Latest News

Keep up to date with CRG163’s on-going restoration and other related things. Developments are listed in date order with the most recent news at the top of this page.

Bodywork Session 10: Rear panels and boot

Today we continue with CRG163’s rear panels including the boot. (24.08.25)

Bodywork Session 9: Nearside rear & corner panels

Today we move to CRG163’s nearside rear and corner panels. Panels were carefully removed as always including the rear bumper body bracket. (22.08.25)

Bodywork Session 8: Offside rear

Today we move to CRG163’s offside rear. Panels were carefully removed as always including the rear bumper for the first time from new. This revealed the vehicle’s original cream and black livery from 1970. (08.08.25)

Bodywork Session 7 - Day 3: Now we are eight!

Today we reach a historical milestone with CRG163 as we return the vehicle to having eight waist lightning apertures, four on both sides as when CRG163 was new in 1970. The last time CRG163 had eight apertures seen publicly was in 1971, fifty two years ago! (04.08.25)

Bodywork Session 7 - Day 2: New offside locker support beam fitted

This morning we fit the new offside locker support beam. The steel had been fabricated by Eifion Jones to his usual high standard, and woodwork in the same way by Sion. (03.08.25)

Bodywork Session 7 - Day 1: A bitter/sweet day

Today we return and continue the restoration of CRG163, nearly five months since when my father was taken ill on the 9th of March, passing away a few days later unexpectedly. Today was a bitter/sweet day. (02.08.25).

New Crosville in Liverpool book becomes available

The new book on the history of Crosville in Liverpool becomes available. (15.07.25)

The ‘Cymru Coastliner’ makes a return

The cherished ‘Cymru Coastliner’ branding makes a return between Rhyl and Llandudno for summer 2025. (19.06.25)

The beautiful ‘Ruby’

We send our deepest condolences to the families of those who died at the fire in Oxfordshire, but also to Jonathan Radley in his devastating loss of Ruby. (18.05.25)

Eastern Coach Works

A new web page is added to the website tonight providing a summary of the history of Eastern Coach Works superb Gardner engine. (04.05.25)

The website rebrand is now complete.

By tonight the website branding and web domain transition is complete (03.05.25)

The superb Gardner engine

A new web page is added to the website tonight providing the history of the superb Gardner engine. (01.05.25)

A refresh and rebrand of the website is under way

CRG163’s website is in the process of being refreshed and rebranded to feature more prominently the Crosville name and colours as the website includes by now so much more than just CRG163. The website has maintained a black sombre appearance for the past six weeks out of respect for our great loss. (23.04.25)

Ein colled fawr / Our devastating loss

We suffer as a family a devastating loss - a dear Father, Father in-law and Grandad (Taid). (14.03.25)

CRG163’s fuel cap collar - fabricated, sand blasted and sprayed

CRG163’s damaged fuel cap collar has now been fabricated, sand blasted and sprayed and like new. Our grateful thanks to Eifion Jones for the fantastic work. (11.03.25)

Bodywork Session 6 - Day 3: Progress with rear panels and front door woodwork

Progress is made today with the removal of rear brightwork and the panel around the original rear number plate. (09.03.25)

Bodywork Session 6 - Day 2: Passenger door pillar & vehicle rear

Today we start building back the wood pillar between the passenger entrance and nearside windscreen. We also start to remove the vehicle’s rear brightwork in preparation for restoration. (08.03.25)

55 years ago - CRG163 enters operational service.

55 years ago to today, on the 8th of March 1970, CRG163 leaves Crosville’s Sealand Road Works (SRW) following its initial registarion on the 6th of March to its Liverpool Edge Lane depot to start its operational life on the prestigious Liverpool to London services. (08.03.25)

Bodywork Session 6 - Day 1 - four wheel arches now restored and a surprise

CRG163’s four wheel arches, box sections/pillars are now completed with a surprise in the configuration of the vehicle’s rear number plate. (07.03.25)

Happy 55 birthday CRG163!!

CRG163 was first registered on 6 March 1970. Today on 6 March 2025 CRG163 is 55 years old. Happy birthday. 🎉🎉🎂🎂 (06.03.25)

Bodywork Session 5 - Day 2 - The passenger first step is removed

Today we remove the first passenger entrance step, the bright work across CRG163’s front and further woodwork around the passenger door. (27.02.25)

Bodywork Session 5 - Day 1 - Passenger doors fully removed and surrounding panels

Today we remove the left passenger door pillar so that we can fully acecss the first entrance step. We also remove all the surrounding panels and begin removing deteriorated wood work. (26.02.25)

A bitter sweet day as we remember absent friends and family and say goodbye to the NATIONAL branding

Today was a bitter sweet moment as we remove the ‘NATIONAL’ branding and all legal lettering from CRG163 in preparation for the vehicle’s next chapter. (25.02.25)

Bodywork Session 4 - Day 3 - We move to the passenger door panels and step

Today we replace more woodwork on CRG163’s offside and move to the passenger door panels and entrance step. (23.02.25)

Bodywork Session 4 - Day 2 - Since 1971 we are again four!

