Black & White Motorways and National Travel (South West) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/ 38 rows en-gb 60 PSV Circle AGM in Cheltenham http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1747730.html PSV Circle AGM in Cheltenham Sunday 30 August 2009: PSV Circle AGM in Cheltenham

Cheltenham Coach Station PSV Circle visit Cheltenham Coach Station PSV Circle visit Cheltenham Coach Station PSV Circle visit Cheltenham Coach Station PSV Circle visit Cheltenham Coach Station PSV Circle visit Cheltenham Coach Station PSV Circle visit Cheltenham Coach Station PSV Circle visit Cheltenham Coach Station PSV Circle visit

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]]> Sun Aug 30 2009 Cheltenham Gold Cup transport http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1258506.html Black & White used to corner the market in transport for the racegoers at the Gold Cup meeting each March. The lilt of Irish voices mingled with the sounds of strange vehicles transporting them to and from the oft-times dubious accommodation that they shared at exorbitant prices. But come the end of the meeting they would all queue up to book more broom cupboards, staircase landings, attics, cellars and coal heaps on which to lie, often in a stupor brought on by celebrating someone's success at the expense of the bookmakers.... Tuesday 17 April 2007: Black & White used to corner the market in transport for the racegoers at the Gold Cup meeting each March. The lilt of Irish voices mingled with the sounds of strange vehicles transporting them to and from the oft-times dubious accommodation that they shared at exorbitant prices. But come the end of the meeting they would all queue up to book more broom cupboards, staircase landings, attics, cellars and coal heaps on which to lie, often in a stupor brought on by celebrating someone's success at the expense of the bookmakers....

West Midlands 6551, 6372 and 6599 on Cheltenham Gold Cup transport duties in the coach station at Cheltenham West Midlands PTE 6323 and 6460 Bristol 9525 and West Midlands 6460

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]]> Tue Apr 17 2007 291 - 303 (SND 291 - 303X) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1178326.html A further batch of Plaxton-Supremes, this time the Supreme V variety - was delivered to the South West National Travel companies for express work. They were all PSU5C.4Rs. National Travel West had 281 - 290 (SND 281 - 290X), all Duple Dominant-bodied vehicles. Sunday 7 January 2007: A further batch of Plaxton-Supremes, this time the Supreme V variety - was delivered to the South West National Travel companies for express work. They were all PSU5C.4Rs. National Travel West had 281 - 290 (SND 281 - 290X), all Duple Dominant-bodied vehicles.

292 (SND 292X) is seen in Carlyle Works. 293 (SND 293X) [NTSW] was a leyland leopard PSU5C.4R with ungainly Plaxton Supreme V C53F bodywork 293 (SND 293X) with Wessex National in Abertillery in the South Wales valleys. 296 (SND 296X) still wears the blue from its erstwhile role on the P&O joint services to Paris 300 (SND 300X) [NTSW] on Supabus duties was a 1982 leyland Leopard PSU5C.4R 298 (SND 298X) in P&O ferry colours, but here seen in Weston-Super-Mare 293 (SND 293X) 298 (SND 298X) after transfer to National London for Supabus service is seen in Cork bus station ready to return to the capital.

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]]> Sun Jan 7 2007 133 - 149 (SDD 133 - 149R) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1178296.html This was a leased batch of Leyland Leopard PSU3E.4R/Plaxton Supremes that were used to replace the secondhand heavyweights. They lasted about three years in service, then were returned to the dealer, many via overhaul and rectification at Carlyle Works. Sunday 7 January 2007: This was a leased batch of Leyland Leopard PSU3E.4R/Plaxton Supremes that were used to replace the secondhand heavyweights. They lasted about three years in service, then were returned to the dealer, many via overhaul and rectification at Carlyle Works.

145 (SDD 145R) after acquisition by Worthen Travel is seen arriving in Digbeth coach station on a National Express duplication 146 (SDD 146R) [NTSW] and a Leyland Leopard PSU5C/4R-type Leyland Leopard, 291 (SND 291X) at the end of their leases 149 (SDD 149R) [NTSW] in Carlyle Works being prepared for return to the dealer 147 (SDD 147R), after sale to MoCol, is seen on duplication work at Victoria coach station. 140 (SDD 140R) and 144 (SDD 144R) 149 (SDD 149R) after acuqisition by Yardleys, Birmingham 146 (SDD 146R) undergoing restoration and showing delusions of grandeur if its route number is to be believed....! 137 (SDD 137R) [NTSW]

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]]> Sun Jan 7 2007 Behind the scenes http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1176537.html Behind the scenes Friday 5 January 2007: Behind the scenes

Black & White staff on a social club outing about Black & White 100 (PDD 100M) on the M5 motorway The Mudlark hands the late Ken Wellman a microphone to launch the Exeter, Bournemouth and Southampton connections on to the 777 Cheltenham - PAris through coach servicec. Waiting to speak are Roy Anderson (Greenslades) and John Catt (Shamrock & Rambler) [Alan O. Watkins Colln] Cheltenham Coach Station cafeteria [Alan O. Watkins Colln] Cheltenham Coach Station - On the passenger concourse [Alan O. Watkins Colln] Cheltenham Coach Station: Rip-off prices! Coffee and hot chocolate 20p, white tea 16p, and lemon tea 12p. But watch you don't burn your fingers! [Alan O. Watkins Colln] Telex - in the days before the internet, the Web and e-mails was the way to get up to date info to and from operators Charting - sorting the advance tickets from the agents Charting - with Pat Boyle at the desk Charting - Kevin Baker at work before computers were introduced

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]]> Fri Jan 5 2007 450 (ADD 50Y) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1175009.html 450 (ADD 50Y) Wednesday 3 January 2007: 450 (ADD 50Y)

450 (ADD 50Y) in Cheltenham 450 (ADD 50Y) at Cheltenham Coach Station 450 (AAD 50Y) was allocated to Black & White for the Jungle Book/Walt Disney promotional tour. Here it is seen near Axminster. 450 (ADD 50Y) showing off the Walt Disney colours 450 (ADD 50Y) at Swansea Hospital on the Jungle Book/Walt Disney tour.

