Ref. 29473-28BUS passengers may find themselves riding in a golden carriage during 2004.

Actually, it's one of four new single-deckers being brought in by Thamesdown Transport to replace ageing double-deckers.

The firm has painted one of the vehicles gold to celebrate its 100th anniversary. It was in 1904 that one of Thamesdown's predecessor organisations, Swindon Corporation Tramways, began plying its trade across the town.

Managing director John Owen said: "The new gold bus will be a visible reminder of what we have planned to celebrate this special year.

"We are planning a number of events, culminating in a bus rally and open day for the public at the Wroughton Science Museum on Sunday, September 12.

"In addition, a centenary book, mugs, pens and models of various Thamesdown buses will be on sale over the next few months.

"An historical display commemorating Swindon's transport history in the window of Thamesdown's travel shop in Fleming Way is also creating great interest."

The new buses, like the single deckers delivered to the firm last year, feature internal CCTV for the protection of drivers and passengers alike, as well as low floors for ease of access.

Like all Thamesdown Transport buses, the new ones will bear the names of locomotives constructed during the heyday of the Swindon Railway Works.