New panels with smaller lighting apertures are prepared and fitted to CRG163. It will be the first time since 1971 that four such panels and apertures are seen side by side on the vehicle. (22.02.25)

Bodywork Session 4 - Day 1 - Wood work replaced and panels refitted

Today new woodwork is added and panels are refitted. (21.02.25)

New authentic wheel trims arrive for CRG163 today

New authentic wheel trims arrive for CRG163 today from the company that originally supplied trims for the vehicle 55 years ago! (21.02.25)

Bodywork Session 3 - Day 4 - Highs and lows of bus preservation

Today our aim was to start refitting panels, however due to a number of set backs, including issues with CRG163’s offside front wheel arch splash backs this was not achieved. We continue to progress as we resolve each issue. (18.02.25)

Bodywork Session 3 - Day 3 - wheel arch panel fitted

Today we refit CRG163’s nearside front wheel arch panel and resolve an issue with the vehicle’s offside front wheel arch in preparation for refitting of its panel tomorrow. (17.02.25)

Bodywork Session 3 - Day 2 - Front wheel arches

Today we commence our second day of our third session on CRG163’s bodywork. Our aim today was to remove the large panels around both front wheel arches and the panel under the driver’s cab and water cap surround. (16.02.25)

Bodywork Session 3 - Day 1 - Soon we will be eight!

Today we commence our third session on CRG163’s bodywork. Our aim today was to measure new panels and mark out new lighting apertures that will sit above the vehicle’s front wheel arches on both sides. Soon we will be eight! (15.02.25)

Bodywork Session 2 - Day 6 - refitting woodwork and panels

Our final day of this session sadly as today we replace panel woodwork and refit some of the offside panels. (04.02.25)

Bodywork Session 2 - Day 5 - Rear offside wheel arch rebuild and further issues

Today we tackle the rebuilding of the rear offside wheel arch. We lao face more issues that require rectification. (03.02.25)

Bodywork Session 2 - Day 4 - Rear offside wheel arch issues

Today we tackle the rear offside wheel arch and come across a few issues to rectify. (02.02.25)

Bodywork Session 2 - Day 3 - Offside now stripped down

CRG163’s offside is now stripped down, ready for woodwork and panel rebuild tomorrow. (01.02.25)

Bodywork Session 2 - Day 2 - Panel woodwork continues …..

The replacement of panel woodwork recommences as we remove offside panels with a slight set back. (31.01.25)

Bodywork Session 2 - Day 1 - Panel woodwork continues ….. now we are six!

The replacement of panel woodwork recommences as we find the three remaining original illuminated panel apertures. (30.01.25)

Bodywork Session 1 - Day 5 - Nearside panel woodwork final push

Side panels on CRG163 are put together again after new wood work is completed. This is the 5th and last day of this session. (20.01.25)

Bodywork Session 1 - Day 4 - Nearside woodwork continues and we have a special guest

The nearside panel woodwork continues and we have a special guest visit. (19.01.25)

Bodywork Session 1 - Day 3 - New nearside panel woodwork installation begins

New panel woodwork is added to CRG163’s nearside. (18.01.25)

Bodywork Session 1 - Day 2 - Panel removal and woodwork continues

Nearside panel removal and woodwork continues on CRG163. (17.01.25)

Bodywork Session 1 - Day 1 - Panel removal and woodwork commences …… with a surprising find!

Nearside panels on CRG163 are removed slowly so that damaged woodwork can be renewed over five days. (16.01.25)

New gearbox selector plate fitted

The new aluminium gearbox selector plate is fitted to CRG163. (12.01.25)

The new gearbox selector plate arrives

New manufactured aluminium gearbox selector plates arrive for CRG163. (30.12.24)

Nadolig Llawen / Merry Christmas

Dymunwn y gorau i chi oll ar gyfer yr Wŷl. / Sending nest wishes of the Season to all. (25.12.24)

Searching for a mechanic/electrician

Searching for a mechanic / electrician for CRG163. (14.12.24)

A new web page: Crosville in Liverpool

A new web page titled ‘Crosville in Liverpool’ is introduced to CRG163’s website and launched to promote the new book of the same title. (30.10.24)

Rhag i ni anghofio / Lest we forget

So very important we remember and not forget. (09.11.24)

