltway Princess
Spirit of Morton
Tanworth Tourer
Tanworth Tourer 2
The Flyford Connection 2
-
Look at what I found on the Bay
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/BRISTOL-L5G-MERTHYR-TYDFIL-BY-CORGI-OOC_W0QQitemZ370105122880QQcmdZViewItemQQptZUK_ToysGames_DiecastVehicles_DiecastVehicles_JN?hash=item562bfc0040
That brings back memories but to far back for me.
-
how is this thread still going!?
Guess i better add something...
Last time i was on bus, i went to the Alps, noticed it was a Vanhool Astron, interesting auto which behaved like a manual.
Last time i went they used Izar bus? Which was rubbish! Ride in the Vanhool was much smoother.
(http://www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk/GalleryImages/DSC05561.jpg)
(http://bus-and-coach-photos.com.s3.amazonaws.com/2471.jpg)
-
how is this thread still going!?
Guess i better add something...
Last time i was on bus, i went to the Alps, noticed it was a Vanhool Astron, interesting auto which behaved like a manual.
Last time i went they used Izar bus? Which was rubbish! Ride in the Vanhool was much smoother.
(http://www.arrivabusandcoach.co.uk/GalleryImages/DSC05561.jpg)
(http://bus-and-coach-photos.com.s3.amazonaws.com/2471.jpg)
I very much doubt you went to the Alps on a BUS, a COACH maybe, but I doubt a bus. :y
-
Generally Mark, you won't fault a Van Hool on build quality - just take a look at Dudley's 'Kington Wanderer' pictured above.
That's a 15 year-old Van Hool 'Alizee' body on a Volvo B10M chassis, and still well-capable of front-line work.
I think that the 'Astron' is an integral, incorporating MAN or Mercedes running gear.
The other coach that you mentioned was probably an Irizar-bodied Scania.
Whilst I was something of a Scania fan, I still believe that you won't go far wrong with any Van Hool product.
:y
-
Generally Mark, you won't fault a Van Hool on build quality - just take a look at Dudley's 'Kington Wanderer' pictured above.
That's a 15 year-old Van Hool 'Alizee' body on a Volvo B10M chassis, and still well-capable of front-line work.
I think that the 'Astron' is an integral, incorporating MAN or Mercedes running gear.
The other coach that you mentioned was probably an Irizar-bodied Scania.
Whilst I was something of a Scania fan, I still believe that you won't go far wrong with any Van Hool product.
:y
That was the one, ride was a bit shoddy, in fact it was appalling. Van Hool was loads better, over-head luggage was a tad limited though.
Shame it was limited to 60, sure it could have sat at 80 all day long
-
how is this thread still going!?
Guess i better add something...
Last time i was on bus, i went to the Alps, noticed it was a Vanhool Astron, interesting auto which behaved like a manual.
Just noticed this point tunnie lad ........
The Astron probably has 'CAG' - that's 'drive-by-wire' computer-aided gearshift.
Some years back, some of our sister companies' Volvo B10Ms had this system.
Basically, the gubbins replaced the gear linkage. Whilst the set-up was mechanically reliable, we had quite a few failures of the printed circuit-boards which sat beneath the gear-shift lever.
Saying that, electronics have come a long way since then!
-
how is this thread still going!?
Guess i better add something...
Last time i was on bus, i went to the Alps, noticed it was a Vanhool Astron, interesting auto which behaved like a manual.
Just noticed this point tunnie lad ........
The Astron probably has 'CAG' - that's 'drive-by-wire' computer-aided gearshift.
Some years back, some of our sister companies' Volvo B10Ms had this system.
Basically, the gubbins replaced the gear linkage. Whilst the set-up was mechanically reliable, we had quite a few failures of the printed circuit-boards which sat beneath the gear-shift lever.
Saying that, electronics have come a long way since then!
Well as i walked on i thought it looked auto like with +/- on it, and pulling away could have sworn it was manual, but since the next 30 gear changes felt exactly same, looked down and was not touching it. Had the 'surge' of throttle off, clutch in thottle on of a manual.
Nothing like other auto buses, sorry, coaches ::) - Worked well, beat other coaches out of the starting blocks french tolls :)
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Well as i walked on i thought it looked auto like with +/- on it, and pulling away could have sworn it was manual, but since the next 30 gear changes felt exactly same, looked down and was not touching it. Had the 'surge' of throttle off, clutch in thottle on of a manual.
Nothing like other auto buses, sorry, coaches ::) - Worked well, beat other coaches out of the starting blocks french tolls :)[/quote]
Probably a 'sequential' version with an indicator panel on the dash. ;)
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Come on Sethsmate.........................................
Can you name the coaches at Dudley's :y
Most of the coaches are named with a local theme, generally after the surrounding villages etc.
In alphabetical order they are:
Alexandra
Cowsden Courier
Dormston Harrier
breakenham Voyager
Grafton Traveller
Inkberrow Cruiser 2
Inkberrow Cruiser 3
Jane
Kington Wanderer
Lady of the Lenches
Pride of Rous Lench
Saltway Princess
Spirit of Morton
Tanworth Tourer
Tanworth Tourer 2
The Flyford Connection 2
I have found two more names:..................... :y
Radford explorer................................ Volvo Plaxton
Ridgeway Princess.............................. Volvo Plaxton
Do they still exist? :-/ :-/
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Both now withdrawn to pastures new, dear boy! :y
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]Both now withdrawn to pastures new, dear boy[/highlight]! :y
Please do not tell me 'to a scrapyard near you'
That would be cruel.
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]Both now withdrawn to pastures new, dear boy[/highlight]! :y
Please do not tell me 'to a scrapyard near you'
That would be cruel.
Shame if they have been.................... :'( :'(
Found pictures of the 'said' buses but they are copy righted :'( :'(
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Here you are, a trip on a Western Welsh Bus.......................................... :y
I bet Sethsmate knows the bus number and route :y
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhI0xnd9MGM[/media]
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Here you are, a trip on a Western Welsh Bus.......................................... :y
I bet Sethsmate knows the bus number and route :y
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mhI0xnd9MGM[/media]
I don't know if Sethsmate can, but I think I have it.
Merthyr Annual Bus show. That is on the ICI industrial estate in Dowlais Merthyr Tydfil. Just passed Jasonic Builders Merchant on the left hand side.
Am I correct.
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I don't know if Sethsmate can, but I think I have it.
Merthyr Annual Bus show. That is on the ICI industrial estate in Dowlais Merthyr Tydfil. Just passed Jasonic Builders Merchant on the left hand side.
Am I correct.
All I know is that it was taken in Merthyr, I thought it was on an actual route :y
Thought someone would know what route it was :y
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I don't know if Sethsmate can, but I think I have it.
Merthyr Annual Bus show. That is on the ICI industrial estate in Dowlais Merthyr Tydfil. Just passed Jasonic Builders Merchant on the left hand side.
Am I correct.
All I know is that it was taken in Merthyr, I thought it was on an actual route :y
Thought someone would know what route it was :y
This is on the same estate as Stagecoach are situated. In fact the video was shot about 500 yards from Stagecoach Depot.
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I don't know if Sethsmate can, but I think I have it.
Merthyr Annual Bus show. That is on the ICI industrial estate in Dowlais Merthyr Tydfil. Just passed Jasonic Builders Merchant on the left hand side.
Am I correct.
All I know is that it was taken in Merthyr, I thought it was on an actual route :y
Thought someone would know what route it was :y
This is on the same estate as Stagecoach are situated. In fact the video was shot about 500 yards from Stagecoach Depot.
Well I know this one is on a route in Cardiff, its the final trip of this particular bus :y
NDW 408X
See if you know this one Di! :y
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mWDmLCV5bo[/media]
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I don't know if Sethsmate can, but I think I have it.
Merthyr Annual Bus show. That is on the ICI industrial estate in Dowlais Merthyr Tydfil. Just passed Jasonic Builders Merchant on the left hand side.
Am I correct.
All I know is that it was taken in Merthyr, I thought it was on an actual route :y
Thought someone would know what route it was :y
It's preserved ex-Western Welsh 1370 (FUH 370D).
One of the 1966 batch of Leyland Tiger Cubs with Park Royal bodies.
They had an 'experimental' heating/ventilation system that froze passengers in Winter, and cooked them in Summer!
I think that 1370 was one of several that were sold out of service to the NCB, (or was it British Coal at that time?) for non-PSV internal colliery transfer of miners.
The journey was probably a 'freebie' for show-goers.
:y
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I don't know if Sethsmate can, but I think I have it.
Merthyr Annual Bus show. That is on the ICI industrial estate in Dowlais Merthyr Tydfil. Just passed Jasonic Builders Merchant on the left hand side.
Am I correct.
All I know is that it was taken in Merthyr, I thought it was on an actual route :y
Thought someone would know what route it was :y
This is on the same estate as Stagecoach are situated. In fact the video was shot about 500 yards from Stagecoach Depot.
Well I know this one is on a route in Cardiff, its the final trip of this particular bus :y
NDW 408X
See if you know this one Di! :y
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mWDmLCV5bo[/media]
Don't know what to make of these Ailsas ........
However, Cardiff Bus seemed happy enough with 'em, and went on to purchase a good few secondhand examples.
They seemed to get eagerly snapped-up by the independents upon withdrawal from the capital too.
The chassis set-up was unconventional, with a front-mounted Volvo turbo unit, driving through a remotely-mounted auto box. The chassis frame was of a 'herring-bone' design, with a stout central member and perimeter frame, rather than the commonly-used 'ladder frame' concept. The fuel tank was transversely-mounted on the rear overhang.
The pre-owned Ailsas had Alexander (of Falkirk) bodies, whereas those purchased new were bodied by Wigan-based Northern Counties.
;)
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I don't know if Sethsmate can, but I think I have it.
Merthyr Annual Bus show. That is on the ICI industrial estate in Dowlais Merthyr Tydfil. Just passed Jasonic Builders Merchant on the left hand side.
Am I correct.
All I know is that it was taken in Merthyr, I thought it was on an actual route :y
Thought someone would know what route it was :y
This is on the same estate as Stagecoach are situated. In fact the video was shot about 500 yards from Stagecoach Depot.
Well I know this one is on a route in Cardiff, its the final trip of this particular bus :y
NDW 408X
See if you know this one Di! :y
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=2mWDmLCV5bo[/media]
5 minutes on a Welsh bus and I did not see any sheep, in fact the town almost looked quite modern with newish cars and things........ :D :D :D
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Disappointing to see no new posts on this thread today....... :( :(
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Disappointing to see no new posts on this thread today....... :( :(
I was out with my misssus all day but I now have some more pics. To post :y :y :y
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Three buses, can you tell the difference between them?? :y
Reg numbers and destination numbers don't count :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img164.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img165.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img166.jpg)[/img]
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front window ventilation and door moved forward
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front window ventilation and door moved forward
How the hell did you spot that :o :o :o
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Whilst all three are Mk.V-fronted AECs; they are all, in fact, different models ............
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img164.jpg)[/img]
Seen above in 'as delivered' condition, Crosskeys-based 683 was numerically the first of 20 Bridgemasters to arrive in 1958/9.
The Bridgemaster was a collaboration between AEC and Park Royal to produce a low-height integrally-constructed double-decker with 'highbridge' seating configuration.
Coil-spring suspension was featured at the rear, and it seems that they suffered from structural problems centred around this. These buses spent their twilight WW years at the lightly-trafficked West Wales depots.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img165.jpg)[/img]
10 Regent Vs arrived in 1963, and here's Penarth Road-based 705 sweeping in to Cardiff's Central Bus Station.
Numbered 703-712 (703 CUH etc), these were conventional 'body on chassis' buses with Northern Counties front-entrance bodies. Interestingly, these Regents were powered by the smaller 7.7-litre AV470 engine, and featured a substantial amount of formica interior panelling.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img166.jpg)[/img]
Leaving Cardiff on the 'top road' service to Barry when quite new is Penarth Road-based 716, one of a sizeable batch of Northern Counties-bodied AEC Renowns, that arrived between 1964 and 1966.
The Renown was AEC's final attempt at producing a low-height 'highbridge' double-decker, though this time in conventional 'body on chassis' form. 'Air-over-leaf' suspension was incorporated at the rear, and the larger 9.6-litre AV590 engine was specified. Accessibility of some of the major components made them unpopular with the engineering staff, (including myself!), though they went on to lead quite satisfactory lives with WW.
As an aside, sister vehicle 713 survives in preservation. :y
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AEC, I love em, along with the Routemasters.
Time for a day trip up London, but there are no Routemasters left in service are the By?
I am still looking at going to York Museum, never got there last time, got a s far as Stoke and turned round and came home. ;D ;D ;D ;D
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AEC, I love em, along with the Routemasters.
Time for a day trip up London, but there are no Routemasters left in service are the By?
I am still looking at going to York Museum, never got there last time, got a s far as Stoke and turned round and came home. ;D ;D ;D ;D
I'm a little out of touch with things these days missus, but I'll see what I can find out.
There was a big modernisation programme for the RMs a few years back.
The AEC AV590 engines were replaced by Cummins and Iveco units as part of this programme.
If it's an iconic RM, it's gotta be one with the iconic 590 engine!
:y
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RouterMaster still in service on 'tourist' route, not sure what number but used to go past my office, along The Strand.
Think they have been butchered though, no handbrake / gear thingy on the right they always used, look like they have new engines, and new auto boxes
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As I have still not pulled my finger out and got some decent pics of the buses at the heritage centre, here are a few pics courtesy of my chums at the english electric preservation society.
http://www.englishelectricpreservation.co.uk/category/image-galleries/other-locos-stock-also-other-areas-visit-gcrn/road-vehicles
Ow and Diane, I spoke to them regarding your c37 request and Mr C is quite up for it :y
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As I have still not pulled my finger out and got some decent pics of the buses at the heritage centre, here are a few pics courtesy of my chums at the english electric preservation society.
http://www.englishelectricpreservation.co.uk/category/image-galleries/other-locos-stock-also-other-areas-visit-gcrn/road-vehicles
Ow and Diane, I spoke to them regarding your c37 request and Mr C is quite up for it :y
Cheers Mark, but I really like a long ride :D :D :D :D
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As I have still not pulled my finger out and got some decent pics of the buses at the heritage centre, here are a few pics courtesy of my chums at the english electric preservation society.
http://www.englishelectricpreservation.co.uk/category/image-galleries/other-locos-stock-also-other-areas-visit-gcrn/road-vehicles
Ow and Diane, I spoke to them regarding your c37 request and Mr C is quite up for it :y
Cheers Mark, but I really like a long ride :D :D :D :D
It would be if you wanted to get anywhere...its only moved 300m in the last 6 months :D ;D
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As I have still not pulled my finger out and got some decent pics of the buses at the heritage centre, here are a few pics courtesy of my chums at the english electric preservation society.
http://www.englishelectricpreservation.co.uk/category/image-galleries/other-locos-stock-also-other-areas-visit-gcrn/road-vehicles
Ow and Diane, I spoke to them regarding your c37 request and Mr C is quite up for it :y
Cheers Mark, but I really like a long ride :D :D :D :D
It would be if you wanted to get anywhere...its only moved 300m in the last 6 months :D ;D
:'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
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As I have still not pulled my finger out and got some decent pics of the buses at the heritage centre, here are a few pics courtesy of my chums at the english electric preservation society.
http://www.englishelectricpreservation.co.uk/category/image-galleries/other-locos-stock-also-other-areas-visit-gcrn/road-vehicles
Ow and Diane, I spoke to them regarding your c37 request and Mr C is quite up for it :y
Cheers Mark, but I really like a long ride :D :D :D :D
It would be if you wanted to get anywhere...its only moved 300m in the last 6 months :D ;D
:'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
Its due to run at our October Diesel Gala.......as its currently having bodywork sorted
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As I have still not pulled my finger out and got some decent pics of the buses at the heritage centre, here are a few pics courtesy of my chums at the english electric preservation society.
http://www.englishelectricpreservation.co.uk/category/image-galleries/other-locos-stock-also-other-areas-visit-gcrn/road-vehicles
Ow and Diane, I spoke to them regarding your c37 request and Mr C is quite up for it :y
Cheers Mark, but I really like a long ride :D :D :D :D
It would be if you wanted to get anywhere...its only moved 300m in the last 6 months :D ;D
:'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
Its due to run at our October Diesel Gala.......as its currently having bodywork sorted
I need my bodywork sorting,
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Anyone on the forum remember travelling in one of these? ;)
(http://i114.photobucket.com/albums/n270/v6nick/oldbus.jpg)
Took the family to the London Transport Museum at Covent Garden yesterday.
A grand day out. :y
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yep, when I was a small boy at a fesstival of transport in Beulieu :y
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Whilst all three are Mk.V-fronted AECs; they are all, in fact, different models ............
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img164.jpg)[/img]
Seen above in 'as delivered' condition, Crosskeys-based 683 was numerically the first of 20 Bridgemasters to arrive in 1958/9.
The Bridgemaster was a collaboration between AEC and Park Royal to produce a low-height integrally-constructed double-decker with 'highbridge' seating configuration.
Coil-spring suspension was featured at the rear, and it seems that they suffered from structural problems centred around this. These buses spent their twilight WW years at the lightly-trafficked West Wales depots.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img165.jpg)[/img]
10 Regent Vs arrived in 1963, and here's Penarth Road-based 705 sweeping in to Cardiff's Central Bus Station.
Numbered 703-712 (703 CUH etc), these were conventional 'body on chassis' buses with Northern Counties front-entrance bodies. Interestingly, these Regents were powered by the smaller 7.7-litre AV470 engine, and featured a substantial amount of formica interior panelling.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img166.jpg)[/img]
Leaving Cardiff on the 'top road' service to Barry when quite new is Penarth Road-based 716, one of a sizeable batch of Northern Counties-bodied AEC Renowns, that arrived between 1964 and 1966.
The Renown was AEC's final attempt at producing a low-height 'highbridge' double-decker, though this time in conventional 'body on chassis' form. 'Air-over-leaf' suspension was incorporated at the rear, and the larger 9.6-litre AV590 engine was specified. Accessibility of some of the major components made them unpopular with the engineering staff, (including myself!), though they went on to lead quite satisfactory lives with WW.
As an aside, sister vehicle 713 survives in preservation. :y
Come on then Sethsmate and/or you other BAs......................................
Tell me whats the difference between highbridge and lowbridge double deckers.
Also why weren't the Renowns very popular with the fitters in the service departments
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Peaches.....
I'm good with bodywork.................
I can fiill-er in well!!
(I'll get my coat.........)
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This stamp was issued to comemmorate the Routemaster............................ Why?
Also, what was the reason for the Routemaster's demise and when?
What are the other buses :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Routemaster2.jpg)[/img]
Possible replacement of the Routemaster..............which car manufacturer was part of the design team.................................
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Gallery-Routemaster-New-B-0041.jpg)[/img]
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The terms 'highbridge' and 'lowbridge' refers to the seating layout arrangement on the top deck, and should not be confused with a double-decker's overall height!
;)
A 'highbridge' double-decker has conventional 2+2 seating upstairs, with a central gangway.
'Lowbridge' versions have a sunken gangway on the offside, with rows of four seats from the nearside. This also meant a lower headroom for passengers in the lower deck offside seats!
There was an exception to this though - some operators specified low overall height bodies on the revolutionary Leyland Atlanteans, which were coming on-stream at this time.
Watch this space .................... ;)
The AEC Renowns were unpopular with us engineering staff due to difficult accessibility of some components.
The engine/gearbox unit was not only mounted at a slight angle, (rather than parallel), in the chassis frame, it was also inclined from the vertical, so that the rear cylinder head encroached slightly into the driver's cab behind a bulkhead. The driveline was therefore along the offside of the chassis frame, via a 4-piece prop-shaft to an underslung 'worm & wheel' rear axle.
This driveline arrangement also meant that if the clutch/gearbox needed attention, then part of the staircase assembly had to be removed to gain access.
If a head gasket needed changing, you hoped that the forward head was the culprit, else it meant taking the cab nearside bulkhead out, to lift-off the rearmost cylinder head.
:'(
Thank goodness the Renowns had the AV590 engine, and not the gasket failure-prone AV470!
;)
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Here you go Sethsmate and other BAs, what do you know about
these Atlanteans.................... :y
1.
[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img167.jpg[/IMG]
2.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img168.jpg)[/img]
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Here you go Sethsmate and other BAs, what do you know about
these Atlanteans.................... :y
1.
[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img167.jpg[/IMG]
2.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img168.jpg)[/img]
Bus design was easy! Ruler and pencil ;D
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Bus design was easy! Ruler and pencil ;D
:-/ :-/ :-/ :y
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This stamp was issued to comemmorate the Routemaster............................ Why?
Also, what was the reason for the Routemaster's demise and when?
What are the other buses :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Routemaster2.jpg)[/img]
Possible replacement of the Routemaster..............which car manufacturer was part of the design team.................................
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Gallery-Routemaster-New-B-0041.jpg)[/img]
The answer to this is ASTON MARTIN I believe. With Foster & Partners. Read this back in 2009 and I think it was part of a competition to design a new London bus, and was open to anyone. I may be wrong mind.
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This stamp was issued to comemmorate the Routemaster............................ Why?
Also, what was the reason for the Routemaster's demise and when?
What are the other buses :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Routemaster2.jpg)[/img]
Possible replacement of the Routemaster..............which car manufacturer was part of the design team.................................
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Gallery-Routemaster-New-B-0041.jpg)[/img]
The answer to this is ASTON MARTIN I believe. With Foster & Partners. Read this back in 2009 and I think it was part of a competition to design a new London bus, and was open to anyone. I may be wrong mind.
Spot on Peaches :y :y :y :y :y
Boris Johnson announced it as one of two winning designs in July 2009.
Electric motors in the wheel hubs drive the new Routemaster, reducing the height of the floors and making it easy for disabled people to get onto the bus. The bus is also far more nimble than its diesel powered forebear with a 10% better turning radius.
The engine can easily be swapped out for maintenance and upgrades while the windows are far larger and include skylights to fill the bus with natural light. The sunlight will also charge the bus's batteries (assuming London's sunny enough).
There's also the kind of luxury touches you expect from an Aston Martin design. Filthy fabric seats have been switched out for reconstituted leather and the floors featured recycled wood paneling.
The AM/F+P Routemaster will become a reality in 2011 when prototypes will take to the streets of London.
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sorry to burst bubble, i can't see an electric bus being workable in London, espeically something the size of a double decker bus. A Hyrbrid yes (they are already in service) but not full blow electric, just won't be practical
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sorry to burst bubble, i can't see an electric bus being workable in London, espeically something the size of a double decker bus. A Hyrbrid yes (they are already in service) but not full blow electric, just won't be practical
Can't see it myself, just quoting A/M'S hype :y
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sorry to burst bubble, i can't see an electric bus being workable in London, espeically something the size of a double decker bus. A Hyrbrid yes (they are already in service) but not full blow electric, just won't be practical
Could always go back to trolley buses. They worked, to a fashion at any rate. ;)
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Leyland's revolutionary Atlantean chassis made it's debut in the late 1950s.
A radically-new layout featured the 9.8-litre 0.600 engine close-coupled via a centrifugal clutch to a hefty epicyclic gearbox/angle-drive unit, all mounted transversely on the rear chassis overhang.
The driveline was therefore of 'Z-configuration' to an angled hypoid-bevel differential in a 'live' rear axle.
Western Welsh received 66 of the PDR1/1 model between 1960 and 1962, and were given fleetnumbers 301-366.
301-312 (TUH 301 etc), and 313-331 (VKG 313 etc) arrived in 1960.
332-347 (XUH 333 etc), and 348-366 (348 ABO etc) came in 1962.
All were bodied by Weymanns to 'semi-lowbridge' configuration.
Whilst they quickly gained approval with platform staff, they became something of a nightmare to the engineering department! :'(
(http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img167.jpg)
Here's 326 of 1960-vintage, believed to be leaving Merthyr on the long 156 service to distant Newport via Tredegar and Monmouthshire's Western Valley.
With a grey diamond affixed, it's Crosskeys-based - this route being jointly-licensed (and operated) with Red & White's Tredegar depot. R&W generally contributed rear-entranced Bristol Lodekkas to it's share of the 156.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img168.jpg)[/img]
Taken around 1974, Penarth Road-based 364 was already some 12 years old.
It's seen here at Cardiff Central Bus Station on arrival from Maerdy, at the head of the Rhondda Fach valley. The important trunk 331/332 services were jointly-operated with the associated Rhondda Transport Co; and ran to a 15-minute frequency (at least as far north as Pontypridd).
Several of these Atlanteans carried overall advertisements as seen here, and were often moved around the various depots on a regular basis as required by the contract.
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Ok then, if we have high bridge and low bridge, what is semi-low bridge?
Also why did the engineers dislike the Atlantean? :y
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Ok then, if we have high bridge and low bridge, what is semi-low bridge?
Also why did the engineers dislike the Atlantean? :y
What a double decker driver claims it is after he has tried to go underneath it? ::) ::) :D :D :D :D ;)
Like this:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/OPPSBus.jpg)
:D :D :D :D :D ;)
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Ok then, if we have high bridge and low bridge, what is semi-low bridge?
Also why did the engineers dislike the Atlantean? :y
What a double decker driver claims it is after he has tried to go underneath it? ::) ::) :D :D :D :D ;)
Not quite the answer I was expecting ;D ;D ;D :y
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Ok then, if we have high bridge and low bridge, what is semi-low bridge?
Also why did the engineers dislike the Atlantean? :y
The early production Atlantean chassis didn't utilize a drop-centre rear axle, so the floor height at the rear end of both decks was slightly higher than the forward portion.
Due to this, there wasn't a 'true' flat floor downstairs, which also resulted in reduced headroom at the rear of the top deck saloon. The rearmost four rows of upstairs seats were therefore arranged in the 'lowbridge' configuration. This was to achieve a low overall height within the constraints of the chassis dimensions.
:-/
Positioning the engine/transmission assembly some 30ft aft of the driver, was probably the biggest concern with the engineers.
If a fault developed, in many instances, the driver simply became unaware of any tell-tale noises or symptoms of unit failure. The electro-pneumatic control of the semi-automatic transmission, whilst simplicity in itself to use, was easily abused by inept drivers. Gearbox failures were all too common, and the task of changing this hefty unit was quite an involved process. The engine/gearbox was mounted on a sub-frame, which itself had to be removed from the chassis rails before these units could be separated for removal. Easy to see then, that our workshops became monopolised by failed Atlanteans. Western Welsh soon modified the subframe, so that the gearbox/angle-drive unit could be removed whilst the engine was left in-situ.
Other improvements came with the later PDR1A Atlantean, and helped to vastly increase their reliability.
:y
I'll get 'our man on the Wirral' to post a photo of one such example soon! :y
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I am now watching Mutiny on the Buses, Am I being sad or what :-[ :-[
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I am now watching Mutiny on the Buses, Am I being sad or what :-[ :-[
Isn't that the film where a former Ribble Atlantean was used?
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Not sure,mywife was ironing in front of the TV. I could only see half the picture,couldn't complain, she would have killed me after getting p***ed last night! :-/
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Not sure,mywife was ironing in front of the TV. I could only see half the picture,couldn't complain, she would have killed me after getting p***ed last night! :-/
That's what you employ her for, is it not? :y
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I mean piss*d, can't push my luck. Walking on tip toes mate. She's not a happy bunny! :(
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Here is one for you Bus Anoraks............................. :y
Any info on this one?
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img169.jpg)[/img]
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The next Atlanteans to arrive were 10 of the further developed PDR1/3 type in 1969/70.
They were allocated fleetnumbers 367-376, and were registered PKG 367H etc.
A redesigned chassis incorporated a drop-centre rear axle, which allowed 'true' flat floors throughout, and thereby a low overall height double-decker with a 'highbridge' seating layout on both decks. The 0.600 engine was retained, and a much-improved and simplified driveline introduced. It featured a fluid flywheel, cardan shaft and a remotely-mounted 4-speed epicyclic gearbox/angle-drive unit in an 'H-configuration'. The electro-pneumatically operated gear-change was also replaced with direct-air operation.
They soon settled down to give much-improved reliability when compared with the earlier Atlanteans.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img169.jpg)[/img]
Here's freshly-repainted Barry-based 373 at Cardiff Bus Station, awaiting departure on the 'top road' service to Barry.
Carrying Northern Counties bodies, these buses were equipped for one-man operation from new. They were 13'5" high, instead of the customary 13'8" and had been purchased under the government's 'bus grant' scheme, after Western Welsh received dispensation from the Ministry of Transport.
Fellow BET subsidiary Rhondda Transport, had also placed a sizeable number of similar buses in service the previous year.
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Far more interesting than global warming or the election threads, how about extending to other commercials, :) please keep them coming..... :y
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Far more interesting that global warming one of nickbats posts ::) ;D or the election, how about extending to other commercials, :) please keep them coming..... :y
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Far more interesting that global warming one of nickbats posts ::) ;D or the election, how about extending to other commercials, :) please keep them coming..... :y
Stirrer........... ;D ;D ;D
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Far more interesting that global warming one of nickbats posts ::) ;D or the election, how about extending to other commercials, :) please keep them coming..... :y
Stirrer........... ;D ;D ;D
I just have the balls to say what we were all thinking ::) ;D
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Far more interesting that global warming one of nickbats posts ::) ;D or the election, how about extending to other commercials, :) please keep them coming..... :y
Stirrer........... ;D ;D ;D
I just have the balls to say what we were all thinking ::) ;D
Fair comment...... :y :y
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Far more interesting than global warming or the election threads, how about extending to other commercials, :) please keep them coming..... :y
One for Vamps and one for the other Bus Anoraks...................................................... :y
1) What type of bus?
2) Name the type of truck and company that owned it?
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/IMGP16521.jpg)[/img]
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Far more interesting than global warming or the election threads, how about extending to other commercials, :) please keep them coming..... :y
One for Vamps and one for the other Bus Anoraks...................................................... :y
1) What type of bus?
2) Name the type of truck and company that owned it?
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/IMGP16521.jpg)[/img]
377 CTV Albion? ::)
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Far more interesting than global warming or the election threads, how about extending to other commercials, :) please keep them coming..... :y
One for Vamps and one for the other Bus Anoraks...................................................... :y
1) What type of bus?
2) Name the type of truck and company that owned it?
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/IMGP16521.jpg)[/img]
377 CTV Albion? ::)
Bo***cks that bit didn't show in the preview :-[ :-[ :y
No clue for the truck though Tunnie 8-)
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Are they both "albion"???
think the bus is a '59.........?
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Are they both "albion"???
think the bus is a '59.........?
Yep both Albions circa 1959, the haulage company went over to Foden soon after ( I think ) :y :y
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Feel quite pleased with myself now...............what model is the bus, and where was it taken?
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The bus looks like a former Ribble 'White Lady'.
Leyland Titan PD1 (or PD2) chassis - forerunners of the 'Gay Hostess' Atlanteans.
The lorry is a LAD-cabbed Albion.
Depending on wheel-arrangement, it could be a Chieftain, Clydesdale or Reiver etc model.
'LAD' = Leyland Albion Dodge - who all used this cab, though with detail differences across the ranges.
:y
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Dunno much about the buses, but pretty sure what you are referring to is the front wheel arrangement, i.e twin front steering wheels more than one or two rear axles with twin tyred wheels?
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Dunno much about the buses, but pretty sure what you are referring to is the front wheel arrangement, i.e twin front steering wheels more than one or two rear axles with twin tyred wheels?
I know that the 6x4 models were badged as Reivers, and 4x4s were Clydesdales.
During the late '60s/early '70s; some had LAD cabs, some had the Ergomatic tilt-cab.
The 'Ergo' was mounted on AEC, Albion and Leyland goods chassis.
;)
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Dunno much about the buses, but pretty sure what you are referring to is the front wheel arrangement, i.e twin front steering wheels more than one or two rear axles with twin tyred wheels?
I know that the 6x4 models were badged as Reivers, and 4x4s were Clydesdales.
During the late '60s/early '70s; some had LAD cabs, some had the Ergomatic tilt-cab.
The 'Ergo' was mounted on AEC, Albion and Leyland goods chassis.
;)
Here you go guys :y
Albion with a LAD cab........................................ :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/4240734489_6eb31896de1.jpg)[/img]
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Are they both "albion"???
think the bus is a '59.........?
Yep both Albions circa 1959, the haulage company went over to Foden soon after ( I think ) :y :y
The company is Hoveringham and they went over to these................................................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2008_07040371.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2479262_ebaf8d97e1_m1.jpg)[/img]
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Being a 6x4 model, it's probably a Reiver.
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Right, it's now time for me to set a question for the experts.
Here goes - and no cheating please:
What was Albion's motto?
Anyone need a clue ............. ?
::)
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Right, it's now time for me to set a question for the experts.
Here goes - and no cheating please:
What was Albion's motto?
Anyone need a clue ............. ?
::)
" Sure as the sunrise " :y
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Right, it's now time for me to set a question for the experts.
Here goes - and no cheating please:
What was Albion's motto?
Anyone need a clue ............. ?
::)
" Sure as the sunrise " :y
Are you absolutely sure about this?
Albion's 'Nimbus' chassis refers to a raincloud ........
So are you still sure?
:-/
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Are they both "albion"???
think the bus is a '59.........?
Yep both Albions circa 1959, the haulage company went over to Foden soon after ( I think ) :y :y
The company is Hoveringham and they went over to these................................................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2008_07040371.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2479262_ebaf8d97e1_m1.jpg)[/img]
Used to see a lot of those trucks when I was a Kid, they had a depot or quarry in Kiverton, I think the place was called, near Harthill, Worksop way...takes me back.... ::) ::)
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A 'Mickey Mouse' Foden 8-legger!
I'm sure that this one's put in an appearance at the Great Dorset Steam Fair.
8-)
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Are they both "albion"???
think the bus is a '59.........?
Yep both Albions circa 1959, the haulage company went over to Foden soon after ( I think ) :y :y
The company is Hoveringham and they went over to these................................................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2008_07040371.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2479262_ebaf8d97e1_m1.jpg)[/img]
I haev a toy of one of those
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Are they both "albion"???
think the bus is a '59.........?
Yep both Albions circa 1959, the haulage company went over to Foden soon after ( I think ) :y :y
The company is Hoveringham and they went over to these................................................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2008_07040371.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/2479262_ebaf8d97e1_m1.jpg)[/img]
I haev a toy of one of those
I think all lads had one! Made by Corgi and or Matchbox :y
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Come on you BAs............................................... :y
Name this one...................................................
Don't go into 'quote' or you will get the answer
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/800px-Jowett_Lorry_19301.jpg)[/img]
A clue, if you owned or do own a Triumph TR , this is the manufacturer of the truck and the prototype and the car the TR was copied off. Same engine too :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/800px-Jowett_Jupiter1.jpg)[/img]
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Hoveringham is a small village in Nottinghamshire
"Gravel extraction was started in this area in 1939, by the Hoveringham Gravel company, which was taken over in 1982 by Tarmac. The Hoveringham Gravel Company used to have a Mammoth as their logo on their lorries as a celebration of the finding of mammoth remains in their workings.
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Hoveringham is a small village in Nottinghamshire
"Gravel extraction was started in this area in 1939, by the Hoveringham Gravel company, which was taken over in 1982 by Tarmac. The Hoveringham Gravel Company used to have a Mammoth as their logo on their lorries as a celebration of the finding of mammoth remains in their workings.
Spot on Peaches :y
Here is a nice old bus for you............................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Sentinel_DG6P_steam_bus_Elizabeth_G.jpg)[/img]
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Here is a nice one from Sethsmate.......................... :y
Looks like a Leyland to me, what type, haven't a clue
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img170.jpg)[/img]
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Here is a nice one from Sethsmate.......................... :y
Looks like a Leyland to me, what type, haven't a clue
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img170.jpg)[/img]
It's a Leyland Titan PD2A model with forward entrance Weymann highbridge body in NBC corporate livery at Bridgend depot.
WW took 21 of these in 1963, fleetnumbers 900-920, and registered 900 DBO etc.
They were nicknamed 'horseboxes' and came in the years between the Atlantean deliveries. They had the 9.8-litre Leyland 0.600 engine and 4-speed synchromesh gearbox. Very reliable, they'd storm the steepest of hills, and could achieve a fair gallop too!
The glass-fibre front end was generally referred to as the 'St Helens front'.
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A few Bus related images from Amberley working museum where I spent a very pleasant Good Friday. No idea if the buses are of interest :-[ but a little bus depot set up there with ticket office and a few engines being fettled. :y
(http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w63/kjwood/Amberley/IMGP3742.jpg)
(http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w63/kjwood/Amberley/IMGP3743.jpg)
(http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w63/kjwood/Amberley/IMGP3744.jpg)
(http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w63/kjwood/Amberley/IMGP3745.jpg)
(http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w63/kjwood/Amberley/IMGP3746.jpg)
(http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w63/kjwood/Amberley/IMGP3747.jpg)
A couple more from the days before the main stealer.
(http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w63/kjwood/Amberley/IMGP3749.jpg)
(http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w63/kjwood/Amberley/IMGP3750.jpg)
..and a moggie looking after the Bellis & Morcom steam driven generating set.
(http://i173.photobucket.com/albums/w63/kjwood/Amberley/IMGP3754.jpg)
They have very nice radio, electrical and telecomms exhibitions along with a load of traditional crafts being practiced, printing presses in operation, a proper old workshop driven by line shafting.. the list goes on. Well worth a visit if you're in the area. :y
Kevin
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Kevin
Is this the facilities in Loughborough?
Kev
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Top photo at Amberley is also a PD2 Titan, though with the 'traditional' exposed radiator.
Must try and visit this place, it looks very interesting :y
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I think there car is a Jowett Jupiter, or a Javelin.
If it is a Javelin, I know where there is one rotting away in a garage in the...........wait for it.....................
...................Gurnos.
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I think there car is a Jowett Jupiter, or a Javelin.
If it is a Javelin, I know where there is one rotting away in a garage in the...........wait for it.....................
...................Gurnos.
Gurnos? Lost on me! :-[
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Hoveringham is a small village in Nottinghamshire
"Gravel extraction was started in this area in 1939, by the Hoveringham Gravel company, which was taken over in 1982 by Tarmac. The Hoveringham Gravel Company used to have a Mammoth as their logo on their lorries as a celebration of the finding of mammoth remains in their workings.
Spot on Peaches :y
Here is a nice old bus for you............................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Sentinel_DG6P_steam_bus_Elizabeth_G.jpg)[/img]
Miss Vamps and I have been on 'Old Glory' great fun, and the flash back from the fire box when it goes down a long hill on over run is a sight to see...... ;D ;D ;D :y
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I think there car is a Jowett Jupiter, or a Javelin.
If it is a Javelin, I know where there is one rotting away in a garage in the...........wait for it.....................
...................Gurnos.
Gurnos? Lost on me! :-[
I thought EVERYONE had heard of the Gurnos.
Apparently not. Not a nice place to live at all. Well it was not in the early eighties, I think it has been cleaned up a tremendous amount of late. I know for an old Javelin in a garage there, well it was about 5 years ago.
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I think there car is a Jowett Jupiter, or a Javelin.
If it is a Javelin, I know where there is one rotting away in a garage in the...........wait for it.....................
...................Gurnos.
Gurnos? Lost on me! :-[
I thought EVERYONE had heard of the Gurnos.
Apparently not. Not a nice place to live at all. Well it was not in the early eighties, I think it has been cleaned up a tremendous amount of late. I know for an old Javelin in a garage there, well it was about 5 years ago.
Worth a fortune, this is the for runner of the TR 3. Same engine 100bhp good for those days, 107mph. 0-60 10 secs a beast in its day for joe bloggs :y :y
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Hoveringham is a small village in Nottinghamshire
"Gravel extraction was started in this area in 1939, by the Hoveringham Gravel company, which was taken over in 1982 by Tarmac. The Hoveringham Gravel Company used to have a Mammoth as their logo on their lorries as a celebration of the finding of mammoth remains in their workings.
Spot on Peaches :y
Here is a nice old bus for you............................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Sentinel_DG6P_steam_bus_Elizabeth_G.jpg)[/img]
Miss Vamps and I have been on 'Old Glory' great fun, and the flash back from the fire box when it goes down a long hill on over run is a sight to see...... ;D ;D ;D :y
:y
It's beautiful, love to have a ride in it :y
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Hoveringham is a small village in Nottinghamshire
"Gravel extraction was started in this area in 1939, by the Hoveringham Gravel company, which was taken over in 1982 by Tarmac. The Hoveringham Gravel Company used to have a Mammoth as their logo on their lorries as a celebration of the finding of mammoth remains in their workings.
Spot on Peaches :y
Here is a nice old bus for you............................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Sentinel_DG6P_steam_bus_Elizabeth_G.jpg)[/img]
Miss Vamps and I have been on 'Old Glory' great fun, and the flash back from the fire box when it goes down a long hill on over run is a sight to see...... ;D ;D ;D :y
:y
It's beautiful, love to have a ride in it :y
Sentinal steam bus Elizabeth its called :y
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Kevin
Is this the facilities in Loughborough?
Kev
No, it's near Arundel in Sussex. http://www.amberleymuseum.co.uk/
Kevin
-
Kevin
Is this the facilities in Loughborough?
Kev
No, it's near Arundel in Sussex. http://www.amberleymuseum.co.uk/
Kevin
WOW, got to go, it looks brill. Only had a quick look, do they have caravan facilities etc.
Kev :y
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Hoveringham is a small village in Nottinghamshire
"Gravel extraction was started in this area in 1939, by the Hoveringham Gravel company, which was taken over in 1982 by Tarmac. The Hoveringham Gravel Company used to have a Mammoth as their logo on their lorries as a celebration of the finding of mammoth remains in their workings.
Spot on Peaches :y
Here is a nice old bus for you............................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Sentinel_DG6P_steam_bus_Elizabeth_G.jpg)[/img]
Miss Vamps and I have been on 'Old Glory' great fun, and the flash back from the fire box when it goes down a long hill on over run is a sight to see...... ;D ;D ;D :y
:y
It's beautiful, love to have a ride in it :y
Sentinal steam bus Elizabeth its called :y
Seem to remember that they had some difficulties in getting PSV spec on it, but they did in the end, a fantastic experience..... :y
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Kevin
Is this the facilities in Loughborough?
Kev
No, it's near Arundel in Sussex. http://www.amberleymuseum.co.uk/
Kevin
WOW, got to go, it looks brill. Only had a quick look, do they have caravan facilities etc.
Kev :y
I don't think so but it's a popular tourist area. There'll be a camp site not far away, I'm sure.
Kevin
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Hoveringham is a small village in Nottinghamshire
"Gravel extraction was started in this area in 1939, by the Hoveringham Gravel company, which was taken over in 1982 by Tarmac. The Hoveringham Gravel Company used to have a Mammoth as their logo on their lorries as a celebration of the finding of mammoth remains in their workings.
Spot on Peaches :y
Here is a nice old bus for you............................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Sentinel_DG6P_steam_bus_Elizabeth_G.jpg)[/img]
Miss Vamps and I have been on 'Old Glory' great fun, and the flash back from the fire box when it goes down a long hill on over run is a sight to see...... ;D ;D ;D :y
:y
It's beautiful, love to have a ride in it :y
Sentinal steam bus Elizabeth its called :y
Seem to remember that they had some difficulties in getting PSV spec on it, but they did in the end, a fantastic experience..... :y
Where was it, this picture is from Yorkshire.
-
Kevin
Is this the facilities in Loughborough?
Kev
No, it's near Arundel in Sussex. http://www.amberleymuseum.co.uk/
Kevin
WOW, got to go, it looks brill. Only had a quick look, do they have caravan facilities etc.
Kev :y
I don't think so but it's a popular tourist area. There'll be a camp site not far away, I'm sure.
Kevin
Once I get my Miggy sorted we will visit! :y
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Hoveringham is a small village in Nottinghamshire
"Gravel extraction was started in this area in 1939, by the Hoveringham Gravel company, which was taken over in 1982 by Tarmac. The Hoveringham Gravel Company used to have a Mammoth as their logo on their lorries as a celebration of the finding of mammoth remains in their workings.
Spot on Peaches :y
Here is a nice old bus for you............................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Sentinel_DG6P_steam_bus_Elizabeth_G.jpg)[/img]
Miss Vamps and I have been on 'Old Glory' great fun, and the flash back from the fire box when it goes down a long hill on over run is a sight to see...... ;D ;D ;D :y
:y
It's beautiful, love to have a ride in it :y
Sentinal steam bus Elizabeth its called :y
Seem to remember that they had some difficulties in getting PSV spec on it, but they did in the end, a fantastic experience..... :y
Where was it, this picture is from Yorkshire.
Whitby, and it has to climb a hell of a hill, known locally as the Khyber Pass iirc...... :y :y
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Top photo at Amberley is also a PD2 Titan, though with the 'traditional' exposed radiator.
Must try and visit this place, it looks very interesting :y
Sethsmate it was a Jowett Lorry :y
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I think there car is a Jowett Jupiter, or a Javelin.
If it is a Javelin, I know where there is one rotting away in a garage in the...........wait for it.....................
...................Gurnos.
Yep Peaches, it was a Jupiter :y :y :y
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Here you are Sethsmate and other BAs...............................
A nice picture of, I think, an Albion in Western Welsh livery. Where was this one taken then? :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img171.jpg)[/img]
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A few shots of the heritage centre buses
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b394/Marks_DTM_Calib/Ruddington/Buses/DSC00015.jpg)
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b394/Marks_DTM_Calib/Ruddington/Buses/DSC00016.jpg)
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b394/Marks_DTM_Calib/Ruddington/Buses/DSC00017.jpg)
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b394/Marks_DTM_Calib/Ruddington/Buses/DSC00018.jpg)
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This has been, and still is, a wonderful, highly interesting (for us transport enthusiasts anyway!) thread. But I note one thing that greatly saddens me, and I hope I am wrong on:
The thread has highlighted the lovely, well designed, and treasured historic buses built by British craftsmen. But also the thread seems to reveal how all that tradition has now passed away, with all new buses and coaches foriegn built, on chassis's with engines manufactured by the likes of Volvo, bodies by Van Hool :'( :'(
Am I right, or wrong (I hope so!!) ?? :( :(
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Here's one of 48 Albion Nimbuses, (or should it be 'Nimbii'?), that WW received in 1960-1.
No.2 is seen here, being prepared for delivery at Thomas Harrington's Hove premises.
The 1960 deliveries were given fleetnumbers 1-24, (TUH 1 etc) and had Harrington 30-seat bodies. The 1961 buses had outwardly-similar Weymann bodies, and were numbered 25-48 (WKG 25 etc).
All were equipped for one man operation.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img171.jpg)[/img]
The Nimbus chassis was built at the Scotstoun plant of Albion Motors, and was a 'lightweight' model that was aimed at lightly-trafficked rural bus operations. Albion's 4-cylinder EN250H engine was effectively two-thirds of a Tiger Cub power-unit, and drove through a single dry-plate clutch via a six-speed constant-mesh gearbox to a BMC rear axle.
Vacuum-assisted hydraulic brakes were standard equipment.
The Nimbus certainly had a good power-to-weight ratio, and (when) in good fettle had a fair turn of speed, especially with that 6th gear!
So then, it should have been ideal for WW's rural services, but all was not a success for this little Scot, with most leading relatively short service lives with the company
Ponder this if you will:
Albion's motto was "Sure as the sunrise" - but was not the Nimbus a raincloud?
No.27 became the subject of an interesting experiment a few years later, but that too is another story ..................
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So then Stehsmate or Mr Splott.....can you identify all the buses in my pics....then I might be able to chat with the bus boys with a little more knowedge lol!
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The top photo of ARC 666T is IIRC; the prototype of what NCT wanted as it's standard double-decker.
Nottingham was always something of a forthright operator with it's own ideas on what it wanted for it's requirements. Although the bus depicted here is based on a Leyland Atlantean chassis, I'm sure that Leyland were persuaded to fit their turbocharged '690' unit in lieu of the then-standard 0.680 engine.
The body was (IIRC again), an East Lancs job heavily modified to NCT's requirements.
Basically then, it was something of a 'concept' bus.
Next down is an iconic Routemaster.
This one's the 30ft 'RML' version, and I do hope that it's still powered by the splendid 9.6-litre AV590 engine. The brilliant RM concept was the result of collaboration between London Transport, AEC and Park Royal Vehicles. Across the variants, around 2700 Routemasters entered service in the Capital.
Basically, it's of integral construction with an all-aluminium body structure, has a front sub-frame (or 'wheelbarrow'), carrying the engine and coiled independent front suspension; and a rear sub-frame carrying a 'live' coil-sprung rear axle.
Apparently quite an expensive bus to initially purchase, (when compared with the contemporary AEC Regent V), the only other taker for the Routemaster was Northern General, who specified Leyland 0.600 engines and forward-entrance bodies.
The Barton D/D is a Leyland Titan PD1 (or maybe PD2?)
C'mon Mr DTM - tell us about the ingenious Barton operation!
Over to you mate ..............
:y
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What I always remember of Barton buses is that they used to buy 2 old nails and make one serviceable one out of it!
I know one of the barton family still has a load of buses in Chilwell/Beeston somewhere.
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Ow, what about the ones in the depot?
I know one is a tow truck conversion..
-
Is that Minder's Crapee hiding in the bay on the right?
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Ow, what about the ones in the depot?
I know one is a tow truck conversion..
I do believe it's a former WD AEC Militant 6x6 wrecker from the Trent fleet, with a redundant ECW single-deck body grafted on.
And talking of the Trent Motor Traction Company, it was well-known that a secondhand bus from their fleet was always a good buy. I visited their Central Works at Derby once, and witnessed first-hand their excellent engineering standards.
One of my former Engineering Directors was a former Trent man BTW.
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Here's one of 48 Albion Nimbuses, (or should it be 'Nimbii'?), that WW received in 1960-1.
No.2 is seen here, being prepared for delivery at Thomas Harrington's Hove premises.
The 1960 deliveries were given fleetnumbers 1-24, (TUH 1 etc) and had Harrington 30-seat bodies. The 1961 buses had outwardly-similar Weymann bodies, and were numbered 25-48 (WKG 25 etc).
All were equipped for one man operation.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img171.jpg)[/img]
The Nimbus chassis was built at the Scotstoun plant of Albion Motors, and was a 'lightweight' model that was aimed at lightly-trafficked rural bus operations. Albion's 4-cylinder EN250H engine was effectively two-thirds of a Tiger Cub power-unit, and drove through a single dry-plate clutch via a six-speed constant-mesh gearbox to a BMC rear axle.
Vacuum-assisted hydraulic brakes were standard equipment.
The Nimbus certainly had a good power-to-weight ratio, and (when) in good fettle had a fair turn of speed, especially with that 6th gear!
So then, it should have been ideal for WW's rural services, but all was not a success for this little Scot, with most leading relatively short service lives with the company
Ponder this if you will:
Albion's motto was "Sure as the sunrise" - but was not the Nimbus a raincloud?
No.27 became the subject of an interesting experiment a few years later, but that too is another story ..................
Well my Welsh friend............................
So what were the problems with the Nimbus, was it plagued with constant minor problems, or just all round Cr*p :-? :-?
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Is that Minder's Crapee hiding in the bay on the right?
Yes they seem to have a few crapee's in there.
They also have a rather nice Corvette.....and what I think is a Ford Consul (not sure!) with a proper engine in.....a small block super charged NOx powered chevvy!
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Ow, what about the ones in the depot?
I know one is a tow truck conversion..
Is this the Barton's tow truck that you were talking about, DTM ? :-? :-? :-? :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/barton_buses_11_470x3531.jpg)[/img]
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The Nimbus was probably a bit too 'lightweight' in reality.
There were head gasket failures galore, and whilst the engine block studding arrangement contributed to this, Albion soon introduced a revised gasket. This didn't entirely rectify this problem, though the cylinder heads stayed in place for much higher mileages.
The second point concerned the rear axle, which was of BMC build and quite reliable except for the half-shaft sealing surface becoming grooved by the oil seals themselves. When a leak occurred, it took some rectification.
There were also instances of chassis bracketry failures along with quite rapid wear of the gear-change linkage joints and pins.
Little wonder then, that Western Welsh generally found that Leyland's Tiger Cub was perfectly adequate for most of it's needs.
;)
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No.27 became the subject of an interesting experiment a few years later, but that too is another story ..................
Is this the bus that you were talking about Mr Sethsmate........................................
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img172.jpg)[/img]
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Can anyone remember the 1957 film that this Bedford lorry stared in?.............................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Bedfordtruck.jpg)[/img]
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This has been, and still is, a wonderful, highly interesting (for us transport enthusiasts anyway!) thread. But I note one thing that greatly saddens me, and I hope I am wrong on:
The thread has highlighted the lovely, well designed, and treasured historic buses built by British craftsmen. But also the thread seems to reveal how all that tradition has now passed away, with all new buses and coaches foriegn built, on chassis's with engines manufactured by the likes of Volvo, bodies by Van Hool :'( :'(
Am I right, or wrong (I hope so!!) ?? :( :(
Is there no-one who can answer my question PLEASE? ::) ::) ::) :D :D ;)
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This has been, and still is, a wonderful, highly interesting (for us transport enthusiasts anyway!) thread. But I note one thing that greatly saddens me, and I hope I am wrong on:
The thread has highlighted the lovely, well designed, and treasured historic buses built by British craftsmen. But also the thread seems to reveal how all that tradition has now passed away, with all new buses and coaches foriegn built, on chassis's with engines manufactured by the likes of Volvo, bodies by Van Hool :'( :'(
Am I right, or wrong (I hope so!!) ?? :( :(
Is there no-one who can answer my question PLEASE? ::) ::) ::) :D :D ;)
I can't answer your question re Volvos etc.
I saw your post last night and asked Sethsmate, last night, if he had any input.
My personal opinion is:-
its they way of this country, we were the best and sat back on our laurels and the rest of the world overtook us. Eg. the car industry :'( :'(
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This has been, and still is, a wonderful, highly interesting (for us transport enthusiasts anyway!) thread. But I note one thing that greatly saddens me, and I hope I am wrong on:
The thread has highlighted the lovely, well designed, and treasured historic buses built by British craftsmen. But also the thread seems to reveal how all that tradition has now passed away, with all new buses and coaches foriegn built, on chassis's with engines manufactured by the likes of Volvo, bodies by Van Hool :'( :'(
Am I right, or wrong (I hope so!!) ?? :( :(
Is there no-one who can answer my question PLEASE? ::) ::) ::) :D :D ;)
I can't answer your question re Volvos etc.
I saw your post last night and asked Sethsmate, last night, if he had any input.
My personal opinion is:-
its they way of this country, we were the best and sat back on our laurels and the rest of the world overtook us. Eg. the car industry :'( :'(
Thanks Splott! :y :y
I feared that could be the answer! :'( :'( :'(
-
This has been, and still is, a wonderful, highly interesting (for us transport enthusiasts anyway!) thread. But I note one thing that greatly saddens me, and I hope I am wrong on:
The thread has highlighted the lovely, well designed, and treasured historic buses built by British craftsmen. But also the thread seems to reveal how all that tradition has now passed away, with all new buses and coaches foriegn built, on chassis's with engines manufactured by the likes of Volvo, bodies by Van Hool :'( :'(
Am I right, or wrong (I hope so!!) ?? :( :(
Is there no-one who can answer my question PLEASE? ::) ::) ::) :D :D ;)
I can't answer your question re Volvos etc.
I saw your post last night and asked Sethsmate, last night, if he had any input.
My personal opinion is:-
its they way of this country, we were the best and sat back on our laurels and the rest of the world overtook us. Eg. the car industry :'( :'(
Thanks Splott! :y :y
I feared that could be the answer! :'( :'( :'(
Sad, isn't it :'( :'( :'(
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Ow, what about the ones in the depot?
I know one is a tow truck conversion..
Is this the Barton's tow truck that you were talking about, DTM ? :-? :-? :-? :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/barton_buses_11_470x3531.jpg)[/img]
this is i think a converted AEC matador. ;)
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This has been, and still is, a wonderful, highly interesting (for us transport enthusiasts anyway!) thread. But I note one thing that greatly saddens me, and I hope I am wrong on:
The thread has highlighted the lovely, well designed, and treasured historic buses built by British craftsmen. But also the thread seems to reveal how all that tradition has now passed away, with all new buses and coaches foriegn built, on chassis's with engines manufactured by the likes of Volvo, bodies by Van Hool :'( :'(
Am I right, or wrong (I hope so!!) ?? :( :(
The reasons are many, there's no doubt about it.
My own view suggests that the British motor industry generally rested on it's laurels.
The PSV manufacturers failed to take heed of changing circumstances, such as the expanding motorway network and the likes of Volvo who were slowly but surely getting a firm foothold in the marketplace.
The dominant heavyweight coach at this time was the Leyland Leopard - a rugged and dependable workhorse, which was getting 'long in the tooth' - literally.
Volvo's B58, whilst being a more expensive option was a far superior vehicle. Operators quickly found that all that was required was regular and concientious routine maintenance. Drivers loved 'em too - power steering as standard, and a smooth quiet turbocharged diesel allowed effortless and sustained motorway cruising. The later B10M simply improved things further for the Swedes reputation.
By the time Leyland introduced it's Tiger chassis, the writing was on the wall, so to speak!
And talking of bodies, the Van Hool offerings are something of a 'class act' believe me.
Forget the British offerings, a Van Hool body simply oozes quality throughout, and I've yet to hear of any structural failures with the framing either.
Get yourself a Van Hool-bodied Volvo B10M and you really can't go wrong. Trust me! :y
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This has been, and still is, a wonderful, highly interesting (for us transport enthusiasts anyway!) thread. But I note one thing that greatly saddens me, and I hope I am wrong on:
The thread has highlighted the lovely, well designed, and treasured historic buses built by British craftsmen. But also the thread seems to reveal how all that tradition has now passed away, with all new buses and coaches foriegn built, on chassis's with engines manufactured by the likes of Volvo, bodies by Van Hool :'( :'(
Am I right, or wrong (I hope so!!) ?? :( :(
The reasons are many, there's no doubt about it.
My own view suggests that the British motor industry generally rested on it's laurels.
The PSV manufacturers failed to take heed of changing circumstances, such as the expanding motorway network and the likes of Volvo who were slowly but surely getting a firm foothold in the marketplace.
The dominant heavyweight coach at this time was the Leyland Leopard - a rugged and dependable workhorse, which was getting 'long in the tooth' - literally.
Volvo's B58, whilst being a more expensive option was a far superior vehicle. Operators quickly found that all that was required was regular and concientious routine maintenance. Drivers loved 'em too - power steering as standard, and a smooth quiet turbocharged diesel allowed effortless and sustained motorway cruising. The later B10M simply improved things further for the Swedes reputation.
By the time Leyland introduced it's Tiger chassis, the writing was on the wall, so to speak!
And talking of bodies, the Van Hool offerings are something of a 'class act' believe me.
Forget the British offerings, a Van Hool body simply oozes quality throughout.
Get yourself a Van Hool-bodied Volvo B10M and you really can't go wrong. Trust me! :y
Thanks for that! :y :y :y Sad story then, with no British builder left!! ::) ::) :'( :'( :'(
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Can anyone remember the 1957 film that this Bedford lorry stared in?.............................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Bedfordtruck.jpg)[/img]
Oooer ....... 'tis not a Bedford dear boy ........... :'(
No sir, it's a Perkins-engined Dodge 'Kew' - note the chrome-plated 'square & four circles' emblem on the grille.
This signified Perkins' motto: "an all-round square deal"
Oh, the film was indeed 'Hell Drivers' :y
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Can anyone remember the 1957 film that this Bedford lorry stared in?.............................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Bedfordtruck.jpg)[/img]
Oooer ....... 'tis not a Bedford dear boy ........... :'(
No sir, it's a Perkins-engined Dodge 'Kew' - note the chrome-plated 'square & four circles' emblem on the grille.
This signified Perkins' motto: "all round square deal"
Oh, the film was indeed 'Hell Drivers' :y
A great film and still worth watching now 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
The scenes at the beginning of this film about the Hell Drivers is worth a watch for the transport visable:
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1Rxdn8n1Vsw[/media]
and then a trailer for the film itself (black & white paradise!!):
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X8qFD2s0Fwg[/media]
8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) ;) ;)
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Can anyone remember the 1957 film that this Bedford lorry stared in?.............................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Bedfordtruck.jpg)[/img]
Oooer ....... 'tis not a Bedford dear boy ........... :'(
No sir, it's a Perkins-engined Dodge 'Kew' - note the chrome-plated 'square & four circles' emblem on the grille.
This signified Perkins' motto: "all round square deal"
Oh, the film was indeed 'Hell Drivers' :y
I remember that film, just about.... ::) ::) Has much changed about the Job, in 1985 I was driving Tippers for a while in Poole and remember Sub Contractors telling me off for doing too many runs, showing them up. Guess that is the other way around ::) but I was not thinking about fuel or breaking anything :D :D :D
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No.27 became the subject of an interesting experiment a few years later, but that too is another story ..................
Is this the bus that you were talking about Mr Sethsmate........................................
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img172.jpg)[/img]
Withdrawals of the unhappy Albion Nimbuses were in full swing during the mid 1960s, and here's (the former) No.27 in it's new guise wearing that lovely Peacock Blue/Royal Ivory livery.
Western Welsh purchased a Bristol LHS chassis in December 1967, and married it with the body off No.27 at the Central Workshops at Cardiff (Ely).
The little Bristol was powered by a Leyland 0.401 engine, a familiar unit which was already in service in the hordes of Tiger Cubs across the company. The chassis also featured a Turner 5-speed all-synchromesh 'box, BMC-sourced axles, full air brakes, and a front-mounted radiator.
Little wonder then, that it was christened 'The Flying Pig" by the staff.
Given fleetnumber 1, it was registered MBO 1F, and allocated to Cardiff (Penarth Road) depot - primarily for use on the (then Rhoose) Airport service.
No further conversions ensued, and No.1 remained a solitary type within the WW fleet.
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Is this the Barton's tow truck that you were talking about, DTM ? :-? :-? :-? :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/barton_buses_11_470x3531.jpg)[/img]
this is i think a converted AEC matador. ;)
'Twas actually Trent's AEC Militant that was mentioned Jon! ;)
You're spot on though, regarding the Barton wrecker! :y
-
This has been, and still is, a wonderful, highly interesting (for us transport enthusiasts anyway!) thread. But I note one thing that greatly saddens me, and I hope I am wrong on:
The thread has highlighted the lovely, well designed, and treasured historic buses built by British craftsmen. But also the thread seems to reveal how all that tradition has now passed away, with all new buses and coaches foriegn built, on chassis's with engines manufactured by the likes of Volvo, bodies by Van Hool :'( :'(
Am I right, or wrong (I hope so!!) ?? :( :(
The reasons are many, there's no doubt about it.
My own view suggests that the British motor industry generally rested on it's laurels.
The PSV manufacturers failed to take heed of changing circumstances, such as the expanding motorway network and the likes of Volvo who were slowly but surely getting a firm foothold in the marketplace.
The dominant heavyweight coach at this time was the Leyland Leopard - a rugged and dependable workhorse, which was getting 'long in the tooth' - literally.
Volvo's B58, whilst being a more expensive option was a far superior vehicle. Operators quickly found that all that was required was regular and concientious routine maintenance. Drivers loved 'em too - power steering as standard, and a smooth quiet turbocharged diesel allowed effortless and sustained motorway cruising. The later B10M simply improved things further for the Swedes reputation.
By the time Leyland introduced it's Tiger chassis, the writing was on the wall, so to speak!
And talking of bodies, the Van Hool offerings are something of a 'class act' believe me.
Forget the British offerings, a Van Hool body simply oozes quality throughout.
Get yourself a Van Hool-bodied Volvo B10M and you really can't go wrong. Trust me! :y
Thanks for that! :y :y :y Sad story then, with no British builder left!! ::) ::) :'( :'( :'(
Those following this thread might be interested to know of a brilliant book which portrays the Leyland Bus - Volvo debacle.
Entitled "Beyond Reality: Leyland Bus - the twilight years" respected transport author Doug Jack tells a compelling story as only he can.
http://www.amazon.co.uk/Beyond-Reality-Leyland-Twilight-Heritage/dp/1898432023/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1271106522&sr=8-1
It can often be purchased far, far cheaper elsewhere! :y
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Sethmate, are you telling me that I got both the Bedford and the Wrecker wrong. All I can is:-
Oooops!!! :-[ :-[ :-[
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Sethmate, are you telling me that I got both the Bedford and the Wrecker wrong. All I can is:-
Oooops!!! :-[ :-[ :-[
Never mind, don't lose any sleep over it! ;D
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All quiet this evening ........
Looks like I'm gonna have to 'collaborate' with 'our man on the Wirral' then! ;)
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All quiet this evening ........
Looks like I'm gonna have to 'collaborate' with 'our man on the Wirral' then! ;)
Collaboration succeded.....................
A Western Welsh Coach?
What's the difference between a Coach and a Bus :-/ :-/
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img180.jpg)[/img]
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All quiet this evening ........
Looks like I'm gonna have to 'collaborate' with 'our man on the Wirral' then! ;)
Collaboration succeded.....................
A Western Welsh Coach?
What's the difference between a Coach and a Bus :-/ :-/
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img180.jpg)[/img]
I like collaboration...... :y
Ussually the bodywork the seats and gears imho.. :y
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Here's Western Welsh's first post-war coach delivery, which arrived in 1950.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img180.jpg)[/img]
It's one of 12 similar machines - fleetnumbers were 500-511, and registered EBO 500-511.
They were AEC Regal Mk3's with Windover 'Huntingdon' bodies built to the full-fronted design seen here.
A seat for the courier was provided opposite the driver, and the livery was Royal Ivory with Wine Red reliefs.
These were also WW's first 8ft wide coaches, and most remained in service until 1963.
They were nicknamed 'fire engines'.
All subsequent coaches would be of the underfloor-engined models from AEC or Leyland.
Western Welsh was also a highly-regarded tour operator, with an extensive programme in operation each year.
Does anyone know the companies' proud motto?
Watch this space ............ :y
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Now here is a strange looking coach, any ideas because I haven't. :-/
Western Welsh I think :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/19215473ZsJtdOPSlD_ph1.jpg)[/img]
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Really looks like an early Duple 410, but can't get the front glass area........???
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Really looks like an early Duple 410, but can't get the front glass area........???
Weird windscreen, I think its an AEC Reliance with a Weymann body. Not sure though, WKG 137 is the number plate :y
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Additions to the coach fleet during 1960/1 were some 21 of these Weymann-bodied AEC Reliances.
Nicknamed 'Sabrinas' by the staff, they carried fleetnumbers 119-139, and were registered TUH 119-124 and WKG 125-139.
AH470 engines and 5-speed synchromesh gearboxes were specified.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/19215473ZsJtdOPSlD_ph1.jpg)[/img]
A staff competition to name these coaches 'by class' saw a relative of mine submit the winning entry!
Accordingly, 119-130 became the 'Cambrian Class', whilst 131-139 were the 'Celtic Class'.
All were used on the extensive touring programme, with withdrawals occurring in the 1968-1970 period.
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Ok then Sethsmate............ What was the motto for Western Welsh ?
I searched everywhere for it and come up with nothing! :-[ :y
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Ok then Sethsmate............ What was the motto for Western Welsh ?
I searched everywhere for it and come up with nothing! :-[ :y
Here we go then, 'twas: "Reliability, Efficiency, Comfort, Courtesy"
All taken seriously, you understand :y
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Bugger. got it wrong then. I thought it was "we don't slow down for sheep".............LOL!
Seriously.........
I am loving this thread, it takes me back to being a kid at the Bristol bus depot in brislington (eastern coachworks) and seeing the bus chassis a driver in a little seat with a helmet on delivering chassis and testing them along the A4 bath road.
Good times..........! :y
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Bugger. got it wrong then. I thought it was "we don't slow down for sheep".............LOL!
Seriously.........
I am loving this thread, it takes me back to being a kid at the Bristol bus depot in brislington (eastern coachworks) and seeing the bus chassis a driver in a little seat with a helmet on delivering chassis and testing them along the A4 bath road.
Good times..........! :y
That was in fact Bristol Commercial Vehicles dear boy!
A few more 'Western Welsh' from the archives, then we'll move on to pastures new .............
8-)
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Well Byron what can you tell me about this beauty.................................................... :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img174.jpg)[/img]
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Seen at Cardiff Central Bus Station, here's one of 18 AEC Reliances delivered for the 1958 season.
They had fleetnumbers 101-118 and were registered OUH 101 etc.
These were Western Welsh's first new Reliances - Harrington's 'Wayfarer IV' body being the choice here.
The AH470 engine and 5-speed gearbox gave a sparkling performance out on the open road.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img174.jpg)[/img]
101-106 were 34 seaters, and named 'Ambassador Class', whilst 107-118 were the 39-seat 'Capital Class'.
All had sumptuous individual seats upholstered in WW 'daffodil' style moquette.
106 was class runner-up at the 1958 Brighton Coach Rally, and all 18 coaches remained in service until 1966.
Western Welsh's fleet strength totalled 696 omnibuses as at December 1958. :y
Maidstone & District had outwardly-similar coaches to these, so our Lizzie may well wish to comment here ........... ;)
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Yes I did see a few of those SM in my time ;) ;) Very common in the early 60s ;)
Never rode on one though :'(
8-) 8-) :y
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I'm pretty sure that only Maidstone & Distict and Western Welsh had this style of Harrington body.
