OT: Sad news :(

Another "landmark" lost...

~~~~~~~~~~~~ The City of London loses one of it's most famous sights on Friday (4 June) as the last Routemaster bus plies the streets of the Square Mile, half a century after they were introduced.

Route 8 (Bow - Victoria) is the latest bus route to be converted from the well-loved Routemaster, with conductors and open platforms, to anonymous double deckers.

The buses, which operate just a handful of Central London routes, began to be quietly taken off the road in late 2003. The 8 is the seventh route to lose these globally famous buses. By 2005 all of London's Routemasters could be gone as Transport for London implements its secret plans, much to the chagrin of Londoners.

Comments on the Save the Routemaster website, set up to provide a voice to those opposing the buses withdrawal have been damning of Transport for London. One respondent said : "Why not put a digital face on Big Ben while you're at it?"

The Routemaster's withdrawal comes at a time of increased visibility for the type. The latest Harry potter movies has a special TRIPLE DECK Routemaster as the central vehicle. To be seen by millions around the world, many will be upset this bus will soon no longer exist.

Ben Brook, a spokesperson for Save the Routemaster, said: "It's a tragedy that this historic, well used and efficient bus is to be lost from some of London's most historic thoroughfares. It's imperative that Transport for London think again, so Routemasters can be saved on the few routes that remain in the West End".

Just last week, MP's said that all transport should be accessible by

Notes:

The City of London's last Routemaster would be make a great photo opportunity. It passes my famous landmarks, such as the Bank of England and Mansion House.

Further information on the campaign can be found at

Or you can contact Ben Brook on 07931 483154

SAVE THE ROUTEMASTER - The London Bus

-- Howard Rose