A special mini-event aimed at tram enthusiasts is to be held at Beamish Museum on the weekend of Saturday 7th & Sunday 8th March. This will feature an intensive four-tram service, behind-the-scenes tours and photo opportunities, the highlight of which is likely to be a line-up of four former Blackpool trams in front of the depot on both days. In addition, this event will provide one last chance to ride on Blackpool 280 before it leaves to begin a new life at Manchester.
One of the main draws of the weekend will undoubtedly be a rare chance to see the Museum’s newest addition to the tram fleet, Blackpool Brush Railcoach 621, outside. Since it last ran in Blackpool back in 2004 this has been a particularly elusive tram, having rarely emerged from the confines of the depot and even after being sold into preservation, it was initially hidden away in secure storage before ownership of the tram passed over to Beamish late last year. Now, 621 is to take centre stage despite its rather shabby appearance: the car will be posed alongside three other ex-Blackpool residents, Marton Box 31, Ex-Towing car 280 and Balloon 703 (alias Sunderland 101) for a special line-up on the depot track fan on both days of the event, 7th & 8th March. This may also be one of the final opportunities to see the Balloon car outside in its current condition as it is now withdrawn from service and unlikely to run again until its turn for major workshop attention comes around.
As well as the Blackpool line-up, both days should also see four trams in service and these will operate in both directions to provide additional photo opportunities. This will include a rare appearance from Grimsby & Immingham 26 (currently on restricted use due to worn tyres) and the last passenger use of Blackpool 280 at Beamish before it moves to Heaton Park. There will also be additional events held on the evening of Saturday 7th March for a limited number of guests, including a special late service using cars 26 and 280 and the chance to take a tour of the museum depot and workshops accompanied by transport curator, Paul Jarman. This should include the chance to view the latest progress on some of the latest restoration projects such as the major overhaul of Sheffield 264. A talk on the history of the Beamish tramway may also take place if there is sufficient interest.
Beamish are to be commended for putting on some extra attractions to interest tram enthusiasts at a fairly quiet time of year, no doubt inspired by the success of last year’s acclaimed ‘Blackpool at Beamish’ weekend. Despite the lack of advance notice, hopefully the event will be a success – particularly as monies raised through the Saturday evening activities are to be put towards the future restoration of 621.