NOBODY likes waiting for a bus - unless its during the annual Alton Bus Rally and Running Day!

And never was the point proved more than when some 5,000 people got into gear and made their way to Anstey Park to see a fine collection of 170 buses and coaches, from a variety of eras, as well as a large display of vehicles, classic cars, lorries, motorcycles, vans, emergency service vehicles and military vehicles.

The event is one of Britain’s biggest Bus Rally & Running Days, established in 1995, and is a reminder of the golden age of transport.

The Mid Hants Railway laid on free buses between Anstey Park and Alton station, and some people also connected with steam and heritage diesel trains at several of its quaint stations.

As well as enjoying touring the park, visitors were given free rides on vintage buses around the town and surrounding villages to help recreate the era of bus travel from the 1950s to the 1980s when the fares were a penny and tuppence.

Around 30 volunteer staff were on hand to ensure things ran smoothly on one of the hottest days of the year, and at the end of the day one the organisers said: “A big thank you to Alton Town Council for their assistance with the planning of the bus rally and a big thank you to everyone who attended the event, especially all the vehicle owners.

“You helped to make the event a huge success. We hope you enjoyed your day and look forward to seeing you next year.”