The last-known surviving right-hand-drive Bova Europa coach is for sale.
GEX790Y, which is a 53-seater, was originally delivered to Birds of Hunstanton, Norfolk in May 1985, later spending 20 years with Fords of Althorne. The DAF-engined coach was then bought by the late Vin Moseley, of original importers Moseley, and completely renovated. Keith Meynell, of K M Motors, Barnsley is a big fan of Bovas and bought GEX last year. [wlm_nonmember][…]
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“I’ve always liked these Bovas,” said Keith. “In fact we nearly bought one new, but ended up with a Plaxton-bodied Leyland Tiger, CKY76X, which did well at the 1982 Coach Rally.”
Keith would go on to buy Bovas, still having Futuras in his 10-strong fleet running alongside three Yutongs. The firm he set up in 1971 runs its own tours alongside private hire work. “I can remember seeing Europas running for Wallace Arnold and they certainly seemed different,” said Keith.
“They also ran for National Express. We have always had a good relationship with Moseley and couldn’t resist this Europa when it came up for sale. It really is in excellent condition and had a fortune spent on it. Due to various circumstances including my not having been so well recently, I would consider selling it someone who would really look after it.”
Bova, based in Eindhoven, Holland, began building coaches in 1931, making an impact on the British market via Moseley. VDL bought the company in 2003 and discontinued the brand in 2010, though Bova’s best-known product, the Futura, continues as the VDL Futura 2.
- Anyone seriously interested in the Bova can contact Keith on 01226 280982. He’s looking for offers around £39,000.
