instruments which was recognized as one of the largest collections in Europe. Many rare items from the period in musical history preceding the gramophone could be seen and heard, including self-acting pianos, pianolas and even pneumatic "orchestrelle" organs. The Museum was featured in many national magazines and media including BBC Woman's Hour. Also on display was vintage photographic equipment including James Bond’s Minox spy camera. The Birkbys also introduced white peacocks to Rusland Hall where they thrived and entranced visitors to the house and gardens. John, Norma and son, Robin Birkby, went on to restore two hydro power projects in South Wales. Daughter, Marianne Birkby an artist went on to found Radiation Free Lakeland, a volunteer nuclear safety group based in South Lakeland. The gardens The gardens are landscaped in the manner of Capability Brown with sweeping vistas and many specimen trees and shrubs. The Birkbys spent many years retrieving features such as the "Ha ha" ditch. Also time was spent restoring the old roses on the Lakeland slate steps and nurturing the ancient and rare trees such as the magnificent cedar of Lebanon which has been felled in recent years. Each custodian of the estate has the desire to put their stamp on the house and garden but its essence still remains. References Country houses in Cumbria Grade II listed houses in Cumbria Colton, Cumbria