your comments
Bryn Thomas, Aston-in-Makerfield
I worked at the Rhyl depot as a seasonal conductor and later as a driver during the summer holidays from 1967-70. These were some of the best times of my life. Whilst on holiday in Toronto last year, I noticed a red double decker bus which was being used for city tours. On closer observation I realised that it was a bus that I had driven out of the Rhyl depot 40 yeas ago; it still had its fleet number and traces of green paint. The Canadian driver let me sit in the cab - what memories that brought back.
Thu Jun 18 07:58:24 2009
Joe Ryan, Dublin
Worked in Liverpool Road depot, Chester, in the 1970s. Denis Helsby and Eric Parsons were depot bosses. Remember Jeff Ethlen, Eddie Jones, Bob Court were drivers at the time, also Eddie Tierney and many more. Great people to work with and a great place to work.
Mon Jun 8 09:35:52 2009
Cyril Blake
Crosville Lodekkas were used in the film Holiday On The Buses in 1973 and I think someone from Mold or Dolgellau did the main driving sequences when Reg Varney was unable to. If anyone has any stories on this, could you please let me know via onthebuses.net
Thu May 21 15:05:30 2009
Angie Thomas from Mold
Does anyone remember Bill Jones from Queens Park, Mold? He was always known to everyone as Bill Sykes. He was one of the drivers from Mold depot. He has sisters called Olwen, Gwyn, Rene, Edith and a brother called Jack. Sadly, they have all passed away apart from Edith, my mum, who has now befriended another bus driver that worked at Crosville with Bill Sykes, called Frank Price. My uncle Bill was a small guy but with a cheeky sense of humour! Hope someone remembers him! He got on well with Tommy Anderson from Mold who worked for Crosville too.
Wed Apr 22 07:53:24 2009
Jim Brady
Kevin Mather, read your comments, 16 Mar 09, great to hear from you. I remember you well from our days in Flint. I had a drink recently with Keith Billingham, what happened to Jim Shannon? He has vanished off the face of earth. Keep in touch.
Tue Apr 14 10:35:42 2009
Rob Richardson - Chester
In reply to Anne Walker's question of Oct 10 2008, I seem to recall my mother telling me that the Cafe / Fish 'n Chippy which was located in Rhyl High Street to the LH side of the Crosville Bus Station was called 'Baxter's Cosy Corner'.
Mon Mar 30 09:03:32 2009
Kevin Mather
Having read a lot of the comments about Flint depot - I worked at that depot from 1977-82 - and have seen a lot old friends names and would love to have a reunion.
Mon Mar 16 08:43:05 2009
Ray Bellis, Brisbane, Australia
I travelled on Crosville bus service to Elfed secondry school from Northop Hall in late '50s-'60s. I was the one who instigated getting a bus service from Northop Hall directly to the Elfed as the conductor would put us off after we were naughty. 'Hawarden grammar bulldogs, Queensferry rats, when you see the Elfed - please raise your hats!'
Fri Mar 13 10:40:41 2009
John Owen, The Mooncoin, Warrington
What an excellent site with so much valuable, social information that should not be allowed to die just for the sake of change. The spirit of the Crosville staff and services STILL live on many years after the sad demise of the company - well, we at the North West Museum of Road Transport at the Old Bus Depot, Hall Street, St Helens (WA10 1DU) won't let it be forgotten. I implore those of you reading this letter to note down your memories of 'the old company' and pop them in to the post to us, please. Any old photos can be copied to add to our considerable collection and returned to you. We've already lots of old photographs, timetables, tickets and ticket machines to let visitors to our museum see if they just let us know that they're coming. In the longer term, our research might well be combined into a publication - nominally entitled 'Crosville People'. If there's enough interest in the Flint/Mold area we'd be delighted to put on an exhibition locally, one weekend, to meet with the staff and locals who have such fond memories and pride in the memory of Crosville Motor Services Ltd. It's our little way of saying 'thanks' to the former Crosville staff for their kindness showing generations of enthusiasts around Mold and Flint depots.
Tue Feb 17 09:25:02 2009
Catherine Jones, Holywell
My grandparents worked for Crosville in Mold for many years, Bert and Alice Jones, does anyone remember them?
Thu Feb 12 09:51:12 2009
Dave Williams live in Buckley now
I worked in Flint between 1972-76, the best place I have ever worked. Does anyone remember the card schools we used to have? We used to come in early and stay late just so we could have a game of cards. I also worked at Mold depot when I was 18 as a conductor. So many good memories.
Mon Feb 2 09:23:36 2009
Allan Smith, Welwyn Garden City
Remember Crosville very well. Started work on 23.7.57 at Bretton and would have gone from Connah's Quay by bus. But guess who was on strike for a week? Crosville! Having said that the normal service they provided was very reliable.
Thu Jan 29 10:56:36 2009
Gwynne Jones, ex Flint Driver
Happy New Year to all ex Crosville Motors Drivers and ex Conductors.
Fri Jan 2 09:38:21 2009
Don Strange
Sammy, if a get together is arranged I would fly over for it. Dave, after all these years I'm now back in touch with Jim Arnold. He tells me Bill Evans is still around. Also, I met Bill Hurst not so many years ago. He now lives in Stratford on Avon. Remember the 'orchestra'?
Mon Dec 22 14:25:17 2008
Dave Cleverley from France
Hi all, fond memories from Flint and Mold where I worked as a fitter. Just wonder where the old crew ended up; J Arnold, Bill Hurst, Bill ? with the tash, Ernie who went to Rhyl etc.
Mon Dec 22 09:03:34 2008
Gary Rowland from Mold
I remember big Myf, Martin, Bill (Willie Spike), Steve Marsh, Alun Edwards and others. They used to call in the Victoria Hotel in Chester St, Mold, for a drink, a good bunch of lads they were too. I also remember Bert and Alice Jones from Chapel St, in Mold. They used to have a caravan on the same site as us, and last but not least Harry (Spitfire) Jones. I knew him well. I used to go out with his youngest daughter, Linda.
Mon Dec 15 13:30:38 2008
Bob Sargent, Flint
Hello to all my old friends that I worked with in Flint depot and their families between 1971 and 1978. Merry Xmas and a happy & peaceful 2009. I'm coming to visit my relatives in Connah's Quay during the holiday period, and will look in at The Little Ship, Flint, if it's still there @ 19.30 on the evening of Tuesday the 30th December, lounge side. Hope to see you there.
Mon Dec 15 08:30:40 2008
Gwynne Jones
To Sammy Greenough. That sounds fantistic. I remember all the great ones that you arranged. I am living in Shrewsbury now but would travel anywhere to see the old crews
Fri Dec 12 12:01:10 2008
Sammy Greenough, Caerwys
My father doesn't have an internet connection, but he would adore this site! Having read a few comments here, he seems to have gotten a little misty eyed, and has been remembering all the fun times he had working on the buses (or still does!). He would love to catch up with you all. Maybe a knees up is required.
Mon Dec 1 08:47:46 2008
Gary Owen, Minera
To Mark Roberts, I remember Dai the duke. I drove for SE Jones in Acrefair and Dai drove part time. I had many a pint after work with Dai and Pat. Happy days.
Tue Nov 11 08:12:47 2008
Mike Povey, Wrexahm
I can remember a lot of people that I worked with from 1973 to 1986. I started as a conductor for about 12 months at 20 years old and passed my test driving at 21 and started driving after a few weeks. I knew a lot of lads and remember them well. Quite a few came to my first wedding and a lot came to my second where the night do was held at the club. It was packed and I mean packed, Danny Daives, the steward had gone by then and Lottie John and Barbara were there and Pete, Lot's old man. There's one lad I have not seen for a hell of a long time probably near 28 years and that's Big G. Gareth! He started one week after me. The teacher then was Stan, know as R.S. conductor school. I knew people from Ron the barber to Eric & Neil Hallam, Kelly, Paul Slawson, Denis Hulme, Ron Tan-y Fron and a great many more.
Mon Nov 10 09:09:24 2008
Ann Walker
Does anyone know the name of the 'chippy' located inside the Rhyl bus station in the early 1940s?
Fri Oct 10 09:13:13 2008
Pete, Wrexham
My dad worked for Crosville from 1955 - 1987 and was known as Little Bob, started as a conductor then driver and for the last 10 years as inspector where he worked alongside Bob Williams and Bala. Characters I remember are Little Eric, Dave Rowlands, Bob (The Sailor) Bob Hamlett also my uncle Bernie Jones was garage foreman there for a number of years until he sadly passed away in 1989.
