Buses from The Shires by Matt Robinson http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/ 27 rows en-gb 60 On A Mission http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1783287.html On A Mission Friday 20 November 2009: On A Mission

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]]> Fri Nov 20 2009 Woottens of Chesham http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1760840.html Woottens of Chesham Sunday 28 September 2008: Woottens of Chesham

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]]> Sun Sep 28 2008 Z & S Travel http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1760370.html Z & S Travel Friday 12 October 2007: Z & S Travel

Z&S of Aylesbury use this Optare Spectra on former Arriva the Shires route 65. Bucks County Rider livery demonstrated on Z&S's sole Optare Spectra YJ06YPY. Route 165 was formerly the 65, operated by Arriva.

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]]> Fri Oct 12 2007 Trustline http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1734923.html Trustline Sunday 2 August 2009: Trustline

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]]> Sun Aug 2 2009 Reading Buses http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1680574.html Reading Buses Thursday 28 June 2007: Reading Buses

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]]> Thu Jun 28 2007 Showbus Photos http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1611927.html A collection of photos taken from Duxford Showbus in 2007 and 2008. Sunday 16 September 2007: A collection of photos taken from Duxford Showbus in 2007 and 2008.

Early production Leyland Lynx D101NDW is now in preservation. It is seen at Duxford Showbus. The Prototype Enviro 400 (LX55HGC), now Stagecoach 18500. This bus was named Spirit of London in memory of those killed in the 7th July attacks on London.

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]]> Sun Sep 16 2007 Arriva The Shires - Double Deckers http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1605670.html Arriva the Shires became the new identity of The Shires late in 1997. This coincided with a new corporate aquamarine and cotswold stone livery replacing the old blue and yellow livery previously used. Today Arriva the Shires covers a vast operating area including Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and parts of Essex, Berkshire, Oxfordshire and London. During the fleet renumbering scheme in March 1997, all double decker buses were numbered into the 5xxx series. Those purchased for TfL work have made it into the 6xxx series. Saturday 12 May 2007: Arriva the Shires became the new identity of The Shires late in 1997. This coincided with a new corporate aquamarine and cotswold stone livery replacing the old blue and yellow livery previously used. Today Arriva the Shires covers a vast operating area including Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and parts of Essex, Berkshire, Oxfordshire and London. During the fleet renumbering scheme in March 1997, all double decker buses were numbered into the 5xxx series. Those purchased for TfL work have made it into the 6xxx series.

Alexander-bodied Leyland Olympian 5091 (F641LMJ) complete with branding for route X66. Note the high-backed seating (which has since been removed). It was one of 3 of the batch of 25 to carry this seating. 5086 and 5104 (636 & 654) being the other two. Volvo Olympian/Northern Counties Palatine II 5152 (S152KNK) at Showbus in Duxford. For the first few years of its life it wore this rather attractive advert for the Harlequin shopping centre in Watford. Volvo Olympian/Northern Counties Palatine I 5139 (N39 JPP) at Silver Street, Luton on 12.05.07. Aylesbury-based Leyland Olympian/Alexander RL 5102 (G652UPP) pauses for time at Silver Street in Luton before running the 15.30 61 to Aylesbury on 18.05.07. During the early '90s this bus was allover white carrying adverts for Chiltern Radio and later Fox FM. Northern Counties-bodied Volvo Olympian 5140 (N46 JPP) in Silver Street, Luton about to start a Saturday 25 to Sundon Park. Following repaint into Arriva interurban livery in July 2008, 5140 was deroofed in Acton on a Rail Replacement duty in September 2008. Leyland Olympian/Alexander RL 5091 (F641LMJ) loading on route 9 towards Runfold. This bus originally had high-backed seats which were removed during refurbishment in 2004. Only recently it had an allover vinyl advert for B&Q removed. Alexander-bodied Leyland Olympian 5084 (F634LMJ) arrives at Milton Keynes Rail Station on an X66 working from Dunstable. In 2001 the front two bays of the upper deck of this bus were rebuilt following a low bridge accident in Watford. Alexander-bodied Leyland Olympian 5105 (G655UPP) takes its turn on Luton route 9. This bus was based at Dunstable's Tavistock Street garage until closure when it transferred to Luton. Between 1993 and 1995 this bus wore a yellow advertising livery for Jessup's Nissan in Dunstable. Aylesbury-based Olympian 5100 (G650UPP) rests in Leighton Buzzard High Street. A handful of buses from Aylesbury are still outstationed at Leighton Buzzard to operate town routes. This bus was formerly the Mix 96 bus, wearing first a black livery, later white, between 1994 and 2002. Sister 5101 and Trident 5431 are the current Mix 96 buses. Alexander-bodied Olympian 5099 (G649UPP) is now rare in the fleet as it is one of a handful of the batch to still have its original destination display. However it's not been updated as this picture illustrates. Leighton Buzzard route 325 was changed to 35 some time ago. Volvo Olympian 5144 (N35 JPP) was originally bought for Luton routes 24/25/26. Now working from Aylesbury garage it is seen in Thame High Street. In complete contrast to the traffic jams and residential streets of the 24, it's working Aylesbury - Oxford express route 280. Volvo Olympian 5144 sports rather unorthodox engine bay doors, looking somewhat like a cupboard !! This modification was made sometime during its stay at High Wycombe depot. 280-branded Volvo Olympian/Northern Counties Palatine II 5157 S157KNK on its regular route. Following refurbishment in 2004, it received the interurban livery and updated route branding. It's loading here for Aylesbury in Thame High Street. Alexander-bodied Dennis Trident 5422 (W422XKX) was one of 12 purchased for route 38 in Luton in 2000. Since then they've all been transferred elsewhere. This one is now based at Aylesbury, and is branded for route 500. In 2005 the future of Alexander-bodied Olympian 5095 (G645UPP) looked in doubt when its top deck was completely destroyed in a collision with Archway Road bridge in Leagrave. However a replacement top deck shell was located, and following some drastic surgery 5095 soldiers on. Despite the faulty destination equipment, it is working a 66 to Milton Keynes. Volvo Olympian 5137 (N37 JPP) arrives in Dunstable working the long 24 route. This was the first Volvo Olympian delivered to Luton in 1996. Olympian 5097 (G647UPP) was new to Luton depot in 1989. It was transferred to Aylesbury during 1996. It is seen in Queens Lane in Oxford on route 280. Volvo Olympian/Northern Counties Palatine I 5145 (N45 JPP) loads for Aylesbury in St. Aldates, Oxford. The regular branded Volvo Olympians on this route differ from this bus by having full-height bodies and a re-styled front end. The last E-registered Leyland Olympian in service with Arriva The Shires was 5826 (E226CFC). It was new to Oxford Bus Company and moved to Arriva with the sale of Wycombe Bus. By the end of 2007, 5826 had gone for scrap. 5120 (G290UMJ) is an All-Leyland Olympian which was transferred to Wycombe from Watford garage. Coincidentally the Volvo Olympian parked behind it (5150) was also transferred from Watford more recently. All-Leyland Olympian 5113 (G283UMJ) was originally delivered to Watford garage for LT Contract route 142. After 13 years the 142 was finally given new buses and these Olympians were cascaded to other garages, this one ending up at Wycombe. 5113 was decapitated by a low bridge in Cookham Rise in January 2008. Leyland Olympian/Northern Counties 5135 (G132YWC) prepares for an early evening working on route 38. This bus has recently been transferred to Luton from High Wycombe depot. Alexander-bodied Olympian 5831 (G231VWL) was new to Oxford Bus, later moving to Wycombe. It came to Luton along with sister 5835, in exchange for Cummins engined examples 5094 and 5106. The latter were more suited to the hilly terrain of Wycombe than these Gardner engined buses. Northern Counties Palatine I-bodied Volvo Olympian 5138 (N38 JPP) in Silver Street, Luton. This bus previously carried a Herald & Post allover advertisement. Former Oxford Bus Olympian 5831 (G231VWL) on route 9 in Silver Street. Despite many of Watford's S-reg Volvo Olympians moving to other garages, 5146 (S146KNK) is still there for now. It carries a bright advertisement for TGI Friday's restaurant, which is directly opposite Arriva's Watford depot. Volvo Olympian 5136 (N36 JPP) was new to Luton garage in 1996. It is now based at Hemel Hempstead and its regular route is the 6 to Maple Cross. It is seen in Watford High Street working the 6. Northern Counties-bodied Leyland Olympian 5135 (G132YWC) gets an evening run out on route 24. This bus is a real crowd shifter, boasting 83 seats. Olympian 5095 (G645UPP) showing off the fact its destination display is once again functioning !! Luton garage have suffered with problems relating to their power blinds of late, but now appear to be getting them sorted out. ECW-bodied Leyland Olympian 5381 (MUH281X) was new to National Welsh in 1982. A quarter of a century later it is now Arriva The Shires 5381. It has outlived all of the native examples acquired with the Luton & District takeover in 1994 by some years now. Long after Arriva Yorkshire withdrew its final ECW-bodied Leyland Olympians, some of them saw further service with Arriva The Shires at Luton. In 1998 B605UUM became 5170, originally allocated to Dunstable garage and branded for route X66 between Luton and Milton Keynes. Towards the end of 2008, 5170 was scrapped following an electrical failure that was too costly to repair given the age of the bus. Leyland Olympian 5101 (G651UPP), carries an advert for Aylesbury-based radio station Mix 96. It is seen in Milton Keynes on the last day of the X15. ECW-bodied Leyland Olympian 5853 (D166FYM) was used in London when new. Its current home is Aylesbury, where it is seen laying over in the bus station. The 9 is usually worked by Dennis Darts. Olympian 5104 (G654UPP) in Aylesbury bus station, having just completed its final run on route X15. This bus carried a special livery for the X14/X15 routes when new. Volvo Olympian 5141 (N41 JPP) makes its second appearance in three years at Duxford Showbus. During 2007 this bus was transferred to Watford from Luton. Volvo Olympian 5141 carried this impressive super-rear ad for Duxford airfield. The bus is parked outside the American hangar at Duxford during Showbus 2007. The ad was removed shortly afterwards when a new scheme promoting driver recruitment was applied to 5141. Volvo Olympian 5144 (N35 JPP) received interurban livery over the summer of 2007, intended for Aylesbury to Buckingham route 66. Nice to see the engine cover of 5144 was restored during repaint !! Northern Counties-bodied Volvo Olympian 5142 (N42 JPP) deposits a large college loading in Silver Street on a drizzly Friday afternoon. Leyland Olympian 5098 (G648UPP) pauses at the Guildford Street traffic lights at the end of a duty on the 24. Olympian 5100 (G650UPP) is seen in Leighton Buzzard, freshly repainted. Former Oxford Leyland Olympian 5830 (G230VWL) at Luton Airport on the 61. 5830 was sold to Ensign in January 2009. Dusk descends over Leighton Buzzard High Street, as Leyland Olympian 5104 (G654UPP) prepares for the short 150 journey to Aylesbury Previously showcased as a model vehicle by Creative Master Northcord, the real 5429 (W429XKX) looks a little more mundane in Hertford Bus Station. Former Southend ALX400 bodied Dennis Trident 5442 (W442XKX) in Hertford Bus Station. Dennis Trident 5433 (W433XKX) on local service 396 in Hertford Bus Station. Former Luton-based Dennis Trident 5426 (W426XKX) prepares for its next trip to Waltham Cross from Hertford. Originally delivered to Southend depot when it was part of Arriva The Shires (& Essex), Dennis Trident 5446 (W446XKX) is now based at Ware. It is seen operating a Hertford/Ware local service. Trident 5428 (W428XKX) loads for Hertford in Waltham Cross Bus Station. Dennis Trident 5424 (W424XKX) takes a brief rest in Waltham Cross Bus Station at the end of the 310.

