Work at the RMS continues in connection with the forthcoming movement of collections. In order to provide additional storage space a new shed is being erected to the rear of the existing RMS building. The weather has rather hindered progress, but the land has been cleared and foundations have been dug for the steel uprights.

Below: Two views of the construction site, looking unusual sans snow!

Below: In connection with the moves, the opportunity was taken to extract the former Manchester Horse Bus, which we are transferring to the Heaton Park Tramway. A long abandoned restoration project, the bus will be completed for operation in the Manchester park, working alongside the Manchester Horse Tram L53 – a fantastic combination! There was very little prospect of completing the work at Beamish or ever using the bus at the Museum, and given the absence of a local connection it is only sensible to make it available for others to complete and use. Here are two views of it loaded aboard a Websters lorry, note the bus was mounted on a timber frame in order to jig it during restoration. Also included are the new wheels, restored forecarriage and the remains of the rear platform. A lot of work remains to be done including manufacturing from scratch everything upstairs (and the stairs themselves!).