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Barton Leyland Titans (by Shane Conway)

Last updated 22 August 2024

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Post-war Leyland Tigers Post-war Leyland Titans Front-engined Bedfords

The first of Barton's PD1/Duple buses, 453 (JNN 793), is seen in Huntingdon St., Nottingham in 1961 or 1962. Three other Barton deckers are also seen, as is a South Notts Titan behind the bus shelter. (Photo by P.Best.)

Another look at some delightful vehicles from the past. Here we pay a visit to that iconic Nottinghamshire operator Barton, and their varied fleet of post-war Leyland Titans, both new and second-hand examples.

Barton Transport traced its Nottingham area origins back to 1900 and gained a reputation for operating an eclectic and varied fleet, both before the war and afterwards when they used vehicles from AEC, Bedford, Commer, Daimler, Dennis, Ford, Guy, Morris, Leyland and their own creation, the Barton BTS/1, initially reconstructed from 1930s Leyland Lions, but later from the chassis of Leyland Tigers and Titans. This page looks at their collection of post-war Leyland PD1 and PD2 Titans.

The original vehicles (i.e. before any body-swaps or conversions) are shown in fleet number order, new vehicles first, followed by acquired ones from a variety of sources. They all eventually went in one of four directions - sold, scrapped, converted to a Barton double decker (BTD2 type), or converted to a Barton single decker (BTS1 type). At the end of this page there are lists of (1) Barton Leyland Titans converted to BTS1 single deckers, (2) Leyland Titans converted to BTD2 double deckers, (3) second-hand Leyland Titans acquired by Barton specifically for conversion to BTD2 double deckers, and (4) second-hand Titans acquired purely for spare parts/dismantling. As far as I know there are twelve surviving examples.

This page was compiled by Shane Conway, with many thanks for the assistance provided by Matthew Smith and Phil Stevens via the Barton Transport Facebook Group and the Barton Archive, for the provision of more data and the kind supply of, and permission to use the photographs on this page. It would not have been possible without them!

FLEET LIST Part 1 - VEHICLES BOUGHT NEW BY BARTON

LEYLAND PD1 TITAN    -     453 - 456 (total 4)

Seen at the Chilwell depot in the early 1950s is 456 (JNN 742), the final member of the first batch of these buses.

Built in 1947-48.

Chassis: Leyland PD1 Titan.

Body: Duple L29/26F.

LEYLAND PD1 TITAN    -     462 - 469 (total 7)

468 (JRR 751) is seen in March 1969 at Tithby church, working route 22 to Redmile. (Photo John Bennett).

Built in 1947-48.

Chassis: Leyland PD1 Titan.

Body: Duple L29/26F

LEYLAND PD1A TITAN    -     470 - 474 (total 5)

474 (HVO 135) is seen in Wilford Lane, Nottingham in 1960 about to swim under the railway bridge which then carried the Great Central Mainline. Closed in 1969, the site is now occupied by a level crossing for the Nottingham tramway. (Photo P.Lacey collection).

Built in 1947-48.

Chassis: Leyland PD1A Titan.

Body: Duple L29/26F.

  • 470 (JAL 987) c/n 461665, b/n 3891/3 (body ex 389 (KR 6414)). Deliv.12/47. Withdrawn 2/52, body sold 2/52, chassis to 668 1/53. *** SURVIVOR ***
  • 471 (JNN 464) c/n 462235, b/n 42691. Deliv.1/48. Withdrawn 2/73, exported to Holland 1973. *** SURVIVOR ***
  • 472 (JRR 68) c/n 462236, b/n 42697. Deliv.3/48. Withdrawn 11/62, body to 753 12/62, chassis scrapped 12/62.
  • 473 (JRR 404) c/n 470111, b/n 42703. Deliv.6/48. Withdrawn 7/73, sold to Meadows, Manchester 7/73. *** SURVIVOR ***
  • 474 (HVO 135) c/n 470439, b/n 42687. Deliv.1/48. Withdrawn 8/71, sold for scrap 1971.

LEYLAND PD1A TITAN    -     506 - 519 (total 14)

510 (JRR 752) is seen on August 3rd 1959 at Kegworth Bridges. (Photo P.Best collection).

Built in 1948.

Chassis: Leyland PD1A Titan.

Body: Duple L29/26F.

