Well, it has been an interesting day for the tramway! Over the weekend 196 failed with motor brush problems, something that can be fixed for now but will need proper remedy when its overhaul is started this winter. 31 then joined in the failings, with it’s no.1 end motor bearing collapsing. The motor will be dropped tomorrow and sent away for inspection and repair of the journals and making of new bearings. However, it wasn’t all bad, and the BTG’s efforts on the Balloon, 101 (nee 703) saw it become the first of the preserved Balloon cars to move under its own power. After extensive testing the car was driven out of the depot and then placed over the pit to allow more inspections and testing to take place.

Here is a selection of photos taken on my phone, so apologies for the less than wonderful quality…

Below: 101’s systems are engergised via the trolley pole for the first time…

Below: It then cautiously breaks daylight…

Below: Posed in the sunshine…

It must be re-stated that this is just the start of the testing and commissioning and there is still much to do to ensure that we meet the standards required and laid down in our Safety Management System for introducing new vehicles. However, this is an exciting day and Peter, Les, Mel and Tony are to be congratulated on bringing it thus far… A date for line testing is still to be decided.