Central SMT

Double-Deckers : Bristol Lodekka FLF (BE)

Following on from the FSFs, the next Lodekka variant to be introduced by Central SMT was to be one of the most popular in fleets throughout the land : the Flat-floor, Long, Forward-entrance model. In its standard length with 70 seats, it was designated BE by Central, but numbering was in the same series as the B class. Its layout was very similar to the B class FSF; it was simply a few feet longer. Some examples sacrificed two lower-deck seats in favour of a luggage rack.

The BE259-272 batch in 1965 was diverted from an order placed by Alexander (Fife) and had non-standard green interiors. Externally, the rear registration number appeared in the lower offside corner - a standard for most fleets, but not for Central, where the normal position was between decks.

The FLF also featured in the famous swap of Scottish Bus Group Bristol VRs for National Bus Company Lodekkas in 1973, bringing a variety of second-hand models to Central. These would be the highest-numbered Lodekkas in the fleet.

In this view, B177 seems to have paired up with Alexander-bodied Layland Titan PD1A L304, of 1949 vintage.

Double-deck Types

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