The first double-decker bus did not originate from London, but

The first double-decker bus did not originate from London, but somewhat surprisingly, from Paris. In 1828, businessman Stanislas Baudry set up the route, picking up passengers in a horse-drawn double-decker omnibus. Inspired by the success of the Parisian bus service, George Shillibeer started the first London bus service in 1829, offering a route between Paddington and Bank. Shillibeers bus could carry 22 people and cost 1 shilling per journey (the equivalent of 5 pence in todays money). The first engine-powered double-decker bus appeared in London in 1923. At this time, there was a shortage of buses in London and various companies competed against each other for bus dominance. By 1924 there were over 200 independent buses operating in the city, running along popular routes. It was because of the competing bus companies that London General Omnibus Companythe biggest operator in the citypainted their buses red to stand out from the competition. The Metropolitan Police approved of the red buses; the colour was so easy to spot acting as a warning to those crossing the street. The most iconic version of the London double-decker bus is the Routemaster, which most modern designs are now modeled after. Designed in 1956, the Routemaster bus operated for more than half a century in the capital. The Routemaster was the cause of many accidents as people ran and jumped onto it whilst it was in motion or jumped off before an official stop. It was also very challenging for elderly and handicapped people to use easily. Eventually, it was replaced in 2005 by modern double-decker buses. That said, you might still see Routemasters driving through central London on one of the two heritage routes! But why did double-decker buses flourish in London more so than single decker buses? Single-decker buses offer a lot of pros: they can go through tunnels with low ceilings, they are easier for handicapped passengers, and usually, allow for more standing space. But in a place like London with so many narrow passages and shifting roads, the length of a single decker was problematic; the arc of its turn would slow down and disrupt traffic. Besides, tourists and sightseers enjoy the view of double-decker buses still have open rooftop tourist buses for people visiting the city. And probably the biggest pro of the double-decker bus is this: more seating space. Read the text and tick only the TRUE sentences