tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-87029752089251347262024-03-05T08:44:54.405+00:00The Circle of London Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010709763661695170noreply@blogger.comBlogger288125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-39446517868947462442016-03-20T23:56:00.002+00:002016-03-20T23:56:45.093+00:00Cheers<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We would like to firstly say thank you for all your support over the past 5/6 years but as the old saying goes all things must come to end and I'm afraid this is the end of the Circle of London Blog as you know it. In early 2015 the team held a talk in which moving to a new site was discussed and in November 2015 we made that transition. Well I'll keep it brief as you can now find us on our new website...http://www.thecircleoflondon.co.uk which features most of our old content. Please note that this site is now archived and will not be updated any further.</div>
Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010709763661695170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-48451043207245507792015-11-05T19:31:00.001+00:002015-11-06T21:52:06.179+00:00London Recap - October 2015<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Another month passes by and another recap to record. A brilliant month for Arsenal fans and not so great if your team is from the South-West corner of London...Plenty of news and transfers this month so where do we start..<br />
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<b><u>New ADL Enviro 200's for Metroline Uxbridge</u></b><br />
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Seen here looking rather red at Uxbridge Station, is Metroline DEL2153 LK65 EAP one of ten that recently entered service on routes 331 & A10. Numbered 2145-2154, the vehicles were ordered against the 331 & U10, although they can be seen everywhere else bar the latter. They represent the first brand new buses for Metroline West, the West London subsidy of London super-group Metroline.<br />
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<b><u>New ADL Enviro 200's for Metrobus Orpington</u></b><br />
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The beginning of October saw the delivery and introduction of seven 8.9m E200Ds numbered SE261-267 at Metrobus' Orpington Garage for Route 352 which runs a 9 mile course between Bromley North and Lower Sydenham.<br />
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<b><u>New Routemasters on Route 149</u></b><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lv-OONq-xtc/Vjt1K8B5E8I/AAAAAAAADpI/xqreQtMFWuI/s1600/22412920321_9b4a02159a_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-Lv-OONq-xtc/Vjt1K8B5E8I/AAAAAAAADpI/xqreQtMFWuI/s400/22412920321_9b4a02159a_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Route 149 duly began its conversion from conventional diesel double decks to controversial Hybrid deckers in the form of LTs or the Borismaster if you like. The batch of 42 buses have numbers running from LT513-516 & 564-601 which replace the 400 series DWs onto the Enfield operated routes, which allow Arriva to get rid of 1st generation DWs and VLWs at the Garage.<br />
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<b><u>New Shape Metroline Wrightbus Gemini 3's</u></b><br />
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The last day in October saw the first of a new body for Metroline in the form of VWH2122-2144 as they took over Route 295 respectively from Tower Transit, operating it from their Willesden Junction garage. However not all of the chosen vehicles were <span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.32px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">available in good time both VW and VWH classes were drafted in from Holloway and Potters bar to make up for the shortfall. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.32px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;"><b><u>Poppy Buses</u></b> </span></span><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iMmxqxNZfKg/Vjt5rOvW-FI/AAAAAAAADps/uWIng02s3os/s1600/12074574_1107527075939158_1475262888087622110_n.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-iMmxqxNZfKg/Vjt5rOvW-FI/AAAAAAAADps/uWIng02s3os/s400/12074574_1107527075939158_1475262888087622110_n.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.32px;">London Poppy Day has been running for a number of years now, it is where the Royal British Legion try to raise one million pounds in one day. To mark this occasion along with Remembrance Sunday in November, a number of London Buses carry a special advertising livery.</span><a class="_58cn" data-ft="{"tn":"*N","type":104}" href="https://www.facebook.com/hashtag/ldnpoppyday?source=feed_text&story_id=1107527075939158" style="background-color: white; cursor: pointer; line-height: 19.32px; text-decoration: none;"><span aria-label="hashtag" class="_58cl">#</span><span class="_58cm">LDNPoppyDay</span></a><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.32px;"> </span></span><br />
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<b><u>Romford Iconic Running Day</u></b><br />
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Scenes from Romford's iconic running day have been placed below<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eYv8_aIxpP8/Vjt6x6p9ATI/AAAAAAAADqA/JLm0ulu6jsI/s1600/21942721874_4fdca45103_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="207" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-eYv8_aIxpP8/Vjt6x6p9ATI/AAAAAAAADqA/JLm0ulu6jsI/s320/21942721874_4fdca45103_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">RM324 (WLT324) is seen at Romford Market while working on the Route 103 to North Romford, Chase Cross, this is one of Stagecoach's Routemasters based at West Ham Garage for the Route 15 making a rare trip east.</span></span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gU96TsdC4b8/Vjt6x3az3rI/AAAAAAAADp8/k54Amas_idM/s1600/21944291333_45121066aa_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="209" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-gU96TsdC4b8/Vjt6x3az3rI/AAAAAAAADp8/k54Amas_idM/s320/21944291333_45121066aa_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">The Recently Restored RT1790 is seen at Romford Market while working on the Route 103 to South Hornchurch during the Romford Iconic Running Day</span></span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a0CNuUMZoKE/VjuDLxl4rgI/AAAAAAAADqU/MrUXImJZGgs/s1600/22522730961_db88076240_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-a0CNuUMZoKE/VjuDLxl4rgI/AAAAAAAADqU/MrUXImJZGgs/s320/22522730961_db88076240_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">MCW Metrobus 192 has recently been restored by Ensignbus and was shown off for the first time at the Romford Iconic Running Day, and is seen here arriving at Romford Market while working on the Route 365</span></span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-77Zkur6_j34/VjuDPHTWHPI/AAAAAAAADqc/EK2hILpvGAs/s1600/22485636116_a77e0caaa9_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="199" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-77Zkur6_j34/VjuDPHTWHPI/AAAAAAAADqc/EK2hILpvGAs/s320/22485636116_a77e0caaa9_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="background-color: white; line-height: 18px; text-align: start;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;">LT239 (LTZ1239) is seen arriving at Romford Market while working on the Route 103 to Rainham Interchange. This bus was one of many vehicles taking part in the Romford Iconic Running Day. </span></span></td></tr>
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<b><u>Last Day on temporary Route 541 </u></b><br />
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<a href="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BT5Hwonofzc/Vjt4IX24tXI/AAAAAAAADpg/q3niPOpsEBo/s1600/22570368576_9afee3537d_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="252" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-BT5Hwonofzc/Vjt4IX24tXI/AAAAAAAADpg/q3niPOpsEBo/s400/22570368576_9afee3537d_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="background-color: white; line-height: 19.32px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">The 30th day of the month marked the final day of operation for the 'temporary' Route 541 between Prince Regent Station and the Kier Hardie Estate via Canning Town Station. The route had been in operation for over two years, while Crossrail work took place at Custom House Station. The withdrawal of this route saw the re-introduction of the Scania type buses back at Silvertown Depot. </span></span><br />
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<b><u>347 Go-Ahead to Arriva and the unfortunate 'Ockendon' incident </u></b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-onk3RNgZM3g/Vjt6DXlb6yI/AAAAAAAADp0/1JHsXbo1O1o/s1600/22524284662_f5bc116f8b_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-onk3RNgZM3g/Vjt6DXlb6yI/AAAAAAAADp0/1JHsXbo1O1o/s400/22524284662_f5bc116f8b_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It should have been a dull takeover with boring E200s, but Arriva couldn't help but drawing attention during their takeover of Route 347 from Go Ahead, with the misspelling of Ockendon, which was printed Ockenden on the blinds. 4010 GN08 CHH was the 'new' bus chosen although its not the first time a new Arriva vehicle has operated on the Route 347, some may remember MDL1 YJ60 GGE and 10.3m VDL SB180 with MCV Evolution bodywork.<br />
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<b><u>324 London Sovereign to Metroline</u></b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GZJybIOSGQU/VjuuJX8iumI/AAAAAAAADrM/emKjGCLpcok/s1600/22495628625_dfc934b04f_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-GZJybIOSGQU/VjuuJX8iumI/AAAAAAAADrM/emKjGCLpcok/s400/22495628625_dfc934b04f_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The swap between London Sovereign and Metroline was completed when Route 324 was transferred to Metroline's Cricklewood Garage on the 24th of October, using the former batch allocated to Route 326. Passengers along the route can benefit from a higher frequency route along with larger buses.<br />
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<b><u>246 with refurbished MANs</u></b><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GtcVVs1lInY/VjuH1NtWR3I/AAAAAAAADqo/bPHcbYjKrmg/s1600/22484479955_3f27eeb8c0_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-GtcVVs1lInY/VjuH1NtWR3I/AAAAAAAADqo/bPHcbYjKrmg/s400/22484479955_3f27eeb8c0_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A type in exile is Evolution boded MAN 12.240, the type itself has only ever operated with three companies in London as has been plagued by rumours of its unreliability out the 55 or so ever ordered only around half remain. Metrobus chose to refurbish a small number of these vehicles got the recently won Route 246 which they took over from Stagecoach on September the 19th however the refurbished vehicles only returned in October.<br />
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<b><u>Metroline's TPs stay around for a while longer </u></b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-75Q_6krVgz0/VjusC-p-haI/AAAAAAAADrE/4bwM0kyKMZQ/s1600/21475903284_b6fa9809e5_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-75Q_6krVgz0/VjusC-p-haI/AAAAAAAADrE/4bwM0kyKMZQ/s400/21475903284_b6fa9809e5_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Following the gain of the 295, more of the TP class vehicles have come out of storage to be returned to both Holloway and Potters Bar whilst their buses are loaned to sister company Metroline West fill the void left by the buses left undelivered for the 295.<br />
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<b><u>Farewell to the DMC/DHL/DC</u></b><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9uKggtS8d9U/VjusAu0j85I/AAAAAAAADq8/qX3agBilKzg/s1600/21484311624_a75f6b7c31_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-9uKggtS8d9U/VjusAu0j85I/AAAAAAAADq8/qX3agBilKzg/s400/21484311624_a75f6b7c31_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Whatever you want to call it, this class of vehicle is now leaving London following the introduction of newer E200s on their respective Routes. Metroline have started their withdrawal following the new buses on the 331 and A10 as well as Tower Transit who have started following the delivery of their new buses <span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">,DMV 45112/3/4 and DM 45115-120. </span></span><br />
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<span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">Credits : Jacob - Route 324 Picture </span></span></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12685202089573349041noreply@blogger.com7tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-79912636822656005512015-10-07T20:20:00.001+01:002015-11-18T15:20:14.779+00:00London Recap - September 2015<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong><u>Camberwell Garage Open Day</u></strong><br />
An open day was held at Camberwell Garage on Saturday 5th September, featuring a yard crammed full of a wide variety of vehicles, possibly the best from an a open day I have been too. <br />
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A line up of the newer vehicles within the Go-Ahead London Fleet, from left to right we have Ei 2, an Irizar I8 electric bus, then WHV55 a Wrightbus Gemini 3/Volvo B5LH and on the end EB 2 another BYD Electric bus. </div>
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Ensignbus MD60 also attended the event and is seen here having worked part of the Route 36 from Paddington to Camberwell Green. </div>
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Some of the older vehicles present, but can anyone spot the odd one out... </div>
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<strong><u>Willesden Garage Open Day - Saturday 19th September</u></strong><br />
Two weeks after Camberwell came Willesden, a yearly event held by Metroline, traditionally much smaller than other events with a small selection of buses outside used on services around the local area and few more buses inside a static display's. There is always a large number of stalls which are always worth having a look at. <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuU9_oKc4KS8GSCt9sHzfM91NsMchGUerGA9eVG1dIc-tSyr2A4kWtZkM65vDR7M6VqZFayGlXUchApzd9WKMnKjTWxdT5TFYtErwn3BXe4x5rzWlA5IdNC4sm560O49kWdlYlUn1G4tc/s1600/DSC_0006-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjuU9_oKc4KS8GSCt9sHzfM91NsMchGUerGA9eVG1dIc-tSyr2A4kWtZkM65vDR7M6VqZFayGlXUchApzd9WKMnKjTWxdT5TFYtErwn3BXe4x5rzWlA5IdNC4sm560O49kWdlYlUn1G4tc/s400/DSC_0006-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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An unusual combination...</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmgAt1_B-9SSqD0hnwiBEhEyFxjFXXcPL01uXE6RuIgd1aHg266AFIlbouFc6azwPZJRqK9lNUzj6lgNxbJ3LlmqBepzzBoZGTv76VG3Ue8KEAj55IKJIBR3QwRAnQWXdlsvV1tOE7dAA/s1600/DSC_0013.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgmgAt1_B-9SSqD0hnwiBEhEyFxjFXXcPL01uXE6RuIgd1aHg266AFIlbouFc6azwPZJRqK9lNUzj6lgNxbJ3LlmqBepzzBoZGTv76VG3Ue8KEAj55IKJIBR3QwRAnQWXdlsvV1tOE7dAA/s400/DSC_0013.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Inside was a line up of mainly Routemasters with two RT's at the end. </div>
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<strong><u>The Return of the Suffix Part 2...</u></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh68yTSEtgRyMOggaOdnH5nBx5vyMXLivnrQjDiGEZuJowDajVkD-ZaF8eEq95WR17weFNA2K6B8omNw-zZyOS_WJCD9Aq1hEm1geGKdn1Nvx38Ja1OBiLt_rwVTQnDLxbTNQTJzzifDVM/s1600/DSC_0019.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh68yTSEtgRyMOggaOdnH5nBx5vyMXLivnrQjDiGEZuJowDajVkD-ZaF8eEq95WR17weFNA2K6B8omNw-zZyOS_WJCD9Aq1hEm1geGKdn1Nvx38Ja1OBiLt_rwVTQnDLxbTNQTJzzifDVM/s400/DSC_0019.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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For two weekends a year London see's the return of suffixed routes, the first as featured in the August Recap was the Notting Hill Carnival Express Services (2X, 36X, 205X and 436X) but the lesser known part two normally happens a week later for the Gunnersbury Mela where London United provide a Route 65X between Ealing Broadway and Gunnersbury Park and return. SP111 is seen at Haven Green, Ealing Broadway on Sunday 6th September. </div>
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<strong><u>Latest batch of London United Wrightbus Gemini 3's</u></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVzxnjbNboUdomaHJBTN0f2iYU71UOQAN3ZO2XgLJcLds5pacsGRC3iAxF3R07lLkZprcl6nBaWGC0mLcg2MObF8gPCWtpoOzcUVW4JBBJZzOvlT_lxNKPiUdomwpNeHGg8tPjvYA6mko/s1600/DSC_0005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVzxnjbNboUdomaHJBTN0f2iYU71UOQAN3ZO2XgLJcLds5pacsGRC3iAxF3R07lLkZprcl6nBaWGC0mLcg2MObF8gPCWtpoOzcUVW4JBBJZzOvlT_lxNKPiUdomwpNeHGg8tPjvYA6mko/s400/DSC_0005.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Route 116 was converted to Double Deckers in September and was the second London United route to gain Wrightbus Gemini 3/Volvo B5LH's, following on from an earlier batch for the Route 285, these remained in the traditional design and one is seen here arriving Hounslow Bus Station. </div>
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<strong><u>The Special One...</u></strong></div>
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Or it seems that way, September saw the return of Arriva The Shires ALX400 - 6123, following 16 months off the road. It returned in fully refurbished standard including the sapphire standard cream grab poles and full leather upholstery.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6Mj8Tp8BXA0NHGzIlnUHznQ8Wbz-0e96oLALPS4vQQGu6PRkuS2GxCLMzxsYNhQWlxfTg069Fn-YaaHL-WowWC96_zrptfTeVX6FSFT7X-lhDQ98stv5w6mACEH91tIAHsF_x5MwrkE/s1600/DSC_0029-7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgo6Mj8Tp8BXA0NHGzIlnUHznQ8Wbz-0e96oLALPS4vQQGu6PRkuS2GxCLMzxsYNhQWlxfTg069Fn-YaaHL-WowWC96_zrptfTeVX6FSFT7X-lhDQ98stv5w6mACEH91tIAHsF_x5MwrkE/s400/DSC_0029-7.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>Route 312 becomes the first fully electric route in London.</u></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwosIJALCo5sqYHYAQmzi4sBPeU9Pubr5bRm0PBy32SMnJRDs6tISjsEm_3mmKEmb36jMZYhgOd4YxShtQ8niLfTjUFA2u4RhQhCQqGI4POoU6n0j2Z3-14T3DgsqKvG6G3Lx6rHlxC5k/s1600/DSC_0092.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwosIJALCo5sqYHYAQmzi4sBPeU9Pubr5bRm0PBy32SMnJRDs6tISjsEm_3mmKEmb36jMZYhgOd4YxShtQ8niLfTjUFA2u4RhQhCQqGI4POoU6n0j2Z3-14T3DgsqKvG6G3Lx6rHlxC5k/s400/DSC_0092.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A new contract started on the Route 312 in September, this included a frequency increase and subsequent PVR increase meaning more EMC's where needed, it also mean't that this was to become London's first fully electric route. </div>
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<strong><u>Latest NBFL Adverts</u></strong><br />
<strong>Strongbow Cloudy Apple Cider</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqP90dP2FVRE8kWNczMVGeoG9eKVnexF-NjlDhwFUwhnMaNWkwjnIC0zVDlYUTj5WoO_ol2yY7MGoSoOjXCgR_WT4QBfpg85Yjs0R3jXhaOHugmMSSWaCwRW5LiP2VMi5oSXPlrEVaUiI/s1600/DSC_0002.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjqP90dP2FVRE8kWNczMVGeoG9eKVnexF-NjlDhwFUwhnMaNWkwjnIC0zVDlYUTj5WoO_ol2yY7MGoSoOjXCgR_WT4QBfpg85Yjs0R3jXhaOHugmMSSWaCwRW5LiP2VMi5oSXPlrEVaUiI/s400/DSC_0002.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This was actually a nationwide advertising campaign, with this advert appearing in full wrap form on a number of the buses around the country. But this one appears on one of the new routemasters from Stockwell, working on the Route 88</div>
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<strong>John Lewis 'Lemon' Home Store</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglz86iVTfRDFoB4fwJEKTXuu0oSJ6_ohhQsh2S8ARru46QdKzSY0V43Mt_GstsJJQrdpA31alhyNDSWy-HC4auyLTtGYXvbMaNwMiPQDvXmcoSm14IrDdZM_8x6T5TyZ0bI-3pG3QUPwM/s1600/DSC_0011.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglz86iVTfRDFoB4fwJEKTXuu0oSJ6_ohhQsh2S8ARru46QdKzSY0V43Mt_GstsJJQrdpA31alhyNDSWy-HC4auyLTtGYXvbMaNwMiPQDvXmcoSm14IrDdZM_8x6T5TyZ0bI-3pG3QUPwM/s400/DSC_0011.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong>Pepe Jeans 'Always London'</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMNT2IeNzDREdoaDRDqCyH_eu32tj3oKyPpxG47U4XM38a_bqcFlV0SzYbUl2zGWR7V_yNXRZ_GEoRYV70OQ99Kn74tN1el5C4Kkoeyg7H664nWgWvQQHfvU_CerZsArkcIlDC5CMChk/s1600/DSC_0044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjBMNT2IeNzDREdoaDRDqCyH_eu32tj3oKyPpxG47U4XM38a_bqcFlV0SzYbUl2zGWR7V_yNXRZ_GEoRYV70OQ99Kn74tN1el5C4Kkoeyg7H664nWgWvQQHfvU_CerZsArkcIlDC5CMChk/s400/DSC_0044.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong>G-Star Jeans</strong> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCBb8G-VxxMXQXYBmFGRQPRqW-PzFsqWJy7mi6YcAEO8i_28C4g1B-oWh8OLnY4JLipzaQ5LKRyrE00xlyCMeWvvQFxhIA4jH6zEtkw3aDY7VCzUjXmJtFNGEoPDzTXnocMdoHEVe_Jc/s1600/DSC_0208.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgXCBb8G-VxxMXQXYBmFGRQPRqW-PzFsqWJy7mi6YcAEO8i_28C4g1B-oWh8OLnY4JLipzaQ5LKRyrE00xlyCMeWvvQFxhIA4jH6zEtkw3aDY7VCzUjXmJtFNGEoPDzTXnocMdoHEVe_Jc/s400/DSC_0208.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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John Lewis 'Pink' Home Store<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh86X4K1ibDMgvJCYF3vda9-MhghwS6S_0eZ2b37XKHUGGbtwzYPJMNIx0YOJH-ZFcg0TW1u1TNKveidaz0H89ZtC2LXyyTdGyrJj8T_uukpFhjexlO7WVu6I8S4TNYqipZ4R6Evaaiuds/s1600/DSC_0240.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh86X4K1ibDMgvJCYF3vda9-MhghwS6S_0eZ2b37XKHUGGbtwzYPJMNIx0YOJH-ZFcg0TW1u1TNKveidaz0H89ZtC2LXyyTdGyrJj8T_uukpFhjexlO7WVu6I8S4TNYqipZ4R6Evaaiuds/s400/DSC_0240.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<strong><u>New Go-Ahead Metrobus Mercedes...</u></strong><br />
