Solent Area Bus fleets http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/ 27 rows en-gb 60 Smaller operators - 2008 http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c1445358.html Other local bus & coach companies so far includes Brijan, Black Velvet Travel, Excelsior, Portsmouth University & Wheelers Travel Monday 21 January 2008: Other local bus & coach companies so far includes Brijan, Black Velvet Travel, Excelsior, Portsmouth University & Wheelers Travel

Brijan Olympian 87 (EIG 9487) ex London Buses and Stagecoach, Eastleigh Sept 8th 3rd DAF to appear was V7 GMT - West End April 17th DAF V11 GMT working the Barton Peveril - Fareham service Sept 8 2008 Newly refurbished East Lancs bodied DAF SB220 V12 GMT entered service on Mar 22. Seen here in Botley at start of first trip 4 East Lancs Myllennium-bodied DAF SB220s V7,11/2/4 GMT make up the balance of the 6 bus fleet. New to London Central for the services to the Millenium dome they will enter service on Feb25 on service A between Eastleigh & Hedge End/Botley, previously an SBL 3 DAFs have so far been delivered & despatched to Caetano at Waterlooville for centre door removal & refurb. V14 GMT pictured at North Harbour Jan 21st on delivery to Waterlooville V14 GMT the 2nd DAF to enter service - seen at Hedge End Superstores on April 10th DAF V14 GMT in Meeting House Lane, Ringwood Oct 25 2008 V14 GMT passing West Quay at the end of its run from Ringwood Nov 7 2008 F302 MYJ a 3rd Citybus added to the fleet loads at Barton Peveril Sept 8th F303 MYJ the 2nd Citybus in Hedge End on the schoolday pm duplicate journey from Wildern School 2 Volvo Citybuses make up the d/deck element of the Black Velvet fleet - F303/9 MYJ F309 MYJ seen at North Harbour, Portsmouth on Jan 21st - Formerly with Stagecoach and new to Southdown, so no strangers to the area To start route A 3 Darts have ben hired until the DAFs are available. V384 SVV has previously opaerated in the area on the Portsmouth University shuttle. Wildern Lane Hedge End Velvet have the contract to operate a Sunday service over BlueStar8 until July. Operation started March 2nd. V384 SVV approaches Southampton Central Stn. Hired from Ensign in September Olympian P482 MBY in the depot yard W558 JVV another Dart, taken on hire to replace KP51 UFL - Hedge End Superstores April 8th 3 ex Lothian Olympians were purchased for the Barton Peveril College services. J841 TSC loads outside the college on Sept 8th Olympian J841 TSC in Castle Way, Southampton Nov 7 2008 Olympian J843 TSC in Hanover Bldgs, Southampton on the first day of service B - Sept 8th KP51 UFL in a springlike Lower Northam Rd., Hedge End Pointer Dart KU02 YUH in West End Excelsior Coaches 913 (BU08 CGG) Volvo B12B / Caetano Levante - Ringwood Oct 25 2008 The current bus used by Portsmouth University - Plaxton President bodied DAF DB250 - new to Capital Logistics. The Hard Portsmouth, Jan 2008 Bova Futura WLT 702 of Wheelers Travel - Hedge End Feb 25th

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]]> Mon Jan 21 2008 First Hants & Dorset - 2008 http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c1442662.html FHD fleet developments during 2008 Wednesday 16 January 2008: FHD fleet developments during 2008

A trend has developed to add areas of black around windows on 2008 repaints - B7TL 32042 is one Portswood bus so treated - Civic Centre Nov 7 2008 Darts 41165/6 are recent transfers to Hilsea from Portswood. 41166 seen near its new base on Oct 31 2008 A revision to service 6 in Portsmouth sees alternate journeys diverted to Hilsea from Tipner. The new 6A will enable driver changes to done 52583 the 3rd ex Essex Vario at Hilsea passing the depot on Oct 31 2008 Still surviving 45389 the last bus in Provincial cream/red. At one stage due to be withdrawn by March this year! With at least one (45307) of Weymouth's examples now withdrawn, the 2 Volvo 37584 at Bridport alongside one of the displaced OmniDekkas - 36001 - now in its new route 31 livery, Oct 29th 36004 displays the new 40620 (M248 VWW) turning into Desborough Rd. on the temporary Eastleigh shuttle service 8th Sept Dart 46734 standing in for the usual Volvo B6BLE on Weymouth's service 1 - August 27th Also on the 1 Olympian 34814 Normal rolling stock for the 1 - Volvo 48203 Another view of 36005, temporarily demoted to trips to littlesea on the 502 B9TL 37583 loads at the kings Statue Scania L9UB, repainted into Barbie for transfer out to Potteries, but temporarily back in Dorset working the 31 Hampshire CC Solo 53076 (YJ05 XMR) works the Sunday only 56D in Lyndhurst 10th August Also in Lyndhurst on August 10th Solo 53140 departs for Brockenhurst on the 56C Parked at Portswood 68000 the Bluebird school bus used as an exhibition unit by First's School Bus division - June 4th Recently arrived BMC 1100FE 68571 alongside 34079 at Portswood - June 4th 52555 one of First's exhibit at the revived Netley rally - June 8th 31825 previously black to advertise 34258 on Weymouth Esplanade - June 22nd 34020 King Street, Weymouth - June 22nd 50270 Commercial Road, Weymouth - June 22nd 34062 exiting Weymouth depot - June 22nd 34344 poses in the doorway at Edward Street depot - June 22nd 39971 descending from Portland Heights - June 22nd 42823 with unusual roof decoration! - June 22nd 48206 Fortuneswell - June 22nd 52606 Weymouth Esplanade - June 22nd 46316 waits time at Lee-on-Solent - May 24th 46313 Marine Parade West, Lee-on-Solent - May 24th 45389, Lee-on-Solent High street - May 24th 34022, High St, Lee-on-Solent May 24th 46317 Manor Way, Lee-on-Solent - May 24th 37161 Hedge End Superstores - May 27th The morning of April 6 saw an unseasonally heavy snowfall - Dart 42139 heads into Stubbington at 10:20 Another shot of 42139 42139 again (it's Sunday - there aren't many buses around!) at Stubbington Green and again 30 mins later in Mays Lane returning from Fareham 42140 in Titchfield Rd at 11:20 as the thaw gets underway 66151 on rail replacement at Littlehampton Station - April 19th 20418 rail replacement, Chichester - April 19th Dart 46010 - now in the veteran category - working the schooldays only 72A March 19th Another odd route - 34A - 51722 works the only run on this service at Stubbington March 19th Final odd route - 35A - 2 early jnys over parts of the 33 & 35 - 51711 in Stubbington March 19th Lynx 62641 Stubbington March 19th Olympian 34071 in Stubbington on one of the regular Hoeford decker lines - March 19th

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]]> Wed Jan 16 2008 COSHAM COACHES http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c1426209.html Small Portsmouth based operator who operated route 100 into Fareham in the 1980s & early 90s. Also ran a service in Portsmouth for a time Tuesday 18 December 2007: Small Portsmouth based operator who operated route 100 into Fareham in the 1980s & early 90s. Also ran a service in Portsmouth for a time

An unusual but appropriate choice 87 STT is a Plaxton bodied Seddon Pennine 6 - the updated version of the chassis chosen by Provincial in the 60s. This coach was new in 1973 and came to Cosham Coaches in 1988. Pictured, as are most of the fleet in West St., Fareham Jan. 1989 For a time Leyland Panther Cub GTP 166F, a former Portsmouth bus, was often parked in the lay-by off Peak Lane at West End previously used by Provincials ervices 1-3. Pictured in April 1989 AEC Swift NTP 181H was owned between 1983 & 1988. It initially operated in this livery, white with 2 red & 1 green band. Photographed in spring 1985. By May 1987 it was repainted into this scheme, complete with route details for the 100 Less long-lasting than the 100 was service 102 in Portsmouth here, in Jan. 1988, worked by former Portsmouth Swift NTP 181H As the name suggests the company was orginally, and remained, principally a coach operator. Duple Dominat bodied Leopard OHN 500R pictured on an excursion to Exbury Gardens in May 1990 Th company ceased operating in April 1992 and former Bristol Cityline National UAE 995N was in the fleet at the end. The 100 terminated outside Courts in West St., why UAE was passing the bus station in April 1991 remains unknown A former East Kent AEC Reliance UFN 486H was owned from 1981 to 1989. Pictured outside Courts in February 1987 offering passengers 40 generously spaced touring coach seats.. Hired from Bournemouth for the Portsmouth 102, Bournemouth Atlantean 250 at The Hard in Jan. 1988. ULJ 257J replaced 250 and was a longer term member of the fleet. Seen here in Sep. 1988 on the 102 which linked Palmerston Rd., Southsea, The Hard & Commercial Rd. Willowbrook bodied Leopard XAX 304J, still in the livery of its previous owners in West St., May 1986. Former London Country RB64 - YPL 64T in a livery of white with 2 orange & 1 dark green band - Sept 1985. Like several other pictures this has suffered badly from being taken on dubious quality cheap

