KING STREET DEPOT http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/ 24 rows en-gb 60 First Aberdeen 2009 http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c1681120.html Views of First Aberdeen vehicles at King Street Depot in 2009 as the new depot nears completion. Thursday 1 January 2009: Views of First Aberdeen vehicles at King Street Depot in 2009 as the new depot nears completion.

Olympian 31557 (E131 DRS) has been retained for restoration into original GRT colours repainted for GRTs 20th birthday in Jan 2009. The bus has moved to Alford for museum display. Ex Glasgow B10BLE 62160 (R335 GHS). The remaining Mairs vehicles were transferrred to First legals in early 2009 including its last full size vehicle 20013 (J11 GRT) now a trainer with Aberdeen. Scania 23402 (SV54 FTA) showing the defunct Grampian Executive branding. The original yellow school bus in the Aberdeen fleet, 62228 (YS51 JVD). It normally parks overnight at Kittybrewster. Showing the differences in paint applications is 20008 (542 GRT) and later 23402 (SV54 FTA).

Published in KING STREET DEPOT

]]> Thu Jan 1 2009 First in Aberdeen Fleet List http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c1540167.html Current Fleetlist Updated May 1, 2009. Volvo B7LA/Wright Eclipse Fusion. 10047-52 (W2-7 FAL) 10154-73 (SV05 DXA/C-H/J-M/O/P/R-U/W-Y) Volvo B7TL/Alexander ALX400. 31558 (X132 NSS) 31559 (X771 NSO) 31560-3 (X103/4/36/7 NSS) Volvo B9TL/Wright Eclipse Gemini. 37633-44 (SV08 FXP/R-U/W-Z/FYA-C) Mercedes 709D/Alexander AM. 50411 (K402 HRS) Mercedes 709D/Plaxton Beaver. (Ex First West Yorkshire) 50421 (M232 VWU) Mercedes Vario/Plaxton Cheetah (Ex First Essex) 56002/3 (YN53 VBU/V) Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown. 62122-30 (X601-9 NSS) 62131 (X69 NSS) 62132-40 (X611-9 NSS) 62141 (X944 NSO) 62149-52 (X621-4 NSS) 62153 (X477 NSS) 62154/5 (Y626/7 RSA) Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown (ex First Glasgow). 62156-62 (R330-2/4-7 GHS) Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown. 62163/4 (Y628/9 RSA) 62165 (Y701 RSA) 62166-9 (Y631-4 RSA) Volvo B10BLE/Alexander ALX300 (ex First Glasgow). 62170-6 (W577-9/81-4 RFS) Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown. 62177-81 (Y635-9 RSA) Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown (ex First Manchester). 62182/3 (X683/4 ADK) Volvo B10BLE/Alexander ALX300 (ex First Glasgow). 62184-90 (W585-9/91/2 RFS) Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown (ex First Manchester). 62191/2/5-203 (X685/6/9/91-8 ADK) 62204 (W681 RNA) Volvo B10BLE/Alexander ALX300 (ex First Glasgow). 62205-11 (W593-9 RFS) Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown (ex First Manchester). 62212/3 (W682/3 RNA) Volvo B10BLE/Alexander ALX300 (ex First Glasgow). 62219-23 (W601-5 RFS) 62224 (X606 RFS) 62225-7 (W607-9 RFS) Volvo B7RLE/Wright Eclipse Urban. 69110/22-4 (SV06 GRF/K/U/X) 69125-34 (SV07 EHB-H/J-L) 69265-7 (SV57 EYH-K) 69351-7 (SV08 FHA-G) First Aberdeen Coach Hire Scania K124/Irizar Century. 20008 (542 GRT) Volvo B10M/Plaxton Premiere (ex First Avon & Somerset). 20011 (2 GRT) Volvo B10M/Plaxton Preimere (ex First West Yorkshire). 20012 (N1 GRT) Volvo B10M/Jonckheere Deauville. 20014/5 (LSK 570/1) Scania K124/Irizar Century. 20016 (PSU 627) Scania K113/Irizar Century. 20017/8 (PSU 628/9) Volvo B12B/Jonckheere Mistral. 20021 (FC52 AFC) Volvo B12/Plaxton Excalibur (ex First Coaches). 20204-7 (T704-7 JLD) Dennis Javelin/Plaxton Expressliner (ex First Cymru). 21153 (T103 XDE) Scania K124/Irizar PB 23330 (SV58 ASZ) Scania K114/Irizar Century. 23401/2 (SV54 FRZ/FTA) Leyland Atlantean/Alexander AL Open Top. 31528 (URS 318X) Daimler CVG6/Alexander. 31529 (CRG 325C) Mercedes 709D/Plaxton Beaver (ex First Devon & Cornwall). 50077 (P420 MEH) Mercedes 709D/Alexander Sprint (ex First Scotland East). 50416 (N689 WLS) Mercedes Vario/Plaxton Cheetah (ex First Essex). 56001 (YN53 EBT) 56006/7 (EY54 BRV/X) Mercedes Vario/Optare Nouvelle. 56501 (YX05 AVV) Bluebird AARE/Bluebird (ex First Berkshire). 62228 (YS51 JVD) BMC 1100FE/BMC. 68518/9 (SV54 CFY/Z) ANCILLARY Volvo B10M/Jonckheere Deauville 20013 (J11 GRT) Driver Trainer Scania K113/Plaxton Paramount (ex First Scotland East) 20036 (PSU 314) Learning Bus Leyland Atlantean/Alexander AL (ex First Scotland East) 31577 (XSS 344Y) First Class Ford Transit 90281 (YL53 URD) HERITAGE Mercedes O405G/Alexander Cityranger 10046 (K1 GRT) Leyland Olympian/Alexander RH 31557 (E131 DRS) AEC Swift/Alexander W 62119 (SRS 56K) Withdrawn Leyland Leopard/Alexander AY 62120 (HSO 61N) Withdrawn Albion PMA28/Walker 62121 (RG 1173) RESERVE Leyland Olympian/Alexander RH 31547 (B121 MSO) 31548/9/50/2/4/6 (E122/3/4/6/8/30 DRS) Friday 1 May 2009: Current Fleetlist Updated May 1, 2009. Volvo B7LA/Wright Eclipse Fusion. 10047-52 (W2-7 FAL) 10154-73 (SV05 DXA/C-H/J-M/O/P/R-U/W-Y) Volvo B7TL/Alexander ALX400. 31558 (X132 NSS) 31559 (X771 NSO) 31560-3 (X103/4/36/7 NSS) Volvo B9TL/Wright Eclipse Gemini. 37633-44 (SV08 FXP/R-U/W-Z/FYA-C) Mercedes 709D/Alexander AM. 50411 (K402 HRS) Mercedes 709D/Plaxton Beaver. (Ex First West Yorkshire) 50421 (M232 VWU) Mercedes Vario/Plaxton Cheetah (Ex First Essex) 56002/3 (YN53 VBU/V) Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown. 62122-30 (X601-9 NSS) 62131 (X69 NSS) 62132-40 (X611-9 NSS) 62141 (X944 NSO) 62149-52 (X621-4 NSS) 62153 (X477 NSS) 62154/5 (Y626/7 RSA) Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown (ex First Glasgow). 62156-62 (R330-2/4-7 GHS) Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown. 62163/4 (Y628/9 RSA) 62165 (Y701 RSA) 62166-9 (Y631-4 RSA) Volvo B10BLE/Alexander ALX300 (ex First Glasgow). 62170-6 (W577-9/81-4 RFS) Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown. 62177-81 (Y635-9 RSA) Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown (ex First Manchester). 62182/3 (X683/4 ADK) Volvo B10BLE/Alexander ALX300 (ex First Glasgow). 62184-90 (W585-9/91/2 RFS) Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown (ex First Manchester). 62191/2/5-203 (X685/6/9/91-8 ADK) 62204 (W681 RNA) Volvo B10BLE/Alexander ALX300 (ex First Glasgow). 62205-11 (W593-9 RFS) Volvo B10BLE/Wright Renown (ex First Manchester). 62212/3 (W682/3 RNA) Volvo B10BLE/Alexander ALX300 (ex First Glasgow). 62219-23 (W601-5 RFS) 62224 (X606 RFS) 62225-7 (W607-9 RFS) Volvo B7RLE/Wright Eclipse Urban. 69110/22-4 (SV06 GRF/K/U/X) 69125-34 (SV07 EHB-H/J-L) 69265-7 (SV57 EYH-K) 69351-7 (SV08 FHA-G) First Aberdeen Coach Hire Scania K124/Irizar Century. 20008 (542 GRT) Volvo B10M/Plaxton Premiere (ex First Avon & Somerset). 20011 (2 GRT) Volvo B10M/Plaxton Preimere (ex First West Yorkshire). 20012 (N1 GRT) Volvo B10M/Jonckheere Deauville. 20014/5 (LSK 570/1) Scania K124/Irizar Century. 20016 (PSU 627) Scania K113/Irizar Century. 20017/8 (PSU 628/9) Volvo B12B/Jonckheere Mistral. 20021 (FC52 AFC) Volvo B12/Plaxton Excalibur (ex First Coaches). 20204-7 (T704-7 JLD) Dennis Javelin/Plaxton Expressliner (ex First Cymru). 21153 (T103 XDE) Scania K124/Irizar PB 23330 (SV58 ASZ) Scania K114/Irizar Century. 23401/2 (SV54 FRZ/FTA) Leyland Atlantean/Alexander AL Open Top. 31528 (URS 318X) Daimler CVG6/Alexander. 31529 (CRG 325C) Mercedes 709D/Plaxton Beaver (ex First Devon & Cornwall). 50077 (P420 MEH) Mercedes 709D/Alexander Sprint (ex First Scotland East). 50416 (N689 WLS) Mercedes Vario/Plaxton Cheetah (ex First Essex). 56001 (YN53 EBT) 56006/7 (EY54 BRV/X) Mercedes Vario/Optare Nouvelle. 56501 (YX05 AVV) Bluebird AARE/Bluebird (ex First Berkshire). 62228 (YS51 JVD) BMC 1100FE/BMC. 68518/9 (SV54 CFY/Z) ANCILLARY Volvo B10M/Jonckheere Deauville 20013 (J11 GRT) Driver Trainer Scania K113/Plaxton Paramount (ex First Scotland East) 20036 (PSU 314) Learning Bus Leyland Atlantean/Alexander AL (ex First Scotland East) 31577 (XSS 344Y) First Class Ford Transit 90281 (YL53 URD) HERITAGE Mercedes O405G/Alexander Cityranger 10046 (K1 GRT) Leyland Olympian/Alexander RH 31557 (E131 DRS) AEC Swift/Alexander W 62119 (SRS 56K) Withdrawn Leyland Leopard/Alexander AY 62120 (HSO 61N) Withdrawn Albion PMA28/Walker 62121 (RG 1173) RESERVE Leyland Olympian/Alexander RH 31547 (B121 MSO) 31548/9/50/2/4/6 (E122/3/4/6/8/30 DRS)

One of seven B7LEs delivered in 2008 (the remaining three of the batch of ten being delivered in late 2007). 69303 (SV08 FHC) had yet to enter service when seen here. Later renumbered 69353.