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]]> Sat May 12 2007 Arriva The Shires - Minibuses http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1605658.html Arriva the Shires became the new identity of The Shires late in 1997. This coincided with a new corporate aquamarine and cotswold stone livery replacing the old blue and yellow livery previously used. Today Arriva the Shires covers a vast operating area including Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and parts of Essex, Berkshire, Oxfordshire and London. During the 1997 fleet renumbering plan all minibuses were numbered into a 2xxx series. This series has recently included intakes of Optare Solos and Optare Versas, whilst 29-seat Dennis Darts have been classed as single deckers and numbered in the 3xxx series. Saturday 9 June 2007: Arriva the Shires became the new identity of The Shires late in 1997. This coincided with a new corporate aquamarine and cotswold stone livery replacing the old blue and yellow livery previously used. Today Arriva the Shires covers a vast operating area including Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and parts of Essex, Berkshire, Oxfordshire and London. During the 1997 fleet renumbering plan all minibuses were numbered into a 2xxx series. This series has recently included intakes of Optare Solos and Optare Versas, whilst 29-seat Dennis Darts have been classed as single deckers and numbered in the 3xxx series.

Mercedes 810 Vario 2176 (R176VBM) was a member of the first batch originally delivered to Watford garage. It is seen here in Leighton Buzzard operating a local service, in place of the regular (and branded) vehicle, 2244. Mercedes Vario 2244 (R764DUB) arrived in The Shires Fleet from Arriva Yorkshire. It is the dedicated bus to Leighton Buzzard town services and carries relevant route branding. Indeed it has been nicknamed Mercedes Vario/Plaxton Beaver 2 2196 (R196DNM) awaits its next duty in Wycombe bus station. Some Mercedes 709Ds with the original Plaxton Beaver body design remain in all-day service at Luton. 2131 (N911ETM) takes a break from its regular route, the 14. Plaxton-bodied Mercedes 2133 (N913ETM) still in all-day service in Luton on route 13. A recent delivery to Watford is Optare Solo 2477 (YJ07VPY). New Optare Solo 2478 (YJ07VRC) arrives in Watford High Street on route W7. Mercedes 709D/Plaxton Beaver 2132 (N912ETM). This was the bus branded for the Hemel Hempstead Park & Ride when new. Mercedes 810 Vario 2194 (R194DNM) is seen in Stevenage Bus Station. Mercedes 810 Vario 2180 (R180VBM) is one of the original batch of Varios delivered to The Shires in 1997. It is seen in Hemel Hempstead Bus Station. Optare Solo 2463 (KE55KPJ) operates local service 6 from Welwyn Bus Station. Mercedes Vario 2189 (R189DNM), based at Harlow, carries decals for a Sainsbury's Contract. Park and ride branded Mercedes Vario 2178 (R178VBM) is seen in Hemel Hempstead Bus Station. One of the second pair of Optare Solos acquired for Line 40 is 2496 (YK57FHH). Unlike the first pair which these replaced, the later batch carry standard Arriva livery rather than the interurban version. Optare Solo 2497 (YK57FHJ) arrives in Wycombe Bus Station on Line 40. Due to the position of the front wheels (forward of the door) on the Solo, loading in the Eden Bus Station is awkward from some stands. Optare Solo 2492 (YK07BGF) was new to Wycombe depot for Line 40 but quickly ousted by more powerful Solos which were better equipped for the hills in the town. It found ready work at Watford depot as a replacement for 2481 which was destroyed by fire. It is the only Solo at Watford to carry Arriva Interurban livery. 2402 (YK57EKG) is one of two Optare Versas delivered to Wycombe depot. Both carry this bright orange livery and branding for local routes 38 & 39. Mercedes 810 Vario 2185 (R185DNM) in Stevenage Bus Station. Optare Solo 2493 (YJ57EJD) in Stevenage Bus Station. Optare Solo 2475 (YJ07VPW) in Watford on the W9. Former Wycombe Optare Solo 2492 (YK07BGF) is seen in Watford Town Centre in December 2008, having recently become one of a number to gain this overall advertisement for Croxley Green Business Park. Some Solos at Watford have been painted various colours advertising the Croxley Green Business Park. 2479 (YJ07VRD) carries this pink scheme.