At this time, you couldn't go wrong with a Harrington-bodied AEC Reliance.
The interior badging said: 'Thomas Harrington Ltd; Sackville Works, Old Shoreham Road, Hove, Sussex, England'. :y
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Yes I did see a few of those SM in my time ;) ;) Very common in the early 60s ;)
Never rode on one though :'(
8-) 8-) :y
I think I lie!! :-[ :-[
I have just remembered going on a coach of this type in 1959/60 with my great aunts from Tunbridge Wells to Hastings. The only thing bothering me is that I remember orange tinted windows along the sides of the roof, like the ones MUD 975 has over just the front windscreen ;) ;)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
8-) 8-)
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No doubt about it Lizzie .......
Features such as cantrail windows were often 'operator-specific'.
:y
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Come on then Sethsmate, enlarge on this one....................................... :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img173.jpg)[/img]
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Here is a nice one from the Chiltern Queens........................................... :y
Orange front windows but none on the side Lizzie :'(
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/KBV778_lr1.jpg)[/img]
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Western Welsh's next coaches arrived in 1963, in the shape of four elegant 36ft Leyland Leopards, with Duple 'Alpine Continental' bodies, as seen below.
Fleetnumbers were 140-143; registrations being 140 DBO etc; and entered service in an all-over Royal Ivory livery.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img173.jpg)[/img]
These Leopards were of the less-common PSU3/3RT variant, and featured the 9.8-litre Leyland 0.600 engine, 4-speed synchromesh 'box, and Eaton 2-speed rear axle.
143 is pictured here in Rawtenstall working an express service to Wakefield, whilst on hire to fellow BET subsidiary Ribble Motor Services.
All four were withdrawn in 1971, and passed to Black & White Motorways of Cheltenham.
WW's coach orders for the next few years reverted to shorter-length AEC Reliance-based vehicles.
:y
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Here is a nice one from Chiltern Queens
Orange front windows but none on the side Lizzie
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/KBV778_lr1.jpg)[/img]
Took a bit of research did this one .........
'Tis a 1958 AEC Reliance with Plaxton 'Consort' centre-entrance body.
2MU3RV model - so AH470 engine, 5-speed synchro 'box and vacuum brakes.
'Twas new to Batty Holt of Blackburn. ;)
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Byron/lizzie/splott what can you tell me about my wadham-stringer bodied Leyland Swift then.......had mine for 3 years now, and having trouble getting parts for it now. Has a 6ltr cummins TD and Allison autobox, used to have 32 seats, but now sleeps 4 and seats only 8 in the lounge area. Could do with a few parts, have fabricated most of them so far.
Cheers.
Mike. oh, and the reg is F33 TMP
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Byron/lizzie/splott what can you tell me about my wadham-stringer bodied Leyland Swift then.......had mine for 3 years now, and having trouble getting parts for it now. Has a 6ltr cummins TD and Allison autobox, used to have 32 seats, but now sleeps 4 and seats only 8 in the lounge area. Could do with a few parts, have fabricated most of them so far.
Cheers.
Mike. oh, and the reg is F33 TMP
The best I can do at the moment Mike is.............
Leyland Swift Bus F31 TMP--- sold at auction lot 802
ftp://http://www.brightwells.com/Portals/13/July%20Catalogue%20for%20Internet%202008.pdf
Leyland Swift, Reeve Burgess body--- F26 TMP previously owned by Formby Coaches, Merseyside
ftp://http://dartslf.com/fleetlists/lists/raddoneurfleet.asp
Did your bus originate from a London Bus Company as *MP is an old London registration? :y
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Apologies...mine has a Reeve Burgess body on it!!
Bought mine from Scotland, was previously in Northern Ireland, and before that in Jersey, and before THAT, I believe in Newcastle.
Found some NI currency in it when I stripped it out, and also have the original plate requesting equipment to be stowed etc. for the Jersey Bus company.
Know nothing really about it, but appears to have had a chequered past. Was it based on a Leyland Roadrunner lorry chassis ans running gear?? certainly looks like it!
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Apologies...mine has a Reeve Burgess body on it!!
Bought mine from Scotland, was previously in Northern Ireland, and before that in Jersey, and before THAT, I believe in Newcastle.
Found some NI currency in it when I stripped it out, and also have the original plate requesting equipment to be stowed etc. for the Jersey Bus company.
Know nothing really about it, but appears to have had a chequered past. Was it based on a Leyland Roadrunner lorry chassis ans running gear?? certainly looks like it!
Could do with the Jersey No as I have found dozens exported to Jersey :y
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F31 TMP was a Bristol city council disabled bus, I used to drive it!!! that was the entire reason that I bought a swifty in the first place......
F33 TMP was first used by a company in NI, but bought from a london company that found it was too small for its needs, all the 30-41 TMP's were made and sold at the same time as a batch to this company, who sold them off to smaller operators after fitting out for purpose. "My" council bus had only 8 seats, but carried 6 wheelchairs and had a tail-lift, and my own bus had 32 seats and a tail-lift, but with double rear access doors all the other "TMP's" had boots and small rear windows with a side access door at the rear, mine has a side access door a bit further forward of the rear. Most swifts had double opening front air doors, mine has a single WIDE disabled access air door.
thats about all I can tell you, except mine is a one-off build according to the bloke from Reeve Burgess I spoke to years ago, they only did ONE with the configuration I've got (auto, wide door, double rears, side door, and flat floor, not stepped with vicon clamp rails.)
Oh, and incidentally, when i bought it, it had 20 seats and tables, configured north-south seats with tables inbetween them.
Mike.
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Apologies...mine has a Reeve Burgess body on it!!
Bought mine from Scotland, was previously in Northern Ireland, and before that in Jersey, and before THAT, I believe in Newcastle.
Found some NI currency in it when I stripped it out, and also have the original plate requesting equipment to be stowed etc. for the Jersey Bus company.
Know nothing really about it, but appears to have had a chequered past. Was it based on a Leyland Roadrunner lorry chassis ans running gear?? certainly looks like it!
The Leyland Swift was a midibus chassis built by Leyland from 1987, sharing many components with the Roadrunner light truck but with the engine relocated to behind the front axle which was itself set back to permit a passenger entrance in the front overhang. Mechanically a 6-cylinder Cummins turbo-diesel powerplant was standard with the choice of synchromesh or Allison automatic gearboxes. It was available in a choice of short wheelbase (3.6 m)
See link for more info Mike.......................... :y
ftp://http://www.freebase.com/view/en/leyland_swift
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I'm pretty sure that the Cummins unit is designated by them as either '6B' or 'B6'.
It's a 'conventional' diesel set-up, and not the more common Cummins 'pressure time' system.
Same engine as used in the earlier Dennis Dart buses, and probably the same Allison auto 'box as well. :y
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mines a B6, and has the awful vacuum throttle system.........
I wish someone would come and take the governor off it and remove the dratted vacuum throttle, its a pig from cold as you can't throttle up!!
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mines a B6, and has the awful vacuum throttle system.........
I wish someone would come and take the governor off it and remove the dratted vacuum throttle, its a pig from cold as you can't throttle up!!
Do you not think that your bus was converted to wheelchair access, by the Wright Group Ltd.
They are based in Ballymena NI and did wheelchair conversions to Reeve-Burgess bodied Leyland Swift coaches :-/ :-/
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mines a B6, and has the awful vacuum throttle system.........
I wish someone would come and take the governor off it and remove the dratted vacuum throttle, its a pig from cold as you can't throttle up!!
Errr .........
Air-operated throttle possibly?
If so, there ought to be a diverter valve incorporated into the system, allowing the initial output from the compressor to go to the throttle.
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He He He....I'm a dumbass.........Yes, AIR operated throttle........ :P ;D ::)
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Pictures taken at the Wirral Transport museum, which I visited a few weeks ago.
Here is a Scammell wrecker.............. what engine do you think it has( look close)?
A very rare sight in the middle..............can you remember its nick name?
What type of bus is at the end of this row of restored vehicles?
A clue.................. scroll down :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/05042010083.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/05042010087-2.jpg)[/img]
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The Scammell is a Crusader, and would have a Rolls-Royce Eagle of 265BHP fitted as standard.
If ex-Forces, probably the 305BHP version, and badged as Perkins-Rolls.
The Eagles were much like AECs in design/layout.
I liked 'em a lot, and brilliant tone when in full cry too! :y
Centre-stage is a Green Goddess.
A colleague of mine has one - Bedford 6-cylinder petrol engine to boot!
The bus is undoubtedly a Guy Arab - probably a Mk1 or Mk2 version.
Looks like it has a Massey Bros (of Wigan) body. ;)
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The Scammell is a Crusader, and would have a Rolls-Royce Eagle of 265BHP fitted as standard.
If ex-Forces, probably the 305BHP version, and badged as Perkins-Rolls.
The Eagles were much like AECs in design/layout.
I liked 'em a lot, and brilliant tone when in full cry too! :y
Centre-stage is a Green Goddess.
A colleague of mine has one - Bedford 6-cylinder petrol engine to boot!
The bus is undoubtedly a Guy Arab - probably a Mk1 or Mk2 version.
Looks like it has a Massey Bros (of Wigan) body. ;)
Were you with me when I went??????? :y
Nice picture of the Indian? :y
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The Scammell is a Crusader, and would have a Rolls-Royce Eagle of 265BHP fitted as standard.
If ex-Forces, probably the 305BHP version, and badged as Perkins-Rolls.
The Eagles were much like AECs in design/layout.
I liked 'em a lot, and brilliant tone when in full cry too! :y
Centre-stage is a Green Goddess.
A colleague of mine has one - Bedford 6-cylinder petrol engine to boot!
The bus is undoubtedly a Guy Arab - probably a Mk1 or Mk2 version.
Looks like it has a Massey Bros (of Wigan) body. ;)
Were you with me when I went??????? :y
Nice picture of the Indian? :y
Yep, with 'Feathers in our cap' motto in the casting.
Oh, their address being: Guy Motors Ltd; Fallings Park, Wolverhampton.
:y
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The Scammell is a Crusader, and would have a Rolls-Royce Eagle of 265BHP fitted as standard.
If ex-Forces, probably the 305BHP version, and badged as Perkins-Rolls.
The Eagles were much like AECs in design/layout.
I liked 'em a lot, and brilliant tone when in full cry too! :y
Centre-stage is a Green Goddess.
A colleague of mine has one - Bedford 6-cylinder petrol engine to boot!
The bus is undoubtedly a Guy Arab - probably a Mk1 or Mk2 version.
Looks like it has a Massey Bros (of Wigan) body. ;)
Were you with me when I went??????? :y
Nice picture of the Indian? :y
Yep, with 'Feathers in our cap' motto in the casting.
Oh, their address being: Guy Motors Ltd; Fallings Park, Wolverhampton.
:y
It had GUY MOTORS written in the base, I just hid it with a bit of trickery :y :y
Here is the original..........................
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/05042010087.jpg)[/img]
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Come on Sethsmate's BAs ............................... :y
What's this coach and where is it............... 8-) 8-)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img176.jpg)[/img]
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See if you Guys( no pun intended ) tell me what this beasty was used for and where.......................................... 8-) 8-)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/05042010095.jpg)[/img]
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See if you Guys( no pun intended ) tell me what this beasty was used for and where.......................................... 8-) 8-)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/05042010095.jpg)[/img]
Working on the power cables for trolly buses?? :-/ :-/
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As Lizzie .....
C'mon splott lad - fill us in before I quote chapter and verse on the latest WW offering! :D
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See if you Guys( no pun intended ) tell me what this beasty was used for and where.......................................... 8-) 8-)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/05042010095.jpg)[/img]
Working on the power cables for trolly buses?? :-/ :-/
Yep :y, Lizzie,and trams. In Liverpool and Birkenhead, they shared it!
Birkenhead Tram
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/05042010094.jpg)[/img]
Liverpool Tram
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/05042010090.jpg)[/img]
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See if you Guys( no pun intended ) tell me what this beasty was used for and where.......................................... 8-) 8-)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/05042010095.jpg)[/img]
Working on the power cables for trolly buses?? :-/ :-/
Yep :y, Lizzie,and trams. In Liverpool and Birkenhead, they shared it!
Birkenhead Tram
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/05042010094.jpg)[/img]
Liverpool Tram
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/05042010090.jpg)[/img]
Ah Splott, they were all so lovely :-* :-* :-* :-*
Why can those beauties not return fully to our streets?
I was definately born too late in time! ::) ::) ;)
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See if you Guys( no pun intended ) tell me what this beasty was used for and where.......................................... 8-) 8-)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/05042010095.jpg)[/img]
Working on the power cables for trolly buses?? :-/ :-/
Yep :y, Lizzie,and trams. In Liverpool and Birkenhead, they shared it!
Birkenhead Tram
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/05042010094.jpg)[/img]
Liverpool Tram
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/05042010090.jpg)[/img]
Ah Splott, they were all so lovely :-* :-* :-* :-*
Why can those beauties not return fully to our streets?
I was definately born too late in time! ::) ::) ;)
So was I but they run these beauties from the museum down to the Birkenhead pierhead.
You can go on them for 25p, its only a short journey of 2miles but brilliant to say that you have been on one 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :y
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I remember going on the overhead railway when I was tiny. It was nicknamed the dockers umbrella
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/liverpool11.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/james_street_old_21.jpg)[/img]
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I remember going on the overhead railway when I was tiny. It was nicknamed the dockers umbrella
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/liverpool11.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/james_street_old_21.jpg)[/img]
What fabulous pictures of a time gone by Splott!! :-* :-* 8-) 8-) :y
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Some great pictures here of the Liverpool overhead railway
http://dewi.ca/trains/l_o_r/stations.html
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I remember going on the overhead railway when I was tiny. It was nicknamed the dockers umbrella
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/liverpool11.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/james_street_old_21.jpg)[/img]
What fabulous pictures of a time gone by Splott!! :-* :-* 8-) 8-) :y
Ah! Memories of days gone by :'( :'(
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Some great pictures here of the Liverpool overhead railway
http://dewi.ca/trains/l_o_r/stations.html
Brilliant site......................................... :y
Here is a digitised viewhttp://vimeo.com/10579532
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Shorter-length coaches were specified for each of the 1965/6/7 seasons.
Here's the first of six similar vehicles from the 1965 order, which had fleetnumbers 150-155, and registrations DBO 150C etc.
They were AEC Reliance 470s with Plaxton 'Panorama' 38-seat bodies of 31' 10" length, and were the first new coaches to arrive in WW's Peacock Blue/Royal Ivory livery.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img176.jpg)[/img]
Brilliant performers with excellent fuel economy, they featured AH470 'wet-linered' engines and AEC's own indestructable 6-speed overdrive constant-mesh (ie 'crash') gearbox, which afforded effortless 70mph cruising.
Six identical coaches arrived in 1966, and were nos. 156-161 - GKG 156D etc.
A further five came in 1967, though these had the then newly-introduced 'dry-linered' AH505 engine and 'Panorama 1' bodies. They were nos. 162-166, JBO 162E etc.
The company re-seated the entire 17 coaches to 40-seaters soon after, and these were to be Western Welsh's last AEC-based coaches.
The Leyland Leopard would subsequently satisfy it's coaching requirements from 1968 onwards.
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Shorter-length coaches were specified for each of the 1965/6/7 seasons.
Here's the first of six similar vehicles from the 1965 order, which had fleetnumbers 150-155, and registrations DBO 150C etc.
They were AEC Reliance 470s with Plaxton 'Panorama' 38-seat bodies of 31' 10" length, and were the first new coaches to arrive in WW's Peacock Blue/Royal Ivory livery.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img176.jpg)[/img]
Brilliant performers with excellent fuel economy, they featured AH470 'wet-linered' engines and AEC's own indestructable 6-speed overdrive constant-mesh (ie 'crash') gearbox, which afforded effortless 70mph cruising.
Six identical coaches arrived in 1966, and were nos. 156-161 - GKG 156D etc.
A further five came in 1967, though these had the then newly-introduced AH505 engine and 'Panorama 1' bodies. They were nos. 162-166, JBO 162E etc.
The company re-seated the entire 17 coaches to 40-seaters soon after, and these were to be Western Welsh's last AEC-based coaches.
The Leyland Leopard would subsequently satisfy it's coaching requirements from 1968 onwards.
Lovely looking coach but they look a bit cumbersome. Did they wallow a bit, as I can remember being quite sick when on these old coaches :'( :'(
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Here is a nice picture.............................. :y
Where is it and whose bus yard is it :-/
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/bus_station_21.jpg)[/img]
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Lovely looking coach but they look a bit cumbersome. Did they wallow a bit, as I can remember being quite sick when on these old coaches :'( :'([/quote]
They could 'wag their tails' a little - these had a slightly longer rear overhang than our other Reliances.
However, once you were familiar with this characteristic, they were quite fine to handle.
The 6-speed 'crash' 'box took some getting used-to.
It had a very tight gate, and it was easy to jump into the wrong gear. It was also a 'fast-changer' - you had to double-declutch a bit sharpishly, as the revs dropped away quickly when changing gears.
Once mastered though, that 'overdrive 6th' gear certainly gave these Reliances a fair turn of speed.
I remember taking 166, one of the 505-engined 1967 deliveries on a weekend railway enthusiasts tour.
We left South Wales on day one, and travelled to the National Tramway Museum at Crich in Derbyshire. It was then on to the NRM at York, and an overnight stay.
Day two began with a visit to the K&WVR (and a train ride, of course!), before crossing the Pennines to visit the Flying Scotsman at Carnforth.
It was then home to South Wales via the M6, M5 and M50 motorways making judicious use of that sixth gear!
Needless to say, we didn't hang around, and 166 never missed a beat all weekend.
The melodious sound effects of the 505 engine in full cry, plus the whine from that 6th gear were music to my ears!
:y
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Here is a nice picture.............................. :y
Where is it and whose bus yard is it :-/
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/bus_station_21.jpg)[/img]
'Tis (was) my home depot at Bridgend, and the photo would've been taken from the canteen in the early '60s.
Bridgend was regarded as 'the jewel in the crown' of the Western Welsh empire.
It was the largest and most modern depot, with almost 100 vehicles 'on shed' at this time.
Bus station, depot etc all on one convenient town centre site.
The canteen was atop our workshop - 72 stairs to get your grub! :P
There's a Leyland Atlantean top left, with one of the unhappy Albion Nimbuses turning the corner into the 'graveyard' :'(
Loads of Leyland Tiger Cubs too! :D
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Here is a nice picture.............................. :y
Where is it and whose bus yard is it :-/
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/bus_station_21.jpg)[/img]
'Tis (was) my home depot at Bridgend, and the photo would've been taken from the canteen in the early '60s.
Bridgend was regarded as 'the jewel in the crown' of the Western Welsh empire.
It was the largest and most modern depot, with almost 100 vehicles 'on shed' at this time.
Bus station, depot etc all on one convenient town centre site.
The canteen was atop our workshop - 72 stairs to get your grub! :P
There's a Leyland Atlantean top left, with one of the unhappy Albion Nimbuses turning the corner into the 'graveyard' :'(
Loads of Leyland Tiger Cubs too! :D
Brings back memories, then, Sethsmate? :'(
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Two lovely pictures from Sethsmates Library, all I know is, they are Western Welsh :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img178.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img177.jpg)[/img]
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To Splot, Sethsmate & all the other contributors to this post.
Can I just say a Very Big Thankyou for a fantastic trip down Memory Lane. I don't really have a 'thing' for buses and initially didn't browse the posts but noticed the Thread getting bigger & bigger, until I couldn't keep my nose out any longer LOL ::).
I am really glad I gave in to my nosey side, as I can honestly say my life would have been the poorer for not seeing & reading the wonderful stuff there, not to mention the links to other magical stuff from days gone! The one thing that really jumps out at you when you see these wonderful machines is that modern stuff may be 'cleaner' & more powerful?, but it has none of the charisma and sheer romantic beauty the old stuff had. Each & every one of those old girls had a soul & it shines out at you through the photographs. Sadly, the modern stuff just doesn't do that, for me anyway. Keep it up please, i'm a dedicated 'lurker' now ;D :y
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(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img177.jpg)[/img]
From 1968 onwards, the 36ft Leyland Leopard was to reign supreme in Western Welsh's coach fleet.
The 1968 coach intake consisted of six Leopards with Plaxton 'Panorama 1' 49-seat bodies.
They were allocated fleetnumbers 167-172, and registered LUH 167F etc.
The chassis was of the PSU3/3RT model, with the 9.8-litre 0.600 engine, 4-speed synchromesh gearbox and Eaton 2-speed rear axle.
Gone was the traditional WW fleetname script, it being replaced with a 'bold outlined' white transfer affixed on the Royal Ivory-liveried side panels only.
No power steering made them heavy beasts to manoeuvre, but they were utterly reliable in service.
:y
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The 1969 order for WW's coach fleet comprised a further six 36ft Leyland Leopards.
Here's smartly turned-out 174 at Hereford, working an Afternoon Tour of the Wye Valley & Herefordshire.
The driver being Bridgend man Gwyn (E.W.) Morgan, a brilliant character with a long service record with the company.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img178.jpg)[/img]
They carried fleetnumbers 173-178, with registration numbers OUH 173G etc.
The chassis was of the PSU3A/4RT variant, again with the 0.600 engine, but with fluid flywheel and 5-speed semi-automatic (pneumocyclic) transmission. An Eaton 2-speed axle was also specified.
These were also the first Leylands in the fleet to feature exhaust brakes.
The bodies were again 49-seaters by Plaxtons of Scarborough, though of the then newly-introduced 'Panorama Elite' model. As an experiment, nos. 176-178 were fitted from new with Webasto supplementary combustion heaters.
The then General Manager stated: "Here we have the finest coaches available which can climb the steepest of hills, and yet cruise comfortably at 70mph. They should satisfy the demands of our most discerning customers."
Note the revised and pleasing bold fleetname treatment, which was subsequently applied to all coach repaints.
:y
Six identical coaches followed in 1970, additionally being specified with power steering.
These were registered SKG 179H etc; and given fleetnumbers 179-184.
For 1972, six more arrived, though with Plaxton 'Panorama Elite 2' bodies. (185-190: VUH 185K etc).
Their chassis was of the PSU3B/4RT version, with the newly-introduced 11.1-litre Leyland 0.680 engine, semi-automatic transmission and Eaton 2-speed rear axle. Again, power steering was specified.
These were not only to be the last Plaxton-bodied coaches delivered to Western Welsh, they were the last coaches to carry that fabulous Peacock Blue/Royal Ivory livery.
:-*
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Here is a nice picture.............................. :y
Where is it and whose bus yard is it :-/
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/bus_station_21.jpg)[/img]
'Tis (was) my home depot at Bridgend, and the photo would've been taken from the canteen in the early '60s.
Bridgend was regarded as 'the jewel in the crown' of the Western Welsh empire.
It was the largest and most modern depot, with almost 100 vehicles 'on shed' at this time.
Bus station, depot etc all on one convenient town centre site.
The canteen was atop our workshop - 72 stairs to get your grub! :P
There's a Leyland Atlantean top left, with one of the unhappy Albion Nimbuses turning the corner into the 'graveyard' :'(
Loads of Leyland Tiger Cubs too! :D
Brings back memories, then, Sethsmate? :'(
Aye, I spent the best part of twenty happy years there ;)
There were many great characters and wonderful cameraderie :y
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Here is a nice picture of a Western Welsh Coach from Sethsmates collection...........................
I don't know anything about this one but I'm sure someone does :y
Where is it then? :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img179.jpg)[/img]
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By now part of the National Bus Company, Western Welsh took delivery of three 36ft Leopards with Duple 'Dominant 1' bodies to Bus Grant spec.
Freshly delivered, here's the first to arrive, and the location is Cardiff (Penarth Road) Depot, on 12 October 1976.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img179.jpg)[/img]
The chassis was of the PSU3C/4RT model, with Leyland's 11.1-litre 0.680 engine, semi-automatic transmission and Eaton 2-speed rear axle. Water-cooled compressors and full-air spring parking-brake systems were incorporated, along with power steering which was now a standard fitment on the Leopard model.
The Duple body was of all-steel construction, and within a few years, significant corrosion and structural problems became apparent. Extensive rebuilding, particularly around the rear overhang/boot areas, led to these coaches being demoted from 'front-line' work to local limited-stop service duties quite early in their lives.
Being built to Bus Grant spec; (note the 'jack-knife' entrance doors), also meant that a certain proportion of their annual mileages had to be accrued working on stage-carriage services.
The fabulous Peacock Blue/Royal Ivory livery has also been swept away, in favour of NBC corporate white.
:'(
A while later, the Western Welsh name would disappear too, in favour of 'National Welsh', which was the result of a merger with the neighbouring Red & White company.
:'(
Things would never be quite the same again .............. :'(
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Here is a nice picture of Western Welsh , is it my imagination or is this bus very short????? :-/ :-/
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/freefotopic.jpg)[/img]
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There is another picture of it in a rally or somthing as it is being followed by what looks like a 50's Crosville. Along this same road. :y
So thats not you Byron, giving it a test run then 8-) 8-)
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(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/freefotopic.jpg)[/img]
Ooerr ...... it's one of those 'unhappy' Albion Nimbuses! :'(
Looks like it's a preserved example, though the route number display suggests that it's working a Bridgend 'Town Service'.
:y
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There is another picture of it in a rally or somthing as it is being followed by what looks like a 50's Crosville. Along this same road. :y
So thats not you Byron, giving it a test run then 8-) 8-)
Here is the rally picture, I think :-/ :-/ :-/ :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/FreeFoto2.jpg)[/img]
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There is another picture of it in a rally or somthing as it is being followed by what looks like a 50's Crosville. Along this same road. :y
So thats not you Byron, giving it a test run then 8-) 8-)
Afraid not, dear splott ..........
All 48 Nimbuses had been withdrawn by the time I started working for Western Welsh - phew! :y
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Here is a nice Bedford coach and I think Sethsmate has some connection with this one............................................ :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img185.jpg)[/img]
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Dare i even say it..................
(http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb52/crazydad_01/New%20stuff/BusDepotBromley08012009081.jpg)
(http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb52/crazydad_01/New%20stuff/BusDepotBromley08012009089.jpg)
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The diminutive Bedford OB with Duple 'Vista' 29-seat body will need little introduction to many.
These were the staple diet of many operators, before, during and after World War 2.
Simplicity themselves, they were powered by Bedford's own 28HP petrol engine.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img185.jpg)[/img]
Seen above is the sole-surviving example that's still with it's original owner - in this case, since 1951!
The Sethsmates' long-time friends Len and Sylvia Cooper, retained this coach when they closed their business upon retirement. They still attend vintage transport events with it, and it's been featured on the 'Animal Park' TV series which was centred on nearby Longleat House & Wildlife Park.
'Yours truly' also 'did the business' and got Exclusive First Editions to produce and release a delightfully-accurate 'OO' scale model of it a few years back :y
To find out more about Leathers Coaches, click this link:
http://www.warminstervbrd.connectfree.co.uk/v/Leathers.htm
Then click this one to read about how things began in the early years of the last century.
It's a lovely story, and you're guaranteed to be enthralled :y
http://www.btinternet.com/~JIM.DOWNES1/leathers-coaches.htm
And this one:
http://www.btinternet.com/~JIM.DOWNES1/don-newbury.htm
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To add a railway element to this thread, I will mention the first railway owned buses.
The Great Western Railway (GWR) started the first service of this type in 1903 on the Helston to Lizard route using 16 hp Milnes-Daimler single-deck buses:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GWRbusAF84HelstonLizard.jpg)
These were used to test the potential traffic of a railway that could be built on this route, without the actual cost of doing so! This happened in a number of areas, and permanently avoided the need of an expensively built railway! :D ;) Indeed, before 1914 the GWR were operating 31 bus services using 112 vehicles. By 1928 they were using 300 buses of various makes on no less than 168 routes.
In 1904 the GWR commenced a Slough to Windsor bus service using these Milnes Daimler double deck buses:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GWRSlough-WindsorBus1904.jpg)
In 1907 the GWR were running a Cardigan to Newquay bus service:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GWR1907CardingtonNewquay.jpg)
In 1927 the GWR ran buses such as this Guy example, chassis number 22257 with a Hall Lewis B32R body reg. no. YE 7310
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GWR1927Bus.jpg)
By 1933 the GWR had faced changed legislation that ruled railway companies could not run bus routes that represented a monoply, so ceased bus operations. They did however have financial links with a number of bus companies which included Western National, Thames Valley, Western Welsh, and Midland Red.
The LMS (London Midland & Scottish Railway) also had financial links to a number of bus companies, but their oddest contribution was an attempt in 1932 to mix the benefits of a road coach with that of a rail bus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/LMSRoadRailerCoach.jpg)
Of course out of this came the 1930 pure rail cars!! :D :D ;)
For further information and very interesting details along with pictures, I highly recommend this great little web site:
http://www.google.com/imgres?imgurl=http://mikes.railhistory.railfan.net/imfile/06590.jpg&imgrefurl=http://mikes.railhistory.railfan.net/r137.html&usg=__ozCF1CVp0L_38mAyrXyrGKbBvbc=&h=458&w=751&sz=80&hl=en&start=12&itbs=1&tbnid=CR8uAuTeE9PREM:&tbnh=86&tbnw=141&prev=/images%3Fq%3DLMS%2BRailway%2BRoad%2BTrailer%26hl%3Den%26sa%3DG%26gbv%3D2%26tbs%3Disch:1
;) ;)
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is this the bus thread then? i wondered where everyone was ;)
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The 'die-hards' are still here Banjax mate! :y
Am presently beavering away behind the scenes, and searching-out some more interesting gems for this thread.
Lizzie's now on board, so 'watch this space', as they say! :y
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Dare i even say it..................
(http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb52/crazydad_01/New%20stuff/BusDepotBromley08012009081.jpg)
(http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb52/crazydad_01/New%20stuff/BusDepotBromley08012009089.jpg)
Is that you and one of your family behind the wheel then, Crazydad :o :o :o :y
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is this the bus thread then? i wondered where everyone was ;)
Yep we are all here Banjax :y :y :y :y
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Lizzie's railway contribution has reminded me that the GWR were the forerunners of the Western Welsh operations.
This was particularly so in the West Wales and Brecon areas.
In fact, many staff at these depots were NUR members. I remember that Brecon depot was 100% NUR, until closure 20-odd years ago.
Well done Ms Zoom! :y
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Took me ages to search-out the links regarding the earlier-posted ditty on Leathers' Bedford OB. :-[
Anyone actually clicked/read 'em? :-?
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The 'die-hards' are still here Banjax mate! :y
Am presently beavering away behind the scenes, and searching-out some more interesting gems for this thread.
Lizzie's now on board, so 'watch this space', as they say! :y
Got to say that Lizzie's and Sethsmate's threads were very informative :y :y :y :y
Enjoyed them :y :y :y
I'm off to Llandudno now, to see the Victorian Festival. There are many old buses and Charabancs on display.
Plus working steam engines :y :y
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The 'die-hards' are still here Banjax mate! :y
Am presently beavering away behind the scenes, and searching-out some more interesting gems for this thread.
Lizzie's now on board, so 'watch this space', as they say! :y
Got to say that Lizzie's and Sethsmate's threads were very informative :y :y :y :y
Enjoyed them :y :y :y
I'm off to Llandudno now, to see the Victorian Festival. There are many old buses and Charabancs on display.
Plus working steam engines :y :y
Lucky so & so ...... :D
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The 'die-hards' are still here Banjax mate! :y
Am presently beavering away behind the scenes, and searching-out some more interesting gems for this thread.
Lizzie's now on board, so 'watch this space', as they say! :y
Got to say that Lizzie's and Sethsmate's threads were very informative :y :y :y :y
Enjoyed them :y :y :y
I'm off to Llandudno now, to see the Victorian Festival. There are many old buses and Charabancs on display.
Plus working steam engines :y :y
Lucky so & so ...... :D
I should say so!! :D :D :D :D :D
Too far away from me though :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
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A latter day 'railway bus service' was the Western National Sealink route between British Railways Weymouth Station and Weymouth Quay for the Channel Island shipping services during the late 1960s into the 1970s.
Here is BDV 259C (others fill in the makers details etc please........... ::) ::) ::)) in the Sealink / Western National colours:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BDV259CWNationalSealinkspecialbus.jpg)
8-) 8-)
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'Tis a 30ft Bristol Lodekka FLF with ECW body Ms Zoom!
The example depicted here has the Cave-Brown-Cave heating system - see the apertures either side of the destination box.
Passed my PSV (all types) driving test on a similar (though rear-entrance) Bristol FL.
Built like tanks!
:D
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'Tis a 30ft Bristol Lodekka FLF with ECW body Ms Zoom!
The example depicted here has the Cave-Brown-Cave heating system - see the apertures either side of the destination box.
Passed my PSV (all types) driving test on a similar (though rear-entrance) Bristol FL.
Built like tanks!
:D
Great stuff! 8-) 8-) 8-)
You certainly know your buses Sm like I know my steam engines! :D :D :y :y
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seem to remember blackpool had a whole load of bristols, lodekka i think. :y
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Of course before the railways was the highly uncomfortable and dangerous stage coaches, that had to negoitiate dreadful deep rut filled roads and the ocassional highwayman!
This is an example of one during Jane Austens time, with the last one officially running in 1840, with the train taking just hours to complete a relatively smooth journey, instead of days in a stage coach:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Stagecoach18c.jpg)
By then the streets of all major British cities were filled with horse drawn buses, or "omnibus" The first "omnibus" ran from Paddington Green to the Bank, on 4th July 1829 and introduced a new type of vehicle to the roads of Britain. This date is generally regarded as the start of omnibus history in Great Britain. They generally appeared like this:
A late 19c Omnibus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Late19cOmnibus.jpg)
This is an early 20th century picture of an omnibus with an unidentified railway scene in the background:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/A-London-Omnibus.png)
This is an omnibus of 1926/7:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/a-horse-drawn-bus-london-1926-1927_.jpg)
Riding the rear of an omnibus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Omnibus-Riding.png)
Although the horse drawn omnibus continued to be used in many cities, the last London Omnibus actually ran on the London Bridge to Moorgate route on the 25th October 1911:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/LastofLondonOmnibus.jpg)
After that the London omnibus became combustion engined driven and a plain "bus":
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/EarlyLondonbus.jpg)
This example is an "S" type of 1928:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/S_type_used_Sutton_1928.jpg)
On the 13th June1931 the last urban horse drawn bus ran on it's routeof Newcastle-upon-Tyne to Gateshead :'( :'(
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interesting piece of history there lizzie. :y
just as a note, the sentinel steam bus at whitby is now sponsored by the vintage spirit magazine. :y
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interesting piece of history there lizzie. :y
just as a note, the sentinel steam bus at whitby is now sponsored by the vintage spirit magazine. :y
Thanks! :y
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interesting piece of history there lizzie. :y
just as a note, the sentinel steam bus at whitby is now sponsored by the vintage spirit magazine. :y
I have just been reading up on this lovely 77 year old vehicle, and found out how beautiful it is; well it is named "Elizabeth"! :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
.............and no I am not 77 years old before you lot start! ::) ::) :P :P
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/steam_busElizabeth.jpg)
The last DG6P 1931Sentinel Steam Bus in Whitby named "Elizabeth" :-*
The steam buses generally operated from about 1833 to 1923, using the success of the steam railway technology as an obvious develpment. However, of course the many benefits of the internal combustion engine eventually forced them from the road :'( :'(
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interesting piece of history there lizzie. :y
just as a note, the sentinel steam bus at whitby is now sponsored by the vintage spirit magazine. :y
I have just been reading up on this lovely 77 year old vehicle, and found out how beautiful it is; well it is named "Elizabeth"! :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
.............and no I am not 77 years old before you lot start! ::) ::) :P :P
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/steam_busElizabeth.jpg)
The last DG6P 1931Sentinel Steam Bus in Whitby named "Elizabeth" :-*
The steam buses generally operated from about 1833 to 1923, using the success of the steam railway technology as an obvious develpment. However, of course the many benefits of the internal combustion engine eventually forced them from the road :'( :'(
i think the only one in the world registered to carry passengers.
sentinels were ahead of there time tbh, with a 2 cylinder all enclosed engine & cam driven valves. the later ones capable of speeds up to 70 odd miles per hour. not bad for a steam driven lorry or waggon as sentinels called it in the 30`s. ;)
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Sentinels were built in Shrewsbury as I understand it?
::)
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Sentinels were built in Shrewsbury as I understand it?
::)
you are correct byron. very early examples where built by alley & mc,cellan in scotland :y
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Blimey Jon and Lizzie, 600-odd posts and I'm getting out of me depth here! :-[
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I'm wondering if splott will be posting-up some interesting stuff later on. :D
He's been to Llandudno today for the Victorian Weekend/Festival of Transport bash. ;)
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I'm wondering if splott will be posting-up some interesting stuff later on. :D
He's been to Llandudno today for the Victorian Weekend/Festival of Transport bash. ;)
been to that a few times, damn good weekend. :y
hope he has some phots for us ::)
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Wouldn't mind giving the Llandudno event a go ourselves Jon.
Just never got around to it :-[
Still, I'm sure that 'our man' splott will soon be back on-line with a good and well-illustrated report :y
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Wouldn't mind giving the Llandudno event a go ourselves Jon.
Just never got around to it :-[
Still, I'm sure that 'our man' splott will soon be back on-line with a good and well-illustrated report :y
& i may be able to tell you what they are & who owns then. ::)
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Dare i even say it..................
(http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb52/crazydad_01/New%20stuff/BusDepotBromley08012009081.jpg)
(http://i211.photobucket.com/albums/bb52/crazydad_01/New%20stuff/BusDepotBromley08012009089.jpg)
Is that you and one of your family behind the wheel then, Crazydad :o :o :o :y
Yes, me nad my eldesr daughter, Driving in London isnt really much fun
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Of course with the up and coming air services, like the railways before, some UK airlines decided to run their own airport link buses.
From my 1950s childhood I particularly remember these, usually in BOAC livery although this appears to be in BEA colours, the AEC Regal IV:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/AECRegalIVairlinebus-1.jpg)
This is an example, now preserved at the Cobham Bus Museum. of a 1950s RF BEA bus, reg. no. MLL740 PS Note the destination!!:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BEAMLL740RFsBus.jpg)
.......and a close up of the rear:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/MLL740rear.jpg)
This is an historic picture of the bus that linked with the first jet airliner service from 2nd May 1952, for the brand new, hoped to be world beating comet. I just cannot help the macabre thought of wondering how many of this bus's passengers never came back, due to the BOAC Comet disasters of May 2nd 1953 and 10th January 1954!! (NB The crash of 26th October 1952 saw no loss of life, and two other crashes were flying under other airlines colours) :'( :'(
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BOACFirstJetServicebus.jpg)
Sorry, could not resist this as my youngest brother had one of these, a Dinky model of the 1950s BOAC blue and white liveried airport bus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BOACDinkyBus.jpg)
In 1966 this BOAC bus was introduced, a Leyland Atlantian:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/-BOAC_LYF_307D.jpg)
Later in the late 1960s BEA ran these Routemaster buses with a luggage trailer in tow, which fascinated me:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BEARMBus.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BEARMbusandTrailer.jpg)
........and for you guys on here I thought I would post this picture of 1950s Air Stewardesses, when it was a glamous job to do 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-):
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/stewardess-1950s.jpg)
To end I couldn't resist this picture I have found of an airport bus, of goodness knows what type or where (help me guys please! ::)) with a very interesting and apt livery 8-) 8-):
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/airport-bus-takeoff.jpg)
:D :D ;)
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brilliant lizzie, luv the last pic with bus on take off. :D ;D
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brilliant lizzie, luv the last pic with bus on take off. :D ;D
Thanks Baron, and yes I have been chuckling to myself about it :D :D :D ;)
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Am I correct here regarding the BEA Routemasters ....... ?
I'm sure that they were identically-spec'd to the Green Line variants.
The 'central area' AEC-engined RMs had the 9.6-litre AV590 engine, whilst the 'country area' Green Line RMs were fitted with the 11.3-litre AV691 unit and higher-ratio diffs.
Anyone? :-[
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Am I correct here regarding the BEA Routemasters ....... ?
I'm sure that they were identically-spec'd to the Green Line variants.
The 'central area' AEC-engined RMs had the 9.6-litre AV590 engine, whilst the 'country area' Green Line RMs were fitted with the 11.3-litre AV691 unit and higher-ratio diffs.
Anyone? :-[
No. perhaps not Sm, as this is a RMF 1254 which apparently were specially designed for airport transfer type of work, and this following picture shows the side on view of the 1962 demonstrator with large front sliding doors.
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/RMF1254_Heathrow.jpg)
From 1962 to 1964 it was trialed by BEA, and 65 vehicles were ordered, but of the "standard 27' 6" type" ;) ;) Various operators around the country did use these RMFs though. ;) ;)
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Hmmm .......
I'm probably getting the actual 'class' types confused here Lizzie, and also the different lengths too, ie; RM, RML, RMC etc. :(
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he he, byron your slipping. :D
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Hmmm .......
I'm probably getting the actual 'class' types confused here Lizzie, and also the different lengths too, ie; RM, RML, RMC etc. :(
Well I have just uncovered this picture of a preserved "London and Country Services" (Green Line?) RMC:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GreenLineRMC.jpg)
The folding rear doors are different than the RMF of the BEA use, and I remember those, along with the single decker of Green Line, running in the 1960s through Kent ;)
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...............and the Green Line single decker RFs I remember so well of the 1950s & 60s, even into the 70s!!:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GreenLineRFs.jpg)
First introduced in 1951 ;)
8-) 8-)
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he he, byron your slipping. :D
Aye Jon - saying that, the ol' Bowrn sutff form Nwecatsel's having smoe srot of avdrese effcet here!
:D :D :D ;D ;D ;D
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he he, byron your slipping. :D
Aye Jon - saying that, the ol' Bowrn sutff form Nwecatsel's having smoe srot of avdrese effcet here!
:D :D :D ;D ;D ;D
you should stick to the bass. :y
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he he, byron your slipping. :D
Aye Jon - saying that, the ol' Bowrn sutff form Nwecatsel's having smoe srot of avdrese effcet here!
:D :D :D ;D ;D ;D
you should stick to the bass. :y
The surgeon who removed my gall bladder told me that brown ale would 'be good for me' ..... :y
He omitted to say just 'how good' :D :D ;D ;D
Gotta get meself sorted, else I might well endure our Lizzie's wrath! :'(
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GreenLineRMC.jpg)
The National Bus Company took-over the green 'Country' area from LT at the turn of the 1970s, and formed London Country Bus Services Ltd; with a head office at Reigate.
Soon after, all repaints were in NBC leaf green, like this splendid example seen above.
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I am soooooooooo pleased with myself!
After what seems likes weeks of internet searching I have found a treasured shot of this:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/MetroCammellLeylandAtlantean1959.jpg)
In 1959 I remember the old Maidstone & District buses that I loved being replaced by these buses, which I now know was a Metro-Camell bodied Atlantean. These were state of the art buses and I remember the fascination of finding out the engine was in the rear!! Anyway the marvellous thing is that the bus featured in the picture was one I rode on, the No 81 route, between Tunbridge Wells and where I lived, High Brooms, Kent! It used to park up just down the road from my infants school, with the driver often going into the little cafe in the same road. 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
I have just got to find a picture and all information on the lovely (1940s) buses they replaced! :D :D ;)
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GreenLineRFs.jpg)
Although I've never been an RF fan, the twin-headlight versions looked especially good.
IIRC a gentleman called Misha Black revamped some, and they duly re-appeared in this very pleasing two-tone green livery.
:y
BTW; their sturdy bodies were built by Metro-Cammell.
;)
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/MetroCammellLeylandAtlantean1959.jpg)
Top marks to you Lizzie dear! :y
And it clearly shows the 'M&D trademark' 'whisker-shaped' moulding beneath the windscreens.
Although very similar to the early Western Welsh Atlanteans, the bodies on these were of the 'highbridge' type.
Like WW; M&D's buses were always smartly turned-out for service.
:y
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.................and Byron I have just found this picture of a Maidstone & District Bristol K6A DH159 reg. HKE 867which fits my memory(??) of the old High Brooms to Tunbridge buses, with the distinctive "box" under the lower window which fascinated me then as a child, and still does now!! (what was it?? :-/ :-/)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/MDTWBus.jpg)
Does anyone know please if this type of bus was actually running on the no. 81 route in the late 1950s from High Brooms to Tunbridge Wells, Kent?? :-/ :-/
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That 'box' you're referring to Lizzie is an 'autovac'.
The 'old hands' told me that it was within the fuel-supply system, and acted as a 'reserve tank'. Basically, if you ran out of fuel whilst in service, you repostioned the tap, (as per the sign-written markings), re-started the engine, and carried on for a gallon or two's worth of mileage. Self-bleeding too, apparently, as all fuel had to pass through it to reach the engine. Therefore, the fuel system was always intact (pressurised), forwards of the autovac.
IIC; the bus shown is a Bristol K6A with highbridge bodywork by J C Beadle of Dartford, though stand to be corrected! :-/
7' 6" width, and AEC engine rather than Gardner! :y
Slow and heavy beasts, though utterly reliable machines. :D
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That 'box' you're referring to Lizzie is an 'autovac'.
The 'old hands' told me that it was within the fuel-supply system, and acted as a 'reserve tank'. Basically, if you ran out of fuel whilst in service, you repostioned the tap, (as per the sign-written markings), re-started the engine, and carried on for a gallon or two's worth of mileage. Self-bleeding too, apparently, as all fuel had to pass through it to reach the engine. Therefore, the fuel system was always intact (pressurised), forwards of the autovac.
IIC; the bus shown is a Bristol K6A with highbridge bodywork by J C Beadle of Dartford, though stand to be corrected! :-/
7' 6" width, and AEC engine rather than Gardner! :y
Slow and heavy beasts, though utterly reliable machines. :D
Thanks Byron! That has solved one of those long outstanding questions for me, but when you are about 3 or 4 years of age you tend just to accept what you see whilst still intrigued! :D :D :-* :-* :y
When these buses were replaced by the previously mentioned very modern buses for 1959, I just remember being amazed at the fact the engine was in the rear! You know......at 5 years of age.........everyone knew that all cars, lorries and buses had the the "thing" that made them go in the front............even steam railway engines seemed to be "always on the front"!!! All buses in London I travelled on; all the buses elsewhere, all had that noisy thing at the front end............!!;D ;D ;D ;)
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As a young 'nipper', I can vividly remember Western Welsh's Leyland Atlanteans arriving in the early '60s.
Being a car-less family (as most folk were then), meant that day-trips to the seaside would inevitably be by WW bus.
The Bridgend - Porthcawl section of our voyage would undoubtedly be aboard a new Atlantean, crammed full of valleys folk eager to sample the delights of the seaside.
I particularly enjoyed the music of that rear-mounted 0.600 engine in full cry climbing Three Step Hill en-route.
Late afternoon on a Bank Holiday would see a long line of Bridgend-based double-deckers on Porthcawl's Eastern Promenade in readiness for the homeward trek. They were mainly Atlanteans and lowbridge AEC Regent Vs - all under the watchful eye of Inspector Cyril Beaman, who subsequently became a great colleague of the youthful Sethsmate!
When the sun shone, Porthcawl meant 'big business' for Bridgend depot. Great days indeed :y
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This thread has not really touched on a form of bus that I faintly remember from childhood, as where I lived they existed no more; the Trolley Bus.
This is one late in the day in Reading c.1966:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Reading_Trolleybus.jpg)
It seemed to me an excellent form of transport, being clean, silent running, and in todays terms very eco friendly!
The last London trolley bus ran on 8th May 1962, but as a young child I just remember going on one in London when staying with my Nan.
This is a Leyland LF trolley bus of an unknown date:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/London-Leyland-LF.jpg)
This is how my childs mind eye remembers them, as unknown buses, that just ran using electric:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/LondonTrolleyBusc1960.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/LondonTrolleyBuses.jpg)
:-* :-* :-* :-* 8-) 8-) 8-)
Does anyone on here know all the technical information and full history of these wonderful machines that I have never studied, but since childhood had such affection for?? :-/
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/MDTWBus.jpg)
'Tis often said : "What a small world in which we live" .......
I'm pretty sure that the chap in the foreground of Lizzie's picture above, is none other than a former colleague of mine.
:D
A cheerful cockney character, we were in WW's driving school together.
;D
He was being upgraded to an 'all types' licence, after moving from South London to Bridgend.
'Mac' had previously been a Routemaster driver, based at LT's Catford garage.
:y
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/MDTWBus.jpg)
'Tis often said : "What a small world in which we live" .......
I'm pretty sure that the chap in the foreground of Lizzie's picture above is none other than a former colleague of mine.
:D
A cheerful cockney character, we were in WW's driving school together - he was being upgraded to an 'all types' licence, after moving from South London to Bridgend.
;D
'Mac' had previously been a Routemaster driver, based at LT's Catford garage.
:y
And that adds the personal touch Byron to this wonderfully warm nostalgic thread that is bringing our past back to life!!
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Aye, too true Lizzie!
At that time, the bus industry was indeed a wonderful occupation.
8-)
With the 'second-generation Sethsmates' then growing-up fast, there was usually plenty of overtime to satisfy their demands too.
:D
I used to actually look forward to going to work ......
16-hour days (overtime included), great characters, camaraderie, and smartly turned-out buses.
:y
Rarely a dull moment .........
;D
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Going back to my post on trolley buses, I have one additional question:
Why did the majority have twin rear axles? :-/ :-/
Was it to support the weight of the electric motors, if so why were they so heavy?
Or where the twin axles there to support the weight of any batteries required when there was no overhead power supply available?
These are very much questions going back to childhood, and as previously asked I would welcome any techinical along with historical knowledge on the subject of trolley buses from those who know! :D :D ;)
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The electric motors were mounted forward in the chassis frame.
The twin rear axles were for the overall length.
At this time, the maximum length for a 'conventional' two-axle bus was 27ft.
(Think that I've got that one correct!) :D
IIRC, many, if not all, of Maidstone's trolleybuses were of the two-axle 27ft length. :y
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The electric motors were mounted forward in the chassis frame.
The twin rear axles were for the overall length.
At this time, the maximum length for a 'conventional' two-axle bus was 27ft.
(Think that I've got that one correct!) :D
IIRC, many, if not all, of Maidstone's trolleybuses were of the two-axle 27ft length. :y
Right, thanks, now I know! 8-) 8-) :y
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/MLL740rear.jpg)
I reckon that these Regal IV's were bodied in Blackpool by H V Burlingham ......
The outline of the upper deck and windows looks awfully-familiar to me.
Anyone?
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/-BOAC_LYF_307D.jpg)
I know that these Atlanteans were bodied in Falkirk by Alexanders.
Am quite a fan of their products :y
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Hey, you guys have been busy on this thread,whilst I was in Llandudno over the weekend. :o :o
Here is a picture from Sethsmate's collection, a nice Bedford ......................................... :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img186.jpg)[/img]
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Here's another 'familiar to many' Bedford, though this time an 'SB' model with Duple 'Vega' 'butterfly front' 41-seat body, of late-1950s vintage.
Introduced in 1950, the SB replaced the OB, and was marketed as the 'Big Bedford'.
Simple and straightforward in concept, this model was to enjoy a near-30 year production run!
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img186.jpg)[/img]
They were known as the 'big Bedfords' and had a 206" wheelbase for 33-seat bodies. Bedford's own 300 cu in petrol engine was the standard offering, though the Perkins R6 diesel soon became an option.
The former were designated 'SBG' - the latter being 'SBO'
In 1955, the SB chassis was developed further, with an increased wheelbase of 216" in order to accomodate 41-seat bodies.
Over the ensuing years, a variety of engine options was offered, and these, (to the best of my knowledge!) are listed here:
SB1 - Bedford 300 cu in diesel
SB3 - Bedford 300 cu in petrol
SB5 - Bedford 330 cu in diesel
SB8 - Leyland 0.350 diesel
SB13 - Leyland 0.400 diesel
My long-time friend Len Cooper, (who owns the Leather's OB featured earlier), remains a great supporter of the SB chassis.
As he rightly says: "There's nothing to go wrong with 'em. They have to be the best Bedford that was ever produced".
He should know - Leathers Coaches was 100% Bedford-based.
http://www.warminstervbrd.connectfree.co.uk/v/Leathers.htm
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Llandudno Victorian Festival had a Vehicle Rally and I took some pictures of some Classic Buses and Trucks.
Some I know and some I don't re an alcholic haze from the day before. Most are in focus which is strange as I couldn't ;) ;) ;)
What a beautiful day, sunshine and Welsh traditional Bitter 8-)
Oh yes, and Buses, Trucks and Coaches :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally007.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally008.jpg)[/img]
(http://[URL=http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/?action=view¤t=LlandudnoVictorianrally009.jpg][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/th_LlandudnoVictorianrally009.jpg)[/URL][/img]
(http://[URL=http://s130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/?action=view¤t=LlandudnoVictorianrally010.jpg][IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/th_LlandudnoVictorianrally010.jpg)[/URL][/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally012.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally018.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally019.jpg)[/img]
Many more of these plus Trucks and a Steam Engine to follow :y :y :y :y
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Hey splott! :D
Are you trying to hijack my Bedford ditty? >:(
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Hey splott! :D
Are you trying to hijack my Bedford ditty? >:(
Ooops! What do you mean? :o
Don't want to tread on my Bus Guru's toes. ;) ;) :y
Just thought I would show my Rally pictures :y
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Hey splott! :D
Are you trying to hijack my Bedford ditty? >:(
Ooops! What do you mean? :o
Don't want to tread on my Bus Guru's toes. ;) ;) :y
Just thought I would show my Rally pictures :y
Just carry on with the good work me ol' bud! :y
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Is this beautiful or not?
.......................................................... ;)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally057-1.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally058.jpg)[/img]
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Absolutely beautiful!! :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :y :y :y :y
A classis showmans engine, but what looks like a ploughing mechanism on the rear! (??) 8-) 8-)
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A lot of these bus and coach manufacturers also made first generation British Railways DMUs, lots of bus technology in use.
The second DMU in this clip is from Metro Cammell (First is BRCW - not buses).
They had AEC or Leyland engines
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qy5GMzWXvlU
This one is from Pressed Steel at Linwood
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PaPZ7K5bUJw
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A lot of these bus and coach manufacturers also made first generation British Railways DMUs, lots of bus technology in use.
The second DMU in this clip is from Metro Cammell (First is BRCW - not buses).
They had AEC or Leyland engines
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Qy5GMzWXvlU
This one is from Pressed Steel at Linwood
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PaPZ7K5bUJw
Dead right Martin! :y
However, they were actually marketed under the 'B.U.T.' guise - a sort of collaboration between AEC and Leyland for 'rail' rather than 'road' use.
;)
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(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally057-1.jpg)[/img]
We usually have around 50 of these fine beasts at Welland each year! :D
Click here: http://www.omegaowners.com/forum/YaBB.pl?num=1268840746
........ and read carefully! :y
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Unfortunate name but absolutly beautiful...................... ::) ::) ::)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally042.jpg)[/img]
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Biggest GWR I could get for you Lizzie....................... :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally056.jpg)[/img]
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My favourite, two reasons, can you guess why?....................... 8-)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally022.jpg)[/img]
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This one is from one of those funny named town in Wales.............................. ;) ;) ;) ;) ;)
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally035.jpg)[/img]
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Biggest GWR I could get for you Lizzie....................... :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally056.jpg)[/img]
Ahhhhhhhhh! :-* :-* :-* :-*
Thanks Splott! Even a miniture GWR 0-6-0 pannier tank is a wonderful sight! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :D :D ;)
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.....................and this is his big brother; real life GWR PT 0-6-0 4612, built at Swindon in the 1940-2 batch of 57XX class engines that numbered a total of 863 engines constructed between 1929 and 1950.
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GWR_4612_at_Bodmin_General.jpg)
beautiful eh? :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* 8-) 8-) 8-) :y
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Biggest GWR I could get for you Lizzie....................... :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally056.jpg)[/img]
Ahhhhhhhhh! :-* :-* :-* :-*
Thanks Splott! Even a miniture GWR 0-6-0 pannier tank is a wonderful sight! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :D :D ;)
I was reading your posts on GWR whilst in the pub,this was passing back and forth with kids on it. Couldn't resist it. 8-) 8-)
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.....................and this is his big brother; real life GWR PT 0-6-0 4612, built at Swindon in the 1940-2 batch of 57XX class engines
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GWR_4612_at_Bodmin_General.jpg)
beautiful eh? :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* 8-) 8-) 8-) :y
Its amazing how steam shrinks everything ;D ;D ;D
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My Dad, who is now 95, used drive one of these.
He used to transport troops into Wales on his leave. The troops were used to put out the beacons that had been lit to guide the German bombers to Birkenhead and Liverpool. He still hates people from North Wales with a passion. Not because of the beacons but because it used to ruin his leave. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally029.jpg)[/img]
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get some steamy ::)pics up splott. :y
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get some steamy ::)pics up splott. :y
Best I could do on short notice, hope you like them small :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally028.jpg)[/img]
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that will do,half size sentinel waggon, would you believe it will do 45mph on the road. i have known derek roose for 30 odd years. :y
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that will do,half size sentinel waggon, would you believe it will do 45mph on the road. i have known derek roose for 30 odd years. :y
Next time you meet him tell him he nearly run me over twice. Nothing to do with the alchol I had consumed, I assure you :y
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Found this site for steam buffs.................................. :y
You can even buy a Traction engine from these people 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
http://www.prestonservices.co.uk/traction.htm
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Found this site for steam buffs.................................. :y
You can even buy a Traction engine from these people 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
http://www.prestonservices.co.uk/traction.htm
Very nice!! 8-) 8-) I would willingly accepted one of those as a gift! :D :D :D :D :y :y
However, if I had a spare £1 million floating around, with another few million pounds as back up, it is first a standard guage steam railway engine I would buy, then secondly I would buy my old beloved coach MUD 975, with thirdly the purchase of a fully restored London RT or RM bus 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :D ;)
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Found this site for steam buffs.................................. :y
You can even buy a Traction engine from these people 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
http://www.prestonservices.co.uk/traction.htm
Very nice!! 8-) 8-) I would willingly accepted one of those as a gift! :D :D :D :D :y :y
However, if I had a spare £1 million floating around, with another few million pounds as back up, it is first a standard guage steam railway engine I would buy, then secondly I would buy my old beloved coach MUD 975, with thirdly the purchase of a fully restored London RT or RM bus 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :D ;)
Lizzie
I have searched everywhere for your beloved coach MUD 975. The nearest I got was, you can by a black and white picture of it on Ebay :'(
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Found this site for steam buffs.................................. :y
You can even buy a Traction engine from these people 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
http://www.prestonservices.co.uk/traction.htm
Very nice!! 8-) 8-) I would willingly accepted one of those as a gift! :D :D :D :D :y :y
However, if I had a spare £1 million floating around, with another few million pounds as back up, it is first a standard guage steam railway engine I would buy, then secondly I would buy my old beloved coach MUD 975, with thirdly the purchase of a fully restored London RT or RM bus 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :D ;)
Lizzie
I have searched everywhere for your beloved coach MUD 975. The nearest I got was, you can by a black and white picture of it on Ebay :'(
Thanks Splott, and yes I saw that as well, along with a suggestion on the internet that it has been sold to someone abroad!! :'( :'( :'(
Thank God I still have my treasured picture of MUD 975, with my then three year old daughter looking out at me! ;D ;D:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
Happy days! 8-) 8-) 8-) :-* :-* :-* :-* :y
-
Found this site for steam buffs.................................. :y
You can even buy a Traction engine from these people 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
http://www.prestonservices.co.uk/traction.htm
Very nice!! 8-) 8-) I would willingly accepted one of those as a gift! :D :D :D :D :y :y
However, if I had a spare £1 million floating around, with another few million pounds as back up, it is first a standard guage steam railway engine I would buy, then secondly I would buy my old beloved coach MUD 975, with thirdly the purchase of a fully restored London RT or RM bus 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :D ;)
Lizzie
I have searched everywhere for your beloved coach MUD 975. The nearest I got was, you can by a black and white picture of it on Ebay :'(
Thanks Splott, and yes I saw that as well, along with a suggestion on the internet that it has been sold to someone abroad!! :'( :'( :'(
Thank God I still have my treasured picture of MUD 975, with my then three year old daughter looking out at me! ;D ;D:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
Happy days! 8-) 8-) 8-) :-* :-* :-* :-* :y
I have seen your picture before but hadn't noticed your little girl in the window :o
Dare I ask how old she is now ;) ;)
-
Found this site for steam buffs.................................. :y
You can even buy a Traction engine from these people 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
http://www.prestonservices.co.uk/traction.htm
Very nice!! 8-) 8-) I would willingly accepted one of those as a gift! :D :D :D :D :y :y
However, if I had a spare £1 million floating around, with another few million pounds as back up, it is first a standard guage steam railway engine I would buy, then secondly I would buy my old beloved coach MUD 975, with thirdly the purchase of a fully restored London RT or RM bus 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :D ;)
Lizzie
I have searched everywhere for your beloved coach MUD 975. The nearest I got was, you can by a black and white picture of it on Ebay :'(
Thanks Splott, and yes I saw that as well, along with a suggestion on the internet that it has been sold to someone abroad!! :'( :'( :'(
Thank God I still have my treasured picture of MUD 975, with my then three year old daughter looking out at me! ;D ;D:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
Happy days! 8-) 8-) 8-) :-* :-* :-* :-* :y
I have seen your picture before but hadn't noticed your little girl in the window :o
Dare I ask how old she is now ;) ;)
Yes Splott, she is a mother of two of 32 years of age!
God she maked me feel old now, especially when my eldest son is 35 this September! :'( :'( :D :D ;)
-
Found this site for steam buffs.................................. :y
You can even buy a Traction engine from these people 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
http://www.prestonservices.co.uk/traction.htm
Very nice!! 8-) 8-) I would willingly accepted one of those as a gift! :D :D :D :D :y :y
However, if I had a spare £1 million floating around, with another few million pounds as back up, it is first a standard guage steam railway engine I would buy, then secondly I would buy my old beloved coach MUD 975, with thirdly the purchase of a fully restored London RT or RM bus 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :D ;)
Lizzie
I have searched everywhere for your beloved coach MUD 975. The nearest I got was, you can by a black and white picture of it on Ebay :'(
Thanks Splott, and yes I saw that as well, along with a suggestion on the internet that it has been sold to someone abroad!! :'( :'( :'(
Thank God I still have my treasured picture of MUD 975, with my then three year old daughter looking out at me! ;D ;D:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
Happy days! 8-) 8-) 8-) :-* :-* :-* :-* :y
I have seen your picture before but hadn't noticed your little girl in the window :o
Dare I ask how old she is now ;) ;)
Yes Splott, she is a mother of two of 32 years of age!
God she maked me feel old now, especially when my eldest son is 35 this September! :'( :'( :D :D ;)
Your kids are the same age as my two older children. Girl of 32 with two kids and son of 35 with two kids. I also have a daughter of 22 and two lovely step kids of 16 and 23. And you said YOU feel old!!!!! :y
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I feel old with a 12 and 2 10 year olds - but then I wasn't a dad until 34
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I feel old with a 12 and 2 10 year olds - but then I wasn't a dad until 34
I was first a dad at 23, then they just kept appearing? ;) ;)
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Here is a nice Charabanc........................... :y
Is it a Dennis??????
I took these pictures on Monday at Llandudno :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally054.jpg)[/img]
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/Llandudno%20Victorian%20Festival/LlandudnoVictorianrally055.jpg)[/img]
-
Found this site for steam buffs.................................. :y
You can even buy a Traction engine from these people 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
http://www.prestonservices.co.uk/traction.htm
Very nice!! 8-) 8-) I would willingly accepted one of those as a gift! :D :D :D :D :y :y
However, if I had a spare £1 million floating around, with another few million pounds as back up, it is first a standard guage steam railway engine I would buy, then secondly I would buy my old beloved coach MUD 975, with thirdly the purchase of a fully restored London RT or RM bus 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :D ;)
Lizzie
I have searched everywhere for your beloved coach MUD 975. The nearest I got was, you can by a black and white picture of it on Ebay :'(
Thanks Splott, and yes I saw that as well, along with a suggestion on the internet that it has been sold to someone abroad!! :'( :'( :'(
Thank God I still have my treasured picture of MUD 975, with my then three year old daughter looking out at me! ;D ;D:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
Happy days! 8-) 8-) 8-) :-* :-* :-* :-* :y
I have seen your picture before but hadn't noticed your little girl in the window :o
Dare I ask how old she is now ;) ;)
Yes Splott, she is a mother of two of 32 years of age!
God she maked me feel old now, especially when my eldest son is 35 this September! :'( :'( :D :D ;)
Your kids are the same age as my two older children. Girl of 32 with two kids and son of 35 with two kids. I also have a daughter of 22 and two lovely step kids of 16 and 23. And you said YOU feel old!!!!! :y
What a great coincidence Splott!! :o :o 8-) 8-) :y
-
Found this site for steam buffs.................................. :y
You can even buy a Traction engine from these people 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
http://www.prestonservices.co.uk/traction.htm
Very nice!! 8-) 8-) I would willingly accepted one of those as a gift! :D :D :D :D :y :y
However, if I had a spare £1 million floating around, with another few million pounds as back up, it is first a standard guage steam railway engine I would buy, then secondly I would buy my old beloved coach MUD 975, with thirdly the purchase of a fully restored London RT or RM bus 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :D ;)
Lizzie
I have searched everywhere for your beloved coach MUD 975. The nearest I got was, you can by a black and white picture of it on Ebay :'(
Thanks Splott, and yes I saw that as well, along with a suggestion on the internet that it has been sold to someone abroad!! :'( :'( :'(
Thank God I still have my treasured picture of MUD 975, with my then three year old daughter looking out at me! ;D ;D:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
Happy days! 8-) 8-) 8-) :-* :-* :-* :-* :y
I have seen your picture before but hadn't noticed your little girl in the window :o
Dare I ask how old she is now ;) ;)
Yes Splott, she is a mother of two of 32 years of age!
God she maked me feel old now, especially when my eldest son is 35 this September! :'( :'( :D :D ;)
Your kids are the same age as my two older children. Girl of 32 with two kids and son of 35 with two kids. I also have a daughter of 22 and two lovely step kids of 16 and 23. And you said YOU feel old!!!!! :y
What a great coincidence Splott!! :o :o 8-) 8-) :y
Certainly is :y
To add to coincidence, I was working in Hythe in Kent last year. I wiped out an Omega at the Ashford junction on the M20. Not my fault by the way :y
-
Found this site for steam buffs.................................. :y
You can even buy a Traction engine from these people 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
http://www.prestonservices.co.uk/traction.htm
Very nice!! 8-) 8-) I would willingly accepted one of those as a gift! :D :D :D :D :y :y
However, if I had a spare £1 million floating around, with another few million pounds as back up, it is first a standard guage steam railway engine I would buy, then secondly I would buy my old beloved coach MUD 975, with thirdly the purchase of a fully restored London RT or RM bus 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :D ;)
Lizzie
I have searched everywhere for your beloved coach MUD 975. The nearest I got was, you can by a black and white picture of it on Ebay :'(
Thanks Splott, and yes I saw that as well, along with a suggestion on the internet that it has been sold to someone abroad!! :'( :'( :'(
Thank God I still have my treasured picture of MUD 975, with my then three year old daughter looking out at me! ;D ;D:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
Happy days! 8-) 8-) 8-) :-* :-* :-* :-* :y
I have seen your picture before but hadn't noticed your little girl in the window :o
Dare I ask how old she is now ;) ;)
Yes Splott, she is a mother of two of 32 years of age!