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Tue Dec 18 2007 HMS Sultan Show - shuttle buses http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c1311074.html The summer show at HMS Sultan is a well established event - this year a free bus service connected the site with Gosport Ferry. Organised on behalf of HMS Sultan by the Provincial Society, buses owned by society members, CPPTD & First Hants & Dorset were used Sunday 24 June 2007: The summer show at HMS Sultan is a well established event - this year a free bus service connected the site with Gosport Ferry. Organised on behalf of HMS Sultan by the Provincial Society, buses owned by society members, CPPTD & First Hants & Dorset were used

FHD Vo B10BLE 66199 - South St. June 23 ex Portsmouth CT 4 (LRV 996) - Bury Rd. June 23 ex Portsmouth 4 (LRV 996) unloads at The Cocked Hat - pub car park used as Another view of LRV 996 at The Cocked Hat 66199 at The Cocked Hat - note approaching storm! 3rd vehicle in use on June 23 was MUF 488 - reversing off the stand at Gosport b/stn June 24 & 3 different buses in use HOR 413L back on home ground in Gosport b/stn 13 leaves the bus station No 13 passing Gosport police station in South St. Borrowed from portswood for the day - Volvo Gemini 37164 passing Walpole Park HOR 413L heading east on South St.! 37164 in Foster Rd. 37164 passing The Wiltshire Lamb at the bottom of Privett Rd. 3rd bus out was Bristol SUL 274 KTA, here in Bury Rd. 274 KTA again, also Bury Rd 274 KTA, Privett Rd No 13 (HOR 413L) in Privett Rd No13 returning to the Ferry from the Cocked Hat - Privett Rd 37164 turns into The Cocked Hat's car park 37164 unloading passengers at The Cocked Hat 274 KTA in Privett Rd during a break in the rain! HOR 413L in Bury RD 13 heading back in town - Bury Rd. 37164 in Bury Rd. 37164 passing the War Memorial Hospital in Bury Rd standby bus - not needed in the morning - ACE Cougar H523 CTR The End!

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]]> Sun Jun 24 2007 Solent Blue Line 2000s http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c1302503.html Former members of the SBL fleet Wednesday 13 June 2007: Former members of the SBL fleet

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Wed Jun 13 2007 Isle of Wight Festival June 2007 http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c1299000.html The Rock Festival held on the island between the 8th & 10th of June saw over 20 vehicles hired in by Southern Vectis to augment their own fleet. A selection of pictures of the operation taken on June 8 Friday 8 June 2007: The Rock Festival held on the island between the 8th & 10th of June saw over 20 vehicles hired in by Southern Vectis to augment their own fleet. A selection of pictures of the operation taken on June 8

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Fri Jun 8 2007 Southern Vectis 2007 http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c1298992.html "Does what it says on the tin" - The Southern Vectis fleet photographd in 2007 Saturday 9 June 2007: "Does what it says on the tin" - The Southern Vectis fleet photographd in 2007

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Sat Jun 9 2007 Lymington & New Forest http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c1297755.html A small collection of photos from a trip to Lymington & Beaulieu on May 29th Thursday 7 June 2007: A small collection of photos from a trip to Lymington & Beaulieu on May 29th

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Thu Jun 7 2007 City Clipper http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c1263186.html Southampton's newest service - starting April 23 2007. Operated by Princess Coaches, West End. Using 5 Plaxton Primos to operate a circular service around the edge of the city centre to/from Town Quay. Pictures taken April 23rd at various points on route Monday 23 April 2007: Southampton's newest service - starting April 23 2007. Operated by Princess Coaches, West End. Using 5 Plaxton Primos to operate a circular service around the edge of the city centre to/from Town Quay. Pictures taken April 23rd at various points on route

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Mon Apr 23 2007 Solent Blue Line - 1980s http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c1205601.html Blue Line started in May 1987. These pictures cover the years 1987 - 1989. Fleet numbers quoted are as allocated at the time. Ex Hampshire Bus stock continued to show old 3xxx numbers until mid 1988 and ex Hants & Sussex buses never carried any numbers Saturday 10 February 2007: Blue Line started in May 1987. These pictures cover the years 1987 - 1989. Fleet numbers quoted are as allocated at the time. Ex Hampshire Bus stock continued to show old 3xxx numbers until mid 1988 and ex Hants & Sussex buses never carried any numbers

01 - 86 GFJ : Leyland PD2A/30 / Massey Commercial Rd., Southampton July 1989 02 - REL 745H Bristol LH / ECW used as enquiry office / travel shop at Bargate, Southampton after bus station closed. Oct. 1988 06 - SDL 636J : Bristol VR / ECW Ocean Village June 1987 09 SDL 639J : Bristol VR / ECW Ocean Village June 1987 015 - DNG 395K : Bristol VR / ECW Above Bar June 1987 020 JAH 400L : Bristol VR / ECW - Bargate June 1987 020 JAH 400L : Commercial Rd. June 1987 027 XDL 377L : Bristol VR / ECW - Vincents Walk Aug. 1987 027 XDL 377L : Bristol VR / ECW Netley rally July 1989 after sale to Southampton Airport 028 XDL 378L : Bristol VR / ECW - Ocean Village June 1987 029 XDL 379L : Bristol VR / ECW - Southsea rally June 1987 030 XDL 380L : Bristol VR / ECW - Above Bar June 1987 037 NDL 637M : Bristol VR / ECW Above Bar Jnu 1987 037 NDL 637M : Bristol VR / ECW - only one (36) of the original 16 VRs was still in use at the end of the decade. 37 still survives in 2007 as a reminder of the early days. Alton July 2007 040 NDL 640M : Bristol VR / ECW - Vincents Walk Jan 1989 056 HDL 406N : Bristol VR / ECW - Castle Way Oct. 1987 057 HDL 409N : Bristol VR / ECW - Grosvenor Sq., Southampton Oct 1987 060 HDL 410N : Bristol VR / ECW - Eastleigh b/stn Oct 1987 062 JJT 432N : Bristol VR / ECW Romsey b/stn April 1989 066 GNJ 566N : Bristol VR / ECW Eastleigh b/stn Oct. 1987 088 VPR 488S : Bristol VR / ECW - Eastleigh b/stn May 1988 095VOD 595S : Bristol VR / ECW - Eastleigh b/stn Oct 1987 096 BFX 576T : Bristol VR / ECW - Bargate St., Southampton July 1989 098 PTT 98R : Bristol VR / ECW - Bargate, Southampton Oct 1987 100 BFH 900N : Ford R1114 / Plaxton - Above Bar St. Aug. 1987 151 LHG 451T : Bristol VR / ECW - Vincents Walk April 1989 155 LHG 455T : Bristol VR / ECW - Above Bar July 1989 200 FDV 793V : Bristol LHS / ECW - Romsey Rd., Eastleigh DEc. 1988 201 LFJ 849W : Bristol LHS / ECW - Eastleigh b/stn July 1988 217 AFB 586V : Bristol LH / ECW - Eastleigh b/stn May 1988 220 VLW 530G : AEC Swift / MCW - Eastleigh b/stn Oct. 1987 220 VLW 530G : AEC Swift / MCW - Eastleigh b/stn Oct 1987 220 VLW 530G : AEC Swift / MCW - Eastleigh b/stn Nov 1987 221 EGN 441J - AEC Swift / Park Royal - Eastleigh b/stn Oct. 1987 225 C225 XRU : Ford Transit / Robin Hood - Eastleigh b/stn Feb 1988 227 - VLW 217G : AEC SWift / MCW - Eastleigh b/stn Nov 1987 230 AML 30H : AEC SWift / Marshall - Barton Park Feb 1988 252 B252 LDL : Ford Transit Carlyle - Eastleigh b/stn Dec 1988 262 C262 SDL : Ford Transit / Carlyle - Bargate St., Southampton July 1989 276 E276 HDL : Iveco 49-10 / Robin Hood - Vincents Walk, Southampton May 1988 277 E277 HDL : Iveco 49-10 / Robin Hood - Eastleigh b/stn Oct. 1987 278 E278 HDL : Iveco 49-10 / Robin Hood - Eastleigh b/stn Oct 1987 280 E280 HDL : Iveco 49-10 / Robin Hood - Eastleigh b/stn Oct 1987 284 LOD 726P : Bristol VR / ECW - Southampton garage, Grosvenor Sq. Nov 1987 362 PJT 270R : Leyland national - Bargate St., Southampton Feb 1988 402 SEL 237N : Leyland National - Winchester Broadway April 1989 404 LPR 937P : Leyland National - Eastleigh b/stn Sep. 1988 410 PJT 267R : Leyland National - Hanover Bldgs, Southampton June 1989 422 FPR 64V : Leyland National - Eastleigh b/stn May 1988 424 KCG 615L : Leyland National - Hanover Bldgs, Southampton April 1989

