A DEDICATED team of volunteers are working hard to make sure a fleet of vintage buses will be ready to run around the city.

Friends of King Alfred Buses (FoKAB) are gearing up for a special day on May 2 that will see a dozen traditional King Alfred buses recreate the old days in Winchester.

They will be accompanied by 20 other historic buses and coaches originating from other local operators.

READ MORE: The Friends of King Alfred Buses seeks new base for vehicles

In particular, the volunteer technicians are working to rebuild an engine of a 72 year-old 1950 Leyland Olympic.

This bus, JAA 708, was the very first underfloor engine bus in Hampshire and is a very rare survivor that was rescued from a field in Ireland, where it was in a derelict condition.

The “708” was restored over many years by FoKAB enthusiasts and re-launched back in 2012.

“Everybody is on tenterhooks to see whether the engine will test up alright, so that we can use it on Monday May 2,” said FoKAB Chair James Freeman.

The King Alfred buses range in age from 91 years old to a mere 52.

SEE ALSO: Vintage King Alfred's buses return to Winchester streets

Free bus services will operate based on Winchester Broadway on May 2 between 9am and 4.30am covering traditional King Alfred routes plus those of neighbouring historic companies such as Hants & Dorset and Aldershot & District.

There will be the usual King Alfred sales stand in the Broadway near to Winchester Guildhall, and a transport bazaar in the newly landscaped piazza by the bus station, open between 10am and 4pm.

At St Catherine’s Park & Ride there will be a display of historic vehicles and a frequent free bus service to and from central Winchester.

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