Lancashire in September 1987
13th September 1987

123 photos from the week of September 10th to 17th 1987, posted here in the order in which they were taken.

A week long trip to the North West of England in 1987 covered visits to Bolton, Manchester, Preston, Blackpool, Lancaster and Chorley, mostly by public transport. Apart from the rail trip from Holyhead to Manchester, all travelling was done by local buses, using vehicles belonging to Ribble, Greater Manchester, Blackpool and Shearings.

The time period in question was when the UK bus industry was just starting to get to grips with deregulation and privatisation, and as a result many unusual workings and vehicles were to be found. Ex London Routemasters were working in Blackpool alongside ex Crosville and Strathclyde Leyland Nationals. The visit to Blackpool co-incided with a TUC congress being held in the resort, and so there were many visiting vehicles on private hire workings found in the town on the day. Blackpool also still had a few AEC Swifts left, which by then were getting to be a rare breed (and doubly unusual being in the Leyland stronghold of the Lancashire area as well), plus of course its long-lived Leyland Titan PD3s.

Further north, in Lancaster, could be found second-hand Atlanteans from both Bournemouth and Aberdeen, as well as a batch of Leopards with the short window bay Alexander AY type bus body. The Lancaster City Transport buses were in a very smart livery of two tone blue with white window surrounds, except for the red ex Grampian buses which had just arrived and merely had their front panels painted blue, presumably to distinguish them from the similarly coloured Ribble vehicles.....

Among the ranks of red Ribble buses on one side of Preston bus station were the distinctive two tone green Fishwick vehicles. Other operators to be found in Preston were Mercers of Longridge(with a former London Country Leyland National and an ex London Transport DMS), Yelloway and Blackpool Transport. United Transport subsidiary Zippy was running yellow and red Ivecos on local services, and this in turn led to the introduction of Preston Bus's own batch of Renault midibuses working alongside their 66 or so Atlanteans and a couple of Olympians.

In Bolton (my base camp for the week), coach operator Shearings had started running elderly Leyland Nationals on local services, with buses being sourced from GM Buses and Midland Red amongst others. Elderly and noisy they may have been (I sampled one on the run to Harwood), but the application of Shearings yellow, orange and white colours suited them well. Also in Bolton I encuntered Ribble's sole Leyland Lynx, an ex SELNEC L registered Atlantean in Ribble livery, and the rare TWH 697T, a standard GM Buses Northern Counties bodied Fleetline cut down to single deck.

Not to be outdone by the Blackpool AEC Swifts, ex Preston Corporation Leyland Panthers had entered service with Citibus Tours of Chadderton working on routes 51 and 61, the latter serving Cheetham Hill and passing close to a certain well known transport museum. These Panthers had taken the scenic route from Preston to Manchester, via the Isle of Man. Long established operator Maynes put in an appearance with another DMS on route 231.

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Ribble’s newly introduced post-privatisation livery added grey stripes to the existing red colour, as seen on this Park Royal bodied AN68 in Bolton. The bus was a standard NBC design of vehicle, intended for those fleets not requiring ECW bodied Bristol VRTs. Ribble however took both types into its fleet.
Ribble’s newly introduced post-privatisation livery added grey stripes to the existing red colour, as seen on this Park Royal bodied AN68 in Bolton. The bus was a standard NBC design of vehicle, intended for those fleets not requiring ECW bodied Bristol VRTs. Ribble however took both types into its fleet.
 GM Buses ran a variety of bus types, including Dennis Dominator 2028 seen in Bolton on 10th Septmber 1987.
GM Buses ran a variety of bus types, including Dennis Dominator 2028 seen in Bolton on 10th Septmber 1987.
 Both Bolton and Wigan depots were still running ex Lancashire United Leyland Leopards with Plaxton Derwent bodies, with this one (454) seen entering Bolton Moor Lane.
Both Bolton and Wigan depots were still running ex Lancashire United Leyland Leopards with Plaxton Derwent bodies, with this one (454) seen entering Bolton Moor Lane.
 GM Buses ran a number of coach seated Olympians in this distinctive Express livery. Seen loading on route 401 is 3245 in Bolton Moor Lane.
GM Buses ran a number of coach seated Olympians in this distinctive Express livery. Seen loading on route 401 is 3245 in Bolton Moor Lane.
Maynes also had a number of ex London DMS class Fleetlines, including OUC 35R seen leaving Piccadilly on service 231 on 10th September 1987. A curious thought is that this bus could have also worked through Piccadilly Circus in its original home.
Maynes also had a number of ex London DMS class Fleetlines, including OUC 35R seen leaving Piccadilly on service 231 on 10th September 1987. A curious thought is that this bus could have also worked through Piccadilly Circus in its original home.
 Crosville's orders for deckers in the 1980s was for Gardner engined Olympians, such as DOG147 seen in Piccadilly.
Crosville's orders for deckers in the 1980s was for Gardner engined Olympians, such as DOG147 seen in Piccadilly.