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Sat Feb 10 2007 Pompey rail replacement Feb 2007 http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c1199754.html Photos taken 2 Feb. 2007 during the closure of all rail lines in Portsmouth and surrounding area Saturday 3 February 2007: Photos taken 2 Feb. 2007 during the closure of all rail lines in Portsmouth and surrounding area

T763 JYB - Bova Futura - Lucketts, Fareham. Fareham Stn V540 DYA - Volvo B10M / Van Hool - Worthing Coaches. Fareham Stn. NIL 9248 - Volvo B10M / Plaxton - Sussex Coaches. Fareham Stn P176 NAK - Volvo B10M / Plaxton - First Hants & Dorset 20418. Fareham Stn S750 XYA - Volvo B10M / Van Hool - Worthing Coaches. Fareham Stn YR02 ZZB - Scania K1114 / Irizar - Lucketts, Fareham. Fareham Stn YN56 FGM - Scania K114 / Irizar - Worthing Coaches. Fareham Stn. YN56 FGK - Scania K114 / Irizar - Lucketts. Fareham Stn H723 KDY - Leyland Olympian / Alexander - Southdown 13620 - West St., Fareham M812 PGM - Scania L113 / Northern Counties - First Beeline SB64812 (o/l FHD). The Hard Y875 KDP - Volvo B10NM / Berkhof - Assisi Travel. The Hard: no visible labels, may just have been visiting! R362 LGH - Volvo Olympian / Nthn Counties - London General NV162. The Hard R373 LGH - Volvo Olympian / Nthn Counties - London Central NV173. The Hard YN04 GFV - Scania / Irizar - Flyghts Travel. The Hard T186 AUA - DAF SB220 / Ikarus - Marchwood 506. The Hard P406 KOW - Dennis Dart SLF / Plaxton - First Hants & Dorset 42506. The Hard R5 HLC - Scania K114 / Irizar - Lucketts. The Hard P710 OOA - Volvo B10M / Caetano - Countryliner, Guildford V710. Queen St., Portsmouth W401 HOB - Setra S315GT - Amport & Dist. Queen St., Portsmouth T165 AUA - DAF SB220 / Ikarus - Marchwood 507. Queen St., Portsmouth HT02 BJT - Scania K114 / Irizar - Brijan. Queen St., Portsmouth PL51 LDO - Volvo B7TL / Plaxton - London Central PVL253. Queen St., Portsmouth R403 FWT - Volvo B10M / Plaxton - Edward Thomas, West Ewell. Queen St., Portsmouth BX54 EBP - Mercedes Touro - Countryliner, Guildford MC5 (ideal for Kicking out the Jams?). Queen St., Portsmouth YN56 FGJ - Scania / Irizar - Lucketts. Queen St., Portsmouth 267 PPH - Leyland Tiger / Plaxton - Edward Thomas, West Ewell. The Hard LX56 ETK - Alexander Dennis Enviro400 - London Central E44. The Hard LX56 ETK - Alexander Dennis Enviro400 - London Central E44. The Hard S393 HVV - Dennis Dart SLF / Plaxton - Wiltax. The Hard MIL 9575 - Dennis Javelin / Plaxton - Southern Vectis 575. The Hard P245 VDL - Iveco 59-12 / Marshall - Southern Vectis 045. Gosport b/stn. SBL staff bus - shift change via Gosport Ferry to avoid M27 snarl up!

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Sat Feb 3 2007 MARCHWOOD Motorways http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c1183865.html Totton based Marchwood, now part of the Go Ahead Group, as a subsidiary of Solent Blue Line. Photos from the mid 1980s to the present. Mostly buses but some coaches included. Saturday 13 January 2007: Totton based Marchwood, now part of the Go Ahead Group, as a subsidiary of Solent Blue Line. Photos from the mid 1980s to the present. Mostly buses but some coaches included.

CFX 424Y - an LAG PJT 271R (f/no 413) Leyland National ex Solent Blue Line in January 1988. Bargate St., Southampton Oct. 1988 F730 OOT Robin Hood-bodied Iveco 49-10, New to Marchwood in 1988, Bargate St., Southampton Jan. 1989 F731 OOT Robin Hood-bodied Iveco 49-10 Bargate St., Southampton Sept. 1989 F245 RJX Optare Delta-bodied DAF SB220 one of 2 new in 1989. Portland Terrace, Southampton when brand new April 1989 H712 LOL (f/no 214) Carlyle-bodied Dennis Dart. Bargate St., Southampton Feb. 1991 H711 LOL (f/no 213) Carlyle-bodied Dennis Dart. A shorter (9m) version than H712 LOL. Bargate St., Southampton March 1991 H186 EJF a brand new Caetano Optimo-bodied Toyota exhibited at the British Coach rally in Mayflower Park, Southampton, April 1991 J45 GCX (f/no 503) Optare Delta-bodied DAF SB220 in factory fresh state in Bargate St., Southampton Feb. 1992. Service 52 to Petersfield was Marchwood's for a period in the 90so. F731 OOT (f/no 291) by September 1993 had had a major front end rebuild by European Coach Conversions of Hamble H975 EOR (f/no 292) Phoenix-bodied Iveco 49-10 a 1991 delivery in Bargate St., Southampton Feb. 1993 L509 EHD (f/no 504) a further delivery of DAF SB220 in 1993 had Ikarus bodies. L509 EHD in Portland Terrace, Southampton, Sept. 1993 L510 EHD (f/no 505) the 2nd 1993 Ikarus-bodied DAF, Portland Terrace, Southampton Oct. 1993 PJT 271R (f/no 413) by Feb 1994 PJT 271R had lost the white lining to its livery. Bargate St., Southampton D648 ETR Robin Hood-bodied Iveco 49-10. As well as the SBL franchise Marchwood operated PJT 271R Countywide Travel of Basingstoke purchased several vehicles from Marchwood to begin operations. PJT was sold to Countywide in Feb 1996 but in Oct 1995 was used by Marchwood partly repainted into Countywide colours F764 XNH an LAG Panoramic integral, Castle Way, Southampton May 1996 M846 LFP Caetano-bodied MAN 11.190 The Hard, Portsmouth April 1996 N301 FOR (f/no 263) one of 4 Mellor-bodied Iveco 59-12 new in the winter of 1995/6. Castle Way, Southampton Jan. 1996 N304 FOR (f/no 266) Mellor-bodied Iveco 59-12 at Ocean Village, Southampton June 1996 225 ASV Bova Europa of 1982 vintage. The Hard, Portsmouth May 1997 P191 PBP Mellor-bodied Iveco 59-12 in Castle Way, Southampton Sept. 1997 R558 UOT (f/no 558) UVG-bodied Dennis Dart SLF one of 15 delivered in 1997 when Marchwood took over SBL's 18/9 services. Above Bar, Southampton Sept. 1997 P190 PBP (f/no 267) Mellor-bodied Iveco 59-12 Commercial Rd., Southampton June 1999. These 2 remained in white livery until well into the 21st century F248 RJX Duple 320-bodied DAF SB2305 in Castle Way, Southampton June 2000 on the regular cruise-ship crew shuttles V710 LWT (f/no 508) the low foor version of the Ikarus-bodied DAF SB220 dating from 1999. Above Bar St., Southampton Feb. 2000 T165 AUA (f/no 507) in Feb. 2001 T165 AUA had this overall ad livery for Southampton University. Pictured at The Bargate Southampton J45 GCX (f/no 503) a striking livery for Southampton Institute August 2002 R554 UOT (f/no 554) UVG-bodied Dart SLF looking a little tired in August 2002. they were withdrawn later that year on expiry of the 5 year lease T165 AUA (f/no 507) by Sept. 2002 the University lettering had been stripped leaving only a green base coat. It is working a park & ride for the Southampton boat show T186 AUA (f/no 506) a 2002 view of DAF / Ikarus 481 T186 AUA on a boat show park & ride YG52 CLO (f/no 561) replacements for the UVG Darts - Wrightbus Cadet-bodied DAF SB120. Bargate St., Southampton Oct. 2002 M846 RCP (f/no 509) a Northern Counties-bodied DAF SB220 acquired in 2003. Castle Way Dec. 2003 W232 CDN one of 2 Optare Spectras in the fleet. Harbour Parade, Southampton Sept. 2003 on boat show park & ride YG52 CEK (f/no 559) DAF SB120 / Wrightbus Cadet Above Bar, Southampton June 2003 W231 CDN the 2nd Spectra though in Blue Line livery, appearances on the bus routes were few in number! Here it is on boat show park & ride work in Sept. 2003 M846 RCP (f/no 509) was an early repaint into the overall blue SBL livery in 2004 J45 GCX (f/no 503) freshly repainted, the effect spoiled by the front panel in old colours bearing f/no 502! YG52 CEN (F/NO 556) Castle Way, Southampton P190 PBP (f/no 267) with Totton Bus Link logos. Castle Way Southampton 1045 MM {orig M826 RCP) Van Hool Alizee-bodied DAF SB3000 YJ03 PPX Van Hool Alizee bodied DAF SB4000; Platform Road, Southampton S602 KUT a Caetano optimo at Southampton Central Stn on April 23 2007 YJ05 PXM - An East Lancs bodied VDL DB250 passing Southampton Station on April 23 2007 SBL 364 (f/no 502) working a crew-shuttle for P&O - hence T633 AJT (f/no 333) an ex Wilts & Dorset Solo - Portland Terrace, Southampton April 23 2007 HF08 UHU one of five new Irizar PB bodied Scanias at Scania's Segensworth depot for pre-delivery checks 17 Apr 2008 HF08 UHW - another Scania / Irizar, working a cruise ship shuttle Castle Way June 4 2008