God she maked me feel old now, especially when my eldest son is 35 this September! :'( :'( :D :D ;)
Your kids are the same age as my two older children. Girl of 32 with two kids and son of 35 with two kids. I also have a daughter of 22 and two lovely step kids of 16 and 23. And you said YOU feel old!!!!! :y
What a great coincidence Splott!! :o :o 8-) 8-) :y
Certainly is :y
To add to coincidence, I was working in Hythe in Kent last year. I wiped out an Omega at the Ashford junction on the M20. Not my fault by the way :y
................and when I was back to work after having my children I used to visit Hythe, in Hampshire, and when travelling towards Christchurch I was almost flatterned by a fully loaded 4 axle 20 ton lorry who couldn't get his brakes to stop him, going downhill, whilst approaching my stationery Ford Cortina 1600 Estate! :o :o :o :o
Fresh knickers were required that day!! :-X :-X :-X :-X
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Bet you did, need new knickers Lizzie. I know how you felt. Could have worded that better but you know what I mean ;)
Did you like the picture of my blue 'Chara', as we used to call them up here :y
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Bet you did, need new knickers Lizzie. I know how you felt. Could have worded that better but you know what I mean ;)
Did you like the picture of my blue 'Chara', as we used to call them up here :y
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D :y :y Like wet knickers is how it felt!! ;D ;D ;D ;)
Yes I did indeed Splott! :y :y :y :y
My deceased father-in-law often used to talk about going on trips in a charabanc, as it was their only chance of getting away from the leather tannery where he worked in Elmers End, South London, during the hard times of the 20s and 30s! ;) ;)
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........................one like this, that by the way George, my wonderful South London born and bred Father-in-law, used to call a "charabang"...............I wonder what went on in that wide bodied vehicle??!! :D :D :D :D :D ;) ;)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/_charabanc.jpg)
8-) 8-)
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Bet you did, need new knickers Lizzie. I know how you felt. Could have worded that better but you know what I mean ;)
Did you like the picture of my blue 'Chara', as we used to call them up here :y
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D :y :y Like wet knickers is how it felt!! ;D ;D ;D ;)
Yes I did indeed Splott! :y :y :y :y
My deceased father-in-law often used to talk about going on trips in a charabanc, as it was their only chance of getting away from the leather tannery where he worked in Elmers End, South London, during the hard times of the 20s and 30s! ;) ;)
My Dad went to Blackpool, a 50mile trip,on a Charabanc and while he was there went on a Mystery Tour, on another Charabanc. He ended up in New Brighton. Which is 3 miles away from Birkenhead where we lived ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Bet you did, need new knickers Lizzie. I know how you felt. Could have worded that better but you know what I mean ;)
Did you like the picture of my blue 'Chara', as we used to call them up here :y
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D :y :y Like wet knickers is how it felt!! ;D ;D ;D ;)
Yes I did indeed Splott! :y :y :y :y
My deceased father-in-law often used to talk about going on trips in a charabanc, as it was their only chance of getting away from the leather tannery where he worked in Elmers End, South London, during the hard times of the 20s and 30s! ;) ;)
My Dad went to Blackpool, a 50mile trip,on a Charabanc and while he was there went on a Mystery Tour, on another Charabanc. He ended up in New Brighton. Which is 3 miles away from Birkenhead where we lived ;D ;D ;D ;D
But in those days 3 whole miles could be a very long way...........like going to the moon!! :D :D :D ;) ;)
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........................one like this, that by the way George, my wonderful South London born and bred Father-in-law, used to call a "charabang"...............I wonder what went on in that wide bodied vehicle??!! :D :D :D :D :D ;) ;)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/_charabanc.jpg)
8-) 8-)
Lovely picture :y
I don't think you could get up to much in a Chara :y
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........................one like this, that by the way George, my wonderful South London born and bred Father-in-law, used to call a "charabang"...............I wonder what went on in that wide bodied vehicle??!! :D :D :D :D :D ;) ;)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/_charabanc.jpg)
8-) 8-)
Lovely picture :y
I don't think you could get up to much in a Chara :y
No possibly you couldn't, when the women all looked as if they could kill any man who tried it on!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
-
Bet you did, need new knickers Lizzie. I know how you felt. Could have worded that better but you know what I mean ;)
Did you like the picture of my blue 'Chara', as we used to call them up here :y
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D :y :y Like wet knickers is how it felt!! ;D ;D ;D ;)
Yes I did indeed Splott! :y :y :y :y
My deceased father-in-law often used to talk about going on trips in a charabanc, as it was their only chance of getting away from the leather tannery where he worked in Elmers End, South London, during the hard times of the 20s and 30s! ;) ;)
My Dad went to Blackpool, a 50mile trip,on a Charabanc and while he was there went on a Mystery Tour, on another Charabanc. He ended up in New Brighton. Which is 3 miles away from Birkenhead where we lived ;D ;D ;D ;D
But in those days 3 whole miles could be a very long way...........like going to the moon!! :D :D :D ;) ;)
If you remember one of my original posts that showed a yellow Wallasey bus, it only cost a penny to get from New Brighton to Birkenhead. Which was a lot then but he saved his money by not buying beer in Blackpool ;D ;D:y :y
-
........................one like this, that by the way George, my wonderful South London born and bred Father-in-law, used to call a "charabang"...............I wonder what went on in that wide bodied vehicle??!! :D :D :D :D :D ;) ;)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/_charabanc.jpg)
8-) 8-)
Lovely picture :y
I don't think you could get up to much in a Chara :y
No possibly you couldn't, when the women all looked as if they could kill any man who tried it on!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
How could you undo a corssete ( if thats how you spell it ). Women were safe on a bus then :y
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Bet you did, need new knickers Lizzie. I know how you felt. Could have worded that better but you know what I mean ;)
Did you like the picture of my blue 'Chara', as we used to call them up here :y
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D :y :y Like wet knickers is how it felt!! ;D ;D ;D ;)
Yes I did indeed Splott! :y :y :y :y
My deceased father-in-law often used to talk about going on trips in a charabanc, as it was their only chance of getting away from the leather tannery where he worked in Elmers End, South London, during the hard times of the 20s and 30s! ;) ;)
My Dad went to Blackpool, a 50mile trip,on a Charabanc and while he was there went on a Mystery Tour, on another Charabanc. He ended up in New Brighton. Which is 3 miles away from Birkenhead where we lived ;D ;D ;D ;D
But in those days 3 whole miles could be a very long way...........like going to the moon!! :D :D :D ;) ;)
If you remember one of my original posts that showed a yellow Wallasey bus, it only cost a penny to get from New Brighton to Birkenhead. Which was a lot then but he saved his money by not buying beer in Blackpool ;D ;D:y :y
Aye Splott, the "good old days" eh?!! ::) ::) ::) ;) ;)
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Bet you did, need new knickers Lizzie. I know how you felt. Could have worded that better but you know what I mean ;)
Did you like the picture of my blue 'Chara', as we used to call them up here :y
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D :y :y Like wet knickers is how it felt!! ;D ;D ;D ;)
Yes I did indeed Splott! :y :y :y :y
My deceased father-in-law often used to talk about going on trips in a charabanc, as it was their only chance of getting away from the leather tannery where he worked in Elmers End, South London, during the hard times of the 20s and 30s! ;) ;)
My Dad went to Blackpool, a 50mile trip,on a Charabanc and while he was there went on a Mystery Tour, on another Charabanc. He ended up in New Brighton. Which is 3 miles away from Birkenhead where we lived ;D ;D ;D ;D
But in those days 3 whole miles could be a very long way...........like going to the moon!! :D :D :D ;) ;)
If you remember one of my original posts that showed a yellow Wallasey bus, it only cost a penny to get from New Brighton to Birkenhead. Which was a lot then but he saved his money by not buying beer in Blackpool ;D ;D:y :y
Aye Splott, the "good old days" eh?!! ::) ::) ::) ;) ;)
It was a time of innocence, which we sadly do not have any more. Maybe thats why we seem to enjoy looking back at the old buses,trains,trucks and cars. :'( :'(
Women seemed to have a hard time but they ruled the family with a rod of iron :y
Was my Dad in trouble ::) ::)
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I thought it would be topical to have a look at the Political Battle Buses of today, yesterday, and general timeless statement :D :D:
Fun mixed with serious Political statement here, although I have tried to be neutral!! ::) ::) ::) ;D:
The Atheist Bus (well in Politics what can you really believe! :D):
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/atheistbus.jpg)
A After the Battle Bus (Poor lonely thing, dumped by what Party??):
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BusfromBattle.jpg)
Then there is the Human Rights Bus; well some will argue that it has picked up too many passengers, whilst others think it hasn't travelled far enough!! ::) ::) ;):
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/HumanRightsBattleBus.jpg)
Now for the Bus that could spring a few historical surprises; the Lib Dem Battle Bus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/LibBattleBus.jpg)
...........but then of course there are the Green Party in their lovely bus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/london_green_bus.jpg)
The radicals are there with their bus, and in true political fairness (I feel good tonight!! 8-) 8-)) I will name it as the BNP Bus!!:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/LondonBus-Islamis'dangle berries'6.jpg)
.............with that Party of course referring to a very serious "Battle Bus" ( :'( :'( :'( :'(): London 7/7/05
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/LondonBus-IslamisPeace4.jpg)
Then on a more humerous note there is the bus that represents us all yesterday,tonight, tomorrow, and who knows when...........The Magical Mystery Tour Bus should we laugh ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D? OR cry :'( :'( :'(?:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/MagicalMysteryTourCoachMay2003.gif)
......of course there has been the New Labour Bus travelling for 13 years:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/NewLabourBus.jpg)
........there also was the John "two Jags" Prescott Bus (note I add no further comment ( ;D ;D):
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/PrescottBus.jpg)
Some in Labour (N.I) have used a more impressive bus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/NIbattlebus.jpg)
There was of course the Bus of Boris (well one of many London Buses! ;D ;D):
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/routemaster-boris.jpg)
Over the last few months we have seen quite a few (desperate) politicians jumping on this bus: the Sorry Bus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/sorrybus.jpg)
We have had a lot of the Talk Bus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/TalkBus.jpg)
There has been the UKIP bus (just as well it never flew!! ::) ::))
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/UKIPBattkeBus.jpg)
There was always the well used Tory battle bus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/ToryBattleBus2.jpg)
Finally all these Parties need to give TLC to this bus; the UK 2010 Bus :'( :'( :'(:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/UK2010Bus.jpg)
;D ;D ;D ;)
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Brill Lizzie ;D ;D ;D ;D :y
Very, very clever and how so right :y
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Brill Lizzie ;D ;D ;D ;D :y
Very, very clever and how so right :y
Thanks Splott! :D :y :y
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Lizzie, I do like your political buses especially the Sorry bus as i have driven that!!
it's been very interesting reading this topic as i am a bus driver!!
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Well, what a night and day of great politics!! 8-) 8-) 8-)
Trouble is the UK bus seems to have ended up like this:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/ItalianJobCoach.jpg)
Will the Lib Dems support the Conservatives, or will they support a (failed) Labour government, or will they manage to tip our UK Bus over the edge, with all the country's wealth going with it??!! :o :o :o ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
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Well, what a night and day of great politics!! 8-) 8-) 8-)
Trouble is the UK bus seems to have ended up like this:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/ItalianJobCoach.jpg)
Will the Lib Dems support the Conservatives, or will they support a (failed) Labour government, or will they manage to tip our UK Bus over the edge, with all the country's wealth going with it??!! :o :o :o ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
ahh the original italian job. :y
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Well, what a night and day of great politics!! 8-) 8-) 8-)
Trouble is the UK bus seems to have ended up like this:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/ItalianJobCoach.jpg)
Will the Lib Dems support the Conservatives, or will they support a (failed) Labour government, or will they manage to tip our UK Bus over the edge, with all the country's wealth going with it??!! :o :o :o ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
Well,a hung parliament has definitely " Blown the Bl**dy Doors Off" all the plans set by Labour and the Tories ::) ::) ::)
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Well, what a night and day of great politics!! 8-) 8-) 8-)
Trouble is the UK bus seems to have ended up like this:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/ItalianJobCoach.jpg)
Will the Lib Dems support the Conservatives, or will they support a (failed) Labour government, or will they manage to tip our UK Bus over the edge, with all the country's wealth going with it??!! :o :o :o ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
Well,a hung parliament has definitely " Blown the Bl**dy Doors Off" all the plans set by Labour and the Tories ::) ::) ::)
pmsl :D ;D
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We have now entered the territory of two party agreements, and their favourite transport is the "Two Way Bus", which gives them a chance to run their policies either on top or down below. Whichever it is it can still run!!:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Twowaybus.jpg)
::) ::) :D :D :D ;)
-
.................and of course the talking parties will always need one of these; the London Bendy Bus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BendyBus.jpg)
...........like their mixed up policies, their bus will be the worst invention know to transport man! ::) ::) :P :D :D :D :D ;)
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.................we seem so far away from the simple (perceived) single decked political policy of my childhood years when the common method of transport was a bus like this; a 1950 Bristol Duple bodied vehicle:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Duple1950Bristolbus.jpg)
Why are things not as simple any more?
Could it be that I have grown up (a matter that can be debated!! ::) ::)) and everythings just appears far more complicated??
I actually think I know less now than I did at 5 years!! ;D ;D ;D ;)
-
How many on the OOF are old enough to remember a wonderful nostalgic scene like this, or maybe this precise scene, from 1950; Sheffield:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Sheffield1950.jpg)
8-) 8-) ;)
-
.................and of course the talking parties will always need one of these; the London Bendy Bus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BendyBus.jpg)
...........like their mixed up policies, their bus will be the worst invention know to transport man! ::) ::) :P :D :D :D :D ;)
Well Lizzie the bendy bus may well be a rubbish invention but at least you know where its going.
Which is more than can be said about a Coalition government and the bus will last longer too :D :D :D :D :y
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.................we seem so far away from the simple (perceived) single decked political policy of my childhood years when the common method of transport was a bus like this; a 1950 Bristol Duple bodied vehicle:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Duple1950Bristolbus.jpg)
Why are things not as simple any more?
Could it be that I have grown up (a matter that can be debated!! ::) ::)) and everythings just appears far more complicated??
I actually think I know less now than I did at 5 years!! ;D ;D ;D ;)
Remember these coaches well :y
Trips to Blackpool and Southport. Your treat was a stick of Candy floss, half a crown to go on the Fairground.Also a trip to a Wimpey bar for a cup of Horlicks just before you went home, so you would fall asleep on the bus home. :y
-
.................and of course the talking parties will always need one of these; the London Bendy Bus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BendyBus.jpg)
...........like their mixed up policies, their bus will be the worst invention know to transport man! ::) ::) :P :D :D :D :D ;)
Well Lizzie the bendy bus may well be a rubbish invention but at least you know where its going.
Which is more than can be said about a Coalition government and the bus will last longer too :D :D :D :D :y
I don't know about that Splott :-/ :-/
If their policies are like the back of these buses when you are alongside them on the roads of London we will be confused! Just when you think the back is going away from you, it suddenly decides to come towards you in a way that no artic trailer ever does!! :o :o :o :o :o :o
I have been 'frightened' on more than one occasion like this, thinking first I am completely safe in my car, then suddenly all is under threat!! :o :o :o :o
I hope the 'agreed' mixed party policits are not the same. If they are we are all in danger :'( :'( ; :D :D :D ;)
-
Is the middle bus in pic a replica of Lizzie's MUD?
http://www.oxford-chiltern-bus-page.co.uk/upload%20080609/M%20Beckett/Cheltenham%202009%20Whittle%20PUJ781%20with%20WW%20WKG284%20240509%20M%20Beckett.jpg
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Good on yer Di ........ :y
No, that isn't a replica of Lizzie's old coach ......
However, that one has fond memories for me though.
I used to go to school on that very coach, and it was one of four identical Leyland Tiger Cubs from the erstwhile Llynfi Motor Services (of Maesteg), concern. All four were new to Whittles of Highley, Shropshire, and had Burlingham 'Seagull' 41-seat bodies, and were registered OUJ 207/8 and PUJ 781/3.
:y
Mrs Sethsmate also used to travel on it to go dancing at Cardiff's Top Rank every Saturday night.
She was a 'miss' with 'curves in all the right places' in those days!
:D :D :D :D
Great times indeed ........
;D ;D ;D ;D
-
Is the middle bus in pic a replica of Lizzie's MUD?
http://www.oxford-chiltern-bus-page.co.uk/upload%20080609/M%20Beckett/Cheltenham%202009%20Whittle%20PUJ781%20with%20WW%20WKG284%20240509%20M%20Beckett.jpg
There are a number of key cosmetic differences:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
but I am sure one of the real bus experts will tell us more ;) ;)
EDIT: I have been beaten to it by Byron!! 8-) 8-) :D :D ;)
-
Is the middle bus in pic a replica of Lizzie's MUD?
http://www.oxford-chiltern-bus-page.co.uk/upload%20080609/M%20Beckett/Cheltenham%202009%20Whittle%20PUJ781%20with%20WW%20WKG284%20240509%20M%20Beckett.jpg
There are a number of key cosmetic differences:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
but I am sure one of the real bus experts will tell us more ;) ;)
Oh I do hope so. ;D
-
Good on yer Di ........ :y
No, that isn't a replica of Lizzie's old coach ......
However, that one has fond memories for me though.
I used to go to school on that very coach, and it was one of four identical Leyland Tiger Cubs from the erstwhile Llynfi Motor Services (of Maesteg), concern. All four were new to Whittles of Highley, Shropshire, and had Burlingham 'Seagull' 41-seat bodies, and were registered OUJ 207/8 and PUJ 781/3.
:y
Mrs Sethsmate also used to travel on it to go dancing at Cardiff's Top Rank every Saturday night.
She was a 'miss' with 'curves in all the right places' in those days!
:D :D :D :D
Great times indeed ........
;D ;D ;D ;D
My brother was a DJ there. I was banned from the place by my brother as was I banned by same person in DOLLARS in Merthyr, small world eh.
-
Is the middle bus in pic a replica of Lizzie's MUD?
http://www.oxford-chiltern-bus-page.co.uk/upload%20080609/M%20Beckett/Cheltenham%202009%20Whittle%20PUJ781%20with%20WW%20WKG284%20240509%20M%20Beckett.jpg
There are a number of key cosmetic differences:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
but I am sure one of the real bus experts will tell us more ;) ;)
EDIT: I have been beaten to it by Byron!! 8-) 8-) :D :D ;)
No worries Lizzie ......... ;)
Both were popular contemporary 'heavyweight' 30ft coaches of the late 1950s.
'MUD' was a Duple-bodied AEC Reliance, whilst PUJ 781 was a real 'all-Lancashire' offering.
H V Burlingham of Blackpool was acquired by Duple soon after, and was initially renamed as 'Duple Northern'.
The body on 'MUD' would have been built at Duple's Hendon works though.
;)
-
Is the middle bus in pic a replica of Lizzie's MUD?
http://www.oxford-chiltern-bus-page.co.uk/upload%20080609/M%20Beckett/Cheltenham%202009%20Whittle%20PUJ781%20with%20WW%20WKG284%20240509%20M%20Beckett.jpg
There are a number of key cosmetic differences:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
but I am sure one of the real bus experts will tell us more ;) ;)
EDIT: I have been beaten to it by Byron!! 8-) 8-) :D :D ;)
No worries Lizzie ......... ;)
Both were popular contemporary 'heavyweight' 30ft coaches of the late 1950s.
'MUD' was a Duple-bodied AEC Reliance, whilst PUJ 781 was a real 'all-Lancashire' offering.
H V Burlingham of Blackpool was acquired by Duple soon after, and was initially renamed as 'Duple Northern'.
The body on 'MUD' would have been built at Duple's Hendon works though.
;)
As usual you are the bus expert Byron!! :D :D :y :y
However, I sincerely hope you meant to say IS not WAS :'( :'( :'( ;)
I am still hoping someone will be able to confirm where she is, even if it is on the continent!! :( :( ;)
-
Is the middle bus in pic a replica of Lizzie's MUD?
http://www.oxford-chiltern-bus-page.co.uk/upload%20080609/M%20Beckett/Cheltenham%202009%20Whittle%20PUJ781%20with%20WW%20WKG284%20240509%20M%20Beckett.jpg
There are a number of key cosmetic differences:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
but I am sure one of the real bus experts will tell us more ;) ;)
EDIT: I have been beaten to it by Byron!! 8-) 8-) :D :D ;)
No worries Lizzie ......... ;)
Both were popular contemporary 'heavyweight' 30ft coaches of the late 1950s.
'MUD' was a Duple-bodied AEC Reliance, whilst PUJ 781 was a real 'all-Lancashire' offering.
H V Burlingham of Blackpool was acquired by Duple soon after, and was initially renamed as 'Duple Northern'.
The body on 'MUD' would have been built at Duple's Hendon works though.
;)
As usual you are the bus expert Byron!! :D :D :y :y
However, I sincerely hope you meant to say IS not WAS :'( :'( :'( ;)
I am still hoping someone will be able to confirm where she is, even if it is on the continent!! :( :( ;)
I've tried everything I know to try and find your coach. :'(
Is there anyway you can find out where it was sold onto by the person that bought off you? :-/
-
Just digressing from Lizzie's coach.......................... here is a nice picture of a nice steam engine :y
A 1904 Burrell Showman Road Locomotive
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/1904BurrellShowmansRoadLocomotiv-2.jpg)[/img]
-
Is the middle bus in pic a replica of Lizzie's MUD?
http://www.oxford-chiltern-bus-page.co.uk/upload%20080609/M%20Beckett/Cheltenham%202009%20Whittle%20PUJ781%20with%20WW%20WKG284%20240509%20M%20Beckett.jpg
There are a number of key cosmetic differences:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
but I am sure one of the real bus experts will tell us more ;) ;)
EDIT: I have been beaten to it by Byron!! 8-) 8-) :D :D ;)
No worries Lizzie ......... ;)
Both were popular contemporary 'heavyweight' 30ft coaches of the late 1950s.
'MUD' was a Duple-bodied AEC Reliance, whilst PUJ 781 was a real 'all-Lancashire' offering.
H V Burlingham of Blackpool was acquired by Duple soon after, and was initially renamed as 'Duple Northern'.
The body on 'MUD' would have been built at Duple's Hendon works though.
;)
As usual you are the bus expert Byron!! :D :D :y :y
However, I sincerely hope you meant to say IS not WAS :'( :'( :'( ;)
I am still hoping someone will be able to confirm where she is, even if it is on the continent!! :( :( ;)
I've tried everything I know to try and find your coach. :'(
Is there anyway you can find out where it was sold onto by the person that bought off you? :-/
No I cannot Splott as my ex and I moved away from the railway society that jointly owned the coach. Now I cannot track down that society, The Fowler 3F Society, which I suspect went out of 'business' years ago!! ::) ::)
It was 30 years ago after all!! ;)
-
Is the middle bus in pic a replica of Lizzie's MUD?
http://www.oxford-chiltern-bus-page.co.uk/upload%20080609/M%20Beckett/Cheltenham%202009%20Whittle%20PUJ781%20with%20WW%20WKG284%20240509%20M%20Beckett.jpg
There are a number of key cosmetic differences:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
but I am sure one of the real bus experts will tell us more ;) ;)
EDIT: I have been beaten to it by Byron!! 8-) 8-) :D :D ;)
No worries Lizzie ......... ;)
Both were popular contemporary 'heavyweight' 30ft coaches of the late 1950s.
'MUD' was a Duple-bodied AEC Reliance, whilst PUJ 781 was a real 'all-Lancashire' offering.
H V Burlingham of Blackpool was acquired by Duple soon after, and was initially renamed as 'Duple Northern'.
The body on 'MUD' would have been built at Duple's Hendon works though.
;)
As usual you are the bus expert Byron!! :D :D :y :y
However, I sincerely hope you meant to say IS not WAS :'( :'( :'( ;)
I am still hoping someone will be able to confirm where she is, even if it is on the continent!! :( :( ;)
Absolutely Lizzie - am putting this down to a 'grammatical error' on my part!
:y
-
Is the middle bus in pic a replica of Lizzie's MUD?
http://www.oxford-chiltern-bus-page.co.uk/upload%20080609/M%20Beckett/Cheltenham%202009%20Whittle%20PUJ781%20with%20WW%20WKG284%20240509%20M%20Beckett.jpg
There are a number of key cosmetic differences:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/scan1.jpg)
but I am sure one of the real bus experts will tell us more ;) ;)
EDIT: I have been beaten to it by Byron!! 8-) 8-) :D :D ;)
No worries Lizzie ......... ;)
Both were popular contemporary 'heavyweight' 30ft coaches of the late 1950s.
'MUD' was a Duple-bodied AEC Reliance, whilst PUJ 781 was a real 'all-Lancashire' offering.
H V Burlingham of Blackpool was acquired by Duple soon after, and was initially renamed as 'Duple Northern'.
The body on 'MUD' would have been built at Duple's Hendon works though.
;)
As usual you are the bus expert Byron!! :D :D :y :y
However, I sincerely hope you meant to say IS not WAS :'( :'( :'( ;)
I am still hoping someone will be able to confirm where she is, even if it is on the continent!! :( :( ;)
I've tried everything I know to try and find your coach. :'(
Is there anyway you can find out where it was sold onto by the person that bought off you? :-/
No I cannot Splott as my ex and I moved away from the railway society that jointly owned the coach. Now I cannot track down that society, The Fowler 3F Society, which I suspect went out of 'business' years ago!! ::) ::)
It was 30 years ago after all!! ;)
Well I thought it a stupid question at the time, but with kids and that. I thought you just might not have gone down that road or had time to. :y
-
Lizzie does this little train mean anything to you............................................. I think it might :y
Last worked in Birkenhead and then was moved to Barry Isd. to be scrapped. :'(
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/jinty1.jpg)[/img]
-
That is JINTY.
In 1978 she was bought by the Fowler 3F society and moved to the Mid Hants Railway for overhaul. However in May 1986, she was moved to the Avon Valley Railway.
Finally finding a home at the ELR where much of the restoration costs have been met from the ELRPS funds.
I may be wrong though!!!!! :-/ :-/ :-/ :-/
-
Lizzie does this little train mean anything to you............................................. I think it might :y
Last worked in Birkenhead and then was moved to Barry Isd. to be scrapped. :'(
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/jinty1.jpg)[/img]
Yes, and as Peachy says the Fowler 3F engine was based at the Mid-Hants, and I used to see it in many bits around the yard!
However its number was 47324, not the engine shown in the picture, unless it has changed its identity temporarily as often happens in the preservation movement**. ;) ;)
** The excuse for this is that when you work on these engines you find the many parts are stamped with engine numbers from long gone engines; the result of part swapping over the years in the sheds of the big four and eventually BR! This means that although the engine's overall identity is as shown when it was originally withdrawn from service, it is 'built' of many other engines parts!:D :D ;)
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That is JINTY.
In 1978 she was bought by the Fowler 3F society and moved to the Mid Hants Railway for overhaul. However in May 1986, she was moved to the Avon Valley Railway.
Finally finding a home at the ELR where much of the restoration costs have been met from the ELRPS funds.
I may be wrong though!!!!! :-/ :-/ :-/ :-/
No, spot on :y
I picked it up on a site about trains in Birkenhead. Which is a coincidence.
The train was moved to AVR in 1986 and as you said then on to ELR.
I thought maybe MUD might have followed it around re the Fowler 3F Soc. disappearing :-/ :-/
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That is JINTY.
In 1978 she was bought by the Fowler 3F society and moved to the Mid Hants Railway for overhaul. However in May 1986, she was moved to the Avon Valley Railway.
Finally finding a home at the ELR where much of the restoration costs have been met from the ELRPS funds.
I may be wrong though!!!!! :-/ :-/ :-/ :-/
No, spot on :y
I picked it up on a site about trains in Birkenhead. Which is a coincidence.
The train was moved to AVR in 1986 and as you said then on to ELR.
I thought maybe MUD might have followed it around re the Fowler 3F Soc. disappearing :-/ :-/
Yep done some checking and engine number 47388 did not survive into preservation, so this is 47324 masquerading as the former! 8-) 8-) ;)
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Now after the kind opportunity to introduce again railway nostagia into this thread, I'll return it to one about buses:
As I have stated many steam railway engines exchanged parts with each other during 'shopping', especially when heavy overhauls were being undertaken.
Did buses undergo the same movement of major parts between their sister buses, and I do not just mean with the engines??!! Were the chassis members, bodywork, seats, etc moved around, and do enthusiasts know all the details of such part transference's? :-/ :-/
In other words does the bus movement possess the anoraks of the railway world? :-/ :-/ :D :D :D
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[quote
In other words does the bus movement possess the anoraks of the railway world? :-/ :-/ :D :D :D[/quote
In one word...........YES. :y
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[quote
In other words does the bus movement possess the anoraks of the railway world? :-/ :-/ :D :D :D[/quote
In one word...........YES. :y
Cool!! 8-) 8-) 8-) :y :y
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[quote
In other words does the bus movement possess the anoraks of the railway world? :-/ :-/ :D :D :D[/quote
In one word...........YES. :y
Cool!! 8-) 8-) 8-) :y :y
Yep Cooool :D :D :D
Bus anoraks, Train anoraks,Steam anoraks and just anoraks :y :y :y
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Nice picture of a Bedford coach, from Sethsmate's collection............................... :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img188.jpg)[/img]
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(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img188.jpg)[/img]
Taken by moi at the Showbus Rally held at Duxford in September 1994, here's a Bedford SBG with a flambuoyant Yeates 'Europa' 41-seat coach body.
It's been beautifully restored and owned by Don's of Dunmow, though was new in 1957 to Fairways of Bradford.
This gem has the 4.9-litre Bedford petrol engine, which returns around 8 miles to the gallon.
Production of the simplistic SB model spanned four decades, with the lion's share having Duple or Plaxton bodies.
Yeates of Loughborough ceased building bodywork some years later, and then became a prominent coach dealership.
The present owners have 'christened' their coach 'Nicky'.
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A nice coach that Sethsmate has some personal connections............................................. :y
Come on mate let us out of our misery........ :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img189.jpg)[/img]
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Yes indeed ..........
;)
I can't remember who actually took this photo, but it's a nice shot of a Brewer's Bedford SB parked adjacent to their depot at the bottom of my street.
Brewers were ardent AEC operators, although their 30-plus fleet always included a handful of Bedfords (and Leylands).
The Brewer family retired and sold out to United Welsh Holdings in the mid-1980s.
The depot closed a while later, and after relocation eventually became the Maesteg depot of First Cymru Buses.
557 PTX depicted above, is a Bedford SB8 which arrived in 1962 with a Plaxton 'Embassy' 41-seat body.
The engine was the Leyland 0.350 unit, so basically it was the Leyland Comet lorry drivetrain in a Bedford coach chassis, with a sparkling performance to match!
:y
The distinctive livery was 'Brewers Saxe Blue No.2' and 'Brewers Cream' with the roof being finished in 'Brewers Special Blue'.
All paint was expertly and lovingly brushed-applied by the late Vernon Brewer, who sadly passed-away a few weeks ago.
:o
The AEC Reliance that I restored some years back featured this livery, and Vernon's gentle guidance enabled a perfect finish to that project's completion.
He was an absolute gentleman who will be greatly missed around these parts.
:'(
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I have just been trying to research the coach company that used to provide the vehicles to take me from Haslemere, Surrey to my school in Midhurst from 1964 to 1966.
This firm was Gales Coaches, and I am amazed to find that they still operate from their yard in Springfarm Road, a small residential type close where we lived in a large Admiralty rented house.
Although not the exact coach, this was the type they often used for us:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/GalesCoach.jpg)
They also had strangely a very up to date coach, a twin front axle Bedford Duple like this, which they allowed us kids to use some times!!:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/Ascot1963DupleVegaMajorBedfordVAL14.jpg)
Has anyone got any information (and pics?) of the Gales Haslemere, Surrey, coach company around the mid-nineteen sixties?
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/GalesCoach.jpg)
The classic Bedford OB with 29-seat Duple 'Vista' body.
MFM 39 was new to Crosville Motor Services, but is now a member of Terry Jones' Vista Coachways fleet.
Based near Bristol.
;)
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/Ascot1963DupleVegaMajorBedfordVAL14.jpg)
Love 'em or hate 'em, the VAL was Bedford's first assault on the 36ft-long market sector.
Gales' example has the Duple 'Vega Major' 52-seat body, and was probably a 1963 example judging by the stepped bodyside moulding flash aft of, and above the rear wheels.
It's chassis would have been a VAL14 model, with 6.5-litre Leyland 0.400 engine rated at 131 BHP. Drive was via a 14" dry-plate clutch and Turner Clark 5-speed synchromesh 'box.
A transmission brake was a standard fitment on the VAL model - there being two handbrakes for the driver!
:y
Sorry Lizzie, I've got no information on Gales of Haslemere.
:-[
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/Ascot1963DupleVegaMajorBedfordVAL14.jpg)
Love 'em or hate 'em, the VAL was Bedford's first assault on the 36ft-long market sector.
Gales' example has the Duple 'Vega Major' 52-seat body, and was probably a 1963 example judging by the stepped bodyside moulding flash aft of, and above the rear wheels.
It's chassis would have been a VAL14 model, with 6.5-litre Leyland 0.400 engine rated at 131 BHP. Drive was via a 14" dry-plate clutch and Turner Clark 5-speed synchromesh 'box.
A transmission brake was a standard fitment on the VAL model - there being two handbrakes for the driver!
:y
Sorry Lizzie, I've got no information on Gales of Haslemere.
:-[
Ok thanks anyway Byron! :y :y
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Nice Bedford from Sethsmate's collection................ :y
Looks a bit like Lizzie's coach :-/ :-/
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img194.jpg)[/img]
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Took this shot meself on New Years Day 1992 at Winchester.
The occasion was the annual Friends of King Alfred Running Day.
The splendidly-restored example seen here is a petrol-engined Bedford SB3 with not-so-common Harrington 'Crusader' 41-seat body, built just along the South Coast in Hove.
Whilst there's no doubting Thomas Harrington's build-quality, the majority of bodies on the SB chassis were built by Duple and Plaxtons.
Although 326 CAA would probably only manage around 8 miles to the gallon, the Bedford '300' straight-six petrol engine is a beautifully smooth performer!
:y
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I have just been trying to research the coach company that used to provide the vehicles to take me from Haslemere, Surrey to my school in Midhurst from 1964 to 1966.
This firm was Gales Coaches, and I am amazed to find that they still operate from their yard in Springfarm Road, a small residential type close where we lived in a large Admiralty rented house.
Although not the exact coach, this was the type they often used for us:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/GalesCoach.jpg)
They also had strangely a very up to date coach, a twin front axle Bedford Duple like this, which they allowed us kids to use some times!!:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/Ascot1963DupleVegaMajorBedfordVAL14.jpg)
Has anyone got any information (and pics?) of the Gales Haslemere, Surrey, coach company around the mid-nineteen sixties?
I can tell you that they are not in that location anymore as its now houses......because sadly I am in Haslemere as I type on a course
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I have just been trying to research the coach company that used to provide the vehicles to take me from Haslemere, Surrey to my school in Midhurst from 1964 to 1966.
This firm was Gales Coaches, and I am amazed to find that they still operate from their yard in Springfarm Road, a small residential type close where we lived in a large Admiralty rented house.
Although not the exact coach, this was the type they often used for us:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/GalesCoach.jpg)
They also had strangely a very up to date coach, a twin front axle Bedford Duple like this, which they allowed us kids to use some times!!:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/Ascot1963DupleVegaMajorBedfordVAL14.jpg)
Has anyone got any information (and pics?) of the Gales Haslemere, Surrey, coach company around the mid-nineteen sixties?
I can tell you that they are not in that location anymore as its now houses......because sadly I am in Haslemere as I type on a course
Thanks Mark! :y
Their web sites all still show the Springfarm Road address, which I thought that was odd after all these years! It was only a small yard in 1964! ::) ::) :D :D ;)
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I counted about 3 houses there now.....I think google street view shows them to
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I counted about 3 houses there now.....I think google street view shows them to
Not surprised Mark, as the space was certainly large enough for that.
We lived in Colston House about 75 yards further up that road, and like all other houses there, it had a really large garden. I used to lay in bed when sick and not going to school (which I tried to make a frequent occurrence!) listening to the school coach pulling out of the yard at the set time; 0800 if I remember correctly. ;)
-
....
MFM 39 was new to Crosville Motor Services, but is now a member of Terry Jones' Vista Coachways fleet.
Based near Bristol.
;)
FM was originally a Preston (Lancs) registration :y
-
....
MFM 39 was new to Crosville Motor Services, but is now a member of Terry Jones' Vista Coachways fleet.
Based near Bristol.
;)
FM was originally a Preston (Lancs) registration :y
Sorry AndyB but FM was Chester, most Crosville's in this area had a Chester reg. :y
http://www.ukcar.com/features/area.htm
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Well it is back to the future time for London buses!
Today it was announced that the new London bus which Boris Johnson promised is to be a design which is a very close successor to the beloved Routemaster.
It has two staircases, two entrances/exits with folding doors, AND has the open platform at the rear!! Although at certain times this will be closed off, at other times passengers will be able to do what we always did; jumping off and on buses with ease! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
(http://www.pocket-lint.com/news/33165/new-bus-for-london-unveiled)
:y :y
-
....
MFM 39 was new to Crosville Motor Services, but is now a member of Terry Jones' Vista Coachways fleet.
Based near Bristol.
;)
FM was originally a Preston (Lancs) registration :y
Sorry AndyB but FM was Chester, most Crosville's in this area had a Chester reg. :y
My mistake then. My Dad had KFM 580 on his Triumph, I'll quiz him when i see him next! :y
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....
MFM 39 was new to Crosville Motor Services, but is now a member of Terry Jones' Vista Coachways fleet.
Based near Bristol.
;)
FM was originally a Preston (Lancs) registration :y
Sorry AndyB but FM was Chester, most Crosville's in this area had a Chester reg. :y
My mistake then. My Dad had KFM 580 on his Triumph, I'll quiz him when i see him next! :y
I have modified my post see the link :y
I had a Triumph Vitesse 5727 FM :y
-
....
I had a Triumph Vitesse 5727 FM :y
What years was that then? I'd assumed that your car's reg format would have been older than my Dad's was, however my Dad's car was 1949 and would have been older than yours.
KFM580 is still active according to DVLA and still on a black Triumph, although it doesn't give a clue as to when it was last on the road. I know it came off the road around 1970 and remained in my Dad's garage for about 10 yrs
-
Well it is back to the future time for London buses!
Today it was announced that the new London bus which Boris Johnson promised is to be a design which is a very close successor to the beloved Routemaster.
It has two staircases, two entrances/exits with folding doors, AND has the open platform at the rear!! Although at certain times this will be closed off, at other times passengers will be able to do what we always did; jumping off and on buses with ease! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
(http://www.pocket-lint.com/news/33165/new-bus-for-london-unveiled)
:y :y
I found this on YOUTUBE today, Lizzie you beat me to it :y
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wjbQFl8Z1Y
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....
I had a Triumph Vitesse 5727 FM :y
What years was that then? I'd assumed that your car's reg format would have been older than my Dad's was, however my Dad's car was 1949 and would have been older than yours.
KFM580 is still active according to DVLA and still on a black Triumph, although it doesn't give a clue as to when it was last on the road. I know it came off the road around 1970 and remained in my Dad's garage for about 10 yrs
My Vitesse was a 1963 2.0ltr rally spec., very quick for its day :y
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.... passengers will be able to do what we always did; jumping off and on buses with ease! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
.....
You'd get your legs slapped by the 'elf 'n' safety mob now! ::) ::)
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.... passengers will be able to do what we always did; jumping off and on buses with ease! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
.....
You'd get your legs slapped by the 'elf 'n' safety mob now! ::) ::)
Well it looks as though it's back, as it should be on the congested streets of London!
Hoping on and off always worked in the past, and should do again 8-) 8-) 8-)
-
short piece on the history of double deckers on "the one show" of all places, probably be available on i-player tomorrow :y
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short piece on the history of double deckers on "the one show" of all places, probably be available on i-player tomorrow :y
Thanks Banjax! :y :y
-
Well it is back to the future time for London buses!
Today it was announced that the new London bus which Boris Johnson promised is to be a design which is a very close successor to the beloved Routemaster.
It has two staircases, two entrances/exits with folding doors, AND has the open platform at the rear!! Although at certain times this will be closed off, at other times passengers will be able to do what we always did; jumping off and on buses with ease! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
(http://www.pocket-lint.com/news/33165/new-bus-for-london-unveiled)
:y :y
I found this on YOUTUBE today, Lizzie you beat me to it :y
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wjbQFl8Z1Y
An interesting piece that Splott! :y :y
However, on that site I couldn't help noticing this video on a surviving Routemaster service:
Just listen to that wonderful engine sound and feel again the wonderfully feeling of being on the top deck. Pure nostagia! :-* :-* 8-) 8-)
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKVKYuOgZqs&feature=related[/media]
:-* :-* 8-)
-
short piece on the history of double deckers on "the one show" of all places, probably be available on i-player tomorrow :y
Thanks Banjax! :y :y
Cheers Banjax, will check it out tomorrow :y
-
Well it is back to the future time for London buses!
Today it was announced that the new London bus which Boris Johnson promised is to be a design which is a very close successor to the beloved Routemaster.
It has two staircases, two entrances/exits with folding doors, AND has the open platform at the rear!! Although at certain times this will be closed off, at other times passengers will be able to do what we always did; jumping off and on buses with ease! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
(http://www.pocket-lint.com/news/33165/new-bus-for-london-unveiled)
:y :y
I found this on YOUTUBE today, Lizzie you beat me to it :y
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5wjbQFl8Z1Y
An interesting piece that Splott! :y :y
However, on that site I couldn't help noticing this video on a surviving Routemaster service:
Just listen to that wonderful engine sound and feel again the wonderfully feeling of being on the top deck. Pure nostagia! :-* :-* 8-) 8-)
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKVKYuOgZqs&feature=related[/media]
:-* :-* 8-)
Brill :y You know what, I have never been on a Routemaster. Couldn't afford to go to London when I was young.
Drive there/ through London now :'( :'(
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BBC Four 'Behind the scenes' commercial vehicle museum. Its on now, full of buses and trucks :y :y :y
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BBC Four 'Behind the scenes' commercial vehicle museum. Its on now, full of buses and trucks :y :y :y
This is what it's about without the bickering :y
Some lovely old vehicles in this :y
http://www.lancashireone.com/the-leyland-transport-festival/
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However, on that site I couldn't help noticing this video on a surviving Routemaster service:
Just listen to that wonderful engine sound and feel again the wonderfully feeling of being on the top deck. Pure nostagia! :-* :-* 8-) 8-)
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EKVKYuOgZqs&feature=related[/media]
:-* :-* 8-)
That's definitely the beat of the 9.6-litre AEC AV590 engine :y
An iconic motor in an iconic bus! ;)
-
(http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k286/martinimber/Cornwall/coach1.jpg)
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I don't know what that coach is, although it seems to be an AEC (Byron will no doubt tell us more - please!) but it certainly takes me back to childhood when the average coach looked as good, before the sixties 'ultra modern' Duple coaches came along 8-) 8-) 8-)
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Sethsmate asked me to post these photographs for him, a couple of weeks ago, and this is the first chance I've had.Re changed my job :y
Sorry, Byron, that they're late but here they are...............
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img202.jpg)[/img]
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Sethsmate asked me to post these photographs for him, a couple of weeks ago, and this is the first chance I've had.Re changed my job :y
Sorry, Byron, that they're late but here they are...............
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img202.jpg)[/img]
They are lovely looking buses, obviously for tourist work :-* :-*
I take Byron will tell us more about them 8-) 8-)
-
(http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k286/martinimber/Cornwall/coach1.jpg)
Is that you in the drivers seat Martin?? Nice picture :y :y :y :y :y
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Not all open top were tourist buses of course, and this NS-AEC example of 1923 is a standard service vehicle.
I suppose the open top was referred by some as this was in the days of the great unwashed, lack of deodorant, and unlaundered clothes.........downstairs in the covered area it must have been a delightful atmosphere! ::) ::) :D :D :D
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/NS-Type-Bus-Open-Top.jpg)
8-) 8-)
-
Now these buses I certainly remember giving tourists a lovely coastal ride along the South Coast towns in the 1960s. This Southdown bus is from 1964:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/Vehicles406Bus.jpg)
8-) 8-)
-
Not all open top were tourist buses of course, and this NS-AEC example of 1923 is a standard service vehicle.
I suppose the open top was referred by some as this was in the days of the great unwashed, lack of deodorant, and unlaundered clothes.........downstairs in the covered area it must have been a delightful atmosphere! ::) ::) :D :D :D
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/NS-Type-Bus-Open-Top.jpg)
8-) 8-)
Suppose passengers didn't mind others smoking either then, re B.O. etc :D
-
(http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k286/martinimber/Cornwall/coach1.jpg)
Is that you in the drivers seat Martin?? Nice picture :y :y :y :y :y
No it was visiting Glendurgan gardens - saw 2 others that day as well doing cruise liner shuttles
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http://www.kingharrycoaches.com/wedding%20fleet.html
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http://www.kingharrycoaches.com/wedding%20fleet.html
A lovely collection there Martin 8-) 8-) 8-)
I must get married again just to hire one of those! :D :D :D ;)
-
(http://i91.photobucket.com/albums/k286/martinimber/Cornwall/coach1.jpg)
Aahhh ..........
'Tis an AEC Reliance with Harrington 'Grenadier' body.
New to Greenslades of Exeter, and built to a width of 7'6" for use on Dartmoor, as opposed to the (then) normal width of 8'.
The chassis would have been identical to Lizzie's former coach, though I'm sure that these Greenslades coaches featured the robust AEC 6-speed constant-mesh 'box.
Several of these former Greenslades Reliance/Harringtons survive in preservation.
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Replies to my recent thread: http://www.omegaowners.com/forum/YaBB.pl?num=1274465625/0
plus the current lovely weather, got me thinking about the happy childhood days spent at Aberavon Beach, Port Talbot.
Although the resort was obviously well-served by several bus companies, (including Western Welsh), the principal operator was fellow BET subsidiary Thomas Bros (Port Talbot) Ltd.
Their buses carried a blue-green livery, whilst their coach fleet and the trio of ancient open-toppers wore a cream/blue scheme as seen here.
All these were also named, and the blue was called 'Danube Blue'.
Apart from this trio, the fleet was entirely single-decked, due to low railway bridges in the area.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img202.jpg)[/img]
Here's a shot of all three inside the garage at Acacia Avenue, on the fringe of the vast Sandfields Estate, which was itself ripe bus-operating territory.
The open-toppers were used to duplicate the existing high-frequency routes which connected the suburbs of the steel town via Aberavon Beach to the Sandfields Estate during the Summer months.
On the left is CAP 205, "The Afan Belle" which was a former Brighton Hove & District 1940 Bristol K5G, which came in 1960.
Centre-stage is GHT 127 of 1941 and from the same source, which arrived in 1965. This was named "The Sandfields Belle" and is also a Bristol K5G.
On the right is 1934 AEC Regent Mk 2 OD 7497, which came from Devon General in 1961, and was named "The Margam Belle".
The photo would have been taken circa 1966.
I'll dig into the archives and see if I can come up with more shots taken at Aberavon Beach.
Stand by Mr Splott! :D
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A no-nonsense, rugged and straightforward 30ft Leyland Titan PD3, from the splendid Southdown fleet.
Bodywork by Wigan-based Northern Counties, built to 'full-front' guise, and known as 'Queen Mary(s)'.
The livery being 'Southdown Apple Green/Cream'.
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/Vehicles406Bus.jpg)
Southdown had dozens of these, and they were the 'company-standard' double-decker throughout the early to mid '60s era.
I'm pretty sure that the open-toppers as seen here were built with detachable roof sections from new, so that they could be used in service all year round.
Wouldn't have fancied changing head gaskets on that enclosed Leyland 0.600 engine though! :'(
That said, a second-hand Southdown bus was always a good buy, and a goodly number of these survive in preservation! :y
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Young Byron asked me to post this summery picture for him. Don't know anything about it but I'm sure Sethsmate will keep us informed........................................... :y
Nice Zephyr in the back ground :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img201.jpg)[/img]
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I have been looking for MUD 975 (Lizzie Zoom's Coach) and have been sending emails out left right and centre, well, I got another reply today which reads as follows.......
MUD 975 to J Graham, Fleet 6/80; he was connected with the Mid Hants Railway, the London Midland Society and the Fowler 3F Society. It was last seen 9/84 at Ropley on the MHR. There is an unconfirmed suggestion it became a shed in a garden in Thornton Heath c1987.
Hope this helps
John Wakefield
I am sure this is not what Miss Zoom wanted to hear, and for digging I am sorry if I upset her.
I have spent a few hours today looking on Google Earth to see if it is indeed still in a garden somewhere in Thornton Heath, alas, all to no avail.
I am wondering if anyone knows this area and the people mentioned in the e-mail? Prehaps the bus is still there, waiting to be re-born. Prehaps someone knows that it is still in a garden, or a local scrap dealers in a corner somewhere, please any ideas would be most appreciated by myself and especially Lizzie.
Over to you kind OOFers.
D.
-
Young Byron asked me to post this summery picture for him. Don't know anything about it but I'm sure Sethsmate will keep us informed........................................... :y
Nice Zephyr in the back ground :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img201.jpg)[/img]
I was in Aberavon beach area only a few days ago.
Small World.
-
Young Byron asked me to post this summery picture for him. Don't know anything about it but I'm sure Sethsmate will keep us informed........................................... :y
Nice Zephyr in the back ground :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img201.jpg)[/img]
I could be wrong, but I'll stick my neck out and ask "isn't that actually a ZODIAC???" didn't Zephyrs only have two headlights, and the Zodiac's have four?? if I'm wrong, I apologise. My Dads Zephyr only had two lights, one each side.
-
I have been looking for MUD 975 (Lizzie Zoom's Coach) and have been sending emails out left right and centre, well, I got another reply today which reads as follows.......
MUD 975 to J Graham, Fleet 6/80; he was connected with the Mid Hants Railway, the London Midland Society and the Fowler 3F Society. It was last seen 9/84 at Ropley on the MHR. There is an unconfirmed suggestion it became a shed in a garden in Thornton Heath c1987.
Hope this helps
John Wakefield
I am sure this is not what Miss Zoom wanted to hear, and for digging I am sorry if I upset her.
I have spent a few hours today looking on Google Earth to see if it is indeed still in a garden somewhere in Thornton Heath, alas, all to no avail.
I am wondering if anyone knows this area and the people mentioned in the e-mail? Prehaps the bus is still there, waiting to be re-born. Prehaps someone knows that it is still in a garden, or a local scrap dealers in a corner somewhere, please any ideas would be most appreciated by myself and especially Lizzie.
Over to you kind OOFers.
D.
Thanks Di for your splendid detective work! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :y
John Graham was known by my husband at the time, so you are definately on the right track! :D :D :D
I knew Thornton Heath when my father in law lived there, so it would be a small world if MUD was there still. It will be interesting to see if we have any reports back.
Thanks again :y :y :y
-
Young Byron asked me to post this summery picture for him. Don't know anything about it but I'm sure Sethsmate will keep us informed........................................... :y
Nice Zephyr in the back ground :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img201.jpg)[/img]
That open top bus is just lovely :-* :-* :-* I want to go for a ride on the top deck! :D :D :D ;)
As for the Zephyr, definitely a lovely sight and could well be a police "Z car" with some imagination ;) ;)
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Z Car(s) Now that brings back memories.
James Ellis Stratford John, Frank Windsor and Brian Blessed (without the beard) et al.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWflrCrwUSw
NOSTALGIA.
Did you spot a very young Dame Judi Dench in that clip.
Oh The Memories. oopps hijacking again, sorry Sethsmate.
-
Z Car(s) Now that brings back memories.
James Ellis Stratford John, Frank Windsor et al.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rWflrCrwUSw
NOSTALGIA.
Did you spot a very young Dame Judi Dench in that clip.
Oh The Memories. oopps hijacking again, sorry Sethsmate.
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
-
Hadn't taken the time to read through this very enjoyable thread before this. :(
Although I haven't been on a bus since childhood many of the photographs used brought back memories when the following were commonplace; (as it's an historical film there's a bit more on it at the start than buses but it may be of interest to some)
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=8V05t_cCGWs[/media]
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=P0vf48G-2_k&feature=related[/media]
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ivADmySB4ik&feature=related[/media]
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EXh9S8rH8DQ&feature=related[/media]
-
Here's Thomas Bros (Port Talbot) Ltd's ex-Devon General OD 7497, in action outside The Four Winds public house on Aberavon seafront, and heading for the terminus at Miami Beach Pleasure Park.
It's resplendent in a livery of cream with Danube Blue relief.
A 1934 AEC Regent Mk2 with Short Bros body, it was converted to open-top guise by it's previous owners.
Named "The Margam Belle", it was already an amazing 27 years old when it arrived in Port Talbot in 1961!!!!!!
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img201.jpg)[/img]
The open-topper is overtaking 1247 (310 ECY), one of fellow BET subsidiary South Wales Transport's AEC Renowns with 71-seat highbridge Park Royal bodies.
1247 was one of 14 similar machines delivered to Swansea-based 'SWT' in 1963, and has worked the long 7 route via Morriston, Bowen's Arms, Skewen and Neath. This bus would therefore have been based at Swansea (Brunswick Street), and wore a livery of all-over BET Crimson with black mudguards and wheels.
The legal lettering on the nearside skirt panels extolled: "The South Wales Transport Co Ltd; Russell Street, Swansea" and a cast emblem on the nearside bonnet bulkhead displayed the legend "AEC Diesel".
A further five Renowns arrived in 1963, though these had Willowbrook bodies.
Oh, and the overtaking car - it's gotta be a Ford Zodiac. :y
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
[/quote]
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ?
:D
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ?
:D
[/quote]
Colin Welland the dog-handler
Was the dog handler not PC Snow played by Terence Rigby in Softly Softly B? I think his nick-name was 'Snowy' strangely enough ;D ;D
On the early credits the previous model Zephyr appeared (not the job with the fins)
Colin Welland joined the cast in 1962 playing PC Graham :y
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wL1HnDGTAK8[/media]
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ?
:D
Colin Welland the dog-handler
Was the dog handler not PC Snow played by Terence Rigby in Softly Softly B? I think his nick-name was 'Snowy' strangely enough ;D ;D
On the early credits the previous model Zephyr appeared (not the job with the fins)
Colin Welland joined the cast in 1962 playing PC Graham :y
I think you're spot on there Z; and I'm getting confused between the different series.
:-[
'Snowy' does indeed ring a bell here!
:y
-
Re the Zephyr/Zodiac.
I'm sure the two types of car were known as Zephyr and Zephyr Zodiac. Could be wrong! :D
-
Re the Zephyr/Zodiac.
I'm sure the two types of car were known as Zephyr and Zephyr Zodiac. Could be wrong! :D
I think you may be right S and that name may have adorned the model before the one with the fins - Mk1 no fins, Mk2 small fins and Mk3 big fins :y :y
This could be the one :-/
(http://i698.photobucket.com/albums/vv345/Catdracula/168725-ford-zephyr-zodiac.jpg)
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Thankyou Zulu, now I feel better!
I''m not too hot on new cars but think I know the old cars. In the days when you could tell what car it was by the exhaust note, as it went past. You didn't have to look. One knew it was a TR, MGB or a Healey just by the sound. Ah those were the days, cars had character and individuality. Cars today have fantastic performance etc. but lack character. :y
-
Another one of Byrons bus pictures, I wonder what beach it has been to or going to?
Hey, I have just become an Omega Knight posting this for the Welsh Wizard :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img203.jpg)[/img]
-
I have 3 Favs I would lay odds on
1) Barry Island
2) Porthcawl
3) Aberafan.
Not much other choice is there really!!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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I have 3 Favs I would lay odds on
1) Barry Island
2) Porthcawl
3) Aberafan.
Not much other choice is there really!!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
I think Aberfan but I'm sure Sethsmate wil enlighten us :D
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I have 3 Favs I would lay odds on
1) Barry Island
2) Porthcawl
3) Aberafan.
Not much other choice is there really!!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
I think Aberfan but I'm sure Sethsmate wil enlighten us :D
If there is a beach in Aberfan then please tell me, as I am about 10 minutes drive from there and I went to school in that area and yet to see a beach. Aberfan is famous for all the wrong reasons.
I think you mean ABERAFAN/ABERAVON ;D ;D ;D ;D :y :y
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I have 3 Favs I would lay odds on
1) Barry Island
2) Porthcawl
3) Aberafan.
Not much other choice is there really!!!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
I think Aberfan but I'm sure Sethsmate wil enlighten us :D
If there is a beach in Aberfan then please tell me, as I am about 10 minutes drive from there and I went to school in that area and yet to see a beach. Aberfan is famous for all the wrong reasons.
I think you mean ABERAFAN/ABERAVON ;D ;D ;D ;D :y :y
Peachy.......... I'm English, what did you expect, I even mispronounce the Welsh language in writing. Ooops :-[
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
[/quote]
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)[/quote]
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.
[size=24]SOLVED[/size]
[/color]
Z-Cars (pronounced "Zed Cars", sometimes written as Z Cars) was a British television drama series centred on the work of mobile uniformed police in the fictional town of Newtown, based on Kirkby in the outskirts of Liverpool in Merseyside. Produced by the BBC and screened on BBC Television (renamed BBC1 in 1964), it debuted in January 1962 and ran for 16 years until September 1978. The suggestion by some that an administrative quirk meant it was produced by the BBC's documentary department rather than the drama department for the first few years is incorrect. It was developed by the Dramatised Documentary Unit within the BBC Drama Department, led by Elwyn Jones. The unit researched the Liverpool Police and produced an hour long programme "Who Me?", set in a police station on a Saturday night, playing three suspects off one another in separate rooms. After the programme the National Detective Training School in Halifax asked to be given a recording, to be used as a training tool.
Elwyn Jones took advantage of this relationship with the police and travelled the country, until at the Lancashire Constabulary near Preston, he dined with the Chief Constable. With his elbow resting on the mantelpiece he mentioned a new Crime Patrol - whose call sign would be Z. Elwyn enlisted Troy Kennedy Martin to visit Lancashire and Troy returned to London with an outline of a series intended to feature two crime squad cars, one manned by Fancy Smith and Jock; the other Lynch and Steel.
There you go. So I was correct, But I don't think that Colin Welland played Fancy Smith
Dug Deeper and Fancy Smith was indeed played by Brian Blessed. So I was wrong after all. As usual. :'( :'( :'(
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.[/quote]
Brian Blessed was Fancy Smith :y
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.[/quote]
No, Brian Blessed played the part of Fancy Smith, and for me was the most interesting character in the show ;) ;)
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.
No, Brian Blessed played the part of Fancy Smith, and for me was the most interesting character in the show ;) ;)
[/quote]
Minus the facial hair Miss Lizzie.
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.
No, Brian Blessed played the part of Fancy Smith, and for me was the most interesting character in the show ;) ;)
Follow this link as all the cast are listed there :y
[/quote]
http://www.tv.com/z-cars/show/4039/cast.html
-
Well I did say my brain was a bit rusty ::) ;D ;D ;D :y
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.
No, Brian Blessed played the part of Fancy Smith, and for me was the most interesting character in the show ;) ;)
[/quote]
That's quite correct E and he was indeed quite a character,
PC Graham was played by Colin Welland.
When Z Cars first appeared there was some unease within police ranks that police officers were being shown as human beings with all that it entails.
I seem to remember one story line about PC Steele (played by Jeremy Kemp) beating his wife in a drunken outburst. This was a revelation to the many people who viewed police officers at the time as being of similar temperament to George Dixon (of Dock Green)
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.
No, Brian Blessed played the part of Fancy Smith, and for me was the most interesting character in the show ;) ;)
That's quite correct E and he was indeed quite a character,
PC Graham was played by Colin Welland.
When Z Cars first appeared there was some unease within police ranks that police officers were being shown as human beings with all that it entails.
I seem to remember one story line about PC Steele (played by Jeremy Kemp) beating his wife in a drunken outburst. This was a revelation to the many people who viewed police officers at the time as being of similar temperament to George Dixon (of Dock Green)
[/quote]
George Dixon, Now you are talking. The Blue Lamp. Leading man dies only to be ressurected for the next 26 years I think it was. Played by the late great Jack Warner.
Outstanding.
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.
No, Brian Blessed played the part of Fancy Smith, and for me was the most interesting character in the show ;) ;)
That's quite correct E and he was indeed quite a character,
PC Graham was played by Colin Welland.
When Z Cars first appeared there was some unease within police ranks that police officers were being shown as human beings with all that it entails.
I seem to remember one story line about PC Steele (played by Jeremy Kemp) beating his wife in a drunken outburst. This was a revelation to the many people who viewed police officers at the time as being of similar temperament to George Dixon (of Dock Green)
George Dixon, Now you are talking. The Blue Lamp. Leading man dies only to be ressurected for the next 26 years I think it was. Played by the late great Jack Warner.
Outstanding.[/quote]
Here is the man himself........................... :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/dixonofdock1.jpg)[/img]
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.
No, Brian Blessed played the part of Fancy Smith, and for me was the most interesting character in the show ;) ;)
That's quite correct E and he was indeed quite a character,
PC Graham was played by Colin Welland.
When Z Cars first appeared there was some unease within police ranks that police officers were being shown as human beings with all that it entails.
I seem to remember one story line about PC Steele (played by Jeremy Kemp) beating his wife in a drunken outburst. This was a revelation to the many people who viewed police officers at the time as being of similar temperament to George Dixon (of Dock Green)
[/quote]
Yes Zulu, Z Cars was a big (at the time) breakaway from the cosy, comfortable and never too disturbing friendly 'bobby on the street' in Dixon of Dock Green, and indeed No Hiding Place. It started to show 'real' life, as it was, hard and nasty (for the 1960s!) policing in a changing world. It was a wonderful revelation, and one that would develop into ever more gritty crime dramas. :y :y
Probably one of the most shocking scenes in DoDG for the early sixties was Andy, Dixon's son in law DI losing his life by being shot, a crime that of course then carried the death penalty :y :y.
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.
No, Brian Blessed played the part of Fancy Smith, and for me was the most interesting character in the show ;) ;)
That's quite correct E and he was indeed quite a character,
PC Graham was played by Colin Welland.
When Z Cars first appeared there was some unease within police ranks that police officers were being shown as human beings with all that it entails.
I seem to remember one story line about PC Steele (played by Jeremy Kemp) beating his wife in a drunken outburst. This was a revelation to the many people who viewed police officers at the time as being of similar temperament to George Dixon (of Dock Green)
George Dixon, Now you are talking. The Blue Lamp. Leading man dies only to be ressurected for the next 26 years I think it was. Played by the late great Jack Warner.
Outstanding.
Here is the man himself........................... :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/dixonofdock1.jpg)[/img][/quote]
That's him indeed S :y and Jack Warner was a bit of a 'turn' before he assumed that role.
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGbKcFMpet4&feature=related[/media]
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Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.
No, Brian Blessed played the part of Fancy Smith, and for me was the most interesting character in the show ;) ;)
That's quite correct E and he was indeed quite a character,
PC Graham was played by Colin Welland.
When Z Cars first appeared there was some unease within police ranks that police officers were being shown as human beings with all that it entails.
I seem to remember one story line about PC Steele (played by Jeremy Kemp) beating his wife in a drunken outburst. This was a revelation to the many people who viewed police officers at the time as being of similar temperament to George Dixon (of Dock Green)
Yes Zulu, Z Cars was a big (at the time) breakaway from the cosy, comfortable and never too disturbing friendly 'bobby on the street' in Dixon of Dock Green, and indeed No Hiding Place. It started to show 'real' life, as it was, hard and nasty (for the 1960s!) policing in a changing world. It was a wonderful revelation, and one that would develop into ever more gritty crime dramas. :y :y
Probably one of the most shocking scenes in DoDG for the early sixties was Andy, Dixon's son in law DI losing his life by being shot, a crime that of course then carried the death penalty :y :y.
[/quote]
I thought it was George Dixon who got shot in the forerunner The Blue Lamp. I never knew Andy got shot. Dixon was shot by Dirk Borgarde if I remember correctly and he was apprehended with the help of Tic Tac Toe men at White City. Correct me if I am wrong.
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.
No, Brian Blessed played the part of Fancy Smith, and for me was the most interesting character in the show ;) ;)
That's quite correct E and he was indeed quite a character,
PC Graham was played by Colin Welland.
When Z Cars first appeared there was some unease within police ranks that police officers were being shown as human beings with all that it entails.
I seem to remember one story line about PC Steele (played by Jeremy Kemp) beating his wife in a drunken outburst. This was a revelation to the many people who viewed police officers at the time as being of similar temperament to George Dixon (of Dock Green)
Yes Zulu, Z Cars was a big (at the time) breakaway from the cosy, comfortable and never too disturbing friendly 'bobby on the street' in Dixon of Dock Green, and indeed No Hiding Place. It started to show 'real' life, as it was, hard and nasty (for the 1960s!) policing in a changing world. It was a wonderful revelation, and one that would develop into ever more gritty crime dramas. :y :y
Probably one of the most shocking scenes in DoDG for the early sixties was Andy, Dixon's son in law DI losing his life by being shot, a crime that of course then carried the death penalty :y :y.
I thought it was George Dixon who got shot in the forerunner The Blue Lamp. I never knew Andy got shot. Dixon was shot by Dirk Borgarde if I remember correctly and he was apprehended with the help of Tic Tac Toe men at White City. Correct me if I am wrong.[/quote]
Yes he was Di, but as previously stated he was brought back to life for the TV series. Andy was shot in a scene during that series, in about 1964 in think ;) ;)
-
Jack Warner OBE (24 October 1895 – 24 May 1981) was an English film and television actor.
He was born in London, his real name being Horace John Waters. His sisters Elsie and Doris Waters were well-known comediennes under the names Gert and Daisy.
Although the police constable was shot dead in the film, the character was revived in 1955 for the BBC television series, Dixon of Dock Green, which ran until 1976. In later years though, Warner and his long-past-retirement-age character were confined to a less prominent desk sergeant role.
So it was 21 years.
-
Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.
No, Brian Blessed played the part of Fancy Smith, and for me was the most interesting character in the show ;) ;)
That's quite correct E and he was indeed quite a character,
PC Graham was played by Colin Welland.
When Z Cars first appeared there was some unease within police ranks that police officers were being shown as human beings with all that it entails.
I seem to remember one story line about PC Steele (played by Jeremy Kemp) beating his wife in a drunken outburst. This was a revelation to the many people who viewed police officers at the time as being of similar temperament to George Dixon (of Dock Green)
Yes Zulu, Z Cars was a big (at the time) breakaway from the cosy, comfortable and never too disturbing friendly 'bobby on the street' in Dixon of Dock Green, and indeed No Hiding Place. It started to show 'real' life, as it was, hard and nasty (for the 1960s!) policing in a changing world. It was a wonderful revelation, and one that would develop into ever more gritty crime dramas. :y :y
Probably one of the most shocking scenes in DoDG for the early sixties was Andy, Dixon's son in law DI losing his life by being shot, a crime that of course then carried the death penalty :y :y.
I thought it was George Dixon who got shot in the forerunner The Blue Lamp. I never knew Andy got shot. Dixon was shot by Dirk Borgarde if I remember correctly and he was apprehended with the help of Tic Tac Toe men at White City. Correct me if I am wrong.
Yes he was Di, but as previously stated he was brought back to life for the TV series. Andy was shot in a scene during that series, in about 1964 in think ;) ;)
[/quote]
You're right there E, the 60's new age suddenly exploded the myth about no one ever killing police officers.
You may remember the Braybrook Street murders of DS Head, DC Wombwell and PC Fox on August 12th 1966 - the nation was stunned.
An interesting historical piece here;
http://www.lbhf.gov.uk/Images/Look_Back_tcm21-83103.pdf
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Here's an example of many of those 60's vehicles.
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7i1LltZE4q4[/media]
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I remember the Blackpool murder of Superintendant Gerald Richardson as it happend in my Gran's backyard, he was and is to this day I believe the highest ranking officer to be killed on duty. The killer was Frederick Joesph Sewell. I have searched the internet for a few years looking to see if Sewell ever made parole, all to no avail.
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Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.
No, Brian Blessed played the part of Fancy Smith, and for me was the most interesting character in the show ;) ;)
That's quite correct E and he was indeed quite a character,
PC Graham was played by Colin Welland.
When Z Cars first appeared there was some unease within police ranks that police officers were being shown as human beings with all that it entails.
I seem to remember one story line about PC Steele (played by Jeremy Kemp) beating his wife in a drunken outburst. This was a revelation to the many people who viewed police officers at the time as being of similar temperament to George Dixon (of Dock Green)
Yes Zulu, Z Cars was a big (at the time) breakaway from the cosy, comfortable and never too disturbing friendly 'bobby on the street' in Dixon of Dock Green, and indeed No Hiding Place. It started to show 'real' life, as it was, hard and nasty (for the 1960s!) policing in a changing world. It was a wonderful revelation, and one that would develop into ever more gritty crime dramas. :y :y
Probably one of the most shocking scenes in DoDG for the early sixties was Andy, Dixon's son in law DI losing his life by being shot, a crime that of course then carried the death penalty :y :y.
I thought it was George Dixon who got shot in the forerunner The Blue Lamp. I never knew Andy got shot. Dixon was shot by Dirk Borgarde if I remember correctly and he was apprehended with the help of Tic Tac Toe men at White City. Correct me if I am wrong.
Yes he was Di, but as previously stated he was brought back to life for the TV series. Andy was shot in a scene during that series, in about 1964 in think ;) ;)
You're right there E, the 60's new age suddenly exploded the myth about no one ever killing police officers.
You may remember the Braybrook Street murders of DS Head, DC Wombwell and PC Fox on August 12th 1966 - the nation was stunned.
An interesting historical piece here;
http://www.lbhf.gov.uk/Images/Look_Back_tcm21-83103.pdf[/quote]
A shocking to-do that was Zulu, that did indeed shock the nation. :'( :'( :'(
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Indeed Di! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) My childhood TV watching always allowed me to see Z Cars, then later Softly Softly, to be further adapted into Softly, Softly Taskforce. Classics :-* :-* :-*
'Twas definitely a 'Zephyr 6' on Z Cars! :y
Wasn't Colin Welland the dog-handler?
I'm sure that he had a nickname - anyone know ...... ? :D
Wasn't he called 'Fancy' on Z Cars? It's along time ago & my brain is a bit rusty now, so not sure ;)
That rings a bell Phil, Was it not Fancy Smith????????
Could not have been Fancy Smith as I just looked it up and his name in Z Cars was PC David Graham.
No, Brian Blessed played the part of Fancy Smith, and for me was the most interesting character in the show ;) ;)
That's quite correct E and he was indeed quite a character,
PC Graham was played by Colin Welland.
When Z Cars first appeared there was some unease within police ranks that police officers were being shown as human beings with all that it entails.
I seem to remember one story line about PC Steele (played by Jeremy Kemp) beating his wife in a drunken outburst. This was a revelation to the many people who viewed police officers at the time as being of similar temperament to George Dixon (of Dock Green)
George Dixon, Now you are talking. The Blue Lamp. Leading man dies only to be ressurected for the next 26 years I think it was. Played by the late great Jack Warner.
