The 1954 Leyland Titans obviously impressed Southend, for a total of 56 of the type were to be bought new. A dozen entered service between December 1955 and May 1956 as 287-298. They were of the PD2/12 variety, to the same mechanical specification as 276-86 but with the traditional exposed radiator rather than the Midland Red style of 'tin front' of the earlier buses. The chassis were actually a diverted order, having been intended for Plymouth City Transport. The usual Massey lowbridge bodies had one unique feature when new, being fitted with a full three part destination display over the rear platform as well as at the front and rear - click on the first or third photo to see an example. These were later blanked off and then removed, reputedly after an accident to a conductor who was leaning out to change the blinds while the bus was moving.
Click on any of the photos for a larger image and more details.
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287 is seen here in that year, by then without opening front windows upstairs.