 New operator Citibus were running two routes in Manchester (51 and 61) and their opening fleet comprised these new to Preston Corporation Pennine bodied Leyland Panthers, which the company brought back from the Isle of Man. Subsequently Citibus bought ex SELNEC Atlanteans; co-incidentally these too came from the same island.
New operator Citibus were running two routes in Manchester (51 and 61) and their opening fleet comprised these new to Preston Corporation Pennine bodied Leyland Panthers, which the company brought back from the Isle of Man. Subsequently Citibus bought ex SELNEC Atlanteans; co-incidentally these too came from the same island.
 GM Buses ran a number of coach seated Olympians in this distinctive Express livery. Seen loading on route 224 is 3255 at Piccadilly Gardens, long before the Metrolink was even thought of!
GM Buses ran a number of coach seated Olympians in this distinctive Express livery. Seen loading on route 224 is 3255 at Piccadilly Gardens, long before the Metrolink was even thought of!
Newly arrived on the East Lancashire Railway in 1987 was ex British Rail class 40 loco D345, seen near Bury station.
Newly arrived on the East Lancashire Railway in 1987 was ex British Rail class 40 loco D345, seen near Bury station.
 An earlier preserved diesel loco on the East Lancashire Railway was Hymek D7076, restored to green livery.
An earlier preserved diesel loco on the East Lancashire Railway was Hymek D7076, restored to green livery.
 Luxury coach operator Shearings also had a go at the de-regulated bus service market, and acquired a fleet of elderly Nationals for the job. This one was ex Midland Red; others came from G M Buses and Devon General.
Luxury coach operator Shearings also had a go at the de-regulated bus service market, and acquired a fleet of elderly Nationals for the job. This one was ex Midland Red; others came from G M Buses and Devon General.
 Both Bolton and Wigan depots were still running ex Lancashire United Leyland Leopards with Plaxton Derwent bodies, with this one (458) seen in Bolton Moor Lane.
Both Bolton and Wigan depots were still running ex Lancashire United Leyland Leopards with Plaxton Derwent bodies, with this one (458) seen in Bolton Moor Lane.
GM Buses 8562 was one of hundreds of Atlanteans and Fleetlines placed in service, as seen in Bolton.
GM Buses 8562 was one of hundreds of Atlanteans and Fleetlines placed in service, as seen in Bolton.
 Ribble’s mark 2 Leyland National 840 was pictured on service 560 from Bolton to Breighmet.
Ribble’s mark 2 Leyland National 840 was pictured on service 560 from Bolton to Breighmet.
 GM Buses, faced with competition on the midi-bus front in several of its operating centres (including Bolton, where this one was based), launched a fleet of
GM Buses, faced with competition on the midi-bus front in several of its operating centres (including Bolton, where this one was based), launched a fleet of "Little Gems", eventually totalling upwards of 500 vehicles. Apart from van or truck derived vehicles like the Renault (above), MCW Metroriders were also bought.
 GM Buses ran a number of coach seated Olympians in this distinctive Express livery. Seen loading on route 401 is 3245 in Wigan.
GM Buses ran a number of coach seated Olympians in this distinctive Express livery. Seen loading on route 401 is 3245 in Wigan.
GM Buses Atlantean 8504 was photographed at the Wigan terminus of route 658.
GM Buses Atlantean 8504 was photographed at the Wigan terminus of route 658.
 This North Western National was new to Ribble in 1977, but had not been repainted when seen passing through Wigan town centre.
This North Western National was new to Ribble in 1977, but had not been repainted when seen passing through Wigan town centre.
 Another North Western bus, this National was new to Ribble in 1977. It was photographed passing through Wigan town centre.
Another North Western bus, this National was new to Ribble in 1977. It was photographed passing through Wigan town centre.
 Ribble’s operations in the Liverpool area were hived off to form a new company with an old name – North Western. The bus was one of several Olympians to be transferred, and this unusual livery was chosen. The bus was observed in Wigan.
Ribble’s operations in the Liverpool area were hived off to form a new company with an old name – North Western. The bus was one of several Olympians to be transferred, and this unusual livery was chosen. The bus was observed in Wigan.
Ribble’s operations in the Liverpool area were hived off to form a new company with an old name – North Western. The bus was one of several Olympians to be transferred, and this unusual livery was chosen. The bus was observed mingling with GM Buses deckers in Wigan.
Ribble’s operations in the Liverpool area were hived off to form a new company with an old name – North Western. The bus was one of several Olympians to be transferred, and this unusual livery was chosen. The bus was observed mingling with GM Buses deckers in Wigan.
 This Northern Counties bodied bus is visually typical of the mid 1980s deliveries to GM Buses. However, a closer look around the back end reveals the emergency exit is where the engine bay should be, as in fact this is a rare underfloor engined Volvo Citybus. Wigan depot had a trio of these buses, as well as a pair of Dennis Falcons and some Ailsas. None of these types were bought in quantity.
This Northern Counties bodied bus is visually typical of the mid 1980s deliveries to GM Buses. However, a closer look around the back end reveals the emergency exit is where the engine bay should be, as in fact this is a rare underfloor engined Volvo Citybus. Wigan depot had a trio of these buses, as well as a pair of Dennis Falcons and some Ailsas. None of these types were bought in quantity.
