The "Exhibition and Conservation Hall" is situated to the rear of the existing exhibition building and is linked to the old small exhibits building by a ramp. The construction work and internal fitting was completed in time for the building to be used for the first time for Gala Weekend in 2003, but formal opening was delayed until May 2004 when the Museum;s patron, HRH Prince Michael of Kent, came to perform the honours. The Museum's historic bus fleet provided transport for the many VIPs who were invited and the Worthing Motor Services Tilling Stevens petrol electric bus, built in 1914, is seen here outside the Hall. Note the ramped access for wheelchairs and the substantial railings.

The Prince was transported by train in the Groudle Glen coaches hauled by Polar Bear (of course!). The train arrives at Brockham with HRH Prince Michael visible in the first coach.

Polar Bear carried a special headboard complete with the Union Flag and the Isle of Man flag.

On alighting from the train, Graham Toole-Mackson, the Museum's Chairman of Trustees, introduced the Prince to the railway volunteers responsible for the planning and execution of the project. Left to right, they are John Crosby, John Beard and Dick Foster.

The whole entourage then made its way to the new building led by Graham Toole-Mackson. There he made a short welcoming speech.

The Museum Dorector, Howard Stenning then outlined the history of the railway collection and the events leading up to the construction of the new facility. He thanked all those involved.

The assembled throng was then addressed by Graham Collings, head of the Heritage Lottery Fund, who indicated that he thought the contribution the HLF had been able to make to the project had resulted in an exhibition of which we should all be proud (and we are, naturally!).

HRH Prince Michael then said a few well chosen words before blowing a whistle and sending the first train on its way out of the building. THis nearly didn't happen as the train driver was still busy taking these photographs when he picked up the whistle!

Prince Michael then donned dust coat and gloves so that he could drive Polar Bear back to Amberley Station. John Stanton (in the rear of the photo) was on hand to give guidance to our guest engineman.

All guests then retired to the new restaurant for a buffet lunch. By then, we needed it!