Midland Red & Carlyle Works http://bmmo.fotopic.net/ 37 rows en-gb 60 Guy utilities http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c1714014.html Guy utilities Thursday 18 June 2009: Guy utilities

2585 (HHA 62), a Guy Arab II (5LW) with heavily modified Park Royal utility bodywork. It was the last of the batch. 2585 (HHA 62) - Guy Arab II with Warner, Tewkesbury

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]]> Thu Jun 18 2009 ECW rectification work, Carlyle Works http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c1160427.html ECW rectification work, Carlyle Works Thursday 14 December 2006: ECW rectification work, Carlyle Works

United Counties 170 having rectification work at Carlyle Works United Counties 170 having rectification work at Carlyle Works United Counties 170 having rectification work at Carlyle Works United Counties 175 having rectification work at Carlyle Works United Counties 175 having rectification work at Carlyle Works United Counties 175 having rectification work at Carlyle Works

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]]> Thu Dec 14 2006 Harper, Heath Hayes http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c1159091.html If you are looking for the anaemic green, forget it. My collection was taken in the days that the fleet was merged into Midland Red..... Tuesday 12 December 2006: If you are looking for the anaemic green, forget it. My collection was taken in the days that the fleet was merged into Midland Red.....

2276 (ORF 460F), ex Harper, Heath Hayes, waqs a Leyland Leopard pSU3.3R with Duple Commander III C51F bodywork. 2251 (LRF 220F), a former Harper, Heath Hayes Leyland Leopard/Duple Viceroy, with Plaxton Elite grille. One senses the hand of Brian Harper MROC's works engineer, in its reconfiguration 2251 (LRF 220F), a former Harper, Heath Hayes Leyland Leopard/Duple Viceroy, with Plaxton Elite grille 2251 (LRF 220F), a former Harper, Heath Hayes Leyland Leopard/Duple Viceroy, with Plaxton Elite grille 2251 (LRF 220F), a Leyland Leopard PSU3B.4R/Duple Viceroy C45F, after it was fitted with Plaxton Elite grille 2251 (LRF 220F), a former Harper, Heath Hayes. The Plaxton grille gives the lie to its Duple Viceroy bodywork. 2269 (ORF 459F), ex Harper, Heath Hayes. She was a Leyland Leopard PSU3.3R with Duple Commander bodywork heavily disguised with a Plaxton front, and modified as a mobile classroom and driving instruction vehicle. 2255 (MRF 420L), a Leyland Leopard PSU3B.4R ex Harper Bros, Heath Hayes, warms up in the Digbeth yard while 303 (PHA 303M) - a PSU4B.4R - idles in the rear [Alan O. Watkins Colln] Harper, Heath Hayes 25 (SBF 233) being converted into a recovery truck by Midland Red, who had run it as their 2225 2234 (TRE 948L), ex Harper, Heath Hayes, was a Daimler Fleetline CRL6 with ECW bodywork. 2234 (TRE 948L) in an unadopted version of the Chasrider livery for Midland Red North Daimler Fleetlines with Midland Red at Cannock depot - 2232, 2240 and 440 2234 (TRE 948L) was new to Harper Brothers of Heath Hayes. 2234 (TRE 948L) 2234 (TRE 948L) 2232 2232 2230 (JBF 406H) 2230 (JBF 406H)

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]]> Tue Dec 12 2006 Ferodo retarder on Leyland National http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c1152101.html One of the Wellington-depoted Leyland Nationals in the 760s sequence was experimentally fitted with a Ferodo Retarder following the winter freeze which brought many LNs to a standstill. The equipment included modified air dryers and bleeders to keep the vehicle moving when the ice threatened. IF ANYONE CAN IDENTIFY THE SPECIFIC VEHICLE I WOULD BE GRATEFUL TO KNOW. Sunday 3 December 2006: One of the Wellington-depoted Leyland Nationals in the 760s sequence was experimentally fitted with a Ferodo Retarder following the winter freeze which brought many LNs to a standstill. The equipment included modified air dryers and bleeders to keep the vehicle moving when the ice threatened. IF ANYONE CAN IDENTIFY THE SPECIFIC VEHICLE I WOULD BE GRATEFUL TO KNOW.

The retarder in place Modified air dryer and bleeder underneath the Leyland National Modified air dryer and bleeder underneath the Leyland National Air dryer on the underside of the Leyland National A-frame assembly Jeff Venables, the depot engineer, shows the modifications

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]]> Sun Dec 3 2006 Midland Red North 1982 Drivers' awards http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c1151695.html Midland Red North 1982 Drivers' awards Sunday 3 December 2006: Midland Red North 1982 Drivers' awards

Frank

Published in Midland Red & Carlyle Works

]]> Sun Dec 3 2006 Midland Red characters http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c1150413.html Midland Red characters Friday 1 December 2006: Midland Red characters

Paul Atkins Colin Clubb, last general manager of Midland Red, and Beryl Humpidge (his secretary) Barry Connor, divisional manager at Midland Red's Worcestershire operations, later with Midland Red West and subsequently with CVE Alan Dearn, union convenor at Carlyle Works Doug Watkins retires from the engineers' department at Carlyle Works Doug Watkins retires from the engineers' department at Carlyle Works Geoff Clarkson, Midland Red Coaches boss Roger Harman, assistant chief engineer of Midland Red Ken Mills, general manager of Midland Red West, with some of the drivers at the company's bus driver of the year heats Lady Shepherd, wife of the NBC chairman, finds out about life in a bus garage - Kidderminster style Richard Beddoes, who was the Carlyle Works messenger, brings in the mail on his last day in uniform Robin Westbrook, Chief Engineer of PMT and later Midland Red 479 still had the heaters on at the height of summer

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]]> Fri Dec 1 2006 Carlyle Works special projects http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c1115464.html Carlyle Works special projects Saturday 21 October 2006: Carlyle Works special projects

West Riding VRs and DMS Fleetlines being prepared for further service with various companies. Western National 2869 Western National 2869 Western National 2869 Western National 2869 Western National 2869 ATV Ford Transit, WLR 831S, with support vehicle, HOH 389W ATV Ford Transit, WLR 831S, with support vehicle, HOH 389W Carlyle Works Seddon tug Carlyle Works Seddon tug Carlyle Works Seddon tug Carlyle Works Seddon tug Carlyle Works Seddon tug Carlyle Works Seddon tug Carlyle Works Seddon tug

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]]> Sat Oct 21 2006 Midland Red http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c1096565.html Midland Red Friday 29 September 2006: Midland Red

Midland Red 4475, days before it was buried in a rubbish tip near Bromsgrove. Midland Red 4475, days before it was buried in a rubbish tip near Bromsgrove.

