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The Enchanting Plaxton President Buses of London: Dancing Dolphins and Art Deco Glamour

Tim Reed

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Published in London S Plaxton President Buses Dancing Dolphin Patterns

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A Plaxton President Bus With A Dancing Dolphin Pattern London S Plaxton President Buses Dancing Dolphin Patterns

London s Plaxton President Buses Dancing Dolphin Patterns

A Brief History of the Plaxton President

The Plaxton President was a legendary bus model manufactured by Plaxton, a renowned British coachbuilder. Its lineage can be traced back to the AEC Regent III RT, a double-decker bus introduced in 1939. In the 1950s, Plaxton introduced the President bodywork as an alternative to the traditional AEC body.

The President quickly gained popularity due to its stylish Art Deco design and spacious interior. It also featured advanced engineering, including a lightweight aluminum frame and a powerful AEC diesel engine.

The Dancing Dolphins: A Signature Design

One of the most distinctive features of the Plaxton President was its Dancing Dolphin pattern. Designed by renowned artist Edward Seago, the pattern featured a playful pod of dolphins leaping through waves, symbolizing the joy and freedom of travel.

The Dancing Dolphin pattern became an instant hit with Londoners and became synonymous with the city's bus fleet. It adorned countless President buses, creating a vibrant and iconic presence on the streets.

The Dancing Dolphin Pattern On A Plaxton President Bus London S Plaxton President Buses Dancing Dolphin Patterns — The Dancing Dolphin pattern, a playful and iconic design that captured the essence of London's spirit.

Variants and Evolutions

Over the years, the Plaxton President underwent several modifications and variants were introduced.

President I: The original Plaxton President, introduced in 1954.
President II: A revised version introduced in 1958, featuring a more modern design and larger windows.
President III: A further development introduced in 1964, with a more streamlined appearance and improved seating.

The Plaxton President also saw service in other cities outside London, but it was in the capital that it became a beloved and iconic symbol of public transport.

The End of an Era and Legacy

The Plaxton President remained a mainstay on London's streets until the early 1980s. As newer bus models were introduced, the Presidents gradually faded from service. However, their legacy continues to live on.

Today, Plaxton President buses are highly sought after by bus enthusiasts and collectors. They are often restored and preserved, showcasing the beauty and craftsmanship of this classic vehicle.

Stories and Anecdotes

Beyond their historical significance, the Plaxton President buses also hold a special place in the hearts of Londoners and those who have had the privilege to ride in them.

One memorable anecdote tells the story of a President bus that was involved in a minor accident. The front of the bus was slightly damaged, but the iconic Dancing Dolphin pattern remained intact. Instead of repairing the damage, the bus drivers decided to leave it as a battle scar, adding to the vehicle's character and charm.

The Plaxton President buses were more than just vehicles; they were symbols of London's spirit, embodying the city's history, style, and sense of adventure. Their Dancing Dolphin patterns and Art Deco glamour left an enduring legacy on the streets of the capital and in the hearts of those who encountered them.

Today, the Plaxton President buses serve as a reminder of a bygone era when public transport was not just a necessity, but an experience to be enjoyed. Their elegant design and captivating patterns continue to inspire and delight, ensuring that the Dancing Dolphins of London will forever remain an iconic part of the city's heritage and transportation history.

London's Plaxton President Buses

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