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Stagecoach Western Volvo B6LE 31372 (P372 DSA) seen here in AA buses livery for Irvine local services inside Kilmarnock depot. These B6LE's are being replaced by new Optare Solos in corporate livery from September onwards.
Pre December 2007 |
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| No they aren't it's november 2008 and they are still being used ad they are lisenced till 2013 |
| [#8788539] |
2008-11-29 23:50:05 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Correct, rumour at the time of uploading this photo was that they were all due for replacement. This didnt materialse (apparently due to Western not obtaining some new Bus development grant). At the end of Nov 08, 2 of the 10 AA liveried vehicles (16866/31375) have lost AA livery in favour of swoops. |
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Stagecoach Western MAN/Jonckeere 50038 (T38 BBW) Pictured inside Ayr Depot. This is the last MAN/Jonckeere left in the Western fleet with them all being replaced by Neoplans. This one was repainted two years ago to celebrate Western winning the UK Bus Awards in 2005, they also won the same award in 2006 and this time Trident 18332 was given an allover contravision add celebrating the double success.
Pre December 2007 |
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| I am guessing that T38 BBW has a new owner? |
| [#8794798] |
2008-12-27 18:39:06 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes, Applegates of Berkely. They retained the allover Gold livery and all the vinyls with only the Stagecoach West Scotland vinyl removed. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympain 14647 (C647 LFT), Seen here leaving its home Depot of Ardrossan to take up afternoon School duties.
Pre December 2007 |
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| Its nice to see that Stagecoach are still using some of the C-LFT olympians, here we have ex tyne and wear pte and Economic Busways olympiasn C647LFT, in the North East were these came from we got rid of the last one in 2006. The last one in service was C655LFT which is now being prederved, if your a fan of the C-LFT oylmpians i have a few pics on my site stagecoach-north-east-archive.fotopic.net, lovely photgraphs. |
| [#8841916] |
2009-07-06 04:06:31 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Sadly 14647 is now no longer with Western and has been sold to McColls, Balloch. I believe 14612 is also now up for disposal leaving only 14650/6/9 in service, mainly on Schools only. |
| [#8842439] |
2009-07-08 01:32:37 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| 14612 is now delicenced, for scrap apparently. |
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| 14612 was also bought by McColls and is in service with them. |
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| Yes, for some strange reason just about evrything that has passed on to McColls has been written off on paper by Western. Vehicles which have now recently passed onto them include 15246 14612/47/50 14462 20715/8 20171/4/8. |
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| In registration form, B24GCA (VCS376), C647LFT, C650LFT, C462SSO, K715DAO, K718DAO, K571LTS, K574LTS, K578LTS. |
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| Just to be picky Chris.... you missed 14612 C612LFT :) |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian 13609 (J701 HMY), One of several Tri-Axle Olympians being acquired for School Work. This one was acquired from Stagecoach Fife in October 2007. Parked up outside the body shop at Kilmarnock Depot pending a repaint into Schoolbus livery.
Pre December 2007 |
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| J701 HMY is usually allocated to Auchinleck Academy. |
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| Now in full yellow Stagecoach School bus livery and based at the Cumnock depot along with fellow Hong Konger's, H494 LNA and TSU 648. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian 14411 (K511 ESS), One of only 2 Double Decker's in Corporate livery at Cumnock Depot. Both of them, 10410/14411 can both regularly be found on Service 45 between Drongan and Ayr. Pictured here entering Ayr Bus Station.
Pre December 2007 |
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| What ever happened to this bus? |
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| I think it was scrapped due to body corrosion but i'm not 100% sure about that. |
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| Body corrosionw as indeed the reason (apparently anyway) that \western withdrew it from service at Cumnock. It was stripped of all its windows and painted allover black before heading for use by Bedlams Paintball. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian 13602 (WLT 416), Leaving Ardrossan Depot to take up School duties at nearby St Matthews Academy.
Pre December 2007 |
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| How my buses are needed for the St.Matthews run. |
| [#8761441] |
2008-08-02 12:23:54 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Answer is in the next comment (14650). |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian 14650 (C650 LFT), Leaving Ardrossan Depot to start duties at the new St Matthews Academy in nearby Saltcoats, Western have 15 School duties at the new school, vehicles from both Kilmarnock and Ardrossan depots are used.
Pre December 2007 |
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| How many school duties altogether are there? Cheers |
| [#8745507] |
2008-06-02 12:28:42 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| On top of the approx 15 Western contracts, Bennets have 1 and Shuttle Buses have 1, possibly 2 cant exactly remember. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian 13612 (J938 MHC), One of the first Tri - Axles to be given the Schoolbus treatment, most of which are allocated to Ardrossan Depot, where it can be seen leaving to start a nearby School journey.
January 2008 Observations |
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| The reason why this is has got so many hits this month, is that its being released as model in October with this picture being linked on many model pages etc. Speculation is going around whether it will be in Westerns Schoolbus Livery or in Forthfast livery. |
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| The model of this has apparently been long overdue and has now been delayed until at least the end of November. Its to be in Schoolbus livery. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian 14650 (C650 LFT), These LFT deckers were the biggest batch of Leyland Olympian's ever bought by Stagecoach. All originated with North East although several years later many were sent to Glasgow to operate Magicbus services around the City. After the end of the Magicbus services around 2005, several of the batch were sent to other Western Depot's. 4 of the batch now operate from Ardrossan Depot. Loading up at Irvine on the 25.
January 2008 Observations |
| [#8718372] |
2008-02-16 00:50:34 |
Left by Gary Mitchelhill (#0) |
Reply |
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| Just to point out an error. Stagecoach never brought these Olympians new. All 65 were purchased by Tyne and Wear PTE. Stagecoach got 64 (C607LFT was written off when nearly new) of them when they took over Busways in 1994. Even then a handful of scrapped before national numbering, as the orignal plan was to send most of them to New York (USA) for open top tours. A handful were converted, but the attacks on Amercia put heed to the plans. And the vehicles were eventually sent to Glasgow for Magic Bus Work. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10MA-55 51093 (T641 KCS), Arctic's are on their way out of the Western fleet soon and will be gettin replaced with 15 metre Plaxton Panther's. Pictured here sitting out in Ayr Depot.
January 2008 Observations |
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| Hi Dave,
Been reading your comments on your pics.
Wondering if you knew when the new 15m Panthers are going to replace the artics?
any brand new arrivals expected at western soon?
Andy |
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| The the new 15 meter B12B Panthers have arrived. They are SJ57 AAX, SJ57 AAY, SJ57 AAZ, SF57 DPV SF57 DPX and SF57 DRV. |
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| There are more Plaxton Panther's, SF57 DPY and SF57 DPZ. |
| [#8745056] |
2008-05-31 19:42:48 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| A further 3 Panthers are reportedly due imminetly for Ardrossan. |
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| When are these due to arrive and in what spec? Thanks! |
| [#8805698] |
2009-02-07 22:14:42 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Although it will no doubt happen at some point in the future, i was given false information at the time and there are no current orders (as far as im aware) to replace the Artics at Ardrossan of which there are currently only three in use. I have heard though that Western are due to receive approx 45 new vehicles this year. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian 14337 (G337 KKW), Leaving Kilmarnock Depot to commence its afternoon School contract at Marr College in Troon.
February 2008 Observations |
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| well i go to marr college and we dont need a dubble decker bus it is mad and can you let my freind back on the bus becuase he didint start it it was larron colins and by they the way a bus driver in the last day before the easter holidy he said to me what school do you go to and i said marr colege and he said and you still cant count money
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| by the way me and my freind ent on the fast bus and ewan was on the bus can you tell him to slow down he goes to fast over the speed bumps it is mad the way he drives the bus |
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| I don't think your gonna be going to fast in this. It's being withdrawn, anytime now. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B12B/Plaxton Panther 54039 (SJ57 AAY), In Cumnock Depot, The vast maority of this new batch of 8 Panthers are destined for Cumnock, with a few going to Glasgow for the X25.
February 2008 Observations |
| [#8724310] |
2008-03-10 12:39:11 |
Left by mark atkinson (#1035742) |
Reply |
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| Dear Dave
I am looking with great interest the photos of Stagecoach Western new Plaxton Panthers B12B.
I am a Plaxton coach enthusiast and I am writing to ask if you can send me a copy of the 3 rear shots you have taken in the coroprate livery.
I will of course pay for them if there is a charge but i can assure you they will be used in my personal collection.
I hope you can help
Yours sincerely
Mark Atkinson |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B12B/Plaxton Panther 54045 (Sf57 DRV), Having just left Ayr Bus Station on the long service to Dumfries on the 246.
March Observations |
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| the new bus r very good it get my dad to glasogw coz me it a wheelcher the driver of that bus my big bro lol |
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Spot the odd one out, Scania 28952 sits inbetween 3 recently delivered MAN/ADL Enviro 300's destined for Cumnock.
March Observations |
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| I see these Enviro 300's on a daily basis and they look fantastic. Don't smell at all. Are they euro 5. |
| [#8745057] |
2008-05-31 19:45:57 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| I think they are Euro 4 but im not 100% sure. |
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Stagecoach Western Mercedes-Benz 709D 40612 (N612 VSS), Having been rescued from the Disposal Fleet? Now back at Cumnock and has very recently been repainted.
March Observations |
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| Saw this bus on the back of a Polish registered transporter along with an unidentified Iveco minibus on the M2 near Faversham on 11/06/08... seemed to be heading towards Port of Dover/Ramsgate? |
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Stagecoach Western Tranbus Dart SLF 34602 (SF04 VTD), Leaving Kilmarnock Bus Station on a 7 to New Farm Loch.
March Observations |
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| My dad was involved in an RTA with this bus at 825am today. The accident occured in Hurlford, close to the play park and the front of the bus and rear of the car were damaged. The bus was at fault. |
| [#8743541] |
2008-05-25 18:17:15 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Bus apparently sustained very minor damage and was over the pits this weekend. It will be gettin repainted soon anyway. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B6LE 31383 (P383 DSA), With a broken Dot Matrix Screen as it leaves Kilmarnock Bus Station with a heavy load for Cumnock on the X76.
April 2008 Observations |
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| That was not the only this that was broken today. The was seen broken down outsideAuchinleck Academy in the morning as i passed on way to work. Ok, i must admitt that buses but, hey. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M Ps 20506 (M869 ASW), Leaving Buchannan Bus Station in Glasgow at the start of its journey to Ayr.
April 2008 Observations |
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| sorry, meant to say it only has 2 n's |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Citybus 15246 (VCS 376), Loading up in Ayr Burns Statue Sqaure on a special service to Ayr Racecourse in connection with the Scottish Grand National.
April 2008 Observations |
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| Looks superb for it's age. Does anyone know the genuine registration of this bus. |
| [#8743772] |
2008-05-26 19:09:49 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Does indeed look good for its age. Its original reg is B24 CGA and was new to A1 Service, it initially (i think) operated from Ardrossan following its abosrtion into the Stagecoach empire and was regurlarly out to Marr College in Troon on School contracts along with the 2 ECW Olys based at Ardrossan at the time, approx 2001/2. It then transferred to Glasgow in 2003 along with the two ECW Olys where it was then transferred to Ayr in approx 2004/5 and was given its allover West FM add which it has carried until very recently when it was repainted at the beginning of 2008. If anyone can confirm the movement dates then i would appreciate it. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10MA-55 51097 (T97 JHN), looking very smart after a recent repaint. It is pictured here in Ayr Depot devoid of any fleetnames or X77 branding which it has carried for a good number of years.
May 2008 Observations |
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| What will it be used for in the future? |
| [#8743542] |
2008-05-25 18:18:02 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| It now has the new style X77 branding, photo to follow ASAP. |
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A lineup of the first three X76 branded B7R's as they sit outside the wash/fuel bay at Kilmarnock Depot having arrived back in late the previous night after being used on Football hire's.
May 2008 Observations |
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| Do you know what game this was. |
| [#8760165] |
2008-07-27 22:40:47 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| From memory it was i think the Scottish Cup Final. A team from Dumfries was one of the teams playing in it. Western had several coaches approx 10-15 from Kilmarnock/Cumnock/Dumfries and Stranraer used in connection with it. I think all the coaches travelled down to Dumfries to pick up the fans then headed up to Hampden. |
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Stagecoach Western Neoplan Skyliner 50133 (CN05 APV), Loading up in Ayr Bus Station on a special service to Ayr Racecourse for the Scottish Grand National.
April 2008 Observations |
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| CN05 APV is apparently on loan to Stagecoach Oxford. Having seen a photograph which cleaely shows the coach devoid of any Stagecoach Western branding and covered in Oxford - London and Oxford TUBE livery I doubt that it will return in the near future. |
| [#8796131] |
2008-12-31 22:29:02 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes, it transferred south around August time from memory and was fitted more or less immediately with its new branding. It will probably eventually return to Western since Oxford have not painted it into full Oxford Tube livery. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M Ps 20572 (M472 ASW), The only remaining Ps out of the last batch of 12 allocated at Cumnock to remain in the Western fleet with all the rest transferring south to Cambridge. 20572 was transferred to Ayr Depot where it allowed a slightly newer "R" reg Ps to transfer south, in the form of 20513 (R513 KSA).
June 2008 Observations |
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| not all 12 of the allocated cumnock ps went down south in fact two of the cumnock fleet are still with western this being one but dumfries has 20577 m477asw which was also at cumnock before they got new mans i think |
| [#8828841] |
2009-05-11 23:44:21 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes indeed 20577 is at Dumfries. It was transferred there due to being fitted with a Tachograph and allowed older and much less reliable 20114 (N214 LTN) to transfer down south instead. Ironically 20572 is now up for disposal i believe. |
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| its ashame that 20572 instead of being up for disposal didnt land up being one of two ps that where sent to dumfries depot. it would of been nice to see it joining 20570/20571/20577 down at dumfries |
| [#8830226] |
2009-05-17 15:30:24 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Ironically perhaps, 20570 is also now up for disposal as a result of the transfer of 20548/20119 to Dumfries and the arrival of the 2 Versa's. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M Ps 20526 (R526 VSE), Fully equipped with the higher than normal suspension for the rural roads around Arran. It is pictured here in on the mainland at Ardrossan Depot while over receiving some work on it.
June 2008 Observations |
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| is i possible that the ferry lift hs just been left on?? |
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Stagecoach Western Neoplan Skyliner 50127 (WLT 720), In Ayr Depot. Neoplan no longer build these Skyliners for use in the UK due to rapidly declining sales in the UK market.
June 2008 Observations |
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| Do Neoplan still make the Starliner for the UK market? |
| [#8759968] |
2008-07-27 00:18:12 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Im fairly certain they dont anymore, with the last (I think) being built for Parks/Trathens for National Express work. |
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| They still make the starliner and euroliner, just not the skyliner as on rolled over on nat ex work!Hope this helps! |
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The new ticket machines, currently being installed across the fleet.
June 2008 Observations |
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| What was previuosly used? |
| [#8831689] |
2009-05-23 11:20:09 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| It was the bog standard Wayfarer machines that were previously used. Many fleets across Scotland switched to the new ERG Machines from summer 2008 onwards with Western one of the first to use them. Im afraid i dont have a picture of a wayfarer machine to show. |
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Stagecoach Glasgow Volvo B10M 52510 (S860 VAT), A recent transfer into Glasgow from Stranraer. This coach started out its life as a Plaxton demonstrator and spent a large number of its demo years with Western for evaluation purposes and was allocated to both Ardrossan and Glasgow. It was eventually officialy acquired by Stagecoach in approx 2005 and was allocated to Stranraer and joined the other allover white coaches which primarily were used on MOD contracts.
June 2008 Observations |
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| It was also allocated to Dumfries depot |
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| it was also at cumnock depot at one point i think |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10MA-55/Jonckheere Modulo 51092 (T640 KCS), A recent transfer back to Ardrossan. Pictured here arriving in Glasgow with rather low front suspension.
June 2008 Observations |
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| What is up with the suspension? |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Citybus 15299 (C799 USG), Preparing to start an afternoon school contract at Stranraer Academy. This Citybus prior to being allocated to Stranraer, spent a while in use from Glasgow in Magicbus livery.
June 2008 Observations |
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| Is the stranraer citybus affected by the rusting and will it be getting replaced with a newer decker seeing how most of the other citybuses are leaving like ie 15246 |
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| As i have said before on another comment, im not sure if it does suffer the same problem as the rest but it still seems to be in service. |
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Stagecoach Western Dennis Dart 32058 (N58 KBW), Turning out of Ayr Bus Station en route to Drongan on the 45.
June 2008 Observations |
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| 32058 was posted on another picture as not been seen for a long while. N58 KBW was working the 347 on the 12th March 2009. |
| [#8828347] |
2009-05-09 23:15:02 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| It is now withdrawn from service at Cumnock after being replaced by very similar 32393 (P393 LPS) from the reserve fleet. Its currently parked down the bottom of CUmnock Depot, where 51061 has layen for months. |
| [#8841917] |
2009-07-06 04:08:12 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| 32058 has now been "donated" somewhere, will try and find out where to asap. |
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| 32058 was donated to a Teen Challenge organisation around Glasgow. http://www.flickr.com/photos/33321856@N05/3623401174/ |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian 13609 (J701 HMY), Pictured over the pits at Cumnock depot just hours before departing with the rest of Western's Schoolbus tri axle Oly's to Liverpool to provide much needed capacity on Open Golf shuttles.
July 2008 Observations |
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| Are you serious about these old workhorses going down to liverpool. |
| [#8788540] |
2008-11-29 23:54:11 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes i am indeed every one of them in the fleet excluding damaged 13619 and Craig Tara liveried 13644 went south to Liverpool after all, consider how many thousand after thousand of miles they earned while over in Hong Kong let alone the miles they clocked up with Megabus! There are several photos on other fotopic sites of them in use in Liverpool. |
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| Any chances of leaving a link to pictures of them in Liverpool? |
| [#8818884] |
2009-04-02 07:47:14 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Here is a small collection of them: http://gez.fotopic.net/c1547023.html The best way i feel to get pictures like this is to go to the fotopic home page type in the search box the fleetnumber you are after and select the photo tab along the left hand side. |
| [#8839455] |
2009-06-24 19:00:22 |
Left by Martin McKenna (#1247712) |
Reply |
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| Cool, thanks for the tip! |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian 14659 (C659 LFT), Still soldiering one working from Kilmarnock.
July 2008 Observations |
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| Western have definetely got their money's worth from this old workhorse!!! |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B7R/Plaxton Profile 53275 (KX56 JZN), Smartly turned out as it heads empty to Glasgow to start a peak journey back down to Ayrshire.
