The interior after it was swept.

The interior after it was swept.

The underneath is being cleared of wood.

The underneath is being cleared of wood.

Sample left of interior wood moulding.

Sample left of interior wood moulding.

Aera of the sliding door.main support is grooved!

Aera of the sliding door.main support is grooved!

New tools!

New tools!

Cab end B steels before treatment.

Cab end B steels before treatment.

A brum tram, also 3ft 6inch.

A brum tram, also 3ft 6inch.

And you thought Brighton had tight curves?

And you thought Brighton had tight curves?

Writing/numbers on the brake cylinder.

Writing/numbers on the brake cylinder.

The brake cylinder.

The brake cylinder.

53 in the sunshine.

53 in the sunshine.

The wood mountain destroyed!

The wood mountain destroyed!

A great display!

A great display!

You will buy!

You will buy!

Modelworld itself.

Modelworld itself.

The 53 team in action!

The 53 team in action!

53 items for sale!

53 items for sale!

Two lost locos in the Palau jungle.

Two lost locos in the Palau jungle.

battery way on the Rock, with more tram rails.

battery way on the Rock, with more tram rails.

Tram rails on Corregidor.

Tram rails on Corregidor.

Where I am going.

Where I am going.

The netting at the back.

The netting at the back.

Better.

Better.

The devil may care workers, feast in the tram of ice!

The devil may care workers, feast in the tram of ice!

Ice inside 225, proving the cold weather!

Ice inside 225, proving the cold weather!

How the pyramids were built, 53 style.

How the pyramids were built, 53 style.

Keeping fit, the 53 way.

Keeping fit, the 53 way.

53 might be better of then this, hope it gets restored.

53 might be better of then this, hope it gets restored.

Old buses!

Old buses!

Sleepers, do not disturb.

Sleepers, do not disturb.

Another shed view!

Another shed view!

Allan on the roof with the mesh!

Allan on the roof with the mesh!

A new view of 53 from the other shed roof!

A new view of 53 from the other shed roof!

Beautiful concrete sleepers!

Beautiful concrete sleepers!

A beautiful day for sleepers.

A beautiful day for sleepers.

What is this device in 225?

What is this device in 225?

Detail of the wood framing by the saloon door.

Detail of the wood framing by the saloon door.

You can now get round the back of 53.

You can now get round the back of 53.

The downs from 225.

The downs from 225.

Are these wheels lower?!

Are these wheels lower?!

Ken next to 53.

Ken next to 53.

the rear wheels off the ground!

the rear wheels off the ground!

The wood in place.

The wood in place.

The front wheels off the ground.

The front wheels off the ground.

The lift gang, where were the rest of you?

The lift gang, where were the rest of you?

The party crowd high on mince pies.

The party crowd  high on mince pies.

It's not santa, its El presidente!

It's not santa, its El presidente!

John Kempton braves the cold in the dockyard.

John Kempton braves the cold in the dockyard.

Our white van man, Tony, by a wrapped 53!

Our white van man, Tony, by a wrapped 53!

Parts of the Medway Queen.

Parts of the Medway Queen.

Gillingham wood.

Gillingham wood.

More wood for the lift.

More wood for the lift.

El Presidente and the roof of perpetual leaks!

El Presidente and the roof of perpetual leaks!

Malcolm's rubbing down reveals sound wood.

Malcolm's rubbing down reveals sound wood.

More metal restoration under the other cab end.

More metal restoration under the other cab end.

John loves red wood primer!

John loves red wood primer!

Big wood for the lift.

Big wood for the lift.

Both ends of 53 are now covered.

Both ends of 53 are now covered.

53 awaits our attention.

53 awaits our attention.

The foot bell painted by Allan Marriott.

The foot bell painted by Allan Marriott.

The top deck, haven't been here for a while!

The top deck, haven't been here for a while!

The jack collection.

The jack collection.

Are ye men or gods? Or just anoraks?

Are ye men or gods? Or just anoraks?

An existing brighton tram shelter.

An existing brighton tram shelter.

This shows a resistor box and controller, similar to 53s layout.

This shows a resistor box and controller, similar to 53s layout.

53 in June 1987, spot the difference!

53 in June 1987, spot the difference!

The rust treatment edges along 53.

The rust treatment edges along 53.

Roger's sorted wood.

Roger's sorted wood.

Richard's wood!

Richard's wood!

The orignal deep burgundy and a little cream revealed.

The orignal deep burgundy and a little cream revealed.

If you can find them, and they like your tram, the A team..

If you can find them, and they like your tram, the A team..

All black steels!

All black steels!

Some original paint revealed.