Published in KING STREET DEPOT

]]> Fri May 1 2009 First Aberdeen 2008 http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c1477990.html The year of demolition for King Street depot. Tuesday 1 January 2008: The year of demolition for King Street depot.

Despite only having achieved a few days part service in 2008, 10046 (K1 GRT) the unique Mercedes O405 artic remains part of the main fleet. The oldest bus still in use with First in March was Olympian 31547 (B121 MSO) seen here next to the temporary fuel wash built in the depot yard. B10BLE 62144 (R590 SBA) was severely damaged by fire in September 2007 while on service 13. While the insurance debate continues a number of parts continue to be cannibalised from it. Volvo B7TL 31563 (X137 NSS) received this advertising scheme for UCAN in January. The Mairs operation will be absorbed into the main fleet from the end of March. The last vehicle taxed in Mairs livery was this short Dennis Javelin 20027 (LSK 530). B10BLE 62135 (X614 NSS) lost its orange band on repaint in December 2005 but regained it in June 2007 but as yet without lettering. BMC 68518 (SV54 CFY) prior to leaving for its dedicated school duty. Olympian 31550 (E124 DRS) alongside Cansco wrap B7TL 31558 (X132 NSS). B10BLE 62209 (W597 RFS) had deputised for an artic on the Red Line the previous day as seen by the destination display. Early morning condensation on B7LA 10166 (SV05 DXP). Scania K124IB4 20016 (PSU 627) was new as R3 FAL then R527 RSS. B10M 20013 (J11 GRT) is the part time driver trainer replacing Van Hool bodied 20010. B10BLE 62150 (X622 NSS) shows off the new service 21 branding launched in April 2008 as part of the network changes. 69303 (SV08 FHC) with Yellow Line 23 branding ready for service. The Yellow line B10BLEs are being debranded as a result. With Renault R340 tow truck 90133 out of use following corrosion, all tow work is now being done by local firm Norscot. Unique in the Grampian Coaches fleet is this Optare bodied Mercedes Vario 56501 (YX05 AVV). Atlantean 31577 (XSS 344Y) is used as the First Class Anti Vandalism unit available for hire by schools. Olympian 31557 (E131 DRS) is fitted with powerblinds, the only such vehicle in the Aberdeen fleet. Displaying the revised style of Green Line 12 branding intoroduced in April 2008 to replace the old Metro vesrion of 2001 is B10BLE 62123 (X602 NSS). the Salmon Line was introduced in 2008 dueing the service changes for serice 14/14A. It is carried by ex Blue Line 17 B10BLE 62138 (X617 NSS). B10M 20019 (M1 GRT) shows off the silver Grampian Exceutive livery of the early FirstBus livery still carries by three B10Ms at the start of 2008. Volvo B12 20205 (T705 JLD) still carries the First Coaches lettering and phone number from its time in Bristol. It has been in Aberdeen for over a year now. Bluebird AARE school bus 62228 (YS51 JVH) is used on a dedicated school contract with the Robert Gordon College. It has previously operated with West Yorkshire and Berkshire units. showing off the new style Yellow Line 23 branding with Sheddocksley rather than the previous Summerhill terminal name is B7RLE 69302 (SV08 FHB). Olympian 31556 (E130 DRS) is a spiffer bus used for school runs. B7TL 31561 (X104 NSS) carries this offside megaside advert for the SPL. Plaxton Paramount bodied Scania K113 20036 (PSU 314) is used as the Learning Bus touring locally offering learning classes. It was new to Lowland as 104 (H104 TSH). Olympian 31553 (E127 DRS) is the unique member of the batch of Olympians to carry a Hanover dot matrix display unit. B7TL 31560 (X103 NSS) along with Atlantean 31528 (URS 318X) which is now the back up vehicle to the City Sightseeing tour, fitted with a speaker system for the 2008 season. The first B9TL to be delivered to King Street Depot was 37637 (SV08 FXU), part of a batch of 12 to convert service 17/17X to double deck operation. Olympian 31554 (E128 DRS) career ended in June 2008 when it struck the canopy of the Shell petrol station in King Street attempting to loop back on to route. Due to be scrapped. Showing off the deifferent coloured route branding is 62137 (X616 NSS) in Orange Line 16/16A colours, 62129 (X608 NSS) in Pink Line 13/13A, 69307 (SV08 FHG) in Yellow Line 23 and 69122 (SV06 GRK) in Lime Green Line 5. Nearside view of BMC 68519 (SV54 CFZ). Mercedes 709D 50411 (K402 HRS) is starting to fail as it nears the end of its working life. Intended as the service 24 vehicle it is more often on the lighter shuttle service between King Street Depot and Pittodrie for drivers. The Park & Ride branding was updated in may 2008 to include this bolder applcation of the logos as shown here. Olympian 31552 (E126 DRS) has been a spiffer bus for the latter part of its career and is is the dedicated Dyce to Newmachar schools bus. A rear shot of Olympian 31557 (E131 DRS) showing a touch of GRT green where the Olympian badge has been removed. Rear view of B9TL 37637 (SV08 FXU). It is destined to receive Blue Line 17/17X branding. Offside shot of 37639 (SV08 FXX). Scania K113 20009 (M106 PKS) has finally enjoyed a tidy up into coach colours haveing carried the same allover white livery since its Lowland days. B9TL 37636 (SV08 FXT) at the depot. Showing the different Irizar styling on the front of these two Scania coaches. Nearest is the mlost modern, 23402 (SV54 FTA). One time Wessex National B10M 20011 (2 GRT ex L65 UOU). The new B9TL are the first deckers to carry wooden advert frames. 37633 (SV08 FXP) shows these off.

Published in KING STREET DEPOT

]]> Tue Jan 1 2008 King Street Depot Redevelopment http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c1355735.html Images showing the work to redevelop King Street Depot into the new Global HQ for FirstGroup incorporating a new Aberdeen depot. Wednesday 22 August 2007: Images showing the work to redevelop King Street Depot into the new Global HQ for FirstGroup incorporating a new Aberdeen depot.

One of the first signs of the redevelopment was the arrival of these two temporary fuel tanks as the current fueling area is due for early demolition. To minimise the amount of vehicles that will need to be stored elsewhere during the redevelopment the disposal stock is being collected by Campbell Commercials for scrap including 50414 (K408 HRS). Fleetnames are being painted out prior to collection. The heritage fleet is being moved to a secure location in Aberdeenshire during the renovations. 90133 (D304 RYS) is seen here preparing Mercedes O317 EFP 521T for transfer. The horsebox behind is being used to collect spare parts which have been obtained to help assist restoration of the fleet. The chassis of a former fire engine. Its fate is apparently yet to be decided. It will need to be removed shortly to allow this shed to be demolished. Daimler CVG6 WTS 937A (ex DRS 360) will be one of the last vehicles to move as work remains active in restoring the vehicle. Ex Krefeld EFP 521T on tow about to leave. The broken up chassis to the left may all that remains of Aberdeen Corporation DRS 369 (ex 169) a Daimler CVG6. The preservation workshops have been vacated to allow contractors to setup up office space from which to manage the redevelopment. As such Leyland Tiger Cub GRS 10E was moved to the hanger shed after years of storage. A view of the depot entrance with signage up for the contractors who are now occupying the depot. The old tram sheds were vacated in late 2007 ready for demolition. Once the main tram works latterly for maintenance on the main bus fleet the main tram shed is now empty. The revised layout of the yard showing buses queued up to enter the temporary wash and fuel pump. Buses lined up ready to heady down for Pittodrie for overnight parking. B10BLE 62210 (W598 RFS) passes through the new bus wash. Around 70 buses will be stored here once demolition work begins. Buses to be parked up at Pittodrie overnight are screened up with AFC on the destination as seen here to allow shuttle drivers to identifiy them. The coachpark at Aberdeen Football Clubs stadium at Pittodrie is being used to park buses overnight while the depot is under redevelopment at King Street. Initially 20 buses were parked at Pittodrie while the new bus wash took over the main yard. When these shots were taken in April around 40 buses were being stored after the sheds were closed down for demolition. Buses are normally gone by 8am but on Sundays and Bank holidays the fleet remains here. An early morning shot of the main hanger sheds with a wide collection of buses on the day demolition of the sheds was to begin. Work begins on the old hangers. Vehicles squeezed in to the rear yard early morning. Depot space is at a premium while demolition is under way. The tram sheeds. 50 years to the week the last tram left here, demolition begins. Work begins on stripping the old battery shop/uniform store. Work on demolition is staged due to the existance of low level asbestos. Fenced off ready for demolition. First to go was the roof much to the distaste of seaguls! The wall panels are removed. Engineering work on this B7LA is undertaken in the yard due to limited workshop space during the works. The old fuel and wash bay. Early morning line up in front of the sheds. Another early morning shot. Builders vehicles are now a common site in the depot. With the sheds nearly demolished work progressed on to the hanger. The skeletal remains of the hanger. The old pumps, now open to daylight but not for long! The modified pits replacing the now demolished inspection pit in the old shed. The hanger begins to disappear. The last fragments lof the hanger prior to full demolition. Demolition work begins on the tramsheds. The offices at St Peters Street are also being demolished. The roof comes off the tram sheds. Only rumble is left of the old hanger sheds. Hoarding now covers much of the old row E area to allow the foundations of the old sheds to be torn up. The tramsheds start to disappear. The tram shed in its latter stages of demolition. Work progresses on taking down the old paintshop. Foundations for the new bus depot begin. More vehicles move to Pittodrie for parking. Decker parking moves to Pittodrie. The St Peter Street offices are demolished.

