A PEOJECT is set to be launched to restore a historic Accrington Pals bus and make it a ‘symbol of civic pride’.

The classic 1974 Leyland Leopard will be wheeled out at this year’s Accrington Food Festival on Saturday, June 3.

Work will then begin to restore the bus to a modern safety standards so that it is available to hire for schools and other organisations.

It is thought to be one of the last known surviving buses of its type in the world and the only one painted in the original colours of the Accrington Pals Regiment.

The bus will cost £10,000 to make roadworthy but the project could cost up to £100,000 if it secures funding for touchscreens to be installed.

Murray Dawson, managing director of Scott Dawson Advertising, who is supporting the campaign, said: “The bus is in a poor state of repair and requires a complete refurbishment.

“However, it is simply unthinkable to many people that this visual link with history is lost forever because it represents the proud identity of the town.

“Used in this way the bus will be a living example of the transport heritage of the local community and a symbol of civic pride.”

Pilkington Buses has confirmed it will support, provide drivers and house the bus for the borough.

Burnley College and Accrington and Rossendale College have been invited to help with the restoration using student painters, upholsterers, mechanics and electricians.

Once restored the bus would be available to take children from schools to attractions such as Haworth Art Gallery and Stanhill Heritage Trail.

Hyndburn Council leader Cllr Miles Parkinson said: “It should help illuminate the history in the town.

“It will be an iconic piece and will see a bit of history entwined back into the town.”