Blackpool 762 runs at Crich!

After a very long wait, history was made on Wednesday 21st August, when Blackpool Jubilee car 762 operated on the main line at Crich Tramway Village for the very first time. Following extensive electrical work undertaken by a small number of people since the tram arrived at Crich, the car was finally able to make its first tentative moves under its own power in its new home after the museum had closed.

Since leaving Blackpool, 762 has spent much of its time in the workshop at Crich due to the complex nature of its Chopper control equipment, which has required partially re-wiring. In addition to this, various other work had to be undertaken before the car could be operated, and this has been considered a fairly low priority job, with cars such as Sheffield 510 being prioritised instead. However, preparatory work on 762 has now reached the stage where the tram has been powered up and, on the evening of August 21st, it was driven to Town End and then back to the depot for the very first time. This occasion was particularly notable as it represented the first time that either of the Blackpool Jubilee cars had ever operated away from Blackpool. The tram was being tested to ensure that its overhauled electrical equipment worked correctly, and happily the tram performed extremely well on its maiden voyage.

Although it is anticipated that 762 will require some further attention, as well as extensive testing and crew familiarisation due to its uniqueness in the museum collection, it is hoped that fans of this tram will not have to wait too much longer to ride on it again. Although 762 is not expected to enter service this year, hopefully the modern tram in its Nickelodeon livery will be a useful and popular addition to the regular service fleet at Crich in 2014 and beyond. Since its arrival, the tram has attracted much positive attention from younger visitors to the museum, and perhaps when it enters service some of these may develop an interest in trams, opening up a whole new audience to the wonders of our hobby? We can but hope!

A historic sight with Jubilee car 762 basking in early evening sunshine at Town End on its first test run at Crich, on 21st August. (Photo by Peter Whiteley)

The massive shape of 762 dominates the Tramway Street, but makes for a fantastic sight with its saloon lights shining brightly. (Photo by Peter Whiteley)