Published in KING STREET DEPOT

]]> Wed Aug 22 2007 First Aberdeen 2007 http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c1250333.html A final look at King Street Depot before demolition begins to make way for the new depot and global HQ. Monday 1 January 2007: A final look at King Street Depot before demolition begins to make way for the new depot and global HQ.

BMC 1100FE 68518/9 (SV54 CFY/Z) joined the fleet in 2004 for dedicated school contract work. 20204 (T704 JLD) one of four First Coaches Volvo B12T tri-axle coaches sent to Aberdeen for Shell contract work. These were originally new to Berkshire for Rail Air shuttles. Ex Wessex B10M 20011 (2 GRT) originally L65 UOU and Mairs Coaches ex Midland Bluebird Mercedes 709D 50420 (J778 WLS). Plaxton Excalibur bodied B12T 20207 (T707 JLD). Bluebird AARE school bus 62228 (YS51 JVD) has had two spells in the fleet, the latest on return from Berkshire in 2003 for Robert Gordon College contract work. A line up of rears including 20205 (T705 JLD), 31563 (X137 NSS) and 20013 (J11 GRT). The silver executive livery which first emerged in 1996 survived in 2007 on a handfull of Volvo coaches. 20021 (FC52 AFC) still carried it when seen in March 2007. A new addtion to the Grampian Coaches fleet in March 2007 was this ex Essex Plaxton Cheetah bodied Mercedes-Benz Vario 56001 (YN53 VBT). Mairs Coaches B10M 20029 (TSU 651) new to Aberdeen as F87 CBD and Grampian Executive Scania K113 20017 (PSU 628) originally P2 GRT. Olympian 31555 (E129 DRS) was withdrawn in January following accident damage and is now being cannibalised. Next to it is new B7RLE 69127. Delivery of the first of 10 new Volvo B7RLE Wright Eclipse Urbans began in March 2007. 69127 is seen here with privately preserved PA171 (CWG 273) and stored Olympian 31543 (B116 MSO). A Volvo B9TL chassis was brought to the depot in connection with UK Bus Engineering Apprentice Awards in March 2007. Kirkpatrick of Deeside finally came to an end in 207 when its last two buses were sold off following a year in storage. 50426 and 50427 (H35 USO) seen here were collected by a dealer a few weeks after this photograph. Volvo B7RLE 69128. The batch are expected to enter service in late Spring with some branded for the Overground 22. The original batch of Reeve Burgess Beavers have survived much better than younger Alexander examples. 50415 (H36 USO) even enjoyed some service work in 2007 on service 14A following a shortage of buses in the main fleet. Olympian 31554 (E128 DRS) has been in storage during Spring 2007 following engine failure. Most of the 1993 batch of Mercedes 709D Beaver Buses have now been scrapped. 50414 (K408 HRS) has been stored at King Street Depot withdrawn since Autumn 2006. B7RLE 69131 showing off its centre emergency exit part of new EU construction and use rules. Red Line branded Volvo B7LA artic 10161 (SV05 DXJ). Former part time trainer B10M 20010 (B122 DMA) has been withdrawn for some time now and is in storage pending a decision on its future. Olympian 31544 (B117 MSO) remains in storage having come out of service in 2007, currently part of the FirstGroup strategic reserve fleet. The Scania fleet regained cherished registration marks during 2007 after initial proposals to replace them. 20017 was P2 GRT then P578 FRS and now PSU 628. The unique X registered ALX300 62224 (X606 RFS) on the steam jenny. Atlantean 31528 (URS 318X) enjoyed a brief run on the City Sightseeing Aberdeen tour prior to the arrival of an ex Ensign Metrobus. It has returned to relative inactive use since then. AEC Swift 62119 (SRS 56K) has been in storage for a number of years and will be moved to external storage during the redevelopment of King Street Depot once it fuel pipe fault is resolved or towing can be organised. Olympian 31543 (B116 MSO) has been in undercover storage since summer 2006 as part of the FirstGroup reserve fleet although it has suffered minor cannibalisation. Atlantean 31577 (XSS 344Y) is the First Class Anti-Vandlism unit available for hires by local schools. Daimler CVG6 has been a preserved vehicle longer than it was in service. It is starting to shows signs of tiredness and will require a further restoration shortly. By August 20021 (FC52 AFC) had recived corporate coach colours but retained Grampian Executive branding due to its public role as the official Aberdeen Football Club team coach. To meet new DDA legislation the electronic destination displays on buses were reprogrammed in April 2007 to appaear in lower case and with static final destinations. 10048 (W3 FAL) shows the new arrangment. Aberdeen ditched the use of local IDs for internal use in 2007. 10050 (W5 FAL) would have been referred to as 50 under the local scheme. BMC 68518 (SV54 CFY) is a purpose built school bus for specific private school use, Olympian 31552 (E126 DRS) is used on public school contracts as well as normal service work. New to London based Travellers as N600 TCC, 20012 came north to Aberdeen with Mairs as a Citylink coach. After Mairs ended Citylink work it had a spell with First West Yorkshire before rejoining Aberdeen for the Grampian coach fleet as N1 GRT. Ex Wessex 20019 (M1 GRT) carries the cherished registration mark new to Optare Prisma 515. The mark was retained by Aberdeen when the Mercedes O405 fleet was transferred south in 2001 to be replaced by Volvo B10BLEs. The registration is all that remains after the Prisma was scrapped in 2007 following fire damage in Manchester.

Published in KING STREET DEPOT

]]> Mon Jan 1 2007 Off Route http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c1080197.html "The day job", a collection showing vehicles hard at work away from the depot. Tuesday 1 January 2008: "The day job", a collection showing vehicles hard at work away from the depot.

This May 2006 view of 10046 (K1 GRT) was to be its last outing of the year. After months in storage with mechanical problems it was finally rested when its tax expired at the end of the year. However the failure of Olympian 31540 saw it retaxed and returned to service in February 2007. A double demise. First withdrew service 28 in June 2006 ending bus operation in the Jesmond estate after 13 years. Normally a 709D operation lack of minibus availaility lead to Olympian operation in its final weeks. 31555 (E129 DRS) seen here, was to meet its fate in January 2007 after collision damage brought about its withdrawal. The last SBG triangular screened bus with Stagecoach Bluebird was 14452 (B352 LSO) now placed into storage at Buckie. Seen here during 2006 making a rare foray to Inverurie on the 307. First relaunched service 5 in June as the Lime Green Line 5 adding four new Volvo B7RLEs to the service ousting the last of the Olympians from the route. This is 69110 (SV06 GRF) in Torry. Twenty more are on order for 2007. Aberdeens bus network faced its biggest ever reliability challenge when major roadworks begun in South Market Street. Impacting on all major bus routes from July 2006 the delays continued throughout the second part of the year. First 62160 (R335 GHS) is seen here being delayed on its way to Cove. In August a man was charged after breaking into a Stagecoach Olympian at Guild Street Bus Station and letting the handbreak off. The bus rolled across the street destroying the RS McColls. First B10BLE 62213 (W683 RNA) is seen here in front of the damaged shop. First Leyland Atlantean 31528 (URS 318X) made a rare appearance out on the streets of Aberdeen for the 2006 Doors Open Day free shuttle. Seen here in Broad Street. Both First and Stageoach have been transferring tri-axle vehicles to the North East. Bluebird 13508 is one of two to carry Swoops livery. On the 28th February 2008, the original Bluebird AARE yellow school bus 68000 (Q275 LBA) came to Aberdeen to promote the use of alternative travel to the school run as part of a UK tour. It was new to FirstGroup in 2000 but was only registered in 2007 and converted to an exhibition unit. The B9TLs converted service 17/17X to decker use again after a period of 13 years using single deckers. This is 37641 (SV08 FXZ). Showing of the new leather interiors being trialled on the 2008 batch of 12 Volvo B9TLs.

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]]> Tue Jan 1 2008 Depot Views http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c1076341.html A selection of shots focusing on the depot itself rather than the buses. Wednesday 1 April 1914: A selection of shots focusing on the depot itself rather than the buses.

The St Peter Street building became the offices for Autotruck following GRTs acquisition of them. Mairs Coaches and FirstGroup have subsequently used these offices. These offices are scheduled for demolition in the next two years to make way for the new FirstGroup offices. St Peter Street has since been closed off to through traffic. An idea of the variety seen in the early 90's at King Street. An ex Midland Bluebird Leopard with Mairs, AEC Reliance 14 (LRG 14G) under restoration, Bluebird 159 (KRS 529V) still in Northern colours, Volvo B10M 89 (PSU 968) in the shortlived Caledonian Express colours and a native Olympian. General scene of the tramshed with Atlantean 247 (DSA 247T) under repair, Kirkpatrick Ford R1114 LGE 281P and just visible at the back Leyland Redline van WRS 269S. A view of the entrance to what was Advocates Road in May 2006. The historic barracks used as the offices for First Aberdeen and FirstGroup again in May 2006. Main view of the depot yard dominated by Volvo B10BLEs which have been a feature of Aberdeen since late 2000. A general shot of the yard showing the flats built on the southern side of the depot replacing an old haulage yard. A view from the back of the depot. The £3 day ticket slogans can be seen on the side of this B10BLE, ticket prices rose sharply in 2006 due to the ever increasing cost of fuel and insurance. Another look at the depot rear. Despite the close proximety of housing King Street Depot has always got on well with its neighbours. Vehicles are parked overnight in the depot in a system to maxmise depot space. Artics and long wheel base Olympians are parked at the rear as evidenced here. Grampian Fire Brigades central station can be seen here on ground to the rear of the depot that used to be playing fields. Leaning Leylands! Although they have developed a sag as the years have gone on First have retrimmed and refloored these Olympians. Old Aberdeen sits behind the depot on the hill, the historical part of Aberdeen served by service 20. The Hanger shed is used to house the coach fleet in the middle and the heritage fleet along the sides over the pits. AEC Reliance 40 (PRG 40J) is at the front with Atlantean 209 (ORS 209R) and AEC Swift 22 (JRS 22F) behnd, all ex Aberdeen and in private ownership. A view of the entrance to the depot from within with Anti Vandlaism Bus 31577 in shot. The shelters to the keft were originall used to promote new style shelters and bus stop information in the 1990's but are now smoking shelters following the banning of smokng in the workplace in March 2006. There used to be a through road by the depot called Advocates Road. This is all that remains of it beyond the gate as the depot has crossed over to the opposite side as the bus fleet expanded and as the trams were withdrawn. The depot is still referred to as Advocates Road by some. A mixture of vehicles, three Alexander ALX300 bodied B10BLEs plus ex Midland Bluebird Mercedes 709D 50420 (J778 WLS) and Mairs 50415 (H36 USO). Traces of the depots time as a barracks for the Gordon Highanders remain today. The depot was reputedly haunted by the ghost of a soldier for many years until renovation in the 1980's. An effort has always been made to keep the gardens at the front of the depot presentable. Trams would enter the depot by this entrance until their demise in 1958. The opening has been blocked off. Under the plans for the new depot the barracks would remain but all other buildings here will be demolished for the new offices.

