23/04/2026
We’re proud to share our latest vehicle acquisition — a classic First bus that has now found a new home with J&M Preservations. 🚌
Our new arrival is Scania single-decker fleet number 65586, registration V586 DVF. This vehicle was previously part of the First fleet and spent its service life operating local routes from its allocated depot, where it would have been a familiar sight to daily passengers. Built during the late 1990s, buses of this type were known for their reliability and formed a key part of many First depots across the UK.
65586 has clearly led a full working life and still retains much of its original First livery, along with a largely complete interior. The destination display currently reading “DEPOT” is a nice touch and a reminder of its final movements before withdrawal from service.
This one is especially meaningful to us. It was secured before the recent passing of a family member who had a deep passion for preserving vehicles like this. Being able to carry that forward makes this addition all the more important.
Our plan is to carefully assess its condition and begin preservation work, with the aim of keeping as many original features as possible while returning it to a presentable and historically accurate standard.
🔧 **Workshop Update**
Progress is continuing well on M454 (ex Yellow Buses), which is getting closer and closer to MOT standard. There are just a few jobs left to complete — panels to make and secure, finishing off and securing the destination equipment, and fitting the new rear lights that have recently been sourced.
We look forward to sharing more updates on both vehicles as work progresses and ensuring their stories continue to be told for years to come. ❤️