Outstanding.
Here is the man himself........................... :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/dixonofdock1.jpg)[/img]
That's him indeed S :y and Jack Warner was a bit of a 'turn' before he assumed that role.
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kGbKcFMpet4&feature=related[/media][/quote]
Yes Z.Jack Warner used to do very amusing 'Monologues' as a side line. Can you remember any of them?
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The London scene in the Dixon of Dock Green era, and the so familiar buses :-* :-* :-*:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LondonStreetscene.jpg)
Of course it was often very foggy during the late 1950s, so at times the picture would not have been very clear! ::) ::) ;) ;)
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......................and this is what I fondly remember of that London fog when going to visit my nan in Stratford, East London, in the 1950s, and around Lewisham in the 1970s:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/FoggyLondonBus.jpg)
At times all you could see - just - were the lights of the bus when it was almost on top of you ;) ;)
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The London scene in the Dixon of Dock Green era, and the so familiar buses :-* :-* :-*:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LondonStreetscene.jpg)
Of course it was often very foggy during the late 1950s, so at times the picture would not have been very clear! ::) ::) ;) ;)
Yes and those buses had clippies.And did I fancy the clippie on the No.79 I used to get home from school :D :D :D :D
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I remember the Blackpool murder of Superintendant Gerald Richardson as it happend in my Gran's backyard, he was and is to this day I believe the highest ranking officer to be killed on duty. The killer was Frederick Joesph Sewell. I have searched the internet for a few years looking to see if Sewell ever made parole, all to no avail.
Not quite Di, Chief Superintendent Harry Breen and Superintendent Bob Buchanan (RUC) were murdered near Jonesborough South Armagh on March 20 1989.
Some details here;
http://cain.ulst.ac.uk/victims/docs/newspapers/sunday_tribune/breen_strib_020907.pdf
Not strictly relevant to a bus thread I know but interesting in light of the police aspect to the thread.
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The London scene in the Dixon of Dock Green era, and the so familiar buses :-* :-* :-*:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LondonStreetscene.jpg)
Of course it was often very foggy during the late 1950s, so at times the picture would not have been very clear! ::) ::) ;) ;)
Yes and those buses had clippies.And did I fancy the clippie on the No.79 I used to get home from school :D :D :D :D
That reminds me!! :D :D I used to collect the unused rolls from the conductors machines if I had the opportunity, and go home to play at being a clippy! :D :D :D ;)
What innocent fun we had 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
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And specially for you Splott, to get your heart racing, here is one of the London clippies:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LondonClippy.jpg)
:D :D :D :D ;) ;)
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Yes Z.Jack Warner used to do very amusing 'Monologues' as a side line. Can you remember any of them?
I can't really S but I found this example of his talent on the 'Tube;
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Etjoc0fJFjk[/media]
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Yes Z.Jack Warner used to do very amusing 'Monologues' as a side line. Can you remember any of them?
I can't really S but I found this example of his talent on the 'Tube;
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Etjoc0fJFjk[/media]
Brill :y
Here is a copy of the script to one of his monologues............................
A FUMPER AND FLATTENER OF FEVVERS
by
Jack Warner
Now a man I know a very funny kind of job enjoys
It's really making shuttlecocks and other feathered toys
His job's to bend the feathers so they stick a certain way
And this is what he told me when I saw him yesterday.
He's a fumper and a flattener of fevvers
He's a fevver fumper that's the job 'e's at,
'Cos when a fevver furls up and when a fevver curls up
The fevver fumper fumps the fevver flat.
Now the fevver fumper feeds the fevver fixer
And the fixer fixes fevvers that 'e's dumped
But the curled ones he refuses, so the fevvers that 'e uses
Are the fevvers that the fevver fumper's fumped.
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I always wondered what checks there were on the clippies ticket machines vs. the money actually collected, and I have found this wonderfully (well for us transport enthusiasts) interesting film:
http://www.britishpathe.com/record.php?id=48055
8-) 8-) 8-) ;)
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I always wondered what checks there were on the clippies ticket machines vs. the money actually collected, and I have found this wonderfully (well for us transport enthusiasts) interesting film:
http://www.britishpathe.com/record.php?id=48055
8-) 8-) 8-) ;)
A splendid link E :y I love those British Pathe films :-* :y
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Yes Z.Jack Warner used to do very amusing 'Monologues' as a side line. Can you remember any of them?
I can't really S but I found this example of his talent on the 'Tube;
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Etjoc0fJFjk[/media]
Brill :y
Here is a copy of the script to one of his monologues............................
A FUMPER AND FLATTENER OF FEVVERS
by
Jack Warner
Now a man I know a very funny kind of job enjoys
It's really making shuttlecocks and other feathered toys
His job's to bend the feathers so they stick a certain way
And this is what he told me when I saw him yesterday.
He's a fumper and a flattener of fevvers
He's a fevver fumper that's the job 'e's at,
'Cos when a fevver furls up and when a fevver curls up
The fevver fumper fumps the fevver flat.
Now the fevver fumper feeds the fevver fixer
And the fixer fixes fevvers that 'e's dumped
But the curled ones he refuses, so the fevvers that 'e uses
Are the fevvers that the fevver fumper's fumped.
;D ;D That's great S, I tried to speak the final two verses aloud - but failed miserably ;D ;D :y
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Yes Z.Jack Warner used to do very amusing 'Monologues' as a side line. Can you remember any of them?
I can't really S but I found this example of his talent on the 'Tube;
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Etjoc0fJFjk[/media]
Brill :y
Here is a copy of the script to one of his monologues............................
A FUMPER AND FLATTENER OF FEVVERS
by
Jack Warner
Now a man I know a very funny kind of job enjoys
It's really making shuttlecocks and other feathered toys
His job's to bend the feathers so they stick a certain way
And this is what he told me when I saw him yesterday.
He's a fumper and a flattener of fevvers
He's a fevver fumper that's the job 'e's at,
'Cos when a fevver furls up and when a fevver curls up
The fevver fumper fumps the fevver flat.
Now the fevver fumper feeds the fevver fixer
And the fixer fixes fevvers that 'e's dumped
But the curled ones he refuses, so the fevvers that 'e uses
Are the fevvers that the fevver fumper's fumped.
;D ;D That's great S, I tried to speak the final two verses aloud - but failed miserably ;D ;D :y
Many more on this link.................. :y
http://monologues.co.uk/Jack_Warner/Funny_Occupations_1.htm
The one about alabaster is really funny :y
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Another piece of British history is the employment of women to overcome the shortages of men due to the First World War.
This picture shows a female clippy engaged during that conflict:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/FirstWWClippy.jpg)
;) ;)
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You look so well in that photo Lizzie.. :y is this where your interest in all things, bus, comes from.... :D :D :D
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You look so well in that photo Lizzie.. :y is this where your interest in all things, bus, comes from.... :D :D :D
Yes Mike, I was a slip of a girl then going forward into a mans world! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;) Anything to do with transport fascinated me then and now! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
That uniform is rather smart and fetching though. Female transport police officers wore something similiar at the time.
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Like this Mike; Railway Police woman 1917:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/All%20Things%20Interesting/RailwayPoliceWoman.png)
8-) 8-)
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You look so well in that photo Lizzie.. :y is this where your interest in all things, bus, comes from.... :D :D :D
Yes Mike, I was a slip of a girl then going forward into a mans world! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;) Anything to do with transport fascinated me then and now! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
That uniform is rather smart and fetching though. Female transport police officers wore something similiar at the time.
Perhaps you would have been doing this had you been in your prime at that time E.
The “Spitfire Women”, although not all of them got to fly the fighter pilots’ favourite plane, were the 164 female pilots of the Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA). Once planes had been built a British factories, or shipped from overseas, or repaired after major damage, or indeed had to be scrapped, they had to be transported to where they were needed. So:
“In all, the ATA delivered 308,567 aircraft, including 57,286 Spitfires, 29,401 Hurricanes, 9,805 Lancasters and 7,039 Barracudas of the type that took Betty Keith-Jopp to the dark floor of the Firth of Forth. In mid-1942, when British aircraft production reached its peak, the ATA was moving more planes each day than British Airways did on a typical day in 2006.”
Read more at;
http://philobiblon.co.uk/?p=2291
Without women the world doesnt work but during times of conflict and national emergency women invariably step up and expose themselve to as much danger as men - as they're presently doing overseas and on our streets.
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You look so well in that photo Lizzie.. :y is this where your interest in all things, bus, comes from.... :D :D :D
Yes Mike, I was a slip of a girl then going forward into a mans world! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;) Anything to do with transport fascinated me then and now! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
That uniform is rather smart and fetching though. Female transport police officers wore something similiar at the time.
Perhaps you would have been doing this had you been in your prime at that time E.
The “Spitfire Women”, although not all of them got to fly the fighter pilots’ favourite plane, were the 164 female pilots of the Air Transport Auxiliary (ATA). Once planes had been built a British factories, or shipped from overseas, or repaired after major damage, or indeed had to be scrapped, they had to be transported to where they were needed. So:
“In all, the ATA delivered 308,567 aircraft, including 57,286 Spitfires, 29,401 Hurricanes, 9,805 Lancasters and 7,039 Barracudas of the type that took Betty Keith-Jopp to the dark floor of the Firth of Forth. In mid-1942, when British aircraft production reached its peak, the ATA was moving more planes each day than British Airways did on a typical day in 2006.”
Read more at;
http://philobiblon.co.uk/?p=2291
Without women the world doesnt work but during times of conflict and national emergency women invariably step up and expose themselve to as much danger as men - as they're presently doing overseas and on our streets.
All of those are great quotes Zulu :y :y :y :y :y :y :y
It is hard to believe, although so true, that the two women shown in the Great War years did not have the right to vote! >:( >:( That only came in 1918 :o :o :o
However after WW1 no one could deny the right of women to have the vote after all the work they achieved, and this worth was certainly repeated again during WWII as your quotes highlight, along with all those women undertaking skilled tasks in aircraft, munitions, and general manufacturing industries. 8-) 8-) 8-)
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And the most famous of the ATA pilots, being the first to be killed, in very strange "Top Secret" circumstances, was of course the wonderful Amy Johnson:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/All%20Things%20Interesting/AmyJohnson.jpg)
8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
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Driving buses during the Second World War was a dangerous occupation.
These brave souls kept the communications of transport going:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/DoverBusDriversCanteen.jpg)
Dover bus drivers and women conductors enjoy a spot of tea.Their mobile canteen, parked on a side street, once was a double-decker bus. Another old bus serves as the bus company’s local office. A Nazi bomb fell in the street outside the original company building, ripped off the front, killed 14 people, and hurt 30 more.
They manned their buses along bombed streets, this one in Dover:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/DoverWarBus.jpg)
Does anyone know the make and model of that bus??
Women Bus Drivers became common during the war years:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/WomenBusDrivers.jpg)
Of course WWII was not the first time buses had been used during a war; these omnibuses are carrying British troops to the Western Front during the 1914-18 War:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/omnibus_buses.gif)
Back to WWII, and of course bus crews undertook dangerous work in the cities and they could be casualities:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/blitz_bus.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LondonBlitzBus.jpg)
Who hasn't seen this famous scene:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/UpturnedBlitzBus.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LondonBlitzCraterBus.jpg)
......and not forgetting other cities like Bristol:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BristolBlitzBus.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/DestroyedBuses.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BlitzBusDestroyed.jpg)
Just over 70 years ago these bus crews faced daily danger from above. Let's remember them.
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The location here is indeed Aberavon Beach.
For local BET subsidiary Thomas Bros (Port Talbot) Ltd; 'The Beach' was indeed 'big business' during the Summer months, as evidenced in this early 1960s view of a heavily-laden, (and crew-operated!) bus arriving at the seafront terminus opposite the Jersey Beach Hotel. Miami Beach funfair is just out of view to the right.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img203.jpg)[/img]
PTX 202 was numerically the last of four 1955 Leyland Tiger Cubs with durable 30ft 44-seat Weymann 'Hermes' all-metal bodies. The others being PTX 197/8/9.
The engine was the strong little Leyland 0.350; horizontally-mounted amidships and driving through an Albion 5-speed 'crash' gearbox to a very reliable single-speed Eaton/Leyland spiral-bevel rear axle.
Just like neighbouring BET concerns Western Welsh and Rhondda Transport, Thomas Bros found the lightweight Tiger Cub to be an excellent 'maid of all work'. Little wonder then, that a second-hand Thomas Bros Tiger Cub was pretty well worn-out!
Around half of their 40ish-strong fleet consisted of these useful Leylands - the AEC Reliance being the popular choice for coaching duties and later 36ft service buses at Port Talbot.
The livery was 'Thomas Bros Blue' (or was it 'Thomas Bros Green'?) with cream relief - a hotly-debated subject!
The next (colour) photo of a Thomas Bros bus on Aberavon seafront will show why this was so!
Thomas' buses never carried fleet numbers, and the fleet name font was Gill Sans (in cream).
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Hi Lizzie Zoom.
Looking for info on MUD975?
:)
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Hi Lizzie Zoom.
Looking for info on MUD975?
:)
PM Lizzie if you know its whereabouts :y
-
I have been searching for about 6 weeks, nade some progress, but am still working on it rest assured.
D.
-
Hi Lizzie Zoom.
Looking for info on MUD975?
:)
PM Lizzie if you know its whereabouts :y
Yes please!! 8-) 8-) 8-) :y :y
-
Hi Lizzie Zoom.
Looking for info on MUD975?
:)
PM Lizzie if you know its whereabouts :y
Yes please!! 8-) 8-) 8-) :y :y
Lizzie, will send you a PM in a few minutes OK.
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Well, I don't know where MUD975 is today, but I used to own it until about 1987.
What you have posted about it being at the Mid-Hants Railway at Ropley is correct, but after our group relocated to Bittern, Bristol, the bus was towed to Peter Moor's yard near Woolwich, in 1986. About a year later they were told to leave the yard in Woolwich, and I had a phone call from Peter to say he could not re-home our bus, and that the back end was very rotten, and the gear box could not be fixed, so regrettably I agreed to it being scrapped.
That was the end of the story for me, until I had a call from a friend in Bristol tonight, and the discovery of a picture of MUD975 on Photobucket.
http://s282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/?action=view¤t=scan1.jpg#
Now, I have no idea where, or when this picture was taken, but it's post my ownership. I can see the Chiltern Queens lettering has been removed from the side, only leaving the the logo in the circle on the side. The passenger side window has some signs stuck on the top passenger window, and there seems to be some lettering over the front grill. All these things were not done by me, so this picture seems to indicate MUD975 survived post scrapping in 1987.
That's all I can add, but I could look out some old pictures of MUD975 when she was in my ownership.
-
Hi Lizzie Zoom.
Looking for info on MUD975?
:)
PM Lizzie if you know its whereabouts :y
Yes please!! 8-) 8-) 8-) :y :y
Lizzie, will send you a PM in a few minutes OK.
Thanks Di! :y :y
-
PM Sent :y :y
-
Answering PM sent Di :y :y
For everyone else that has followed the MUD 975 story it is now apparent that the poor old coach met it's end in Croyden with a u/s gearbox and rotten rear chassis :'( :'( :'(.
THanks Di for the brilliant detective work!! 8-) 8-) 8-) :y :y
-
Answering PM sent Di :y :y
For everyone else that has followed the MUD 975 story it is now apparent that the poor old coach met it's end in Croyden with a u/s gearbox and rotten rear chassis :'( :'( :'(.
THanks Di for the brilliant detective work!! 8-) 8-) 8-) :y :y
Lizzie, thanks for that, it has been my pleasure, but it may not have been scrapped according to the e-mail or am I reading it incorrectly? Did you call the guy in the e-mail?
Until someone tells me they personally scrapped it I am going to keep searching.
D.
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Answering PM sent Di :y :y
For everyone else that has followed the MUD 975 story it is now apparent that the poor old coach met it's end in Croyden with a u/s gearbox and rotten rear chassis :'( :'( :'(.
THanks Di for the brilliant detective work!! 8-) 8-) 8-) :y :y
Lizzie, thanks for that, it has been my pleasure, but it may not have been scrapped according to the e-mail or am I reading it incorrectly? Did you call the guy in the e-mail?
Until someone tells me they personally scrapped it I am going to keep searching.
D.
Yes I think you are I am afraid Di.
John Graham, in his own words or mine by deduction, stated that the Coach was sent to a Peter in Croydon for the gearbox to be repaired, who found he couldn't, plus he found the rear chassis was badly rotten. It was then scrapped.
John Graham's only doubt was my picture of it sitting on the drive of my ex's and mine house which he thought was after he had handed the coach over to the aforementioned Peter. He was incorrect to assume that as that picture was taken c.1980/1 whilst the coach was very much still owned by the railway society that John Graham chaired, and well before any gearbox trouble and the Croydon link :y :y
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Well, I don't know where MUD975 is today, but I used to own it until about 1987.
What you have posted about it being at the Mid-Hants Railway at Ropley is correct, but after our group relocated to Bittern, Bristol, the bus was towed to Peter Moor's yard near Woolwich, in 1986. About a year later they were told to leave the yard in Woolwich, and I had a phone call from Peter to say he could not re-home our bus, and that the back end was very rotten, and the gear box could not be fixed, so regrettably I agreed to it being scrapped.
That was the end of the story for me, until I had a call from a friend in Bristol tonight, and the discovery of a picture of MUD975 on Photobucket.
http://s282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/?action=view¤t=scan1.jpg#
Now, I have no idea where, or when this picture was taken, but it's post my ownership. I can see the Chiltern Queens lettering has been removed from the side, only leaving the the logo in the circle on the side. The passenger side window has some signs stuck on the top passenger window, and there seems to be some lettering over the front grill. All these things were not done by me, so this picture seems to indicate MUD975 survived post scrapping in 1987.
That's all I can add, but I could look out some old pictures of MUD975 when she was in my ownership.
Thanks very much Col. Gibbon for that great information which actually confirms the worst about MUD 975; it was scrapped!! :'( :'(
The picture I am afraid was taken c.1980/81 when it was on loan from the railway society and John Graham at Ropley to my husband and I with us being Mid-Hants Railway members / shareholders. After that picture and some future use, the coach went back to Ropley where it sat for some time with dodgy batteries. After that we moved to Bristol (of all places!) and we lost contact with MUD 975.
Thanks again for your very useful input :y :y
I hope you stay around on this Forum as we do talk trains in General Chat every so often!! 8-) 8-) 8-) :D :D :D
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PM Sent :y :y
Come on Di, I'm bursting to know. What have you found!!!!!!
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PM Sent :y :y
Come on Di, I'm bursting to know. What have you found!!!!!!
Well, I don't believe this is the end of the saga to be honest. There is a Debbie involved here from somewhere????
I am going to keep looking until a person sends me an e-mail and says they put it through the wringer. :y :y
P.S I have tonight received two further e-mails and there are well better news, I THINK.
I need to peruse them a little more and pass them onto Lizzie for her to evaluate.....
-
Answering PM sent Di :y :y
For everyone else that has followed the MUD 975 story it is now apparent that the poor old coach met it's end in Croyden with a u/s gearbox and rotten rear chassis :'( :'( :'(.
THanks Di for the brilliant detective work!! 8-) 8-) 8-) :y :y
Looking back, it's a pity that I wasn't involved at this point in time Lizzie ......
The 'boxes in those Reliances were pretty well bullet-proof - no doubt I could have sourced one/ changed it for you.
I'd be surprised to find that the chassis was corroded though - more likely to be body-frame rot aft of the rear axle.
Duple bodies of the period had a fair amount of timber framing and were of 'composite' construction.
-
Answering PM sent Di :y :y
For everyone else that has followed the MUD 975 story it is now apparent that the poor old coach met it's end in Croyden with a u/s gearbox and rotten rear chassis :'( :'( :'(.
THanks Di for the brilliant detective work!! 8-) 8-) 8-) :y :y
Looking back, it's a pity that I wasn't involved at this point in time Lizzie ......
The 'boxes in those Reliances were pretty well bullet-proof - no doubt I could have sourced one/ changed it for you.
I'd be surprised to find that the chassis was corroded though - more likely to be body-frame rot aft of the rear axle.
Duple bodies of the period had a fair amount of timber framing and were of 'composite' construction.
I am thinking your direction Byron, I do not believe(yet) that this bus has been scrapped, an e-mail I have received points me that way of thinking, but there seems to be a red herring here somewhere. I will keep on searching :y :y :y
PM SENT Seth
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Answering PM sent Di :y :y
For everyone else that has followed the MUD 975 story it is now apparent that the poor old coach met it's end in Croyden with a u/s gearbox and rotten rear chassis :'( :'( :'(.
THanks Di for the brilliant detective work!! 8-) 8-) 8-) :y :y
Looking back, it's a pity that I wasn't involved at this point in time Lizzie ......
The 'boxes in those Reliances were pretty well bullet-proof - no doubt I could have sourced one/ changed it for you.
I'd be surprised to find that the chassis was corroded though - more likely to be body-frame rot aft of the rear axle.
Duple bodies of the period had a fair amount of timber framing and were of 'composite' construction.
Yes Byron, I think you could well have saved this vehicle, but I am afraid it was owned by a railway preservation society, and as they bought MUD 975 very cheaply, it was not a top priority in the 1980s to waste too much time on her. When my husband knew the people involved they were all young and carefree, with not much forethought as what to do with this coach which at first seemed like a prize, then no doubt turned into a liability on Mid Hants Railway property! ::) ::)
Anyway, I have sent the following (open) message to Di to clarity some obvious points of confusion:
"Well obviously the coach may be scrapped, but the story rolls on Di! :D :D :D :D :D
I AM Lizzie Freeman, or more correctly Elizabeth Freeman, but certainly have no connection with any fairgound family, although with my father being in the Royal Navy for 26 years we certainly felt like travellers following him on his drafts!! ::) ::) ::) :D :D :D ;)
I have no idea who Debbie is, although I knew one well in Bristol. As for the photo that was taken by ME in 1980/81 when sitting on our drive in Fair Oak, Hampshire, well before John Graham parted company with it. So nothing special there, with no secret story, more the pity! ::) ::)
As for the coach being in Thornton Heath................well that must be another story, especially as we have had Col. Gibbons confirm he authorised the scrapping of MUD 975.
Unless someone produces a photo I think we should now accept the coach has gone, one way or another ;) ;)
Once again Di, thanks for your perseverance with this one! :-* :-* :-*
-
The location here is indeed Aberavon Beach.
For local BET subsidiary Thomas Bros (Port Talbot) Ltd; 'The Beach' was indeed 'big business' during the Summer months, as evidenced in this early 1960s view of a heavily-laden, (and crew-operated!) bus arriving at the seafront terminus opposite the Jersey Beach Hotel. Miami Beach funfair is just out of view to the right.
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img203.jpg)[/img]
PTX 202 was numerically the last of four 1955 Leyland Tiger Cubs with durable 30ft 44-seat Weymann 'Hermes' all-metal bodies. The others being PTX 197/8/9.
The engine was the strong little Leyland 0.350; horizontally-mounted amidships and driving through an Albion 5-speed 'crash' gearbox to a very reliable single-speed Eaton/Leyland spiral-bevel rear axle.
Just like neighbouring BET concerns Western Welsh and Rhondda Transport, Thomas Bros found the lightweight Tiger Cub to be an excellent 'maid of all work'. Little wonder then, that a second-hand Thomas Bros Tiger Cub was pretty well worn-out!
Around half of their 40ish-strong fleet consisted of these useful Leylands - the AEC Reliance being the popular choice for coaching duties and later 36ft service buses at Port Talbot.
The livery was 'Thomas Bros Blue' (or was it 'Thomas Bros Green'?) with cream relief - a hotly-debated subject!
The next (colour) photo of a Thomas Bros bus on Aberavon seafront will show why this was so!
Thomas' buses never carried fleet numbers, and the fleet name font was Gill Sans (in cream).
The fascinating point about this picture is the bus conductor standing at the front of the coach fully uniformed with ticket machine. No loose clothing, only smart company uniform even in Summer.
These officials were the object of much attention by us contemporary kids, wondering about how the conductor turned the knurled 'wheels' on top of his / her machine to give mum the ticket for our journey.
Also worth attention is at least one women on her way in the 'beach' bus fully dressed, with colourful hat, along with everyone else smartly dressed. As sign of the times then, when adults dressed smartly even for going to the beach (something I noticed when my Great Aunts took me to Hastings in about 1958), and men even wore ties and trousers with braces. So amusing now, but then it was the norm! :P :P
That bus is so typical of the era, and if that is on a hot day, then it would be very warm inside with those tiny windows to open. BO was a common problem in the days before the mass use of deoderant, and that is one thing I will always remember - along with a teacher who had terribly smelly breath and the boys always smelt of wee.........and should be avoided like the plague!! :P :P :P But, that's another story! :D :D :D :D :D ;) ;)
-
The fascinating point about this picture is the bus conductor standing at the front of the coach fully uniformed with ticket machine. No loose clothing, only smart company uniform even in Summer.
These officials were the object of much attention by us contemporary kids, wondering about how the conductor turned the knurled 'wheels' on top of his / her machine to give mum the ticket for our journey.
Also worth attention is at least one women on her way in the 'beach' bus fully dressed, with colourful hat, along with everyone else smartly dressed. As sign of the times then, when adults dressed smartly even for going to the beach (something I noticed when my Great Aunts took me to Hastings in about 1958), and men even wore ties and trousers with braces. So amusing now, but then it was the norm! :P :P
That bus is so typical of the era, and if that is on a hot day, then it would be very warm inside with those tiny windows to open. BO was a common problem in the days before the mass use of deoderant, and that is one thing I will always remember - along with a teacher who had terribly smelly breath and the boys always smelt of wee.........and should be avoided like the plague!! :P :P :P But, that's another story! :D :D :D :D :D ;) ;)
Aye, you dare not report for duty without wearing a full company-issue uniform in those days Lizzie, else you'd find yourself 'on the mat' in front of 'the guvnor'!
:D
However, a concession was a lighter-weight version for the Summer months - I've still got my Western Welsh 'Summer' jacket here!
A light grey blazer with blue collars and cuffs, with gold-coloured 'Western Welsh' embroidered onto the collars. The buttons are chrome-plated with the WW emblem embossed on them.
:D
That ticket machine was the ubiquitous Setright jobbie!
:y
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Too much writing and not enough pics, if you want to keep it going....... :D :D :D
-
The London pre-war bus scene was something my mother and her parents, my gandparents, had as part of their everyday lives, probably taking little notice of it as we take little notice of the scene today. They went to work, to play, and generally live around these everyday scenes, not knowing how things would soon dramatically change with 30,000 of their fellow Londoners killed during the oncoming blitz (part 1). But these were the buses they would have been famaliar with.
A pre=war RT113 London Bus with fore and aft route indicator boxes on the roof:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/RT113Bus.jpg)
Some of these buses went on to future lives; here is the converted RT buses of the AWRE Aldermastern in the early 1960s:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/AWREEx-LondonBuses.jpg)
Here is a RT127 pictured in 1963 at the Upton Park Garage, London:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/UptonParkscenein1963ofRT127.jpg)
Between September 1939 and May 1940 the 2RT2's were developed, and apparently 338 of them should have been built, but the outbreak of war and Dunkirk meant building was considerably delayed:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LondonBus2RT2.jpg)
This is a London Transport Utility Bus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LondonBusUtility.jpg)
Open Staircase London Bus:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/OpenStaircaseLondonBus.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/PrewarLondonBus.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/1940sLondonBus.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LondonStreet.jpg)
;) ;) ;)
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Some of these buses went on to future lives; here is the converted RT buses of the AWRE Aldermastern in the early 1960s:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/AWREEx-LondonBuses.jpg)
I'm sure that these RTs were actually operated by Smith's of Reading on behalf of the AWRE at Aldermaston.
LUC 101, nearest the camera, may well have originally been a green, (Country Area) bus, as it has platform doors fitted as opposed to the commonplace open platform usually associated with Central Area (red) buses. Maybe someone can confirm?
These RTs were replaced by brand-new Park Royal AEC Regent Vs in due course.
If you look to the left of the RTs in the picture, you'll see the rear end of a Duple-bodied AEC Reliance coach lurking there.
That coach was the earlier, (mid-1950s), version of Lizzie's former Chiltern Queens Reliance MUD 975!
:y
Smith's of Reading were prominent AEC operators - their fleet livery being dark blue with orange relief.
:y
[/quote]
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There were, and indeed are, some very interesting people in the bus world :y
Werner Heubeck, who died on October 19 aged 85, was a former member of Rommel's Afrika Korps who became an unlikely hero of the Troubles in Northern Ireland when, as head of the Province's bus services, he boarded buses personally to remove bombs planted by the IRA; his exploits earned him an OBE and CBE.
More of this fascinating man here;
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituaries/6399856/Werner-Heubeck.html
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There were, and indeed are, some very interesting people in the bus world :y
Werner Heubeck, who died on October 19 aged 85, was a former member of Rommel's Afrika Korps who became an unlikely hero of the Troubles in Northern Ireland when, as head of the Province's bus services, he boarded buses personally to remove bombs planted by the IRA; his exploits earned him an OBE and CBE.
More of this fascinating man here;
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituaries/6399856/Werner-Heubeck.html
Are there???????????????????????? ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
I must admit I think this is the longest thread I have seen on the Forum... it could be a record breaker ;)
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the pic of london utility bodied guy HGC 130 if memory serves me right did at one time run up here for burton corporation. the guy i am shareholder in FA9716 was built with the same body as HGC but re-bodied by massey.
a little bit more useless info for you there. :y
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There were, and indeed are, some very interesting people in the bus world :y
Werner Heubeck, who died on October 19 aged 85, was a former member of Rommel's Afrika Korps who became an unlikely hero of the Troubles in Northern Ireland when, as head of the Province's bus services, he boarded buses personally to remove bombs planted by the IRA; his exploits earned him an OBE and CBE.
More of this fascinating man here;
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituaries/6399856/Werner-Heubeck.html
Are there???????????????????????? ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
I must admit I think this is the longest thread I have seen on the Forum... it could be a record breaker ;)
Well, I'm sure that there's loads more replies, judging by the amount of material that's constantly being unearthed.
:D
Any idea Daz (in your new capacity) what the longest-running thread is on OOF?
;)
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the pic of london utility bodied guy HGC 130 if memory serves me right did at one time run up here for burton corporation. the guy i am shareholder in FA9716 was built with the same body as HGC but re-bodied by massey.
a little bit more useless info for you there. :y
IIRC; the LT one depicted was a wartime Mark1 Arab with utility-spec Park Royal body as sanctioned by the Ministry of Supply.
Many of these had the Gardner 5LW engine, though those that entered wartime service with our neighbouring Rhondda Transport had the 6LW, 'cos the 5LW-powered Arabs simply couldn't cope with the terrain round these parts.
And fear not Jon, you haven't supplied useless information here!
:y
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There were, and indeed are, some very interesting people in the bus world :y
Werner Heubeck, who died on October 19 aged 85, was a former member of Rommel's Afrika Korps who became an unlikely hero of the Troubles in Northern Ireland when, as head of the Province's bus services, he boarded buses personally to remove bombs planted by the IRA; his exploits earned him an OBE and CBE.
More of this fascinating man here;
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituaries/6399856/Werner-Heubeck.html
Are there???????????????????????? ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
I must admit I think this is the longest thread I have seen on the Forum... it could be a record breaker ;)
Well, I'm sure that there's loads more replies, judging by the amount of material that's constantly being unearthed.
:D
Any idea Daz (in your new capacity) what the longest-running thread is on OOF?
;)
They don't trust me with all the controls yet mate, frightened incase I accidently slip with their Post Counts me thinks ;D
But I will ask :y
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burton corporation bought a few arabs( of the bus type) from london transport, bc tended to get the cheapest they could find & to have the 5LW also.
even the daimler deckers bought new had the 5LW.
a guttless wonder that engine. ;D
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There were, and indeed are, some very interesting people in the bus world :y
Werner Heubeck, who died on October 19 aged 85, was a former member of Rommel's Afrika Korps who became an unlikely hero of the Troubles in Northern Ireland when, as head of the Province's bus services, he boarded buses personally to remove bombs planted by the IRA; his exploits earned him an OBE and CBE.
More of this fascinating man here;
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/obituaries/6399856/Werner-Heubeck.html
Are there???????????????????????? ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
I must admit I think this is the longest thread I have seen on the Forum... it could be a record breaker ;)
Well, I'm sure that there's loads more replies, judging by the amount of material that's constantly being unearthed.
:D
Any idea Daz (in your new capacity) what the longest-running thread is on OOF?
;)
They don't trust me with all the controls yet mate, frightened incase I accidently slip with their Post Counts me thinks ;D
But I will ask :y
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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burton corporation bought a few arabs( of the bus type) from london transport, bc tended to get the cheapest they could find & to have the 5LW also.
even the daimler deckers bought new had the 5LW.
a guttless wonder that engine. ;D
You said it Jon ............ ;D ;D ;D ;D
Oooops, burp, been hittin' the ol' Nacwestle Bowrn again mate!
:D :D :D :D
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Now for those miggy owners who do not want to put a large LPG tank in their boot, but still run on gas, you could try this;
the 1943 answer to powering buses by gas:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/GasPoweredBus.jpg)
:D :D ;)
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Finally Sethsmate, I am posting the picture that you asked me to post for you.................. :y
Got to be at the beach area near Port Talbot, the name of the beach escapes me............. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img204.jpg)[/img]
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The location is Aberavon Beach and the photo was taken on a lovely Summer evening in late July 1969.
Day's amusement arcade is left, and you can just see the facade of Miami Beach Pleasure Park lurking between the two buses.
If you look closely at the bus stop flag in the left foreground, it will be seen that the sign has a 'Rhondda' legend cast onto it.
Yes, even Rhondda Transport's Leyland Tiger Cubs reached Aberavon via the spectacular Bwlch Mountain and Afan Valley, on a 'Summer Sundays Only' limited-stop service and often operating in convoy, such was the demand at this time!
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img204.jpg)[/img]
Here's a Thomas Bros bus rounding the curve onto it's seafront stance on one of the intensive cross-town services.
The No.3 route linked the northern suburb of Goytre with the expansive Sandfields Estate via Port Talbot town centre and the beach.
OTX 137F was one of a trio of identical 36ft AEC Reliances with 51-seat Marshall bodies that arrived new in November 1967.
They were of the 6MU3R model, with AH505 engines and 5-speed all-synchromesh gearboxes.
With no power steering, they were heavy beasts to manoeuvre, though they were superb buses otherwise.
The destination blind displays "Sandfields Estate via Aberavon Beach, Four Winds and Dalton Road" and the livery is that superb 'Thomas Bros Blue' with a primrose waistband.
The fleetname font has changed from Gill Sans to a 'bold-extended' style.
:y :y :y
Awaiting departure on the lengthy 7 route to Swansea is South Wales Transport Co 597, one of a sizeable batch of 30ft Park Royal-bodied AEC Regent Mk5s which were new in 1964.
:y
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I was right about Port Talbot then! Ish! :y
Kev
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I was right about Port Talbot then! Ish! :y
Kev
;D ;D ;D
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Here is a nice Blue Bus or is it Green? Where was this one taken then Byron?................. :y
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img2051.jpg)[/img]
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'Twas taken at the eastbound Aberavon Beach bus stop in Summer 1968, and is another view of '137' when still quite new.
It's crew-operated, as 'one-manning' was yet to be introduced with Thomas Bros at this time.
Seen here working an eastbound journey on the 3 service to the pretty suburb of Goytre, 137 shows off the contemporary Thomas Bros livery to good effect. It would have been lovingly applied using the traditional 'brush method' by resident coachpainter, the late Tom Warmington.
Was the main colour 'Thomas Bros Blue' or was it 'Thomas Bros Green'?
Apparently, this was an oft-debated subject amongst the Port Talbot staff - I'll let you decide ............. !
(http://[IMG]http://i130.photobucket.com/albums/p242/splott_album/img2051.jpg)[/img]
In the background to the left of the bus is the then newly-completed Afan Lido, an Olympic-spec swimming pool which has nowadays been further developed into a substantial leisure complex.
To the right you can see a number of buses and coaches in the parking area.
The red-liveried one is none other than a Midland Red CM6T motorway express coach. Aberavon (along with the other South Wales coastal resorts), was a popular day-trip destination for many Midlanders at this time.
The blue/cream liveried buses are from the vast Llynfi Motors of Maesteg fleet, and were no doubt laying-over between duties on their busy service from that town.
:y
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1968...........that to me was a great year!
Your picture looks so peaceful with a bus going about its summer business in Wales, with a lovely metalic silver example of a Cortina Mk2 in the back ground, probably a basic 1.6, the same as my father's first company car.
I was in Butlins Bognor (what a dump!!) with my parents for two weeks in August 1968. Great music, and my personal favourites, had been published that year including: I Say A Little Prayer by Anthea Franklin, Those Were The Days by May Hopkin, and more importantly than even those, Hey Jude by the Beatles, with the 'B' side Revolution.
Very apt as the Warsaw Pact invasion of Czechoslovakia after an uprising had taken place whilst we were at Butlins!
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/All%20Things%20Interesting/1968_Czechoslovakia.jpg)
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BUaMkQAYQNw
Yes, and there are typical eastern European buses in this clip, some complete, some not! :'( :'(
So whilst the bus sat there at the bus stop, and I was in Butlins enjoying a paeceful British summers day, heartbreak was taking place in Czechoslovakia :'( :'(
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How many of these do you remember from 1968,I think it was one of the best years for memorable hits. :y :y :y
1 Hey Jude The Beatles
2 Honey Bobby Goldsboro
3 Love Is Blue Paul Mauriat
4 (Sittin' On) The Dock Of The Bay Otis Redding
5 People Got To Be Free Rascals
6 Sunshine Of Your Love Cream
7 This Guy's In Love With You Herb Alpert
8 Stoned Soul Picnic Fifth Dimension
9 Mrs. Robinson Simon and Garfunkel
10 Tighten Up Archie Bell and The Drells
11 The Good The Bad And The Ugly Hugo Montenegro
12 Little Green Apples O.C. Smith
13 Mony Mony, Tommy James and The Shondells
14 Hello I Love You, The Doors
15 Young Girl Gary Puckett and The Union Gap
16 Cry Like A Baby Box Tops
17 Harper Valley P.T.A. Jeannie C. Riley
18 Grazing In The Grass Hugh Masekela
19 Midnight Confessions The Grass Roots
20 Dance To The Music Sly and The Family Stone
21 The Horse Cliff Nobles and Co.
22 I Wish It Would Rain Temptations
23 La-La Means I Love You Delfonics
24 Turn Around Look At Me Vogues
25 Judy In Disguise (With Glasses) John Fred and His Playboy Band
26 Spooky Classics IV
27 Love Child Diana Ross and The Supremes
28 Angel Of The Morning Merrilee Rush
29 The Ballad Of Bonnie And Clyde Georgie Fame
30 Those Were The Days Mary Hopkin
31 Born To Be Wild Steppenwolf
32 Cowboys To Girls Intruders
33 Simon Says 1910 Fruitgum Company
34 Lady Willpower Gary Puckett and The Union Gap
35 A Beautiful Morning Rascals
36 The Look Of Love Sergio Mendes and Brasil '66
37 Hold Me Tight Johnny Nash
38 Yummy Yumm Yummy Ohio Express
39 Fire Crazy World Of Arthur Brown
40 Love Is All Around Troggs
41 Playboy Gene and Debbe
42 (Theme From) Valley Of The Dolls Dionne Warwick
43 Classical Gas Mason Williams
44 Slip Away Clarence Carter
45 Girl Watcher O'Kaysions
46 (Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You've Been Gone Aretha Franklin
47 Green Tambourine Lemon Pipers
48 1 2 3 Red Light 1910 Fruitgum Company
49 Reach Out Of The Darkness Friend and Lover
50 Jumpin' Jack Flash The Rolling Stones
51 MacArthur Park Richard Harris
52 Light My Fire Jose Feliciano
53 I Love You People
54 Take Time To Know Her Percy Sledge
55 Pictures Of Matchstick Men Status Quo
56 Summertime Blues Blue Cheer
57 Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
58 I Got The Feelin' James Brown and The Famous Flames
59 I've Gotta Get A Message To You Bee Gees
60 Lady Madonna The Beatles
61 Hurdy Gurdy Man Donovan
62 Magic Carpet Ride Steppenwolf
63 Bottle Of Wine Fireballs
64 Stay In My Corner Dells
65 Soul Serenade Willie Mitchell
66 Delilah Tom Jones
67 Nobody But Me Human Beinz
68 I Thank You Sam and Dave
69 The Fool On The Hill Sergio Mendes and Brasil '66
70 Sky Pilot Eric Burdon and The Animals
71 Indian Lake The Cowsills
72 I Wonder What She's Doing Tonight Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart
73 Over You Gary Puckett and The Union Gap
74 Goin' Out Of My Head / Can't Take My Eyes Off You The Lettermen
75 Shoo-Bee-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day Stevie Wonder
76 The Unicorn The Irish Rovers
77 (You Keep Me) Hangin' On Vanilla Fudge
78 Revolution The Beatles
79 Woman Woman, Gary Puckett and The Union Gap
80 Elenore Turtles
81 Sweet Inspiration Sweet Inspirations
82 The Mighty Quinn Manfred Mann
83 Baby Now That I've Found You, Foundations
84 White Room Cream
85 If You Can Want Smokey Robinson and The Miracles
86 Cab Driver The Mills Brothers
87 Time Has Come Today The Chambers Brothers
88 Do You Know The Way To San Jose Dionne Warwick
89 Scarborough Fair / Canticle Simon and Garfunkel
90 Think Aretha Franklin
91 You're All I Need To Get By Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
92 Here Comes The Judge Shorty Long
93 I Say A Little Prayer Aretha Franklin
94 Say It Loud I'm Black And I'm Proud
95 Sealed With A Kiss Gary Lewis and The Playboys
96 Piece Of My Heart Big Brother and The Holding Company
97 Suzie Q. Creedence Clearwater Revival
98 Bend Me Shape American Breed
99 Hey Western Union Man Jerry Butler
100 Never Give You Up
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How many of these do you remember from 1968,I think it was one of the best years for memorable hits. :y :y :y
1 Hey Jude The Beatles
2 Honey Bobby Goldsboro
3 Love Is Blue Paul Mauriat
4 (Sittin' On) The Dock Of The Bay Otis Redding
5 People Got To Be Free Rascals
6 Sunshine Of Your Love Cream
7 This Guy's In Love With You Herb Alpert
8 Stoned Soul Picnic Fifth Dimension
9 Mrs. Robinson Simon and Garfunkel
10 Tighten Up Archie Bell and The Drells
11 The Good The Bad And The Ugly Hugo Montenegro
12 Little Green Apples O.C. Smith
13 Mony Mony, Tommy James and The Shondells
14 Hello I Love You, The Doors
15 Young Girl Gary Puckett and The Union Gap
16 Cry Like A Baby Box Tops
17 Harper Valley P.T.A. Jeannie C. Riley
18 Grazing In The Grass Hugh Masekela
19 Midnight Confessions The Grass Roots
20 Dance To The Music Sly and The Family Stone
21 The Horse Cliff Nobles and Co.
22 I Wish It Would Rain Temptations
23 La-La Means I Love You Delfonics
24 Turn Around Look At Me Vogues
25 Judy In Disguise (With Glasses) John Fred and His Playboy Band
26 Spooky Classics IV
27 Love Child Diana Ross and The Supremes
28 Angel Of The Morning Merrilee Rush
29 The Ballad Of Bonnie And Clyde Georgie Fame
30 Those Were The Days Mary Hopkin
31 Born To Be Wild Steppenwolf
32 Cowboys To Girls Intruders
33 Simon Says 1910 Fruitgum Company
34 Lady Willpower Gary Puckett and The Union Gap
35 A Beautiful Morning Rascals
36 The Look Of Love Sergio Mendes and Brasil '66
37 Hold Me Tight Johnny Nash
38 Yummy Yumm Yummy Ohio Express
39 Fire Crazy World Of Arthur Brown
40 Love Is All Around Troggs
41 Playboy Gene and Debbe
42 (Theme From) Valley Of The Dolls Dionne Warwick
43 Classical Gas Mason Williams
44 Slip Away Clarence Carter
45 Girl Watcher O'Kaysions
46 (Sweet Sweet Baby) Since You've Been Gone Aretha Franklin
47 Green Tambourine Lemon Pipers
48 1 2 3 Red Light 1910 Fruitgum Company
49 Reach Out Of The Darkness Friend and Lover
50 Jumpin' Jack Flash The Rolling Stones
51 MacArthur Park Richard Harris
52 Light My Fire Jose Feliciano
53 I Love You People
54 Take Time To Know Her Percy Sledge
55 Pictures Of Matchstick Men Status Quo
56 Summertime Blues Blue Cheer
57 Ain't Nothing Like The Real Thing Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
58 I Got The Feelin' James Brown and The Famous Flames
59 I've Gotta Get A Message To You Bee Gees
60 Lady Madonna The Beatles
61 Hurdy Gurdy Man Donovan
62 Magic Carpet Ride Steppenwolf
63 Bottle Of Wine Fireballs
64 Stay In My Corner Dells
65 Soul Serenade Willie Mitchell
66 Delilah Tom Jones
67 Nobody But Me Human Beinz
68 I Thank You Sam and Dave
69 The Fool On The Hill Sergio Mendes and Brasil '66
70 Sky Pilot Eric Burdon and The Animals
71 Indian Lake The Cowsills
72 I Wonder What She's Doing Tonight Tommy Boyce and Bobby Hart
73 Over You Gary Puckett and The Union Gap
74 Goin' Out Of My Head / Can't Take My Eyes Off You The Lettermen
75 Shoo-Bee-Doo-Be-Doo-Da-Day Stevie Wonder
76 The Unicorn The Irish Rovers
77 (You Keep Me) Hangin' On Vanilla Fudge
78 Revolution The Beatles
79 Woman Woman, Gary Puckett and The Union Gap
80 Elenore Turtles
81 Sweet Inspiration Sweet Inspirations
82 The Mighty Quinn Manfred Mann
83 Baby Now That I've Found You, Foundations
84 White Room Cream
85 If You Can Want Smokey Robinson and The Miracles
86 Cab Driver The Mills Brothers
87 Time Has Come Today The Chambers Brothers
88 Do You Know The Way To San Jose Dionne Warwick
89 Scarborough Fair / Canticle Simon and Garfunkel
90 Think Aretha Franklin
91 You're All I Need To Get By Marvin Gaye and Tammi Terrell
92 Here Comes The Judge Shorty Long
93 I Say A Little Prayer Aretha Franklin
94 Say It Loud I'm Black And I'm Proud
95 Sealed With A Kiss Gary Lewis and The Playboys
96 Piece Of My Heart Big Brother and The Holding Company
97 Suzie Q. Creedence Clearwater Revival
98 Bend Me Shape American Breed
99 Hey Western Union Man Jerry Butler
100 Never Give You Up
Oh dear Splott, I remember 99% of those! :o :o :o
What a year that was; and I left school! :D :D :D ;)
-
August 11th 1968 of course saw the 15 Guineas Specials, the last scheduled BR steam trains:
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=GTY0YPsLePg[/media]
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/15GuineaSpecials.jpg)
:D :D ;)
-
great pic lizzie :y
-
1968...........that to me was a great year!
Your picture looks so peaceful with a bus going about its summer business in Wales, with a lovely metalic silver example of a Cortina Mk2 in the back ground, probably a basic 1.6, the same as my father's first company car.
I was in Butlins Bognor (what a dump!!) with my parents for two weeks in August 1968. Great music, and my personal favourites, had been published that year including: I Say A Little Prayer by Anthea Franklin, Those Were The Days by May Hopkin, and more importantly than even those, Hey Jude by the Beatles, with the 'B' side Revolution.
Very apt as the Warsaw Pact invasion of Czechoslovakia after an uprising had taken place whilst we were at Butlins!
A brilliant summary of that year Lizzie ........
:y
Have been studying that Mk2 Cortina meself, and I've got to agree with you, though the colour could be Blue Mink. Mind you, it could be Silver Fox - hmmm .....
:D
The peacefulness at Aberavon on that day would have been only slightly dented by the melodious sound of '137s' AH505 engine ticking-over at the bus stop!
:y
And the music:
I can tell you that the following numbers would no doubt have been belting out at the nearby Miami Beach Funfair:
Young Girl (Gary Puckett); Jesamine (The Casuals) and Everlasting Love (The Love Affair).
In fact, to capture this reminiscence I've got Young Girl playing on my iMac as I compile this reply!
:y
Oh, and 'Those were the days' was sung by Mary Hopkin, a local lass from nearby Pontardawe in the Swansea Valley.
You're slipping Lizzie!
;D
-
1968...........that to me was a great year!
Your picture looks so peaceful with a bus going about its summer business in Wales, with a lovely metalic silver example of a Cortina Mk2 in the back ground, probably a basic 1.6, the same as my father's first company car.
I was in Butlins Bognor (what a dump!!) with my parents for two weeks in August 1968. Great music, and my personal favourites, had been published that year including: I Say A Little Prayer by Anthea Franklin, Those Were The Days by May Hopkin, and more importantly than even those, Hey Jude by the Beatles, with the 'B' side Revolution.
Very apt as the Warsaw Pact invasion of Czechoslovakia after an uprising had taken place whilst we were at Butlins!
A brilliant summary of that year Lizzie ........
:y
Have been studying that Mk2 Cortina meself, and I've got to agree with you, though the colour could be Blue Mink. Mind you, it could be Silver Fox - hmmm .....
:D
The peacefulness at Aberavon on that day would have been only slightly dented by the melodious sound of '137s' AH505 engine ticking-over at the bus stop!
:y
And the music:
I can tell you that the following numbers would no doubt have been belting out at the nearby Miami Beach Funfair:
Young Girl (Gary Puckett); Jesamine (The Casuals) and Everlasting Love (The Love Affair).
In fact, to capture this reminiscence I've got Young Girl playing on my iMac as I compile this reply!
:y
Oh, and 'Those were the days' was sung by Mary Hopkin, a local lass from nearby Pontardawe in the Swansea Valley.
You're slipping Lizzie!
;D
lol ;D ;D I mistyped Mary!! :-[ :-[ ;) ;)
-
lol ;D ;D I mistyped Mary!! :-[ :-[ ;) ;)
You're forgiven Ms Zoom!
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
-
Now for those miggy owners who do not want to put a large LPG tank in their boot, but still run on gas, you could try this;
the 1943 answer to powering buses by gas:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/GasPoweredBus.jpg)
:D :D ;)
Time to fit a towbar....... :y :y :y
-
Now for those miggy owners who do not want to put a large LPG tank in their boot, but still run on gas, you could try this;
the 1943 answer to powering buses by gas:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/GasPoweredBus.jpg)
:D :D ;)
Time to fit a towbar....... :y :y :y
Think of the range you could get with a very large gas tank on a trailer behind Vamps! :D :D :D ;)
-
................of course with buses you could put a very large gas tank on the roof:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/All%20Things%20Interesting/WW2GasPoweredBus.jpg)
;) ;)
-
.................or you run a bus like this; an Oslo bus run on poo!
Yes methane gas extracted from human waste :D :D :D :D :y :y
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/All%20Things%20Interesting/oslo_bus.jpg)
For further details read this:
http://www.wired.com/autopia/2009/01/oslos-buses-to/
:D :D :D :D ;)
-
Given all the attention to 911 I wondered if there was a bus route 911?......would be great to see some pics, or perhaps trams... :D :D :D
-
Given all the attention to 911 I wondered if there was a bus route 911?......would be great to see some pics, or perhaps trams... :D :D :D
Is there a law against disinterring threads that are peacefully dead and buried?
;) ;D ;D :D
-
If there isnt there bloody well should be. ::) :-X :P
-
Given all the attention to 911 I wondered if there was a bus route 911?......would be great to see some pics, or perhaps trams... :D :D :D
Is there a law against disinterring threads that are peacefully dead and buried?
;) ;D ;D :D
Is there a longer one.....? and I find it interesting having driven buses and trucks some years ago, and still hold the appropriate licence to do so now.... :P :P
-
Given all the attention to 911 I wondered if there was a bus route 911?......would be great to see some pics, or perhaps trams... :D :D :D
Is there a law against disinterring threads that are peacefully dead and buried?
;) ;D ;D :D
Is there a longer one.....? and I find it interesting having driven buses and trucks some years ago, and still hold the appropriate licence to do so now.... :P :P
Well Vamps there is a Metrobus route 911:
http://www.metrobus.co.uk/timetable.php?route_id=110&type=week
:D :D :D ;) ;)
-
Things were quite sophisticated at one time. 8-) :y
The vehicles were christened “Gay Hostess” by the company and their turn of speed and air-suspension, allied with hostess service and toilet facility, provided the pinnacle of comfortable inter-city travel for 50 people.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ricardo4eyes/2750349324/
Mind you, I'm told that gay hostesses aren't all they're cracked up to be. :-? :y
-
Given all the attention to 911 I wondered if there was a bus route 911?......would be great to see some pics, or perhaps trams... :D :D :D
Is there a law against disinterring threads that are peacefully dead and buried?
;) ;D ;D :D
Is there a longer one.....? and I find it interesting having driven buses and trucks some years ago, and still hold the appropriate licence to do so now.... :P :P
Well Vamps there is a Metrobus route 911:
http://www.metrobus.co.uk/timetable.php?route_id=110&type=week
:D :D :D ;) ;)
Should be operated by Porsche
-
actually, I meant to say last week, but on my way to Knockhill I passed the Scottish Vintage Bus Museum in deepest, darkest Fife...must have passed it a dozen or so times in the past but never gave it a thought until this year :y
http://www.busweb.co.uk/Svbm/Stocklist.htm
just click on the reg nos for pics ;)
-
actually, I meant to say last week, but on my way to Knockhill I passed the Scottish Vintage Bus Museum in deepest, darkest Fife...must have passed it a dozen or so times in the past but never gave it a thought until this year :y
http://www.busweb.co.uk/Svbm/Stocklist.htm
just click on the reg nos for pics ;)
That's a great site BJ!! :y :y Thanks 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) ;)
-
Things were quite sophisticated at one time. 8-) :y
The vehicles were christened “Gay Hostess” by the company and their turn of speed and air-suspension, allied with hostess service and toilet facility, provided the pinnacle of comfortable inter-city travel for 50 people.
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ricardo4eyes/2750349324/
Mind you, I'm told that gay hostesses aren't all they're cracked up to be. :-? :y
[/highlight]
I suppose it all depends on a persons particular 'bent' Zulu? ::) ;D ;)
-
Here's an example of many of those 60's vehicles.
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7i1LltZE4q4[/media]
Brilliant....... :y :y :y
-
As Vic Reeves used to say "He wouldnt let it lie". ::) :D
-
Well it's more interesting than Halal Meat..... ::) ::) ::)
-
Well it's more interesting than Halal Meat..... ::) ::) ::)
Take it you are are bored then Mike, lol ::)
-
Well it's more interesting than Halal Meat..... ::) ::) ::)
Take it you are are bored then Mike, lol ::)
Not just me, seems very quiet tonight, though bed time now, got another week before me that you would not believe.........Text Book sexual abuse case, someones gona go down............. :-X :-X :-X
-
Well it's more interesting than Halal Meat..... ::) ::) ::)
Take it you are are bored then Mike, lol ::)
Not just me, seems very quiet tonight, though bed time now, got another week before me that you would not believe.........Text Book sexual abuse case, someones gona go down............. :-X :-X :-X
is that part of the abuse?
-
actually, I meant to say last week, but on my way to Knockhill I passed the Scottish Vintage Bus Museum in deepest, darkest Fife...must have passed it a dozen or so times in the past but never gave it a thought until this year :y
http://www.busweb.co.uk/Svbm/Stocklist.htm
just click on the reg nos for pics ;)
Could be here all night with this link, brilliant..... :y :y
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Are you on a mission vamps
to see how long you can keep thread alive.
-
Are you on a mission vamps
to see how long you can keep thread alive.
id love to join in but im "bus tin" for the lav..
-
Are you on a mission vamps
to see how long you can keep thread alive.
Not me, just doing as I am told..... :-X
-
Are you on a mission vamps
-
Are you on a mission vamps
Blimey he touched the bus thread and was banned!! :o :o :o :P :P :P :P :D :D :D :D :D
-
Get a load of these wonderful vintage New York, USA, buses - look out for the one with great big thrusters on the back roof; yes, alright, they are for an early air con system!! :D :D :D :D :D:
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=qyGL1Iw3XWc[/media]
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WlOvBk5_POQ&feature=related[/media]
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gxzu0p2nggs&feature=related[/media]
This one is an old military bus, that is rather tatty on the outside, but just listen to that lovely American engine 8-) 8-) 8-):
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5YLMtG8NgCE&feature=related[/media]
..............and a great 1952 Chevy bus with an equally impressive engine sound! 8-) 8-) 8-)
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZgIyUx6iZ0&NR=1[/media]
So there is a whole world out there with old buses :y :y :y :y
Can you find any vintage buses from other nations? :-? :-?
For me it is the Maltese buses I remember well traveling everywhere on them as a youngster, and on buses like these:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/MalteseBusYellow.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/MalteseValletaBuses.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/MalteseGreen1950sBus.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/MalteseGreenBuses.jpg)
So what can you offer from around the old Empire? :-? :-? :D :D :D :D ;)
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Are you on a mission vamps
Blimey he touched the bus thread and was banned!! :o :o :o :P :P :P :P :D :D :D :D :D
A poster of spam and dodgy links on his first post, hence binned. ;)
-
Are you on a mission vamps
Blimey he touched the bus thread and was banned!! :o :o :o :P :P :P :P :D :D :D :D :D
Just watch your back Lizzie ;)
:D :D :D :D
-
Are you on a mission vamps
Blimey he touched the bus thread and was banned!! :o :o :o :P :P :P :P :D :D :D :D :D
Just watch your back Lizzie ;)
:D :D :D :D
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D :y :y
-
Yaaahoooooooo................ it's back...... ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
-
Yaaahoooooooo................ it's back...... ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Calm down Wampire, you'll be having one of your funny turns again. ;D
-
Yaaahoooooooo................ it's back...... ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Calm down Wampire, you'll be having one of your funny turns again. ;D
Oh dear, Junior, what have you done this time?.... ::) ::) ::)
-
Yaaahoooooooo................ it's back...... ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Calm down Wampire, you'll be having one of your funny turns again. ;D
Oh dear, Junior, what have you done this time?.... ::) ::) ::)
The Pink One and I are suffering from a misunderstanding probably concocted by yourself & LD as forum stirrers.
-
Yaaahoooooooo................ it's back...... ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Calm down Wampire, you'll be having one of your funny turns again. ;D
Oh dear, Junior, what have you done this time?.... ::) ::) ::)
The Pink One and I are suffering from a misunderstanding probably concocted by yourself & LD as forum stirrers.
Not this time...... :)
-
Yaaahoooooooo................ it's back...... ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Calm down Wampire, you'll be having one of your funny turns again. ;D
Oh dear, Junior, what have you done this time?.... ::) ::) ::)
The Pink One and I are suffering from a misunderstanding probably concocted by yourself & LD as forum stirrers.
Not this time...... :)
Ahem.... Innocent! 8-) 8-)
-
Only just seen the link Banjax gave to the Scottish bus Museum rowd - that is superb and has some lovely examples of my favourite maker. If I get up there at some point I will definitely go and have a look round if possible. :y
-
On this day in 1996 a London Bus was blown up by an IRA (yes they were 'active' only a short while ago) bomb, so buses have often been in the forefront of conflict:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/LondonBusBombing1996.jpg)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/february/18/newsid_4165000/4165719.stm
This was a precursor to the next London Bus bombing of 7/7/2005
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BusBombing2005.jpg)
.....................and of course previously in WW2
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BristolBlitzBus.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LondonBlitzCraterBus.jpg)
:'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
-
On this day in 1996 a London Bus was blown up by an IRA (yes they were 'active' only a short while ago) bomb, so buses have often been in the forefront of conflict:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/LondonBusBombing1996.jpg)
http://news.bbc.co.uk/onthisday/hi/dates/stories/february/18/newsid_4165000/4165719.stm
This was a precursor to the next London Bus bombing of 7/7/2005
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BusBombing2005.jpg)
.....................and of course previously in WW2
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BristolBlitzBus.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LondonBlitzCraterBus.jpg)
:'( :'( :'( :'( :'( :'(
iirc that is the bomb I heard from about 20 miles away, I was mini cabbing, as an extra Job, in Hertfordshire, I was near Hoddeston at the time... :(
-
Here is a right Bedford cuttie from 1967, which Byron has sent to me for posting.
From 1967 I remember them well as their reduced seating capacity from the full sized Bedford's of that time made them ideal for school trips and social group outings. I always thought of them as "baby Bedford's", and now I always think they must be fun to drive, being right cutties!
:-* :-* 8-) 8-) 8-)
No Doubt Byron will be along to add further detail.
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/BedfordCuttie.jpg)
:y :y
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/BedfordCuttie.jpg)
;D ;D ;D - "Cuties" indeed Ms Zoom ......
Here's a Bedford J2 which was a regular attendee at the Welland Steam Rally, where this view was taken a few years ago.
Production of the J2 model began in 1958, and spanned around ten years.
This example is powered by the noisy, though very economical little 4-cylinder '220' diesel unit of 3.6 litres capacity. Mounted up-front alongside the driver, it drove through a 4-speed all-synchromesh gearbox. Vacuum-assisted hydraulic brakes provided the necessary stopping power.
The 20-seat 8-foot wide body is by Plaxtons of Scarborough, and is of composite contruction.
It's essentially a scaled-down version of their very successful contemporary 41-seat 'Embassy' model for the bigger 'SB' chassis.
Big changes were afoot across the range of Bedford PSV chassis during this era.
"Bedfords - You see 'em everywhere" would certainly ring true, as we'll soon see here ............ ;)
-
When I think of my childhood and into my adulthood, all I can remember is seeing Bedford / Duple coaches everywhere carrying out coaching duties across the country. Bedford vans and lorries were also the mainstay of the commercial transport world.
What was the Bedford range that I saw from the 1950s to 1980s, and why did the European coach manufacturers take over? There seems to me to have been a tremendous change in the supply and demand of coaches, almost on a par with the change on the railways away from "in house" produced MK1, 2 & 3 units to fully Japanese built coaches.
I take it 'the market' has dictated??
-
When I think of my childhood and into my adulthood, all I can remember is seeing Bedford / Duple coaches everywhere carrying out coaching duties across the country. Bedford vans and lorries were also the mainstay of the commercial transport world.
What was the Bedford range that I saw from the 1950s to 1980s, and why did the European coach manufacturers take over? There seems to me to have been a tremendous change in the supply and demand of coaches, almost on a par with the change on the railways away from "in house" produced MK1, 2 & 3 units to fully Japanese built coaches.
I take it 'the market' has dictated??
Specifically regarding the Bedford marque:
At that point in time, the motorway network was expanding at quite a rate, and more and more operators opted for the 'heavyweight' chassis such as AEC and Leyland. The 'lightweight' Bedfords were quite fine poodling around on A roads, and simply could not take the punishment of constant 70 mph thrashing for hours on end. 'Horses for courses' and all that!
The later underfloor-engined Y-series went some way towards solving these issues, though even these weren't man enough for this type of duty. Bedford (and GM) were volume producers, and with dwindling orders, decided to cease PSV chassis production some years back.
The long-distance work also called for better on-board facilities, such as WCs and video facilities, which in turn needed heavier bodies. Bedford introduced the YNV (aka "Venturer") to accomodate this, though in reality, the writing was on the wall. A pity this, as several operators whom I knew were very pleased with the Venturer - it even had air suspension!
And let's not forget, the likes of DAF and Volvo were rapidly becoming accepted in this fair land at this time.
And Duple bodies: The least said the better ........... >:(
-
When I think of my childhood and into my adulthood, all I can remember is seeing Bedford / Duple coaches everywhere carrying out coaching duties across the country. Bedford vans and lorries were also the mainstay of the commercial transport world.
What was the Bedford range that I saw from the 1950s to 1980s, and why did the European coach manufacturers take over? There seems to me to have been a tremendous change in the supply and demand of coaches, almost on a par with the change on the railways away from "in house" produced MK1, 2 & 3 units to fully Japanese built coaches.
I take it 'the market' has dictated??
Specifically regarding the Bedford marque:
At that point in time, the motorway network was expanding at quite a rate, and more and more operators opted for the 'heavyweight' chassis such as AEC and Leyland. The 'lightweight' Bedfords were quite fine poodling around on A roads, and simply could not take the punishment of constant 70 mph thrashing for hours on end. 'Horses for courses' and all that!
The later underfloor-engined Y-series went some way towards solving these issues, though even these weren't man enough for this type of duty. Bedford (and GM) were volume producers, and with dwindling orders, decided to cease PSV chassis production some years back.
The long-distance work also called for better on-board facilities, such as WCs and video facilities, which in turn needed heavier bodies. Bedford introduced the YNV (aka "Venturer") to accomodate this, though in reality, the writing was on the wall. A pity this, as several operators whom I knew were very pleased with the Venturer - it even had air suspension!
And let's not forget, the likes of DAF and Volvo were rapidly becoming accepted in this fair land at this time.
And Duple bodies: The least said the better ........... >:(
Thanks Byron for that great info!! :y :y :y ;)
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this is not nostalgic but I like it really
http://www.splashtours.nl/index.php?taal=en
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this is not nostalgic but I like it really
http://www.splashtours.nl/index.php?taal=en
That looks real fun Cem!! :y :y :y :y :y ;) ;)
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How about this other mini Bedford from 1973:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bedford1973.jpg)
A common sight workhorse in those days :y :y :y :y
Do you know Byron the history and specifications of these particular coaches?
Where did they all go? :'( :'( :-? :-?
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bedford1973.jpg)
During the 1960s, Bedford introduced a new range of PSV chassis.
The three variants were designated thus:
'VAS' for around 30-seat bodies
'VAM' for 40/45 seats
'VAL' for 50/53 seaters
Shown above is a VAS (actually a VAS5 model), with nicely-built Plaxton 29-seat coach body.
It has the sweet little Bedford '330' diesel mounted up-front, and would be a simplistic and very economical vehicle to run, with air-assisted hydraulic brakes. Many components were common to the contemporary 'TK' truck range - in fact, the perfect choice for the small independent operator!
Model variants were the VAS1 (with '300' diesel) and VAS3 (with '300' petrol unit).
I took this photo a few years back at the Welland Steam Rally (again!), against the backdrop of the beautiful Malvern Hills.
I'd dearly love to acquire one of these exact coaches, though by the time I realised it, this particular one had been sold on - bugger!
Sorry Lizzie, I nearly forgot to add this one's history:
It spent it's working life in Herefordshire with Bengry's Primrose Motors of Leominster.
There you have it! ;D
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/BedfordCuttie.jpg)
;D ;D ;D - "Cuties" indeed Ms Zoom ......
Here's a Bedford J2 which was a regular attendee at the Welland Steam Rally, where this view was taken a few years ago.
Production of the J2 model began in 1958, and spanned around ten years.
This example is powered by the noisy, though very economical little 4-cylinder '220' diesel unit of 3.6 litres capacity. Mounted up-front alongside the driver, it drove through a 4-speed all-synchromesh gearbox. Vacuum-assisted hydraulic brakes provided the necessary stopping power.
The 20-seat 8-foot wide body is by Plaxtons of Scarborough, and is of composite contruction.
It's essentially a scaled-down version of their very successful contemporary 41-seat 'Embassy' model for the bigger 'SB' chassis.
Big changes were afoot across the range of Bedford PSV chassis during this era.
"Bedfords - You see 'em everywhere" would certainly ring true, as we'll soon see here ............ ;)
I used to drive one of these, same year, many years ago, though I seem to remember that it was a 29 seater...... :-/
-
If it was a 29-seater Vamps, it would've been a 'VAS' - deffo! ;D
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If it was a 29-seater Vamps, it would've been a 'VAS' - deffo! ;D
Would that still have been an 'F' reg though? sure it was as 'K' reg was the newest at the time, but that was a Ford, Plaxton 45 seater.... :)
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If it was a 29-seater Vamps, it would've been a 'VAS' - deffo! ;D
Would that still have been an 'F' reg though? sure it was as 'K' reg was the newest at the time, but that was a Ford, Plaxton 45 seater.... :)
Both the 'J2' and 'VAS' were in production on 'F' reg's Vamps! ;)
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If it was a 29-seater Vamps, it would've been a 'VAS' - deffo! ;D
Would that still have been an 'F' reg though? sure it was as 'K' reg was the newest at the time, but that was a Ford, Plaxton 45 seater.... :)
Both the 'J2' and 'VAS' were in production on 'F' reg's Vamps! ;)
:y Glad about that, the old memory is going you know... ::) ::) ::) Little Miss Vamps told me the other day 'Daddy, you have the memory of a Goldfish'... :D :D :D
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If it was a 29-seater Vamps, it would've been a 'VAS' - deffo! ;D
Would that still have been an 'F' reg though? sure it was as 'K' reg was the newest at the time, but that was a Ford, Plaxton 45 seater.... :)
A friggin' R192 - ooerr ......... :-[
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If it was a 29-seater Vamps, it would've been a 'VAS' - deffo! ;D
Would that still have been an 'F' reg though? sure it was as 'K' reg was the newest at the time, but that was a Ford, Plaxton 45 seater.... :)
A friggin' R192 - ooerr ......... :-[
Not sure I know what you mean by that, however I do remember this, and a slightly later 53 seater always seemed to fracture the injector pipes, we used to carry spares and spanners for a change on route.... ::) ::)
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bedford1973.jpg)
During the 1960s, Bedford introduced a new range of PSV chassis.
