14th July 2009

Here are a couple of shots taken off my phone (so please excuse the poor quality!).

Below: Currently underway is work to fit a new lintel to the bothy fireplace at the waggonway (the original having almost burned away). Not the substitute! A connecting rod from a scrapped colliery winding engine that has been lying at the waggonway for years and has now found a new role! This sort of thing has a good precedent as the Robert Stephenson works in Newcastle has a full beam from a beam engine in use in a similar way!

Below: The finished lettering on the steam roller. I also repainted the flywheel and gave the engine a clean, filled the tank with water etc. as the opportunity arose (and it wasn’t raining!).

Below: The water cart as assembled this morning. Phil Anderson has sign-written the tank so it now remains to be tested…
Late note – we tested it but there were some leaks around the valves, so these are being cured from inside with silicon. This won’t damage the original fittings but will ensure they are watertight.

Below: And finally… Tyne & Wear have taken delivery of a brand new Nissan Micra. This is an example of contemporary collecting, and the car had been followed through its construction, delivery to a dealer, preparation and delivery to the RMS. It is not for use but was able to drive itself into position. I understand that there will be some blurb for the RMS viewing gallery to explain to visitors why it is there or rather confirm that it isn’t some pretty creative staff parking!