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]]> Wed Jan 3 2007 330 - 336 (ADG 330 - 336K) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1174989.html 330 - 336 (ADG 330 - 336K) Wednesday 3 January 2007: 330 - 336 (ADG 330 - 336K)

330 (ADG 330K) with Greenslades (still bearing fleet number 330 and with Associated Motorways in the display box, waits at Exeter coach station for a duplicate duty 334 (ADG 334K) as National Travel South West 497. It was pictured in National colours at Oxford services while working the 747 service from CAmbridge to Bristol. 332 (ADG 332K) after sale to Graham Mace of Cheltenham. 330 (ADG 330K) 330 (ADG 330K)

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]]> Wed Jan 3 2007 290 - 319 (Daimler Roadliners) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1174979.html 290 - 319 (Daimler Roadliners) Wednesday 3 January 2007: 290 - 319 (Daimler Roadliners)

300 (RDG 300G) caught in the late afternoon sunshine in Worcester when sporting the original National White livery. 300 (RDG 300G) passes through Worcester 294 (NAD 294F) 294 (NAD 294F) at Slimbridge Wildfowl Trust 315 (UAD 315H), one of the later Daimler Roadliner SRP8 with Plaxton C47F bodies pulls out of Gloucester bus station. 294 (NAD 294F) 294 (NAD 294F) arrives in Gloucester bus station 307 in the NBC Western Region corporate livery which led to the development of the white coach (Alan O. Watkins Collection).

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]]> Wed Jan 3 2007 253 - 287 (various) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173908.html More leased Leyland Leopard, this time of the PSU5C.4R type with Plaxton Supreme bodies. Tuesday 2 January 2007: More leased Leyland Leopard, this time of the PSU5C.4R type with Plaxton Supreme bodies.

264 (FDF 264T) [NTSW] 286 (JDG 286V) 286 (JDG 286V) resurrected the original livery, but with an NBC striped layout. 286 (JDG 286V) - gone was the NBC double-N logo, the wings were back. Weeks later the company was folded. 260 (DDG 260T) at the end of its lease to National Travel (South West) 259 (DDG 259T) [Wx] after withdrawal. Carlyle Works has overhauled it to return the coach to its lessors.. 261 as Shamrock and Rambler 3041 (EDF 261T) was a Leyland Leopard PSU5C/4 with Plaxton C57F bodywork new to National Travel South West (261). It was snapped in Bristol sporting the wrong livery for National Express operations. 282 (JDG 282V) with Wessex National 273 (EDF 273T) with Yardley, Birmingham ... on a National Express duplication from London Victoria to Birmingham 276 (FDF 276T), with Pulham, Bourton-on-the-Water 272 (EDF 272T) in service with Pulham, Bourton-on-the-Water 286 (JDG 286V) - The damage to the emergency door shows the untypical rush to repaint it into an NBC version of the traditional livery. Within months the coach had been disposed of, and the Black & White name was no more than a memory. 259 (DDG 259T) as Midland Fox 620 is parked in Bristol alongside Crosville VRT, DVL 438 (RMA 483V) 258 (DAD 258T) in the Silcox, Pembroke Dock fleet 266 (DDG 266T) as South Wales 154 and 354 (KAD 354V) as Shamrock and Rambler/Hants & Dorset 3046 257 (DAD 257T) in the Wessex National fleet 279 (GDF 279V) with Wessex fleetnames 269 (EDF 269T) with Charlton-on-Otmoor Services was pictured at the Cotswold Farm Park 281 (GDF 281V) as South Wales Transport 195 (MKH 748A) 280 (GDF 280V) with Pilgrims, Southampton 262 (FDF 262T)

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 344 - 359 (KAD 344 - 359V) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173901.html This batch was spread across the fleet in the West Country. It included 357 (KAD 357V) which saw more livery changes than most National Express-operated coaches, even allowing for the vagaries of the body shops at the time. Tuesday 2 January 2007: This batch was spread across the fleet in the West Country. It included 357 (KAD 357V) which saw more livery changes than most National Express-operated coaches, even allowing for the vagaries of the body shops at the time.

357 (KAD 357V) at Victoria Coach Station 353 (KAD 353V) was the last vehicle to arrive in the Cheltenham interchange. In an old tradition normally reserved for retiring staff, engineers pulled in the coach by hand. Among those involved was the fleet engineer Tommy Davis, in the brown jacket. 344 (KAD 344V) was a Leyland Leopard PSU5C.4R type. It is seen when operating as South Wales Transport's 155 352 (KAD 352V) [1] [NTSW] at the end of its hire to Wessex 357 (KAD 357V) after it was acquired by Yardley, Birmingham was regularly to perform on National Express service. In this case it has a plethora of stripes far in excess of the requirements 357 (KAD 357V) leaves Digbeth. It is seen from the rear window of a grubby Leyland Leopard 352 (KAD 352V) [2] after it was acquired by Plymouth CityBus 357 (KAD 357V) after acquisition by Yardley, Birmingham is seen with the correct striping 346 (KAD 346V) sporting the colours of Silcox, Pembroke Dock. 348 (KAD 348V) is at the far end of the line-up 347 (KAD 347V) and 355 (KAD 355V) were transferred to other companies at the time of the break-up of National Travel South West. 347 went to Sharock & ambler as its 3047 and 355 went to South Wales as its 155. 357 (KAD 357V) wearing a pre-sale sponsorship livery for the National Playing Fields Association 354 (KAD 354V) as Shamrock & Rambler/Hants & Dorset 3046 [SR] 355 (KAD 355V) near Stroud, Gloucestershire. It ended up with South Wales Transport. [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 346 (KAD 346V) in Silcox, Pembroke Dock colours 344 (KAD 344V)

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 209 - 215 (XDG 209 - 215S) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173895.html 209 - 215 (XDG 209 - 215S) Tuesday 2 January 2007: 209 - 215 (XDG 209 - 215S)

212 (XDG 212S) 214 (XDG 214S) after acquisition by the Kent operator, Ham 214 (XDG 214S) 214 (XDG 214S) leaves Bristol bus station 214 (XDG 214S)

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 121 - 132 (SAD 121 - 132R) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173890.html 121 - 123 were Duple Dominator-bodied, the rest having the Willowbrook Spacecar body. All were leased Leyland Leopard PSU3D.4R which would quickly return to their leasing companies, but helped get rid of the secondhand heavyweights that were now well past their sell-by date. Tuesday 2 January 2007: 121 - 123 were Duple Dominator-bodied, the rest having the Willowbrook Spacecar body. All were leased Leyland Leopard PSU3D.4R which would quickly return to their leasing companies, but helped get rid of the secondhand heavyweights that were now well past their sell-by date.

