We've done it!
On Saturday 17th September 2005 we finally got to carry our first proper passengers.  The service was shared with an AEC Regent open topper once the weather improved.
On the Sunday we ran a half hourly service with the RM on the hour from 10.00 'til 17.00 and the AEC running from 10.30 to 16.30.  Both 'buses then returned to Nostalgic Transport at Ipplepen.
Driving the two is chalk and cheese; the AEC has a full crash gearbox and manual steering which means one gets rather tired if not used to them whereas the RM is a delight to drive though the top speed of 35mph is a bit limiting!
Also the RM climbs the hills better.....
At the end of the event the volunteer crews had had a great time and both vehicles had carried over 250 passngers each whilst covering over 200km between them.

The RM did the greater number of trips and covered the higher distance.
Roll on November 05 th and 06 th when we run the Photographers' service for the Diesel Gala.