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]]> Fri Sep 29 2006 Inside Carlyle Works http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c1089981.html Inside Carlyle Works Friday 22 September 2006: Inside Carlyle Works

SBF 233 being converted from an attractive Leyland Titan doubledecker into a wrekcer for Midland Red BMMO tug used at Carlyle Works for many years City of Oxford Daimler Fleetline, London Country RB 18, PMT 910 (910 UVT) and West Midland [ex Birmingham CT] 3699 (KOV 699G) 439, showing the ECW roof dome under repair at Carlyle Works Midland Red 796, Midland Red 312, National Travel South West 130 and National Travel South West 230 (ex-Rhonnda) 813 and 737 in an unadopted version of the Midland Red North livery styles produced by Carlyle Works. 813 and 737 in an unadopted version of the Midland Red North livery styles produced by Carlyle Works. 186 (HHA 186L) and London Country AN 106 awaiting its turn to lose its roof for a new sightseeing role that would take it into the 21st Century. The Leyland Leopard was equally interesting, having returned to Carlyle Works from Wessex where it had been working for some years. Carlyle Works with Midland House just visible on the extreme right Body shop at Carlyle Works Chassis shop at Carlyle Works Chassis shop at Carlyle Works Chassis shop at Carlyle Works Chassis shop at Carlyle Works Chassis shop at Carlyle Works Chassis shop at Carlyle Works Carlyle Works Inside the body shop at Carlyle Works

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]]> Fri Sep 22 2006 Redditch depot's rolling road http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c1084166.html Redditch depot was an early recepient of a rolling road for brake testing. Here 761 (BVP 761V) demonstratest he equipment. Saturday 16 September 2006: Redditch depot was an early recepient of a rolling road for brake testing. Here 761 (BVP 761V) demonstratest he equipment.

761 on the rolling road Set on the road Underneath 761 In the swimming pool pits at Redditch, beneath 761 On the road Rolling road On the road The meter The meter The meter

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]]> Sat Sep 16 2006 Midland House, Company headquarters http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c1081788.html Midland House, Company headquarters Wednesday 13 September 2006: Midland House, Company headquarters

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]]> Wed Sep 13 2006 Backroom boys and girls http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c1078519.html Backroom boys and girls Sunday 10 September 2006: Backroom boys and girls

More bus stops are sorted at the publicity department Midland Red publicity department was home to hundreds of different types of bus stop plates, all of which had to be updated and erected as each new network was unveiled. Gordon Diggle, the Midland red publicity officer, and his team Barbara in the Midland Red publicity office Debbie Shaw in the Midland Red publicity unit Gordon Diggle, Midland Red's publicity officer Midland Red coach drivers were hired by Ford to do the stunt driving of the new Ford Cargo truck range when it was launched at the NEC Midland Red coach drivers were hired by Ford to do the stunt driving of the new Ford Cargo truck range when it was launched at the NEC Midland Red coach drivers were hired by Ford to do the stunt driving of the new Ford Cargo truck range when it was launched at the NEC. The drivers earned a standing ovation from the dealers who were unaware that they were normally gently threading their way to and from London on the M6, or touring the Highlands... Midland Red coach drivers were hired by Ford to do the stunt driving of the new Ford Cargo truck range when it was launched at the NEC Barbara Taylor (head up) and Pat Trigg (further), the receptionists and phone operators at Midland House. Pat's family had been involved with Midland Red from its very origin (her grandfather drove one of Midland's red horse buses).

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]]> Sun Sep 10 2006 BaMMOT - the first open day http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c1074729.html BaMMOT - the first open day Tuesday 5 September 2006: BaMMOT - the first open day

5868 5767 5073 RT 624 and Midland Red 5073 West Bromwich EV

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]]> Tue Sep 5 2006 Midland Red West minibuses http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c917923.html Midland Red West minibuses Sunday 9 April 2006: Midland Red West minibuses

1924 (E924 KEU) in Birmingham 1924 (E924 KEU) was ex Badgerline (4924) Midland Red West Mercedes minibus going the wrong way around the church in the centre of Bewdley. At the time the church was being renovated on the Birmingham-bound carriageway. 1944 (E944 LAE) was new to Badgerline (4944) and later saw service with Red Admiral in Southampton, before moving to Birmingham 1450 (C788 FRL) before it was repainted into Midland Red West colours, and transfer to the operational fleet from among the ranks of trainers. 1370 (C379 RUY) and 1375 (C375 RUY) 1368 (C368 RUY) runs into Stourport-on-Severn 1304 (C304 PNP) in Worcester was one of the PMT conversions 1335, 1321, 1322 (all bodied by Reeve Burgess) and 1318 (a PMT-bodied Merc) in Worcester bus station 1409 (E409 KUY) 1373 (C373 RUY) 1451 (C790 FRL) was new to Western National as its 93 1451 (C790 FRL), one of the two former Western National Mercedes L608Ds, pulls out from Burlish Park as 1371 (C371 RUY) appraoches Stouport from Kidderminster. 1454 (C209 PCD) runs past another link with the Kidderminster weaving industry 1303 (C303 PNP) was a PMT-bodied Mercedes-Benz L608D 1318 (C318 PNP) and 1336 1369 (C369 RUY) in Kidderminster Shuttle colours 1378 in Stourport-on-Severn 1380 (C380 RUY) and a Ford Transit, UCA 971V, in Stourport-on-Severn High Street 1383 (C383 RUY) 1441 (C581 SHC) was ex Southdown (901) 1442 (C582 SHC), 1441 (C581 SHC) and 1368 (C368 RUY) pose for the camera while an unidentified Midland Red West-liveried Shuttle waits in the background at Kidderminster. The Shuttle name was a clever play on words. Bus users would automatically think of shuttling back and forth, but the shuttle was a work tool of the Kidderminster carpet weavers that was so important to the town, its newspaper is called the Kidderminster Shuttle. 1442 (C582 SHC), here seen in Bewdley Road, Stourport-on-Severn, was ex-Southdown 902 1450 (C788 FRL) was originally Western National 91. It is seen in front of the statue to the founder of the postage stamp, Sir Rowland Hill, in Kidderminster. The statue was used for the design of a British stamp commemorating the 150th anniversary of the Penny Black in May 1990. 1450 (C788 FRL) and 1381 (C381 RUY) in Kidderminster bus station 1452 (C207 PCD) was formerly with Southdown 1454 (C209 PCD) 1454 (C209 PCD) 1446 (C586 SHC), previously Southdown 906 2121 (VPF 121M) [Alan O. Watkins Colln] Mercedes minibus in Redditch 1380 (C380 RUY) and 1365 (C365 RUY) 1381 (C381 RUY) 1364 (C364 RUY) 1378 (C378 RUY) 1450 (C788 FRL), one of the former Western National trainers pushed into service in Kidderminster 1371 (C371 RUY) 1383 (C383 RUY) 1413 (E413 KUY) in Worcester 1381 (C381 RUY) 1382 (C382 RUY)

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]]> Sun Apr 9 2006 Metroliners http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c856507.html Metroliners Friday 10 February 2006: Metroliners

Midland Red Express 567 (A667 XDA) Midland Red Express 567 (A667 XDA) Midland Red Express 566 (A666 XDA) Midland Red Express 567 (A667 XDA) Midland Red Express 567 (A667 XDA) Midland Red Express 567 (A667 XDA) Midland Red Express 567 (A667 XDA) Midland Red Express 567 (A667 XDA) Digbeth - the view from the coach station balcony of the Rotunda in Birmingham 666 (A666 XDA) and rebodied fire-victim Q553 UOC, a former Willowbrook-bodied Leyland Leopard

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]]> Fri Feb 10 2006 The day the Space Shuttle flew over... http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c814048.html The day the Space Shuttle flew over... Monday 2 January 2006: The day the Space Shuttle flew over...

The Space Shuttle aboard its special Boeing 747 flies over Carlyle Works. The Space Shuttle aboard its special Boeing 747 flies over Carlyle Works.