June 2008 Observations |
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| Today I saw KX56 JZN heading towards Cumnock on a service usually operated by Enviro 300's, Volvo Plaxton Panthers and the odd Volvo double decker. |
| [#8759967] |
2008-07-27 00:15:03 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Interesting, I was in Kilmarnock today. I saw 22594 on the 2.25ish departure from Killie on the X50, after getting a few more shots of the new Solo's etc, I went and done some shopping, an hour later i saw 53275 laying over in the bus station then 2 mins later i saw 16853 arrive in from Crosshouse on the X50 which i thought to be very unusual as i have never previously seen a decker on the X50. I am assuming you saw 53275 on the X50 as i know Killie do carry out a few runs on the X76 between Killie and Cumnock in the early evening. Photo of 16853 will be up ASAP. |
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| I saw KX56 JZN just entering Catrine on the X76 on way to Kilmarnock for Zippo's circus. I didn't go to Zippo's but went shopping while the family went to Zippo's. I was at approx 1.40pm. |
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| Now that I remember I was following SF08 GRU on the way to Kilmarnock and saw N563 VHH at the new roundabout near the prison. |
| [#8760163] |
2008-07-27 22:38:11 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Now that you say that I do remember a Circus going on in Killy yesterday so was probably helping Cumnock out by operating a duplicate vehicle. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian 16853 (N853 VHH), Is an unusual choice for the X50, normally thesedays operated by new Enviro 300's.
July 2008 Observations |
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| I have now seen N853 VHH most days of the past week. Again usually working the X50. |
| [#8794793] |
2008-12-27 18:13:22 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| On Christmas Eve, the X50 was being worked by unbranded Enviro 22534 (SF57 LVC) and Dart 32058 (N58 KBW), the first time ive seen either of them on the route. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M-62/Plaxton Interurban 52426 (R104 LSO), Parked up in Ardrossan Depot prior to some maintenance being carried out on it, as if you look closely enough you will see a red (do not move) cover over the steering wheel.
August 2008 Observations |
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| What was the problem with R104 LSO. |
| [#8763503] |
2008-08-11 11:40:10 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Im not sure, presumably was just awaiting routine maintenance of some description. 47496 also had a red cover over its sterring wheel. |
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Stagecoach Western Neoplan Skyliner 50139 (CN05 FVU), Looking smart as it begins its turn into Buchanan Station in Glasgow.
August 2008 Observations |
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| Although a while since this photo was posted, I saw CN05 FVU broken down on the hard sholder on the way into kilmarnock on the M77. |
| [#8810258] |
2009-02-25 18:55:58 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| You will always find some Neoplans or even Buses in general that are better than others, I had thought this was one of the better ones though perhaps not. The ex Oxford Tube MAN's previously used on the X77 were notorius for breaking down, not exactly ideal in the evening peak! |
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| I have had numerous experiences of the MAN 24.350 Jonckheere Monaco's failing. They weren't exactly my fav coach and although the Neoplan's are a step up they haven't had bullitt proof reliability. These days I tend to travel, wherever possible, on the cumnock Volvo B12BT Plaxton Panther cos I have not heard of any brake downs and haven't had one brake down on me yet.... |
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| Oh, and in your opinion what coaches are the best and worst? |
| [#8810749] |
2009-02-27 23:08:34 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Although im not a regular bus passenger, The Interurbans were "top notch" when new but are gettin a bit worn nowadays although still very reliable. The B7R's/Profiles are a good coach i feel, fast and warm and the Panthers arent far behind although the B7's are alot smoother than the Panthers. That said Volvo are considered to be one of the best manufacturers thesedays, with the latest B9R examples already entering service down south at Bedford on the X5. |
| [#8814355] |
2009-03-14 23:05:17 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Bear in mind though the hundreds/thousands of journeys the MANs made on Oxford Tube workings prior to being sent here and the mileage they racked up which will have been very high. Vehicles can only last so many miles but on the other hand if you look at the current service 4 Ps's which have racked up well over 1million miles, they dont break down that often. Also bear in mind the high mileage that the Neoplans clocked up on Megabus work north/south of the border prior to being put to use with Western. Perhaps one reason why the Panthers havent broke down much yet. |
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| Yip, was on Volvo B7R Plaxton Profile today on way to Glasgow. Much smoother than the X76 Panther's but ended up on a Panther on way home. |
| [#8814451] |
2009-03-15 12:55:54 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Although the B12B's are quite jerky, when they reach full speed/constant speed on the motorway there not too bad. I travelled on two on the 900 yesterday and were quite smooth on the M8, there isnt that much motorway for the X76 to travel on compared to the 900. |
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Stagecoach Glasgow Volvo B10M-62/Plaxton Interurban 52348 (P148 ASA), Arrives in Glasgow from Dumfries on the X74.
August 2008 Observations |
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| How come there is nothing on the destination board??? |
| [#8766195] |
2008-08-23 15:39:22 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Thatll be down to the joy of taking photos of buses with LED screens, Depending on the quailty of the screen, i.e. if its a cheapy one etc, Some cameras can quite easily "blank out" the screen. As a matter of interest, its only recently had a LED screen fitted to replace its original Dot Matirx example. The destination was showing Glasgow X74. |
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| How many seats do Stagecoach plaxtons have? |
| [#8777401] |
2008-10-12 00:10:22 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Not quite 100% sure on Interurban capacity but a rough guess i would say its between 50-60. |
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| I have discovered recently that P148ASA has 51 Seats. |
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Stagecoach Western Alexander Dennis Enviro 200 Dart 36072 (SN56 AYG), Now in service from Kilmarnock rather than Cumnock as originally planned. It and sister 36071 are now regulars on service 2.
August 2008 Observations |
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| SN56 AYG looks absoutely packed. Having, what, 29 seats doesn't appear to be enough and this photo was taken at 3 o clock and amagine this at peak afternoon and morning runs. That problem could be solved by a higher frequency but i would suggest that it would be far cheaper sending out higher capacity coaches. Maybe its just the fact that I was hoping they were going to be going to Cumnock as I would most certainly have got a go in one and the old Volvo B6LE's like P383 DSA and P378 DSA are frankly worse for wear now and could really be better if they were to be sold of or disposed of as they do nothing to enhance Cumnock's appeal. |
| [#8805701] |
2009-02-07 22:20:09 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Western soon realised they made a mistake putting 36071/2 onto the 2 with the very high loadings and were within 2/3 weeks being replaced by Darts/B6LE's. The B6LE's arent the best vehicles in the fleet by any standard. They are the oldest low floor vehicles in the fleet at approximetly 14/15 years old and given the fact that they are low floor will probably mean they will stay until they mechanically give up the ghost although i must admit that i think Cumnock prefer their B6LE's to their V MVX Darts which are proving more troublesome with B6LE's, particulary 31383, becoming a regular sight on the 347. |
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| I've heard that there is a law supposed to come into force that says that by 31st December 2014 all passenger buses have got to be wheelchair accsesable. I'm not sure whether it includes buses in reserve fleets but if it does i'd imagine these buses and some early dart SLF's would go into the reserve fleet. So there might be some more enviro 200's in the fleet soon. |
| [#8818885] |
2009-04-02 07:51:16 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes you are true that their is a date whereby all bus services must be wheelchair friendly but cant remember the date of the top of my head.. Unfortuneately in some cases i cant see the B6LE's going too soon, they are still classed as low floor vehicles and giev the amount of high floor vehicles still in service with Western although it will probably be considerably reduced by the end of this mont when the 22 new E300's enter service. |
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| I've just found out that McIndless have some P Reg ex-Stagecoach Manchester B6LE's. I think because they are low floor that they might have a high resale value as they are low floor and the likes of City Sprinter, Colchri, McKindless etc. still have a lot of high floor verhicles and they can't really afford to buy lots of brand new verhicles. |
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| SN56AYG/F would be better suited to the cumnock 347. This route very rarely ever gets very full, infact I've never seen more that 20 people on a bus and I sometimes wonder how the company make any money from them. I would agree that the V reg Darts aren't great and a mate of mine who drives at Cumnock and often on the 347 says he hates the darts, thinks they are s**t (HIS WORDS) and likes the B6LE's better. He doesn't think much of the B6LE's either refering to them as "horrible little peices of crap that need the crusher.". He says although he ain't a fan of em, he prefers them more the Darts but can't explain why. However, he does like the Enviro 300's they have though. |
| [#8848922] |
2009-08-01 22:03:54 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| As far as i know the 347 is run on a completely finacially supported service hence the use of the SPT liveried Darts most of the time. I dont really understrand how the Darts can be so bad, I know they are ex London and will have done alot of Miles but the ex London R plate Darts dont have any problems and are older. |
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Stagecoach Western Tranbus Trident 18371 (SF55 TZS), Rumour has it that the current fleet of 27 A1 Tridents are due to be replaced in the near future by newer examples which will presuambly be Enviro 400's.
August 2008 Observations |
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| Do you have any idea why? |
| [#8788544] |
2008-11-30 00:04:06 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| There has been alot of rumours/speculation over the last few months about these supposed new vehicles for the 11. I contacted Western direct and they stated that there were no plans to replace them for at least 18 months although I have heard from drivers and one of the controllers at Ardrossan who said some are on order and were believed to be MAN engined. The latest ive heard as at Nov 08 is that the entire order for new deckers for the 11 has been cancelled. |
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| What a shame. The new Enviro 400's look fairly futuristic and would give a bit more a shine to the 11. That said, the current Transbus Tridents aren't exactly by there sell by date. |
| [#8805702] |
2009-02-07 22:21:24 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| I agree with both of your comments, the E400's would certainly look good in A1 livery and if nothing else would add a bit of variety to the fleet, mabe one day though..... |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian 16863 (N863 VHH), Pulls into its stance in Ayr Bus Station for one of the last tines this year while operating on the last day of the 2008 Ayr Open Top Tour.
August 2008 Observations |
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| I was wondering if you knew if N863 VHH is still topless. |
| [#8796124] |
2008-12-31 22:17:25 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes, its still in open top format and has been ever since it was de-roofed at the notorius Bonnyton low bridge in Kilmarnock a few years ago. It is currently in storage at Ayr over the winter due to its seasonal status. Also in storage at Ayr is 13644 (G278 YRJ) while the other two open toppers 16864/11083 are in storage at Dumfries. |
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Stagecoach Western MAN/Enviro 300 22582 (SF08 GOK), Departs Cumnock Tarnyard Bus Station for nearby Muirkirk on the X76.
August 2008 Observations |
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| I don't know what it is but everytime I go out somewhere I will pass this bus on the road somewhere. Whether it be on the X50 or the X76, its always there. The same applys to SF08 GOX and SF08 GOU (Slightly less now). Some i very rearly see. i.e, SF08 GPV. |
| [#8810748] |
2009-02-27 23:03:49 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Im the same reeli, particularly with the Cumnock Enviros i must admit. Ive still yet to track down and photograph 22590/2 since they entered service almost a year ago. 22582 seems to have been on the X50 quite a bit thesedays. The X77 Neoplans seem to weird as well, always seem to see the same ones day after day then they go into hiding for a few weeks then re-emerge. |
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| Your totally right about the Enviro's and Neoplan's being in service nearly everyday but then disappear. It took me to February 2009 to see 22590 and 22592. It happened to be that they were both on the 43 on the same day. |
| [#8818886] |
2009-04-02 07:53:10 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Indeed, I have since got a picture of 22592 as youll have no doubt seen. Both 22590 and 22592 which i both needed pics of arrived in Cumnock Bus Station one behind the other on the 43/8. Unfortuneately my picture of 22590 didnt turn out great. |
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| Shame about the picture of 22590. You can only try again!! |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Citybus 15247 (E864 RCS), Its first time ever in swoops and its first time in service for well over a year as it arrives back into Cumnock Depot from an afternoon School contract.
September 2008 Observations |
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| E864 RCS have just arrived back from the Auchinleck academy contract with them supplying buses for Mauchline children. I had just saw this bus and must say ou are very quick. |
| [#8770852] |
2008-09-13 11:55:04 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Thanks, I just quickly edited it and uploaded it before i went to work. What time does Auchinleck close? As the South Ayrshire secondary schools close at 3.30pm and the ones going to Auchinleck didnt leave the depot til about then. |
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| If it was Monday or Tuesday it would be at 3.45pm but on a Wednesday, Thursday or Friday the school finishes at 2.55pm. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian 14650 (C650 LFT), Having just been transferred to Cumnock from Ardrossan.
September 2008 Observations |
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| C650 LFT was out on local school workings this week. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian 13624 (TSU 638), A recent transfer into Cumnock from Ardrossan and joins the existing fleet of 2 ex HK Olympians.
September 2008 Observations |
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| TSU 638 has a set of dodgy front entrance doors. They need, usually!!, to be forced by hand into a closed position. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Citybus 15247 (E864 RCS) & Leyland Olympian 14650 (C650 LFT), Sit parked up in the early evening sunshine at Cumnock Depot prior to being washed and refuelled for another days service carting Ayrshire Schoolkids.
September 2008 Observations |
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| These pair of school buses are used for Auchinleck Academy and cart children to Mauchline. |
| [#8770853] |
2008-09-13 11:56:23 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Im sure Tri-Axle 13624 (TSU 638) also departed at the same time as these two and headed in the general direction of Auchinleck. |
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| Yeah, at the moment TSU 638 is used for Ochiltree and a 2nd Oly, H494 LNA is on the Mauchline run at the moment covering for C650 LFT. |
| [#8788542] |
2008-11-29 23:59:45 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Does 14650 (C650 LFT) ever make it out onto Schools much at all these days? When i visited the depot just over a week ago one of the engineers stated it was very poorly with engine failure i think. They have lasted a while certainly although not as long as Titans i guess. |
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| Yeah, C650 LFT hasn't, at least by me, not been seen outside the depot for a long while. I certainly haven't seen it on school runs recently and at the beginning of the 2008/09 session C650 LFT and E864 RCS were working together. Now it is E864 RCS or E866 RCS which usually work together. When either one has a problem a yellow EX Hong Kong Oly is turned out. |
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| I was wondering if you had any news on the current fate of C650 LFT? Also while I think about it, I reckon I saw C650 LFT being driven by a mechanic as it headed along the A76 towards Cumnock. |
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| I Seen this citybus out on a test run today, shortly followed by a Titan, heading out of Cumnock, in the Ayr/Kilmarnock direction, driven by two engineers. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian 14650 (C650 LFT), Prepares to leave its home depot of Cumnock.
September 2008 Observations |
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| This bus, C650 LFT, isn't out very often whenever I'm about. On the occassions when I am about howver it does look all that good and in my opinion is showing its age. Bring on a newer Volvo Olympian (LTN'S) |
| [#8839991] |
2009-06-27 00:13:27 |
Left by Martin McKenna (#1247712) |
Reply |
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| This bus has seen a lot more use reecently, as its gradually taking over our school run from an aging titan. |
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Stagecoach Western MAN/Enviro 300 22582 (SF08 GOK), Rounds the bend into Cumnock Depot after finishing a nearby School contract. It later worked an early evening X76 to Kilmarnock.
September 2008 Observations |
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| How many buses are required for the Cumnock school runs and at what capacity. Also, why are they using such a new bus. |
| [#8770851] |
2008-09-13 11:52:37 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Im not sure about the exact figure bearing in my mind they also do the Thornhill Schools using the 2 Volvo Olys or the Panthers on the 246. Some of the Cumnock Academy runs that Western carried out last term, have i believe passed to Milligans but i am open to correction. |
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| Milligan's, i believe carry out on contract and require 1 70 seat coach. |
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| Stagecoach lost the contract to Milligans at the beginning of the 2008/9 scool year, as Stagecoach always provided two busses for the Logan , however now it is carried out by Milligans.
Other runs for Cumnock Include:
3 Enviro 300's (Ocassionally 2 when Replaced by a Dennis Dart)
2 Titans
and either A tri-axle Oly, Or a Citybus. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B12B/Plaxton Panther 54044 (SF57 DPZ), Basks in glorius sunshine in its home depot of Cumnock.
September 2008 Observations |
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| This coach can be seen on NewCastle on rail replacements. SF57 DPZ seems to have been there for nearly 2 weeks at current and from the information I have recieved is on the 13 - 45 to London Victoria Station. So, well out of its regular patch. Also, it appears that these Cumnock Volvo B12T Plaxton Panther's are doing alot of private hire workings although it would seem that they use the unbranded (NO X76 Livery) for these duties. |
| [#8796125] |
2008-12-31 22:20:47 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Going by the picture online, it looks much more like it was on a Megabus service at the time as the main Megabus stop in Newcastle is at the main train station. Probably covering for a breakdown somewhere on the M74 or being this time of year, could be providing a duplicate coach. Quite a few of Glasgows Citylink liveried examples have been in use on Megabus services to London recently. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B12B/Plaxton Panther 54042 (SF57 DPX), Leaves Cumnock Depot to take up a late afternoon service to Kilmarnock on the X50 prior to heading light to Glasgow to start an evening peak journey back down to Cumnock on the X76.
September 2008 Observations |
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| Are the Volvo B12B Plaxton Panther's fitted with Volvo's i shift. |
| [#8771784] |
2008-09-17 19:32:10 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes they are indeed fitted with the very Jerky Volvo I-shift transmission system. |
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| I asked because the gear changes are quite jerky but I heard that the I Shift is mean't to be a good transmission with the majorities of coach operators buying Volvo coaches choising the I Shift, i.e, Park's of Hamilton. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B6LE/ALX200 31378 (P378 DSA), With a hanover screen gained from one of the two recently inherited Citybuses, It sets of for afternoon Schools.
September 2008 Observations |
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| P378DSA being driven by mechanic on test run in Mauchline. First noticed when the screen displayed 34 and there was no route number 34 that goes anywhere near Mauchline if there is one what so ever. Also, SF57DRV was today heading towards Kilmarnock with a X50. Suppose it joins onto the X76 at Killie or something. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M-62/Plaxton Interurban 52425 (R103 LSO), Now back at Cumnock following its loan to the Glasgow Joint Venture fleet as it leaves Cumnock Depot to start an afternoon School Contract.