125 (SAD 125R) in experimental colours for National Travel South West when delivered from Willowbrooks 124 (SAD 124R) in Cardiff bus station was a Leyland Leopard type pSU3D.4R with Willowbrook Spacecar C47F bodywork 132 (SAD 132R) bore the same fleet number when it transferred to Southern National. Here it is seen in Weston-Super-Mare Beach bus station 127 (SAD 127R) in Eastgate Street, Gloucester (now pedestrianised), after being renumbered 427. It is working the 609 service from Hereford to Oxford. 124 (SAD 124R) as Wessex National 424 129 as Midland Red South 66 is pictured in Leicester 130 (SAD 130R) is waiting to be returned to the dealer 121 (SAD 121R) with Burrows, Ogmore Vale 126 (SAD 126R), 75 minutes out of Cheltenham and freshly on to the M6, bound for Glasgow on the M6 128 (SAD 128R) after numbering as 408

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 150 - 160 (NDF 150 - 160P) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173888.html This was the last batch of AEC Reliances to be delivered to Cheltenham. They were of type 6U2R , right at the end of the production line, and had already dated Duple Dominant I bodies. They were delivered for National Travel South West work. Tuesday 2 January 2007: This was the last batch of AEC Reliances to be delivered to Cheltenham. They were of type 6U2R , right at the end of the production line, and had already dated Duple Dominant I bodies. They were delivered for National Travel South West work.

154 (NDF 154P) [BW] and Tricentrol's Bedford demonstrator EXE 833J 155 (NDF 155G) after transfer to Wessex National. It was one of the last AEC Reliances to operate a National Express service 158 (NDF 158P) in a publicity shot for the company taken in Pittville Gardens, Cheltenham before ti entered service. [Alan O. Watkins Collection] It was an AEC Reliance 6U2R with Duple Dominant I C57F bodywork.

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 320 - 329 (YDF320 - 329K) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173715.html 320 - 329 (YDF320 - 329K) Tuesday 2 January 2007: 320 - 329 (YDF320 - 329K)

224 (YDF 322K) sandwiched between Bristol 5088 (NHU 671R), a Bristol VR/ECW H70D, and Silver Jubilee-liveried Bristol Omnibus C1456 (NWS 903R) on the occasion of the PSV Circle AGM in Cheltenham 320 (YDF 320K) in Cheltenham & Gloucester 329 (YDF 329K) was rebodied and became 331 (HBP 331X) when with Shamrock & Rambler. 332 (HBP 332X) 332 (HBP 332X) 324 (YDF 324K)

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 163 - 181 (various) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173707.html 163 - 181 (various) Tuesday 2 January 2007: 163 - 181 (various)

164 (WFH 164S) as Hampshire Coaches 3032. It served previously with Shamrock and Rambler, sporting the same fleetnumber. 167 (WFH 167S) was a Leyland Leopard PSU5C.4R which had been renumbered 467 and painted in National Holidays livery by the time it was snapped. 170 (WFH 170S) in the colours of Silcox, Pembroke Dock (131). It later ran as KSU 409. 175 (WFH 175S) after transfer to South Wales Transport 164 (WFH 164S) as Hampshire Coach 3032

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 182 - 198 (AFH 182 - 198T) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173706.html These coaches were ordered by National Travel South West shortly before the operations were merged with National Travel North West to create National Travel West. Tuesday 2 January 2007: These coaches were ordered by National Travel South West shortly before the operations were merged with National Travel North West to create National Travel West.

National Travel South West 189 (AFH 189T) in the pale blue Normandy Ferries livery used in the early days of the Cheltenham - Paris service. It is seen being checked out of Cheltenam Coach Station by Inspector Arthur Baker. [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 189 (AFH 189T) in a posed shot for the 777 Cheltenahm - Paris service involving most of the office staff at Cheltenham Coach Station. The inspector is Len Williams. [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 191 (AFH 191T) at the relaunch of Gower Vanguard. The manager, Frank Haines, reminds Swansea septuagenarian, Mrs Iris Cavalot, of the days when the preserved AEC Regal was new. [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 198 (AFH 198T) was pictured in Swansea with South Wales 500 182 (AFH 182T), ex South Wales 151, and 461 (KCK 977H) [Wx] after sale to Silcox, Pembroke Dock as their 132 and 77 185 (AAD 185S) went to Shamrock & Rambler, but here is seen as Hants & Dorset 3036. 190 (AFH 190T) [BW] pictured at Victoria Coach Station ready to operate the 803 service to Manchester. By this time it had been renumbered 490. It was a Leyland Leopard PSU5C.4R with Duple Dominant II bodywork. 183 (AFH 183T) after sale to Hadley, Quarry Bank, is seen in Kinver on school bus duties. 188 (AFH 188T) 193 (AFH 193T) with Greenslades 184 (AAD 184S) as 484 198 (AFH 198T) leaves Cheltenham on the overnight run to Paris with a reasonable load. [Alan O. Watkins Coll] 198 (AFH 198T) pulls away from Cheltenham Coach Station on a service to the North of England [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 190 (AFH 190T) after it was renumbered 490 198 (AFH 198T) [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 189 (AFH 189T) in the special livery for the P&O Normandy ferries service between Cheltenham and Paris.

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 206 - 216 (CDG 206 - 216Y) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173703.html The batch of Leyland Tigers was supposed to have included a 216 (CDG 216Y). But it was eventually delivered to Midland Red as its 658 (A658 VDA). Tuesday 2 January 2007: The batch of Leyland Tigers was supposed to have included a 216 (CDG 216Y). But it was eventually delivered to Midland Red as its 658 (A658 VDA).

213 (CDG 213Y), prepared for the Glasgow Rapide service from Cheltenham 215 (CDG 215Y) after transfer to Wessex National. It is seen in Bristol. 215 (CDG 215Y) 211 (CDG 211Y) was sold to Charterplan as its PIJ 5751 214 (CDG 214Y) as Cheltenham & Gloucester 2405 207 (CDG 207Y) in National Holidays colours, BW 363 (LHU 663L) [ex Bristol OC 2166] and Yelloways FWH 39Y prepare for the last interchange departure from Cheltenham Coach Station 209 (USV 804) was CDG 209Y, and here is seen with Wessex National 207 (CDG 207Y) 207 (CDG 207Y) 216 (B216 NDG) in its delivered state, without logos 211 (CDG 211Y) as Ambassador 889 206 208 210 212 215 (CDG 215Y) 215 (CDG 215Y), operating the National Express Rapide service 555 from Birmingham to London for Midland Red Coaches, but at the time owned by National London 215 (B215 BDG) in the short-lived, lone version of the Black & White livery. There was a lot of anger in management circles about the dcecision to paint her in these colours - especially as the company was wound up shortly afterwards.

