The fleet of operating trams at Beamish Museum has been dealt its second blow in recent weeks, following on from the recent withdrawal of Blackpool ‘Boat’ 233 ahead of its journey to America, with the news that Grimsby & Immingham 26 has now been withdrawn with a motor problem. However, salvation is at hand as the offending motor has already been removed from the car for repair.
Grimsby & Immingham 26 – alias Gateshead 10 – has been nursed through the summer season due to some concerns over a motor bearing which has run warm on a number of occasions, particularly towards the end of a full day’s work. This has now reached the point where it is considered unwise to continue running the tram as this would create a serious risk of a major failure, and it was taken out of service earlier this week so that the problem motor could be removed. Indeed, it was sent away to the museum’s regular contractor the same day! It is intended to carry out a heavy overhaul on 10/26 in the fairly near future, when it is expected to regain its original Gateshead livery, but as it will be needed for service over winter it has been decided to carry out the work required for it to remain roadworthy for a bit longer.
The loss of both 26 and 233 – which incidentally remains stored awaiting departure following removal of its trolley tower at the agreed time – within the last fortnight highlights just how much Beamish need more a bigger operational tram fleet. They are now left with four serviceable trams, although as two of these are open toppers these may not be of much use as summer turns to autumn with a vengeance. Thankfully efforts are being made to return Sunderland 16 to use and within the next few years, Sheffield 264 should also be fully overhauled, which will provide two very useful enclosed double-deckers. In the meantime, perhaps another heritage tramway with more roadworthy vehicles than they really need could offer to lend a tram to Beamish for a while in order to assist this museum? After all, Beamish has been at the forefront of moves to encourage more co-operation between British tramway organisations, so it would be very pleasing if others offered their support in return.
A view of Grimsby & Immingham 26 seen operating earlier this year in its current condition. The tram is shown arriving at Foulbridge. (Photo by Andrew Waddington)
233 not departed yet – is there something going on to delay this disgraceful disposal?
A trustworthy source has indicated that it may leave on Wednesday but there does appear to be some delay – perhaps some one has come to the rescue at the eleventh hour?
I have had some correspondence with the Charities Commission, but they have decided not to investigate further and so it appears extremely unlikely that the move will be blocked I’m afraid. It must be a bit annoying for Beamish though as they could have kept 233 serviceable for another week at least!