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]]> Mon Jan 2 2006 Carlyle Works contract examples http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c800793.html Carlyle Works contract examples Tuesday 20 December 2005: Carlyle Works contract examples

London Transport M103, M136 and DMS 2020 await various tasks while in the middle is the penultimate ECW vehicle, Devon General 1813 awaiting full paint, and re-registration from A272 MTA London Country RB 84 being prepared for return to lessors, Birmingham Social Services JOJ 788 (ex Birmingham CT 1788) having routine maintenance work done, and brand new Midland Red North 1601 (A601 HVT) awaits painting in the operator's chosen scheme Malvernian, Inkberrow A722 BAB was a former demonstrator arrives at Carlyle Works entrance Yorkshire Traction Bristol VRTs being prepared for the Western National group in Carlyle Works. Note the large offside exhaust unit on the VR further from the camera, taking exhaust gases to the upper deck grilles. The vehicles are Yorkshire Traction 843 and (further from the camera) 848 London Transport MCW Metrobuses, M86, M38 and M85 await mid-life overhauls Midland Red West 1203 (A203 YWP) masks Midland Red North 1603, which is waiting to follow it into the paint booths Hampshire Bus Leyland National in Carlyle Works for appraisal Leyland (0.680?) engines London Country RB 65 and JOJ 788, the former Birmingham CT playbus Greenslades 2200 (AOD 648Y) Greenslades 2201 (AOD 649Y)showing the catering and convenience facilities installed at the rear of the coach. The bodybuilders at Carlyle Works became experts at fitting out bog-standard coaches for the morediscerning traveller Greenslades 2201 (AOD 649Y)after it had been kitted out for private hire and touring work at Carlyle Works is fuelled up for the journey to Devon Greenslades 2201 (AOD 649Y), showing the modified interior KUC 963P, Greenslades 1401 and KUC 920P awaiting work D247 OOJ after sale to Holland, Kidderminster London Crusader open top conversion (London Country AN 10), two London Transport MCW Metrobuses for midlife overhaul (M38 and M85), and a former London Transport DMS converted for Midland Fox operations (2781)

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]]> Tue Dec 20 2005 Rebuilding Leyland Leopards http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c761336.html Carlyle Works hoped to convince the powers-that-were at National Bus Company headquarters that many of the Leyland Leopards - particularly the PSU3E.4R type - were capable of being refurbished for a fresh life. After all, there were over 500 of that particular spec in the NBC fleet. Four PSU3A.4Rs with Plaxton Panorama bodies were stripped to their chassis, and given extensive rebuilds with Voith gearboxes among the features. They were then rebodied by ECW for Midland Red Coaches. It could have been the start of something big. Instead, the idea was not endorsed, NBC was split up, Carlyle Works eventually closed, Midland Red Coaches was absorbed into a larger fleet - but the coaches continue to the present day (2005). Sunday 13 November 2005: Carlyle Works hoped to convince the powers-that-were at National Bus Company headquarters that many of the Leyland Leopards - particularly the PSU3E.4R type - were capable of being refurbished for a fresh life. After all, there were over 500 of that particular spec in the NBC fleet. Four PSU3A.4Rs with Plaxton Panorama bodies were stripped to their chassis, and given extensive rebuilds with Voith gearboxes among the features. They were then rebodied by ECW for Midland Red Coaches. It could have been the start of something big. Instead, the idea was not endorsed, NBC was split up, Carlyle Works eventually closed, Midland Red Coaches was absorbed into a larger fleet - but the coaches continue to the present day (2005).

6251 (WHA 251H) in the latter stages of the scrapping of its Plaxton Panorama body prior to being rebuilt for a new life with an ECW body. 6251 (WHA 251H) about to lose its body 6251 (WHA 251H) stripped and ready for chassis refurbishment, stands alongside 6249, already transformed and awaiting its new ECW body as 549 (ROG 549Y). 6255 (WHA 255H) and 6254 (WHA 254H) together as Midland Red Express 552 (ROG 552Y) and 551 (ROG 551Y) began life as 6252 and 6254 (WHA 252H and WHA 254H). Here they are seen together in Cheltenham Coach Station 6251 (WHA 251H) transformed into 550 (ROG 550Y) was pictured at the National Exhibition Centre, providing a car park shuttle service 6254 (WHA 254H) became 551 (ROG 551Y), but here is seen in a further trasnformation, as Midland Red West 1051 and sporting Midland Express livery 6251 Leopard chassis MRE 0002 Chassis plate for 7002693 Leopard chassis 7002693 5836 as cut down for use at Cannock Trainer, one of the 58xx batch of PSU4s 6248 (WHA 248H) already transformed, is ready for the open air drive from Edgbaston to Eastern CoachWorks at Lowestoft for rebodying as 549 (ROG 549Y). Alongside is 6251 (WHA 251H) stripped and ready for chassis refurbishment, and a new alter ego as 551 (ROG 551Y), chassis number MRE 0003 6248 (WHA 248H) (nearest camera) and 6251 6248 (WHA 248H) as chassis MRE 0001 with Ferodo retarder fitted 6251 (WHA 251H) about to become chassis MRE 0003, showing its original drive shaft 6248 (WHA 248H) with its new chassis number, MRE 0001, prior to rebodying.

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]]> Sun Nov 13 2005 Leyland Nationals in their natural setting http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c744710.html Leyland Nationals in their natural setting Saturday 29 October 2005: Leyland Nationals in their natural setting

Western National 2848 with Midland Red Reddibus Bristol 3034 (NFB 602R) on loan to Midland Red at Redditch Reddibus operations Worcester bus lane Severnlink Severnlink Wendaway Leyland National crosses the Severn into Worcester. Severnlink NCN 970L (ex Northern General), seen with Midland Red West Unidentified Leyland National crosses the River Severn in Worcester Midland Red Wendaway Leyland National at Kidderminster depot Rugby network MAP promotion bus 534 (NOE 534R) Wandaward Leyland National Wandaward Leyland National Leyland National sporting the resurrected Leamington & Warwick fleetname 259 (NHA 259M) - a Leyland National's pipework, friozen up in the snow, and dragged in to be defrosted. 259 (NHA 259M) - a Leyland National's pipework, friozen up in the snow, and dragged in to be defrosted. No wonder this member of Kidderminster's garage staff scratches his head at the task ahead. Midland Red West Leyland National crosses the Stourport Canal in Stourport Midland Red North 402 after she was gutted by fire and removed to the Carlton scrapyards Midland Red West Leyland National in typical operating territory between the M5 and Redditch

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]]> Sat Oct 29 2005 101 - 535 (Leyland Nationals) http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c744707.html 101 - 535 (Leyland Nationals) Sunday 30 October 2005: 101 - 535 (Leyland Nationals)

