THE Leyland National 52 rally took place on Whitehaven harbour over the weekend.

Flocks of people attended the event to look round the old buses and cars.

The Leyland National rally showcases Leyland buses which were once the standard bus choice before they were phased out "in the quest for standardisation".

The rally now brings these buses back to life for the public to see.

At the event, there were buses which the public were free to explore, classic cars, refreshments for sale, family fairground rides, music from Cleator Moor Brass Band, a bus on Lowther Street showing old photos of Whitehaven, a park-and-ride service and even vintage bus trips around the area including Ennerdale Brewery!

Whitehaven Harbour Commissioners said on Saturday: "Great to see people braving the typical British bank holiday weekend weather earlier today for the start of the Leyland National 52 rally on the harbour."

The rally took place across Saturday and Sunday (May 4 - 5).

Having had successful events in 2022 and 2023, volunteers from Workington Transport Heritage Trust organise the free event once again for 2024.

Trust chairman Ian Dunn said: "This is a celebration of the bus industry, particularly those vehicles built at Leyland's factory at Lillyhall for use all around the world."

The first event in 2022 marked 50 years since the buses were made in the Lillyhall and Whitehaven area.  The first event was a major success and there was a keen interest from the crowds who attended. 

Michael Morton, who organises the Leyland National Bus event, said back in 2022: "We've had massive interest, not only from enthusiasts but the general public too.

"I think this will be something big for Whitehaven and it's already turning into quite the event."

Mr Dunn continued: "Our volunteers have spent many hours restoring and maintaining our heritage fleet to get buses ready for the public to enjoy this weekend and for many years to come.”