 GM Buses 8562 was one of hundreds of Atlanteans and Fleetlines placed in service, as seen in Wigan.
GM Buses 8562 was one of hundreds of Atlanteans and Fleetlines placed in service, as seen in Wigan.
 GM Buses, faced with competition on the midi-bus front in several of its operating centres (including Bolton, where this one was based), launched a fleet of
GM Buses, faced with competition on the midi-bus front in several of its operating centres (including Bolton, where this one was based), launched a fleet of "Little Gems", eventually totalling upwards of 500 vehicles. Apart from van or truck derived vehicles like the Renault (above), MCW Metroriders were also bought.
GM Buses, faced with competition on the midi-bus front in several of its operating centres (including Wigan, where this one was based), launched a fleet of
GM Buses, faced with competition on the midi-bus front in several of its operating centres (including Wigan, where this one was based), launched a fleet of "Little Gems", eventually totalling upwards of 500 vehicles. Apart from van or truck derived vehicles like the Renault (above), MCW Metroriders were also bought.
 One of Ribble’s earlier Olympians, with a low-height ECW body, was pictured in Wigan town centre.
One of Ribble’s earlier Olympians, with a low-height ECW body, was pictured in Wigan town centre.
 The first new vehicles purchased by North Western were these Carlyle bodied Freight Rover Sherpas, such as D27 TKA being dwarfed by a pair of GM Atlanteans in Wigan.
The first new vehicles purchased by North Western were these Carlyle bodied Freight Rover Sherpas, such as D27 TKA being dwarfed by a pair of GM Atlanteans in Wigan.
 Both Bolton and Wigan depots were still running ex Lancashire United Leyland Leopards with Plaxton Derwent bodies, with this one (442) seen in Wigan town centre.
Both Bolton and Wigan depots were still running ex Lancashire United Leyland Leopards with Plaxton Derwent bodies, with this one (442) seen in Wigan town centre.
Local operator Bolton Coachways were running this partly repainted ex GM Buses Leyland National, an example of a small independent expanding into the new world of de-regulation in the mid 1980s.
Local operator Bolton Coachways were running this partly repainted ex GM Buses Leyland National, an example of a small independent expanding into the new world of de-regulation in the mid 1980s.
 For many years, Abbotts Coaches ran a smart fleet of AEC Reliances in this red and grey livery. This 1977 Plaxton was seen in Bolton Moor Lane.
For many years, Abbotts Coaches ran a smart fleet of AEC Reliances in this red and grey livery. This 1977 Plaxton was seen in Bolton Moor Lane.
 Ribble’s mark 2 Duple Dominant Leyland Leopard coach 1259 is seen at Bolton Moor Lane picking up customers for an excursion outing. Note the alternate colouring on the seats and
Ribble’s mark 2 Duple Dominant Leyland Leopard coach 1259 is seen at Bolton Moor Lane picking up customers for an excursion outing. Note the alternate colouring on the seats and "Timesaver" fleet name.
 GM Buses Olympian 3014 was seen in Bolton with a Ribble Leopard and Abbotts AEC Reliance.
GM Buses Olympian 3014 was seen in Bolton with a Ribble Leopard and Abbotts AEC Reliance.
Luxury coach operator Shearings also had a go at the de-regulated bus service market, and acquired a fleet of elderly Nationals for the job. This one was ex GM Buses; others came from Devon General and Midland Red.
Luxury coach operator Shearings also had a go at the de-regulated bus service market, and acquired a fleet of elderly Nationals for the job. This one was ex GM Buses; others came from Devon General and Midland Red.
 Yelloway’s more traditional operations and livery is seen on AEC Reliance SBU 301R, about to depart from Bolton for Fleetwood.
Yelloway’s more traditional operations and livery is seen on AEC Reliance SBU 301R, about to depart from Bolton for Fleetwood.
 Yelloway’s more traditional operations and livery is seen on AEC Reliance SBU 306R about to depart from Preston for Fleetwood.
Yelloway’s more traditional operations and livery is seen on AEC Reliance SBU 306R about to depart from Preston for Fleetwood.
 Lancaster City Council was running the X40 service from Preston to Morecambe and this 1980 Leopard – Duple Dominant was seen in Preston between duties.
Lancaster City Council was running the X40 service from Preston to Morecambe and this 1980 Leopard – Duple Dominant was seen in Preston between duties.
Ribble’s newly introduced post-privatisation livery added grey stripes to the existing red colour, as seen on this Park Royal bodied AN68 in Preston. The bus was a standard NBC design of vehicle, intended for those fleets not requiring ECW bodied Bristol VRTs. Ribble however took both types into its fleet.
Ribble’s newly introduced post-privatisation livery added grey stripes to the existing red colour, as seen on this Park Royal bodied AN68 in Preston. The bus was a standard NBC design of vehicle, intended for those fleets not requiring ECW bodied Bristol VRTs. Ribble however took both types into its fleet.
 Ribble 1424, seen in Preston, was a full height ECW body on a Leyland Atlantean chassis.