Thu Aug 21 10:05:25 2008
Gillian Jones (nee Edwards), ex Mold
I remember the Mold to Holywell bus and old Mattie the conductress. The bus left from High Street, and Mattie would hold it up until everyone who was a regular was on board. She was quite a character. I worked at Jones Balers in Rhosesmor. The bus would pass the Rhosesmor Sand & Gravel Quarry where my dad was the manager. He would stand at the entrance to the quarry and time the bus as it went through. I have spotted a name I know from about 50 years ago. Howard Hopkins (next-door-but-one). I now live in Australia and it is so nice to have found this site. There are some names I'd like to know about. Mr Ames...(conductor) Mold to Chester buses via Soughton (Sychdyn) and Northop, Northop Hall. Mr Williams...(bus driver) from Broncoed Park (daughters Maureen & Corinne). I also remember the last bus into Mold from Birkenhead on a Saturday night when coming home on leave (nursing)...sometimes the only passenger until we reached Buckley and all the Mold mob would get on the bus at the Tivoli (especially the Sychdyn Football Team) and the Cross, opposite the public baths. What a walk down memory lane this has been. I met my future hubby on that bus 48 yrs ago.
Mon Aug 11 14:15:36 2008
Bob Sargent, Sussex
Ceri. Is your dad the same Peter Bevan who worked out of Flint depot before its closure? Bob Sargent ex Flint 1972 to 1978. See my earlier stories.
Wed Aug 6 10:59:31 2008
Anne Bamber from Rhuddlan
When I read what Ken Thomas (Holywell) wrote a lot came flooding back to me. I don't know if anyone remember's my dad. James Eglin, known as Jim, worked on the buses for years as a conductor. Sadly, we lost him with a brain tumor some years ago now. I think a lot of people would have known him. He used to wear a hearing aid. I too remember the trips out in the summer and also the parties at Christmas. It has been nice reading about it all. I wish everyone well and thanks for bringing back some happy memoryies.
Wed Jul 9 14:11:15 2008
Gary Owen, Minera
First time on this site and I have really enjoyed it. My father drove for Crosville in the eary '50s, finished through ill health and then started a hauliage firm called Ivor Owen and Sons which is still going today. My father in law is Ron the barber - what a character. He has many tales of his Crosville days and I enjoy these tales every time I hear them.
Fri Jul 4 08:12:30 2008
Ceri, nr Denbigh formerly of Greenfield
My dad, Peter Bevan, used to work for Crosville in the '70s. He took redundancy when the depot in Holywell closed. He has a photo of him and some workmates, names are listed on the back of it, if anyone would be interested I can upload it to this site?
Mon Jun 30 08:08:57 2008
Debbie Williams from Wrexham
My dad worked at the Wrexham depot many years ago, his name was Ron Tanyfron. I remember names such as Brian Cable, Paul Slawson, Gerald Davies (Harpo) Frank, Kelly, Ron the barber and my dad's best friend, Reg Downward. My dad was a driver then became the driving instructor. I remember the Crosville trips to Rhyl with crisps and pop on the way and some coppers to spend on the fair :) the good old days. We would sing all the way there and sleep all the way back. I have a picture of him from the Evening Leader wearing the new Crosville uniform in 1974 which was in the Leader's bygones paper last year. My mum gave it to me in a frame for my birthday and boy did it bring a tear to my eye. My mum still has the little green badge he used to wear with his driver number on it. My dad always said he wanted his ashes scattered on the ground of the old Crosville depot (I think he was joking). We didn't scatter them there but he did live in the houses that were built on the land the last seven years he was alive and my mum still lives there now so I suppose he kind of got his wish as a part of him is still there.
Wed Jun 18 08:15:33 2008
Don Strange, Spain
Dave, I remember you well. Do you remember our Christmas do or changing the tubes in the garage roof? How would health & safety veiw us driving round the garage? I think it was you sitting on the roof of the decker changing the tubes...
Mon Jun 9 08:16:48 2008
Dave Hughes, Bryn Y Baal
Fantastic to see familiar names on here. I worked in Flint Depot as an apprentice with Don Strange in the early Seventies and have very fond memories of the place. Shame Crosville became a victim of Tory policies, the bus industry never really recovered from deregulation, it just made a lot of money for the fortunate few.
Fri May 16 09:12:40 2008
Mark Roberts
Does anyone know of a Dave Lewis (Dai the Duke)? Former landlord of the Duke of Wellington, Trevor. If anyone remembers or has any stories of my father in law who used to drive from the Mold Rd depot Wrexham from 77-87 please reply.
Wed Apr 2 10:01:58 2008
Sandra Bennett (nee Jones) from Mold
My grandad, Jack Michael, worked at Mold Crosville during the 1950s, I know he enjoyed his time there and made many friends.
Mon Mar 31 10:30:05 2008
Kevin Ellis from Blantyre Glasgow
Have really enjoyed reading every contribution. As a young lad spent a lot of time in Penarlag, remember many happy trips on Crosville buses as a youngster in the sixties. I had two great aunts, Mary & Doris Ellis from St Winifreds Cottages, Ewloe. Mary worked at the post office in Ewloe, sister Doris worked at De-Havillands @ Broughton, used the Crosville service daily. Mary travelled to the cemetery @ St Deiniols, Hawarden, for years on the Crosville service when sister Doris passed away.
Mon Mar 10 09:37:32 2008
Mrs Julie Barr
Does anyone recall an Elsie Boast ? a bus conductress in the Wrexham area in the 1940s. If so any recollections of her or her family would be greatly appreciated.
Wed Mar 5 09:33:17 2008
Michael Owen from Urmston, Manchester
To Bron Roberts. There are a few books about Crosville in North Wales. Two were recently reprinted - "The Sowing & the Harvest" and "State owned without Tears", both by W.J. Crosland-Taylor. These were originally published by Crosville in 1948 and 1954 respectively, and enthusiasts demanded their reprint so loudly that this was done in the early 90s. To find out about earlier bus operators, trawl the net searching for the "operators taken over" shown as an appendix to "The Sowing & the Harvest". Mr W (Bill) Rear has written about the O R Williams (Whiteway) company in Caernarfon more recently, and a book has recently been published about the Pwllheli firm Tocia - which finished in 1935. Other books on Crosville focus on their vehicles rather than the "human side" of their operations, which is a *** shame. The best of this bunch is a three volume history of Crosville - with lots of pictures - published by the Transport Publishing Company of Glossop in the late 80s. The Museum of Transport, Boyle Street, Cheetham Hill, Manchester might still have these titles, or forward mail to the publishers in Glossop (who went through a bad financial patch and now trade under another name; they will know). The "human" history of the busmen and women of North Wales has still to be written, and will be lost forever if it's not done soon...(any volunteers?). Incidentally, the book by R C Anderson is also rather brief about the "human" side. Another source of these books would be the transport specialist bookseller R V Humm & Co, of Stamford Station, Stamford, Lincolnshire. I'm not on commission for them either! Happy reading.
Tue Feb 26 09:53:45 2008
Olwen Parry, Mostyn
To Sandra Griffiths, Denbigh. I remember Mr Atherton(guardsman) and his family very well. Mrs Atherton Phylis(Heather's mother), sister Olive. I remember Heather, her brother and sister. Would enjoy hearing from you again.
Mon Feb 25 15:58:57 2008
Angela Hughes, Bagillt
Does anyone remember my dad Allen Hughes from Connah's Quay? He was a bus driver in Flint between the late 1940s and early 50s. I would love to speak to someone who remembers him.
Tue Feb 5 13:06:28 2008
Don Strange, Spain
Bron Roberts, I know of one book - it is A History of Crosville Motor Services by RC Anderson, published by David and Charles, isbn o 7153 8088 5
Mon Jan 28 12:20:34 2008
David Summerton, Mold
Message for Paul Cartwright, Derby. I lived in Bryn Coch Lane, Mold and was very friendly with a Robert Cook of St Trillo, Bryn Coch Lane, Please could you tell me if this is your wife's brother. My wife's father was Norman Jones, Mechanic at Mold Depot from 1944 - 1965.