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]]> Wed Apr 1 1914 Aberdeen Corporation Transport http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c1075499.html Aberdeen Corporation Transport Department purchased the assets of Aberdeen District Tramways in 1898. Electrifying the former horse drawn tramway it operated a network of trams across Aberdeen from a variety of depots. Gradually it started introducing buses from 1920 with the last trams being withdrawn in 1958 and the entire bus fleet being housed at King Street Depot from that point. A green, white and grey fleet livery evolved into green and cream. Thursday 1 January 1970: Aberdeen Corporation Transport Department purchased the assets of Aberdeen District Tramways in 1898. Electrifying the former horse drawn tramway it operated a network of trams across Aberdeen from a variety of depots. Gradually it started introducing buses from 1920 with the last trams being withdrawn in 1958 and the entire bus fleet being housed at King Street Depot from that point. A green, white and grey fleet livery evolved into green and cream.

An unidentified Leyland Tiger Cub at the depot (one of twelve new in 1966/7). While most were scrapped a number made their way to Shetland for further service and eventually one (10) was repatriated for restoration. Regent 30 (BRS 530) shows off the grey roof livery which was phased out from 1964. A 1947 Weymann bodied AEC Regent (Aberdeen standardised its fleet on AEC and Daimler). 31 (BRS 531) lasted until 1967 when sold for scrap. This late 1960's shot shows three Weymann bodied Daimler CVG6's including 85 (DRS 356) new as 156. Note the houses behind the yard which were later demolished to be replaced by a car show room following discovery of subsidence.

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]]> Thu Jan 1 1970 City Sightseeing Aberdeen http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c1047981.html Open top bus tours of Aberdeen recommenced in May 2006. Service 80 commenced operation with Aberdeen City Council subsidising City Sightseeing to operate this daily service throughout the summer. The driver is provided by First Aberdeen who also garage the vehicle at King Street Depot. Saturday 20 May 2006: Open top bus tours of Aberdeen recommenced in May 2006. Service 80 commenced operation with Aberdeen City Council subsidising City Sightseeing to operate this daily service throughout the summer. The driver is provided by First Aberdeen who also garage the vehicle at King Street Depot.

Rear view of Metrobus 224 (WYW 24T) showing its City Sightseeing Aberdeen branding. First Aberdeen used to operate its own open top tour but replaced it with a closed top coach tour then withdrew it a few years back. City Sightseeing are using this ex London MCW Metrobus on the Aberdeen tour during summer 2006. 224 (WYW 24T) is seen here in the old tram shed. Ensign bought the DAF from Blue Bus shipping it to New York for a sightseeing tour that failed to materialise. It was then shipped back to the UK before going to Florence, Italy. New to Hughes-DAf as a demonstrator, M647 RCP first operated for what is now First London before going to Blue Bus, Horwich. On return to the UK it operated tours in Cambridge then brighton before coming to Aberdeen for the 2008 season. The offide door for New York is barred off as seen here.

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]]> Sat May 20 2006 First Aberdeen http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c1006566.html As part of a rebranding prcess in 1998, FirstBus plc became FirstGroup plc and Grampian Transport became First Aberdeen Ltd with the Aberdeen name carried alongside the First name on the sides of buses until that was phased out from 2001. The rebranding procss also saw the traditional Aberdeen green and cream colours replaced by the new First corprate liveries. Friday 27 February 1998: As part of a rebranding prcess in 1998, FirstBus plc became FirstGroup plc and Grampian Transport became First Aberdeen Ltd with the Aberdeen name carried alongside the First name on the sides of buses until that was phased out from 2001. The rebranding procss also saw the traditional Aberdeen green and cream colours replaced by the new First corprate liveries.

Olympian 122 (E122 DRS) is seen screened up for school service 769 which served Blackburn and Bankhead taking First buses into Aberdeenshire. Renault R340 recovery wagon 90133 (D304 RYS) shows what it can do pulling an ex Glasgow B10BLE.

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]]> Fri Feb 27 1998 Just Visiting! http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c961404.html King Street Depot has always welcomed vehicles for other fleets. Whether its been coaches taking a break from touring or express coaches staying overnight there has been plenty of variety over the years. Sunday 1 January 2006: King Street Depot has always welcomed vehicles for other fleets. Whether its been coaches taking a break from touring or express coaches staying overnight there has been plenty of variety over the years.

Replacing the Cruickshank coach on on overseas charity missions was this former Midland Bluebird Leopard 345 (FSU 335). Reregistered by Grampian it received Aberdeen mark ESA 422T. Long before Megabus, Stagecoach operated coach services in competition with Citylink. These were taken over by National Express in 1989 and rebranded Caldenonian Express and operated by Tayside Travel Services. King Street Depot played host to visiting Caledonian Express coaches after Grampian became an official contractor. Grampian shared the National Express 372 (Aberdeen-Middlesborough) service with Durham Travel Services. The regular Durham vehicle was Expressliner G31 TCU seen during one of its many overnight stays at King Street. This one time Alexander (Fife) and latterly Lowland Daimler Fleetline came to Aberdeen in 2003 as part of the furore sourrounding the Iraq war. This Irizar bodied Scania demonstrator was at King Street Depot during May 2006. Trathens Van Hool bodied Volvo LSK 498 deputises for a Neoplan on the National Express diagram, seen here in May 2006. National Express coaches have been a feature of King Street Depot for some time, indeed Grampian used to provide coaches for their Scottish operation, Caledonian Express. Now Trathens Neoplan Skyliners grace the depot between duties, this is YN51 XMU. Rosehearty based Simpsons - not the one purchased by Alexander (Northern) - are a subcontractor of First and there coaches can often be seen at King Street as seen here by R626 FCT a Mercedes 412D. Forfar based JP Mini Coaces were a subcontractor of First on coach and contract work and have supplemented their fleet with several surplus coaches from the main Aberdeen fleet although this Mercedes XIL 6473 came to Forfar from another independent. National Express liveried SF04 MWX of Bruce Coaches, Salsburg. New to Leciester City Transport in 1964, this Leyland Titan, 80 HBC, spent many years in Aberdeen wth BP as an exhibition unit then with Aberdeen City Council. It was often stored at King Street Depot. Subsequently sold and reregistered it was last seen in Cornwall in 2003. This Bedford coach came from the now defunct Cruickshank of Ellon operations. It was apparently intended for charity conversion to go overseas. This Lothian Atlantean GFS 412N came to King Street Depot in 1992 as part of a tour of Scotland. After the end of its tour it was used as a hut with Lothians York sightseeing operation. Scottish Arts Councils Roe bodied purpose built exhibition unit Olympian TFS 623Y. New to Cumberland, this ECW bodied Leopard came to Scotland as part of Stagecoach entry into the Inverness bus market. Donated to charity by Stagecoach it spent a few years in the North East in this role for the Banffshire Wildlife Rehabilitation Trust before passing to Teen Challenge, Glasgow. Grampian Regional Council (and later Aberdeen CC) 9677 (H864 TSA) a Mellor bodied Mercedes 609D. It was a long serving social work minibus finally coming out of service in June 2006. GRT were considering bidding to take on the care of some council vehicles at one point before focusing on UK bus expansion.

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]]> Sun Jan 1 2006 Kirkpatrick of Deeside http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c956278.html The Banchory based independent owned by Tom Kirkpatrick was acquired by GRT in 1989. Though the Banchory depot was retained initially, vehicles would often come to King Street Depot for maintenance and eventually in 2002 the remaining fleet was reallocated to King Street. Vehicles continued to operate Banchory tendered work from king Street until the final vehicles were withdrawn in 2006. Friday 21 July 1989: The Banchory based independent owned by Tom Kirkpatrick was acquired by GRT in 1989. Though the Banchory depot was retained initially, vehicles would often come to King Street Depot for maintenance and eventually in 2002 the remaining fleet was reallocated to King Street. Vehicles continued to operate Banchory tendered work from king Street until the final vehicles were withdrawn in 2006.