September marks the start of the new registration period meaning that Go-Ahead Metrobus brand new style Mercedes Citaro's where the first London buses to feature the new 65 reg plates.<br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0fxN5EwhthSPrtwiU8xRjNMsnXPw_t4G7W5Iu-SMZaFR-0sseV_koAO23neFYDTyDDBN25JNgHdHRnpoBttjtsYqN_fSIsq3sJPDle14OBlf9qiIZRSiVqlygoG8W5TIGsMbm0kjamU/s1600/DSC_0054.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="222" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjS0fxN5EwhthSPrtwiU8xRjNMsnXPw_t4G7W5Iu-SMZaFR-0sseV_koAO23neFYDTyDDBN25JNgHdHRnpoBttjtsYqN_fSIsq3sJPDle14OBlf9qiIZRSiVqlygoG8W5TIGsMbm0kjamU/s400/DSC_0054.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JgPi-ZMZ1hxhIUJPSfaS27_QYCz7554nUHjEQVSIbfVQsjvQayadRvNJiXJNiyQ8Q_sEAmSysIxArCrvdLz61HW8C3oxDLYGqT22dkbDF2DbzZLtQ5OhJ3_1xIHQttHFr4o7RD_boWE/s1600/DSC_0009.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3JgPi-ZMZ1hxhIUJPSfaS27_QYCz7554nUHjEQVSIbfVQsjvQayadRvNJiXJNiyQ8Q_sEAmSysIxArCrvdLz61HW8C3oxDLYGqT22dkbDF2DbzZLtQ5OhJ3_1xIHQttHFr4o7RD_boWE/s400/DSC_0009.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A new contract on the Route 358 sparked new buses, these would come in the form of brand new 65-reg new style Euro 6 Mercedes Citaro's. Unfortunately on the first day a number of buses suffered issues with their destination blinds, this was soon rectified. </div>
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<strong><u>Showbus 2015 - Woburn Abbey</u></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgem0R7P_K4ZXU1KBw3EyEtc1NScGKLAl11MeHji8uFCn7Hg6TnIyBjWufF3UNxNU3lQxjiz4EH6-a5AMssxaTWp0hXsSq63n7Pc7dm1al9SdUXyLeqsyz7rP8YbONtCGvfGPx-c1zoeZY/s1600/DSC_0026.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="263" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgem0R7P_K4ZXU1KBw3EyEtc1NScGKLAl11MeHji8uFCn7Hg6TnIyBjWufF3UNxNU3lQxjiz4EH6-a5AMssxaTWp0hXsSq63n7Pc7dm1al9SdUXyLeqsyz7rP8YbONtCGvfGPx-c1zoeZY/s400/DSC_0026.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiimAt8RG7G8kQAf3s5eacAXBllkuB4L-zfiQMXARgkuoszfhb06FM1knorOlH2LQXdffTDMiAP56LpgknyWHCbeRnqrcVmeUGSVzx8fqDgWkQTFeD3en8WbhR0z2q1yhbGE5750BiVUOM/s1600/DSC_0037.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiimAt8RG7G8kQAf3s5eacAXBllkuB4L-zfiQMXARgkuoszfhb06FM1knorOlH2LQXdffTDMiAP56LpgknyWHCbeRnqrcVmeUGSVzx8fqDgWkQTFeD3en8WbhR0z2q1yhbGE5750BiVUOM/s400/DSC_0037.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Annual showbus event this year took place at Woburn abbey and as always there was a number of London buses present including the new kids on the block Uno as well as two Stagecoach Enviro 400's, one of which was 'Spirit of London'</div>
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<strong><u>Tender Transfers - 168 Arriva to Metroline, 246 Stagecoach to Go-Ahead</u></strong> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSrvAyDDmGapHk85qfiwrinrAT8TEZWMypjdFtB-fv-QcImbO9FGL886ffTQnHZIBFr4-8VmpWk4CMeDekdI0wAkei-Udx2d3Dwc8ulKd7DTjfLBaKPsJFq0_Lw6xACwmLNGXTTHQgKQY/s1600/DSC_0017.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="217" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSrvAyDDmGapHk85qfiwrinrAT8TEZWMypjdFtB-fv-QcImbO9FGL886ffTQnHZIBFr4-8VmpWk4CMeDekdI0wAkei-Udx2d3Dwc8ulKd7DTjfLBaKPsJFq0_Lw6xACwmLNGXTTHQgKQY/s400/DSC_0017.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Route 246 was to transfer from Stagecoach to Go-Ahead London on but the buses for which transferred from Croydon to Orpington Garages a few days before, one such bus is seen here on the Route R2. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDK_3kUGL5YQvOs2GfOAPQUqTjRARK2K69PjFi8fuMDgJrDNu3Gvyr69UcZxuwf6tbInLEbpj0Xj6J9gHYy2fE2a6qzguCjmVyQ_nD2kDpP38CvSQYGzchvakpunOMSIdILnn2x5mREdA/s1600/DSC_0033.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="226" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiDK_3kUGL5YQvOs2GfOAPQUqTjRARK2K69PjFi8fuMDgJrDNu3Gvyr69UcZxuwf6tbInLEbpj0Xj6J9gHYy2fE2a6qzguCjmVyQ_nD2kDpP38CvSQYGzchvakpunOMSIdILnn2x5mREdA/s400/DSC_0033.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The Route 246 operates between Bromley North and just outside the TfL boundary to the Kent Village of Westerham and on Summer Sunday's in runs even further to Chartwell House. </div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeO1_xd69sM0qwv0HH0AO5o6CneI4wHIyyfgUUAkihg-Lph58xX3N9Ojd6I30oXfx74yL8PpISNgU13EzAoBLcCH8KE44x6GMNUiOqQFVNjWwz3jZIoKtwctkjjGMj6WWDQQaDzLSw0BU/s1600/DSC_0244.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjeO1_xd69sM0qwv0HH0AO5o6CneI4wHIyyfgUUAkihg-Lph58xX3N9Ojd6I30oXfx74yL8PpISNgU13EzAoBLcCH8KE44x6GMNUiOqQFVNjWwz3jZIoKtwctkjjGMj6WWDQQaDzLSw0BU/s400/DSC_0244.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Another Tender Transfer this month has been the Route 168 which changed hands between Arriva London and Metroline, this is one of the major inroads Metroline seem to be making in South London now making them the second biggest operator in London. </div>
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<strong><u>Metroline New LT's for 16. </u></strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht38CZwYj4ci9PWQUtqqD2iXgfuYVUN7jynjxLwnZwZqH8KWz_RfRRj3iD-8SG0E7HRSxwqzNeP42IVRxYPesajWtgfSc9IiIMYUTPyJAZCthlHk_XzblLxm30rTSQeDyI4zR_Ac6G-Tk/s1600/DSC_0220.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEht38CZwYj4ci9PWQUtqqD2iXgfuYVUN7jynjxLwnZwZqH8KWz_RfRRj3iD-8SG0E7HRSxwqzNeP42IVRxYPesajWtgfSc9IiIMYUTPyJAZCthlHk_XzblLxm30rTSQeDyI4zR_Ac6G-Tk/s400/DSC_0220.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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One of the latest New Routemasters (as we now have to call them) is seen at Marble Arch while working on the Route 16 to Cricklewood Bus Garage, the introduction of these buses on the Route 16 allowed buses to start on the new contract Route 168. These buses also feature the new style blinds with the Capital Letter qualifying point. </div>
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If you liked any of the pictures in this post then feel free to check out the rest of my pictures, @KLTP14 on flickr: <a href="https://www.flickr.com/photos/124193440@N06/">https://www.flickr.com/photos/124193440@N06/</a></div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12685202089573349041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-23102049784424516532015-09-15T16:50:00.000+01:002015-09-15T16:50:00.654+01:00Route 79: Edgware to Alperton Sainsbury's (Timelapse Video)<div>
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Route 79 runs between Edgware Bus Station and Alperton Sainsbury's, serving Queensbury, Kinsbury, Preston and Wembley in the process.<br />
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The route is operated by Metroline from Perivale Bus Garage. The route is 7 miles long and has a Peak Vehicle Requirement (PVR) of 11.</div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOHzdzOaet_Kk8GqhNzW7YvXWJJmotN9MV3KzLX9FBonLK_o6bkrE_k8A0dHk-ewrNtCnEgF9dtAacrzyNzwNdInbr3kphwG6d40qCVlTXOcFY32ybGS4XyuoXpC9DEc-n__an6JkT8Pm_/s1600/DSC00895.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiOHzdzOaet_Kk8GqhNzW7YvXWJJmotN9MV3KzLX9FBonLK_o6bkrE_k8A0dHk-ewrNtCnEgF9dtAacrzyNzwNdInbr3kphwG6d40qCVlTXOcFY32ybGS4XyuoXpC9DEc-n__an6JkT8Pm_/s400/DSC00895.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Metroline VW1206 LK61BMV seen here on stand at Alperton Sainsbury's.</span></b></td></tr>
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QuizGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01140875907474678917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-77673064832988540622015-09-10T12:26:00.002+01:002015-09-10T12:26:46.209+01:00London Recap - August 2015<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Another month has past, they seem to be dropping like fly's at the moment, this month featured a tube strike, the next batch of new routemasters were pressed into service as well as the first new style Wright Gemini 3's for London and not forgetting Notting Hill Carnival prompts the return of the suffix.<br />
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<u>Tube Strike Extra's </u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdMkbNsIoVb1JMsfmLo9Mu_vtdEYMXHz-Ml7bWi9n3U6O4IKWf9JkYGEysesSSDYV37XlVd6TgvqRAziqJZ9wa6F2QguDJOKUEIxlAK0bW3thGoXYI0YFhV58lAzMB-axcPG5cjBYNkbY/s1600/DSC_0016-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="216" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdMkbNsIoVb1JMsfmLo9Mu_vtdEYMXHz-Ml7bWi9n3U6O4IKWf9JkYGEysesSSDYV37XlVd6TgvqRAziqJZ9wa6F2QguDJOKUEIxlAK0bW3thGoXYI0YFhV58lAzMB-axcPG5cjBYNkbY/s400/DSC_0016-3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Abellio London's 8018 is seen at Aldwych while working as an extra on the Route 188 (Taken by Kristian Lake on 06/08/15)</span></span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTZuQwI9yvEwBfx5pX62q-EPm6N4PuzkU0Q-An883c-9_Zm1VbPweahMi0p4c5lJ-7g0gLqpoaQh5hvVcOM1l2WBta_NO_oeKNuaTRNqBx34q-smptJcAP2AMzP0qACmNjdkOSruIPICw/s1600/DSC_0065-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="250" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTZuQwI9yvEwBfx5pX62q-EPm6N4PuzkU0Q-An883c-9_Zm1VbPweahMi0p4c5lJ-7g0gLqpoaQh5hvVcOM1l2WBta_NO_oeKNuaTRNqBx34q-smptJcAP2AMzP0qACmNjdkOSruIPICw/s400/DSC_0065-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Ensignbus's pride and joy MD60 is seen on Whitechapel High Street while working as an extra on the Route 25 <span style="font-family: Calibri;">(Taken by Kristian Lake on 06/08/15)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx_VjX6GaG8fxuPMbT2j90PbHW4vfy4g9K6RrHadT-aQB6CaNhtC5PaeGTAYz5ZVnHGiAN_po1dvJ1QMhWiq_19VU-Kq-o2HUexk9NkO2ZbOAzGt1ZcY4k5OwHZGeUw8RdSDMMvaFK6Nc/s1600/DSC_0083.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjx_VjX6GaG8fxuPMbT2j90PbHW4vfy4g9K6RrHadT-aQB6CaNhtC5PaeGTAYz5ZVnHGiAN_po1dvJ1QMhWiq_19VU-Kq-o2HUexk9NkO2ZbOAzGt1ZcY4k5OwHZGeUw8RdSDMMvaFK6Nc/s400/DSC_0083.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Ensignbus ER882 is seen on Whitechapel High Street while working as an extra on the Route 15 <span style="font-family: Calibri;">(Taken by Kristian Lake on 06/08/15)</span></div>
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<u>Introduction of Mercedes Citaro's on Route 108</u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRirN5kdnLgkSV1OhXriZoEJbEQvZPZMRS2qIikq5hYDQcTzwbrza10L7jNVuflSzp08F7ljtagwW-j-y0sicr-blyBZ9eT-h81Vm8dAZMqU3b3eW2u4xGcZlBS3UO8vxO3jB6dACU-Oc/s1600/DSC_0045.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="227" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgRirN5kdnLgkSV1OhXriZoEJbEQvZPZMRS2qIikq5hYDQcTzwbrza10L7jNVuflSzp08F7ljtagwW-j-y0sicr-blyBZ9eT-h81Vm8dAZMqU3b3eW2u4xGcZlBS3UO8vxO3jB6dACU-Oc/s400/DSC_0045.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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MEC21 is seen approaching North Greenwich, while working on the Route 108, MEC's have been rushed into service on this route following a recent fire damaged DWL. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 28/08/15). It has been rumoured that upon the introduction of the new BYD Electric E200s on Routes 507 and 521, MECs should be moving south, with Routes 108 and 293 mentioned. </div>
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<u>New Routemaster - Route 88</u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOiUTVC0mRHMNHR0Hv1n9ncBpOlEperrY684EWrfgBcDBtyzvJ0wAuBNtvBkwyU7ik7koQxwUH2VgMws0HOtF5ZYzK3l8iNPvd3J3HSUskWdFniDOJqY-pqtfOf4_ZMwO7yUrgR0LsFGU/s1600/DSC_0042.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOiUTVC0mRHMNHR0Hv1n9ncBpOlEperrY684EWrfgBcDBtyzvJ0wAuBNtvBkwyU7ik7koQxwUH2VgMws0HOtF5ZYzK3l8iNPvd3J3HSUskWdFniDOJqY-pqtfOf4_ZMwO7yUrgR0LsFGU/s400/DSC_0042.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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LT509 is seen on Clapham Common Stand while working on the first day of service on the Route 88, the introduction of New Routemasters on this route will allow a cascade within Go-Ahead London to take place eventually ridding them of the remaining early numbered PVL's. <span style="font-family: Calibri;">(Taken by Kristian Lake on 22/08/15)</span></div>
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<u>New Go-Ahead Volvo B5LH's at Croydon for Routes 119, 202, 405</u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoB5p-U8o_mEfwEI9lHIDxuoTkWOmQl269pRfJETn97Ac1siYfwRYSMunN3-l4__JnOD-mTlYeNUUeUopNht981tEwZASff4Nfqu6FfCkYHIZxDdgtApSunQTwhQbvabSjGBZrR_sWViw/s1600/DSC_0082-3_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjoB5p-U8o_mEfwEI9lHIDxuoTkWOmQl269pRfJETn97Ac1siYfwRYSMunN3-l4__JnOD-mTlYeNUUeUopNht981tEwZASff4Nfqu6FfCkYHIZxDdgtApSunQTwhQbvabSjGBZrR_sWViw/s400/DSC_0082-3_edited.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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WHV44 is seen on Blackheath Common while working on the Route 202, this is one of 39 new style Wrightbus Gemini 3's currently being introduced at Metrobus Croydon. <span style="font-family: Calibri;">(Taken by Kristian Lake on 22/08/15)</span></div>
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<u>Victoria Line Closure - Rail Replacement Buses</u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_OG5nCimoph8ACmsrsmXBL-Sl18EBcdQS_pFHeczvU53frtOBRGHx7RRIsWVmSAUZuANLr7fj7o4I0XIazif9WP5aFgFrH-6txJFNQjWHLpq0Qezdz3hzfBe0C_fjC42XNj2C6A6XTvw/s1600/DSC_0018-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_OG5nCimoph8ACmsrsmXBL-Sl18EBcdQS_pFHeczvU53frtOBRGHx7RRIsWVmSAUZuANLr7fj7o4I0XIazif9WP5aFgFrH-6txJFNQjWHLpq0Qezdz3hzfBe0C_fjC42XNj2C6A6XTvw/s400/DSC_0018-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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TP408 is seen on Broad Lane, Tottenham approaching Seven Sisters while working on the Temporary Route 558 between Chingford Mount and Seven Sisters, normally long term closures frustrate regular users, however in the final days of the closure of the Victoria line a petition was set up by Chingford residents to keep this route in operation after the line has re-opened. <span style="font-family: Calibri;">(Taken by Kristian Lake on 11/08/15)</span></div>
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<u>Notting Hill Carnival Extra Buses:</u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBHt4Oq3qlcNBmJtTxI5V3QfAa67wuEBTFJrjIEhxtbIgXh1kMoNXvY2Pxrok9qAvZhnpIfHrBPwaT_uxgrPwQwf50xNdh60ptOcyCYKkxG27akUGUMReo8gV9uTsWQYQZ5_9-t05hTw/s1600/DSC_0028-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtBHt4Oq3qlcNBmJtTxI5V3QfAa67wuEBTFJrjIEhxtbIgXh1kMoNXvY2Pxrok9qAvZhnpIfHrBPwaT_uxgrPwQwf50xNdh60ptOcyCYKkxG27akUGUMReo8gV9uTsWQYQZ5_9-t05hTw/s400/DSC_0028-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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12313 is seen crossing Warren Street while working on the Route 205X between Liverpool Street and Harrow Road. <span style="font-family: Calibri;">(Taken by Kristian Lake on 30/08/15)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdgTb1hwnvJ4ozjZyW-67t12BBVZEyL_u2lv0N0_8I3aoUvC9jC5J4a2mtx02lHb6scsFRWmCmQHkD5mzXmYNbwAirMp1QOE3fYfubJJ2zYh4ukt3hGJCGTGsUQiS_fj_svrBQqnB4eVQ/s1600/DSC_0048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="218" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgdgTb1hwnvJ4ozjZyW-67t12BBVZEyL_u2lv0N0_8I3aoUvC9jC5J4a2mtx02lHb6scsFRWmCmQHkD5mzXmYNbwAirMp1QOE3fYfubJJ2zYh4ukt3hGJCGTGsUQiS_fj_svrBQqnB4eVQ/s400/DSC_0048.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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MEC14 is seen in Vauxhall Bus Station while working on the Route 436X between Peckham and Notting Hill Gate. <span style="font-family: Calibri;">(Taken by Kristian Lake on 30/08/15)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB8DaTjl8SEDBBAThyu0ac1QNATSjoh4lBpnPRUt5kAkjKN6kA3McggYmSQRhUre4sytu7raQ0Dh4i4IL1dt76cp4eEoEqTQMdEKlCp_oaichkRL4wA3hWhlERxpeIReyMDABhhYKUKP0/s1600/DSC_0050-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="248" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgB8DaTjl8SEDBBAThyu0ac1QNATSjoh4lBpnPRUt5kAkjKN6kA3McggYmSQRhUre4sytu7raQ0Dh4i4IL1dt76cp4eEoEqTQMdEKlCp_oaichkRL4wA3hWhlERxpeIReyMDABhhYKUKP0/s400/DSC_0050-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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WVL397 is seen in Vauxhall Bus Station while working on the Route 36X between New Cross Gate and Harrow Road. <span style="font-family: Calibri;">(Taken by Kristian Lake on 30/08/15)</span></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRrJsiKM23nol8D9LfV45jDD0n3DqbTdceGEIPgxOcRmsLWKGR_6tcqI7MvXie-XvGKSidOdlzMGHHNIWUvKTFLfmmlz7SfuONQ5JRBQKOLZTfCKMx-_sPklSknVMaVAbOXL2qnDrKVeM/s1600/DSC_0054-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRrJsiKM23nol8D9LfV45jDD0n3DqbTdceGEIPgxOcRmsLWKGR_6tcqI7MvXie-XvGKSidOdlzMGHHNIWUvKTFLfmmlz7SfuONQ5JRBQKOLZTfCKMx-_sPklSknVMaVAbOXL2qnDrKVeM/s400/DSC_0054-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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VLA65 is seen in Vauxhall Bus Station while working on the Route 2X between West Norwood and Notting Hill Gate. <span style="font-family: Calibri;">(Taken by Kristian Lake on 30/08/15)</span></div>
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<u>Second Irizar I2e Electric</u> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Nm-tZ1C0DjPC5ELJSqUS-BauADeNGBIz0acFfNR_IY0wVQzjqsFRAN3tV9dfY7RREfXfVmIBuZ1Bt57ZnaNYq6l5zEzJUU6RpVj-2_pa5JJpxEYk6oOLPWE75ZDKFudFp3JgzO0UmIM/s1600/DSC_0013-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh2Nm-tZ1C0DjPC5ELJSqUS-BauADeNGBIz0acFfNR_IY0wVQzjqsFRAN3tV9dfY7RREfXfVmIBuZ1Bt57ZnaNYq6l5zEzJUU6RpVj-2_pa5JJpxEYk6oOLPWE75ZDKFudFp3JgzO0UmIM/s400/DSC_0013-1.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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This month also saw the introduction of the Second Irizr I2e Electric Bus at Waterloo Garage, Ei2 is seen on London Bridge on 01/09/15, taken by Kristian Lake.<br />
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<strong>Adverts:</strong><br />
<u>New Nike 'Built for Brilliance'</u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvzbA2L-gFGbJPQhyzqvgMpVPOHLpXv1PoZhCdsgHeOHz_OTIM_wNmvfE7Pxkyn8_khiJvwIhpH1YhHI4483AljYC8g2WL1EaOlW1FUhFbvbhi-9ozYf2Slt6XZDQcRhQswtnfr-X-rrM/s1600/DSC_0016-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjvzbA2L-gFGbJPQhyzqvgMpVPOHLpXv1PoZhCdsgHeOHz_OTIM_wNmvfE7Pxkyn8_khiJvwIhpH1YhHI4483AljYC8g2WL1EaOlW1FUhFbvbhi-9ozYf2Slt6XZDQcRhQswtnfr-X-rrM/s400/DSC_0016-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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LT282 is seen at Trafalgar Square while working on the Route 453 sporting the new Nike 'Built for Brilliance' all-over advert. <span style="font-family: Calibri;">(Taken by Kristian Lake on 22/08/15)</span></div>
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<u>New Dove - Rugby World Cup</u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy_f3FuyGSq4V3NaadTikbAwgzrJi8kvcb5hMb1Z8DH7Kp4aCAaonC-rdo5woWbwq112BmQPTF1B7KcV19KdV0cfwAeV0xj5cn29g6OT9SoYBolHiV_4RGt0to4P5Hf9uxLWSqclXNdm0/s1600/DSC_0061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="241" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhy_f3FuyGSq4V3NaadTikbAwgzrJi8kvcb5hMb1Z8DH7Kp4aCAaonC-rdo5woWbwq112BmQPTF1B7KcV19KdV0cfwAeV0xj5cn29g6OT9SoYBolHiV_4RGt0to4P5Hf9uxLWSqclXNdm0/s400/DSC_0061.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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LT241 is seen approaching Shoreditch High Street while working on the Route 8, this is one of the buses to have the #Scrum Together, Dove Men Care, Rugby World Cup advert. <span style="font-family: Calibri;">(Taken by Kristian Lake on 15/08/15)</span></div>
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<u>New Tommy Hilfiger</u></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGgVyR5l2qJWbW7nw4tMB3CZPnIfRmE574HBgLJk8attc1d4_zdVP8hlP_wi5gRTPqPi5wOo0CiDOEnM2lVK0F1qLuKGFow53OGnuAqMs2pRXL0PuiWEtKJf4YyZZ3FOEOkXukxMcypdY/s1600/DSC_0017-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGgVyR5l2qJWbW7nw4tMB3CZPnIfRmE574HBgLJk8attc1d4_zdVP8hlP_wi5gRTPqPi5wOo0CiDOEnM2lVK0F1qLuKGFow53OGnuAqMs2pRXL0PuiWEtKJf4YyZZ3FOEOkXukxMcypdY/s400/DSC_0017-3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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LT440 is seen on Regent Street at Oxford Circus having arrived on the Route 12 from Dulwich Library. <span style="font-family: Calibri;">(Taken by Kristian Lake on 30/08/15)</span></div>
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<strong>Outskirts of London:</strong><br />
Arriva Kent Thameside - New 'Fastrack' Wrightbus Streetlites (Routes A/B Dartford-Bluewater area)<br />
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4303 is seen arriving at Bluewater Bus Station while working on Fast-track Route B. <span style="font-family: Calibri;">(Taken by Kristian Lake on 08/08/15)</span></div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12685202089573349041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-54549587666098190302015-08-19T11:43:00.002+01:002015-08-19T11:43:42.712+01:00Route 297: Willesden to Ealing Broadway (Timelapse Video)<br />
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Route 297 runs between Willesden Bus Garage and Ealing Broadway Station, serving Wembley, Alperton and Perivale in the process.</div>