262 (NHA 262M) inside Kidderminster depot 417 (GOL 417N) showing off its Lancer identity 417 (GOL 417N) in Station Street, Burton 417 (GOL 417N) in Lancer territory - the Burton Cooper creates another barrel 417 (GOL 417N) beneath the gaze of the Burton cooper in Lancer territory - Burton-on-Trent 417 (GOL 417N) about to be passed by a coopers' dray in Lancer territory - Burton-on-Trent 276 (NHA 276M) 276 (NHA 276M) 277 (NHA 277M) 277 (NHA 277M) 474 (JOX 474P) 474 (JOX 474P) in Worcester 474 (JOX 474P) in Worcester 474 (JOX 474P) 474 (JOX 474P) 121 (HHA 121L) 121 (HHA 121L) 123 (HHA 123L) demonstrates the problems with buses in a pedestrian precinct. 281 (NHA 281M) 251 (NHA 251M) 123 (HHA 123L) in front of Worcester Cathedral 123 (HHA 123L) in front of Worcester Cathedral 297 (NHA 297M), the Hotspur (Shrewsbury) promotional bus 297 (NHA 297M), the Hotspur promotional bus, being prepared for service 297 (NHA 297M), the Hotspur promotional bus 297 (NHA 297M), the Hotspur promotional bus 251 (NHA 251M) 114 (HHA 114L) after it was transferred to the West Midlands PTE 413 (GOL 413N) in Rugby colours - but resting in Coventry 413 (GOL 413N) 413 (GOL 413N), showing the Rugby identifier 297 (NHA 297M) in Shrewsbury bus station 134 (HHA 134L) in Hereford during the deregulation trials 530 (JOX 530P) in Mercian promotional livery 530 (JOX 530P) in Mercian promotional livery 530 (JOX 530P) in Mercian promotional livery 489 (JOX 489P) in a snow-laden Redditch yard .... once a rail line. 259 (NHA 259M), frozen up with ice and snow 259 (NHA 259M) iced up in Kidderminster depot 259 (NHA 259M) - close up of the icing 532 (JOX 532P) of Midland Red West climbs up fom the river at Stourport-on-Severn on a snow-laden day 428 (GOL 428N) 404 (GOL 404N) and West Midlands PTE 7033 (DOC 33V) 263 (NHA 263N) 428 (GOL 428N) was the first vehicle to be painted with midland Red West fleetnames, and is seen emerging from Carlyle Works. 428 (GOL 428N) 428 (GOL 428N) 429 (GOL 429N) 479 (JOX 479P) 474 (JOX 474P) in Midland Red West colours [Alan O. Watkins Colln]

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]]> Sun Oct 30 2005 D10 http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c727241.html Only two D10s were built, both with under-floor engines. One has been preserved at BaMMOT. Saturday 15 October 2005: Only two D10s were built, both with under-floor engines. One has been preserved at BaMMOT.

4943 (943 KHA) leaves Carlyle Works 4943 (943 KHA) leaves Carlyle Works 4943 (943 KHA) leaves Carlyle Works, probably for the last time

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]]> Sat Oct 15 2005 BMMO saloons http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c727238.html BMMO saloons Saturday 15 October 2005: BMMO saloons

5744 (EHA 744D), a Plaxton bodied BMMO S17. 4831 (831 HHA) 5953 (UHA 953H), one of the Plaxton-bodied BMMOs, isseen in one of the furthest reaches of the Midland Red empire, Cheltenham. 5856 (JHA 856E), a BMMO S21 with DP49F bodywork 5862 (JHA 862E), a BMMO S21 5891 (MHA 891F),a BMMO S22 5913 (PHA 513G), another BMMO S22, 5906 (PHA 506G), an S22 type, and 491 (JOX 491P) in the awe-inspiring Nuneaton bus station 5936 (RHA 537G), a BMMO S23, with dented snout after misguided activities on the Hunter network 5941 (UHA 941H), the final BMMO S23 to be bodied by BMMO. Subsequent vehicles were bodied by Plaxtons. 5937 (RHA 937G) has been shorne of its identity while it awaits the scrapman's summons. It is parked in Rugby depot alongside 6335 (YHA 335J) 5479 (6479 HA), a BMMO S17 with Willowbrook bodywork, giving Outer Circle Rally visitors a ride in Birmingham 5888 (MHA 888F) approaches Bridgnorth town hall [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 5988 (UHA 988H), showing the extensive damage that led to its withdrawal and scrap [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 5479 Three preserved Midland Red vehicles including the D10 now at BaMMOT. [Alan O. Watkins Colln] An unidentified BMMO in a snow storm at Kidderminster

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]]> Sat Oct 15 2005 Utilities and earlier http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c727234.html Utilities and earlier Saturday 15 October 2005: Utilities and earlier

HA 4373, a BMMO IM4, seen with showmen on their permanent ground in Pool Meadow, Gloucester. What a preservation project this would have made! 2585 (HHA 62) with Warner, Tewkesbury 2585 (HHA 62) with Warner, Tewkesbury HA 9373, the IM4 - another view of the showmen's living quarters in Gloucester. 205 (HA 1205) pictured at a regular photographic location next to the works, Edgbaston Reservoir [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 584 (HA 3584) in an official Brush photograph prior to delivery [Alan O. Watkins Colln] HA 2370 still has acentrally mounted radiator, but HA 3612 has had the radiator moved to the nearside to allow the lower cabaccess alongside the engine. This immeidately gave the designers the opportunity for more revenue-earning seats. [Alan O. Watkins Colln] Style changes - HA 3612 (right) shows how the traditional high floor had been reduced by Midland Red's design engineers when compared wit HA 2370 alongside [Alan O. Watkins Colln] HA 2470 and HA 3608, showing how designs had advanced [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 395 (HA 2395) [Alan O. Watkins Colln] Modernisation - 1920s style. Something similar has happened since the Millennium with the launch of low-floor buses revolutionised the bus industry [Alan O. Watkins Colln] Further comparisons [Alan O. Watkins Colln] OA 4559 was a Tilling Stevens saloon with a decidedly obstructed front view for its driver. One of the crew is Ern. We know this because the note on the reverse of the car from Mabel and Em asks us HA 8047 - the sole remaining REDD - in the Black Country Museum, Dudley, where a lottery bid is being planned HA 8047 - the sole remaining REDD - in the Black Country Museum, Dudley, where a lottery bid is being planned HA 8047 - the sole remaining REDD - in the Black Country Museum, Dudley, where a lottery bid is being planned HA 8047 - the sole remaining REDD - in the Black Country Museum, Dudley, where a lottery bid is being planned

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]]> Sat Oct 15 2005 Fleetnames http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c727219.html Fleetnames Saturday 15 October 2005: Fleetnames

Midland Red's Rugby identity was ... Rugby with a rosette. The naming ideas were beginning to run out in the company's marketing department Midland Red coach logo Midland Red Avonbus Midland Red Avonbus Midland Red Midland Red fleetname Midland Red Severnlink

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]]> Sat Oct 15 2005 Ford R1014/Plaxton Derwent http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c727192.html Ford R1014/Plaxton Derwent Saturday 15 October 2005: Ford R1014/Plaxton Derwent

6324 (YHA 324J) at Evesham depot 6345 (YHA 345J) in Ludlow 6354 (YHA 354J) in Ludlow 6354 (YHA 354J) in Ludlow 6353 (YHA 353J) 6332 (YHA 332J) in Redditch transport interchange Midland Red pictured from the Ironbridge Midland Red An unidentified Ford/Plaxton beside the Severn at Ironbridge 6345 (YHA 345J) 6380 (YHA 380J) 382 (PHA 382M) and Wallace Arnold SWW 139R at Moseley's yard in Cinderford 6347 (YHA 347J) in rural Shropshire [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 6336 (YHA 336J) near the iron bridge taht gave Ironbridge its name [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 6301 (YHA 301J) in the Carlton scrapyards 6347 (YHA 347J), heavily laden with at least four passengers on the 435 service to Shrewsbury, pictured near Ludlow [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 6347 (YHA 347J) climbing the hill from Ludford Bridge, Ludlow [Alan O. Watkins Colln] A Ford R1014/Plaxton Derwent inLudlow [Alan O. Watkins Colln] Midland Red 6380 (YHA 380J) and National Welsh E5 (DAX 605C), ex U2.65 Unidentified Ford/Plaxton Derwent in Banbury depot