September 2008 Observations |
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| Why was R103 LSO drafted in on the first place. It's just that this coach is arounf 10 years older than most of the others. |
| [#8771785] |
2008-09-17 19:34:21 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Cumnock have always usually had at least one Interurban which used to be used on literally any service. I have seen them on the 43, X76, 246 before. 52425 if not on Schools is usually on the 246. |
| [#8815142] |
2009-03-18 07:09:22 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Is 52425 only regularly used on School services nowadays? As i havent seen it in service in ages. |
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| Its usually on the 246 Services, rarely schools |
| [#8818890] |
2009-04-02 08:02:09 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Believe it or not i have seen it on the X50 a few times recently, first ever sighting of an Interurban on the route. |
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| Now that 52425 (R103LSO) has now departed Cumnock and Glasgow there are now no Interurban's left at Cumnock. An unusual allocation I would say to have it on the X50 - never seen that before. David, do you know when/ if 52435 is ever going to return to Cumnock?? |
| [#8831690] |
2009-05-23 11:25:36 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Ever since 54040 had its accident, i never seen 52425 on the X50, it seemed to only be a regular working over a period of 2-3 weeks. It probably will eventually return to Cumnock, perhaps again as like last year when the Citylink winter timetable comes into effect in September. There are rumours circulatiing thogh that Megabus are expecting several new deckers, in addition to the approx 12 new 15m Panthers being delivered this July. Figures suggest that 96 double deck coaches have been ordered, either Vanhool's or Berkhof Axial B12's. Most are rumoured to be for USA operations with the rest for Oxford Tube and a few for Megabus (M11 Aberdenn-London) This will allow the English (Ox Tube etc) Neoplans to transfer North to Scotland and will perhaps eliminate the last Artics in the Stagecoach fleet (perhaps even the Bluebird examples) |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Citybus 15249 (E866 RCS), Leyland Titan 10410 (KYV 410X) and Volvo Artic 51061 (N561 SJF), Parked up in Cumnock Depot. Of the ones pictured only one is in service at Cumnock, this being 15249 with the rest still in the reserve fleet.
September 2008 Observations |
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| Have Cumnock still got KYV410X or has it moved on> Does anybody know?? |
| [#8833674] |
2009-06-01 00:26:46 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| 10410 was written off, presumably scrapped not long after this photo was taken, cant remember exactly when of the top of my head. |
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| It's an utter shame that 10410 got written off so late into it's life. Of course, it wouldn't be financially viable to fix the bus, but it's just a shame all that heritage had to disapear so quickly. It makes me happy knowing, however, that it was still a regular in daily service until it's demise. |
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Stagecoach Western MAN/Enviro 300 22534 (SF57 LVC), The last of the first batch of Enviro 300's in the fleet.
August 2008 Observations |
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| Why was SF57 LVC on the connect cumnock bus route. |
| [#8783431] |
2008-11-06 07:13:45 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| 22534 has within the last month been transferred from Ayr to Cumnock to replace Dart 32058 (N58 KBW) which is now in reserve. Did you notice if it carries CC branding? As i have yet to see it operating from Cumnock. I do try to post monthly fleet movements in the header of most collections but dont have much time these days. If you want to receive weekly updates (monthly for official movements) please feel free to join the Western yahoo group at http://autos.groups.yahoo.com/group/stagecoachwestscotland/ There are also similar Scottish/Stagecoach groups online. |
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| I don't think that SF57 LVC had CC branding. As far as i remember is that it was on the route either the 347 usually operated by Dennis Darts or the connect cumnock route operated by enviros or the X76 which use b12b's. DID NOT SEE MATRIX SIGN. |
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| I can'tbe sure but I think that SF57 LVC has been rear ended by a Mercedes Benz. The video is on Youtube. |
| [#8788541] |
2008-11-29 23:56:57 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Interesting, it was parked up over the short pit at Cumnock (with the rear not visible) when i visited 2 Fridays ago although i certainly saw no obvious signs of damage. Ive had a quick look on youtube for the video but cant find it, could you possibly post a link to it please? Thanks. |
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| On Youtube type in, Stagecoach Envrio 300 Crash. Should be the first video. Was this any help? |
| [#8794794] |
2008-12-27 18:15:04 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes i tracked down the video on Youtube. Thanks. |
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STagecoach Western Tranbus Dart SLF 34599 (SF04 VSZ), Was among the first of Kilmarnock's 9 Darts to be given new LED screens in early summer 2008.
October 2008 Observations |
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| I think these busses Look rather ugly compared to the rest of Stagecoache's fleet of new busses. |
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On loan to Stagecoach Western is this Wright Meridian bodied MAN from Ferrymill Motors. The reason for its use is unknown but as Ferrymill quite often carry out repairs to accident damaged vehicles it could be a tempoary replacement for one of Cumnocks vehicles.
October 2008 Observations |
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| Any info about the accident damaged one. |
| [#8783432] |
2008-11-06 07:15:30 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Its still unclear if infact there was a damaged vehicle or wether it was related to warranty work on the MAN's. FM31 was parked up outside the bodyshop at Kilmarnock approxiametly a week after i took this shot and i think by now has returned to ferrymill. |
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| Hi out there all you bus fans,that photo is indeed FM 31,which is out on loan to cover a Stagecoach bus which was accident damaged. This is one of our now small fleet of hire buses which includes Fm 27 a Transbus Dart and Fm 30 a Volvo B7RLE with a Meridian body.
Six of the wee B6 Volvos have been sold,if you want one there two left. |
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| I've seen this bus on the 585 which means its from Ayr or Ardrossan Depots |
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| hey this bus is now working out of ardrossan depot on the 585 srevice. |
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| Does anybody yet know what the accident damaged vehicle was? Perticularly aimed at Ewen who would appear to know such things. |
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| I was wondering wheather SF08 OFY had been returned yet. I am wondering becuase I have seen a Volvo Olympain on school workings recently but it might have been N865 VHH. |
| [#8810743] |
2009-02-27 22:53:21 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| I dont believe it was on loan to us for any great length of time (2 weeks max i think - at least for the last loan at CK) and as far as im aware 16853 hasnt yet returned to service. Does Dart 32058 (N58 KBW), do any School workings thesedays? Havent seen it in ages, used to be a regular on the 45 but its usually Enviro/B6LE operated these days. Last i saw it was on the X50 on Xmas Eve. |
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| I've seen this Wright on the service 343, heading for Tarbolton, from Dallegals. Later that week i seen it on the sevice 49, operating round Netherthird & Craigens. This might suggest that a Cumnock vehicle has been damaged?
In addidtion, it was running the single decker school service to New Cumnock (Known at school as the "Spar Bus" As it stops at Spar in New Cumnock). |
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| As response to gallery owner asking about N58 KBW. I haven't seen it for ages either and I don't know what has happened to it. It certainly hasn't been on the X50, 43, 45 - 48 or the 347. So it don't know what has happened to it. May have been moved elsewhere or off the road for some reason. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B12BT/Plaxton Panther 54045 (SF57 DRV), Is an unusual but very welcomed visitor to Irvine. Not quite sure why it was parked up but logical assumption would make me believe it was on a private hire at the time.
November 2008 Observations |
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| SF57 DRV, was seen at the metro centre on the 29th November while on private hire. |
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The on loan MAN/Wright Meridian FM31 from Ferrymill Motors. I think its now operating from Ardrossan and is seen here departing Ayr Bus Station on a 585 bound for Greenock.
November 2008 Observations |
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| yeah a very bit blurry but thats you ok next time ok |
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| The enviro 300 that got damaged think was 22521. The video was on youtube. I think i could just make out the registration it was SF57 LUG. uk.youtube.com/watch?vSNcBp6FK8&feature=channel_page |
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| The vehicle that got damaged 22521 has the registration of SF57 LUB. To be honest the number plate doesn't appear to be anything like SF57 LUB. I have stated that in another photograph my guess is that it is SF57 LVC, ex Ardrossan and now operating from Cumnock where FM31 started out. Anyway, anyone who can shed some light on this is greatfully appreciated as all I can find is some guess work. Also, the damaged to the bus on youtube wouldn't warrent such a long repair of over a month. Having just watched the video I reckon I am right, without being modest. Sorry Adam. As said above any other comments welcomed. |
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| MAN/Wight Merifian FM31 was doday on the X50 workings and operation out of Cumnock depot. I saw it 4 times throughout 6 hours. |
| [#8802255] |
2009-01-25 18:01:13 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| The reason for it being back became quite evident when i visited Kilmarnock Depot today (25/1/09) when i found Volvo Olympian 16853 (N853 VHH) parked up the back corner of the depot with extensive damage to the front of the vehicle having looked as if it was in a nasty RTA. Damage looks repairable though, just depends if its affected the chassis though. Photo will be uploaded soon. Fm31 was on the 46 on 24/1/09. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B6LE/ALX200 31375 (P375 DSA), Is the first of the 9 AA liveried B6LE's to be painted into standard swoops. Its pictured in the bodyshop at Kilmarnock Depot halfway through its repainting process.
November 2008 Observations |
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| Shame they couldn't replace the engine. Black smoke from exhuast under acceleration which I am finding is a fault with most/all the Volvo B6BLE's I see often. S463BWC not so bad, but has just had major work done on engine bay - photo on this site. |
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| S463BWC is a Dennis Dart not a B6LE |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander RL 16865 (N865 VHH), Parked up in ths shed at Cumnock Depot inbetween school duties.
November 2008 Observations |
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| N865 VHH is becoming a regular quite regular on the X50. Always looks respectable when ever I have seen it. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Citybus/Alexander 15249 (E866 RCS), The 2nd of the 2 immaculate looking Citybuses in service at Cumnock.
November 2008 Observations |
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| It would be great to see one of these two Citybuses going out on a express service as they appear to be restricted to schools but I can't be certain. |
| [#8796127] |
2008-12-31 22:26:30 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| It would indeed be excellent to see one of them out in service like the good old days. Its the first time theve carried swoops livery and had workin Hanover screens when they arrived at Cumnock. Both of them when new were regular allocations on service 4. They are certainly far superior to the C LFT Olys that Kilmarnock/Ardrossan still send out into service. |
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| I've managed to find a photo of it on the 4 http://interchange.fotopic.net/p25155764.html |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Citybus 15247/9 (E864/6 RCS), Parked up inbetween School duties in Cumnock Depot.
November 2008 Observations |
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| Two pretty much identical vehicles, working pretty much identical school duties. |
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| On the 22nd November 2008 one of these buses had smoke pouring from the engine and was apparently on fire. Could you shed some light on this. |
| [#8796126] |
2008-12-31 22:23:01 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| The 22nd November seems a bit suspect as it was a Saturday, the day after i took this pic, and it would be very odd for these deckers to get out the depot at a weekend unless they were out on some test run etc. |
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| On looking back in diary was on the 19th November 2008. |
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| It must have been the 12th November 2008. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M/Alexander PS 20571 (M471 ASW), Provides a bit of variety on the normally coach (52427) operated X74 to Dumfries.
November 2008 Observations |
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| Parked up inside Cumnock depot along with another Volvo B10M Ps today. I believe these are there to cover for Enviro's which are doing the X76 in replacement for several Plaxton Panther's that are away. Enviro 300's, SF08 GPY and SF08 GOU were displaying X76 routes. |
| [#8814622] |
2009-03-15 23:43:56 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| I have since found out that Cumnock receive one of Dumfries's PS's every weekend as they use one of Cumnocks Panthers for football hries every weekend. As to why there were two Ps's today im not sure but perhaps Dumfries were using 2 Panthers due to the Old Firm Cup Final being held in Glasgow today. I have never seen Panthers out in service on a Sunday as the Cumnock operated journeys on the X76 only go as far as Killie. But perhaps several were away on football hires. |
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| I didn't see any panther's at the depot at all. |
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| That said, I've seen a Volvo B10M PS working on the X50 or 347 - can't quite member - this week. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander RL 16866 (N866 VHH), Having lost its AA livery in a process that is currently happening to the other 9 AA liveried B6LE's or rather 7 as i type this.
December 2008 Observations |
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| 31372 has just been repainted |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M/Alexander PS 20592 (M792 PRS), One of the few unbranded examples remaining at Kilmarnock. All are believed to be phased out of the fleet in 2-3 months time.
January 2009 Observations |
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| What vehicles are coming in to replace? Cheers!!!
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| [#8802256] |
2009-01-25 18:02:36 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Ahh... that would be telling. A "gentle" hint though what did Cumnocks get replaced with?? Thats your answer. |
| [#8805703] |
2009-02-07 22:23:55 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| I have since found out that its only the 9 service 4 branded Ps's at Kilmarnock that will be gettin replaced with the other 13 "new vehicles" going to Ayr, presumably for the 52. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M/Alexander PS 20586 (M786 PRS), On its final few months in use on service 4 (Ayr - Glasgow) as it turns into Kilmarnock Bus Station bound for Ayr.
January 2009 Observations |
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| Where M786 PRS going afterwards. |
| [#8802258] |
2009-01-25 18:04:41 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Im not sure what will happen to the Ps's. Theyll either stay with Western and allow the replacement of step entrance Darts or the Ps's like the Cumnock examples be may be transferred elsewhere in the Stagecoach empire, perhaps to the recently acquired operations of Prestonbus to allow the replacement of ageing Olympians/Lynxes. |
| [#8818888] |
2009-04-02 07:56:59 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| The 22 new E300's are only a matter of days away now. I have heard the Kilmarnock Ps's may be going to Glasgow for further service but not sure what for as for the Ayr ones, im not sure but expect Dumfries to get a few. The 9 due for Killie feature new style high back seating compared to the normal spec examples: http://donaldstirling.fotopic.net/p57254890.html That is one of them out on a test run from ADL at Falkirk (yes i know its missing glass!) |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian/Alexander 14659 (C659 LFT), Parked up in Kilmarnock Depot. Sister 14656 from Dumfries has recently been painted into Schoolbus livery.
January 2009 Observations |
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| Is C659 LFT likely to be painted into school bus livery anytime soon? |
| [#8805705] |
2009-02-07 22:28:43 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Who knows, it may well do depending on what happens to to the 5 Volvo Olympians currently being acquired from North East. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian/Alexander 13619 (511 OHU), Cant have that long left before it gets scrapped going by the amount of parts already robbed from it.
January 2009 Observations |
| [#8820900] |
2009-04-09 07:21:37 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| .... and i was right! It was towed away for scrap on the 1st week of April. End of an era, it was a very familair sight parked outside the workshops at Killie when you drove past it over the last year and a bit. |
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Stagecoach Western Scania N113DRB/Alexander 15304 (H424 BNL), Another one of the ex Rennies Scanias earmarked for charity donation.
January 2009 Observations |
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| i seen this bus one day last week passing through kirkconnel heading towards dumfries |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B6BLE/Wright 31387 (Y601 TSD), One of the former Docherty of Irvine vehicles acquired back in 2004. Just four years later Docherty of Irvine wound up their coach hire fleet and all the vehicles were auctioned out to various operators.
February 2009 Observations |
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| this has a wright body not alexander, never make a disgusting mistake like that. if it looks shite it'll be wright |
| [#8805706] |
2009-02-07 22:29:51 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| I do apologise, i must have been thinking too much about Stagecoach when i typed it going by the sheer lack of Wright stuff they buy. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian/Alexander 13651 (H603 LNA), Parked up for the weekend in Ardrossan Depot.
February 2009 Observations |
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| Lovely to see these old Leyland's still working away. This photo really shows the just how big these buses are. |
| [#8810257] |
2009-02-25 18:53:10 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes, fine machines they are indeed. A further five are supposedly due with Western in the near future, one of which has already arrived from Bluebird, this being 13643 (G280 YRJ) which will be used as possible additions to the School fleet in the Autumn ive been told. Bit of forward planning there! |
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| All they have to do is hope that they haven't wasted their time. Only time will tell...!! |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian/Alexander 14659 (C659 LFT), One of several varied vehicle in use on the 3 on this particular day. Just a matter of days later, two newer Volvo Olympians were acquired from Stagecoach North East, these being 16726/7 (N726/7 LTN). A further three are also due soon from North East, where they are to be allocated in the Western fleet, no one knows but i expect Cumnock and Dumfries to at least get one each.
February 2009 Observations |
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| Just wondering wheather N726 LTN/N727 LTN both being allocated to Kilmarnock or are these still awaiting relocating. I reckon Cumnock could do with a couple of double deckers at the moment having being resorted to using buses on school runs that are to small for the capacity required. |
| [#8807706] |
2009-02-15 11:06:38 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| They are currently being prepared for service at Kilmarnock and are receiving a repaint, having new floors laid and having their seats re-trimmed. A further one has since arrived at Killie, this being 16728 (N728 LTN), one of several currently being transferred north of the border to Scottish fleets. They are apparently to allow the replacement of C reg Olys in the fleet, in otherwords to replace the C LFT Olys so Cumnock will probably get one. |
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| Does that mean that the entire line up of C reg Oly's are going to be wiped out of the Stagecoach Western fleet. |
| [#8810744] |
2009-02-27 22:57:28 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Well apparently yes, but we will just need to wait and see what happens, havent heard of any other VO's arriving in addition to 16726/7/8 yet but 2 are still supposedly due which would be enough to wipe out all the C reg Olys with the exception of 14656 at DUmfries which is in Schoolbus livery anyway. |
| [#8811256] |
2009-03-02 00:19:43 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| It has more or less being confirmed that the current Olympians being acquired (mainly the tri-axles) will be replacing the Citybuses on School duties at Kilmarnock as they are supposedly rotten underneath. The North East Olympians are also to be allocated to Kilmarnock for schools and service work. One or two of the Tri-Axles may emerge in swoops as backup for Neoplans or purely for increased capcacity on peak express workings. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M-62/Plaxton Interurban 52348 (P148 ASA), Departs KBS on a shuttle run to the nearby Depot.
February 2009 Observations |
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| P148 ASA is seen today on the X76 departing Cumnock Tanyard. Any news as to why??? Cheers |
| [#8810256] |
2009-02-25 18:51:18 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Im assuming it was the 5pm ish departure from Cumnock. If so then it only goes as far as Kilmarnock and is generally classed as a peak working. It also does a short X76 from Killie to Cumnock prior to returning to Killie. You will probably find its quite a regular working thesedays to be honest as prior to working it, it does a school run at Marr College in Troon alongside either 20715/8 and 14337. It used to be one of the Ps's (20715/8) that done this run, certainly during school season anyway. |
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| Yeah, it was the 1710 run. |
| [#8815143] |
2009-03-18 07:11:25 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Both 20715/8 were on the Marr College runs yesterday afternoon along with 14337, 20718 was the vehicle used for the run to Cumnock on the X76 while 52348 was on Loudon Academy school runs. |
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Stagecoach Western Optare Metrorider 47932 (R609 XAO), The Solo Metrorider in the Western fleet which when inherited with the White Star operations back in around 2004 (i think), spent the first year or so operating from Kilmarnock Depot but is now stabled at Dumfries Depot, where it can be seen here. Its main use nowadays is School work as far as im aware.
Pre December 2007 |
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| I think metroRiders suit stagecoach livery!
