33181 Dennis Dart SLF Alexander ALX 200

VX51 RBY, initially, was part of a batch of two vehicles leased to Travel of Pentrechwyth from Dawson Rentals for the 501 Park and Ride service between Landore and Swansea City Centre. This vehicle, along with VX51 RCO, was subsequently sold. RBY briefly passed to Munro’s of Jedburgh, where it was numbered 471 and used on their 68 contract they had won. However, its whereabouts after that are uncertain. Around 2007, it was bought by Stagecoach Bedford (United Counties) for their (I assume council-funded) Park and Ride service between Bedford and Elstow Park and Ride. This vehicle acquired a Stagecoach fleet number (33181) and a striking green and blue livery. In 2011, it received Stagecoaches Beachball livery until its withdrawal from the fleet.

Interestingly, while this vehicle wasn’t a Manchester vehicle, Stagecoach Manchester became owner of sister, VX51 RCO, which became their 33680, passed to them when Bluebird was acquired. 

In 2016, 33181 found its way to Buglers of Bristol for local work. In 2020, it was acquired by Paul’s Coaches in Stoke for rail replacement work. Subsequently, it was used by GMBuses of North Wales, followed by several local companies in Warrington. Finally, we acquired it for preservation.