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]]> Sat Oct 15 2005 Midland Red's coaches http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c727189.html Midland Red's coaches Saturday 15 October 2005: Midland Red's coaches

4795 (795 GHA) Stratford Blue 55 (436 GAC), a PSU3.3R with Duple Alpine Continental bodywork, working an Associated Motorways service through Gloucester. It was not a regular performer, so the probability is that there had been an overload, or a breakdown replacement. 5775 (CHA 75C) in Bristol's Haymarket, bound for Cheltenham 4793 (793 GHA) in Weston-super-Mare Midland Red West on Bigsweir Bridge, bound for Chepstow Midland Red West on Bigsweir Bridge, bound for Chepstow Midland Red West on Bigsweir Bridge, bound for Chepstow. This was a short-lived Midland Express route in the early days of Midland Red West, and carried few passengers (as seen by the empty load). 740 (WOC 740T) with Target Travel in Newcastle-On-Tyne 445 (JOX 445P) 4808 (808 GHA) 678 (SOA 678S), a PSU3E.4R with Plaxton Supreme Express C49F bodywork, in Stourport-on-Severn, working the X93 service from Worcester to Birmingham 3301 (KHA 301) pictured in a wet Stourport, outside the library 731 (WOC 731T) 5834 (GHA 334D) with Goldliner, Droitwich was a PSU4A.4R pictured in Barbourne, Worcester 679 (SOA 679S) a PSU3E.4R. 679 (SOA 679S) crosses the former Burlish Crossing at stourport-on-Severn on a cold winter's day. 5838 (GHA 338D) nearing the end of its conversion from coach into the last C9 wrecker. It was a PSU4A.4R/Plaxton Paramount. 2269, ex Harper, Heath Hayes. She was a Leyland Leopard with Duple Commander bodywork heavily disguised with a Plaxton front, and modified as a mobile classroom and driving instruction vehicle. 5816 (CHA 116C) after a stint with Greenslades at National Travel South West, is here seen with Webber, Blisland Rugby's Leyland Leopard breakdown bus 729 (WOC 729T) 521 (JOX 521P) 6238 (WHA 238H) 6237 (WHA 237H) 2036 (XNX 236H), ex Stratford Blue (36), was a Leyland Leopard PSU3A.4R with Alexander Y-type DP49F bodywork. It is parked at Ludlow depot 6458 (CHA 458K) after sale to Jones, Upper Sapey 308 (PHA 308M) is overhauled and downgraded from a toilet-equipped coach with other members of the C12 class 316 (PHA 316M) 316 (PHA 316M) 316 (PHA 316M) 6248 (WHA 248H) 5816 (CHA 116C), another view with Webber, Blisland 5816 (CHA 116C) in service with Webber, Blisland, and pictured at Padstow. 6143 (SHA 643G) and Western National 1412 (EDV 542D) 6229 (WHA 229H) amid the components that probably made it go 6232 (WHA 232H) and 6245 (WHA 245H) in the course of being cut down 781 (BVP 781V) in Southgates, Leicester 832 (LOA 832X) 832 (LOA 832X) 832 (LOA 832X) 832 (LOA 832X) 832 (LOA 832X) 832 (LOA 832X) 832 (LOA 832X), an early Leyland Tiger with Plaxton bodywork. 331 (PHA 331M) on the Tyburn Road in Birmingham. 2613 (PHH 613R), ex Cumberland 613 2613 (PHH 613R), ex Cumberland 613 796 (BVP 796V) wearing the midland Red North Chaserider colours 312 (PHA 312M) 794 (BVP 794V) sports its original livery in Cannock depot.

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]]> Sat Oct 15 2005 Midland Red South http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c727188.html Midland Red South Saturday 15 October 2005: Midland Red South

735 (WOC 735T) 961 (B961 ODU) 961 (B961 ODU) 961 (B961 ODU) 961 (B961 ODU) 904 (A544 HAC) 904 760 1031 after its rebody 52 (XTF 819L) in Cotswold Link colours Midland Red South PCK 147P was new to Ribble 791 (BVP 791V) 346 2 (A191 GVC) was a 1983 short Leyland Tiger TRCTL11/2R with Plaxton Paramount C49F bodywork 2 (A191....) 77 961 961 961

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]]> Sat Oct 15 2005 Midland Fox http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c727187.html Midland Fox Saturday 15 October 2005: Midland Fox

2613 (PHH 613R) shortly after transfer from Cumberland 3735 (SMU 735N) 3863 (GHM 863N) 3224 (KUC 224P) 4508 (A508 EJF) 6117 in an unadopted prototype livery for Midland Fox. 6117 in an unadopted prototype livery for Midland Fox. 2747 (GHM 747N) in Carlyle Works for modifications and repaint to transform it from ex-LT DMS 1747 2761 (GHM 761M), the former DM 1761, in course of conversion for Midland Fox 2754 (GHM 754N) was the first vehicle to be finished in the adopted Midland Fox livery 2781 (wearing a shortlived black on yellow colour scheme) was originally DMS 1781 2623 (LHD 312K) 2625 (LHD 314K) 2622 (LHD 311K) was Yorkshire Woollen District 701 2901 (KUC 961P) 2914 (KJD 9P), ex DMS 2009 6222 (UHA 222H) 2705 (THM 635M) 2902 (KUC 963P) was ex London Transport DM 1963 2915 (KJD 10P) was formerly London Transport DMS 2010 2620 (LHD 309K) 2901 (KUC 961P) was new as London Transport DMS 1961 where it actually got four years service in 4504 (A504 EJF) 4508 (A508 EJF) and London Transport DMS 1247 4501 (A501 EJF) awaiting livery. Here pictured when brand new, the bus has now been acquired for preservation. 4505 (A505 EJF) and 4510 (A510 EJF) 4503 (A503 EJF), 4506 (A506 EJF) and 4507 (A507 EJF) 4508 (A508 EJF) and 4501 (A501 EJF) 4510 (A510 EJF), 4508 (A508 EJF) and 4501 (A501 EJF) 4502 (A502 EJF) 4502 (A502 EJF) and 4505 (A505 EJF) 4504 (A504 EJF), 4510 (A510 EJF), 4508 (A508 EJF), 4502 (A502 EJF), 4505 (A505 EJF), 4509 (A509 EJF), City of Oxford 684 and 4508 (A508 EJF) 4502 (A502 EJF) 4501 (A501 EJF) before entering service in midland Fox colours. 4511 (A511 EJF) 4509 (A509 EJF) 4503 (A503 EJF), a Leyland Olympian with ECW bodywork 4513 (B513 LFP), another LeylandOlympian/ECW, this time heading to Loughborough from St Margaret's in Leicester 7003 (MMJ 12P) was new to N&S of Market Harborough 7006 (EUT 10T) was a 1979 Ford R1114/Plaxton from N&S, Oadby Midland Fox coach in Leicester 7007 and one of the early Ford Transit/Dormobiles waiting conversion at Carlyle Works 2613 (PHH 613R) in Midland Fox colours 71 (HHW 471X) of Evans, Bristol after acquisition and badging by Midland Red East. It was a Leyland PSU5D.4R with |C57F bodywork by Plaxtons. 614 (NMV 614W). It began life with National Travel London. 2897 (KUC 927P) was DMS 1927 National Travel South East VYM 505M shortly before it netered service with Midland Fox as its Jeanette 1 (BRY 1Y), a Leyland Tiger/Plaxton of 1982 vintage M312 (L312 AUT) pictured working in Dorchester for Sureline

