Bond to jump on the Wright bus!

From jetpacks to underwater cars, 007 has always come up with the most thrilling escapes but in his latest movie, Bond is set to jump on the new Routemaster.

Built in Ballymena by Wrightbus, the double decker bus was borrowed by producers for filming of the eagerly anticipated Bond movie, Skyfall.

The bus is set to feature in an action scene set in Trafalgar Square involving the 007 spy, played by Daniel Craig.

The bus was sent From Ballymena With Love, after Mayor Boris Johnston (pictured left) brought the Routemaster design back to the streets of London.

Boris, who came to Ballymena last year, said: “Straight out of Q’s lab, this machine is a tribute to London’s ingenuity and cunning. We look forward, like 007, to seeing off rivals and flying the flag for Britain.”

Speaking after Johnson’s visit to the Ballymena plant, Mark Nodder, Wright Group Managing Director, said: “We are all looking forward to the New Bus for London entering service in the nation’s Capital, representing as it does the culmination of almost two years’ work in design and development. Wrightbus is immensely proud to be at the centre of this unique and innovative project.”

Critical design features include three entrances and an open platform at the rear, in common with the iconic Routemaster. However it hasn’t been confirmed if the licence plate rotates or if it can turn into a submarine.

Bond may like his Martini’s shaken and not stirred but the new Routemaster will ensure a smooth ride for 007 while on her Majesty’s Secret town Service.