Most Ailsas were bodied by Alexander but Cardiff, Derby and Greater Manchester opted for Northern Counties,which adapted its 'GM Standard' body. The result was a neat design that has stood the test of time well. Manchester's Alisas were relatively short -lived (at least with their original owner), whilst Cardiff seems to have had the best value, keeping its Ailsa fleet until relatively recently. This image is based on an ex-Cardiff vehicle but fitted with a destination display more appropriate to Busways. I'll leave it to speculation as to whether it was a bus bought new by the Tyne & Wear PTE (as the registration suggests) or a second-hand purchase in the deregulation era. Which of the Busways liveries was the most attractive is also a matter of personal opinion (08-Apr-14).
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