  • 506 (JVO 229) c/n 470440, b/n 42707. Deliv.6/48. Withdrawn 7/67, to Keeble, Pinxton (dealer) 12/67.
  • 507 (JVO 230) c/n 470451, b/n 42708. Deliv.7/48. Withdrawn 2/72, to Brooks, Chichester 2/72 for preservation. *** SURVIVOR ***
  • 508 (JNN 630) c/n 470452, b/n 42692. Deliv.7/48. Withdrawn 11/69, to Lowndes, Spondon (dealer) 11/70.
  • 509 (JRR 930) c/n 470453, b/n 42704. Deliv.6/48. Withdrawn 11/73, retained by Barton's for preservation. *** SURVIVOR ***
  • 510 (JRR 752) c/n 470516, b/n 42702. Deliv.5/48. Rebodied 8/61 as Alexander L27/26R 3566, body new in 1949 on a 1939 Ribble Leyland TD5 No.2078 (RN 8643). Withdrawn 10/66, sold for scrap 8/67.
  • 511 (JRR 403) c/n 470524, b/n 42699. Deliv.4/48. Withdrawn 3/62, body scrapped 3/62, chassis used for towtruck 41. *** SURVIVOR ***
  • 512 (JRR 261) c/n 470545, b/n 42698. Deliv.3/48. Withdrawn 2/72, to Lister, Bolton (dealer) 8/72. *** SURVIVOR ***
  • 513 (JRR 405) c/n 470546, b/n 42700. Deliv.5/48. Withdrawn 4/67, sold for scrap 8/67.
  • 514 (JRR 931) c/n 470554, b/n 42705. Deliv.6/48. Withdrawn 10/66, sold for scrap 11/66.
  • 515 (JVO 232) c/n 472568, b/n 42710. Deliv.7/48. Withdrawn 7/67, sold for scrap 8/67.
  • 516 (JVO 233) c/n 481527, b/n 45905. Deliv.8/48. Withdrawn 5/71, to driver trainer 5/71, sold 12/74.
  • 517 (JVO 235) c/n 481704, b/n 45907. Deliv.9/48. Withdrawn 12/66, sold for scrap 1/67.
  • 518 (JVO 234) c/n 481705, b/n 45906. Deliv.8/48. Withdrawn 9/66, sold for scrap 11/66.
  • 519 (JVO 236) c/n 481712, b/n 45912. Deliv.10/48. Withdrawn 3/61, body scrapped 3/61, chassis to 902 12/61.

LEYLAND PD1A TITAN    -     570 - 580 (total 11)

580 (KNN 254) was the last of the 41 Leyland PD1s bought new by Barton, and is seen in Mount Street, Nottingham between 1962 and 1966. It was the only example to enter service in 1949, and after remaining in service for 23 years, passed into preservation in June 1972.

Built in 1948 - 49.

Chassis: Leyland PD1A Titan.

Body: Duple L29/26F.

  • 570 (KAL 114) c/n 481713, b/n 45913. Deliv.10/48. Withdrawn 9/62, scrapped 4/63.
  • 571 (KAL 51) c/n 481873, b/n 45910. Deliv.9/48. Withdrawn 11/61, scrapped 2/62.
  • 572 (JVO 237) c/n 481874, b/n 45911. Deliv.10/48. Withdrawn 8/62, scrapped 4/63.
  • 573 (JVO 238) c/n 481949, b/n 45908. Deliv.9/48. Withdrawn 12/66, sold for scrap 8/67.
  • 574 (JVO 881) c/n 481950, b/n 45909. Deliv.9/48. Withdrawn 4/68, to Keeble, Pinxton (dealer) 4/68.
  • 575 (KAL 146) c/n 482602, b/n 45914. Deliv.10/48. Withdrawn 10/66, sold for scrap 11/66.
  • 576 (KAL 256) c/n 482603, b/n 45915. Deliv.10/48. Withdrawn 9/66, sold for scrap 11/66.
  • 577 (KAL 374) c/n 484504, b/n 45916. Deliv.11/48. Withdrawn 1/61, body scrapped 1/61, chassis to 901.
  • 578 (KAL 507) c/n 484744, b/n 45917. Deliv.12/48. Withdrawn 2/69, to Lowndes, Spondon 3/69.
  • 579 (KAL 508) c/n 484743, b/n 45918. Deliv.12/48. Withdrawn 7/62, scrapped 4/63.
  • 580 (KNN 254) c/n 485820, b/n 45919. Deliv.2/49. Withdrawn 3/72, to Hobson, Worksop 6/72 for preservation. *** SURVIVOR ***

LEYLAND PD2 TITAN    -     731 - 732 (total 2)

731 (RAL 333) was both the first new highbridge and the first Leyland PD2 bought by Barton, in 1954. Here it is seen on a test run when new, measuring the clearance under a railway bridge on Nottingham Road, Long Eaton. Despite the 14 feet sign on the bridge, the 14' 6" bus just has enough space to get through. This roadway was later lowered to accomodate high vehicles more comfortably. Photo courtesy of Barton PLC.

Built in 1954.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/12 Titan.

Body: Leyland H30/26R, platform doors fitted 1959.

  • 731 (RAL 333) c/n 531948, Deliv.6/54. Withdrawn 4/74, to Smith and May, Benfleet 4/1974.
  • 732 (RAL 334) c/n 531947, Deliv.6/54. Withdrawn 4/74, to Sheppey playbus 1974.

FLEET LIST Part 2 - VEHICLES BOUGHT SECONDHAND BY BARTON

LEYLAND PD1A TITAN    -     753 (total 1)

Built in 1947.

Chassis: Leyland PD1A Titan.

Body: Alexander (Leyland framed) H30/26R

  • 753 (DUT 127) c/n 461637, b/n 3059. Ex Allan, Mountsorrell no. 36 9/55 (new 3/47). Body scrapped 12/62, rebodied with Duple body ex 472, withdrawn 1/67, sold for scrap 8/67.