Bedford VAS5 PRE 205R was new to Staffordshire independent Hodson & Sons and came to Kirkpatrick in 1989 via a number of different independents. Repainted into the new Kirkpatrick colours it survived until 1993. It was sold to Emblings, Guyhirn and was latterly out of service with Judd, Manea. New to Browns of Macduff and later passing to Strathdee, Inverurie this Volvo B58 joined Kirkpatrick in 1986. It was seconded to Grampian Transport in 1991 for use as a part time driver trainer. Numbered 40 and reregistered ESK 955 it lasted until 2001 when sold to Aberdeen College. Unused it passed to Jack Dunsmore, Larkhall for scrap by which point it had reverted to HSE 696V. Leopard FDF 275T was a former National Travel (South West) coach which came via Lightfoot, Winsford. It was reregistered WSU 447 and repainted into this new Kirkpatrick livery that incorporated the GRT thistle, the first vehicle such treated. It was later numbered 902 and reregistered ESA 451T before being scrapped in 1995. Originally City Sprinter ZMR467 with SMT, this Alexander converted Renault S56 joined the Kirkpatrick fleet as 910 (E467 JSG). After coming out of service with Kirkpatrick it passed to a Montrose owner being withdrawn in 2001. A pair of Leyland Tigers here. Nearest the camera is 911 (YJF 17Y), new to Leicester CityBus as its 17 and still carrying its Citycoach of Leicester livery. It later became LSU 917. Next to it is 905 (781 GRT) new to Grampian as 55 (D55 VSO) the original Grampian Grand Tourer later sold to Fisher Tours and reregistered RJI 2719. This Plaxton bodied Ford R1114 shows the colours used by Tom Kirkpatrick. This vehicle was quickly withdrawn after GRT acquisition and is seen here awaiting its fate at King Street Depot. It later became a mobile cafe and survived as late as 1992. New to Hastings & District C805 SDY came to Kirkpatrick via Southdown, Bluebird, Midland and Mairs joining Kirkpatrick as 908 in 1993. After four years service it passed to Dunsmore for scrap. Kirkpatrick of Deeside came to an end in 2006 with the withdrawal of the final two buses. 50427 (H35 USO) was a Mercedes-Benz 709D new to Grampian as 35 (later 435). It was collected for scrap in April 2007. 50426/7 (H39/5 USO) were in storage at King Street following the end of Kirkpatrick. Both were sold for scrap in 2007. They retained the allover ivory livery used for the standard coaches of the three coaching fleets Grampian, Kirkpatrick and Mairs with a different coloured

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]]> Fri Jul 21 1989 Mairs Coaches http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c952465.html The Bucksburn independent GE Mair Hire Services was acquired in 1987 and quickly moved to a new depot at Dyce. It initially operated a large amount of vehicles on oil related contracts and school work plus the Aberdeen tendered service 57 to the Beach. The fleet has been slimmed down over the years and moved into King Street Depot in 1994. Today it operates a small fleet of minis and coaches on local contract work. Sunday 6 December 1987: The Bucksburn independent GE Mair Hire Services was acquired in 1987 and quickly moved to a new depot at Dyce. It initially operated a large amount of vehicles on oil related contracts and school work plus the Aberdeen tendered service 57 to the Beach. The fleet has been slimmed down over the years and moved into King Street Depot in 1994. Today it operates a small fleet of minis and coaches on local contract work.

When GRT acquired the Mairs fleet in 1987, there were no two similar vehicles in the fleet. Seen withdrawn in storage at King Street Depot is DSO 237T a Unicar bodied Bedford YMT that had been new to Mairs in 1979. In its early GRT years, Mairs operated a vey small non PSV fleet. Latterly this Volkswagon Transporter, B169 FHR, was the only vehicle and was used for a while on a school contract to Oldmachar Academy. Mairs won a number of Citylink contracts from Stagecoach Bluebird before those contracts returned to that operator in 2000. This was 703 (PSU 626) new to Parks of Hamilton as F986 HGE. After leaving Mairs it passed through GRTs English fleets and is now with Hiltons travel. Latterly 719 (FSU 333) in the Mairs fleet, this Leyland Tiger had been new to Western SMT as L133 (SSJ 133Y) coming to Mairs via Midland Bluebird. It was reregistered CSO 463Y and sold to Aberdeen College for us as a shed. New to Alexander (Midland) as MPE257 (YMS 257R). Regeregistered to 131 ASV by Midland and then to SSS 836R while in storage for Midland at King Street Depot. SSS 836R was reregistered to LSK 573 by Mairs and then to SSS 853R prior to going for scrap to Dunsmore in 1994. This Robin Hood bodied Merecdes L608D B490 CGN was new to Coachmaster in 1985 coming to Mairs via Coliison, Stonehouse in 1989. It was briefly numbered 716 prior to being sold for scrap in 1994. New to Cleveland Transit in 1986 this Northern Counties bodied Dodge S56 came to Mairs via Leicester Citybus in 1994. D320 DEF left a year later for scrap having only ever been used for cannibalisation. New as D315 VVV to West Kingsdown Coaches this Jonckheere bodied B10M joined Mairs in 1989 quickly reregistered XWL 539. XWL 539 was due to be traded in for a newer B10M but was instead saved to work new Scottish Citylink diagrams won. It was numbered 701 and reregistered D885 BRS prior to moving to Leicester Citybus in 1997. It has since passed through many independent operators and was operating in Preston in 2008. GRT bought a batch of Mercedes-Benz L608Ds from Stagecoach in 1992. Most went to Midland Bluebird but found their way to Mairs eventually. Starting life with Hastings & District in 1986, coming north to Aberdeen through Stagecoach to Bluebird. GRT bought many of this batch for Midland but D232 UHC came direct to Mairs gaining the original GRT version of Mairs livery. Its sisters followed from Midland with the later version. After six years service, 717 was scrapped in 1998. The fleetnumber 730 was reserved for the token decker in the Mairs fleet, being passed on to a younger Atlantean each time one became available from Grampian. The second vehicle to be heir to the number was YSO 232T which retained Grampian colours and fleetnumber throughout its time with Mairs. It passed to Aberdeen College as part of an engineering project and was later scrapped by Panda Rose Metals. Javelin 739 (LSK 529) later became 20028 in the national series and was sold on to JP Mini Coaches after reverting to registration F739 WMS. Currenly withdrawn and registered DKZ 6896. The last Leyland Tiger with the Aberdeen fleet was 20026, a Gardner engined machine. that was sold as a source of spares to Fisher Tours Dundee a few weeks after this shot was taken in May 2006. The last full size coach in Mairs livery was B10M 20031 (G171 RBD) wthdrawn in early 2006. Parked at the rear of King Street Depot in what is known as The adoption of corporate coach colours for the Mair fleet in 2003 marked the end of Mairs own livery and the Mairs name is now relegated to the rear of coaches as seen here on 20029 (TSU 651) new as Grampian Executive 87 (F87 CBD) in 1989, the original Goldcrest Tours coach. The final Alexanders vehicle in the fleet was 20023 (F101 HSO). After Alexanders services were withdrawn in 1991 it went on to work with Grampian Coaches and then finally Mairs. After a period in storage, as seen here in 2006, it was sold on to JP Mini Coaches of Forfar. 50423 (K950 HSA) was one of the last Made to Measure conversion minis produced as the firm collapsed as the vehicle was being finished. After arriving in Aberdeen with registration K983 XND it was finished off and repainted entering service with registration K950 HSA carrying the cherished mark LSK 571 for a while. It spent its final months at King Street under cannibalisation as seen here in 2006 before going locally for scrap. Aberdeen was a late comer to the minibus revolution. Six Mercedes-Benz 709D with Reeve Burgess Beaver bodywork were aqcuired in 1991 for the conversion of service 6 to Delivered to Grampian in 1993 for new Beaver Bus routes several of these Belfast built Alexander bodied Mercedes 709Ds were transferred to Mairs though only 50419 (K407 HRS) remains. It was due to be repainted into corporate colours shortly after this shot was taken but instead defects were found and it was withdrawn. A number of short Dennis Javelins were acquired from Dewar of Falkirk in 1992. Only one remains today, 20027 (LSK 530) originally F369 MUT. It is seen next to former Mairs Scania 20008 (542 GRT). Showing the allover ivory standard coach livery adopted in 1996 for use by all the coach fleets is 50415 (H36 USO) of Mairs and 50427 (H35 USO) of Kirkpatricks.

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]]> Sun Dec 6 1987 Aberdeen & District Transport Preservation Group http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c952352.html Aberdeen & District Transport Preservation Group was formed in 1998 with the aim of preserving commercial vehicles (mainly buses) that operated in the North East of Scotland. The group included a mixture of GRT employees and private preservationists. A collection of heritage vehicles are now stored in sheds at King Street Depot with various restoration efforts currently under way. Wednesday 26 August 1998: Aberdeen & District Transport Preservation Group was formed in 1998 with the aim of preserving commercial vehicles (mainly buses) that operated in the North East of Scotland. The group included a mixture of GRT employees and private preservationists. A collection of heritage vehicles are now stored in sheds at King Street Depot with various restoration efforts currently under way.