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Sat Jan 13 2007 2007 First Hants & Dorset http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c1181046.html Developments in the FHD fleet during 2007 Wednesday 10 January 2007: Developments in the FHD fleet during 2007

The programme to retrofit LED screens now includes Hoeford's step-entrance Darts. 46324 seen in Stubbington Lane on November 10th is one of the early examples. FHD are working the daily rail rep. from Brockenhurst to Lymington for the next 6 weeks - 2 vehicles are used Volvo B10M 20457 makes the tight right turn out of Brockenhurst station on Oct 6th Another view of 20457 in Brockenhurst The turn into Brockenhurst station is also tricky, especially when it coincides with the crossing barriers lifting - traffic is reluctant to give way to allow buses to swing into the yard. Volvo 66204 Oct 6th The service is worked by Hoeford drivers but this should be 66128 loaned from Portswood. 66128 sits unused & unloved at Hoeford - Portswood having followed a long tradition & sent the roughest bus in the depot! The 2 Volvo B10B that joined the fleet from Manchester in June have kept a low profile as work proceeds to adapt them as tuition vehicles. 60337 (N542 WVR) at Portswood on October 10th Volvo Olympian 34016 has had a recent repaint. Looking tidy here in Stubbington. Sept 2007 Portswood now have 2 Marshall bodied Darts from First Berkshire - new route 25 has been a regular haunt, here is 41166 at Hedge End Superstores on Sept 15th The second of the 2 recent transfers to Hoeford to go on the road - 34022 in Queensway Southampton on Sept 15th 41165 the other ex First Berkshire Dart now at Portswood, seen in Botley on Sept 29th 40250 (M106 RRJ) another of the recent arrivals from Manchester. Stubbington Sept 24th nearside view - not leaving for Gosport!, right hand lock giving the game away, but doing a circuit to get onto stand and finally leaving on an 88 journey Portswood have also gained 2 Darts from Manchester - 40297 (N603 XJM) originally with london Buslines and 40292 (M965 XVT) originally Potteries. These reintroduce the step-entrance Pointer-Dart to Southampton, native examples were moved out to Hoeford several years ago. Sister to 40297 at Portswood Hoeford based 40298 (N604 XJM) passing Debenham's Southsea Aug 16th Recent transfers from Portswood to Hoeford are Olympians 34021/2: first into service, after an appearance at the stokes Bay rally was 34021 -seen turning into Stubbington village on Aug 28th Another view of 34021 in Stubbington Lane Aug 28th 51722 (P722 KCR) in a non-standard livery with coloured bands above the windows. Fareham August 2007 Following this years service changes in Portsmouth service 3 is now mainly operated by Hilsea. 51715 (N715 GRV) in Grove Rd., Southsea in July The June changes in Portsmouth left only some 5 Ivecos in use - 52086 (M186 XTR) in Grove Rd., July 11th As a part of June's changes several more 709Ds moved from Hoeford to Hilsea - 51727 (P727 KCR) in Edinburgh Rd. on 5 Varios are recent arrivals at Hilsea from First Midland Red - 52558 (S558 RWP) on new route 19 in Pembroke Rd., Old Portsmouth All 4 Hampshire based Solos are now at Hilsea - 53151 works a journey on the 13 on July 11 Formerly a Dorset based bus, Vario 52602 on new route 4 in Stubbington Ave., North End Vario 52559 (S559 RWP) at Cosham Also at Cosham 51728 (P728 KCR) on the 11, which now provides the service to Port Solent Allaway Ave, Paulsgrove is the location of 51718 (N718 GRV) one of the few 709s still cream & red. The 8 links Hillsley Rd to Cosham The retro-fitting of LED screens to low floor buses has included Hilsea's Darts. 41633 (R633 VLX) in Pembroke Rd., Old Portsmouth Olympian 34258 rebuilt to open top using the front roof dome from ECW bodied 34757 crosses theTown Bridge in Weymouth Reinstated, and repainted, for the 2007 season Brisrol VR 39971 in Weymouth The former Eastern National Olympians 34810/4 are now at Weymouth, transferred from Hoeford 2 Volvo Olympians have transferred from Portswood to Weymouth - both are in this striking livery 2 other advert buses at Wemouth are 34503 - advertising Weymouth Bay Holiday Park and 34502, advertising the resort itself Repainted Volvo 66205 - now with LED display - in the countryside between Titchfield & Stubbington May 23rd Dart 42137 displays the new LED destination display in Stubbington May 23rd The 5th Olympian at Hoeford has recently entered service, looking very tidy after repaint & refurbishment. Stubbington May 14th 520602 (R502 NPR) in Hillsley Rd. The short lived 1B becomes part of new route 8 51716 (N716 GRV) arriving at Port Solent - to be served by new route 11to Cosham only from June 50300 (S406 GUB) leaves Port Solent. The 24A is to be renumbered 11 Iveco 52097 (M197 XTR) in Hawthorn Crescent, Highbury. The 25 will be Fareham - Cosham only with Cosham - Highbury becoming part of 8 - note Marshall bodied Mercedes 50088 (L556 LVT) in Allaway Avenue. The 25A becomes part of the truncated 25. 52083 (M183 XTR) at Baffins on the 27. This section of the 27 becomes part of new route 4 Dart 46329 in Hawthorn Cres., Highbury. The 60A is withdrawn completely, covered by other services 52081 (M181 XTR) in the bus-only section of Furze Lane, Milton. The 7 & 7A disappear, covered by new routes 4 & 19 52093 exits the bus-only section of Furze Lane on route 7 Buses arriving at Baffins as route 7 return as a 7A - illustrated by 52093 again, approx 20 minutes after the previous shot The new Volvos at Portswood have released 5 Vo Olys for transfer - 3 to Hoeford 34060 arrives at Stubbington Green on April 25th

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Wed Jan 10 2007 Transdev Yellow Buses http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c1064900.html The new image in Bournemouth as Transdev relaunch the Yellow Buses operation. All pictures taken on August 24th Sunday 27 August 2006: The new image in Bournemouth as Transdev relaunch the Yellow Buses operation. All pictures taken on August 24th

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Sun Aug 27 2006 Bournemouth - Yellow Buses http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c964177.html A selection of buses & coaches from the Bournemouth fleet. Again some of these are transferred from Webshots and are lower quality than usual, replacements as time permits. Saturday 20 May 2006: A selection of buses & coaches from the Bournemouth fleet. Again some of these are transferred from Webshots and are lower quality than usual, replacements as time permits.

