As previously reported, Oporto C65 – a coal tram – is set to be the star attraction at ‘Tram Day’, the main annual enthusiast event being held at Crich Tramway Village on Saturday 10th September. The tramcar has now arrived at Crich for the very first time, ahead of its big day when it will be featuring in two line-ups during the event.
Since being shipped to the UK in 2005, C65 has been hidden away from view in the TMS’ Clay Cross store but with transfer of ownership to Beamish Museum imminent it has been moved to Crich so that it can be seen at the museum for just one time. This required a bit of a sort-out at Clay Cross, with various items having to be moved around on 6th September in order to create a path for the coal tram to be moved. This was further complicated by the fact that the tramcar body and truck were delivered and then stored separately, so it was necessary for workshop personnel to position the truck underneath the car and then lower it into place and fasten it into position. Then on Wednesday 7th September, Oporto C65 was delieved to the museum where it was soon unloaded and graced British tracks for the first time in its life. The tram certainly looks to be in a fairly good condition, hence Beamish Museum’s interest in obtaining it for restoration, and it will presumably only need a heavy clean to be ready for display at the weekend.
C65 will feature in two tram line-ups during ‘Tram Day’ on 10th September; one in the morning showcasing the works vehicles of Crich, and another in the afternoon alongside fellow Portuguese cars 9 and 273. These will almost certainly be unique photographic opportunities and so a good turnout is hoped for, after all it isn’t very often that you can see a tram at Crich for the first time, and potentially the last time as well, in the same day!
With a helping hand from Scott's Heavy Haulage, Oporto C65 passes under the Bowes Lyon Bridge at Crich for the first time before it was unloaded ready for its special appearance at the museum's 'Tram Day'. This scene is from the morning of September 7th. (Photo courtesy of Crich Tramway Village Facebook page)
Looks set to be excellent event. Good to see one of the stars of the show arrived. Good luck to the volunteers & applaud decision tie “Young Crews Day” on same weekend. Great chance for the next generation and should be encouraged.
It should be the star of the show tomorrow. Let’s hope the rain gets out of the way early!