AN old bathing machine has been lovingly restored to its former glory and will take pride of place in the new Teignmouth museum.

But its bulk meant it had to be taken apart to get through the doors, and reassembled inside.

Moving day was Tuesday, and all went well. Now it will be the focal point of the main entrance area when the £1million museum reopens, probably in April.

The machine was donated by Vince and Christine Orme, who used it as a store for fishing tackle on the back beach.

It is probably more than 100 years-old, and was more than likely one of a fleet owned by George English, the Teignmouth bathing master for 54-years. He was one of the town's forgotten local heroes, helping to save the lives of more than 40 bathers, and receiving awards for his bravery. He died in 1926 and his grave is in Teignmouth cemetery.

The machine had obviously deteriorated through the years, but was painstakingly restored by craftsman Malcolm Adams, of World of Wheels, at a workshop near the museum.

Thousands of bathing machines lined the beaches of seaside resorts around the country during the 18th and 19th century, and were used by segregated bathers to hide their modesty as they were wheeled to the water's edge.

But they gradually went into decline, and were replaced by tents and beach huts as mixed bathing became the norm.

Few remain in such good condition, which makes the Teignmouth machine a real gem.