Wrightbus is seeking help to rebuild its archive of images, stories and memories from bus enthusiasts, former employees, operators, drivers, suppliers and members of the public as part of the manufacturer’s 80^th anniversary celebrations.

The Ballymena business says that prior to its rescue from administration by Jo Bamford in 2019, a significant amount of historical archive material was lost. It wants to major on this year’s celebrations by rebuilding that shared history with the help of the wider community.

It is seeking material from across eight decades of Wrightbus history, including images of vehicles in service, at bus rallies, on depots, and of life inside its factory. Memories from people who have worked for, travelled on or supported Wrightbus vehicles over the years are also sought.

As an example of the ongoing work, a 30-foot picture wall was unveiled at the Ballymena headquarters at a recent staff fun day. It was revealed by bus author and enthusiast Paul Savage, who has helped to supply pictures and information for the display and help the builder to piece together the best bits from its history.

Mr Savage also helped to compile an earlier book, The Wright Way, which commemorated the first 60 years of Wrightbus. That saw him work with former Sales Director Jack Kernohan on his reminiscences of the company’s history to them.

“That led to the publication in 2010 of The Wright Way – a book that one reviewer suggested should be on the reading lists of business studies courses,” Mr Savage recalls. “Jack joked that I was there to translate his Ballymena Ulster-Scots into English so the rest of the world could understand it.”

Speaking about the work, Wrightbus Managing Director Christian Reynolds says: “Our 80^th anniversary is a celebration of everyone who has been part of the Wrightbus story over the last eight decades, and our thanks go to Paul and others who have been so generous with their help so far.

“From the people who designed and built our buses, to the drivers who operated them and the passengers who relied on them every day, thousands have played a part in our journey.

“We want to capture those memories and preserve them for future generations. Whether you have a photograph of a Wrightbus vehicle on your local route, a picture from inside our factory, or a personal story connected to the company, we would love to hear from you.”

Photos and memories can be shared via email at [email protected]. Selected images and stories may be used on future Wrightbus displays and online content as part of the company’s anniversary celebrations.