The final day of the Heritage Tours Easter operation in Blackpool on Easter Monday, 1st April, saw another six trams used with Twin Car 272+T2 making its year debut as the morning timetabled journey to Fleetwood and Standard 147 also in use on the timetabled service. During the morning popular duo Princess Alice and Balloon 717 were in use on specials before Box 40 replaced Alice and then Boat 230 came into use instead of 717. 230 even managed a trip all the way through to Fleetwood at the request of the driver who is close to retirement.
Probably the advertised highlight of the day was the use of Twin Car 272+T2 in use on the timetabled service. In this view we see the tram with the Trailer leading at North Pier with Balloon 717 for company. (Photo: Ken Walker)
* Further photos from this day will be added to the site soon in the form of a Photo Gallery.
Well done to Brian for persuading the powers that be that Blackpool without traditional trams available to the public who wish that choice, is like fish without chips.
We can only hope that the success of this weekend – and the reaction of the public to the sight of and availability to ride traditional trams right through to Fleetwood will mean that the frequency of appearances can become a little more plentiful – last weekend of the month, for instance, and during half term and summer holidays – and again – the subject of joint trading opportunities with some of the resort businesses along the route.
Was able to get there after work on Monday, arrived about 1400. Apart from the boat going to Fleetwood which was obviously full all others seemed very lightly loaded on the Section between North Pier and Bispham.
Nice to see good clear advertising on the stop signs. What really struck me though was the driver of the twin set who was absolutely immaculate, even down to his glasses which were in keeping with the period.
Noticed box car 40 going to cleveleys empty about 5 nr Bispham, anyonme know why.
As Frank said I can see this going from strengh to strengh and all those involved are to be heartily congratulated.
oh and the weather helped of course.
Box 40 was empty as it arrived at North Pier shortly before 604 which had been eagerly awaited by the assembled enthusiasts. When it was realised the boat would be going to Fleetwood there was no contest.
The Twin Car looks wonderfully restored from the state I saw it in last year.