Dennis and Norah.
Back in the late '70s when PMT, on behalf of the NBC were evaluating potential new types to purchase, Dennis supplied a low height Alexander bodied Dominator, Foden supplied their new semi-integral built in conjunction with Northern Counties and a pretty much bog standard (though Leyland 501 engined) VR from the existing fleet was included for comparison. The Dennis wasn't to prove very popular, though I don't believe it was unreliable. The Foden didn't acquit itself well, requiring bespoke transmission parts too often, so the VR won the day. Its victory would be short however as the Leyland Olympian came on stream shortly afterwards when Leyland realised that almost literally nobody outside London would buy their advanced integral B15 Titan. The Dominator was moved on to Maidstone & District where it joined others of the type within NBC, but the Foden was withdrawn as almost a new bus and never really ran again following the trials.
Anyway, again from Clem's collection, Dominator XBF 700S is seen on Newcastle (under Lyme) bus station whilst Norah Batty fumbles for her pass in her handbag.
Dennis and Norah.
Back in the late '70s when PMT, on behalf of the NBC were evaluating potential new types to purchase, Dennis supplied a low height Alexander bodied Dominator, Foden supplied their new semi-integral built in conjunction with Northern Counties and a pretty much bog standard (though Leyland 501 engined) VR from the existing fleet was included for comparison. The Dennis wasn't to prove very popular, though I don't believe it was unreliable. The Foden didn't acquit itself well, requiring bespoke transmission parts too often, so the VR won the day. Its victory would be short however as the Leyland Olympian came on stream shortly afterwards when Leyland realised that almost literally nobody outside London would buy their advanced integral B15 Titan. The Dominator was moved on to Maidstone & District where it joined others of the type within NBC, but the Foden was withdrawn as almost a new bus and never really ran again following the trials.
Anyway, again from Clem's collection, Dominator XBF 700S is seen on Newcastle (under Lyme) bus station whilst Norah Batty fumbles for her pass in her handbag.