1970s SINGLE-DECKER

In the mid-1960s, many observers believed the future UK bus would be a driver-only operated high-capacity single-decker, as already found in Mainland Europe and North America. British Leyland, then with a near monopoly on chassis production (as well as a substantial segment of body manufacturing), entered a partnership with the new National Bus Company to mass-produce a 'standard' single-deck bus, using semi-skilled labour (taking the principle from making cars), at a purpose-built factory in Workington, where traditional heavy industry was on the decline. But, even before the prototype appeared, it was undermined by driver-only operation of double-deckers being permitted, thus reducing the market for single-deckers. Moreover, the use of an unfamiliar new engine, and, at first, a rather inflexible specification - two lengths, with or without centre doors, red or green - did not endear it to operators used to determining their own requirements. Nevertheless, many Leyland National buses would go on to be manufactured, and once initial problems were resolved, it came to be recognised as a solid product, although the factory never reached full capacity.

Midland Red, no longer manufacturing its own vehicles after 1970, bought the Leyland National in quantity throughout the 1970s. NOE 544R is one of a batch of seventy-five delivered between August 1976 and May 1977. It was allocated to Worcester in September 1976, and remained there until withdrawn in December 1995. Meanwhile, the company was split up in September 1981, so most of its time was actually with Midland Red West.

Preservation
NOE 544R was acquired by the Museum straight out of service, and it is preserved in the smart red and cream livery of Midland Red West, with which company it had spent fourteen years in service.