This utility Daimler, 155 (BRS 37), has returned several times to King Street depot over the 30 year period since it passed to preservation. In 2003 it came for a repaint as part of the final process of a major restoration effort to return it to original condition. It currently resides at Lathalmond museum. This unusual Plaxton Supreme bodied Mercedes-Benz L608D was acquired by Kirkpatrick from Epsom Coaches. Originally and currently C200 HGF it carried the cherished mark LSK 546 for a period as seen here in its Kirkpatrick hey day. It is currently been stored off site by the preservation group. The most recent addition to the New to Crosville as DFG238 (JFM 238D) this Lodekka came to the North East to operate with Tomintoul operator Glenlivet & District until that operator ceased. It came to King Street Depot to operate a heritage service to the Grampian Transport Museum but this never materialised and has been an active rally vehicle in recent years. While the Red Line First Aberdeen retain four heritage buses in their ownership. Two are seen here, 62119/20 better known as Aberdeen AEC Swift 56 (SRS 56K) and Leyland Leopard 61 (HSO 61N). Both have Alexander bodywork though the former has a W type body despite the Y type front. An early addition to the ranks of preserved vehicles is this previately owned Leyland PS1 new to Alexander & Sons as PA171 (CWG 273). It passed into preservation in 1971 and was stored at the former Alexander (North East) depot at Peterhead until it was closed by Grampian in 1991 with the vehicle moving to King Street at that time. Daimler CVG6 325 (CRG 325C) was the last rear entrance bus delivered to a Scottish operator. It became the first vehicle to be preserved by Grampian and been a stalwart of the rally seen every since. Like 56 (SRS 56K) this AEC Swift has an Alexander W body but retaining the original Alexander W front. It was one of many Aberdeen vehicles sold to the local council for non PSV uses and now preserved in the later Grampian colours. The main stay of the Aberdeen fleet from the mid 1970's to the late 90's was the Alexander AL peak domed Atlanean. 209 (ORS 209R) left Aberdeen for service with Midland Bluebird before returning to Aberdeen for independent preservation. This AEC Reliance was new to Aberdeen Corporation as 40. Having left the main fleet for Grampian Fire Brigade it passed to Victoria Coaches, Peterhead. After returning to King Street it spent a while as a mobile sales unit for the Model Club before becoming fully preserved. This Leyland National came from First Provincial to the preservation group and is an example new to Gosport and Fareham. It does hovever have an Aberdeen destination blind from an Atlantean. Its not just buses stored at the depot, thie fire engine chassis and the Northsound Roadshow vehicle are also stored here. Numerically Aberdeens last Atlantean, 345 (XSS 345Y) passed to the Aberdeen & District Transport Preservation Group following the end of Atlantean operation in normal service in 2001. It is currently being repainted into Grampian Transport livery at King Street Depot. This Albion PMA28 was rescued from a garden in London in 1988. New to Aberdeen Corporation as 79 (RG 1173) in 1930. It was reacquired by Grampian and painstakingly rebuilt to original condition. Once completed in 1993 t originally ran as TSK 716 until the DVLA could be convinced to reinstate the original registration. AEC Reliance 14 (LRG 14G) survived spells with Scottish independents and as a berry picker before joining the ranks of preservation in 1989. Its sister 13 (LRG 13G) was less fortunate. It caught fire after overheating just meters away from this spot in 1982 and was subsequently scrapped. Legend has it that Grampian, frustrated by delays in its Atlantean orders, snapped up this batch of 20 Leyland Nationals part of a cancelled order for Nottingham. 74 (KSO 74P) returned to King Street Depot for restoration after travels with South Yorkshire, Isle of Man and competing services against Stagecoach with Orion of Kirkcaldy. After heading south again to operate in Wales it came home in 2000. Detailed restoration is in the latter stages now for this 1951 Daimler CVG6. Rebuilt in 1960 with a new Alexander body it survived into the Grampian era as a trainer until 1976. The next twenty years saw it take residence in Angus first with Greyhound of Arbroath, later as a berry picker before finally entering preservation. It came back to King Street in 1997 for restoration. Twelve dual doored Leyland Tiger Cubs were bought by Aberdeen Corporation as it looked towards one person operation. Those that survived immediate scrapping headed North to Shetland from where 10 (GRS 10E) was repatriated the best of three survivors of this class. By August 2007 further repainting has been undertaken to WTS 937A although further work may be delayed by the redevelopment of King Street Depot. Joining the preservation ranks in 2008 was K1 GRT. The one and only Alexander Cityranger bodied Mercedes-Benz O405G artic. First did own the only other Alexander Cityranger, a rigid Merc but this has since been scrapped. The artic has had its magenta vinyls removed for eventual repaint. Olympian 131 (E131 DRS) was repainted out of Barbie 2 colours and into its original 1988 GRT colours for the 20th anniversary of FirstGroup in January 2009.

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]]> Wed Aug 26 1998 First Aberdeen 2006 http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c952320.html A 2006 look at the main First fleet at King Street Depot. Sunday 1 January 2006: A 2006 look at the main First fleet at King Street Depot.

Volvo B10M 20010 (WSU 460) has Welsh origins working for Wrights and Selwyns before joining Mairs an later becoming this part time trainer and school bus with First. Ex Manchester 62215 (R584 SBA) arrived in the same way as sister 62144. Seen here in the Hywena shop. The Red Line 1/2 was relaunched in 2005 which new Volvo B7LA artics many with new style A pair of S registered B10BLEs were transferred to Aberdeen in 2001. PVR reductions saw one move on quickly to West Yorkshire while 62214 (S673 SVU) remains, seen here with the Learnin Bus Scania K113 20036 (PSU 314). B10M 20019 (M1 GRT) was new to Wessex National as M763 CWS and came North after being displaced from National Express work. It carries the registration new to O405 515 which lost the cherished mark on transfer to Manchester. A line of B10BLEs on a Sunday morning. Most have the common Wright Renown bodywork but some like 62170 (W577 RFS) were a stock built batch with Alexander ALX300 bodywork that werenew to Glasgow. A one off is this Optare Nouvelle 2 bodied Mercedes Vario that is part of the Grampian Exceutive fleet. 56501 (YX05 AVV) replaced a Mairs short Dennis Javelin in 2005. 62175 (W583 RFS0 was one of six B10BLE repainted into this new Park & Ride livery in late 2005 as part of a rebrand to stimulate passenger numbers. Service revisions in 2004 saw the 17 upgraded to a 10 minute frequency with every fouth bus exended to Dyce beyond Newhills. This revised Overgound branding was applied as a result, seen here on 62138 (X617 NSS). 62219 (W601 RFS) heads the B10BLEs that had been used on Firsts Late Night Service the previous night. The 3am departures of these serices are heavily used. Ex Glasgow 62208 (W596 RFS) alongside 62153 (X477 NSS) had worked the X18 the previous day. The X was introduced to distinguish betwen journes that worked to Dyce via Kepplehills although all 18's have operated the direct route since 2004. The oldest buses in service from king Street Depot are Alexander bodied Olympians from the mid 80's. These have been retrimmed in corporate trim and are likely to see a few more years service yet. 31560 (X103 NSS) one of six Alexander bodied Volvo B7TLs delivered in 2000 for capacity weekday workings on Overground routes. It had worked route 5 on this particular Saturday in May 2006. A rear shot of ex Glasgow Alexander bodied 62174 (W582 RFS) in P&R livery, ex Manchester Wrights bodied 62145 (R591 SBA) with one of the many full back adverts and native 62179 (Y637 RSA) with Yellow Line branding. Representatives of the articulated fleet, the original Mercedes O405G 10046 (K1 GRT), the 2000 batch of B7LAs 10048 (W 3 FAL) and the 2005 batch 10160 (SV05 DXH). 10052 (W7 FAL) one of six Wright Eclipse Fusion bodied B7LAs delivered in 2000 to displace double deckers off the Gold Service 1-4 routes. B10BLE 62204 (W681 RNA) was displaced early on from manchester by new Scania saloons and was part of the original Red Line fleet before displaced in 2005 by 20 artics in 2005, one of which 10159 (SV05 DXG) is seen to the right. The 2005 batch of B7LAs were notable in introducing driver protection screens and CCTV as standard. Previously only a handful of B10BLEs had CCTV retro fited and cab screens had been trialled for short while on Atlanteans used on Late Night Services. However changing time now mean these will become an increasing feature of new deliveries. 62224 was and should have been W606 RFS like its sister 62223 (W605 RFS), however a clerical error meant it had been registered as X606 RFS and the registration had to be changed to reflect this months later. Two one door coach seated Olympians were delivered to Grampian in 1988, 31548 (E122 DRS) was originally a feature of rural services then later the Airport service. It was transferred to Mairs Coaches in 2001 then returned to First Aberdeen the following year. Now used on high capcity journies on school or student routes. Olympian 31557 (E131 DRS) was delivered new with an experimental dot matrix display. This early tecnology proved trouble some and it was replaced by this power blind as seen here. No other Aberdeens buses have received this feature, LED displays the current flavour. Eight long wheelbase Olympians to a similar specification as Lothian were delivered in 1988. There Lothian style destination equipment was replaced by a larger destination blinds removing the via blinds. One of two Scania K124s delivered in 1998, 20016 (R3 FAL) shows off the new corporate coach colours which moves the First name to prominence and the Grampian Executive name to the rear. An engine failure looked to have doomed 31553 to scrap. Cannibalisation had already begun when it was decided to rebuild the bus for futher service. After passing through Glasgows Larkfield workshops it was rebuilt gaining a new front grill (of Volvo Citybus variety) plus a dot matrix display. It is now RGU branded for route 9 but worked service 5 the day previous. It is not common for route branded buses in Aberdeen to work other routes. A view of the shed that onced house the Corporations tram fleet at King Street. Volvo B7TL 31559 (X771 NSO) is seen on the right and spent the first five years of its life as the ARCHIE bus (immortalised as a model) to promote fund raising for Aberdeens new childrens hospital. Saturday morning is advert day with advantage being taken of the lower PVR to updated advertising. Until it lost its P&O ferries advertising livery 31550 (E124 DRS) would have rarely been in the garage on such a morning. The Atlanteans finished their service in Aberdeen in 2001 but this example (344) was reacquired from Larbert for use as an anti vandalism unit. It is now 31577 (WSU 447). Although King Street no longer undertakes major rebuilding, maintenance work continues as evidenced here on B10BLE 62144 (R590 SBA) an ex Manchester machine which came in exchange for an Aberdeen Scania of similar vintage in 2001 as part of fleet standardisation. Two BMC school buses joined the existing American Blue Bird in 2004. Restricted purely to school work and regularly on contracts with Robert Gordon College. This is 68519 (SV54 CFZ). Aberdeen retained Atlantean 318 (URS 318X), now 31528, as an open top vehicle. It continues to carry local ivory and green fleet colours with branding for the defunct Granite City Circular Tour. It makes occasional appearance on private hires and annually on the Christmas Lights Tour. First Aberdeen retain this Alexander bodied Daimler CVG6 for heritage purposes carrying its original Aberdeen Corporation livery. New as 325 it is currently 31529 (CRG 325C) in the main fleet and has made occasional appearances on school runs as recent as 2006 though not to Hilton School as the destination display reads - this school having been demolished over 10 years ago. Passing through the bus wash is Volvo B7TL 31563 (X137 NSS) which was the Golden Jubilee bus for the Queens 50th anniversary in 2002. A one off in the Aberdeen fleet is ths Wright Nimbus bodied Mercedes 811D 50413 (K175 YVC). It entered the first fleet through GRTs acquisition of Lothian Transit. It came to Aberdeen to operate a school contract and after it finished made appearances on service 24 but its manual gearbox restricted its uses in the fleet and it was finally withdrawn in 2006. It remains in storage. This Scania K113 was new to Lowland Coaches in 1990 as H104 TSH. It continued to operate with Lowlands successor First Edinburgh reregistered as PSU 314 before joing the Aberdeen fleet in 2002. It was fited with a nearside wheelcahir lift and fitted out with computers. Its used for staff training but is also due to go out and about locally. It is numbered 20036 in the Aberdeen fleet. The clean single door conversion can be seen here on 31577 (WSU 447), the work haven been carried out by Ferrymill Motors. Native Volvo B10BLE 62152 (X624 NSS) shows off the rear end branding for the X18. It is parked in front of what was the old paint shop. Two buses would be in the paint shop at any one time with a turn out of one hand painted bus per week. Three Mercedes-Benz 709D remain in the main fleet for servcie 24, service 28 and one spare. 50412 (K405 HRS) lost its rear end numeral repeator after becoming lodged under Asda Bridge of Dees multis storey car park in the heav winter storms of 2006. Swhowing off the Super Square advertising that has become increasing popular in recen years is ex Manchester B10BLE 62216 (R585 SBA). This bus previously carried and advertsing livery for RGIT Montrose. A pair of American built Blue Bird school buses were transferred from West Yorkshire in 2002 for promotional purposes. One was disposed of to Bristol but this example 62228 (YS51 JVD) has been retained. BMC 68518 (SV54 CFY) is also visible. 62121 (RG 1173) better known as Aberdeen Corporation Albion PMA28 79. Restored by First as a heritage vehicle for rallies and available for hire for weddings etc. Safely stored over redundant pits. Not all the 2005 batch of B7LAs are route branded. Examples like 10172 (SV05 DXX) remain unbranded and van be used on the Park & Ride 40 and Orangle Line 16 which are also deemed artic suitable routes. This former Manchester B10BLE 62193 (X687 ADK) was originally allocated to the Red Line service. It is seen here by the steam jenny. Showing off its Maitlands full back is ex Manchester B10BLE 62212 (W682 RNA). A pair of ex Glasgow B10BLEs. Wright bodied 62162 (R337 GHS) carrying a Traveline full back and Alexander bodied 62176 (W584 RFS) in full P&R livery. The two ends of the current Grampian Executive fleet, 23401 (SV54 RTA) the newest full size coach and 20015 (K4 GRT) the oldest B10M dating from 1993. Once the afternoon school run is complete, vehicles start queuing up at the pumps ready for fueling and cleaning. Among the now standard Wright Renowns is 56501 (YX05 AVV). Two of the three ex First Wessex National B10Ms acquired in 2001, 20020 (M11 AFC) and 20011 (2 GRT) were originally M764 CWS and L65 UOU with their former owner. One of four Olympians delivered in 1985 for Aberdeen Airport services, 31546 (B120 MSO) still make occasional runs on the Airport 27 services but more commonly works capacity workings and school runs. Its shows off its mega rear for Erskines as it awaits fuelling. Tow similar Irizar Century Scania k124 coaches showing the differences in paint application of the same livery, 23401 (SV54 FRZ) nearest the camera with 20008 (542 GRT) furthest. Olympians 31548/9 (E122/3DRS) are recognisable due to their higher positioned rear upperdeck window as these were built as coaches. Both were transferred to Mairs Coaches in 2001 for school work but returned a year later for frontline services.