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Stagecoach Western MAN A69/Enviro 300 22521 (SF57 LUB), At an Irvine Industrial Estate on a works contract after being followed by me all the way from Ardrossan Depot.
February 2009 Observations |
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| This is actually a scheduled service 27 peak working but the driver failed to put the right screen on it would appear. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B6LE/ALX200 31383 (P383 DSA), Turns of Ayr High Street to continue its journey to Drongan on the 45.
February 2009 Observations |
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| I saw it today on the X50 to crosshouse. Is that unusual because I know its on the 45 here but I very rarely see P383 DSA on anything but the 347. Under acceleration this bus and others of similar age and model blow a steady stream of black smoke from the exhaust. |
| [#8814348] |
2009-03-14 22:57:15 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| For some reason, it does seem to be regular 347 backup but i think i have an answer for its possible use on the X50 today. Both Volvo Olys (As far as im aware there is definetly only two at Cumnock) will have probably been required for the 246 as Panthers 54039/40/5 were all being used on Citylink 900 dupes today between Glasgow and Edinburgh due to the Rugby at Murrayfield. They were crewed by CUmnock drivers. Picture of 54039 to follow soonish. |
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| I can't understand why its always Cumnock vehicles that are required for these extra runs. I guess it might just be that they are fairly new but they also have the option of those Neoplan Skyliner's and Volvo Artic's. On the other hand they may have been so busy that they needed all. |
| [#8814453] |
2009-03-15 13:00:20 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| To be quite honest, its the first time ive ever seen Cumnock being used on any great level for Citylink work except from the odd few Panthers on Megabus work etc. One major factor in the use of Cumnocks vehicles yesterday could be due to the fact that they were being crewed by Cumnock drivers and perhaps the likes of Ayr etc didnt have any spare drivers to use the Neoplans. The Neoplans are quite regurlarly used on Megabus workings, mainly covering for breakdowns north of the border but ocasionally dupes too. Just a few weeks ago Kilmarnocks 50146 made its first jaunt over the border to London on Megabus since it joined the Western fleet. |
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| Ardrossans Interurbans 52426/52456 are now apparently regular apperances on Citylink dupes, usually to Aberdeen. The Ayr Neoplans (poss the Cumnock Panthers too)have now received proper citylink destination screens. |
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Stagecoach Western MAN A69/Enviro 300 22589 (SF08 GPV), The second vehicle on the 45 on this particular day.
February 2009 Observations |
| [#8837508] |
2009-06-17 07:21:37 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| 22589 was apparently parked up in Glasgow Depot on the night of the 16th June, no one knows why though. |
| [#8841919] |
2009-07-06 04:10:47 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| I have since found out that it was returning from the MAN dealership at Bellshill. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10MA-55/Jonckheere Modulo 51096 (T96 JHN), Passes Ayr Bus Station en route to an aternoon School contract at Kyle Academy.
February 2009 Observations |
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| On the next day T96 JHN was out on an early afternoon run just exiting glasgow at around 1.45ish but on the return leg of my journey it was out on school runs and on the opposite side of the road. |
| [#8810747] |
2009-02-27 22:59:56 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| It is unusual for them to operate during the day, not even sure if they do morning peak runs. It is pictured here en route to an afternoon school contract at Kyle Academy along with 34024/32397 and 15246. Both the Artics were up at Glasgow tonight on peak workings, only one of which (i think) travelled up in service from Ayr, this being 51097. |
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| They now appear to be carrying out a few more daytime runs ive noticed even at weekends when the overall X77 PVR is down. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Titan 10252 (GYE 252W), Looking as smart as ever as it sits parked up in Kilmarnock Depot. It is the only Titan in the Schoolbus fleet still to retain its original dual door status.
February 2009 Observations |
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| The kids up there in Scotland dont know how lucky they are,ailsas and titans. Hope they treat them well! |
| [#8839460] |
2009-06-24 19:21:04 |
Left by Martin McKenna (#1247712) |
Reply |
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| Sadly they don't i have to sit and watch them be disgraced by First and Second years whi think burning them with lighters is cool. |
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| Such a shame :(, down here in the north east at my school we have a mixture of B10B's and citybuses doing the school duties! |
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| Infact Matthew, I ain't and don't know of any operator running Ailsas anymore, considered too old, maybe. These Titan's ain't got long left either, I don't know what'll happen first, they suffer engine failure or they meet there maker. |
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| Indeed i think the only Ailsas left are in Preservation and yes the Titans will probablybe gradually eliminated over the next few years. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Citybus/Alexander 15284 (B184 FFS), One of 6 of these ex Fife examples in the Schoolbus fleet at Kilmarnock. They are to be replaced very shortly by Tri-Axle Olympians.
February 2009 Observations |
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| Are these the vehicles that are rotting badly. Oh and is VCS 376 affected. |
| [#8814351] |
2009-03-14 22:58:19 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes these are the ones that are rotting and as far as im aware 15246 isnt affected but i dont have any contacts if you like at AYr to confirm/deny this. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian/Alexander 13632 (H778 VHL), Just a few hours after arriving at Kilmarnock from its previous home at Manchester.
February 2009 Observations |
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| Looks erm....LOVELY. God it really needs a new paint job |
| [#8814353] |
2009-03-14 22:59:30 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Ok it might look a bit shabby which i would agree with you but bear in mind it wont have had a run through the wash since it left Manchester. |
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| I will look brilliant once its in that yellow paint or swoops anyway. Have they started the work on them yet and what work is being carried out? |
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The Schoolbus lineup inside Kilmarnock Depot which in this picture largely consists of Volvo Citybuses but within probably a few weeks time, all of these Citybuses will be getting replaced by Tri-Axle Olympians acquired from all across the Stagecoach empire.
February 2009 Observations |
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| is the stranraer volvo citybus affected by the rotting problem underneath |
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| To be perfectly honest im not sure but i dont think so as its slighlty newere than the B FFS examples. |
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Stagecoach Western Tranbus Trident/Tranbus ALX400 18002 (SF53 BZJ), Gets a helping hand into Kilmarnock Depot after breaking down in Kilwinning while working the 11.
February 2009 Observations |
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| excellent picture of me towing the trident....pity i didnt have time to wash the truck that day ..cheers |
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| Ooh dear!!! Do we know what the fault is???? |
| [#8812796] |
2009-03-08 23:42:23 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| The mechanic on dutie at the time seemed to suspect it was a dodgy fuel pump or something alone that line. It totally conked out in Kilwinning. It was later apparently seen with its batteries on charge inside the workshops, so not sure what the outcome was but i would imagine it was back out on the Monday morning. |
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Stagecoach Western Tranbus Trident/Transbus ALX400 18002 (SF53 BZJ), Hitched up outside the workshops at Kilmarnock Depot.
February 2009 Observations |
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| you see the devlin boys towing all the time for stagecoach..this wagon is usually gleamming and always well lite up at nite time and takes a cracken pic.no doubt you will be wanting more pics like this as the are always of interest.keep up the good spotting |
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Stagecoach Western Mercedes-Benz 709D/Alexander Sprint 40062 (M662 FYS), Gets covered in smoke as it sits parked up in Kilmarnock Depot as the Schoolbuses are fired up to exit the wash.
February 2009 Observations |
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| I am guessing the school bus was one of those old Leyland's that are usually quite smokey on start up. |
| [#8812798] |
2009-03-08 23:43:15 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yep it was indeed one of the Titans getting some "Air". |
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Stagecoach Western Transbus Trident/Transbus ALX400 18369 (SF55 TZP), Leaving Buchanan Bus Station in Glasgow with an evening peak journey to Kilmarnock on the X76C.
February 2009 Observations |
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| An unusual allocation I would have thought especially with all that A1 branding on the sides. I would have thought this was odd because this is far from a coach that is usually (I BELIEVE) doing this run. |
| [#8815677] |
2009-03-20 17:15:46 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Tridents are a common sight on the X76, theres usually at least one on peak workings, perhaps this will change when the Tri Axle Oly enters service. One of the main reasons for using them is that if there is a wheelchair booked on, they will send a trident as it can take too long to deploy the lift etc on a profile. |
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Stagecoach Glasgow Volvo B10M-62/Plaxton Interurban 52421 (R121 OPS), The second of the Interurbans recently painted into Citylink livery after losing Panthers 54034/7 to Bluebird.
February 2009 Observations |
| [#8822670] |
2009-04-16 07:21:26 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Sadly this Interurban along with sister 52290 (N150 XSA) were both destroyed by fire in Glasgow Depot on Sunday 12.04.09 and were towed away just a few days later to be scrapped. |
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| Cant imagine many will have seen these burnt out pics of them! http://kennybarclay.fotopic.net/p57615987.html Certainly very badly damaged for sure! |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander 16726 (N726 LTN), Now in service from its new home at Kilmarnock and is seen here on one of, if not its first ever time in Irvine, operating the double decker duty on the 22.
March 2009 Observations |
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| Cumnock had N853 VHH and N865 VHH both working the X50 or 43 today. I'm not sure but I thought that there was three running on the runs today. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander 16727 (N727 LTN), The only one of the recently acquried Olympians to be allocated to Ardrossan. Its seen here, looking almost brand new following a major overhaul in a rather dreary Ardrossan Depot.
March 2009 Observations |
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| Just to say this bus hasen't got a LED Display. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B12BT/Plaxton Panther 54039 (SJ57 AAY), Miles of its usual Cumnock - Glasgow X76 workings here as it prepares to turn into Edinburgh Bus Station on a Scottish Citylink 900 dupe. One of three Cumnock based Panthers working the 900 on this particular day due to the Rugby at Murrayfield.
March 2009 Observations |
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| That would have gave me a shock. Waiting for my Citylink bus and in turn a Stagecoach Western bus. |
| [#8820898] |
2009-04-09 07:13:51 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| This same Panther was on loan to Glasgow last Sunday and was sent on a dupe to Inverness, probably the first sighting of a Cumnock vehicle so far north! http://jamiemartin02.fotopic.net/p57335552.html |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian 14659 (C659 LFT), Parked up outside the body shop at Kilmarnock Depot with its last days in service with Western now over. Just days later it was parked up beside B6 30339 prior to being disposed of.
March 2009 Observations |
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| C659LFT has definetely earned its worth and a great worker it had been right up until the end. |
| [#8815616] |
2009-03-20 07:04:34 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes it has been a very consistent performer, probably been used in service more than the other LFT's in the fleet. I have been told its last official day in service was last Wednesday on Schools only. At least it was replaced by another Olympian from the same area. |
| [#8819690] |
2009-04-04 22:43:14 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Believe it or not but 14659 is being prepared to return to service at Kilmarnock! Both it and 14462 have both saved the axe for the time being anyway. Plenty of life yet for the Leylands at Killie then! |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander 16853 (N853 VHH), Having returned to service at Cumnock after having severe accident damage rectified.
March 2009 Observations |
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| Hiya. Just a quick note to say that having travelled on N853 VHH today there is no evidence of any accident damage previously recieve and is running nicely. |
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A lineup of four recently delivered, brand new, Volvo B7R's/Plaxton Profiles apparently destined mainly for Dumfries.
March 2009 Observations |
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| What sort of spec to they some equipped with. |
| [#8818889] |
2009-04-02 07:59:31 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| They are exatly the same spec as the Killie examples. 53322 has gone to Glasgow for the X74 (branded) with 53323/4/5 going to Dumfries of which 53323 has branding for the X74 while the other two have yet to receive their 500 branding. |
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Stagecoach Western MAN A69/Enviro 300 22592 (SF08 GPZ), Approxiametly a year after entering service with Western and my first ever shot of it as it leaves Cumnock Bus Station for Ayr on the 48.
March 2009 Observations |
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| I have started to notice recently that a coupe of the Enviro's are becoming a little smokey. I was watching it turn a bend, with a hill i must add, and it puffung blue-ish smoke like there was no tommorrow. (SF08 GPZ). The other (SF08 GPV - NOT SURE) was stopped at the bus stop and on moving away did the same. They never used to do this! |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian 16853 (N853 VHH), In a spot of bother in New Cumnock. Pictured here being coupled up to the recovery wagon prior to being towed back to Cumnock Depot.
April 2009 Observations |
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| So, did you find out what the fault was David??? I was going to say that I have seen N853 VHH and N865 VHH everyday during the working week but this was a saturday. I love seing these types of photos. |
| [#8820899] |
2009-04-09 07:18:35 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| It took me by surprise when i passed it heading down to Dumfries, couldnt resist getting a photo. Didnt hang around though as wanted to get down as quickly as possible, there was no Stagey Mechanic there at the time although approx 5/10mins before hand i passed 22591 with Private Hire in the desti box. It was probably being driven by the driver of 16853 and was returning to the depot. Inbetween seeing 22591 and 16853, I passed Ayr based PS 20502 (R502 KSA) working the 43 which i thought to be unusual. I think 16853 was on the 246 as its unusual to get them operating daytime 43's (as far as im aware!) |
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| I instantly thought that it was working the 246 Dumfries becuase I know it often works that run on weekends as during the working days (Mon - Fri) there is always usually at least 1 on school runs and another on the X50 Crosshouse. |
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| Oh, and I haven't been too certain but I reckon Cumnock might possibly have a B10M PS in some way. If it (R502 KSA) is coming from Ayr I would suggest that Cumnock should try and locate themselves another bus or two. |
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| That said R502 KSA was working the 52 yesterday afternoon. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B7R/Plaxton Profile 53323 (SF09 ACX), Sits in Dumfries Depot prior to starting another journey to Glasgow on the X74.
April 2009 Observations |
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| Nope thats an excellent shot |
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Stagecoach Western Dennis Dart/Plaxton Pointer 32120 (K120 SRH), The unique Dart in the Western fleet which has been on loan to Dumfries & Galloway council for a few years. Its sitting here in its depot in Castle Douglas inbetween School duties.
April 2009 Observations |
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| i wonder whether western will land up selling this bus to Dumfries and Galloway Council seeing how the length of time its been on loan to them |
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| God only knows whats going to happen to it, its been on loan to them for several years now for sure. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander 16853 (N853 VHH), Heads home to Cumnock on its last working of the day after finishing its duties on the 246.
April 2009 Observations |
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| For a fairly old bus this one really does work its socks off and despite having some problems in the past wee while seems to be pulling it's weight well. Is that a plum of smoke from the exhaust a see!! I find it odd that Cumnock decide to use 16853 on a long run to Dumfries when they have the option of much newer Enviro 300's. Oh, how come it displays the 48? Does it just start the 48 as soon as it arrives at the Tanyard. |
| [#8823325] |
2009-04-18 21:17:17 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Both the CUmnock examples work really hard, this one in particular especially as it seems to be on the 246 more often than 16865. Although there isnt many round trips on the 246 every day, it is a long route for such an old vehicle. Then again down south Olympians are a regular allocation on long distance, high capacity X** routes although they have been getting replaced recently with new Enviro 400's. The reason for using them on the 246 is to do with the capacity for the Thornhill Schools or so i believe anyway but obviously there is no specific requirement for them on a Saturday. I believe it does the 246 all day, arrives in Ayr Bus Station from DUmfries around 5pm ish and then replaces an Enviro on the 48 to head home for the night. I think the Enviro then waits time in Ayr Bus STation to take up another 48 back to Cumnock later on. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Citybus/Alexander 15246 (VCS 376), Heads out of Ayr Bus Station to Craig Tara which opened up for the season approx 2-3 weeks ago.
April 2009 Observations |
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| Yep, 15246 was up at Craig Tara today also. Spotted it while dropping the folks at their caravan. |
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Stagecoach Western MAN A69/Enviro 300 228?? (SF09 AEY), One of several new Enviro 300's being delivered to Kilmarnock to be prepped for service.
April 2009 Observations |
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| I thinhk this one is going to be 22870 because SF09 AEZ is 22871 |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland National 25475 (OIW 7025), Over the pit at Kilmarnock Depot gettin work done to its rear axle.
April 2009 Observations |
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| I must admit that I like workshop pictures. It reminds me of when i worked as a Stagecoach Western mechanic from 2004 - 2006 and after which I moved to independant operator Liddell's. I've left them and now run two successful car and maintenance and repair garages (Manchester, Oxford) which I run from home and don't work in and thus giving me plenty of free time to travel about on Stagecoach's finiest. I am also in negotiations to buy out a Blackpool club but will be forced to leave if I buy it. I think that about covers it...makes me wonder whether I should have written a biography. |
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| I am now starting work for City Circle in Edinburgh as a mechanic. A long drive from East Ayrshire but will see how it goes but I enjoy driving being a car fanatic...not forgetting buses. I still have my businesses but ma wife insists that I get out of the house (I have to agree though) and although the pay isn't really an issue it keeps me occuppied. |
| [#8848923] |
2009-08-01 22:07:04 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Happy engineering then Chris. City Circle seem to operate some very smart coaches for sure. At least their is direct road from Killie - Edinbrugh alon gthe A71 but no0t sure if its quicker to go up to Glasgow and across the M8? |
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| I've been taking the M8 up to Edinburgh going via Glasgow while dropping my wife at work. I used to follow my Audi sat nav that was until, however, that I had had enough of the hard riding and offset pedals and have just replaced it with a Merc C250CDI Sport which should get arid of my pain. The guys at City Circle are a fantastic bunch, and really know there stuff.It was a bit odd for the first couple of days working for somebody but now its fine. The first bus to get my inspection was a Setra S415 GT HD in for a check over. Nothing wrong with it. The next, another Setra needed some new pads but apart from that everything has remained easy enough, only doing simple tasks throught the week. I can promise you when I return to work on Monday that the bus first bus I'll get is going to need major work... |
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| National 25475 is also now living on borrowed time at Killie as they are now struggling to get spare parts etc for it and as such ERG trainer 28952 is now in the bodyshop to be converted like similar 28955 to allow the replacement of what is probably the last natioanl with Stagecoach nation-wide. |
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| By the way, I've got another black Audi A4 (Less powerful NOT 3.0LTR) 2.0 TDI Executive, Quattro, S Line (170bhp). I mainly left City Circle because of the very early starts and not getting home until well past 7, usually because of the traffic. The Audi isn't as much a problem now, the journeys aren't as long, and so I don't notice its foibles...I think it's good looking (being the main reason). So, anybody out there, you see a small man, driving like a loonatic in that car, it could well be me... |
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Stagecoach Western Optare Versa 25219 (SF08 GOC), Parked up out of service in Kilmarnock Depot complete with some relatively minor panel damage.