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 337 - 346 (FDF 337 - 346L) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173698.html 337 - 346 (FDF 337 - 346L) Tuesday 2 January 2007: 337 - 346 (FDF 337 - 346L)

346 (FDF 346L) [BW] 343 (FDF 343L) as fleet number 243 342 (FDF 342L) [BW] renumbered as 242 338 (FDF 338L) - second generation - sporting South West fleetnames and fleet number 238

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 200 - 205 (BDF 200 - 205Y) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173693.html The first Leyland Tigers were a batch of ECW-bodied examples. They were anathema to the tours department, and to the old Black & White management, but they were quick, they were smart, and they replaced some of the old bangers -especially the Midland Red Leopards - that had been brought in short-term to run express services. There was just one problem - they were ECW B51s with all that type's inherent design weaknesses. Most of them were rebodied after sale. Only BDF 203Y and BDF 205Y retained their original bodies. The first three were rebodied after three years as Duple 320s (an improvement?!) while Roadcar had BDF 204Y rebodied by East Lancs as a 57-seat dual purpose vehicle in 1995. Tuesday 2 January 2007: The first Leyland Tigers were a batch of ECW-bodied examples. They were anathema to the tours department, and to the old Black & White management, but they were quick, they were smart, and they replaced some of the old bangers -especially the Midland Red Leopards - that had been brought in short-term to run express services. There was just one problem - they were ECW B51s with all that type's inherent design weaknesses. Most of them were rebodied after sale. Only BDF 203Y and BDF 205Y retained their original bodies. The first three were rebodied after three years as Duple 320s (an improvement?!) while Roadcar had BDF 204Y rebodied by East Lancs as a 57-seat dual purpose vehicle in 1995.

203 (BDF 203Y) in front of Notre Dame, with a party of journalists 205 (BDF 205Y) 205 (BDF 205Y) in Gloucester bus station had just worked the 607 service from London. 203 (BDF 203Y) [BW] 203 (BDF 203Y) 200 (BDF 200Y) 203 (BDF 203Y) was one of the first Natioanl Express coaches euqipped with speed stripes 201 (BDF 201Y) on the 747 service to Peterborough [Alan O. Watkins Colln]

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 Secondhand http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173628.html As National Travel South West took greater control over the management of Black & White there was a need to provide more heavyweight express coaches. But the money was not available. It was not helped by the continued failure of the Daimler Roadliners which could not cope with express work, but were perfectly suited for tootling around the Cotswolds on low earning tours work. Secondhand vehicles were acquired from sister companies around the patch. The Leyland Leopards came from South Wales (Rhonnda), Midland Red, Ribble, Samuelsons and Southdown, and their quality - leave alone their age - was questionable. But at least they kept running...unlike the Roadliners. They were scattered across Black and White and the other National Travel South West fleets where lightweight chassis were being removed to take on the express operations that would one day become National Express. There were some odd vehicles in the batches, including a handful of short Leyland Leopards from Ribble that proved popular for the failing tours work (despite the need to employ them on express operations to meet the growing demand). My favourite was Midland Red 5775 (5775 HA), once a prime runner for that company. When Black & White went to collect it from Worcester depot it had been parked among the weeds for three years. And they have grown into the saloon through the seams and underfloor covers. She stormed down the M5 with wind howling in from everywhere, grass flailing along the aisle in the blast, arrived in Cheltenham and (after a cursory inspection) was condemned to the scrapman. But, brother, didn't she fly! Tuesday 2 January 2007: As National Travel South West took greater control over the management of Black & White there was a need to provide more heavyweight express coaches. But the money was not available. It was not helped by the continued failure of the Daimler Roadliners which could not cope with express work, but were perfectly suited for tootling around the Cotswolds on low earning tours work. Secondhand vehicles were acquired from sister companies around the patch. The Leyland Leopards came from South Wales (Rhonnda), Midland Red, Ribble, Samuelsons and Southdown, and their quality - leave alone their age - was questionable. But at least they kept running...unlike the Roadliners. They were scattered across Black and White and the other National Travel South West fleets where lightweight chassis were being removed to take on the express operations that would one day become National Express. There were some odd vehicles in the batches, including a handful of short Leyland Leopards from Ribble that proved popular for the failing tours work (despite the need to employ them on express operations to meet the growing demand). My favourite was Midland Red 5775 (5775 HA), once a prime runner for that company. When Black & White went to collect it from Worcester depot it had been parked among the weeds for three years. And they have grown into the saloon through the seams and underfloor covers. She stormed down the M5 with wind howling in from everywhere, grass flailing along the aisle in the blast, arrived in Cheltenham and (after a cursory inspection) was condemned to the scrapman. But, brother, didn't she fly!