Cab dashboard preparation and painting

CRG163’s cab area and dashboard is prepared and painted. (13.10.24 - 03.11.24)

CRG163’s website has a redesign

CRG163’s website has a redesign. Most notably is the introduction of a new logo incorporating the CROSVILLE name and Crosville green throughout. (06.10.24)

Bristol steering wheel cap and gear selector plate

An authentic BRISTOL steering wheel cap is found as well as a specially made indicator selector plate. (04.10.24)

Our special visit to Edge Lane, Liverpool

On Tuesday 20 August 2024, my youngest son, my father and myself went on a pilgrimage to the former site of Crosville’s Edge Lane depot in Liverpool where CRG163 was based from new in 1970 to 1979. We met friends as well as making new friends from former Edge Lane staff, many having not seen each other in nearly forty years. This was a very special day. (20.08.24)

Painting of wheels and front grille

Whilst we have nice weather we take the opportunity to paint CRG163’s wheels, front grille, number plate, fleet plates. (16 - 18.08.24)

Successful MOT and celebratory road run

CRG163 passes her MOT with a clean sheet. This is followed with a celebratory drive in the evening with our special guest Don McKeown. (13.08.24)

New authentic chrome wipers are found

Chrome windscreen wipers would have been fitted to CRG163 from new which were removed at some early point following the vehicle’s withdrawal from Crosville. It is extremely rare to find such wipers these days, but new one’s have been located. (04.04.24)

Another special reunion

My Father Richard Lloyd Jones is reunited with CRG163 having not seen the vehicle for many years. (03.04.24)

History in the making - A very special reunion

History was made today through a very special reunion between CRG163 and a dear friend from 40 years ago. (27.03.24)

A positive week for CRG163

The rebuilding of CRG163’s external lockers continue, including the replacement of the vehicle’s lower wooden frame that holds all the lockers in place. (23.03.24)

Road testing continues - our second nocturnal road run

Road testing of CRG163 continues with a second nocturnal road run (11.03.24)

A productive Saturday afternoon

A productive Saturday afternoon with CRG163. (09.03.24)

Nocturnal road run / Crosville Pwllheli

Our first nocturnal road run in many years, stopping briefly outside Crosville’s former Pwllheli depot site in order to pay our respects to all former staff. This page contains the history of the depot and photographs. (05.03.24)

Charging issues solved and much more!

The charging issues that have plagued CRG163 has finally been resolved including much more. Click on ‘Learn More’ for more details and photographs (01.03.24)

The world has lost one of its finest - Barry Thomas (Silver Star)

Mae'r byd wedi colli un o'i orau, sef Barry Thomas (Seren Arian). The world has lost one of its finest, Barry Thomas (Silver Star). (14.02.24)

Regulator board conversion

Result! A worthwhile journey to Chester today. One CAV regulator board 460C successfully converted to a CAV460-1 for CRG163 and its regulator with my grateful thanks to my good friend Roger Downs, owner of preserved Crosville coach CRG111. My grateful thanks to Roger for your valued support. (03.02.24)

Charging issues sadly continue - a quick run around the block to keep the wheels turning

The modified regulator control board has now been fitted but sadly the charging issues continue. Further investigation is now required of the wiring.

New ‘Top 1’ headlamps

Two new ‘Top 1’ headlamps delivered today for CRG163 with grateful thanks to Jonathan Radley, fellow preservationist and owner of the fantastic preserved Red & White Bristol RELH ECW coach OAX9F from 1968: https://www.redandwhitebus.com/

Blwyddyn Newydd Dda / Happy New Year

Blwyddyn newydd dda i chi gyd, a diolch am ddilyn CRG163 drwy 2023! 🥳 Happy new year to you all and my grateful thanks for following all things CRG163 during 2023! 🥳

Nadolig Llawen / Merry Christmas!

Nadolig Llawen i chi gyd! 🎄☃️ Merry Christmas everyone! 🎄☃️

New ‘NATIONAL / NATIONAL EXPRESS’ vehicle front grill enamel badge

New and rare ‘NATIONAL / NATIONAL EXPRESS’ vehicle front grill enamel badge, purchased today for CRG163. Delivery awaited (09.12.23)

A new timeline page is added to CRG163’s website

A new timeline page is added tonight to CRG163’s website chartering key moments in the history of CRG163; Crosville Motor Services; Crosville Wales and Bristol RE.

New ‘NATIONAL’ coach head rest covers purchased

New ‘NATIONAL’ coach head rest covers have been purchased and picked up today for CRG163. (26.11.23)

CAV 460C-5 regulator board acquired

A CAV460C-5 regulator board is purchased from France. (24.11.23)

A new photograph of CRG163 comes to light!

When you think you’ve found every photograph of CRG163 from back in the day another one suddenly appears today (29.10.23).