LEYLAND PD2/1 TITAN    -     754 (total 1)

754 (GUT 455) was the second of a pair of postwar Leyland Titans aquired with the take-over of the business and fleet of Allan of Mountsorrell, in September 1955. It is seen some years later in Ilkeston, turning from Wharncliffe Road into Market Place. Photo courtesy of R F Mack.

Built in 1951.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/1 Titan.

Body: Leyland H30/26R.

  • 754 (GUT 455) c/n 511128. Ex Allan, Mountsorrell no. 44 9/55 (new 8/51). Withdrawn 7/66, sold for scrap 11/66.

LEYLAND PD1 TITAN    -     800 (total 1)

Built in 1946.

Chassis: Leyland PD1 Titan.

Body: Burlingham H30/26R.

  • 800 (ARN 196) c/n 460812, b/n 2770. Ex Ribble 2462 10/58 (new 12/46). Not used, scrapped 10/58.

LEYLAND PD1A TITAN    -     806 - 807 (total 2)

806 (BCK 27) was the first of a pair of Leyland PD1A Titans aquired from Preston Corporation in 1959. It is seen here on Bath Street in Ilkeston, over 100 miles from its original operating area.

Built in 1946-47.

Chassis: Leyland PD1A Titan.

Body: Leyland L27/26R.

  • 806 (BCK 27) c/n 462227. Ex Preston no. 67 3/59 (new 12/46). Withdrawn 12/63, sold for scrap 10/64.
  • 807 (BCK 938) c/n 471692. Ex Preston no. 105 3/59 (new 11/47). Withdrawn 9/65, sold to Keeble, Pinxton (dealer) 11/1965.

LEYLAND PD1 TITAN    -     819 (total 1)

819 (HF 9598) was a solitary ex Wallasey bus acquired in 1959 and seen in Melton Mowbray on 20th August 1965, still looking quite smartly turned out, at almost nineteen years old. Photo courtesy of J S Cockshott.

Built in 1946.

Chassis: Leyland PD1 Titan.

Body: Metro-Cammell H30/26R.

  • 819 (HF 9598) c/n 460934. Ex Phillips, Holywell 5/59 (new 9/46 as Wallasey no. 90). Withdrawn 2/66, converted to tree-lopper No.8 3/67.

LEYLAND PD1 TITAN    -     827 - 828 (total 2)

828 (XG 9304) was the second of a pair of Leyland PD1 Titans new to Middlesbrough in June 1947 and aquired twelve years later. It is seen in Mount Street bus station in Nottingham in 1960, alongside an ex West Riding Leyland TD5 dating from 1938. Photo courtesy of U K Classic Bus Photos.

Built in 1947.

Chassis: Leyland PD1 Titan.

Body: Northern Counties L27/26R.

  • 827 (XG 9302) c/n 462993, b/n 4076. Ex Yuille, Larkhall 10/59 (new 6/47 as Middlesbrough no. 50). Withdrawn 9/64, sold for scrap 10/64.
  • 828 (XG 9304) c/n 462995, b/n 4078. Ex Yuille, Larkhall 10/59 (new 6/47 as Middlesbrough no. 52). Withdrawn 12/71, to Maybray, Sutton-on-Trent 1/1972 for preservation. *** SURVIVOR ***

LEYLAND PD1 TITAN    -     830 - 835 (total 6)

834 (DJF 349), seen at Kegworth garage, was one of a batch of six ex Leicester PD1s acquired in November 1959, and was the last one to remain in service with Barton, until October 1971, almost 25 years since it was new.

Built in 1946.

Chassis: Leyland PD1 Titan.

Body: Leyland H30/26R.

  • 830 (DJF 335) c/n 451828. Ex Leicester no. 234 11/59 (new 6/46). Withdrawn 10/67, sold to Wilkinson, Hoton 2/68.
  • 831 (DJF 336) c/n 451829. Ex Leicester no. 235 11/59 (new 6/46). Withdrawn 4/68, sold to Keeble, Pinxton (dealer) 4/68.
  • 832 (DJF 337) c/n 451835. Ex Leicester no. 236 11/59 (new 6/46). Withdrawn 12/67, sold to Keeble, Pinxton (dealer) 1/68.
  • 833 (DJF 345) c/n 460649. Ex Leicester no. 244 11/59 (new 12/46). Withdrawn 11/65, sold to Keeble, Pinxton (dealer) 2/66.
  • 834 (DJF 349) c/n 460693. Ex Leicester no. 248 11/59 (new 12/46). Withdrawn 10/71, sold to Syerston Aerodrome 1/72. *** SURVIVOR ***
  • 835 (DJF 350) c/n 460802. Ex Leicester no. 249 11/59 (new 12/46). Withdrawn 11/65, sold to Keeble, Pinxton (dealer) 2/66.

LEYLAND PD1 TITAN    -     842 - 849 (total 8)

A further eight ex Leicester PD1s were acquired in March 1960, numbered 842 to 849. Three are seen here, 844 (DJF 339) on the left, 846 (DJF 346) on the right, and 849 (DJF 352) inside the garage still in Leicester colours.

