Over the past couple of months when we mention overhead and Blackpool it is usually connected with the installation of new overhead for the extension up Talbot Road. But on Monday 23rd August it was different as there was a problem with the overhead at North Pier which led to a complete service suspension while the issue was sorted.
In a similar story to the recent overhead problems in Sheffield and Nottingham the damage to the overhead is believed to have been caused by the pantograph of a tram with 002 the culprit. The damage was caused shortly before 1500 with a resumption of services on the tramway following by 1800.
002 had to be rescued by 014 with it being towed backwards from the scene to allow full repairs to take place.
Unfortunately, whilst the incident seemed to be confined to one section of overhead Blackpool Transport suspended services on the entire 11 mile tramway all the way from Starr Gate to Fleetwood Ferry to allow for investigations and repairs to take place.
The relatively unusual sight of two Flexity2 trams coupled together. Errant 002 is on the left with 014 the rescuer on the right.
With the bogie flaps listed 002 is prepared for movement. (Both Photographs by Peter Dockerty, 23rd August 2021)