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Sat May 20 2006 Unilink Southampton http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c914047.html The expanding fleet of Unilink, originally established to transport students around the various campuses of Southampton University but now becoming a major player in the city's transport network Wednesday 5 April 2006: The expanding fleet of Unilink, originally established to transport students around the various campuses of Southampton University but now becoming a major player in the city's transport network

Accord's Unilink operation started with a fleet of hired buses. Oldest was J955 SBU a Northern Counties-bodied Dart. Central Station Nov 2001 The remainder were low-floor Darts with a variety of bodywork. Alexander ALX200 bodied VX51 RBO in University Rd., Nov 2001 V377 SVV a Plaxton Pointer2 bodied Dart, previously used on airside shuttles, judged by the orange warning beacon. University Rd., Nov 2001 S779 RNE, another Plaxton bodied Dart - University Rd., Nov 2001 P831 BUD, another Dart, Marshall body this time. University Rd., Nov 2001 Unilink's own buses, Caetano bodied Darts were delivered in late 2001. HX51 LPL in New Rd., Southampton in November HX51 LPN also New Rd., Nov. 2001 HX51 LPJ makes the turn from New Rd. into East park Terrace, March 2002. An unusual sighting of Unilink outside Southampton; working a Park & Ride service in Portsmouth for the Festival of the Sea in August 2002. Not all the hired buses were returned after the Caetano Darts arrived. 2 Alexander-Dennis Enviro 300s were taken into stock to provide vehicles for the CityLink service taken over from First in Sep 2005 39 (MX55 NWK) the 2nd Enviro 300 in Castle Way; Sep 2005 Dart 17 (HX51 LPY) with the green logos for the CityLink service previously run by First: Castle Way Sep 2005 Omnidekka 35 (YN55 NFP) a Sep. 2005 delivery, Civic centre Rd. Sep 2005 Dart 13 with CityLink branding: Jan 2006 Scania-East Lancs Omnidekka passes the Civic Centre in Jan 2006 Omnidekka 35 on a frosty Jan morning in 2006 2 East Lancs bodied Darts were ordered fror the CityLink service and arrived in early 2006. the 2nd Citylink Dart turns into Central Station in Feb. 2006 Taken into stock on a long term lease from Wilts & Dorset in April 2006 were 2 Mercedes Citaros. 79 (HF06 FUA) on Civic Centre Hill April 2006 Citaro 80 (HF06 FUB) passes the Civic Centre, April 2006 New Omnicity 37 (YN06 CGO) in Burgess Rd. Elevated near side view of 37, taken from City walls Omnicity 37 at the company's depot in the Docks - dwarfed by crane YN55 NDY a Scania Omnidekka hired in to provide extra capacity at the start of the new University year. This bus was previously operated by Lucketts, Fareham on a Chichester Uni service. YN06 TGE an East Lancs Esteem bodied Scania demonstrator was used on loan by Unilink at the start of term - I didn't see it during its stay but here it is with Nottingham in August PL06 TGE an MCV Evolution-bodied Dart added to the fleet in April 2007 YN54 ALO a Scania OmniCity artic on loan for 10 days from May 30th for comparision with double decks on U1 OmniDekka 35 - named 2 former Oxford Bus Volvo B10B / Plaxton Verdes taken on hire from April 2008 - P629 FFC at the University interchange P629 FFC again, departing from the interchange P633 FFC turning onto the stands at the interchange and P633 FFC leaving the University interchange

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Wed Apr 5 2006 Blue Line Bluestar launch March 29th http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c906365.html Solent Blue Line have purchased 10 new Mercedes Citaros for the latest addition to the company's BlueStar network. A launch for the new services was held on March 29th at Gang Warily Leisure Centre on the Waterside Wednesday 29 March 2006: Solent Blue Line have purchased 10 new Mercedes Citaros for the latest addition to the company's BlueStar network. A launch for the new services was held on March 29th at Gang Warily Leisure Centre on the Waterside

4 of the new Citaros were present for the launch, from left nos 401/3/9/7 Nearside view of the 4 buses 407 ready for ceremonial launch View from the open-topper, nearly got all 4 displays at full brightness! Phil Stockley of SBL assists Clr. Tim Knight of Hampshire C.C. in the ribbon cutting The official party pose in front of the buses The buses carry a variety of promotional messages on the rear. All 4 rear ends showing the different messages carried interior view. Wilts Dorset 4922, currently on loan to SBL was present as a photographers

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]]> Wed Mar 29 2006 PEOPLE'S PROVINCIAL - Provincial Bus Co. 1987-1995 http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c884430.html Photos covering the period when Provincial was an employee owned business. Wednesday 8 March 2006: Photos covering the period when Provincial was an employee owned business.

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Wed Mar 8 2006 Rail Replacement - Spring 2006 http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c864625.html Photos of vehicles on Rail Replacement work at Fareham (in Feb 2006) and Southampton & Portsmouth (March 2006) 27.. filenames are at Fareham: 28.. at Southampton 28/29 at Portsmouth Saturday 18 February 2006: Photos of vehicles on Rail Replacement work at Fareham (in Feb 2006) and Southampton & Portsmouth (March 2006) 27.. filenames are at Fareham: 28.. at Southampton 28/29 at Portsmouth

Southdown 16273 & Hampshire Bus 16304 : Station car park Hampshire Bus 13634 : station car park SBL 708 with departing Wessex trains DMU in background Stagecoach South 16633 : car park Hampshire Bus 16643 ; station Hampshire Bus 16304 loads an FHD 66196 arriving at the station Hampshire Bus 13634 departs for Portsmouth Stagecoach South 16633 again, heading for Portsmouth Southdown 16281 SBL 709 after dropping off at Fareham FHD 34261 at Southampton Central on March 11th First Coaches 20203 parked up on standby at Southampton Central 3 services were running - direct to Bournemouth; to Totton & Brockenhurst; and a shuttle to Totton via Millbrook & Redbridge. Seaview Coaches were prominent on the Bournemouth runs. Y738 BPR is an Ikarus-bodied DAF Another Seaview coach also a DAF, but Van Hool body The Brockenhurst service was worked by First. Olympian 34062 on Western Esplanade Brijan Scania / Van Hool waits departure time, for Bournemouth, at Central station Stagecaoch had 2 buses out, both SWT liveried Olympians. 13634 turns into the station The Totton service was in the hands of Airlynx's Mercedes A16 LYX Yet another combination from Seaview. HF04 GXK is a Noge bodied MAN HF53 GVK an Ayats Atlantis of Seaview The 2nd Stagecoach Olympian 13640 arrives from Bournemouth R9 BJT a 2nd Brijan coach loads for Bournemouth First 34130 at Southampton Central

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]]> Sat Feb 18 2006 2006 - FIRST HANTS & DORSET http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c815740.html Developments in the FHD fleet during 2006 Tuesday 3 January 2006: Developments in the FHD fleet during 2006

