A few weeks ago we featured a tram breakdown in Blackpool and that is the theme of today’s Picture in Time today as well. This time we move forward to 2003 and a view of Balloon 718 being returned to depot in ignominy.
The date of this photo is 8th September 2003 and we find ourselves at Manchester Square just as Engineering Car 754 is approaching with Balloon 718 attached having failed whilst out in service. At this point in time the double deck passenger tram was carrying a bright red based all over advert for City Sightseeing but its colour scheme at this time was the least of its worries! Today both these trams remain at Rigby Road with 718 now in a nice coat of green and cream.