A very rare opportunity to see this former Atomic Energy Research Establishment of Harwell ‘staff bus’ AEC Regent V / Park Royal 106 (240 AJB) on the move and on public roads in 2024.
Now a very neat static ‘eating room’ at the Marsh Farm (childrens') zoo at South Woodham Ferrers in Essex, this is the first time the bus has moved under its own power for four years - and very sweet it is too.
Here, we see the bus commencing its return journey to Marsh Farm, after its current owners commendably sent it for a smart full external repaint by Marden Commercials of Benfleet.
AERE was very unusual in buying 11 of these AEC buses brand new: they never entered normal passenger service, being ‘staff contract’ vehicles.
Released by AERE after good lives, a few were used as school buses - again, on contracts and never open to the general public in ordinary service.
Unfortunately, ‘the spell’ of the public being barred from riding this delightfully musical bus has continued, as, due to a technicality, I wasn’t able to ride and film the journey as hoped - so the best I could obtain were some brief external and internal sequences which give a tantalising taster of the aural richness this fine bus can still offer.
(External sequences had to be taken 'blind' whilst taking still photos with my DSLR with the other hand).
It still has its full complement of mostly original seats, turned back to back with neat tables in between.
Rear and longitudinal wheel arch seats have been replaced by high-backed coach seats - all retrimmed in a modern grey moquette with red centre pattern, as well as grey fabric on bus side walls.
Full marks to Marsh Farm for sending the bus for repainting to preserve its fabric and offer a tidy ‘pseudo London Transport’ appearance.
It was last used by Barkers Motors of Wrexham, before being sold via eBay for its current role.
Grateful thanks to Marden Commercials and Gordon for allowing me an opportunity to appreciate this 'reclusive' bus in its refreshed glory.