Page 18 - MBF Supplement Demo

coach which has replaced similar Caetano bodied Volvo FJ12GBF.
Most of the companies operating area is classed as remote rural and some of these are even more rural presenting the company with particular needs. The simplicity of the front engined, rear drive Sprinters and Varios have proved to be particularly useful and durable and lack the complications that most modern rear engined designs suffer from. It is not surprising therefore that when a pair of locally built but virtually unused welfare style Kyle B21F + one wheelchair bodied long wheelbase Sprinters (SY16DVR/P) became available, these were purchased and modified for local service and school transport needs replacing Optare Solo M780SLs YN04LXD and YX55BXK.
The main news for this edition is the addition to the fleet of a brand new coach in the form of Scania K470/ Irizar C59Ft, SCL745 (HS17PBR).
A brand new coach arrival here in the form of Scania K470/ Irizar C59Ft, SCL745 (HS17PBR).
Summer services on the Kyle to Armadale Pier route to connect with Mallaig Ferry sailings will operate from March 31st until October 22nd. Unfortunately, on no less than 78 days during this period, ferry times will be varied on each of the days due to tidal conditions. Whilst talks as to the services to be provided are ongoing, as this was written it was anticipated that a timetable based on normal operating dates would be supplemented by additional journeys to connect with ferries on the tidal conditions days.
It may be noted that the rate of additions to this fleet has progressively slowed down in recent times. This is primarily due to the fact that all normal service buses are of course now DDA-compliant and very little else actually needs replacing at the moment. The next target will be to replace or upgrade any non- compliant coaches by 2020; consideration is being given whether this will be with new(er) coaches or what would in the past have been considered as 'dual purpose' vehicles such as upgraded low floor saloons or double deckers.
Additionally, whilst disruption to rail services within the company's operating area has brought some benefits to its bus and coach operations at times, there is still a degree of uncertainty regarding costs and funding to services. A review of services may need to take place at some point as result, but it is hoped that any 'cuts' would be kept to an absolute minimum.
Several members of this fleet were loaned to Crossways to assist with their Cheltenham Races operations between the 14th and 17th March, viz: DAF DB250RLF/ ALX400 LDD565, Dennis Trident/ ALX400 LDT417, Dennis Trident/ Duple Metsec LDT552/3, Dennis Trident/ ALX500 LDT554-6 and Dennis Trident/ East Lancs LDT727.
18
One of the pair of Kyle bodied Mercedes former welfare buses recently converted for bus use and added to the fleet.
Hants & Sussex
David Rowe & Reuben Greene - Facebook