The three variants were designated thus:
'VAS' for around 30-seat bodies
'VAM' for 40/45 seats
'VAL' for 50/53 seaters
Shown above is a VAS (actually a VAS5 model), with nicely-built Plaxton 29-seat coach body.
It has the sweet little Bedford '330' diesel mounted up-front, and would be a simplistic and very economical vehicle to run, with air-assisted hydraulic brakes. Many components were common to the contemporary 'TK' truck range - in fact, the perfect choice for the small independent operator!
Model variants were the VAS1 (with '300' diesel) and VAS3 (with '300' petrol unit).
I took this photo a few years back at the Welland Steam Rally (again!), against the backdrop of the beautiful Malvern Hills.
I'd dearly love to acquire one of these exact coaches, though by the time I realised it, this particular one had been sold on - bugger!
Sorry Lizzie, I nearly forgot to add this one's history:
It spent it's working life in Herefordshire with Bengry's Primrose Motors of Leominster.
There you have it! ;D
And there was me thinking this particular coach was named Primrose because it was loved so much!! ::) ::) :D :D :D :D
More great info Byron!! :y :y :y You certainly know your coaches / buses!! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) ;)
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If it was a 29-seater Vamps, it would've been a 'VAS' - deffo! ;D
Would that still have been an 'F' reg though? sure it was as 'K' reg was the newest at the time, but that was a Ford, Plaxton 45 seater.... :)
A friggin' R192 - ooerr ......... :-[
Not sure I know what you mean by that, however I do remember this, and a slightly later 53 seater always seemed to fracture the injector pipes, we used to carry spares and spanners for a change on route.... ::) ::)
That would've been an 'R226' chassis Vamps.
Like the Bedfords, the Fords were 'lightweights' and you really had to keep on top of 'em maintenance-wise. You also had to be choosey on who you actually put to drive 'em too - thrash 'em and you had head gasket failures, and heavy braking would result in leaking wheel cylinders. Fords also utilised an air-assisted hydraulic system - though IIRC, the later R-series were reliable 'full air' operation.
My own take on fracturing injector pipes pointed to insufficient bracketing/clamping of the pipes. ;)
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If it was a 29-seater Vamps, it would've been a 'VAS' - deffo! ;D
Would that still have been an 'F' reg though? sure it was as 'K' reg was the newest at the time, but that was a Ford, Plaxton 45 seater.... :)
A friggin' R192 - ooerr ......... :-[
Not sure I know what you mean by that, however I do remember this, and a slightly later 53 seater always seemed to fracture the injector pipes, we used to carry spares and spanners for a change on route.... ::) ::)
That would've been an 'R226' chassis Vamps.
Like the Bedfords, the Fords were 'lightweights' and you really had to keep on top of 'em maintenance-wise. You also had to be choosey on who you actually put to drive 'em too - thrash 'em and you had head gasket failures, and heavy braking would result in leaking wheel cylinders. Fords also utilised an air-assisted hydraulic system - though IIRC, the later R-series were reliable 'full air' operation.
My own take on fracturing injector pipes pointed to insufficient bracketing/clamping of the pipes. ;)
IIRC heavy braking resulted in a lot of wobble, to the point that a lot of Ford warranty claims were made.... :)
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If it was a 29-seater Vamps, it would've been a 'VAS' - deffo! ;D
Would that still have been an 'F' reg though? sure it was as 'K' reg was the newest at the time, but that was a Ford, Plaxton 45 seater.... :)
A friggin' R192 - ooerr ......... :-[
Not sure I know what you mean by that, however I do remember this, and a slightly later 53 seater always seemed to fracture the injector pipes, we used to carry spares and spanners for a change on route.... ::) ::)
That would've been an 'R226' chassis Vamps.
Like the Bedfords, the Fords were 'lightweights' and you really had to keep on top of 'em maintenance-wise. You also had to be choosey on who you actually put to drive 'em too - thrash 'em and you had head gasket failures, and heavy braking would result in leaking wheel cylinders. Fords also utilised an air-assisted hydraulic system - though IIRC, the later R-series were reliable 'full air' operation.
My own take on fracturing injector pipes pointed to insufficient bracketing/clamping of the pipes. ;)
IIRC heavy braking resulted in a lot of wobble, to the point that a lot of Ford warranty claims were made.... :)
I bet now they wouldn't even be allowed on the road Mike! ::) ::) ::) :D :D :D ;)
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Now how about this Bedford Duple from 1967! :y :y :y
Many a school trip was taken in these, and the back seat was very wide!! Oh yes, of course, we were just innocent little girls out with equally innocent little boys! At 14? Oh yeah!!::) ::) ::) ::) ;D ;D ;D ;D
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordDuple1967.jpg)
I bet Byron knows much about this one again! :y :y :y :y :y
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordDuple1967.jpg)
Taken at a Winkleigh Open Day a few years back, this one .......
It's a Bedford 'VAM' - the next model upwards in the range from the little 'VAS'.
The 'VAM' was available with three engine options, including the VAM3 with a petrol unit!
The others were the VAM5, with the Bedford '330' diesel, and the VAM14 as seen here, with the Leyland 0.400 diesel.
The engine was vertically-mounted on the front chassis overhang alongside the driver, and the brakes were of air-assisted hydraulic operation. No power steering was offered, and with a good load of passengers aboard, they could be quite heavy to manouvre.
The body on the one shown above is a Duple 'Viscount' 45-seater.
When this was mounted on the little VAS chassis it was badged as the 'Vista 25', whilst that on the heavyweight AEC Reliance/Leyland Leopard was the 'Commander'.
Plaxtons also bodied the VAM chassis, as we'll soon see .........
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordDuple1967.jpg)
Taken at a Winkleigh Open Day a few years back, this one .......
It's a Bedford 'VAM' - the next model upwards in the range from the little 'VAS'.
The 'VAM' was available with three engine options, including the VAM3 with a petrol unit!
The others were the VAM5, with the Bedford '330' diesel, and the VAM14 as seen here, with the Leyland 0.400 diesel.
The engine was vertically-mounted on the front chassis overhang alongside the driver, and the brakes were of air-assisted hydraulic operation. No power steering was offered, and with a good load of passengers aboard, they could be quite heavy to manouvre.
The body on the one shown above is a Duple 'Viscount' 45-seater.
When this was mounted on the little VAS chassis it was badged as the 'Vista 25', whilst that on the heavyweight AEC Reliance/Leyland Leopard was the 'Commander'.
Plaxtons also bodied the VAM chassis, as we'll soon see .........
Wow!! :o :o :o :o :o :o :o I bet they were heavy on the steering!! :P :P :P :P Mind you Byron my old 1958 Duple was fairly easy on the arms as it had a big steering wheel to 'lever' the thing about! :D :D :D :D :D
I am also surprised it was only a 45 seater. Judging by the size of the body it seems it should have taken more, although whatever the number it was quite enough for a school trip with all of us talking and giggling! ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Talking about Bedford's in 1967, probably the most famous one of all featured in this 'little' film ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D, with some great external and internal shots of the coach :y :y :y.....................and The Beatles!!! :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
Now somewhere in the United States after being at a Hard Rock Cafe or so!
[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MqKSOZdcRwI[/media]
Bet this six wheeler had more seats than 45 Byron? :D :D :D
Do you know it's original history by any chance? :-? :-?
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[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MqKSOZdcRwI[/media]
Bet this six wheeler had more seats than 45 Byron? :D :D :D
Do you know it's original history by any chance? :-? :-?[/quote]
They used the larger Bedford 'VAL' for that film Lizzie, with the twin steer 'Chinese Six' wheel arrangement.
Sorry, don't know it's history though.
And yes, most of the bodies on 'em had around 50/52 seats. ;)
We'll come to the 'VAL' model soon enough on here.
Gotta delve into the archives first missus! :D
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[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MqKSOZdcRwI[/media]
Bet this six wheeler had more seats than 45 Byron? :D :D :D
Do you know it's original history by any chance? :-? :-?
They used the larger Bedford 'VAL' for that film Lizzie, with the twin steer 'Chinese Six' wheel arrangement.
Sorry, don't know it's history though.
And yes, most of the bodies on 'em had around 50/52 seats. ;)
We'll come to the 'VAL' model soon enough on here.
Gotta delve into the archives first missus! :D
[/quote]
Thanks Byron :y :y
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[media]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MqKSOZdcRwI[/media]
Bet this six wheeler had more seats than 45 Byron? :D :D :D
Do you know it's original history by any chance? :-? :-?
They used the larger Bedford 'VAL' for that film Lizzie, with the twin steer 'Chinese Six' wheel arrangement.
Sorry, don't know it's history though.
And yes, most of the bodies on 'em had around 50/52 seats. ;)
We'll come to the 'VAL' model soon enough on here.
Gotta delve into the archives first missus! :D
Thanks Byron :y :y[/quote]
Would that be the same Model as used in the Italian Job....... :-/?
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They used a 'VAL' on the Italian Job, yes Vamps ;)
Actually, it was a VAL14 model with Leyland 0.400 engine and Harrington 'Legionnaire' body. :y
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They used a 'VAL' on the Italian Job, yes Vamps ;)
Actually, it was a VAL14 model with Leyland 0.400 engine and Harrington 'Legionnaire' body. :y
[/highlight]
Yep, I believe you are correct in that statement..... :D :D :D
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Here's another "Bedford beauty" from 1966 that has come through from Byron:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordBeaty1966.jpg)
They were once everywhere as before all the Volvo's they were one of the main maid of all work! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
Any details on this coach Byron? :-? :-? ;)
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordBeaty1966.jpg)
Here's another Bedford 'VAM' - though this time a Plaxton-bodied 'VAM5'.
This model was powered by the Bedford '330' 6-cylinder diesel, which although a well-proven unit, was a trifle underpowered in this application when compared with the Leyland-engined VAM14 version.
The body though, was well-built and nicely finished like all Plaxtons contemporary offerings.
This one has the 45-seat 'Panorama II' version, with top-sliding windows. The 'Panorama I' was identical except for fixed side windows and forced-air ventilation, with individually-controlled overhead nozzles under the luggage racks.
I took this photo at the 1991 Dean Forest Railway annual rally at Lydney, Forest of Dean.
In fact, it's just around the corner from our Sixstring's! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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Another 6 wheeled Bedford, from 1965, that Byron has a photograph for and no doubt can let us know of its spec! :D :D :D :y :y
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordSixWheel1965.jpg)
These coaches went everywhere and handled so much of the coach passenger traffic in those far off days. As in the case of the other Bedford six wheelers I always will remember how impressive they were on the inside as much as ouside. In 1965 many 1950s coaches were still in use, but these then very modern coaches were so radically different and gave a wonderfully smooth ride 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
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Anyone interested in buying Bedford coaches should have a look at this advert of one that has now been sold:
What a cuttie!! :D :D :D :D
http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C196164
..................and this real 1940s beauty, an Duple O Series:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordCoach1940s.jpg)
http://www.classic-wheels.co.uk/old_bedford_ob_duple_coach.htm
:y :y
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I love these, dumpy buses and you can get dumpy fire engines for Country use......http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C196164
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I love these, dumby buses and you can get dumby fire engines for Country use......http://www.carandclassic.co.uk/car/C196164
Yes, and it is hard to believe now Mike that these fire engines are old:
http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/ws/eBayISAPI.dll?ViewItem&item=130489538459
It seems like only yesterday that they were the common fire engine in use! :D :D :D :D ;)
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordSixWheel1965.jpg)
Here's a mid-60s Bedford 'VAL14' chassis with 52-seat Duple 'Vega Major' coach body.
It spent some years with a local (to me) operator, and I can remember a 'street outing' to Bristol Zoo in 1969 aboard it, as part of the celebrations when Prince Charles was crowned Prince of Wales.
Local chap Keith was it's regular driver for some years, and he handled the coach superbly throughout our marathon trek - I can still hear the characteristic drone of that little Leyland when in 'overdrive fifth' gear. Highlight of the day for us was the crossing of the (then) quite new Severn Bridge twice in a single day. Needless to say, he safely returned dozens of us exhausted 'Valleys kids' and parents home with ease and pride!
Bedford's approach to supplying a higher seating-capacity PSV was decidedly different and somewhat unorthodox when compared with other manufacturers offerings in the early 1960s - yet it was fundamentally logical too!
Following successful trials with a similarly-configured experimental three-axle truck chassis, Bedford decided to employ this 'Chinese Six' layout for the new 36 ft model. It was also their first PSV model not to be developed from a truck chassis, although it did employ many components common with the contemporary 'TK' truck range. The benefits of mass production kept the price down - the 1962 price of a VAL chassis was £1775, which was around £1000 cheaper than the equivalent underfloor-engined jobs from the competitors!
The VAL was offered with the 6.5-litre 131 BHP Leyland 0.400 engine as standard, and was vertically-mounted at the front of the chassis. This drove through a Turner-Clark 5-speed synchromesh 'box. A Telma retarder was also fitted as standard, along with air-assisted hydraulic brakes. There was also a prop-shaft mounted transmission brake. 16" diameter wheels gave a lower floor line, and also allowed for softer suspension and a smoother ride. Unladen weight was also around 1 ton less than the contemporary heavyweight offerings.
They were also extremely stable vehicles to handle, and you could turn one around on a sixpence!
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Byron I know the array of batteries wired in series was quite large on the 1958 Duple, but with the ever expanding coaches in the 1960s, let alone those to date, with increasing demands for internal electrics, how was the generation of power improved?
When did the dynamo give way to the alternator, and was there any extra battery storage provided? ;) ;)
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Byron I know the array of batteries wired in series was quite large on the 1958 Duple, but with the ever expanding coaches in the 1960s, let alone those to date, with increasing demands for internal electrics, how was the generation of power improved?
When did the dynamo give way to the alternator, and was there any extra battery storage provided? ;) ;)
From memory now ......... :D
I do know that the AEC Reliances and Leyland Leopards had alternators (in lieu of dynamoes), from the 1968 deliveries onwards. 85 amp outputs on their 24 volt systems coped with no problems at that time. Bedford and Ford were however 12 volt negative earth systems, though the former went over to 24 volt from the later 'Y-series' chassis.
As I said - purely from memory! ;D
The early 1980s presented completely different challenges however, with bodybuilders incorporating on-board features like galleys and air-con as standard.
Got some bumph here somewhere - will have a rummage at some point and report back!
;D
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Byron I know the array of batteries wired in series was quite large on the 1958 Duple, but with the ever expanding coaches in the 1960s, let alone those to date, with increasing demands for internal electrics, how was the generation of power improved?
When did the dynamo give way to the alternator, and was there any extra battery storage provided? ;) ;)
From memory now ......... :D
I do know that the AEC Reliances and Leyland Leopards had alternators (in lieu of dynamoes), from the 1968 deliveries onwards. 85 amp outputs on their 24 volt systems coped with no problems at that time. Bedford and Ford were however 12 volt negative earth systems, though the former went over to 24 volt from the later 'Y-series' chassis.
As I said - purely from memory! ;D
The early 1980s presented completely different challenges however, with bodybuilders incorporating on-board features like galleys and air-con as standard.
Got some bumph here somewhere - will have a rummage at some point and report back!
;D
Thanks :y :y
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were is my poor old leyland octopus and my old mandator :-[
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were is my poor old leyland octopus and my old mandator :-[
Be patient Rick, be patient ....... :D
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Well look at this 6 wheel beauty whose picture has been sent to me by Byron!!!:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BartonCoach6Wheel.jpg)
What an example that I must say looks more impressive than the Bedford 6 wheeler of 1965! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
With this being pre-1963 I think it highlights how the 1950s /early 1960s had a character about that was recognisable at the time. I loved it when going in a 1950s coach, but the 1960s ones were just so "modern" without a style! How that has changed in my mind! ;)
So what are they details on this one Byron? :D :D ;)
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BartonCoach6Wheel.jpg)
Here's another 'VAL14' but this time with Loughborough-built Yeates 'Europa' dual-door body.
The conservative, though flambuoyant styling was a trait of Yeates' products at this time, and the concern ceased building coach bodywork some time later. Their operation was revamped as bus and coach dealers W S Yeates thereafter.
Barton Transport of Chilwell, Nottingham was noted for operating 'interesting' vehicles in it's substantial fleet, and '966' here is certainly no exception.
Thankfully, this one survives in the preservation movement, and is seen here at the 1993 Outer Circle Rally in Birmingham.
Incidentally, Barton still survives as part of the well-presented Trent-Barton operation. :y
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Sign into OOF :y then into General Chat :y :y and then find the Bus Thread is at the Top of the List, what a great start to the Weekend......I love OOF Me.... :D :D :D :D :D :y :y
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Sign into OOF :y then into General Chat :y :y and then find the Bus Thread is at the Top of the List, what a great start to the Weekend......I love OOF Me.... :D :D :D :D :D :y :y
and i love oof.
why do i have a craving for cat food?
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http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BartonCoach6Wheel.jpg
Here's another 'VAL14' but this time with Loughborough-built Yeates 'Europa' dual-door body.
The conservative, though flambuoyant styling was a trait of Yeates' products at this time, and the concern ceased building coach bodywork some time later. Their operation was revamped as bus and coach dealers W S Yeates thereafter.
Barton Transport of Chilwell, Nottingham was noted for operating 'interesting' vehicles in it's substantial fleet, and '966' here is certainly no exception.
Thankfully, this one survives in the preservation movement, and is seen here at the 1993 Outer Circle Rally in Birmingham.
Incidentally, Barton still survives as part of the well-presented Trent-Barton operation. :y
That's a splendid picture B. :y
Given that most single deck units in use now are 4 wheel layouts (at least as far as I can see) was there a particular reason for many of the machines featured here to have utilised 6 wheels?
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http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BartonCoach6Wheel.jpg
Here's another 'VAL14' but this time with Loughborough-built Yeates 'Europa' dual-door body.
The conservative, though flambuoyant styling was a trait of Yeates' products at this time, and the concern ceased building coach bodywork some time later. Their operation was revamped as bus and coach dealers W S Yeates thereafter.
Barton Transport of Chilwell, Nottingham was noted for operating 'interesting' vehicles in it's substantial fleet, and '966' here is certainly no exception.
Thankfully, this one survives in the preservation movement, and is seen here at the 1993 Outer Circle Rally in Birmingham.
Incidentally, Barton still survives as part of the well-presented Trent-Barton operation. :y
That's a splendid picture B. :y
Given that most single deck units in use now are 4 wheel layouts (at least as far as I can see) was there a particular reason for many of the machines featured here to have utilised 6 wheels?
Thanks bud - it was taken with my old Praktica BCA 35mm camera way back in September 1993! :D
Ms Zoom must also be thanked for her expertise in the 'hosting' field too ;)
The 'Chinese Six' axle arrangement was not new, Leyland had used this concept on their Gnu chassis many years previously.
Bedford successfully adopted it chiefly for the reasons as explained in my earlier ditty in reply no 952.
A 'VAL' was really sure-footed in all road conditions, and you certainly had a comfortable ride aboard one of them! :y
However, there were soon to be changes to this model - as we'll soon see on here! ::)
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Thanks bud - it was taken with my old Praktica BCA 35mm camera way back in September 1993! :D
Ms Zoom must also be thanked for her expertise in the 'hosting' field too ;)
The 'Chinese Six' axle arrangement was not new, Leyland had used this concept on their Gnu chassis many years previously.
Bedford successfully adopted it chiefly for the reasons as explained in my earlier ditty in reply no 952.
A 'VAL' was really sure-footed in all road conditions, and you certainly had a comfortable ride aboard one of them! :y
However, there were soon to be changes to this model - as we'll soon see on here! ::)
Aah that makes sense. :y
Will look forward to seeing the later models.
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Thanks bud - it was taken with my old Praktica BCA 35mm camera way back in September 1993! :D
Ms Zoom must also be thanked for her expertise in the 'hosting' field too ;)
The 'Chinese Six' axle arrangement was not new, Leyland had used this concept on their Gnu chassis many years previously.
Bedford successfully adopted it chiefly for the reasons as explained in my earlier ditty in reply no 952.
A 'VAL' was really sure-footed in all road conditions, and you certainly had a comfortable ride aboard one of them! :y
However, there were soon to be changes to this model - as we'll soon see on here! ::)
Aah that makes sense. :y
Will look forward to seeing the later models.
We'll probably have to wait a day or two Z, as I'm off to the Farnborough meet bright 'n' early in the morning.
(Reminds me of my time on long-distance coaching work - especially if I could get my hands on an AEC Reliance for the duty!) :y
Our Lizzie's also making her 'debut' at the bash too ........ ;)
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School coaches
I remember the following apart from the normal ones
6 wheel coach
coach with railway style tables
Anyway is it time a photo site was done of these old coaches?
Anyway anyone know about Swanbrook?
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School coaches
I remember the following apart from the normal ones
6 wheel coach
coach with railway style tables
Anyway is it time a photo site was done of these old coaches?
Anyway anyone know about Swanbrook?
Indeed Martin, and of course the seats themselves on road coaches, in railway coaches, and in airliners have been becoming very similar over the years.
When I think of the rather basic seats in my 1958 Duple compared to those in the big Volvo coaches of today, they have changed dramatically. In parallel the basic "bench" seats in MK1 rail coaches, let alone the ex-big four company coaches still going in my childhood, has given way to advanced individual airline type seats in the latest sets.
I wonder how long before the seats will be electrically adjustable as in our cars?! ::) :D :D :D :D ;)
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Sign into OOF :y then into General Chat :y :y and then find the Bus Thread is at the Top of the List, what a great start to the Weekend......I love OOF Me.... :D :D :D :D :D :y :y
and i love oof.
why do i have a craving for cat food?
No, Franks Carpets :D :D had the thought that it might just be a North East TV add, so my 'I love OOF me' may not mean anything to members from the rest of the country.... ::) ::) :-[
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Byron has supplied a lovely picture of a 1971 Bedford six wheeler, which no doubt he will give further details of 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-):
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordSix1971.jpg)
All this British type of six wheelers had the two axles at the front. Do you know why the often seen foreign built coaches we see now how the double axle in the rear?
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordSix1971.jpg)
This is a late example of the final version of Bedford's 'VAL' model - the 'VAL70'.
It's bodied by Plaxtons of Scarborough, and is a 'Panorama Elite II' version bought new by Grindles of Cinderford in the Forest of Dean.
It was later sold on, then abandoned in a field, and subsequently re-acquired/restored (as seen here) by Grindles.
A proud Harry Grindle is at the wheel here, operating a free shuttle service from Lydney to the nearby Dean Forest Railway Rally in October 1991 - another photo taken just around the corner from Sixstring's gaffe!
During the late Autumn of 1967, Vauxhall Motors announced the introduction of the VAL70 chassis, which was designed for the forthcoming decade. It was actually a development of the previous VAL14, though the Leyland 0.400 engine was dropped in favour of Bedford's own 7.6-litre '466' unit, which had also been introduced in the 'KM' truck range.
Thus powered, the '466' was certainly no slouch performance-wise, though I personally reckoned that the Leyland 0.400 was the more durable unit in service.
This was only the first step in even more fundamental changes that would come to the Bedford coach chassis range, and the two-axle 'VAM70' also appeared with the '466' engine at the same time. Whilst both these models continued to sell well, an update of the C&U Regs and the effects of the 1968 Transport Act meant that the writing was on the wall for the novel twin-steer chassis.
The people at Bedford's Dunstable plant were planning a new generation of PSV chassis, with a new underfloor-engined model already undergoing tests!
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Oh, and as per Lizzie's enquiry:
All this British type of six wheelers had the two axles at the front. Do you know why the often seen foreign built coaches we see now how the double axle in the rear?
Several reasons here .......
* Coaches exceeding 12m in length
* Gross weight exceeds that permitted on two-axle models
* Extra braking effort provided by the third axle
Anyone like to add more? ;D
-
Oh, and as per Lizzie's enquiry:
All this British type of six wheelers had the two axles at the front. Do you know why the often seen foreign built coaches we see now how the double axle in the rear?
Several reasons here .......
* Coaches exceeding 12m in length
* Gross weight exceeds that permitted on two-axle models
* Extra braking effort provided by the third axle
Anyone like to add more? ;D
Engine at the back rather than at the front
-
Oh, and as per Lizzie's enquiry:
All this British type of six wheelers had the two axles at the front. Do you know why the often seen foreign built coaches we see now how the double axle in the rear?
Several reasons here .......
* Coaches exceeding 12m in length
* Gross weight exceeds that permitted on two-axle models
* Extra braking effort provided by the third axle
Anyone like to add more? ;D
Engine at the back rather than at the front
Well done that man! ;)
-
Oh, and as per Lizzie's enquiry:
All this British type of six wheelers had the two axles at the front. Do you know why the often seen foreign built coaches we see now how the double axle in the rear?
Several reasons here .......
* Coaches exceeding 12m in length
* Gross weight exceeds that permitted on two-axle models
* Extra braking effort provided by the third axle
Anyone like to add more? ;D
Engine at the back rather than at the front
Well done that man! ;)
The engine to the rear movement was quite a revolution apparently. For those interested have a look at this site - and yes I know it is yet another link, but they explain it in far better terms than I would!! :
http://www.bammot.org.uk/transhisa.asp
Sitting here now I cannot think of any rear engined buses before 1959 / 1960ish that I knew as a child, and now I cannot recall any front engine buses still being built! ::) ::) ::) :o ;)
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This is Bedford's Y-series chassis that has been sent to me by Byron and I thought I share with you!
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfiordChassis.jpg)
What I would like to know Byron is the date of introduction of this chassis, and how this revised component layout affected the design of the coaches?
This is a 1971 Bedford that uses this Y chassis:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bedford1971.jpg)
:y :y
-
This is Bedford's Y-series chassis that has been sent to me by Byron and I thought I share with you!
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfiordChassis.jpg
What I would like to know Byron is the date of introduction of this chassis, and how this revised component layout affected the design of the coaches?
This is a 1971 Bedford that uses this Y chassis:
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bedford1971.jpg
:y :y
Obviously a high floor was necessary to accommodate that engine layout, I wonder if it made maintenance any more difficult?
-
If its anything like my 108, it will have access panels all over the floor!
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfiordChassis.jpg)
After extensive trials, Bedford launched the 'YRQ' chassis in September 1970 as a direct replacement for the 'VAM' series.
However, the 'twin-steer' 'VAL' continued in production for a year or two longer.
The new chassis was of 10-metre length, suitable for 45-seat bodywork, with the engine mounted vertically amidships in mid-wheelbase.
The sole power unit was Bedford's own '466' unit set at 133 BHP, and drive was via a Turner-Clark 5-speed all-synchromesh gearbox to a Bedford hypoid-bevel rear axle. Air-assisted hydraulic brakes were specified with an increase of around 10% of the brake lining area over the 'VAM'. No power steering was offered.
The major drawback with the 'VAM' and 'VAL' models was the narrow and restricted entrance/step arrangements, due to their front-mounted engines protruding into the saloon. Moving to the underfloor concept was a logical answer, and also provided operators with an economical alternative to the traditional expensive heavyweights such as AEC's 'Reliance' and Leyland's 'Leopard' models.
A YRQ chassis retailed at a tad over £2000 at this time, and it rapidly became Britain's top-selling PSV chassis with around 650 examples entering service in 1972 alone!
Although this model must be considered as a 'lightweight', it had particular appeal to the independent-sector operators.
Many components were familiar and common with the 'VAM' chassis, and it was entirely suitable for one-man operation in bus guise too. Of course, it was the heart of the machine that mattered, and some operators only concern was about the YRQ'S overall performance. Whilst it was certainly economical regarding fuel consumption, that '466' engine was a tad under-powered in this application.
It would be the mid-70s before a more powerful Bedford unit would be introduced.
There was also a further new model in the offing - as we'll soon see!
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bedford1971.jpg)
Here's proof that some of the larger operators saw the merits of running lightweights .......
From the Tyne & Wear PTE fleet, this is a 1971 YRQ with 45-seat Duple 'Viceroy' coach body.
To my mind, this body looked quite stunning, though my own preference was for Plaxtons' 'Panorama Elite II' offering.
The Viceroy body was soon to be replaced with an all-new offering from Duple.
-
This is Bedford's Y-series chassis that has been sent to me by Byron and I thought I share with you!
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfiordChassis.jpg
What I would like to know Byron is the date of introduction of this chassis, and how this revised component layout affected the design of the coaches?
This is a 1971 Bedford that uses this Y chassis:
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bedford1971.jpg
:y :y
Obviously a high floor was necessary to accommodate that engine layout, I wonder if it made maintenance any more difficult?
Yes Z; the rocker-cover was quite close to the saloon floor, although the vast majority of British PSVs were of 'high-floor' configuration at this time.
The current DDA legislation was a long way off at this time.
Accessibility of some of the engine componentry could be bit difficult - especially around the injection pump area.
That said, you soon became familiar with these tasks.
Although the '466' engine was basically the same as that employed in the earlier 'VAM' model, there were one or two subtle differences apparent, such as a modified sump to reduce the unit's overall height.
Generally though, they were simple and straightforward vehicles to operate and work on. ;)
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bedford1971.jpg)
Here's proof that some of the larger operators saw the merits of running lightweights .......
From the Tyne & Wear PTE fleet, this is a 1971 YRQ with 45-seat Duple 'Viceroy' coach body.
To my mind, this body looked quite stunning, though my own preference was for Plaxtons' 'Panorama Elite II' offering.
The Viceroy body was soon to be replaced with an all-new offering from Duple.
:-? I thought Plaxton was king around that time, I certainly drove many a plaxton, though mainly Ford derived.... :) :)
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bedford1971.jpg)
Here's proof that some of the larger operators saw the merits of running lightweights .......
From the Tyne & Wear PTE fleet, this is a 1971 YRQ with 45-seat Duple 'Viceroy' coach body.
To my mind, this body looked quite stunning, though my own preference was for Plaxtons' 'Panorama Elite II' offering.
The Viceroy body was soon to be replaced with an all-new offering from Duple.
:-? I thought Plaxton was king around that time, I certainly drove many a plaxton, though mainly Ford derived.... :) :)
I much preferred a Plaxton body too Vamps :y
Always felt that they exuded style and quality ;)
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bedford1971.jpg)
Here's proof that some of the larger operators saw the merits of running lightweights .......
From the Tyne & Wear PTE fleet, this is a 1971 YRQ with 45-seat Duple 'Viceroy' coach body.
To my mind, this body looked quite stunning, though my own preference was for Plaxtons' 'Panorama Elite II' offering.
The Viceroy body was soon to be replaced with an all-new offering from Duple.
:-? I thought Plaxton was king around that time, I certainly drove many a plaxton, though mainly Ford derived.... :) :)
I much preferred a Plaxton body too Vamps :y
Always felt that they exuded style and quality ;)
Friggin' R-series ........... ooerr :-?
-
You are a mine of all knowledge on these vehicles Byron!! :y :y :y :y :y :y :y :y Impressed 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
I don't think I have missed anything in your great description of the YRQ chassis, but were there any faults became apparent with the YRQ when in service? :-/ :-/ :-/
In addition do these chassis ever twist, or distort permanently, due to their loads and the length of them?
I always remember that you had to be careful when loading a Cortina Estate, of any Mk, as they could distort terribly when used to full commercial potential!! :D :D :D :D ;)
:y :y
-
A very famous Bedford coach here
(http://www.carsofthestars.com/fab.gif)
-
A very famous Bedford coach here
(http://www.carsofthestars.com/fab.gif)
Indeed Martin, a full sized car was built using a Bedford Duple Vega chassis 8-) 8-) :y
Imagine what Lady P would have said about being driven around on a Bedford coach chassis!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
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I don't think I have missed anything in your great description of the YRQ chassis, but were there any faults became apparent with the YRQ when in service? :-/ :-/ :-/
It must be remembered that Bedfords were 'premium-built' lightweight models - "horses for courses" etc - but driven considerately, and with concientous routine maintenance regime, they were useful machines.
Faults that spring to mind were sloppy gear-change linkages - caused by a combination of flimsy knuckle-joints and ham-fisted drivers!
The other problem was failure of the bearings in the 'jockey-pulley' alternator/fan-belt tensioner assembly.
Some of the bolder spirits soon successfully overcame this by substituting a manually-adjustable tensioner.
A tell-tale sign of imminent failure was pronounced screeching of the belts at high engine revs, which resulted in the cooling fan coming adrift from the water pump. The aftermath of this was often a smashed radiator core and wrecked main water pipes. The worse case scenario was a siezed engine - especially if the driver ignored the ensuing racket beneath the floor - which they often did!
>:(
In addition, do these chassis ever twist, or distort permanently due to their loads and the length of them?
The chassis frame itself was of rivetted steel channel construction, and I can't recall any structural issues with it.
However, the longitudinal members only extended to a point just aft of the rear spring rear hanging brackets. Therefore, the body builder had to suitably reinforce the body frame in this area to take account of this. On a mid-engined chassis all passengers' luggage would be stowed in this area, which effectively became a cantilever. I don't know of any related problems with the 10-metre models, though the later longer versions suffered from structural failures of the bodywork, not the chassis frame.
-
There is a big Bus museum being built at Brooklands.
Huge great shed, don't know any details but I am sure it would be of interest to the followers of this thread.
Brooklands is near Weybridge, Surrey. The whole place is full of old stuff, cars, aeroplanes and the like, well worth a visit.
-
I don't think I have missed anything in your great description of the YRQ chassis, but were there any faults became apparent with the YRQ when in service? :-/ :-/ :-/
It must be remembered that Bedfords were 'premium-built' lightweight models - "horses for courses" etc - but driven considerately, and with concientous routine maintenance regime, they were useful machines.
Faults that spring to mind were sloppy gear-change linkages - caused by a combination of flimsy knuckle-joints and ham-fisted drivers!
The other problem was failure of the bearings in the 'jockey-pulley' alternator/fan-belt tensioner assembly.
Some of the bolder spirits soon successfully overcame this by substituting a manually-adjustable tensioner.
A tell-tale sign of imminent failure was pronounced screeching of the belts at high engine revs, which resulted in the cooling fan coming adrift from the water pump. The aftermath of this was often a smashed radiator core and wrecked main water pipes. The worse case scenario was a siezed engine - especially if the driver ignored the ensuing racket beneath the floor - which they often did!
>:(
In addition, do these chassis ever twist, or distort permanently due to their loads and the length of them?
The chassis frame itself was of rivetted steel channel construction, and I can't recall any structural issues with it.
However, the longitudinal members only extended to a point just aft of the rear spring rear hanging brackets. Therefore, the body builder had to suitably reinforce the body frame in this area to take account of this. On a mid-engined chassis all passengers' luggage would be stowed in this area, which effectively became a cantilever. I don't know of any related problems with the 10-metre models, though the later longer versions suffered from structural failures of the bodywork, not the chassis frame.
Thanks Byron for all the great knowledge again! :y :y :y :y :y :y :y
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There is a big Bus museum being built at Brooklands.
Huge great shed, don't know any details but I am sure it would be of interest to the followers of this thread.
Brooklands is near Weybridge, Surrey. The whole place is full of old stuff, cars, aeroplanes and the like, well worth a visit.
Right, that is interesting :y :y :y :y
The old Brooklands site was of course the home of British motor racing in the early days with parts of the elevated, slanted, track still in place. It was also the site of the BAC factory that produced the wings for Concorde :D :D :D ;)
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.................and then we have a 1974 Bedford coach which could have taken people on trips to Brooklands! :D :D :D ;)
A lovely looking example, which we lack full details of; no doubt Byron will display his wonderful knowledge again, as usually I can do with steam railway engines!! :D :D :D :D 8-) 8-)
-
...............and after talking about so many road coaches, I must post about some glorious Railway camping coaches.
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/CampingCoach.jpg)
A marvellous internet site gives a wonderful short description of some Southern Railway Camping Coaches of the pre WW2 years, which continued eventually on only a few sites after a re-introduction into BR days. They were a popular form of holiday base in the South West, which the Great Western Railway also provided.
http://www.brucehunt.co.uk/Camping%20coaches%20at%20Bere%20Ferrers.html
Does anyone know of any camping road coaches? Does anyone have pictures of those still in use, or dating from the Hippy days c.1967? :D :D :D ;)
-
I don't think I have missed anything in your great description of the YRQ chassis, but were there any faults became apparent with the YRQ when in service? :-/ :-/ :-/
It must be remembered that Bedfords were 'premium-built' lightweight models - "horses for courses" etc - but driven considerately, and with concientous routine maintenance regime, they were useful machines.
Faults that spring to mind were sloppy gear-change linkages - caused by a combination of flimsy knuckle-joints and ham-fisted drivers!
The other problem was failure of the bearings in the 'jockey-pulley' alternator/fan-belt tensioner assembly.
Some of the bolder spirits soon successfully overcame this by substituting a manually-adjustable tensioner.
A tell-tale sign of imminent failure was pronounced screeching of the belts at high engine revs, which resulted in the cooling fan coming adrift from the water pump. The aftermath of this was often a smashed radiator core and wrecked main water pipes. The worse case scenario was a siezed engine - especially if the driver ignored the ensuing racket beneath the floor - which they often did!
>:(
In addition, do these chassis ever twist, or distort permanently due to their loads and the length of them?
The chassis frame itself was of rivetted steel channel construction, and I can't recall any structural issues with it.
However, the longitudinal members only extended to a point just aft of the rear spring rear hanging brackets. Therefore, the body builder had to suitably reinforce the body frame in this area to take account of this. On a mid-engined chassis all passengers' luggage would be stowed in this area, which effectively became a cantilever. I don't know of any related problems with the 10-metre models, though the later longer versions suffered from structural failures of the bodywork, not the chassis frame.
So it was not my fault.... :D :D
I remember the first school run I did for 'Compass Royston' in Stockton, as I was coming out of the gate the gear leaver snapped, causing chaos as I was blocking the gate.... :-[ :-[ ::) ::)
The fitter soon had a replacement fitted and yes I continued to do some part time driving for a few years with them... :y :y
-
There is a big Bus museum being built at Brooklands.
Huge great shed, don't know any details but I am sure it would be of interest to the followers of this thread.
Brooklands is near Weybridge, Surrey. The whole place is full of old stuff, cars, aeroplanes and the like, well worth a visit.
It'll be the new home of the London Bus Preservation Trust who have been located at Cobham for many years now.
See: http://www.lbpt.org/ and http://www.lbpt.org/news.html
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Returning to the subject of this coach:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bedford1974Coach.jpg)
..........I want to know more about the bodywork, and specifically those doors that seem to be different? :-? :-? :-?
:y :y
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bedford1974Coach.jpg)
Here's a 1974 Duple 'Dominant Express I' 45-seater, and it's a 10-metre job mounted on a YRQ chassis.
Duple replaced it's Viceroy range with the Dominant for the 1973 season, as a direct challenger to Plaxtons 'Panorama Elite' models.
Of all-steel construction, it was suitable for mounting on 10, 11 and 12-metre chassis, and available in 'coach' version (with inward-opening entrance door), or 'express' with double jack-knife doors as seen here.
The latter option qualified for 'Bus Grant':
Basically, if an operator ran a stage-carriage bus service, the Grant allowed a massive 50% reduction in the basic purchase price - so long as the coach accrued 50% of it's annual mileage on service duties during it's early life.
The photo was taken at the 2005 Great Dorset Steam Fair, and this example has to be the best of very few such examples that have survived into preservation.
It's fully licensed, and was undertaking an extended tour to the event in conjunction with Old Glory magazine.
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Yet again great information Byron! :y :y :y :y
So when did the Bus Grant become extinct, and why? :-? :-? :-? A political decision no doubt?
How much was the full retail price of these coaches when new? :-? :-?
8-) 8-) 8-) ;)
-
Yet again great information Byron! :y :y :y :y
So when did the Bus Grant become extinct, and why? :-? :-? :-? A political decision no doubt?
8-) 8-) 8-) ;)
No doubt about it Lizzie :(
-
Bedford announced that it's twin-steer 'VAL' chassis was to be replaced with another new model.
The year was 1973 - watch this space folks .......... :)
-
How about this beauty then? :-/
A Bedford coach on a tour around the Peak District at a guess (?)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordCoachontour.jpg)
It is doing the job it was built for; giving people enjoyment! :y :y :y
:y :y :y :y :y
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordCoachontour.jpg)
For the millenial reply on this thread, I simply had to include this photo, as it perfectly captures the topography of the South Wales Valleys, along with the epitome of British coachbuilding, nearly 40 years ago.
:y :y :y :y :y
Bedford's latest model at this time was the 'YRT' - designed for 11-metre bodywork, and replacing the twin-steer 'VAL' chassis.
Pictured above is a brand-new 1973 example from the erstwhile Creamline of Tonmawr (near Neath) fleet.
It has the superb 53-seat Plaxton 'Elite Express III' body, and driver Steve Jones was extremely proud to have been allocated this coach. It was one of a recently-delivered pair, and marked a change in vehicle policy at Creamline - Randy and Esme Davies had previously been staunch supporters of the heavyweight Leyland Leopard, although their loyalty to Plaxton's bodywork remained intact.
The Bedford 'YRT' continued with the mid-engined concept, and featured the familiar vertically-mounted '466' engine, though now slightly uprated to 136 BHP.
Similarities with it's 10-metre partner (the YRQ), ended there though, as the new model was designed with a heavy-duty specification. The axles were those used in the 'KM' truck range, and standard fitments included a beefier gearbox, improved braking system, air-assisted clutch operation and power steering.
The location of the photo is Pontrhydyfen in the Afan Valley, which is a few miles north of Port Talbot, and is famed as the birthplace of actor Richard Burton.
The Bont Fawr aqueduct in the background still stands to this day, and was built in the early 1800s to supply water to the nearby ironworks.
Gotta say it - the Creamline livery really does look the business on that Plaxton body!
:y :y :y :y :y
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordCoachontour.jpg)
For the millenial reply on this thread, I simply had to include this photo, as it perfectly captures the topography of the South Wales Valleys, along with the epitome of British coachbuilding, nearly 40 years ago.
:y :y :y :y :y
Bedford's latest model at this time was the 'YRT' - designed for 11-metre bodywork, and replacing the twin-steer 'VAL' chassis.
Pictured above is a brand-new 1973 example from the erstwhile Creamline of Tonmawr (near Neath) fleet.
It has the superb 53-seat Plaxton 'Elite Express III' body, and driver Steve Jones was extremely proud to have been allocated this coach. It was one of a recently-delivered pair, and marked a change in vehicle policy at Creamline - Randy and Esme Davies had previously been staunch supporters of the heavyweight Leyland Leopard, although their loyalty to Plaxton's bodywork remained intact.
The Bedford 'YRT' continued with the mid-engined concept, and featured the familiar vertically-mounted '466' engine, though now slightly uprated to 136 BHP.
Similarities with it's 10-metre partner (the YRQ), ended there though, as the YRT was designed with a heavy-duty specification. The axles were those used in the 'KM' truck range, and standard fitments included a beefier gearbox, improved braking system, air-assisted clutch operation and power steering.
The location of the photo is Pontrhydyfen in the Afan Valley, which is a few miles north of Port Talbot, and is famed as the birthplace of actor Richard Burton.
The Bont Fawr aqueduct in the background still stands to this day, and was built in the early 1800s to supply water to the nearby ironworks.
Gotta say it - the Creamline livery really does look the business on that Plaxton body!
:y :y :y :y :y
Ooopps!! Sorry Byron, I was sure it was somewhere I could remember in the Peak District! ::) ::) ::) I have travelled extensively around South and Mid Wales, but couldn't remember that location :D :D :D :D ;)
Thanks for another great explanation to a great coach :y :y
-
How about this beauty then? :-/
A Bedford coach on a tour around the Peak District at a guess (?)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordCoachontour.jpg)
It is doing the job it was built for; giving people enjoyment! :y :y :y
:y :y :y :y :y
It's empty Lizzie, no passengers enjoying the ride........ ::) ::) ::) Lovely shot though.... :y
-
How about this beauty then? :-/
A Bedford coach on a tour around the Peak District at a guess (?)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordCoachontour.jpg)
It is doing the job it was built for; giving people enjoyment! :y :y :y
:y :y :y :y :y
It's empty Lizzie, no passengers enjoying the ride........ ::) ::) ::) Lovely shot though.... :y
No Mike, on this occasion it was taking Welsh Gnomes out on a day trip, but somebody forgot to supply bolster seats!! ::) ::) ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
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Byron has shown me this photograph of a South Wales National Bus Co. Bedford coach of the YRT series in the 1970s, which I certainly would like to know more about! :D :D :D :D
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/SouthWalesBedford.jpg)
In particular the box like body seems different from the others we have looked at; is it Byron?
After making my last mistake on this thread of placing a South Wales coach wrongly in the Peak District, I think it is safe to assume this picture was taken somewhere in the former area! But where precisely?
There is also quite a 'basic' appearence to this coach, not blessed with a luxurious interior, but more like your average 'bus', which I suppose they were (??) It has no small window vents either, so was air conditioning fitted as standard?
:-/ :-/ :-/ :-/ :-/ :-/
:D :D :y
-
How about this beauty then? :-/
A Bedford coach on a tour around the Peak District at a guess (?)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/BedfordCoachontour.jpg)
It is doing the job it was built for; giving people enjoyment! :y :y :y
:y :y :y :y :y
It's empty Lizzie, no passengers enjoying the ride........ ::) ::) ::) Lovely shot though.... :y
No Mike, on this occasion it was taking Welsh Gnomes out on a day trip, but somebody forgot to supply bolster seats!! ::) ::) ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
That explains it all then ::) ::) ::) I should have looked harder through the windows, if I stand on my head and squint my left eye I can just see one on seat 35/36 :D :D :D
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/SouthWalesBedford.jpg)
I took this photo meself in 1979 and the location was my home depot at Bridgend, which also incorporated a substantial on-site bus station.
The coach is indeed a Bedford YRT, though with Willowbrook's 51-seat 'Expressway' body.
It was one of a quartet from our neighbouring NBC subsidiary, The South Wales Transport Co; who also had 10 similarly-bodied 45-seat YRQs.
The 'Expressway' had forced-air ventilation, and was Willowbrook's assault on the market which was then dominated by Duple and Plaxtons.
509 seen here, was based at Swansea (Clarence Terrace) and regularly appeared on the Llanelli-Swansea-Bridgend-Cardiff limited-stop service, which was jointly operated with our company, National Welsh Omnibus Services Ltd. Although a punishing schedule, it was really the only route that was suitable for these ungainly and under-powered 'sheds' - we used Marshall-bodied Leyland Leopards to operate our share of it.
Bridgend's fitters were forever being called-out to recover/repair these Bedfords as they frequently crossed our patch.
I'd just changed a clutch pedal assembly fulcrum pin on the coach in this photo, which was a common failure on these YRTs; and was about to effect a change-over so that we could get our 'loaned' bus back from SWT.
Little surprise then, that SWT never repeated a Bedford/Willowbrook order! :D
Many operators were unhappy with the relatively poor performance of their YRT-based vehicles, and Bedford responded with an important upgrade ............. :-?
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Transport/SouthWalesBedford.jpg)
I took this photo meself in 1979 and the location was my home depot at Bridgend, which also incorporated a substantial on-site bus station.
The coach is indeed a Bedford YRT, though with Willowbrook's 51-seat 'Expressway' body.
It was one of a quartet from our neighbouring NBC subsidiary, The South Wales Transport Co; who also had 10 similarly-bodied 45-seat YRQs.
The 'Expressway' had forced-air ventilation, and was Willowbrook's assault on the market which was then dominated by Duple and Plaxtons.
509 seen here, was based at Swansea (Clarence Terrace) and regularly appeared on the Llanelli-Swansea-Bridgend-Cardiff limited-stop service, which was jointly operated with our company, National Welsh Omnibus Services Ltd. Although a punishing schedule, it was really the only route that was suitable for these ungainly and under-powered 'sheds' - we used Marshall-bodied Leyland Leopards to operate our share of it.
Bridgend's fitters were forever being called-out to recover/repair these Bedfords as they frequently crossed our patch.
I'd just changed a clutch pedal assembly fulcrum pin on the coach in this photo, which was a common failure on these YRTs; and was about to effect a change-over so that we could get our 'loaned' bus back from SWT.
No surprise then, that SWT never repeated a Bedford/Willowbrook order! :D
Many operators were unhappy with the relatively poor performance of their YRT-based vehicles, and Bedford responded with an important upgrade ............. :-?
I have driven all sorts over the years but never one of those on any chassis...... :)
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ive never seen a post with so many replies ;)
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ive never seen a post with so many replies ;)
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D Nor have I! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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ive never seen a post with so many replies ;)
Reminisce and quality count..... :y :y :y
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ive never seen a post with so many replies ;)
Reminisce and quality count..... :y :y :y
Exactly Mike ;D
I'm reckoning on only a few more 'Bedford replies' as I've almost exhausted their model range now.
Lizzie wants to do something on Leylands next (or so she suggested at the Farnborough meet!) ::)
Are we agreed on this Mike? :D
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thats what i love about this forum.... knowledgable enthusiasts!!!!
just a quick question that may not even be related to the topic but i was on a national express coach today which was auto.... since when did coaches (and i presume buses) become auto? or at least sum of them :)
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thats what i love about this forum.... knowledgable enthusiasts!!!!
just a quick question that may not even be related to the topic but i was on a national express coach today which was auto.... since when did coaches (and i presume buses) become auto? or at least sum of them :)
They've become an increasingly popular transmission choice on coaches over the last decade or so.
There are now loads of Irizar-bodied rear-engined Scanias on National Express work.
Personally, I like 'em, and have been most impressed with their ZF 'Ecomat' unit. Absolutely seamless gear-shifts with integral retarder.
:y
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They've become an increasingly popular transmission choice on coaches over the last decade or so.
There are now loads of Irizar-bodied rear-engined Scanias on National Express work.
Personally, I like 'em, and have been most impressed with their ZF 'Ecomat' unit. Absolutely seamless gear-shifts with integral retarder.
cheers seth, sorry to get you off topic ;)
ps i have no idea what that last part meant ;D ;D ;D
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ive never seen a post with so many replies ;)
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D Nor have I! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Yes indeed! What did Splott start here?! :o :o :o :o :o
I bet he never thought it would all last so long and cover so much ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
[size=20]A big well done to Splott!![/size]
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Now look at this beauty!
A relatively modern, 2000, Bedford that appears well propotioned in a very attractive livery :-* :-* 8-)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/Bedford2000.jpg)
No doubt Byron, or someone else (?) will fill in on the details! :D :D :D ;)
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ok so you guys are bus nuts so i have a trivia question for you:
what bus was the beatles' magical mystery tour bus?? :y :y :y
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ok so you guys are bus nuts so i have a trivia question for you:
what bus was the beatles' magical mystery tour bus?? :y :y :y
You don't need be a bus nut to answer this, learn to use google ;)
The bus was a Plaxton bodied 1959 Bedford Val Panorama Elite bus license plate URO 913E
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haha i know, but i was wondering if somebody knew without needing google. :y
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haha i know, but i was wondering if somebody knew without needing google. :y
I am pretty certain that it is covered within these pages somewhere near the Italian Job posts iirc...... :D :D :D
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haha i know, but i was wondering if somebody knew without needing google. :y
I am pretty certain that it is covered within these pages somewhere near the Italian Job posts iirc...... :D :D :D
ok so you guys are bus nuts so i have a trivia question for you:
what bus was the beatles' magical mystery tour bus?? :y :y :y
You don't need be a bus nut to answer this, learn to use google ;)
The bus was a Plaxton bodied 1959 Bedford Val Panorama Elite bus license plate URO 913E
::)
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hahah i was thinking probably so but im damned if im gonna sift through 1000 and something posts to find it ;D ;D ;D ;D
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ive never seen a post with so many replies ;)
Reminisce and quality count..... :y :y :y
Exactly Mike ;D
I'm reckoning on only a few more 'Bedford replies' as I've almost exhausted their model range now.
Lizzie wants to do something on Leylands next (or so she suggested at the Farnborough meet!) ::)
Are we agreed on this Mike? :D
Sounds good to me :y :y You and Lizzie are the experts though, I am just along for the ride..... :D :D :D
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haha i know, but i was wondering if somebody knew without needing google. :y
I am pretty certain that it is covered within these pages somewhere near the Italian Job posts iirc...... :D :D :D
It was, just look at my post on this thread #940, with a lovely little film on the coach in action! 8-) 8-) 8-) :y
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haha i know, but i was wondering if somebody knew without needing google. :y
I am pretty certain that it is covered within these pages somewhere near the Italian Job posts iirc...... :D :D :D
It was, just look at my post on this thread #940, with a lovely little film on the coach in action! 8-) 8-) 8-) :y
:D :D :D :y :y :y
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ok so you guys are bus nuts so i have a trivia question for you:
what bus was the beatles' magical mystery tour bus?? :y :y :y
You don't need be a bus nut to answer this, learn to use google ;)
The bus was a Plaxton bodied 1959 Bedford Val Panorama Elite bus license plate URO 913E
But Tunnie lad, there's some duff information therein ....... :-?
The twin-steer Bedford 'VAL14' had the Leyland 0.400 engine - not that as fitted in the later Leyland Tiger Cub chassis.
This latter model had the Leyland 0.401 unit as the standard fitment - the '1' denoted a 'cross-flow' cylinder head, and was badged as the 'Power Plus' motor!
;D ;D ;D
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:o :o :o :o ;D
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/Bedford2000.jpg)
Here's a 1982 Bedford 'YMQ' with Plaxton 'Supreme V Express' body - a 10-metre 45-seater.
Another of my own photographic efforts from a Summer 1989 visit to "The Delaine" of Bourne, in deepest Lincolnshire.
The company is, to this day, among the most respected family-run operations in Britain. Noting my enthusiasm for the Bedford marque, company chairman, the late Hugh Delaine-Smith offered me first shout on this gem, as it was then 7 years old and due for withdrawal.
He was a real gentleman of the 'old school' and proudly took some considerable time showing me around his premises.
Take a look at: http://www.delainebuses.com/
During the mid-70s, Bedford had to face the fact that their '466' engine was not up to the job that operators were by now asking of it - especially as the expanding motorway network was placing previously distant holiday attractions within the 'day trip' market.
The answer lay in the fitting of their own 8.2-litre naturally-aspirated '500' unit set at 160 BHP, as a direct replacement for the old 136 BHP '466'. Other welcome changes included 'full air' brakes, and power steering as standard equipment.
10-metre chassis were designated as 'YLQ' - the 11-metre version becoming the 'YMT'.
The observant will note that the coach depicted above is, in fact, a 'YMQ' model.
Keep watching folks, and all will be explained very soon ............. ;)
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Byron has now sent me a picture at the heart of the Bedford coaches during their last years, the Bedford YNT Engine:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordYNTEngine.jpg)
...............and this apparently is the type of coach that engine powered, a Bedford Y-Series:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordY-Series.jpg)
No doubt Byron will produce all the extra information on specification and the level of success these coaches had! :D :D :y :y :y
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordYNTEngine.jpg)
In 1981, the Bedford 'YNT' model was born, and here's the heart of the latest chassis.
It's the 'Blue Series' 8.2-litre '500' unit, though now turbocharged to produce 206 BHP at 2500 rpm.
For the 10-metre 'YMQ' chassis a 175 BHP 'low blow' version of the same engine was specified.
Love 'em or hate 'em - the '500 turbo' certainly performed well when compared with it's predecessor, the '466' as employed in the YRQ and YRT models.
However, operational experiences with the Blue Series units was decidedly mixed, and tales of catastrophic failures (especially if driven hard), were all too common.
Some operators, on the other hand, reported excellent operational reliability with 'em!
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordY-Series.jpg)
Here's a late-model YNT with Plaxtons 'Paramount I Express' body from the long-established Yeomans of Hereford fleet, resting at Barry Island in Summer 1990.
From the outset, this model was offered with the six-speed Turner M6 gearbox, which proved to be quite troublesome in service.
Bedford counteracted this by fitting the renowned ZF six-speed 'Synchroma' 'box, which was a highly-regarded unit throughout the bus industry.
A ZF-boxed YNT was quite a fine machine in my opinion!
Production of the 10-metre YLQ and 11-metre YMT continued alongside the turbocharged models, and featured the naturally-aspirated '500' engine, known as the 'Red Series' units.
Yeomans were ardent Bedford operators for many years, and their fleet was then 100% Bedford-based.
They were obviously very happy with the marque.
Maybe something of a swansong ........
One final 'Y-series' model would be Bedford's final attempt at the 'heavyweight' market .........
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I thought we had gone Leyland.... ::) ::) ::)
Must admit, almost everything I drove in this era was Ford, same body ...... ::) ::) ::)
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I thought we had gone Leyland.... ::) ::) ::)
Must admit, almost everything I drove in this era was Ford, same body ...... ::) ::) ::)
Pay attention Mike - we're almost there ........... ::)
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http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordYNTEngine.jpg
In 1981, the Bedford 'YNT' model was born, and here's the heart of the latest chassis.
It's the 'Blue Series' 8.2-litre '500' unit, though now turbocharged to produce 206 BHP at 2500 rpm.
For the 10-metre 'YMQ' chassis a 175 BHP 'low blow' version of the same engine was specified.
Love 'em or hate 'em - the '500 turbo' certainly performed well when compared with it's predecessor, the '466' as employed in the YRQ and YRT models.
However, operational experiences with the Blue Series units was decidedly mixed, and tales of catastrophic failures (especially if driven hard), were all too common.
Some operators, on the other hand, reported excellent operational reliability with 'em!
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordY-Series.jpg
Here's a late-model YNT with Plaxtons 'Paramount I Express' body from the long-established Yeomans of Hereford fleet, resting at Barry Island in Summer 1990.
From the outset, this model was offered with the six-speed Turner M6 gearbox, which proved to be quite troublesome in service.
Bedford counteracted this by fitting the renowned ZF six-speed 'Synchroma' 'box, which was a highly-regarded unit throughout the bus industry.
A ZF-boxed YNT was quite a fine machine in my opinion!
Production of the 10-metre YLQ and 11-metre YMT continued alongside the turbocharged models, and featured the naturally-aspirated '500' engine, known as the 'Red Series' units.
Yeomans were ardent Bedford operators for many years, and their fleet was then 100% Bedford-based.
They were obviously very happy with the marque.
Maybe something of a swansong ........
One final 'Y-series' model would be Bedford's final attempt at the 'heavyweight' market .........
In the presumed absence of a climate control system how was the passenger area of these coached heated and ventilated?
Given the large amount of glass used, the condensation must have been significant when carrying more than a few passengers.
-
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordYNTEngine.jpg
In 1981, the Bedford 'YNT' model was born, and here's the heart of the latest chassis.
It's the 'Blue Series' 8.2-litre '500' unit, though now turbocharged to produce 206 BHP at 2500 rpm.
For the 10-metre 'YMQ' chassis a 175 BHP 'low blow' version of the same engine was specified.
Love 'em or hate 'em - the '500 turbo' certainly performed well when compared with it's predecessor, the '466' as employed in the YRQ and YRT models.
However, operational experiences with the Blue Series units was decidedly mixed, and tales of catastrophic failures (especially if driven hard), were all too common.
Some operators, on the other hand, reported excellent operational reliability with 'em!
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordY-Series.jpg
Here's a late-model YNT with Plaxtons 'Paramount I Express' body from the long-established Yeomans of Hereford fleet, resting at Barry Island in Summer 1990.
From the outset, this model was offered with the six-speed Turner M6 gearbox, which proved to be quite troublesome in service.
Bedford counteracted this by fitting the renowned ZF six-speed 'Synchroma' 'box, which was a highly-regarded unit throughout the bus industry.
A ZF-boxed YNT was quite a fine machine in my opinion!
Production of the 10-metre YLQ and 11-metre YMT continued alongside the turbocharged models, and featured the naturally-aspirated '500' engine, known as the 'Red Series' units.
Yeomans were ardent Bedford operators for many years, and their fleet was then 100% Bedford-based.
They were obviously very happy with the marque.
Maybe something of a swansong ........
One final 'Y-series' model would be Bedford's final attempt at the 'heavyweight' market .........
In the presumed absence of a climate control system how was the passenger area of these coached heated and ventilated?
Given the large amount of glass used, the condensation must have been significant when carrying more than a few passengers.
I can't recall any problems regarding heating/ventilation Z.
There were individual passenger-controlled vents mounted in the overhead luggage racks, plus floor-level heating, which conventionally utilised the engine coolant.
We had similarly-bodied coaches on Leyland 'Tiger' chassis, and these were specified with the addition of a Webasto diesel-fired combustion heater, which was plumbed into the cooling system. It could be pre-set to operate prior to a cold start, so the interior was nice and cosy before the driver boarded.
A brilliant and reliable set-up! ;)
-
All the way through this "Bedford" part of the thread we have been designating Y / YNT / and other prefixes to the various types. Asking maybe a stupid question, but did they actually mean anything, or were they just a designers method of coding? :-/ :-/
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................and talking about prefixes...................
This is the Bedford "Y" series chassis in detail, which we all know is beneath the floor but rarely see!
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordY-SeriesChassis.jpg)
Byron no doubt will tell us all a lot more about this one! :D :D :D :y :y :y :y
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All the way through this "Bedford" part of the thread we have been designating Y / YNT / and other prefixes to the various types. Asking maybe a stupid question, but did they actually mean anything, or were they just a designers method of coding? :-/ :-/
Without going into too much detail Lizzie, here's a couple of examples ..............
YRT: Y = Mid-engined; R = '466' engine; T = 13000kg gross weight
YLQ: Y = Mid-engined; L = '500' 'Red-series' engine; Q = 11400kg GVW
And to add further interest (and/or probably confusion too!), at around this point in time .......
The little 'VAS' model became the 'PJK' whilst the evergreen 'SB' was redesignated as the 'NJM' ;D
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You'd need some fair jump leads to get to the batteries.
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordY-SeriesChassis.jpg)
Here's Bedford's final foray with the mid-engined chassis concept.
Launched in Autumn 1984, the Venturer was designated 'YNV' - and was their first model to be named.
The Venturer was of 12-metre length, with a creditable weight of just under 4.5 tonnes, and modestly retailed at just over £24k.
The specification was quite impressive too, with the 206 BHP 'Blue-series' engine and 6-speed ZF 'Synchroma' gearbox being retained from the 'YNT' model. Full air suspension was incorporated, along with spring-assisted parking-brakes. The picture clearly shows that the longitudinal chassis members were swept outward around the engine area to improve accessibility without compromising structural rigidity.
With a simulated full passenger/luggage load, the bodied coach grossed around 14.5 tonnes, at which weight the turbocharged '500' engine was quite satisfactory. Optional higher-rated tyres would allow higher-spec bodywork, pushing the GVW up to over 16 tonnes, and this was when the problem of power again reared it's ugly head. This made many operators suspicious of the durability of the sole engine option, given their previous experiences with this unit.
The Venturer probably came too late in the day for Bedford to recapture it's share of a market that was becoming increasingly dominated by foreign-built chassis. Although I personally liked their relative simplicity, in reality it was probably doomed from the start, with only 120-odd chassis being sold in the first year of production.
Ironically, despite poor sales figures, the YNV was a lovely coach to drive.
What a pity then, that it didn't receive support from those who should have done so. :-?
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You'd need some fair jump leads to get to the batteries.
;D ;D ;D ;D
Aye John, though some body-builders moved them into the side lockers. :y
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hi byron,, seems your a wealth of information when it comes to creamline,, would love to hear from you if you have some time,, great to see the photo of creamline
it was my great uncles company
cheers
lyndon
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http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordYNTEngine.jpg
In 1981, the Bedford 'YNT' model was born, and here's the heart of the latest chassis.
It's the 'Blue Series' 8.2-litre '500' unit, though now turbocharged to produce 206 BHP at 2500 rpm.
For the 10-metre 'YMQ' chassis a 175 BHP 'low blow' version of the same engine was specified.
Love 'em or hate 'em - the '500 turbo' certainly performed well when compared with it's predecessor, the '466' as employed in the YRQ and YRT models.
However, operational experiences with the Blue Series units was decidedly mixed, and tales of catastrophic failures (especially if driven hard), were all too common.
Some operators, on the other hand, reported excellent operational reliability with 'em!
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordY-Series.jpg
Here's a late-model YNT with Plaxtons 'Paramount I Express' body from the long-established Yeomans of Hereford fleet, resting at Barry Island in Summer 1990.
From the outset, this model was offered with the six-speed Turner M6 gearbox, which proved to be quite troublesome in service.
Bedford counteracted this by fitting the renowned ZF six-speed 'Synchroma' 'box, which was a highly-regarded unit throughout the bus industry.
A ZF-boxed YNT was quite a fine machine in my opinion!
Production of the 10-metre YLQ and 11-metre YMT continued alongside the turbocharged models, and featured the naturally-aspirated '500' engine, known as the 'Red Series' units.
Yeomans were ardent Bedford operators for many years, and their fleet was then 100% Bedford-based.
They were obviously very happy with the marque.
Maybe something of a swansong ........
One final 'Y-series' model would be Bedford's final attempt at the 'heavyweight' market .........
In the presumed absence of a climate control system how was the passenger area of these coached heated and ventilated?
Given the large amount of glass used, the condensation must have been significant when carrying more than a few passengers.
I can't recall any problems regarding heating/ventilation Z.
There were individual passenger-controlled vents mounted in the overhead luggage racks, plus floor-level heating, which conventionally utilised the engine coolant.
We had similarly-bodied coaches on Leyland 'Tiger' chassis, and these were specified with the addition of a Webasto diesel-fired combustion heater, which was plumbed into the cooling system. It could be pre-set to operate prior to a cold start, so the interior was nice and cosy before the driver boarded.
A brilliant and reliable set-up! ;)
I have memories of cold steamed up side windows in the winter and being like a greenhouse in the summer, even with the roof vents open, and terrible if stuck in traffic.......we had electric cooling fans for the driver, pure luxury...... :y :y
-
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordYNTEngine.jpg
In 1981, the Bedford 'YNT' model was born, and here's the heart of the latest chassis.
It's the 'Blue Series' 8.2-litre '500' unit, though now turbocharged to produce 206 BHP at 2500 rpm.
For the 10-metre 'YMQ' chassis a 175 BHP 'low blow' version of the same engine was specified.
Love 'em or hate 'em - the '500 turbo' certainly performed well when compared with it's predecessor, the '466' as employed in the YRQ and YRT models.
However, operational experiences with the Blue Series units was decidedly mixed, and tales of catastrophic failures (especially if driven hard), were all too common.
Some operators, on the other hand, reported excellent operational reliability with 'em!
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordY-Series.jpg
Here's a late-model YNT with Plaxtons 'Paramount I Express' body from the long-established Yeomans of Hereford fleet, resting at Barry Island in Summer 1990.
From the outset, this model was offered with the six-speed Turner M6 gearbox, which proved to be quite troublesome in service.
Bedford counteracted this by fitting the renowned ZF six-speed 'Synchroma' 'box, which was a highly-regarded unit throughout the bus industry.
A ZF-boxed YNT was quite a fine machine in my opinion!
Production of the 10-metre YLQ and 11-metre YMT continued alongside the turbocharged models, and featured the naturally-aspirated '500' engine, known as the 'Red Series' units.
Yeomans were ardent Bedford operators for many years, and their fleet was then 100% Bedford-based.
They were obviously very happy with the marque.
Maybe something of a swansong ........
One final 'Y-series' model would be Bedford's final attempt at the 'heavyweight' market .........
In the presumed absence of a climate control system how was the passenger area of these coached heated and ventilated?
Given the large amount of glass used, the condensation must have been significant when carrying more than a few passengers.
I can't recall any problems regarding heating/ventilation Z.
There were individual passenger-controlled vents mounted in the overhead luggage racks, plus floor-level heating, which conventionally utilised the engine coolant.
We had similarly-bodied coaches on Leyland 'Tiger' chassis, and these were specified with the addition of a Webasto diesel-fired combustion heater, which was plumbed into the cooling system. It could be pre-set to operate prior to a cold start, so the interior was nice and cosy before the driver boarded.
A brilliant and reliable set-up! ;)
I have memories of cold steamed up side windows in the winter and being like a greenhouse in the summer, even with the roof vents open, and terrible if stuck in traffic.......we had electric cooling fans for the driver, pure luxury...... :y :y
Oops - I forgot to mention that the Plaxton Paramount range had double-glazed side windows as standard Mike!
;)
-
You'd need some fair jump leads to get to the batteries.
;D ;D ;D ;D
Aye John, though some body-builders moved them into the side lockers. :y
Yes, I remember that the batteries were positioned under the floor just ahead of the back seats in my 1958 Duple, but the guy who looked after the mechanics on her always found it very straightforward to carry out work on them. Once the floor openings were lifted they were easily accessed. :y :y
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This is the next Bedford for looking at, and how lovely is that!! :-* :-* :y :y :y
It is a Bedford YNV, or Venturer:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordYNVVenturer.jpg)
Byron, over to you! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
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All this information needs collating and publishing on the internet on its own site.
I am willing to help if necessary.
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All this information needs collating and publishing on the internet on its own site.