We mourn the passing of our dear friend David Wilder

As an industry we mourn the loss of our dear friend Dave Wider. (27.09.23)

Sunday morning road run

Sunday morning road run. (16.04.23).

New regulator arrives

The new regulator arrives from Gardner Spare Parts. (08.03.23).

Alternator testing & regulator replacement

Alternator testing and regulator replacement ordered for delivery. (06.03.23).

Battery charging issues

Battery charging issues so immobile once again unfortunately. (February 2023).

CRG163 back on the road

After specific yard testing, a total external deep clean and then further road testing we’re back on the road again! (06.01.23).

CRG163 - yard testing

CRG163 being yard tested. (04.01.23).

QR code added to CRG163’s website

An easy way to find CRG163’s website is to scan this code on a smart mobile phone, tablet or other. Please share. (29.12.22).

CRG163’s rebuilt radiator re-fitted

CRG163’s radiator is refitted following rebuild. 09.12.22.

Collection of CRG163’s rebuilt radiator following refurbishment

The collection of CRG163’s radiator following its full refurbishment - 11.11.22.

Chwilio am le parcio addas newydd / Looking for new suitable parking

Rydym yn edrych am le parcio addas newydd ar gyfer CRG163. / We are looking for new suitable parking for CRG163. (02/11/22).

Wire brushing and painting

CRG163’s front cowl is removed so that wire brushing and hammerite treatment and painting can be undertaken in preparation for the return of the refurbished radiator. - 08.10.22.

Radiator packed and delivered for refurbishment

Radiator packaged and transported by car to Cropper & Jones, Ellesmere Port for full refurbishment - 07.10.22.

We have a damaged radiator

From the leak found at the front of the vehicle recently, closer inspection has revealed a damaged radiator to be the issue - 02.10.22.

We’re mobile but we have a water leak!

At last we’re mobile but unfortunately we’ve got a leak - 19.08.22.

New trafficators and emergency door lock fitted

New front trafficators (indicators fitted, near and offside - 16.07.22.

Rebuilding and refitting of side lockers

Rebuilding vehicle side lockers, lower vehicle wooden framing that holds lockers in place and refitting of lockers on vehicle - 01.08.22 onwards

CRG163 - 20 years of ownership

CRG163 - 20 years of ownership: 09.06.02 - 09.06.22

New batteries ordered and ready

New batteries have been ordered and are ready to be fitted on CRG163 - 27.05.22.

New tyres fitted on completed rims (wheels)

CRG163’s new tyres have now been fitted on completed rims (wheels) - 23.05.22.

Completed rims (wheels) collected and transported

CRG163’s rims (wheels) have now been collected and transported locally in preparation for tyre fitment which will hopefully take place next week - 19.05.22.

Rims (wheels) painted in National Bus Company grey

CRG163’s rims (wheels) have now been painted today in National Bus Company grey and drying. New tyres are ready and waiting to be fitted - 13.05.22.

Rims and new tyres fitted

CRG163 with treated rims and new tyres fitted - 22.05.22.

Rims (wheels) treatment for painting

CRG163’s rims (wheels) have now been treated. Painting tomorrow, ready for Saturday - 12.05.22.

Rims (wheels) sent for sandblasting

CRG163’s rims (wheels) and old tyres are removed, with rims sent for sandblasting and treatment - 20.02.22

We are now mobile!

Following the replacement of air pipes and batteries we are now mobile once again. CRG163 has now had a proper wash and the commencement of initial checks and assessment to see what now needs to be done. This includes side locker work, front indicator replacement and preparation for the removal of all wheels in order to sandblast all wheels before new tyres are eventually fitted - 22.09.21.

Frankmann Trafficators & emergency door lock

Frankmann Trafficators and emergency door lock - 08.07.21.

Nearside front fog lights x2

New Butler fog lamps arrive - 15.06.21.

Cleaning commences

Cleaning has commenced. CRG163 is well into it's second restoration phase - 14.06.21.

New Tyres - 9.00 x 20

6 Dunlop tyres arrive. Special thanks to Dereks Tyre Services for finding them! 12.06.21.

CRG163's new website launched

In June 2021, CRG163's new Website was launched with the intention to source parts to help restore CRG163 for the second time. The website quickly grew to include all things related to CRG163 including a bespoke web and email address - June 2021.

CRG163's new home

In 2020, CRG163 was moved to a new home where she would have access to further facilities that would help on her second restoration phase - June 2020.

Chrome headlamp surround bezels (ECW)

Chrome headlamp surround bezels (ECW) were delivered on the 25th of January 2020. However shortly thereafter in March 2020 Covid 19 engulfed the world - January 2020.