The largest batch of similar buses to date acquired second-hand by the Island's nationalised bus undertaking came from the Merseyside Passenger Transport Executive during the 1982-1985 period when no less than thirty-five 1971/1972 Alexander bodied Leyland Atlantean PDR2/1's were purchased, all but six reaching the Island and entering service. The remaining half-dozen were bought for spares and broken up on Liverpool Docks. Despite their age a handful of the 'Manx' buses still survive, in various states of repair. Two have been fully restored as preserved vehicles - one in the UK, the other on the Island. There is also a third on-Island awaiting restoration.
A good number of those that came to the Island carried all-over adverts at some stage, although bus 48 pictured did not. Initially finished in standard red/white livery, the bus was later one to gain the orange and cream Isle of Man Transport scheme, also having side and rear adverts for Laxey Heritage Trust applied at the same time. Following the scrapping of sister 45, bus 48 gained that fleetnumber and was shipped after withdrawal for preservation in the UK. Subsequently returned to the Island for continued preservation the Atlantean has recently undergone a major overhaul.
Thirteen years ago the bus is captured parked opposite Mount Tabor Chuch in Port St. Mary, waiting time before resuming service, the nearside and rear adverts can clearly be seen.
