ColourScene Snapshot 5 London Country Bus Services 1977

For the fifth volume in this series the author turns his attention to the vehicles in the fleet of London Country Bus Services in 1977. This year was chosen because it was in many ways a transition year. Vehicles inherited from London Transport (RTs, RFs, Routemasters and AEC Swifts) were rapidly diminishing. New vehicles were arriving to facilitate economies necessary by introducing more one person operation (Leyland Nationals and a few Bristol LHs). Two surprise purchases were that of 15 new Bristol VRTs and 10 second-hand AEC Reliances from Barton Transport. The highlight of the year was the revamping of the Green Line network with the first deliveries of new leased AEC Reliance coaches bodied by Plaxton and Duple. Vehicle hires were still necessary and these are illustrated. Since this book is about vehicles many of the 272 colour photographs are taken in garages showing the new vehicles or those nearing the end of their service with LCBS. This book follows the usual style with hardback colour covers.