Mon Jan 28 08:34:41 2008
Bernard Roberts from Raymond Terrace NSW Australi
My dad, Lance Elwyn Roberts, known as Elwyn, migrated to Australia in 1951. He worked at the Courtaulds mill in Flint. He came to Australia to help start Courtaulds at Tomago near Newcastle as a foreman. My grandad Lance & grandma Maud followed soon after with young son Robert. Soon after my aunty Megan also came with husband Tom Naisby. I had another uncle named Hugh but he was killed in a pushbike accident in Flint. My grandad, Lance, apparently had a small bus company that serviced Courtalds but it went broke in the depression. They all lived in 27 Albert Avenue & I still have many cousins arond that area. Does anyone know of my Welsh family?
Mon Jan 7 11:56:55 2008
Jim Brady
Bob Serjant. I've loads of pictures of Flint, when I get the hang of the computer I'll contact you and send them to you. Regards, Jim Brady.
Mon Jan 7 11:51:25 2008
Sue Morris from Rhydymwyn
Does anyone remember Eric Mangan (my dad) who used to be a mechanic and driver in the Mold Depot? He was friendly with Bob James. I worked in Quik Save during one summer and they used to go across to the Crosville canteen for bacon butties each morning. My dad could always be found in the canteen playing the one armed bandit.
Tue Nov 27 09:20:44 2007
Sue Rogers from Shotton
I remember the Crosville buses in Flint as my dad was a driver there - Tony Peers. I can still remember a few of them like Bob Sargent, Gwilym, Ian Parry, John Hughes. I can also remember the great times we had on the day trips we had to Southport.
Mon Nov 26 08:50:59 2007
Bron Roberts
I would like to know of any books and/or DVDs about the history of Crosville buses in N. Wales. Can you suggest any titles and from where / from whom they could be obtained?
Wed Nov 14 09:09:18 2007
Gary Sly, Wrexham
I worked in the Wrexham depot in the early 70s as a conductor and had some good times there. My brother Mike also worked there for a while too. I remember vividly the last Oswestry on a Saturday night with drivers named Kelly and Slawson (sorry can't remember their fisrt names) when sometimes thought we were going to be back in the depot before we were supposed to reach Ruabon. Steve Hallam wrote earlier of his dad Eric, I remember working with your dad Steve. I am 52 now and the old memory isn't what it used to be, but some of the other people I can remember working with out of Wrexham were Arthur Jackson (who I think had a brother working there too), Big George, the bus cleaner in Mold Road depot, driver Tommy Haldane (and his bottle of cold tea), Anna and Megan the lady conductors, and Aussie the guy who used to teach the conductors. Does anyone remember the old endearing lady with the two sticks that used to get on the bus in Queens Park (Prince Charles Rd, I think)? She was something else, I had many a tap of those walking sticks and Vince the snooker shark in the club on Mold Road. If anybody can add to my list of names from that era, or remembers working with me, it would be great to hear from you.
Fri Nov 9 08:52:14 2007
Jim Brady, Flint depot
I drove deckers at Flint for about 8 years. I just read Ken Thomas' comments. I knew all the people he mentioned. Ken, did you remember another Ken, Ludgate, who was my conductor? When one of the school kids rang the bell, I moved off and left poor Ken behind standing at the bus shelter. I went for miles before I realised I had no conductor on board, the kids were ringing the bell. Happy days.
Mon Oct 8 10:59:12 2007
Mike Martin
Yes I remember Gwilym the conductor.
Mon Oct 1 09:01:33 2007
Sandra Griffiths (Denbigh)
In answer to Alan Michell from Rhyl, yes I remember the bus going to and from the Ritz. The gentleman who used to take your money, his nickname was Claker, and I last saw him in Denbigh selling double glazing, andIi went up to him and we had a good laugh about the good old days. I also remember the last train home from Rhyl, but I only went on it a couple of times. I also remember the old gent guardsman with his flag, Mr Atherton, his grandaughter my friend Heather Pierce who now lives in Australia. I went to visit her and am thinking of going out again. Does anyone remember him, and his daughter and son-law Heather's mum and dad kept the Swan pub. Would love to hear from anyone who remembers the family. Sandra Nee Bradbury.
Thu Sep 20 12:12:34 2007
Terry Williams from Rhyl
Worked at Rhyl Crosville Depot as a driver for a number of years around the 60s andit, was the most enjoyable job I ever had. The depot was full of the best friends I ever made and going to work was a delight. The Depot manager at that time was a Mr Humphreys, garage foremen were Arthur Rastell, Trevor Edwards and Joe Hughes. In the summer season there was an influx of seasonal staff mostly students on their summer breaks one of which was a Clive Meyers who in the end stayed on as a regular conductor, worked his way up the ranks and eventually became the boss of National Travel. I often wonder whatever became of the rest of them, would be great to find out. I know one of the staff, Chris Ruane, ended up as an MP and a couple of them as professional footballers. There must be a million stories to be told of them past days.
Wed Sep 5 09:57:31 2007
Steve Hallam - Wrexham
Funny how this brings back memories. My Dad, Eric, was a conductor out of Crosville Wrexham in the '70s, and my brother Neil was a driver, along with my brother-in-law Martin Wedley. All our friends worked on the buses and we never seemed to miss not having a car. My Dad, who only had one working arm, could not become a driver when they all went "one-man" but I do think those times on the buses, and at the snooker table of the Crosville club on Mold Rd were some of his happiest days. He could name every bus stop on each route for about a 50-mile radius, and as a kid my brother used to take me with him on some routes just to fill up those long summer holidays.
Thu Aug 30 08:10:40 2007
Gina Walker
Marian Dallas from Buckley. I have asked the moderators on this board to pass on my e-mail address for you.
Tue Aug 28 11:43:35 2007
Carol Taylor, Mold
It was lovely seeing the photo from the drivers' competition c70s. My father's in the middle, photo 4. Maybe people remember him, Cyril Williams? He was based in Wrexham depot. I remember Derek Wilde, Brian Cable, and yes, "ding ding"! and the conductor with the black glove - he always used his right hand to turn the handle to give out the tickets (the handle was on the left side of the machine). What happened to Grenville, Scottish man I think, used to live in Summerhill, also worked from the Wrexham depot?
Tue Aug 28 11:01:23 2007
Andrea from Wrexham
Hello eveyone. I am busily trying to write my family history. My Dad worked on the Crosville after the war c late 1940s early 50s. He spoke with affection of a tall man who was an Inspector in the Mold Road Depot. My Dad's name was Ben MacDonald. He went on to become a ticket agent for the Crosville and trips went on a Sunday morning from outside his shop in Kingsley Circle to Rhyl, Barmouth, Southport etc. If anyone rememebers him or has pictures I would very much appreciate it.
Mon Aug 6 11:36:58 2007
Andrea Hayes, Hawarden, Flintshire
Karen McNiven - Does any of your family remember a conductor by the surname Davies who worked on the buses around the year of 1944? I know it's a bit of a shot in the dark but the information would be very helpful. Thank you so much.
Thu Jul 26 08:59:00 2007
Ray Evans from Buckley
Hi Tim Healy, No, the barber in King Street was Glyn Parry, my dad's shop was in Chester Street, opposite the Savoy, the shop is now occupied by Crafty Sue's. Would love a chat about the old buses with Jack Hawkes!
Thu Jul 26 08:35:52 2007
Tim Healy, Mold
Hi Ray Evans, Buckley. Yes Jack Hawkes still lives in Llanferres and has a drink in the Druid. Dick Owen had a dropped eye and did do odd jobs. My dad, Paddy Healy, used to help him. I remember your dad as a barber. Was his shop in King St?
Mon Jul 23 10:56:22 2007
Ray Barber, Runcorn
Good to see the picture again after all these years. I am the last person on the left of picture 4. It was taken at Oswestery cattle market. There are 4 drivers from Runcorn in this shot; myself, the late Bill Chanderler, Tom Howorth who sadly passed away this year, plus Tony Nultey and Ray Barber #2. I was #1. I still work at Runcorn now, at Arriva, where I am now a supervisor after 36years driving. I started in 1969 as a conductor. Long live Crosville. By the way the bus in the background was a Leyland Leopard.
Tue Jul 10 10:43:47 2007
Albert Smith/Gwernaffield
I worked at both Flint & Mold depots in 1970, first as a conductor. Freddy Durham and I did our driver training together in Chester. We had a Scottish instructor who gave me a right rollicking for going into reverse at a set of lights on the Parkgate Road. When he did the same thing himself on Sealand road it became a fault with the bus. I moved to Mold depot and became a one man operator. My worst experience was the day I hooked the back end of an S.R.G in the doorway of Brenda's wool shop in Holywell and tore the whole shop front out!