April 2009 Observations |
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| If that's the damage down the side, looks extremely minor. I know that Stagecoach like to make there vehicles appearance looks A+++ but i sometime don't think it would matter to most people because most wouldn't notice. One Optare Versa was today on the 43 (It must have been at around 9.30 in Catrine so thereforethe X50 wouldn't have started to make its way back to Cumnock). Plaxton Panther, SF57 DRV worked the X76 today (0815 departure from Cumnock) and it is the first time I have ever seen a Panther not displaying X76 branding on this particular run. 54045 was also used on the X50 today - usually operated by Enviro 300 - but I notice that particular X50 run goes only as far as Kilmarnock but I am sure that 54045 connects onto the X76 and heads back to Cumnock for the night. |
| [#8826600] |
2009-05-02 21:11:44 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| An Optare Versa on the 43 would be very very rare, if not impossible as (presuming it was a Cumnock driver) they would have to be type trained on the vehicle since they do not have any of the type in service. 2 new ones have been recently delivered but both are now down at Dumfries i believe. Both 54044/5 were used on evening peak X76's from Glasgow. The X50 runs to Kilmarnock are indeed connected to X76 peaks, where the bus then runs light to Glasgow to start the peak return back down to Ayrshire. The Panthers (as far as im aware) could not run full X50 duties anyway due to the tight streets around the Dundonald Road area of the town. |
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| I haven't seen the Versa since that first sighting so I am guessing it has returned to where it orgininated from. However, another strange allocation was SF55 VU* (I am sure it was either SF55 VUP/R) on a 43 heading back towards Cumnock.Both those are located at Kilmarnock depot last time I checked so it don't understand. What was the oddest time was that it appeared to be on the same time run as the Optare Versa so I will be looking for some more oddities on the runs. SF08 OFY did not appear on duty on this day as far as I am aware. |
| [#8828341] |
2009-05-09 23:03:19 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| I am very interested in these Kilmarnock vehicle sightings you keep seeing Chris, if you could find out what times they start the 43 from at Cumnock and if they go all the way to Ayr? Its certainly quite a bit off route i would have thought for Killie to operate any runs on the 43. FM31 is still on loan at Cumnock and was on the X50 today. |
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| I will continue to post any vehicles that are rare to be on the run. I believe that it is the 0830 departure from Ayr Bus Station. |
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| Volvo B10M PS on 43 on Friday 15th May, Enviro 300 (SF09 AEB or AED) on Tuesday 19th May. |
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| Having looked at the timetables, the X76 has a bus starting from Killie with no Cumnock vehicles ready to start the run. |
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| I'm sorry for any misunderstanding. It was the X76 after all and the only reason I thought it was the 43 being that I would always have thought one of the Panther's would be being used on the X76. Soz. |
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| Anymore unusual sightings n the working of late Chris? |
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| Sadly, if I am not in the house with the kids I am at work, so I don't get to see any. I will continue to look out for them though. |
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| Recently, since I decided to stop working for a living and rely on by business intrests I've got plenty of time to be out and about, I've spotted the Transbus Darts, Optare Versa's and Killie's service 4 E300's on the short X76 working, and then I guess they head up light back to Killie. |
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Stagecoach Western MAN A69/Enviro 300 22871 (SF09 AEZ), Just a few days after delivery to Western. It is the last in the batch of 22 that Western are due.
April 2009 Observations |
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| This bus failed with a dud alternator on the first day in service. Dunno if it had anything to do with the bird's nest on top the engine. Then it got taken off the road 3 days later with a blown boost pipe off the turbocharger. The still present nest wasn't to blame i dont think |
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| Bird's nest!!! Sad to hear about the brakedowns. I seems that alot of Enviro's and the numberous operators that run them are having problems in the first days in service. Not just Enviro's... |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B7R/Plaxton Profile 53275 (KX56 JZN), Parked up out of service in Kilmarnock Depot.
April 2009 Observations |
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| In the background is one B18* FFS Citybus. Which one is that and is it the one that has been removed from service and replaced by C659LFT. |
| [#8823323] |
2009-04-18 21:11:39 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| There were 3 of them i think parked up the back corner. The one i think you can see in the pic is 15285 (B185 FFS) which along with 15284 (B184 FFS) are both withdrawn and believe it or not, they have both been sold to Mccolls Coaches. They were replaced by 14659/14462 after Volvo Oly 16728 (N728 LTN) finally entering service at KIlmarnock. |
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| 15284/5 have now apparently been scrapped by McColls however they are still using 15283 on a daily basis on Schools. |
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| 15284/5 have now apparently been scrapped by McColls however they are still using 15283 on a daily basis on Schools. |
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March 2009 Observations |
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| i thought this bus was getting restored, it seems to be sitting in the same spot for quite a while now i wonder with westerns forgotten about it!!! |
| [#8823322] |
2009-04-18 21:09:18 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Well that is/was the plan for it but its being sitting like that now for months. It cant do the exposed panels any good, being exposed to the elements for so long. At the moment anyway i think its safe to say its the least of their concerns with the arrival of the Enviros and the various double deckers currently being acquired and repainted etc. |
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| I wonder how rusted it is now? |
| [#8841920] |
2009-07-06 04:13:06 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Iwonder whether you will actaully be able to see it, if its not wedged in by the many Olympians and PS's currently being stored at Killie. |
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March 2009 Observations |
| [#8822669] |
2009-04-16 07:19:30 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| This will soon be joined in the Western fleet by another two examples which have already been manufactured at Optare and will be numbered 25235/6 SF09 AFA/E and i believe are going to Ayr. |
| [#8847268] |
2009-07-26 00:18:11 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| 25235/6 went to Dumfries instead and released 32394/5 north to the Highlands. A "resonable" number of Versas are apparently due anytime, if not overdue for Ayr as the Ayr locals are being given a big shakeup sometime quite soon. I think the current Ayr Darts are to spread around Depots, perhaps releasing B6LE's but i might be wrong.
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Stagecoach Western Dennis Dart/Plaxton 32381 (M950 EGE), On loan to Cumnock Depot and is sitting laying over in Kilmarnock Bus Station in this picture inbetween duties on short X76 workings between Cumnock and Kilmarnock.
April 2009 Observations |
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| What was the reason for loaning M950 EGE?? |
| [#8823320] |
2009-04-18 21:07:17 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| I believe, in a roundabout kinda way, it was covering for Panther 54044 (SF57 DPZ) which has been all across the UK during the Easter Hols on Megabus/Citylink work. It has been used on journeys between Inverness and London as well as other short haul routes down south. Interurban 52425 was being used on full length peak X76's on this particular day. Photo of it to follow. It was only on loan for one day i think at Cumnock, just a few days later FM31 returned from Ferrymill, I got a picture of it today and will upload it in due course. |
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| Both Panther's which do not display X76 livery are now in back in service with Cumnock... for now at least. |
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Stagecoach Western Dennis Dart SLF/Alexander 34063 (S463 BWC), Jacked up in Ayr Depot while receiving some work to its engine compartment.
April 2009 Observations |
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| ...although, it doesn't appear to be the simplest mechanical job. In fact, although photos can deceive, it looks suspiciously like there is a new engine block being fitted. That green "PART" is certainly brand new, and it would appear that the old "PART" is lying in a pool of oil on the floor, looking decidedly knackered. |
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| I think you are indeed correct Chris, it looks very much like a new engine job and ever since then 34063 has been quite a regular performer on long distcance routes such s the 14/585 etc. 34026 i believe may also have had the same treatment, perhaps after its bad accident a few years ago. |
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| I must agree with you, too. Very rarely did I see 34063 on a long journey, usually on local routes. However, recently I've seen it on some longer distances routes, often the 14's, once on the 585's and a number of times on the 52. The 52 used to be a Volvo B10M PS (mostly) operated route, but I've seen the usual E300's, the SF56FKL, and of cource a few B6LE's. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M/Alexander PS 20585 (M785 PRS), Advertising a now cancelled event as it sits down the botttom in Ayr Depot.
April 2009 Observations |
| [#8824885] |
2009-04-25 18:50:57 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yep, one of the various oddities that can be seen in Ayr Depot. There is quite often old cars being stripped inside the depot by drivers etc. |
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Stagecoach Western MAN A69/Enviro 300 22590 (SF08 GPX), Turns into Ayr Bus Station from Drongan on the 45.
April 2009 Observations |
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| MAN 18.240 HOCL-NL A69. Found a video on Youtube that I believe you may have already looked at and is of Stagecoach Yorkshire, YN57 MXL (22544). It is now apparent that these have Voith gearboxes as apposed to ZF. |
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| Here's the video of the stagecoach yorkshire enviro 300 http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ToDYnyjZhNA. And here's a couple of westerns MAN A69/enviro 300. This one I videoed http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mMHBrpIdUHg and here's one of the service 4 ones http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=e-ottE-Zwaw&feature=channel_page (I didn't video this one). |
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FM31 (SF08 OFY), Back on hire to Western at Cumnock, I believe to cover for Panthers away on Megabus/Citylink related work.
April 2009 Observations |
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| How come Fm31 is now at Cumnock? Doesn't that mean there was an crash?? |
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| One X76 Plaxton Panther is currently off the road when it collided a car in Hurlford. |
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| Surprised Cumnock hasnt been using 51061 for to provide cover for the Panthers away on Megabus/Citylink work instead of FM31 Being on loan |
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| I have ruled the damaged Panther down to be either SJ57 AAX, SF57 DPX or SF57 DPY. I reckon they didn't use 51061 becuase it will have been sitting in that garage, no moving and proberly not even being started up. It proberly wouldn't even start. |
| [#8825420] |
2009-04-27 21:35:44 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| FM31 being on loan doesnt always mean there has been an accident but more often than not probably does. I have ruled the Panther down to either 54040 (SJ57 AAZ) or 54042 (SF57 DPX) so looks like 54042 is the damaged example. |
| [#8825630] |
2009-04-29 00:00:52 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Either the damaged Panther has returned to service or the damaged one is 54040 (SJ57 AAZ) which is the only X76 liveried one i did not see today. Are you sure you havent seen it chris? |
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| I haven't seen 54040 but seen 54042 on the X76 yesterday afternoon heading towards Killie. |
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| N561SJF today working the X76 to glasgow. Approx 0800 departure from Tanyard. I think this is the first time it has been out for a long while and maybe the first time it has been on the X76 for over a year now. Did sound fairly healthy, but compared to the newer, 12ltr Volvo Tri Axles this actually looks quite small. I hope it continues to make it. |
| [#8828344] |
2009-05-09 23:07:22 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| I can confirm the damaged Panther is indeed 54040 (SJ57 AAZ) after speaking to a Cumnock mechanic today. Its been off the road for around a month now apparently and is away to Ferrymill to be repaired. 51061 has apparently seen almost daily use during 54040's absence, mainly on the 246 i believe. According to the mechanic i spoke to, 51061 is far from perfect! Would indeed be nice for it to see a bit more service, adds a bit of variety if nothing else! |
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| Yeah, saw it on Friday and after travelling behind it for a while it was more evident that the 51061 was not working that good. It was overevving at times and I have expected it to grind to a halt with smoke pouring from its engine compartment. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M/Alexander PS 20594 (M467 ASW), Parked up inside at Ayr Depot.
April 2009 Observations |
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| A Volvo B10M Ps on the 45?? |
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| How come it displays 45? I thought it was Cumnock vehicle allocated to this location. |
| [#8824886] |
2009-04-25 18:56:24 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Ayr do carry out at least one evening "peak" working on the 45. http://david371.fotopic.net/p51825137.html http://ukbusfleets.fotopic.net/p54959913.html |
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| did this bus when it was new used to work out of Dumfries depot years ago? I wonder whether it will be one of the ps's to oust the remaining darts 32394/5/8. |
| [#8826603] |
2009-05-02 21:23:23 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes i believe it did originate with Dumfries all those years ago but as far as im aware is staying at Ayr for the time being since it looks like its mainly Darts that are going. As far as ima ware at the moment Dumfries are keeping their step entrance Darts, all depends really on what if anything leaves after the arrival of the 2 Versa's. |
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Stagecoach Western Scania L113 28952 (M952 DRG) & Dennis Dart 32005 (P105 HNH), Parked up in storage at Kilmarnock Depot.
April 2009 Observations |
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| The little Dash looks like a new delivery! With no plates and a flawless paint job you could never tell it's age. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M/Alexander PS 20718 (K718 DAO), Prepares to park up in KIlmarnock Bus Station after arriving in from Cumnock on the X76.
April 2009 Observations |
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| The X76C in that! Surely they could have sourced a more modern and comfortable bus/coach. Rather them than me! |
| [#8825419] |
2009-04-27 21:33:47 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| It was incorrectly screened. It worked the early evening Cumnock - Kilmarnock X76 working. It should have displayed Kilmarnock X76. Notice it has now lost its seatbelts! |
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Stagecoach Western MAN A69/Enviro 300 22863 (SF09 AEO), Laying over in Kilmarnock Bus Station prior to officially entering service with Kilmarnock on the 4. It was being used on driver shuttle duties on this particular day.
April 2009 Observations |
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| Not quite. It's there for driver training so we can have a wee shot before we get let loose with them on Monday morning (27th May) |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M/Alexander PS 20532 (P532 ESA), Heads out of Kilmarnock BUs Station to start duties at Marr College in Troon, previously worked by 20715/8. 20532/49 have recevied the seatbelts from 20715/8 to takeiver duties on Marr runs.
April 2009 Observations |
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| I wasn't quite sure what picture to put this comment but Stagecoach have a B10M PS on either the 43 or X50 today and I saw it heading towards Auchinleck. However, I really only managed to make out the make and livery and didn't manage the registration. I know that Liddell's of Auchinleck have recently taken delivery of a couple of ex Stagecoach B10M PS but only know that they are in Stagecoach colours but haven't got any more info about them so it could belong to them. Ferrymill Motors, SF08 OFY (FM31) was today on he 43 to Ayr Bus Station and got a go in it. Very nice!!! |
| [#8826601] |
2009-05-02 21:15:47 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| By any chance did you retain your ticket from FM31 Chris? If you have, it might display the fleetnumber it is using but may bear a tempoary fleet no. |
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| I remember reading the ticket number but just binned the ticket when I got off. For the love of me I can't remember what it was. I am rubbish at fleet numbers and tend to use the registration for reference. |
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April 2009 Observations |
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| Could do with a repaint since it is still to be kept in service with Killie. |
| [#8830227] |
2009-05-17 15:33:52 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Could do i suppose but i cant see it being in the fleet for too long, I may be wrong though but it may be gettin replaced by one of the recently acquired Volvo Olys. |
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Stagecoach Western MAN A69/Enviro 300 22850 (SF09 ADV), Trundles out of Kilmarnock Bus Station while the smaller generation of the Enviro family look on in the background.
April 2009 Observations |
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| Look at all those Enviro's. Huge change from the past. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B12BT/Plaxton Panther 54044 (SF57 DPZ), Having returned to Cumnock after spendings its Easter Hols pounding the motorway networks of Britain on Megabus work.
April 2009 Observations |
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| Anybody out there !!! Does anybody know the approx millage these Panther's have covered? I would have a look for myself but, I can never find the time to find out for myself. |
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| I would imagine it will be a fairly high amount for sure, perhaps not as much as the Glasgow examples but the Cumnock examples do get used from time to time on Megabus/Citylink work which will certainly boost the mileage. |
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Stagecoach Western Dennis Darts 32057/63 (N57/63 KBW), Parked up in Ayr Depot with their last days with Western now over.
April 2009 Observations |
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| What is the future of all the displaced Darts and Volvo B10M PS's that are now surplus to requirements due to the arrival of the new...and very impressive indeed...Enviro 300's?? |
| [#8826602] |
2009-05-02 21:20:37 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Im not sure yet whats happening to all the withdrawn vehicles etc of which there is/will be quite a few. I would imagine the Darts will be put up for disposal meanwhile the PS's will probably be displaced around the Stagey empire, similar to recent Manchester examples which have been transferred to Bluebird after the arrival of new E400's at Manchester. 32381 has seen at least one days use since i pictured it parked up in the staff car park at Ayr. Also, non related to the new E400's but several PS's up at Glasgow are now withdrawn following the almost complete (bar a few peak workings) withdrawl of the X20. Its believed there is around 6/7 examples withdrawn meanwhile newer, ex service 4 PS 20509 is now in use with Glasgow. |
| [#8830228] |
2009-05-17 15:36:46 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| All the Darts/PS's made redundant recently are all up for disposal with the exception of all bar 2 of the service 4 branded PS's which are now up at Glasgow to replace older examples. 20506/7 are still being used at Killie for the time being. If you would like a copy of the latest fleetcard to confirm all the recent disposals etc (around 80 plus movements, too many to type in a comment) email me at davidjw@omne.uk.net and ill send you a scanned copy. |
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| 20171/20718 also possibly 20715 have been sold to McColl, Balloch. They appear to like purchasing ex Western vehicles, with them taking the last few B6's in the fleet along with the 2 East Lancs bodied B10M's 20424/5 and a few Mercs. |
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| Am I correct in thinking that all the PS's and Dart's are now available for sale exept 20506/20507? If so I might pass the info about the buses being sold off to a few operator contacts in Scotland I know. It will be sad day when they are all finally gone. Also, does this include the Dart that is in a recent photograph in Cumnock depot for sale? I don't understand why Western are disposing off these. They run older deckers and are still bringing in HK Oly's. Maybe deckers are more important. |
| [#8838301] |
2009-06-20 10:55:17 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| All i know at the moment is 10 PS's along with 2 ex Dumfries P reg Darts are going north to the Highlands after repaint at Killie. 20569 has already been repainted. 20506 stayed a little longer initially at Killie but is now i believe operating from Glasgow. 32058, the Dart at Cumnock is also for disposal. For some reason 20507/20579 seem to be "additional" buses at Killie just now although i think they might have lost 52348. Im not sure how many disposal PS's are still being stored in Glasgow though. |
| [#8841921] |
2009-07-06 04:17:07 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Kilmarnock still have 52348, it just seemed to have avoided me for a few weeks. 20569 although been repainted, is one of several that has been sold to McColls, Balloch along with 20171/4/8 20715/8 20566/9 and i believe a further two are going their way too. 20506 along with 20589 have been transferred to Stranraer, releasing Vario 42024 and PS 20583 (Very surprised by that as it was a very good, high speced PS and was regularly use don long distance journeys.) 32058 has been donated somewhere. |
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| You have meantioned 52348 there, does that mean that they are currently selling it?? Do you know where 20583 is going next? |
| [#8847269] |
2009-07-26 00:20:19 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| No they are not selling 52348, it was just that it seemed to be avoiding me for a while which made me wonder if it was back up at Glasgow like it did last summer for the extra Citylink PVR but turns out Killie still have it. |
| [#8847270] |
2009-07-26 00:21:12 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| I meant to say about 20583, im not sure where it might be going but its in the disposal fleet. |
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| 20581/2/3 were sold to RML Buses, Coates Heath. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander 16289 (P289 VPN), One of several Volvo Olys currently migrating north of the border from Hampshire, most of which are going to Fife but up to 6 are possibly expected with Western this being one.
