As we continue our look at trams running on the Blackpool Tramway in July 1977 as part of “Picture in Time” series we feature another one of the Balloon Cars in action.
This time we are taking a look at 720 which is seen on Lord Street, Fleetwood as it approaches journeys end with it due to terminate at Fleetwood Ferry (although in those days it was just plain old Fleetwood on the destination blinds). 720 is in the 1970s green and cream livery style and still has roof windows and a trolley pole but had received the single destination indicators by this time.
It’s a case of so many things have changed in the 45+ years since this image was taken. The tram is now a B-fleet Balloon (although saw very little use in this condition, probably the least of all the conversions) and the pub is standing but its now called The Bug. In the background Marks and Spencer – once the largest store in Fleetwood is long gone – and Fleetwood Pier (advertised on the tram) is also consigned to history having been victim to a fire in 2008 which saw it demolished.
Photograph by Donald Brooks, July 1977