Mon Jul 9 08:39:26 2007
David Roberts
I remember a lot of the names mentioned from the Mold depot as my father Vic Roberts worked for many years there as did quite a few of my relatives. My mother, Glenys, was a conductress in the fifties, also my grandfather, Alun Davies - his brother, Eddie, my uncle, Gareth Davies, and aunty Alice and uncle Bert Jones.
Fri Jul 6 08:54:16 2007
Mark Austin, Kefalonia, Greece
Hi to Marion Dallas. Please say hi to Ian for me. He was one of my fellow drivers at Mold. Hope you are all keeping well.
Fri Jul 6 08:53:02 2007
Garreth Gardiner
I was originally from Flint my dad Clive Gardiner worked for Crosville during late 70s up until 1989 when he died of a massive heart attack. Does anyone recall him from Flint depot, Mold depot or Chester depot? I would like to hear from his mates.
Wed Jul 4 08:25:08 2007
Marian Dallas from Buckley
My grandfather worked for Crosville in the 1950s. His name was 'Ted' Williams. He was a driver and he worked in the garage at the Flint Depot. Sadly he passed away a number of years ago. More recently my husband Ian Dallas was a driver in the Mold Depot from 1979 - 1995 he always had a story to tell. Whilst reading the other emails on this site I would like to send a message to Gina Walker of Wrexham. Gina mentioned her mother Nesta Williams who worked on the buses in Wrexham. I think this lady could be a cousin to my mother who is 80 years old and lives in Mold. Her name is Vera Fletcher. Would like to hear from Gina because my mother often talks about her mother's family from the Rhos. Thank you.
Mon Jul 2 08:31:52 2007
Ray Evans from Buckley
Hi,Tim Healey! Yes, I remember both Jack Hawkes, (I think he lived in Llanferres,) and Dick Owen, didn't he have a glass eye? He was also a bit of a handyman. I seem to remember him repairing the roof on my Auntie's cottage! I knew of a lot of those characters on the buses via my late dad, John Evans, who was a barber in Mold for more than 40 years.
Mon Jul 2 08:30:43 2007
Richard Delahoy, Southend on Sea
Thanks for a fascinating story. I've recently created a website specifically devoted to stories from people who work or have worked "on the buses". It contains some original material, links to stories elsewhere on the web and a bibliography. See www.workingonthebuses.co.uk for more details. If you'd like to submit material for the site, please contact me via the address published there.
Mon Jun 18 08:10:00 2007
Stephen Harrison (son of Pete Harrison), Connah's Quay
I was stunned to find on Google images title (Connah's Quay) an image of a Crosville bus bearing my dad's name, Peter Harrison. He died in 1972 and was working with the Crosville bus company at the time. I recall vivid memories of him clowning around with pals at the old bus depot in Chester when I was about 8 or 9. It would be lovely to hear from anyone who remembers him.
Wed Jun 13 09:02:28 2007
Don Strange, Spain
Been a while since I visited the site, nice to see some new names. Fred good to see you are still in the area, bet you have seen some changes? Bob stopped following the road ahead 6 years ago. Last time I was over you were still at it maybe see you in August. Does anyone know what happened to Jim Arnold and Bill Evans? Last I heard of Joan and Sammy they had a chippy in Holywell.
Mon Jun 4 08:00:03 2007
Michael Owen from Urmston, Manchester
Thanks again, for including my second contribution. Later comments are appreciated - thanks to Ray Evans from Buckley, for his comments about SLB229, a preserved 1950s-type Bristol single-decker bus, on which I rode at the Llandudno Extravaganza in early May. John Prince has a fine vehicle, which incidentally he keeps in operating - rather than rally-winning - condition, and it evokes more memories that way rather than being in "as-it-left-the-factory" condition. Crosville vehicles were usually well turned out, but seldom without some (tiny) blemish or mark, because they had to carry passengers in safety first, and be artworks second. The steel round interior heater made by Clayton Dewandre found at the front used to throw out prodigious amounts of heat, and at least one conductor (many miles away from Flint, of course!) used to tie a bag of fish and chips to this heater to keep warm until its contents could be consumed at journey's end. June Moseley remembers the "Bell Punch" tickets used by Phillip's Motor Services until about 1975. These were also useful as bookmarks. Were the tickets punched in a ticket machine, June, or were they cancelled by tearing - can you (or anyone else) remember, please? There is a society - called the Transport Ticket Society - whose members collect tickets of this sort, rather like stamp collectors. Some just showed the operator name, address and fare, but others told more of the story, with route details and names of terminal points. They are called "geographicals", apparently. Crosville had this Bell Punch system until about 1950, when the "Setright" box with dials on top and a handle on the side, was introduced. Do any correspondants remember any other systems being used "on trial"? Flint and Mold depots had such variety of work that trial use is a possibility, and those tickets might be particularly interesting to collectors/historians. Finally, thank you to Paul Cartwright of Derby for his information about Abraham Lloyd, one of the true pioneers of bus operation on the coast. Crosville took over this company in March 1926, when their route was Queensferry to Chester, but they did not take over any vehicles (or sold them without use). Abraham Lloyd's buses only just survived into the pneumatic tyre era, and little else seems known about them. The usual questions, about type, colour and registration numbers, other routes and tickets used, simply cannot now be answered with confidence, and the passage of time dims the few surviving memories, yet they were as much pioneers as Crosville, and deserve memory too. Can anyone help, please?
Tue May 29 09:28:06 2007
Mark Austin, Kefalonia, Greece
I worked at the Mold depot for many years as a driver after being a bus driver in Ellesmere Port, I moved to live in Maeshafn, off the Ruthin road. Keith Ellis, who was the manager at the time, gave me a very brief interview and said when can you start (I think they must have been short of drivers). Many happy memories, I believe Keith now lives in Australia. I still keep in touch with Les Rimmer who is now at Arriva buses. Some of the drivers I remember were Jon Andrews, Stevie Guest, Jimmy Parkinson (who sadly passed away recently), Bob James and Christine in the canteen, Bob from Ruthin, Colin the mynah bird, Richard Smith, Dave Large, Alan Lightfoot who sang in the choir, the list goes on. If anyone remembers me get in touch as I was at Mold in the 80s and 90s.
Tue May 22 09:43:39 2007
Merv Jones
Dave James looking for Noel Reid, he is working at Arriva Chester in Manor Lane, Hawarden. I'm sure you can contact him there.
Fri May 18 09:56:32 2007
Gina Walker, Wrexham
Both my mother and father worked for the Wrexham's Crosville for many years. My father was Frank Williams, a driver and my mother was a conductress - Nesta Williams. As we grew up all the staff were aunties and uncles to us. In those days it was just like one the big family,. So many names I remember, too many to write on here, but the ones that we were really close to were Edith Twist, Madge Bullock, Megan & Glyn, Derick Hayes, Walter, Erinie, Jonny Evans, (who I still see to this day) Jack Wilkes, Dennis Hulmes, Dennis Grice, Gren Lloyd and the man in the garage that everyone called "Uncle" and many many more. Does anyone remember "Ding Ding?" I remember the work's trips to Rhyl every year. We all went on double decker buses and all the childen got free pop and crisps. Then there was the time when there was a gas leak in the old canteen on King Street and all the staff were off ill. My mum was taken off the road to run the canteen until the staff were able to return to work. They were great days to grow up in and a great family to have. I would love to meet up with some of them again.
Fri Apr 20 12:19:26 2007
Mike Martin
I had an uncle who drove a Crosville bus - Ossie Hughes, sadly deceased. I am sure he is on the photo.
Thu Apr 19 15:30:37 2007
Fred Durham from Bagillt
I worked in the Flint depot from 1968 till 1976. I started as a conducter and then on double deckers, then on the single buses.i Ileft the buses in 1976 but spent many happy times in Flint depot. I can remember Bob and Don and Ginger Ian (Ip), also Sammy and Joan Greenough, Keith Billingham who still lives in Greenfield. Madge who was my auntie who worked in the canteen. I can remember all the good parties Sammy did, also remember Clive Murdoch, and Harry. Some good mates on the buses. If anybody out there knows how some of these are getting on, please let me know.