Some original paint revealed.

Pevensey Malcolm's new path.

Pevensey Malcolm's new path.

The controls of the showboat, note tea facility!

The controls of the showboat, note tea facility!

Our works officer rode this beauty on Friday!

Our works officer rode this beauty on Friday!

One of the high quality layouts at kew.

One of the high quality layouts at kew.

Kew is an old pumping station, here is an example of the machinery.

Kew is an old pumping station, here is an example of the machinery.

Magnus Volks original model of the Daddy Longlegs, made by the man himself!

Magnus Volks original model of the Daddy Longlegs, made by the man himself!

Why it's Ian Gledhill, Volks supremo, Ian Buck and Tony Marsh at the 53 stand.

Why it's Ian Gledhill, Volks supremo, Ian Buck and Tony Marsh at the 53 stand.

Our new foot bell next to the original 53 bell holder.

Our new foot bell next to the original 53 bell holder.

These guys deserve money, or at least beer!

These guys deserve money, or at least beer!

Carriage paint finish on the frames.

Carriage paint finish on the frames.

The frame of the broken up tram.

The frame of the broken up tram.

How 53 will look again, a 1939 shot of an F class.

How 53 will look again,  a 1939 shot of an F class.

A Brighton tram being broken up in the early sixties.

A Brighton tram being broken up in the early sixties.

Two new key rings for sale.

Two new key rings for sale.

The prototype of the 53 clock, let your favourite tram tell you the time!

The prototype of the 53 clock, let your favourite tram tell you the time!

2nd coat of red oxide.

2nd coat of red oxide.

Slog squad on the case.

Slog squad on the case.

The last bolt in at the front cab end!

The last bolt in at the front cab end!

Bell device from inside cab.

Bell device from inside cab.

The metro at Wolverhampton.

The metro at Wolverhampton.

Oh, I am a tram driver! Sad middle aged boy!

Oh, I am a tram driver! Sad middle aged boy!

Top deck of Bournemouth tram.

Top deck of Bournemouth tram.

Similar colours to 53.

Similar colours to 53.

Another day of tram therapy.

Another day of tram therapy.

These windows once opened!

These windows once opened!

More red oxide, and the new nuts in place.Notice El Presidente's legs!

More red oxide, and the new nuts in place.Notice El Presidente's legs!

The dynamic duo tackle the last remaining windows, kerpow, zonk!

The dynamic duo tackle the last remaining windows, kerpow, zonk!

Roger gets serious with the grinder!

Roger gets serious with the grinder!

How repairs should be done, the Bluebell!

How repairs should be done, the Bluebell!

Tram shelter spotted in Stanmer park, in the museum grounds.

Tram shelter spotted in Stanmer park, in the museum grounds.

The chefs prepare the A La Tesco menu!

The chefs prepare the A La Tesco menu!

The banner on 225

The banner on 225

The open day at 53.

The open day at 53.

Picture of the under floor gong.

Picture of the under floor gong.

Odd little device that holds up the wood lengths at the cab front.

Odd little device that holds up the wood lengths at the cab front.

Why we need mahogany!

Why we need mahogany!

More painted steels underneath.

More painted steels underneath.

First coat of red oxide.

First coat of red oxide.

ORIGINAL BTON TRAM TRACK, NOTE SLOTS FOR TIES.

ORIGINAL BTON TRAM TRACK, NOTE SLOTS FOR TIES.

IAN ENJOYS THE GREAT BRITISH SUMMER!

IAN ENJOYS THE GREAT BRITISH SUMMER!

THE MAGNUS VOLK ARCH OFFICE

THE MAGNUS VOLK  ARCH OFFICE

THREE MEMBERS ENJOY THE VOLKS EXPERIENCE!

THREE MEMBERS ENJOY THE VOLKS EXPERIENCE!

There is work to do here!

There is work to do here!

The naked framing of the front cab!

The naked framing of the front cab!

El Presidente shows off his dirty state.

El Presidente shows off his dirty state.

The front is off!

The front is off!

53 with less glass. Notice all the glass is marked for reference. .

53 with less glass. Notice all the glass is marked for reference. .

El presidente underneath 53, with the green goo.

El presidente underneath 53, with the green goo.

Malcolm starts to unscrew the windows.

Malcolm starts to unscrew the windows.

John and Richard work on the cab windows.

John and Richard work on the cab windows.

El presidetnte attempts to increase the attacking value of the society!

El presidetnte attempts to increase the attacking value of the society!

Inside the Oporto tram, with the missus acting as glamorous tram buff!

Inside the Oporto tram, with the missus acting as glamorous tram buff!

