YOU can find out more about the history of bus services on Portland at a talk on the isle on Thursday (23) at Easton.

Local transport historian Brian Jackson will be giving the talk The History of Motor Bus Services to the Isle of Portland at St George's Hall at 7pm and here, he gives us a taster of what to expect.

The first bus service between Weymouth and Portland Victoria Square was started by Road Motors Ltd in October 1921, and in 1924, Messrs Smith & Hoare commenced a service from Victoria Square to Tophill.

This was acquired by the National Omnibus & Transport Company (later Southern National).

In February 1927 a service began that continues to the present day.

However, there were many disputes pre-war with the local char a banc operators and the short lived Portland Express Bus Company, and in recent years between the established operator, Southern National and other operators taking advantage of the deregulation of bus services.

Photographs will show amongst other operator`s vehicles belonging to Fancy, Tolman, Saunders and the Bluebird fleet before the company moved to Weymouth in 1940. Also shown will be the pre-war six wheelers of Southern National and the many varied vehicles employed over the years.

There will be refreshments and free raffle. The talk is to raise money for Portland Museum through the Friends of Portland Museum (formerly Portland Island Museum Supporters). Entry is £5 or £4 for PIMS members. All enquiries to 01305 823500.