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The route is operated by Metroline from Perivale Bus Garage. The route is 9 miles long and has a Peak Vehicle Requirement (PVR) of 16.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYrb5E_VD1BAJnfa9LSe4dzDuKBtvCnB7lqs4Sr8f2R7LuD0czSRc9h9La650apjsy_nbNUUUO6p0rQxJITsAtgWTWSl8hmVbGoIfQPn7IEPuxHpF7MOvQV9gLkzoC8lvAk3CUDM1m3IOe/s1600/DSC05382.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYrb5E_VD1BAJnfa9LSe4dzDuKBtvCnB7lqs4Sr8f2R7LuD0czSRc9h9La650apjsy_nbNUUUO6p0rQxJITsAtgWTWSl8hmVbGoIfQPn7IEPuxHpF7MOvQV9gLkzoC8lvAk3CUDM1m3IOe/s400/DSC05382.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Ex-Metroline Demonstrator VWH1469 BF63HDG having just completed a trip from Willesden.</span></b></td></tr>
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QuizGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01140875907474678917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-70969944233311983582015-08-07T14:30:00.001+01:002015-08-07T14:30:52.192+01:00London Recap - July 2015<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
July is typically the month that signals the start of a lot of things, garage open days, where many enthusiasts can come together to appreciate the hobby on one-accord, similar to a church choir, or the peak in the hay-fever season which makes carrying tissues essential , not forgetting the joys of having a stream flowing from your nose. But here at the Circle of London, this July signalled the ever closer one millionth hit, something which really justifies the work we do and our levels of consistency. Typical of July, the bus scene was booming with action, so lets take a look and see what July had for us to offer.<br />
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With Hampton Court Flower Show and Wimbledon Tennis overlapping this year it meant that some extra vehicles would be needed to run both services.<br />
<u><b>Hampton Court Flower Show Shuttles:</b></u><br />
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NV171 (Now preserved by the Bromley Bus Preservation Group) was returned to its former owner to work on the Hampton Court Flower Show Shuttles and is seen in glorious weather in the village of East Molesey on 05/07/15 (Taken by Kristian Lake)</div>
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Former Metroline VW1469 is seen powering along the Hurst Road alongside the River Thames having been acquired by Go-Ahead London along with Ex Arriva VGD1. (Taken on 05/07/15 by Kristian Lake) </div>
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<u><b>Wimbledon Tennis:</b></u><br />
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Meanwhile at Wimbledon, a number of the Enviro 400's which had been used on the Route 135 for the past month (covering until Enviro 400 MMC's arrived) where pressed into service with out blinds in the case, on the various shuttle services to and from Wimbledon Tennis, they have since moved on to a number of other garages around London to cover for roadworks and refurbishments. (Taken on 05/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<u><b>Latests NBFL Adverts:</b></u><br />
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LT97 is seen at Marble Arch on the Route 390, this was one of the first buses to receive the new bPay advert livery (Taken on 05/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<span style="color: black;">Green Bus</span><br />
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LT538 is seen on Park Lane at Marble Arch while working on the Route 73 to Victoria. (Taken on 01/08/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<u><span style="color: black;"><b>Tube Strike Extra's:</b></span></u><br />
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This month saw the biggest Tube Strike for over 10 years and it was reliant on extra buses being provided to move as many people as possible, in reality around 100 extra buses where provided and here we see two Stephensons of Essex Optare Olympus's at Holborn while working on the Route 25. (Taken on 09/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<u>Potters Bar Garage Open Day</u><br />
The first garage open day of year traditionally takes place at Metroline's Potters Bar Garage located just outside the LT boundary zone, even though two TFL bus routes operate there. It is also a short ride out of Barnet on Metroline's Commercial Route 84/84A and you may even be lucky enough to get a TP/TPL, a dying breed in TFL land now.<br />
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<strong>Brief Garage History</strong><br />
The Garage itself celebrates 85 years in operation this year, having been opened back in May 1930. The Garage has seen many different types of buses over the years and this year it hold the largest number of buses in its history (171 buses based at PB with 10 outstations at South Mimms)<br />
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Arguably the main attraction for many people was the brand new Wright Streetlite (exclusively revealed here a few weeks), it has now been branded for the new Route 714 to Luton Airport which it should see use on. (Taken 11/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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DES794 a recent repaint into Commercial Colours is seen blinded for the Route PB1. (Taken 11/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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As with all open days, inside the garage was filled with heritage vehicles and stalls. (Taken 11/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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Not all of the garage was open to the public as PB has a lot of buses running in and out all day for driver changes. (Taken 11/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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As part of the open day, Sullivan Buses also operated three tours to there bases at North Mymms and South Mimms, showing off the various buses which where not out on a big Rail Replacement job that weekend. <br />
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ALX 5 is seen alongside DPS575 at Sullivan Buses North Mymms Engineering Base. (Taken 11/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7bn_CXsp2SlIc3tbQtLiuUpJzkdyE0lv1VltpE7DnlzXN-fKpPq9WLuCl2fpdUpoQcJeDKxdNgMNo_GvybGtsq1Uesnb6RhyAZycZd-bJEiWZq13UkrlCJAutNRsqDYx4AV-9YMyD89w/s1600/DSC_0027-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh7bn_CXsp2SlIc3tbQtLiuUpJzkdyE0lv1VltpE7DnlzXN-fKpPq9WLuCl2fpdUpoQcJeDKxdNgMNo_GvybGtsq1Uesnb6RhyAZycZd-bJEiWZq13UkrlCJAutNRsqDYx4AV-9YMyD89w/s400/DSC_0027-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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TAL123, TPL927 and TN1 are seen at Sullivan Buses South Mimms Base. (Taken 11/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
<u><b>Metroline Transfers</b></u><br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Metroline West VP476 is seen negotiating the mini roundabout at Uxbridge Station following its transfer to its new garage. </span></td></tr>
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Following the introduction of up to 34 VWHs at their Willesden Garage, Metroline took the opportunity to rehouse 9 of these vehicles to 'west' garage Uxbridge to help oust the TP class there although some have remained temporarily for the London Overground/Underground shuttle Route 558 which will run from Cricklewood.<br />
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As detailed in our CELF Centre Part 50 post, the introduction of MMs on the E8 commenced on the 29th of July with the first journey completed by MM783. At present 5 MMs have transferred from West Perivale to the nearby Brentford base following the early double-deck conversion of Route 90. Little is known about whether they will form the basis of the up and coming tender bid for the route, however their introduction to the base has been supplemented by some DEs from Cricklewood.<br />
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<u><b>Introduction of Stagecoach Enviro 400 MMC's Diesels from NS</b></u><u></u><br />
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July has seen the introduction of seven Diesel Enviro 400 MMC's at Stagecoach's Romford North Street Garage for the route 498 recently won from Go-Ahead London. (Taken 20/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<u><b>Introduction of Stagecoach Enviro 200 MMC's Diesels from NS</b></u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge4Wop9LF3EEVnsKnz35AQ9ZCRx3qhUzhRHdSzkwI_-xdG7BYTSEUexQ3fvnrmWbod7pAxSJ_cYfWE7hz_T-fUDrsOUmxfPtyHd377vA7N6c4A1EVk4l4JRVm8FQleI6ge_oQvC89_TaQ/s1600/DSC_0304.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="228" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEge4Wop9LF3EEVnsKnz35AQ9ZCRx3qhUzhRHdSzkwI_-xdG7BYTSEUexQ3fvnrmWbod7pAxSJ_cYfWE7hz_T-fUDrsOUmxfPtyHd377vA7N6c4A1EVk4l4JRVm8FQleI6ge_oQvC89_TaQ/s400/DSC_0304.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Another recent tender win for Stagecoach at Romford was the Route 499 between Gallows Corner and Heath Park Estate, won from Arriva Kent Thameside. (Taken on 31/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<u><b>Introduction of Go-Ahead Wright Streetlites</b></u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpNK_RLWs1Jeqs3hv_UjDuA7gUVq4zYsZMsMye_L0Wr5DQCFp4HKTuPG0Kg9StlvsSTV9XJwc7XO_yNwkim2FKmcmL6DgJyn-IC01FKUA_c7S2QPz24q9Fso5RMC18gWraKZgzFIUvGi4/s1600/DSC_0068.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhpNK_RLWs1Jeqs3hv_UjDuA7gUVq4zYsZMsMye_L0Wr5DQCFp4HKTuPG0Kg9StlvsSTV9XJwc7XO_yNwkim2FKmcmL6DgJyn-IC01FKUA_c7S2QPz24q9Fso5RMC18gWraKZgzFIUvGi4/s400/DSC_0068.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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A surprise introduction this month was these brand new Wright Streetlites, fitted with Damiler Engines and Flywheels. They will be gradually replacing the slightly older vehicles which will be returning to Wrightbus. (Taken 25/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<u><b>The final farewell to the DLA class</b></u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsfm-yW2y4gN1KEP5V6kDPkQV9QOhS41xz2fJd5_yp6mVneWU1bl2sBbTz9h2ruSLNccz0T3MqCPssMKb3cIprDmfoJYGpaRcw5cT978CPf2BL9nCNfK2TwZHEVpVO9s69yW1_lmzVis/s1600/DSC_0072.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="238" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjJsfm-yW2y4gN1KEP5V6kDPkQV9QOhS41xz2fJd5_yp6mVneWU1bl2sBbTz9h2ruSLNccz0T3MqCPssMKb3cIprDmfoJYGpaRcw5cT978CPf2BL9nCNfK2TwZHEVpVO9s69yW1_lmzVis/s400/DSC_0072.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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It is expected that July will see the end of the operational fleet of DLA's in London, with only two remaining at Palmers Green as School Buses and three south of the river at Thornton Heath. However as the schools have now finished they are likely to be withdrawn any day now. Contrary to this, Garston will continue to operate small numbers of the class, however, they are not technically, 'DLAs' as they are numbered in the Arriva Shires fleet system. (Taken 25/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<u><b>End of Month Tender Changes</b></u><br />
<strong>Uno - Route 383</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjqvpcDrb3we0bQDvQk2LOQ9xjFIH2VK4tkddvWPyEWW5o_Q0qzr050HtlJ22CY9byGSqra2GHcq4tCz3P-zB0ARNntvbC_khxpNgeOwVSqdU0Ii_yqX7WchiL22Yjq-JMzAv3QeZbVM0/s1600/DSC_0050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhjqvpcDrb3we0bQDvQk2LOQ9xjFIH2VK4tkddvWPyEWW5o_Q0qzr050HtlJ22CY9byGSqra2GHcq4tCz3P-zB0ARNntvbC_khxpNgeOwVSqdU0Ii_yqX7WchiL22Yjq-JMzAv3QeZbVM0/s400/DSC_0050.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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We have also seen a new company start to infiltrate TfL services this month, Uno or University Bus took over the Route 383 between Barnet and Woodside Park from Metroline. Using Brand New 8.8m Enviro 200's. 602 is seen at High Barnet on the first day in service. (Taken 25/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<strong>London Sovereign - Route 326</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6CQjK0uWuCrubOUGPU5PLpEGixXRqnV6WBAGIn8PDEXgJGbLIp4Ro7ug_v9mPZFv7Qi5AOjAVH67GcdDchhSAsH7JVkZUpEtOTHMANIyXCwRZxMww5tzhNOf1o6VHnU8mPC-Fx950uoI/s1600/DSC_0061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh6CQjK0uWuCrubOUGPU5PLpEGixXRqnV6WBAGIn8PDEXgJGbLIp4Ro7ug_v9mPZFv7Qi5AOjAVH67GcdDchhSAsH7JVkZUpEtOTHMANIyXCwRZxMww5tzhNOf1o6VHnU8mPC-Fx950uoI/s400/DSC_0061.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Another company expanding this month is London Sovereign as they take over the Route 326 between Barnet and Brent Cross which will use refurbished Enviro 200's from London United. One such bus DE16 is seen on Station Road near New Barnet. (Taken 25/07/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12685202089573349041noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-83090362580792159652015-08-06T10:36:00.001+01:002015-08-06T10:36:23.211+01:00Route 303: Edgware to Colindale Superstores (Timelapse Video)<div style="text-align: center;">
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Route 303 runs between Edgware Bus Station to Colindale Superstores, serving Mill Hill and Grahame Park in the process.
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The route is operated by Arriva the Shires from Garston Bus Garage. The route is 4 miles long and has a Peak Vehicle Requirement (PVR) of 6.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGepZw72tWj6zE6v1M3tk28kjU51JTIHPq8g69tbkrt-Fyw-QGW-H8nHyogtkC3ti-9H3t9wDfcqHiWMX9HlXlkwCAXtmvU_DT6UuG1vA36l9B4uuMmYsliwrW_vTInFzMCUQoS83JSos0/s1600/12676415685_bbf407e73b_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGepZw72tWj6zE6v1M3tk28kjU51JTIHPq8g69tbkrt-Fyw-QGW-H8nHyogtkC3ti-9H3t9wDfcqHiWMX9HlXlkwCAXtmvU_DT6UuG1vA36l9B4uuMmYsliwrW_vTInFzMCUQoS83JSos0/s400/12676415685_bbf407e73b_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Arriva 5448 SN08AAE having just completed a trip from Edgware.</span></b></td></tr>
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QuizGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01140875907474678917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-70906197543135577992015-07-23T08:00:00.000+01:002015-07-24T17:45:15.473+01:00Route 340: Harrow to Edgware (Timelapse Video)<div style="text-align: center;">
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Route 340 runs between Harrow Bus Station to Edgware Bus Station, serving Wealdstone, Harrow Weald, Stanmore and Canons Park in the process.</div>
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The route is operated by Arriva the Shires from Garston Bus Garage. The route is 6 miles long and has a Peak Vehicle Requirement (PVR) of 9.<br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8A9USBQQvnNH-viZD_dTQfHlgVZur1h7GqkM2EUwKSfdTpa1gLeGOcAF7AgeE1EG_qACHriDCzQu-i4DkbP7GcJpGVcsMM7jKwSWEdjrqRHSDOWJ__9DD0hDk4nWKF7E6fRy83aiUXLM/s1600/12676722634_0794d211b6_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-8A9USBQQvnNH-viZD_dTQfHlgVZur1h7GqkM2EUwKSfdTpa1gLeGOcAF7AgeE1EG_qACHriDCzQu-i4DkbP7GcJpGVcsMM7jKwSWEdjrqRHSDOWJ__9DD0hDk4nWKF7E6fRy83aiUXLM/s400/12676722634_0794d211b6_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Arriva DLA206 (renumbered to 6106 by Arriva the Shires) having just <br />completed a trip from Harrow Bus Station.<br />This bus has since been withdrawn.</span></b></td></tr>
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QuizGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01140875907474678917noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-45116681991501424152015-07-20T20:32:00.002+01:002015-07-20T20:32:52.316+01:00Birmingham MMC's - Part 2 <o:p>So the eagerly awaited follow up, we will now look at the latest batches of
Alexander Dennis Enviro MMC’s to be introduced into the National Express West Midlands (NXWM)
Fleet… <o:p></o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksHJRvg0y_KiyI7REyvpGpDApDzrovmPxT3nsE2Q_oqvoVlGNgnCPdTzAHMqxnHVC7a9jjHZ4YpKqXpW6FALExAQkB03xS4uDs9_Ik3l8qY8Gbpk0pB6IM1e3aDRMc7tU8z_3o0IFALQ/s1600/DSC_0137-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiksHJRvg0y_KiyI7REyvpGpDApDzrovmPxT3nsE2Q_oqvoVlGNgnCPdTzAHMqxnHVC7a9jjHZ4YpKqXpW6FALExAQkB03xS4uDs9_Ik3l8qY8Gbpk0pB6IM1e3aDRMc7tU8z_3o0IFALQ/s400/DSC_0137-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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<o:p>
</o:p>The follow on order to the Scarlet and Maroon batch were delivered in
May/June 2015 to Birmingham Central Garage for the new 'Platinum' services
which will be NXWM's flagship premium brand. The new buses will feature a
new two tone grey livery with flashes of red which looks very sophisticated and
slick. They also have a full external rear LED destination screen. Internally
they feature luxury high back leather trimmed seats, extra leg room (with the
removal of two sets of seats when compared to a standard MMC), on-board stop
announcements and free Wi-Fi, not to mention the suit wearing drivers which
the local media seemed to pick up on when the idea was launched in October
2014. <o:p></o:p><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUqE7RrcgcuchwdHAh0uAwHJYjNzq0tN1PTOoj2ORjOtG36MBvH3TGpYf2Bw0ndW8u15TtyMrj37RnY0-v4ABk1khbl53DfC7Ibt8T4Vo9GzNywKw3LVYQPCslvFQWls2wX4BRwT-geTU/s1600/DSC_0074-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="230" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhUqE7RrcgcuchwdHAh0uAwHJYjNzq0tN1PTOoj2ORjOtG36MBvH3TGpYf2Bw0ndW8u15TtyMrj37RnY0-v4ABk1khbl53DfC7Ibt8T4Vo9GzNywKw3LVYQPCslvFQWls2wX4BRwT-geTU/s400/DSC_0074-3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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With the Enviro 200MMC being a brand new design, I am sure for some people
it may take a lot of getting used to. But in my opinion the Scarlet &
Maroon does certainly suit the new design, I can’t say that for the TFL red
versions which will be introduced at Stagecoach’s Romford garage very soon. I
think the rear of the E200MMC is very much similar to the Scania Omnicity
Single Deckers. And differs very much from the original Enviro 200’s. However I think the fatter curved front suits the Enviro 400 more. </div>
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<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%; mso-bidi-font-size: 11.0pt;">They are following a very
similar principle to all the other premium brands such as Arriva Sapphire/MAX
or Stagecoach Gold. By providing a higher quality service on a standard routes.
Especially if they link main towns such as Coventry, Solihull and Walsall with
Birmingham. It also provides competition with the railway. They are also trying
to increase patronage especially on key trunk routes which would hopefully
reduce the number of cars travelling between these main towns. Even though this
does not seem to be such as problem in the Midlands as during the morning peak,
it’s been calculated that 28 people per second get on or off one of NXWM’s
buses.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
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This is not forgetting that NXWM will become the first operator in the UK to
introduce the Enviro 200MMC, the first of 50 vehicles began to be delivered to
the Acocks Green Garage towards the end of June 2015 for the Routes 37, 71
& 72. The first of which entered service on 4<sup>th</sup> July making them
the first in the country. And within the first two weeks, 11 had been delivered
with a steady three a week expected for the next few weeks. The first two
ventured onto the Route 71 and 72 shortly after I visited, following the summer
service changes on 20<sup>th</sup> July. <o:p></o:p></div>
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The ‘E’ working. A very interesting concept that I have only really come
across in the West Midlands. There seem to be two types of ‘E’ working; the
Timetabled and the un-timetabled. The timetabled ‘E’ workings come in the form
of regular short workings for example the platinum routes 900 and 957 combine
to form eight buses an hour between Birmingham and Sheldon this comprises of 4
957’s, 2 900’s and 2 900E’s an hour. With the 900E’s only running to Birmingham
Airport compared to the full 900 which reaches Coventry. Then there is also the
un-timetabled, these may come in the form of a traditional ‘duplicate’ bus at
peak times or could be a short working due to delay. <o:p></o:p><br />
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The Route 900 (Coventry to Birmingham via the Airport) was the first route
to be upgraded to Platinum standard from 1<sup>st</sup> June 2015. With the Route
957 (Solihull to Birmingham) following at the start of July. And routes X51
(Birmingham to Cannock), 934 and 935 (Birmingham to Walsall), 936 (Birmingham
to Brownhills) & 997 (Birmingham to Wallsal Limited Stop) all expected to
follow suit over the rest of the summer. Which means the first 18 platinum’s
have been delivered to Birmingham Central Garage with the following 40 currently
being delivered to Walsall Garage. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><u1:p></u1:p><o:p></o:p><br />
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There has been a lot of talk about the design of the MMC models and that is
no more apparent than when you look at the rear of the MMC’s. The Picture above
shows off the rear of an Enviro 200 MMC alongside an Enviro 400 MMC platinum.
Both models have no rear window so reversing camera for the driver is provided.
