Random Rides: 414

[Chris]

With the impending change of operator as announced last week, and the recent swap of the 16xx mini-E200s at Gillingham with ex-London 415x mini-E200 MMCs at Northfleet, a trip on the 414 was high on the list for things to do last Friday, 5th June. 

There's a lot of scenic backdrops in the area in addition to JFO's favourite viaduct view, and as well as these two taken in South Darenth, I really wish I'd taken advantage of being the only person on the bus when I re-boarded at Horton Kirby and asked to take one there before we pulled away. 

1641 was the vehicle of the day, and it's seen here pulling away from the stop in Gorringe Avenue, Southdowns retirement village, and again turning from Holmesdale Road into Devon Road. The parked car there is a side-effect of a rapid position readjustment: two cars were at the junction so I moved back, only for the cars to scarper the moment the bus slowed down. Ah well... 

If anyone is so inclined, there is a very pleasant walk down the side of the River Darenth between South Darenth and Horton Kirby, although I did confuse the bus driver by getting on where I hadn't got off! 

Chris