New to Mainline in 1998, 796 was part of an incredibly large batch of B10BLEs ordered to modernise the fleet in South Yorkshire. The batch consisted of R791 RWG - T864 MAK, obviously making her a sister of our 60663. Similar to 60663, it was transferred relatively early out of Sheffield to First Hampshire & Dorset and latterly onto First Solent before being withdrawn in 2016.

It was then bought in 2017 by South Gloucestershire Bus & Coach and operated around the south west on private hire work and rail replacements. In 2018 it was further passed onto Brixham College for use on their school work where it continued to operate until the end of last year, making her the last Ex First Renown to operate in revenue service in the country presumably.

-

Mechanically from our first impressions it’s fighting fit for 27 years old. The hydraulic pulley has seized meaning the alternator currently isn’t charging the batteries. We will get her up on the ramps shortly and give her the full inspection underneath. Cosmetically, it’s battered to put it politely. Every panel will need changing, it’s had a hard life the last 7 years, however they’re relatively simple jobs to sort with 21116s panels and external parts.

Internally, it’s been fully refurbished into First’s Sprinkle moquette, it’s got seat backs missing but all things that can easily be replaced. Obviously coming straight from service, the cab is entirely built up so no faffing about with rebuilding the cab.

-

Now for the plan, first is a full inspection. Then repanelling and an MOT hopefully. For now, she’ll stay blue as we focus on restoring our collection. However eventually she’ll be fully restored to First Mainline 796.

We’re looking forward to welcoming her into the collection, while this was never a Manchester vehicle, Manchester received sister R791 - 795 RWG, so missed her by the skin of our teeth.