Built in 1946.

Chassis: Leyland PD1 Titan.

Body: Leyland H30/26R.

  • 842 (DJF 333) c/n 451826. Ex Leicester no. 232 3/60 (new 6/46). Withdrawn 1965, not traced further.
  • 843 (DJF 334) c/n 451827. Ex Leicester no. 233 3/60 (new 10/46). Withdrawn 1965, not traced further.
  • 844 (DJF 339) c/n 460548. Ex Leicester no. 238 3/60 (new 10/46). Withdrawn 1971, sold to Williamson, Abingdon 4/1972 for preservation, later scrapped.
  • 845 (DJF 340) c/n 460581. Ex Leicester no. 239 3/60 (new 10/46). Withdrawn 1965, not traced further.
  • 846 (DJF 346) c/n 460650. Ex Leicester no. 245 3/60 (new 12/46). Withdrawn 1965, sold to unknown, Pinxton (dealer) by 11/66.
  • 847 (DJF 347) c/n 460651. Ex Leicester no. 246 3/60 (new 12/46). Withdrawn 1972, sold to Attwood, Abingdon 4/1972 for preservation, later scrapped.
  • 848 (DJF 351) c/n 460803. Ex Leicester no. 250 3/60 (new 12/46). Withdrawn 1965, sold to unknown, Pinxton (dealer) 1966.
  • 849 (DJF 352) c/n 460804. Ex Leicester no. 251 3/60 (new 12/46). Withdrawn 1965, sold to unknown, Pinxton (dealer) by 11/66.

LEYLAND PD1A TITAN    -     855 (total 1)

A solitary ex Western Welsh lowbridge PD1, 855 (JDE 7) was acquired in March 1960. Seen here at Melton Mowbray garage with an ex London RTL and an Alexander bodied single decker.

Built in 1947.

Chassis: Leyland PD1A Titan.

Body: Leyland L27/26R.

  • 855 (JDE 7) c/n 471799. Ex Western Welsh no. 988 3/60 (new 9/47). Withdrawn 1967, not traced further.

LEYLAND PD1/3 TITAN    -     856 (total 1)

Barton's only full front postwar Titan was a former Ribble PD1 coach with a Burlingham body. Acquired in 1960, it lasted just four years with its second owner, seen here at Long Eaton depot.

Built in 1948.

Chassis: Leyland PD1/3 Titan.

Body: Burlingham FLC27/22RD.

  • 856 (BRN 290) c/n 472164, b/n 2796. Ex Ribble no. 1230 3/60 (new 11/48). Withdrawn 1964, sold for scrap 1964.

LEYLAND PD1A TITAN    -     857 - 858 (total 2)

Another northwest municipal operator from which vehicles were sourced was Birkenhead Corporation, who supplied two Massey bodied PD1s in April 1960. 857 (BG 9221) was photographed at Kegworth, sometime after August 1960.

Built in 1947.

Chassis: Leyland PD1A Titan.

Body: Massey H30/26R.

  • 857 (BG 9221) c/n 460526. Ex Birkenhead Corporation no. 101 4/60 (new 11/46). Withdrawn 1965, sold to unknown dealer, Pinxton by 8/67
  • 858 (BG 9222) c/n 460527. Ex Birkenhead Corporation no. 102 4/60 (new 10/46). Withdrawn 1965, sold to unknown dealer, Pinxton by 8/67

LEYLAND PD1A TITAN    -     875 (total 1)

A third ex Preston PD1 was acquired in September 1960, joining 806 and 807 bought eighteen months earlier. 875 (BCK 26) was captured on film in Melton Mowbray.

Built in 1946-47.

Chassis: Leyland PD1A Titan.

Body: Leyland L27/26R.

  • 875 (BCK 26) c/n 462226. Ex Preston no. 12 9/60 (new 12/46). Withdrawn 1965, not traced further.

LEYLAND PD1 TITAN    -     876 - 877 (total 2)

The final pair of the sixteen ex Leicester PD1s acquired arrived in November 1960. 877 (DJF 344), is seen in Mount Street, Nottingham with Duple bodied PD1 467.

Built in 1946.

Chassis: Leyland PD1 Titan.

Body: Leyland H30/26R.

  • 876 (DJF 341) c/n 460582. Ex Leicester no. 240 11/60 (new 10/46). Withdrawn 1965, to Trent Concrete, Nottingham 3/66.
  • 877 (DJF 344) c/n 460629. Ex Leicester no. 243 11/60 (new 10/46). Withdrawn 1965, to unknown dealer, Pinxton by 8/67.

LEYLAND PD2/1 TITAN    -     906 (total 1)

This ex Yorkshire Woollen Leyland PD2 was in the Barton fleet for around three years. At the end of 1961 three more of the batch were bought by Barton for recycling into new buses.

Built in 1948.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/1 Titan.

Body: Brush H30/26R.

  • 906 (HD 7838) c/n 483640. Ex Yorkshire Woollen District no. 555 4/61 (new 11/48). Withdrawn 1964, scrapped 11/64.