El Presidente next to an Oporto tram.

El Presidente next to an Oporto tram.

We need this truck!

We need this truck!

Richard Gs, huge wad of, er plastic stuff!

Richard Gs, huge wad of, er plastic stuff!

Serious corriosion, this needs welding.

Serious corriosion, this needs welding.

Ready to de- rust.

Ready to de- rust.

Green rust goo!

Green rust goo!

Nice display of buses at Lewes.

Nice display of buses at Lewes.

The first rally, with the new banner.

The first rally, with the new banner.

The offical banner.

The offical banner.

Original fretwork in the Hastings trams.

Original fretwork in the Hastings trams.

Hastings Tramway poster from the 20s, beautiful illustration

Hastings Tramway poster from the 20s, beautiful illustration

53 and Hastings group shot.

53 and Hastings group shot.

Hastings Tram HQ!

Hastings Tram HQ!

Inside a Hastings tram.

Inside a Hastings tram.

Another picture of rail supports in Queens Park Road.

Another picture of rail supports in Queens Park Road.

Tram rails in Queens park Road, reused as track supports.

Tram rails in Queens park Road, reused as track supports.

The stall at the May day rally!

The stall at the May day rally!

Most of the cab floor gone, the rest can only be removed when the top floor is supported.

Most of the cab floor gone, the rest can only be removed when the top floor is supported.

Was this the reset button mounting for the tram guard?

Was this the reset button mounting for the tram guard?

One o'clock tea, why the UK was created by God!

One o'clock tea, why the UK was created by God!

More under the floor, air pipes for the brakes.

More under the floor, air pipes for the brakes.

El presidente and Allan get serious with 53s floor!i

El presidente and Allan get serious with 53s floor!i

Was this a fixing point for the truck?

Was this a fixing point for the truck?

A general view.

A general view.

Was this the foot bell mechanics?

Was this the foot bell mechanics?

Master brake cylinder of 53.

Master brake cylinder of 53.

The president's desk.

The president's desk.

225 ready for business.

225 ready for business.

Is this 225 in happier days?

Is this 225 in happier days?

Here is a Graz tram in the 60s.

Here is a Graz tram in the 60s.

Inside the works car.

Inside the works car.

It all seemed to go back in time to Nuremberg, Who is this weirdo?

It all seemed to go back in time to Nuremberg, Who is this weirdo?

membership stuggle to keep awake, as El presidente exhorts the society to a five year plan.

membership stuggle to keep awake, as El presidente exhorts the society to a five year plan.

Works car 1 in the second half of our galalxy spanning visit!

Works car 1 in the second half of our galalxy spanning visit!

More milling!

More milling!

53 in the spring sunlight.

53 in the spring sunlight.

Members mill around 53.

Members mill around 53.

53rd member Phil waits for his t-shirt and picture!

53rd member Phil waits for his t-shirt and picture!

A cup of tea inside 53, essential for the British worker!

A cup of tea inside 53, essential for the British worker!

Malcolm shows his Picasso side.

Malcolm shows his Picasso side.

Simon Cole takes a break from rubbing down

Simon Cole takes a break from rubbing down

Another view of the wiring pole, this deserves better...

Another view of the wiring pole, this deserves better...

The last Bton tram pole rusts at Amberley, what a waste.

The last Bton tram pole rusts at Amberley, what a waste.

Simon Coles tram added to our display as it did a circular!!

Simon Coles tram added to our display as it did a circular!!

Your friendly 53 society mamgaement pose at Model world,just another 53 day.

Your friendly 53 society mamgaement pose at Model world,just another 53 day.

The 53 stand at bton Modelworld, with John Hayward and Ian Buck.

The 53 stand at bton Modelworld, with John Hayward and Ian Buck.

Still some leaks in 225, @~!!*

Still some leaks in 225, @~!!*

staircase area gets second coat

staircase area gets second coat

The other end gets some paint.

The other end gets some paint.

225 has a second primer coat

225 has a second primer coat

53 with paint front and rear!

53 with paint front and rear!

More paint on 53

More paint on 53

Two 53 models, is this possible!?

Two 53 models, is this possible!?

The card model

The card model

Another view of the prototype, should be on sale at Model World next month!

Another view of the prototype, should be on sale at Model World next month!

Thanks to Kingsway Models, the prototype 53 card model!

Thanks to Kingsway Models, the prototype 53 card model!

225 gets more primer1

225 gets more primer1

The other cab end, a lot of rotten wood here.

The other cab end, a lot of rotten wood here.

225 is becoming a workshop/office!

225 is becoming a workshop/office!

