1997 Christmas Lights Tour
Acquiring an MOT at the first attempt on the 10th December 1997
(having been off the road since 1980),
RF13 was immediately pushed into front line service and attended the excellent
'Christmas Lights Tour' (organised by John Hinson) on
the 20th of the same month. A full report of the event can be found at the
Wealdstone & District site.
The engine was only turned off once between leaving home at 14:30 and returning at 23:30, and
all fluid levels (apart from the fuel tank) were found to be satisfactory upon return. We then
breathed a sigh of relief, including the RF which for some reason
promptly let all the air out of its front off-side tyre.
Here are a few pictures of what was for us yet another momentous occasion;

Hampson's 21 is seen here with Steve Hemmings trapped
by the unpredictable lock on the
cab door (RDS).

Even the interior lights were tested, and if one looks closely the entire family of 'T'
in TMR can be spotted. (RDS)

We were kindly granted the opportunity to create this scene with RF4 during the run.
The section of
TMR which deals with 'blinds' has come up trumps, but I understand they
are now talking with the suppliers for something in green. (RDS)

Taken at Oxford Circus by one of our passengers towards the end of the tour. (Phil Evans)

And finally, a picture of the old girl under the arches (Phil Evans)
A visit to the paint shop is now on the cards, although 21 may well
make the odd appearance (in various states) from time to time.
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