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]]> Sat Jun 9 2007 Grant Palmer http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1604361.html Grant Palmer Friday 9 November 2007: Grant Palmer

Grant Palmer Mercedes 810 Vario/Plaxton Beaver 2 R487UCC in Leighton Buzzard High Street working a local service. The first Plaxton Primo bought by Grant Palmer, MX56AAK. It replaced Mercedes minibuses on the 3, 30 and 35 network services around Luton. Plaxton Beaver bodied Mercedes 709D N193EMJ was new to The Shires late in 1995. This one went to Luton depot where it was a regular on route 206 (now the 14). Grant Palmer acquired the bus from Arriva and have refurbished it internally. YN08NLE is one of two Plaxton Primos purchased by Grant Palmer when they took over local services from Arriva at the Linslade end of Leighton Buzzard. Plaxton Primo YN08NLF is the second of the pair purchased for Leighton Buzzard town services. However in this view it is shown being given an opportunity to escape from town on route 10 to Milton Keynes. Like the 36 this bus is branded for, the 10 is also an ex Arriva service.

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]]> Fri Nov 9 2007 National Express http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1590248.html National Express Saturday 8 September 2007: National Express

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]]> Sat Sep 8 2007 Premier Connections http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1590243.html Premier Connections Wednesday 16 May 2007: Premier Connections

Premier Connections operate coaches from a base at Luton Airport. They have recently acquired some BMC Falcons for school contracts, featuring 3+2 seating and a rear wheelchair lift. BX56XAN is seen in their Luton Airport yard. These four brand new Berkhof-bodied Scanias were delivered to Premier Connections on 5th July 2007, illustrated shortly after delivery. They are registered YN07LCW/X/Y/Z. Front and side view of Premier's new Berkhof-bodied Scania YN07LCZ. It can be seen undergoing a pre-service inspection.

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]]> Wed May 16 2007 Stagecoach East, United Counties & Cambus http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1590242.html Stagecoach East is the regional operating banner covering both the old United Counties and Cambus fleets. Sunday 24 September 2006: Stagecoach East is the regional operating banner covering both the old United Counties and Cambus fleets.

Traditional United Counties liveried Volvo Olympian R701DNH is seen at Duxford Showbus 2006 in the company of a then new Mars branded Dart. Stagecoach East operate the Virgin Trains service VT99 from Milton Keynes station to Luton Airport. KX56JZK demonstrates the attractive Virgin livery used on the fleet of coaches which operates the service. Former United Counties Leyland National 2 587, SVV587W has been preserved by enthusiast Rob Knight. It is seen at Duxford Showbus in September 2007. Stagecoach East KX56JZN in Virgin Rail livery. Former United Counties Bristol VR 952 (VVV952W) at Duxford Showbus 2008.

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]]> Sun Sep 24 2006 Carousel Buses http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1581108.html Based in High Wycombe, Carousel operate an interesting variation of vehicles and services across the Chilterns area. Carousel have a two-tone red livery however certain branded services have their own liveries such as the 336 (two tone green) and the A40 (silver with red branding). Sunday 11 November 2007: Based in High Wycombe, Carousel operate an interesting variation of vehicles and services across the Chilterns area. Carousel have a two-tone red livery however certain branded services have their own liveries such as the 336 (two tone green) and the A40 (silver with red branding).

Carousel Buses Mercedes Citaro CB52BUS in Slough Bus Station on a Sunday 74 working. Plaxton Prestige bodied DAF SB220 R984FNW is one of a batch new to NCP, before being acquired by Carousel Buses and converted to single door. It carries this special green livery for Watford to Chesham route 336. Some of Carousel's buses follow a personalised registration sequence of CBxxBUS marks. The first bus to set this trend was Mercedes Citaro CB51BUS. It is one of three to carry this silver and red livery for route A40 between Wycombe and Heathrow Airport. However it was making an unusual appearance on Chesham route 4 when captured entering Wycombe Bus Station. In Carousel's main two-tone red livery is Plaxton Primo RK07BNF; a regular performer on Line 2 between Wycombe and Marlow.

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]]> Sun Nov 11 2007 Thames Travel http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1551027.html Thames Travel Thursday 28 June 2007: Thames Travel

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]]> Thu Jun 28 2007 Red Rose http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1551024.html Red Rose Saturday 21 July 2007: Red Rose

Red Rose operate buses across much of The Shires' area. Their operations even include some timetable shares with Arriva The Shires. One of their more modern buses is this Caetano Nimbus-bodied Dart, FJ06URS, operating a Watford town service. This bus was destroyed in a depot fire in November 2007.

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]]> Sat Jul 21 2007 M.K. Metro http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1517827.html The MK Metro name and its bold yellow and blue livery first appeared in the new city in the mid 90s when Julian Peddle took over the operations of Milton Keynes Citybus. A fairly modern fleet was built up, firstly new Mercedes Varios and later Optare Solos operated alongside a fleet of new and acquired Dennis Darts and several odd-balls. Following ownership by Julian Peddle's Status Bus group for almost 10 years MK Metro was taken over by Arriva. For the time being at least the local identity has remained, however there are still question marks over whether or not Arriva Corporate livery will eventually become the order of the day (several Arriva liveried buses transferred in are now based there). Sunday 16 September 2007: The MK Metro name and its bold yellow and blue livery first appeared in the new city in the mid 90s when Julian Peddle took over the operations of Milton Keynes Citybus. A fairly modern fleet was built up, firstly new Mercedes Varios and later Optare Solos operated alongside a fleet of new and acquired Dennis Darts and several odd-balls. Following ownership by Julian Peddle's Status Bus group for almost 10 years MK Metro was taken over by Arriva. For the time being at least the local identity has remained, however there are still question marks over whether or not Arriva Corporate livery will eventually become the order of the day (several Arriva liveried buses transferred in are now based there).