May 2009 Observations |
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| Have Stagecoach got these in service yet. I haven't seen them but judging from the N726/7/8LTN, they will be working hard once arrived. |
| [#8838302] |
2009-06-20 10:57:48 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| None have been fully overhauled yet i dont believe. 2 UID examples were sent through the wash at Schooltime on Monday at Killie, fully rubbed down and their usual rear lower windows panelled over. WIll put photos online eventually but it was impossible to ID them as u will see! They were going through the wash to have all the dirt etc from the rub down process washed off prior to repaint. |
| [#8840011] |
2009-06-27 01:37:03 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| At least one, possibly both of the Ardrossan examples, 16308/9 (S308/9 CCD) have entered service. A photo of 16309 will be uploaded over the weekend hopefully. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander 16290 (P290 VPN), Another of the 6 Volvo Olympians currently being acquired fromd own south and so far the only 2 to make it to Kilmarnock for prep work prior to entering service.
May 2009 Observations |
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| one thing i've noticed with the western deckers is that they seem to cover over the rear downstairs window (apart from the titans). |
| [#8828345] |
2009-05-09 23:09:03 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Indeed they do for some reason or another. A few of the Titans have also had their rear window blanked over. |
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| I wish i went to the depot on the sat, 2 days before i got these photos as i would have been able to get photos of around a dozen i think it was from memory. Several Western drivers went down south to collect around 12/14 i think iy was, some of which were for Fife and were duely collected by a group of Fife drivers who were transported over on one of their Solos on the Saturday morning. |
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Stagecoach Western Neoplan Skyliner 50138 (LX05 BWN), Backs of the stance in Buchanan Bus Station to head off to Glasgow University to begin a peak working back down to Ayr.
May 2009 Observations |
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| That is a good looking bus. =]. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Titan 10469 (KYV 469X), On its final weeks as part of the Cumnock fleet.
May 2009 Observations |
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| Returning home from Tesco's I was passed by KYV469X being driven by a mechanic (quite smokey infact) and I thought just a normal test run. Five minutes later, E866RCS came bellowing past me, also, driven by a mechanic. I found it odd becuase my son arrived home today and said a pair of Stagecoach's double deckers went around Auchinleck Academy just after his lunch brake and drove the wrong way through the school and 'the yellow one' nearly crashed into a teachers motor. |
| [#8834908] |
2009-06-06 23:42:16 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| I was down at Cumnock with a mate on Monday getting pics of the School vehicles, youll have no doubt saw his pic of 14650. Ill get round to uloading mine asap. All the deckers appeared to be out with the excepton of 16853/65 which were no doubt on the 246. Enviros 22534 and 22586 were also used. |
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| If your mate's name is Vincent then I have indeed seen 14650. |
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Stagecoach Western MAN A69/Enviro 300 22583 (SF08 GOU), Parked up in a rather miserable looking Cumnock Depot.
May 2009 Observations |
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| I was looking at the Stagecoach Timetables for Cumnock buses and noticed that Cumnock use possibly ever single Enviro 300 they have during a days work so if one Enviro is off the road they require a a Volvo Oly or a Volvo B6LE. Now, I am open to correction but I would have thought they keep at least one incase of a brakedown. |
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| Fellow, Cumnock Enviro 300, SF08GOK has recieved some damage to the rear nearside panel which appears to be dented and the panel on the otherside of the wheel (that's the panel witch is closer to the front) has been scrapped and looks like like a small, low slung car has scrapped along the side of it. |
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| From memory, SF08GPV showed signs damage when passing throught Muirkirk. |
| [#8838299] |
2009-06-20 10:47:47 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes i think i saw 22589 (GPV) passing through Killie Bus Station 2 Tuesdays ago with some replacement unpainted panels at the offside rear. It was reported later on in the week to be at MAN. Bellshill for work so i presume it was on its way up there (although dont know why it travelled all the way through Killie out of service to get there! It spent an overnight at Glasgow Depot earlier this week prior to heading back to CUmnock. |
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| I now know that there are know usually maybe 3 or 4 Enviro's left spare so I can only guess that I don't fully understand the complicated timetable. |
| [#8848929] |
2009-08-01 22:11:47 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| The PVR is an always changing figure i guess espcially during School Hols/at weekends etc. As for the Enviros away at the Golf i guess they just "re-distributed" other vehicles around services such as B6LE's/Olys onto the X50, I saw 32393 on a 48 one day. I also saw 54044 on usually Enviro operated run on the 246. Also on Thurs 30th July, ive been told there was an UID E300 up in Glasgow on the X76 around 10-11am. I wasnt able to try and track ti down unfortuneately but it sounds like it might have been a peak working to me. |
| [#8848934] |
2009-08-01 22:27:38 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| I forgot to say that Ayr operated a few journeys on the 45 during the Wednesday of the golf initially using 22532 which had to come of to go onto peak X16's but was replaced by 34021 which done one run until 31383 came in out of service from Cumnock to replace it. Their porbably was a shortage of suitable vehicles at Cumnock at the time. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Titan 10976 (A976 SYE), One of only 2 Titans at Cumnock both of which are due to be replaced within the coming weeks.
May 2009 Observations |
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| What are the replacements and what are happening to these? |
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| I see now, these two titans are being replaced by the s reg oly's. |
| [#8833431] |
2009-05-31 01:05:19 |
Left by Martin McKenna (#1247712) |
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| Hey, these Titans are still going, had one to school just the other day, and was running crisp and loud as per usual. |
| [#8848668] |
2009-07-31 23:01:09 |
Left by Martin McKenna (#1247712) |
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| Hey, me again, anyone know anything about the fate of these Titans, because i saw either this one or its sister (KYV 469X), over the pits in Cumnock today... if they were disposing of them surely they wouldnt recieve attention? |
| [#8848931] |
2009-08-01 22:13:39 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| School contracts change every year so isnt easy to tell what will happen to School vehicles until nearer the time i guess but i will probably be making a trip to the depot sometime soon and will try and enquire about the Titans etc. School vehicles will regularly go out for runs during the Hols otherwise they would probably just seize up through time. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B12BT/Plaxton Panther 54038 (SJ57 AAX), Laying over in Cumnock Bus Station prior to starting its next duty.
May 2009 Observations |
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| If this was taken at 1316 the poor guy will proberly be having his lunch before starting the usual grind back up to Glasgow, in lets face it, a fantastic peice of kit. Took the X76 to Glasgow on Friday and was on 51061, (N561SJF) and got 54044 back. N561SJF now looks so dated and out of place on a fairly long distance X76. |
| [#8830229] |
2009-05-17 15:38:56 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| It certainly didnt appear to be about to start an X76, it left the bus station a few minutes later, it turned right out of the station then right at the first set of traffic lights. Wondered if it was going to Dumfries or somewhere? |
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| I can't understand where 54038 was mean't to be going. I am 99% sure it wasn't the 246, and 100% sure that it is not the , 46 (not sure what direction the 46 bus goes but its too large for those winding Muirkirk streets), 43 or 45 (wrong direction), X50 (wrong direction but I am seeing these Panther's going throught Mauchline, Catrine, Auchinleck regularly bound for the X50. Last weekend the coach was on the X50 yet according to the Timetable goes all the way to Crosshouse) and you say its not the X76. Private hire I would suggest. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B6LE/ALX200 31383 (P383 DSA), Receives some technical assistance outside Cumnock Depot. The three B6LE's at Cumnock are reportedly due to be leaving the fleet in the near future.
May 2009 Observations |
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| ...and about time too. In my personal opinion these Volvo B6LE's are well past there sell by date and aren't the most presentable looking things. |
| [#8848932] |
2009-08-01 22:15:05 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| The rumour was that they were to be replaced by Darts from Ayr which perhaps might be true if Ayr do indeed get some new Versas soon for the revamped local services. Killie i heard were also due to get some Ayr Darts. |
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The lineup inside Cumnock Depot on Sat 9th May 2009.
May 2009 Observations |
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| Am I correct in thinking that C650 LFT and one of the Hong Kong Oly's are not any where to be seen that they are receiving mechanical attention? I wondered because this picture was taken on a Saturday where the Hong Kong buses and C650 LFT are not required. |
| [#8830233] |
2009-05-17 15:44:47 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| You are correct about the HK Oly, this being 13624 which was over the pit along with 2 SPT Darts. 14650 however is hiding in this shot behind 15247, 51061 is blocking it though basically. |
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| 13624 was getting the gearbox problem sorted on it |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian's/Alexander 16310/1 (S310/1 CCD), A further two of the latest Olympian arrivals parked down the bottom of Cumnock Depot.
May 2009 Observations |
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| When these are finally ready for service, i suspect they will be spending the majority of the time on the local routes (X50, 43, 45, 46, 48, 246, etc) because they are 3/4 years newer than 16853 and 16865 which are carring out daily runs on the above routes. Therefore, 16853 + 16865 will spend alot more of there time on school workings. I think, however, that 16853 + 16865 will make it out on local routes every so often. |
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| i wonder whether Cumnock will get these one of these two olympians |
| [#8830234] |
2009-05-17 15:46:18 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Yes they are apparently getting both to replace 10469/10976. I can however see 16865/16853 being their ultimate replacements though as 16310/1 have DP seating and will likely spend most of their time on the 246. |
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| What has happened to these?? |
| [#8847272] |
2009-07-26 00:23:56 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| They are now at Killie for repainting and assocaited works. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10MA-55/Jonckheere Mistral 51061 (N561 SJF), Parked up in Cumnock Depot. Its listed as being in the Western "reserve" fleet but as seen almost daily service over the last 2/3 weeks covering for accident damaged Panther 54040 on the X76/246.
May 2009 Observations |
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| i was on 51061 earlier on that day when it was on the 8o'clock bus from kirkconnel to dumfries on the 246 its looks a bit dated on the inside compared to the panthers |
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| I think I could tell you why N561 SJF is/has been on the 246/X76 for a wee while now. Now that there is only 7 panther's, they are now all accounted for on the X76. One Panther would usually make it out onto the 246 and becuase it is gone another vehicle is required to fill the gap. As for why it is on the X76, a Panther would proberly have had to be off the road for whatever reason and only 6 Panther's are left and therefore not enough. Now becuase Enviro's are not equiped for the X76 they used N561 SJF and most certainly religated an Enviro or Volvo Oly onto the 246 for those days. God only knows why R103 LSO wasn't used on the X76 (maybe in for repairs) but would have been more appropriate vehicle in terms of reliabiliy. With 54040 in serivce= The 246, think two vehicles are required from Cumnock during the working week and with 7 Panther's requied on the X76 during the day and possibly on one Enviro remaining free also, if a Panther is over the pits a Volvo Oly or that remaining Enviro will proberly come in to replace it on the 246. If more that one Enviro is unable to start the working day, one of the B6LE's or Olympian's replace it on the 246, 46, 43, X50, 45/8. I haven't seen R103 LSO recently and becuase I am not a regular visitor to Dumfies it may be a third vehicle that is used on the 246. (NOT CERTAIN ABOUT HOW MANY VEHICLES ARE REQUIRED FOR 246 SERVICE) This is all theory thought but after spending most of today doing my accounts on the computer my mind began to wander and I came up with this theory. |
| [#8829705] |
2009-05-15 07:04:05 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Im not certain about PVR for the 246 but i believe the non peak is 2 vehicles. 51061 should nowadays be a very regular sight on Cumncok routes as its now officially back on the fleet, not to cover for 54040 but for 52425 which has gone back to Glasgow to cover for one of the Fire damaged examples. Ironically it was sent to Glasgow around the same time last year. Its one of approx 60 fleet changes in the latest fleetcard. |
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| i was on 51061 again this morning at 8.10am to dumfries. when i got on at kirkconnel 51061 broke down something according to driver to do with the gears being way. |
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| Oh, dear. I posted a comment on a picture of SF08OFY (FM31) and said that I thought the clutch was on it's way out. It seems I was correct. |
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Stagecoach Western Neoplan Skyliner 50131 - Robert Burns - (VCS 391), Parked up in Kilmarnock Depot after presumably breaking down nearby.
May 2009 Observations |
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| The coach seems to be very low down or maybe it's just me.? |
| [#8833675] |
2009-06-01 00:33:32 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes you are correct Chris, it is slightly lower down. Dont ask me why it happens as i have no idea but most buses if left untouched for a certain period of time, the suspension if you like "sags". This isnt the only "low down" picture ive taken, another one that springs to mind is 20582 (M482 ASW) in the disposal lineup at Ayr. |
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| Cheers. I would suggest it is possibly to reduce wear on the buses componenets and increase uptime. Not that it really matters when it's broken down anyway!! |
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A lineup, showing some of the varied vehicles allocated to Stranraer but is certainly not showing every type of vehicle allocated to the relatively small, and ever decreasing fleet.
May 2009 Observations |
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| I must admit that I feel that Stranraer could really do with a fairly major fleet investment althought they do have a few B7R's they could do with maybe some new Enviro's and possible a couple of Volvo Oly's that are coming north of the border at the moment to replace the exeedingly ancient Citybus and that Leyland Titan. |
| [#8833677] |
2009-06-01 00:40:55 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| I can see where you are coming from Chris but believe it or not for the size of the Stranraer fleet (around 25 vehicle i think) it is fairly modern with only 4 Ps's, 3 older Plaxton coaches (M/N/P reg), one Merc 709D, 2 Jonckheere coaches (52602/3) and the two deckers with the rest of the fleet being 03 reg or newer. They only have two B7R's (53303/53325). While im at it i may aswell describe the rest of the fleet. They have 2 MAN's (22515/6), 2 Varios from memory and 3 Solos. The guy in charge at the depot is a bus enthusiast himself and loves the deckers, partcularly the Titan which he often allocates onto the local 365 whenever hes doing a run on it. There are no plans to replace either of the deckers yet. |
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Stagecoach Western MAN A69/Enviro 300 22864 (SF09 AEP), One of the smart new Enviros in use on service 4.
May 2009 Observations |
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| I was on Friday getting a run up to Glasgow and left at 0932 departure from st5 and got there for 1045. It is the first time I have been on one of these new MAN A69's and I will be totally honest with you....I thought the bus was great. Smooth, comfotable and I felt safe something I only really feel on a proper coach and thus why I usually take the X76 bus usually. It was for me the first time I had taken a trip on the 4 and I prefer these high backed versions to the low backed versions which I use frequently on the 43/X50 at Cumnock. I also caught onto the 900 Edinburgh at 1100 with a Plaxton Panther (15MTR) and returned on another Panther. I don't think I would ever take the bus to Edinburgh again (Well not if my darling wife had lent me her new Honda Civic I-CDTI - afterall I paid for it!!! - and if my Jag XJ Sovereign wasn't in with Jaguar for some, how will I put it...minor damage...caused by errm...a exuberant right leg I would have driven. It was worth the adventure though...right up until my wife saw the amount of money I spent on various other things. |
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Stagecoach Western MAN A69/Enviro 300 22860 (SF09 AEL), Currently the only new Enviro to carry the new service 444 branding. This is allocated to Ayr while 22861 is at Kilmarnock for the route.
May 2009 Observations |
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| 444 Unirider Express Enviro 300 (dont know which one just recognised branding) travelling the Ayr to Cumnock run (43) today. A very unusual alloaction. |
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| Correction, it was a service 4 branded vehicle. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Olympian/Alexander 13644 (G278 YRJ), Just days prior to being withdrawn from service at Ayr after being involved in a nasty RTA, seriously damaging the front of the vehicle.
May 2009 Observations |
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| Shame. I always thought this was a fairly good HK bus. Do you know if it is to be repaired at Ferrymill and where abouts the bus is currently located? |
| [#8834770] |
2009-06-06 02:45:44 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| I will probably see it myself this weekend but from what ive heard, itll probably never see service again given the damage and its age. From what ive heard the damage may be worse than 13619 (which lay outside Killie workshops for months). Its parked over the rear (reserve etc) pits at Ayr. I would imagine one of the spare examples at Killie may replace it eventually. |
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| I do hope you get a good picture. Such as shame! |
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| Having just looked at a picture of 13619 being towed to a scrappers it must have been some heafty accident. If it is as bad as I amagine I would suspect structural damage but the damage to the impact area is proberly not even worth attempting to repair, especially since it is slightly older now. |
| [#8834915] |
2009-06-06 23:57:12 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Im afraid i didnt get a pic as it wasnt in the best of positions but the good news however is that it is being repaired. Its been moved into the small bodyshop at Ayr and is currently waiting on a similar Tri-Axle Oly with a knackered engine coming down from Aberdeen so they can use the body parts of it to cure 13644. It is currently missing several panels of the front of the vehicle and the destination screen is off. It apparently collided with a new E300 (22851 i think) at speed inside the depot, seriously damaging both vehicles. The Enviro is now away to Ferrymill i believe to be repaired. |
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| Fm31 will probably replace the damaged enviro 300 now that 54040 is back at Cumnock. (they might aswell buy fm31 off them.) |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M-62/Plaxton Interurban 20569 (M482 ASW), Parked up in Ayr Depot. 10 of the recently withdrawn PS's are earmarked for transfer to the Highlands in the near future.
