On Wed, 15 Sep 2004 08:04:20 +0100, Dave Newt newtonline{at}gmail.com
wrote:

Today's issue of the London By London mailing list
(http://www.londonbylondon.co.uk) contained the following reader's
submission:

"Has anyone had amusing experiences on the new Bendy 73s? I was on my
way to Angel from Stoke Newington on Saturday and the driver actually
got off the bus somewhere a little way down Albion Road, screaming, "I'm
having a nightmare! I don't want to hit it! My heart is beating so fast!".

Eeek!

Poor guy! How much training did the drivers actually get before they
were let loose with those 18-metre monsters I wonder?

I think some only got about a day or so of practice. I've travelled by
73 twice - each time perched in the front seat so sometimes the drivers
chat. The first lady driver was pretty confident and did well getting
through the gaps but had a "crunch" moment getting into the New Oxford
St bus lane.

The second driver was much more hesitant and *seemed* to struggle or
else was being very careful indeed. He said that some drivers had got
stuck on the very tight left turn by KX Thameslink station and had had
to reverse. He also said that the New Oxford Street turn was an absolute
nightmare as there is a pinch point just around the corner which the
buses usually hit with their front tyres when the back end is still
coming round the corner. We were 16 minutes late by this point and the
bus was curtailed at Marble Arch in consequence.

I do feel a bit sorry for the drivers as I expect that Arriva are paying
close attention as to whether the buses return in pristine condition or
not.
--
Paul C


Admits to working for London Underground!