Wright Solar bodied Scania L94 3626 (YN06JXM) on display at Duxford Showbus in 2007. 3736 (YJ07JVY) is a Wright bodied VDL-120 new to MK Metro in 2007 and branded for route 4. It is seen at Duxford Showbus in 2007. Amongst the first batch of Optare Solos to enter service with MK Metro was S404ERP. The batch of four, new in 1998, all carried an orange advertising livery for Midsummer Place shopping centre. A recent transfer to MK from Wycombe is Solo 2491 (YK07BGE). It was new for HW route 40 but Wycombe depot had to rapidly replace them with identical vehicles with more powerful engines. Optare Solo 2430 (X351AUX) is seen in Buckingham on route 32. This bus was new to Liyell's of Willenhall. 9m Dennis Dart 3334 (L124YVK) was new to British Bus (Arriva in a previous life) subsidiary Kentish Bus. Later it passed to Arriva The Shires at Hitchin from Arriva Southern Counties, before finding its way to MK Metro. Many MK Metro vehicles can be found parked in the bus station while drivers have their breaks. Volvo B6 3119 (M719OMJ) typifies this scene, whilst on a short term loan from Aylesbury depot. Caetano bodied Dennis Dart HX51LSO became 3526 under the Arriva numbering scheme. It also carries Arriva decals for driver recruitment. Plaxton Beaver 2 bodied Mercedes Vario 2288 (R110DNV) in Milton Keynes Bus Station. The Vario was the original choice for new buses after the formation of MK Metro, until the company chose the Optare Solo in 1998. Optare Solo 2431 (S401ERP) was numerically the first Optare Solo to enter service with MK Metro back in 1998. It carried an overall advertisement for Midsummer Place Shopping Centre, which was still under construction at the time. Seen during its first week on the road is Optare Solo 2452 (YJ58PKA). This intake of Solos carries a variety of colour schemes for various routes. This one is branded for Mercedes Vario 2181 (R181VBM) was one of the initial batch of 14 new to The Shires in 1997. The remaining Varios are now dotted about all over the fleet, this one of a few to move to MK Metro. Wright Solar bodied Scania L94 3621 (YN55PZY) in Wolverton on Orange route 5. This DAF SB120, YG52CMU, was new to Wright of Millport, before being acquired by MK Metro in 2005. It is numbered 3731 under Arriva ownership and is seen in a snow-covered Woburn Sands on a late night working of route 8. Wright Cadet bodied DAF SB120 3731 (YG52CMU) arrives at Milton Keynes Bus Station on route 8E. Enviro 200 bodied ADL Dart 0352 (MX09HHL) is one of 5 hired by MK Metro (with Arriva branding) for new cross-city route 300 between the Rail Station and the Magna Park business park located east of Kingston. Optare Solo 2439 (V82EVU) at Newport Pagnell on route 2. The LED destination display was unable to show the recent extension of the route to Westcroft Centre. New to TGM as R511SJM, Plaxton bodied Dennis Dart SLF is now registered HDZ2611 as MK Metro 3521. This and other buses in this batch received allover lime green livery for routes 7 & 7A shortly after this photo was taken. Wright Solar bodied Scania L94 3627 (YN06JXO) at Milton Keynes Station. Dennis Dart/Northern Counties 3334 (L124YVK) on route 7A in Milton Keynes. Vehicle swaps between Arriva's Aylesbury depot and MK Metro are common. Former Route 300 Scania 3160 (N710EUR) demonstrates this, leaving MK Rail Station bound for Buckingham on route 32. Optare Excel 3002 (V392KVY) is one of a pair acquired from Ogden of St. Helens by MK Metro prior to the Arriva takeover. They were new to Claribels of Birmingham. Former Watford and Aylesbury Arriva Dart MPD 3509 (KE51PTX) awaits time on the long 26E evening route in Milton Keynes. Dennis Dart 3509 (KE51PTX) at the Caldecotte terminus of the recently introduced route 12. Route 5-branded Dennis Dart 3510 (V897DNB) awaits a driver change at MK Central Bus Station. One of the late 2008 intake of Optare Solos is 2500 (YJ58PKE). The batch were given three different colour schemes for three different route network. 2500 received this lime green livery for route 7. From the second batch of Optare Solos to enter service with MK Metro, is 2422 (T409ENV). It still carries its original livery whilst other members of the batch have received various generic colour schemes. Photographed on what turned out to be its last day in service with MK Metro, Optare Spectra 6038 (K302FYG) arrives back at MK Station from Northampton on route 33. This bus was originally dual door and new as London Buses SP2. Red (route 4) liveried Enviro 300 3572 (KX09GZA) on route 5 during its first week on the road (11/07/09). Enviro 300 3570 (KX09GYY) turns into MK Rail Station on route 4A. Optare Solo 2418 (T405ENV) in Milton Keynes Bus Station. Hard to believe that 10 years previously these buses were purchased and branded for route 5. Enviro 200 0351 (MX09HJN) outside the Central Rail Station in Milton Keynes bound for Kingston Centre. Amendments to the 300 will be made when the new Coachway and Park & Ride open; and also when the Magna Park development to the east of Kingston is completed. Optare Solo 2509 (YJ09OTY) is one of two slimline Optare Solos diverted from an Arriva Midlands order to MK Metro. It is seen behind the Westcroft Morrisons on an evening 2 working. Optare Solo 2509 (YJ09OTY) awaits its next working to Westcroft outside the Food Centre in Milton Keynes. Mini Pointer Dart 3496 (W496YGS) prepares to leave MK Rail Station for the final trip of the evening to Woburn Sands. One of the buses to be displaced from Stevenage by a host of new arrivals was Dennis Dart 3496 (W496YGS). It moved to Milton Keynes; where it was captured at Woburn Sands on Route 8. Demonstrating the sky blue route 2 livery, albeit unbranded; is Optare Solo 2504 (YJ58PKO). It was at Caldecotte on route 12 when this photo was taken. Three of the nine Enviro 300s delivered to MK Metro were in an allover orange livery for route 5. 3576 (KX09GZE) was captured at MK Station shortly after the route branding was applied. Dennis Dart SLF 3174 (P674OPP) has become a long term MK resident. It was new to Hemel Hempstead depot in late 1996 with fleet number DE174. Enviro 300 3578 (KX09GXY) in Wolverton. Red liveried Enviro 300 3574 (KX09GZC) awaits time at MK Hospital on route 4. Caetano bodied Dennis Dart SLF 3529 (NDZ 7933) on layover in MK bus station. Originally London Country North West (Watford) LR86, All-Leyland Olympian 5116 (G286UMJ) is now in the hands of MK Metro; seen between runs on route 17 to Cranfield. Former route 700 resident Dart 3495 (W495YGS) at Milton Keynes Rail Station, devoid of a working blind. Route 1 branded Optare Solo M920 2498 (YJ58PKC) awaits its driver at MK Central Bus Station. The route 1 colour scheme looking deceivingly bright by the sun. Officially the first MK Metro bus into Arriva livery was Dennis Dart 3528 (NDZ 7935). Oddball Optare Solo 2441 (KU02JXT) carries a plain blue livery but is not tied or branded to any route. It is parked at MK Bus Station. MK Metro do operate some of the traditional 8.5m Optare Solos. 2425 (V413UNH) is one, still carrying the full original MK Metro livery. Optare Solo 2501 (YJ58PKF) at Westcroft at the end of route 3E, just a couple of weeks before the tender for this service passes to another operator. The full colour branding used by MK Metro does have its consequences. Even to the untrained eye putting a coloured bus on the wrong route causes it to stick out like a sore thumb. In a week when the MK News ran a story on this situation, green route 7 Solo 2501 (YJ58PKC) is captured working an evening run on sky blue route 2.

Published in Buses from The Shires by Matt Robinson

]]> Sun Sep 16 2007 First in Slough http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1438813.html Slough depot was once under London Country North West control, subsequently becoming Luton & District's most southerly depot in October 1990 when LCNW was purchased. In 1993 Slough depot and all of its (many elderly) vehicles were sold to Q-Drive (The Bee Line), later Beeline, then eventually coming under First control. Sunday 14 October 2007: Slough depot was once under London Country North West control, subsequently becoming Luton & District's most southerly depot in October 1990 when LCNW was purchased. In 1993 Slough depot and all of its (many elderly) vehicles were sold to Q-Drive (The Bee Line), later Beeline, then eventually coming under First control.

Published in Buses from The Shires by Matt Robinson

]]> Sun Oct 14 2007 Three Star Coaches http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1379876.html Three Star Coaches are owned by former Lutonian manager Colin Dudley. Based in Luton, they operate a modern fleet of coaches, mainly on private hire and school contracts. Sunday 30 September 2007: Three Star Coaches are owned by former Lutonian manager Colin Dudley. Based in Luton, they operate a modern fleet of coaches, mainly on private hire and school contracts.

Published in Buses from The Shires by Matt Robinson

]]> Sun Sep 30 2007 Uno http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1379870.html Uno is the current identity of Universitybus, based in Hatfield. While still maintaining a focus on the University of Herts; Uno have a strong presence on routes across Hertfordshire, some operating into surrounding counties. In March 2008 Uno took over the St Albans City operations, buses and depot from Centrebus. Uno's fleet livery is pink with purple relief, replacing the mainly white livery of Universitybus. Saturday 14 July 2007: Uno is the current identity of Universitybus, based in Hatfield. While still maintaining a focus on the University of Herts; Uno have a strong presence on routes across Hertfordshire, some operating into surrounding counties. In March 2008 Uno took over the St Albans City operations, buses and depot from Centrebus. Uno's fleet livery is pink with purple relief, replacing the mainly white livery of Universitybus.

One of Uno's older Wright-bodied Dennis Dart SLFs, P668PNM, is seen in Welwyn Garden City bus station. Carrying a cherished registration mark reflecting its owner's name, is UO55UNO. This is a Caetano-bodied Dennis Dart used on long-established route 602 between Hatfield and Watford. YN57FZB is a recently purchased Scania Omnilink. It is seen on display at Showbus 2007. Brand new Citaro BV57VHG is seen in Welwyn Bus Station on route 603. A reminder of the old Universitybus livery on Marshall bodied Dennis Dart N424ENM. Purple and grey had replaced black from the original scheme. At the time of photograph this bus had been resurrected from Uno's reserve fleet to cover a vehicle shortage at St. Albans, shortly after that depot came under Uno control. Dubbed the 'Cottonmill Cruiser' when new to Sovereign, mini Dart FM52GEY is seen in St. Albans carrying the livery of its third owner. Brand new when photographed, Mercedes Citaro BN58BJO passes through St. Peters Street in St. Albans on the 655. Unlike previous batches of allocated Citaros, this batch could be found on a variety of routes when new. One of the first Centrebus repaints into Uno livery was Dennis Dart W574XRO. It also gained this offside only advert and is seen in Hemel Hempstead nearing the end of the marathon 320 route. Wright bodied Dennis Dart M146YVS had recently passed to preservationist Martin Macey when photographed at Duxford Showbus in September 2009. The Dart had gained a reprieve with Uno when pressed back into service after the Hatfield operator took over St. Albans City services from Centrebus in 2008.

