VINTAGE motoring enthusiasts have a rare chance to see a piece of engineering history today.

Beamish Museum, near Stanley, County Durham, is allowing people behind closed doors for a free tour of its Regional Museums Store.

One of the gems is a working Humber Quadricycle made in Darlington in 1900 by Thomas Humber.

It is thought to be the only one of its kind after it was painstakingly restored by the Friends of Beamish over the past 30 years.

In 1900, it would have cost £90, about the same as a family car would cost in today's money.

The most common transport in those days was horse-drawn, and the Humber was used by wealthy people for leisure.

There is a comfortable seat between the front wheels for ladies, while gentlemen would sit behind and operate the two-speed motorcycle-type engine at the back.

On level ground, it could maintain a good average speed, and a full tank of fuel would allow it to travel 100 miles.

Its registration is J130, meaning it was the 130th vehicle in County Durham when registered in 1904.

Beamish Museum curator Rosy Allan said: "We believe it is the oldest surviving motorised Humber.

"You cannot compare it with any of the exhibits, it is unique."

The store tours are held three times a year, with tours also taking place on July 9 and September 25. Booking is essential, by calling Mrs Allan on 0191-370 4027.

The Friends of Beamish would like to learn more about quadricycles. Anyone with pictures or who remembers them is asked to call Mrs Allan.

Published: ??/??/2004