I am willing to help if necessary.
i agree, would be a shame for it all to be lost. :)
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Ms Zoom is spot on here - 'tis indeed a Bedford YNV, or 'Venturer' - and also one of the very last of this model to enter service! :y
From the immaculately-presented fleet of Ledbury-based Newbury Coaches, it has a 57-seat 'Paramount III 3200' body by Plaxtons of Scarborough.
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordYNVVenturer.jpg)
The location is Cheltenham's Royal Well Bus Station, in the Summer of 1990.
This view portrays the 12-metre length of the Venturer very well, though when fully-loaded with (in this case), 57 passengers, it would've been pretty well on it's limit, performance-wise. Still, with a good driver in charge, she'd eat the miles away, though would be no real challenge to a Volvo B10M or Leyland B43 Tiger.
That said, both the latter models had around 20% more horses under the floor.
There had already been thoughts on offering the Venturer with a 250 BHP Cummins L10 engine, though nothing came of this. It's a great pity that this option never materialised, as the Bedford would certainly have then been capable of giving the competition a run for it's money!
Contemporary Bedford publicity extolled the Venturer as "The heavyweight challenger with middleweight economics" though it seemed as if someone within the higher echelons didn't want the YNV to succeed - this model really deserved to be a success .............
:(
-
Getting a bit modern for me now, though drove a few Optare's with, I believe a Volvo engine, for John Smiths of Dalton, near Thirsk that were more up to date.....shortly before I lost my HGV/PSV licence on health ground, though I now have them back... :y Mind this new CPC rule may well prevent me from any further driving unless I do the course.... >:( >:(
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Getting a bit modern for me now, though drove a few Optare's with, I believe a Volvo engine, for John Smiths of Dalton, near Thirsk that were more up to date.....shortly before I lost my HGV/PSV licence on health ground, though I now have them back... :y Mind this new CPC rule may well prevent me from any further driving unless I do the course.... >:( >:(
I'm in the same position here too Mike ........
The said course sounds a right PITA >:(
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Getting a bit modern for me now, though drove a few Optare's with, I believe a Volvo engine, for John Smiths of Dalton, near Thirsk that were more up to date.....shortly before I lost my HGV/PSV licence on health ground, though I now have them back... :y Mind this new CPC rule may well prevent me from any further driving unless I do the course.... >:( >:(
I'm in the same position here too Mike ........
The said course sounds a right PITA >:(
To carry on, generally, with the regulatory aspect of driving these vehicles I can't help noticing that the vast majority of all the machines (if not all) featured in the thread so far display a very modest single exterior rear-view mirror arrangement - unlike the coach I followed for a while yesterday which seemed to have a variety of mirrors from the roof-line to below the drivers side window.
How did the drivers of yesteryear manage?
-
Getting a bit modern for me now, though drove a few Optare's with, I believe a Volvo engine, for John Smiths of Dalton, near Thirsk that were more up to date.....shortly before I lost my HGV/PSV licence on health ground, though I now have them back... :y Mind this new CPC rule may well prevent me from any further driving unless I do the course.... >:( >:(
I'm in the same position here too Mike ........
The said course sounds a right PITA >:(
To carry on, generally, with the regulatory aspect of driving these vehicles I can't help noticing that the vast majority of all the machines (if not all) featured in the thread so far display a very modest single exterior rear-view mirror arrangement - unlike the coach I followed for a while yesterday which seemed to have a variety of mirrors from the roof-line to below the drivers side window.
How did the drivers of yesteryear manage?
Never had a problem to be honest Z ;)
And not many know this ........ an INTERIOR mirror was legally required only if the vehicle operated a stage-carriage service on a 'one man' basis!
8-)
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Byron, what was your favourite Y-Series Bedford out of all that we have spoken about?
What were the challengers of driving and operating them, and what lessons were learnt?
Lastly why did the coach operators turn away from British born and bred coaches and turn to the Volvo's amongst others?
:y :y
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Never had a problem to be honest Z ;)
And not many know this ........ an INTERIOR mirror was legally required only if the vehicle operated a stage-carriage service on a 'one man' basis!
8-)
Yes, I like facts such as that one :y - presumably (in the absence of a conductor) to see passengers.
Although I'm clueless to what a stage-carriage service is. ;D
-
Never had a problem to be honest Z ;)
And not many know this ........ an INTERIOR mirror was legally required only if the vehicle operated a stage-carriage service on a 'one man' basis!
8-)
Yes, I like facts such as that one :y - presumably (in the absence of a conductor) to see passengers.
Although I'm clueless to what a stage-carriage service is. ;D
.............and what us teenage kids were up to on the back seat!! ::) ::) ::) ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
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Never had a problem to be honest Z ;)
And not many know this ........ an INTERIOR mirror was legally required only if the vehicle operated a stage-carriage service on a 'one man' basis!
8-)
Yes, I like facts such as that one :y - presumably (in the absence of a conductor) to see passengers.
Although I'm clueless to what a stage-carriage service is. ;D
Dead right Z ..........
A 'stage-carriage service' is effectively your local bus route, ie; where passengers are charged individual fares for individual journeys.
;)
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Never had a problem to be honest Z ;)
And not many know this ........ an INTERIOR mirror was legally required only if the vehicle operated a stage-carriage service on a 'one man' basis!
8-)
Yes, I like facts such as that one :y - presumably (in the absence of a conductor) to see passengers.
Although I'm clueless to what a stage-carriage service is. ;D
Dead right Z ..........
A 'stage-carriage service' is effectively your local bus route, ie; where passengers are charged individual fares for individual journeys.
;)
Aah, that makes sense to me B. :y
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Anyone know what this old coach is?
It is believed to be a 1929 Dennis EV coach, but is it?
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/All%20Things%20Interesting/DennisEV.jpg)
:D :D
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Any takers on this one?
Am pretty sure that it's definately not a Dennis EV though, pretty sure ........
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Never had a problem to be honest Z ;)
And not many know this ........ an INTERIOR mirror was legally required only if the vehicle operated a stage-carriage service on a 'one man' basis!
8-)
Yes, I like facts such as that one :y - presumably (in the absence of a conductor) to see passengers.
Although I'm clueless to what a stage-carriage service is. ;D
.............and what us teenage kids were up to on the back seat!! ::) ::) ::) ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
If your party consisted of a pretty lady sat in the central rear seat too, the driver got a birds eye view - sometimes to the point of distraction!
:D :D :D :D :D
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Never had a problem to be honest Z ;)
And not many know this ........ an INTERIOR mirror was legally required only if the vehicle operated a stage-carriage service on a 'one man' basis!
8-)
Yes, I like facts such as that one :y - presumably (in the absence of a conductor) to see passengers.
Although I'm clueless to what a stage-carriage service is. ;D
.............and what us teenage kids were up to on the back seat!! ::) ::) ::) ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
If your party consisted of a pretty lady sat in the central rear seat too, the driver got a birds eye view - sometimes to the point of distraction!
:D :D :D :D :D
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D Well there lies the subject of a new thread Byron; the Confessions of a coach driver !! ;D ;D ;D ;)
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Byron, what was your favourite Y-Series Bedford out of all that we have spoken about?
What were the challengers of driving and operating them, and what lessons were learnt?
Lastly why did the coach operators turn away from British born and bred coaches and turn to the Volvo's amongst others?
:y :y
Byron I understand you can give me some answers to my querries by showing this coach:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/Bedfordlovely.jpg)
:y :y :y :y :y ;)
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....................and this is another of Byron's favourite Y-Series Bedford's:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordFrome.jpg)
A lovely, well proportioned, design! Why oh why did they lose the battle with foreign coach makers?! ::) ::) ::)
:y :y :y
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Here's a view of my favourite 10-metre Y-series Bedford.
It's a YLQ model with 45-seat Plaxton 'Supreme Express V' body - 'Express' denotes that it was built to Bus Grant spec; complete with a 'Bristol dome'.
This coach was powered by the 'Red Series' 8.2-litre naturally-aspirated '500' engine, and driven considerately, would happily maintain a steady 65 mph all day long whilst returning an economical 15 miles per gallon or thereabouts. In fact, a perfect coach for the independent operator in my opinion.
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/Bedfordlovely.jpg)
I took this photo on a lovely evening in Summer 1987, and the location is near Mumbles Pier on the shores of Swansea Bay.
Yeomans of Hereford ran an all-Bedford fleet for many years, and they were always smartly turned-out, as is evident here. The company prided itself on first-class routine maintenance standards, and were regular visitors to the South Wales resorts on their comprehensive Day Tour programme.
I'll get Lizzie to post-up a shot of their trademark logo soon ;)
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And now to my favourite 11-metre Y-series:
Our good friends Len and Sylvia Cooper from Maiden Bradley in deepest rural Wiltshire were the proprietors of long-established Leathers Coaches.
Their immaculate fleet was also 100% Bedford-based too.
Len certainly knew his stuff about Bedfords, and remains a respected authority on the marque.
Though now retired, they've retained the sole Bedford 'OB' to be owned from new, and you can read their fascinating history here:
http://warminstervbrd.zxq.net/v/Leathers.htm
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/BedfordFrome.jpg)
Seen above is "Wiltshire White Horse" which arrived brand new in 1981, and did 13 years service before being sold on to a Cardiff operator.
It's an 11-metre Bedford YNT with 53-seater Plaxton 'Supreme IV Express' body, again to Grant spec; and with Bristol Dome.
Being a 'YNT' this one had the 'Blue Series' turbocharged '500' engine and was specified with the renowned ZF 'Synchroma' 6-speed gearbox.
With over 200 horses under the floor, this beauty could certainly fly, and the Coopers were very pleased with it.
In fact, Len went on to add several further similarly-spec'd machines to their fleet, and I fully understood his enthusiasm!
:y
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Here you are Byron, the lovely Yeomans Travel livery:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/All%20Things%20Interesting/YeomansTravel.jpg)
8-) 8-) :y
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All Yeomans coaches carried the logo below:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/All%20Things%20Interesting/YeomansTravel.jpg)
The observant will note the attention to detail - even down to the seriffed lettering.
Pure craftsmanship, this was actually signwritten and not computer-generated vinyl! :y :y :y :y :y
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Oh yes Byron, those great days of the skill of signwriting :-* :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
They were real artists who would use their skills on buses, trains, shop signs, enamel posters, advertising on buildings, to name just a few! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
Absolutely beautiful, and almost a lost art due to the computer :'( :'(
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Now I'm itching to get onto the subject of looking in depth on the subject of post-WW2 buses and coaches.
For starters this photo I believe shows a stunning AEC Regal bus :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/AECRegalCoach.jpg)
No doubt Byron, or others, will give us all the details on it in terms of history, spec, and routes covered :D :D :D ;)
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Strange though this may seem to some perhaps:
I'd like to dedicate this reply to my long-time great friend and confidante, the late William Langer Raymond Grove MICEE; who sadly passed away in August 2010 aged 86 years.
Many thanks for your understanding on this.
Shown below is a 1950 AEC 'Regal III' with 32-seat Willowbrook body, which began life with City of Oxford Motor Services.
It's a timeless classic, and that superb red/duck egg/brown COMS livery perfectly enhances one of Southall's finest products.
Hordes of identical Willowbrook-bodied examples entered service throughout the country mounted on various other chassis too.
This beauty is of the 9621A variant, with AEC's big 9.6-litre engine and 'crash' gearbox, so it's a great performer. Other options were the smaller 7.7-litre unit or a 'pre-select' gearbox in lieu of the 'crash' version.
727 put in 13 years service with COMS; and then saw further service with a Scottish operator before being acquired for preservation in 1972.
Also visible is the angled bulkhead on the nearside drivers cab window - it was an early 'convert' to one-man operation.
It now resides at the Oxford Bus Museum in Long Hanborough.
Take a look here: http://www.oxfordbusmuseum.org.uk/ - it's well worth a visit! :y
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/AECRegalCoach.jpg)
This photo was taken way back in August 1993, and is particularly cherished by moi:
It's probably my best-ever photographic effort, and brings back wonderful memories of a lovely day out - my late friend Bill was among a small party of us like-minded South Walian souls who visited the museum aboard a preserved AEC Reliance coach.
A big AEC man, dear Bill was in his elements on that sunny sabbath - God Bless and RIP Bill.
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I love old buses..................especially the old leylands (not just because i've got an old Leyland bus...................)and the AEC's too.
might just have to visit that museum some time.
RIP Bill..............hope the fares are cheaper up there and they all run on time. :y
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Well, well, well ......... nice to hear from you Mike ....... :D
City of Oxford Motor Services has become: http://www.oxfordbus.co.uk/index.php
You'll probably see their 'Airline' and 'Oxford Espress' coaches on your travels mate! :y
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thats a cracking picture of the regal byron. a really good looking model from aec/willowbrook, was the 11.3l engine used in any bus models? :y
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thats a cracking picture of the regal byron. a really good looking model from aec/willowbrook, was the 11.3l engine used in any bus models? :y
Yes Jon - some late Regent V double-deckers and some RMs had this motor, and it was designated as the 'AV691'
During the late 60s/early 70s, it was the higher-powered offering in the 11m and 12m Reliance single-deck chassis - 'AH691' in this application!
IIRC London Transport specified it in their rear-engined 'Swift' single-deckers - that chassis was then known as the 'Merlin'.
;) ;) ;)
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thats a cracking picture of the regal byron. a really good looking model from aec/willowbrook, was the 11.3l engine used in any bus models? :y
Yes Jon - some late Regent V double-deckers and some RMs had this motor, and it was designated as the 'AV691'
During the late 60s/early 70s, it was the higher-powered offering in the 11m and 12m Reliance single-deck chassis - 'AH691' in this application!
IIRC London Transport specified it in their rear-engined 'Swift' single-deckers - that chassis was then known as the 'Merlin'.
;) ;) ;)
ahh yes, silly me. my millitant had the 11.3, would climb the side of a house. :D
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thats a cracking picture of the regal byron. a really good looking model from aec/willowbrook, was the 11.3l engine used in any bus models? :y
Yes Jon - some late Regent V double-deckers and some RMs had this motor, and it was designated as the 'AV691'
During the late 60s/early 70s, it was the higher-powered offering in the 11m and 12m Reliance single-deck chassis - 'AH691' in this application!
IIRC London Transport specified it in their rear-engined 'Swift' single-deckers - that chassis was then known as the 'Merlin'.
;) ;) ;)
ahh yes, silly me. my millitant had the 11.3, would climb the side of a house. :D
....... and a 691-powered Reliance was no slouch either, especially if the ZF 6-speed 'box was specified :D
However, even greater things were to emerge from the AEC stable soon afterwards ............ ;)
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Now how about this beauty?! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
A Willowbrook-bodied half-cab single-decker in a street scene long gone :'( :'( Note the advert on the side of the bus for St. Julien tobacco, one of the hundreds of tobacco's around in the post-war years that I sold during my early days in retailing. I loved the smell of tobacco and cigars, but never smoked myself as I couldn't understand 'why' people did!! That smell would have been prevalent in the buses and coaches of those days, as it seemed everyone smoked, and that aroma would mix with the niff of oil, leather, wood, and stale textiles inside the vehicle. I can still 'smell' it all now in my mind, as I can when thinking of the same smells in the cars of that era. Loved it.
Also note in the picture the standard of dress, with typically an older woman (probably only 50!! :D :D) dressed entirely in respectful black having lost a relative....or six! One of the two gents has a flat cap on, indicating he was of the working class which was what caps and hats did then, and the younger man with a child very much of the new generation of an early (?) fifties style.
The Walls Ice Cream sign on the shop wall above the bus is also so indicative of that era, and readily recognisable by my generation, with ice cream blocks, wafers and cornet's coming to mind :-* :-* :-* This style of Walls branding lasted right through the 1960s and into the early 70s, but during that decade changed to a more modern image. That image has been subsequently changed yet again to a very 21st century branding 8-) 8-) Notice also the complete lack of street furniture and parking restrictions; how empty the roads were then in Welsh Wales, and most parts outside of cities!! :y :y
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/WillowbrookBodiedCoach.jpg)
No doubt Byron will comment on this, and I hope some others will join in :D :D :) ;)
What are your memories of this time, if you were alive then that is!! ::) ::) ;D ;D
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I will most certainly join in, as I do love this thread. Despite what that lying Stokie says. ::) :D ;D
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I will most certainly join in, as I do love this thread. Despite what that lying Stokie says. ::) :D ;D
I know Albs!! ;D ;D ;D ;D
You should have him for defamation of character! ::) ::) ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
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I will have his kidneys for cufflinks if he,s ever brave enough to come back down here. ;) :D ;D
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As Lizzie states, here's a typical early 1950s street scene.
I reckon that the location is Blue Street in Carmarthen town centre, which was the terminal point for Western Welsh services at that time.
The bus was about to set off for distant Aberystwyth, and would've been based at either Carmarthen depot or the Lampeter outstation.
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/WillowbrookBodiedCoach.jpg)
887 is one of 14 Leyland Tiger PS1s with 32-seat Willowbrook bodies, and Leyland 8-odd litre E181 diesel engines.
Carrying fleet numbers 878-901, and registered DKG 878 etc; they entered service between January and June 1949.
Ideally, Western Welsh would've liked to have ordered over 50 of these Tigers, but due to post-war production difficulties, Leyland were only able to supply the afore-mentioned quantity at that time.
The company was in dire need of further new buses, both to replace pre-war rolling stock and to satisfy the post-war travel boom.
For it's next deliveries, it seems that WW was forced to accept the product of a different chassis supplier ........
:-[
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Thanks Byron! As always you have given us all great details on the bus :y :y :y
To add to my earlier comments on the historical scene in the picture, I have now focused more on the people within the bus. How many people now 'dress up' for going out shopping or doing general things? Look at the dress of the people inside that bus and how they are faithfully reflecting the dress code of that time. A general, almost without exception, smartness that one saw in those days. Certainly no sign of the slobs we see now, in their overstretched joggers, bursting t-shirts, and out of season leg coverings or none!! ::) ::) ::) ::) ;)
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Here's a view of my favourite 10-metre Y-series Bedford.
It's a YLQ model with 45-seat Plaxton 'Supreme Express V' body - 'Express' denotes that it was built to Bus Grant spec; complete with a 'Bristol dome'.
This coach was powered by the 'Red Series' 8.2-litre naturally-aspirated '500' engine, and driven considerately, would happily maintain a steady 65 mph all day long whilst returning an economical 15 miles per gallon or thereabouts. In fact, a perfect coach for the independent operator in my opinion.
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/Bedfordlovely.jpg)
I took this photo on a lovely evening in Summer 1987, and the location is near Mumbles Pier on the shores of Swansea Bay.
Yeomans of Hereford ran an all-Bedford fleet for many years, and they were always smartly turned-out, as is evident here. The company prided itself on first-class routine maintenance standards, and were regular visitors to the South Wales resorts on their comprehensive Day Tour programme.
I'll get Lizzie to post-up a shot of their trademark logo soon ;)
I thought I recognised that rock face :)
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Well this is the next set of buses, of the Western Welsh Bus Company, two of them as well, that Byron will talk about! :y :y :y
Now seem to recognise the cooling tower and the four lovely factory chimney stacks in a line, but I cannot quite place them! Is it behind Cashmore's scrap yard in Newport where so many steam engines met their fate? :'( :'( :'( It is certainly an industrial background, and with a railway line just behind the building that the coaches are lined up against if the railway telegraph pole is anything to go by! 8-) 8-) 8-)
Once more, Byron will tell us! :D :D :D :D ;)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/WesternWelshCoaches.jpg)
:y :y :y
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Another variation on a theme here ........
Post-war production difficulties at Leyland Motors meant that Western Welsh was temporarily forced to look elsewhere for it's new buses.
938 seen below, was one of 38 32-seat Willowbrook-bodied Crossley SD42/7s that arrived towards the end of 1949.
Allocated fleet numbers 902-939 and registered DKG 902 etc; they were powered by Crossley's own 8.6-litre diesel engine, which proved to be somewhat unreliable in service.
As an apprentice, the 'old sweats' regaled me with the woes of this unit - apparently they were forever replacing/scraping the white metal crankshaft/big-end bearings. After a few years in service, many were de-licensed during the Winter months each year, due to concerns regarding their handling capabilities in poor conditions. The chassis though, was robustly-constructed, and many of the Crossleys spent their lives based at Bridgend and tended to be found on the less arduous rural routes in the Vale of Glamorgan area.
In an effort to overcome the engine problems, some received units from withdrawn pre-war Leyland Tigers.
This conversion was undertaken at the Central workshops at Ely, Cardiff.
All the Crossleys had been withdrawn and disposed of by 1962.
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/WesternWelshCoaches.jpg)
Taken in the late 1950s, the location is outside Western Welsh's garage at Margam Terrace, Port Talbot.
Clearly visible in the background can be seen the vast Steel Company of Wales' Abbey Works, with the South Wales Main Line running between it and the depot.
Port Talbot depot closed in October 1966.
Although some work and staff subsequently transferred to the parent Bridgend depot, around 50 redundancies resulted amongst the Port Talbot staff.
Fellow BET subsidiary Thomas Bros received the important Afan Valley and Baglan Estate services as part of this reorganisation within the group, and the premises was later demolished as part of the redevelopment of Port Talbot town centre and the construction of the elevated section of what was to become the M4 motorway.
Manchester-based Crossley Motors also disappeared - it was taken-over by AEC in the late-1940s.
Although it was possible to buy Crossleys for a few more years, in reality they were 'badge-engineered' AECs.
Western Welsh returned to AEC and Leyland as the favoured choice of chassis thereafter. :y
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/WillowbrookBodiedCoach.jpg)
I must correct my original reply after consulting one of my former mentors .............
The Leyland Tiger PS1 engine was, in fact, the 7.4-litre E181 unit, which originally powered wartime Matilda tanks!
In 'bus' form it shoved-out 100 BHP with a governed maximum speed of 1800 RPM.
Lizzie mentions the cantrail advert:
At this time, they were all signwritten on the buses - mostly the work of signwriter Bert German, who toured the companies' depots undertaking such tasks.
His efforts were most impressive, and he later became Paintshop Foreman at Central Works in Ely, Cardiff.
As a humble apprentice, this scribe could often be found 'hiding' (or was it 'sciving'!) in Bert's 'shop' where four vehicles were being re-painted at any given time.
And all Western Welsh buses were painted by the traditional 'brush' method - no 'spray' jobs here missus!
;D
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http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/WillowbrookBodiedCoach.jpg
Lizzie mentions the cantrail advert:
At this time, they were all signwritten on the buses - mostly the work of signwriter Bert German, who toured the companies' depots undertaking such tasks.
His efforts were most impressive, and he later became Paintshop Foreman at Central Works in Ely, Cardiff.
As a humble apprentice, this scribe could often be found 'hiding' (or was it 'sciving'!) in Bert's 'shop' where four vehicles were being re-painted at any given time.
And all Western Welsh buses were painted by the traditional 'brush' method - no 'spray' jobs here missus!
;D
Words about a world and of trades long gone now B.
Also of a time when people took pride in what they did and displayed a work ethic that would put many to shame nowadays.
-
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/WillowbrookBodiedCoach.jpg
Lizzie mentions the cantrail advert:
At this time, they were all signwritten on the buses - mostly the work of signwriter Bert German, who toured the companies' depots undertaking such tasks.
His efforts were most impressive, and he later became Paintshop Foreman at Central Works in Ely, Cardiff.
As a humble apprentice, this scribe could often be found 'hiding' (or was it 'sciving'!) in Bert's 'shop' where four vehicles were being re-painted at any given time.
And all Western Welsh buses were painted by the traditional 'brush' method - no 'spray' jobs here missus!
;D
Words about a world and of trades long gone now B.
Also of a time when people took pride in what they did and displayed a work ethic that would put many to shame nowadays.
Yes Z; Western Welsh employed blacksmiths, carpenters, coach trimmers, coachbuilders, coachpainters, electricians, fitters, toolmakers, welders - and even a tinsmith!
At my home depot in Bridgend, coachbuilder 'Pancho' posessed the skills to gas weld cast aluminium.
Don was a legend with oxy-acetylene equipment, believe me :y :y :y :y :y
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http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/WillowbrookBodiedCoach.jpg
Lizzie mentions the cantrail advert:
At this time, they were all signwritten on the buses - mostly the work of signwriter Bert German, who toured the companies' depots undertaking such tasks.
His efforts were most impressive, and he later became Paintshop Foreman at Central Works in Ely, Cardiff.
As a humble apprentice, this scribe could often be found 'hiding' (or was it 'sciving'!) in Bert's 'shop' where four vehicles were being re-painted at any given time.
And all Western Welsh buses were painted by the traditional 'brush' method - no 'spray' jobs here missus!
;D
Words about a world and of trades long gone now B.
Also of a time when people took pride in what they did and displayed a work ethic that would put many to shame nowadays.
We have lost something indeed Zulu, and as I mentioned earlier those sign written advertisements were part of our childhood; a wonderful form of artwork that fascinated certainly my young mind and has stayed with me ever since.
The enamel signs that still adorned so many railway walls, fences, chimneys, in fact every you looked. No tatty paper, short term advertisements then, but long term statements of intent - we have a great product - it is quality - you should buy it, and it is here for good like our enamel sign!
My early years in retailing, in the newsagent, confectioners and tobacco trade, quality advertisements for "Player's Senior Service", or "Weights Tipped", and Capstan Full Strength" cigarettes were still everywhere. Even the confectionery could still be found in jars and tins; I still have a Squirrel's Confectionery tin that contained Floral Gums (mmmmmmmmm!!), which inside the lid proudly, permanently, states "Squirrel Confections" made by The Squirrel Confectionery Co. Ltd., Stockport, England
Although a container for use once, it was permanent; it reflected a society that was not going to change! It was there, British society, safe, stable, reliable, of quality, and permanent!! So were the enamel signs, and the other handwritten ones on the sides of the buses and coaches we have been reviewing. It was quality, and of course then legal to advertise tobacco products, so with the vast majority of the population then smokers in some form or another, they advertised everywhere!
To remind me of what we had then I have pictures in my many treasured railway books which show the "Virol" , "Castings West Yorkshire Foundries Ltd.", "Mackinlay's Scotch Whiskey", Drink Camp It's the best", "Sunlight Soap", "Player's Please!", and many more enamel advertising signs of a past golden age on railway walls of every description! Yes, the huge advertising hoardings were starting to show to reflect the "new" products of the exciting different age of the late 1950s and 1960s, with the paper-on advertisements. But the old enamel signs were still there, and the signwritten ones specifically for the sides of buses, above shop windows, and along the front of Pickford's and the like, were still reflecting another old skill, trade, that now, like so many of the products advertised, have gone. Swept aside by cheaper, international brands in a world were things do not need to last; so reflects the advertising hoardings with flimsy paper adverts, with no need for long term sign written forms! Quality, gone; longevity, gone; the skills and trades that went with them, gone!
Our brave new world has pushed aside the signwritters and enamel sign makers, with computer generated graphics doing everything far cheaper. But is it what we really love? History will tell! :D :D ;)
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We have lost something indeed Zulu, and as I mentioned earlier those sign written advertisements were part of our childhood; a wonderful form of artwork that fascinated certainly my young mind and has stayed with me ever since.
The enamel signs that still adorned so many railway walls, fences, chimneys, in fact every you looked. No tatty paper, short term advertisements then, but long term statements of intent - we have a great product - it is quality - you should buy it, and it is here for good like our enamel sign!
My early years in retailing, in the newsagent, confectioners and tobacco trade, quality advertisements for "Player's Senior Service", or "Weights Tipped", and Capstan Full Strength" cigarettes were still everywhere. Even the confectionery could still be found in jars and tins; I still have a Squirrel's Confectionery tin that contained Floral Gums (mmmmmmmmm!!), which inside the lid proudly, permanently, states "Squirrel Confections" made by The Squirrel Confectionery Co. Ltd., Stockport, England
Although a container for use once, it was permanent; it reflected a society that was not going to change! It was there, British society, safe, stable, reliable, of quality, and permanent!! So were the enamel signs, and the other handwritten ones on the sides of the buses and coaches we have been reviewing. It was quality, and of course then legal to advertise tobacco products, so with the vast majority of the population then smokers in some form or another, they advertised everywhere!
To remind me of what we had then I have pictures in my many treasured railway books which show the "Virol" , "Castings West Yorkshire Foundries Ltd.", "Mackinlay's Scotch Whiskey", Drink Camp It's the best", "Sunlight Soap", "Player's Please!", and many more enamel advertising signs of a past golden age on railway walls of every description! Yes, the huge advertising hoardings were starting to show to reflect the "new" products of the exciting different age of the late 1950s and 1960s, with the paper-on advertisements. But the old enamel signs were still there, and the signwritten ones specifically for the sides of buses, above shop windows, and along the front of Pickford's and the like, were still reflecting another old skill, trade, that now, like so many of the products advertised, have gone. Swept aside by cheaper, international brands in a world were things do not need to last; so reflects the advertising hoardings with flimsy paper adverts, with no need for long term sign written forms! Quality, gone; longevity, gone; the skills and trades that went with them, gone!
Our brave new world has pushed aside the signwritters and enamel sign makers, with computer generated graphics doing everything far cheaper. But is it what we really love? History will tell! :D :D ;)
I enjoyed that Lizzie. :-* :-*
-
We have lost something indeed Zulu, and as I mentioned earlier those sign written advertisements were part of our childhood; a wonderful form of artwork that fascinated certainly my young mind and has stayed with me ever since.
The enamel signs that still adorned so many railway walls, fences, chimneys, in fact every you looked. No tatty paper, short term advertisements then, but long term statements of intent - we have a great product - it is quality - you should buy it, and it is here for good like our enamel sign!
My early years in retailing, in the newsagent, confectioners and tobacco trade, quality advertisements for "Player's Senior Service", or "Weights Tipped", and Capstan Full Strength" cigarettes were still everywhere. Even the confectionery could still be found in jars and tins; I still have a Squirrel's Confectionery tin that contained Floral Gums (mmmmmmmmm!!), which inside the lid proudly, permanently, states "Squirrel Confections" made by The Squirrel Confectionery Co. Ltd., Stockport, England
Although a container for use once, it was permanent; it reflected a society that was not going to change! It was there, British society, safe, stable, reliable, of quality, and permanent!! So were the enamel signs, and the other handwritten ones on the sides of the buses and coaches we have been reviewing. It was quality, and of course then legal to advertise tobacco products, so with the vast majority of the population then smokers in some form or another, they advertised everywhere!
To remind me of what we had then I have pictures in my many treasured railway books which show the "Virol" , "Castings West Yorkshire Foundries Ltd.", "Mackinlay's Scotch Whiskey", Drink Camp It's the best", "Sunlight Soap", "Player's Please!", and many more enamel advertising signs of a past golden age on railway walls of every description! Yes, the huge advertising hoardings were starting to show to reflect the "new" products of the exciting different age of the late 1950s and 1960s, with the paper-on advertisements. But the old enamel signs were still there, and the signwritten ones specifically for the sides of buses, above shop windows, and along the front of Pickford's and the like, were still reflecting another old skill, trade, that now, like so many of the products advertised, have gone. Swept aside by cheaper, international brands in a world were things do not need to last; so reflects the advertising hoardings with flimsy paper adverts, with no need for long term sign written forms! Quality, gone; longevity, gone; the skills and trades that went with them, gone!
Our brave new world has pushed aside the signwritters and enamel sign makers, with computer generated graphics doing everything far cheaper. But is it what we really love? History will tell! :D :D ;)
I enjoyed that Lizzie. :-* :-*
Thanks Z! :y :y :y :y :y
I enjoyed researching, remembering and writing on that subject so much Zulu that I have started a separate thread all on its own!! ;D ;D ;D ;)
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Look at this beauty Byron has unearthed! A Lancashire United bus 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LancashireUnited.jpg)
Byron will be telling all of us more later..................watch this space 8-) 8-) 8-) :y :y
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Here's a 1951 Guy 'Arab' MkIII with Roe 35-seat coach body, and the location is the 1990 'Heart of the Pennines' Rally at Halifax.
It has the revered 8.6-litre Gardner 6LW engine up front, driving through a 4-speed 'crash' gearbox.
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LancashireUnited.jpg)
Charles Roe bodies were well-regarded within the industry - Burma Teak being the raw material.
Roe later became an AEC company, whilst Guy Motors was swallowed-up into the British Leyland empire.
This coach still earns it's keep with: http://www.cumbriaclassiccoaches.co.uk/arab.asp
Got some logos here somewhere - will see if Lizzie can add 'em on here soon ;)
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Yes indeed Byron, have received them now and this is the first glorious crest:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LancashireUnitedCrest.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/RoeCrest.jpg)
All sign written of course! 8-) 8-) :y :y
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Hello, I am an Admin of a facebook group "Port Talbot Old and New" and would love to upload some of your images including Port Talbot onto our page for comment, would this be allowed?
If you have any additional images of Port Talbot, we'd love to have them!
Thanks,
Sean
-
Hello, I am an Admin of a facebook group "Port Talbot Old and New" and would love to upload some of your images including Port Talbot onto our page for comment, would this be allowed?
If you have any additional images of Port Talbot, we'd love to have them!
Thanks,
Sean
From the OOF forum guidelines.
Copyright
By posting, you agree that the copyright for that post belongs to OOF.
All information, including text, logos and pictures is the copyright of OOF.
Posts and pictures must not be published elsewhere, without permission from OOF Admin Team.
You are free to publish links back to OOF pages starting with http://www.omegaowners.com - directly linking to our pictures is expressly forbidden.
Will post up in the Admin area for further discussion as regards use from OOF but may be that the actual owner of the images may need to give express permission.... :-/
-
Hello, I am an Admin of a facebook group "Port Talbot Old and New" and would love to upload some of your images including Port Talbot onto our page for comment, would this be allowed?
If you have any additional images of Port Talbot, we'd love to have them!
Thanks,
Sean
From the OOF forum guidelines.
Copyright
By posting, you agree that the copyright for that post belongs to OOF.
All information, including text, logos and pictures is the copyright of OOF.
Posts and pictures must not be published elsewhere, without permission from OOF Admin Team.
You are free to publish links back to OOF pages starting with - directly linking to our pictures is expressly forbidden.
Will post up in the Admin area for further discussion as regards use from OOF but may be that the actual owner of the images may need to give express permission.... :-/
Yes, it seems that the poster I quoted is the owner of the images, so I'm hoping for a reply from him!
-
Hello, I am an Admin of a facebook group "Port Talbot Old and New" and would love to upload some of your images including Port Talbot onto our page for comment, would this be allowed?
If you have any additional images of Port Talbot, we'd love to have them!
Thanks,
Sean
From the OOF forum guidelines.
Copyright
By posting, you agree that the copyright for that post belongs to OOF.
All information, including text, logos and pictures is the copyright of OOF.
Posts and pictures must not be published elsewhere, without permission from OOF Admin Team.
You are free to publish links back to OOF pages starting with - directly linking to our pictures is expressly forbidden.
Will post up in the Admin area for further discussion as regards use from OOF but may be that the actual owner of the images may need to give express permission.... :-/
Yes, it seems that the poster I quoted is the owner of the images, so I'm hoping for a reply from him!
No worries Brucie is just protecting everyone. :y
-
Hello, I am an Admin of a facebook group "Port Talbot Old and New" and would love to upload some of your images including Port Talbot onto our page for comment, would this be allowed?
If you have any additional images of Port Talbot, we'd love to have them!
Thanks,
Sean
Hopefully Byron (and any others who own the images.....) will get back to you soonest.
As in my initial reply, however, would ask that you either obtain them direct from Byron (or owner) or, if linking to them here, please use the info as per the guidelines at the top of the page viz. You are free to publish links back to OOF pages starting with http://www.omegaowners.com - directly linking to our pictures is expressly forbidden.
thanks for your understanding. :y
-
Hello, I am an Admin of a facebook group "Port Talbot Old and New" and would love to upload some of your images including Port Talbot onto our page for comment, would this be allowed?
If you have any additional images of Port Talbot, we'd love to have them!
Thanks,
Sean
Hopefully Byron (and any others who own the images.....) will get back to you soonest.
As in my initial reply, however, would ask that you either obtain them direct from Byron (or owner) or, if linking to them here, please use the info as per the guidelines at the top of the page viz. You are free to publish links back to OOF pages starting with http://www.omegaowners.com - directly linking to our pictures is expressly forbidden.
thanks for your understanding. :y
I understand! Thank you for the replies. I'll wait for a reply from Byron as its a bit messy linking to threads.
-
Hello, I am an Admin of a facebook group "Port Talbot Old and New" and would love to upload some of your images including Port Talbot onto our page for comment, would this be allowed?
If you have any additional images of Port Talbot, we'd love to have them!
Thanks,
Sean
Hopefully Byron (and any others who own the images.....) will get back to you soonest.
As in my initial reply, however, would ask that you either obtain them direct from Byron (or owner) or, if linking to them here, please use the info as per the guidelines at the top of the page viz. You are free to publish links back to OOF pages starting with http://www.omegaowners.com - directly linking to our pictures is expressly forbidden.
thanks for your understanding. :y
I understand! Thank you for the replies. I'll wait for a reply from Byron as its a bit messy linking to threads.
Done Sean! ;)
-
Hello, I am an Admin of a facebook group "Port Talbot Old and New" and would love to upload some of your images including Port Talbot onto our page for comment, would this be allowed?
If you have any additional images of Port Talbot, we'd love to have them!
Thanks,
Sean
Hopefully Byron (and any others who own the images.....) will get back to you soonest.
As in my initial reply, however, would ask that you either obtain them direct from Byron (or owner) or, if linking to them here, please use the info as per the guidelines at the top of the page viz. You are free to publish links back to OOF pages starting with http://www.omegaowners.com - directly linking to our pictures is expressly forbidden.
thanks for your understanding. :y
I understand! Thank you for the replies. I'll wait for a reply from Byron as its a bit messy linking to threads.
Done Sean! ;)
Am I right in thinking a good result and the release of photo's..... :y
Byron, I will be going to a meeting in a couple of days, and I intend to give a young Man a link to this thread, not suggesting he joins the forum, just view this thread. He is highly intelligent ASD, Aspergers and locally knows all things buses, I am sure he will find this fantastic.... :y :y
He is a member of a 'committee' for want of a better name setting up a 'Travel Training / Road safety' project we have set up, initially for disabled people but rolled out to primary schools, we have a circuit with every possible bus stop and road crossing.... :) :)
-
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/LancashireUnitedCrest.jpg)
Although a signwriter probably did the original artwork, this is actually a 'varnish-affixed' transfer that adorned LUT vehicles.
This type of motif was often referred to as a 'belt & buckle' or a 'garter'.
I used to watch our paintshop people soak 'em in a shallow tray of yacht varnish, and then gingerly position them on freshly-repainted buses.
Lacked the confidence to have a go meself! :D
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/RoeCrest.jpg)
Again, this one's actually a transfer that was affixed to Roe-bodied vehicles before they left the Leeds factory.
IIRC; these transfers were often manufactured/suppied by 'Eagle Quick-fix' - or similar! ;)
Gotcha confused Lizzie dear? ;D
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Although a signwriter probably did the original artwork, this is actually a 'varnish-affixed' transfer that adorned LUT vehicles.
This type of motif was often referred to as a 'belt & buckle' or a 'garter'.
I used to watch our paintshop people soak 'em in a shallow tray of yacht varnish, and then gingerly position them on freshly-repainted buses.
Lacked the confidence to have a go meself! :D
Again, this one's actually a transfer that was affixed to Roe-bodied vehicles before they left the Leeds factory.
IIRC; these transfers were often manufactured/suppied by 'Eagle Quick-fix' - or similar! ;)
Gotcha confused Lizzie dear? ;D
[/quote]
The rot was obviously underway Byron! :( :( Cheapskates! :P :P ;D ;D ;D ;)
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Although a signwriter probably did the original artwork, this is actually a 'varnish-affixed' transfer that adorned LUT vehicles.
This type of motif was often referred to as a 'belt & buckle' or a 'garter'.
I used to watch our paintshop people soak 'em in a shallow tray of yacht varnish, and then gingerly position them on freshly-repainted buses.
Lacked the confidence to have a go meself! :D
Again, this one's actually a transfer that was affixed to Roe-bodied vehicles before they left the Leeds factory.
IIRC; these transfers were often manufactured/suppied by 'Eagle Quick-fix' - or similar! ;)
Gotcha confused Lizzie dear? ;D
The rot was obviously underway Byron! :( :( Cheapskates! :P :P ;D ;D ;D ;)
[/quote]
Doubtless dictated by practical and financial constraints Lizzie .........
Imagine how many signwriters would be needed for Western Welsh's 500-strong fleet alone!
That said, these transfers were extremely durable :y
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Although a signwriter probably did the original artwork, this is actually a 'varnish-affixed' transfer that adorned LUT vehicles.
This type of motif was often referred to as a 'belt & buckle' or a 'garter'.
I used to watch our paintshop people soak 'em in a shallow tray of yacht varnish, and then gingerly position them on freshly-repainted buses.
Lacked the confidence to have a go meself! :D
Again, this one's actually a transfer that was affixed to Roe-bodied vehicles before they left the Leeds factory.
IIRC; these transfers were often manufactured/suppied by 'Eagle Quick-fix' - or similar! ;)
Gotcha confused Lizzie dear? ;D
The rot was obviously underway Byron! :( :( Cheapskates! :P :P ;D ;D ;D ;)
Doubtless dictated by practical and financial constraints Lizzie .........
Imagine how many signwriters would be needed for Western Welsh's 500-strong fleet alone!
That said, these transfers were extremely durable :y
[/quote]
I know, the great steam workshops of the big four railways went the same way under British Railways. Cheaper, quicker, and more efficient was the transfer version of the BR crest. But gone was that lovely skill of painting on, applying, the crests and company names on the locomotives.:'( :'( :'( :'(
At least handpainting of the lining out did in fact continue 8-) 8-) 8-) :y
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This is probably the best looking coach yet!! :-* :-* :-* :-*
An absolute beauty, and according to Byron no transfers on this one! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :y :y
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/EconimicCoach.jpg)
I wonder where the name "Economic" comes from? I bet it does about 15 miles to the gallon at best; still that probably was ok for the 1950s! :D :D :D :D ;)
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This is probably the best looking coach yet!! :-* :-* :-* :-*
An absolute beauty, and according to Byron no transfers on this one! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) :y :y
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/EconimicCoach.jpg)
I wonder where the name "Economic" comes from? I bet it does about 15 miles to the gallon at best; still that probably was ok for the 1950s! :D :D :D :D ;)
Durham registration..... :y :y
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Here we go then peeps,
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/jonthenut_bucket/AECQtype2.jpg)
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/jonthenut_bucket/AECQtype1.jpg)
a very nice bus in its time.
over to you Byron. ::)
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Here we go then peeps,
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/jonthenut_bucket/AECQtype2.jpg)
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/jonthenut_bucket/AECQtype1.jpg)
a very nice bus in its time.
over to you Byron. ::)
Wow RB!! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
What a lovely looking bus :y :y :y :y :y
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Here we go then peeps,
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/jonthenut_bucket/AECQtype2.jpg)
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/jonthenut_bucket/AECQtype1.jpg)
a very nice bus in its time.
over to you Byron. ::)
Wow RB!! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
What a lovely looking bus :y :y :y :y :y
but do you know what it is then lizzie? ::)
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Here we go then peeps,
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/jonthenut_bucket/AECQtype2.jpg)
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/jonthenut_bucket/AECQtype1.jpg)
a very nice bus in its time.
over to you Byron. ::)
Wow RB!! 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
What a lovely looking bus :y :y :y :y :y
but do you know what it is then lizzie? ::)
At a guess, and it is a guess, I would think 1949/50 was when it was first built, but I think it is a AEC bodied bus ::) ::) :D :D ;):-/ :-/
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1936 AEC Q type with offset engine. :y
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1936 AEC Q type with offset engine. :y
As early as that RB! :o :o :o :o
I reckon it must have been quiet an advanced design for its time, although the subtle attempt at streamlining is indicative of 1936 with the LNER starting to use that form on its A4 class passenger express pacific locomotives in 1935.
The LMS introduced streamlining on its Coronation class passenger express locomotives in 1937.
We'll say nothing of the GWR's feeble attempt in 1935 at streamlining on a Castle and King class loco's!! ::) ::) ::) ::) ::)
:y :y
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1936 AEC Q type with offset engine. :y
As early as that RB! :o :o :o :o
I reckon it must have been quiet an advanced design for its time, although the subtle attempt at streamlining is indicative of 1936 with the LNER starting to use that form on its A4 class passenger express pacific locomotives in 1935.
The LMS introduced streamlining on its Coronation class passenger express locomotives in 1937.
We'll say nothing of the GWR's feeble attempt in 1935 at streamlining on a Castle and King class loco's!! ::) ::) ::) ::) ::)
:y :y
yes, best not mention that one. lol ;D
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A4 Pacific 60019 Bittern of 1937
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/A4BitternMHR.jpg)
AEC Type 2 of 1936
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/AECQtype2.jpg)
See the similarities? :-/ :-/
:D :D ;)
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Hi you guys, I can't beleave how much this post has grown. I have been watching but did not put any input. For reason I don't want to go into, just say a personal tradjedy ,if thats how you spell tradjedy. Really missing you guys at the OOF and the bus nostalgia. Sorry for tje spelling but I'm using my phone. Really miss the banter but will be on line again soon, I'm sure. Keep it up! You bus nerds. Hey, we've got to be!
Splott........ Kev :y
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hi splott, hope things are ok. you have been noted by your absence. :y
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hi splott, hope things are ok. you have been noted by your absence. :y
Yep :y :y, and look what you started Splott!! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
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Sorry to hear about your trouble Kev - it's great to see you on again however. :y :y
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Pictured below is a 1949 Albion 'Valiant' CX39N with ACB coach body.
It featured a 9.9-litre EN243 oil engine, driving through a 4-speed constant-mesh gearbox with an auxiliary overdrive box - all Albion-built units from Scotstoun!
The 6-cylinder engine was both silky-smooth and quiet, and there were two gear sticks - one for the 'main' 'box and one for the overdrive unit.
A 'Valiant' could really fly along!
'ACB' stood for Associated Coach Builders of Sunderland (IIRC! :D)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/EconimicCoach.jpg)
I took this photo at the Corgi Toys 'Great Little Motor Show' at Donington Park in September 1995.
We also attended with our (then) AEC Reliance bus, and enjoyed some great Geordie company that weekend.
;D
Economic had two of these machines, and both have survived in preservation.
This beauty was professionally restored by aquaintances of ours from Spennymoor, and is an absolutely faultless achievement on their part .......
"Because we're fookin' good, Taff" they proudly proclaimed!
;D
"Seeing is believing" is all a can see aboot thee work o' these two canny lads! ;)
'Economic' was the trading name of E W Wilson of Whitburn.
This companies' primary concern was the operation of stage-carriage services in it's locality, and sold-out to the Tyne & Wear PTE in the 1970s.
For some years, they favoured the AEC Reliance chassis for these duties.
:y
Will get Ms Zoom to post-up some shots of the superb signwriting that adorns this masterpiece soon ;)
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Well this is a picture of the rear of the "Economic" coach that Byron has sent to me:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/EconomicCoachRear.jpg)
How simple were telephone numbers then! Just the place name and four digits to remember! Even in Bromley, London I remember my parents phone number was Hither Green 3688. You just could not forget it!! 8-) 8-) 8-) ;)
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from Bahamas
(http://i935.photobucket.com/albums/ad191/pscocoa/P1020709.jpg)
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from Bahamas
http://i935.photobucket.com/albums/ad191/pscocoa/P1020709.jpg
I love the aerodynamic air conditioning units on the roof of the bus. 8-) :y ;D
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Well this is a picture of the rear of the "Economic" coach that Byron has sent to me:
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/EconomicCoachRear.jpg
How simple were telephone numbers then! Just the place name and four digits to remember! Even in Bromley, London I remember my parents phone number was Hither Green 3688. You just could not forget it!! 8-) 8-) 8-) ;)
That's right Lizzie, when my sister moved into her first house in the 60's the telephone number alloted was Brookwood 5XXX, (Surrey)
How times have changed.
That's what makes this thread so interesting - it's as much a commentary on social change, local history and long defunct trades and of the people who plied them. 8-) 8-)
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Well this is a picture of the rear of the "Economic" coach that Byron has sent to me:
http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/EconomicCoachRear.jpg
How simple were telephone numbers then! Just the place name and four digits to remember! Even in Bromley, London I remember my parents phone number was Hither Green 3688. You just could not forget it!! 8-) 8-) 8-) ;)
That's right Lizzie, when my sister moved into her first house in the 60's the telephone number alloted was Brookwood 5XXX, (Surrey)
How times have changed.
That's what makes this thread so interesting - it's as much a commentary on social change, local history and long defunct trades and of the people who plied them. 8-) 8-)
Indeed DD, that is what makes it all so interesting! With railway subjects it is exactly the same. We can tell so much from those lovely photographs 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-) 8-)
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Now back to my signwriting theme; Byron has sent me this photo showing an old collegue of his carrying out that art on the side of an AEC Reliance coach.
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Trains%20Planes%20Buses%20%20Cars/AECRelianceCoach.jpg)
Notice he is using a mahl stick to steady his arm and stop him smudging the work ;)
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A proper sign writer.... :y :y
And now we have......http://www.omegaowners.com/forum/YaBB.pl?num=1302472077/0
To add the the thread....... :y :y :y
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Getting a bit modern for me now, though drove a few Optare's with, I believe a Volvo engine, for John Smiths of Dalton, near Thirsk that were more up to date.....shortly before I lost my HGV/PSV licence on health ground, though I now have them back... :y Mind this new CPC rule may well prevent me from any further driving unless I do the course.... >:( >:(
I'm in the same position here too Mike ........
The said course sounds a right PITA >:(
To carry on, generally, with the regulatory aspect of driving these vehicles I can't help noticing that the vast majority of all the machines (if not all) featured in the thread so far display a very modest single exterior rear-view mirror arrangement - unlike the coach I followed for a while yesterday which seemed to have a variety of mirrors from the roof-line to below the drivers side window.
How did the drivers of yesteryear manage?
Never had a problem to be honest Z ;)
And not many know this ........ an INTERIOR mirror was legally required only if the vehicle operated a stage-carriage service on a 'one man' basis!
8-)
Now I did not know that, you learn something every day, mind I can not think of a bus/coach that I have driven that did not have an interior mirror...... :) :)
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gone a bit quiet on here since Lizzie moved on.
come on Byron ::)
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gone a bit quiet on here since Lizzie moved on.
come on Byron ::)
I did try, sad I may be but I do miss it..... :y :y
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gone a bit quiet on here since Lizzie moved on.
come on Byron ::)
Point taken Jon - will see what I can do! ;D
Got a long weekend off work, so will try and get something sorted ..........
Should keep our north-eastern friend happy I reckon! ;D
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gone a bit quiet on here since Lizzie moved on.
come on Byron ::)
Lizzie Zoom
Deleted Member
Offline
The Romantic Emotional
Pink Lady
Last Online: 09. May 2011 at 15:07Last Post:Last PM: 08. Apr 2011 at 14:36
Gone but maybe not completly :)
-
gone a bit quiet on here since Lizzie moved on.
come on Byron ::)
Lizzie Zoom
Deleted Member
Offline
The Romantic Emotional
Pink Lady
Last Online: 09. May 2011 at 15:07Last Post:Last PM: 08. Apr 2011 at 14:36
Gone but maybe not completly :)
She will be back... :y as Regan or Sweeny... :D :D :D
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I miss Lizzie :( :'(
but not this zombie thread ;D
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I miss Lizzie :( :'(
but not this zombie thread ;D
pah, each to there own i suppose. ;)
it will come back with avengence. :D
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ii used to work on those sort in 73 called west mon bus company
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(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/jonthenut_bucket/merthyrtydfilbus.png)
(http://i393.photobucket.com/albums/pp16/jonthenut_bucket/merthyrtydfilbuspng2.jpg)
thought i would put a couple up for you. :y
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Western Welsh's next coaches arrived in 1963, in the shape of four elegant 36ft Leyland Leopards, with Duple 'Alpine Continental' bodies, as seen below.
Fleetnumbers were 140-143; registrations being 140 DBO etc; and entered service in an all-over Royal Ivory livery.
These Leopards were of the less-common PSU3/3RT variant, and featured the 9.8-litre Leyland 0.600 engine, 4-speed synchromesh 'box, and Eaton 2-speed rear axle.
43 is pictured here in Rawtenstall working an express service to Wakefield, whilst on hire to fellow BET subsidiary Ribble Motor Services.
All four were withdrawn in 1971, and passed to Black & White Motorways of Cheltenham.
WW's coach orders for the next few years reverted to shorter-length AEC Reliance-based vehicles.
:y
141DBO and 143DBO were later used by Creamline of Tonmawr,, i will post some pics later
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141DBO an 143DBO in creamline livery
(http://www.flickr.com/photos/creamline/5740179370/)
141DBO in wessex national livery
(http://www.flickr.com/photos/creamline/5739641597/)
and 141DBO western welsh livery (http://www.flickr.com/photos/30794964@N03/3212185737/)
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140DBO in original Western Welsh all over ivory livery
(http://www.flickr.com/photos/58309111@N03/5413987110 /)
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142DBO in Black and White livery
(http://bus-and-coach-photos.com.s3.amazonaws.com/5071.jpg)
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Just thought I would dig this up as Seth at Newent was messing himself talking about Buses ;D
There you go Byron ode mate :-*
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its so wrong bringing up this old thread should be locked and put to bed once and for all ;D
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Just thought I would dig this up as Seth at Newent was messing himself talking about Buses ;D
There you go Byron ode mate :-*
Nice one Daz........... :y :y :y
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(http://img026 copy 4.jpg)
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Ahh, that reminds me. ::)
(http:///images.omegaowners.com/images/kevin/Cardiff T9_edited-1.jpg)
Anyone know anything about this little beauty? ;)
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Looks like a Van Hool to me, but thats about all I know ;D
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its cardiff city team bus from a few years ago
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Ahh, that reminds me. ::)
(http:///images.omegaowners.com/images/kevin/Cardiff T9_edited-1.jpg)
Anyone know anything about this little beauty? ;)
I am not getting the image...... :( :( :(
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nope, no images. ???
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nope, no images. ???
Gimme a minute, and I'll see if I can sort something Jon .......... ;)
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Here goes .......... be patient ........... :-\
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/Cardiff%20T9_edited-1.jpg)
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That's better, thanks...... :y :y
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That's better, thanks...... :y :y
Thanks Mike!
I've just (about!) cracked this photo-hosting business - thanks to Jimbob and Tunnie earlier on! :-[
Good to see yer back on this thread - and nice to see Admins contributing too :y
I'll dig out some bumph on the Cardiff City FC team coach 'as soon as' me ol' bud! ;)
-
Here goes .......... be patient ........... :-\
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/Cardiff%20T9_edited-1.jpg)
Looks like it's the Cardiff City Football Club's team coach from the prestigious Edwards fleet.
It's a 14-metre Van Hool 'Astron T917' integral, powered by a Euro 5 460 BHP DAF engine, and driving thro' ZF ASTronic fully-auto transmission.
I'd imagine that this one'll be equipped with all the comforts necessary to assist this successful team! ;)
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the only thing that cardiff coach is missing is fire ;D ;D
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the only thing that cardiff coach is missing is fire ;D ;D
The Dragon was pausing for breath when the photo was taken. ;D
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the only thing that cardiff coach is missing is fire ;D ;D
The Dragon was pausing for breath when the photo was taken. ;D
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Nice to see an Admin becoming involved in our transport heritage Mr Wood! :y
Personally, if a topic doesn't interest me, then I don't post and simply pass it by - 'forum guidelines' etc etc ;)
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the only thing that cardiff coach is missing is fire ;D ;D
The Dragon was pausing for breath when the photo was taken. ;D
thats no problem i can supply petrol and matches ;D ;D
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Here goes .......... be patient ........... :-\
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/Cardiff%20T9_edited-1.jpg)
Looks like it's the Cardiff City Football Club's team coach from the prestigious Edwards fleet.
It's a 14-metre Van Hool 'Astron T917' integral, powered by a Euro 5 460 BHP DAF engine, and driving thro' ZF ASTronic fully-auto transmission.
I'd imagine that this one'll be equipped with all the comforts necessary to assist this successful team! ;)
Do the Welsh know what a football is?
I didn't realise they even had a team!
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the only thing that cardiff coach is missing is fire ;D ;D
The Dragon was pausing for breath when the photo was taken. ;D
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D
Nice to see an Admin becoming involved in our transport heritage Mr Wood! :y
Personally, if a topic doesn't interest me, then I don't post and simply pass it by - 'forum guidelines' etc etc ;)
Quite agree....... :y :y
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will this thread never go away ;D ;D
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Time to rekindle things perhaps? ;)
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Time to rekindle things perhaps? ;)
about bloomin time too. ;)
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Some modernity for starters Jon ...............
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/P9140052.JPG)
First have four of these beauties based at their Ravenhill depot in Swansea.
Each coach is named: 'Good Golly Miss Molly', 'Mandy', 'Mrs Robinson' and 'Sweet Caroline' are regular performers on the motorway express service to Cardiff.
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not sure if i like that or not tbh.
seems to be more & more glass at the front with these modern things.
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not sure if i like that or not tbh.
seems to be more & more glass at the front with these modern things.
Initially felt the same way myself Jon!
I pass them/they pass me regularly on my daily commute, and have to say that they've 'grown on me!'
They're actually Irizar-bodied Scanias with rear-mounted engine and fully-auto transmissions. Weighing-in at around 12 tonnes unladen, they don't half perform well. Full leather seating and on-board WiFi too!
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not sure if i like that or not tbh.
seems to be more & more glass at the front with these modern things.
Initially felt the same way myself Jon!
I pass them/they pass me regularly on my daily commute, and have to say that they've 'grown on me!'
They're actually Irizar-bodied Scanias with rear-mounted engine and fully-auto transmissions. Weighing-in at around 12 tonnes unladen, they don't half perform well. Full leather seating and on-board WiFi too!
bloomin eck. :o
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;D ;D ;D Splendid. :-* :-*
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not sure if i like that or not tbh.
seems to be more & more glass at the front with these modern things.
Initially felt the same way myself Jon!
I pass them/they pass me regularly on my daily commute, and have to say that they've 'grown on me!'
They're actually Irizar-bodied Scanias with rear-mounted engine and fully-auto transmissions. Weighing-in at around 12 tonnes unladen, they don't half perform well. Full leather seating and on-board WiFi too!
bloomin eck. :o
A far cry indeed from these:
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img120.jpg)
I vividly remember that WW's Leyland Tiger Cubs tipped the scales at '5 tons 14 cwt 1 qt' unladen - all 180 of 'em, delivered over a four-year period!
This scribe was given the daunting task of cataloguing the body-shop stores as a humble teenage apprentice - so how can I ever forget those figures?
:D
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;D ;D ;D Splendid. :-* :-*
Much appreciated comment Den! :y
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not sure if i like that or not tbh.
seems to be more & more glass at the front with these modern things.
Initially felt the same way myself Jon!
I pass them/they pass me regularly on my daily commute, and have to say that they've 'grown on me!'
They're actually Irizar-bodied Scanias with rear-mounted engine and fully-auto transmissions. Weighing-in at around 12 tonnes unladen, they don't half perform well. Full leather seating and on-board WiFi too!
I always dreames of driving an Irizar, I thought they were such a looker compared with the other oblong boxes the other companies were making.
The nearest I got was a Scania 112 in a Plaxton 3500 body. It had so much power it was untouchable on hills!
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;D i worked on them in the early seventys old bone shakers :y :y :y
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not sure if i like that or not tbh.
seems to be more & more glass at the front with these modern things.
Initially felt the same way myself Jon!
I pass them/they pass me regularly on my daily commute, and have to say that they've 'grown on me!'
They're actually Irizar-bodied Scanias with rear-mounted engine and fully-auto transmissions. Weighing-in at around 12 tonnes unladen, they don't half perform well. Full leather seating and on-board WiFi too!
bloomin eck. :o
A far cry indeed from these:
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img120.jpg)
I vividly remember that WW's Leyland Tiger Cubs tipped the scales at '5 tons 14 cwt 1 qt' unladen - all 180 of 'em, delivered over a four-year period!
This scribe was given the daunting task of cataloguing the body-shop stores as a humble teenage apprentice - so how can I ever forget those figures?
:D
How strange... I was actually wondering how on earth you can remember that long ago!! :P ;D
Great to see this Thread still going after nearly two years :y
Keep it going Guys & Gals :-* :-* :-* :-* :y
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a propper bus the millwall routemaster :y
(http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e397/adam5172/252a58ea534e6bd9fc6065448368d08d_medium.jpg)
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The 30 foot RML as opposed to the standard RM 27foot 6inch model. as can be seen by the 2foot 4inch centre extension with the smaller square windows.
:y
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The 30 foot RML as opposed to the standard RM 27foot 6inch model. as can be seen by the 2foot 4inch centre extension with the smaller square windows.
:y
and its still fully working its parked at the den on matchdays and i believe still used promotionly its a bit of a icon at millwall :y
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a propper bus the millwall routemaster :y
(http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e397/adam5172/252a58ea534e6bd9fc6065448368d08d_medium.jpg)
The last time I saw such destinations on the side of a vehicle was on Del Boys Reliant Van........ :D :D
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actually looks quite nice in the blue tbh.
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vamps apart from Bermondsey it does go to some shitholes ;D
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actually looks quite nice in the blue tbh.
will take some better pics when im up there next that pic does it no justice its in fantastic condition for its age :y
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a bit of info on the old girl
The Millwall F.C. Routemaster bus, parked outside their home ground, The Den. The bus was delivered new to London Transport in September 1965 as (red) bus RML2304 (reg. CUV 304C). It then saw service based out of Godstone, Stamford Hill, Highgate and Chalk Farm garages, being overhauled and repainted several times inbetween, as was the norm, before settling at Bow garage on route 8 from 1975. Having been given a life extension of a Cummins engine in 1991 and a refurbishment in 1993, it became one of the last Routemasters to see service in London. Having been privatised as part of Clapton garage's fleet, via Leaside Buses, into the fleet of Arriva London North in October 1994, it was eventually withdrawn in October 2005 with the conversion of route 38 to bendy buses. It then passed into the ownership of Millwall Football Club in April 2006, via dealer Ensignbus.
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and a better pic
(http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e397/adam5172/800px-MillwallRoutemaster.jpg)
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a bit of info on the old girl
The Millwall F.C. Routemaster bus, parked outside their home ground, The Den. The bus was delivered new to London Transport in September 1965 as (red) bus RML2304 (reg. CUV 304C). It then saw service based out of Godstone, Stamford Hill, Highgate and Chalk Farm garages, being overhauled and repainted several times inbetween, as was the norm, before settling at Bow garage on route 8 from 1975. Having been given a life extension of a Cummins engine in 1991 and a refurbishment in 1993, it became one of the last Routemasters to see service in London. Having been privatised as part of Clapton garage's fleet, via Leaside Buses, into the fleet of Arriva London North in October 1994, it was eventually withdrawn in October 2005 with the conversion of route 38 to bendy buses. It then passed into the ownership of Millwall Football Club in April 2006, via dealer Ensignbus.
That's nice, a bit of real history.... :y :y :y
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I wonder if I would be welcome at the Den?
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I wonder if I would be welcome at the Den?
no one is welcome at the den ;D
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I wonder if I would be welcome at the Den?
no one is welcome at the den ;D
What is the Den????
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If your desperate to know,go down there and find out. :y
I,ll just tuck me scarf down the inside and then I,ll be gone. ;D
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If your desperate to know,go down there and find out. :y
I,ll just tuck me scarf down the inside and then I,ll be gone. ;D
To me a Den is a Camp, so does that mean that Millwall, whoever they are, are Camp..... ::) ::) ::)
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If your desperate to know,go down there and find out. :y
I,ll just tuck me scarf down the inside and then I,ll be gone. ;D
To me a Den is a Camp, so does that mean that Millwall, whoever they are, are Camp..... ::) ::) ::)
Yeap really Camp, they also love Stoke fans ;D
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How long before all those windows get smashed at an away ground? ::)
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Nice bus Millwall!! :y Bet it never stopped at Wembley though...... :-X
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(http://i43.photobucket.com/albums/e397/adam5172/800px-MillwallRoutemaster.jpg)
Well done millwall - good on yer! :y
Is there any chance that you can get a photo of the actual engine bay when you next see this bus please?
It would be interesting to see how the Cummins engine was retro-fitted in lieu of the original AEC AV590 unit. Many RM's received Iveco engines during the mass refurbishment programme as per your reply - 'dual-sourcing' being the order of the day at that time.
To my mind, the blue livery does suit it rather well! ;)
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i emailed millwall this morning seth and they are more than happy for me to take photos of the bus so when im next up there i will take some pics for you :y
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i emailed millwall this morning seth and they are more than happy for me to take photos of the bus so when im next up there i will take some pics for you :y
Thanks very much - just add 'em to this thread at your leisure buddy! ;)
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If your desperate to know,go down there and find out. :y
I,ll just tuck me scarf down the inside and then I,ll be gone. ;D
To me a Den is a Camp, so does that mean that Millwall, whoever they are, are Camp..... ::) ::) ::)
Yeap really Camp, they also love Stoke fans ;D
oi Dinky Little Kock stoke fans are welcome anytime :-X ;D ;D
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another one for you Seth, little newer this one. Was just 2 months old, took it to the French Alps. From what I can tell its an Irizar PB, with Scania 480bhp lump, pulling out of Victoria almost empty, it picked up well from the lights :o
It was quick, but not as comfy as the Van Hool T917 they used last time i went :(
Considering its extended length, I think it was only a 59 seater. Had plenty of leg room even at 6ft5!
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/803897/Omega/Misc/coach/Photo%2027-01-2012%2015%2011%2018.jpg)
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/803897/Omega/Misc/coach/Photo%2027-01-2012%2015%2041%2011.jpg)
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Aah! They don't make 'em like they used to..... :)
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Hi check out these link, this is what I do for a living.
1st link is the bus when we got it, 2nd link is after 3 months.
Buses are used for touring bands, usually from USA or England.
http://www.the-photo-box.com/Crossland%20Setra%20DDeck%20Conversion%20-%2020101/#slides/DSCN2430.JPG
http://www.the-photo-box.com/crossland/PNZ1413/res/m/
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Nice one Tunnie .......... :y
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/803897/Omega/Misc/coach/Photo%2027-01-2012%2015%2011%2018.jpg)
There seems to be a close affinity between the Swedes and Spanish-based Irizar. Being Scania-based, it should be absolutely total quality.
Prices start at around 270 grand apiece ......... so I'll have two please! :o
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Hi check out these link, this is what I do for a living.
1st link is the bus when we got it, 2nd link is after 3 months.
Buses are used for touring bands, usually from USA or England.
http://www.the-photo-box.com/Crossland%20Setra%20DDeck%20Conversion%20-%2020101/#slides/DSCN2430.JPG
http://www.the-photo-box.com/crossland/PNZ1413/res/m/
I like it, that would do nicely next year! :y
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Nice one Tunnie .......... :y
(http://[img]http://dl.dropbox.com/u/803897/Omega/Misc/coach/Photo%2027-01-2012%2015%2011%2018.jpg)[/img]
There seems to be a close affinity between the Swedes and Spanish-based Irizar. Being Scania-based, it should be absolutely total quality.
Prices start at around 270 grand apiece ......... so I'll have two please! :o
Appeared to be well built, although this was they had the crew cabin removed for extra storage of snowboard/ski bags. So the drivers kipped across the back seat! :o
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Nice one Tunnie .......... :y
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/803897/Omega/Misc/coach/Photo%2027-01-2012%2015%2011%2018.jpg)
There seems to be a close affinity between the Swedes and Spanish-based Irizar. Being Scania-based, it should be absolutely total quality.
Prices start at around 270 grand apiece ......... so I'll have two please! :o
Might be a problem getting on to the campsite at Newent with it though. ;D
Think I'll stick with the TD! 8)
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I wonder how much a windscreen replacement would cost for one of those ? :-\
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The buses I work on constantly get broken screens, normal price is around £900-1200 :'(
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side windows are easy-smash too in case of accidents, drivers mentioned its happened once or twice just by someone accidently hitting them with a bag
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All screens are usually bonded into the body-shells these days - forming part of the structural rigidity.
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(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img277.jpg)
An 'as delivered' shot - any takers? :-X
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Well Byron, about the only info i can come up with is that its a 1949 crossley.
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Hi check out these link, this is what I do for a living.
1st link is the bus when we got it, 2nd link is after 3 months.
Buses are used for touring bands, usually from USA or England.
http://www.the-photo-box.com/Crossland%20Setra%20DDeck%20Conversion%20-%2020101/#slides/DSCN2430.JPG
http://www.the-photo-box.com/crossland/PNZ1413/res/m/
Now that.. is a bus. reminds me of" meet the parents" and all that.
No mortgage , just somewhere to park it, preferably looking out on to the Mediterranean sea...
may be red leather interior seats..
(http://i1114.photobucket.com/albums/k536/tidla1/07.jpg)
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Well Byron, about the only info i can come up with is that its a 1949 crossley.
You're close enough Jon ............
To satisfy it's post-war traffic requirements, Western Welsh would have ideally liked more Leyland Tigers, but due to production difficulties and overwhelming demands at Leyland Motors, it turned to Manchester-based Crossley Motors.
Accordingly, 38 Willowbrook-bodied Crossley SD42/7's arrived towards the end of 1949, and were given fleet numbers 902-939 (DKG 902 etc).
