2020 marks the 25th anniversary of the entry into service of Lanarkshire 53 at Summerlee and to celebrate this the tram is due to be in service on both Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th April – the nearest weekend to its official launch date.
Built in 1908, Lanarkshire 53 remained in service until the closure of the tramway in 1931. As with many other trams the body was sold on for further use with it finding use as a hay store on a farm in Ayrshire and there is stayed for over 50 years before arriving on site at Summerlee in 1988. The Summerlee Transport Group set about restoring it to its former glory with the double deck open topper being officially launched back into service on 1st April 1995.
Now 25 years later and Summerlee will be celebrating its entry into service with the tram due to operate on both Saturday 4th and Sunday 5th April (subject to availability and the weather). With 53 requiring a second crew member its use is less common during the year so this will be a great chance to ride and see this tram in service at Summerlee.
If you wish to check on the day that the tram is running you can phone the museum on 01236 638 460.