Hull Bus Restorers

GAT 180D was new to Kingston upon Hull Corporation Transport (KHCT) in June 1966 as fleet number 180, although it was not registered until 1st August 1966.  It was later renumbered 80.  It had a relatively short lived service life as it was withdrawn in 1981.  After withdrawal it served for a month or two at the BP Chemicals works at Saltend on the outskirts of Hull.  Following this work it was purchased by the Beverley Silhouettes before being passed into the preservation movement.  Having had several owners and being fully restored on at least one occasion it was bought by a member of our group, Sean Peacock, from Ellie Rose owner, Jim Houghton, in December 2002.  During its time with Ellie Rose it required a new engine which was provided by OBT 693M, an ex Connor & Graham of Easington Leyland Leopard.  This changed the original Leyland 0.600 engine to the more powerful 0.680 engine.  This engine is an 11.1 litre normally aspirated 130 bhp 6 cylinder diesel engine.  The engine develops a maximum power of 130 bhp at 2200 rpm and 405 lb. ft. of torque at 1400 rpm.

 180 was one of just 12 of these buses ordered by KHCT over a 2 year period.  Surprisingly three of them still survive today!  The buses were all fitted with folding seats in the front part of the bus so that they could be used to transport passengers and their luggage to the ferries that ran to and from Hull.  They were also fitted with a flag box on the roof which would hold the Union Jack, Dutch flag and the flag of the then North Sea Ferries (now a part of P&O).  These would be used when travelling to and from King George Dock in Hull.  This example of the batch is chassis number L41723 and carries Roe body number G06141.

GAT180D whilst in service with Kingston upon Hull Corporation Transport.

GAT180D whilst in service with Beverley Silhouettes.

Thanks to Dave Longbottom for this picture.

When purchased by Sean, the plan was to restore 180 to its former glory although this did not happen.  When approached by the rest of our group, part of the bus was sold so that each member of the new group holds a 25% share.  Work has now begun to start the restoration which is moving at a quick pace.  The aim is for the bus to be ready for the East Coast Run on Sunday 8th June 2008!

List of all KHCT Leyland Panthers: