With the restoration of the framework of London County Council 1 currently being tackled by Garmendale Engineering for the National Tramway Museum, the opportunity is being taken to invite members of the public to view the tram (or what is left of it at present!) in this location and see the progress made so far. Places will be limited for this special open day being held on Saturday 18th June, and entry is for pre-booked ticket holders only.
Since arriving at Garmendale’s premises in Ilkeston last month, further stripping of the tramcar frame has been undertaken with the remains shot blasted, removing decades of deterioration and revealing a very shiny frame that looks as good as new! Some final imperfections will be dealt with using liquid metal to create a sufficiently smooth finish for painting. A tent has been erected around the tram to contain the various materials, including traces of potentially toxic paint, being stripped from it. With this important stage of the restoration now approaching completion, the rare novelty of viewing the tramcar in this ‘bare bones’ form is being offered to interested people. Staff from Bowmandale and representatives of the Tramway Museum Society will be on hand to discuss the project and explain what work has been carried out to date. In addition, a steam traction engine will be in attendance and there will also be demonstrations of the company’s hot welding techniques.
Refreshments will be provided in the shape of bacon cobs and hot drinks. In return, the company is asking for visitors to make a donation towards the restoration of LCC 1 and other work. More information on this unusual event can be found at: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/e/the-mechanical-restoration-of-the-lcc1-tram-from-crich-tramway-village-tickets-25952858699?utm_campaign=new_event_email&utm_medium=email&utm_source=eb_email&utm_term=viewmyevent_button