Mon Apr 2 08:55:48 2007
Dave James, Q/Ferry
Does anyone here know of a young driver called Noel who used to do the route from Mold Bus Station to the Sealand Manor / Garden City area in 1985- 88? Not sure if his surname was Edwards or Reid - pretty sure it was Reid. He was or still is living in Mynydd Isa area. Trying to get in touch as he was left some money in a family will and we are still waiting for him to claim it. If anyone knows of his whereabouts can they leave a message on this page, thanks.
Wed Mar 21 13:56:46 2007
Bob Sargent, Sussex
Its been a while since I submitted the photos of Bus Driver of the Year during the 1970s, plus the flooded Depot. It was nice to read the articles from Ken Hopkins ( Hoppy ) who remembers and mentions me, also Don Strange (Electrician) from Alicantie whom I also had met in Crawley, Sussex, after working together in Flint. Don, I'm sure, knows what I'm refering to. (A testing time for us both.) Do you agree Don! Let me now make mention that I have now come across more photos of a night out for the staff of the depot, plus a newspaper cutting of the day. Namely the darts presentation night. Some faces to remember there and trophies galore! The story I wrote and it was printed in the local paper word for word and all the photos I took I still have. Contact me through this site if you have an interest in this story. Although I live in Sussex I still visit Connah's Quay and Flint to see family members every year plus (Mushey) he knows who he is, plus a few other old mates. Best wishes to you all.
Wed Mar 21 08:16:00 2007
Ken Thomas from Holywell
Harry Evans and I started working at the Flint depot August 1974 and finished 1981. My first recollection was of going in front of the Depot Supt., {The Boss} Joe Jones, for interview. He was very firm but always fair. We started as conductors then on Sunday mornings were taken for driving lessons by our instructor Eddie Jones. Our first stop was a certain shop in Church Street, Flint, where Eddie would purchase his weekly ration of Fishermans Friend sweets [hot they were too], then off to the test course and the dreaded Well Hill. If you did not get your revs right here with the old crash boxes, God help you. What relief to round the top into Holywell High St. I will try my best to remember fellow workmates any omissions put down to memory loss. Garage foremen - Dick Kyffin, Allit Francis, Eddie Sandham, Tom Ellis [Bongo], Sammy Greenhough [famous for organising nights out and parties etc.]. Drivers and conductors- Big Dave Williams Shotton, Brian King, Don Jones Fireman, Bob Sergeant, Mitch, Ishmael Simon, Joe Davies Ffynnongroew, Little Gwilym, Keith, Ian, Eddie, Fred, Trevor, Paul, Ken, and many others. Conductresses - Rachael, Lena Jones, Connie Hughes, Ellen [still driving]. I must also mention the canteen staff - Never forget Madge and her bacon butties. We spent happy times at Flint. They were a smashing crowd of mates and I think it was one of the best depots on the North Wales coast. What a pity it closed.
Mon Mar 19 09:59:44 2007
Tim Edwards, Canada
This picture of the busdrivers I came upon purely by chance. My father died in 1979. He is the last guy in the picture on the right hand side - the man with the bald head. Up until today I had never seen this picture. It was nice to remeber him again. Thank you for posting this picture. Would anyone know how I could get a copy of the picture?
Mon Mar 12 08:35:03 2007
Tim Healy
Does anybody remember Dick Owen, conductor and Jackie Hawkes, driver?
Tue Mar 6 08:26:07 2007
Keith Ellis, Mold Depot
Having read many interesting comments on this website from persons whom I know, and having met many former colleagues recently who expressed their wish to have a reunion, I am hoping to arrange this sometime late summer 2007. Please watch this space for further information!
Mon Jan 29 10:35:04 2007
Ray Evans from Buckley
Michael Owen mentions Crosville fleet No.KW/SLB 229, I don't know if he's aware, this bus is alive and kept in superb condition by its owner, John Prince from Wirral. It appears regularly at the Llandudno Extravaganza on May bank holiday.
Mon Jan 29 09:53:03 2007
Don Strange, Alicante
I worked in Flint fron 1972/1978 and was the electrician. One thing that stands out in my mind apart from the flood is how family orientated the depot was - two cleaners were man and wife, one garage foreman was married to Joan, a cleaner. Her dad was also a garage foreman. Jack was our greaser until he retired then his brother Tom took over. Working in Flint was the best working years of my life and for those drivers out there who can remember no I don't want a part!
Mon Jan 8 10:25:15 2007
Karen McNiven
To Rob Richardson: My mum worked as a wages clerk at Crosville Flint depot from 1944 until she married and had my elder brother in 1956. Her name is Eva Jones and she was just 14 when she started. She loved her job and still talks about the drivers, conductors and the escapades they all got up to. She has some photos of the staff at the time.
Tue Dec 12 14:15:09 2006
Mark Edwards, Mold
My father, Alan Edwards, worked as a bus driver for the Crosville depot in Mold during the 1970s, up to early 1980s. Sadly, my dad passed away in 2003, but even to this day, I still have very fond memories (which still make me chuckle) of the stories my dad used to tell me about the escapades they all got up to on the buses. Fellow drivers and good friends that he used to talk about all the time, were Colin the minah bird, Ray Simmons, big Myrf from Ruthin, Derrick, the canteen girls. One of the fondest memories was going to visit my dad at the Crosville canteen in Mold, and sure as eggs my dad would be glued to the bandit. My grandfather, Tom Edwards, also worked on the buses for Eagles and Crawford's in Mold for many years and was very well known around North Wales. It would be nice to know if anybody still remember my father and grandad, both were true gentleman.
Mon Dec 11 09:21:06 2006
Gillian Hughes from Holywell,wales
Jack Wilkes was my grandfather (taid). My father was Basil Wilkes of Penymaes in Holywell. My taid always used to make sure I used to get on the school bus first. He was a very caring person. My father Basil passed away 12 months ago.
Mon Nov 13 08:57:20 2006
Bob Sargent, Sussex
Yes. I remember you too SUE CREASE but in those days your name was KING. Daughter of Brian, living in the little shop at the bottom of the Mold Road. Like you said in your note dad's bus was quite often seen outside. Ask him if he recalls the River Dee flooding the depot. I have photos of that which I will forward to the BBC for their use also.
Fri Nov 10 12:08:16 2006
bob sargent sussex
hello brian king and other old mates from the depot 1972 -1978. some guys called me the cockney budgie because of where i came from and what i kept. do you remember the darts matches i organised during the meal breaks, like Emlyn Hughes did with the snooker. I've got some happy memories of Flint and a few photos before and since its closed. any other old friends out there ?
Fri Nov 10 08:01:43 2006
Roger Simmons Gravesend Kent
In July 1944 as a toddler I was evacuated with Mum and older brother from Kent to the Wirral due to the threat of V1 rockets. I have a memory of red buses in what could have been Birkenhead. Is anyone able to confirm if the buses were red at this time.
Mon Oct 23 08:30:53 2006
Paul Evans, Kinmel Bay
My Taid (Grandfather)Robert John Evans used to travel from Rhyl to Llandudno Depot every morning. He was the tyre mechanic and was known by all at Crosville as "Johnny Tyres"
Fri Oct 13 08:14:23 2006
Brian Simon
My dad Ishmael Simon worked as a driver for about 40 years at Flint depot from just after the war. He's still alive and well and has many a good story to tell about his working life at Flint. Anybody out there who wants a word
Thu Oct 12 13:34:54 2006
June Moseley (nee Williams) Mos
From 1959 to 1962 I used to travel daily from Trevor to Greenfield on the Crosville buses to Primary School. I got on at Trevor and my friend Sw got on at Ffrogo Cottages. The fare was tuppence. Sometimes after school the Conductor was too busy upstairs collecting fares and we managed to get to Trevor without having to part with our pennies. We were delighted! We'd hop off the bus and straight over the road to Mrs Graham's shop to buy dandelion and burdock ice lollies! (Mr and Mrs Graham are still alive and live opposite my Mam in Maes Pennant). I also travelled from Llanerchymor (Abakhans) to Glan y Don a penny halfpenny fare. I would be visiting my Nain in Slagyard Cottages in Mostyn. The Conductors on the buses were all very kind and did indeed look after us. I guess they knew who we were as they knew our parents, Mam being from Mostyn and having worked as a nurse in Courtaulds and at the Cottage Hospital Holywell and Dad from Bagillt.I certainly remember the Conductor with the leather glove and Mr Wilkes too. Later when I was a teenager I worked at the Rita Cafe in Rhyl during the Summer holidays and if we worked late we had to hurry to catch the last bus at 10'clock to get home! The only place I went for a holiday was to my Auntie's in Mold and I had to travel from Holywell on the Phillips bus where Mattie was the Conductress. I think she had a flat wooden board with pre typed tickets. I also late travelled from Llanerch y Mor by Phillips Buses to Ysgol Glan Clwyd in Rhyl. Until writing all this I had not realised what a big part the buses had to play in my life as I grew up, but then we did not have a car! (Just love this site).
