National Tramway Museum wins prestigious award

The Tramway Museum Society, owners and operators of the National Tramway Museum at Crich in Derbyshire, UK, has won the accolade for Diesel or Electric Locomotion from the Heritage Railway Association. The award was in recognition of the magnificent restoration of London County Council tram 1, know as ‘Bluebird’. The art deco tram is a masterpiece of engineering and historical significance, launched in 1932, that sadly was one of a kind due to the decision of the incoming London Transport board to scrap the capital city’s tramway network. The award came just as the museum was preparing to open for the 2025 season on 15 March. 

 

The restoration of the double-deck bogie tram was made possible by the generous backing of the London County Council Tramways Trust, a registered charity committed to educating the public about the rich history and engineering marvels of tramways. Restoration work started in June 2014 and took 10 years and £500 000 in the conservation workshop at Crich Tramway Village, home to the UK’s largest collection of heritage trams. 

 

Karen Rigg, Tramway Museum Society Chairman, said:“We are absolutely thrilled that Bluebird is now ready for launch. Having watched the process from the beginning, when the tramcar became a pile of sundry components and parts to the point where we have this beautiful vehicle has been fascinating. Testament goes to all the members of the team in our conservation workshop whose skills have made this possible, and to the LCCTT for raising the funds to make it happen”.