An image from the 1970s is the feature of today’s edition of Picture in Time as we head to the early days of the East Anglia Transport Museum with a look at the unique Blackpool Marton VAMBAC 11.
Dating from 1939 when built as a Sun Saloon by English Electric, 11’s life took a turn for the better firstly in 1942 when it became fully enclosed (the Sun Saloons were originally delivered in a strange semi open condition with wooden seats) and then ten years later when it was fitted with VAMBAC equipment (becoming the penultimate of the class to receive this equipment) for use on the Marton route. Continuing in service until the end of the Marton route before withdrawal in October 1962. However, unlike the remainder of the class the scrapman was not waiting for 11 and it was rescued for preservation and although the first plan of use on Hayling Island did not come to fruition it ended up at the East Anglia Transport Museum in Carlton Colville, a location it can still be found today, although it hasn’t been running all that time.
This image was taken in the 1970s and was taken after the tram had been withdrawn from service – it had operated for a few years after arrival – with a protracted overhaul and restoration following. Its trolley tower seems to be on the ground alongside and the green and cream paintwork is peeling off. Alongside 11 is Blackpool Standard 159 with Glasgow 1245 just visible on the far right.
Photograph by Bryan Grint