Names on the buses

642 Howard Johnson

Connections with Brighton and Hove : Before 1950, Brighton and Hove was one Parliamentary constituency but then it was divided into three - Kemp Town, Pavilion and Hove. All three returned Conservative MPs. The member for Kemp Town was the most colourful of the three. Howard Johnson was a well-known local lawyer with energy, drive and a sharp eye for publicity. He held the seat until 1959 when he tired of politics and decided to pursue his law career. For many years he was the most flamboyant solicitor in town, frequently appearing in court to defend the accused in big-name trials. Johnson held strong views on many issues which led to clashes with local Conservatives. He was later one of the few Tory MPs to have become a member of the Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament. He was a great friend with his Labour rival, Lord Cohen of Brighton, and once the two men took part in a bicycle race. Johnson eventually retired to the Isle of Man but made frequent forays to Hove and Brighton where he entertained his many old friends.

642 - Scania Omnidekka carried name since September 2004 on Coaster 12. In June 2008 repainted into Metro 25 livery. Metro 25 branding removed July 2012. Bus sold in January 2021.