Leeds Museum Showcases Secret Bus Model Collection

A lifelong passion for Yorkshire buses revealed

Leeds City Museum has opened a new display featuring an extensive collection of handmade bus models created by Dr Gordon Brooke, a local physicist and lifelong bus enthusiast. The models, numbering around 600, were discovered by his family after his death at the age of 82, hidden away in a box room at his home in Holt Park.

The collection and its creator

Dr Brooke, who grew up in Dewsbury, developed a fascination with buses from a young age. Although he pursued an academic career in physics, studying at Durham University and later lecturing at the University of Leeds, he maintained his interest in buses throughout his life. His daughter, Cath, explained that while she had seen him working on some models in his later years, she was unaware of the full extent of the collection.

• The models are crafted from card, packaging, and acetate for the windows.
• Each model corresponds to a real-life Yorkshire bus, complete with service numbers and detailed features.
• Dr Brooke also created his own decal transfers for the bus numbers.
• The collection includes hundreds of bus magazines and photographs dating back to 1949.

In addition to the models, Dr Brooke restored two full-sized buses, including a 1948 Leyland Tiger, which he found abandoned in a field. This particular bus had personal significance, as it was the same vehicle that transported him to school as a child. The restored bus is now housed at the Keighley Transport Museum.

The museum display

The new exhibition at Leeds City Museum features approximately 140 of Dr Brooke’s models, alongside selections from his magazine collection and photographs documenting both his miniature creations and the restored school bus.

Cath Brooke reflected on the display, saying it serves as a tribute to her father’s dedication and craftsmanship, noting the remarkable attention to detail in his work. She also mentioned that Dr Brooke might have found it unusual for his hobby to receive public attention.

Community and cultural significance

Councillor Salma Arif, Leeds City Council’s executive member for adult social care, active lifestyles and culture, highlighted the display as a celebration of individual passion and creativity. She emphasised how the exhibition encourages visitors to explore their own interests in inventive ways.

Leeds City Museum operates as a “Give What You Can” venue, inviting visitors to contribute donations via contactless methods or cash to support the museum. More information about visiting the museum can be found on the Leeds City Museum website.