United Automobile of Darlington, as part of the Tilling group, was one of the original operators of this type of vehicle. This companies RELHs were used on express work between the North East of England and London. For examples see here. United was the biggest operator of this type. Most were delivered as RExx following United's traditional numbering method. They were then renumbered into the 12xx series as express coaches. Later on they were renumbered into the 61xx series as they were downgraded to express buses (usually being repainted into NBC Red/White DP at the same time), then to the 43xx series indicating use as local buses. This often coincided with a repaint into NBC Red Bus livery (Which was unique to United on this type). One of United's RELHs (NHN147E) was the first casualty for the type when it was involved in an accident, and subsequently 'dropped' by the crane that was trying to recover it! For more information on the history of United see the United Enthusiasts' Club website. The company's former operations are now part of the Arriva group.
For further information about United Automobile, try looking for books on Amazon.
Other information available for United Automobile's Bristol RELH/ECW coaches.
Places that this companies RELHs have been photographed.
Photos on the Internet
All links to photos shown below are to other Internet sites, all photos will be the copyright of their respective owners. There may be other photos on the Internet that I cannot show the links for. See 'Useful sites for finding pictures' on the links page. ** = Black and white photo, otherwise colour.
Links to websites about other Bristol REs, and all other Bristol/ECW vehicles can be found here.
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