Another milestone in the major overhaul of the Preston tramcar Sheffield 264 at Beamish Museum has now occurred, with the tram making its first tentative moves under power since restoration work began on 10th December. However, an even greater moment came the following evening once the museum had closed, when the tram performed its first test run along the main line.
Despite a few delays the work on 264 has progressed at an impressive rate, indeed it was only in the autumn that the tram was re-assembled; the two decks and the truck having all been separated for the duration of the main restoration work being undertaken. With the main electrical and mechanical jobs having since been completed, the tram was mobilised early in December and, late on Thursday 10th, the tram was driven outside the depot for the first time in several years under power, and moved from Road 3 (where it had been positioned over the servicing pit to allow its brake equipment to be connected up and checked over), to Road 2. After some further tweaks, the tram was then ready to roll onto the main line on Friday 11th December – and this first test run along the main line passed without incident. It has been observed that 264 ran exceptionally well, offering a good smooth ride without any of the characteristic creaks and groans it produced before it was withdrawn for overhaul! It is planned to begin a programme of intensive testing next week, with some finishing off of the near complete body to be carried out in-between test runs; this will include the completion of its upper deck balconies which look rather odd at present with decorative metalwork in place but no panelling! The lower saloon is also still devoid of seating, with its wooden benches currently being revarnished before they are installed in the saloon.
The current plan is to test run the car in the run-up to Christmas, and then hand it over to the expert painters in the New Year who can then apply its ornate dark blue and cream colours, complete with extensive gold lining, during January and February. This makes a return to service in the early part of 2016 a real possibility, and the appearance of an immaculate Sheffield tramcar at Beamish looks set to be one of the big highlights of next year for fans of traditional British trams.
A momentous occasion as Sheffield 264 arrives on the main line near Foulbridge depot. Note the incomplete bodywork and grey and white undercoat the tram currently sports.
With a drawn-on fleet number highlighting its identity, 264 is seen on its first visit to the Entrance tram stop for many years on 11th December after the tram service had concluded for the day. (Photos x 2 courtesy of the Beamish Transport & Industry Blog)
The ugly duckling. It looks like two trams one on top of the other. Let us all hope that the paint job will turn it into a beautiful swan.
No matter how it looks it is good to see another preserved tram up and running.
Each to their own – 264 was probably my favourite tram at Beamish when it last ran, so I’m really looking forward to its return to service! Hopefully you’ll like it better once the finishing touches and the final livery are completed, it should look stunning!
“It looks like two trams one on top of the other.”
Commonly known as a double decker. Quite common in Britain apparently.
Have you not seen the Tram before? Its been around since the late 80s in its current form!