Over the last few months we have featured quite a few images of various trams being shunted around the depot area at Crich Tramway Village, due to the ongoing works to refurbish the main depot complex. One positive from all this is that some trams which rarely see the light of day have enjoyed a taste of the open air, and here we take a look at one such tram – Grimsby & Immingham 14.
Built in 1915, 14 has been present at Crich since 1990 following a short spell at the National Railway Museum, and holds the claim as being the longest tramcar in the collection – hence it cannot fit on the traverser and is therefore always housed in the main depots rather than inside the Exhibition Hall. For many years it has been stored on road 4 in the depot, but whilst work was undertaken on the building it has been moved around a few times as required and has recently ended up on road 8.
Like so many great trams, Grimsby & Immingham 14 requires a major overhaul to run again and has in fact never operated in preservation. However, it remains a very interesting and unusual static exhibit at Crich, representing a rare example of a tram owned and operated by a railway operator in its heyday, as highlighted by the British Rail emblems shown prominently on its body sides.
On 27th January, Grimsby & Immingham 14 is seen being shunted around the depot yard in order to empty Depot 2 for the latest phase of the upgrade works to be undertaken.
Another appearance on the depot fan for car 14 on 10th February - and this view really does emphasise its length!
A look inside 14's interior. Note that this photograph was taken inside the depot - with the new clear ceiling panels offering a much improved environment for viewing the gems within! (All photos by Peter Whiteley)