149 (RCY 56H) was originally South Wales 175. It was pictured in Exeter coach station when working the 726 service to Portsmouth. It was an AEC Reliance 8U3ZR with Duple Commander IV C44F bodywork. 423 (MHL 226F) with Shamrock and Rambler was originally Hebble 26. It was a Bedford VAM70 iwht Plaxton Panorama 65 bodystyling, and is seen on layover in Cheltenham coach station. 460 (CHA 81C) [BW] is ready to leave Exeter coach station for Plymouth on the 665 route from Aust Services , was Midland Red 5781 453 (153 DBO) after conversion from Western Welsh tours service to Wessex National heavyweight. 231 (YTX 323H) [BW] was new as Rhonnda 323 191 (XVB 467G) [NTSW] was ex-Samuelsons 141 (141 DBO), ex Western Welsh 141 and Wessex National 451 214 (CHA 113C) [BW] was new as Midland Red 5813. It was later rebuilt by Heyfordian as its TWL 541T, complete with a Van Hool body. 214 (CHA 113C), ex Midland Red 5813 235 (KCK 982H) [NTSW], ex Ribble 982 264 (CHA 116C), ex Midland Red 5816 (CHA 116C), but lacking the fleetname because Greenslades' management team did not want to be linked with such an elderly coach. 451 (EUF 193D) was formerly Southdown 1193 190 (XVB 466G) [NTSW], ex Samuelsons, and sporting Greenslades fleetname. It is seen leaving Taunton bus station bound for London with an overload. 421 (KCK 999H) (Shamrock and Rambler named it Honfleur) was previously Ribble 999 395 as 95 (RHY 765M) [NTSW] used to be Bristol 2177 291 (SBF 218J) was new to Harper, Heath Hayes and became Midland Red 2269 with whom it is seen on return from NTSW. Alongside is PMT 905 (905 UVT) which was considered for Midland red operations, but sold straight on for scrap. 367 as 97 (RHY 767M) [NTSW] was ex-Bristol 2179 407 (ELU 600J) was a former Timpson AEC Reliance 6MU4R with Plaxton Elite C43F bodywork. 333 (RHY 762M), formerly Bristol OC 2303, with (beyond it) National Travel West 1253 264 (CHA 116C) in the colours of Webber, Blisland 230 (YTX 322H) was ex Rhonnda 322 3015 (HHA 183L) was formerly Midland Red 183 248 (HHA 180L) with Wessex National was formerly Midland Red 180 385 (BGY 585T) and 382 (BGY 582T), ex National Travel London AEC 6U3ZR Reliance/Plaxtons 367 (RHY 767M) was originally Bristol 2179. It was later renumbered 97. 381 (BGY 581T) went to Wessex after repainting. here it is seen in 381 (BGY 581T) with Wessex National, but photographed in Digbeth coach station. 332 (RHY 761M) began life with Bristol Omnibus. After serving with National Travel South West it gave further good service to Shamrock & Rambler, Hants & Dorset and Wilts and Dorset in whose fleet it was then running as its 3019. 419 (KCK 989H) was named Rouen during its time on the South Coast with Shamrock and Rambler. It was new to Ribble (989) and is here seen in the ownership of Silcox, Pembroke Dock (89) who seemed to have a penchant for ex NTSW vehicles. 461 (KCK 977H) was new to Ribble (977) and is seen after serving with Wessex National. It is here seen post-cqusition by Silcox, Pembroke Dock 369 (RHY 769M) began life as Bristol OC's 2181. It is waiting for departure at Plymouth Bretonside when serving with Wessex National. 400 (BPR 100Y) [NTSW] was new to Shamrock & Rambler as its 3100 382 (BGY 382T) and 398 (YEL 98Y) [NTSW] awaiting a good clean 193 (EUF 191D), ex Southdown 1191, and CHA 109C, former Midland Red 5906 363 (LHU 663L) was new as Bristol 2166 333 (RHY 762M) still showing its Bristol Omnibus fleetnumber (2303) 192 (XVB 468G) 230 (YTX 323H) National Travel South West Leopard, ex Southdown, leaves Cheltenham 419 (KCK 989H) after sale to Silcox, Pembroke Dock KCK 987H after sale to Silcox, Pembroke Dock KCK 976H was new as Ribble 976, but here is seen with Silcox, Pembroke Dock BGY 589T after it was acquired by Yardleys of Birmingham

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 262 - 271 (HDG 362 - 371D) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173624.html 262 - 271 (HDG 362 - 371D) Tuesday 2 January 2007: 262 - 271 (HDG 362 - 371D)

262 (HDG 362D) in Gloucester, bound for Aberystwyth on the daily (afternoon) run. 265 (HDG 365D) 262 (HDG 362D) 263 (HDG 363D) in Cheltenham, making the short run to Gloucester at the end of an Associated Motorways service from London 266 (HDG 366D) in Newmarket 266 (HDG 366D) 267 (HDG 367D) [1] was later burned out, but rebuilt at Cheltenham by the B&W engineers 270 (HDG 370D) [1] on a Black & White tour 269 (HDG 369D) 270 (HDG 370D) [2] and Bristol Omnibus 2529 (364 MHU) pass in Gloucester 270 (HDG 370D) [3] [BW] and 284 (KDD 284E) after they were renumbered 170 and 184 267 (HDG 367D) [2] climbing the Cotswold escarpment near Dowdeswell, Cheltenham when renumbered as 167, part of the National Travel South West renumbering. 266 (HDG 366D) being scrapped at Carlton yards

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 280 - 289 (KDD 280 - 289E) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173623.html 280 - 289 (KDD 280 - 289E) Tuesday 2 January 2007: 280 - 289 (KDD 280 - 289E)

282 (KDD 282E) after renumbering as 182 [BW] with traffic manager John Purvis (left) and Marketing Manager Peter Palmer 285 (KDD 285E) as 182 in SAlisbury coach station 280 batch on delivery

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 273 - 279 (KDD 273 - 279E) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173621.html 273 - 279 (KDD 273 - 279E) Tuesday 2 January 2007: 273 - 279 (KDD 273 - 279E)

272 (HDG 772D) in typical Cotswold tour country [Alan O. Watkins Colln/Black & White] 273 (HDG 773D), an SRC6 276 (HDG 776D) wins the British Coach Rally at Brighton ([Alan O. Watkins Colln] 279 (HDG 379D)

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 272 ( HDG 772D) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173620.html 272 was the Motor Show exhibit that swept all before it - but which heralded one of the bus industry's biggest failures. The rear-engined Daimler Roadliner looked good, but had so many faults that when it was put onto heavy-duty express work it kept failing. Indeed, it seemed to keep failing at the slightest hint of work! Not that 272 betrayed the breed. It proved popular, but the remainder of the orders showed that the type was a mistake - and costly to Black & White which had bought dozens of them. Tuesday 2 January 2007: 272 was the Motor Show exhibit that swept all before it - but which heralded one of the bus industry's biggest failures. The rear-engined Daimler Roadliner looked good, but had so many faults that when it was put onto heavy-duty express work it kept failing. Indeed, it seemed to keep failing at the slightest hint of work! Not that 272 betrayed the breed. It proved popular, but the remainder of the orders showed that the type was a mistake - and costly to Black & White which had bought dozens of them.

272 (HDG 772D), the prototype Daimler Roadliner, an SRC6 272 (HDG 772D), shortly after entering service 272 (HDG 772D), interior to front 272 (HDG 772D), the Daimler Roadliner Motor Show exhibit

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 257 - 261 (DDG 257 - 261C) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173614.html 257 - 261 (DDG 257 - 261C) Tuesday 2 January 2007: 257 - 261 (DDG 257 - 261C)

258 (DDG 258C) as originally delivered 260 (DDG 260C) 260 (DDG 260C) in Gloucester bus station 258 (DDG 258C) [BW] , refronted, alongside 5775 (CHA 75C), a former Midland Red Leyland Leopard/Duple Commander which had been dumped for several years in an MROC depot. Grass was growing through the floor panels into the saloon, but shemanaged to make it to Cheltenham under her own steam - and then went for scrap. 258 (DDG 258C) in National colours

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 252 - 256 (DDG 252 - 256C) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173613.html 252 - 256 (DDG 252 - 256C) Tuesday 2 January 2007: 252 - 256 (DDG 252 - 256C)

255 (DDG 255C) in Station Road, Gloucester at the start of a day tour 254 (DDG 254C) operating a tour, pulls into Gloucester bus station to collect the afternoon passengers 256 (DDG 256C) was a Leyland Leopard PSU3.3R with Harrington C47F bodywork. It is seen in Wells, en route to Paignton with an Associated Motorways working. 252 (DDG 252C) in Tuffley Avenue, Gloucester

