An Eastleigh-based bus refurbishment company has restored a prized exhibit at Beaulieu’s National Motor Museum.

Hants & Dorset Trim rejuvenated the iconic red AEC Regent III RT bus, once a familiar sight on London streets, with freshly-trimmed moquette seats.

The revamp followed a visit to the museum by Hants & Dorset Trim manager Dave Clack.

Mr Clack said: "Some of my team and I were enjoying a trip to the museum when we came across this very special bus - but noticed the on-board seats needed a little care and attention. "As a result, we volunteered to completely refurbish the seats in the correct material for the vehicle - and the National Motor Museum were delighted to take us up on our offer.

"I’m very pleased with the result and the bus looks fantastic. I’m fortunate enough to work with some highly-skilled individuals - some of the very best in the country - and I’d like to congratulate all those involved in this excellent project."

Patrick Collins, curator for vehicles and research for the National Motor Museum Trust, said: "I’d like to thank Dave and his colleagues at Hants & Dorset Trim on behalf of us all here for their very generous help with this wonderful bus.

"I’m so impressed by just how fantastic the moquette looks now - it’s almost as if it had just emerged from an overhaul in Aldenham Bus Works. I’m extremely grateful for such great support from these highly-respected bus refurbishment specialists."

The company, with over 50 years' experience, is a leader in the bus refurbishment industry, offering comprehensive repair and refurbishment services.

For more information about Hants & Dorset Trim, please visit gosouthcoast.co.uk/hants-dorset-trim.

For information about the National Motor Museum, please visit nationalmotormuseum.org.uk.