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]]> Sat Oct 15 2005 Midland Red North http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c727186.html Midland Red North Saturday 15 October 2005: Midland Red North

Mercian Fleetline 1711 (NCN 971L) and Green Line APM 113T. The Leyland National was ex-Northern 4472. It is seen midway through its conversion from a battered two-door LN to a functioning single-door version which would run for Midland Red North for two years, mainly as a 55-seater with 3+2 seating for school work. The rebuild was in Carlyle Works. The reseating was carried out by Reeve Burgess. 1714 (OCN 234L) at Carlyle Works. It had been converted to front entrance from dual-doorway layout by Northern General in 1978, but by the time it was acquired by Midland Red North in 1984 it was in a badly corrdoed state, and was sold for scrap without re-entering service. 1714 (OCN 234L) as received from Northern (4488). Its condition was so serious it was scrapped. 1714 (OCN 234L), ex Northern 4488. was too seriously corroded to be of capable of further use after 11 years. 798 (WNO 557L)was acquired from Eastern National in 1988. It had been that company's 1708, and served for a short time with Westcliffe-on-Sea before its acquisition. Midland Red North sold it the year following this picture, to the Salvation Army in Leicester. 110 (D110 CFA) was the last of the Transits to be bought new by Midland Red North 319 (F619 EHA) when branc new with Midland Red North, pictured in Telford bus interchange. 322 (F622 EHA) also newly acquired. It was a Fiat 49-10 with Carlyle C4-type B23F bodywork that despite their best endeavours could not get rid of the bread van image. 440 (JOX 440G) 1901 (EEW 901Y) in Mercian colours for Tamworth depot operations 1903 (EEH 903Y) 1905 (EEH 905Y) in primer 1907 (EEW 907Y) 1910 (EEW 910Y) 811 - the Bingo Bus at Stafford - attractedconsiedrable TV coverage from both BBC MIdlands and ITV. This is the BBC crew at work. Ann Diamond interviews Midland Red North's Operations Manager, Tom Young, after the Bingo Bus was launched in Stafford BBC reporter Alan Towers tries to build up his enthusiasm for Bingo ... on a bus in Stafford.... 1603 (A603 HVT) 792 (BVP 792V) 792 (BVP 792V) 334 (PHA 334M) 1502 (ANA 91Y) was a Leyland pSU5E.4R with ECW C53F bodywork which ran in Hotspur livery from October 1983 to December 1984. It was new to National Travel West as its 91, but only ran with them for six months. Its appearance was better suited to local express work. 1516 (B516 OEH) 1512 (A512 HVT) wearing the Mercian green coach livery 1601 (A601 HVT) 1511 (A511 HVT) in Chaserider coach colours 1509 in the Hotspur coaching colours 1605 (B605 OEH) with its Hotspur fleetnames 1607 (B607 OEH) sporting Mercian fleetnames 1507 in Chaserider colours 1512 (A512 HVT) 1707 (A707 HVT) was a short Leyland Tiger TRBTL11.2R with Duple Dominant E-type bodywork. It was photographed in Telford bus station. 1713 (TPC 103X) was a former ECW-bodied Leyland Tiger coach of London Country (TL 3), here seen after it was rebodied for Midland Red by East Lancs in 1989 as DP49F 3122 (SNU 122) after being named after the husband of National Express Quality Control Inspector, Debbie Thopmson. It has since been open-topped in London 3122 (SNU 122) as a London Pride sightseeing bus on the Embankment in London. It was later to be open-topped. 86 (D 86 CFA) was a Ford Transit VE6m with Dormobile B16F bodywork 86 (D 86 CFA) was a Midland Red North vehicle Malcolm Waring wins the Midland Red North Bus Driver of the Year competition, and recives his trophy from General Manager Ian Mitchell 467 (JOX 467P) sporting Chaserider local coach livery 1520 (C520 WBF) in the Force Ten livery 737 (WOC 737T) in the Mercian coaching colours 792 (BVP 792V) 792 (BVP 792V) 792 (BVP 792V) 792 (BVP 792V) in the West Midlands Safari Park 792 (BVP 792V) in the West Midlands Safari Park 56 (C56 WBF), a Ford Transit with Dormobile bus body

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]]> Sat Oct 15 2005 Leyland Leopard buses http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c727183.html Leyland Leopard buses Saturday 15 October 2005: Leyland Leopard buses

5191 (5191 HA) in Coalville 5191 (5191 HA) in Coalville. Midland Red had one of the biggest fleets of Leyland Leopard buses in the country, but whilst its dual-purpose vehicles were variations of type PSU3.2, the buses - like this Willowbrook-bodied version - were PSU3.4Rs more normally associated with coaches. 5191 (5191 HA) in Coalville 6434 (CHA 434K) being used during a staff promotional video. She was a Leyland Leopard PSU3B.2R with Willowbrook dual purpose bodywork, and is seen outside Stafford rail station. 6445 (CHA 445K) in Hereford Free Bus livery, and pictured in Midland Red's local depot. 6396 being scrapped in the Carlton Yards 209 (JHA 209L) 204 (JHA 204L) with Midland Red West 6396 and an Alexander Northern Leyland Leopard are reflected in the puddles at the Carlton yards 357 357 6413 in Lancer colours 452 5212 (5212 HA),a 1962 Leyland Leopard PSU3.4r with Willowbrook bodywork. 5212 (5212 HA) 5212 (5212 HA) 5212 (5212 HA) 230 (JHA 230L) in the bus station at Stratford-Upon-Avon 6473 (CHA 473K) seen in Coalville 6401 (YHA 401J) with West Wales, departing Swansea Quadrant bus station 6435 (CHA 435K) 6421 after it was given to Worcester Rotary Club by Midland Red West (it was dark blue, by the way) 6421 437 and 224 209 Midland Red in Ironbridge Midland Red Leyland Leopard/Willowbrook

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]]> Sat Oct 15 2005 Midland Red West http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c727179.html Midland Red West Saturday 15 October 2005: Midland Red West