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 247 - 251 (AAD 247 - 51B) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173608.html 247 - 251 (AAD 247 - 51B) Tuesday 2 January 2007: 247 - 251 (AAD 247 - 51B)

248 (AAD 248B) 251 (AAD 251B) and 247 (AAD 247B) 249 (AAD 249B) resting while on the New Zealand cricket tour. It was the team coach, resting in Cheltenham while the Cambridge University game was on. The New Zealanders got little rest - they were forced to follow on by the students. 248 (AAD 248B) 248 (AAD 248B) and 250 (AAD 250B) ended their days with Edwards, Lydbrook 251 (AAD 251B) being stripped for spares at Paul Tizzard's yard at Lydbrook 250 (AAD 250B) at Edwards, Lydbrook, yard. 250 (AAD 250B) with Dean Forest, Lydbrook 250 (AAD 250B) in the yard at Edwards, Joys Green 251 (AAD 251B) in Edwards, Joys Green, yard and clearly no longer a runner 247 (AAD 247B) in Stratford-upon-Avon

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 242 - 246 (AAD 242 - 246B) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173607.html 242 - 246 (AAD 242 - 246B) Tuesday 2 January 2007: 242 - 246 (AAD 242 - 246B)

246 (AAD 246B) on a Saturday run to Minehead for Associated Motorways 244 as 144 (AAD 244B) [BW] outside Cheltenham coach station on the 771 service to Bournemouth

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 232 - 241 (4872 - 81 DF) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173606.html 232 - 241 (4872 - 81 DF) Tuesday 2 January 2007: 232 - 241 (4872 - 81 DF)

241 (4881 DF) in its original state. Black & White and Southdown Leyland Leopard/Plaxton Panorama coaches 235 as 135 (4875 DF) [BW] 239 as 139 (4879 DF) and 144 (AAD 244B), ex 244 [BW] 132 (4872 DF) [BW] in Salisbury coach station when working the 770 service from Cheltenham to Bournemouth. By this stage it had lost all its Black & White finery, but it showed that the older bodies could support the National white livery.

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 228 - 231 (6778 - 6781 DD) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173605.html 228 - 231 (6778 - 6781 DD) Tuesday 2 January 2007: 228 - 231 (6778 - 6781 DD)

223 (6773 DD) in Stroud bus station on the Associated Motorways afternoon service to Bournemouth 231 [ i] (6781 DF)

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 113 - 120 (MDF 113 - 120P) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173599.html This batch of Leyland Leopard PSU3C.4R-types introduced the alternate rows of red and blue seating that were a fad of mid-Seventies National Travel fleets. I wonder if any of these seats survived into the Twenty-First century.... Tuesday 2 January 2007: This batch of Leyland Leopard PSU3C.4R-types introduced the alternate rows of red and blue seating that were a fad of mid-Seventies National Travel fleets. I wonder if any of these seats survived into the Twenty-First century....

114 (MDF 114P) [ 3] - the driver on the 777 Cheltenham - Paris route pays the toll at the Tanquerville Bridge 119 (MDF 119P) [BW] 120 (MDF 120P) at Fairford with two Concordes [BW] two prototype Concordes 113 (MDF 113P) on a snowy day in the Forest of Dean 113 (MDF 113P) in the Forest of Dean [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 113 (MDF 113P) [BW] when new, pictured in the snow at Blackpool Bridge, the Forest of Dean 113 (MDF 113P) at Tintern Abbey 116 (MDF 116P) shortly after delivery, and pictured on Plymouth Ho! One of the air vents was missing - and the gale that blew through was unforgettable. [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 114 (MDF 114P) [ 4] at La Madeleine, the Paris terminal of the 777 service from Cheltenham 114 (MDF 114P) [ 2] on the Cheltenham - Paris service 114 (MDF 114P) [ 1] 114 (MDF 114P) was transferred to Greenslades as its 134 by the time this photo was taken in Plymouth Bretonside bus station. 117 (MDF 117P) as South Wales Transport 191, leaves the vehicle hold of the mv Innisfallen 117 (MDF 117P) in ASupabus colours when owned by South Wales Transport. Operating as fleet number 191, it was taking a break at Aust services on an overnight Irish service. 117 (MDF 117P) in Cardiff bus station when operating for South Wales Transport on Supabus services. 113 (MDF 113P) on Plymouth Hoe with a latter-day Sir Francis Drake and driver Mike 119 (MDF 119P) and a Chelsea Pensioner in Gloucester bus station 115 118 113 is escorted out of Cheltenham Coach Station by pipers at the launch of the daily 655 service to Glasgow.

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 112 (PDF 112M) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173597.html 112 was a one-off, a Leyland Leopard PSU3B.4RT with Plaxton Elite C44F body fitted with tables for tour work, but quickly converted to express operations. Tuesday 2 January 2007: 112 was a one-off, a Leyland Leopard PSU3B.4RT with Plaxton Elite C44F body fitted with tables for tour work, but quickly converted to express operations.

112 (PDF 112M) in Miserden, Glos 112 (PDF 112M) outside Gloucester Technical College in Brunswick Road, Gloucester. 112 (PDF 112M) [BW] promoting the National Travel concept in Gloucester 112 (PDF 112M) [BW] in front of the ruins of Greyfriars in Gloucester.

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 100 - 111 (PDD100 - 111M) http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c1173594.html 100 - 111 (PDD100 - 111M) Tuesday 2 January 2007: 100 - 111 (PDD100 - 111M)

111 (PDD 111M) in Cheltenham coach station 111 (PDD 111M) 106 (PDD 106M) on an Elan Valley Dams tour 110 (PDD 110M) [BW] witjh the Severn bridge in the background 110 (PDD 110M) enters Wales with the first appearance of the Red Dragon name boards 108 (PDD 108M) [BW] after disposal to South Wales (190) 100 (PDD 100M) in Bristol Bus Station working the Coventry - Portsmouth service as Midland Red South 55 103 (PDD 103M) after sale to Western National as its 1618 was pictured in St Austell on National Express stand-by duties. 101 as 401 (PDD 101M) 104/404 (PDD 404M) makes its last run into Cheltenham Coach Station before being sold 104 as 404 (PDD 104M) and 402 (PDD 102M) 102 as 402 (PDD 102M) is nearest the camera. 104 (now as 404: PDD 104M) is further from the line. 111 (PDD 111M) in Digbeth as Midland Red South 57 101 (PDD 101M), originally with Black & White, but here in Victoria coach station it is seen with Midland Red West as its 1061 105 (PDD 105M) after sale to Yardley, Birmingham, and, nearest camera, NUS 6P 101 (PDD 101M) at St Austell after sale to Western National as its 1617. Pictured with 1154 beyond 101 (PDD 101M) after sale to Western National as its 1617, lies alongside 2440 (SFJ 140R) in Plymouth Bretonside. 105 (PDD 105M) as 405, awaiting disposal at Carlyle Works 109 106 and 107 106 (PDD 106M) in the Elan Valley