May 2009 Observations |
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| I am beginning to see these Stagecoach B10M PS's being sold off. Liddell's are currently running two (N217LTN - N21*LTN - Proberly N216LTN) with bright orange school bus livery. They have also re-trimmed the buses and are looking very smart indeed. |
| [#8838296] |
2009-06-20 10:43:22 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Thanks for the info Chris, confirmation of the other one would be good. They are ex Newcastle area examples. |
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May 2009 Observations |
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| Was on a visit to Ayr today and VCS376 was doing a fairly frequent school run. As I drove further up the road, SF09AEE - Enviro 300 - was working schools but I may be mixed up with another Enviro that was directly behind it. Not Sure. When I got to Tesco's a Keenan of Ayr Citybus, C802USG was waiting at the light and I cannot explain how much fumes it was puffing out. In my mechanical experiance the coach was not roadworthy and certainly not suitable for children to travel upon. GCS64V - Leyland Leopard - also not in what I would allow to travel on the road. It's far too old for school duties and is well past it. Keenan need to up their game with the quailty of there buses. An unusual sight for me was a Irvine's bus parked behind in a much better condition. On a possitive note a Plaxton Panther 15mtr pulled up outside the race cource (LSK511 new in August 2008) |
| [#8834911] |
2009-06-06 23:49:06 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| I used to get Keenans vehicles to School everyday when they won the contract from Western. The first week with Keenan was awful, very bad organisation, poor conductors which were letting folk smoke on the bus etc, overcrowding to name others. They used to use Atlanteans on both Troon school workings but that soon changed to being one decker and one single before moving onto two high capacity single deckers. Nowadays its often either one leopard and one coach or just 2 coaches. All bar one of their leopards as 3/2 seating which provides a very narrow passageway down the middle and very little room between seats for those with big schoolbags etc. Although their School fleet may be old, remember that Western are still using several Titans, Citybuses and old Olympians on School duties. The Irvines vehicle you saw was no doubt Citybus F122PHM which is now owned by Ayrways. |
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| It wasn't that Keenan's buses were old - I pick my kids up from Auchinleck Academy most of the time and there is a line up of some 16 buses. I know Liddell's of Auchinleck run some fairly old examples but they are in good condition, have a good paint job and beltch out some like my gran (40 A DAY). The leapord and Citybus run by Keenan I saw were so run down and tired looking. They desperately need some work done on them and although they are carting disrespectful school kids, the bus should be somewhat decent. The Stagecoach buses looked wonderful thought, even VCS376 which was looking brilliant considering it is in daily service on local runs or schools. |
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May 2009 Observations |
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| Would I be right in thinking this is one of the many Volvo B10M PS's and Dennis Dart's that have now been made surplus to requirements. This looks like quite a good example, especially basking in the Spring sun shine. |
| [#8834769] |
2009-06-06 02:43:30 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Yes it is now surplus to requirements, this shot was taken the day after it was withdrawn from service. By the Tuesday it was moved to be parked up with the rest of the disposal lot up the back of the depot. The Kilmarnock 444 PS however has been repainted and appears to be staying at Killie for the time being anyway, no doubt because it has the newer style DP seating, the same style as the seats fitted to all modern buses. |
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| At Kilmarnock, especially during school leaving time there are alot of PS's running around carting kids. I happened to M950EGE in Ayr after it was withdrawn along with several other B10M PS that I remember working the 52 sometimes. |
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May 2009 Observations |
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| 54040 (SJ57AAZ) has now returned to Cumnock and looks as good as new, and as usual you would never tell it was accident damaged. Also, it's the first time I've seen one of the Panther's on the 43 so I'm guessing they have a Panther freed up. |
| [#8835569] |
2009-06-09 17:51:53 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Yes i saw it today looking smart as always. They certainly seemed to take a while repairing it. Surprisingly though, FM31 is still on loan and is on the 43 today. It has gained Stagecoach logos at some point over the past week so appears to be staying for a we while yet by the looks of things. |
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| Correct, SF08OFY is now carrying Stagecoach logos but as to why I don't know. I can only suggest that if it is still with Cumnock then I am guessing there must be a damaged bus or they are leasing it out but I couldn't amagine why they would lease it out becuase they have dozens of Volvo B10M's and Darts parked up at Ayr with currently no purpose. |
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May 2009 Observations |
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| Here we 16727 looking like it was brand new. The problem in that now it's belonging to Cumnock, who use it hard, every day but so you may say thats the purpose. However, the bus seems to be getting a bit of a ruff ride and is already, although not terrible and a damn site better than fellow Cumnock Oly's 16865 and in particular 16853 which seems to be now alloacted full time to schools. 16727 shows signs that it isn't being treated very well, with the paint work looking particularly tired, already. There are some seals around the windows which appear to be disloging themselves and it also looks quite ragged generally. It might just have been me, but although not terrible, is wearing quite badly. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Titan 10976 (A976 SYE), Passes Cumnock Depot on an afternoon School run.
June 2009 Observations |
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| I never know that stagecoach used their school buses to take the monkeys back to Edinburgh Zoo. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M/Alexander PS 20581 (M484 ASW), Parked up the back at Ayr Depot, now withdrawn from service on the 444.
June 2009 Observations |
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| wonder whether western will use this during the golf contract as one of single deck vehicles |
| [#8847274] |
2009-07-26 00:26:30 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| I thought they might have but turns out they wanted to use the "pride of the fleet" i.e. Enviro 300's. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M/Alexander PS 20589 (M789 PRS), Literally looking brand new as it sits out in the yard at Ayr Depot. You honestly would think this has just rolled of the production line, just gos to show how much Western look after their fleet.
June 2009 Observations |
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| So right. An absolutely wonderful example of a ageing workhorse looking like it is brand new. The same can be said for S309CCD and the rest of that batch as well as the N726/7/8LTN that have all recently arrived and could be mistaken for being brand new. The work Western do to their buses make them a credit to them and well done to the technicians and mechanics who bring these to this A+++ condition they are seen in. Long may the company continue to keep there fleet in this way. |
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June 2009 Observations |
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| This particular vehicle suffers from a creacking rear axial which it has had since new. It's not very obvious but when passing and going over big bumps the rear squecks. |
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| I've began to notice everytime I see this coach that there is a hisssing sound coming from it. I can't understand what it is, but the other Panther's don't make this noise. |
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June 2009 Observations |
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| 54044 was for a short time (possibly still is) bearing a black offside wing mirror. I caught sight of this and it's only minor but it was around 2 weeks since a saw this. I saw 54044 the other day but forgot to look. |
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| Repainted or repaired? Its fixed anyway. |
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June 2009 Observations |
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| I will always remember my last experiance with this bus, it was a cold December morning and I had to be in Kilmarnock pretty early. I was at the bus stop waiting for what I had expected to be a Trident but this bus turned up and the heating wasen't working. I wasen't very pleased about that. |
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June 2009 Observations |
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| Thousands of pounds spent on the overhaul of this bus and yet some **** has spraypainted on the destination box accoring to a Youtube video. |
| [#8848227] |
2009-07-30 00:46:36 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Doesnt really surprise me tbh. 16727 from Ardrossan was apparently on the X50 on Tuesday, looks like a possible transfer to Cumnock. WIll try and find out more asap. |
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| The mechanics are probably pretty annoyed at that. |
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| If I'd been the mechanic I'd have been pretty hacked off. Those lads/ladies (possibly) have spent hours working on these bringing them to an exellent standard for the public and look how they repay there effort to bring the best quality transford to them. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10MA-55/Jonckheere Mistral 51061 (N561 SJF), On the final approach to Ayr Bus Station on its journey from Dumfries on the 246.
June 2009 Observations |
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| I've been doing alot of commuting recently having been all way around Britian in a month and seem to be spending an awful lot of time on board 51061. During the last week of the term, I started getting on board 51061 to get to Kilmarnock every morning, what with my new car on order and just sold my current car, always at the usual time, it was there. I usually got the return trip on board a Skyliner to go Ayr in the afternoon and it begs to wonder why Stagecoach still send this bus out. It is a lovely bus, and don't get me wrong I'll miss it when it is gone but I just get the feeling it's slightly out of it's depth on the X76 and 246 what with the modern, high tech Panthers, Profiles and Skyliners. Oh, would you know if R103LSO is to stay at Glasgow for the time being. |
| [#8847275] |
2009-07-26 00:27:53 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| 52425 will probably return to Cumnock around September time again when the Citylink pvr is reduced. I have a photo of it at Glasgow which i will upload eventually. |
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| now this is back in reserve. Do western actually start it and 51062 and take them runs much to prevent brakes sticking |
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FM31 (SF08 OFY), Still on continued loan at Cumnock Depot but no one knows why. Its recently gained Stagecoach Logos indicating its here to stay.
June 2009 Observations |
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| Could FM31 being on continued loan at Cumnock be due to the accident damaged E300 at ayr depot thats at ferrymill. Maybe 22534 has gone back to ayr to cover for damaged one. |
| [#8838291] |
2009-06-20 10:36:34 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| In a roundabout way, it probably somewhere along the line is being used to cover for the damaged Ayr E300, (22851 i think). I cant imagine 22534 has gone back to Ayr though. Just surprised Cumnock are still using it although 22589 was recently up at MAN. Bellshill for work but should be back at Cumnock now. |
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| I have noticed SF08GPV had disapeared and as yet I haven't seen it. SF08OFY is out and about and still remains with Cumnock. Also, SF57LVC is still based at Cumnock apearing on the 43 with FM31. |
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May 2009 Observations |
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| Must be said this is nice looking example. Shame Stagecoach are not in a hurry to get them into service. |
| [#8838293] |
2009-06-20 10:38:13 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| I saw this very Tri-Axle going through the wash at Kilmarnock on Monday at the same time as the rest of the school fleet which made me wonder if it has entered service or not. Will try and find out though. |
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May 2009 Observations |
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| Is that a Neoplan Skyliner there? |
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| I think I heard on the yahoo groups that it was there for repairs. |
| [#8838294] |
2009-06-20 10:39:36 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Yes it is 50129 from Aberdeen down at Killie for some work to be done to it. All the Aberdeen examples are to come down for the same treatment with 50140 being the most recent one. |
| [#8840460] |
2009-06-28 23:45:30 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| 50129 has now returned to Aberdeen while the mechanical work on 50140 is now apparently over and is currently getting repainted, something i dont think that happened to 50129. The Aberdeen Megabus Neoplans are due to be replaced soon anyway by 4 new Vanhool Double Decker coaches. |
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| The new Vanhools have arrived at Aberdeen for driver training etc. 50229 is heading to Blochairn on Monday for driver training. |
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June 2009 Observations |
| [#8840457] |
2009-06-28 23:38:00 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| You can quite often see vehicles from other depots appearing at Kilmarnock, most times its for repainting or assocaiated works. Other depot routes that serve Kilmarnock if you like can often mean that if a vehicle breaks down late at night or something similar then it is sometimes easier to take it back to the local depot to have the work done to it. Im not sure why 16865 or indeed 22593 was at Killie as neither needed re-painting work, unless it was just a panel or two but this kind of minor repainting is usually done at their home depot. Although if you consider the fact that Aberdeen have sent 2 of their Neoplans down to Western to have alot of work done to them might suggest that Killie know alot more on the mechanical side of things and perhaps Cumnock didnt have the expertise or something to fix the 2 vehicles. |
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| Forgot to say that i saw 16865 on a mid day working of the 43 on Saturday, first time i have ever seen them on an all day schedule on the 43. |
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| It must have something to do with parts supply. I can imagine that Kilmarnock has a parts suppy bought in when the 09 Enviro 300's arrived and since Killie have the kit available or the required parts they have been sent down there for their repairs. I can only guess that it is the same reason for the Oly because Killie have all of those other ones arriving at the moment. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian 16***, The second of the two Olympians to go through the wash on this particular afternoon. Note that the rear lower windows have as per tradition, been panelled over.
June 2009 Observations |
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| "A think this all do, mate." - "Yeah nobody will notice" |
| [#8840459] |
2009-06-28 23:39:43 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| I was surprised when i saw them going through the wash at that time. They have to go through the wash to remove any dust etc from the rub down process before they go in to the bodyshop and get re-painted. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander 16863 (N863 VHH), One of 2 Olympians from this batch to be de-roofed by the notorius Bonnyton Bridge in Kilmarnock.
June 2009 Observations |
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| Driving off into the sunset....or around the block giving a nice little puff of blue smoke, that said it's proberly a little stail after spending months tucked up out the way. |
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| ...does look quite nice though! |
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Stagecoach Western ADL Enviro 300 27596 (SN08 AEJ), From the rear as it passes by Ardrossan Depot from the nearby ferry terminal en route to St Matthews Academy in Saltcoats. Im not sure whether it actually travelled over to Arran with the Pupils onboard it but i would doubt it given the cost of ferry travel for the bus.
June 2009 Observations |
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| A mate of mine owns a certain coach company and is forever complaining that his tri axial Scania Irizar PB's cost a small fortune becuase of there extra size the price is increased to put on a ferry to travel to Arran. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B6LE/ALX200 31371 (P371 DSA), Catches the early morning sunrise in Castlepark on its first working of the day, a 22A to Irvine Industrial Estate.
June 2009 Observations |
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| I'm jealous of you, i've never heard that service pass my house in the 14 years i've lived there.
P.S if you stayed a bit longer you would have got one of the Killie profiles on the X79 |
| [#8848935] |
2009-08-01 22:30:11 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| I was just returning home from a nightshift and had the Friday night of for a change so decided to go and get this pic on the way home. All the workings ive seen on the route have been one of the four remaining AA B6LE's but i guess anyone could be used. Does the vehicle eventually go onto 22's do you know? |
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| I was up early enough to see that working and 31386 was on it on it and when I was in Irvine Cross later that day it was on a 23 so that's what I think they go onto. |
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March 2009 Observations |
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| http://glasgowbuses.fotopic.net/p59208411.html - a link to a webpage that shows a bendi-bus litterly only the shell. Worth a look!!! |
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May 2009 Observations |
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| Could anybody please explain why?? Is this at Killie on the same day as N865. |
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| Mistake, 16865 was in June. |
| [#8840462] |
2009-06-29 00:10:42 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Yes, sorry for any confusion but just backing up, or rather removing all my photos from my laptop onto external drives to hopefully speed the laptop upa bit and came across a few i hadnt uploaded. |
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April 2009 Observations |
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| http://martin201.fotopic.net/p59525532.html. An interesting photograph from Martin which sees SF57LVC pouring smoke from the wheel arch. It can't understand quite what is wrong with it but in some way it appears like the engine is overheating. Odd though, never fixed nor seen a bus in this condition before. Will be trying to find out whether SF57LVC is beck on the road. |
| [#8847277] |
2009-07-26 00:29:25 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| It was back in service by the Wednesday at the earliest on the 43. I take it you noticed it has finally got CC branding? |
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| Now you meantion it I'm sure it does. I saw the bus but was more concentrating on passing drinks to my kids and fiddlying with the radio on my new Audi A4 3.0 TDI. |
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| Yes it had CC branding applied around 5/6 weeks ago. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander 16726 (N726 LTN), Passes Irvine Royal Academy, on a part route, school working of the 11. Its destination should be set here for "Redburn - Part Route" but is instead screened for the journey to Greenwood from Kilmarnock.
June 2009 Observations |
| [#8841698] |
2009-07-05 00:36:34 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| A further two Olys from the same batch have recently been acquired and have still to go through the bodyshop. These are 16720 and 16725. Not sure where they are to go but i think its Killie. Meanwhile one of the ex South Coast P reg Olys has apparently entered service at Ayr for the 585. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander 16289 (P289 VPN), Another of the recently acquired Olympians to enter service. This along with sister 16290 were expected to enter service at Kilmarnock but a change to the plan has saw 16289 enter service at Ayr and 16290 at Ardrossan.
July 2009 Observations |
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| Again another fantastic overhaul done by the Killie lads. Western are doing a great job at doing these overhauls, all of the buses now look litterally brand new - all that's left to do is change the reg (**09***). Out of interest, do you know where the S Reg Oly's are all going cos I know S310CCD/S311CCD were at Cumnock for a while, however, I found out later that one of them was at Dumfries and are the other two (S308CCD/S309CCD) being based at Ayr?? |
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| ...having looked around the website, S308/9CCD both go to Ardrossan. Which ones do Killie have? |
| [#8842441] |
2009-07-08 01:37:55 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| 16309 (S309 CCD) has indeed gone to Ardrossan along with what i thought to be 16308 but i think infact that it is 16290 (P290 VPN). As far as i know 16310/1 are still intended for Cumnock. The bodyshop at Killie is currently incredibly busy with repaints etc, including doing maintenance/overhauls to several Bluebird buses, not just the Neoplans but PS's and Interurbans too so im not sure of the status of all the Olys, but currently all the unallocated ones are in store at Killie. Ayr appear at the moment anyway to only have 16289. I believe Kilmarnock might get 16720/5 (N720/5 LTN) when they are ready which could be some weeks away as they havent got near the beginning of the lengthy queue for the bodyshop! Apparently they have to be ready for the schools returning though as i believe Western "might" have got more contracts. |
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| Sorry, wrong info there but i've seen 16309 out and about. |
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| Sorry, I didn't mean that comment there |
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FM31 (SF08 OFY), Still in use at Cumnock for some unknown reason!
July 2009 Observations |
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| I know think that Fm31 is still on loan becuase Stagecoach are testing it. They have recenetly taken delivery of 10 of these style buses down in Cambridgeshire and they say this is the best bus at the moment. Although those down south a Volvo buses, MAN are more common up here so expect any new single decker buses to be Wights instead of Enviro's.!!I might be wrong, though? |
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| If the Cambridge eclipses are meant to be brilliant I wonder how long it will be til Stagecoach orders some Geminis |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander 16289 (P289 VPN), Turns in on the final approach to Ayr Bus Station for the last time of the night.
July 2009 Observations |
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| Took 16289 up to Craig Tara yesterday (Saturday) and I was pretty pleased with the journey becuase it was actually rather good, something I rarely get on these older Oly's becuase they are getting on a bit and not the most modern. I quite enjoyed it. Return journey was on the 48 and caught N865VHH which while it was equally in a good mechanical standard the new overhauls given to these latest arrivals mean they are top notch and 16865 (VHH) felt a little fun down compared. It was also a lot more smelly when I got off and it pulled away. Today I trundelled off to East Kilbride (X16) and compared to P389DSA which I got to Killie in on the X50 it was much nicer and felt so much more modern and upto date. SF55RKN! Tommorrow I am going to Stranraer to keep myself occupied so will be catching the 58 from Ayr so I shall give my verdict on whether you should travel on that... |
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| ...Yes. Those MAN/ELC Kinetic's are actually rather good but they are fairly similar than those Enviro 300's. |
| [#8848938] |
2009-08-01 22:32:10 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Ive yet to travel on a Kinetic but travelled on Enviro 22864 between Turnberry and Girvan when the Golf was on, nice vehicles i must admit. |
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| I've traveled on the 585 branded enviros and I must say they look nice but the only problem is that it's a bit cramped at the back legroom wise. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M-62/Plaxton Interurban 52348 (P148 ASA), Heads out of Kilmarnock Bus Station for Troon on a peak hour X78.
July 2009 Observations |
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| This is a personal favourite B10M Interurban of mine. Don't know why but it just seems to turn up all the time on a variety of routes. |
| [#8851648] |
2009-08-13 17:41:39 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| If 50133 does replace something at Killie, I would suspect it would be 52348 but i have a feeling it might just become an extra vehicle as one of the Tri-Axle Olys was intially earmarked for use as a backup to 50146 but this now seems to be getting done by 50133. 52348 is a regular performer on the X78 nowadays. |
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Stagecoach Western Dennis Dart SPD/Plaxton 33779 (X744 JCS), ANother of the recently repainted Darts at Ayr.