LEYLAND PD1 TITAN    -     915 - 917 (total 3)

The third of a group of three ex Chesterfield PD1s acquired in July 1961 is seen at Chilwell two months later, with several examples of Barton's road haulage fleet.

Built in 1946.

Chassis: Leyland PD1 Titan.

Body: Weymann L27/26R.

  • 915 (JRA 641) c/n 460586, b/n M3006. Ex Chesterfield no. 126 7/61 (new 11/46). Withdrawn 1967, not traced further.
  • 916 (JRA 642) c/n 460587, b/n M3007. Ex Chesterfield no. 127 7/61 (new 11/46). Withdrawn 1967, not traced further.
  • 917 (JRA 648) c/n 461652, b/n M3013. Ex Chesterfield no. 133 7/61 (new 11/46). Withdrawn 1967, not traced further.

LEYLAND PD1A TITAN    -     919 - 920, 940 - 941 (total 4)

The last of a quartet of ex Crosville Titans with ECW bodies was numbered 941, and is seen at Manor Road in Ilkeston during its Barton career.

Built in 1947 - 1948.

Chassis: Leyland PD1A Titan.

Body: Eastern Coachworks L27/26R.

  • 919 (GFM 912) c/n 460586, b/n 2220. Ex Crosville no. DTE527 12/61 (new 6/47). Withdrawn 1967, sold to unknown, Derby 4/67.
  • 920 (GFM 913) c/n 470520, b/n 2221. Ex Crosville no. DTE528 12/61 (new 7/47). Withdrawn 1962, scrapped c.3/62.
  • 940 (GFM 923) c/n 470605, b/n 2231. Ex Crosville no. DTE538 12/61 (new 8/47). Withdrawn 1968, sold for scrap by 6/68.
  • 941 (HFM 69) c/n 472784, b/n 2280. Ex Crosville no. DTE547 12/61 (new 3/48). Withdrawn 1967, not traced further.

LEYLAND PD2/1 TITAN    -     942 - 944 (total 3)

The second of the three ex Todmorden Leyland PD1s is seen at Mount Street, Nottingham in 1970 or 1971, with four of the Duple bodied PD1s. Photo Geoff Lumb.

Built in 1947-48.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/1 Titan.

Body: Leyland L27/26R.

  • 942 (GWW 41) c/n 473408. Ex Todmorden no. 28 1/62 (new 2/48). Withdrawn 1972, to Lister, Bolton (dealer) 5/72
  • 943 (FWT 184) c/n 471612. Ex Todmorden no. 12 1/62 (new 9/47). Withdrawn 1972, to Lister, Bolton (dealer) 5/72
  • 944 (GWU 11) c/n 473417. Ex Todmorden no. 1 1/62 (new 2/48). Withdrawn 1972, to Lister, Bolton (dealer) 5/72

LEYLAND PD1A TITAN    -     951 (total 1)

The sole ex East Yorkshire bus acquired was also the only example of a Roe bodied Titan in the Barton fleet, seen at Ilkeston garage.

Built in 1947.

Chassis: Leyland PD1A Titan.

Body: Roe H26/26R.

  • 951 (JAT 410) c/n 463031, b/n GO2397. Ex East Yorkshire No.442 7/62 (new 10/47). Withdrawn 1967, not traced further.

LEYLAND PD2/3 TITAN    -     952 - 956 (total 5)

The summer of 1962 saw five lowbridge PD2s arrive from Ribble Motor Services. 954 is seen here in Chilwell alongside two ECW bodied Titans (TD5 ex Cumberland and PD1 ex Crosville), two of the PD1/Duples, a Bedford SB coach and a further decker in the distance.(Photo P. Best).

Built in 1948.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/3 Titan.

Body: Leyland L27/26R.

  • 952 (CCK 353) c/n 483564. Ex Ribble no. 2578 7/62 (new 9/48). Withdrawn 1966, sold for scrap 12/67.
  • 953 (CCK 342) c/n 483321. Ex Ribble no. 2567 8/62 (new 8/48). Withdrawn 1966, sold for scrap 7/67.
  • 954 (CCK 362) c/n 483591. Ex Ribble no. 2587 8/62 (new 9/48). Withdrawn 1967, sold for scrap 12/67.
  • 955 (CCK 363) c/n 483586. Ex Ribble no. 2588 8/62 (new 10/48). Withdrawn 1967, sold for scrap 12/67.
  • 956 (CCK 365) c/n 483411. Ex Ribble no. 2590 8/62 (new 9/48). Withdrawn 1966, sold for scrap 7/67.

LEYLAND PD2/7RT TITAN    -     1031 (total 1)

Over three years were to pass before Bartons acquired more used Leyland Titans. 1031 was the first of no less than 25 ex London Transport Leyland Titans (RTL/RTW class) which headed north over the space of two years in small groups.

Built in 1951.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/7RT Titan.

Body: Metro-Cammell H30/26R.

  • 1031 (LUC 345) c/n 504578. Ex London Transport no. RTL970 12/65 (new 11/51). Withdrawn 1972, sold to unknown buyer 4/72.

