The second-to-last Routemaster bus to be withdrawn from service in 2005 has been bought by British sports car manufacturer Morgan.
Manufactured in 1968 – the year the first Morgan Plus 8 was sold – the iconic London bus entered service in January of that year. Since then, SMK 759F is believed to have clocked up more than 1.5 million miles before retiring nearly 44 years later. As it took its final journey on 9th December 2005, crowds gathered along the route to give it an admirable send-off.
Described as being in ‘incredible condition’, Morgan bought the bus earlier this year and has set to work making sympathetic conversions. It’s expecting to display it at events around the country this summer in a joint 50th anniversary celebration with the Morgan Plus 8.
“The Routemaster bus is arguably one of the most iconic vehicles in existence,” said Morgan’s managing director, Steve Morris. “It serves as a symbol of Britain and is part of our national identity. It therefore gives us great pleasure to continue the life of one of the last decommissioned buses as our event space. Morgan has an exciting year ahead, and we can’t wait to utilise the bus at events all around the UK.
“Our plans for the bus will make it the ideal event space for Morgan customers and enthusiasts alike.”
All the work will be carried out in-house by the same team responsible for hand-building Morgan sports cars.
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