The E400MMC platinum’s also have a rear white LED destination screen, I am not convinced
people will be looking at the back of the bus to see where it is going. And to
be honest the rear is probably better off with a full rear advert or branding
in this case. <br />
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A general refurbishment program has started with the rest of the National
Express West Midlands fleet which comprises of an internal deep clean including
new seat covers to match those that now feature on the new MMC’s buses. It is
also includes an external re-livery into the new livery which also matches the
new MMC’s buses. At the time of writing a quite a few of the older Enviro 400’s
had been refurbished as well a handful of the Scania Omnilink’s.Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12685202089573349041noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-53048233061121919782015-07-13T20:44:00.000+01:002015-07-13T20:44:02.330+01:00London Recap - June 2015<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
Apologies for the slightly delayed post, its been a very busy few weeks.<br />
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<strong>Stagecoach's Green Enviro 400 to celebrate World Environment Day</strong><br />
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The month of June started with Stagecoach painted one of Leyton's Enviro 400 Hybrids in Green to support World Environment Day which was on Friday 5th June, this bus only worked in service for that week on the Route 55 and 56. And has now gone for its midlife refurbishment which will see it return to red. 12137 can be seen arriving and on stand at St Bartholomew's Hospital near St Paul's. (Both Pictures taken on 02/06/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<strong>A range of NBFL Adverts</strong><br />
Following on from last month's Coca-Cola adverts which now number 31 buses, June has given us four new NBFL adverts. However Vita Coca and TAGHeuer barely lasted the month before they became B-pay adverts (See upcoming July Recap):<br />
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The first was an allover advert for the Proper Corn flavour Sweet Coconut and Vanilla which was one of two Proper Corn ads.</div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWImpbWPaTopaySmv1ey-Z610yLckkUgT8j46JfK_S7BcUSTyLQVM7PR8z6ei6JVA6y056jCaibUCRSpHF_y_8Vt_gnF29-_sh_c7BaIrqYfqJBJVSfAm6rvp0fceBUIswVxked_ALZ80/s1600/DSC_0044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="233" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgWImpbWPaTopaySmv1ey-Z610yLckkUgT8j46JfK_S7BcUSTyLQVM7PR8z6ei6JVA6y056jCaibUCRSpHF_y_8Vt_gnF29-_sh_c7BaIrqYfqJBJVSfAm6rvp0fceBUIswVxked_ALZ80/s400/DSC_0044.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The second was another variation of the Proper Corn advert, this time in yellow for the Sweet and Salty flavour. </div>
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Next was Vita Coca, an allover blue advert with a great slogan "8500 Red London Buses? This isn't one of them." </div>
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And Finally TAGHeuer advertising the Formula E final at Battersea Power Station at the end of June, this advert only featured on NBFL's on the Route 137 presumably due to its proximity to the power station its self. </div>
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<strong>Introduction of London United's Volvo B5LH/Gemini 3's</strong><br />
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After a brief use on 4th June, to cover for Enviro 200's needed on a Private Hire job, Saturday 13th saw the full introduction of the VH's on the Route 285, it marks a well deserved and long awaited double decker conversion of this route. VH40 is seen at Heathrow Central Bus Station on 13/06/15 (Taken by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<strong>MMCs on the E1</strong> <br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAJiUO-mkEOcaJpekTBPGKPykcSSWndqh-fNXvVIf_bEG-pe1wO0LB53Cs2_GLw5Tt8gNHCNpyYicY8WEejZuRAsO0FXCmMHKo7UdSbIuaE0HtVab2xnn1VPmN5fFHhcxYlPd6p-gD5Qk/s1600/DSC_0077.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="236" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhAJiUO-mkEOcaJpekTBPGKPykcSSWndqh-fNXvVIf_bEG-pe1wO0LB53Cs2_GLw5Tt8gNHCNpyYicY8WEejZuRAsO0FXCmMHKo7UdSbIuaE0HtVab2xnn1VPmN5fFHhcxYlPd6p-gD5Qk/s400/DSC_0077.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Two Enviro 400 MMC's made an appearance on the Route E1 on Saturday 13th, to cover buses which where on Rail Replacement, these buses where ordered for the Route 350 and where delivered at the end of March 2015. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 13/06/15)</div>
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<strong>Introduction of Stagecoach's Volvo B5LH/Enviro 400MMC's</strong><br />
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13062 is seen loading at Greenwich Station while working on the Route 177 to Thamesmead. (Taken on 20/06/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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Within the first few days, the Stagecoach version's started to appear on other PD routes, 13075 appeared on the Route 122 on 25th June and then also appeared on the Route 51 the following day. 13061 also featured on the Route 53 on the 26th June as well.</div>
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13069 ventured onto the Route 472 on 27/06/15, seen at Greenwich Peninsular. Taken by Kristian Lake. </div>
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<strong>Introduction of Metroline's Volvo B5LH/Gemini 3's</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJvrauXCD1cb9HEihzOqigAZP3QaqiMXsvUd702sbp5hpdBObfTYLaVo4N5-8m8LmyvrjtqFvVB5ONFhVjGXPzJvRLkoIO4Bqle4MaO_57tOm64TyrsPtPANAYMF3BQrbJEWG_p5lCw5c/s1600/DSC_0021.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJvrauXCD1cb9HEihzOqigAZP3QaqiMXsvUd702sbp5hpdBObfTYLaVo4N5-8m8LmyvrjtqFvVB5ONFhVjGXPzJvRLkoIO4Bqle4MaO_57tOm64TyrsPtPANAYMF3BQrbJEWG_p5lCw5c/s400/DSC_0021.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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VWH2091 is seen on Oxford Street while working on the Route 6 to Aldwych. (Taken on 20/06/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<strong>Introduction of Go-Ahead London's Volvo B5LH/Enviro 400MMC's</strong><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAS7Av2wgXPxPbyK_suFdsTuRx32E_oSOEFMth3Wq7bKsFQFJj2KNn6zqlYRfJpOy8jurh8ax8007TzS6zwOBBqE5YMYo8j-vgofm-NE455Q7PfHONlsjaOnqLYmHFy8xikSis04H4flc/s1600/DSC_0058.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiAS7Av2wgXPxPbyK_suFdsTuRx32E_oSOEFMth3Wq7bKsFQFJj2KNn6zqlYRfJpOy8jurh8ax8007TzS6zwOBBqE5YMYo8j-vgofm-NE455Q7PfHONlsjaOnqLYmHFy8xikSis04H4flc/s400/DSC_0058.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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EHV3 is seen at Crossharbour Asda about to depart on the Route 135 to Aldgate. (Taken on 20/06/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12685202089573349041noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-62688928155374269452015-07-03T14:59:00.005+01:002015-07-03T14:59:55.831+01:00Route 6: Willesden to Aldwych (Timelapse Video)<div style="text-align: center;">
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Route 6 runs between Willesden Bus Garage and Aldwych/Somerset House, serving Queen's Park, Edgware Road, Oxford Street and Piccadilly Circus in the process.<br />
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The route is operated by Metroline from Willesden Bus Garage (AC). The route is 6 miles long and has a Peak Vehicle Requirement (PVR) of 24.<br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXI7TMpoXgSN8zg51frUywQU_EvLHYLrcquiutm3dl848VA0USiHO2M_w8c6v-ajZSY8d9_MypuVT6Q4BBBtia8o0k70gGR_6BWMQluTdLwzAHWQ83zGg0gw7bw4Pw7IYVQvUAVEySDY1o/s1600/DSC06889.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="223" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhXI7TMpoXgSN8zg51frUywQU_EvLHYLrcquiutm3dl848VA0USiHO2M_w8c6v-ajZSY8d9_MypuVT6Q4BBBtia8o0k70gGR_6BWMQluTdLwzAHWQ83zGg0gw7bw4Pw7IYVQvUAVEySDY1o/s400/DSC06889.JPG" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b style="font-size: 12.8000001907349px;"><span style="font-size: small;">Metroline VWH2093 LK15CWP having just completed a trip from Aldwych <br />seen here at Willesden Bus Garage.</span></b></td></tr>
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QuizGuruhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/01140875907474678917noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-60850061933765290582015-06-22T15:36:00.000+01:002015-06-23T10:46:27.956+01:00Metroline CELF Centre Part 50...New Commercial Streetlite & News Special<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
We made it to a half a century of CELF Centre visits and unlike Jack who visited here last week, it seemed as if luck was on my side today as the title may suggest. Having been out of the scene for the past month, it was nice to be greeted by something new and something which I had no clue even existed.<br />
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The yet unregistered 8.8 ton demonstration vehicle was ordered in April of this year for completion in late June, ordered specifically for the new commercial Route 714, it will operate out of the company's Potters Bar base in Hertfordshire, although its specification may suggest may suggest otherwise. Typical of any Metroline vehicle it features the blue on orange interior as well as the Esteban Civic seating and makes a welcome change from the far too familiar E200, regardless of how much ADL want to change the design.<br />
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Whether or not more are ordered is dependant on this trial, however at present it seems as if Metroline cannot get enough of the Wright offerings at the moment and this comes as the news of an order for 23 new VWHs was announced just three days prior. <br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Metroline Wright Streetlite</span></td></tr>
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Although I remain unconvinced in regards to the design of the Streetlite it does offer a welcome change from the current offerings on the market. Although there is no official fleet number, through a grapevine I did hear that it may be coded STL1470 and registered SL15ZGR. Typical of me I asked if the vehicle could be moved in order to gain more shots and here's what the request produced...<br />
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Seen here entering the CELF Centre facility driven by my favourite engineer who moved the bus in order for me to get a better shot.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Metroline VWH2097</span></td></tr>
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One of 64 new buses for Willesden Garage is seen resting prior to the start of its very long life...News from the centre suggest the following.<br />
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<li>Route 90 converts to DD operation using a mix of SELs and VWs, with VW1205-1216 moving back to PA from HT to facilitate this conversion.</li>
<li>Route E8 to gain MMs from PA with DEs moving in the opposite direction along with a few from Cricklewood.</li>
<li>VP5xx from Willesden to transfer to HT in order to aid the ousting of the TPs and TPLs.</li>
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Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010709763661695170noreply@blogger.com8tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-28403145966288402692015-06-13T22:24:00.001+01:002015-06-13T22:24:18.978+01:00Metroline CELF Centre Part 49...New VWHs for Willesden [AC]Yes...you read that right...Posted by Jack. I am back....at last! Apologies it has been so long. University/Full time work has not left me with enough time to make a worthwhile post.<br />
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It has been 4 months since the blogs last visit to CELF, and being in the area, I thought I would do the honors. Whilst its been 4 months since the blogs last visit, it was my first visit to the site since March 2012! Metroline must have know I was on my way as I have never seen the place so empty! Great!<br />
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My primary reason for visiting today was to check out the new VWHs for Willesden. VWH2099 and 2105 were present on site today. CELF will always play an important part of the blogs history - it is
also the place I had the pleasure of meeting the COL creator himself for the first
time! ;)<br />
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VWH2105 is one of a batch of 34 (numbered VWH2088 - 2121) Volvo B5LH/Wrightbus Gemini 3's that are currently in the process of being delivered for Routes 6 and 98. Either side of it is Metroline West VW1865 and Brentford's DE1013.</div>
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Other pictured from the site can be seen below (which shows how empty it was compared to previous visits!)</div>
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Harrow Weald VP625, LK04UXH</div>
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Greenford TE1720, SN09CEA</div>
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Metroline Variety - TE1090,VWH2099 & VPL214</div>
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VWH2043 & TE679 in the chassis cleaning area</div>
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Perivale West DE1609, YX58DWG</div>
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MM779, LK07AYL - This bus was in service on the 90 two days ago but is now completely blindless.</div>
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Jackhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/16291137718303625913noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-54647206394135340992015-06-01T12:32:00.000+01:002015-06-01T17:09:44.694+01:00London Recap - May 2015<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<strong>Introduction of new Enviro 200's on Routes G1 and 322.</strong><br />
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The start of May saw the introduction of new buses at Plough Lane and Stockwell for the Routes G1 and 322 respectively they where a batch of small Enviro 200's, quite possibly the last standard batch for London, with all future models of the MMC flavour. <br />
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SE254 is seen at the Battersea Shaftesbury Estate, this is one of very few turns where buses have to reverse in the road. (Taken on 02/05/15 by Kristian Lake).</div>
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SE239 is seen on stand at Clapham Common on the first day of operation of the route following its transfer from Abellio (Taken on 02/05/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<strong>New Coca-Cola NBFL advert livery</strong><br />
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LT167 is seen on Oxford Street on 9th May working on the Route 10 to Kings Cross, this was the first NBFL to receive the advert with a couple more also expected to get similar treatment. If it is anything like last years Coca-Cola advert then get it quickly as it wont be around for long. <br />
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<strong>New Ensignbus Volvo B9TL's/Gemini 2's</strong><br />
One of the surprises of the month came in the form of four new Volvo B9TL's which where delivered to Ensignbus towards to end of April, this was to allow a similar number of older Trident/ALX400 buses to be disposed of. The new buses came with the Wrightbus Gemini 2 body, are the last of the type to be delivered. Carrying 15 Plates, the vehicles themselves were built iin 2014 under the small type approval scheme which allows manufacturers combined to build up to 250 vehicles of a previous Euro rating and similar models have showed up with Arriva North East as well as Go Ahead North East.<br />
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127 (LX15GOK) is seen in Stratford City Bus Station on 9th May while working on a DLR Rail Replacement Service to Canary Wharf, this was one of 26 buses within the Ensignbus fleet to be named after a local Purfleet solider who lost there lives in the Great War, A wonderful tribute to commemorate the centenary of the Great War.<br />
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<strong>Cross-London Transfers...</strong><br />
May saw a further four ex Stagecoach Trident/ALX400's enter service with Tower Transit at Westbourne Park, these four had been released from Leyton following the conversion of Route 55 to NBFL and join six others already with Tower Transit.<br />
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TAL33208 (LX03BTY) ex Stagecoach 17754 is seen at Marble Arch on 9th May while working on the Route 23 to Westbourne Park. <br />
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<strong>NBFL introduction on Route 73</strong><br />
The introduction of 53 new NBFL's and six transfers from BN began on Thursday 14th May, when the first ten entered service, the whole route is expected to be converted by Saturday 6th June.<br />
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LT467 is seen on Oxford Street near Bond Street Station while working on the Route 73 to Victoria. (Taken on 23/05/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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LT472 became the latest victim of a accident, while on its first day in service it collided with another NBFL on Oxford Street outside Selfridges, causing long delays to all bus services in the area. But thankfully no one was injured and the bus was towed away within an hour. (Taken on 23/05/15 by Kristian Lake)</div>
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<strong></strong><br />
<strong>Route 135 transfer to Go-Ahead</strong> <br />
Saturday 23rd May saw the transfer of Route 135 to Go-Ahead operation using E208-223 (transferred from NX thanks to the cascade of WHV's from Q following the introduction of NBFL's on the Route 12, yes I know its complicated) in the interim until the brand new Volvo B5LH/Enviro 400 MMC's (numbered EHV1-13). It is estimated that the first bus will be delivered for commissioning at the turn of the month. It is unlikely to enter service for at least two weeks while it undergoes some testing. So keep you eyes peeled in June for the EHV's.<br />
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E211 is seen at Aldgate Station while working on the Route 135 to Old Street, having transferred over from New Cross a few days previous. A couple of buses ventured onto the routes D7, 673 and 474, they are also currently the only buses able to work on the 135. </div>
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Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12685202089573349041noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-66964782025524638072015-05-17T14:18:00.000+01:002015-05-17T14:19:58.170+01:00Birmingham MMC's Part 1<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">As a large number of London’s Enviro 400 MMC’s have now been delivered, with two more batches for Go Ahead and Stagecoach still to come, I
thought I would take a trip out of the capital, to Britain’s second city,
Birmingham. To see what their versions had to offer. <br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYtZGI7CBLXH6vxJIwwdvKivo0gOaP7r3zd4jkDgGJ6I5BGHSNLgaEEo1-gLBj6h-0OWi2hB87mdRGA1v2vmBskam3Bk3hHMocQ4o2YyrwXPCSXtnrsISnyOLcgAYGoCG_Ult6j_3taY/s1600/DSC_0079_edited.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZYtZGI7CBLXH6vxJIwwdvKivo0gOaP7r3zd4jkDgGJ6I5BGHSNLgaEEo1-gLBj6h-0OWi2hB87mdRGA1v2vmBskam3Bk3hHMocQ4o2YyrwXPCSXtnrsISnyOLcgAYGoCG_Ult6j_3taY/s400/DSC_0079_edited.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6108 (SN15LFS) is seen on Snow Hill Queensway, Birmingham while working on Route 9 to Stourbridge. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 16/05/15)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
National Express West Midlands (NXWM), is one of the largest bus operators
outside of London and even with London included they would still be ranked
third largest (following Go-Ahead London and Metroline). They operate over 170
routes and around 1,600 buses working out of ten garages, they have a varied
fleet from double deckers to articulated or bendy buses right down to small
midi buses. <u1:p></u1:p>And that doesn’t include sister company National
Express Coventry. Also it’s worth noting that when compared to London their
fleet is ageing, with still quite a few buses over 10 years old. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ycyq_MVOk5vUqGGtUmDq32hh2-ixJfvMgIyN2C6BGXuND5UfMNPo8iObP9VxZDx-6RgGeg3xslr4R_S-LTmj0rDjZJU6EzXVRnmRRo8mIwjVk5vrDNKDBoI-ZaF5pDm7-KfDRtTkhuw/s1600/DSC_0113.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5ycyq_MVOk5vUqGGtUmDq32hh2-ixJfvMgIyN2C6BGXuND5UfMNPo8iObP9VxZDx-6RgGeg3xslr4R_S-LTmj0rDjZJU6EzXVRnmRRo8mIwjVk5vrDNKDBoI-ZaF5pDm7-KfDRtTkhuw/s400/DSC_0113.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6141 (SN15LHL) is seen on Moor Street, Birmingham having just started its journey on the Route 50 to Druids Heath. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 16/05/15)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
As part of the Transforming Bus Travel agreement, signed in 2013, NXWM are
delivering more than £34 million of investment in the West Midlands bus services
over a period of two years, this investment includes 300 new buses. This
included 14/64 registered standard Enviro 200’s and 400’s as well as the
remaining 171 buses which will be delivered this year, <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>mainly comprising of the largest order so far
of Enviro 400 MMC's, they are also the first company to receive the new Enviro
200 MMC. <u1:p></u1:p>The first Enviro 400 MMC’s hit the streets towards
the end of March. And will form an average of one new bus hitting the region’s
streets every day between March and August.<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_8PqjiSGoILaZ8ni7lcA3_Hh5BO61qRyrUvO7cOpsJ0hsao4nw17g_DOaiCq7mZBqfow_OfuCilsEY_pmLWxLYJmtIQOzZQJLODIfTAzuyCUr1o-I0F1pxh52j2zGy8h9gUL1bRpAHwI/s1600/DSC_0058-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="211" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi_8PqjiSGoILaZ8ni7lcA3_Hh5BO61qRyrUvO7cOpsJ0hsao4nw17g_DOaiCq7mZBqfow_OfuCilsEY_pmLWxLYJmtIQOzZQJLODIfTAzuyCUr1o-I0F1pxh52j2zGy8h9gUL1bRpAHwI/s400/DSC_0058-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6111 (SN15LFV) is seen on Snow Hill Queensway, Birmingham while working on the Route 9 to Stourbridge. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 16/05/15)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Alongside the investment in new buses, improvements also include more
real-time information on bus shelters, similar to what exists in London as well
as other cities. There will also be improvements in CCTV coverage, to help
reduce crime and dedicated cleaners at each end of certain routes to help
improve cleanliness on buses. <u1:p></u1:p>Which I think is a great idea as it
happens on the trains, and it’s something other cities like London should be
replicating to improve the standard of service for bus passengers. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgybK6O9TgOxn6j409DD6YELvR74xs7stN_Rg6lliWkX-dk_0dLPEY5YqETmmDwwFoPpNoUd8PeBbd14FcgsfSn2FrIETLjdXMXRRC0LB0QWeh-4g4UPgCYG3lbkUf9NdsJ8IbrzLB-xMg/s1600/DSC_0106.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="245" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgybK6O9TgOxn6j409DD6YELvR74xs7stN_Rg6lliWkX-dk_0dLPEY5YqETmmDwwFoPpNoUd8PeBbd14FcgsfSn2FrIETLjdXMXRRC0LB0QWeh-4g4UPgCYG3lbkUf9NdsJ8IbrzLB-xMg/s400/DSC_0106.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6138 (SN15LHH) is seen on Park Street, Birmingham while working on the Route 50 to Druids Heath. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 16/05/15)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The first batch of Enviro 400 MMC’s where delivered between March and
April 2015 and have been spilt between Pensnett and Yardley Wood garages
for the Routes 9 and 50 respectively. All these buses were delivered in the new
Scarlet and Maroon livery which is a looks very smart compared to the previous
red and white livery. However most of the buses are route branded and in my
opinion it slightly spoils the livery. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDvOt1XJqrjnmn8r-YOTMqP1OtG1YqUKZsslMycdv3PxtlmWPGAzcdOOZVgmG3zfuuJRQmeaPuKRk328H-iyi8uMN-GkGvNC2jXcI3-33CkSAAD4jNSDTFEoDjVE9h45_qRfbIv2voJg/s1600/DSC_0118.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="242" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEifDvOt1XJqrjnmn8r-YOTMqP1OtG1YqUKZsslMycdv3PxtlmWPGAzcdOOZVgmG3zfuuJRQmeaPuKRk328H-iyi8uMN-GkGvNC2jXcI3-33CkSAAD4jNSDTFEoDjVE9h45_qRfbIv2voJg/s400/DSC_0118.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6134 (SN15LHD) is seen on next to The Bullring Shopping Centre, Birmingham showing the rear route branding for the Route 50. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 16/05/15)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Route 9 runs between Stourbridge and Birmingham City Centre (approx. 13 miles)
operating every 7-8mins in the peak times and every 10-20mins the rest of the
time. The Route 50 runs between Druids Heath and Birmingham City Centre (approx.
