September 2024 will be well remembered at the Crich Tramway Village for marking the culmination of a ten year major restoration on London County Council 1 as it entered service for the first time in preservation. But just a few short days earlier the museum had welcomed a new vehicle, which has now been restored but will not be carrying passengers along the tramway as it is a coffee van!
Only arriving at Crich on 10th September 2024 (three days ahead of “Bluebird’s” launch), the Albany Motor Carriage Company van was built in 1979. It’s a reproduction of a 1920s vehicle but with modern (for 1979!) engine, transmission, brakes and lighting. Discovered in July 2024, work was soon underway at Crich to bring it back into use.
During the intensive restoration the Workshop team at Crich completed the following work:
- A complete interior fit-out to create a welcoming and functional serving space
- Repairs to the bodywork, including installing a brand-new rear door panel
- Repairing and fitting the passenger door to ensure safe access
- Modifying the serving hatch for ease of use
- Installing internal electrics and plumbing to support catering needs
- Hand-painting the entire exterior, bringing its vintage charm to life
- Installing catering equipment to provide delicious refreshments to visitors
The work was completed in time for it to make its debut early November 2024 – around two months after it arrived on site.
The van can currently be towed to various locations on the Crich site but they also have plans to service its 1.5L Triumph Spitfire engine. When that is completed the van will be able to travel under its own power – maybe even to off-site events to help promote Crich Tramway Village.
Crich are now looking for volunteers willing to help run the coffee van so that the benefit of its restoration can be felt. Details on how to volunteer at the home of the National Tramway Museum can be found at https://www.tramway.co.uk/volunteering/
Great idea. I tested the service and coffee at the November event – very good.