Work on the mechanical overhaul, roof repairs and full repaint of the replica ‘General’ bus has begun.  The bus will shortly be split, to enable the roof (the floor of the top deck) to be repaired and canvas covered in order to eliminate the leaking that has been a problem with the lower saloon in recent years.  A mechanical overhaul is also being carried out by Brian and Tom, while Phil Anderson and assistant Chris have begun preparatory work for a full repaint.  The livery will be early Newcastle colours, which are believed to be deep blue and ivory with black mudguards etc.  The details of this are still being researched but it is a chance to create a significant local scheme, no longer portrayed on any vehicle as far as we know, and dating back almost beyond living memory.  Newcastle used very similar Tillings Stevens buses so there is a precedent for this particular appearance.  The repaint of the Daimler replica transformed it and really refreshed and reinvigorated that bus, so I hope the same will apply to this one!  The seating is to be reupholstered by one of the volunteers and there will be some small modifications at the behest of the crews, particularly in light of both increased nigh time operation and wetter summers!