Photographs by Tony Wilson

Tony says : A little bit out of our area, but nevertheless of possible interest to others, although there is a tenuous connection with the attached images.

I have been made aware that the last four Bristol VR deckers with Wilts & Dorset along with about forty Optare Spectras are in the process of being sent to the Ensignbus dealership in Essex. Twenty Spectras imminently, the remainder in very early 2010.

So where's the connection? Well W&D is part of the Go-Ahead Group, as is London Central/General and Southern Vectis. Thus the two attached images illustrate a former London Central Optare Spectra (SP16), a once regular visitor to Chesterfield whilst with Redferns, more often than not on the St.Mary's school run and the Mecca Bingo contract, but on this occasion engaged in a rail replacement service. As for the VR shown this was once with Southern Vectis and also a regular with Johnsons on school services in North East Derbyshire.

Redfern Optare Spectra K316 FYG at Chesterfield Station November 2007

Johnson's Bristol VR UDL 668S near Clowne February 2008

(C) Tony Wilson. These photographs are the property of Tony Wilson. Not to be copied without permission.