In 1981, Highland Omnibuses took delivery of 10 Scottish Bus Group standard Leyland Leopards with Alexander 49 seat dual-purpose bodies numbered L17-26. These buses were spread throughout Highland territory so this bus is representative of buses used from Oban to Thurso.
L25 and L26 were allocated to Oban and were regular performers on the Oban – Glasgow service. In June 1985, Oban depot was transferred to the control of Alexander (Midland) and the two Leopards became MPE430 and MPE431.
In 1992, the Oban operation was sold to Oban & District, owned and managed by former SBG manager Derek Stuart. The business was sold in 1998 to Craig of Campbeltown Limited, proprietors of West Coast Motors.
CAS 519W was sold for preservation in 2007 and has been restored to original Highland Omnibuses livery. Following a number of years laid up, much remedial work has been carried out and the vehicle is now roadworthy once more.
Photographs
Do you have a memory of this vehicle?
Perhaps you travelled on it, saw it at work, or know part of its story we have not yet recorded. Use the comments section below to share what you remember – every detail helps build a richer picture of Glasgow’s transport history.
- Registration
- CAS 519W
- Chassis type
- Leyland Leopard PSU3G/4R
- Chassis number
- 8130036
- Body type and seating
- Alexander AY C49F
- Body number
- 147AY/2480/9
- Date new
- June 1981
- Original operator
- Highland Omnibuses (L25)