LEYLAND PD2/7RT TITAN    -     1032 (total 1)

The second ex London bus was one of a small number which went into service in London Transport red livery, with just the wheels and wheelarches being repainted at first, plus Barton insignia and destination blinds.

Built in 1954.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/7RT Titan.

Body: Park Royal H30/26R.

  • 1032 (OLD 591) c/n 540009, b/n L1517. Ex London Transport no. RTL1482 12/65 (new 4/54). Withdrawn 1970, sold for scrap 1/71.

LEYLAND PD2/7RT TITAN    -     1033 (total 1)

Built in 1954.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/7RT Titan.

Body: Weymann H30/26R.

  • 1033 (OLD 646) c/n 540792, b/n W776. Ex London Transport no. RTL1537 12/65 (new 6/54). Withdrawn 1970, sold for scrap 1/71.

LEYLAND PD2/7RT TITAN    -     1034 (total 1)

1034 was the former RTL1539, and by the time of its withdrawal and sale had lost its roof, possibly for use as a tree-lopper.

Built in 1954.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/7RT Titan.

Body: Park Royal H30/26R.

  • 1034 (OLD 648) c/n 540814, b/n L1275. Ex London Transport no. RTL1539 12/65 (new 7/54). Withdrawn 1967, sold to Andrews, Nottingham 11/67.

LEYLAND PD2/6RT TITAN    -     1035 (total 1)

The only example of a London RTW bus bought was the former RTW341, seen as 1035 in Melton Mowbray in June 1970. (Photo P. Henson).

Built in 1950.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/6RT Titan.

Body: Leyland H30/26R.

  • 1035 (KXW 441) c/n 501813. Ex London Transport no. RTW341 12/65 (new 7/50). Withdrawn 1971, sold to unknown buyer 9/71.

LEYLAND PD2/7RT TITAN    -     1036 - 1037 (total 2)

OLD 575 was the former RTL1479, and is seen passing the entrance to Barton's premises at Chilwell.

Built in 1954.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/7RT Titan.

Body: Park Royal H30/26R.

  • 1036 (OLD 575) c/n 540005, b/n L1566. Ex London Transport no. RTL1479 12/65 (new 3/54). Withdrawn 1971, sold to unknown buyer 9/71.
  • 1037 (OLD 592) c/n 532743, b/n L1575. Ex London Transport no. RTL1483 12/65 (new 4/54). Withdrawn 1971, sold to Fisher and Ford (dealer), Carlton 9/71.

LEYLAND PD2/9 TITAN    -     1038 - 1041 (total 4)

Breaking the London thread briefly, Barton picked up four PD2s with rare Davies bodies, all ex Saint Helens in Lancashire. 1040 (CDJ 721) is en route from Oakham to Melton while crossing a railway line at Ashwell.

Built in 1954.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/9 Titan.

Body: Davies H30/26R.

  • 1038 (CDJ 719) c/n 531668. Ex Saint Helens no. 74 12/65 (new 1/54). Withdrawn 1968, not traced further.
  • 1039 (CDJ 720) c/n 531669. Ex Saint Helens no. 75 12/65 (new 1/54). Withdrawn 1968, not traced further.
  • 1040 (CDJ 721) c/n 531670. Ex Saint Helens no. 76 12/65 (new 2/54). Withdrawn 1968, not traced further.
  • 1041 (CDJ 880) c/n 531765. Ex Saint Helens no. 80 12/65 (new 3/54). Withdrawn 1968, not traced further.

LEYLAND PD2/7RT TITAN    -     1042 - 1044 (total 2)

Three more RTLs arrived in January 1966, 1044 (OLD 602) represents the batch seen at Ilkeston Market Place in the late 1960s.

Built in 1954.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/7RT Titan.

Body: Park Royal H30/26R.

  • 1042 (OLD 595) c/n 540008, b/n L1264. Ex London Transport no. RTL1486 1/66 (new 3/54). Withdrawn 1968, sold for scrap 9/68.
  • 1043 (OLD 598) c/n 540014, b/n L1602. Ex London Transport no. RTL1489 1/66 (new 4/54). Withdrawn 1968, sold for scrap 2/68.
  • 1044 (OLD 602) c/n 540271, b/n L1187. Ex London Transport no. RTL1493 1/66 (new 4/54). Withdrawn 1968, sold for scrap 9/68.

LEYLAND PD2/7RT TITAN    -     1046 (total 1)

Three more RTLs came in June 1966, of which 1046 had a Weymann body, the other pair having Park Royal ones. 1046 is seen in Stapleford advertising its owner's 1969 coach tour holidays.

Built in 1954.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/7RT Titan.

Body: Weymann H30/26R.

  • 1046 (OLD 847) c/n 541164, b/n W880. Ex London Transport no. RTL1618 6/66 (new 4/54). Withdrawn 1971, sold to Fisher and Ford, Carlton (dealer) 9/71.

LEYLAND PD2/7RT TITAN    -     1047 - 1048 (total 2)

1048 is seen at Mount Street, Nottingham in 1970 or 1971. Note the reg plate is in a different place to the other RTLs, plus the BARTON sticker on the top of the radiator. Photo P. Best.

