ALEXANDER AN68 ATLANTEAN
TRANS-CLYDE LA1443 (UGB 196W)

This model is significant to me as I own the real LA1443, and the model reflects its condition as restored (which it is not yet). I decided to add much more detail for this reason. The model began as an EFE SELNEC Alexander Fleetline. The front panel was filed smooth and a new one created with filler and plastic card to represent the last style of Alexander front panel used. The front door was split and the centre pillar re-attached to produce the asymmetric two-piece entrance. The usual changes round the back were made to lower the window and an AN68 bustle with shrouds and later spec lights was fitted. The side indicators were also removed and updated and I also managed to paint tiny British Leyland logos on the front wheels! Upstairs, the rear window divider was removed. Inside, I decided to adapt the interior to properly represent an AL style body, which included removing the staircase and making a new one which is forward facing. The over-wheel-arch bench seats were replaced with back to back seats from the spares box. At the same time, the floor was flattened and holes removed. Upstairs, the staircase guard was removed and a new one made from plastic card. All the seats were fitted with silver grab handles, which are actually No.10 staples bent and clipped to the correct height. This worthwhile feature will appear on all future models and any which have to be taken apart for any reason. I also added extra cab detail including security screen, ticket machine, dashboard and cash vault together with a draft screen. The glazing was modified slightly with a ventilator removed and the cab window design altered.

Several of the last 99 Atlanteans still survive with 3 from the final batch of 10 which includes LA1443. How many will actually be restored remains to be seen.

The model will be gaining an upper deck repaint soon and has already been altered in several ways since these photos were taken.