Guest to Aycliffe Bus Museum is YSF 87S a classic British single-deck bus/coach, built on a Leyland Leopard chassis and fitted with an Alexander Y‑type (AYS) body. It is now a preserved vehicle, cherished by enthusiasts for its historical significance and enduring design.

• Chassis: Leyland Leopard

• Bodywork: Alexander Y‑type (AYS)

• Year Built: 1977

• Original Operator: Fife Scottish (Fleet code: FPE87)

• Later Operators: Strathtay Scottish (Fleet number 560), Stagecoach Fife (Fleet number 25787)

• Preservation Owner: Rob Hughes

The Leyland Leopard was one of the UK’s most widely used single-deck bus and coach chassis, produced from 1959 to 1982. Its versatility and reliability made it a popular choice for operators across Britain and beyond. The Alexander Y‑type body was particularly common in Scotland, pairing rugged durability with a spacious, comfortable passenger layout.

YSF 87S entered service in 1977 with Fife Scottish, carrying the fleet code FPE87. It served the region faithfully, transporting passengers across local routes and longer-distance coach work.

Later, YSF 87S transferred to Strathtay Scottish, where it was renumbered 560. Following corporate mergers and the consolidation of Scottish bus operations, the vehicle became part of Stagecoach Fife, receiving the fleet number 25787. During this period, it continued to serve both local routes and excursion duties until its withdrawal from regular service.

• Configuration: Mid-engined, step-entrance single-deck bus/coach

• Engine: Leyland O.680 (typical for late-model Leopards)

• Body: Alexander Y‑type (AYS) — a durable Scottish body design, ideal for both urban and long-distance travel

• Seating: Standard Y‑type layout for passengers; comfortable coach seating on longer routes

The combination of the Leopard chassis and Alexander Y‑type body provided a balance of reliability, ease of maintenance, and passenger comfort, making YSF 87S a standout example of Scottish bus design in the late 20th century.

After withdrawal from commercial service, YSF 87S entered preservation under Rob Hughes and is one of his collection of classic vehicles. YSF is stored at Aycliffe Bus Museum. It has remained roadworthy and actively participates in heritage tours and rallies. Notably, YSF become famous in 2023] when Rob took her on Rust to Rome! After much joy, in 2025 Rob took her again for the journey, covering Paris, Germany, and much of Europe on the way to and from Rome in 2023 and 2025.

YSF 87S serves as a moving example of British bus history, demonstrating the engineering and design standards of the era while inspiring enthusiasts and new generations of transport historians.