Built in 1954.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/7RT Titan.

Body: Park Royal H30/26R.

  • 1047 (OLD 594) c/n 540012, b/n L1256. Ex London Transport no. RTL1485 6/66 (new 4/54). Withdrawn 1968, sold for scrap 2/68.
  • 1048 (OLD 597) c/n 540013, b/n L1185. Ex London Transport no. RTL1488 6/66 (new 4/54). Withdrawn 1971, sold to Russell, Sutton Coldfield 4/71.

LEYLAND PD2/7RT TITAN    -     1083 (total 1)

1083 was the last RTL to enter service in 1966, and is seen at Ilkeston garage between 1968 and 1971. Hall Bros of South Shields had been taken over in 1967 and their fleet of 35 coaches added to Barton's fleet.

Built in 1954.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/7RT Titan.

Body: Weymann H30/26R.

  • 1083 (OLD 784) c/n 540919, b/n W787. Ex London Transport no. RTL1565 9/66 (new 8/54). Withdrawn 1971, sold to Rennie, Dunfermline 6/71.

LEYLAND PD2/7RT TITAN    -     1084 - 1086 (total 3)

1084 was one of the last RTLs to remain in service with Barton. Here it is seen on Asfordby Road in Melton Mowbray on July 22nd 1972, promoting that year's programme of Road Cruises.

Built in 1950.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/7RT Titan.

Body: Metro-Cammell H30/26R.

  • 1084 (KYY 731) c/n 501220. Ex London Transport no. RTL761 3/67 (new 5/50). Withdrawn 1972, sold to Royal Army Veterinary Corps, Melton Mowbray 2/73.
  • 1085 (KYY 807) c/n 502087. Ex London Transport no. RTL837 3/67 (new 7/50). Withdrawn 1972, sold to Lister, Bolton (dealer) 3/72.
  • 1086 (KYY 780) c/n 501719. Ex London Transport no. RTL810 3/67 (new 6/50). Withdrawn 1970, sold for scrap 8/70.

LEYLAND PD2/7RT TITAN    -     1088 (total 1)

1088 is seen here at Melton Mowbray garage in 1967, having received a modified destination layout on the front. Like many others of the RTL fleet with Barton, it is promoting a New Service to Bristol, hopefully using a vehicle which was a bit faster and more comfortable than these Titans!.

Built in 1952.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/7RT Titan.

Body: Park Royal H30/26R.

  • 1088 (MXX 78) c/n 521907, b/n L702. Ex London Transport no. RTL1355 3/67 (new 11/52). Withdrawn 1971, sold for scrap 8/71.

LEYLAND PD2/7RT TITAN    -     1089 (total 1)

1089 was the last Weymann bodied RTL to be acquired, in March 1967. It is seen here at Chilwell depot surrounded by various examples of Bedford trucks and coaches.

Built in 1954.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/7RT Titan.

Body: Weymann H30/26R.

  • 1089 (OLD 790) c/n 540861, b/n W985. Ex London Transport no. RTL1571 3/67 (new 8/54). Withdrawn 1969, sold for scrap 9/70.

LEYLAND PD2/7RT TITAN    -     1090, 1107 - 1111 (total 6)

1090 is seen here in Chilwell yard after withdrawal in 1970, being sold for scrap the following January. It is flanked by a Dodge truck and an AEC truck.

Built in 1950 - 1954.

Chassis: Leyland PD2/7RT Titan.

Body: Park Royal highbridge open rear platform 56-seat bus body.

  • 1090 (LYF 165) c/n 511057, b/n L2079. Ex London Transport no. RTL1224 12/67 (new 4/51). Withdrawn 1970, sold for scrap 1/71.
  • 1107 (LYR 770) c/n 512196, b/n L1919. Ex London Transport no. RTL1238 12/67 (new 11/51). Withdrawn 1970, sold for scrap 1/71.
  • 1108 (LUC 25) c/n 504190, b/n L2053. Ex London Transport no. RTL1054 12/67 (new 9/50). Withdrawn 1968, sold for scrap 4/68.
  • 1109 (LYR 824) c/n 515054, b/n L2088. Ex London Transport no. RTL1292 12/67 (new 12/51). Withdrawn 1972, sold for scrap 1/72.
  • 1110 (MXX 34) c/n 521457, b/n L2256. Ex London Transport no. RTL1335 12/67 (new 10/52). Withdrawn 1970, sold to Lowndes, Spondon (dealer) 11/70.
  • 1111 (OLD 796) c/n 540990, b/n L3269. Ex London Transport no. RTL1577 12/67 (new 9/54). Withdrawn 1972, sold as storeshed, Long Eaton 1972.

BARTON PD1 TITANS REBUILT TO BARTON BTS1 SINGLE DECKERS

The two Leyland PD1 Titans with wartime Duple bodies were taken from the existing Barton fleet (as listed above), given new full front single-deck bodies and re-registered. This list shows the new identity, chassis origin, and new body details.

