Newburn Motor Museum
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Motor Mus' 1
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On a bright sunny Thursday morning 15 Rotarians left St Mary's car park in Whitley Bay to visit the Newburn Motor Museum, followed by lunch at the Keelman pub on the banks of the River Tyne.
The museum building was originally built in 1924 for the Territorial Army on land purchased from the Duke of Northumberland. The building became the regional T.A. centre for 50 years before it was sold to Northumberland Boys Club. The boys club vacated the premises in 1977 and unfortunately the building became a utopia for scrap collectors and vandals, until it was acquired in 1979 by Tony and Margaret Porelli. Together with a small group of volunteers they repaired the interior and opened it as a motor museum.
Such was their passion for the building and the part it was to play in their lives that Tony and Margaret lived on the premises in a caravan whilst the building refurbishment took place until it was re-opened in 1982, before they themselves converted the upstairs into living quarters.
Restored and refurbished the museum offers a complete service for the day visitor and the car enthusiast alike.
The Museum is now owned and administered by Margaret Porrelli after the death of her husband some year ago and she is still supported by a willing band of volunteers two of whom gave up their time to members of the Rotary Club. The tour lasted for nearly two hours and was full of anecdotes and information that refreshed many of our memories as we all took a trip down memory lane.
Individuals who wish to develop the museum either by working in the restoration workshop, preparing exhibitions or dressing up in period dress to become part of the scene of a social event / extravaganza are encouraged to contact the museum.
Many of the cars are on temporary loan so the 'car scene' is ever changing. However, their is one particular car that is on permanent display - the Invicta. This car was originally owned by the Earl of Strathmore and was built specifically for him.
The car was discovered in derelict condition; this Jenson bodied drophead Coupe built in 1948 has been restored at the museum by Margaret's late husband Tony. This is one of only two cars with this body shape (the other being in Paris).
The car was discovered in derelict condition; this Jenson bodied drophead Coupe built in 1948 has been restored at the museum by Margaret's late husband Tony. This is one of only two cars with this body shape (the other being in Paris).
If you are interested in finding out more about Whitley Bay Rotary Club, please contact us either on enquiries@whitleybayrotaryclub.co.uk or by telephoning 07419 736989.
