A Classic British Coach from 1971
Our Leyland Leopard is a fine example of British coach design from the early 1970s, with a history spanning decades of passenger service, several operators and appearances in film and television.
Built with Plaxton Panorama Elite bodywork on a Leyland Leopard PSU3B/4R chassis, the coach first entered service with Southdown in September 1971.
Today, it forms part of the A D Rains Coaches vintage collection in Brinkworth, Wiltshire, where its distinctive appearance and fascinating history continue to attract interest.
Early Years with Southdown
The Leyland Leopard began its working life with Southdown, one of the best-known names in passenger transport across southern England.
Entering service in September 1971, it was initially based at Chichester before later moving to Worthing.
During this period, coaches like the Leopard were a familiar sight on Britain’s roads, carrying passengers on excursions, organised trips and other journeys.
The vehicle remained with Southdown until April 1988, when it was withdrawn after more than sixteen years of service.
A Journey Through Different Operators
Following its withdrawal from Southdown, the Leopard began another chapter in its working life.
It passed to Weller of Midhurst, West Sussex, before being sold to Taylor of Sutton Scotney, Hampshire.
During its time with Taylor, the coach was re-registered XYC 561.
In August 1995, it moved to Anderson of Langholm, Dumfries and Galloway, where it received another registration, TJI 6310.
The coach subsequently passed to Fitzsimons, trading as Highfield Coaches, in Harker, Cumbria, during March 1998.
It returned to Anderson the following month.
These changes of ownership and registration form part of the vehicle’s long and varied history.
Preservation and Its Southdown Heritage
As older coaches were gradually replaced by more modern vehicles, preservation groups and enthusiasts played an important role in saving examples of Britain’s transport history.
Our Leyland Leopard has a connection with the Southdown 1828 Group, which forms part of its preservation history.
In June 2003, the coach was reunited with its original registration, helping reconnect it with its earlier years in Southdown service.
Preserving vehicles like the Leopard allows people to experience the design, craftsmanship and character of an earlier generation of British coaches.
A Star of Film and Television
One of the most interesting aspects of our Leyland Leopard’s history is its appearance on screen.
Pride
The coach featured in the British film Pride, released in 2014.
The film tells the story of lesbian and gay activists who raised money to support striking miners and their families during the 1984–85 miners’ strike.
Set against the backdrop of a significant period in British social history, the production made use of period vehicles to help recreate the atmosphere of the time.
Our Leyland Leopard was one of the vehicles featured in the film.
New Tricks
The coach also appeared in the BBC television series New Tricks.
The long-running detective drama followed a team of retired police officers investigating previously unsolved cases.
Its appearance in the series adds another interesting chapter to the Leopard’s history beyond its original role in passenger transport.
The Leyland Leopard Today
Today, our Leyland Leopard remains an important part of the A D Rains Coaches vintage collection.
Its Plaxton Panorama Elite bodywork reflects the distinctive styling of British coaches from the 1970s, while its history connects it with Southdown, several later operators and the world of film and television.
For enthusiasts, it represents a surviving example of a familiar generation of British passenger transport.
For those planning a special occasion, it offers the opportunity to include a classic coach with genuine character and history.
Enquire About Hiring the Leyland Leopard
If you’re interested in hiring our Leyland Leopard for a wedding, heritage event, special celebration or group occasion, we’d be pleased to discuss your requirements.
Please let us know your preferred date, journey details and approximate passenger numbers so we can advise on availability and suitability.
Contact A D Rains Coaches to make an enquiry.
You can also explore our complete Vintage Coach Hire collection to discover the other classic vehicles in our fleet.