ONCE more the cry of “All aboard!”could be heard ringing through the district's high streets this week when an old Routemaster bus was recommissioned for a new route.
The classic 1960s vehicle was signed up by operator TWH for its reinstated 55 service from Loughton to Harlow which replaces the recently scrapped H1 bus.
TWH owner Chris Hunn said: “It's just for a bit of a nostalgia really to bring some attention to the service. I bought it about four years ago for weddings and private events. People just like the look of it. Kids go on it and they can't believe it's real.”
The Guardian caught up with some of the bus's first users as they waited at Epping High Street.
Julia Ward, 73, from North Weald, was catching the bus home.
She said: “I went on one of the light green ones in London to see the lights. I've got a framed ticket at home. I like them because they're old-fashioned like me.”
Philip Rushall, 60, from Harlow, said: “I generally go by car, but I've just turned 60 and thought I'd try out my Freedom Pass. They're a fun bus. I used to always use one in Enfield. They were the hip thing when they came in.”
Gloria Welch, 66, from Loughton, said: “It's nice to get on a bus like this. It's easy and you've got the conductor. It makes a nice change.”
Pat Nunn, 60, from Loughton, said: “It's quite nice. I like the idea of a conductor.”
Bus conductor Richard Lee said: “We are bringing back a legend to the streets. It's like going back in time for some people and they really like having a conductor.”
The 55 service will operate with regular buses from next week, but Mr Hunn said he would bring back the Routemaster for special occasions.
He said:“I'd love to put it on all the time, but it wouldn't be cost effective. We'll probably do it again in the summer. If more people use it, we'll put it on again.”
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