Moving the UK's Oldest Computer

Britain's oldest original computer, the Harwell, was sent to the National Museum of Computing at Bletchley where it was to be restored to working order.

The computer, which was designed in 1949, first ran in 1951 and was designed to perform mathematical calculations; it lasted until 1973.

When first built the 2.4m x 5m computer was state-of-the-art, although it was superseded by transistor-based systems.

Handling such delicate and irreplaceable equipment required specialist transport services. Carry Gently, were chosen to undertake this critical task. Whilst their experience is more usually with modern state-of-the art computer systems or medical diagnostic equipment, their experience and specialist care ensured a safe delivery. The story of the computer and its move is captured in the following BBC news item.

Click here to open the BBC news item and video.