Mon Oct 9 10:26:57 2006
Holmesy from Whiston
We have just finished restoring a Crosville Mold bus "Bristol VR" DVL435 on Sunday 24.9.2006. We took it back to Mold to photograph it in its home town. Follow the link to see the bus in Mold.
http://holmes.pwp.blueyonder.co.uk
Thu Sep 28 07:52:04 2006
Pete Harrison from Connah's Quay
The above was my Father and a Crosville bus driver up until his untimely death in 1972. Does anyone remember him? I used to travel on the bus from Connah's Quay to Chester. I think he drove the L1 coastliner
Thu Sep 21 08:03:24 2006
Paul Cartwright, Derby
My grandfather, Abraham (known as Arthur) Lloyd, started one of the original bus services from Shotton after WWI. He was bought out by Crosville and worked for them for the rest of his working life, being Area Engineer in Rhyl, Caernarvon, Crewe and finally Wrexham. Crosville owned the Old Vicarage there (now sadly demolished and my mother was married from there in December 1946. My father was a builder (Ken Cartwright) and he built or repaired many of Crosville's depots. I used to travel with my grandfather round the depots during school holidays. If anything metal in our house needed painting, it was always in Crosville green! My wife (Elizabeth Cook) lived in Mold (Bryn Coch Lane) and used to travel to Chester to attend queen's school
Thu Sep 14 07:45:40 2006
Sue Crease (King), Milton Keynes
My Dad used to work at Flint Bus Depot from 1965 to 1981. He loved it, he still tells us of things that went on there, he still lives in Flint however then we were in Connah's Quay, his name is Brian King and he was a driver. In the summer hols we used to go with him if he was doing a half shift he would leave us playing or picking blackberries whilst he did the turn. I also remember him fetching the bus home, we used to play on it as he had a cup of tea. He tells us of the card schools that used to run in the canteen and of a lady conductor who used to play plus lots of other lovely tales.
Tue Aug 22 09:29:34 2006
Michael Owen from Urmston, Manchester
What memories have been stirred up since my first contribution! I have very good reason to offer good wishes to Bill Rear, whose kindness in explaining many mysteries of Crosville bus operation when my brother and I met him at his shop in Caernarvon was thrilling. Thanks again, Bill. Dennis Field asks about Lloyds' buses. Until recently, P & O Lloyd ran a fleet of white or cream and red buses primarily on works services to Shotton Steelworks, but recently they've started some local bus services. I believe some of their bus conductors were steel workers who rode the platform as 'second' jobs, to stop people falling out! Adrian Rodgers of Flint remembers the Crosville Parcels service, which was company wide until the end of the seventies. Crosville did a lot of parcels carrying, particularly around Dolgellau and South Cambrian areas, where the front two or more seats were usually ful of car parts and mysterious boxes, which was most annoying if you wanted to sit up front with the driver to chat. It seems such a pity that it stopped though, because it would still be useful. Conductors and drivers had a number of different parcels tickets of various values and colours, which needed to be licked onto the parcels, which was apparently likely to produce a disgusting taste on the tongue. Tom Barrell of Sydney remembers the old Crosville bus livery, which until the mid-Second World War was officially red and cream - the buses in the Mold and Wrexham areas semed to go on for ever before being repainted in the new livery. Finally, Jenni Auld of Surrey asks about the old ticket she has. This was a ticket of the old Bell Punch system, which was replaced by Crosville at the end of the forties. I'm sorry, Jenni it's not valuable (like the Penny Black stamp) but is a nice keepsake. Perhaps you could acquire a photo of one of the older (green) Crosville buses and put the ticket with the photo in a frame, it'd look great as a conversation piece. As a result of this correspondance, an old friend lost for twenty years plus has found me again, so I'm delighted. Please, keep your memories coming in. Does anyone remember the letter boxes on the back of the buses?And, particularly, what other things would be posted on Guy Dawkes' night!
Mon Aug 14 09:26:17 2006
Guido from France/Lodekka DLB904 reg 886CFM
I am looking for the drivers, the mechanics, crews, pictures and everything about Crosville buses, especially all about my 1958 Lodekka LD6B former Crosville DLB904, ex-UK-Reg 886CFM. He's now in France/Germany and known as Meubles René Borie, still alive and driving very well but has some mechanical faults with the rear brake, the master vacuum servo appears to have a problem. Anybody who can provide me anything about my bus is greatly appreciated!
you can find some very recent pictures of René on my website http://www.superchelou.tk/ I'm planning to restore him and to make my (motor)home with. What I know is that René operated in Liverpool until 1974 for Crosville before being exported to France, a pic is on the page of Garry Brookes: http://www.garry-brookes.com/id273.htm/ All people who are interested about the rest of 886CFM history can mail me: superchelou (at) gmail.com
Thanks a lot!
Tue Aug 8 08:01:55 2006
Philip Davies, Whitchurch, Salop.
This makes good reading. Any memories of the M76 service from Denbigh to Llangwyfan via Llandyrnog. I recall Mr Eals the driver who wore white gloves, and my Uncle Emlyn who was a conductor on the Denbigh to Birkenhead route.
Thu Aug 3 13:58:46 2006
Carol Cross, Berthengam
My Dad was a driver at Flint depot - Tom Ellis from Mostyn in the 1960/70s and he told us many tales. He had a nickname, Bongo, if anyone can tell me why I would be grateful.
Tue Aug 1 09:48:03 2006
Terry Skilbeck, Canada
Gwilym Roberts lived on Wellington St, Shotton, when I knew him. His brother was a schoolteacher at the Central school. I can remember a pantomime at the Alambrah theatre when Humpty Dumpty fell off the wall in the shape of a big egg and out stepped Gwilym.
Tue Aug 1 09:28:08 2006
Ken Swallow from Liverpool
I'm sure the Roads & Road Transport History Association would be interested to follow the progress of Rob Richardson's research. I'd like to put him in touch if he is agreeable.
Fri Jun 30 09:18:47 2006
Norman Blackwell
To ALAN EVANS SALTNEY. I remember well your Father, Tom, the blind Piano Tuner, I worked for Crosville 1941 - 1948 and we would often pick him up, I can particularly remember him at Rock Bridge Mostyn. He was always cheerful and positive. Proud to have known him, an example to us all.
Fri Jun 30 07:56:28 2006
Howard Hopkins from Mold
When I was serving my apprenticeship as a joiner at John Summers Steelworks during the late fifties it was not uncommon for the conductor to be involved in a card school on the top deck of the Crosville bus returning to Mold at the end of the day shift. The conductor would press the bell three times to indicate to the driver that there was no more room left on board so the card game had few interruptions. Sometimes the conductor would nip into the newsagents to buy a paper, whilst he was there some wag would press the bell so off we would go leaving him behind and most probably in trouble with his boss! Oh the good old days when everyone behaved themselves!
Tue Jun 27 09:06:22 2006
Alison Holmes of Cyprus
Does anyone remember my brothers who worked as condutors for Flint depot? Their names were Bryn Willliams and Gareth Williams also known as Gus. My mum also worked at the depot, her name was Ursula Edwards later Williams.
Mon Jun 5 09:40:54 2006
Margaret Wallace (ex Griffiths) Liverpool
I am interested in June Murray's letter. I hope she remembers me from Pentre Shop. I lived at the shop and used to baby sit June and Diane her sister. I still have photographs of them. Bryn and Mary her parents were part of my childhood. Bryn would stop the bus outside the shop for us to get off.
Wed May 31 12:06:23 2006
Brian Freeman from South Woodford
When I was a little boy, I loved watching
films about transport in the 1960s eg trolleybuses and other things, RT RTL RTW buses. Do you think the BBC can show on TV again please.
Wed May 10 12:00:23 2006
elizabeth, usa
Hey Jeff Ashton, I remember the conductor with the deformed hand!!!
