Coaches at the Barton Mills Picnic Area (A1065) – 19 Sep 1992 (180-14)

Saturday 19 September 1992 – The lay-by alongside the A1065 close to Fiveways, Barton Mills was improved by the local council having originally been just a dirt surface which was re-designed and laid out with a blocked surface. The caravan used by a local trader as a snack stand was replaced with a log cabin with picnic tables, some covered with a canopy.

Together with the closure of a number of other catering establishments along the A11 at Red Lodge etc the Barton Mills site became more popular with the number of coaches taking a break whilst travelling through the area. This particular morning there was a varied collection of coaches to be seen.

On the left is a Plaxton Paramount 3200 operated by Tigerways of Harlow, Essex (IIL 1640 possibly new as D585 MVR to Shearings Holidays in April 1987, if so then it is a Leyland Tiger).

On the right is DNK 577Y, a Leyland Tiger with what would have been one of the last Plaxton Supreme bodies to enter service in April 1983. The Paramount model was launched at that time. It was operated by Associated Coachways also from Harlow. It was apparently ordered by Felicita Luxury Coaches of Gillingham, Kent but entered service with Smith’s Travel of Brenzett, Romney Marsh, Kent.

In front of the latter is SFV 205P, a Plaxton Supreme bodied Leyland Leopard that had been new to National Travel (North West) as their 1205 in June 1976. I didn’t note the operator name.

In the distant background is a Van Hool Alizée of Golden Boy Coaches.