6.5 miles) and is one of the most frequent bus services in the UK outside
London running 24 hours a day with buses every 4-5mins Monday to Saturday
daytimes. It was also the first route in the UK to operate low floor double
decker buses. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIqyZhHpN1EE6ab4JOFNhUcJIgYtHlwggxq9w0o3PEJ949VifXt7204bDSIkVOULlWy5Re2DnKKpf4GnFPjJmzA1eCX8SEtudzg-5NcQshcBJ4WxQwmZE-jVf6yFQcwHwmQPtcBXJI7vo/s1600/DSC_0069-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="225" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhIqyZhHpN1EE6ab4JOFNhUcJIgYtHlwggxq9w0o3PEJ949VifXt7204bDSIkVOULlWy5Re2DnKKpf4GnFPjJmzA1eCX8SEtudzg-5NcQshcBJ4WxQwmZE-jVf6yFQcwHwmQPtcBXJI7vo/s400/DSC_0069-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6106 (SN15LFP) is seen on Snow Hill Queensway while working on the Route 9 to Stourbridge. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 16/05/15)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The Buses themselves… I am surprised NXWM have still continued to order
single door buses as loadings can often be high which will lead to long dwells especially
at busy stops. I am also surprised they did not go for the hybrid version of
the MMC, as there are only two hybrid routes in Birmingham at the moment
(Routes 23/24). But having ridden the route 9 from Stourbridge into Birmingham,
trying to rein in my pro MMC bias, the buses are great, the seats are sturdy,
which will prove useful on these busy routes they are allocated too. They weren’t
too much of an issue on the hour long journey either. The buses are also very
quick not as quick as the hybrid models (in London) but they are still able to
get away from other buses when bunching occurs, which happened a few times I observed
both routes 9 and 50. Also useful on the large amount of A-road’s on the Route
9. The ride was smooth, and it did iron out some of the smaller imperfections.
Also it was quite evident that they have bedded in very well as the drivers
seem very comfortable with them. They also seemed to be very popular with the
local’s as well, which is always a good sign. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9Qm7KSUy9gpiwMvxPTVobh3jSYFHXaJAW3z1MwUooKaPy6wapZakeQvcPoGPNZNM7ufhafyIA1IQKK_62Xc3u1RTBAKB1uUgHYlJ5u2pfBThgQI8VOR16gzIv65vghpaxRYhUria2-0/s1600/DSC_0025.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="210" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjs9Qm7KSUy9gpiwMvxPTVobh3jSYFHXaJAW3z1MwUooKaPy6wapZakeQvcPoGPNZNM7ufhafyIA1IQKK_62Xc3u1RTBAKB1uUgHYlJ5u2pfBThgQI8VOR16gzIv65vghpaxRYhUria2-0/s400/DSC_0025.jpg" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">6124 and 6130 are seen on Moor Street while working on the Route 50 to Druids Heath. (Taken by Kristian lake on 18/05/15)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
So it looks like I will be returning to the Midlands hopefully within the
next few weeks to see the 'Platinum' Enviro 400 MMC’s and Enviro 200 MMC’s so
stayed tuned for Part 2. <o:p></o:p><br />
</span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12685202089573349041noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-34556016658896244622015-05-08T20:55:00.004+01:002015-05-08T21:35:30.459+01:00London Recap - April 2015<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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A relatively quiet month in the London bus world, but one thing we can confirm is that Arsenal are not going to win the league title after all and Jeremy Kyle is our new top gear host and I personally cannot see anyone better to be honest, with his amplified voice, who better to talk about a V6 engine on a car.</div>
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<b><u>Delivery of the VH class Volvo B5LH/Wright Gemini buses for the 116 & 285</u></b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bjur4YI75Z0/VUY55DeWK3I/AAAAAAAADkU/nDQYtvi02-8/s1600/11219501_1097205560295587_8069868243582728307_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="267" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-bjur4YI75Z0/VUY55DeWK3I/AAAAAAAADkU/nDQYtvi02-8/s1600/11219501_1097205560295587_8069868243582728307_o.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Delivery of first of 28 VH class Volvos numbered VH24-51 for London United commenced on the 27th of Apirl where four of these buses were unexpectedly delivered to the company's Twickenham Depot in South West London. Earmarked for the Route 116 & 285, there was much speculation as to what both routes will be using to mark the start of their new contract, in particular the 285, with some theorists suggesting the ADH class on the 94 would be utilised which would make way for the introduction of LTs on the route. This was of course rubbished when the first pictures on the net emerged of the new buses. Seen here in a lonely Twickenham yard, stands VH40 which is in warm storage, while it awaits blinds, Tfl revenue equipment as well as IBUS installation prior to entering service on routes 116 and 285.<br />
<b><br /></b><b><u>Introduction of Enviro 400 MMC's for Metroline on Route 332 </u></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrGIyGpbpx3HYW3wXj7Wy1KQhjBbfDxD08BHfG1-E0zlDEsFKBmN6yytjQ1TSMdsxROKVq_i4DYesSbF08KYN46UhCmt2dgS36_fpkov7xpP-HUs2r_N3tAM_pRz2Me_ahzpOTYA9EhAA/s1600/DSC_0012-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="235" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrGIyGpbpx3HYW3wXj7Wy1KQhjBbfDxD08BHfG1-E0zlDEsFKBmN6yytjQ1TSMdsxROKVq_i4DYesSbF08KYN46UhCmt2dgS36_fpkov7xpP-HUs2r_N3tAM_pRz2Me_ahzpOTYA9EhAA/s400/DSC_0012-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The 17th of April, saw the much anticipated introduction of the first batch of Metroline MMC bodied Enviro Hybrid buses, with TEH2081 and 2082 performing the honours. The vehicles ordered against the issue of the new 332 contract were delivered to the company's CELF Centre facility in February before being placed in warm storage at another location. The introduction of 16 strong batch with numbers ranging from TEH2072-2087 will ultimately allow some of the older TEs from the batch TE1073-1104 to transfer to Holloway (HT) in order to oust the 25 TP/TPL class currently in service. As of April 2014, TE1076 & 1077 have made the short trip up north. </div>
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<b><u>The Last Enviro 400 to enter service</u></b><br />
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<a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zOXTPP7ixaI/VUY-kx7DvGI/AAAAAAAADks/8F0HZwpOExQ/s1600/DSC_0007-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="231" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-zOXTPP7ixaI/VUY-kx7DvGI/AAAAAAAADks/8F0HZwpOExQ/s1600/DSC_0007-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Seen here with the Millennium dome in the backdrop, is Stagecoach London's 12364 SN15 LRJ, the Plumstead allocated vehicle prides itself in being the last ever production model Enviro 400 to be introduced to the streets of London after which all other models will be of the MMC body. Allocated to the 122 as a logistical spare, it spends most of its time plying its trade on the other routes at Plumstead Garage.<br />
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<b><u>Sullivan's new acquisitions</u></b><br />
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The 7th of April, saw independent operator Sullivan Buses take on the delivery of four former Stagecoach Lodno Scania Omnicity buses which had recently come off lease following the end of their contractual duties on Route 56 which obtained Hybrid buses. Given fleet numbers DS50-53, the vehicles will be allocated to newly won school routes, 692 and 699 which were respectively won from fellow operator London General. The Buses originally ordered by stagecoach are in the process of receiving a new blind sets, prior to deep clean, their arrival allows the company to oust the ageing ALX1/2 & 4/5 in the summer which are nearing the end of their lives.<br />
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<b><u>More Greens for Metroline </u></b></div>
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Delivery has commenced of 34 VWH class buses for Metroline as illustrated in the above picture, the eventual batch will consist of 64 vehicles, with eventual fleet numbers set to be running from VWH2088-2151, the introduction of these vehicles will see both routes 6 and 98 convert to full hybrid operation, to meet new requirements as well as allow the not too long refurbished VPs to be utilised elsewhere, ridding older leased deckers in the process. </div>
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<b><u>A set of striking two tone pink and black NBFL adverts</u></b><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JFr4236j8_w/VUZDVpk3c1I/AAAAAAAADlc/ufiwVoawpFc/s1600/DSC_0059.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="253" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-JFr4236j8_w/VUZDVpk3c1I/AAAAAAAADlc/ufiwVoawpFc/s1600/DSC_0059.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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The over-publication of London fashion icon, the 'LT' continued, with this time Magnum supporting the cause, noted across the Holloway and Leyton garages, the buses, are being wrapped in a pink vinyl advertising Magnum's new flavoured ice cream, all wrapped vehicles have also had WiFi installed, which is sponsored by Walls.<br />
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<b><span style="font-size: large;">Slightly out of London</span></b><br />
<b><br /></b><u><b>I</b><b>ntroduction of Streetdecks in Brighton</b></u><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9D6wyfW_IvUSOw_48libO5HVBBgBcqqgDMY3JHuO9KeS9BV82Dpin8ld2TGEgILpg4SbU7MuNtUCQWSGhjhRiWyPIlP3yOGaEKXr75IhKvzkANXJ6VWkoQJ0hMfphYBJJPY0SgMyROwk/s1600/DSC_0062-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="243" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg9D6wyfW_IvUSOw_48libO5HVBBgBcqqgDMY3JHuO9KeS9BV82Dpin8ld2TGEgILpg4SbU7MuNtUCQWSGhjhRiWyPIlP3yOGaEKXr75IhKvzkANXJ6VWkoQJ0hMfphYBJJPY0SgMyROwk/s400/DSC_0062-2.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Slightly out of London, the much coveted introduction of the first of the facelifted Streedecks went very smootly, with the first models entering service on flagship routes 12 and 12X, 24 buses comprised of an integral Wrightbus chassis which is coupled to a 5.1 Daimler engine commenced delivery in the early days of April. Although there have been mixed reviews about the vehicle, nothing can be taken away from the fact it has a marvellously striking design.<br />
<span style="font-size: large;"><b><br /></b></span><span style="font-size: large;"><b>Observations </b></span><br />
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<b><u>TEs on the U5</u></b><br />
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<a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-36oyNvovPG4/VUY8v6gszqI/AAAAAAAADkc/pjiAW_aC15o/s1600/16647219494_aaf74965b5_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-36oyNvovPG4/VUY8v6gszqI/AAAAAAAADkc/pjiAW_aC15o/s1600/16647219494_aaf74965b5_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>Metroline West TE1743 is seen in Hayes, unusually working the U5, this batch of buses were originally new to former operator, First London's Greenford Garage for the retention of the E1 & E3 which were successfully retained on tender in 2009. The batch were formerly numbered DN33575-33611, however following the purchase of First's Centrwest operations it and its sisters were given new identities, in TE1715-1751. At present most of the batch are still at Greenford Garage, following the retention and gain of routes 282 and 482, while a few transferred north to Holloway Garage (HT) for the 91 while its TEs transferred further north to the company's Potters Bar (PB) garage as temporary cover on the recently gained 34 and 125 while both routes awaited their new VWHs.<br />
<b><br /></b><b><u>WDL1 on the 655</u></b><br />
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A normally 270 allocated WDL1 is seen loading outside of GAL's headquarters in Merton whilst serving school route 655, the one off vehicle was delivered to Go-Ahead's via VDL dealer Arriva Bus & Coach in 2009 and housed at their Stockwell garage.<br />
<b><br /></b><b><u>MCL1 Still going strong</u></b><br />
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdEIFzcL12IgSogAWnCFBrz8PRfI5MI1Q2ifF1WtAGO22RDsCVheSdMOCPjwx7Zvf2cxr2Z2rzfMPHyYYC180Rjpn4jKPtymoJPHvMN1YSlh303UGp-dx7H15z7bFt9o6XJp63logXCuk/s1600/DSC_0015-3.jpg" imageanchor="1"><img border="0" height="232" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhdEIFzcL12IgSogAWnCFBrz8PRfI5MI1Q2ifF1WtAGO22RDsCVheSdMOCPjwx7Zvf2cxr2Z2rzfMPHyYYC180Rjpn4jKPtymoJPHvMN1YSlh303UGp-dx7H15z7bFt9o6XJp63logXCuk/s1600/DSC_0015-3.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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Still going strong, seen navigating Kingston Bus Station is Quality Line's MCL1, a now spare bus purchased by Quality Line following the gain of Route 293 back in 2003, the vehicle now spends most of its operating as a layover bus, allocated to much of the routes at the company's small Epsom base.<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><b><u>Transfer of TEs from Cricklewood to Holloway</u></b><br />
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<a href="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j4bYsNvT_SY/VU0IHdllXVI/AAAAAAAADls/bYquB4K3zX0/s1600/DSCF5265.JPG" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-j4bYsNvT_SY/VU0IHdllXVI/AAAAAAAADls/bYquB4K3zX0/s400/DSCF5265.JPG" width="400" /></a></div>
<b><br /></b>The much anticipated transfer of up to 25 TEs from Cricklewood to Holloway commenced on the night of the 18th of April, when TE1076/7 transferred in the little hours, the vehicles from a bigger batch with numbers ranging from TE1073-1104 were acquired in 2010 to meet contractual requirements. Initially it was only TE1073-1075 that were delivered to Cricklewood in July 2010, while the latter of the batch commenced their delivery in October of that year, following the annual factory shut down of ADL. The introduction of the vehicles at Holloway will allow the ousting of 5 TPL and 20 TP class vehicles which currently ply their trade on routes 17,43 and 271. It is expected that when all 25 do transfer, their mainstay will be Routes 17 and 43.<br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><b><span style="font-size: large;">Tender News </span></b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><b>29th of April 2015</b><br />
<b><span style="font-size: large;"><br /></span></b><span style="background-color: white;"><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px;">LBSL intends to enter into new contracts for the following routes with the operators listed below:</span><br style="-ms-word-wrap: break-word; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px; max-height: 1000000px;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px;">Route Current Operator New Operator PVR Vehicles</span><br style="-ms-word-wrap: break-word; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px; max-height: 1000000px;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px;">11/N11 London General London General 26 Existing New Routemaster</span><br style="-ms-word-wrap: break-word; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px; max-height: 1000000px;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px;">23 (24 Hr) Tower Transit Tower Transit 28 Existing diesel and hybrid double deck</span><br style="-ms-word-wrap: break-word; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px; max-height: 1000000px;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px;">190 Metroline Metroline 10 Existing diesel single deck</span><br style="-ms-word-wrap: break-word; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px; max-height: 1000000px;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px;">295 (24 Hr) Tower Transit to Metroline West 21 New hybrid double deck</span><br style="-ms-word-wrap: break-word; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px; max-height: 1000000px;" /><br style="-ms-word-wrap: break-word; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px; max-height: 1000000px;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px;">Contracts will commence on the following dates:</span><br style="-ms-word-wrap: break-word; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px; max-height: 1000000px;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px;">31st October 2015 – Routes 11/N11 and 295</span><br style="-ms-word-wrap: break-word; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px; max-height: 1000000px;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px;">14th November 2015 – Route 23</span><br style="-ms-word-wrap: break-word; font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px; max-height: 1000000px;" /><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial; font-size: 11.99px; line-height: 14.39px;">12th December 2015 – Route 190</span></span></div>
Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010709763661695170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-39889715844734669182015-05-03T14:26:00.000+01:002015-05-04T13:32:35.955+01:00Wright Streetdeck, What's the Verdict?<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt; mso-margin-bottom-alt: auto; mso-margin-top-alt: auto;">
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Now following up from the extremely popular
post back in March which previewed a new design Wright Gemini 3 or Streetdeck
leaving the Wright Factory in Northern Ireland, I decided to pop to the seaside
to see for myself what all the fuss was about, typically the British weather wasn’t
the greatest. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcYeviDdYpeOeItk1hlDobh0ix-LoF4jj6dpycH3NdUkZ6iYfnoRsyD31pA9l_0flk9hFawgpbKkrCusjKYvKYMv6JUMCvYYgKcQZenR8gxlW3eusvqzPfKbKHo_6gpzucMaCWh4uWljg/s1600/DSC_0066.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="193" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgcYeviDdYpeOeItk1hlDobh0ix-LoF4jj6dpycH3NdUkZ6iYfnoRsyD31pA9l_0flk9hFawgpbKkrCusjKYvKYMv6JUMCvYYgKcQZenR8gxlW3eusvqzPfKbKHo_6gpzucMaCWh4uWljg/s1600/DSC_0066.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">943 (BX15ONV) is seen at the Old Steine, Brighton on the final part of the Route 12 to Churchill Square, this is one of the last streetdeck's in the batch. (Taken 02/05/15 by Kristian Lake)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Wrightbus launched their latest product, the StreetDeck
at the Euro Bus Expo in Birmingham in November 2014, the product has leading
fuel efficiency and capacity in its class and is a highly reliable product.
With its Euro 6 Daimler OM934 5.1 litre 4 cylinder diesel engine, rated at
231hp and a maximum torque of 900 Nm at 1,400rpm. The buses mea<span style="font-family: "Times New Roman",serif; font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">sure 10.469m long, 2.52m wide and 4.395m high with two possible </span>body designs available, you can either take the traditional Gemini 3
design or the new more angular design, the latter of which has been adopted by
the production models for Brighton and Hove. A number of other revisions have
been included into this new product including improved airflow throughout both
salons, reduced solar gain in the upper saloon (basically the upper deck stays
cooler when the sun is out) however this is at the detriment of having smaller side windows. With other improvements in areas such as cab door
lock design, wireless bell pushes and revised handpole fixings.</span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZlm1fhj4fqzISsp6G2ZZFboks7z4eR9uMBQKBrBF3RcKq5mEM0Jt6Yr41olYqGgl04nSNGmDvsMmpwh6qqwMhrYASDnYnupIKzODhNtS1ob_i1h6a_IVlspQiBEWHXlMDkQudbqAE9Yk/s1600/DSC_0065.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="197" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgZlm1fhj4fqzISsp6G2ZZFboks7z4eR9uMBQKBrBF3RcKq5mEM0Jt6Yr41olYqGgl04nSNGmDvsMmpwh6qqwMhrYASDnYnupIKzODhNtS1ob_i1h6a_IVlspQiBEWHXlMDkQudbqAE9Yk/s1600/DSC_0065.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">927 (BX15ONB) is seen on Churchill Square, Brighton about to depart on the Route 12 to Eastbourne. (Taken on 02/05/15, by Kristian Lake)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Before the main production models where
produced, six demonstrators visited a number of companies across the country
including Arriva Derby Sapphire, First Manchester and South Yorkshire, Transdev
in Harrogate, Brighton and Hove (prior to them receiving 24 production models),
as well as two for London with Arriva and Go-Ahead. However only the Arriva
Derby model had the new design front, another variable with this design is
whether you wish to have a visible stair case. Again looking at the
demonstrators, some did and others didn’t, the Brighton production models chose
to go with the new front but the non-visible staircase. This characteristic
shows how the streetdeck shares a number of similar aspects with the New Bus
For London (NBFL). </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaIuQXXFmdBmY7VpPkX__IshG3JJu7_oTbGOVo_q7yZs66xxj-6bNQwdV2w4yRbfdmFVJlrJmLMi43rkSNhnkN3K8M_yC8o0qHyvU1R2224qHZYn-KSHvuFoygff9bRj6nNdMD883PiVw/s1600/DSC_0061.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="196" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjaIuQXXFmdBmY7VpPkX__IshG3JJu7_oTbGOVo_q7yZs66xxj-6bNQwdV2w4yRbfdmFVJlrJmLMi43rkSNhnkN3K8M_yC8o0qHyvU1R2224qHZYn-KSHvuFoygff9bRj6nNdMD883PiVw/s1600/DSC_0061.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">933 (BX15ONK) is seen on Churchill Square, Brighton while working on the Route 12X Limited Stop to Eastbourne, following behind is another streetdeck on the stopping service. (Taken on 02/05/15, by Kristian Lake)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">There is a growing trend in the bus industry
at the moment to be moving towards higher <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>specification buses on par with coaches in
some cases, the ever popular Arriva Sapphire/MAX and Stagecoach Gold brands
require their buses to be fitted with leather seats, air-con, free wifi, plug
sockets etc. This is just one of the ways in which the industry is trying to
turn the tide of a general decline in bus usage around the country (excluding London).
