Bristol VR

It could be reasonably argued that Trent's staunch BET roots were still very much in evidence given the speed at which the Bristol VR was phased out of the fleet only 4 or so years after de-regulation. As part of the National Bus Company they had no choice but to operate them the first examples appearing in 1973. Cost of maintenance was something often trotted out by the former BET men among other gripes. Outside the offices however the type proved reasonably popular with their crews. Earlier examples of the 800 series carried the Midland General name for a while as well as the small number absorbed from that fleet.

Following an intake of Volvo Citybus vehicles VRs in the 6xx series were renumbered - 776 (the former 638) keeps company with T3 (the former 784) at Meadow Road in 1989

777 (Ex 639) waits at Etwall John Port School before operating service 219 to Findern on 18th November 1989

778 (Ex 640) with Tiger 110 at meadow Road in 1989. Along with 776, 777 and 779 these vehicles became known as the Gang of Four based at Meadow Road purely for contract work to and from John Port School. Before and after these school trips they would operate most of a Mickleover journey. Daytime use saw trips between Normanton Road and Mackworth colleges (service 833). The four were pretty much the last VRs to see out their service days still wearing NBC poppy red colours.

Completing the line up is 779 (Ex 641) seen at Etwall John Port School before operating service 222 to Willington.

T6 (Ex 762) at meadow Road on 5th February 1990. New to Midland General this vehicle ended its days as a training vehicle. The preserved Bristol 'Lodekka' beside was exported to Switzerland (I think!!)

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