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]]> Tue Jan 2 2007 Black & White Motorways - pre-1962 http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c811308.html Black & White Motorways - pre-1962 Wednesday 10 March 2004: Black & White Motorways - pre-1962

BAD 636, one of the Bristol JO6G coaches with Burlingham 30-seater caochwork [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 151 (LDD 992) with Edwards, Lydbrook 150 (LDD 991) after sale to Edwards, Lydbrook 219 posed in front of the Cheltenham Coach Station cafeteria. 204 (WDG 630) 155 (LDD 996) 154 (LDD 995), 142 (KDF 993) and 151 (LDD 992) 154 (LDD 995), 142 (KDF 993) and 151 (LDD 992) 149, 152, 151, 142 and 145 153 (LDD 994) on Good Friday 1965, races through Longlevens on the way home to Cheltenham 207 (WDG 633) 145 (KDF 996) 142 (KDF 993), a Royal Tiger PSU1/11-type with Willowbrook C37C coachwork, 142 (KDF 993), a Royal Tiger PSU1/11-type with Willowbrook C37C coachwork, arrives in Gloucester 142 (KDF 993), a Royal Tiger PSU1/11-type with Willowbrook C37C coachwork, 207 (WDG 633) 204 (WDG 630) 157 (LDD 998) 133 (KDF 984) with Epsley (contractor) 207 (WDG 633) - AEC Reliance/Willowbrook 111 (HDD 654) - where are you now? 111 (HDD 654) in Buckland's scrapyard after being sold by Chappell, Raglan 201 (SDF 201) 111 (HDD 654) - first generation - the cab 111 (HDD 654) - first generation - detail showing the logo inlaid in the front bulkhead woodwork 111 (HDD 654) - first generation - the interior Bristol L6Gs after delivery. These were the company's final batch of half cabs. [Alan O. Watkins Colln] DDG 773 - note the smooth front offside tyre [Alan O. Watkins Colln] DF 7840 [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 23 (DF 7244). This was a famous promotional picture used by the company, but examination shows that the coach's photo was superimposed on the original [Alan O. Watkins Colln] LJ 2106 [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 40, a Star VB6 with London Lorries bodywork, ex Tourist, Southampton [Alan O. Watkins Colln] Assortment Black & White assortment Assortment 193 (SAD 193) at South Molton, en route from Cheltenham to Ilfracombe. 176 (PAD 176) in Cheltenham Coach Station Leyland/Willowbrooks Driver Wally Amos on the annual Black & White agents' tour, seen in Exeter [Alan O. Watkins Colln/National Travel South West] 14 [Alan O. Watkins Colln] Leyland Tiger with London Lorries bodywork 215 - 222 (only 217 is missing) awaiting collection by a dealer

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]]> Wed Mar 10 2004 Wessex National http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c723507.html When Wessex of Bristol was acquired by National Express it had a tours programme based on the use of lightweight Bedford coaches. These quickly showed their weaknesses under the intensive use of express operations, and alarge number of secondhand Leyland Leopard were drafted in as a stop-gap to enable the renamed Wessex National to meet its contract obligations. Wednesday 12 October 2005: When Wessex of Bristol was acquired by National Express it had a tours programme based on the use of lightweight Bedford coaches. These quickly showed their weaknesses under the intensive use of express operations, and alarge number of secondhand Leyland Leopard were drafted in as a stop-gap to enable the renamed Wessex National to meet its contract obligations.

NKH 2 was an AEC Regal IV 9821E with Plaxton Venturer bodywork - and you had to be a bit of a venturer to step inside that inelegant body! It was new to Silverwing, Hull, but came to Wessex via Timpson's. LYM 460, AEC Regal IV 9821E with Windover Kingsway C39C bodywork LYM 460, an AEC Regal IV 9821E with Windover Kingsway C39C bodywork, leaves Bristol Marlborough Street bus station on a London duplication AHW 941B was an SB5 with Duple Firefly bodywork 450 (ADD 50Y), renumbered 450, and seen in Bristol bus station [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 450 (AAD 50Y), the experimental Leyland Olympian/ECW pulls out of Bristol bus station on the motorway run to London Leopard at Swindon 217 (DAD 217Y) showing its unorthodox National livery. It had had the 217 (DAD 217Y) was a Royal Tiger front 222 (B222 VHW) 224 (B224 VHW) 492 (LAE 492L) a lightweight for express services, waits time in Exeter coach station 495 (LAE 895L) [Wx] in National livery 495 (LAE 895L) 495 (LAE 495L) [Wx] 495 (LAE 495L) [Wx] 495 (LAE 895L) [Wx] in National livery 495 (LAE 895L) [Wx] in National livery 495 (LAE 895L) [Wx] in National livery 495 (LAE 895L) [Wx] in National livery 475 (AHT 907J) [Wx] and 405 (LAE 895L) after acquisition by National Travel, at the Moravian Road headquarters 501 (JHY 501P) in the Cotswolds 223 (B223 VHW) 223 (BHW 223W) and 200 (BDF 200Y) in lawrence Hill after the fleet was moved into central works. 224 (B224 BEU) 217 (DAD 217Y) with Shamrock & Rambler 3022 (REL 402R) in Plymouth's Bretonside bus station. 217 (DAD 217Y) 450 (ADD 50Y) in its brief Badgerline existence 234 (B234 XEU) leaves Samuelsons garage to take up service. 225 (B225 VHW) E252 LAE 505 (MOU 505P), the Wessexexcutive [Alan O. Watkins Colln] JAE 928D, a Bedford VAL14/Duple 501 (JHY 501P) 503 (JHW 503P) on the M5 motorway Unidentified Wessex Bedford on the M5 near gloucester 508 (LHW 508P) at Longleat for an NBC calendar shoot 508 (LHW 508P) on delivery to Cheltenham

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]]> Wed Oct 12 2005 Shamrock & Rambler http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c723504.html Shamrock & Rambler Wednesday 12 October 2005: Shamrock & Rambler

