We have a change of plan for today’s Picture in Time images (this edition wasn’t actually scheduled to appear for a few months) as we take a look at two fairly recent images from 2012 – showing just how far the heritage tram offering in Blackpool has come over the past few years.
These two images show two different trams in action two days apart in July 2012 but they were the two trams which seemed to operate the majority of the two tram service throughout the summer season with the weather gods seemingly not playing ball over the summer precluding the use of open trams.
In this view we see Balloon 717 at Pleasure Beach with the destination blinds set for a Tour of Illuminations as it pauses at the compulsory stop by the entrance to the loops. 717 had undergone a major overhaul thanks to a bequest from Philip R Thorpe through Blackpool Transport’s own workshops returning to service in 2008 with the tram completed in an original green and cream livery style. Despite containing a number of modern features – such as the bumpers at each end instead of traditional lifeguards – the tram was soon considered a heritage vehicle and survived the cull at the end of traditional tram operation whilst also managing to avoid the fitting of the widened centre entrance.
Then on the following say, 25th July, we see Brush Railcoach 631 heading north through Gynn Square. At the time the tram was still carrying the full, and expired, all over advert for Walls Ice Cream, but because of the poor weather was often conscripted into action to provide the advertised service. Obviously since this time the tram has enjoyed workshop attention and is now in a sparkling coat of green and cream.
Both Photographs by Geoff Pickles