The repairs to Lewin’s frames are making good progress at Allen Engineering in Hetton. The distorted section has been removed and new metal welded in. This has also been braced with a lamination to add stiffness to this previously weak area. The fitted bolts that hold the cylinders in place, which were loose, are being replaced and some riveting is also required to secure various components. This is exciting progress!

Below: Three views taken of the front end of the frames showing the work being carried out to create a true frame and remove the distortion previously very evident.

Below: You may recall a photograph of a sorry collection of wood and ironwork which once supported a Lister stationary engine. Dave Young has now converted this crumbling ruin into a pristine machine trolley to convey the pump he restored and also a water tank. This will give the Steam Mule a real load and also give us a pumping facility powered by steam for use as we see fit – one idea is a water fountain!

Below: The Morris Commercial is settling into use as a Curatorial vehicle, seen here parked outside the town while I was on an errand. It is a joy to drive and increasing practice is bound to improve the gear changes with the crash-box!