The two remaining VRs at Weymouth - 39934 leads 39971 on August 25th Volvo Olympian 34016, transferred to Hoeford from Sept 18th: seen in Rowner Rd., on its way to HMS Sultan, on Sept 20th 34016 again, about to turn into Hoeford after running on the am HMS Sultan contract. 5 more are expected by the end of the year 34756, one of the Sultan contract regulars in Rowner Rd. Sept 20th. note route number, already set for the next working (a regular Oly. turn) 34814 returns to Hoeford after the am contract run from Collingweood to Sultan on Sep 20th Repaired after fire damage in March, Olympian 31836 is now back in service at Portswood. Castle Way Sept 23rd. Repainted as part of a commemoration of 75 years of operation of services 17/8, 66161 approaches The Hard Interchange on Aug 10th Nearside view of 66161 in Portsmouth colours. comparision with a standard liveried Volvo 66161 loads passengers for its 1st passenger trip in Portsmouth livery One of the many Pointer Darts to gain a new coat of paint in2006: 46314 leaving the Hard on Aug 10th In the run up to the World Cup several Hoeford based buses have gained One of the few minibuses remaining at Portswood - 50122 in Above Bar June 15th Something of a Lynx festival working the 80 on June 15th. First 62681 on the 13.30 ex Southampton then 62643 on the 14.20 34990 looking good for an 18 year old vehicle. Sister 34989 is now in Weymouth for the summer to work the Park & Ride service The first of the 2nd batch of Glasgow Darts that I've seen in service. 40791 in Commercial Rd., Southampton June 17th Dart 42129 pictured from the footbridge over Western Way, fareham Volvo 66204 in Gosport Rd., shame there wasn't a train passing 41634, a Hilsea based Dart on its way to Hoeford for attention 45300 the original Wright Handybus tackles the Quay St. roundabout Dart 42138 also at Quay St. roundabout, lovely spring flowerbed! 46309 the Dart retrofitted with the latest style of electronic number display in Gosport Rd. Mercedes 51716 crosses the old Gosport railway line on the Newgate Lane flyover Another of the Mercedes Varios at Hilsea. 50299 passing under the railway onto St Georges Rd. on April 7th The perils of modern bus driving. Dart 41643 bursts through the smoke in Clarendon Rd., Southsea on April 7th 46323 one of several Pointer Darts recently repainted in corporate livery approaching the Red Lion at Stubbington on April 26th Currently on loan at Portswood from First Coaches - 20203 a Volvo B12(T) with Plaxton Excalibur body. Portswood Broadway March 13 2006 31836 inside Portswood garage after suffering fire damage last week. Visible from St Denys Rd, just! 40825 one of the 4 ex Glasgow Darts now in use at Portswood - interesting display on the screen!. Pound Tree Rd. March 13th 40827, another of the ex-Glasgow Darts. Also in Pound Tree Rd., March 13th 42513 in Portswood Broadway. The 14 is a new service linking Bitterne and the city via the Airport! March 13th Something of a mixed run-out on the 17/8 services on March 13th. As well as the expected Volvo B10BLEs there was Olympian 34756.... ......bouncy castle Dart 45383....... ......UVG-bodied Dart 47307.... ..... and Pointer Dart 42728 showing its new route number display Some of Hilsea's Ivecos have been replaced by Mercedes Varios - 50300 came from First West Yorkshire Vario 52601 one of 2 transferred from Weymouth 52605 the other ex Weymouth bus turns into Stanhope Rd. All 3 pics March 13th 47303, last of the UVG bodied Darts to be repainted. Fareham b/stn Feb 27th 51714, another recent repaint, seen at Cosham on Feb 27th Van Hool Alizee-bodied Scania coaches continue to be hired from Devon based Target Travel for training work. Fareham b/stn Feb 27th Dart 46311, an unusual sight on the 17. No doubt a popular bus with Pompey's buggy brigade. Running repairs on Arrow 31951 in Pound Tree Rd. Jan 3rd 34533 the only remaining Roe bodied Olympian at Portswood made it into 2006. Above Bar St. Jan 3rd 31826, More former Go-Ahead Olympians are now in service. South Front Jan 3rd 31821 another ex London Central Olympian. Vincents Walk Jan 3rd 34810 one of two ex First Essex Olympians at Hoeford. Pictured in Stubbington Jan 20th. 40823 (R643 DUS): the first of the 6 ex First Glasgow Darts expected at Hoeford have now entered service. 40823 in Osborn Rd., Fareham Jan 27th The 2nd Dart now in use 40824 (R643 DUS) leaves Fareham b/stn on Jan 27th. Note these have electronic displays rather than conventional blinds.

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Tue Jan 3 2006 HANTS & DORSET http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c718983.html Photos representing the last 10 years of H&D, 1973 - 83. Saturday 8 October 2005: Photos representing the last 10 years of H&D, 1973 - 83.

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Sat Oct 8 2005 PROVINCIAL - Provincial Bus Co. 1983-7 http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c675912.html The combined Gosport & Fareham and Hants & Dorset operation in the final NBC years. As with other collections images with 8 digit filenames will be replaced by improved quality scans as time allows Friday 2 September 2005: The combined Gosport & Fareham and Hants & Dorset operation in the final NBC years. As with other collections images with 8 digit filenames will be replaced by improved quality scans as time allows

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Fri Sep 2 2005 Solent Miscellany http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c675626.html Photographs relevant to or taken in the area that don't belong in other collections. Friday 2 September 2005: Photographs relevant to or taken in the area that don't belong in other collections.

N46 OAE, a Mercedes 709 / Alexander previously with FHD in Dorset - and before that Southern national, North Devon and AA Buses in Scotland - now owned by Hampshire Search & Rescue A Neoplan of Zenith Travel, Lee-on-Solent, Fareham Jan 2007 P634 KTF a Berkhof Axial-bodied Volvo B10M op by Castle Coaches, Horndean - Fareham Jan 2007. Enviro300 of Hampshire Bus straying from the usual Park & Ride duty onto the 69 to Fareham - Jan. 2007 A Plaxton Prfile bodied Volvo B7R of Bakers Coaches, Enstone Oxfordshire at Fareham Stn. Jan 2007 Bailey's Optare Delta H396 SYG Commercial Rd, Portsmouth July 2007 TGM's Hovertravel connecting bus LK55 KZZ Edinburgh Rd., Portsmouth July 2007 YN56 NTE - Scania / Irizar YN56 FGG - Lucketts / Worthing Coaches Scania Omnidekka in Chichester University livery Grove Rd., Southsea July 2007 YN04 AVL Lucketts Neoplan Skyliner in Grove Rd., Southsea July 2007 Wilts & Dorset 706, previously an SBL Olympian back on home ground in Eastleigh Sept 28th Currently on loan from Southern Vectis, Wilts & Dorset's Olympian 710 passing Eastleigh Station, Sept 28th Operation of FHD service 22 in Southampton is currently subcontracted to A2B who use ex Arriva 709s in First livery. Above Bar St. Sep 21st An A2B MetroRider subs one of the orange City loop Ivecos - Pound tree Rd., Sep 21st L253 CCK a Volvo B6 ex Stagecoach makes an appearance on normally First liveried 709 operated service 22 on October 24th A rare survivor, now with Black & White Motorways, Winchester. OSR 197R Alexander-bodied Bristol VRT/LL new to Tayside. Winchester Nov 5th 2005 G501 VRV a Tiger new to Southampton's Baileys N986 FWT - DAFSB220 / Northern Counties - The hard August 2005 Brijan BT05 BJT - Mercedes Vario / Plaxton ? - Stokes Bay August 2005 Brijan 67 XJJ 668V - Bristol VRT/ ECW - Stokes Bay Aug 2005 Brijan 57 (TIL 4557) - Leyland Titan - Stokes Bay Aug 2005 Brijan N917 ETM - from the same batch as A2Bs First liveried Mercedes. Castle Way Southampton Sept. 2005 A generous coating of winter grime on Brijan's ex Stagecoach 709D G258 TSL: Bargate St., Dec 12th An unusual appearance of a Brijan liveried Mercedes on one of their BlueLine services. Southampton Civic Centre June 2006 Chapel End Coaches, Nuneaton B14 CEC - Dennis Javelin / Plaxton - Southsea Sept 2005 Coliseum JIL 8230 - Neoplan N316 - Brighton July 2005 Marshall bodied Dart of Countywide - Winchester Almost back home - former Southern Vectis Olympian WDL 695Y in the Portsmouth Dockyard coach park on Nov 7th Emsworth & District OUC 45R - Leyland fleetline / MCW - Worthing rally July 2005 Van Hool Alizee-bodied DAF of New Enterprise, Tonbridge. The hard Interchange Feb 27th Hellyers IAZ 4816 - Leyland Tiger / Plaxton Portsmouth Sept 2005 An Irizar bodied Scania of Hellyers, Fareham at The Hard, Portsmouth on Sept 12th M477 UYA a Bova Futura, previously with Priory Coaches & now with Hellyers. The Hard Interchange Sept 12th. With the Spinnaker Tower in the background Dart R146 COR heads for the Hovertravel terminal at Clarence Pier; Nov 7th Hellyers busy at work on rail eplacement on Nov 12th. Volvo B10M / Van Hool M664 KVU was new to Shearings. Newer coaches in use included BF03 HOF a 2003 vintage Setra of hellyers. 27515 the last of the 5 Enviro300s at Winchester currently resident in Lee is EHY 175C - thought to be ex Reading 26 (26 DP) a 1962 Duple (Northern) bodied Reliance n/side view of EHY 175C rear view, staus / use not known Wight Bus P139 TDL, a UVG bodied Dart: Church Litten, Newport October 2005 Wight Bus P125 TDL a Caetano Porto bodied Dennis Javelin: Newport Quay October 2005 Wight Bus HW54 DBZ an Alexander Dennis Mini Pointer: NNewport, Church Litten October 2005 793 UXA (orig. WLT 994) latest addition to Pompey's transport scene. Works tours for Lucketts Scania Omnidekka 8001, delivered in Sept 2005 for a contract with University College, Chichester. Chi Feb 15 2006 Marchwood Motorways 1045 MM - DAF SB3000 / Van Hool - Southampton July 2005 Some of Marchwood's DAF SB120s have had partial repaints into BlueLines new livery. 559 at The Bargate shows the result on Dec 12th. The overall blue SBL image is now spreading to Marchwood's Ivecos. Optare Delta 502 - recently refurbished and reregistered SBL 364. Castle Way Southampton June 2006 Pictured at Clarence Pier, Southsea on Sept 1st 2005 Y467 HUA is a Van Hool bodied DAF owned by Selwyn's, Runcorn