Published in Buses from The Shires by Matt Robinson

]]> Sat Jul 14 2007 Oxford Bus Company (and Oxford Bus Museum) http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1378694.html Oxford Bus Company are owned by the Go-Ahead group and share operations in the University City with Stagecoach Oxford. Oxford Bus Company's current livery is a bright two-tone red. This collection features some of their current fleet, together with some former City of Oxford vehicles now preserved and owned by the Oxford Bus Museum. Saturday 23 June 2007: Oxford Bus Company are owned by the Go-Ahead group and share operations in the University City with Stagecoach Oxford. Oxford Bus Company's current livery is a bright two-tone red. This collection features some of their current fleet, together with some former City of Oxford vehicles now preserved and owned by the Oxford Bus Museum.

Oxford Bus Company is on the Western edge of Arriva The Shires territory. It formerly operated the Arriva route 280 until 1995. Seen inside their Cowley Road depot is one of their large fleet of impressive Mercedes Citaros. Wright Renown-bodied Volvo B10BLE 816 (W816FBW) in commemorative 125th anniversary livery. Wright Renown-bodied Volvo B10BLE 817 (W817FBW) in commemorative 125th anniversary livery. Plaxton Verde-bodied Volvo B10B 637 (P637FFC) leads a long line of Oxford Bus Company vehicles awaiting their next duties at the depot. Citaro 858 (WF56OXF) undergoes front accident repairs at OBC's impressive modern depot. Former Oxford Bus Company ECW-bodied Leyland Olympian VJO202X. This bus is now single door and in the ownership of Hedingham Omnibuses. In the mid-90s Oxford Bus Company bought 25 ex London Leyland Titans to speed up replacement of their Bristol VRs. The last of the batch was 975 (A869SUL), which is now in the ownership of Oxford Bus Museum. Dual door Citaro 824 (MC52OXF) working its regular route, the 500 to Water Eaton. Plaxton President bodied Dennis Trident 905 (R 5 OXF) was one of a batch transferred from the North East and reregistered with Oxford Bus Company marks. This batch of buses can normally be found on 35 road.

Published in Buses from The Shires by Matt Robinson

]]> Sat Jun 23 2007 London Luton Airport http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1378504.html Images of some of the buses used by London Luton Airport for shuttle services to the car parks and rail station. Thursday 27 September 2007: Images of some of the buses used by London Luton Airport for shuttle services to the car parks and rail station.

AE05EVC was the first MAN 14.220 with MCV Evolution bodywork to enter service at Luton Airport. It initially operated in a plain silver livery before this scheme for NCP Parking was applied. It was the only MAN to be painted in a special NCP livery. When APCOA took over the contract for the Airport routes during 2008, AE05EVC left Luton, while other Evos were retained. KX53SFF is one of a batch of Transbus Darts to enter service in 2003. All bar one of the batch carried this two-tone blue livery for the Parkway Station shuttle service. In 2008 the Darts were replaced by four articulated Wright Streetcars, as the Rail Station shuttle passed to First. The Darts initially disappeared from Luton, but some have now returned in plain white and work for APCOA. AE06VPW is the second MAN 14.220 with MCV Evolution bodywork acquired by NCP. It arrived at Luton Airport during the summer of 2006 and was never branded by NCP. APCOA did apply branding to the bus in 2008 when they took over the Airport services. The third MCV-bodied MAN, AE07DZK appeared during 2007. This bus differs from the other two Evos as it is dual door and carries an orange beacon on its roof. Seen during staff familiarisation trials on December 20th 2007 is this Wright Streetcar CU57AJY. Larger vehicles are required for the Parkway Station shuttle. This bus carries First rather than NCP branding. Plaxton Prestige bodied DAF SB220 R973FNW returned to Luton Airport in March 2008, seen under storm clouds outside the terminal building. W265CDN operated shuttle services at Luton Airport when new. In March 2008 it returned to the airport along with sister W263CDN, operating it's old haunt - the pink car park shuttle. Back at Luton Airport in 2008, where it worked when new, is East Lancs bodied DAF W263CDN. NCP's newest addition on its first day in service. Updated MCV Evolution bodywork on AE08DKA, with an older 2006 model behind it. AE08DKA was retained by NCP when APCOA took over the Luton Airport services, and as a consequence this bus left Luton after a brief stay. AE08DKD appeared on NCP's services a few days after AE08DKA was delivered. It was followed shortly afterwards by AE08DKF. All three buses left Luton Airport during the summer when APCOA took over. Wright Streetcar CU57AJY arrives at Luton Airport under lights. At this time the Rail Station shuttle routes were forced to park on the Police bay due to extra security bollards being placed around the perimeter of the bus station. APCOA branding on the newest MAN 14.220 operating at Luton Airport, AE08KTJ. This bus is dual door and can be found mostly on the Mid-term Car Park route. One of three new MANs with the MCV Evolution bodywork to enter service in July 2009 with APCOA is AE09DHY.

Published in Buses from The Shires by Matt Robinson

]]> Thu Sep 27 2007 Centrebus http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1378497.html The Centrebus name first appeared in Luton after the Leicestershire-based company purchased the former Lutonian and In-Motion operations. They have grown rapidly in the area over the last few years, also purchasing Sovereign's St. Albans depot and operations from Blazefield. Centrebus have also snapped up a large number of rural contract services in Beds and Herts. The St. Albans depot and all its vehicles and operations was transferred to Uno in the early months of 2008. Centrebus's livery is mainly orange, with white roof and dark blue skirt, although their vehicles still carry a variety of older liveries from their previous owners. *NOTE - Some photos of St. Albans based buses appear here after transfer of the relevant vehicles to Uno. However if the bus still carries Centrebus branding or livery at the time of photograph I have included it in this section. Saturday 15 September 2007: The Centrebus name first appeared in Luton after the Leicestershire-based company purchased the former Lutonian and In-Motion operations. They have grown rapidly in the area over the last few years, also purchasing Sovereign's St. Albans depot and operations from Blazefield. Centrebus have also snapped up a large number of rural contract services in Beds and Herts. The St. Albans depot and all its vehicles and operations was transferred to Uno in the early months of 2008. Centrebus's livery is mainly orange, with white roof and dark blue skirt, although their vehicles still carry a variety of older liveries from their previous owners. *NOTE - Some photos of St. Albans based buses appear here after transfer of the relevant vehicles to Uno. However if the bus still carries Centrebus branding or livery at the time of photograph I have included it in this section.