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img277.jpg)
Here's 938, awaiting delivery from Willowbrooks' works at Loughborough in Autumn 1949.
Though robustly constructed, they soon attained a tarnished reputation at WW.
Crossley's own straight-six diesel lump suffered badly with crankshaft/bearing issues, whilst their handling characteristics in inclement weather conditions meant that many were de-licenced during each Winter period. A goodly number spent their lives based at Bridgend, and tended to be used on the lightly-trafficked rural routes in the Vale of Glamorgan area.
Little wonder then, that Western Welsh returned to Leyland as it's preferred chassis supplier!
All the Crossleys were withdrawn and disposed-of by 1962, whence a goodly number of these leviathons arrived:
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img149.jpg)
............... anyone? :-\
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ok,
A 36foot willowbrook bodied PSu3/2R leyland of 1962. 614BBO
::)
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ok,
A 36foot willowbrook bodied PSu3/2R leyland of 1962. 614BBO
::)
Correct again Jon! :y
Eighteen 36ft Leyland Leopards arrived in 1962, and were numbered 601 - 618 (601 BBO etc).
They were of the PSU3/2R model, with 0.600 engines and 4-speed semi-auto gearboxes. Willowbrook of Loughborough built the 54-seat bodies.
The lion's share were allocated to Bridgend, essentially for the trunk routes up along the three valleys that radiated northwards therefrom.
Most put in a 15-year stint, and were in use 18 hours per day, seven days a week!
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img151.jpg)
Here's 602 arriving at Bridgend, all blinded-up in readiness for it's return working.
This view dates from the mid-60s: The bus has undergone it's first repaint at this time, and displays the later 'boxed-in' fleetname transfer and ultimate WW logo on the front panel. Just visible above the O/S fleet-number is a blue diamond - which confirms it's home depot is indeed Bridgend.
There was a tradition of displaying a Western Welsh vehicle at the annual Commercial Motor Show. 602 was one such example, and it retained a leather-clad steering wheel throughout it's entire working life. The lack of power steering made these heavy beasts to handle, though they were extremely reliable machines.
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And talking of heavy steering, here's the chap who honed my skills in the art of handling a 36-footer within the restricted confines of the garage:
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img273.jpg)
From the long, hot Summer of 1976, here's the late Arthur Smith, who was a shed driver at Bridgend.
At that time, he was already a '30-year man' who proudly wore his long service medal at all times whence on duty. His years of experience made him a most patient instructor, and his home-made lemon sponge cakes were an absolute 'must have' with a welcoming cuppa on an afternoon shift!
Flanking Arthur is Conductress Evelyn Underhill, whose amazing sense of humour and inimitable laughter would have us lads in stitches every day. She passed away quite recently - both are sadly missed here.
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Got any pics of a bit of 'heavy manoeuvring' Seth?
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We forget how easy modern psv and hgv are to drive these days, when i passed my tests thy were both 60's vehicles with crash gearboxes and certainly no power steering..........psv 1965? Bedford, hgv 1953 Commer.... :) :)
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Got any pics of a bit of 'heavy manoeuvring' Seth?
You asked for it dear boy ................
When a vehicle failed during the National Bus Company era, the nearest depot would inevitably be called upon to provide the necessary assistance.
As the M4 motorway crossed our patch, I and a fellow engineering colleague had previously recovered this coach therefrom - and also duly spent some considerable time cleaning-up the hard shoulder in the aftermath!
In order to release the coach, we had to undertake some serious shunting within Bridgend's large garage on a sunny Sunday morning in the Summer of 1980.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img290.jpg)
Cheltenham-based Leyland Leopard 129, from the National Travel (South West) Ltd fleet, had suffered a major failure of it's 0.680 engine - as evidenced by the oil-splattered side panels.
Maintenance standards were of the highest order at Cheltenham, and this really was an uncommon occurrence.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img291.jpg)
Safely hitched-up to NTSW's AEC Marshal wrecker, and after a quick cuppa, 129 will begin the long trek back to Cheltenham for expert attention.
Such long-distance towing operations were quite common at this time, and the wreckers' 12.47-litre AV760 motor would have taken all this in it's stride! :y
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One little Amber light, nowadays they are lit up like Blackpool illuminations..... ::) ::) ::)
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A friend of mine just came back from Malta and said that those nice old buses have to be replaced by new one now ?????? :'(
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A friend of mine just came back from Malta and said that those nice old buses have to be replaced by new one now ?????? :'(
as far as i know theve been on about that for a while now.
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What's that coach being towed Seth? I was about 9 when this photo was taken, I remember that shape vaguely...
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It's a Willowbrook 'Spacecar' body mounted on the trusty Leyland Leopard chassis.
National Travel South West received around a dozen of these ungainly coaches in the late-70s - this offering was Willowbrook's assault on a marketplace that was then dominated by Duple and Plaxton.
Within a comparatively short space of time, they were dispersed around various other NBC subsidiaries, and many ended their days with Irish operators - so I'm reliably informed!
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/SAD%20131R%20os%20Devon%20General.jpg)
Here's 131, sporting the 'stripey' NBC 'express' coach livery after transfer to Devon General.
The observant will notice the alternating blue/red seating arrangement, which was a contemporary NBC diktat for coaches employed on touring duties. It also decreed that coaches should carry either 'National Express' or 'National Holidays' livery at this time.
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Below is an 'action shot' of Swansea-bound 131 in 'as delivered' allover white with NATIONAL fleetnames.
The photo was actually taken from overtaking Exeter-bound sister coach 127 on a sunny Summer evening in 1978:
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/SAD%20131%20Rear.jpg)
Crossing Wiltshire near Chippenham, here's Swansea (North Dock) man Howell John thrashing westwards along the M4 with the 1830 London Victoria to Swansea service.
The 660 route was branded "The Red Dragon - Y Ddraig Goch" and linked Swansea with the Capital on a two-hourly frequency at this time.
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I bet it was a great laugh working on the buses mate, sounds like you got to know a few characters eh? Be good to see a few of them :)
Enjoying the old photos, keep 'em coming :y
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Taken around 1968, below are a few characters on duty in the garage doorway at Bridgend.
As Western Welsh's biggest depot, there were almost 100 buses 'on shed' there at that time.
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img293.jpg)
L-R: Fitter Alan Nelson, Inspector Eric Jones, Fitter Lew Cleaver, Shed-driver Joe Lloyd, Cleaner George Jones.
In the background is Leyland Tiger Cub 1132, blinded-up for a trip to Ogmore-by-Sea on the Glamorgan Heritage Coast.
Apparently, Eric's claim to fame was that he never actually paid for his cuppas in the canteen during his entire 40+ years career at Bridgend! ;D
It's appropriate to mention that not only did Alan pass-on his considerable mechanical knowledge and skills on 'all things Leyland' to this scribe - he also taught this lad to master the art of driving buses equipped with crash gearboxes.
Oh, and he also kindly supplied this photograph for inclusion here! :y
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The industry both bus and coach was full of real characters, all, or certainly most dead by now. The unfortunate thing is some of the younger drivers who are following them them through will never live up to their predecessors.
This is partly down to the strict rules and regulations they now work under...... :( especially drivers hours, limiters and tachographs and I suppose VOSA deserve a mention.....
Keep the photo's coming Seth!
it's real nostalgia!
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At the turn of the 1960s, declining passenger numbers essentially forced bus operators to seek major operational economies, and rapid introduction of 'one-man operation' was the order of the day.
Our neighbouring Swansea-based South Wales Transport Co set about converting many routes from crew-operated double-deck operation to single-deck OMO.
Always ardent AEC operators, the company introduced a substantial number of these 36ft AEC Reliances, which boasted an attractive cherry/primrose livery with copious amounts of Herzim polished aluminium mouldings thrown-in for good measure. Being 6MU2R models, they had the lively 8.2-litre AH505 engine driving through 4-speed semi-automatic gearboxes.
The Marshall 51-seat bodies featured forced-air ventilation and extra-width entrances for ease of passenger flow:
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/PWN%20972G.jpg)
Brunswick-based 972 is seen above at the Pentrepoeth Road stance on Morriston Cross when only a few days old, in the charge of my old friend/colleague Eric "Paddy" Somers on the busy cross-city 90 service, which was an early convert to OMO.
Although this big-hearted native of the Emerald Isle didn't suffer fools gladly, he was a brilliant jovial character who could really handle a 36-footer confidently and safely. His passengers loved him too!
A truly evocative shot that perfectly captures the mood of British life during my early years in the bus industry - with not a chav in sight!
(BTW; this location is just around the corner from our Plomien's gaffe!)
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I get to drive a few older machines:
(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15/GTOScott/01049dd7.jpg)
RM1062 - re-engined in the early '90's with a Scania 6-Cyl engine. It's known as the beast due to both the performance and the noise!
(http://i2.photobucket.com/albums/y15/GTOScott/1ecef918.jpg)
RF202 - AEC Regal IV, now 60 years old. AEC AV590 engine, 4-speed pre-select gearbox and no power steering. Great fun to drive though, once you're rolling the lack of power steering ceases to be a problem.
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I take it that you're working for Western Greyhound? Mark Howarth? :y
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That be who I work for :y
We've also got another 3 RM's (an RML, RMA and open-top RM), as well as a pair of Bristol VR's and a Leyland Leopard.
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At the turn of the 1960s, declining passenger numbers essentially forced bus operators to seek major operational economies, and rapid introduction of 'one-man operation' was the order of the day.
Our neighbouring Swansea-based South Wales Transport Co set about converting many routes from crew-operated double-deck operation to single-deck OMO.
Always ardent AEC operators, the company introduced a substantial number of these 36ft AEC Reliances, which boasted an attractive cherry/primrose livery with copious amounts of Herzim polished aluminium mouldings thrown-in for good measure. Being 6MU2R models, they had the lively 8.2-litre AH505 engine driving through 4-speed semi-automatic gearboxes.
The Marshall 51-seat bodies featured forced-air ventilation and extra-width entrances for ease of passenger flow:
(http://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/PWN%20972G.jpg)
Brunswick-based 972 is seen above at the Pentrepoeth Road stance on Morriston Cross when only a few days old, in the charge of my old friend/colleague Eric "Paddy" Somers on the busy cross-city 90 service, which was an early convert to OMO.
Although this big-hearted native of the Emerald Isle didn't suffer fools gladly, he was a brilliant jovial character who could really handle a 36-footer confidently and safely. His passengers loved him too!
A truly evocative shot that perfectly captures the mood of British life during my early years in the bus industry - with not a chav in sight!
(BTW; this location is just around the corner from our Plomien's gaffe!)
Yup my kids go to school just around the corner from there! Nice to see some old photos of the area :)
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Oh how I love driving big buses working working for National Express WM, ( formally Travel WM )
I get to drive single and double decks newest being 61 plate Volvo B7's and our oldest are Optare XL's S reg........ :y
Can't beat the workhorse formally known as the Metrobus MK2, fantastic bus and was always warm in the cab ;D
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Oh how I love driving big buses working working for National Express WM, ( formally Travel WM )
I get to drive single and double decks newest being 61 plate Volvo B7's and our oldest are Optare XL's S reg........ :y
Can't beat the workhorse formally known as the Metrobus MK2, fantastic bus and was always warm in the cab ;D
The old Volvo's are far more comfortable than the Scanias. I did a 5 hour stint on the Scania and was so pleased to get off. Give me a 1400 fleet number Volvo any day! How do the new Volvos compare Paul? I don't think we are getting any of them..... we are having some Scanias which are coming from Travel Dundee (Perry Barr only seems to get cast offs lol) The only new buses we have are the 61 plate Enviro 400's which are on the whole pretty poor for the route they are on.
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I happened up on this link and thought some of you might appreciate it:
http://www.skylineaviation.co.uk/buses/busnews3.html
(http://www.skylineaviation.co.uk/buses/rafcommando.jpg)
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I happened up on this link and thought some of you might appreciate it:
http://www.skylineaviation.co.uk/buses/busnews3.html
(http://www.skylineaviation.co.uk/buses/rafcommando.jpg)
That's just the thing to take Al's interest - well done Aa, he will be so pleased. :-* :-*
Still 669 replies and 45 pages shy of that Bus thread ::)
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Someone on here had a hankering for Ford's Thames Trader range.
In bus/coach form, the Trader was generally known as the '570E' and here's a nicely restored example:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0182.JPG)
At the Kington Vintage Show a few Summers ago, this one has a Duple 'Yeoman' body.
IIRC it was new to the Birmingham-based Den Caney concern.
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Now that's a bus with a bit of character - look at that shape! They don't make 'em like they used to :y
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Variations on a theme:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0477.JPG)
When mounted on the rival Bedford SB chassis, Duple incorporated some minor detail variations and badged it 'Super Vega'
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Just browsing 'tinternet, as you do ::) and found this site. I've just
wasted enjoyed another two hours of my life looking through it and there's still loads to check out when swmbo puts her face straight! :D ;D
http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=kingfisher%20vehicle%20transport%20in%20hartlepool&source=web&cd=22&ved=0CIABEBYwATgU&url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.old-bus-photos.co.uk%2F%3Fp%3D2014&ei=4aAFUO24E6Kl0QXThuHxBw&usg=AFQjCNGStxdLmG57rRHMJlSQ5zOmcyxDnA
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Go on ya boy ye - I knew we'd get this back again. :-* :-* :-*
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It's at times like these that you need a certain Welshman with an unrivalled knowledge of buses to make an appearance... surprised Seth hasn't commented on this yet ;D ;D
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It's at times like these that you need a certain Welshman with an unrivalled knowledge of buses to make an appearance... surprised Seth hasn't commented on this yet ;D ;D
give him time, he`s just appeared on-line. ::)
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Variations on a theme:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0477.JPG)
When mounted on the rival Bedford SB chassis, Duple incorporated some minor detail variations and badged it 'Super Vega'
I passed my PSV in one of these......it was of 1963 vintage at the time........ :y :y :y
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It's at times like these that you need a certain Welshman with an unrivalled knowledge of buses to make an appearance... surprised Seth hasn't commented on this yet ;D ;D
give him time, he`s just appeared on-line. ::)
So chappies - what d'ya wanna see appearing next on this long-running thread?
Do we want heavyweight stuff (AEC/Bristol/Leyland etc) or perhaps a long-distance coaching theme?
Am sure that I could dig-out a good run of the latter with a fair old UK-wide selection, featuring the coaches of long gone famous names like Black & White, Royal Blue, Yelloway et al.
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It's at times like these that you need a certain Welshman with an unrivalled knowledge of buses to make an appearance... surprised Seth hasn't commented on this yet ;D ;D
give him time, he`s just appeared on-line. ::)
So chappies - what d'ya wanna see appearing next on this long-running thread?
Do we want heavyweight stuff (AEC/Bristol/Leyland etc) or perhaps a long-distance coaching theme?
Am sure that I could dig-out a good run of the latter with a fair old UK-wide selection, featuring the coaches of long gone famous names like Black & White, Royal Blue, Yelloway et al.
What ever you think, personally, as said before, some HGV info would go down well imo, passed my HGV class 1 in a Commer, also of 1963 vintage and iirc a crash box, and only 5 speed..... :y :y
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It's at times like these that you need a certain Welshman with an unrivalled knowledge of buses to make an appearance... surprised Seth hasn't commented on this yet ;D ;D
give him time, he`s just appeared on-line. ::)
So chappies - what d'ya wanna see appearing next on this long-running thread?
Do we want heavyweight stuff (AEC/Bristol/Leyland etc) or perhaps a long-distance coaching theme?
Am sure that I could dig-out a good run of the latter with a fair old UK-wide selection, featuring the coaches of long gone famous names like Black & White, Royal Blue, Yelloway et al.
What ever you think, personally, as said before, some HGV info would go down well imo, passed my HGV class 1 in a Commer, also of 1963 vintage and iirc a crash box, and only 5 speed..... :y :y
Point taken Vamps, though we're talking 'Bus' Nostalgia.
HGV stuff's here: http://www.omegaowners.com/forum/index.php?topic=99405.0
Can you stick some photos etc on either/both threads? ;)
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Hardly the best quality exposure, but:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img320.jpg)
From Summer 1977.
Pointers anyone ...... ?
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<Cheerleader mode on>
Go Se-tth, go Se-tth, go Se-tth. :-* :-* :y
<off>
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It was already 8 years old when the photo was taken......... :D :D
A Leyland...... :-\ :-\
Well that is my contribution...... :D :D
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Hi Guys. :y
I cannot believe that this thread is still going. Its got to be a record.
What's happened to all the posted photos that were posted before the OOF site was up graded.
Admittedly I have not posted for ages, reasons I won't go into, but I have been popping on to the OOF now and again. Just to see who is still Migging!
Had to get rid of my last Miggy and could not find a decent one so I got a Veccy 3.2 GSI which still has a Miggy engine in it!!! ::)
I'll be on here more often now. ( If I'm allowed :D )
I've missed this forum and this thread!! :'( :'( :'( :'(
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It was already 8 years old when the photo was taken......... :D :D
A Leyland...... :-\ :-\
Well that is my contribution...... :D :D
Sorry Vamps ...... nope! ;D
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Hardly the best quality exposure, but:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img320.jpg)
From Summer 1977.
Pointers anyone ...... ?
ILLUSTRATED FLEET HISTORY - BRISTOL OMNIBUS COMPANY
RELH6L 2054 - 2058
Last Updated : July 4th 2012 (brought up-to-date)
This page lists Bristol Omnibus RELH 2054-2058 including links to pages containing all photos currently in the BVRES Collection showing the liveries carried by individual vehicles. If you have any further information or photos I would be delighted to hear from you at rob@robsly.com
Fleet Number Registration Chassis Number Date Acquired Date Sold
2054 TAE415G RELH4/238 New, 6/1969 9/1981 (SCRAPPED)
2055 TAE416G RELH4/239 New, 6/1969 2/1983 (SCRAPPED)
2056 TAE417G RELH4/240 New, 6/1969 2/1981 (SCRAPPED)
2057 TAE418G RELH4/241 New, 6/1969 9/1983 (Cheltenham & Gloucester 2057)
2058 TAE419G RELH4/242 New, 6/1969 8/1981 (SCRAPPED)
According to the above the bus in the photo was scrapped in Feb 1981.
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It looks like a Bristol, but don't know which type :-\
Just found this:http://www.google.co.uk/url?sa=t&rct=j&q=bristol%20single%20decker%20buses&source=web&cd=8&cad=rja&sqi=2&ved=0CGEQFjAH&url=http%3A%2F%2Fclassicbristolbuses.thornet.co.uk%2Fre.htm&ei=LQ0wUPymMajC0QWG7YDoDA&usg=AFQjCNHVfX2kalo1CzZ10qTMJB4ac20H1g
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It looks like a Bristol, but don't know which type :-\
Dad1uk has just said that in the previous post.... ::) ::) ::) I don't know, bloomin Monkey hangers... :D :D :D
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It looks like a Bristol, but don't know which type :-\
Dad1uk has just said that in the previous post.... ::) ::) ::) I don't know, bloomin Monkey hangers... :D :D :D
It's me arthur itis mike, makes me slow, but I get there in the end! ;D ;)
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It looks like a Bristol, but don't know which type :-\
Dad1uk has just said that in the previous post.... ::) ::) ::) I don't know, bloomin Monkey hangers... :D :D :D
It's me arthur itis mike, makes me slow, but I get there in the end! ;D ;)
Slow is fine as long as you are OK..... :y :y
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It looks like a Bristol, but don't know which type :-\
Dad1uk has just said that in the previous post.... ::) ::) ::) I don't know, bloomin Monkey hangers... :D :D :D
It's me arthur itis mike, makes me slow, but I get there in the end! ;D ;)
Slow is fine as long as you are OK..... :y :y
Thanks Mike :y,
I've just had my 3rd year MRI scan, wont know the results for a few weeks but I don't forsee any problems :y
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With the opening of the Severn Bridge in Autumn 1966, the Bristol Omnibus Co and Red & White Services Ltd immediately grasped the opportunity to provide a jointly-operated 'limited-stop' service between Bristol and Cardiff.
Numbered '301' it ran on a two-hourly frequency and also served Newport, plus a couple of other intermediate stops. End-to-end running time was around 90 minutes, with simultaneous departures from each end of the route from 0900 until 1900 - so both operators' vehicle undertook three round trips per day, Monday to Saturday. (Can't remember if there was a service on Sundays!)
BOC's share was worked by buses from their Marlborough Street depot, whilst R&W's Aberdare depot provided vehicles from this side of the Bristol Channel.
From the Summer of 1977, here's Bristol Omnibus' 2056 laying-over on it's stance at Cardiff Central Bus Station, already blinded-up for it's first back-working of the day to Bristol with the 1100 departure:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img320.jpg)
It's a 36 foot Bristol RE with 49-seat Eastern Coachworks 49-seat dual-purpose body, ie: 'Coach'-seated 'bus' body-shell.
It's actual chassis model designation is RELH6L:
'H' signifying the optional 'high' chassis frame - note the seat height relative to the waist-rail.
'L' indicates that the optional Leyland 0.680 engine (rather than Gardner 6HLX) was fitted.
A Leyland-engined RE gave quite an exhiliarating performance, and the sound from the twin-silencered exhaust system was literally shattering!
Here's an 'action shot' taken an hour or so later on the same day, on the same bus:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img321.jpg)
A front seat view crossing the Severn Bridge, and bound for Bristol aboard 2056.
We're actually half-way across the bridge in the outside lane, and I can see that the driver's already changed-down into third gear due to the traffic conditions!
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Later that same Summer 1977 afternoon, here's BOC Hanham depot's C1147 at Bristol's College Green on the cross-city 8 service, bound for Temple Meads:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img322.jpg)
It's another 36' Bristol RE, though this time an RELL6L model with dual-door ECW 'bus' body.
'L' signifying a 'low' chassis frame, with the body floor ramped upwards over the engine at the rear of the passenger saloon. (Note the apparent absence of visible seating in the front portion of the saloon!)
The observant will notice that the Bristol Corporation coat of arms and scroll-type fleetname is displayed on this bus above the O/S/F wheel-arch, combined with the NBC 'double-N' logo (minus 'Bristol' fleetname) affixed above the driver's cab window. Additionally, the 'C' prefix to it's fleetnumber indicates that it's a 'city service' vehicle.
Bristol Omnibus were certainly devoted RE users.
Indeed, several hundred Leyland 0.680-powered RE's became the standard fayre in various guises across that companies' vast operating territory.
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Now here's a very rare machine:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0560.JPG)
One of the handful of buses to appear in the Historic Commercial Vehicle section at the recent Welland event.
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Charabanc For Sale on ebay and still in use...... :y :y
http://www.ebay.co.uk/itm/Charabanc-16-seater-psv-Coach-/160877939656?forcev4exp=true
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Should've posted this a few months ago ......
A long-time acquaintance of mine has spent a good few years compiling this comprehensive history of the Western Welsh Omnibus Company.
The end result is a fine 'warts and all' 240-page anthology of the entire 75-year lifespan of this proud company. Among several knowledgeable souls, this scribes' remit was to ensure that all the vehicular technical details were correctly reported.
This long-awaited publication was released at a recent event at the Barry Bus Museum - which originally was our Barry depot.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/DSC06571.jpg)
L-R: Author Colin Scott, John (Coach-builder at Bridgend depot), moi and Alan (both Bridgend Fitters).
As an apprentice, I was 'taken under the wing' of both John and Alan:
John hailed from Hertfordshire, and had previously worked for Park Royal Vehicles building Routemasters (among others) for London Transport. A master craftsman, he taught me the art of brush-painting our buses - and I've still got the 'paint kettle' to prove it!
Alan was a Cardiffian with immense knowledge of all things Leyland, and I sorely tested his patience when learning to drive buses with 'crash' gearboxes. Soon got the hang of it though!
All three of us had a great day out at the book launch - and I enjoyed acting as chauffeur to both of them, in gratitude for all their advice and training during my apprenticeship. Crikey, how time flies ..... that was nearly 40 years ago!
Here's the bus museum: http://www.ctpg.co.uk/2012%20barry_fest_REVIEW.htm
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i used to work on islwyn buses. gone now crap stagecoach took them over :y :y
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Yep-the old Islwyn gone!
I miss the old blue buses and when young would regularly travel on them.
Steve
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Yep-the old Islwyn gone!
I miss the old blue buses and when young would regularly travel on them.
Steve
when you was young,i was still working on them steve ;D ;D
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Been down to the fair city of Swansea today to visit:
http://www.swanseabusmuseum.com/
Despite the inclement weather, a goodly number of bold spirits managed to sample a trip out on the old '14' route to Pennard on Gower, aboard this recently-restored gem:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0585.JPG)
New in January 1967, 639 was the very last of SWT's massive fleet of AEC Regent Vs to remain in active service.
It's a 27ft Willowbrook-bodied 2D3RA model and was finally withdrawn from Brunswick depot on 27 February 1982, after 15 years hard graft on Swansea's busy cross-city services.
Restored in the pre-NBC 'cherry/primrose' livery, it passed it's MoT in February this year, and it's indeed a fine tribute to owner Alan Woolcock's painstaking efforts over several years.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0582.JPG)
Two of my former colleagues posed with our steed at the Pennard Cliffs terminus, which overlooks Three Cliffs Bay.
Recently retired, both were long-serving Brunswick 'F Rota' men who were well-versed with the intricacies of working the Gower routes.
Roy (left), had previously worked as a sheduler, before the lure of the open road got the better of him!
Peter (aka 'Elvis') can really handle a Regent, and it was a delight to sample the wonderful aural effects of that big 9.6-litre AV590 lump and 4-speed all-synchromesh 'box in full cry, whilst climbing out through leafy Mayals, then crossing Clyne Common and out onto Gower proper.
All in all, it's been great to meet-up with old friends and reminisce the great times we all had 'out on the road'.
Many thanks to Peter and Roy for brightening-up an otherwise dull day! :y :y :y :y :y
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Excellent Post, thanks........ :y :y :y
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Yep-the old Islwyn gone!
I miss the old blue buses and when young would regularly travel on them.
Steve
when you was young,i was still working on them steve ;D ;D
Dug this shot oot o' me archives especially for Rolf and Steve .....
44-seat Weymann 'Hermes'-bodied Leyland Tiger Cubs were especially popular in South Wales.
Straightforward and simplistic, the 6-ish litre 0.350 engine and Albion 5-speed constant-mesh 'box coped exceedingly well with the appalling Valleys terrain as seen below:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img330.jpg)
This example is about to cross the bridge at Tir Phil station, after leaving New Tredegar en-route for Abertysswg, a few miles further up the Rhymney Valley.
Phillipstown can be clearly seen clinging to the hillside in the background.
The West Monmouthshire Omnibus Board, based at Penmaen, Blackwood, was the precursor to what ultimately became Islwyn Borough Transport. ;)
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Yep-the old Islwyn gone!
I miss the old blue buses and when young would regularly travel on them.
Steve
when you was young,i was still working on them steve ;D ;D
Dug this shot oot o' me archives especially for Rolf and Steve .....
44-seat Weymann 'Hermes'-bodied Leyland Tiger Cubs were especially popular in South Wales.
Straightforward and simplistic, the 6-ish litre 0.350 engine and Albion 5-speed constant-mesh 'box coped exceedingly well with the appalling Valleys terrain as seen below:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img330.jpg)
This example is about to cross the bridge at Tir Phil station, after leaving New Tredegar en-route for Abertysswg, a few miles further up the Rhymney Valley.
Phillipstown can be clearly seen clinging to the hillside in the background.
The West Monmouthshire Omnibus Board, based at Penmaen, Blackwood, was the precursor to what ultimately became Islwyn Borough Transport. ;)
that was most probably the time i was working on them seth ;D ;D when that was we used to be based in blackwood were aldi store is now :y
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Especially for Ms Zoom 8):
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img338.jpg)
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Wow!! :D :D :D
How wonderful that this thread is still going! 8) 8) 8) :y :y :y :y
There have been some great buses added since I last looked as well, Just proves how such a nostalgic topic can last and last, and last............ ;D ;D
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Especially for Ms Zoom 8):
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img338.jpg)
Thanks a lot for that Seth :y :y :y :y :y :y
Now I know I am back ;D ;D
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Whilst on this 'Garden of England' theme, this one appears to be heading your way, Lizzie:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img340.jpg)
It's a rear-engined 1968 Leyland Panther with a Strachans standee-type body to the contemporary BET Federation outline. The 'moustache' moulding below the windscreen was a Maidstone & District trademark for some years.
Whilst these felines weren't entirely successful in service, this example has been restored to a high standard, and is seen here at Duxford in September 1994.
M&D logo:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img341.jpg)
Traditional 'varnish-affixed' transfer.
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A great example of those coaches we used to see on a daily basis Seth. They still look good today, unlike some during the 1970's.
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Whilst on this 'Garden of England' theme, this one appears to be heading your way, Lizzie:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img340.jpg)
It's a rear-engined 1968 Leyland Panther with a Strachans standee-type body to the contemporary BET Federation outline. The 'moustache' moulding below the windscreen was a Maidstone & District trademark for some years.
Whilst these felines weren't entirely successful in service this example has been restored to a high standard, and is seen here at Duxford in September 1994.
M&D logo:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img341.jpg)
Traditional 'varnish-affixed' transfer.
neither was maidstone and district once arriva turned up!!
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A great example of those coaches we used to see on a daily basis Seth. They still look good today, unlike some during the 1970's.
Leyland's 'Panther' model was one example of a veritable rash of rear-engined single-deckers that came on to the market in the mid-1960s. It shared many components with the ubiquitous mid-engined 'Leopard'.
The basic idea was to replace crew-operated double-deckers with one-man operated 'standee'-type single-deckers.
Mounting the engine horizontally, (and gearboxes, in some cases) under the floor on the rear overhang brought forth previously unheard-of problems. Probably the most serious was when a body was 'tied' to the chassis aft of mid-wheelbase - serious stress-related failures often occurred within the body frame.
Alas, many led comparatively short lives, and Leyland operators generally returned to the trusty Leopard to satisfy their single-deck requirements.
One good thing about a Panther:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img342.jpg)
Like hen's teeth, and worth a pretty penny these days!
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I was going through again this wonderful thread to remind myself of all the wonderful bus and coach example we all have posted.
However I am disappointed to note that far from all the original photo's are now showing!! :'( :'( All I am seeing on so many posts is [/img]
Why is that? ??? ??? ???
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I have found this on youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjEGzvM_W3k
Most of these buses were going around when I was born, still going around when I lived there again from 1962-64 and then when I again revisited in 1994. Oh, what lovely memories. :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
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I have found this on youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjEGzvM_W3k
Most of these buses were going around when I was born, still going around when I lived there again from 1962-64 and then when I again revisited in 1994. Oh, what lovely memories. :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
i thought everyone travelled by horse and cart when you were born lizzie :)
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I have found this on youtube:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zjEGzvM_W3k
Most of these buses were going around when I was born, still going around when I lived there again from 1962-64 and then when I again revisited in 1994. Oh, what lovely memories. :-* :-* :-* :-* :-*
i thought everyone travelled by horse and cart when you were born lizzie :)
I think many believe that Richie! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
Actually when I was 3 years old there were still many horse drawn carriages of one type of another passing my Grandmothers home in Stratford, East London 8) 8)
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Prior to the formation of NBC's National Travel coaching arm at the turn of the '70s, Britain's long-distance express coaching operations were generally operated under the auspices of several 'pools' of the larger 'area agreement' companies.
Much of the South Coast, South Wales, the Midlands and the West Country was covered by the Associated Motorways 'pool'. As well as cross-country routes, there were important routes that linked London with all parts of the network. The Southern National and Western National concerns were AM partners, and contributed coaches in the superb 'Royal Blue' livery as seen carried by 2368 laying-over at Bournemouth's Mallard Road below:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img343.jpg)
It's a 1967 Bristol RELH6G with 45-seat Eastern Coachworks 'coach' body. These were the backbone of Royal Blue's substantial express coach fleet for some years.
The 10.45-litre Gardner 6HLX engine was mounted horizontally underfloor on the rear overhang, and drove through a fluid flywheel and cardan shaft to a 5-speed epicyclic gearbox which was remotely-mounted forward of the drop-centre rear axle. IIRC; these were specified with the optional air-over-leaf suspension.
The ECW body was absolutely rock-solid, and featured forced-air ventilation as standard. Finished with luxurious leatherette seats, passengers were assured of a wonderfully comfortable journey. Luggage was stowed in a cavernous underfloor locker situated in mid-wheelbase and accessible from both sides of the coach. There was also a small 'boot' at the rear, aft of the engine compartment.
The white-coloured steering wheel reminded it's driver that his vehicle was 8ft 2 1/2 ins wide! ;)
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Very nice :-* :-*
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As the 1970s progressed, the individual liveries were steadily swept away, as all NBC coaches began appearing in the familiar all-over white livery with corporate 'NATIONAL' branding.
Apart from the legal lettering, the only clue to the actual operating subsidiary was the red fleetname transfer affixed on the waist rail over the N/S/F wheelarch.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img344.jpg)
Here's 1461 from the 1969 batch resting between duties outside Western National's Weymouth depot in Summer 1978.
You decide which livery better suits that ECW body! :-X
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Before the buses took over I remember riding on the Tracklesses in the town where I grew up.A Trackless was like a tram using overhead wires to power them but ran on rubber tyres and of course didn't use tracks like a tram,hencethe name obviously.
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Before the buses took over I remember riding on the Tracklesses in the town where I grew up.A Trackless was like a tram using overhead wires to power them but ran on rubber tyres and of course didn't use tracks like a tram,hencethe name obviously.
Similar then to a trolley bus, although they were usually double decked. Like this:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/LondonTrolleyBusc1960.jpg)
:y
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The lion's share of Associated Motorways duties from the South Wales area were operated by Red & White Services Ltd.
Being a Tilling Group subsidiary, the company followed that group's vehicular policy and operated a huge fleet of ECW-bodied Bristols. Between 1966 and 1969, 30-odd of these fine machines entered service and could be seen on express duties throughout the AM network:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img345.jpg)
In all it's regalia, RC 969 (which signified it as being the 9th rear-engined coach of 1969) is a Bristol RELH6L model with the customary Eastern Coachworks body seating 47 passengers.
The 1968/9 coaches had the optional 9.8-litre Leyland 0.600 engine (rather than the Gardner 6HLX unit), whilst the body featured jack-knife entrance doors rather than a traditional single-piece slam door.
With that Leyland engine in full cry, they would happily cruise at 80+ mph all day long, (no tachographs or limiters in those days!), and proved to be very popular with drivers and passengers alike! :y
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The lion's share of Associated Motorways duties from the South Wales area were operated by Red & White Services Ltd.
Being a Tilling Group subsidiary, the company followed that group's vehicular policy and operated a huge fleet of ECW-bodied Bristols. Between 1966 and 1969, 30-odd of these fine machines entered service and could be seen on express duties throughout the AM network:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img345.jpg)
In all it's regalia, RC 969 (which signified it as being the 9th rear-engined coach of 1969) is a Bristol RELH6L model with the customary Eastern Coachworks body seating 47 passengers.
The 1968/9 coaches had the optional 9.8-litre Leyland 0.600 engine (rather than the Gardner 6HLX unit), whilst the body featured jack-knife entrance doors rather than a traditional single-piece slam door.
With that Leyland engine in full cry, they would happily cruise at 80+ mph all day long, (no tachographs or limiters in those days!), and proved to be very popular with drivers and passengers alike! :y
I like that, colours suit the shape nicely..... :y :y
Sadly I have only ever driven Ford's and Bedford's of that era...... :) :)
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Many of the coaches that were initially utilised on long-distance express duties were ordered with jack-knife doors. This allowed for a straightforward conversion to OMO; and down-grading to 'dual-purpose' vehicles in later life, with such examples then being deployed on more localised 'limited stop' services.
Red & White followed this policy as seen below:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img347.jpg)
Originally numbered RC 368, Aberdare-based RD368 has just arrived at Cardiff's Central Bus Station after the 90-odd minute thrash from Bristol on the 301 service.
The 'D' signifying 'Dual-purpose' status as opposed to it's previous 'Coach' role.
NBC's corporate livery has now replaced the traditional R&W cream/red livery in this Summer 1977 view.
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Red & White's final batch of Bristol REs with this style of ECW coach bodies arrived in 1969.
Again, they were of the RELH6L model and were registered SAX 1-11G with fleetnumbers RC1-1169.
Here's a freshly-overhauled and repainted example over the inspection pits at R&W's Central Workshops at Bulwark, Chepstow in the mid-70s:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img346.jpg)
The neighbouring Jones Omnibus Services, Western Welsh Omnibus Co and Red & White would soon join forces to create the National Welsh empire, and this coach has already been renumbered (from it's original RC 469) into a common series in readiness for the merger.
'RC' signified 'Rear-engined Coach', whilst '4869' denoted the 48th vehicle of 1969
The destination display indicates that it's last duty was a Cheltenham-Cardiff journey.
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An Associated Motorways Trilogy:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img348.jpg)
A trio of Bristol RELH6Gs from the United Counties, Crosville and Royal Blue fleets, showing the operator-specified detail differences in the ECW coach bodies.
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Cheltenham-based Black & White Motorways were among the original founding partners of Associated Motorways.
During the 1960s; the standard fayre at Cheltenham was the trusty Leyland Leopard with nicely-finished Plaxton body:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img349.jpg)
A long way from home and taking a refreshment halt, is one of the 1966 Leopards with Plaxton 'Panorama' 47-seat bodies that were finished to B&W's exacting standards.
These had the evergreen 0.600 engine and less-common 4-speed synchromesh gearbox.
This emblem was centrally-positioned between the destination blinds:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/crest.jpg)
It also prominently adorned Black & White's premises at St Margarets Road in Cheltenham.
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Bristol Tramways (latterly the vast Bristol Omnibus Co) were also amongst the original founding partners of Associated Motorways.
Bristol Omnibus' coach fleet was liveried in Tilling Cream with Tilling Red relief, and ran under the 'Bristol Greyhound' fleetname as seen below:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img351.jpg)
A 1966 Bristol MW6G with the ultimate style of ECW coach body for this chassis model.
The trusty Gardner 6HLW engine was mounted horizontally in mid-wheelbase, and drove through a 5-speed overdrive 'box to an overhead worm rear axle.
Although the 'MW' model was utterly reliable in service, the triple-servo vacuum brakes took some getting used to (trust me!), and you really had to anticipate the traffic conditions. The accelerator pedal was extremely heavy to hold to the floor (in typical Gardner fashion), and they were also quite economical to operate, returning upwards of 15 mpg on long distance work.
Top whack was an astounding 52 mph with that Gardner in full cry at 1750 rpm! :o
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I love that simple, but very effective, colour scheme Seth. :y :y :y
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At the turn of the 1970s; increasing National Bus Company influences saw it's South West area subsidiaries' coaches appearing in revised liveries. It also became apparent that NBC favoured the Leyland Leopard chassis for it's coaching requirements, and here's a Plaxton-bodied example:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img350.jpg)
Bristol Omnibus chose Magenta as the relief colour for it's 'Bristol Greyhound' coach fleet.
This coach was amongst the very first Leopards for BOC; and is seen here when only a few days old resting at Lawrence Hill depot, having worked a 'stopping' service from London via the A4.
The entrance door has a peage window for possible future Continental work.
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I love that pink livery. Very unusual I would have thought. 8) 8)
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I really must get two of my Leyland 680 (horizontal) engines stripped ready for re-build over the next few months.
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I love that pink livery. Very unusual I would have thought. 8) 8)
It was certainly distinctive Lizzie, and sat nicely on the Plaxton bodies of that era. :y
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Black & White Motorways had long favoured the Plaxton-bodied Leyland Leopard as it's standard unit.
Somewhat surprisingly, a handful of Bristol REs arrived at Cheltenham in the early 70s - although B&W's allegiance to Plaxtons continued.
One such vehicle in the revised livery:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img352.jpg)
A 1972 Bristol RELH6G at Cheltenham Coach Station awaiting a turn on a private hire job.
This example also has a peage window on the entrance door, and has the optional 'Bristol Dome' above the windscreens.
Waist-level destination boxes could not be specified on Bristol REs due to a front-mounted radiator - even though the engine was 36ft aft of it!
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Deviating from the 'Express Coach' theme:
After successful negotiations, the only known survivor of Western Welsh's 'Capital Class' coaches has just returned home to WW's former Barry depot, which is now a thriving bus museum.
Withdrawn after a ten year stint on the extensive touring programme, it was last used in service by it's successive owner way back in 1974. It's remarkably complete after spending nearly 40 years in a Northamptonshire barn.
Someone's gonna be busy .... it would seem! :o
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/txww107.jpg)
New in March 1958, 107 is an AEC Reliance with 39-seat Harrington 'Wayfarer IV' coach body.
Seen above in it's original livery of Royal Ivory with Wine Red relief.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/107%20arrival1crop.JPG)
On arrival at Barry - late afternoon on Sunday 2 December.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/107%20arrival4crop.JPG)
Being expertly manouvered into it's new home.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/OUH107.jpeg)
In it's final WW livery of Royal Ivory with Peacock Blue relief.
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Buses were also considered for other applications and some have found there way onto the iron roads in various forms.
The following rancid device is LEV1 which stands for Leyland Experimental Vehicle 1
(http://www.traintesting.com/images/LEV1-Weybourne%20NNR%2018-4-10.JPG)
This nasty device re-uses the Leyland modular bus body on a HSFV (High Speed Freight Vehicle) frame along with a TL11 engine (200bhp) connected to a fully automatic SCG gearbox and a Gmeinder final drive unit driving one axle.
In the case of this vehicle, which succesfuly combined the worst of bus and rail in a single package, it did actulay enter service inn the Anglia region.
Interestingly, this is now part of the national collection!
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Still going then this one :)
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Still going then this one :)
It will never die! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
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Marks DTM posting of that awful attempt of a modern railcar has given me an excuse to mention The Great Western Railway and their first "streamlined" diesel railcars in December 1933:
This is No.4 outside GWR Swindon Workshops.
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GWRRailcarNo4.jpg)
I think that looks much better than the yellow contraption of BR days!
The 69 seater GWR railcar was powered by a 121hp London Bus diesel engine, with other mechanical and internal features common to London buses of that time. The top speed of these railcars was up to 80 mph.
Later, once the GWR was happy with the results of running these cheaper to run alternatives on lines with light traffic, they introduced railcars with 260hp twin engine units. These had 44 single class seats with tables in between, and were more spacious than the previous versions. There was also a buffet with four further seats. The average speed on their runs between Birmingham and Cardiff was a modest 49.3 mph; 142 minutes over the 116 3/4 miles involved. To travel in these a further 2/6d was charged, but that later was withdrawn.
A member of the 2nd batch, No6, at Swindon Works:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GWRRailcar2ndbatch.jpg)
A later version, built in 1940. Note the more angular front "streamlining":
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GWRRailcar1940.jpg)
This is an example of a working GWR railcar at the Didcot Railway Centre, with No.4 (the one shown at the top of this posting, outside Swindon Workshops), static in the Swindon Steam Museum:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GWRRailcar4Swindon.jpg)
These all were buses on rails, with the railway companies, the GWR in this instance, attempting to fight the growing competition from road buses and, more importantly, cut costs of running full steam driven trains on lightly used lines.
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..........and in case anyone is wondering, the GWR had introduced a steam railcar at the turn of the 19th/20th century.
This is one of those in 1905:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GWRSteamRailcar.jpg)
:y
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.............and before anyone suggests I cannot remember those earlier railcars in traffic!
But I do remember these in 1960 when I travelled on one between Dartmouth (Kingswear) and Totnes:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GWR1960Railcar.jpg)
:D :D ;)
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No offence but how is this thread still going? ::)
More effective tham Temazapam though ;) ;D
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No offence but how is this thread still going? ::)
More effective tham Temazapam though ;) ;D
It is still rolling along due to a mutual nostalgic love for transport, especially buses, coaches, and all forms of both, even if rail mounted!
It is also an escape for those who need it, away from a world where values have changed, and look in to the world we saw as children, or remember from stories told by our then elders, now in many cases sadly departed. :D :D :D :y :y
Enjoy, enjoy!! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
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I have been asked in the past about why double deck railway coaches, like double decker buses, are not on British Railways as in other countries.
My answer is that they were once tried, by one of my railway hero's, the great man, the CME of the Southern Railway, O.V.Bullied. He overcame the restrictions placed on British railway design by the constricted loading gauge, and came up with an idea to develop the standard EMU units on the Southern to have a upper passenger deck. This was in the days leading up to the Nationalisation of the railways on 1st January, 1948, so his coaches arrived on the scene in early BR days.
The main problem with them was the time it took for people to disembark at stations, and so the idea was not developed further. The units that were built survived until 1971, and I remember then well when I used to travel up to London by train regularly in the late 1960s, and last saw one just before their withdrawal. This is how they looked, and although not dissimilar to a standard EMU, if you look closely you can see the upper floor windows:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/DoubleDeckCoaches.gif)
For those interested, have a look at this brilliant web site I have found on them:
http://www.bulleidlocos.org.uk/(S(hbvhqm11p4lic2513ci51ivm))/_oth/4_dd.aspx
:y :y
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I have been asked in the past about why double deck railway coaches, like double decker buses, are not on British Railways as in other countries.
My answer is that they were once tried, by one of my railway hero's, the great man, the CME of the Southern Railway, O.V.Bullied. He overcame the restrictions placed on British railway design by the constricted loading gauge, and came up with an idea to develop the standard EMU units on the Southern to have a upper passenger deck. This was in the days leading up to the Nationalisation of the railways on 1st January, 1948, so his coaches arrived on the scene in early BR days.
The main problem with them was the time it took for people to disembark at stations, and so the idea was not developed further. The units that were built survived until 1971, and I remember then well when I used to travel up to London by train regularly in the late 1960s, and last saw one just before their withdrawal. This is how they looked, and although not dissimilar to a standard EMU, if you look closely you can see the upper floor windows:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/DoubleDeckCoaches.gif)
For those interested, have a look at this brilliant web site I have found on them:
http://www.bulleidlocos.org.uk/(S(hbvhqm11p4lic2513ci51ivm))/_oth/4_dd.aspx
:y :y
thats good lizzie
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As this is a car forum, I will now touchdown with what we all love; Engines!
But, an engine for a GWR Railcar! This is the AEC 8.85 litre diesel engine fitted to some of the GWR railcars, which as I stated before were the same engine as fitted to contemporary London Buses:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/AEC885litreEngineGWRRailcars.jpg)
The London, Midland & Scottish Railway (LMS) also tried out railcars building this version in 1938 for the same reasons as the GWR did. To me this is more like a DMU, but the LMS classed it all as a "Railcar"!:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/LMSRailcar.jpg)
These were powered by six 125hp Leyland oil engines with hydraulic transmission:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/LMSRailcarEngine.jpg)
This was the typical interior of a GWR Railcar:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/GWRRailcarInterior.jpg)
To end, and for all the petrol heads on the forum, this was the Michelin Experimental Railcar trailed on the GWR:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/ExperimentalGWRRailcar.jpg)
A classis in design...........not! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
From all this series of Railcar insights, which is not comprehensive as I would require a separate thread for that, you can see the close link between these rail vehicles and road buses of the era. In fact, as Marks DTM posting shows, even very recently BR were working on a close, if not unfortunate, link with road transport technology and railway requirements.
:y
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Not (that) far from Vamps:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4Pcdg9m7Dao
Nice bit of driving there! :y
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Yep, seen that before and know the bank... :y
It reminds me of a time in the 80's when I had a bus full of Cub Scouts visiting Scotland, we were to stay in a local Scout Hut, I was driving the bus, and was Akela, and missed a turn and ended up going down and then back up a twisty bendy that, was not suitable for large vehicles, believe me was tight, inches either side, other cars simply reversed or turned around to wait, but we managed.... :y :y
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Bus and trams, and trolley buses, and classic cars........ :y
http://www.omegaowners.com/forum/index.php?topic=110024.0
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Bus and trams, and trolley buses, and classic cars........ :y
http://www.omegaowners.com/forum/index.php?topic=110024.0
As stated on your thread Vamps, it is most suitable for the Bus Nostalgia thread, with great social and transport history shown, along with a great humorous soundtrack!
So I take the liberty to post the link here:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OPXdaTMMa2w
Apart from so much historically interesting content, it is so interesting to learn, judging by a Mk2 Cortina with a "E" reg (1967) in one scene that trolley buses were still alive and well after that date. I have learnt though they were withdrawn in 1968.
All so cool Vamps, what a great find! It has made my day, and I have already played the video 7 times to soak in the information. The cars, many from the 1940's and others from the 1930's, all add to the content, with a BEA (British European Airways for those too young to remember) sign, followed by a BOAC (British Overseas Airways Corporation), both shortly to become British Airways. Even horse and carts which I saw in London in the late 1950's, into the early 1960's, adds to the wonderful mix, with a coach that would not be out of place in Malta! You can also see the black and white strips on the lower parts of lampposts and traffic lights, which I think would have been left over from the days of the blackout during WW2.
Then you have the women's fashions, which remind me of the clothes my mum was wearing at that time, but the men were all in "uniform" very drab clothes; no colourful t-shirts, tops, or trainers!!
All in all a wonderful, wonderful video of individual nostalgic photographs :-* :-* :-* :-* 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
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I love old busses, I worked for Robinson's Holidays some years ago a fitter.
The coach below is the one I learnt to drive in so holds a place in my heart.
(http://farm3.staticflickr.com/2613/3902739181_4379fe31bb_b.jpg)
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(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/3902739181_4379fe31bb_b.jpg)
A DAF MB230 with Van Hool 'Alizee' body from Robinsons of Great Harwood, Lancashire.
Mid-mounted horizontal DAF DKTL1160 engine (derived from Leyland's 0.680 unit), driving through a ZF 6-speed (with splitter) gearbox. Superb air-assisted hydraulic twin-caliper front disc brakes with full air 'S-cam & roller' rear brakes.
We had four Plaxton-bodied MB230s, and they were very reliable machines.
Achilles Heel was a tendency for the water pump impeller drives to shear off.
How did you get on with that 12-speed ZF 'box Muttly? :D
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Robinsons coaches were frequent visitors to West Wales on extended tours.
Prior to operating DAFs; the Leyland Leopard was standard fayre at Great Harwood:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img357.jpg)
A Plaxton 'Supreme IV'-bodied Leopard resting at Tenby's North Beach Coach Park during the mid-1980s.
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Bus and trams, and trolley buses, and classic cars........ :y
http://www.omegaowners.com/forum/index.php?topic=110024.0
Gotta say that this film's top notch soundtrack's got me in stitches here! (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/rofl.gif)
Trolleybuses apart, there's some good shots of Belfast Corporation's Daimler and Guy half-cabs, and a couple of views of their (then) newly-introduced Daimler Fleetlines.
That music .... (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/rofl.gif)
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Achilles Heel was a tendency for the water pump impeller drives to shear off.
Hence we kept 4/5 in the parts room at all times, got my best time down to 17mins to change one out.
How did you get on with that 12-speed ZF 'box Muttly? :D
Bloody loved it, the fleet engineer (my boss) use to b*****k me for setting off in 2nd low
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No offence but how is this thread still going? ::)
More effective tham Temazapam though ;) ;D
You keep coming on to read it though, don't you....... ;) ;) It's OK, you can come out of the closet, we won't tell anyone.... :D :D :y
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:y :ytomorow night bbc4 qt 9 oclock the life of coaches thought you might be interested :y :y
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Bloody loved it, the fleet engineer (my boss) use to b*****k me for setting off in 2nd low
Usually did the same meself - and there was no-one to b****ck me .... I was the boss! ;)
Could never fathom DAF's reason for fitting the 6-speed splitter box.
6 gears on a coach gave ample ratios in my opinion.
Anyway, here's one of our Plaxton-bodied MB230s, which was liveried for School Travel Service of Enfield, as we undertook a considerable amount of work for them:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img358.jpg)
I took this one down to St Etienne in Central France via Dieppe, to exchange it with, and subsequently repatriate a problematical Leyland Tiger.
It ran like a dream on the autoroutes .... 'twas 6th high/low gears all the way south from the Peripherique .... with only a Wet Wet Wet tape in the player for company!
:y
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I never got on with splitter boxes or axles, :-X :-X I have to admit to never really getting to grips with either..... :-[ :-[ ::) ::) ::)
I remember many years ago hiring a tractor unit from BRS? and a friend of mine was the Manager, he offered to follow my out of the yard with a dustpan and brush to pick up the cogs, twas a Leyland.... :D :D :D
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I never got on with splitter boxes or axles, :-X :-X I have to admit to never really getting to grips with either..... :-[ :-[ ::) ::) ::)
I remember many years ago hiring a tractor unit from BRS? and a friend of mine was the Manager, he offered to follow my out of the yard with a dustpan and brush to pick up the cogs, twas a Leyland.... :D :D :D
Never had any troubles with the splitter box in my old Leyland Roadtrain, drop half a gear just by dipping the clutch piece of cake. Mind you some of the pupils my gaffer took out in it couldn't work a constant mesh box and played some horrible tunes.
The 290 Rolly used to happily pull up windy hill at 70 cause we ran empty to Hull every morning to pick up a caravan.
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I never got on with splitter boxes or axles, :-X :-X I have to admit to never really getting to grips with either..... :-[ :-[ ::) ::) ::)
I remember many years ago hiring a tractor unit from BRS? and a friend of mine was the Manager, he offered to follow my out of the yard with a dustpan and brush to pick up the cogs, twas a Leyland.... :D :D :D
Never had any troubles with the splitter box in my old Leyland Roadtrain, drop half a gear just by dipping the clutch piece of cake. Mind you some of the pupils my gaffer took out in it couldn't work a constant mesh box and played some horrible tunes.The 290 Rolly used to happily pull up windy hill at 70 cause we ran empty to Hull every morning to pick up a caravan.
I was fine with a 'crash box' just never got the hang of splitters, passed my test with a crash box... :y :y
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yep, crash box all the way for me. :y
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'Crash' box for me too .... sorts the men from the boys every time! :o
Probably the most difficult to master was AEC's indestructable 6-speed (with mechanical overdrive) unit, as fitted to:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img176.jpg)
and:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img034.jpg)
The 'box had a very tightly-arranged 'gate' and combined with rapid drop-off of engine revs from the lively '505' engine, needed some pretty swift double-declutching to obtain a perfect gear-change.
Clutchless changes were easy enough once you were on the move too!
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I remember an old ERF we had when I worked at H&G in Wigan. W change rather than H took some getting used to.
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Here's a couple of pics from when I was on the caravan shifting job.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/12034245/IMG_0018.jpg)
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/12034245/IMG_0016.jpg)
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Am visiting Winchester on New Years Day, for the annual Friends of King Alfred Running Day, so it'll be a very early start from The Valleys for moi.
Take a look at: http://s262662507.websitehome.co.uk/page63.html
It's a very popular and well-established event, with feeder services being provided from many areas, along with (amongst others), journeys from Winchester to the Mid Hants Railway that connects with their train services on the 'Watercress Line'.
My services have been requested to drive this 'interesting' coach on the service from Bristol, which is nowadays lovingly cared-for by an old friend/colleague:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/7929913316_a3459c97c6.jpg)
New to Bristol Omnibus, it's a 1977 Leyland Leopard with Plaxton 'Paramount 3200' body.
It originally had a Plaxton 'Supreme' coach body which was severely damaged by fire.
Anyone interested in coming along?
Now where's that Wood chappie ........... ?
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does anyone remember evans coaces of new tredegar :y :y :y
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Anyone interested in coming along?
Now where's that Wood chappie ........... ?
I'll be there.. Probably with my parents too, as they will be over and fancy a day out. :y
Any idea of your ETA in Winchester?
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I'll be there.. Probably with my parents too, as they will be over and fancy a day out. :y
Any idea of your ETA in Winchester?
Due in at 1110 dear boy! (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/rofl.gif)
Watch out for:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/My%20Buses%20003.jpg)
See ya there .... "a cuppa with milk and one sugar, please!" ;)
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"Badgerline" ;D ;D ;D ;D
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(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/250px-Badgerline.svg.png)
Formed during the privatisation of NBC's Bristol Omnibus subsidiary during the Thatcher era. >:(
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Slightly off-topic I know ....
These have just arrived from an old mucker who spent Christmas in the Latvian city of Riga.
Some trams first:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/Photo0115.jpg)
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/Photo0117.jpg)
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/Photo0144.jpg)
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/Photo0146.jpg)
Christmas market in Riga:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/Photo0136.jpg)
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/Photo0139.jpg)
And finally, some loco haulage:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/Photo0131.jpg)
The Moscow-bound overnight sleeper service prepares for it's late afternoon departure.
-
Nice city, Riga. :y Went there for my cousin's stag do. Was p1$$ed when I arrived, mind you, and p1$$ed when I left 3 days later. Don't believe I actually sobered-up in-between. ::)
The public transport there shows what a 3rd world country we have become in that respect.
-
Nice city, Riga. :y Went there for my cousin's stag do. Was p1$$ed when I arrived, mind you, and p1$$ed when I left 3 days later. Don't believe I actually sobered-up in-between. ::)
The public transport there shows what a 3rd world country we have become in that respect.
You're dead right mate. >:(
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does anyone remember evans coaces of new tredegar :y :y :y
Doubt it Rolf .... but I've managed to source this .... just for you:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img360.jpg)
A former West Yorkshire Road Car Co ECW-bodied Bristol RELL6G entering Merthyr Bus Station in Summer 1990.
Evans were amongst many independent coach operators to take advantage of deregulation at that time with a foray into stage-carriage work.
Alas, the Thatcher-inspired 'free market' turned-out to be a bitter and costly disappointment for many, and generally, only the fittest survived.
-
Knew a few drivers who drove for Evan's. Seem to remember the last new bus they had was a D reg.
Travelled on them many times on trips to Barry.
Seemed to disappear around the same time as Hills of Tredegar.
Steve
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Knew a few drivers who drove for Evan's. Seem to remember the last new bus they had was a D reg.
Travelled on them many times on trips to Barry.
Seemed to disappear around the same time as Hills of Tredegar.
Steve
Talkin' 'bout Hills of Tredegar, Steve:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/3244102206_c1a1ae18e9_o.jpg)
One of their 1977 Bedford YMT/Plaxton Supremes climbing out of Fochriw, against a typical Heads of the Valleys backdrop.
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does anyone remember evans coaces of new tredegar :y :y :y
Doubt it Rolf .... but I've managed to source this .... just for you:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img360.jpg)
A former West Yorkshire Road Car Co ECW-bodied Bristol RELL6G entering Merthyr Bus Station in Summer 1990.
Evans were amongst many independent coach operators to take advantage of deregulation at that time with a foray into stage-carriage work.
Alas, the Thatcher-inspired 'free market' turned-out to be a bitter and costly disappointment for many, and generally, only the fittest survived.
it was the son who wrecket the company . took on to much :y :y
-
Anyone remember Edwards Coaches of Markham?
Steve
-
Been a long day today, and something of an (ex-) 'Busman's Holiday' for a visit to Winchester for the annual 'Friends of King Alfred Running Day'.
My services were required to drive the feeder service from Bristol to the event, so it was an 0530 start from The Valleys so that an 0830 departure from Bristol could be effected, using:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMGP1162.JPG)
Considering the chassis is now 35 years old and the body has celebrated it's 30th birthday, it performed extremely well - especially on the spirited dash across Porton Down!
Routed via Bath, Warminster, Salisbury and Stockbridge the scheduled arrival time of 1110 was promptly achieved, as will no doubt be confirmed by OOF's very own Kevin Wood!
After a bite to eat, we decided to sample a trip out aboard this nicely-restored beauty:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img364.jpg)
One of a surviving pair of 1964 Park Royal-bodied AEC Renowns with the rarely-specified semi-automatic transmission.
Just after starting-out on our return to Winchester it ground to a halt with loss of drive, and the crew sent-out an appeal for help. After some gentle persuasion I managed to engage 3rd gear, so that we were able to sedately cover the last few miles into the city centre!
In the rapidly fading afternoon sun, I managed to capture these:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0586.jpg)
A 1961 Bedford SB3 with Harrington 'Crusader' body from the King Alfred fleet.
Smooth as silk, it has the straight-six 300 cu in Bedford petrol engine.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0589.jpg)
A Weymann-bodied Leyland Atlantean of 1961-vintage.
Restored in it's original Silver Star (of Porton Down) livery, it began it's life on HM Forces services.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img365.jpg)
The King Alfred logo which adorned the buses of R Chisnell & Sons.
And finally, a big 'Thank You' to Kevin Wood (and the rest of the Wood family) for their welcoming hospitality.
That nice mug of tea and lemon drizzle cake was much-appreciated before I safely returned our passengers home across Wiltshire and Bristol!
'Tis now time to 'hit the sack' I reckon ......... ;)
-
It was nice to see you today, Seth. :y
Apologies that I got dragged off by the family but by the time we found each other they were eager to get on a bus!
The day started for us at the city mill, which we passed on the way to the bus station. Certainly no shortage of water through the wheel or the bypass!
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/26795734/Photos/King%20Alfred%20Running%20Day/IMGP7645.JPG)
.. and it was making flour!
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/26795734/Photos/King%20Alfred%20Running%20Day/IMGP7648.JPG)
First bus spotted, and turns out it was one of the stars of the day, a Leyland Olympic that last served Winchester in 1966 on its' first running day following a 22 year restoration that began where it was dumped in a field in Ireland.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/26795734/Photos/King%20Alfred%20Running%20Day/IMGP7652.JPG)
.. off to the bus station, where this shady looking character was found, probably casing the joint. ::)
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/26795734/Photos/King%20Alfred%20Running%20Day/IMGP7663.JPG)
.. and a few more pictures of buses which I don't claim to know anything about.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/26795734/Photos/King%20Alfred%20Running%20Day/IMGP7657.JPG)
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/26795734/Photos/King%20Alfred%20Running%20Day/IMGP7659.JPG)
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/26795734/Photos/King%20Alfred%20Running%20Day/IMGP7667.JPG)
It was a great day out, a huge number of both buses and enthusiasts, all running like clockwork, which is more than can be said for the buses in the area when Stagecoach are at the wheels. :-X
Thanks for the tip-off, Seth. I know where I'll be spending new year's day in future. :y
-
Corrected for ya:
.. off to the bus station, where this shady looking character was found, probably casing the joint. ::)
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMGP7663.JPG)
"Got some iffy fireworks goin' cheap .... any takers?" (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/rofl.gif)
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Corrected for ya:
.. off to the bus station, where this shady looking character was found, probably casing the joint. ::)
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMGP7663.JPG)
"Got some iffy fireworks goin' cheap .... any takers?" (https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/rofl.gif)
no heared about you and fireworks ;D ;D
-
Anyone remember Edwards Coaches of Markham?
Steve
Doesn't appear so Steve, though you may well remember these:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img363.jpg)
One of the West Monmouthshire Omnibus Board's Leyland Tiger Cubs at the Penmaen, Blackwood depot.
New in 1960, this one has a Willowbrook body to the contemporary BET Federation style.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img362.jpg)
The same bus at Bargoed's Hanbury Square awaiting departure for nearby Markham.
The Larkspur Blue/Snowberry White livery replaced the crimson/cream scheme during the early 1970s.
Local goverment reorganisation in the mid-70s saw the name change to Islwyn Borough Transport.
The livery was modified with the addition of a deeper shade of blue, with 'IBT' branding replacing the 'West Mon' fleetname.
Upon cessation of the lightweight Tiger Cub model, the undertaking turned to the heavyweight Leopard for subsequent deliveries.
Most were of the 10-metre PSU4 variant, and were bodied by Marshall or Willowbrook.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img361.jpg)
A Willowbrook-bodied PSU4 Leopard in the later livery.
-
Thanks Byron!
I expect I've been on most of those!
I used to catch the one from Hanbury Square Bargoed after shopping with my mother and the others would have been used catching the bus back and forth to school.
Wish I was young again!
Always remember the double deckers as having four seats together upstairs with the corridor on the outside.
Cheers
Steve
-
The West Mon buses look to situated at the old depot in Blackwood-where Aldi's is now-I seem to remember there was also a bus depot next to Libanus school in Blackwood-more or less opposite the petrol station.
Steve
-
Good pictures as always,is it me or does the wallowing in nostalgia get worse as you get older?
-
WoW. Just discovered this thread, I thought I was the only bus/coach enthusiast on here, fantastic stuff! I'm not a fan of the modern vehicles but having been a psv fitter back in the early 80s I can remember a lot of the classics on this thread and have worked on quite a few of them. It's so sad what has happened to the British bus industry, all those manufacturers gone. I can rememeber a time when virtually every bus and coach on the road was British, my old gaffer wouldn't have anything foreign on the yard, now he has no choice :(
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Always remember the double deckers as having four seats together upstairs with the corridor on the outside.
Cheers
Steve
Indeed Steve - all West Mon double-deckers were of this classic 'Lowbridge' seating layout on the top deck.
In fact, for some years West Mon's standard double-decker was the 27 ft Leyland Titan PD2 with Massey Bros lowbridge rear entrance bodywork. Straightforward, rugged and utterly reliable buses, their 9.8-litre Leyland O.600 engines made light work of the punishing Valleys terrain. Drive was via a single-plate clutch and 4-speed 'box (constant mesh on 1st; synchromesh on the rest) to an offset underslung-worm rear axle.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img368.jpg)
Resting at the Blackwood depot in the 'old' livery.
The Board specified doors on the rear platform, rather than traditional 'open' platforms.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img369.jpg)
Another Massey-bodied PD2 Titan repainted into the later livery.
Although centred on Blackwood, some of the Board's routes radiated into neighbouring valleys - this example is heading for Crumlin in Monmouthshire's Ebbw Valley.
-
I have just seen the new Foxy Bingo advert on TV, about their "Foxy Bus".
Does anyone recognise the coach? It looks so similar to my old 1958 Duple Chilterns Queens coach:
http://playingbingo.co.uk/2013/01/14/ride-foxy-prize-bus/
;) ;)
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I have just seen the new Foxy Bingo advert on TV, about their "Foxy Bus".
Does anyone recognise the coach? It looks so similar to my old 1958 Duple Chilterns Queens coach:
http://playingbingo.co.uk/2013/01/14/ride-foxy-prize-bus/
;) ;)
'Cos they're both bodied by Duple (then at Hendon).
Yours (on a heavyweight AEC Reliance chassis), was a centre-entranced 'Britannia' whilst the front-entranced version was badged as the 'Elizabethan'. The fine example in the film is a 'Super Vega' (on the lightweight petrol-engined Bedford SBG chassis), and also oft-referred to as a 'butterfly front'
Many common bodywork components throughout the range - notably the rear end assembly. ;)
-
The West Mon buses look to situated at the old depot in Blackwood-where Aldi's is now-I seem to remember there was also a bus depot next to Libanus school in Blackwood-more or less opposite the petrol station.
Steve
yes i used to work in the one by aldi :y :y
-
Always remember the double deckers as having four seats together upstairs with the corridor on the outside.
Cheers
Steve
Indeed Steve - all West Mon double-deckers were of this classic 'Lowbridge' seating layout on the top deck.
In fact, for some years West Mon's standard double-decker was the 27 ft Leyland Titan PD2 with Massey Bros lowbridge rear entrance bodywork. Straightforward, rugged and utterly reliable buses, their 9.8-litre Leyland O.600 engines made light work of the punishing Valleys terrain. Drive was via a single-plate clutch and 4-speed 'box (constant mesh on 1st; synchromesh on the rest) to an offset underslung-worm rear axle.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img368.jpg)
Resting at the Blackwood depot in the 'old' livery.
The Board specified doors on the rear platform, rather than traditional 'open' platforms.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img369.jpg)
Another Massey-bodied PD2 Titan repainted into the later livery.
Although centred on Blackwood, some of the Board's routes radiated into neighbouring valleys - this example is heading for Crumlin in Monmouthshire's Ebbw Valley.
number 17 was as cold as ice in the winter :y :y
-
Anyone remember Edwards Coaches of Markham?
Steve
Doesn't appear so Steve, though you may well remember these:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img363.jpg)
One of the West Monmouthshire Omnibus Board's Leyland Tiger Cubs at the Penmaen, Blackwood depot.
New in 1960, this one has a Willowbrook body to the contemporary BET Federation style.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img362.jpg)
The same bus at Bargoed's Hanbury Square awaiting departure for nearby Markham.
The Larkspur Blue/Snowberry White livery replaced the crimson/cream scheme during the early 1970s.
Local goverment reorganisation in the mid-70s saw the name change to Islwyn Borough Transport.
The livery was modified with the addition of a deeper shade of blue, with 'IBT' branding replacing the 'West Mon' fleetname.
Upon cessation of the lightweight Tiger Cub model, the undertaking turned to the heavyweight Leopard for subsequent deliveries.
Most were of the 10-metre PSU4 variant, and were bodied by Marshall or Willowbrook.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img361.jpg)
A Willowbrook-bodied PSU4 Leopard in the later livery.
i used to work on most of them bone shakers from 70 to 75 :y :y
-
I have just seen the new Foxy Bingo advert on TV, about their "Foxy Bus".
Does anyone recognise the coach? It looks so similar to my old 1958 Duple Chilterns Queens coach:
http://playingbingo.co.uk/2013/01/14/ride-foxy-prize-bus/
;) ;)
'Cos they're both bodied by Duple (then at Hendon).