July 2009 Observations |
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| I'm in Ayr alot of the time, and 33775-80 are all alloacted to Ayr at present as far as I know. I don't know much about them, anybody fill me in? |
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| 33775-80 are pretty standard Dennis Darts with Plaxton SPD bodywork, a type thats not too commong with Stagecoach. These examples were delivered new to Ayr in 2000 along with other X JCS Dart SLF examples. |
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| What's even more unusual about them is that they have Voith gearboxes whereas most Darts have Allison Gearboxes. |
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Stagecoach Western Dennis Darts/Plaxton Pointer 32062/3 (N62/3 KBW), Head into New Cumnock along the A76 with their new owners aboard.
July 2009 Observations |
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| I know it's a long shot but do you know who the new owners are??? |
| [#8846285] |
2009-07-22 07:32:13 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Sorry guys for taking so long to reply to some of your comments, i will reply to them all eventually! I didnt know at the time who the new owners were of the Darts until a few days later. The 3 spotted on this day along with 32054 (the odd one out, having a hanover screen) all passed to Fleetlink, a dealer in Merseyside. 32054 didnt appear to be travelling south with this group. |
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Stagecoach Western Dennis Dart/Plaxton Pointer 32057 (N57 KBW), Tags along at the back of the other 2 Darts heading into New Cumnock after being chased by me for the guts of an hour all the way from Ayr Depot.
July 2009 Observations |
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| Good to see dedication to your hobby! Well done! |
| [#8847278] |
2009-07-26 00:33:09 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Thanks Chris, It just so happens i was on holiday at the time anyway and had plenty of time. I was only planning on going a quick visit to Ayr to see if 16289 had ventured of the A4 onto 585's but it turned out it hadnt as it replaced 15246 on front line duties. It just so happened to be that i was in thr right place at the right time to see these 3 leaving the depot. 32057 tagged a good 2 miles or two behind the other 2 for the entire journey to New Cumnock. Fortuneately they all stopped in a layby thing just before New Cumnock to meet up etc. |
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Stagecoach Western Optare Solo 47387 (SF56 FLB), From the rear shortly after arriving in Ayr Bus STation.
July 2009 Observations |
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| Was 47387 covering for one of the Enviro's or possibly a Oly on the 43 or 48?..I couldn't amagine it being the 246. It usually doesn't even leave Cumnock!! |
| [#8847280] |
2009-07-26 00:35:07 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Im afraid ive no idea what it was going to be used on as it arrived in out of service. The Solos at Cumnock used to and i gather still do ocasionally work short evening X76's to Killie. |
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| From memory I am sure there is one used on the 43 in the morning but couldn't be exact. I've never seen these onthe X76/X50 but you could well be right. |
| [#8848228] |
2009-07-30 00:49:37 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| One of the Ayr Solo's works the 6am ish short 43 to Tarbolton, im not sure what it does when it arrives their but im sure if you look at the timtable you could work it out. I did have some phtos of the Cumnock solos on X76's in my pre december 2007 collection but i might have deleated them. There is definetly some shots of them on the X76 on fotopic. |
| [#8854480] |
2009-08-25 22:18:38 |
Left by Martin McKenna (#1247712) |
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| I mostly see the Solos on the X76 about 10'sh, or 11ish when i'm on my way home from Cumnock, i have also been on one on a Sunday Morning X76, and i can say they do get exceedingly cramped.
Here's a pic of a Solo on the X76 from my Fotopic: http://martin201.fotopic.net/p59652377.html |
| [#8858240] |
2009-09-10 21:56:39 |
Left by Martin McKenna (#1247712) |
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| Hey there. Just to say i seen one of the Cumnock Optares on the 246, due to arrive in Ayr about this time, so that may explain why it was in Ayr, not quite sure whether it was replacing an Enviro/Panther etc when it got to Cumnock or it completed the whole journey, or why they never used an Enviro to take on such a busy service. |
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| It would now appear that the Solo was on the 347 and appears to be a regular sighting nowadays. I saw Enviro 22589 onit today, first ever time ive seen one on it. 34142/31378 were the other 2 on it. I passed 34146 heading towards Killie today, going to get some work done to it i think. |
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Stagecoach Western Neoplan SKyliner 50149 - Willie Wastle - (MX05 BWO), Is struggling for luggage space, something the Neoplans are dreadful for. Backup in the form of Interurban 52360 arrived a few mins later.
July 2009 Observations |
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| The driver seems to be discussing the problem with the banksman. |
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Stagecoach Bluebird Volvo B12B/Plaxton Panther 53108 (SV09 EGY), Is prepared to have its toilet "dropped" inside Blohcairn Depot after coming down on a Citylink service from Fort William.
Vehicles Passing Through |
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| 53108 looks very smart, indeed. The citylink livery really suits these Panthers...I think.... |
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Stagecoach Bluebird Volvo B12B/Plaxton Panther 53108 (SV09 EGY), One of several brand new 09 registered coaches being delivered to Fort William for Citylink work, a mixture of Profiles and Panthers. Glasgow are possibly expecting one fromt he batch.
Vehicles Passing Through |
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| Since SF09ADO entered service, does that mean R103LSO had made it's way back to Cumnock. I've seen it on the 246 recently and as ever looking great. Shame that these new buses suffer so many issues on first arrival, but it is just simple mechanical issues - that can be fixed quite easily (more often than not) and problems that the mechanics cannot predict. Do you know what service ADO is meant to be on, cos I know it's been having problems but I haven't spotted it on the 900. |
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| AFAIK, 52425 returned to Cumnock a week before 53114 entered service at Glasgow. 53114 has been back at Volvo already with its brakes apparently sticking which is never a good sign i guess and was taken of service yesterday with extremely noisy Air-Con. Its designated routes are Glasgow-FW Services e.g. the 914 etc which used to always be operated by 52669 but normally uses any Interurbans/B10M's nowadays. 53114 was apparently on the 900 yesterday but taken of with the noisy air-con. I dare say either 53105/6 were standing in for it on the FW services. |
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| Volvo should really be thinking about what they can do to limit damage done to their reputation for reliabilty with all these issues. It is now beyond a joke...and it's loosing the company a fortune. |
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| 53114 is certainly jinxed, its now off the fleet for sometime probably nothing mechanically wrong with it but its suffered severe damage to its nearside panels and is currently subject to an on-going investigation so find out who was to blame/why it happened etc. Itll get a full week in service by the end of the year hopefully..... |
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| One bus and it hasn't even put in a whole weeks hard graft. When they do finally get it going it'll be working very hard, I'd guess, to make up for the loss. It's just a shame it's taking so long. |
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| When will SF09ADO be back in service? |
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| I would have thought it would have beeb back in service by now but ill try and find out for you. |
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| 53114 seems to be a regular allocation on the 900, these days. |
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Stagecoach Bluebird Volvo B10M/Plaxton 52226 (NX1 327), Parked up, looking very rough prior to being overhauled, both bodywork and mechanically wise at Killie.
Vehicles Passing Through |
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| I cannot believe that Stagecoach could have had the front to use this on any routes in this condition. It is appauling and this overhaul couldn't have came soon enough. No doubt that the Killie lads/ladies would have this looking like it had just emerged from Plaxton...brand new.!! You have to praise the folk who do this work. Does look as like it will need alot of repanneling from this sode anyway and for sure every one on this side will certainly need replaced. |
| [#8848939] |
2009-08-01 22:34:47 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Yes it does look a bit on the rough side. The standard of repainting up at Inverness in my mind is quite shocking I think, espcially the way the painters have painted the Ex Rapsons Wright bodied single deckers, they dont look nice at all i dont think. Also some of the Solos have varied liveries with the Black bit above the front bumper being painted blue in some cases. Im still not 100% sure is 52226 is being overhauled or if its simply down for MOT work. |
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| I've also seen the Wright buses and they are truely awful. If 52226 is only at Kilmarnock for MOT work, I'd be horrified. It needs some work done on it, especially with the panel damage. It's not like anyone is going to miss it. |
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Stagecoach Bluebird Scania/Wright 28804 (Y366 VST), Having recently been repainted, possibly at Kilmarnock. Its paint scheme is very similar to that of the Western SPT Kinetics.
Vehicles Passing Through |
| [#8851645] |
2009-08-13 17:37:52 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| 28804 was repainted into Cairngorm National Park livery and is expected to return to Aviemore shortly but was still at Ayr 2 weekends ago. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander 16310 (S310 CCD), Having finally made it to Kilmarnock for prep work prior to entering service, believed to be at Cumnock.
July 2009 Observations |
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| is cumnock still going to be getting 16310/1 when 16727 has been seen in service at cumnock one of things i noticed recently was 16853 wasnt floating about on the 246. ive main seen 16865 recently on 46 could 16853 be up at kilmarnock for work to it are these still in the cumnock fleet |
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| Does anyone whether their is any sign of 16310 going to emerge back out of the work shop and where it and 16311 is eventually expected to enter service and whether its still Cumnock its heading for |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M/Alexander PS 20569 (M482 ASW), One of several PS's heading north to the Highlands although 20569 along with sister 20566 both made a brief visit to McColls for some unknown reason.
July 2009 Observations |
| [#8848222] |
2009-07-30 00:38:18 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| 20566/20569 & 20308 are all now up north at Inverness/Aviemore. 20566/9 were at McColls to be upseated using DP seats from old Stagey Plaxton Coaches they have acquired. They are now 3/2 seating as is 20308. Several older Javelins etc from Rapsons are now at Kilmarnock to have their seats put into the other PS's. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander 16290 (P290 VPN), Another top class overhaul by the lads at the Kilmarnock bodyshop. This should be ready to leave the depot soon to enter service.
July 2009 Observations |
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| I was wondering what depot this had entered service at? N726 LTN is at Kilmarnock, N727 LTN in now at Cumnock, N728 LTN is at Kilmarnock and I think somebody I remember somebody saying that N720 LTN and N725 LTN was at Killie for overhaul, but I might be confused. P289 VPN, P290 VPN are bothn now overhauled, S308CCD is in service, S309CCD has been overhauled and is at Ayr and S310CCD and S310CCD are located to be allocated to Cumnock to replace Titans on school runs. I think thats correct, any corrections welcome? |
| [#8848943] |
2009-08-01 22:37:48 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Im not sure yet where 16290 has entered service, I'm thinking Kilmarnock possibly, perhaps to replace 14659 if 650 at Cumnock has just been withdrawn, therefore eliminating the type froma ctive public service just leaving 14656 at Dumfries in Schoolbus livery. 16289 is at Ayr and 16308/9 at Ardrossan. Im not sure yet where 16720/5 are going. One thing that i am wondering though is if we have 16725-8 then will we bit 16721-4 too? |
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| I think in due course that 16721-4 will make there way to Killie once the backlog of buses has been cleared and school resumes. Therefor, Killie have only taken the number of buses they need for the schools starting up again and possibly the worse of the batch to get them into good working order for the start of the runs. 16721-4 are judged the best, and needing only minor or limited work carried out. It would be very strange for them not to get 16721-4 and I expect that if these are not needed for schools they will replace the eldest school buses or be split between the depots, with Killie being the least likely to get any, proberly guessing Ardrossan, Dumfries or Stranraer. I reckon Kilmarnock are sorted, Cumnock aren't gonna be needing any more once S310/S311CCD arrive and Ayr have also got their quota. |
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| We've forgot about 16729 which will also in due course be proberly making its way here. 16729, 16721 - 16724 are having looked at pictures not any better than the oly's at we have at the moment. |
| [#8851556] |
2009-08-13 00:51:16 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Whether we do or not get all of these is anyones guess. We will not however be getting 16724 as its already in Scotland with Strathay based at Montrose i think. |
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| I hope we don't get 16730 because there's a video on youtube of it and it sounds terrible http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I3XvW436zfE, in the description it says it's got a CAT 7 engine (volvo olympians usually have a cummins L10) but it still doesn't sound like a healthy engine. |
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| If you look at photos of it on fotopic, you can see it (16730) has extra grills around the engine comapred to the rest of the batch. One of the Fife NC boided VO's received a new expiremental engine in its London Days. Its the same kind of engine as Trident as far as i know and is very reliable and apparently sounds identical to a Trident. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M/Alexander PS 20581 (M484 ASW), Parked up in Ayr Depot, now earmarked for diposal.
July 2009 Observations |
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| On eBay this plus two others are for sale from a guy called rml2418-nfx133p. The picture of this bus shown to be for sale and it looks like one of your pictures!!!!!!!! |
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| The guy seems to be doing the same with lots of other sites and ebay won't do anything about it. |
| [#8848944] |
2009-08-01 22:38:52 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| Thanks Guys, I have done what i can but as Adam says Ebay arent Interested as long as they get their share of the price. |
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| See when you used to be able to right click on the photos and copy and paste them. Have you disabled this function? |
| [#8851554] |
2009-08-13 00:50:00 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| Yes i stupidly thought i had ages ago but forgot that i re-enabled it to download some pictures that i had lost on my PC. Interestingly enough though the guy actually contacted me first rather than the other way about. He prefoundly apologies for the use of the photo and has bought 20581/2/3 intially for someone he knew. That guy has since pulled out of the deal and his new website isnt up and running yet so he is selling them on Ebay. They have all now left Western territory though. His feedback on Ebay is fairly good i trust that he is a genuine buyer etc. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Olympian/Alexander 16311 (S311 CCD), Parked up surrounded by Olympians awaiting overhaul treatment at Kilmarnock.
July 2009 Observations |
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| There are loads of buses needing overhauled at Killie. They must be working flat out wa all them, and alto of them are just passing. |
| [#8848947] |
2009-08-01 22:39:54 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| ... and ALL the stored double deckers apparently have to be ready for the Schools returning as do the Highland bound PS's etc. |
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Stagecoach Western Leyland Titan 10252 (GYE 252W), Parked up in Glasgow Depot while helping out on T in the Park shuttle duties.
July 2009 Observations |
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| For the next school session with all the new HK's and Volvo Oly's arriving does this mean that GYE252W, A632THV, NUW585Y and G337KKW will be scrapped becuase they are looking fairly good. C462SSO and C659LFT are also soon to be replaced soon I think> Could you help?? |
| [#8847281] |
2009-07-26 00:36:41 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| As far as i know nothing will be leaving the Schoolbus fleet for the next term as rumour is Western have gained quite a few more contracts some of which are at Loudon Academy and the yellow Tri-Axle Olys are earmarked for it. |
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| All the buses are under replacement orders asap more olys are made serviceable hopefully around oct week |
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| I'd imagine the next lot of oly's will come from fife as they have recently gained some enviro 400s displacing some of their olympians. Who knows, they may even send back some of the native ex western olympians. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo B10M/ALexander PS 20506 (M869 ASW), Sets of fully laden to say the least on one of the last journeys of the night to Ayr on the 60.
** Special Feature - Turnberry 2009 Open Golf Shuttles ** |
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| looking at this picks giving number standing you'd of thought they would of used a bendy on some off them |
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** Special Feature - Turnberry 2009 Open Golf Shuttles ** |
| [#8848224] |
2009-07-30 00:42:53 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| 22587 went out onto late night 43's on the day after the Golf finished. It had been there at the golf since the Wednesday. |
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** Special Feature - Turnberry 2009 Open Golf Shuttles ** |
| [#8848225] |
2009-07-30 00:43:58 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
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| I have noticed the side desti screen on 22588 has been missing for at least a month or so now. I can only imagine the window has probably been tanned on it affecthing the screen etc. |
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| It has now had it reinstated. |
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Stagecoach Western ADL Enviro 300 27596 (SN08 AEJ), Sets of on its journey to Kilmarnock on the 444.
July 2009 Observations |
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| I had a feeling that these would be used at somepoint rather than them staying in the depot for 6 or 7 weeks. |
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Stagecoach Western Volvo Citybus/Alexander 15246 (VCS 376), Having been resurected from the withdrawn lineup at Ayr to cover for vehicles away on Golf work. I believe it was withdrawn after 16289 entering service.
July 2009 Observations |
| [#8851562] |
2009-08-13 01:12:08 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| And indeed it was withdrawn, its now up for disposal. Hopefully someone will buy it for preservation as if not within a few months it will probably be sold along the lines of scrapping i.e. to the highest bidder. The very last ex A1 Service vehicle in the fleet, now ready to go and end of an era for sure!! |
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| If it weren't for the fact that my wife would shoot me, you'd have a buyer for bus. I am able to maintain it, drive it and generally keep it running in my free time. I even have enough space at the house. However, I've consulted my darling wife and she is adamint that it will NOT be bought....not by me anyway. |
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| I guess thats just life Chris. It has now been purchased by McColls along with 14650. They are both intended to be painted into fleet livery and used on schools, 14650 has already been painted. WJC (Wee John's Coaches) were also interested in acquiring 15246, pity they didnt as im sure they would look after it more and would attend rallys etc with it, something i dont think mccolls will do somehow. |
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| McColls seem to be buying a vast amount of buses from Western at the moment. I hope they look after 15246, it was a superb example in all the time it was with Western. |
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| 15246 has lasted a while with Western and looks remarkable still for its age. I dare say they will look after it, the repaint work they have done on the LFT Olys makes them look almost brand new! With ex A1 Service B10B/Strider 21051 (M151 FGB) just being recently placed in the reserve fleet with Strathay, this officially means that there are no former A1 Service vehicles in service with Stagecoach UK Bus, an end of an ear for sure!. |
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| Also meant to say that Western have retained the reg of 15246 (VCS 376) which has reverted back to B24 CGA. VCS 376 has now been applied to Neoplan 50138. |
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Stagecoach Western MAN A69/Enviro 300 22583 (SF08 GOU), Heads out of Ayr to head out for Cumnock on the 43.
July 2009 Observations |
| [#8848223] |
2009-07-30 00:40:32 |
Left by David Walker (#1215350) |
Reply |
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| I have noticed this Cumnock Driver in particular tends to always go round this roundabout rather than making the tight turn out of the bus station. She is an ex Keenan driver, one of quite a few from the independent now working for Western, a few at Cumnock and at least one at Ayr. No doubt attracted by better pay and conditions etc |
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| I have to agree with you. The pay and conditions are going to be far superior to that of Keenan. The bonus that she would also have is she gets to drive these modern Enviros instead of the older Keenan examples. |
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Stagecoach Glasgow Volvo B10M-62/Plaxton Interurban 52425 (R103 LSO), At the end of its journey from Edinbrugh on the 900.
July 2009 Observations |
| [#8848280] |
2009-07-30 10:11:32 |
Left by Christopher (#0) </ | |
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