Centrebus operate services in Luton, Dunstable and St. Albans. Dart 567 (W567XRO) was acquired when Centrebus took over Sovereign's St. Albans garage and operations. It is still in its former owner's livery. Centrebus 112 (L712JUD) is a dual-door Dennis Dart new to Thames Transit (now Stagecoach Oxford). It was branded for their Blackbird Flyer routes. In its current operators livery it is seen in Dunstable on the X31 extension towards Toddington. Dennis Dart 519 (T419LGP) is seen outside the Point in Milton Keynes, on the recently extended X31 route. 396 (MX57BZY) is a recently delivered Slimline Optare Solo for a London Colney contract. This bus transferred to Uno along with route 359 which it operates, in March 2008. Centrebus have opted for Plaxton-bodied VDLs when purchasing new single deckers. 608 (YJ56JYB) is one of four based at Stevnage. Dennis Dart 110 (L710JUD) still carries full InMotion livery, the last order prior to the Centrebus name arriving in town. L710JUD was one of a batch of dual-door Darts new to Thames Transit in Oxford. SLF Dart 502 (S502APP) gained this advertising livery for the Intalink Explorer during Sovereign ownership. Centrebus recently made their mark on the vehicle by repainting the front end in fleet livery. Plaxton-bodied Dart 158 (P158MLE) was new to Armchair of Brentford and recently transferred to Luton from Leicester. Sister vehicles from this batch including 154 and 159 are now in service in Jersey for Connex. UVG-bodied Dennis Dart 511 (T411LGP) in Welwyn Garden City on a 366 working from Luton. Plaxton Centro-bodied VDL 604 (KE06RXL) in Silver Street, Luton. It is working it's branded service, the 10 to Marsh Farm. Former Sovereign Dennis Dart 566 (W566XRO) is now based at Dunstable. It is seen at Luton Rail Station on route 366. Dunstable's unbranded Centro, 601 (FH06KGK), is seen at Luton Rail Station on route 10. Dart 132 (N132XND) was previously with MK Metro. It is now based at Stevenage, and this photo was taken in the bus station. A recent acquisition from Newport Transport is Alexander Strider bodied Scania L113 710 (L170EKG). It is the first Scania to operate for Centrebus. New to the Lutonian operation, but now in full Centrebus livery is Mercedes 814 Vario 429 (Y129TBF). It carries Plaxton Beaver 2 bodywork. Branded for the 366 and still in the In-Motion version of the livery is Dennis Dart 168 (K628YPL). Optare Solo 396 (MX57BZY) arrives in St. Albans St. Peter's Street shortly before returning to London Colney. Another St. Albans Dart is 574 (W574XRO) in Hemel Hempstead on the 320. This was one of the first repaints into Uno livery when the operations were transferred to that operator. Still carrying Sovereign livery with Centrebus decals on the cove panels is Dennis Dart 565 (V565JBH). This was one of the last buses to have the Centrebus fleetnames removed, being in Uno ownership when this photo was taken. Dart 572 (W572XRO) is seen in full Centrebus livery on a Saturday evening in St. Albans City Centre. A recent re-acquisition to Dunstable depot from Grantham is ex-Armchair Dennis Dart 160 (P160MLE). Carrying an advert for Papa John's, is Dennis Dart SLF 563 (V563JBH). This was repainted into Uno livery just days after this picture was taken. Sovereign's first Dennis Dart was P501VRO, based at St. Albans. It was taken over when Centrebus aquired the St. Albans operations and subsequently moved to their Stevenage operation. As a result 501 remains in Centrebus ownership after the St. Albans operations passed to Uno in 2008. Carrying a patchwork front end ahead of repaint by new owner Uno is Dennis Dart 573 (W573XRO) in St. Albans. Mini Pointer Dart 512 (S462LGN) in Luton on the 17. Super Pointer Dart 503 (KUI6564) was new as S782RNE, but also spent time in Ireland. Northern Counties bodied Dennis Dart 189 (M389KVR) still sports full In-Motion livery. It was new to Dodds of Prestwick. Caetano bodied Dart 594 (X194FOR), unique in the Centrebus fleet at Dunstable at Luton Station on route 88. Originally one of the InMotion liveried Darts in the Centrebus fleet, 129 (M829RCP) gained the new Centrebus livery towards the end of 2008. The application of this livery to 129 coincided with the acquisition of three similar N-reg buses which were the first Darts in the fleet to gain this livery.

Published in Buses from The Shires by Matt Robinson

]]> Sat Sep 15 2007 Green Line vehicles operated by Arriva The Shires http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1371274.html Arriva The Shires' coach services have been branded as Green Line services since 1994. Routes include the 755/757 (Luton Airport - London), 758 (Hemel Hempstead - London) and 797 (Stevenage - London). Also of interest is the 724 route from Harlow to Heathrow Airport which operates across Arriva's operating territory. The 724 is unusual for a modern day Green Line route in that it uses dual purpose buses rather than coaches, due to the fact it operates a large section of the route as a 'stopping' bus service. In more recent times the 757 Luton Airport - London service has become a joint venture with EasyBus and Terravision. Some coaches have received full EasyBus livery, some others have received Terravision vinyls on standard Green Line livery. Saturday 12 May 2007: Arriva The Shires' coach services have been branded as Green Line services since 1994. Routes include the 755/757 (Luton Airport - London), 758 (Hemel Hempstead - London) and 797 (Stevenage - London). Also of interest is the 724 route from Harlow to Heathrow Airport which operates across Arriva's operating territory. The 724 is unusual for a modern day Green Line route in that it uses dual purpose buses rather than coaches, due to the fact it operates a large section of the route as a 'stopping' bus service. In more recent times the 757 Luton Airport - London service has become a joint venture with EasyBus and Terravision. Some coaches have received full EasyBus livery, some others have received Terravision vinyls on standard Green Line livery.

Green Line / Arriva The Shires DAF SB4000XF/Van Hool Alizee 4065 (YJ55WSW) loads for London in the rain at Luton Airport on 12.05.07. One of the 5 Van-Hool bodied DAF coaches in Green Line livery, 4067 (YJ55WSX) on layover at Luton Airport on 22.05.07. This batch of coaches are wheelchair-friendly thanks to a lift next to the front door. 4067 was involved in a fatal crash in thick fog on the M1 during October 2007 and hasn't run again. One of the Plaxton Premiere bodied DAF SB3000s purchased for Green Line route 757 was 4363 (W363XKX). It has recently been painted into EasyBus livery following the amalgamation of EB's Luton Airport - London service with the Green Line 757 service. The LED destination display is also newly installed in this coach replacing manual roller blinds. Plaxton-bodied DAF coach 4367 (W367XKX) shows off its recent repaint into the new style Green Line livery. DAF coach 4364 (W364XKX) still carrying the old style Green Line livery when pictured here at Luton Airport on 08/06/07. Freshly outshopped in Easybus livery is DAF 4365 (W365XKX). Even the wheels are still shiny. Behind is similar 4363. Plaxton-bodied DAF 4064 (P201RWR) joined the Shires' fleet from Arriva Fox County. It was a replacement vehicle for 4366 (W366XKX), which was written off in an accident in 2005. There are some cosmetic differences between this coach and the native DAFs. These include a low-level offside emergency exit door, front fog lamp housings, no rear window and a lack of destination equipment. DAF 4359 (W359XKX) at Luton Airport. Like many of these coaches carrying the new Green Line livery, it carries a super-rear ad for Easybus. DAF 4069 (YJ55WSZ) arrives at Luton Airport from London on the 757. Just visible towards the rear of the coach are newly-applied Terravision vinyls. From the original batch of DAFs bought for the 757 in 1997 is 4049 (R449SKX). Many of this batch now work out of Hemel Hempstead on the 758, following the arrival of newer coaches for the 757. Another view of DAF 4359 on the 757 at Luton Airport. Mercedes Citaro 3907 (BU06HSL) is one of a batch at Harlow for Green Line route 724 to Heathrow Airport. It is seen in Welwyn Bus Station on a wet December afternoon. Mercedes Citaro 3901 (BU06HSD) has a model based on it by Creative Master Northcord. It is seen in Hertford Bus Station bound for Harlow. Citaro 3904 (BU06HSG) calls at Hertford on the long 724 route from Harlow to Heathrow Airport. Green Line have this Van Hool bodied DAF, YJ57BTU on loan covering for accident damaged 4067. It has been numbered 0412. Plaxton Panther KX04HRR is on loan at Luton for the 757. It is operating in allover white and allocated temporary fleetnumber 0411. Mercedes Citaro 3902 (BU06HSE) loads in Harlow Bus Station on a wet day in March 2008. On loan to Luton from Hemel Hempstead depot, DAF 4047 (R447SKX) works its original route, the 757. Plaxton-bodied DAF 4053 (R453SKX) in Hemel Hempstead Bus Station. DAF 4051 (R451SKX) on layover at Luton Airport. The 758 decals have been removed from the sides of the coach. One of the new Van Hool Acron T917 coaches for Green Line Route 757 is 4379 (YJ58FJZ). This batch of 63 seaters upgraded the route in December 2008. Van Hool Acron coach 4375 (YJ58FJU) is seen on a 757 night working. Van Hool Acron T917 coach 4382 (YJ58FHY) is seen at Luton Airport at night. The last few Van Hool Acrons in the batch delivered to Luton depot were on 09 plates and delivered in orange for application of the easyBus livery. 4387 (YJ09CXL) is one such example.

