2022 was a very difficult year for a lot of people and organisations. This is also true for Aycliffe and District Bus Preservation Society, Newton Aycliffe’s only Museum.
We would not have made it without the tireless work of our members and volunteers who gave their time and skills in the maintenance, repair and running of the vehicles, organising the displays and manning the open days and events, clearing up after two floods in the museum and working to ensure our full accreditation with Arts Council England. As the museum is also a registered charity, not one of the officers, management or volunteers receives a penny for their service or work.
We would also like to thank the following businesses, individuals and organisations who provided us with either goods, funding or services to help us stay afloat during 2022. They are: A.G. Motorserve, Alfresco Napoli, Art Shop Darlington, Balefire, Bobbie’s Bakes, Brian Nichol Photography, Classic Signs, Colin Wilks, Durham Markets, Gardeners Yard, George Morton Books, Gibson’s Jigsaws, Great Aycliffe & Middridge Partnership, John Wise, Julies Pets, Newton News, Newton Press, Northern Echo, Northern Power Clean, Sean Clark for his work on the computers, Shears Foundation, Steam Machine Brewing Company, Tesco and Thames Fruit & Veg.
We mustn’t forget our landlord, Raisco Limited, for their help, co-operation and understanding with the events and day to day running of the museum.
I am sure that there are others who we have missed and if that is you we apologise and thank you.
There is no doubt that our collaboration with A1 Tornado Trust, Beamish Museum, Locomotion Railway Museum and Tees Cottage Pumping Station Museum also went a long way to helping us.
May we also thank our Mayor and Mayoress, Ken and Elaine Robson, the Deputy Mayor, Neville Jones, and all at Great Aycliffe Town Council plus our MP, Paul Howell, for their support and encouragement throughout 2022.
Finally, we must say a massive thank you to you, the members of the public, who have attended the various events throughout the year and for your generous donations. Every penny goes towards the upkeep and maintenance of the museum and its exhibits.
We look forward to seeing you all again during the 2023 season.