Ribble 1424, seen in Preston, was a full height ECW body on a Leyland Atlantean chassis.
 Mercers varied fleet also included this 12 metre Duple bodied Leopard, seen in Preston bus station.
Mercers varied fleet also included this 12 metre Duple bodied Leopard, seen in Preston bus station.
 Blackpool ran four of these East Lancs bodied Dennis Lancets, with 596 seen in Preston bus station.
Blackpool ran four of these East Lancs bodied Dennis Lancets, with 596 seen in Preston bus station.
The newest operator then to be found in Preston was the short-lived Zippy operation with its almost all yellow painted fleet of Iveco midi-buses.
The newest operator then to be found in Preston was the short-lived Zippy operation with its almost all yellow painted fleet of Iveco midi-buses.
 Just about the only allover advert bus I photographed that week, was this full height ECW bodied Leyland AN68 Atlantean seen in Preston.
Just about the only allover advert bus I photographed that week, was this full height ECW bodied Leyland AN68 Atlantean seen in Preston.
 JFR 393N was one of a number of East Lancs bodied Atlanteans acquired by Ribble from Blacburn Borough Transport, seen here in Preston.
JFR 393N was one of a number of East Lancs bodied Atlanteans acquired by Ribble from Blacburn Borough Transport, seen here in Preston.
 Ribble’s mark 2 Duple Dominant Leyland Leopard coach 1106, new in 1978 is seen resting at Preston bus station.
Ribble’s mark 2 Duple Dominant Leyland Leopard coach 1106, new in 1978 is seen resting at Preston bus station.
The long established John Fishwick and Sons were running a number of two tone green Nationals in 1987. One of their later examples, number 32, is seen in Preston bus station, contrasting with a red Ribble example in the background.
The long established John Fishwick and Sons were running a number of two tone green Nationals in 1987. One of their later examples, number 32, is seen in Preston bus station, contrasting with a red Ribble example in the background.
 The long established John Fishwick and Sons were running a number of two tone green Nationals in 1987. One of their later examples, number 24, is seen in Preston bus station, with various Ribble buses in the background.
The long established John Fishwick and Sons were running a number of two tone green Nationals in 1987. One of their later examples, number 24, is seen in Preston bus station, with various Ribble buses in the background.
 The long established John Fishwick and Sons were running a number of two tone green Nationals in 1987. One of their earlier examples, number 21, is seen leaving Preston bus station.
The long established John Fishwick and Sons were running a number of two tone green Nationals in 1987. One of their earlier examples, number 21, is seen leaving Preston bus station.
 The newest operator then to be found in Preston was the short-lived Zippy operation with its almost all yellow painted fleet of Iveco midi-buses.
The newest operator then to be found in Preston was the short-lived Zippy operation with its almost all yellow painted fleet of Iveco midi-buses.
Preston’s last Atlantean was also bodied by East Lancs, featuring a one-piece upper deck windscreen.
Preston’s last Atlantean was also bodied by East Lancs, featuring a one-piece upper deck windscreen.
 Mercers also were running this ex London Country National, NPD 140L, seen leaving Preston bus station.
Mercers also were running this ex London Country National, NPD 140L, seen leaving Preston bus station.
 Preston turned to Northern Counties and Renault/Dodge for its midi-bus requirements. These vehicles were introduced in response to the launch of the United Transport
Preston turned to Northern Counties and Renault/Dodge for its midi-bus requirements. These vehicles were introduced in response to the launch of the United Transport "Zippy" services in the town.
 Like Blackpool, Preston was a late convert to the rear engined double decker, with the first ten Alexander bodied Atlanteans arriving in 1975. This W registered bus, number 157, carries an East Lancs body, which was the preferred choice for the operator.
Like Blackpool, Preston was a late convert to the rear engined double decker, with the first ten Alexander bodied Atlanteans arriving in 1975. This W registered bus, number 157, carries an East Lancs body, which was the preferred choice for the operator.
Like Blackpool, Preston was a late convert to the rear engined double decker, with the first ten Alexander bodied Atlanteans arriving in 1975. This Y registered bus, number 176, carries an East Lancs body, which was the preferred choice for the operator.
Like Blackpool, Preston was a late convert to the rear engined double decker, with the first ten Alexander bodied Atlanteans arriving in 1975. This Y registered bus, number 176, carries an East Lancs body, which was the preferred choice for the operator.
 Preston turned to Northern Counties and Renault/Dodge for its midi-bus requirements. These vehicles were introduced in response to the launch of the United Transport
Preston turned to Northern Counties and Renault/Dodge for its midi-bus requirements. These vehicles were introduced in response to the launch of the United Transport "Zippy" services in the town.
 Like Blackpool, Preston was a late convert to the rear engined double decker, with the first ten Alexander bodied Atlanteans arriving in 1975. Seen above is the last of the batch of the ten Alexander bodied buses.
Like Blackpool, Preston was a late convert to the rear engined double decker, with the first ten Alexander bodied Atlanteans arriving in 1975. Seen above is the last of the batch of the ten Alexander bodied buses.