Published in Buses from The Shires by Matt Robinson

]]> Sat May 12 2007 Arriva The Shires - Branding and interior styles http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1327020.html A collection of photos illustrating styles of route branding and also interior styles used by Arriva The Shires on their buses. Monday 16 July 2007: A collection of photos illustrating styles of route branding and also interior styles used by Arriva The Shires on their buses.

3605 is branded for Luton - Dunstable route 38. Each branded route in Luton is now colour coded, alternative examples in this batch have lime green branding for route 27. The interior of Scania 3170. An interior view from the back of DAF 3447. The R-VPU batch of DAFs all feature high-backed seating. The interior of Scania 3204. High-backed seating and short-lived seating trim used for all Plaxton (and Northern Counties) buses delivered between 1996 and 1998. The interior of Volvo B6 3136. B6s originally delivered to Watford, Hemel Hempstead and Wycombe garages have green seats inside. The short Luton to Stopsley service 12 is branded as the yellow route. The Demonstrating Arriva's original route branding style is DAF 3278, still displaying this style for the 321. The Rickmansworth end of the route is now only served during evenings and Sundays. DAF 3441 shows Arriva's interurban style branding. This is for route 500 between Aylesbury and Watford. Reminiscent of many Bristol VRs, Leyland Nationals and early Olympians before it, is the moquette seating trim which appears in 5170 (B605UUM). 5170 came from Arriva Yorkshire in 1998 and carried coach seating. In 2001 it received these seats from Olympian 5056 (ARP616X), an original United Counties vehicle. The interior of Wright-Solar bodied Scania 3607, new in 2005. Olympian 5165 (EWW544Y), new in 1983, was refurbished in 1998 with full Arriva Corporate Interior. In 2007 at the age of 24, this bus still sees almost daily service in Luton. The top deck of Luton-based Leyland Olympian 5165. This bus has an Eastern Coach Works body. Demonstrating the rear profile of Watford's new Mercedes Citaros is 3915 (BV58MKO). A full side profile of Wycombe's Volvo B10B 3842 (N622FJO) shows the Thames Valley Line branding applied to the buses when they were painted in Arriva livery. Also still in evidence is the original 328/9 service numbers, now superseded by 850 and 800 respectively. As part of Buckinghamshire's Arriva's standard interior choice during 2009 is demonstrated by an MK Metro Optare Solo diverted from an order to Arriva Midlands. Mini Pointer Darts 3495 and 3496 were given full coach style seating for use on the 700 route between Stansted Airport and Stevenage. They retained this seating when displaced from the route, and had moved to Milton Keynes when this interior shot was taken of 3496.

Published in Buses from The Shires by Matt Robinson

]]> Mon Jul 16 2007 Miscellaneous - out and about. http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1308994.html A collection of photos of various vehicles belonging to operators not covered by any of the other collections on this site. Includes photos of preserved buses, random photos from Showbus, and any other vehicles of interest captured by my lens whilst out and about. Thursday 21 June 2007: A collection of photos of various vehicles belonging to operators not covered by any of the other collections on this site. Includes photos of preserved buses, random photos from Showbus, and any other vehicles of interest captured by my lens whilst out and about.

Previously Arriva The Shires (Colchester) 5397, All Leyland Olympian F245MTW now owned by Burton's on rail replacement work in Cambridge. RML2472 (JJD472D) amongst the vehicles doing the shuttle honours at Wimbledon 2009.

Published in Buses from The Shires by Matt Robinson

]]> Thu Jun 21 2007 The Shires buses (pre-Arriva Livery) http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1290813.html 'The Shires' bus company was formed out of the former Luton & District bus company in April 1995, following the takeover of the company by British Bus (now Arriva). A new blue and yellow fleet livery was introduced, designed by Ray Stenning of Best Impressions. This replaced the individual red/ivory and green/grey colour schemes. In addition each depot was given its own identity, which was carried on the buses they operated. In November 1997 this livery was superseded when the Arriva corporate livery was introduced. Numerically the last bus delivered new in the blue and yellow livery was Scania 3205 (R205RBM). Tuesday 29 May 2007: 'The Shires' bus company was formed out of the former Luton & District bus company in April 1995, following the takeover of the company by British Bus (now Arriva). A new blue and yellow fleet livery was introduced, designed by Ray Stenning of Best Impressions. This replaced the individual red/ivory and green/grey colour schemes. In addition each depot was given its own identity, which was carried on the buses they operated. In November 1997 this livery was superseded when the Arriva corporate livery was introduced. Numerically the last bus delivered new in the blue and yellow livery was Scania 3205 (R205RBM).

In 1995, The Shires received several National Greenways from Crosville Cymru to replace Leyland Nationals at High Wycombe. Inevitably many later escaped to other garages. 3045 (IIL4822) is seen parked in Leighton Buzzard High Street in 1998, by which time it was working from Aylesbury garage. Scania L113CRL/ELC 3163 N713EUR was one of four originally allocated to Aylesbury garage for the 500 route to Watford. Three of these received standard-style branding for the route while the fourth later went on to receive an overall advertisement. Complete with branding for Luton route 12; Scania L113 3194 (R194RBM) on display at Duxford when only a couple of weeks old. X15 Scania 3204 (R204RBM), complete with high-backed seating, loads in Leighton Buzzard heading for Milton Keynes. The X15 branding style was the only one to feature the orange sash instead of the 'standard' yellow one used on all other single deck routes. Northern Counties Palatine I bodied Volvo Olympian 5138 N38 JPP carried an overall advertisement livery for the Herald & Post newspaper, but with the front end in fleet livery.

Published in Buses from The Shires by Matt Robinson

]]> Tue May 29 2007 Arriva The Shires - Single Deckers http://mattsarrivatheshirescollection.fotopic.net/c1278390.html Arriva the Shires became the new identity of The Shires late in 1997. This coincided with a new corporate aquamarine and cotswold stone livery replacing the old blue and yellow livery previously used. Today Arriva the Shires covers a vast operating area including Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and parts of Essex, Berkshire, Oxfordshire and London. When the fleet was renumbered in 1997 single decker buses were allocated in the 3xxx series. However some buses have even made it into the 4xxx series, including a batch of new VDLs delivered in 2002-3, and 6 DAF SB220s acquired from other Arriva fleets. Sunday 24 September 2006: Arriva the Shires became the new identity of The Shires late in 1997. This coincided with a new corporate aquamarine and cotswold stone livery replacing the old blue and yellow livery previously used. Today Arriva the Shires covers a vast operating area including Bedfordshire, Hertfordshire, Buckinghamshire, and parts of Essex, Berkshire, Oxfordshire and London. When the fleet was renumbered in 1997 single decker buses were allocated in the 3xxx series. However some buses have even made it into the 4xxx series, including a batch of new VDLs delivered in 2002-3, and 6 DAF SB220s acquired from other Arriva fleets.