Blue and purple, this could be a case for the taste police, the paint was free though!

Blue and purple, this could be a case for the taste police, the paint was free though!

225 from 53

225 from 53

Outside wood treated with hardener.

Outside wood treated with hardener.

More lights!

More lights!

the decay at the covered end.

the decay at the covered end.

53 interior with some new lights

53 interior with some new lights

All white now, well almost!

All white now, well almost!

A little step forward.....

A little step forward.....

More paint on the cab roof, with Ian's restored rear lamp on!

More paint on the cab roof, with Ian's restored rear lamp on!

Richard G, aka, billy the cat checks 53s upper deck!

Richard G, aka, billy the cat checks 53s upper deck!

let there be light, thanks to Ian Buck!

let there be light, thanks to Ian Buck!

Ian's lights for 53

Ian's lights  for 53

El predidente works on the Graz tram roof on a cold November day!

El predidente works on the Graz tram roof on a cold November day!

the works car at the old steine

the works car at the old steine

53 from the top of the Gratz tram, 1st september 2010

53 from the top of the Gratz tram, 1st september 2010

no.1 in her former glory, thanks to James for the pic!

no.1 in her former glory, thanks to James for the pic!

no 1 door and handles

no 1 door and handles

A better view of the works car

A better view of the works car

the works car in it's rustic setting

the works car in it's rustic setting

close up of the works car

close up of the works car

World exclusive, a second Bton tram exists! The former works car became a garden shed for the trolley bus manager, in a garden he designed!

the Gratz tram is also used as a display site

the Gratz tram is also used as a display site

Malcolm demonstrates his painting skills on the gratz tram!

Malcolm demonstrates his painting skills on the gratz tram!

Told you it is big!

Told you it is big!

Huge corporation map of the trams, at lewes Road depot, age unknown.

Huge corporation map of the trams, at lewes Road depot, age unknown.

El Presidente catches the pm Gratz tram, whilst deftly nibbiling a banana!

El Presidente catches the pm Gratz tram, whilst deftly nibbiling a banana!

Gratz tram and 53, look carefully!

Gratz tram and 53, look carefully!

Unloading the Gratz tram

Unloading the Gratz tram

inside our new club house, and I am serious!

inside our new club house, and I am serious!

Our new club house!!

Our new club house!!

53 being de-tramed, 1939.

53 being de-tramed, 1939.

pre-war transport history coming back to life

pre-war transport history coming back to life

underneath is not too bad,

underneath is not too bad,

air brake handle

air brake handle

I'm a tram driver!

I'm a tram driver!

the inside looking a bit cleaner.

the inside looking a bit cleaner.

first work party on 53 22nd of May!

first work party on 53 22nd of May!

if only bton Buses could match these fares!

if only bton Buses could match these fares!

Clark's bread and walks!!

Clark's bread and walks!!

side view of the model

side view of the model

model of F class tram

model of F class tram

says more about you then money! Or did!

says more about you then money! Or did!

another beautiful badge!

another beautiful badge!

tokens

tokens

parcels service advert

parcels service advert

cap badges

cap badges

A pass!

A pass!

certificate for passing the motorman test

certificate for passing the motorman test

badge from a brighton Tram, showing it built by the Corporation!

badge from a brighton Tram, showing it built by the Corporation!

the trams did have a parcels service.

the trams did have a parcels service.

button

button

the tramway band

the tramway band

cap badge of t'corporation

cap badge of t'corporation

more of Lewes road tram lines

Tram lines in lewes road depot, where 53 was built.

Tram lines in lewes road depot, where 53 was built.

tram 53 interior

tram 53 interior

Friday 31 December 2010

Last day of the old year, may I wish you all a great 2011, despite the wobbles in our financial monopoly game! Back from Manchester, nice trams, very smooth ride! Highlight of trip was standing next to a Beyer Garrett loco, same gauge as 53, 3foot 6 inches.Hope to be out at 53 next week.

Thursday 23 December 2010

This is the last blog before Xmas, so season's greetings to you all! We had a good meeting Monday, though the snow stopped some coming in, I trust the quiz was not too hard, I am sure it did test your tram/local knowledge to a high degree.I have just found out that Crich is shut over Xmas, but I will be in Manchester to see other rail features, the Brill quest will have to wait. If you have been following this blog, but haven't committed, join us in 2011, make it a year that you DID something, and didn't just think about it!

Sunday 12 December 2010

Another weekend of activity, Ian has fixed the lights in one cab end,and John Z and Richard G were all doing some paint scraping. El Presidente did a little more painting on the Graz Tram and also sprayed more wood worm treatment on both cab ends after rubbing down the wood, and did some painting in one cab end. Amazing how a little paint can transform the neglect...if you are reading this and haven't joined, or worked on 53, commit now, there are many simple jobs to do.

