The annual process of preparing the operational tram fleet at Crich Tramway Village for another year of use has begun, with three trams having already visited the workshop to be commissioned for service in 2012. This process mainly consists of drying out the tramcar motors – a necessary procedure due to the lack of pits and the problem of condensation in the Museum’s depots – and other general maintenance and inspection of mechanical parts, to ensure that all of the trams are able to safely carry visitors to the attraction.
First up for attention was Leeds 399 and this tram was closely followed by Glasgow 22. More surprisingly, the next car to be prepared for service was Leeds 180 – a tram that had been withdrawn earlier than planned last year after concerns were expressed about it making a strange noise. Thankfully it would seem that this was not a serious problem, and fears that 180 may not run at all this year have proved to be unfounded.
With the recent arrivals from Blackpool, Brush Railcoach 630 and Jubilee car 762, both hopefully to make their passenger debuts in the Crich fleet once the rest of the fleet are commissioned, and the much-anticipated completion of both London United Tramways 159 and Blackpool ‘Boat’ 236 (latterly 607) expected soon, 2012 could be a great year for Crich and hopefully the potential extra revenue from enthusiasts which these trams could bring in will be exploited to its full potential. The Museum re-opens to visitors on 11th February and is open daily during the half-term period up to and including 19th February.
Opening continues on weekends until daily operation resumes on 31st March, lasting right up until 4th November.