Tue Apr 18 09:36:10 2006
Jenni Auld from Surrey
We have been given a 1d punched bus ticket which is marked Crosville Motor Services Ltd. There is advertising by Littlewoods Football Pools on one side. The other side has 8Sb on it and the number 2028. Please could you let us know if it is of any value.
Tue Mar 14 12:41:58 2006
Christina Wright from Melbourne
My grandparents Ginny & Arthur Jones lived at The Beaches farm in Saltney Ferry, my grandma told me that she would give the bus drivers sandwiches and a flask of tea so that they would take a detour and pick my mum up for school (1940s). Years later mum & I were going to Buckly on the bus and mum recognised the conductor, he was a small man. He called to the driver who also remembered my mum and they confirmed grandma's story having been a team for many, many years.
Sun Mar 12 04:54:11 2006
D Newsome from Lancashre
I remember the Ritze bus from Rhyl to Greenfield, I travelled on it many times to Greenfield. I also remember the last train from Rhyl to Holywell Junction on a Saturday night, where most of the bulbs were removed en-route. Getting home was always a problem, as soon as the train arrived at the station all the lights went off and going through the dark passage way was scary.
Fri Feb 17 23:29:23 2006
Tony Barrell, Sydney NSW
Lovely stuff. I used to go to school on the bus from Mold to Chester 1951-58, but I remember the bus that left King's street Mold and went via Alltami (and the Castle brickworks) was a dark red bus not the green and yellow of Crosville. Was it a different company's livery that Crosville had taken over but not repainted? Probably a mere detail but I'm writing an autobiography of sorts and it works so much better if you get it right! Webteam replies: Perhaps you'd consider sending us an extract from your book of your time in NE Wales for use on this website. Email: wales.northeast@bbc.co.uk
Tue Jan 17 07:32:34 2006
tom jones rhyl
I remeber that the holywell to mold has been going for over 80yrs and still going. It also runs to rhyl 6 days a week mon-sat. It is operated by Phillips of holywell. They are an excellent company always there to help.
Sat Nov 12 16:17:35 2005
Adrian Rogers, Fflint
I remember collecting parcels(Christmas Presents)in the early 70's from the Crosville Depot on the Manor, Flint. My Auntie, who lived just outside Denbigh would send parcels by bus if she thought the weather was too bad for her to travel.
Can anyone confirm if this method of postage was commonplace or was it down to friendly Crosville staff
Thu Oct 27 13:45:30 2005
From Christine Pickering nee Jones
Bert & Alice Jones my mum & dad used to work for the Crosville Mold Depot for many years, does any one remember them?
Sun Oct 23 21:48:55 2005
Claire Pickering - Buckley
I'm not sure of the years worked but both my Nan and Grandad worked for Mold Crosville Bert and Alice Jones from Chapel Street does anyone remember them or have stories on them?? Other names are Irene Jones, Little Gwen, Vic Roberts. My mum asks if anyone remembers Little Mickey who was a road sweeper but spent the day in the crosville drinking tea!!!
Sun Oct 23 21:31:51 2005
Keith from Rhyl
It would never happen now of course, (health and safety rules prevailing) but I was quite honoured when I used to travel on the Crosville buses that the conductors used to allow me to ring the bell (once to STOP - two to GO)!
Thu Oct 13 15:27:59 2005
Dennis Field from Pembroke, Canada
I was always told to call him MISTER Wilkes, but yes, I do remember him quite well. Very frightening, and absolute master of his domain. However, it's my clear recollection that behind his manner, he was a kind and caring man. From 1952 to 1955, I got a ride to school in Mold most days with a friend and his father. But sometimes I was on the Crosville bus, which went through Northop and Soughton. In the afternoon, it was usually a Phillips bus, a red one, and went through Rhosesmor and Halkyn. There was another company too, called Lloyds, and they had cream-coloured buses. What was the arrangement between the companies, I wonder.
Wed Oct 5 21:17:31 2005
Jeff Blythin Rhyl
I can recall the Rhyl Depot in the 1950's and 60's quite well and some of the charecters there. My father Radcliffe [Rac - Jack] Blythin was a driver as was 'uncle' Alex [Shipley] there was Mr.Rogers a lovely conductor with a very large nose, also Jack Allias [Williams], Joss the white haird conductor, Tony Roberts, the conductor with the false hand as mention by J.Ashton. I can remember the Christmas parties they held, for the children of the employees, in the old indoor market. The canteen was somewhere to behold as was the upstairs room with the snooker table. Crossville had a first class snooker team in the 1950's. As with every one life seemed so much easier then.
Sun Oct 2 14:25:40 2005
Jeff Ashton, Connah's Quay
I remember a conductor who had a deformed hand and wore a special glove that allowed him to operate the ticket machine. His favourite trick was to pinch your hand as you gave him your money.
Fri Jul 8 23:24:41 2005
Steve Marsh from Mold
I was firstly a conductor in 1979 at Mold Depot, after that one man operation was introduced. I took my driving test on an old Bristol Decker and continued as a driver until 1981, when I moved on to become a European coaching holiday driver. I do, with great fondness, remember most of the people in Mold, Flint and Denbigh Depots if only by name, and I still have my original uniform including badges and some photos taken whilst working at Mold. Some of the folk are still around and, of course, some have since died. During my time at Mold I remember Steve,
Les, Dave, Myf, Martin, Ron (inspector), big and little Bob, to name but a few, but I learned how to do the job (properly) with Bill and Scotty. What a team. It would be lovely to meet up again and have a night with my old mates from Crosville Mold.
Sun Jun 12 15:05:19 2005
Michael Owen from Urmston, Manchester
My brother and I, as youngsters of 11-20, were very interested in Crosville Motor Services, because we used to have summer holidays at Colwyn Bay and travel a lot on the buses, especially after "Explorer" Tickets were introduced in 1967. With a special letter from Chester headquarters to show to each garage foreman, we'd visit many depots, including Flint, to take bus numbers, and learn about Crosville, and the earlier bus operators that Crosville bought out. Flint depot staff were always cheerful and obliging, and "as long as you don't fall down a (inspection) pit" could look almost anywhere. In the late sixties, many buses were parked outside, and I remember that the older buses with "real" radiators had the older fleet numbers, such as KW229 for a singledecker, stamped on the side of the radiator casing. Fleet number KW229 became SLB229 (about 1959), and these later numbers were shown on metal plates on the front, both sides and rear. I remember that on one occasion we walked from Flint Station to the depot, with the weather threatening to rain, and half way around our number-spotting tour the heavens opened. The garage foreman let us take shelter in the depot till the rain stopped, and showed us how to work out the senior members of staff formerly with other bus operators by comparing their seniority dates (shown on the duty or holiday roster) with a list of take-over dates shown in the company history, a book called "The Sowing & the Harvest" by W J Crossland-Taylor, originally printed in 1947. It seemed to rain for a long time - probably an hour or so - but we were allowed to ask a lot of questions, and everyone was very patient and kind. Happy memories! And I wish success to anyone who tries to save them!
Sun May 22 18:34:42 2005
peter williams from Delaware
Gwilym was from Rock Cliff, between Flint and Connah's Quay; he was a dwarf who often used to diappear among crowds of schoolchildren on the bus. I replaced him as a comedian in Pantomime with Les Frimstone directing. He gave me lots of hints how to raise laughs but all he had to do was to walk on stage at places such as the Alhambra, Shotton, Assembly Hall, Holywell and various other venues. A good rival to the Buckley Panto , in Flint we used to perform at The Blessed Richard Gwynne.
Thu May 12 14:12:23 2005
peter williams from Delaware
If Rob Richardson emails wales.northeast@bbc.co.uk, the team will be able to give you my email address. I can send some more stories about my time at Flint Crosville Depot while I was a student at the university. The oldies taught me many tricks.
Thu May 12 14:06:40 2005
ALAN EVANS SALTNEY
Does anyone remember TOM EVANS a blind man (piano tuner &pianist)who used to travel a lot from Bridge St chester to areas around Flint,Holywell and Mold. He was my dad and could tell you the fleet no. as soon as he got on the bus.
Sat May 7 20:51:42 2005
Alan Mitchell from Rhyl
I would like to know (via this page) whether anyone can remember that last bus from the Ritz Dance Hall in Rhyl that went to Greenfield and Holywell (perhaps further), I don`t know because I got off at Trevor (near Greenfield).
