Nottingham City Transport (NCT) has marked a century of the South Notts operation from the city south towards Gotham and Loughborough by repainting one of its Scania Alexander Dennis Enviro400 double-deckers into a commemorative livery.
South Notts was founded in 1926 by Christopher Thomas Dabell. Its first journey from Gotham to Nottingham departed at 0820hrs on 13 March, driven by Mr Dabell. An average of seven passengers per trip were carried in the opening year, with a return fare of one shilling.
The business was bought by NCT in 1991, but the South Notts identity has been retained ever since by the municipal operator in recognition of its historical importance. Today double-decks are used between Nottingham and Loughborough every 20 minutes.
The heritage bus was unveiled outside the former Gotham depot at 0820hrs on 13 March 2026. NCT representatives and former employees of South Notts were present, as were Mr Dabell’s three grandchildren Susan Somers, Chris Dabell, and Pete Dabell.
NCT Managing Director David Astill says that the operator works hard to maintain the enviable reputation South Notts gained for its service quality.
“We are delighted to recognise the centenary anniversary of the commencement of the South Notts bus company and feel that presenting one of our modern buses in the old South Notts livery is an appropriate way to do that,” continues Mr Astill.
“With significant residential development taking place in both East Leake and the new Fairham site, our service 1 is expected to grow in popularity.”
Present at the event was former South Notts driver Roger Bailey. His father and uncle also worked for the operator. Between the three men, a century of service was recorded.
Celebrations will continue this summer, when in conjunction with owners of preserved former South Notts vehicles, a weekend event will take place on 18-19 July. A cavalcade of buses will operate along the route on the Saturday, while a South Notts themed open day will take place at the Nottingham Heritage Vehicles Charity in Hucknall on the Sunday.