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]]> Sun Jan 1 2006 Grampian Transport http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c930475.html In 1986, deregulation of the bus industry saw Grampian Regional Councils bus operatng division become an arms length subsidiary, Grampian Regional Transport Ltd. Under the privatisation process it was sold to its management and employees in a buyout in 1989. The management set up a company GRT Bus Group plc to buy the company from the council for £5m before merging with Badgerline to form FirstBus plc in 1995. Tuesday 26 August 1986: In 1986, deregulation of the bus industry saw Grampian Regional Councils bus operatng division become an arms length subsidiary, Grampian Regional Transport Ltd. Under the privatisation process it was sold to its management and employees in a buyout in 1989. The management set up a company GRT Bus Group plc to buy the company from the council for _5m before merging with Badgerline to form FirstBus plc in 1995.

Atlanteans 329 (URS 329X) and 331 (XSS 331Y) are seen here under repaint to GRT stripes, Two buses would occupy the paintshop at any one time taking two weeks to hand paint. Painters would work between the two buses while waiting for paint to dry. Painting has since been contracted out to Fleet Finish Forfar and the paintshop converted into office space. A general view of the old tram shed with FirstBus identity starting to appear. Daimler CVG6 25/325 (CRG 325C) is seen here when it still carried its grey roof from its original preservation repaint (it never carried the grey roof when still in service). Ex Crosville Bristol DFG238 (JFM238D) is seen next to it when on loan from Grampian Transport Museum for museum shuttle servcies that never materialised. Leopard 86 (ORS 86R) the regular performer on the Banchory 35 service, Atlantean 250 (DSA 250T) and Olympian 131 (E131 DRS) with its original experimental dot matrix display. It was rather problematic and replaced with powerblinds. Atlantean 270 (HRS 270V) is seen here freshly repainted in GRT stripes. It left Aberdeen for a career with Aberdeen Journals being converted into a exhibition unit. It has since been restored to its original Grampian Regional Transport condition and made its first appearance at Lathalmond in 2006. Line up of Atlanteans in the Row C corner of King Street Depot starting with Hydrasun liveried 287 (HSO 287V). Rear view of the mini fleet in the mid 1990's when minis were at their peak in Aberdeen. The service minis were branded as Beaver Bus for use on mini routes 6, 7/7A, 21 and 24. The Metroriders carried coach livery for private hire use but would often be used as back up on Beaver routes. While the Metrorider 32 (D32 XSS) has been scrapped the 709D 37 (H37 HSO) remains in use with Mairs Coaches in 2007. Exhibited at Coach & Bus 93 in Birmingham was Cityranger 508 (L508 KSA). It is seen here at King Street Depot on arrival from Mercedes still with its exhibit lettering. It has since passed to Manchester with the bulk of the O405 fleet. An inside look of an early Atlantean at King Street Depot showing the original After GRT acquired Northampton Transport, its six Olympians were transferred to Grampian. This was 133 (A78 RRP). Although good buses to drive they didnt sit well in a mainly Alexander fleet and were quickly moved on to SMT. All have since been scrapped. A reserve fleet of Atlanteans were built up in the late 1980's as back up in case the company needed to respond to competitive attacks in these early post deregulation days. In the event most were not needed. Nearest the camera is 184 (KSA 184P) still in its Grampian RT livery but with the orange band painted out.

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]]> Tue Aug 26 1986 Routemasters http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c930452.html Whilst a common sight on Londons streets, the Routemaster has also made a number of appearances at King Street Depot over the years. Sunday 1 January 2006: Whilst a common sight on Londons streets, the Routemaster has also made a number of appearances at King Street Depot over the years.

Originally RM1289 (289 CLT), this Routemaster was Stagecoach Perths 609 (XSL 596A) when it paid a visit to Aberdeen for repaint. It later returned to London for further service. RM1485 (485 CLT) was originally a Greenline vehicle and came to King Street as part of Cliff Richards UK tour. It later joined Mac Tours in Edinburgh.

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]]> Sun Jan 1 2006 Open Days http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c930392.html Throughout the years First Aberdeen and its predeccessors have thrown open the gates of King Street Depot to charity open days. These events have often drawn a pool of vehicles from across the UK and beyond! Sunday 1 January 2006: Throughout the years First Aberdeen and its predeccessors have thrown open the gates of King Street Depot to charity open days. These events have often drawn a pool of vehicles from across the UK and beyond!

Maynes of Buckies preserved KKN 752. A mixture of Aberdeen buses at the 2003 open day. Preserved CVG6 31529, American School Bus 62228, former Aberdeen Optare Prisma 545 that visited from its new home of Manchester and ex Aberdeen Atlantean 270 now in preservation. A mid week open day was held in 1993 to celebrate Grampian 95th anniversary. On show was the recently delivered Cityranger 501 (L501 KSA) which exhibited the new GRT Advance SE spec for new buses. This First Bradford Olympian came north during the 2003 open day. It was to return to Scotland in 2006 when it passed to the First Scotland East fleet.

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]]> Sun Jan 1 2006 Grampian Regional Transport http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c930360.html After local goverment reorganisation, Aberdeen Corporations transport operations passed to Grampian Regional Councils Transport Department. A revised livery of less green with orange band was introduced with the fleetname 'Grampian' Friday 16 May 1975: After local goverment reorganisation, Aberdeen Corporations transport operations passed to Grampian Regional Councils Transport Department. A revised livery of less green with orange band was introduced with the fleetname 'Grampian'

156 (NRG 156M), the Grampian standard peak domed Alexander AL bodied Atlantean next to a still Corporation liveried Fleetline, 111 (ERG 111D). Ironically both the vehicles ended up being bought by Highland Scottish for cannibalisation, 156 after service with Fife Scottish.

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]]> Fri May 16 1975 Midland Bluebird http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c930352.html GRT Bus Groups first big purchase was Midland Bluebird. The fleet had been allowed to run down in the run up to privatisation and in an effort to raise standards a significant number of vehicles came to King Street Depot for maintenance improvments. Thursday 13 September 1990: GRT Bus Groups first big purchase was Midland Bluebird. The fleet had been allowed to run down in the run up to privatisation and in an effort to raise standards a significant number of vehicles came to King Street Depot for maintenance improvments.