Tue May 3 15:55:48 2005
Liz Kenny, Carlisle, England
I lived in Mold until 1978. I started working in Flint then Holywell and remember going on the buses to Holywell via Rhaes-y-cae and Lixwm, also to Flint. I recollect a lady called Mattie, the conductress and she was a character. I used to fall asleep and she used to wake me up when we arrived in Holywell. Great memories which seem such a long time ago!
Fri Apr 22 00:20:54 2005
Dave Child from South Africa
My Grandfather, John Child, also worked at the Crosville office on the bridge. I used to catch the red Lloyds bus from outside our house in Tai Maes, Maes y Dre to go to school. Mattie was the conductress and a wonderfull character. I got off the bus at the Crosville office, got a few pennies from my Grandad and walked to my junior school at Glan yr Afon, just off Wrexham road. Those were great days.
Fri Apr 8 18:28:53 2005
Roger Carvell, Hitchin, Hertfordshire
I lived on the Chester Road at Oakenholt, Flint, from 1957 until 1974 when I left home. I used the Crosville buses all the time and can remember how well maintained they were. The L1's were luxury almost.
One conductor sticks out in my memory. A very short man, who my mother called Gwilym. I am not sure if that was his real name but she said he came from Buckley and appeared in the town's panto. I remember him having to jump up to ring the bell!This would be c. 1968 perhaps. Can anyone shed anymore light?
Another, with some wit, called out to a fellow passenger in Flint, about to alight from a moving bus,
'Wait for the bus to stop, we don't supply parachutes'. Remember that well.
Once, as a child, the family had gone on a shopping trip to Liverpool. On the coach back I became unwell and the driver duly stopped the packed vehicle right outside the house frontgate.
All part of the service from a great bus company.
Tue Mar 29 20:49:26 2005
June Murray, Loughborough, Leics
My father Bryn Lewis worked for the Crosville at Mold depot from 1935 to 1968 with a six year break to serve in the RAF during the War. At first he was an enquiry clerk at the bus station on the bridge. He well remembers, Charlie, the man with the thick glasses referred to in the article. Charlie knew all the bus schedules by heart and could always be relied on to know when the next bus was due!
Before the War dad graduated to conductor and after became a driver. He remembers the F10 and F11 routes - the F10 went from Birkenhead to Loggerheads and the F11 from Birkenhead to Pantymwyn. The garge foreman at that time was Garmon Jones and his brother Wilson was garage hand, along with Stan Parry. Bob James worked as a greaser. On of the most famous characters of the time was "Spitfire"; as well as being a driver he ran his own cottage industry plucking and preparing chickens which he bought from the surrounding farms.
The bus conductresses mentioned are probaby Bet Green, Heather Murray and Gwen Jones all sadly dead now. Walter Mills also a conductor, lived with his friend Ken McCleod, a ticket inspector just across the road from the depot. Alec Grey was the Depot Manager.
One of dad's favourite routes was the Monday morning trip to Holywell via Rhaes-y-Cae and Lixwm. On the way to Holywell, they would collect shopping lists from elderly people and collect the shopping in Holywell, delivering it on the return journey. In exchange, there was ussually a bit of butter or home cured bacon.
On the early moring country routes, the mushrooms growing in the fields were often too tempting. He would stop the bus, collect the mushrooms and share them amongst the passengers.
Sadly, most of the crew from that time are no longer with us. However, as well as my dad, Jacky Hawks and Ernie Williams, both drivers are still alive and living in the Mold area.
Mon Mar 28 11:25:24 2005
David Evans, Norfolk
As teenagers, coming back on the last bus from Chester to Flint on a Saturday night with my girlfriend. Faced with a long walk from the Raven Square, Flint, you asked the driver to make a detour 'up Cornist' to drop her off, and he said 'OK'. What a wonderful bus service Crosville provided!
Sun Mar 13 13:00:18 2005
Steve Harris - Flint
My father Derrick Harris worked as a driver for crosville - Mold 1955- 1961. Sadly he passed away 8 years ago. I have many memories of trips on the buses with my father, mainly to shotton steelworks, visits to the canteen where I was spoilt as a young lad. Conductors would toss a few coins out of the bus for me if they saw me on the street in Mynydd-Isa. My mother Mary, now 74yrs, remembers some of the names mentioned but has no photographs herself. Ah yes, the bus station in Mold at the top of the railway station and the well known character with thick lensed specs who seemed always to hang around. The bus shelter on the opposite side at the bottom of the steps that led to the old police station is now a retail outlet. Did Mary Smith of Mold work in the canteen during the mid - late 70's
Sun Mar 6 19:57:41 2005
Angie Cooper Wolverhampton
I travelled independently from Greenfield to Holywell every school day from the age of 5 (yes times have changed - I don't think many little ones would be allowed to do that these days). I remember Jack Wilkes well - he used to look very stern but always had a kind smile for me - he must have been a lovely Taid Karen (my Taid lived in Pen-y- Maes too)
Fri Mar 4 13:30:52 2005
Steve Luxton, England
I love reading and listening to stories from x bus crews. Perhaps one of the reasons I run ON THE BUSES fan club. If anyone has anymore please send them to me. I may start a page for old bus crews to contact each other again. I can be contacted at - http://members.lycos.co.uk/busesfanclub/ - Ding ding
Sun Feb 27 13:26:26 2005
Ray, San Francisco, California
I lived in Buckley from 1955 1975 and then moved to London and the USA in 1980. My Mum was a bus conductress in Mold. Her name was Betty Griffiths. Was this the Bet you were talking about? My Mum died in 1969 when I was 11.
Wed Feb 16 22:45:39 2005
Rob Richardson from Broughton
For some years I have been attempting to compile a history of the Crosville Depot in Flint which opened in the Spring of 1937 and closed in May 1981. I have quite a lot of photographs of buses and staff from about 1950-81 but very little information 1937-1981. I would be grateful for any snippets of information - such as the interesting article above by Peter Williams, I would also be very interested to see any old photographs associated with Flint Depot and to hear from any of the old staff who worked there. My main aim is to record as much as possible about this small but vital part of our Social History. My researches into Crosville's Flint Depot is part of a much larger project in tracing the history of road transport in the old county of Flint. I propose eventually to deposit my findings with the local Records Office, so that the efforts of all who worked in local road transport in Flintshire are not forgotten and lost in history. Any help on this subject would be vey welcome. Many Thanks - Rob Richardson
(Please get in touch using this page)
Thu Feb 10 03:54:00 2005
Ted Kennedy from Mandurah Western Australia
As a schoolboy prior to coming to W. Australia in 1951, I recall many trips on the Crosville buses, mainly because I was very friendly with Norman Wlliams, a conductor who lived near us in Bridge St, and a Mr Brown, a driver. I took frequent trips with Norman to Chester, Wrexham, Birkenhead and several other destinations, doing the round trip, (at no expense to me), usually during the early evening when the buses didn't carry too many passengers. Most of the later buses were AEC diesels and were denoted as KA's, KB's and KC's. The double deckers (my favourites) were Leylands and from memory were known as MM's. As children the canteen at the depot was a favourie haunt as you could buy a Walls icecream roll for 1 penny at the side window. The depot also boasted a fishing club and I was privileged to attend a couple of fishing trips in a smaller Bedford bus driven by Mr Brown. Many warm memories of the Crosville bus service.
Mon Jan 24 09:46:05 2005
Karen Jones, Connah's Quay, North Wales
I certainly do remember Jack Wilkes, he was my Grandfather or Taid as we knew him. I used to get the bus to Holywell and he used to meet me off the bus and I would sit in the bus station until he finished work then we would walk up to his house in Penymaes. His brother Bob worked on the buses also. My mother was Jack's youngest daughter.
Sat Nov 6 19:57:09 2004
Peter Williams from Newark, Delaware, USA
Working at the Flint depot was a riot. One lady gave me eggs for her fare, another guy used to pay with a bottle of beer. The last Sandycroft picked up all the drunks and the last Rhyl to Flint buses swapped each night. In Caerwys, we'd stop the bus to look for mushrooms. All the drivers used to signal back when the inspector was in the area. And who could forget the Holywell bus stop and the inspector (a former conductor). Someone may remember Jack Wilkes.
Sat Aug 21 00:44:14 2004
We're not updating this page but we still want your stories so get in touch or go to Memoryshare.
From 1958 to 1962 I drove buses for Crosville. In the October of that year I transferred to Llandudno Junction depot for the same company, but that's another story.