443 (NFX 443P) and named Taurus by Shamrock & Rambler [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 446 (NFX 446P) at le Pont d'Eveque near Le Havre 435 (DRU 972L), a Bedford YRT/Duple Dominant seen in Southampton 435 (DRU 972L) at the entrance to Wilton House, Salisbury 435 (DRU 972L) at Wilton House, Salisbury 401 (REL 401R) 401 (REL 401R) LEL 40F, a Bedford VAM70, in use as a marching band's transportation at stourport-on-Severn 3011 (SJA 412K), 3093 (YEL 93Y), 3101 (BPR 101Y) and ORU 382M 3011 (SJA 412K) and 3093 (YEL 93Y) 3112 (A112 KFX) on its first run to London on the 720 service was as an 80-seater with limited luggage accommodation. It was later rebuilt. 3120 (A120 KFX) 3120 (A120 KFX) 3120 (A120 KFX) 3120 (A120 KFX) after conversion 3118 (A118 KFX) in its original 80-seat, nil luggage configuration 3120 (A120 KFX) upper deck 3120 (A120 KFX) 3120 (A120 KFX) 115 (B115 ORU) was one of Bournemouth fleet's MCW Metroliners. It is seen in Heathrow airport LEL 40F ended its days as transport for a marching band, here seen in Stourport-on-Severn 930 (529 CER) was named Tiger Emulating Hitler in Paris Old publicity picture of .EL 431 [Alan o. Watkins Colln] Logo (Alan O. Watkins Colln) LEL 40F ended its days as transport for a marching band, here seen in Stourport-on-Severn FRU 420D, a Bedford VAL14 with Duple bodywork (Alan O. Watkins Colln) Shamrock & Rambler line-up in the Twenties [Alan O. Watkins Colln] SJA 411K Shamrock & Rambler Leyland Leopard 3059 (NEL 114P) on the 705 service to Salisbury waits for the first passengersi n Victoria Coach Station 604 LJ [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 604 LJ, 605 LJ and 606 LJ on delivery [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 606 LJ, and the other two in the batch, 604 LJ and 605 LJ [Alan O. Watkins Colln] 3124 (WDL 142) was one of two Bovas used predominantly for the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra. Alex Clark, the manager, was stopped from calling them Brahms and Listz. 3124 (WDL 142), showing the rear end of the Bournemouth Symphony Orchestra livery Pilgrim, Southampton Leyland Leopard Shamrock & Rambler had this charabanc - based on a Bristol LH chassis - built. It later saw service with Hants & Dorset and Midland Red, and is now preserved [Alan O. Watkins Colln] Shamrock & Rambler Beford YMT

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]]> Wed Oct 12 2005 Greenslades http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c723503.html Greenslades Wednesday 12 October 2005: Greenslades

CFJ 894C UFJ 301, AEC Reliance/Harrington VFJ 994 AFJ 82B AFJ 82B CFJ 898C 175 AFJ FFJ 12D when new to Greenslades, pictured in Brunswick Road, Gloucester. The strange buildings behind consist of the City library (Victorian Gothis), and the Wheatstone Hall, with a 20th Century abomination plopped on top - the city's art gallery. Sixties horrors, demonstarting a lack of architectural art... VFJ 991 on the A38 on the outskirts of Gloucester AFJ 80B and Roles, Syston 7947 ML at the Severn Bridge in the days when it was a tourist attraction in its own right 889 ADV was originally Devon General 889 AFJ 84B 315 (NTT 315M) [G], one of only three short (6MU4R) AEC Reliances with Duple Dominant bodywork 439 (HOD 39E) of Devon General Grey Cars fleet after transfer to Greenslades NFJ ***G AEC Reliance on the M5 near Churchdown, Gloucestershire 335 (JYT 607K) was new to Timpsons 309 (UUO 454J) 570 EFJ and Thames Valley SC4LK, NBL 731, after sale, pictured together in Newbury 570 EFJ and Thames Valley SC4LK, NBL 731, after sale, pictured together in Newbury 333 (JYT 606K) [G] began life at Timpson 352 (PFJ 352M), one of two Bedford VAS1 with Duple Dominant C29F bodies, pictured at the Willeys Avenue, Exeter depot FFJ 15D after sale 372 - 378 bring the guests to the opening by Prime minister James Callaghan of the ifnal section of the M5 motorway at Exeter 372 - 378 parked on the M5. Greenslades Bedford YMTs bring the guests to the opening by Prime minister James Callaghan of the ifnal section of the M5 motorway at Exeter 373 (NFJ 373P) in typical day tour country on Dartmoor 327 (JFJ 507N) together with Plymouth 217, bearing the colours of Brittany Ferries for shuttle bus work 322 (JFJ 502N) pictured in a Torquay hotel garden 360 - 367 (OOD 360 - 7M) parked in Torwood depot, Torquay 364 (OOD 364M) and 363 (OOD 363M), two Bedford YRT/Duple ominants, parked in Torwood depot, Torquay 307 (UUO 452J) after acquisition by PG Travel, Middlewich 2200 (AOD 648Y) 2200 (AOD 648Y) 2200 (AOD 648Y) 2200 (AOD 648Y) and 2201 (AOD 649Y) set on on their delivery run after being painted at Carlyle Works 2200 (AOD 648Y) 2201 (AOD 649Y) 2200 (AOD 648Y) 2201 (AOD 649Y) 2200 (AOD 648Y) 1402 (A942 MDV) 2446 (SFJ 146R) after transfer to Greenslades 327 (JFJ 507N) 328 (JFJ 508N) as Devon General 328. It is pictured outside Exeter Cathedral 328 (JFJ 508N) as Devon General 328 2445 (SFJ 145R) [WN] in Greenslades' National Holidays colours, but about to work the London - Penzance service as a duplicate 322 (JFJ 502N) (after transfer to Devon general) and JFJ 509N with RDV 429H E436 ATT Nightingale, Exmouth E179 WDV after they adpted the Greenslades' fleetname 307 (UUO 452J) after it was acquired by PG Travel of Middlewich South West Bristol RE/Plaxton on the M5 near Gloucester

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]]> Wed Oct 12 2005 Black & White on the Springboks tour, 1971 http://blackandwhitemotorways.fotopic.net/c421225.html Black & White on the Springboks tour, 1971 Thursday 4 March 2004: Black & White on the Springboks tour, 1971

305 (RDG 305G) was the South African team coach on the notorious tour that brought the present Leader of the House of Commons, Peter Hain, into the political spotlight as leader of the Anti-Apartheid group 285 (KDD 285E) and 287 (KDD 287E) with the Springboks at Kingsholm 286 (KDD 286E) brought the world's rugby press to the ground Kingsholm rugby ground from the Kingsholm flats

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]]> Thu Mar 4 2004