Here we go again!

Our fleet would not be complete without a representative from Bartons Transport of Chilwell, Nottingham and to this end we have very recently purchased one of the examples much used by this well known independant during the 1970's and 80's.

1286 is now awaiting our chief mechanic to commence with the fitting of the replacement engine and gearbox and then, fingers crossed we can drive the Leopard into our yard and safe keeping.

Disapointingly, 1286 does not retain the original Bartons covering to the seats but perhaps one day it will be resplendant once again in the material below - and hopefully the outside will look as it did in this 'in service' shot.

Many months of hard work lay ahead but at the moment, other than the engine this looks like bodywork cosmetic's as the framework and chassis look to be in a good condition - time will no doubt tell if this is in fact the case!  Never the less we are looking forward to the end result and perhaps a trip to Ilkeston and Nottingham via Kirk Hallam would be on the cards.

Latest news - replacement engine in with help from fellow preservationist Dave Wheatley from the Ilkeston group. Snow and cold weather delayed us putting the gearbox in but I can now report that this too is fitted and I had my first rather lumpy drive of 1286 around the yard - much still needs to be done!

Update. N/side seats removed and repair to lino floor covering completed. All window rubbers have shrunk at the joint and remedial work is urgently required to stop the water ingress before the seats are refitted. The same floor repair can then be done on the o/side. Work slow due to helping out our fellow preservationists with the rebuild of thier ex Bartons Regent V but soon the favour will be returned.