 Like Blackpool, Preston was a late convert to the rear engined double decker, with the first ten Alexander bodied Atlanteans arriving in 1975. This T registered bus, number 131, carries an East Lancs body, which was the preferred choice for the operator.
Like Blackpool, Preston was a late convert to the rear engined double decker, with the first ten Alexander bodied Atlanteans arriving in 1975. This T registered bus, number 131, carries an East Lancs body, which was the preferred choice for the operator.
The newest operator then to be found in Preston was the short-lived Zippy operation with its almost all yellow painted fleet of Iveco midi-buses.
The newest operator then to be found in Preston was the short-lived Zippy operation with its almost all yellow painted fleet of Iveco midi-buses.
 Preston turned to Northern Counties and Renault/Dodge for its midi-bus requirements. These vehicles were introduced in response to the launch of the United Transport
Preston turned to Northern Counties and Renault/Dodge for its midi-bus requirements. These vehicles were introduced in response to the launch of the United Transport "Zippy" services in the town.
 The long established John Fishwick and Sons were running a number of two tone green Nationals in 1987. One of their later examples, number 7, is seen entering Preston bus station.
The long established John Fishwick and Sons were running a number of two tone green Nationals in 1987. One of their later examples, number 7, is seen entering Preston bus station.
 The long established John Fishwick and Sons were running a number of two tone green Nationals in 1987. One of their later examples, number 9, is seen entering Preston bus station.
The long established John Fishwick and Sons were running a number of two tone green Nationals in 1987. One of their later examples, number 9, is seen entering Preston bus station.
It was rare for Preston Bus to buy secondhand, but four Nationals new to Southport came from Merseyside PTE. Number 5 (YFY !M) is seen arriving in Preston bus station.
It was rare for Preston Bus to buy secondhand, but four Nationals new to Southport came from Merseyside PTE. Number 5 (YFY !M) is seen arriving in Preston bus station.
 And, change windows, repaint it, but it still looks like a DMS, doesn’t it? The former DMS2222 is seen entering Preston bus station on 11th September 1987 in the ownership of Mercers of Longridge.
And, change windows, repaint it, but it still looks like a DMS, doesn’t it? The former DMS2222 is seen entering Preston bus station on 11th September 1987 in the ownership of Mercers of Longridge.
 The long established John Fishwick and Sons were running a number of two tone green Nationals in 1987. One of their later examples, number 26, is seen in Preston bus station, passing the Mercers Duple Dominant coach.
The long established John Fishwick and Sons were running a number of two tone green Nationals in 1987. One of their later examples, number 26, is seen in Preston bus station, passing the Mercers Duple Dominant coach.
 During the 1970s, Ribble placed large numbers of Leyland Nationals in service, of which number 427, new in 1974, represented the mark 1 version.
During the 1970s, Ribble placed large numbers of Leyland Nationals in service, of which number 427, new in 1974, represented the mark 1 version.
Lancaster City Transport had a smart livery of white and two tone blue. This 1977 Leopard – Alexander, 311, was one of many similar buses in the fleet.
Lancaster City Transport had a smart livery of white and two tone blue. This 1977 Leopard – Alexander, 311, was one of many similar buses in the fleet.
 Ribble's entry into minibus operation included Freight Rover Sherpa 596 seen in Lancaster, with a municipal Leopard in the background.
Ribble's entry into minibus operation included Freight Rover Sherpa 596 seen in Lancaster, with a municipal Leopard in the background.
 Crosville CTL72, a Duple Carribbean bodied Leyland Tiger, was seen on a visit to Lancaster.
Crosville CTL72, a Duple Carribbean bodied Leyland Tiger, was seen on a visit to Lancaster.
 This Plaxton bodied Volvo coach was also noted in Lancaster bus station. Its Glasgow registration letters fitted in well with all the Alexander products then in use in the town.
This Plaxton bodied Volvo coach was also noted in Lancaster bus station. Its Glasgow registration letters fitted in well with all the Alexander products then in use in the town.
South Wales UC230, a Duple Laser bodied Leyland Tiger, was seen on a visit to Lancaster.
South Wales UC230, a Duple Laser bodied Leyland Tiger, was seen on a visit to Lancaster.
 Lancaster had a number of both new and second-hand Atlanteans. This East Lancs bodied AN68 was one of those bought new.
Lancaster had a number of both new and second-hand Atlanteans. This East Lancs bodied AN68 was one of those bought new.
 Lancaster had a number of both new and second-hand Atlanteans. This East Lancs bodied AN68 was one of those bought new.
Lancaster had a number of both new and second-hand Atlanteans. This East Lancs bodied AN68 was one of those bought new.
 Greater attention was paid to the six Atlanteans acquired by Lancaster from Bournemouth, and the fleet colours sat well on these vehicles. When photographed in 1987, these buses were 17 years old.
Greater attention was paid to the six Atlanteans acquired by Lancaster from Bournemouth, and the fleet colours sat well on these vehicles. When photographed in 1987, these buses were 17 years old.
Greater attention was paid to the six Atlanteans acquired by Lancaster from Bournemouth, and the fleet colours sat well on these vehicles. When photographed in 1987, these buses were 17 years old. 247 was later preserved in Ireland, going there via a Welsh operator.