The streetdecks for Brighton & Hove follow a very similar principle with high-backed
seats and leather headrests, audio-visual announcements, free wifi and plug
sockets. Externally they have moved away from the traditional Brighton and hove
livery and now come in a line green livery with full branding for the
flagship coaster route 12 running between Brighton and Eastbourne (Based at the Whitehawk Garage), this also
includes the 12A and 12X routes, which combine to form eight buses an hour
(Monday to Saturday) between Brighton and Seaford with six continuing to
Eastbourne. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-yWusJh2EZPnhJg9vuTo5MwXjkBAx8XYiJqz8pJYI26tV-RQxJq0ydYhaVNv4tgsWnkVnMyG36TFyOOkJ2H017mMi2xl5KuqQV7VNwgMqYWoG_b9F1DSoYfa2M8D3IKzcinjaoET6Dm4/s1600/DSC_0032.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="213" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg-yWusJh2EZPnhJg9vuTo5MwXjkBAx8XYiJqz8pJYI26tV-RQxJq0ydYhaVNv4tgsWnkVnMyG36TFyOOkJ2H017mMi2xl5KuqQV7VNwgMqYWoG_b9F1DSoYfa2M8D3IKzcinjaoET6Dm4/s1600/DSC_0032.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The Brighton & Hove Coaster (Route 12) Branding. (Taken on 02/05/15, by Kristian Lake)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Delivery of the streetdecks commenced on 19th March 2015 and at the time of writing only two remained to be delivered hence why there was a few Scania Omnideka's still on the route when I visited. <span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">The streetdecks certainly have a place in the
Brighton and Hove fleet which must be one of very few fleets in the country to
be completely free of ADL/Enviro buses.</span></span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglFnrFn5XUclS5BuWzrJ0lSM73x4Z4zvL30v9c16h542lrfClHx_RC7Cau4-goHonhnEhZrJsTTM0dUONr5cwfxcGaQ7yLPH6wGacvrAmETLLnv8Lge5ywgyL7yAfZJHISS56guIeOOg0/s1600/DSC_0057.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEglFnrFn5XUclS5BuWzrJ0lSM73x4Z4zvL30v9c16h542lrfClHx_RC7Cau4-goHonhnEhZrJsTTM0dUONr5cwfxcGaQ7yLPH6wGacvrAmETLLnv8Lge5ywgyL7yAfZJHISS56guIeOOg0/s1600/DSC_0057.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">922 (BX15OMU) is seen on Churchill Square, Brighton working on the Route 12 to Seaford Library. (Taken on 02/05/15, by Kristian Lake) </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Now as many of you will be aware, I am a huge
Enviro 400 MMC fan, but I would definitely say Wrightbus have taken it to the
next level with the Streetdeck as it is <span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; font-size: 11pt; line-height: 107%; mso-ansi-language: EN-GB; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-bidi-language: AR-SA; mso-bidi-theme-font: minor-bidi; mso-fareast-font-family: Calibri; mso-fareast-language: EN-US; mso-fareast-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">undoubtedly</span> an improvement on the Gemini
models. However I thought the upper deck felt cramped with rather small windows
in comparison to an MMC. I also think the cab looks rather small compared to
what the MMC offers. But that said the buses rode well, and ironed out some of
the smaller bumps well, the buses pulled off smoothly, on the longer runs they do get up to a decent speed, even with a smallish engine. Traffic was quite heavy leaving Churchill Square in Brighton,
the bus was able to make the time up along the way. </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span></span></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyeNlXlWNMU3et7K5SNeiSLjmlj4L-jYiL-b_TqG5f6BcLbm_4kLZmgqzRFxFbk6emN_8YcXtORyHOJvhRwQxS4cE3abkcwNpvwdlj1deUkieXIHu_bcHQgjs_bSleOBJ0QADMXYPlIM0/s1600/DSC_0053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="200" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhyeNlXlWNMU3et7K5SNeiSLjmlj4L-jYiL-b_TqG5f6BcLbm_4kLZmgqzRFxFbk6emN_8YcXtORyHOJvhRwQxS4cE3abkcwNpvwdlj1deUkieXIHu_bcHQgjs_bSleOBJ0QADMXYPlIM0/s1600/DSC_0053.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">932 (BX15ONJ) is seen crossing Old Steine, Brighton while working on the Route 12A to Eastbourne via Chyngton. (Taken on 02/05/15 by Kristian Lake)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Brighton is well known for
its hills and it just so happens that the Route 12 has a stand on Dyke Road which is at the
beginning of a prolonged hill, which the streetdeck crawled up, even without passengers. However on flatter roads they did seem to manage with there smaller engine. Another consideration maybe their choice of gear box which may not help on the hills. This is probably where they are better suited to city roads. The buses are fitted out to provide the best of both worlds for passengers,
comfort for the longer distance travellers between Eastbourne and Brighton,
obviously competing for customers against the train, but also the shorter
distance travellers who maybe jumping between towns along the coast. </span></span></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12pt; mso-ascii-font-family: Calibri; mso-bidi-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-font-family: "Times New Roman"; mso-fareast-language: EN-GB; mso-hansi-font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"><span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span></span></span></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI9Sh23ySz0kLm_HXqHBe0enBLRF-QHvHCPHGYxrkFeUEJO6oCxrN6C4VttYYpkupjv1nx6w2oIFnWew-wQ-YxMleHabskmYNpvX4_DMDzMwHj0XCoUs2_RYMCfY8kXikhQFctz44pA4I/s1600/DSC_0089.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="202" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhI9Sh23ySz0kLm_HXqHBe0enBLRF-QHvHCPHGYxrkFeUEJO6oCxrN6C4VttYYpkupjv1nx6w2oIFnWew-wQ-YxMleHabskmYNpvX4_DMDzMwHj0XCoUs2_RYMCfY8kXikhQFctz44pA4I/s1600/DSC_0089.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">939 (BX15ONR) is seen on Old Steine, Brighton while working the final leg of the Route 12 to Churchill Square. (Taken on 02/05/15 by Kristian Lake)</td></tr>
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<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;">Route One claims that the Streetdeck is 18%
more fuel efficient compared to a Euro 5 Enviro 400, It would be interesting to
know how this compared to a like for like euro 6 model. As this brings me onto
the final question, will it sell in large numbers. I think they are a very good
bus and will certainly provide some competition to ADL. There has been a lot of
talk about the new design body but personally I think it has been mechanically where
the improvements have been made. And can certainly see these buses being
popular, for all the fuel saving benefits they offer but can we please keep
with the traditional Gemini 3 body. </span></div>
<span style="font-family: "Calibri",sans-serif; mso-ascii-theme-font: minor-latin; mso-hansi-theme-font: minor-latin;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg5xIaRjBn8v-2BFI9wp7asKGzSqQfs_lf4QGOqeDkf0_fWT2NXg8lg9QlHPc1LGuQiZu-9wc1Qw45w3ilKI4tIKvQhbv-iRkJj0Wn3gSLRdeteMBHPRYN-LWyZeyMkU3tXNvguptcrbo/s1600/DSC_0094.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="198" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgg5xIaRjBn8v-2BFI9wp7asKGzSqQfs_lf4QGOqeDkf0_fWT2NXg8lg9QlHPc1LGuQiZu-9wc1Qw45w3ilKI4tIKvQhbv-iRkJj0Wn3gSLRdeteMBHPRYN-LWyZeyMkU3tXNvguptcrbo/s1600/DSC_0094.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">930 (BX15ONG) is seen crossing Old Steine, Brighton while working on the Route 12X to Eastbourne. (Taken on 02/05/15 by Kristian Lake)</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12685202089573349041noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-39073706008530687922015-04-26T19:53:00.000+01:002015-04-26T20:23:42.951+01:00The ADL E400 MMC B5LH<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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It is quite a bit of a mouthful to say, but I'm sure as we become more familiar with the vehicle itself, a fitting nickname will follow as with many types before them and the type is arguably one of the most highly anticipated fleet of new vehicles, for obvious reasons.<br />
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<a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7671/17070985689_c6b396b8bd_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7671/17070985689_c6b396b8bd_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>
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In April 2014 as part of Stagecoach's national order, 18 E400 bodied Volvo B5LHs were included with the very prominent distinction that they would feature a new body, however at the time with no official announcement from ADL, myself just as much as anybody was left as dumbfounded as anyone as to what these new style E400 could look like. By the Summer pictures had surfaced as to what the new style body would look like which was followed by an official announcement from ADL.<br />
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Nevertheless the first four arrived at Stagecoach's Strathay Depot on the 23rd of April, with many complete with heavy branding and imagery to designate their Hybrid credentials. The three in the shot from left show <span style="background-color: #f3f5f6; line-height: 18px;"><b>13046 </b></span><span style="background-color: #f3f5f6; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">SJ15 PVF , </span><span style="background-color: #f3f5f6; line-height: 18px;"><b>13044</b> </span><span style="background-color: #f3f5f6; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">SJ15 PVL and </span><span style="background-color: #f3f5f6; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><b>13045</b></span><span style="background-color: #f3f5f6; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"> </span><span style="background-color: #f3f5f6; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"> SJ15 PVN, whilst the fourth a training bus HY14 BUS was sat inside the shed for staff familiarisation. Their fleet details follow below. </span><br />
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<div style="text-align: center;">
13041 SJ15PUY </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
13042 SJ15PUX </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
13043 HY14BUS</div>
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13044 SJ15PVL </div>
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13045 SJ15PVN </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
13046 SJ15PVF </div>
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13047 SJ15PVK </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
13048 SJ15PVE </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
13049 SJ15PVO </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
13050 SA15VML </div>
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13051 SA15VTW </div>
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13052 SA15VTU </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
13053 SA15VTY </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
13054 SA15VTV </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
13055 SA15VUX </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
13056 SA15VTX </div>
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13057 SA15VTZ </div>
<div style="text-align: center;">
13058 SA15VUY </div>
<span style="background-color: #f3f5f6; color: #212124; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
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<a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7650/17257214075_f0c0329077_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7650/17257214075_f0c0329077_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>
<span style="background-color: #f3f5f6; color: #212124; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;"><br /></span>
<span style="background-color: #f3f5f6; font-family: inherit; line-height: 18px;">Seen here from the nearside angle in all heir glory, they do look remarkably similar to the Scania/E400 combination, one which had become so popular with the Stagecoach group over the years. </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8713/17069454888_dec9f67ecf_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8713/17069454888_dec9f67ecf_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stagecoach Scotland E400 Volvo B5LH Offside </span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7680/17256715011_8501f278e4_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7680/17256715011_8501f278e4_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stagecoach Scotland E400 Volvo B5LH Interior - Upper deck</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7660/17069478368_fb868a8fe9_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7660/17069478368_fb868a8fe9_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stagecoach Scotland E400 Volvo B5LH Interior - lower deck</span></td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7674/17071022069_ac5efd6c1c_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://farm8.staticflickr.com/7674/17071022069_ac5efd6c1c_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stagecoach Scotland E400 Volvo B5LH Interior - lower deck</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8749/17256704361_443e6646a1_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://farm9.staticflickr.com/8749/17256704361_443e6646a1_b.jpg" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stagecoach Scotland E400 Volvo B5LH Interior - Upper deck</span></td></tr>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7684/17049802347_c61e06dd77_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7684/17049802347_c61e06dd77_b.jpg" height="240" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-size: small;">Stagecoach Scotland E400 Volvo B5LH from the rear</span></td></tr>
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The interior shows quite an unorthodox use of grey for the interior panelling while similarities can be drawn between the engine bay on these vehicles and the more familiar Wright Gemini B5LH. The vehicles themselves for their length weigh a noble 11,255KGS and seat an impressive 79 persons with space for 20 standees. The Stagecoach Scotland orders is followed by a further 21 which are due for Plumstead Garage route 177 in Summer whilst Go Ahead London have ordered 16 for their newly won 135 which will operate from their Silvertown Garage. Credit to our dear friend Gordon who supplied us with the photos and we must stress these must not be used without prior permission. </div>
Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010709763661695170noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-53994822080946258792015-04-09T13:04:00.000+01:002015-04-09T13:04:00.276+01:00London Recap - March 2015<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
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The calendar month of March is always a busy one irrespective of the London Bus Scene, if we recap Arsenal just came a step closer in being crowned Premier League champions following their 2-1 over Newcastle and Jeremy Clarkson left Top Gear in favour of the more lucrative role as a presenter of Channel 5's Fifth Gear. But deep within the streets of London are a group of individuals who pride themselves on accumulating knowledge of London's Buses and this is what this month's March Recap will be corresponding on.<br />
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<strong style="line-height: 17.12px;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Bexleyheath gained a V6 </span></u></strong><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyZ7qYJYmlH48eWSborID8Jlszl5qqbDac7PZcdTqVZa0-De-NUPioRRbDjIMq6mkzW9rIKV_DxhixQU0ZDdxFTfKQI7aIwOJ4sbtcG3WQkGu4NR7JVSrBVmQp3UWPCClAPw4ArZPkI8g/s1600/DSC_0008-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyZ7qYJYmlH48eWSborID8Jlszl5qqbDac7PZcdTqVZa0-De-NUPioRRbDjIMq6mkzW9rIKV_DxhixQU0ZDdxFTfKQI7aIwOJ4sbtcG3WQkGu4NR7JVSrBVmQp3UWPCClAPw4ArZPkI8g/s1600/DSC_0008-3.jpg" height="246" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">V6 (BJ14KTL) is seen at Abbey Wood Station while working on the Route 229 to Queen Mary Hospital. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 12/03/15)</td></tr>
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<span style="line-height: 17.12px;">Short lived, V6 from Camberwell (Q) to Bexleyheath (BX) proved quite a shocker, when it suddenly appeared on the Route 229 one day, apparently for fuel comparison trials, the move was allowed to take place following the introduction of Streetdeck WSD1 on the 2nd of March 2015. The move also saw WVL366 move to Northumberland Park. The transfer itself was short lived and the vehicle was withdrawn from service on the 24th of March, reported to be visiting Coventry, prior to going abroad. </span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span></div>
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><b><u><br /></u></b></span></span><strong style="line-height: 17.12px;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">London United OC1 moves to Quality Line</span></u></strong></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_zsVho4XHYxePMT96y0Vd94w_ZYkxnuXJX8xoEsEN7wBumMATDSaNfR_eUG9xrejAAqfWagXF0aKRqSTt0JLcu97t2DpaZgY3UTi7P_NBBd8BunUjQ1tTfRQEVuKgN-vswUkKbqdWpc/s1600/DSC_0047-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh5_zsVho4XHYxePMT96y0Vd94w_ZYkxnuXJX8xoEsEN7wBumMATDSaNfR_eUG9xrejAAqfWagXF0aKRqSTt0JLcu97t2DpaZgY3UTi7P_NBBd8BunUjQ1tTfRQEVuKgN-vswUkKbqdWpc/s1600/DSC_0047-2.jpg" height="230" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">OC1 (YD63UZL) is seen in Kingston Town Centre while working on the Route 411. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 14/03/15)</td></tr>
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One of the more quiet transfers saw former Metrocity demonstration bus OC1 YD63 UZL transfer between sister companies London United and Quality Line. The vehicles was the one previously launched at the Bus & Coach expo back in 2012 rather strangely sporting route 29 blinds.</div>
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<strong style="line-height: 17.12px;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Introduction of LTs on the 15</span><span style="font-family: Calibri;"> </span></u></strong></div>
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<strong style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 16px; line-height: 17.12px;"><u><br /></u></strong>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3g-TSQdjQCtFhGZECIlNr7KTn10zUIADeRbh9WzcBf3lcPlJJ-yxK9hgEQWO5aXpjY1GsDDzy6Bf4v8k3rfiOGTBrjcsKkUTOrWDdkAXODXU25j4KiyalhMns4L7jRMGD9e-CIWNa7nE/s1600/DSC_0025-5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3g-TSQdjQCtFhGZECIlNr7KTn10zUIADeRbh9WzcBf3lcPlJJ-yxK9hgEQWO5aXpjY1GsDDzy6Bf4v8k3rfiOGTBrjcsKkUTOrWDdkAXODXU25j4KiyalhMns4L7jRMGD9e-CIWNa7nE/s1600/DSC_0025-5.jpg" height="253" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LT391 (LTZ1391) is seen at Trafalgar Square having arrived from Blackwall on the Route 15. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 04/03/15)</td></tr>
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During the early days of March , another Stagecoach route, in the 15 began its conversion to LT operation, with its batch ranging from LT391-416 as well as top up vehicles LT462 & 463 which randomly appeared out of sequence. The introduction of LTs en route has helped to aid the conversion of another Stagecoach route, in the 56 to full Hybrid operation in order for it to meets the terms of its new contract. After a refurbishment by ADL 12128-12153 will return to their new home, Leyton (T)</div>
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<strong style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 16px; line-height: 17.12px;"><u><br /></u></strong>
<strong style="line-height: 17.12px;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Streetdecks enter service </span></u></strong></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1TkgwF5-CUndaZ3tCIRepPvmi-v4ct-zq-r0taCWsjP2Ma-WfhDcNkHAn1psVyMO0DMc71mpexuNhoYd7JrQTTUUkc5-hy_PAMBSfkm4y2YNAVAYRgsOY4-ngXzwmqcMb5t7fCSHPrO4/s1600/DSC_0020-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj1TkgwF5-CUndaZ3tCIRepPvmi-v4ct-zq-r0taCWsjP2Ma-WfhDcNkHAn1psVyMO0DMc71mpexuNhoYd7JrQTTUUkc5-hy_PAMBSfkm4y2YNAVAYRgsOY4-ngXzwmqcMb5t7fCSHPrO4/s1600/DSC_0020-1.jpg" height="260" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WSD1 (SN64CTV) is seen on Westminster Bridge Road while working on the Route 12 towards Dulwich Library. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 04/03/15)</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmybv3gn7_3OVbBDcF1gGDhLX7fmJ1lbcf6E-nZQI_tBEVanFBm31ahMBiVvWtsmlxf_yjMIVsd_1tFo9lgkbhoiFfxuPYKNPQzkNp9XdbDl_5Uz1fFslNfMDXiCfNQzFJF9FbTSf0P_Q/s1600/DSC_0038-4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmybv3gn7_3OVbBDcF1gGDhLX7fmJ1lbcf6E-nZQI_tBEVanFBm31ahMBiVvWtsmlxf_yjMIVsd_1tFo9lgkbhoiFfxuPYKNPQzkNp9XdbDl_5Uz1fFslNfMDXiCfNQzFJF9FbTSf0P_Q/s1600/DSC_0038-4.jpg" height="256" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SW1 (LK64DVV) is seen leaving Wood Green Garage about to start on the Route 221 to Edgware. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 04/03/15)</td></tr>
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Two new Wright Streetdecks enter service in London in March, but thankfully they have retained there Gemini 3 styling. WSD1 has gone to Go-Ahead at Camberwell to replace V6 and SW1 has gone to Arriva at Wood Green to run alongside VDG1, the Volvo B5TL demonstrator.<br />
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<strong><u>Transfer of Route 482 to Metroline</u></strong></div>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJ37Fas-w_U4yD7z_gw05yX-wissD9MFFoFhE_HLfvciWLhOBhZXBVqzvA8PvJuQPqMSQVxhzwewFORQsyDEMKbNv5AOuPgIAxeyolbQrGUV8Gjn_C9t9HpGH7bRMipUmzcmorQn0V0A/s1600/DSC_0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEJ37Fas-w_U4yD7z_gw05yX-wissD9MFFoFhE_HLfvciWLhOBhZXBVqzvA8PvJuQPqMSQVxhzwewFORQsyDEMKbNv5AOuPgIAxeyolbQrGUV8Gjn_C9t9HpGH7bRMipUmzcmorQn0V0A/s1600/DSC_0020.jpg" height="246" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TE1727 (SN09CEX) is seen on South Road at Southall Town Hall on the first day of Metroline operation of the Route 482, taken on 21/03/15 by Kristian Lake</td></tr>
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<span style="text-align: center;">On the 21st of March 2015, Metroline West duly took over the Route 482 from their Greenford Garage (GR) using the former E1 & E3 buses, with numbers ranging from 1715-1751, had things gone slightly differently, this batch of buses would have ended up at Potters Bar, operating on both routes 34 & 125. The batch is now split between the 91*, 282, 482 & U4, with the higher ended numbers transferring across from Holloway (HT) to Uxbridge (UX) to form a partial allocation on route U4 alongside the TPs. </span></div>
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<strong><u>Tower Transits new buses and routes 212/444</u></strong><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOh9KBxDv0a9fgaEMuZZSy2ZSlWEVQM-mIDBdAJqeZKiQL5BNrTuw892fu_R43Bx-9RtzcuaUt8lUifdfnpAzTCrRw3XykyEdFbXTEobiTOyOlewSyrpjf95HR44KmJyXllqcn3ARgzWA/s1600/DSC_0020.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOh9KBxDv0a9fgaEMuZZSy2ZSlWEVQM-mIDBdAJqeZKiQL5BNrTuw892fu_R43Bx-9RtzcuaUt8lUifdfnpAzTCrRw3XykyEdFbXTEobiTOyOlewSyrpjf95HR44KmJyXllqcn3ARgzWA/s1600/DSC_0020.jpg" height="246" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WV46108 (SN64CVM) is seen at Sterling Way at Silver Street Station while working on the Route 444 to Chingford. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 07/03/15)</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2F0JOKQ3__5Do7Kr7Hd756Dy4zKnODkCKBUMNKb4sgVNvN0OUCWN2CUpOAET2qOfbsEpRd_cnVp-ZvaTF6JjSBIVUGtjanUkd50QAbV81b7lb4dSvcyZ7EQaJc0OBUCCD6ySPCWAqf18/s1600/DSC_0012.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi2F0JOKQ3__5Do7Kr7Hd756Dy4zKnODkCKBUMNKb4sgVNvN0OUCWN2CUpOAET2qOfbsEpRd_cnVp-ZvaTF6JjSBIVUGtjanUkd50QAbV81b7lb4dSvcyZ7EQaJc0OBUCCD6ySPCWAqf18/s1600/DSC_0012.jpg" height="268" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">VH38110 (BL64MHV) is seen at Walthamstow Central Station while working on the Route 212 to Chingford (Taken by Kristian Lake on 07/03/15)</td></tr>
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Tower Transit took over two new routes in March which required twenty new buses (10 new Streetlites and 10 new Gemini 3 hybrids) both currently working out of Lea Interchange (LI) but could easily be moved to the forthcoming Pickkets Lock (PI) garage. Both routes start and finish at Chingford which was virgin ground for Tower Transit. Anyone interested in finding out more about these two routes and buses please check out the <a href="http://circleoflondon.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/tower-transit-next-two.html">Tower Transit, The next two</a> post.<br />
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<strong style="line-height: 17.12px;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">MMCs commence Abellio operations on the 415</span></u></strong><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFYTWZUOq7d8OUwGIf7eOFDsQZtHteroxxBu_9oqh_A53842zwVo_Kd1_RIHCgeFnmZy98O8f0FMCspaM8WYFmFjMB9OjMhV6-8z0t489F1njNCcjC64eAp0EYbqj_m09MTKC5VqafpU/s1600/DSC_0050.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhiFYTWZUOq7d8OUwGIf7eOFDsQZtHteroxxBu_9oqh_A53842zwVo_Kd1_RIHCgeFnmZy98O8f0FMCspaM8WYFmFjMB9OjMhV6-8z0t489F1njNCcjC64eAp0EYbqj_m09MTKC5VqafpU/s1600/DSC_0050.jpg" height="265" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2514 (YY64TZO) is seen at Brixton Station while working on the Route 415 to Tulse Hill Station. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 07/03/15)</td></tr>
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The penultimate Abellio route to gain MMC's was the Route 415 which was also a takeover from Arriva, the first day saw only three MMC's running with other Walworth (WL) buses assisting but within a week all MMC's had entered service, they have also made a number of forays onto other WL routes such as the 40.<br />
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<strong style="line-height: 17.12px;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Three new E200s for Blue Triangle </span></u></strong><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWYBy2yylbrlT374m9Tfc1OPVFabUuCKE3JaeNUQ0MDDC22H-LHXZMVWkQEGFDBVhx5cCnuh-2_Ftqlgx3kyclFedSeBpa2LOtEshEdHBvQFjej-T8jKLs3Vc89so15PFK2Mnpdo9HENA/s1600/DSC_0022.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiWYBy2yylbrlT374m9Tfc1OPVFabUuCKE3JaeNUQ0MDDC22H-LHXZMVWkQEGFDBVhx5cCnuh-2_Ftqlgx3kyclFedSeBpa2LOtEshEdHBvQFjej-T8jKLs3Vc89so15PFK2Mnpdo9HENA/s1600/DSC_0022.jpg" height="226" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">SE233 (YX15XML) is seen on Woolwich Manor Way at Beckton having just started its journey on the Route 376 to East Ham. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 17/03/15)</td></tr>
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One of the surprises of the month came in the form of three new Enviro 200's which went to Rainham (BE), they are almost identical to the recent batch for the Route 100. And so spent there first few days on the Route 376 while drivers where being trained on them as they have the new gear box. All three made an appearance on the route within the first week using borrowed blind sets from Silvertown (SI) while new sets where on order. They have all since been used on there intended route the W19, but unfortunately this is likely to spell the end for the two remaining Cadets (DW11 & 12). <br />
