As mentioned in a previous photo, for their minibus needs, Lancaster never really settled on one particular model and acquired tended to acquire different types, both new and secondhand, although although a total of thirteen secondhand VW Optare City Pacers were acquired. They tended to be a more traditional operator with the minibus operation not starting until 1989 and that maybe could have lead to their downfall after coming under increased competition from Ribble. In fact this photo, taken in 05/1993, was about three months before LCT ceased trading. The company was placed on the market by Lancaster City Council on 16/12/1992. Interest was expressed in buying the company as a going concern by Blackpool Transport Services and MTL, owners of Merseybus, who were in competition in the area with Heysham Travel. However, following increased competition by Stagecoach, it was decided to wind the company up. On 22/08/1993, the company ceased trading, and sold the depot and its twelve newest buses to Stagecoach(North West). The Ribble Buses company being the incumbent operator. In all essence, I think Lancaster were struggling judging by this quick visit. Here, M19, is seen here in Lancaster Bus Station. It was among a couple of the ex-demo. MetroRiders acquired by Lancaster and was new to Optare, Crossgates, in 11/1991. After leaving Lancaster City Transport, it went onto work for Northumbria(847), later Arriva North East then onto Northern Blue(63), Burnley.
The camera being a Praktica MTL3 with the film being a 'Fujichrome' colourslide.
I would request, as with all my photos, that they are not copied or downloaded in any way, shape or form. © Peter Steel 1993.
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