1115 (G115 HNP) 6392 (YHA 392J), cut down to size 6389 (YHA 389J) and 6392 (YHA 392J) The pictures shows a third one of the Ford midibus conversions just visble to the left. 630 (PUK 630R) in the Redditch Transport Interchange 673 (SOA 673S) 6445 (CHA 445K) in the special Free Bus livery the company used in Hereford to compete with local independents. It incurred the wrath of the Conservative government under Margaret Thatcher, but the NBC company wasn't going to lie back and play dead 1006 (B106 JAB) sporting the Eurorider livery 1006 (B106 JAB) underwent a transformation to become a Rapide coach 1442 (C582 SHC) and 742 1376 (C376 RUY) with 1365 (C365 RUY) in the distance 1384 (C384 RUY) 1384 (C384 RUY) 1369 (C369 RUY) 6389 (YHA 389J) 6361 (YHA 361J) 735 and 755 (AFJ 755T), a former Western National Leyland National 756 (AFJ 756T) BBC film crew spot the oncoming Bingo Bus BBC film crew film the oncoming Bingo Bus 607 and 671 Redditch transport interchange 1203 (A203 YWP) 370 (PHA 370M) after it was converted from a minibus to a mini coach for Midland Red West. 845 (NVJ 600R) after acquisition from Yeoman, Hereford 1148 (G148 HNP) 1125 (G125 HNP) 1135 (G135 HNP) 1132 (G132 HNP) 1129 (G129 HNP) 1146 (G146 HNP) 1146 (G146 HNP) 457 (JOX 457P) Midland Express in Cheltenham 1031 736 (WOC 736T) 803 (BVP 803V) 783 (BVP 783V) 677 (SOA 677S) 782 (BVP 782V), a Leyland Leopard in Midland Express livery, working the M5 from Birmingham to Worcester 6445 (CHA 445K) 6445 (CHA 445K), Hereford's free bus, operated on Midland Red and Yeomans routes around Hereford to compete with independents 6445 (CHA 445K) 6445 (CHA 445K) leaves the depot for its first free run around Hereford 6445 (CHA 445K) 6445 (CHA 445K) 331 6445 in its yellow Freebus colours 1001 (FEH 1Y) was the first to sport the company's claret and gold livery. It is seen fresh from the paint shop at Carlyle Works.

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]]> Sat Oct 15 2005 From my collection http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c727176.html From my collection Saturday 15 October 2005: From my collection

4475 Midland Red North 1901 (EEH 901Y) shows off the Mercian livery Midland Red North1901 (EEH 901Y) Central TV had all their rolling stock painted in their new corporate livery by Carlyle Works. Stratford Blue Titan with Isle of Man Road Services The end of a BMMO decker OA 4569, a Midland Red Tilling Stevens saloon. The driver is Ernie Trigg, a family associated with the company from the very beginning to its very end. Pat Trigg was one of the switchboard operators at the headquarters in the final days of the united company. [Alan O. Watkins Colln]

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]]> Sat Oct 15 2005 D9 http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c727174.html D9 Saturday 15 October 2005: D9

5033 (3033 HA) D9 passing the former Bristol Tramways headquarters at St Augustine's Place, Bristol 5399 (CHA 399C) after its final in-service repaint [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 5399 (BHA 399C) undergoing its last in-service overhaul at Carlyle Works. This was also the last D9 - and therefore Midland Red built and designed vehicle - to pass through the Works. [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 5399 5399 (BHA 399C) after its final repaint for service 5342 (6342 HA)

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]]> Sat Oct 15 2005 Local express coaches http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c727173.html Local express coaches Saturday 15 October 2005: Local express coaches

345 with 417 (GOL 417N) in the foreground 779 (BVP 779V) in the Midland Fox Leicesterline colours is lined up for the 440 National Express to London 211 (JHA 211L) in Barton-Under-Neewood while working the MAP-derived X69 service to Leicester. 211 (JHA 211L) in Barton-Under-Wychwood 211 (JHA 211L) in Barton-Under-Wychwood 211 (JHA 211L) was one of a large fleet of PSU3B/4R Leyland Leopards with Marshall dual-purpose bodywork. 224 (JHA 224L) in Burton-on-Trent. 211 (JHA 211L) in Barton-Under-Wychwood 224 (JHA 224L) in Burton-on-Trent 2036 (XNX 136H) has been preserved, and is also now a very collectable model. It was a Leyland PSU3A.4R with Alexander DP49F bodywork, new to Stratford Blue - 36. It was photographed at Burton Manor. 2059 (HAC 628D) on which I terrified the public and driver instructors 327 (PHA 327M) at the Severn Valley Railway [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 735 (WOC 735T) in the Midland Red West Redditch depot ... once a rail line. 679 (SOA 679S) in overall white livery with Midland Red West 458 (JOX 458P) in Midland Red North 802 (BVP 802V) at Stratford bus station Tellus-based Leyland Leopard/Plaxton Supreme 232 (JHA 22L) sporting the Hotspur colours in Shrewsbury 328 (PHA 328M) in the Midland Fox fleet 676 (SOA 676S) 672 443 (JOX 443P) as South Wales Transport 185. It was a 1975 PSU3C.4R/Plaxton. It never saw service with Midland Red. 460 (JOX 460P) of Midland Red North was a PSU3C.4R/Plaxton of 1976 671 (SOA 671S) in standard NBC dual-purpose colours 5901 (MHA 901F) 211 (JHA 211L) 457 (JOX 457P) 733 (WOC 733T) 365 671 (SOA 671S) PSU3F.4R chassis stored for Willowbrook bodying PSU3F.4R chassis stored for Willowbrook bodying Leyland Leopards waiting for their Willowbrook bodies to be built 796 (BVP 796V) 737 (WOC 737T) Midland Red West 457 (JOX 457) of Midland Red West in Midland Express colours near Stourport 205 199 (JHA 199L) 336 (PHA 336M) with the Worcester wrecker alongside Norman (later Lord) Fowler, when Minister of Transport in Margaret Thatcher's government, comes face to face with vandalism - Rugby type. The vehicle was two weeks back on the road after a similar schools attack. 206 (JHA 206L) 731 (WOC 731T) with NBC chief executive, Robert Brooks and PRO Tony West in Malvern

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]]> Sat Oct 15 2005 Midland Red Ford R192 conversions to midibuses http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c377873.html The Market Analysis Project (MAP) that was intended to identify the revenue-earning services at the core of National Bus Company (NBC) operations in thel ate Seventies threw up the idea of small bus operations - to satisfy customer (and community) wants. Midland Red came up with the idea of converting some mid-life Ford R1014'Plaxton Derwents for itself, and ended up converting others for the Western National triumvirate, and a handful with ECW bodies for Alder Valley. This collection shows some of the vehicles. Monday 1 March 2004: The Market Analysis Project (MAP) that was intended to identify the revenue-earning services at the core of National Bus Company (NBC) operations in thel ate Seventies threw up the idea of small bus operations - to satisfy customer (and community) wants. Midland Red came up with the idea of converting some mid-life Ford R1014'Plaxton Derwents for itself, and ended up converting others for the Western National triumvirate, and a handful with ECW bodies for Alder Valley. This collection shows some of the vehicles.

Alder Valley 720 (TRD 725N), one of a handful of Ford R1014/ECW saloons cut down to size by Carlyle Works Alder Valley 720 (TRD 725N) and a second of the same batch awaiting conversion 6389 (YHA 389J) 2121 and 6390 6363 (YHA 363J) 6363 (YHA 363J) 6363 (YHA 363J) 6360 371 6388 (YHA 388J) 373 awaits reuniting with its shortened Plaxton Derwent body Another view of the chassis of 373 6392 (YHA 392J), cut down to size Hants & Dorset 3812 (NJT 829P) and 2001 (PFX 237R) 6362 (YHA 362J) cut down to size 6388 (YHA 388J) 6389 (YHA 389J) and 6392 (YHA 392J) plus an unidentified third one. 373 awaiting refitting of shortened Plaxton body 6393 (YHA 393J), cut down to size as Oxford-South Midland 674. It was looking decidely careworn by the time it was pictured at Cowley Road depot. It was later sold for further service in Jamaica, but whether it stillsurvives is a big question. Alder Valley 6389 (YHA 389J) tackling the archway in Malvern that had led to several of the midibus conversions 6362 (YHA 362J) after being cut down to a minibus Ford R192/Plaxton Derwent body interior after being cut and shortened in Carlyle Works. 371 372 370 370 370 6359 (YHA 359J) after withdrawal by Devon General 6359 (YHA 359J) after withdrawal by Devon General 6362 (YHA 362J) laid up at Bideford after withdrawal by Devon General 6362 (YHA 362J) laid up at Bideford after withdrawal by Devon General 6362 (YHA 362J) and 6359 (YHA 359J) 6362 (YHA 362J) and 6359 (YHA 359J) 372 after further conversion to a dual-purpose, disabled accessible midi-bus. 372 (PHA 372M) by now rebuilt as B19FL as a contribution to the Mayor of Worcester's fund Ford R192 chassis Ford R192 chassis 370 became a minicoach for Midland Red West Minibus and mini bus Modified R192 370 (PHA 370M) 370 (PHA 370M)