  • 668 (NNN 968) c/n BTL/30/52/1026 converted from PD1 No. 470 (JAL 987, see above) 1/53 with Barton FC39F body. Withdrawn 10/64, converted to transporter no. 49 3/65. *** SURVIVOR ***
  • 669 (NVO 266) c/n BTL/30/52/1027 converted from PD1 No. 455 (HRR 942, see above) 2/53 with Barton FC39F body. Withdrawn 10/64, sold to Rostance, Nottingham, (builder) 2/65.

BARTON PD1 TITANS REBUILT TO BARTON BTD2 FULL FRONT DOUBLE DECKERS

Three Leyland PD1 Titans were taken from the existing Barton fleet (as listed above), given new lowbridge double-deck bodies by Northern Counties and re-registered. This list shows the new identity, chassis origin, and new body details.

  • 878 (878 LRR) c/n BTL/30/61/1060 converted from PD1 No. 462 (JNN 920, see above) 12/61 with Northern Counties (5669) FL37/33F body. Withdrawn 1974, sold to Lloyd, Nuneaton 2/75.
  • 901 (901 LRR) c/n BTL/30/61/1061 converted from PD1 No. 577 (KAL 374, see above) 12/61 with Northern Counties (5670) FL37/33F body. Withdrawn 1974, sold to Ensignbus, Hornchurch 4/74.
  • 902 (902 LRR) c/n BTL/30/61/1062 converted from PD1 No. 519 (JVO 236, see above) 12/61 with Northern Counties (5668) FL37/33F body. Withdrawn 1974, sold to Lloyd, Nuneaton 2/75.

SECOND-HAND LEYLAND PD2 TITANS CONVERTED TO BARTON DOUBLE DECKERS

Three Leyland PD2/1 Titans were acquired second-hand by Barton and given new lowbridge double- deck bodies by Northern Counties and re-registered. This list shows the new identity, chassis origin, and new body details.

  • 903 (903 LRR) c/n BTL/30/61/1063 converted from ex Yorkshire Woollen District no. 549 (HD 7832) (Leyland PD2/1 c/n 481820 - Brush H30/26R) 12/61 with Northern Counties (5667) FL37/33F body. Withdrawn 1975, sold to Dack, Terrington St. Clement 1/75.
  • 904 (904 LRR) c/n BTL/30/61/1064 converted from ex Yorkshire Woollen District no. 553 (HD 7836) (Leyland PD2/1 c/n 483638 - Brush H30/26R) 12/61 with Northern Counties (5666) FL37/33F body. Withdrawn 1974 with fire damage, sold to Dack, Terrington St. Clement 2/75 for parts.
  • 907 (907 LVO) c/n BTL/30/61/1065 converted from ex Yorkshire Woollen District no. 554 (HD 7837) (Leyland PD2/1 c/n 483639 - Brush H30/26R) 12/61 with Northern Counties (5671) FL37/33F body. Withdrawn 1975 with fire damage, sold to Dack, Terrington St. Clement 2/75 for parts.

SECOND-HAND LEYLAND TITANS ACQUIRED FOR PARTS

Eight Leyland Titans were acquired second-hand by Barton purely for stripping for parts and were subsequently sold for scrap. This list shows the vehicles and the source of them.

Five of the seven ex Birkenhead PD1s are seen at Chilwell in August 1961 for parts and stripping.

  • BG 9677 Leyland PD1 470163 - Massey H30/26R new 9/47 as Birkenhead Corporation 125; acquired 8/61.
  • BG 9678 Leyland PD1 470162 - Massey H30/26R new 9/47 as Birkenhead Corporation 124; acquired 8/61.
  • ACM 303 Leyland PD1 481707 - Massey H30/26R new 9/48 as Birkenhead Corporation 128; acquired 8/61.
  • ACM 304 Leyland PD1 481715 - Massey H30/26R new 10/48 as Birkenhead Corporation 129; acquired 8/61.
  • ACM 305 Leyland PD1 481716 - Massey H30/26R new 12/48 as Birkenhead Corporation 130; acquired 8/61.
  • ACM 306 Leyland PD1 481876 - Massey H30/26R new 10/48 as Birkenhead Corporation 131; acquired 8/61.
  • ACM 307 Leyland PD1 481877 - Massey H30/26R new 9/48 as Birkenhead Corporation 132; acquired 8/61.
  • KGU 467 Leyland PD2/7RT 494295 - Park Royal H30/26R L1055 new 9/49 as London Transport RTL380; acquired 1/67; broken up 7/69.

Total 122 original vehicles (with 12 survivors - 467, 470 (aka 668), 471, 473, 507, 509, 511, 512, 516, 580, 828, 834)

POSTSCRIPT -- THE 21st CENTURY REPLICA

Although all of the former ex London Transport Leyland Titans were scrapped following withdrawal, during 2020 a further example was acquired by a preservationist and repainted into Barton livery, and given fleet number 1049. The previous 1049 in Barton's fleet had been AEC Regal IV HCY 24 new to Provincial of Leicester.

  • 1049 KGU 284 Leyland PD2/7RT 493427 - Park Royal H30/26R L972 new 8/49 as London Transport RTL326; painted in Barton livery during 2021. Previously registered J 8903 with a Jersey based sightseeing operator.

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