THE Friends of King Alfred Buses (FoKAB) has confirmed details of its Running Day in and around Winchester on Bank Holiday Monday, May 1.

Around 10 traditional King Alfred buses ranging from 86 years old to a mere 47 will be recreating the old days with some 20 or so buses from other local operators.

Free bus services will operate from Winchester Broadway and bus station between approximately 9.30am and 5pm, covering most of the traditional King Alfred routes plus those of neighbouring historic companies such as Aldershot & District and Hants & Dorset.

The annual Winchester Buses Running Day attracts over 20,000 passenger trips.

There will be the usual transport bazaar in Winchester Guildhall, open between 10am and 4pm, whilst at St Catherine’s Park & Ride there will be a static display of historic vehicles with a frequent free bus service from central Winchester.

FoKAB founder and chairman, James Freeman said: “It’s time once again to give our many friends and supporters a chance to relive the best years of the King Alfred buses and coaches.

Come with us to experience what it was like to ride on them and their contemporaries. This time we have chosen to take advantage of the May Day bank holiday on Monday, May 1 which we believe will be very popular.”

Friends of King Alfred Buses is a charity dedicated to preserving King Alfred buses and coaches and the memory of King Alfred Motor Services which provided Winchester’s local bus services between 1920 and 1973.

It has over 30 years’ experience of giving nostalgic rides on its fleet of 14 restored heritage buses.

FoKAB provides heritage transport for a number of community and charity events. Such journeys are all provided by volunteers at no charge to the users.

However, because FoKAB is not a commercial operator, it is unable to hire out its buses to members of the public.

Membership is open to all aged 18 or above and costs £20 per year. Details available from the membership secretary at 13 Ashley Close, Winchester SO22 6LR or the website www.fokab.org.uk.

Full colour souvenir timetable/programme booklets will also be available by post from the above address price £10 each if the order is received before April 22.

Cheques should be made payable to ‘Friends of King Alfred Buses’.