The old green bus

IIRC Hedingham were the last operator with Bristol VRs in regular use, with the final one withdrawn two or three years ago. It is a shame to see the vehicle in its current state - fit really only for parts breaking with all the internals ripped out; although hopefully it does end up as a donor vehicle rather than being weighed in for scrap. Unfortunately well intentioned people and the publicity department of companies view old buses as easy conversions to mobile homes, exhibition units, bars and resturants etc. At the same time they make the return to being a bus uneconomic in relation to the vehicle’s value; even if the missing parts can be found. Many spend a considerable amount of money on the conversion, usually partly financed by scrapping all the seat frames etc. In the process so many cover up the only access panels to vital mechanical parts or wiring, this sometimes leading the the vehicle’s demise. Some time after their project is finished or often part way through, the reality and expense of running a vehicle of this size sinks in. The vehicle usually would be practically worn out before they acquired it with vital parts also scarce - which is why it was for sale and why they could afford to buy it.