Greater attention was paid to the six Atlanteans acquired by Lancaster from Bournemouth, and the fleet colours sat well on these vehicles. When photographed in 1987, these buses were 17 years old. 247 was later preserved in Ireland, going there via a Welsh operator.
 Greater attention was paid to the six Atlanteans acquired by Lancaster from Bournemouth, and the fleet colours sat well on these vehicles. When photographed in 1987, these buses were 17 years old.
Greater attention was paid to the six Atlanteans acquired by Lancaster from Bournemouth, and the fleet colours sat well on these vehicles. When photographed in 1987, these buses were 17 years old.
 Also seen in Lancaster was the sort of problem which every coach and bus operator would prefer to avoid. Whether it was deliberate or accidental, the end result is having the vehicle out of service until the replacement window can be fitted. The coach is a Duple Dominant III, which typified Anglo-Scottish express services in the early and mid 1980s.
Also seen in Lancaster was the sort of problem which every coach and bus operator would prefer to avoid. Whether it was deliberate or accidental, the end result is having the vehicle out of service until the replacement window can be fitted. The coach is a Duple Dominant III, which typified Anglo-Scottish express services in the early and mid 1980s.
 Lancaster City Transport had a smart livery of white and two tone blue. This 1977 Leopard – Alexander, 310, was one of many similar buses in the fleet.
Lancaster City Transport had a smart livery of white and two tone blue. This 1977 Leopard – Alexander, 310, was one of many similar buses in the fleet.
Lancaster City Transport had a smart livery of white and two tone blue. This 1977 Leopard – Alexander, 309, was one of many similar buses in the fleet.
Lancaster City Transport had a smart livery of white and two tone blue. This 1977 Leopard – Alexander, 309, was one of many similar buses in the fleet.
 Lancaster also acquired some AN68s from Grampian Transport and placed them in use in Grampian colours with just the front panel painted blue.
Lancaster also acquired some AN68s from Grampian Transport and placed them in use in Grampian colours with just the front panel painted blue.
 Lancaster City Transport had a smart livery of white and two tone blue. This 1977 Leopard – Alexander, 20R, had an Alexander AY body rather than the AYS type on the 300 series buses.
Lancaster City Transport had a smart livery of white and two tone blue. This 1977 Leopard – Alexander, 20R, had an Alexander AY body rather than the AYS type on the 300 series buses.
 Lancaster had a number of both new and second-hand Atlanteans. This East Lancs bodied AN68 was one of those bought new.
Lancaster had a number of both new and second-hand Atlanteans. This East Lancs bodied AN68 was one of those bought new.
One of Ribble’s earlier Olympians, with a low-height ECW body, was pictured entering Lancaster bus station. The other two vehicles (a Sherpa and an Iveco) are also from the Ribble fleet.
One of Ribble’s earlier Olympians, with a low-height ECW body, was pictured entering Lancaster bus station. The other two vehicles (a Sherpa and an Iveco) are also from the Ribble fleet.
 Ribble’s mark 2 Leyland National 879 was pictured on service 109 in Chorley, which was then jointly worked with Fishwicks.
Ribble’s mark 2 Leyland National 879 was pictured on service 109 in Chorley, which was then jointly worked with Fishwicks.
 One of many Duple Dominant coaches in the Ribble fleet, PCW 677P received the Ribble edition of the later NBC coach livery, and was resting at Chorley when seen.
One of many Duple Dominant coaches in the Ribble fleet, PCW 677P received the Ribble edition of the later NBC coach livery, and was resting at Chorley when seen.
 Ribble’s operations in the Liverpool area were hived off to form a new company with an old name – North Western. The bus was one of several Olympians to be transferred, and this unusual livery was chosen. The bus was observed in Chorley.
Ribble’s operations in the Liverpool area were hived off to form a new company with an old name – North Western. The bus was one of several Olympians to be transferred, and this unusual livery was chosen. The bus was observed in Chorley.
Another operator to take advantage of the availability of used GM Buses vehicles was Ribble who acquired a number of SELNEC designed Atlanteans, such as Bolton based VNB 124L, then some fifteen years old.
Another operator to take advantage of the availability of used GM Buses vehicles was Ribble who acquired a number of SELNEC designed Atlanteans, such as Bolton based VNB 124L, then some fifteen years old.
 Emblings C924 PFL in Blackpool.
Emblings C924 PFL in Blackpool.
 Seen outside Blackpool was Plaxton Viewmaster YBW 473X owned by Mott, Stoke Mandeville.
Seen outside Blackpool was Plaxton Viewmaster YBW 473X owned by Mott, Stoke Mandeville.
 As part of the TUC traffic to Blackpool on that weekend, London Country sent this high-floor Plaxton Paramount bodied Tiger, which was new in 1985. Behind it is one of the Flexibus, Belfast Iveco 49-10s.
As part of the TUC traffic to Blackpool on that weekend, London Country sent this high-floor Plaxton Paramount bodied Tiger, which was new in 1985. Behind it is one of the Flexibus, Belfast Iveco 49-10s.
