BLACKPOOL 1938 LEYLAND CUB COUNCIL COMMITTEE COACH
This unique coach was introduced in 1938 and fitted out with a Burlingham body designed to Manager Walter Luff’s specifications. It featured a carpeted floor, swivelling armchairs, six radiators, a clock and a wireless set. It had a telephone and microphone connecting the saloon to the driver’s cab, and utensils were carried for making tea and coffee.
Its’ finish was unusual, in that it was painted all over black with stainless steel trim, earning it the nickname “The Black Maria” among the staff. Internally it had alhambrinal decorative ceiling panels and French polished walnut woodwork.
Licensed not as a coach but as a private car, it remained in use until 1967 as a mobile committee room for members of the council. On withdrawal from service it had only covered approximately 18000 miles and the spare wheel had never been used!