First Essex has unveiled a special anniversary vehicle to celebrate 100 years of Westcliff-on-Sea Motor Services.
A Dennis Trident, which was originally used on London services, has been tastefully painted in the distinctive Westcliff-on-Sea cream and red ‘heritage’ livery with gold detailing. This very special bus will enter full service on Monday, May 19, serving customers in south Essex every day.
A launch event, which was held at First’s Hadleigh depot alongside a 75-year-old Westcliff Bristol bus, saw guests Rebecca Harris MP, explore the bus and enjoy a tour around Westcliff-on-Sea.
Danny Jones, General Manager for First in South Essex, said: “The buses both look great and I am pleased so many people joined us for the unveiling. We are delighted that the heritage livery bus will be on full service so she can be shared with the community in Essex.”
Martin White, a member of the 825 preservation group which carried out the work, said: “The original bus entered service on March 31, 1939. A lot of work has gone into the project – we have been sending designs back and forth.
“It is wonderful that First’s is celebrating the anniversary.”
The event was especially poignant for Martin, whose father and grandfather both worked for Westcliff-on-Sea motor services during the 1930s.
“My father, Ted White, was a driver and my uncle Roby Smith was a director,” he added.
The team also thanked those at Mardens for their help, particularly with the paint match.