We are thrilled to announce the start of our most ambitious project yet: the full restoration of X581MBH—a 2000 Dennis Dart MPD (Mini Pointer Dart) with Plaxton Pointer 2 bodywork. This bus holds a special place in local history, as it spent a significant part of its operational life right here in the Keighley area.
A Local Legend Returns
X581MBH began its career down south with Sovereign Bus & Coach in Welwyn Garden City. However, following a company management exchange within the Blazefield Group in 2005, it made the journey north to become a part of the Keighley & District fleet. Although records from this period are scarce, this reliable little bus was a true workhorse, navigating the local routes and serving our community.
This Oil Leak is turning a Pain
As many know 581 has what was a small oil leak however as we have been trying to solve the leak as on bringing it home it was a slightly larger leak than what was thought, We have started with replacing the crank seal as it was spraying up the rear of the bus and…
Where to start
After getting X581MBH and bringing it home only 300miles from where we bought the bus. It was clear there might be a few issues with the bus but nothing major. Before we bought the bus and made an offer we checked out the MOT history and showed there was a oil leak but wasn’t major.…
Detailed History of 581
Early Days in Welwyn Garden City with Sovereign (2000-2005) X581MBH entered service in November 2000, new with Sovereign Bus & Coach. A Dennis Dart MPD (Mini Pointer Dart), short wheelbase variant of the well-known SLF chassis, bodied with a Plaxton Pointer 2 body, a B29F (29 seats, front door) layout. Used on fleet number 581,…