Blackpool also had this visitor from the Midlands, BVP 779V, a 1979 Plaxton Supreme bodied Leyland Leopard supplied by Midland Fox of Leicester. Note the second coach in a similar livery layout but with different colours, Cambus possibly?
Blackpool also had this visitor from the Midlands, BVP 779V, a 1979 Plaxton Supreme bodied Leyland Leopard supplied by Midland Fox of Leicester. Note the second coach in a similar livery layout but with different colours, Cambus possibly?
 Blackpool Transport 526 (ex London RM1735) seen near Blackpool tramsheds on 12th September 1987.
Blackpool Transport 526 (ex London RM1735) seen near Blackpool tramsheds on 12th September 1987.
 Although Blackpool Corporation bought their last Titans in 1968, the final survivors in service were these 1967 examples. 512 is seen in Blackpool on route 12.
Although Blackpool Corporation bought their last Titans in 1968, the final survivors in service were these 1967 examples. 512 is seen in Blackpool on route 12.
 For many years, Abbotts Coaches ran a smart fleet of AEC Reliances in this red and grey livery. This 1979 Duple Dominant was among the vehicles auctioned in 2000 when the company closed down.
For many years, Abbotts Coaches ran a smart fleet of AEC Reliances in this red and grey livery. This 1979 Duple Dominant was among the vehicles auctioned in 2000 when the company closed down.
This Maidstone and District Leopard was found parked at a private hotel along the Blackpool seafront. The coach has a Duple Dominant body new in 1980.
This Maidstone and District Leopard was found parked at a private hotel along the Blackpool seafront. The coach has a Duple Dominant body new in 1980.
 Seen in Blackpool was this re-registered Plaxton Supreme bodied Ford R1114 on National Express contract work.
Seen in Blackpool was this re-registered Plaxton Supreme bodied Ford R1114 on National Express contract work.
 Initially six Routemasters were bought and used on route 12, Blackpool to St. Annes. 525, ex RM1650 is seen in Talbot Road station on September 12th 1987.
Initially six Routemasters were bought and used on route 12, Blackpool to St. Annes. 525, ex RM1650 is seen in Talbot Road station on September 12th 1987.
 Another local independent in Blackpool was Jackson’s Coaches and they had this late model Bedford YNV with Duple coachwork, new in 1986. Bedford ceased manufacture of bus and truck chassis in that year, while Duple went out of business in 1989.
Another local independent in Blackpool was Jackson’s Coaches and they had this late model Bedford YNV with Duple coachwork, new in 1986. Bedford ceased manufacture of bus and truck chassis in that year, while Duple went out of business in 1989.
Initially six Routemasters were bought and used on route 12, Blackpool to St. Annes. Ex RM1627 is seen crossing the tramlines near Rigby Road tramsheds.
Initially six Routemasters were bought and used on route 12, Blackpool to St. Annes. Ex RM1627 is seen crossing the tramlines near Rigby Road tramsheds.
 This Devon Conversions bodied Mercedes 608D, MDS 836Y of Campbell Coaches, was seen in Blackpool.
This Devon Conversions bodied Mercedes 608D, MDS 836Y of Campbell Coaches, was seen in Blackpool.
 Marshall bodied AEC Swift 570 was one of the last survivors of its type in the Blackpool fleet. The photo was taken in Talbot Road bus station on route 33 to Cleveleys.
Marshall bodied AEC Swift 570 was one of the last survivors of its type in the Blackpool fleet. The photo was taken in Talbot Road bus station on route 33 to Cleveleys.
 The other municipal operator on the Lancashire coast was Fylde Borough Transport. This Northern Counties bodied Atlantean is similar to the standard 1970s Manchester buses, seen in Blackpool.
The other municipal operator on the Lancashire coast was Fylde Borough Transport. This Northern Counties bodied Atlantean is similar to the standard 1970s Manchester buses, seen in Blackpool.
Initially six Routemasters were bought and used on route 12, Blackpool to St. Annes. 522, ex RM848, was however on route 14 to Fleetwood on September 12th 1987.
Initially six Routemasters were bought and used on route 12, Blackpool to St. Annes. 522, ex RM848, was however on route 14 to Fleetwood on September 12th 1987.
 The other municipal operator on the Lancashire coast was Fylde Borough Transport. This Northern Counties bodied Atlantean is similar to the standard 1970s Manchester buses, seen in Blackpool.
The other municipal operator on the Lancashire coast was Fylde Borough Transport. This Northern Counties bodied Atlantean is similar to the standard 1970s Manchester buses, seen in Blackpool.
 This London MCW Metrobus had brought delegates from the capital. It is seen outside Talbot Road bus station, which at the time in question contained a Routemaster. Now what a picture that could have been!
This London MCW Metrobus had brought delegates from the capital. It is seen outside Talbot Road bus station, which at the time in question contained a Routemaster. Now what a picture that could have been!
 Blackpool's Marshall bodied AEC Swift 594 pauses outside Talbot Road bus station.
Blackpool's Marshall bodied AEC Swift 594 pauses outside Talbot Road bus station.
