Magull Liverpool-based Aintree Coachline not only boasts almost certainly the only revenue-earning former Midland Red D9, but also the last Leyland Swift in daily service.
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The BMMO (Birmingham and Midland Motor Omnibus) D9, registered EHA415D, had spent many years with Nuneaton-based Wheels and its successors, run by Ashley Wakelin, but came from the Big Red Bus Co. The fully integral D9 was built by Midland Red (BMMO) with the company’s own engine, the model being first unveiled in 1958.
“Obviously spares aren’t easy to come by, but we have had some excellent help from the Birmingham and Midland Motor Omnibus Trust at Wythall,” said Aintree Coachline Director John Cherry. The vehicle is a regularly used member of Aintree Coachline’s vintage fleet, alongside AEC Routemasters Green Line RCL-type, CUV243C, and RM289, now with Liverpool registration HFL151.
The 1990 Cummins-engined Leyland Swift with Wadham Stringer bodywork was acquired with the business of Jayne’s of Maghull in May 2016. “It is a good, solid little coach,” said John of the Swift which is registered H287BOR. “We originally MOT’d it, but it then developed hydraulic problems. Eventually it went straight through another test. We have a daily school contact for which this vehicle is perfect, though it has been as far away as Blackpool.”
The Leyland Swift was built between 1987 and 1990, and shared much componentry with the Roadrunner lorry although the engine was relocated.
A major personal project for John, who is Chairman of the North West Vehicle Restoration Trust, has been the recently completed restoration of the 1962 Ribble ‘White Lady’ Leyland Atlantean, RRN423, which he donated to the Trust seven years ago.
Aintree Coachline was founded in 1986 with just one vehicle, former National Travel (South East) Willowbrook Spacecar-bodied Bedford YMT, LYU545P. There are now 33 vehicles in the fleet including double-deckers bought new, not least the 98-seat BCI Enterprise last year. Vehicles are engaged on local service work as well as schools and private hire. Not forgetting vintage private hire of course!
Aintree Coachline website: www.aintreecoachline.com
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