Although not technically a perfect shot, this view has more interest than first meets the eye. A Bristol K formerly owned by Thames Valley is towing Oldham 299 to Barnsley, except that it isn't that simple.
Oldham had a temporary shortage of serviceable single-deckers and bought an accident-damaged Crossley SD42/7 from Southport Corporation, 117 (GWM 817), in 1965. The body was not damaged and was used to replace the Roe body on Oldham 299, which had deteriorated beyond economical repair. The rebodied bus ran as Oldham 299 in a crimson and cream livery (only the lower panels were painted by Oldham) for a couple of years.
The Oldham body was put on the Southport chassis and it is this combination which is seen here. Apparently the body wasn't actually fastened to the chassis!
Southport 117 was one of a batch of two and its sister 116 was no stranger to Saddleworth, being based in Greenfield for some time in preservation. I also once saw it parked opposite Springhead Liberal Club when it was still in service.
