Stagecoach South has honoured its history by repainting an Alexander Dennis Enviro400 double-decker into Hampshire Bus livery. It marks 40 years since the Hampshire Bus name made its debut during National Bus Company (NBC) days in April 1983.
The patriotic red, white and blue scheme was seen in Hampshire for a number of years after the deregulation of 1986, before being consumed by the Stagecoach corporate livery and brand. Hampshire Bus was the first former NBC subsidiary to be purchased by Stagecoach, in April 1987.
Stagecoach South will first deploy the Enviro400 in Andover before moving it to networks in Winchester and Basingstoke.
Speaking about the decision to mark the anniversary, Interim Managing Director Gordon Frost says that the business is “proud of our heritage and follows the tradition of providing an important public transport network to thousands of customers across our region.”
Adds Mr Frost: “Customers are the core focus of our business, and since 1983, buses have evolved for the comfort and convenience of the customer.
“We have introduced many features, including low-floor access for wheelchair and buggy users, next stop announcements, smartcard and contactless ticketing, real-time bus information and an app to improve access to our services and products.
“Hampshire Bus plays such a significant part in the history of Stagecoach, so it seemed only right to honour the anniversary of its formation.”
