Lavington & Devizes Motor Services was more than just a West Country rural independent bus operator.

Across Britain, many village-based firms made the gradual transition from carriers to running buses and coaches, changing from using horses to motor vehicles before, during or after the First World War.

Most firms ran one or a few modest services to the nearest towns, often only on market days, but L&DMS quickly established a daily network of buses across a large part of central and west Wiltshire.

The firm’s founder, Fred Sayer, had driven buses and possibly trams for Bath Electric Tramways Ltd, when motor omnibuses were in their infancy.

Sayer’s first services probably started in 1915, using vehicles hired from BET. In September 1918 he bought an Overland charabanc and in April 1919 a Commer WP2 charabanc from the War Department.

Business really boomed in the 1920s, as his firm capitalised on people’s desire for both essential and leisure travel.

Charabancs could be run open-topped in fine weather or with a folding canvas hood in place for when it rained. Sunday trips to coastal resorts were especially popular.

* Lavington & Devizes Motor Services by Laurie James costs £12.99.