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Fri Sep 2 2005 STAGECOACH in Portsmouth / The South Downs http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c674738.html The fleet of Stagecoach's Southdown subsidiary, with the emphasis on the western area of operations Thursday 1 September 2005: The fleet of Stagecoach's Southdown subsidiary, with the emphasis on the western area of operations

A 1990 vintage Leyland Olympian, new to Hampshire Bus. Brighton July 2005 Portsmouth based Volvo Citybus painted into Southdown livery to mark the 90h anniversary of the company. Alton rally July 2005 Citybus 15202 is now back in fleet colours ex Southdown green - Petersfield July 2007 The 9 Volvo Citybuses are now concentrated on Chichester & Portsmouth garages. 15204 in Commercial Rd., Portsmouth Sept 2005 Volvo Olympian 16278 in East Street, Chchester: Feb 2006 In the Spirit FM livery applied in May 2007 - East Street, Chichester December 18 2007 Volvo Olympian 16309 in Queen St., Portsmouth on service 700, Sept 2005 16314 a Volvo Olympian. Brighton July 2005 Olympian 16356 working a Portsmouth area service in Queen St., Portsmouth Sept 2005 Olympian 16395, complete with Alexander bodied Dennis Trident. Brighton July 2005 Alexander-Dennis Trident 18514 Portsmouth May 2006 18520 passes 18515 at The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth may 2006 Trident 18515 The Hard Interchange, Portsmouth May 2006 Trident 18520, The Hard, Portsmouth May 2006 Trident 18525 loads at Chichester Cathedral December 18 2007 Volvo B10M 20461 working a pre-Xmas park & ride in Chichester - Chichester College December 18 2007 20461 stands in for a low-floor vehicle on the 700. Chichester-Bognor road Feb 19 2008 Volvo B10M 20610 on soon to be withdrawn service 38 - Peterfield July 2007 Volvo 20635, Chichester July 2007 Nthn. Counties-bodied B10M in South St., Chichester on a 700 working to Littlehampton, repklacing the Chi - L'hampton section of withdrawn 800 Coastliner Express: Feb 2006 B10M 20664 at the Chichester Cathedral stop on the Xmas P&R service - December 18 2007 Northern Counties bodied Volvo B10M 20667 - East Street, Chichester December 18 2007 Volvo B10M 20830 - new to Stagecoach Manchester - Chichester July 2007 Group standard Alexander Volvo 20833 on another newly branded service at Chichester. Dennis Lance 27407 in advert livery for Enviro300 27553 (GX58 GME) leaving Havant b/stn Oct 28 2008 New Enviro 27554 (GX58 GMF) enters Havant b/stn - Oct 28 2008 Enviro300 27554, first of the batch to replace Farlington's Super Pointers on the 23, York Terrace Hilsea Oct 31 2008 30141 one of 2 Plaxton bodied Volvo B6LE, an unusual combination, in the fleet. They were originally Hong Kong buses. Commercial Rd., Portsmouth Jan 27th A Worthing based Plaxton bodied Dart, previously with Stagecoach London. Brighton July 2005 Dart 32553 one of the survivors from the first Stagecoach order new in 1992. Chichester July 2007 A 2005 transfer from Oxford, 32613 in Chichester July 2007 33053 in Unicorn Rd., Portsmouth Oct 31 2008 Super Pointer Dart 33054 displays its livery for a Portsmouth radio station - August 2007 Dart 33057 now stripped of route 23 branding in preparation for transfer away. Cosham Oct 31 2008 Super Pointer 33066, Hilsea Oct 31 2008 Super Pointer 33071 in Cosham Oct 31 2008 33407 is a one-off. A Super Pointer-Dart it was operated from new until 2003 by Solent Blue Line in South West Trains livery on a rail-link service from the Waterside to Southampton Central Stn. Now works alongside similar vehicles at Farlington A recent transfer to Farlington from Hampshire Bus at Basingstoke - Dart 34110 in Southsea August 2007 Ex London dart 34197 working a Chichester - Yapton journey on the 700 - East Street, Chichester December 18 2007 34522 a Transbus Pointer Dart about to leave Arundel for Brighton on service 700; August 2005 34523 a Portsmouth based Transbus Pointer Dart SLF in Queen St., Portsmouth Sept 2005 Transbus Dart 34528 on the Basin Rd. level crossing in Chichester: Feb 2006 Services changes at the end of Oct. 2005 introduced low floor buses to Chichester area services. Dart 34529 displays branding for service 52 Nearside view of the Dart 34531 without any branding apart from Pointer Dart 34531 passes Chichester cathedral, July 2007

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Thu Sep 1 2005 Solent Blueline - current fleet http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c629183.html A gallery of the vehicles in the SBL fleet. Now includes the Marchwood Motorways bus operation & from Sept 2008 the Unilink services in Southampton Monday 25 July 2005: A gallery of the vehicles in the SBL fleet. Now includes the Marchwood Motorways bus operation & from Sept 2008 the Unilink services in Southampton

on loan from Wilts & Dorset - Hobb Lane, Hedge End Feb 20 2008 Another view of 153 - Bosville, Boyatt Wood Feb 20 2008 153 again! North Miller's Dale, Chandlers Ford actually still on route D at this point making a rare appearance in Portsmouth on the X27 Winchester Rd. Chandlers Ford Feb 20 2008 Hamble Lane Feb 20 2008 Bournemouth Rd., Chandlers Ford Feb 20 2008 Volvo B10B 623 heads south, down a wintry looking A326, towards Dibden & Hythe - Feb 18 2008 First of the ex Oxford Volvo B10Bs to enter service

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Mon Jul 25 2005 FIRST HAMPSHIRE & DORSET http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c598837.html A selection of photos representing the current fleet Thursday 30 June 2005: A selection of photos representing the current fleet