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<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="line-height: 17.12px;"><b><u></u></b></span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit; line-height: 17.12px;"><b><u>MMCs starting on Route 350</u></b></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO96yeNlnBO3hmrjJQZlNBzwPvmWm09iOvm8y583di_pqcKIFnSMEBm4WVTL1v7i54q_40Ji-S_esmaM8cBtHbXZMP3cx7aACs84cXVWj2FDkYu3I57bkIViQamrvwdry6gE-uygPYReg/s1600/DSC_0036-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhO96yeNlnBO3hmrjJQZlNBzwPvmWm09iOvm8y583di_pqcKIFnSMEBm4WVTL1v7i54q_40Ji-S_esmaM8cBtHbXZMP3cx7aACs84cXVWj2FDkYu3I57bkIViQamrvwdry6gE-uygPYReg/s1600/DSC_0036-3.jpg" height="235" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2526 (YX15OWU) is seen at West Drayton Station while working on the Route 350 towards Hayes & Harlington. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 28/03/15)</td></tr>
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The long awaited final batch of Abellio MMC's entered service a week later than planned towards the end of March on the Route 350, a rather unusual choice in my opinion given Hayes only has two double decker routes. I would have thought they may have been better suited on a more central route. Anyway this batch signals the end of Abellio's current order of MMC's and also the end of some of the 51-reg tridents that have spent there latter years on this route. Anyone interested to find out more about the route of buses please check out the <a href="http://circleoflondon.blogspot.co.uk/2015/03/route-overview-route-350-awaiting-mmc.html">Route 350 overview</a> post. </div>
<strong style="font-family: Calibri; font-size: 16px; line-height: 17.12px; text-align: left;"><u><br /></u></strong>
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<strong style="line-height: 17.12px; text-align: left;"><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">Introduction of LTs on the 12 </span></u></strong></div>
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<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfez4H_5CINUOCrv0TkW4b05yZJMY-Yo0b-2nBBlt9EhOt2Zsi3MT5Juj8jVSeeu3GHn7Vu6NZp1rH9kLkHa86hF2m7hedXxwrjxF3tDSDIo6xVTR-x_7uevOasngbH-2-bAaAV2kP66I/s1600/DSC_0010-1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjfez4H_5CINUOCrv0TkW4b05yZJMY-Yo0b-2nBBlt9EhOt2Zsi3MT5Juj8jVSeeu3GHn7Vu6NZp1rH9kLkHa86hF2m7hedXxwrjxF3tDSDIo6xVTR-x_7uevOasngbH-2-bAaAV2kP66I/s1600/DSC_0010-1.jpg" height="241" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LT417 (LTZ1417) is seen turning into Margret Street at the end of the Route 12 at Oxford Circus. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 29/03/15)</td></tr>
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March saw a second route start to receive New Routemasters, following on from the Route 15 at the start of the month the route 12 also began towards the end, this was one of the larger batches of recent, with a total of 40 buses going to Camberwell (Q) even though they may eventually get mixed in with the 453 batch at Mandela Way (MW). This phased conversion will be continuing into April.<br />
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<strong><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">New Enviro 200's for National Express at Heathrow</span></u></strong><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZsdoxYRCikqo4rhdvAwy_okpAY9gTqcEfUih9jHKgJqU4BHtoUR4PbYb1_PlL4kh9DSAmbimaSYixHMnj3HTjXoTrmS1VRd9_pKS6C0cXfdM4rq8vqu34h2q3zALcz1BqCrK51nf9uSs/s1600/DSC_0034.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhZsdoxYRCikqo4rhdvAwy_okpAY9gTqcEfUih9jHKgJqU4BHtoUR4PbYb1_PlL4kh9DSAmbimaSYixHMnj3HTjXoTrmS1VRd9_pKS6C0cXfdM4rq8vqu34h2q3zALcz1BqCrK51nf9uSs/s1600/DSC_0034.jpg" height="234" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8360 (SN15LKG) is seen at Hatton Cross Station while working on the British Airways Staff Shuttle BA5. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 14/03/15)</td></tr>
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL3d5YedYlvqQ9N-kn3Fa5tFFVDucLnHZL4Z-QXbED4kk1UX6dJUV2rnIdid_AlrVzdt99mtA8gy1TPgYc51R08RH8UKCETaFCKUVZmoSOPnuqkgYglMnYM65OfB7gx9OKuGIFu2elxbw/s1600/DSC_0011-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiL3d5YedYlvqQ9N-kn3Fa5tFFVDucLnHZL4Z-QXbED4kk1UX6dJUV2rnIdid_AlrVzdt99mtA8gy1TPgYc51R08RH8UKCETaFCKUVZmoSOPnuqkgYglMnYM65OfB7gx9OKuGIFu2elxbw/s1600/DSC_0011-2.jpg" height="235" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">8369 (SN15LKD) is seen at the Bath Road Roundabout near Terminal 5 while working on a British Airways Staff Shuttle service (Taken by Kristian Lake on 18/03/15)</td></tr>
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March also saw the start of a new contract between National Express and British Airways for the operation of a number of staff shuttle services around the Heathrow perimeter calling at all the main British Airways office's, buildings and hangers. 10 ADL Enviro 200's (10.8m) and 4 Optare M900SR's where ordered for this contract and these supplemented a couple of other existing Enviro 200's which will solely be used for these services. These new buses join a number of other Enviro 200's based at Heathrow for BBC Staff Shuttles and Heathrow Hotel Hoppa services. <br />
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<strong><u><span style="font-family: inherit;">London's new Sightseeing Tour Company </span></u></strong><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="float: left; margin-right: 1em; text-align: left;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVXteNgqIKBqS9IidDSJx6lOET7_rug3KK4wBDy8RY1yDOZtf8ulmqGrXRRH7cw8DbSO6h1zO3v54_5I1bQWbrcoo5S0GVx0DUgKZi9MyjqBjFj9_JHpryCs_MU4G7AsdB4Etm4HO8ai4/s1600/DSC_0044.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjVXteNgqIKBqS9IidDSJx6lOET7_rug3KK4wBDy8RY1yDOZtf8ulmqGrXRRH7cw8DbSO6h1zO3v54_5I1bQWbrcoo5S0GVx0DUgKZi9MyjqBjFj9_JHpryCs_MU4G7AsdB4Etm4HO8ai4/s1600/DSC_0044.jpg" height="241" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Ex Metroline VPL183 (Y183NLK) is seen at the Tower of London while working on for London City Tours. (Taken by Kristian Lake on 28/03/15)</td></tr>
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And finally this month also saw a new Open Top tour operate begin operations, they are using heavily modified ex Metroline VPL's, these buses have had their roof's removed (not all have the roof fully removed), new LED destination blinds, free Wifi as well as USB/plug charging. So they seem to have the facilities of a luxury coach compared to a sightseeing bus. <br />
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Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010709763661695170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-81807275473829031482015-03-28T18:13:00.001+00:002015-04-09T13:04:43.604+01:00Route Overview: Route 350<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Route 350 runs between Hayes & Harlington and
Heathrow Terminal 5, the route was first introduced in 2008 when terminal five
at Heathrow opened. In fact for the first four days, buses terminated in
Harmondsworth as passengers were not allowed to be taken into the terminal as
it had not opened. <span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span>The route superseded
the H50 which only operated between Hayes and West Drayton and was introduced
in 2000 and ran Monday to Saturday only as it was funded by Hillingdon Council
and operated by Wings, after the first year, the Saturday service was cut due to
a lack of patronage and the route remained a Monday to Friday operation until
the route ceased. The operation of the route was passed to Tellings
Golden Miller (TGM) in 2004 however this only lasted just over twelve months
before they were acquired by Travel London.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;">
</span>Soon after Travel London began operation, the route was converted to
double deckers, using three of their brand new Volvo B7TL Wrightbus
Eclipse Gemini’s. However double decker operation only lasted for two years as
with the creation of the 350 the route returned to single decker operation with
8 brand new enviro 200’s although one peak time double decker did remain. Once
again in 2012 the route returned to full double decker operation, this time
with eight ageing dennis trident alexander ALX400’s and hopefully within the next
few weeks these fourteen year old buses will be retired in place of brand new
ADL Enviro 400 MMC’s which will complete Abellio’s current order. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
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<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6_r8zjk8x2RZjRBVOKZYAsbB3sM4_1i-nJBEzBKJqqOlCXGwwvTNXFSbBnrLpXs-8pCY6tsDxgO8_oEQa_-K3ERcZ-fjDEqfDOfEPTjMyUnogjTFRiAOam5ua5qEkGQ6pTBuOi0yKQcY/s1600/DSC_0008-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj6_r8zjk8x2RZjRBVOKZYAsbB3sM4_1i-nJBEzBKJqqOlCXGwwvTNXFSbBnrLpXs-8pCY6tsDxgO8_oEQa_-K3ERcZ-fjDEqfDOfEPTjMyUnogjTFRiAOam5ua5qEkGQ6pTBuOi0yKQcY/s1600/DSC_0008-2.jpg" height="206" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">9768 (YN51KWC) is seen at the Bath Road Roundabout, Longford approaching its final destination, taken on 18/03/15 by Kristian Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The route is around seven miles in length and takes on
average between 30 and 35 minutes to complete one trip, buses run every 12 mins
Monday to Friday and every 20 mins at weekends. I rode the route from Hayes
& Harlington Station to Heathrow Terminal 5 on Saturday 14<sup><span style="font-size: x-small;">th</span></sup>
March, and hope to return when the MMC’s begin. And I was surprised at the
amount of people that also boarded at Hayes station, the route begins on a
small residential street just around the corner from the station. After
departing the stop at the station we head down towards Heathrow however we will
be turning off very shortly. The first points of interest on the route are
located just off the first road on the left which is Nestles Avenue, where you
will find the London Motor Museum, a real hidden gem for anyone interested in
cars, it is identifiable by the ex-Seaford and District Leyland Olympian parked
outside which is now acting as a burger bar, also if you carry on further down
the road you can marvel at the now derelict Nestle Factory which has stood on
this site for over a century. </span></div>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv3aPLb6c6X-WJ2gU_QbX4Wu-PgB7OAn0hbH4VgHmN8EC2fKN5vZgKpKYJkOmPGMu3rg-ZrjuHgpNPGVgeMmC6suJkeolYL6mkXzVYT5Rh9xtJooY4pZvzhef01B4jv3aMZv0kY-Jz6FE/s1600/DSC_0013-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgv3aPLb6c6X-WJ2gU_QbX4Wu-PgB7OAn0hbH4VgHmN8EC2fKN5vZgKpKYJkOmPGMu3rg-ZrjuHgpNPGVgeMmC6suJkeolYL6mkXzVYT5Rh9xtJooY4pZvzhef01B4jv3aMZv0kY-Jz6FE/s1600/DSC_0013-2.jpg" height="205" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">E851DPN - Ex Seaford & District Leyland Olympian/Northern Counties now acting as a burger bar outside the London Motor Museum. Taken 14/03/15 by Kristian Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The one thing you will find on this route is that there is a
distinct country feel juxtaposed by modern industrial estates and this is felt
as soon as you cross the Grand Union Canal which brings the large Lake Farm
country park into view, we suddenly turn off Dawley Road onto a small tree
lined side road called Bolingbroke way, now I start to wonder where we are
actually going, as it doesn’t look like a road a London bus should be going
down. At the end of the road all is revealed as we turn left into the buses
only entrance to Stockley Park Business Park, home to companies such as Apple,
Canon and Marks & Spencer’s, the site also features a lake, country park,
golf club, a gym as well as restaurants and shops. After passing through a bus
gate, we are parachuted deep inside an out of town modern business park which to
and to my amazement this is where most of our passengers are deposited. And it’s
also work noting that two other bus routes serve the site, they are the routes
A10 and U5. </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwK9O8SKzJNIrkN6e5saf8wpFOqhOjTqYAHCQdwsOdnHNT61WRsEr7xLkUlrj_E3fnLw-r0TpqWzCXjZj81Re36PlcSlZuGCxgxh0-qJf5KXA4snxUDbyR1CnPdeYVWBd0_9MVkqUHSag/s1600/DSC_0006.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwK9O8SKzJNIrkN6e5saf8wpFOqhOjTqYAHCQdwsOdnHNT61WRsEr7xLkUlrj_E3fnLw-r0TpqWzCXjZj81Re36PlcSlZuGCxgxh0-qJf5KXA4snxUDbyR1CnPdeYVWBd0_9MVkqUHSag/s1600/DSC_0006.jpg" height="193" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">9772 (YN51KWG) is seen approaching West Drayton Station while heading towards Hayes & Harlington, taken on 18/03/15 by Kristian Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">After leaving the business park at Stockley Park, we start
to head towards West Drayton or Yiewsley to be more precise, both villages have
now merged together on each side of the railway, with West Drayton
station at the centre of all this. After a short burst down a country road we
arrive into the industrial sprawl of West Drayton, which then becomes more residential
as we approach the main high street and station. After circumnavigating the
forecourt of West Drayton Station, which is currently a building site to make
it ready for the increased services, Crossrail will bring to this station and
area. Turning back onto the high street we head under the railway and start to
head towards the small village of Harmondsworth. After flying over the M4 we
leave West Drayton behind and are shortly arriving in Harmondsworth, after
passing through the village which is full of speed bumps we arrive on the A4
colnbrook by pass for a spell of quick dual carriageway running which will take
us to the boundary of the airport where we join the western perimeter road just
as a plan lands right above us, which is always an surreal and slightly unnerving
experience. And soon enough we are arriving at the maze of roads which form the
entrance to the ultra-modern terminal five which is where the journey
ends.<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"> </span><br />
<span style="mso-spacerun: yes;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3lhkF432hwsSjeP3J6btd-4r4O7k_0OeF3fYXZH0spa1Nm3HyckKkTthFtkZ07_fu5IkS4Mo8saz74HtS5nmtnbsWcStFwVOTucoEnUG_n380LIqmtweu_0oApMu6FMjPC8_3LJCPuHc/s1600/DSC_0036-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh3lhkF432hwsSjeP3J6btd-4r4O7k_0OeF3fYXZH0spa1Nm3HyckKkTthFtkZ07_fu5IkS4Mo8saz74HtS5nmtnbsWcStFwVOTucoEnUG_n380LIqmtweu_0oApMu6FMjPC8_3LJCPuHc/s1600/DSC_0036-2.jpg" height="189" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2526 (YX15OWU) is seen outside West Drayton Station while heading towards Hayes & Harlington on 28/03/15, taken by Kristian Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">Now </span>to talk a little about the buses, currently the route is
covered by 51-reg Dennis Trident ALX400’s most of the time, however looking at
the records, other buses from Hayes seem to make regular occasional appearances
on the route, including single deckers. Which is not a surprise as loadings often don't require double deckers. But all credit to these
14 year old tridents, they still perform well on the dual carriageway sections
of the route, as the one that I rode was quick and the engine was very
responsive, I suppose part of that comes with a good driver who knows the bus
and the route well. <br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnyTunsHjD_Wi8Lpaqz9lpW5jMkDrf2wQh7Okh4KrhoTwEm7lpu8jeZltx_EtHkF98sUhRmWS_PEjl0r_tVL7LmxYmhmWiDxzacIreRbRdTi9PqEThAuWH8A71PfOZSXWaeUT7xYZP3Og/s1600/DSC_0016-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjnyTunsHjD_Wi8Lpaqz9lpW5jMkDrf2wQh7Okh4KrhoTwEm7lpu8jeZltx_EtHkF98sUhRmWS_PEjl0r_tVL7LmxYmhmWiDxzacIreRbRdTi9PqEThAuWH8A71PfOZSXWaeUT7xYZP3Og/s1600/DSC_0016-2.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">An interior shot of the upper deck of 9770 (YN51KWE) taken on 14/03/15 by Kristian Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The route has plenty of fast running and buses are able to stretch its legs, so I look forward to riding a Enviro 400 MMC when they are due out before the end of March. No matter how well the tridents perform, they are defiantly showing their age internally, as they are looking very tired, even though they are probably not as battered and bruised as some of the younger models found at Walworth. It will be a shame to see another batch of Tridents leave London as I was brought up on them living in East London as there where the dominant stagecoach bus a few years ago. I am sure they will find a nice home out of London for these buses. </span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-atEyPRAGzM7GLkXlwoDNUOYBD-rX8Gi1yj6h2ONtQ7dtPOzFuHkKyQf3WE_QqyaSl7BDl89tgFPrjlip9TZ_AdEWl1xM0zFyHJZh96EI64x53iagX1zAGnyHZo9h90d4SO4cef6oxfI/s1600/DSC_0039-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh-atEyPRAGzM7GLkXlwoDNUOYBD-rX8Gi1yj6h2ONtQ7dtPOzFuHkKyQf3WE_QqyaSl7BDl89tgFPrjlip9TZ_AdEWl1xM0zFyHJZh96EI64x53iagX1zAGnyHZo9h90d4SO4cef6oxfI/s1600/DSC_0039-2.jpg" height="193" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2528 (YX15OWW) is seen arriving at West Drayton Station while heading towards Heathrow Terminal 5 on 28/03/15, taken by Kristian Lake</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Returning a few weeks later, on the first day of Enviro 400 MMC operation on the route and buses where gradually introduced over the day with the first four in service by the afternoon. Including 2523 (YX15OWO) which I rode on it's first ever working, and there is no real difference in feel compared to the other previous Abellio examples, however this is probably the best route to experience the full potential of the MMC's as the Route 109 is a very stop/start route, the Route 415 doesn't really get going enough before meeting the hills between Brixton and Tulse Hill, but due to the many open stretches of roads on this route, you will defiantly be able to have the full MMC experience. </span></div>
</div>
Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12685202089573349041noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-83548782765868220392015-03-15T18:25:00.002+00:002015-03-15T18:36:23.898+00:00Stagecoach London Barking Garage [BK]<div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
The other garage in Barking is occupied by Stagecoach, located on Longbridge Road, the garage stands out almost as a monumental figure as it has done for the past 9 decades. Opened in 1924 by the LGOC following the increased demand of bus services, which was an implication of the sudden boom in the construction of housing estates in the nearby Beacontree Heath area.<br />
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The structure was comprised of a yard as well as a large Victorian styled shed, which was typical of many garages which were built under the influence of the LGOC. 7 years after opening, the base was expanded, and rather unusually, the entrance of the garage was located on S Park Drive, which limited the amount of vehicles that could enter at any one time and this was amended when it was expanded years later.<br />
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The garage proved quite a successful one time, taking advantage of the numerous routes that operated in and around the neighboring Barking, Beacontree Heath and Dagenham areas, its Central location allowed for easy access as well as providing relief for the nearby North Street & Seven Kings Garages, but its size prevented it from ever utilizing its full potential.. However it still remained quite a popular one and certainly among enthusiasts which was probably intensified when in 1979 it rather dubiously became the last garage to run the much loved RT class Buses on the Route 62. <br />
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However its popularity could not expel it from the plans, to close it in the 1990s. By 1991 plans had surfaced to close the garage by 1992 in favour of a new 'super garage' in the Chadwell Heath area. The new garage was planned to have replaced the work from the Barking, North Street and Seven Kings Bases and rather fittingly coded 'CH' and set to commence operation in 1993. But closer inspection of the site, revealed due to its previous use as a paint manufacturing plant, the land had become so badly contaminated, it was no longer suitable to build on anymore and the operation was aborted. Expectations for the base seemed rife and many of the Barking and North Street vehicles for years ran around with 'CH' codes.<br />
<br />
Despite the fact the super garage did not open, quite surprisingly the Seven Kings Garage still proceeded with its closure that year, which as a consequence meant Barking had increased pressure due to an influx of work.To mitigate, it was slightly extended, which was achieved by purchasing of two adjoining bungalows before demolishing them.<br />
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By 1994, the garage had a maximum vehicle requirement of 109 vehicles at any one time, quite a large proportion of which made up by lengthy Route 5. The base like many in the 80s and 90s underwent a period of modernisation resulting in the introduction of the coveted Leyland Titan and the rather uncanny Optare Delta types.<br />
<br />
Skip a decade to 2013 and, it was chosen as the first London Bus Garage to use chip fat oil which on its 120 buses, this was set to reduce emissions by up 20%, stickers to designate this were accordingly applied to the vehicles on site. A 50,000 litre storage tank was installed on the site which enabled the bio-fuel to be mixed on the site, further reducing the costs as well as carbon emissions. A key standing point for the introduction of bio fuel on the site was<span style="font-family: inherit;"> <span style="background-color: white;">the 8,700-strong bus fleet uses around 250 million litres of fuel each year, with 3.7 million litres used by buses operating out of the Barking garage alone. Although it remains to be seen whether or not the results from this experiment were successful or not. </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;"><br /></span></span>
<span style="font-family: inherit;"><span style="background-color: white;">In contrast to the 1980s and 1990s, at present the garage runs the following routes </span></span><span style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">5, 62, 101, 145, 169, 366, 387, 396, N15 (also BW) with a fleet that consists of </span></span><span style="font-family: Verdana, Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: 11px; line-height: 16px;"> </span><span style="line-height: 16px;"><span style="font-family: inherit;">40 double deck Alexander Tridents, 54 ADL Enviro 400s, 23 ADL Enviro 200 and 14 Optare Versas. </span></span><br />
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<b><span style="color: red;">Garage Fact File</span></b><br />
<ul style="text-align: left;">
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Opened in 1924</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Expanded once in 1931 and again in the 1990s</span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: inherit;">Runs 10 Routes</span></li>
<li>Ran the last ever route to run the Regent RT Class on the 7th of April 1979</li>
<li>Runs 120 Buses</li>
<li>Planned for closure in 1992 due to opening of new Chadwell Heath Garage which did not happen</li>
</ul>
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Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010709763661695170noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-16835786997409770412015-03-10T21:53:00.001+00:002015-03-10T21:53:16.433+00:00Enviro 400 MMC, The Story So Far...
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Alexander Dennis launched the new model Enviro 400,
codenamed MMC for Major Model Change in May 2014, the bus comes in four
different specifications: <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<ul>
<li>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">10.3m Single Door, with 45 seats upstairs and 29 seats downstairs<o:p></o:p><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;"> </span></span></li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">10.3m Two Door, with 45 seats upstairs and 25 seats downstairs</span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">10.9m Single Door, with 49 seats upstairs and 33 seats downstairs</span></div>
</li>
<li><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">11.5m Single Door, with 49 seats upstairs and 37 seats downstairs<o:p></o:p></span></div>
</li>
</ul>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span></span><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now so far only three companies have currently placed orders
for the London Specification (10.3m two door) vehicle. Abellio where the first
company to place an order, for forty five buses going to three garages;
Beddington Cross, Walworth and Hayes. Details as follows:<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Spec:</strong> AD E400H – AD Enviro 400 MMC, 10.3m H41/25D, ULW- 11665kg. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<ul>
<li>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Beddington Cross (BC) – 2487-2498 (Delivered Dec 2014), 2499-2513 (Delivered January 2015).<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Walworth (WL) – 2400, 2514 (Delivered January 2015), 2515-2522 (Delivered March 2015)<o:p></o:p></span></li>
<li><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Hayes (HS) - 2523-2531 (Expected March/April 2015).<o:p></o:p></span></li>
</ul>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em>Note: 2400 was used at BC for training purposes only and was
used in service at WL, however it is unclear if the vehicle is going to be kept
by Abellio.</em> <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">This was shortly follow by Metroline who announced they had
placed a small order for sixteen going to Cricklewood Garage, the first vehicles
arrived towards the end of February 2015 and where expected into service around
April 2015. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQSZoP2evkkZMfDG_As5p1xAKaF9RzMRSLpUeUtQv1cC8wkNWniG_blz8iHG6CGjwaQZDBh2lsyjOaAG7TyHKN1qSITXM4Zp7Gb43blM4YChoTA4pdoN4WQybukvFwCz1wdvSW8UFSHK0/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQSZoP2evkkZMfDG_As5p1xAKaF9RzMRSLpUeUtQv1cC8wkNWniG_blz8iHG6CGjwaQZDBh2lsyjOaAG7TyHKN1qSITXM4Zp7Gb43blM4YChoTA4pdoN4WQybukvFwCz1wdvSW8UFSHK0/s1600/DSC_0003.jpg" height="209" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TEH2074 (LK15CRZ) is seen at Metroline's CELF Facility on 20th February 2015, a few days after delivery. Taken by Kristian Lake.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Spec:</strong> AD E400H – AD Enviro 400 MMC, 10.3m H41/25D, ULW- 11665kg. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Allocated to Cricklewood (W) – TEH2072-TEH2087 (Delivered to CELF
Feb/March 2015)<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><em>Note: CELF is Metroline’s Central Engineering &
Logistics Facility.</em> <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Finally, Stagecoach have confirmed they are expecting seven
diesel buese to be delivered to their Romford Garage in June 2015 for the Route
499 which they will be taking over. It’s also worth noting that the stagecoach
examples will be the first full diesel MMC’s to be introduced into the London
as both the Abellio and Metroline examples have been Hybrid versions. Stagecoach
will also more than likely to be the first to introduce the Enviro 200 MMC,
which will also be going to Romford in June 2015. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">We were first introduced to a MMC in London when a
demonstrator was shown off at Abellio’s Walworth Garage open day on 19th July
2014. This bus has since returned to the company, first at their Beddington
Cross Garage (BC) towards the end of that year to train drivers up on the new
design before the main batch arrived there for the Route 109 in mid-december.
