The Midland Metro system has
repainted one of its articulated trams in a special livery inspired
by traditional trams. 2013 marks the sixtieth anniversary of the
closure of Birmingham’s tramway, and to commemorate this
anniversary, car 11
has been out shopped in a very stylish blue and cream livery, similar
to that worn by the first generation trams of Birmingham.
The tram features a cream
upper body enlivened by a thick blue stripe above the saloon glazing.
Below the windows,
11 is
painted in a deep blue which swoops down on the ends of the car so
that the tail lights are surrounded by cream, and the doors have also
been painted blue. Further enhancements include ornate fleet numbers
on both ends of the tram, and small Birmingham Corporation ‘FORWARD’
crests. The tram has not been refurbished inside and still carries
the name plate of Theresa Stewart,
who is an English
Labour
politician and the first female leader of Birmingham
City Council, a
position which she attained in October 1993, succeeding Dick
Knowles, and in
competition for which she was beaten by Sir Albert
Bore in May 1999. She
was also Lord
Mayor of Birmingham
from May 2000-May 2001, being only the sixth woman to hold that
position.
There is speculation that Midland Metro may keep this tram when the
fleet is replaced. Ken Jones went out to see and travel on it and
send in some photographs.
Ken Jones
