Description
1966 London Routemaster Bus RML2475 (Long version 72 passenger seats).
Iveco engine.
4 speed semi-automatic gearbox.
Vehicle classification is Historic so no MOT or Road Tax is required. I bought the bus in May 2008 and it was in "withdrawn from service" condition, it even had used bus tickets on the floor!
It had been based at Putney Garage servicing routes 14 and 22. It was withdrawn from service by TFL in 2004 and put into storage. It was sold by auction to its previous owner in 2006 who also kept it in storage until I bought it in 2008.
It then underwent extensive refurbishment by Busworks in Blackpool. The majority of the external aluminium panels under the windows on the lower deck were replaced due to excessive dents and gouges to the originals. All the seats including the driver's seat were reupholstered and the shabby blue moquette was replaced with new original Routemaster tartan patterned moquette. All the internal panels were applied with burgundy rexine and it underwent a total repaint both internally and externally.
As I was using the bus for hire or reward I had a tachograph fitted.
It still has the original destination blinds for routes 14 and 22.
More recent refurbishments include all new glazing on the upper deck replacing badly graffiti scratched/ etched vandalised original windows. The saloon (downstairs) windows did not suffer vandalism due to the conductor beng present. A sliding window was fitted behind the driver, replacing the original static window, enabling communication with the driver from the saloon. A second external repaint due to the bus being parked/ stored outside in the early years of my ownership. The bus has been garaged/ stored undercover for the last ten years preventing deterioration of the paintwork.
I have used the bus mainly for wedding transport since I bought it, less the time it was undergoing the initial refurbishment,
It has also been used for other special occasions including transport and advertising for the Royal British Legion's poppy appeal for three years running. For event promotion and shuttle bus duties for the Tour De Yorkshire for several years plus other high profile events such as the British Wool Show, Yarndale and even as a mobile art gallery for Leeds Arts University, also for bus driving experience days at Elvington Airfield in York. Other work throughout West and North Yorkshire much of which was for annual events for high profile clients for several years.
Lots of paperwork, invoices for work done etc.
The bus is for sale due to my retirement.
