Southdown, based in Brighton, was one of the most important bus operators in southern England. Formed in 1915 from an amalgamation of three earlier operators, the company became a subsidiary of BET and survived as a separate operator until all of BET's subsidiaries were nationalised as part of the National Bus Company in 1969.
Since the publication of their first book, both Glyn Kraemer-Johnson and John Bishop have become recognised as amongst the country's leading authorities on the subject of Southdown, and of bus operations in southeast England in general. Building upon the success of 'Southdown Days' which analysed the operator from the standpoint of the passengers, this volume examines what it was like to work on Southdown's vehicles.
The authors have worked hard to track down a number of ex-Southdown drivers, conductors and other staff who relate a range of fascinating and unique stories. They have skilfully built these entertaining anecdotes into a broader narrative on the operations of the bus company, bringing the history of the company to life. Supplemented by a broad selection of fine images, this informative book beautifully complements their extensive study of one of Britain's best-loved operators, and will be essential reading for all serious enthusiasts.
Area covered:
Brighton, South Sussex, West Kent and East Hants

Southdown, based in Brighton, was one of the most important bus operators in southern England. Formed in 1915 from an amalgamation of three earlier operators, the company became a subsidiary of BET and survived as a separate operator until all of BET's subsidiaries were nationalised as part of the National Bus Company in 1969.
Since the publication of their first book, both Glyn Kraemer-Johnson and John Bishop have become recognised as amongst the country's leading authorities on the subject of Southdown, and of bus operations in southeast England in general. Building upon the success of 'Southdown Days' which analysed the operator from the standpoint of the passengers, this volume examines what it was like to work on Southdown's vehicles.
The authors have worked hard to track down a number of ex-Southdown drivers, conductors and other staff who relate a range of fascinating and unique stories. They have skilfully built these entertaining anecdotes into a broader narrative on the operations of the bus company, bringing the history of the company to life. Supplemented by a broad selection of fine images, this informative book beautifully complements their extensive study of one of Britain's best-loved operators, and will be essential reading for all serious enthusiasts.
Area covered:
Brighton, South Sussex, West Kent and East Hants