Another of the Lancastrian Transport Trust’s trams has departed Rigby Road Depot with the departure of the Illuminated Rocket 732, although this one didn’t go far as it was only destined for the Illumination department’s headquarters where it is to receive a cosmetic overhaul for inclusion in the 2012 Illuminations.
As was reported a few weeks ago 732 has recently been to the Electrical Compound at Rigby Road for the removal of items which would make the move easier. This included the
removal of the rear platform which has been retained for future reattachment to the Rocket.
On Monday 9th July the familiar Scotts Heavy Haulage low loader was in Blackpool again to undertake the move of The Rocket, although this was not due to be the smoothest loading. Having been dragged out of the Depot complex by Unimog 938 it was decided that before loading could commence the skirting covering the bogies would also need to be removed. Once this was done it gave the first chance for many years to actually see the bogies of the tram which had been covered ever since the tram was converted into The Rocket back in 1961.
After the removal of the panels the process of loading the tram could be resumed and this was done with the usual efficiency of Scotts. With The Rocket now on the back of the low loader it soon departed Rigby Road for the Illuminations depot at Squires Gate. Soon after arriving there the tram was treated to a thorough power wash to clean away the past few years grime which has accumulated since the tram was withdrawn and it was then moved inside the depot where a start is to be made on returning it to something approaching its former glory.
It is the plan that The Rocket will be displayed on the roundabout at Gynn Square during the 2012 Illuminations where it will once again be able to be enjoyed by the public. Although for many it would be preferable if the tram was soaring on the rails again this is the best that can be hoped for at the present time and it will be very much in the limelight for the first time since withdrawal in 1999 (except for a brief farewell trip in 2002 after it had been donated to the LTT) and it has to be accepted that not every tram which is saved for preservation will be able to be a runner.
The Rocket 732 is seen emerging from the confines of Rigby Road for one last time on July 9th. Only the tow bar and lack of trolley arm indicate that the car is not setting off for another promenade voyage! (Photo by Andrew Blood)
With its skirting panels now removed for ease of loading, the Rocket is seen just before departing for the illuminations depot. (Photo by Andrew Blood)