</span></div>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaGzAimPE2YSydKUoQ4O5rmFCawLdpbM0KPbEsntCdo_7Hr92ZTVf8L-fdBCRGf077DtggHL1YnUnNy1400qxA_ETtafoK1HdXNSp8wWA2dSsH9CgKjLTSfuxGSU5z7v82zL9uu7NORtw/s1600/DSC_0005-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiaGzAimPE2YSydKUoQ4O5rmFCawLdpbM0KPbEsntCdo_7Hr92ZTVf8L-fdBCRGf077DtggHL1YnUnNy1400qxA_ETtafoK1HdXNSp8wWA2dSsH9CgKjLTSfuxGSU5z7v82zL9uu7NORtw/s1600/DSC_0005-2.jpg" height="198" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2506 (YY64TZF) is seen outside Beddington Cross Garage on 28th January 2015, while classmate 2511 is seen inside the shed. Taken by Kristian Lake.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
</span><div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">It has since moved onto Walworth (WL) where it was fitted with set of blinds,
ticket machine and I-bus and given the un-official fleet number of 2400, which
is in itself incorrect as this is a hybrid number on a diesel bus. But it was
first recorded in service on 24th February 2015 on the Route 172 covering
additional morning only workings between Old Kent Road Tesco and Elephant &
Castle which are in place of the impending extension of the Route 415 which was
also moving over to Abellio operation from 7th March. </span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRApDiT8puRzTSya-zziH9JpwDiM8RezriOgCR9eO8gbRdmVYrlsicqhg98RXtkMfvfLMW4-OZlp3VodD1XI2nGCMw4COpmavhqlsfrO-n36XGE2lwdSi6EuznpMabeP0KAIAHJmJV6Vk/s1600/DSC_0003-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiRApDiT8puRzTSya-zziH9JpwDiM8RezriOgCR9eO8gbRdmVYrlsicqhg98RXtkMfvfLMW4-OZlp3VodD1XI2nGCMw4COpmavhqlsfrO-n36XGE2lwdSi6EuznpMabeP0KAIAHJmJV6Vk/s1600/DSC_0003-3.jpg" height="205" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2400 (YY64GXG) is seen on stand at City Hall while working as an additional on the Route 381 on the morning of 4th March 2015. Taken by Kristian Lake.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">However it was
photographed a week earlier on the Route 381 covering additional peak time
workings between London Bridge and Waterloo. It has since worked on other
routes out of Walworth including the Route 40 (Aldgate to Dulwich Library) on
the afternoon of 24th February and the Route 35 (Shoreditch to Clapham
Junction) on the evening of 5th March also the Route 415 (Tulse Hill to Old
Kent Road) on 8th March.<o:p></o:p></span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQk6wyOGeSvyqBOZDAGLnh36cZeLB1Q-nhe0IISAiK0MXfec1waTivdA5GS_GVLXn9bQsy21jk0bb-1yTJWbUdc-Xq6uYzx87HlV1TdlyEoFmAZNDLe4e-81hMdhMxjIMEdaYaaYdTh1M/s1600/DSC_0027-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhQk6wyOGeSvyqBOZDAGLnh36cZeLB1Q-nhe0IISAiK0MXfec1waTivdA5GS_GVLXn9bQsy21jk0bb-1yTJWbUdc-Xq6uYzx87HlV1TdlyEoFmAZNDLe4e-81hMdhMxjIMEdaYaaYdTh1M/s1600/DSC_0027-2.jpg" height="191" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2502 (YY64TZB) is seen at Crystal Palace Station while working the Route 157 on its first day on 27th January 2015. Taken by Kristian Lake. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The first buses from the Beddington batch started to appear
a few days before the take-over of the 109, with the first (2502) appearing on
the Route 157 (Crystal Palace to Morden) on 27th January and 2501 made an
appearance on the Route 407 (Caterham to Sutton) on the following day. </span><br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2RMhisl_XdeCQSDix_anzPJLGOpgXfYUkaHaDTGZvg-wW_y1VeocY5Ac6DQ-pblfkjvQmda8l50pozltimw1_xH6nAWKUBk3ASclcXLbLxGHlHxFCvzDHvw1IArtpihphweVJ-M3lPJY/s1600/DSC_0019-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg2RMhisl_XdeCQSDix_anzPJLGOpgXfYUkaHaDTGZvg-wW_y1VeocY5Ac6DQ-pblfkjvQmda8l50pozltimw1_xH6nAWKUBk3ASclcXLbLxGHlHxFCvzDHvw1IArtpihphweVJ-M3lPJY/s1600/DSC_0019-2.jpg" height="197" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2501 (YY64TZA) is seen on the London Road at South Croydon Bus Garage while working on the Route 407 to Caterham on 28th January 2015. Taken by Kristian Lake.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">They
have since made occasional appearances on the Route 157, and only four ever
made it onto the Route 407. The final few didn’t arrive in time to make it out
on the first day, so a couple of non-hybrid older buses where used on the Route
109 over the first few days however they had all entered service by the end of
the first week. <o:p></o:p></span></div>
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizH-EGjOkiQ4awJRSS_RRtpwG9dpSyWCP4vvSYhyphenhyphensvqCMdKcyjNNSV753zhZEAMl2etkOZTraOn3phRQG5RSo6TfilPeVCOTbesrtrNShih_BmKieHNfPLRFHElddXfPfFy6A9VcW4NEo/s1600/DSC_0036.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizH-EGjOkiQ4awJRSS_RRtpwG9dpSyWCP4vvSYhyphenhyphensvqCMdKcyjNNSV753zhZEAMl2etkOZTraOn3phRQG5RSo6TfilPeVCOTbesrtrNShih_BmKieHNfPLRFHElddXfPfFy6A9VcW4NEo/s1600/DSC_0036.jpg" height="200" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2511 (YY64TZL) is seen on Streatham Hill at Brixton Bus Garage while working on the Route 109 on 31st January 2015, taken by Kristian Lake.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The intended last bus of the Beddington batch was supposed
to be 2514 however this was actually reallocated to Walworth to form the first
bus for use on the Route 415. This bus officially entered service on 26th
February after doing a few journeys on the Route 343 (City Hall to New Cross
Gate) and just like the demonstrator it has since made appearances on the routes
35, 40, 172 and 381. And it also featured on the first day of service on the
415. </span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUhY4bkckTb2ofeasKKub8Ov8EtpJQ3EOMtJAVmzV3FDWZQZOuMglqJ274-KceSeC27yhQZmfFMN2yJdHF5dNwbgvDek531ZwYblo2U1MKPahnvO8lkbTOLCTkVZCar9hFWmwVcatFJLo/s1600/DSC_0010.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgUhY4bkckTb2ofeasKKub8Ov8EtpJQ3EOMtJAVmzV3FDWZQZOuMglqJ274-KceSeC27yhQZmfFMN2yJdHF5dNwbgvDek531ZwYblo2U1MKPahnvO8lkbTOLCTkVZCar9hFWmwVcatFJLo/s1600/DSC_0010.jpg" height="210" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2514 (YY64TZO) is seen at Elephant & Castle after working as an additional on the Route 172, taken on 4th March 2015 by Kristian Lake.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">The start of March saw the first day of Abellio operation of
the Route 415, over time this route should become fully MMC operated however on
the first day only three made it into service these being 2514, 2515 and 2517. The
latter two being brand new 15 plate buses which had only been delivered a few
days previous. March should also see the start of the introduction of MMC’s at
Hayes for the Route 350 which runs between Heathrow Terminal 5 and Hayes and
Harlington, this should then allow the disposal of the remaining thirteen year
old Tridents that still remain at Hayes.</span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcWbdinLy9deR_kbXzxWlu7PaNBnkBEfzPeDnkhBDIE5DS8Dq762uJBivMgWMSiixJenmoWB3k5QsWwoWJRlg7yo-TpBmCy3y2mdVy4_qFcyqKig1lOZCD6_tMbj2kpYE63KybYx3Owio/s1600/DSC_0053.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhcWbdinLy9deR_kbXzxWlu7PaNBnkBEfzPeDnkhBDIE5DS8Dq762uJBivMgWMSiixJenmoWB3k5QsWwoWJRlg7yo-TpBmCy3y2mdVy4_qFcyqKig1lOZCD6_tMbj2kpYE63KybYx3Owio/s1600/DSC_0053.jpg" height="198" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">2515 (YX15OWD) is seen on the Brixton Road while working on the Route 415 on its first day in service, taken on 7th March 2015 by Kristian Lake. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Now for a small section on the buses themselves, having
ridden on a few different vehicles on different routes. I have to say that I am
defiantly a fan, one of the first things to strike you when you board is how
spacious they are inside, I think it’s larger windows and compared to a new bus
for London which can feel like you are looking out of portholes with the amount
of panelling there is especially on the upper deck. The seats are
also very good a great improvement on something like a Scania Omnicity for example which have wooden
benches in comparison. The next thing you will notice is when the bus pulls away, is the immense
acceleration these buses have even in electric mode (on the hybrid vehicles), you will find that the will reach 30/40 mph very easily. They also feature a new bell which sounds
twice whenever it is pressed, unfortunately there is still no widespread system used to prevent it being rung over and over again. Overall in my opinion these buses
are a great improvement on the original Enviro 400 and are the best double decker around at the moment. </span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7wOX7HWtQ8J1yHGcAUDxBwRi-ZwkjT-OCCFymnvYnCTzGOoKWIOnuYWjZ9gKGXOlQGoonIOue-MQ3Y20jJ9XpXNljCGrQ46Hwpuvl-w6vImOicLgN484mL75tfsQ5TtadoL8czOe_Qac/s1600/DSC_0041adi.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7wOX7HWtQ8J1yHGcAUDxBwRi-ZwkjT-OCCFymnvYnCTzGOoKWIOnuYWjZ9gKGXOlQGoonIOue-MQ3Y20jJ9XpXNljCGrQ46Hwpuvl-w6vImOicLgN484mL75tfsQ5TtadoL8czOe_Qac/s1600/DSC_0041adi.jpg" height="213" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Upper Deck interior of Abellio 2517, taken on 7th March 2015 by Kristian Lake.</td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-family: Calibri;">Finally a bit about the latest Metroline batch, after a
large an continued order with Wrightbus for Gemini 3’s, I was slightly
surprised to see this order of MMC’s but I suppose it will mean Cricklewood
remains an Enviro garage for the time being. As the buses haven’t entered service
yet, there isn’t much to say as they are no different to the Abellio examples
so I will let the pictures do the talking. </span></div>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm7jFlD4BmjqRMdfnY1qJyJuyhDntjnTh4KHjFSBdkAhdb5btvxHgI4yMTl6GKUQC6LGnMdRqSQiy3-owy6ux5GBrppHxtDwRFpRL35OCMedFzC5ozhjmYbAGNQ2hPseDKDxMXy6TBD1I/s1600/DSC_0039.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm7jFlD4BmjqRMdfnY1qJyJuyhDntjnTh4KHjFSBdkAhdb5btvxHgI4yMTl6GKUQC6LGnMdRqSQiy3-owy6ux5GBrppHxtDwRFpRL35OCMedFzC5ozhjmYbAGNQ2hPseDKDxMXy6TBD1I/s1600/DSC_0039.jpg" height="210" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TEH2087 (LK15CUH) is seen at Metroline's CELF Facility at Perivale, soon after delivery. Taken on 28th February 2015 by Kristian Lake. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7DkHfiFSLioVckCWKzrcgnFT4mCXCV4BGukXQ1o8HnLmQRnLRBL1Sqw14I5kNPxhyRw1iSXstj_MDsPpw8K-WBN7jsjIT5Ei4qTlPZzOT84_4VWIXu_JQIwY68moykFT1E-Y6bIv-EA/s1600/DSC_0045-3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjd7DkHfiFSLioVckCWKzrcgnFT4mCXCV4BGukXQ1o8HnLmQRnLRBL1Sqw14I5kNPxhyRw1iSXstj_MDsPpw8K-WBN7jsjIT5Ei4qTlPZzOT84_4VWIXu_JQIwY68moykFT1E-Y6bIv-EA/s1600/DSC_0045-3.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TEH2077 (LK15CSU) is seen at Metroline's CELF Facility at Perivale, soon after delivery. Taken on 28th February 2015 by Kristian Lake. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZvnESPHBQoirb-C3O7MW-G2-00TOVWXJzHEqtx17i_uXNFz05ZqxrxEEIrS0MoVxZ6bags4HBvi8MVVoaeskq0pKomAbJ6cd2Pq3SprWP3g3WjgtuyKeMbjcNCNL4GudMatHMgk8NX0s/s1600/DSC_0048.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiZvnESPHBQoirb-C3O7MW-G2-00TOVWXJzHEqtx17i_uXNFz05ZqxrxEEIrS0MoVxZ6bags4HBvi8MVVoaeskq0pKomAbJ6cd2Pq3SprWP3g3WjgtuyKeMbjcNCNL4GudMatHMgk8NX0s/s1600/DSC_0048.jpg" height="211" width="320" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">TEH2075 (LK15CSF) is seen at Metroline's CELF Facility at Perivale, soon after delivery. Taken on 28th February 2015 by Kristian Lake. </td></tr>
</tbody></table>
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span>Anonymoushttp://www.blogger.com/profile/12685202089573349041noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-70473770127100575082015-03-09T15:52:00.004+00:002015-03-22T15:50:20.842+00:00The Marmite Gemini 3 <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
You're either going to love it or hate and whilst I don't love it or hate, I'll gladly take the title of being a hypocrite or coming across as contradictory for stating that I do like it and fully accept the fact, I'm probably in the minority here. For whatever reason, I think its a very attractive design but having said that I think the Optare Metrodecker is also a decent design too...so specsavers may be due a visit!<br />
<br />
<table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody>
<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_koj0Hj0p8Q/VP24iqJP6GI/AAAAAAAADeE/0sslT6L3T4g/s1600/16430382458_6928195aef_o.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/-_koj0Hj0p8Q/VP24iqJP6GI/AAAAAAAADeE/0sslT6L3T4g/s1600/16430382458_6928195aef_o.jpg" height="355" width="640" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><span style="font-family: inherit; font-size: small;"><b>Brighton & Hove Gemini 3 seen leaving Wrightbus' Ballymena Factory</b><span style="background-color: white;"><b> </b><span style="text-align: start;"><span style="line-height: 15.3999996185303px;"><b>© James Bus Photographs</b> </span></span></span></span></td></tr>
</tbody></table>
The quite provocative design was unveiled to us by Bus & Coach buyer on the 30th of October 2014, just days before the much anticipated Bus & Coach Expo in Birmingham, with the announcement that Brighton & Hove would be the first operator operate these machines. The ever reliable magazine informed us the a Go-Ahead Subsidiary Brighton & Hove ordered 24 vehicles. Mounted onto the the Integral Wrightbus Chassis, complete with it's 5 Litre Mercedes engine, the type replaces the DB300 before it albeit with a smaller engine and less torques. Although it remains to be seen how they will overcome to the terrain in Brighton Wrightbus are said to be very confident in the performance of these vehicles, and provide a very detailed account backing up their choice of power.<br />
<br />
This face-lifted model sees Wright move away from the rounded 'Nokia' design, to a more sleek and more futuristic looking vehicle, complete with its sharp edges and crevasses which does take some getting used to. The shallow windows, are less apparent and appear to be more fitting with this style of bodywork in comparison to the 'other' Gemini 3. The introduction of this model, sees Wrightbus become the only manufacturer to now produce two bodies for the same chassis simultaneously.<br />
<br />
As of March 2015, the first of the new buses are undergoing testing as illustrated above before their expected delivery to Brighton in April 2015.Complete with their leather seating and headrests, it wouldn't be wide of the mark, to suggest these are upmarket models. It would be nice to see some of these land on London's street and hope if the results of this order are positive, it may help to influence the London subsidiary's orders. </div>
Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010709763661695170noreply@blogger.com6tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-8702975208925134726.post-75532778627463249752015-03-09T12:48:00.000+00:002015-05-03T17:22:31.989+01:00London Recap - February 2015 <div dir="ltr" style="text-align: left;" trbidi="on">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Welcome to
back to London Recap, a section where we will be focusing on specific changes
within the London Bus Scene for each Calendar Month.<br />
<br />
<strong><u>Introduction of New Buses for London on the Route 55</u></strong> </span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBh12xGgoklQB3J03fb2gdYgQwcZJVB3JSc9TQrGRcCx5go810l-QKFJfNLC4KSYuZN2pnabRgce_Pa2ze9_wwOwKcarc7iY-Zm8UCcShJPAW3jKtZGy_dLREO0KvYeDjc8b39CmjVck/s1600/DSC_0043.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQBh12xGgoklQB3J03fb2gdYgQwcZJVB3JSc9TQrGRcCx5go810l-QKFJfNLC4KSYuZN2pnabRgce_Pa2ze9_wwOwKcarc7iY-Zm8UCcShJPAW3jKtZGy_dLREO0KvYeDjc8b39CmjVck/s1600/DSC_0043.jpg" height="257" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">LT385 (LTZ1385) is seen outside Leyton Garage having just arrived from Oxford Circus, taken by Kristian Lake on 11/02/15</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Bus Details:</strong> <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Wrightbus 'New Bus For London' Hybrid
11.3m H40/22T (Inc. 19 Standing) ULW 12390kg<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Numbered: LT312 to 316 <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Registration Plates:
LTZ1312-LTZ1316<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="line-height: normal; margin: 0cm 0cm 0pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Wrightbus 'New Bus For London' Hybrid
11.3m H40/22T (Inc. 18 standing) ULW 12480kg<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Numbered: LT357 to 390<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Registration Plates: LTZ1357 to
LTZ1390<o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The first
LT’s to enter service on the Route 55 actually took place on the 17th January,
but as it was a phased introduction it took the whole of February for the
majority of the batch to enter service, and even by the end of the month there
was still one remaining, that being LT359 (which entered service on 7th March).
Unfortunately there was two collisions involving 55’s on consecutive days at
the beginning of February, Firstly LT360 crashed within Leyton Garage on the
morning of 3rd Feb and LT315 collided into the rear of another bus in Hackney
on the afternoon of 4th Feb. In autumn 2014, two buses from this batch (LT312
and 313) had both spent some time with Stagecoach Strathtay working on the
Route 73 between Arbroath and Dundee, arriving at West Ham garage in
mid-december 2014. The introduction of LT’s on the 55 has allowed a number of
Scania Omnicity’s to be taken off lease and it has also released some Tridents
to move to other garages. <o:p></o:p></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><br />
<br />
<strong><u>Introduction of Wright Streetlites on the Route 192</u></strong> </span> </span><br />
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYaQWd-z-qkkS3FWBtpwXpf_KvurxooZioBtJOwcrjoiJdr_JKrD3KE5LN0iksYKni_2qZYyHJLISgfpDRuh-2TR9sChHDbCfeAur9JKd2SLzIw7Phkd1eE9ujuXNEMI_Jn5zOnJtS2C0/s1600/CSC_0031.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjYaQWd-z-qkkS3FWBtpwXpf_KvurxooZioBtJOwcrjoiJdr_JKrD3KE5LN0iksYKni_2qZYyHJLISgfpDRuh-2TR9sChHDbCfeAur9JKd2SLzIw7Phkd1eE9ujuXNEMI_Jn5zOnJtS2C0/s1600/CSC_0031.jpg" height="240" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">WS44 (SN64CVK) is seen on Watermead Way at Tottenham Hale while working on the Route 192, taken by Kristian Lake on 18/02/15</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><o:p></o:p></span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-size: 12pt;"><strong>Bus Details:</strong> Wright StreetLite WF 8.8m
B28F (ULW 7487kg)<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
</span></span>
<br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Numbered: WS33 to WS48,<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
</span></span>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt;">Registration Plates: SN64CTZ,
CUA/C/G/H/J/K/O/U/V/W/X/Y, CVA/B/C and CTV.<o:p></o:p></span></span></span></div>
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">
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<span style="font-family: Times New Roman;">
</span><span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"></span></div>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;">The first
two of fifteen 8.8m streetlites (WS33 and 37) entered service on the Route 192
on 22nd January and by the end of February they had all been used, however WS35
and 40 had developed faults and where withdrawn on 10th and 11th February
respectively, to be sent back to Wrightbus for an engine change. For a
couple of months the route 192 was covered by inherited Enviro 200’s and
Pointers, that where hired to Go-Ahead due to the late delivery of the
streetlites, however by the end of the February a few of these hired buses had
returned back to Arriva. These buses have made a number of rare appearances on
other routes during February, WS39 was on the Route W10 (Enfield-Crews Hill
Shopping Route) on 2nd Feb and WS37 was on the Route 389 (Barnet Shopping
Route) on 21st Feb.</span></div>
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<br /></div>
</span></span><br />
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong><u>Introduction of Enviro 200's on the Route 488</u></strong></span></span></div>
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<tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyagsBJoP6avpcyyi2nMu0PAZyYYCbh1ynKT9dvnlSMHyMOLIAZ-BoK_4kJY8Y8iytImykeJp5Nc07oCEEii2SMkrzjmQoACRnYt9e3I651LSxAkoMTb31tsLBfTiDzKA4UFYeZH7HvV8/s1600/DSC_0077.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgyagsBJoP6avpcyyi2nMu0PAZyYYCbh1ynKT9dvnlSMHyMOLIAZ-BoK_4kJY8Y8iytImykeJp5Nc07oCEEii2SMkrzjmQoACRnYt9e3I651LSxAkoMTb31tsLBfTiDzKA4UFYeZH7HvV8/s1600/DSC_0077.jpg" height="230" width="400" /></a></td></tr>
<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">DMV45102 (YY64YKM) is seen on Fairfield Road, outside Bow Garage heading towards Bromley By Bow, taken by Kristian Lake on 28/02/15.</td></tr>
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<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;"><strong>Bus Details:</strong> AD Enviro 200 10.8m B31D</span></span><br />
<div class="MsoNormal" style="margin: 0cm 0cm 8pt;">
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Numbered: DMV45101-45111</span></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">Registration plates: YY64YKL/M/N/O/P/R/S/T/U/V/W</span></span><br />
<span style="font-family: Calibri;"></span><br />
<span style="font-size: 12pt; line-height: 107%;"><span style="font-family: Calibri;">The Route
488 transferred to Tower Transit operation on 28<sup>th</sup> Feb and they also
introduced 11 new 10.8m Enviro 200’s, all of which had entered service by the
second day of running. And within the first week four other 12 reg Enviro 200’s
had also been used on the route. These buses had bucked the recent trend as
they had been flywheel fitted but featured Allison gearboxes. They are blinded
for other routes so length permitting there maybe the occasional rare working
in the future. <o:p></o:p></span></span></div>
</div>
Jayhttp://www.blogger.com/profile/07010709763661695170noreply@blogger.com0