Following the loss of three Atlanteans in a fire, Blackpool acquired three Olympians from West Yorkshire as repalacments, including 365 seen in Talbot Road.
Following the loss of three Atlanteans in a fire, Blackpool acquired three Olympians from West Yorkshire as repalacments, including 365 seen in Talbot Road.
 One of ten second-hand Nationals acquired by Blackpool, 547 was new to Crosville and was one of four to come from Wales. The others came from Glasgow.
One of ten second-hand Nationals acquired by Blackpool, 547 was new to Crosville and was one of four to come from Wales. The others came from Glasgow.
 Although Blackpool Corporation bought their last Titans in 1968, the final survivors in service were these 1967 examples. 515 was photographed from the top deck of a sister bus between Blackpool and Fleetwood.
Although Blackpool Corporation bought their last Titans in 1968, the final survivors in service were these 1967 examples. 515 was photographed from the top deck of a sister bus between Blackpool and Fleetwood.
 Although Blackpool Corporation bought their last Titans in 1968, the final survivors in service were these 1967 examples. 518 is seen at the Fleetwood terminus of route 14.
Although Blackpool Corporation bought their last Titans in 1968, the final survivors in service were these 1967 examples. 518 is seen at the Fleetwood terminus of route 14.
Before its founder sold the company and retired, Yelloway was a provider of express services to and from the Lancashire coast. This late model Leopard - Plaxton Supreme, SPY 373X was photographed in Fleetwood.
Before its founder sold the company and retired, Yelloway was a provider of express services to and from the Lancashire coast. This late model Leopard - Plaxton Supreme, SPY 373X was photographed in Fleetwood.
 Maynes of Manchester subsidiary company, Barry Cooper Coaches of Warrington ran a fleet of coaches in this red and cream livery, as seen in Fleetwood. A speciality of Coopers was rebuilding of older Leopard chassis and having them rebodied and re-registered as new vehicles, although this is not one of them. The tramway overhead power cables are just visible above the coach’s roof.
Maynes of Manchester subsidiary company, Barry Cooper Coaches of Warrington ran a fleet of coaches in this red and cream livery, as seen in Fleetwood. A speciality of Coopers was rebuilding of older Leopard chassis and having them rebodied and re-registered as new vehicles, although this is not one of them. The tramway overhead power cables are just visible above the coach’s roof.
 Between 1977 and 1983, 62 of these East Lancs bodied Leyland AN68s were placed in service. 359 from the last batch was pictured at the 14 terminus in Fleetwood.
Between 1977 and 1983, 62 of these East Lancs bodied Leyland AN68s were placed in service. 359 from the last batch was pictured at the 14 terminus in Fleetwood.
 At the time of my visit, Ribble had just one Leyland Lynx in its fleet, numbered 901. Here it’s seen on a Sunday working of service 525 in Bolton bus station.
At the time of my visit, Ribble had just one Leyland Lynx in its fleet, numbered 901. Here it’s seen on a Sunday working of service 525 in Bolton bus station.
Luxury coach operator Shearings also had a go at the de-regulated bus service market, and acquired a fleet of elderly Nationals for the job. This one was ex Devon General; others came from Midland Red and GM Buses.
Luxury coach operator Shearings also had a go at the de-regulated bus service market, and acquired a fleet of elderly Nationals for the job. This one was ex Devon General; others came from Midland Red and GM Buses.
 Rossendale Transport buses could also be found working into Bolton at that time, with Atlantean 25 being seen on a Sunday service.
Rossendale Transport buses could also be found working into Bolton at that time, with Atlantean 25 being seen on a Sunday service.
 An older Leyland Panther with Citibus was this example with Marshall bodywork, KRN 218H.
An older Leyland Panther with Citibus was this example with Marshall bodywork, KRN 218H.
 The only other Metrobus seen that week was GM Buses 5011, on Cheetham Hill Road.
The only other Metrobus seen that week was GM Buses 5011, on Cheetham Hill Road.
Yelloway in their final months turned to running used deckers on local routes in Manchester, including Bristol VRT PRR 121L on 19th September 1987.
Yelloway in their final months turned to running used deckers on local routes in Manchester, including Bristol VRT PRR 121L on 19th September 1987.
 New operator Citibus were running two routes in Manchester (51 and 61) and their opening fleet comprised these new to Preston Corporation Pennine bodied Leyland Panthers, which the company brought back from the Isle of Man.
New operator Citibus were running two routes in Manchester (51 and 61) and their opening fleet comprised these new to Preston Corporation Pennine bodied Leyland Panthers, which the company brought back from the Isle of Man.
 An unidentified class 47 loco seen arriving into Manchester Victoria.
An unidentified class 47 loco seen arriving into Manchester Victoria.
 Derived from the Leyland National bus, British Rail placed a fleet of class 141 and 142 DMUs into service in the mid 1980s. 142046 is seen in Manchester Victoria.
Derived from the Leyland National bus, British Rail placed a fleet of class 141 and 142 DMUs into service in the mid 1980s. 142046 is seen in Manchester Victoria.
© 1998-2008 Shane Conway - All copyrights rest with the Author
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