On Monday 23rd September a tram is set to be returned to service in Blackpool, some 62 years since it last carried passengers. That tram is Standard 143 which is coming to the end of its extensive restoration with the final few jobs being completed at Blackpool Transport’s Rigby Road Depot ahead of its big return.
Owners of the tram the Fylde Transport Trust have been providing regular updates on the work as it reaches its final stages but with the deadline looming and so as not to spoil the finished product when it is unveiled to its adoring public these have now finished but what they have shown is a stunning looking tram, albeit one with a few jobs still to be finished ahead of its return to service.
With specialist painting contractors over from the Isle of Man, the tram’s paintwork is looking sparkling with lining out being concluded which really does add to the look of 143. The last update also revealed that the upper deck interior has been varnished, the interior standee hanger straps were fitted and the seats were getting ready for their final fitting. The upper deck quarter lights and pyramid moulding on the staircase and platform steps is also now in place.
The tram is really starting to look stunning and with any luck come Monday everyone will be able to see the high quality workmanship on 143 as it becomes part of the Blackpool Heritage Tram fleet.