Leyland National 3 (OLS 803T) makes an appearance at King Street Depot following repaint. Its sister 5 (OLS 805T) was later acquired by Grampian. Seen while on loan to Grampian in 1993 is this former Eastern Scottish National 2, by then 41 (RFS 580V) in the Midland fleet. Duple Caribbean bodied Leyland Tiger 121 (SSU 821). Briefly loaned to Grampian for a few days in 1992 was Duple Laser bodied Leyland tiger 132 (SSU 837 ex B132 PMS). Duple 340 bodied Tiger 143 (KSU 834, ex D143 HMS) was a regular to Aberdeen on Red Knight then Citylink work. 145 (156 ASV ex D145 HMS) was the only member of the batch of 5 to carry the Bluebird Executive livery. It frequently came to Aberdeen on contract work and was the Falkirk FC coach for a while as 692 FFC. Ex Grampian Tiger 51 (D51 VSO later PSU 622) passed to Midland Bluebird following the end of Grampian rural service network. It is now with Abbot, Leeming as WIL 3610. This former Wallace Arnold B10M came to Midland as 205 (F412 DUG) for Citylink work. Reregistered FSU 315 it later joined Mairs Coaches as 701. Leopard 284 (GMS 284S) was an early arrival for maintenance work at Aberdeen. It still carried the large Bluebird fleetnames adopted by Midland in its final months before the GRT takeover. Alexander AYS bodied Leopard 300 (GMS 300S) at Aberdeen for maintenance. Midland Bluebird 302 (GMS 302S). It later became Grampian 62. Leopard 345 (FSU 335) was new as ULS 652T. It came to Aberdeen for mainteance but was subequently cannibalised only to be rebuilt and donated to charity for aid trips. 403 again this time after its rebuild was completed but prior to repaint in to Midland fleet colours. A number of Leopards were purchased by GRT from Lothian to replace newer but examples with Midland Bluebird which were in poorer condition. Three examples came to Aberdeen for proposed Late Night Servcie work but disputes with the TGWU saw them never used. Metrobus 885 (B585 MLS) came on loan to Grampian during the 1991 Tall Ships Race for Park & Ride work. 403 (TMS 403X) came to King Street to be rebuilt following accident damage. During its time at Aberdeen it was known as 993.

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]]> Thu Sep 13 1990 Experimentation http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c930343.html As the head office of GRT Bus Group then FirstGroup, the depot walls have hidden away some experimentation of liveries and logos many of which never made it on to the streets of Aberdeen. Sunday 1 January 2006: As the head office of GRT Bus Group then FirstGroup, the depot walls have hidden away some experimentation of liveries and logos many of which never made it on to the streets of Aberdeen.

The GRT Advance livery was modified to allow application to stadard vehicles. First done was Olympian 123 (E123 DRS) which had just had front end stripes removed in 1996. Optare Prisma 518 (M518 RSS) was used to trial the new First logos following the merger of GRT and Badgerline to create FirstBus in 1995. The 1995 batch of Prismas saw some examples arrive with the standard Grampian fleetname of the time. This was adapted with the removal of the ribbon and the thistle due to the then forthcoming merger of GRT with Badgerline. 521 (M521 RSS)is caught mid process.

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]]> Sun Jan 1 2006 Advertising Liveries http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c930341.html Colour has been added to King Street Depot over the years with the variety of advertising liveries that have appeared on buses. This collection shows a few of those vehicles within the depot. Sunday 1 January 2006: Colour has been added to King Street Depot over the years with the variety of advertising liveries that have appeared on buses. This collection shows a few of those vehicles within the depot.

Grampian Police have used buses to promote a variety of campaigns over the years. A familour sight during the 1990's was this campaign on 104 (A104 FSA) for Rear advertisements were a feature of the Olympian fleet during the 1990's. Their flat back made for better advertising opportunities over the Atlanteans. 118 (B118 MSO) was one of two to carry ads for LA Recruitment. The Olympian was to meet its fate with a wall in Virginia Street after coming off service on route 6 in 2003. Olympian 107 (A107 FSA) gained this colour bus livery to celebrate the 200th anniversary of Aberdeens main street, Union Street. This bus is now with Devon & Cornwall. Northsound Radio often to live shows from King Street Depot during open days as well as storing their roadshow vehicle at the depot. They have also had a number of advertising liveries including this one on Olympian 110 (A110 FSA). The Olympian was scrapped after a spell with Glasgow. Just applied was this wrap on Olympian 125 (E125 DRS) for Anderson Cars. B10BLE 661 (R585 SBA) carried this colour bus scheme for RGIT Montrose. The allover Ex Manchester B10BLE 62199 (X694 ADK) carries this allover wrap for GTC Tool Hire. B7TL 3156 (X137 NSS) was treated to this wrap for UCAN in 2008. B7TL is unusual in carryinmg this mega rear for technip as well as the full side for the SPL. Normally buses do not carry two advertising liveries. The rest is in First colours. Glasgow, Scotland East and Aberdeen all wrapped a Gemini decker in this Homecoming Scotland 2009 livery. This is the Aberdeen examples 37634 (SV08 FXR).

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]]> Sun Jan 1 2006 The Stagecoach Connection http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c930335.html Stagecoach subsidiary Bluebird Buses rented the rear of King Street Depot from 12th January 1992 to 23 February 1997 after vacating its Gairn Terrace depot and before moving into its new and current depot at Altens. A varied selection of the Aberdeen depot fleet were based here plus many other Stagecoach vehicles passing through Aberdeen for maintenance, repainting, onward transfer etc. Sunday 12 January 1992: Stagecoach subsidiary Bluebird Buses rented the rear of King Street Depot from 12th January 1992 to 23 February 1997 after vacating its Gairn Terrace depot and before moving into its new and current depot at Altens. A varied selection of the Aberdeen depot fleet were based here plus many other Stagecoach vehicles passing through Aberdeen for maintenance, repainting, onward transfer etc.

Northern purchased a bach of ECW bodied Olympians in 1982 and these were quickly moved to Perth in Stagecoach ownership but 017 (TSO 17X) is seen here prior to moving North again this time to Elgin. The angular Alexander P type body featured on this batch of Tiger buses to Northern see here on 427 (A124 GSA) prior to repaint into Stagecoach colours. Bluebird rented the righthand side of King Streets hanger although most work was done at a new maintenace facility opened at Canal Road (where Aberdeen Corporation once had a depot). A1 Service 901 (HSB 698Y, ex CUB 50Y) seen at King Street Depot with 'Stagecoach A1 Service Glasgow' fleetnames. The inclusion of Glasgow was an error and the fleetnames were changed before the vehicle entered service. 904 (EWY 74Y), another ex West Yorkshire Roe bodied Olympian with A1 Service at King Street Depot for repaint. The 'blue arrow' fleetnames were temporary due to only white fleetname transfers being available at the time of its repaint. The vehicle is believed to have been unique. A batch of ECW bodied Leopards with Cumberland migrated north to Inverness Traction at short notice after the brief bus war. Two were later transferred to Bluebird for local service including 203 (RRM 633X) the only one to carry Bluebird fleetnames. Stagecoach planned to attack Strathclyde Buses with a second Glasgow operation in 1995. In the event it never happened and many of the vehicles passed to Strathclyde. Several of the intended buses for the service were stored at King Street Depot prior to the proposed launch including M766 PRS which remains today with First Glasgow. A batch of nine Volvo B6LEs were delivered to Perth in 1996 to replace Routemasters. 496 (P496 BRS) is seen here at King Street. It became an Aberdeen bus in 2006 to replace a fire victim. The unique Volvo/Alexander AYS, 401 (XSA 5Y) ex NA1. Photographed Oct 1993. 401 (XSA 5Y) was sold to Rennie, Dunfermline in 1994. Pictured at the SVBM at Lathalmond.

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]]> Sun Jan 12 1992 On hire to... http://www.kingstreetdepot.fotopic.net/c930333.html In pre First era, manufacturers would often send demonstrators to King Street Depot for evaluation or service in attempt to create orders. This has become less common as a result of First central purchasing but loan vehicles continue to arrive for other purposes. Sunday 1 January 2006: In pre First era, manufacturers would often send demonstrators to King Street Depot for evaluation or service in attempt to create orders. This has become less common as a result of First central purchasing but loan vehicles continue to arrive for other purposes.

Grampian hired in a number of unusual to Aberdeen vehicle types from its sister company Midland Bluebird. Midland ORS 210R was no stranger though having been new to Grampian as 210. It returned in 1993 only a few months after ts departure to Midland and still carried Grampian colours. Early June used to be a busy spell for the coaching department as schools in the area went on end of term trips. In 1993 to assist this increased PVR, a number of Leyland Nationals were loaned from Midland. NLS 980W was referred to as MB28 during its stay in Aberdeen. Mairs borrowed toilet fitted Leyland Tiger 48 (WSU 479) over the winter of 1992 with Grampian gaining this ex Southdown Leyland Leopard LSU 917 (formerly MAP 348W). After some non PSV use in the Manchester area it was scrapped ten years later. The 1991 Tall Ships Race brought a massive increase in visitors to Aberdeen. Grampian were contracted to provide Park & Ride shuttles to the event and to assist hired in MCW Metrobuses from Midland Bluebird including 819 (WLT 724) since scrapped. 28 (L8 YCL) came on loan from Yorkshire Coastliner inn December 1993 sent by the maunfacturers to show off the new Volvo based Olympian and Alexanders new Royale version of the R type body. Optare Metrorider M930 TYG came on loan from Optare very briefly in March 1995 but Aberdeen were happy to stick with Mercedes and Alexander for its minibus orders. Optare Excel 28 (N330 EUG) came on loan from February to March 1997 from the manufacturer. 28 (P2 UVG) loaned from UVG to show of its new Urbanstar body came on loan in March 1997. FirstGroup later purchased new vehicles of this type plus this demonstrator for its now closed Ayrshire operations. 28 (V701 FFB) an East lancs bodied Trident of First Bristol that was brought up on loan to promote First deal with BP for low sulphur diesel. It operated from December 1999 to January 2000. Ferrymill Motors now undertake Aberdeens major engineering work and often loan one of their hire fleet whle undertaking maintenance. Fm7 (M677 SSX) spent a period on loan during 2006 and marked the return of the unloved Volvo B6. New to Stagecoach Western Scottish Fm7 was a regular on service 5 before moving to the summer only Park Lynx 8 service. While the fleet was renumbered into Voyager series in July 2003, this loaned Optare Solo in June 2006 was still allocated This Reeve Burgess converted Mercedes L508D, ABM 779X, was loaned by Bon Accord Travel, Lumphanan to Mairs in December 1992 to assist on school contracts. It was new to Routledge, Cockermouth and also worked for Fraser, Nigg.

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