the tradition was broken with the acquisition of the first Leyland Nationals

in 1974. More unusual was the purchase of five new Fords in 1976 (2401-5

OFE 260-4P) and pictured above is 2405 at Newark bus station in 1980.

The NBC green did little to enhance the rather box-like appearance of

these vehicles. Several services in the Newark area were marketed under

the name "CAVALIER" in 1980 and 2405 displays the appropriate emblem

and lettering towards the rear. The Fords only had a brief career with the

LRCC and all were withdrawn in 1981. After it was sold, 2404 saw further

service in Lincolnshire as a staff bus for Martins of Alford.