Classic bus enthusiasts’ treats in Winchester on way!

We preview the exciting events planned for classic bus enthusiasts in and around Winchester, later this month.

Friends of King Alfred Buses (FoKAB) is pleased to announce the events taking place as part of Winchester Heritage Open Days, on September 10th.

The organiser has chosen an exciting new format for the day, which includes a display of its complete collection in the morning then, from midday, an intensive service between Winchester Broadway and Sutton Scotney will be provided for passengers.

The day will start with all available vehicles from FoKAB’s collection of historic buses and coaches being put on display at Winchester St Catherine’s Park & Ride, between 09:30 and 11:00. Plentiful car parking will also be available at the site for visitors. There will be a free bus service throughout the day, running between Winchester Broadway and St Catherine’s, operated by a 1967 open-top Leyland Atlantean.

From 11:30, the activity will become focussed on the city centre, with free rides being offered on the King Alfred buses in the time-honoured way. These will start from the Broadway, beside King Alfred’s statue. 

This time the operation will be concentrated on three routes – the main one will be five buses an hour running to and from Sutton Scotney, via Three Maids Hill (King Alfred Service 11), together with an hourly journey taking the longer route via Springvale and Stoke Charity (Service 10).

Further free rides will be available during the afternoon on the three, pre-war vehicles from FoKAB’s collection, namely the recently-launched 1929 Leyland Lion, the well-known 1931 Dennis 18-seater and the luxurious, 1935 Albion Victor coach.  

The pre-war vehicles are expected to be in great demand all afternoon, but with the usual extensive range of King Alfred free bus rides will mean there will be plenty of space for everyone. The frequent Service 11 should allow some good photo opportunities along the way. Buses will set down and pick up at any bus stop along the route, so passengers can easily break their journeys wherever convenient.

A full programme and timetables will be on sale on the day, costing £5 and, for more details, visit FoKAB’s website at: kingalfredbuses.org.uk

This news item comes from the latest issue of Old Glory, and you can get a money-saving subscription to this magazine simply by clicking HERE