Bridport based for schools work, Volvo B10M 20055 parked up in the bus station April 22 2007 Replaced on the revamped X53, now a training bus 20058 is a Plaxton bodied Volvo B10M-46: Weymouth May 2005 20059, another Dorset based coach (Volvo B10M/ Van Hool) in training livery but still showing an o/lic disc in August 2004. Portswood based trainer - A Volvo B10M-46 from the Southern national fleet. Southampton Sept 21st 2005 20062, still in a livery inherited from West Dorset Coaches is Volvo B10M / Plaxton: Weymouth station yard May 2005 20076 one of the 4 Ikarus-bodied Volvos new to Bere Regis & District: Weymouth May 2005. Dorset's newer coaches operate the X55 Bournemouth service, some such as 20437 are Volvo B10M: Weymouth Esplanade August 2004 B10M 20439 parked up in Bridport coach stn Oct 29 2008 21092 an ex First Wessex Dennis Javelin: Weymouth station yard May 2005 21120 another Javelin also new to Wessex as an Expressliner: Weymouth esplanade May 2005. Javelin 21120 alongside Olympian 34810 in Bridport garage yard Oct 29 2008 First of 2 Olympians from First PMT transferred to Hoeford. 30050 has been withdrawn from service recently. The 2nd Olympian at Hoeford, also ex PMT and Crosville. Queensway, Southampton Oct 3rd 2005 Ex Go-Ahead group Volvo Olympian 31820, Portswood Broadway, Mar 13 2006 Saints FM liveried 31825 makes an unusual mid-morning appearance in Stubbington. Nov 17 2005 Olympian 31826 (P926 RYO) - Civic Centre, Soutampton - Nov 7 2008 31828, an ex Go Ahead London Olympian, Vincents Walk, Mar 13 2006 One of a number of Olympians taken into stock at Portswood in late 2005 to release Dennis Arrows to First Manchester. Vincents Walk Dec 12 2005 Representing the Arrows in Capital Citybus yellow livery 31930 represents the Arrows still in First Capital red & yellow - Above bar St., Southampton Sept 21st 2005 31942 one of the tidier Dennis Arrows based at Portswood. 15 Volvo B7TL are the fleets only low floor deckers, based at Portswood. 32043 in Vincents Walk, Southampton The arrival of a large batch of Olympians in 2004 saw the end of the last Atlanteans. 34062 like most originated with the Cambus group. The ex-Stagecoach Olys are now being repainted - Hoeford based 34072 in Stubbington May 14 2007 Some Olys have been repainted with black window surrounds, which alters the vehicles appearance. 34079 in Pound Tree Rd December 2006 3 of the ex Stagecoach group Olympians came from Hull, including 34130 One of 3 ex Go-Ahead London Olympians based at Portswood. Photographed at Hamble after an afternoon school contract journey, Sept 2005 Newly converted Olympian 34258 climbs Portland Heights - June 2007 Dorset based Olympian 34502 rounds the Kings statue at Weymouth Olympian 34540 at rest at Bridport, Sunday April 22 2007 Hoeford based Olympian 34756 - Stubbington June 2006 Originally based at Portswood after transfer from First Bristol in 2002, Olympians 34756/7 are now allocated to Hoeford. Stubbington Nov 17 2005 A one-off in the fleet - the only Northern Counties-bodied Olympian. Weymouth May 2005 A 2005 addition to the fleet. New with coach seats 34810 gained bus seats on transfer from Essex The other ex-Essex Olympian in Barbie 2 livery. West St., Fareham New as Southampton Citybus 289 & now the last double-decker in the old red livery. Pound Tree Rd. Dec 12th 2005 Olympian 34989, temporarily in Weymouth for the summer season Numerically the first Omnidekka 36001 at Weymouth The 5 Scania OmniDekkas previouly in X53 livery now carry this scheme for the 31 (Weymouth - Axminster). 36001 at Bridport Oct 29 2008 36002 turns into Poole b/stn. OmniDekka 36002 Bridport Oct 29 2008 36003 in Poole OmniDekka 36003 Weymouth bound at Bridport coach stn Oct 29 2008 West Street, Bridport is the location for 36004. Oct 29 2008 36005 represents the Scania Omnidekkas in X53 OmniDekka 36005 Axminster bound in Bridport West Street Oct 29 2008

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

]]> Thu Jun 30 2005 2005 developments - FIRST HANTS & DORSET http://solentbusfleets.fotopic.net/c598827.html Changes / additions to First Hampshire & Dorset operations during the year Thursday 30 June 2005: Changes / additions to First Hampshire & Dorset operations during the year

A steady flow of second-hand ex Go-Ahead group Olympians are entering service at Portswood. 31836 (R336 LGH) in Above Bar on Dec 12th. Some Olympians are numbered in the 31xxx series, others, like 34249 (N547 LGH) are 34xxx! Castle Way Dec 12th The Olympians are displacing Arrows to First Manchester. However 31951 has received a recent repaint, suggesting the rumours that some are to remain in Southampton, at least temporarily, may be true. Dec 12th, Vincents Walk An unusual location, until now, for a First service. 40628 picks up in Castle Way at the replacement stops for the now pedestrianised High St. Dec 12th Also a consequence of the High St. closure. 42523 on the, now bus only, stretch of road to the north of the Bargate. Dec 12th 3 of the gas-powered Darts are now laid up but the others remained very evident in December. Here is now difficult to achieve shot of 2 Southampton red liveried buses together (49963 leading): in Above Bar on Dec 12th 49965 crests the rise at the top of Hanover Buildings, Dec 12th a recent repaint from Ross Records advert livery. Stubbington Nov 7th. One of the 4 Olympians transferred to Hoeford for contract work takes a turn in normal service. Stubbington Nov 7th Newly arrived at Hoeford from Portswood, MkII Lynx 62682 heads for Clarence Pier, Southsea; Nov 7th Now at Portswood being prepared for service are 4 Pointer Darts (6 are due) from First Glasgow. 40824 seen here in Glasgow shows they differ from FHDs own Darts in having electronic displays not blinds. Rail replacement services in & around Portsmouth in November in involved several local firms, FH&D included. Omnicity 65016 was at work on Nov 12th Also on Nov 12th, Portswood provided some Volvo B10Bs including 66129. 43848 one of 4 new Mini Pointer-Darts now on service 16 (Soutampton - Hamble). Woolston Oct 3rd 43845 in Netley, The 16 is now branded as No fleet number visible on P925 RYO, the latest addition to Portswood's d/deck fleet. In Saints FM livery to replace the Dennis Arrow. Pound Tree Rd., Oct 3rd Transferred from Somerset & Avon in June. It has taken 4 months to get 42728 on the road at Hoeford. Stubbington Oct. 13th Former West Yorkshire Alexander bodied Dart 40623 now at Hoeford ex Portswood. Fareham b/stn October 24th Several of the Marshall bodied Darts at Hilsea have had replacement panels fitted around the rear wheel arches, as shown by 41635 at The Hard on Sept 1st. Similar 2-door buses in London have had structural problems, is the same problem occuring here? Another view of a former fleet member - Somerset & Avon now run 66174 from Bath, seen in Salisbury on Sept. 17th 41516 now has this advert livery for Southampton City College. Vincents Walk Sept 21st At the start of the school year 6 BMC schoolbuses began operating to Kings School, Winchester. 68561 lays over in the traditional location for Portswood's school buses Recently transferred into Portswood from Bridport. The closure of the Bargate bus stops in Southampton has displaced the ex Provincial services to new locations. The 78 now departs from Castle Way. The 72/80 are temporarily terminating in Queensway. Here 46328 circles the roundabout to its new departure stop outside Debenhams after dropping of passengers Arriving 72/80s terminate on the other side of Queensway, where any stand time is taken. Lynx 62643 demonstrates 2 photos depicting the old order on the 16, about to be swept away by new Mini Pointer-Darts. Dart 42504 swings round from the stop in Hamble on Sept 29th About to become a much rarer sight, Olympian 34020 departs Hamble on a 16A. Sept 29th First's other presence in hamble is the Thursday only 58 to Eastleigh. Here 66202 leaves after completing the last trip of the day at 4.45pm Several BMC 1100FE schoolbuses are arriving for use at Portswood. HX05 BUO one of 2 already in use, pictured at Stokes Bay rally Aug 29th 51726 the first of the 4 Ross Records adverts to receive fleet livery. Stokes bay rally Aug 29th 62641 is the 2nd Lynx at Hoeford to be repainted. Stokes Bay rally Aug 29th The Volvo's from Hilsea now with Somerset & Avon are allocated to Taunton as well as Bath. 66178 in the town on July 9th. 51719 the Mercedes 709 transferred to Western National in 1999 is now (July 2005) at work in Barnstaple Volvos displaced from Hilsea are at Hoeford & Portswood or transferred out to First Somerset & Avon - 66171 is now based at Bath; photographed June 2nd 66168 during its time at Hoeford; photographed in East Street, Fareham June 18th shortly before its move to Weymouth. First & Bus Users UK held a The new Solo currently has vinyl ribbon & gift tag A recent repaint out of an overall ad livery for Leightons opticians, 42507 at The Bargate June 28th. 50206 one of the 709s now at Portswood Portswood based Olympian 34509 has lost its opening front windows and gained a flimsy looking tree deflector. The distinctive new look has echoes of Marshall bodywork as supplied to Bournemouth 40620 one of the Darts from First West Yorkshire has gained a new coat of paint. Pound Tree Rd., Southampton June 28th The influx of Darts from Yorkshire and Volvos from Hilsea has seen the withdrawal of most Lynxs from Southampton. 62681 is a survivor, still running on June 11th 45307 a Wright bodied Dart transferred from First Cymru earlier this year on Weymouth Esplanade May 2005 Taken into stock in 2004 but not operated 45108 finally entered service, at Weymouth rather than Hoeford, earlier in 2005. Weymouth Esplanade May 2005 Now at Weymouth after spells at Hilsea & Hoeford Mercedes 709D 51460 rests in the exit from Weymouth garage, May 2005 20058 is now back in Dorset after a spell as Hilsea's training bus: Weymouth station yard May 2005 65020 one of Hilsea's Omnicities displaying the latest version of Overground branding in Waterlooville on May 3rd.

Published in Solent Area Bus fleets

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