Bolton 66 – which continues to fly the flag for vintage trams in Blackpool – has recently had a celebration of its own with specially invited guests taking a trip on the tram to the Imperial Hotel for afternoon tea. The milestone being celebrated was its 40th year of operation in Blackpool (like everything else a delayed celebration) with the Mayor of Bolton joining their counterpart from Blackpool to enjoy the tram.
Bolton 66 was built in 1901 and survived in service until 1946 after which its lower deck was sold on – like so many other trams when systems were abandoned. It ended up as a caravan on the moorland above Bolton which is where it remained until rescued by a group of enthusiasts. Originally the plan was just to cosmetically restore the lower deck but then the group – led by Derek Shepard – decided to go the whole hog and construct a new upper deck and make it a fully operational tram once more!
Once the work was completed the tram was transferred to Blackpool for what was originally set to be a six month loan in 1981. 41 years later and the tram is still there and has never left!
On Friday 12th August the 40 years of operation in Blackpool was celebrated with the Bolton 66 Tramcar Trust (who remain owners of the tram) inviting the Mayor of Bolton, Akhtar Zaman, to travel along the Promenade. He was joined by Kathryn Benson, Mayoress of Blackpool, and her consort for a journey to the Imperial Hotel for afternoon tea. The day ended with a new book launch detailing the history of the tramcar.
Akhtar Zaman, Mayor of Bolton, on the right with Kathryn Benson, Mayoress of Blackpool, (centre) in front of 66 before it starts its special commemorative tour. (Photograph courtesy of Bolton 66 Tramcar Trust)
Note this photo was taken at end of tour they changed to 700 at NP to take then to Imperial hotel
66 went with party load from Depot Foxhall Stargate to North Peir.
66 is a wonderful tram and always a pleasure to Conduct.
700 was used for the latter part of the event as trams with trolley poles were prohibited from going further than North Pier on the day, due to extreme hot weather, which had caused the overhead wires to sag. There was no fault on 66 it was simply a case of needing a pantograph car to complete the trip.
The party really did have a treat with both 66 and a classic (if slightly compromised) Balloon. It won’t be long before the years 66 has run in Blackpool exceed its time in service in its hometown of Bolton. Maybe that would merit a celebration too. It’s currently the oldest passenger tram to operate in Blackpool and wouldn’t be out of place heading any cavalcade, even one for a Blackpool anniversary, as it’s a classic tram of its period.
Its also extremely knackered and needs major work or retiring to Heaton Park.