C395DML holds two distinctions.  Firstly, she was the first new vehicle to London independent Metrobus.  Secondly, she was the first double deck bus new to an independent in London for over 50 years!

Since withdrawal by Metrobus, she did a short stint with Skylark PSV, but an engine failure meant she was laid up for a while and, unless you were close, disappeared off the radar.  However, happily, she has since been subject to a full restoration and has been very active on the rally and running day scene of late.  Long may it continue!

See Metrobus 395's page on

A posed shot representing the changes in Orpington that marked the start of the R routes (c) Graham Walker

Seen shortly after acquisition from Metrobus in May 2004 (c) Stuart Boxall

Still preserved in Metrobus livery as acquired (c) Stuart Boxall