BCT/WMPTE 3102, MOF102, Drift Cafe, Cresswell, Northumberland
Former Birmingham City Transport/WMPTE MCCW/Guy Arab IV, 3102 (MOF102) currently resides in Cresswell, Northumberland where it forms part of the Drift Cafe complex. The Drift Cafe is situated on the coast road from Cresswell to Druridge Bay, in close proximity to the sea.
3012 was saved to preservation after its withdrawal from service in 1973, and much money was lavished on it to bring it back to its former BCT condition.
Sadly, some years ago 3102 was sold out of preservation to Belle Vue Coaches of Manchester for use as a vintage private hire vehicle. Belle Vue kept the bus in running order, retaining a pseudo version of its BCT colours. However, a couple of years ago it was offered for sale on ebay.
The bus was acquired by the Drift Cafe, where it has been parked up for static use as an extension to the main cafe area, and as added attraction.
As a consequence, 3102's seating has been entirely removed to allow space for tables and chairs. The bus is now fitted with a blue commercial Lino flooring, electric radiators and LED lighting. The redundant seats were acquired by the Transport Museum Wythall for their BCT restoration projects.
Still wearing its Belle Vue livery, the bus has been outside in all weathers for over two years, and is beginning to show signs of corrosion.
3102 still retains it open platform layout, so there is constant internal air movement within the vehicle, which is probably a good thing. However, beneath the panels where the damp hides, the bus's steel frame would undeniably suffer during the colder, damp months. Of course, any corrosion will be accelerated by the salty sea air. I also noted that a small (sea facing) glass pane in the driver's cab was broken, which doesn't help.
Despite being mechanically complete, the bus is hemmed in a corner, and I think unlikely to be seen in roadworthy state again. That said, if you are passing, it is worthwhile dropping in, buying a coffee (or maybe fish & chips), and taking a look at this wonderful old bus.
Photo 28th September 2022.
BCT/WMPTE 3102, MOF102, Drift Cafe, Cresswell, Northumberland
Former Birmingham City Transport/WMPTE MCCW/Guy Arab IV, 3102 (MOF102) currently resides in Cresswell, Northumberland where it forms part of the Drift Cafe complex. The Drift Cafe is situated on the coast road from Cresswell to Druridge Bay, in close proximity to the sea.
3012 was saved to preservation after its withdrawal from service in 1973, and much money was lavished on it to bring it back to its former BCT condition.
Sadly, some years ago 3102 was sold out of preservation to Belle Vue Coaches of Manchester for use as a vintage private hire vehicle. Belle Vue kept the bus in running order, retaining a pseudo version of its BCT colours. However, a couple of years ago it was offered for sale on ebay.
The bus was acquired by the Drift Cafe, where it has been parked up for static use as an extension to the main cafe area, and as added attraction.
As a consequence, 3102's seating has been entirely removed to allow space for tables and chairs. The bus is now fitted with a blue commercial Lino flooring, electric radiators and LED lighting. The redundant seats were acquired by the Transport Museum Wythall for their BCT restoration projects.
Still wearing its Belle Vue livery, the bus has been outside in all weathers for over two years, and is beginning to show signs of corrosion.
3102 still retains it open platform layout, so there is constant internal air movement within the vehicle, which is probably a good thing. However, beneath the panels where the damp hides, the bus's steel frame would undeniably suffer during the colder, damp months. Of course, any corrosion will be accelerated by the salty sea air. I also noted that a small (sea facing) glass pane in the driver's cab was broken, which doesn't help.
Despite being mechanically complete, the bus is hemmed in a corner, and I think unlikely to be seen in roadworthy state again. That said, if you are passing, it is worthwhile dropping in, buying a coffee (or maybe fish & chips), and taking a look at this wonderful old bus.
Photo 28th September 2022.