27th July 2009

Last Tuesday I visited Blackpool to attend a meeting regarding the 2010 125th anniversary celebrations, which will include our own Blackpool Tram 31. While there I was able to meet up with David Umpleby from Train Crazy Video who also helps us out with crewing steam at Beamish from time to time. With his local knowledge we were able to make the most of a ride to Fleetwood on real heritage traction…

Below: Balloon 717, recently restored to very near original condition, seen here South of the tower heading for Starr Gate, just after we got off.

Below: Earlier in the trip 717 is seen at Fleetwood in rather more typical weather!

Below: An interior view of 717. This is a tram in everyday service – it is not preserved! A real shame to let people on it!!!

Below: A view inside the depot at Rigby Road – note our own Sheffield 513.

Below: The recently restored illuminated tram ‘The Western Train’ at rest.

Below: Sheffield 513 and Stockport 5, both resting after recent duties on special workings.

Below: A line of of vintage cars at Rigby Road, headed by Standard 147, which was repatriated from the USA.

Below: A few shots of Boat 607, likely to be the substitute for our 31 while it is away. Once cleaned and repainted it should look rather striking at Beamish next summer!

Below: While in Blackpool the chance arose to visit the Lancastrian Transport Trust workshops where Standard 143 is being restored – to appear at next years celebrations. Like 31, it ended its working life as a works tram before being retired pending extensive restoration to enclosed with open balcony and platform appearance. There is a plan to line up 31 with 143, 147 and Crich’s 40 to give a range of Standard cars…

Below: On the way home over the Pennines I called in at Kirby Stephen (Midland) station. This is the famous Settle & Carlisle route, currently closed for engineering works. The station has an active Friends group who have restored many period features, including lighting.