History of SYT 53 (C53HDT)

53 is an Optare bodied Dennis Domino that was delivered new in September 1985. It is fitted with a Perkins 6 cylinder diesel engine and Maxwell gearbox.

 

When restoration began lots of unique parts were missing which meant a costly restoration. However help was given by Alton Towers where former SYT 42 lives. It sitting under the Nemesis ride. Parts from 42 were sourced and removed.

 

53 has had thousands spent just to get it complete. The bus has had a part engine rebuild, re-panel and repaint, along with new tyres and a major service.

 

The vehicle passed it's MOT with no advisories. Sadly the vehicles first trip on the road was to the funeral of Trevor Heaton who sadly died before he saw 53 on the road.

 

53 is one of only two surviving complete SYT Dominos. 41 being the other.

 

The Dominos were a very unique bus, only 30 chassis built (53 is no 13, 41 is no 2). They also carried the first bodies built by Optare with 41 being Optare’s oldest surviving body, (53 is no.13). The vehicles were not used for long in South Yorkshire, due to heavy fuel consumption and the onset of de-regulation.

 

Having lived away for a short period this vehicle is now back in the collection under new ownership.



Owner - Private