My latest project is something that most preservationists would either laugh at or shake their heads in disbelief; an Optare Solo. A trendsetting and innovative vehicle at its launch in 1998, it derived its name from having an entrance that is "so low" from the floor, namely 200 mm (8 in) with kneeling suspension. The first examples went to Wilts & Dorset who had extensive input into the design of them as the company wanted a modern, low floor midibus to replace its fleet of Metroriders, in total taking 88 brand new over a two and a half years and then later on taking even more second hand examples. Sadly, of those 88 only a handful are known to survive with many succumbing to that Optare plague - box section rot although later examples had much improved protection. 2688 is in superb condition in that regard with only superficial surface rust in places and nothing that needs any attention at this time although will obviously will be kept a close eye on. This video gives a short overview of her in service and the early weeks of her preservation, with more updates to follow.