A new bus museum in Hucknall welcomed over 600 visitors when it opened its doors for the first time, Hucknall Dispatch reported.
The project, run entirely by Volunteers of Nottingham Heritage Vehicles Charity (NHVC), has leased the former disused Trent Motor Traction bus garage on Portland Road with the aim of turning it into a leading transport museum.
The free open days allowed local people to learn about the NHVC’s future plans, which include bus-trips in vintage vehicles to Papplewick and Linby.
Trustee Simon Lowings said: “We hope to attract as many members of the local community as possible to come along and join in.
“It’s not all about restoring old vehicles. It is hoped to use an area of the premises to explain the development of transport locally and its role in everyday life, to tell the story of those working in the industry locally and to provide a centre where locals can learn new skills in an enjoyable environment – or simply pop in for a cup of tea and a chat.
“It is early days, with the premises requiring major upgrading before accredited museum status is obtained and regular open days can develop.”
As funds are raised, the charity intends to developing part of the premises into a tea room for open days, alongside creating meeting rooms which may be available for local groups to use. The progress of the project is dependent on community support.
