Southdown Buses in Preservation

Rare and previously unpublished photographs celebrating the preserved buses of this iconic operator.

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Southdown Motor Services was formed in 1915 and went on to become the well-known and highly respected operator of green-and-cream buses and coaches seen along the south coast of Sussex and Hampshire. Fast forward to today and there are over a hundred former Southdown buses and coaches surviving in preservation. This is quite remarkable, and possibly represents the highest number of preserved single-operator vehicles outside of London. Most of the examples have been restored to a very high standard, with some licensed to carry passengers for hire and see service on a regular basis. Others attend rallies and shows for us all to enjoy and rekindle those memories from the past. Some not so fortunate vehicles languish in storage awaiting restoration or have been dismantled to provide parts allowing sister vehicles to survive.

Simon Stanford presents a vivid collection of images of Southdown buses and coaches that have been lovingly restored and preserved, including a small number from other operators such as Brighton Hove & District, some of their fleet passing to Southdown in 1969.