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]]> Mon Mar 1 2004 536 - 830 (Leyland Nationals) http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c340739.html 536 - 830 (Leyland Nationals) Sunday 30 October 2005: 536 - 830 (Leyland Nationals)

The sud-mixing chamber at Digbeth's ornate coach wash. 694 (TOF 694S) in promotional mood for the £11 Tellus Ticket 694 (TOF 694S) in promotional mood 576 (NOE 576R) at Pool Meadow 556 (NOE 556R) with 665 (PUK 665R) in the distance at Coalville, Leicestershire 655 (PUK 655R) in Coalville 630 (PUK 630R) 633 (PUK 633R) in Woodrow Centre 751 (XOV 751T) in Studeley Road, Woodrow, Redditch 751 (XOV 751T) in Reddibus colours pulls away from the camera as 633 (PUK 633R) approaches. Pictured at Woodrow Centre, Redditch. 633 (PUK 633R) 633 (PUK 633R) in Matchborough, Redditch 631 (PUK 631R) at Walkwood, Redditch 631 (PUK 631R) at Walkwood, Redditch 610 (NOE 610R) in rain-swept Enfield Road, Redditch 813 (BVP 813V) before entering service. It was an NL116L11/1R. 658 (SOA 658S) seen on the riverside at Worcester 746 (XOV 746T) 722 (XOV 722T) 743 (XOV 743T) 546 (NOE 546R) 546 (NOE 546R) 821 (BVP 821V), with 195 (HHA 195L) behind it in Southgates depot 617 (PUK 617R) in Tyburn Road, Birmingham 811 (BVP 811V) - rear nearside light assembly 811 (BVP 811V) 813 (BVP 813V) - rear light assembly 811 (BVP 811V) - with Ann Diamond's film crew from Central TV 812 (BVP 812V) 812 (BVP 812V) - able to call for assistance 812 (BVP 812V) with Stewart McKeowen showing the codes for dialing up the routes. 812 (BVP 812V) - able to call for assistance 812 (BVP 812V) fitted with a tacho 547 (NOE 547R) battles along the Bristol Road in Birmingham following a heavy winter snowfall 742 (XOV 742T) 742 (XOV 742T) keeps moving through the snow on the snow-covered dual-carriageway from the M5 742 (XOV 742T) 742 (XOV 742T) 742 (XOV 742T) at Rubery, Birmingham 742 (XOV 742T) 742 (XOV 742T) 751 (XOV 751T) 742 (XOV 742T) 662 (SOA 662S) was the first Wendaway bus with the Midland Red West fleetname 809 (BVP 809V) in Midland Red North colours 607 (NOE 607R) 566 (NOE 566R) 755 (XOV 755T) off the road for obvious reasons. Note the ornate Leamington and Warwick local identity, which was based loosely on Victorian tramway styles 658 (SOA 658S) brewed up, but Evesham firefighters were able to assist put it out 607 (NOE 607R) in the sun at Redditch

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]]> Sun Oct 30 2005 Daimler Fleetlines http://bmmo.fotopic.net/c184909.html Daimler Fleetlines Wednesday 3 March 2004: Daimler Fleetlines

6043 (JHA 43E) with a Midland Red ex-Harper, Heath Hayes pair, 2234 (TRE 948L) and 440 (JOX 440P) 5288 (5288 HA) 5253 (5253 HA) 5247 (5247 HA) later transferred to West Midlands PTE with the depots owned by the ocmpany in the transport authority area. 5276 (5276 HA) in the centre of Birmingham. It was to become City of Oxford 920 in later years. 6049 (JHA 49E) pictured in the South West extremity of the Midland Red empire, at Gloucester, leaving on the X72 for Birmingham 6322 (extreme left), with PMT 972, 825, 974 and 907 at Carlyle Works 6009 (GHA 409D), in West Midlands PTE colours, pictured in Kinver 6009 (GHA 409D), in West Midlands PTE colours, pictured in Kinver 2972 (972 XVT). This CRG6LX/Northern Counties H74F Daimler Fleetline was ex PMT-972 6218 (UHA 218H) 6018 (GHA 418D) and ex Harpers, Hayes Heath 2230 (JBF 406H) 6123 (LHA 623F) as Bristol 8605 6123 (LHA 623F) after conversion to Bristol 8605 6117 (UHA 617F) 6117 (UHA 617F) 6117 (UHA 617F) 6117 (UHA 617F) in undercoat 6117 (UHA 617F) 6117 (UHA 617F) 440 (JOX 440P) 6038 (GHA 438D) - fire damage in the rear nearside upstairs seat on a Daimler Fleetline/Alexander 6177 (SHA 877G) 6268 (YHA 268J) in Stourbridge bus station after it was transferred to the West Midland PTE 6169 (SHA 869G) on the outskirts of Kineton 5278 (5278 HA) with City of Oxford 404 (TFC 404K) i the Cowley Road main depot of the Oxford company. 2545 (DRC 545J) in Hereford town centre 2541 (DRC 541J) 2545 (DRC 545J), ex Trent 945, was pictured in High Town, Hereford. 2545 (DRC 545J) 2547 (DRC 547J), ex Trent 947 2547 (DRC 547J), ex Trent 947, and 134 (HHA 134L) 2543 (DRC 543J) 2543 (DRC 543J), pictured near bromyard en route to Hereford, was ex Trent 943 2543 (DRC 543J) 2545 (DRC 545J) 2545 (DRC 545J) 2545 (DRC 545J), ex Trent 945 2545 (DRC 545J), ex Trent 945 6158 (SHA 858G) in Chaserider colours for Midland Red North. It is seen during a heat of the Bus Driver of the Year competition. The manager checking the front wheels is Harry Aston, who was then an assistant divisional manager. 440 (JOX 440P) of Midland Red North and 201 (JHA 201L) in Cannock depot 439 (JOX 439P), ex Harper, heath Hayes 2232 (BRE 312J) 2230 (JBH 406H) 440 (JOX 440P) 2232 (BRE 312J), 2230 (JBH 406H) and 440 (JOX 440P), all ex Harper, Heath Hayes, and all CRG6LX Fleetlines. But the first two have Northern Counties bodies while the nearest one has an ECW body. 2234 (TRE 948L) in an unadopted version of the Chasrider livery for Midland Red North 2234 (TRE 948L), showing the rear of the unadopted livery. It featured a dark maroon stripe (a la Chaserider) 2910 (910 UVT), ex-Potteries 910, was converted into a playbus for use in Leamington Spa 2630 (MLH 630L) and 2736 (SMU 736N)

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]]> Wed Mar 3 2004