that's a lot of hassle on a CSW though - roof lining to remove etc. etc.  If
I'm going to be modifying the floor/wheelboxes anyway, there's not much to
be gained, might as well get the floor out.

However, on the basis of conversation with the contracts bloke in the
council, I might end up doing none of it.  Apparently there's imminent
legislation which will force all councils to use licensed vehicles.  Chances
of the authorities looking with favour on any of mine is slender, but more
worryingly, I'd have to shell for the licences and much more expensive
insurance in advance of tendering for any route that might be available, and
no guarantee of getting the route I've got now.

Frankly, I like the bit I do now, I'm not that keen on putting in for
something like transporting special needs pupils to special needs units
which is what the majority of the small contracts are.  I'd be quite
inclined to tell 'em thanks-but-no-thanks.  This would mean I'd have to seek
other work, either more self-employed or an actual real job.  Alternatively
and possibly just as lucratively, I could sign on...

In such case, I'd probably sell the minibus and Edward II and do up the 110
as everyday transport, to which end I'd not need to faff with modifying the
body, which would of course make it all much easier.

Of course, this new plan will gain nothing in the way of safety or
accountability in the school transport, it'll just make it all cost a lot
more, which will come out of taxation one way or another.  Typical increase
in bureaucracy for the sake of it.  But I'm not bitter.  not much.  not more
than that stuff for putting on anklebiters' thumbs to stop them sucking
same.

F*ck the lot of 'em, I say.