Owned and restored by Stephen Middleton, of Harrogate, this project has involved the painstaking restoration of a teak, six wheel carriage converted for the use of the Prince of Wales and having several unique features. The carriage was converted from a private saloon for use by Edward, Prince of Wales, in 1881, reverting to a private saloon in 1892. The coach is one of the few remaining royals, with most other royal vehicles, outside the current royal train, having either been converted back to passenger stock, departmental use or static exhibits, many in the National Railway Museum or its Shildon outpost. The amount of work on this restoration thus far has been considerable, and it has been executed by Stephen, his family, and a small team, to very high quality. All the fittings are period, and these, together with the finishes, are either original or a close replica. The ceiling in the end compartment is a replica of the painted linen original, copied in meticulous detail. That said, the work continues, as the furniture goes in, There are brakes, a heating system and new wheel bearings to fit, a kitchen and heating to install as well as more varnish, gold leaf and crests to apply. This is a high quality restoration of an unusual vehicle. Visitors will be able to travel on it, enjoy fine food and really feel as the Prince of Wales must have done. Although Stephen’s team is small, they crack on and achieve magnificent standards. They thoroughly deserve this restoration award.
