The Beamish Tramway Group have been making steady progress on 101 (as we shall call it here, for ease). They have also been assisting with 114’s refurbishment, including stripping numerous fittings to enable the next stage, painting, to take place.

Below: The trolleybase, in primer, which was taken from store and overhauled by the group, consisting of Peter Barlow, Les Brunton, Tony Wickens and Melvyn Whatmough. Some new components are needed and are being drawn ready for manufacture, probably by David Young.

Below: With one set of brush gear exposed, the commutator and brushes are revealed to be in apparently good condition. Peter has also replaced the filter on the compressor. We are still waiting for a number of components which are on order and will form the trolley planks and framework for the base to be mounted on, which has to withstand the substantial forces imposed by the lengthy boom. A trolley head has also been located which may suit the project.

With thanks to Peter Barlow for the photographs.