Hello, after nearly a month the blog is back - sorry foer the delay but just been so busy, then ill (amn flu) just haven't had chance to update. So Gordon, Andrew et al stop your whinging and here we go.
TRAMS
619 has gone pop again. The Compressor has disgraced itself and is currently in the back of a car awaiting a return to Blackpool - thanks to BT for arranging an rxchange so quickly. There is also a problem with some fuses and switches. It is hoped to have 619 back in service before the exhibition in September.
The bit you never see. 619s railcoach bogie and part of the framework.
The work area with two seats removed to make access easier. The floor plates have been put back in.
Horse Tram to the rescue?
The offensing compressor in the back of Alex's car!196 is performing well and now bearing the brunt of the service.
752 was out today on guard training duties - as its the only 'standard' handbrake car we have it has been used for training of handbrake procedure.
L53 will leave for Beamish at the end of the month and return a week later.
Rawtenstall 23 remains in the open next to the depot - it is hoped to be able to cover this car a bit better later.
TRACK
We await construction to start on the extension, but this is in the final logistics stages now and should see action very soon.
The depot access point has received attention today and is performing better. We tend to forget that all the double trackwork and points is 105 years old! Interestingly not one of the points matches, leading us to believe that the track in the park was constructed using whatever was left over alnd lying around!
The depot access point has received attention today and is performing better. We tend to forget that all the double trackwork and points is 105 years old! Interestingly not one of the points matches, leading us to believe that the track in the park was constructed using whatever was left over alnd lying around!
The bit of point you rarely see. The cover is removed for maintenance.
DALEK
Martin has received some attention. The blue hemispheres were very pretty but not robust enough for the knocks and scrapes it gets at HPT, being painted over quite shiny plastic. It has had a new set of unpainted shny black plastic ones put on and paintwork modified to the colour scheme the Daleks appeared in 1974's Death to the Daleks. So far its surviving. I had originally suggested removing Martin but there was such as outcry because of the interest it generates for our younger visitors he got refurbed instead!
Shiny Martin, resplendent in his new livery. One person did suggest Red and cream . . .
TOURS
You will see from the main website that we are planning an illuminations tour on September 28th using Stockport 5, Bolton 66 and Manchester 765. Initially this is open to members of the 3 owning groups (if you are reading this and haven't yet been contacted - you will be soon). We are hoping to open this to all a little later.
Till next time . . .
John