With Arriva Corporate livery freshly applied, Scania 3161 (N711EUR) looks smart representing the company at Duxford Showbus. One of a number of buses to carry an advert for Lakes Electrical was Scania L113CRL 3166 (N716EUR) between 1998 and 2008. 3166 is seen on layover in Luton Bus Station during the summer of 2001. Watford based Dennis Dart 3188 (P188SRO) carrying an anti-racism advertisement. Northern Counties bodied Scania L113CRL 3204 (R204RBM), branded for Aylesbury - Milton Keynes route X15 on display at Duxford Showbus. In 2000 6 Volvo B10BLEs with Alexander ALX300 bodywork were purchased to replace Leyland Lynxes at Stevenage. The first of the batch, 3452 (W452XKX) is on display at Duxford. They all feature route branding for Stevenage local services 2/3/4/5 but regularly appear on the 100 group of services into Luton. Front and nearside view of Luton-based Scania 3605 (KE55CTO). Scania L94UB/Wright Solar 3605 (KE55CTO) on display at Showbus in Duxford, 24th September 2006. Scania L113/ELC 3170 (N32 KGS) at Luton Airport waiting to take up the 16.35 31 departure to Langdale Road on 12.05.07. Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown 3263 (V263HBH) loads in Silver Street for its next trip into Dunstable on route 31. Scania L113/Northern Counties Paladdin 3194 (R194RBM) loads for an afternoon trip to Leighton Buzzard in Silver Street, Luton. Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown 3261 (V261HBH) hides in the shadows in Silver Street on its regular haunt, route 31. Luton-based Dennis Dart MPD/Plaxton 3285 (V285HBH) operating local service 1 to Farley Hill on 18.05.07. DAF SB220/Plaxton Prestige 3272 (V272HBH) in Church Street, Luton on 18.05.07. This is the last of the original batch of DAFs still displaying the old style 321 branding. The latest style is LINE 321 based on Arriva's interurban 'cow horns' livery. The 'up to every 30 minutes' text on the cove panels was originally preceded by 'Clean gas powered buses for Herts' which was removed when these buses were converted to traditional diesel power. Scania L113/East Lancs 3168 (N29 KGS) arrives at Luton Airport in the midday sunshine on 22.05.07. DAF SB220/Plaxton Prestige 4427 (S427MCC) was originally used by Arriva on the Chester park-and-ride, this ex gas bus was transferred to Watford in 2004 where it was converted to diesel power. 6 of these DAF buses are unusually numbered in the 4xxx series, which was originally earmarked for coaches. DAF SB220/Plaxton Prestige 4426 (S426MCC) awaits departure time from Luton Airport on a 321 working to Watford. Scania L113 3149 (N699EUR) was the last of the initial batch of 7 allocated new to route 31 in 1995. Almost 12 years on it is still giving good service... on route 31. Wright-bodied Scania L94UB 3604 (KE55FBX) at the Dunstable Square terminus of route 38. Dennis Dart MPD 3284 (V284HBH) works a Saturday shift on Dunstable local route 50. One of the DAF SB220s with Plaxton Prestige bodywork transferred from the Green Line service 724 to Aylesbury garage is 3446 (R206VPU). It is seen here at Milton Keynes station working an X15. The X15 has since been replaced by Line 100, which is where the Aylesbury-based examples can commonly be found. Plaxton-bodied DAF SB220 3447 (R207VPU), working the X15, is seen here resting at journey's end in Milton Keynes. Northern Counties bodied Scania 3195 (R195RBM) was the last of the original batch of 5 purchased for route 12 in 1997. It carried branding for the route until 2005, when new style branding for the 12 was applied to other members of the batch but not this one. Since then it can commonly be found on route 31, which it was working when captured here at Luton Airport. DAF SB220 3448 (R208VPU) calls at Leighton Buzzard High Street on the X15 service between Aylesbury and Milton Keynes. Wright-bodied Volvo 3265 (V265HBH) arrives in Leighton Buzzard from Luton on the 31 service. Unfortunately the route branding on the side has been partially removed due to replacement of damaged panels. Northern Counties Paladdin bodied Volvo B6 3116 (L316HPP) was originally delivered new to Hemel Hempstead garage February 1994. Since then it had a short spell at Watford before moving to High Wycombe where it spent most of its life. It's pictured here parked in Wycombe bus station. Early in 2008, 3116 moved to Harlow depot, where it joined several other transferred B6s. When photographed in Thame in June 2007, Dennis Dart 3210 (R210GMJ) was a recent transfer from Watford to High Wycombe. It was working then new route 40 between Wycombe and Thame when photographed. New buses had been ordered for the route, but it took several weeks of operation on the 40 before they entered service. Later in 2007, 3210 was involved in a fatal RTA in Wycombe and has not run again. Showing off it's colourful route branding for Hemel Hempstead routes 2 & 3, Dennis Dart 3236 (V236HBH) awaits its next duty in Hemel Hempstead bus station. Scania 3156 (N706EUR) captured in Hemel Hempstead bus station. It still carries the old style branding for the 500. It is still a regular performer on the route despite the branded DAFs at Hemel depot. Dennis Dart 3216 (S216XPP) arrives back in Hemel Hempstead bus station from Chesham on route 52. This bus and sister 3217 were branded for this route when new. Both 3216 and 3217 were to move to Wycombe depot in 2008 where they became regular performers on the 353 route between Berkhamsted and Slough. Volvo B10B/Wright Endurance 3847 (M104UKX) was one of the original batch of 5 purchased by Sovereign Bus & Coach for route 300. Despite looking almost identical to other Wright-bodied Volvos in the fleet, this batch of buses have all got step entrances. They were all new before the low-floor revolution kicked in. Numerically the first Dennis Dart MPD to enter the Arriva The Shires fleet, 3280 (V280HBH). It is seen in Park Square in Luton on route 1 to Farley Hill. When photographed in June 2007, Scania 3143 (N693EUR) was recently transferred from Luton to Stevenage depot following the transfer of duties from LU to SV on the 100 group of services. It is seen visiting it's old home on route 102 in Church Street, Luton. Further retendering would see 3143 move again in 2008... Scania L94UB 3618 (KE55GXR) carries branding for Luton's green route 27. Unfortunately the large 27 which should be displayed on the side of this bus is missing, presumably due to replacement of damaged side panels. Scania 3198 (R198RBM) was recently branded for Luton route 12. It differs from the other branded buses for the route by having high-backed seating. This bus was new to Stevenage depot in 1997 and branded for routes 100 & 101. Northern Counties bodied Volvo B6 3131 (M711OMJ) is seen in Church Street, Luton on 16th June 2007. 3131 fell victim to an electrical fire on Monday 17th November 2008. Dennis Dart MPD 3291 (V291HBH) was delivered to Dunstable's Tavistock Street garage for routes 50 & 51 in 1999. Now working from Luton, it is seen outside Dunstable Quadrant on route 31. East Lancs FlexCi-bodied Scania L113CRL 3148 (N698EUR) calls at Dunstable on a 31 through working from Leighton Buzzard. 3488 (W488YGS) is one of two W-reg Darts allocated to Luton alongside their 13 V-reg examples. They differ from the V-reg examples by having power-blinds front, side and rear and Urban90 'bucket' seating throughout. Wright Renown-bodied Volvo B10BLE 3267 (V267HBH) arrives in Leighton Buzzard High Street from Luton on route 31. Unfortunately this bus was damaged by an engine fire on Sunday 7th October 2007 whilst on route 70. Dennis Dart MPD 3280 (V280HBH) calls at Bushmead during an early morning working on route 24. Volvo B6 3127 (M727OMJ) has spent it's entire working life in High Wycombe. It recently had the interurban cow horns livery applied. It is currently the only Shires' B6 to operate in this livery. Plaxton-bodied DAF SB220 4491 (T494KGB) was transferred to The Shires' Watford garage from Arriva Scotland West. It has recently transferred again, to Wycombe, where it is seen in the bus station. Plaxton-bodied Dart 3821 (N521MJO) joined the Arriva The Shires' fleet with the takeover of Wycombe Bus. It is seen in Wycombe Bus Station with red route branding (route 33). Dart 3482 (W482YGS) looks smart as it arrives in Wycombe Bus Station. Freshly repainted in corporate aquamarine, replacing Arriva's red London livery which it previously carried. The LED destination display is also a new addition to this bus. Former Wycombe Bus Company Dart 3824 (N524MJO) shows off its branding for cross-town service 33. Scania 3204 (R204RBM) was originally purchased for Aylesbury to Milton Keynes route X15. Now sporting Arriva's interurban livery, it is branded for Wycombe ConneXion services. Scania L113/East Lancs 3165 (N715EUR) departs High Wycombe Bus Station towards Aylesbury on route 300. Dart 3213 (R213GMJ) working service 40 between Wycombe and Thame. New buses for the route still had not materialised by the end of June 2007. Plaxton Verde bodied Volvo B10B 3841 (N621FJO) is seen outside Reading Station. It was new to Oxford Bus Company in 1996 and passed to Arriva with the Wycombe Bus sale. Wright-bodied Volvo B10BLE 3309 (W137XRO) was acquired with the Sovereign operations. It is seen calling at St. Peters Street in St. Albans on route 301.

Published in Buses from The Shires by Matt Robinson

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