Bus museum set to go on tour across Scotland

A former passenger bus that has been transformed into a travelling museum is going on tour around Scotland.

Travelling Museum curator Colette Hiller in front of the bus donated by First Scotland that will serve as the mobile exhibition space that will tour Scotland. Picture: Jane Barlow

The Travelling Museum of British Invention has been created by arts organisation Sing London to exhibit 100 of Britain’s most important inventions, discoveries and social innovations.

The bus was donated by First Scotland which launched the museum in its depot in Livingstone where the bus used to operate.

The travelling museum sets off on October 15 for six months, stopping at public squares, city centres, offices and schools.

Travelling Museum curator Colette Hiller in front of the bus donated by First Scotland that will serve as the mobile exhibition space that will tour Scotland. Picture: Jane Barlow

It’s exhibits are packed into themed cabinets which explore discoveries and inventions, from the jet engine to the NHS, and from gravity to the toothbrush.

The producer of the Travelling Museum, Colette Hiller, said: “There is something very appealing about everything being in a confined space, so you are just finding out enough to wet your appetite and it is not too daunting. Then you feel like you might just take that extra step and find out a little bit more.

“In Britain people have a history of being curious and wanting to find out more and also being very modest about it, so I had to blow everybody else’s trumpet for them.”

Musician Brian May has given his support, saying: “I hope that these 100 exhibits get people to stop, look and wonder at our nation’s extraordinary achievement. As I have a particular interest in the stereoscope, I am delighted that this features inside the Travelling Museum.”

Neil McNaught, general manager at First Scotland East’s Livingston depot, was one of the first to view the museum and said: “It is very good. It will certainly be good for young children as it is interactive and is able to tour around. It can take the history to them.

“First do like to get involved with the community. That can involve donating vehicles or time or staff to assist with any projects.”

After touring Scotland, the single-decker bus will tour England for another six months. Admission is free and all age groups are welcome.