1959 “BLACKPOOL BELLE” ILLUMINATED TRAM
The “Belle” made its first appearance in 1959 as a replacement for the “Progress” illuminated car which had been one of the stars of the illuminations for many years.
It was constructed on the frames and bogies of the last remaining “toastrack” tram, number 163, dating from 1927, which had languished in storage at Fleetwood depot since 1953.
Taking the form of a Mississippi paddle steamer, it was the first illuminated car to be built to carry passengers. It seated 32 on wooden seats on either side of the body. The upper cabins housed sound equipment, operated by the conductor, so that music could be played en route.
Like it’s predecessors, it carried no advertising in its early years, but was later sponsored by Haig Whisky, who’s advertising it carried until withdrawal in 1978, when it was deemed too costly to rewire it to modern standards.
Upon withdrawal it was acquired by Glenwood Trolley Park in Oregon, U.S.A. but has since been dismantled.