Fleet of buses line Market Square to mark 50 years of 'iconic' model

Transport enthusiasts gathered at Northampton's Market Square on Sunday to observe vintage buses, which were used over 50 years ago throughout the county.
L-R: Alem Gamble, George Brown, Harry Brown and Louis Brown - grandsons of Browns Blue who built the bus.L-R: Alem Gamble, George Brown, Harry Brown and Louis Brown - grandsons of Browns Blue who built the bus.
L-R: Alem Gamble, George Brown, Harry Brown and Louis Brown - grandsons of Browns Blue who built the bus.

The Northampton Transport Heritage group displayed over 20 classic vehicles in the square yesterday (September 25) before taking keen spectators on trips around the town, re-creating a series of ex-routes.

This year marks 50 years since the Northampton Corporation Daimler 267 bus model was used countywide, which was the last traditional, rear open-platform, double-decker built for the home market.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

Phil Curtis of Northampton Transport Heritage said: "Northampton was unusual - it was the only place outside of London, which had the idea of using the same type of bus. All buses were Daimlers in Northampton.

The event in the Market Square marked 50 Years of bus model 267.The event in the Market Square marked 50 Years of bus model 267.
The event in the Market Square marked 50 Years of bus model 267.

"It was probably one of the best things that we have organised this year.

"There was an awful lot of positive feedback so there is a high chance we will do it again next year."

Between 1964 and 1972 the Northampton transport fleet of 88 buses was mostly made up of this type of model.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

When First took over Northampton's buses in 1993, the 267 was not retained for ‘special duties’ and was no longer needed.

Back L-R: George Brown and Alex Gamble, middle Harry Brown and front Louis Brown.Back L-R: George Brown and Alex Gamble, middle Harry Brown and front Louis Brown.
Back L-R: George Brown and Alex Gamble, middle Harry Brown and front Louis Brown.

The model (pictured) needed £20,000 spending on it after it became dilapidated over time and is now featured in transport shows.

The Northampton Transport Heritage was formed in 2017 to look after three ex-Northampton Corporation Transport vehicles for the public to access.

The group 'care' for two other ex-Northampton buses and three other privately preserved buses, which make a regular appearance at their heritage day events.

Hide Ad
Hide Ad

It has also applied for charitable status, delivers talks to schools across the county and uses its buses for weddings.

Now, with over 90 members, the group is always looking for new recruits and volunteers. To sign up, call Phil Curtis on 07929907923 or find the group at Northampton Transport Heritage.