Blackpool Transport, the tramway operator in the British seaside resort, has confirmed its heritage trams will be operating one-hour tours of the Blackpool Illuminations from 15 October to 1 November. Departures from the Pleasure Beach are at 18.05, 19.30 and 21.00 on Wednesday-Saturday with a ticket price of £15 (£10 for children 3-15) and the tickets are valid for unlimited travel on Blackpool Transport Services on the day of the tour. Bokkings should be made online through the Blackpool Transport website. The trams used will alternate between F736 HMS Blackpool and double-decker Balloon 717.
Jane Cole, managing Director of Blackpool Transport, said 'Over the past few months, our engineers have worked tirelessly to ensure these trams can operate to the latest safety standards, and I would like to thank everyone who has made this possible. Everyone at Blackpool Transport is really excited about seeing these much-loved vehicles return to service for the special tours during the Lightpool Festival, and we cannot wait to welcome passengers aboard for these special trips. Following the festival, the trams will temporarily return to storage while we plan for future heritage tours’.
Cllr Lynn Williams, Leader of Blackpool Council, commented 'We’ve always known how important heritage trams are to our visitor economy. They are a big part of our history and heritage, and it will be great to see them back on the tracks. “We’ve worked exceptionally hard with Blackpool Transport to make sure they can return for Lightpool Festival, and I really hope that people enjoy seeing the trams and more importantly show their commitment by booking on the pre-paid tours’.
The two Blackpool heritage trams that will be used this year. (Blackpool Transport)
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