A piece of Cheltenham's transport history has celebrated a major milestone as one of the town's first-ever driver-only double decker buses marks its 50th anniversary.

On October 1, 1975, Cheltenham depot introduced two brand-new Bristol VR double decker buses into service on the Hatherley route. These were the first buses in Cheltenham to be purpose-built for operation without a conductor, reflecting a major shift in how local public transport was delivered.

Designed with practical new features — including a driver-operated ticket machine, prominent "Pay the Driver" signs, and an extra set of exit doors — these buses marked a new era in efficiency and modernisation for the town's fleet.

Today, remarkably, one of those original two buses is still going strong.

While its sister vehicle was sold off decades ago, the surviving bus has remained in continuous operation under Stagecoach ownership since the company took over Cheltenham depot in 1993. 

Over the years, it's been based at several depots — including Stroud, Swindon, Winchester and Basingstoke — but was lovingly repainted in 2020 in a commemorative "Cheltenham District" livery and returned home to Cheltenham, where it is now preserved.

Though no longer suitable for regular service due to modern accessibility and emissions standards, the bus is still very much active in the community. It was recently used for a local wedding, followed by providing free shuttle services in Stroud on Sunday as part of the Five Valleys Walk, raising funds for Meningitis Now.

Chris Hanson, managing director of Stagecoach West, said: "It's a real point of pride to have this unique piece of Cheltenham's public transport history still in our care. It may be limited to special events now, but the joy and nostalgia it brings to local people is priceless."

With its original features, vintage charm, and strong Cheltenham roots, this classic double decker remains a beloved link to the town's transport past — and a favourite at local events.