Central SMT

Central SMT's first blue Bedford coaches with Duple bodies arrived in 1955. Apart from the very brief flirtation with the Albion Viking in 1966, this combination was to endure until the last blue coach joined the fleet in 1977. The Bedford / Duple fleet was to span several variants of both chassis and body. Two members of the class were acquired with the fleet of Laurie (Chieftain), Hamilton in 1961 (one of these NOT a coach).

There was never any doubt that these vehicles were entirely different from the main service bus fleet. The different livery emphasised their different function and, if destination equipment was carried at all, it was discreetly positioned. Nevertheless, it was not uncommon to see these coaches at work on the lengthy 242/3/4 limited stop services between Glasgow and Biggar / Peebles.