Yours (on a heavyweight AEC Reliance chassis), was a centre-entranced 'Britannia' whilst the front-entranced version was badged as the 'Elizabethan'. The fine example in the film is a 'Super Vega' (on the lightweight petrol-engined Bedford SBG chassis), and also oft-referred to as a 'butterfly front'
Many common bodywork components throughout the range - notably the rear end assembly. ;)
Thanks Byron! :y :y :y
-
Talking of Duple coach bodies, here's a slightly earlier version of their 'Britannia' offering:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/txzzwnd477.jpg)
A 1957 front-entranced version on a Leyland Tiger Cub chassis of Lizzie's former coach below (on an AEC Reliance chassis):
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/scan1.jpg)
Notice the different layout of the aluminium mouldings on the bodysides for the 1958 season.
-
Anyone remember Edwards Coaches of Markham?
Steve
Doesn't appear so Steve, though you may well remember these:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img363.jpg)
One of the West Monmouthshire Omnibus Board's Leyland Tiger Cubs at the Penmaen, Blackwood depot.
New in 1960, this one has a Willowbrook body to the contemporary BET Federation style.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img362.jpg)
The same bus at Bargoed's Hanbury Square awaiting departure for nearby Markham.
The Larkspur Blue/Snowberry White livery replaced the crimson/cream scheme during the early 1970s.
Local goverment reorganisation in the mid-70s saw the name change to Islwyn Borough Transport.
The livery was modified with the addition of a deeper shade of blue, with 'IBT' branding replacing the 'West Mon' fleetname.
Upon cessation of the lightweight Tiger Cub model, the undertaking turned to the heavyweight Leopard for subsequent deliveries.
Most were of the 10-metre PSU4 variant, and were bodied by Marshall or Willowbrook.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img361.jpg)
A Willowbrook-bodied PSU4 Leopard in the later livery.
its not penmaen depot .its blackwood seth where the aldi store is now and i wored on all off them buses from 70 to 74 :y :y
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and as you can see the markam bus got no driver on .more than likely in the cafe haveing a cup off tea like always ;D ;D that was before one man operator ;D
-
its not penmaen depot .its blackwood seth where the aldi store is now and i wored on all off them buses from 70 to 74 :y :y
You sure 'bout that Wilf? :-\
-
Not quite as old, but Sky has just changed their shuttle bus provider, they now have a fleet of brand spanking new Optare Solo's - Even got that new car smell! :)
Currently unbranded white ones at the moment, but its this shape:
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8169/7931894696_0e7ba94ee8_z.jpg)
The previous provider also used same make, but older version. Have to say the older ones were far more comfy, more leg room too.
-
Nice one tunnie! :y
Here's the next-larger model from the Optare stable - the Versa:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0099.JPG)
One of a fleet of Versas based at Stagecoach's Blackwood depot specifically for the Newport service.
They must've racked-up a fair mileage by now, as there's a 10 minute frequency on this route.
-
Optare's full-size single-decker:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0185.JPG)
The earlier version of the 12.2 metre Tempo.
-
Yeah Sky won't get those "full fat" versions due to the routes, some very tight sections. Especially a turn in Chiswick, which is mega tight.
They have some god awful Merc Sprinter conversions for the site route, only sit 16, they look crap. Apparently they are temporary for now, be interesting to see what they are replaced with.
Sky's shuttle bus service is now proving very popular, its got 3 routes.
S1 - Goes around all the main site and various rented offices we have in the area & finishes at Piccadilly Line Tube at Osterley.
S2 - Heads to Gunnersbury (District & London Overground), Chiswick Park (District) & finally Acton Town on Piccadilly line. This is the one I use, as I walk home from there.
S3 - Heads to Ealing Broadway (Paddington Mainline & Central Line) also goes past South Ealing on Piccadilly Line too.
First started out as just a handful of Mini buses, passenger numbers have been growing quickly. Its a great free service, each service runs every 15 minutes in the morning. Stops for lunch, but covers afternoon and evening right up to 9PM
-
number 17 was as cold as ice in the winter
Dam pattern heater matrix >:( ;D
-
its not penmaen depot .its blackwood seth where the aldi store is now and i wored on all off them buses from 70 to 74 :y :y
You sure 'bout that Wilf? :-\
yes sure about it used to go there every morning .i dont think they moved till early 80 to 85 to the penmaen depot :y
-
Nice one tunnie! :y
Here's the next-larger model from the Optare stable - the Versa:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0099.JPG)
One of a fleet of Versas based at Stagecoach's Blackwood depot specifically for the Newport service.
They must've racked-up a fair mileage by now, as there's a 10 minute frequency on this route.
that had the IBT livery on it before crapcoach .the bus is to new for them ;D ;D
-
I was sitting in my car when first starting, thinking how cold it was, when I had a strange thought from the distant past. I for some reason remembered the round, partially cowled, heaters that sat behind the driver compartment of the 1950/60 RT London double deckers that as a child fascinated me.
They were so efficient; well if you sat or stood within two yards of them!!
Like a sad soul I have been looking online to find a picture of one but just cannot find that image which is still stuck in the mind! :D :D :D ;)
Anyone know of the heaters I mean? ???
-
I can't remember if I posted this, which I came across in Scotland. Which has been converted into a bedroom, got more photos if anyone is interested:
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8251/8461981338_a63374640f.jpg)
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I can't remember if I posted this, which I came across in Scotland. Which has been converted into a bedroom, got more photos if anyone is interested:
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8251/8461981338_a63374640f.jpg)
That is what you call a rail bus! :D :D :y :y
Good find Tunnie :y
-
Its not on the rails, just parked on them ;D
Inside its been converted into a bedroom, its only £15 a night!
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8102/8461981704_37a131d493.jpg)
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8236/8461982132_733d73e397.jpg)
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8528/8460884603_3d42605aa1.jpg)
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8525/8461983190_c44e9b093a.jpg)
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8108/8460887247_91e9c3de94.jpg)
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8237/8461983624_0890582d1e.jpg)
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8091/8461985868_3e25d8f4ec.jpg)
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Its not on the rails, just parked on them ;D
Inside its been converted into a bedroom, its only £15 a night!
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8102/8461981704_37a131d493.jpg)
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8236/8461982132_733d73e397.jpg)
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8528/8460884603_3d42605aa1.jpg)
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8525/8461983190_c44e9b093a.jpg)
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8108/8460887247_91e9c3de94.jpg)
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8237/8461983624_0890582d1e.jpg)
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8091/8461985868_3e25d8f4ec.jpg)
Well that is a lot tidier and cleaner than the sleeping railway coach that the volunteers used on the Mid Hants! ;D ;D ;D :y
Actually, with a few feminine touches to "warm" the interior and make it really lovely, it looks really cosy. :y :y
-
I was sitting in my car when first starting, thinking how cold it was, when I had a strange thought from the distant past. I for some reason remembered the round, partially cowled, heaters that sat behind the driver compartment of the 1950/60 RT London double deckers that as a child fascinated me.
They were so efficient; well if you sat or stood within two yards of them!!
Like a sad soul I have been looking online to find a picture of one but just cannot find that image which is still stuck in the mind! :D :D :D ;)
Anyone know of the heaters I mean? ???
They were Clayton heaters ... and I can't source a picture either! :(
-
(http://www2.mgcars.org.uk/images/bbs/posts/8_2012021512580719440_61514785102073_1330257332.jpg)
Those?
-
(http://www2.mgcars.org.uk/images/bbs/posts/8_2012021512580719440_61514785102073_1330257332.jpg)
Those?
Nope!
-
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0099.JPG)
that had the IBT livery on it before crapcoach .the bus is to new for them ;D ;D
They were new to Stagecoach - introduced to replace the entire Glyn Williams (of Crosskeys) fleet, and effectively converted the 151 route to Newport to 100% Versa operation.
Islwyn favoured MAN integrals ... before Stagecoach swallowed-up that operation too.
Trust me Rolf! ;)
-
(http://www2.mgcars.org.uk/images/bbs/posts/8_2012021512580719440_61514785102073_1330257332.jpg)
Those?
Thanks Tunnie, but no they were round, yes, but with a shield/piece of cowling that came down about a third way down over the opening were the heat came out from a wire mesh grill. That is from childhood memory anyway! ::) ::) :D :D :D
-
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0099.JPG)
that had the IBT livery on it before crapcoach .the bus is to new for them ;D ;D
They were new to Stagecoach - introduced to replace the entire Glyn Williams (of Crosskeys) fleet, and effectively converted the 151 route to Newport to 100% Versa operation.
Islwyn favoured MAN integrals ... before Stagecoach swallowed-up that operation too.
Trust me Rolf! ;)
They do look sexy with that rounded hump over the front section :y :y :y
-
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8169/7931894696_0e7ba94ee8_z.jpg)
The previous provider also used same make, but older version. Have to say the older ones were far more comfy, more leg room too.
An Optare Solo like this one tunnie?:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0075.JPG)
Receiving attention in between journeys at Seth's premises in Summer 2009.
-
Yup :y
Thats the exact type, think they had a minor refurb before they came to Sky, very comfy and great legroom if sitting over rear axel.
Found out today their new contract is for 5 years, with the new supplier. So no wonder they bought brand spankers :)
-
Yup :y
Thats the exact type, think they had a minor refurb before they came to Sky, very comfy and great legroom if sitting over rear axel.
Found out today their new contract is for 5 years, with the new supplier. So no wonder they bought brand spankers :)
As confirmed by these little chaps:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0074.JPG)
Optare's official seat testers!
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/rofl.gif)
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;D ;D ;D
Yes always sat at the back on left looking at that photo, best leg room next to fire exit door.
-
You might like this, its big relief to me that these little buggers is no longer in service, it had zero suspension & rock hard seats. Sure it gave me back pain for a week, when it hit a bloody big pot hole.
http://www.greaterlondonphotos.co.uk/communities/2/004/008/791/882/images/4566334374.jpg (http://www.greaterlondonphotos.co.uk/communities/2/004/008/791/882/images/4566334374.jpg)
http://www.greaterlondonphotos.co.uk/communities/2/004/008/791/882/images/4566334376.jpg (http://www.greaterlondonphotos.co.uk/communities/2/004/008/791/882/images/4566334376.jpg)
Links as I cannot be bothered to host and re-size ;D
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Found one of the old fleet, this was either on way or after a pickup at Ealing Broadway:
(http://farm9.staticflickr.com/8459/7939800890_7ab31fd68e_z.jpg)
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Recognise the Gillette building in those shots,worked there as a chauffeur for the senior management in the nineties,never short of shaving kit ;)
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Recognise the Gillette building in those shots,worked there as a chauffeur for the senior management in the nineties,never short of shaving kit ;)
Sky is based just behind that :y Sadly the Gillette building is now empty. They moved production to Poland ::)
Last few months, they have had film crew on site. Seen various props, loads of catering vans parked in the front. Saw an Omega parked there most days :)
Also got e-mails to say don't worry, few bangs will be heard they are part of some gunshot parts of the film ???
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You might like this, its big relief to me that these little buggers is no longer in service, it had zero suspension & rock hard seats. Sure it gave me back pain for a week, when it hit a bloody big pot hole.
Bit of an overkill IMO:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/1048.jpg)
The Plaxton 'Primo' integral - built on a bought-in underframe.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/1049.jpg)
4-cylinder Cummins lump at the rear. Probably got Allison fully-auto transmission.
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Appeared to go ok, some of the drivers have binary throttle control ;D
But hated the ride in it, seriously it was incredibly poor. So much so, I started taking the later bus which always tended to be an Optare.
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I did hear a few years ago that were going to lay off 400 workers and that they had plans to move production abroad,looks like the prophecy came true,got a feeling that the buildings frontage is listed so I guess what ever they do with it the result will have to be sympathetic to it's history :-\
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I did hear a few years ago that were going to lay off 400 workers and that they had plans to move production abroad,looks like the prophecy came true,got a feeling that the buildings frontage is listed so I guess what ever they do with it the result will have to be sympathetic to it's history :-\
Yes it is, shame they did not get it sorted in time for where we are based now. The old Firestone building was such an impressive Art Deco example, bulldozed on a bank holiday Monday. They day before it was listed :'(
There used to be a walk-way between Sky and Gillette, but a wall on Gillette side collapsed. They've closed that walkway now for past year ;D
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(http://www2.mgcars.org.uk/images/bbs/posts/8_2012021512580719440_61514785102073_1330257332.jpg)
Those?
Thanks Tunnie, but no they were round, yes, but with a shield/piece of cowling that came down about a third way down over the opening were the heat came out from a wire mesh grill. That is from childhood memory anyway! ::) ::) :D :D :D
Found what Lizzie's after ... i think!
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/HGG-359-INT.jpg)
Fitted to a 1949 Thornycroft Nippy.
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(http://www2.mgcars.org.uk/images/bbs/posts/8_2012021512580719440_61514785102073_1330257332.jpg)
Those?
Thanks Tunnie, but no they were round, yes, but with a shield/piece of cowling that came down about a third way down over the opening were the heat came out from a wire mesh grill. That is from childhood memory anyway! ::) ::) :D :D :D
Found what Lizzie's after ... i think!
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/HGG-359-INT.jpg)
Fitted to a 1949 Thornycroft Nippy.
That's the one Seth, the one in the lower photograph behind the driving compartment!! :-* :-* :-* 8) 8) :y
I thought I would never see again one of those that so fascinated me as a child. As said before, they were very efficient heaters, as long as you were within a few yards of them as the open entrance at the rear was always sucking in cold air! :D :D :D ;)
Thanks Seth! :y :y :y :y :y
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Here's the bus that had the Clayton heater fitted:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/HGG359%282%29.jpg)
A 1949 Thornycroft 'Nippy' with 20-seat Croft body from the David Macbrayne fleet.
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Here's the bus that had the Clayton heater fitted:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/HGG359%282%29.jpg)
A 1949 Thornycroft 'Nippy' with 20-seat Croft body from the David Macbrayne fleet.
I like that one Seth. Really cute, and so typical of that era................that I cannot remember because I was not alive then before anyone says! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D :y :y
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Just looked again at that picture of the "Nippy" and notice the driving position seems to be central. Is that correct Seth? ??? ???
Was the steering linkage at the back of the radiator and in front of the engine? ??? ???
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Just looked again at that picture of the "Nippy" and notice the driving position seems to be central. Is that correct Seth? ??? ???
Was the steering linkage at the back of the radiator and in front of the engine? ??? ???
I take your point Lizzie, that photo's a tad misleading.
It was in fact a pretty orthodox set-up as better viewed from the interior:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/HGG-359-INT.jpg)
Basically, a full-fronted 'forward control' layout rather than a conventional 'bonneted' jobbie.
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Here's another gem from the Macbrayne stable:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/GUS-926-2.jpg)
A 1949 Maudslay 'Marathon III' with 35-seat Park Royal body.
Rescued from a Welsh scrapyard in 1990 - a truly magnificent restoration! :y
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Just looked again at that picture of the "Nippy" and notice the driving position seems to be central. Is that correct Seth? ??? ???
Was the steering linkage at the back of the radiator and in front of the engine? ??? ???
I take your point Lizzie, that photo's a tad misleading.
It was in fact a pretty orthodox set-up as better viewed from the interior:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/HGG-359-INT.jpg)
Basically, a full-fronted 'forward control' layout rather than a conventional 'bonneted' jobbie.
That is weird. In the photo from outside is really appears as though the steering wheel is central, but in the internal shot it is obviously not! Photo's can lie ;D ;D ;D ;)
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That is weird. In the photo from outside is really appears as though the steering wheel is central, but in the internal shot it is obviously not! Photo's can lie ;D ;D ;D ;)
And be deceptive! ::)
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The David Macbrayne name and that individual livery was synonymous with transport in the Highlands & Islands.
It's operations encompassed ferries/shipping, freight/road haulage and of course, buses. The carriage of fare-paying passengers was augmented by the transportation of the Royal Mail throughout the region, and many of the buses featured specially-constructed compartments for these duties.
Here's one such example at Inveraray:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/Inveraray.jpg)
A 1960 Bedford C5Z1 with Duple 20-seat (plus mail compartment) body.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/DSCF0040-int2.jpg)
Interior view looking forwards.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/DSCF0039-int1.jpg)
The mail compartment is clearly visible at the rear.
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/CoachMailCompartment.jpg)
That mail compartment on this coach reminds me about the changes that have taken place regarding the distribution of the Royal Mail.
The stage coaches of yore ceased with the last of them running in 1850, after the railways had taken their business, including the Royal Mail. Indeed it was in 1830 that the first Mail was carried by train on the Manchester and Liverpool Railway that had opened that year. This became a general method of transportation of the Royal Mail with an Act of Parliament in 1838.
Very quickly the travelling post office - TPO's -, with special coaches built, but the first one was no more than an adapted horse box, were used from January 1938 on the Grand Junction Railway.
On the GJR they also used for the first time an apparatus designed by Nathaniel Wordsell that dropped and picked up Mail whilst the train continued to travel.
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/TravellingPostOffice.jpg)
This became a familiar sight on the railways, and the best film I can recommend for seeing all this apparatus and the TPO in action is Night Mail , a 1936 documentary on this great process.
If you do not want to buy your personal copy, as usual this is available on Youtube:
Part 1: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-WO7JxYlhOM
Part 2: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1pQJzZDIQTs
Note this film contains the wonderful much celebrated poem, This Is The Night Mail by W.H. Auden, and with music by Benjamin Britten:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zmciuKsBOi0
So with the scrapping of the TPO on trains from 4th January 2004, the Royal Mail went back to being transported in the way it had on stage coaches; by road! ::) ::) ::) ::)
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..................and bus companies did sometimes become Royal Mail carriers in especially remote rural areas, like Scotland has in abundance, and Macbraynes had a wonderful logo to display this fact in their case:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/MacbraynesRMLogo.jpg)
In general Macbraynes obviously had a great livery and logo scheme, including the image of a highland warrior. Does anyone know who this could be? Rob Roy? William Wallace? A Clan Chieftain, such as MacIain, Chief of the MacDonalds of Glencoe, at the time of the Glencoe Massacre in 1692? ;)
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Well done Ms Zoom! ;)
Here's a couple of other logos which adorned Macbraynes' buses:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img1.jpg)
The 'Clansman' motif as applied to each side of their buses
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/LUS524E-rear.jpg)
And a typical rear end view of one of their splendid AEC Reliances
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The Swansea Bus Museum staged one of their 'Running Days' yesterday, so a few enjoyable hours were spent there during the afternoon.
Clicky: http://www.swanseabusmuseum.com/
A few photos of the proceedings:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0616.JPG)
Managed a punishing trip out to Pennard on South Gower aboard this beauty.
It's a 30ft AEC 'Regent V' with forward entrance Weymann 'Orion' body.
For many years these were The South Wales Transport Co's standard double-decker, and dozens of 'em put in working lives of at least 12 years service on the plethora of difficult cross-city routes.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0617.JPG)
A recently-restored Caerphilly UDC Leyland 'Titan' PD3 with rear-entrance lowbridge Massey body.
It resides at the Barry 'Bus Depot' and ran superbly throughout the day.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0620.JPG)
Alongside the Titan is what ultimately replaced it - a 10-metre PSU4 Leyland Leopard with East Lancs body.
Following local government reorganisation in the 1970s; Caerphilly and several other neighbouring municipalities were merged to form Rhymney Valley District Council, which adopted this Brown/Yellow/Cream livery.
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Great Seth! :y :y
Those double deckers take me back when buses were buses and trains were trains! :D :D :D 8) 8)
Some will query that statement but I know you know what I mean ;D ;D ;D
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The Swansea Bus Museum staged one of their 'Running Days' yesterday, so a few enjoyable hours were spent there during the afternoon.
Clicky: http://www.swanseabusmuseum.com/
A few photos of the proceedings:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0616.JPG)
Managed a punishing trip out to Pennard on South Gower aboard this beauty.
It's a 30ft AEC 'Regent V' with forward entrance Weymann 'Orion' body.
For many years these were The South Wales Transport Co's standard double-decker, and dozens of 'em put in working lives of at least 12 years service on the plethora of difficult cross-city routes.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0617.JPG)
A recently-restored Caerphilly UDC Leyland 'Titan' PD3 with rear-entrance lowbridge Massey body.
It resides at the Barry 'Bus Depot' and ran superbly throughout the day.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0620.JPG)
Alongside the Titan is what ultimately replaced it - a 10-metre PSU4 Leyland Leopard with East Lancs body.
Following local government reorganisation in the 1970s; Caerphilly and several other neighbouring municipalities were merged to form Rhymney Valley District Council, which adopted this Brown/Yellow/Cream livery.
used to call them banana buses seth ;D ;D ;D
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(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0620.JPG)
used to call them banana buses seth ;D ;D ;D
You would Wilf! ;D
That said, RVDC's buses were very well-maintained, and always seemed to be smartly turned-out for service. :y
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Just did a bit of digging ...
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0617.JPG)
... and found out that the Caerphilly UDC livery (on the PD3 above) is Mid Brunswick Green with Ivory relief.
Question for Lizzie: Was not Brunswick Green used by one (or more, possibly) of the 'big' railway companies? :-\
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forgot to tell you seth . spoke to one of the old west mon drivers he told me they moved from blackwood depo to penmaen in late83 :y :y :y
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Question for Lizzie: Was not Brunswick Green used by one (or more, possibly) of the 'big' railway companies? :-\
Green was considered the general colour for passenger engines, black for freight, although there were exceptions with various liveries of lined or unlined schemes, especially with the Great Western Railway (1834-1948) and Southern Railway (1923-1948). The Great Western used an assortment of shades of green, being described as "light" or "dark", depending on the class of loco and how the Chief Mechanical Engineer felt his engine should be presented. It should also be noted that the GWR was the only railway company to maintain it's unique identity from the time of original conception in 1834 to Nationalisation on 1st January 1948. It remained all the way through the "GWR", whereas all other railway companies, of which there was a total of 123, were absorbed into the 'Big Four Grouping' on 1st January 1923. Thus the GWR had it's own liveries from the start to the end, whereas the other three companies after 1923, the London and North Eastern Railway, the London, Midland and Scottish Railway, and Southern Railway inherited numerous liveries from the smaller companies they absorbed. So any comment about livery must start on 1st January 1923, unless you want me to write a book here!
The Southern after 1923 was very much the same as the GWR, adopting it's own colour scheme - livery - for it's engines. Green was certainly typical, but not exclusive, to passenger engines, with black for freight engines. "Olive" and Bulled greens became popular on many engines, along with various shades of light and dark, lined and unlined. Malachite green also became the colour for especially Bulled's West Country and Merchant Navy class's of engines, and some of the earlier built engines were treated with the same colour during the 1940's.
The LMS used particularly Crimson Lake for passenger engines, with black for freight engines in general up to 1948. Sir William A. Stanier, the CME for the LMS, when he introduced his Coronation 4-6-2 Class of loco in 1937 in streamlined form painted 5 of them in a blue and silver livery to match the streamlined coaches that the engines pulled. Later 5 more engines of the class were streamlined as well and painted with a maroon and gilt, with another 15 arriving thereafter. Five more streamlined versions of his Coronation Class were painted in war time black, with non-streamlined versions also so treated.
The LNER used various shades of green and black for passenger engines. Sir Nigel Gresley, the CME for the LNER used Garter Blue for his wonderful A4 pacifics in the main, but for his Silver Jubilee services in 1935 engines such as A4's 2509 Silver Link, 2510 Quicksilver, 2511 Silver King 2512 and Silver Fox. was in silver and grey to match the streamlined coaches they pulled.
So, in final answer to your question the 'Big Four' companies used various colour schemes, but a Brunswick Green to my knowledge was not used. However after 1st January 1948 British Railways adopted all that went before, and during an experimental period using various engines over, what were before, "foreign" tracks, different liveries were tried. These included a light blue, an apple green, a light red and..................... Brunswick green. The latter was then adopted for use on passenger engines across the new BR, especially on the Southern Region, were Bulled's engines were rebuilt and had that colour applied. Livery of individual engines was always vital to how an engine looked as the CME's well knew, and by this experimentation by BR it was established which classes of engines should have a particular livery in their particular new Region. Brunswick green was not only used on ex-Bulled engines, but on all passenger engines of the new Standard Classes if designated for passenger service as it was found to not only suit the engines but be hard wearing and capable of hiding so much dirt, as light blue never would! Some of the ex-LMS, ex-LNER, and ex-GWR engines also received this colour. One exception on the passenger engine rule for Brunswick green was in regards to the last steam engine built for BR in 1960; a freight engine, Standard Class 9F 92220 Evening Star which was adorned with Brunswick green livery and a brass plaque.
Finally this is one of my favourite engines, in Brunswick Green, West Country Class 4-6-2 34016 Bodmin
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bodmin34016.jpg)
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(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/IMG_0620.JPG)
used to call them banana buses seth ;D ;D ;D
You would Wilf! ;D
That said, RVDC's buses were very well-maintained, and always seemed to be smartly turned-out for service. :y
not the ones we went on . buckets off bolts ;D ;D
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bodmin34016.jpg)
Is that on the Mid Hants Railway, Lizzie? :-\
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(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/Bodmin34016.jpg)
Is that on the Mid Hants Railway, Lizzie? :-\
Yes Seth, at Ropley. :y :y
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Oooohhhh, rail traction.
A couple of quick pics of my progress on said hobby
The now bare front end with the chassis mounts re-aligned:
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b394/Marks_DTM_Calib/Alignmentcheck_zpsea24cfad.jpg)
and the trial fit of 100Kg of new steel which is drilled ready for fixing (with bolts, not rivets)
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b394/Marks_DTM_Calib/Trialfit_zps9decf049.jpg)
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Oooohhhh, rail traction.
A couple of quick pics of my progress on said hobby
The now bare front end with the chassis mounts re-aligned:
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b394/Marks_DTM_Calib/Alignmentcheck_zpsea24cfad.jpg)
and the trial fit of 100Kg of new steel which is drilled ready for fixing (with bolts, not rivets)
(http://i23.photobucket.com/albums/b394/Marks_DTM_Calib/Trialfit_zps9decf049.jpg)
That's coming on Mark! :y :y
Please remind me from what rail vehicle / engine are those frames from? :( :(
Are you sand blasting the inner faces of the frames or just wire brushing them before applying the Rustoleum? ???
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Further to my railway livery thread, this is an example of the streamlined Coronation class 4-6-2, Pacific, loco's, 6229 Duchess of Hamilton at the York Railway Museum shortly after her rebuild to streamlined form had been completed:
Just beautiful in maroon with the gold stripes as completed at Crewe in 1938:
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/LMSDuchessofHamilton.jpg)
These engines competed rather belatedly with the LNER streamliner's of the Silver Jubilee as previously described, with A4 engines. :y :y
The wonderful fact about the railways before nationalisation in 1948 was the range of liveries to be seen around the country 8) 8) 8) 8) 8) Buses very much took up that trend as seen in this whole thread with countless liveries. Before the trains and the buses the stage coaches were completed in many different liveries to represent their owners, thus "coach building" and finishing developed from them to the "new" age ways of transportation. ;)
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(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/LMSDuchessofHamilton.jpg)
That crimson livery would no doubt have been applied by the traditonal brush method, with the stripes being in gold leaf.
A magnificent achievement, and true testimony to the skills of all those involved. :y
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Talking of coach-painting and restoration, here's the most significant project that I've undertaken to date.
I'd been looking for a bus of local origins for quite some time during the late-1980s; and with nothing realistic materializing, bought this AEC Reliance which had spent it's entire working life in the Yeovil area.
The 'original' Brewer company had operated many similar machines, so I approached our MD for his views on a 'pseudo Brewers' bus. He was immediately enthusiastic, and put all our companies' facilities at my disposal - even funding the purchase of several gallons of coach enamel.
Here's the finished product after six years' graft on a friends farmyard:
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img052.jpg)
Totally brush-painted and over-varnished in all it's glory.
It performed as good as it looked - top whack was 62 mph; and 19 mpg was often achieved.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img049.jpg)
Peter actually traced the sole-surviving 'varnish-fix' scroll transfer to achieve this.
Like myself, he also served his apprenticeship with the Western Welsh Omnibus Co.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img051.jpg)
The traditional back end of a post-war Brewers bus.
The 'Caerau Garages' site is but a stone's throw from our present abode.
(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/img053.jpg)
On one of our very first outings in Summer 1994.
To my left is our (then) MD; who made completion of the project so much easier for me.
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(https://dl.dropbox.com/u/43954633/LMSDuchessofHamilton.jpg)
That crimson livery would no doubt have been applied by the traditonal brush method, with the stripes being in gold leaf.
A magnificent achievement, and true testimony to the skills of all those involved. :y
It is finished in LMS maroon Seth, as it was liveried in 1938. Yes, all hand painted and a wonderful celebration of all those old railway skills that now survive, at least in part, within the steam preservation movement. The numbers and "LMS" numerals are all applied transfers I believe, as the rest of the railway preservation engines now use. :-* :-* :-* :y :y :y
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It is finished in LMS maroon Seth, as it was liveried in 1938.
OK missus ... I stand corrected!
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It is finished in LMS maroon Seth, as it was liveried in 1938.
OK missus ... I stand corrected!
youve been told Byron. lol. ;D ;D
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Its a 108 DMU Lizzie,1959 vintage.
It had a very bent buffer plank and hence the replacement which has been a massive job (a first in preservation and potentially in history as the works just cut and shut them).
All alloy sides and chassis though with only the cabs being steel hence corrosion is not to bad and why not much to do before fitting
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Its a 108 DMU Lizzie,1959 vintage.
It had a very bent buffer plank and hence the replacement which has been a massive job (a first in preservation and potentially in history as the works just cut and shut them).
All alloy sides and chassis though with only the cabs being steel hence corrosion is not to bad and why not much to do before fitting
Thanks Mark! :y :y
I thought the draw bar opening was small. That buffer bar would have been a task if badly bent, and I am sure the guys on the Mid-Hants had to straighten a front buffer that had taken a full shunt at Barry. However, I do also remember them doing what you have described with a complete buffer bar fabricated. ;)
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The challenge was the removal of 84 rivets without using gas (due to the aluminium chassis) plus the tens of bolts, preserving the drag box etc.
Rivet removal was a hand drill and multiple drill bits
Then it was make a wooden template and mark plus broach the holes
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It is finished in LMS maroon Seth, as it was liveried in 1938.
OK missus ... I stand corrected!
;D ;D ;D ;D ;D In fairness Seth Crimson Lake is not much different, and used on many LMS passenger engines such as the Princes's Crabs and Jubilee's. The pre-1923 Midland Railway also used both crimson lake and maroon, plus all shades of red! Stanier's Black 5's were always black of course so caused no confusion! ;D ;D ;D ;)
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The challenge was the removal of 84 rivets without using gas (due to the aluminium chassis) plus the tens of bolts, preserving the drag box etc.
Rivet removal was a hand drill and multiple drill bits
Then it was make a wooden template and mark plus broach the holes
Now that is a challenge and a half, especially as you say with aluminium involved. That does take skill and patience. :y :y :y :y :y
The beauty of working on the steam engines is of course you are generally hammering away at solid steel which relatively speaking is hard to break. ;)
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Also posted in a separate thread,
but worth it!
Maltese buses in 2003:
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hvLX8XA2DWY
Enjoy! ;D :y
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(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/BM_BMA_6_nsf.JPG)
The very last 'lowbridge' double-decker ever built.
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Keep em coming Seth................. :y :y :y
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Cheers Vamps ...
bored big yin should be able to knowledgeably comment on this beauty ... ???
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How low is low then Seth? ??? :)
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The last double-decker bought by the tiny Bedwas & Machen Urban District Council has thankfully been restored and now resides at the Barry Bus Museum.
No 6 (PAX 466F) was a regular performer on the marathon Newport - Caerphilly - Bargoed - Rhymney Bridge route, and like all B&M buses, was well cared-for and immaculately turned-out for service. It marked a change in purchasing policy by the council, who had previously been ardent AEC operators for many years. Not only was it the last lowbridge double-decker built - it was also their first new Leyland!
The livery is Oxford Blue with Ivory relief.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/BM_BMA_6_nsf.JPG)
It's a Leyland 'Titan' PD3 with Massey Brothers 68-seat lowbridge body. Platform doors were fitted.
The big 9.8-litre O.600 engine and 4-speed synchromesh 'box would make light work of the Valleys terrain, with plenty of 'gargle and snarl' aural effects!
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How low is low then Seth? ??? :)
Typically around 13' 6"
However, the term 'Lowbridge' doesn't actually refer to the overall height - it signifies the upper deck seating arrangement that's employed to achieve it with rows of four side-by-side seats and a sunken offside gangway:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/lowbridge_upper_deck_lr_thumb.jpg)
Looking forwards with a step over the driving cab
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/lowbridge_upper_deck_back_lr_thumb.jpg)
Rearward view towards the staircase
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/ss313d.jpg)
And the consequential intrusion of the sunken gangway into the offside of the lower saloon
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How low is low then Seth? ??? :)
Typically around 13' 6"
However, the term 'Lowbridge' doesn't actually refer to the overall height - it signifies the upper deck seating arrangement that's employed to achieve it with rows of four side-by-side seats and a sunken offside gangway:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/lowbridge_upper_deck_lr_thumb.jpg)
Looking forwards with a step over the driving cab
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/lowbridge_upper_deck_back_lr_thumb.jpg)
Rearward view towards the staircase
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/ss313d.jpg)
And the consequential intrusion of the sunken gangway into the offside of the lower saloon
remember them when i worked on them . banged my head a few times ;D ;D
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Wow! :o :o :o :o
What a beautiful looking bus, inside and out Seth! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
I love that seating arrangement on the top floor; how different from "standard" practice. Looking at the pictures, did passengers go down along the sunken walkway from the top of the stairs to the front to them go down between the two rows of double seats? Or did they simply have to shuffle through each set of seats to get to the inner row?
In short though an impressive quality bus with some lovely features, such as the seats and lighting. All so 'up market' compared to a contemporary RT or Routemaster of London Transport and others working in Kent. :y :y :y :y
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(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/ss313d.jpg)
And the consequential intrusion of the sunken gangway into the offside of the lower saloon
remember them when i worked on them . banged my head a few times ;D ;D
Is that what caused your preference for 'pattern' parts, Rolf? (https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/rofl.gif)
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Wow! :o :o :o :o
What a beautiful looking bus, inside and out Seth! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
I love that seating arrangement on the top floor; how different from "standard" practice. Looking at the pictures, did passengers go down along the sunken walkway from the top of the stairs to the front to them go down between the two rows of double seats? Or did they simply have to shuffle through each set of seats to get to the inner row?
In short though an impressive quality bus with some lovely features, such as the seats and lighting. All so 'up market' compared to a contemporary RT or Routemaster of London Transport and others working in Kent. :y :y :y :y
Up the stairs, along the sunken offside gangway, then shuffle into the seat of your choice, Lizzie.
Bit of a nightmare for the conductor ... until the advent of the 'true' low-height (as opposed to 'lowbridge') models such as the AEC Bridgemaster/Renown, Albion Lowlander, Bristol Lodekka and Dennis Loline.
And another practical feature on these Massey bodies:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/ss313d.jpg)
A rearward-facing row of seats against the front bulkhead on the lower deck
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Wow! :o :o :o :o
What a beautiful looking bus, inside and out Seth! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
I love that seating arrangement on the top floor; how different from "standard" practice. Looking at the pictures, did passengers go down along the sunken walkway from the top of the stairs to the front to them go down between the two rows of double seats? Or did they simply have to shuffle through each set of seats to get to the inner row?
In short though an impressive quality bus with some lovely features, such as the seats and lighting. All so 'up market' compared to a contemporary RT or Routemaster of London Transport and others working in Kent. :y :y :y :y
Up the stairs, along the sunken offside gangway, then shuffle into the seat of your choice, Lizzie.
Bit of a nightmare for the conductor ... until the advent of the 'true' low-height (as opposed to 'lowbridge') models such as the AEC Bridgemaster/Renown, Albion Lowlander, Bristol Lodekka and Dennis Loline.
And another practical feature on these Massey bodies:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/ss313d.jpg)
A rearward-facing row of seats against the front bulkhead on the lower deck
tell me about it seth ;D ;D how do you highlight the stuff :y
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Wow! :o :o :o :o
What a beautiful looking bus, inside and out Seth! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
I love that seating arrangement on the top floor; how different from "standard" practice. Looking at the pictures, did passengers go down along the sunken walkway from the top of the stairs to the front to them go down between the two rows of double seats? Or did they simply have to shuffle through each set of seats to get to the inner row?
In short though an impressive quality bus with some lovely features, such as the seats and lighting. All so 'up market' compared to a contemporary RT or Routemaster of London Transport and others working in Kent. :y :y :y :y
Up the stairs, along the sunken offside gangway, then shuffle into the seat of your choice, Lizzie.
Bit of a nightmare for the conductor ... until the advent of the 'true' low-height (as opposed to 'lowbridge') models such as the AEC Bridgemaster/Renown, Albion Lowlander, Bristol Lodekka and Dennis Loline.
And another practical feature on these Massey bodies:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/ss313d.jpg)
A rearward-facing row of seats against the front bulkhead on the lower deck
Thanks Seth :y :y
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Remember when London Transport publicised their testing of RT buses?
I do as a child, and I am still fascinating by the site of the tilt test being carried out. I have just dug up on Youtube the film I remember for another thread, but it is worthy on this Bus Nostalgia thread for sure!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2_T4WVnnFU
:y :y :y
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Wow! :o :o :o :o
What a beautiful looking bus, inside and out Seth! 8) 8) 8) 8) 8)
Indeed Lizzie, and here's the finishing touch to a fine restoration:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/BMUDC-6-2013-02-15-Fleetname-applied-in-The-Bus-Depot-TT.jpg)
The nicely-reproduced fleetname legend on an Oxford blue background
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Here's a trio of the main workhorses from the Bedwas & Machen fleet:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/3123990331_66ff2641b6.jpg)
Three 27ft AEC Regent Vs with 59-seat open-platformed lowbridge Massey bodies.
All had the lively 7.7-litre AV470 engines with 4-speed all-synchromesh gearboxes
No 8 (left) was a 2MD3RA model with full air brakes, whilst nos 5/11 were vacuum-braked MD3RV versions.
This post-1974 photo shows the trio after merger into the Rhymney Valley District Council operation, and their subsequent renumbering.
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Remember when London Transport publicised their testing of RT buses?
I do as a child, and I am still fascinating by the site of the tilt test being carried out. I have just dug up on Youtube the film I remember for another thread, but it is worthy on this Bus Nostalgia thread for sure!
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=v2_T4WVnnFU
:y :y :y
Very interesting Lizzie - enjoyed that! :y
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You can leave..come back...leave...come back....leave..
but you can always guarantee that this fickin thread will still be here... ;D
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You can leave..come back...leave...come back....leave..
but you can always guarantee that this fickin thread will still be here... ;D
Knew that you'd resurface whence I resurrected it ... just knew that you would! (https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/rofl.gif)
Sod off Steamy and go hassle Gixer ... 'cos I reckon he's also lurking 'round these parts! ;D
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God, is nothing sacred?!
STEMO / our Steve no less on the Bus Nostalgia thread?! :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o
Never thought that would happen. He cannot take the pi.. about it ever again now! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;) ;)
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God, is nothing sacred?!
STEMO / our Steve no less on the Bus Nostalgia thread?! :o :o :o :o :o :o :o :o
Never thought that would happen. He cannot take the pi.. about it ever again now! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;) ;)
He will though, Lizzie ... ain't no doubt about it missus >:(
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Kevin Wood ('cos I've gotta 'keep in' with 'im!) may just be familiar with this fine machine:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/img364.jpg)
A 'true' low height (as opposed to 'lowbridge') specimen from the AEC stable!
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Kevin Wood ('cos I've gotta 'keep in' with 'im!) may just be familiar with this fine machine:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/img364.jpg)
A 'true' low height (as opposed to 'lowbridge') specimen from the AEC stable!
That is a lovely and seemingly very familiar looking bus Seth. :y :y :y :y
Is that not the same type used down here in Kent by the Maidstone & District Bus Company? ??? ???
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(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/img364.jpg)
Restored in the livery of it's original operator - R Chisnell & Sons of Winchester.
The family traded as 'King Alfred Motor Services'
That is a lovely and seemingly very familiar looking bus Seth. :y :y :y :y
Is that not the same type used down here in Kent by the Maidstone & District Bus Company? ??? ???
Quite similar Lizzie, though M&D operated the AEC Regent V model (standard-height double-deck chassis) as opposed to the Renown (low-height D/D chassis) shown above.
The Regent V; Renown, (and Bridgemaster) models all used the familiar and pleasing Mk V front.
A Maidstone & District AEC Regent V:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/hx363.jpg)
Fitted with a Park Royal 56-seat body, and earlier slatted (rather than the later mesh type) radiator grille.
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I like this thread! 8)
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(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/img364.jpg)
Restored in the livery of it's original operator - R Chisnell & Sons of Winchester.
The family traded as 'King Alfred Motor Services'
That is a lovely and seemingly very familiar looking bus Seth. :y :y :y :y
Is that not the same type used down here in Kent by the Maidstone & District Bus Company? ??? ???
Quite similar Lizzie, though M&D operated the AEC Regent V model (standard-height double-deck chassis) as opposed to the Renown (low-height D/D chassis) shown above.
The Regent V; Renown, (and Bridgemaster) models all used the familiar and pleasing Mk V front.
A Maidstone & District AEC Regent V:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/hx363.jpg)
Fitted with a Park Royal 56-seat body, and earlier slatted (rather than the later mesh type) radiator grille.
Anyone for a game of "Spot the difference"? ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D ;D :y
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The replacement for the integral Bridgemaster was the Renown:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/img364.jpg)
This bus and it's twin are the only Park Royal-bodied AEC Renowns to have been built with semi-automatic transmissions.
The Renown was a conventional 'chassis with body' and allowed operators freedom of choice as regards body builders. It also achieved a low overall height with a 'highbridge' seating layout on the top deck.
The engine/gearbox were the well-proven and familiar 9.6-litre AV590 unit driving through a 4-speed all-synchromesh 'box (3B3RA). Remote-mounted 4-speed 'Mono-control' semi-automatic transmission was optional (3B2RA).
Similarities with the Regent V model ended there though, and here's a line drawing of the Renown chassis:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/AEC%20Renown%20chassis.jpg)
The AEC Renown 3B2RA chassis.
Note the circuitous route taken by the exhaust and the remotely-mounted epicyclic gearbox
Not only was the engine inclined (the rear cylinder head protruded into the drivers cab behind a modified bulkhead), it was mounted at an angle within the frame so that the driveline was along the offside of the chassis to a drop-centre rear axle with offset differential.
Access to the gearbox (and/or clutch/fluid flywheel) generally meant removal of the lower portion of the staircase. Standard leaf springs (as per the Regent V) were at the front, whilst 'air-over-leaf' suspension was provided at the rear (with air bellows at the rear ends of those springs).
Whilst the Renown was a reasonably happy and reliable vehicle in service, access to a lot of the componentry could be ... well ... downright friggin' difficult, and it was never as popular as the standard height Regent V.
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Morning all,
Just to reminder that it's Barry festival of Transport on Sunday!
Regrds
Steve
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Morning all,
Just to reminder that it's Barry festival of Transport on Sunday!
Regrds
Steve
As per: http://www.ctpg.co.uk/
Nice one, Steve! ;)
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Hope this is the correct thread for this pic :)
, didn't fancy going though the whole thread to find out :-[
Seen on my travels recently, North Wales, Ruthin area.
Sort of a bus well it's a Vauxhall so remembered this thread so took a pic, It's a rather nice looking thing in its own way if not a little rough, Makes the Omega look small parked close to it :o :D ;D ::)
(http://i1158.photobucket.com/albums/p620/Agemo_Legend/38CECAC7-0D03-4679-88ED-9926A47834D4-8649-000003C54C2697E2_zps26055e47.jpg)
Few more pics here.
http://www.omegaowners.com/forum/index.php?topic=114643.msg1473150#msg1473150
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A heads-up for anyone in the Alton area this weekend:
http://www.altonbusrally.co.uk/ (http://www.altonbusrally.co.uk/)
:y
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Hope this is the correct thread for this pic :)
, didn't fancy going though the whole thread to find out :-[
Seen on my travels recently, North Wales, Ruthin area.
Sort of a bus well it's a Vauxhall so remembered this thread so took a pic, It's a rather nice looking thing in its own way if not a little rough, Makes the Omega look small parked close to it :o :D ;D ::)
(http://i1158.photobucket.com/albums/p620/Agemo_Legend/38CECAC7-0D03-4679-88ED-9926A47834D4-8649-000003C54C2697E2_zps26055e47.jpg)
Few more pics here.
http://www.omegaowners.com/forum/index.php?topic=114643.msg1473150#msg1473150
That just maybe a solar powered horse box :D
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Hope this is the correct thread for this pic :)
, didn't fancy going though the whole thread to find out :-[
Seen on my travels recently, North Wales, Ruthin area.
Sort of a bus well it's a Vauxhall so remembered this thread so took a pic, It's a rather nice looking thing in its own way if not a little rough, Makes the Omega look small parked close to it :o :D ;D ::)
(http://i1158.photobucket.com/albums/p620/Agemo_Legend/38CECAC7-0D03-4679-88ED-9926A47834D4-8649-000003C54C2697E2_zps26055e47.jpg)
Few more pics here.
http://www.omegaowners.com/forum/index.php?topic=114643.msg1473150#msg1473150
That just maybe a solar powered horse box :D
Without a Tax Disc.......... :-X :-X
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(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/38CECAC7-0D03-4679-88ED-9926A47834D4-8649-000003C54C2697E2_zps26055e47.jpg)
Am reckoning on it being on the evergreen Bedford 'SB' chassis ... meself!
Wheels/tyres look to be a tad oversize though. IIRC; SB's had 9.00 x 20 8-stud rims.
A very simplistic chassis none the less! :y
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Had to smile on Saturday night. .. I heard the sound of 60's music throbbing then a bus like Blakey would be inspecting pulled up. All these people got off and went into Weatherspoons. There was a steam rally on a couple of miles up the road...so made me think about this ode thread xx
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Nice one....... :y :y
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Looked very similar too the bus at the top of this page.... forward thinking was the Pole Dancing equipment at the backdoor ;D
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Two of the National Express West Midlands garages had an open day today - unfortunately I was working but a guy has put some photo's on Flickr.
Worth a look if you are from the midlands, some nice old buses on display. but some of the photo's I ask why did he take that one ;D
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ell-r-brown/sets/72157636214694364/
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Two of the National Express West Midlands garages had an open day today - unfortunately I was working but a guy has put some photo's on Flickr.
Worth a look if you are from the midlands, some nice old buses on display. but some of the photo's I ask why did he take that one ;D
http://www.flickr.com/photos/ell-r-brown/sets/72157636214694364/
;) ;) :y
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Had to smile on Saturday night. .. I heard the sound of 60's music throbbing then a bus like Blakey would be inspecting pulled up. All these people got off and went into Weatherspoons. There was a steam rally on a couple of miles up the road...so made me think about this ode thread xx
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/en2942b.jpg)
A Bristol Lodekka as used in the later episodes of 'On the Buses'
This one's a late-model FLF version, and Eastern National's Wood Green depot featured in many scenes.
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Have to say they have character :y Converted one years ago cutting the back out upstairs putting a straight staircase in. Some charity bus or something. .
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Visited the Swansea Bus Museum this afternoon, for a gander at the proceedings on one of their 'Running Days':
http://www.swanseabusmuseum.com/
The South Wales Transport Co was the principal operator in the area, so here's a few photies of nicely-restored examples that originated in that fleet:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0743.JPG)
A 1963 AEC Regent V double-deck chassis with Roe 37-seat single-deck body.
Mechanically identical to the Companies' massive fleet of Regent V double-deckers, only eight such buses were ever produced, and all went to SWT's Llanelli depot.
They were the perfect solution for operating the plethora of town services in the Llanelli docks area, where many low railway bridges prevented the use of the contemporary underfloor-engined Reliances.
After a shifty around the museum premises, I joined some former colleagues for a trip on the old '77' route along the sweep of Swansea Bay to Limeslade, aboard a magnificently-restored former SWT AEC Regent V double-decker.
'590' entered service in 1964, and spent most of it's working life based at Llanelli depot, before withdrawal from service in 1980. Despite appalling weather conditions, it performed faultlessly throughout.
In this scribe's opinion, these were the finest half-cab double-deckers ever to grace our roads:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0748.JPG)
A 1964 AEC Regent V with Weymann 'Orion' 71-seat forward-entrance body at the Limeslade terminus.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0754.JPG)
A rear-end view which clearly shows the chassis frame protrusion under the rear body-skirt.
That dark red colour's absolutely authentic!
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0756.JPG)
The friendly face of the AEC Regent V
And talking of authenticity:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0753.JPG)
Company fleetname transfer positioned spot on!
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0752.JPG)
Dead right again - and Mr Weedy's 'formula' benefitted staff who suffered ill health.
And some contemporary internal notices:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0760.JPG)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0761.JPG)
After enjoying an ice cream at neighbouring Forte's Ice Cream Parlour, I managed to capture this stormy scene from the top deck of 590:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0757.JPG)
Looking south west from Limeslade into the Bristol channel
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This thread is in danger of being as big as the 'Views on front garden from the driveway thread'...... :o :o :o ;) ;)
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Thanks again for another great post Seth :y :y :y
Very interesting, but could I ask please the following questions:
* What engines were fitted to the Regent Vs and were they reliable in service?
* Were all of SWT's Regent double-deckers fitted with Weymann bodies?
* The 77 route - was it heavily patronised, especially during the Summer period?
Many thanks. :) :)
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Very interesting, but could I ask please the following questions:
* What engines were fitted to the Regent Vs and were they reliable in service?
Many thanks. :) :)
Initially, AEC offered two engine options for the Regent V at this time.
These were the 7.7-litre AV470; and the 9.6-litre AV590 - both being 'wet-linered' units of 'monobloc' construction.
The dry-linered 11.3-litre AV691 unit replaced the AV590 during the mid-1960s; and was fitted to some late-model Regent Vs; before production ceased around 1968.
From 1958 to 1965, South Wales Transport standardised on the AV590 engine for it's Regent V fleet, and put over 130 of these buses into service during that period. Many of it's earlier 36ft AEC Reliance single-deckers were similarly powered by the horizontal version of the same unit - designated as AH590 in this form.
To answer Lizzie's (first!) question:
Yes - the '590' lump was a very reliable and robust unit indeed, and it achieved colossal mileages between overhauls.
Quite straightforward to work on for the engineers, it also performed exceedingly well in service and was popular with the drivers.
Here's a view of the engine bay of the bus in question:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0746.JPG)
A simplistic layout with logically-arranged componentry for ease of maintenance
There's a slight twist to this view, as before withdrawal from service, SWT fitted this AV691 engine into bus 590 ... in lieu of it's original AV590!
And the cast emblem that's affixed above the nearside mudguard on all Regent Vs:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0747.JPG)
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Thanks Seth! :y :y
Those engines are not exactly pretty, but no doubt they were strong and built to last as you state. :D :D ;)
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I can remember travelling on these Dennis Loline busses as a child.
(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/6/68/Dennis_loline_I_alton.JPG)
(http://upload.wikimedia.org/wikipedia/commons/thumb/8/87/Aldershot_%26_District_503%2C_543_and_357.JPG/800px-Aldershot_%26_District_503%2C_543_and_357.JPG)
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Very interesting, but could I ask please the following questions:
* Were all of SWT's Regent double-deckers fitted with Weymann bodies?
No!
There were the eight single-deckers with Roe bodies, and a handful of Park Royal-bodied double-deck examples.
Between 1958 and 1964, SWT favoured the 30ft 2D3RA model with AV590 engine and AEC's own D166 4-speed all-synchromesh gearbox. All were forward-entranced 71-seaters, with dark blue leatherette seating/interior trim, regardless of the body-builder.
Willowbrook bodied 59 of them:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/img403.jpg)
Just above Mumbles Pier, here's 571 - one of 24 that entered service in 1962.
I actually drove this beauty for it's owner that day in Autumn 1996 for an enthusiasts' photo-shoot, covering much of 571's old stamping ground after completion of it's second restoration. The destination blinds are correctly-set, and we're about 1/2 a mile from the 77 route's southern terminus at nearby Limeslade, whereupon the top blind was turned to display 'Pontlasse' (nowadays Morriston Hospital), for it's return journey!
Purely for comparison, one of the 42 Weymann 'Orion'-bodied examples:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0748.JPG)
Incorrect destination display evident on 1964-built 590 - but the best we could muster on the day!
20 Regent Vs arrived in 1964, and the body contract was unusually split three ways between Park Royal (5) Weymann (9) and Willowbrook (6)
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How can you remember all this Seth, I can barley remember what I did at work last week ;D
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How can you remember all this Seth, I can barley remember what I did at work last week ;D
Ain't sayin' lad! 8)
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How can you remember all this Seth, I can barley remember what I did at work last week ;D
Ain't sayin' lad! 8)
He's very intelligent - I think that's the reason...... ;D ;D ;D ;D
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How can you remember all this Seth, I can barley remember what I did at work last week ;D
Ain't sayin' lad! 8)
He's very intelligent - I think that's the reason...... ;D ;D ;D ;D
Yes, it is that plus a pure love of all things buses, and transport generally! ;D ;D ;D ;D ;)
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He ought to write a book, so all of this detailed knowledge isn't lost. :y :y :y
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Very interesting, but could I ask please the following questions:
* The 77 route - was it heavily patronised, especially during the Summer period?
The '77' was worked by Swansea (Brunswick) depot, which had around 100 buses 'on shed' at that time.
The route was essentially a cross-city operation which linked Pontlasse (nowadays the vast Morriston Hospital) in the northern suburbs, via the City Centre and the sweep of Swansea Bay with Mumbles Pier and Limeslade. End-to-end scheduled running time was around an hour, and it ran to a basic half-hourly frequency along it's entirety, with half-hourly 'short workings' dovetailed-in between the City Centre and Mumbles Pier.
The first bus of the day left Brunswick at an unearthly 0325 hours on Mons - Sats; whilst the last returning bus ran-in just after midnight each day.
These heavily-patronised routes were 'all stops' along their entire length, so obviously the Regent Vs took a constant hammering, seven days a week.
There were also the 74/75/76 routes which followed the 77 as far as Oystermouth, before branching-off to Caswell Bay/Langland Bay/Newton. So, looking at the timetable you'll see a bus every few minutes along the Mumbles road.
In addition to these there were the 84/85's which served the same destinations on a half-hourly frequency, though these left Swansea via the leafy western suburb of Sketty.
The Summer timetable saw these frequencies increased further, and brought about significant challenges to the Company, especially when the sunny sunshine turned to rain in the afternoons.
Droves of folk would suddenly dash off the beaches and require immediate homeward transportation. As experienced operators, SWT seasonally based an Inspector at Oystermouth along with a few spare Regent Vs and crews, ready to move the masses as the need arose.
Willowbrook-bodied 586:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/Copyright%20-%20Andrew%20Tucker.jpg)
... filmed in action on the '77':
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=82nHBeq3jkM
Listen to the melodious D166 'box!
Any more questions ... on the Regent V? 8)
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We often talk about car tyres and their development, but what about Bus and Lorry tyres?
In the early years of the 20th century I know there were many vehicles, including steam buses and lorries, that had solid tyres. Slowly with those modes of transport, behind it seems motor car tyres, development took place to produce heavy duty pneumatic examples.
What, why, and how did developments take place? What were the difficulties in providing heavy duty large tyres? How did they develop throughout the 20th century, and what are the special features of the latest commercial vehicle tyres, that must have to take tremendous loads and pressures?
Perhaps our resident expert on these matters, Seth, can enlighten?? :D :D :D :) :)
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I've changed a few truck tyres with the old fashioned 'split rims' and I've seen one go 'Bang' where it wasn't fitted properly!! :o :o :o
They're quite scary to fit and seriously dangerous if not done right!! ::)
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I've changed a few truck tyres with the old fashioned 'split rims' and I've seen one go 'Bang' where it wasn't fitted properly!! :o :o :o
They're quite scary to fit and seriously dangerous if not done right!! ::)
Yes, I have heard that in the past. Someone I knew was working as a commercial vehicle tyre fitter when his mate was decapitated by a "flying" ring when not using a protective cage properly! :o :o :o :o
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I've changed a few truck tyres with the old fashioned 'split rims' and I've seen one go 'Bang' where it wasn't fitted properly!! :o :o :o
They're quite scary to fit and seriously dangerous if not done right!! ::)
Yes, I have heard that in the past. Someone I knew was working as a commercial vehicle tyre fitter when his mate was decapitated by a "flying" ring when not using a protective cage properly! :o :o :o :o
I can well believe it,having seen one go off!! :o I believe it's against every rule in the bulging Health and Safety book not to use a safety cage when changing split rims, if not down right illegal!!! :-\
I'd imagine many of Seth's vintage buses would feature them. :-\
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Many of the larger bus operators actually 'rented' their tyres on a 'condition/mileage' basis from the respective manufacturers.
All of Western Welsh's were procured thus from Michelin for many years, and they based a tyre fitter at each depot as per the contract terms.
From the late 1960s onwards, tubeless tyres became the norm. This not only simplified the lot of the tyre-fitter, but it also importantly made the task of changing tyres on each wheel rim much safer, as the older 'tubed' tyres/rims (with locking ring) were gradually phased-out.
A couple of the tyre types in service during the mid-70s:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/XZA.jpeg)
Michelin XZA - used in 9.00 x 20 and 10.00 x 20 sizes
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/XZU.jpg)
Michelin XZU - 10.00 x 20 only
Power steering was a rarely-specified option on heavy commercials at that time, and the XZU went some way to reducing the commonly-reported 'heavy steering' defect by our drivers, particularly on these early 36ft Leyland Leopards:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/img151.jpg)
A rigidly-enforced company policy saw the coach fleet running on brand-new tyres [all-round] only.When these became life-expired, they were re-grooved and run-off on the rears of buses.
Buses, however, always had brand-new tyres fitted to the front axle, with re-grooved tyres allowed only on the rear axle. Nowt to do with the law you understand, just company policy!
Interestingly, if you purchased a bus from WW; you'd be quoted a price for the vehicle ... plus tyres!
;)
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Many of the larger bus operators actually 'rented' their tyres on a 'condition/mileage' basis from the respective manufacturers.
All of Western Welsh's were procured thus from Michelin for many years, and they based a tyre fitter at each depot as per the contract terms.
From the late 1960s onwards, tubeless tyres became the norm. This not only simplified the lot of the tyre-fitter, but it also importantly made the task of changing tyres on each wheel rim much safer, as the older 'tubed' tyres/rims (with locking ring) were gradually phased-out.
A couple of the tyre types in service during the mid-70s:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/XZA.jpeg)
Michelin XZA - used in 9.00 x 20 and 10.00 x 20 sizes
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/XZU.jpg)
Michelin XZU - 10.00 x 20 only
Power steering was a rarely-specified option on heavy commercials at that time, and the XZU went some way to reducing the commonly-reported 'heavy steering' defect by our drivers, particularly on these early 36ft Leyland Leopards:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/img151.jpg)
A rigidly-enforced company policy saw the coach fleet running on brand-new tyres [all-round] only.When these became life-expired, they were re-grooved and run-off on the rears of buses.
Buses, however, always had brand-new tyres fitted to the front axle, with re-grooved tyres allowed only on the rear axle. Nowt to do with the law you understand, just company policy!
Interestingly, if you purchased a bus from WW; you'd be quoted a price for the vehicle ... plus tyres!
;)
Thanks Seth! :y :y :y :y
Any info on solid to pneumatic tyre development please as I am very interested to know the historical facts. I know that buses used to ferry troops to the front lines during The Great War had solid tyres, which no doubt was a plus when thinking about the debris that littered those roads! But when did it all change, even for steam lorries and buses Seth?
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/WW1Buses.jpg)
(http://i282.photobucket.com/albums/kk247/lizziefreeman/WW1BusesA.jpg)
:y :y :y
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Off to the fair city of Winchester first thing in da morning for the 'Friends of King Alfred' Running Day:
http://s262662507.websitehome.co.uk/page41.html
Will try and sort a report and some pictures upon my return! ;)
-
Many of the larger bus operators actually 'rented' their tyres on a 'condition/mileage' basis from the respective manufacturers.
All of Western Welsh's were procured thus from Michelin for many years, and they based a tyre fitter at each depot as per the contract terms.
From the late 1960s onwards, tubeless tyres became the norm. This not only simplified the lot of the tyre-fitter, but it also importantly made the task of changing tyres on each wheel rim much safer, as the older 'tubed' tyres/rims (with locking ring) were gradually phased-out.
A couple of the tyre types in service during the mid-70s:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/XZA.jpeg)
Michelin XZA - used in 9.00 x 20 and 10.00 x 20 sizes
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/XZU.jpg)
Michelin XZU - 10.00 x 20 only
Power steering was a rarely-specified option on heavy commercials at that time, and the XZU went some way to reducing the commonly-reported 'heavy steering' defect by our drivers, particularly on these early 36ft Leyland Leopards:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/img151.jpg)
A rigidly-enforced company policy saw the coach fleet running on brand-new tyres [all-round] only.When these became life-expired, they were re-grooved and run-off on the rears of buses.
Buses, however, always had brand-new tyres fitted to the front axle, with re-grooved tyres allowed only on the rear axle. Nowt to do with the law you understand, just company policy!
Interestingly, if you purchased a bus from WW; you'd be quoted a price for the vehicle ... plus tyres!
;)
My ex brother in law has a small fleet and I remember him re grooving tyres, sometimes more than once....... ;) ::) :-X
Thinking back to those days I drove for a number of companies, some of whom were terrible with their maintenance, I have driven some crap over the years........ ::) ::)
-
Does anyone know the details of the coach now featuring in the new "Go Compare advert"?
It is obviously a modern coach. :y
-
Off to the fair city of Winchester first thing in da morning for the 'Friends of King Alfred' Running Day:
http://s262662507.websitehome.co.uk/page41.html
Will try and sort a report and some pictures upon my return! ;)
Despite the inclement weather, hundreds of hardy souls made the trek to this event.
The FoKAB people's sterling efforts brought forth a tremendous kaleidoscope of vehicular variety, and really must be congratulated for recreating the city's public transport scene when the Chisnell family provided the local bus services. A full timetable of their services was maintained throughout the day, generally using the preserved examples.
Although the conditions weren't really photogenic, here's my efforts:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0768.JPG)
Awaiting it's next trip to the P&R site: An AEC Swift with dual-doored Strachan 'Pacemaster' body.
8.2-litre AH505 engine under the rear overhang and new to Southampton City Transport on May Day 1967!
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0772.JPG)
Laying-over in the Bus Station: A former LT Country Area MCW-bodied AEC Merlin.
Similar chassis to the Swift model, though powered by the 11.3-litre AH691 engine.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0774.JPG)
A 1964 Leyland Atlantean with 76-seat MCW single-door highbridge body.
Prior to preservation, this example put in 16 years of sterling service on the streets of Portsmouth.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0769.JPG)
Managed a trip out to Stockbridge on this 1969 ECW-bodied Bristol RE.
It's Gardner 6HLX engine gave years of economical and reliable thrashing between North Wales/Liverpool and London.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/IMG_0775.JPG)
A 1959 Leyland Tiger Cub: Splendidly-restored and returned to it's old stamping ground by FoKAB.
This one has the less-common synchromesh 'box, and our driver managed some pretty nifty 'snatch-changes' on some of the hilly ascents along it's route!
Powered by the strong little 6-litre Leyland 0.350 diesel, there was but one way to drive a Tiger Cub ... and that was flat out! ;)
-
Does anyone know the details of the coach now featuring in the new "Go Compare advert"?
It is obviously a modern coach. :y
On the case Lizzie ... :-\
-
Does anyone know the details of the coach now featuring in the new "Go Compare advert"?
It is obviously a modern coach. :y
On the case Lizzie ... :-\
Awaiting your report then Seth with anticipation! :y :y :y :y ;)
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Belated New Year pressie for Lizzie :-X:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/img008.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/KDD%2038%2002-1.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/KDD%2038%2003.jpg)
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Belated New Year pressie for Lizzie :-X:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/img008.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/KDD%2038%2002-1.jpg)
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/KDD%2038%2003.jpg)
Thanks Seth! Now that is a stunner! :y :y :y
I take it that was an attempt to bring streamlining into the world of the coach as had been tried by the railways? :)
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I take it that was an attempt to bring streamlining into the world of the coach as had been tried by the railways? :)
Quite possibly Lizzie, though coachbuilders were keen to display opulence in their products in the post-war era.
The rear-mounted 'Dorsal Fin' was one such optional feature which confirms this.
The 33-seat Harrington body was built on an AEC Regal MkIII chassis in 1950, and remained with the Bevans' until 1980. True testament indeed to the craftsmanship at Harringtons, who went on to even greater things in the world of luxury coach design.
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/ThosHarrington2.jpeg)
The other option was the 'full front' (as opposed to 'pure' half-cab), which would make access to some of the engine componentry a bit difficult:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/img008.jpg)
This example has the big 9.6-litre engine up-front, and would've been quite a performer!
Bought directly from the Bevans' it remains to this day with it's subsequent owner, and still puts in appearances at vintage rallies :y
-
Does anyone know the details of the coach now featuring in the new "Go Compare advert"?
It is obviously a modern coach. :y
On the case Lizzie ... :-\
Awaiting your report then Seth with anticipation! :y :y :y :y ;)
I have lost track of coaches interiors and don't even recognise the Go Compare coach.
All I can find is the registration was from Manchester from between !st Sep 07 to 28th Feb 08 and it is not on the Insurance Database as insured......
Over to Seth, the font of most things bus, but what about coaches? :-\
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Thanks for all the info Seth, but two more questions please:
Where is Soudley Valley? I have traveled widely, but do not recognise that name.
Did all Harrington coach bodies have that Dorsal Fin at the rear of the roof? I seem to remember seeing other coaches with that feature in the 1950s, so did other companies have coaches with that feature?
:y :y :y
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Didn't realise they had this in Wythall Museum Seth....
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg200/dad1uk/e9ab2a2a-5064-4fad-8b6e-fe7cef5783e1.jpg)
Reg No: WDF 569 - new 1959
Operator: Soudley Valley Coaches
Chassis: Leyland Tiger Cub PSUC1
Engine: Leyland 0350 5.76 litre diesel
Gearbox: Crash
Body: Willowbrook 41 seats
In answer to your question Lizzie,
Soudley is near the River Severn, in the South East corner of the Forest of Dene. Pretty close to where is being badly affected by flooding by the River Severn at the moment.
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Where is Soudley Valley? I have traveled widely, but do not recognise that name.
Sort of south west of Cinderford in the (Royal) Forest of Dean.
Many pronounce it "Sowdlee" ... the locals however, call it "Soodlee" ... ;)
The Bevan Bros' operation was more commonly known as 'Soudley Valley Coaches' and in it's heyday was the second-largest operator in the Forest. There were quite a few long-serving staff, and at it's peak in the 1960s, there were 24 vehicles in it's fleet. Sadly the business closed in 1998. :o
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Did all Harrington coach bodies have that Dorsal Fin at the rear of the roof? I seem to remember seeing other coaches with that feature in the 1950s, so did other companies have coaches with that feature?
No Lizzie, Harringtons offered a 'fin-less' alternative:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/PPF492rear.jpg)
And also a 'pure' half-cab variant:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/PPF492.jpg)
Again, mounted on an AEC Regal MkIII chassis.
-
Didn't realise they had this in Wythall Museum Seth....
(http://i248.photobucket.com/albums/gg200/dad1uk/e9ab2a2a-5064-4fad-8b6e-fe7cef5783e1.jpg)
Reg No: WDF 569 - new 1959
Operator: Soudley Valley Coaches
Chassis: Leyland Tiger Cub PSUC1
Engine: Leyland 0350 5.76 litre diesel
Gearbox: Crash
Body: Willowbrook 41 seats
In answer to your question Lizzie,
Soudley is near the River Severn, in the South East corner of the Forest of Dene. Pretty close to where is being badly affected by flooding by the River Severn at the moment.
Thanks Dad1at. I know that lovely area as well, with the Dene Forest Railway, but couldn't recall that name ::) :P :y
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Where is Soudley Valley? I have traveled widely, but do not recognise that name.
Sort of south west of Cinderford in the (Royal) Forest of Dean.
Many pronounce it "Sowdlee" ... the locals however, call it "Soodlee" ... ;)
The Bevan Bros' operation was more commonly known as 'Soudley Valley Coaches' and in it's heyday was the second-largest operator in the Forest. There were quite a few long-serving staff, and at it's peak in the 1960s, there were 24 vehicles in it's fleet. Sadly the business closed in 1998. :o
Thanks Seth :y :y
-
Tiger Cub badge:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/TigerCubbadge.jpeg)
Worth a few bob nowadays ... if you can find one!
Needless to say, I've got one here I can put my hands on one ... :-X
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Tiger Cub badge:
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/TigerCubbadge.jpeg)
Worth a few bob nowadays ... if you can find one!
Needless to say, I've got one here I can put my hands on one ... :-X
Has it got the bus attached still Seth?
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Has it got the bus attached still Seth?
Err ... nope ... am an AEC man meself ... (https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/rofl.gif)
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... am an AEC man meself ...
(https://dl.dropboxusercontent.com/u/43954633/aec%20badge.jpg)
... know the whereabouts of one of these beauties too ... 8)
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I wonder if Seth has anything to do with the possible repatriation and restoration of this old beauty? ??? :)
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/in-pictures-34775283
PS: The 0-60 thread has a little way to go yet! ;) ;D