Saturday 4 December 2010

Ian Buck has been working on the lower saloon lighting for 53, here is an example of his handiwork, looking forward to seeing them on 53, good work sir!

Friday 3 December 2010

I have purchased prizes and mince pies for the meeting! Don't forget, it is the 20th of December, 8PM,, at the Lord Nelson Pub, Trafalgar Street, Brighton. Non members welcome, but you will have to pay to enter the prize studded quiz, can't wait eh!

Saturday 27 November 2010

Well, another day of surprises! Tony Belcher delivered a compressor, and whilst I was painting the Graz tram, he re-inflated the tyres on 53s trailer, and she now stands level! We also cut down the remainder of the tree at the front and the towing hook is now out the ground and working again! The Graz tram is gradually looking better....

Saturday 20 November 2010

A good days work on site today.Thanks to Ian, Alan and John for moving the project forward. Alan inspected 53s chassis, oiled and gave it a list of to dos, Ian started the re-wiring of the lower saloon of 53 and John and El Presidente tackled the Graz roof and painted the sides for good measure. We both left as darkness was falling!
Rather then read about it, come out and see for yourselves, it gets addictive, I promise!

Sunday 14 November 2010

Had a fair day at the BMRC exhibition today. Thanks to Keith Carter, also Nick Kelly and Gordon Dinnage for manning the stall.One ex surveyor came up and said he had surveyed a house in Brighton which had used an old tram staircase for it's loft, and some guys laying cable for Amex in the Old Steine area had come across the ties, sleepers and granite setts of the tram lines, only the rails were gone! They are in Queens Park Road soon, and promised to let us know if they find any track!!

Saturday 13 November 2010

Don't forget the Brighton Model rail show tomorrow at Patcham, we also have a good selection of second hand transport books! We will be at the trams the following two weekends, the 29th and 21st, and the 27th and 28th. The days will depend on the weather, so if you wish to visit, let us know and we will give you directions, join in if you wish, just painting and sanding!

Wednesday 10 November 2010

If you are in the Brighton area this Sunday, the 14th of November, the 53 Road show is appearing at the Brighton Model Railway Club Fest, at Patcham Community Centre and Library, Ladies Mile Road, Patcham.Free entry, times between 10am to 4.30pm, see you there!

Monday 1 November 2010

Ian Buck has found out more about the Graz tram, please note the corrected spelling! It was built in 1950, numbers 201 t o 250.Wooden frame, due to material shortages, 2 x60kW motors, with ELIN electrics.It could operate two trailer cars with only the driver, and seats 16, with 45 standing.Is standing an Austrian hobby, after all, the British queue?!
More to follow, and please we need more for the work parties, just simple painting at the moment, we have the paint, we need hands, so come on, weekends this month!

Sunday 31 October 2010

Whew, another busy day at 53! Ian Buck and his wife came down, and Ian is our electrics expert! He is going to research the Gratz tram, and figure out 53s wiring.He reckons we CAN use the Gratz tram electrics, great if we can. Ian and his wife also kindly supplied a metal cabinet, useful for keeping the tram tidy.Due to the weather, i could not do any more painting on the Austrian tram, still some roof leaks.
I also sprayed the interior of 53 with industrial strength woodworm killer, so she is a little more protected, smelly stuff,but good.A big thank you to Gordon Dinnage for supplying that for nothing, a great help.

Saturday 30 October 2010

Had a long solo day on Wednesday, roof work on Gratz tram, and arranging sheeting on 53s roof. We are out there tomorrow, so let me know, and I will give you directions. Have also received a strong wood wormer, so 53 is on the road back, this is mask and gloves stuff!!
Had a reply from the gent in Somerset , re tram bits, When his brother died, who had the bits, he might have passed them on to Amberley, so a slim chance...
Our stock now stands at over £600, so go to 53 for that special Xmas gift, you know the missus will want a tram item...!

Wednesday 27 October 2010

If you don't know already, the society has been given the address of the dude who might have some F class bits. I have written to the gent concerned, and await a reply. Thanks to the sharp eyes of Tony B, we are about to bid for a makers plate on e-bay, for tram 54! Some maps have come into our possession of the Acts Of Parliament for various extensions in Brighton, some happened, some didn't. A tram line down Montpelier Road anyone, then turning into Western Road!?

Thursday 21 October 2010

Out at 53 yesterday, did some more work on the Gratz roof and started covering 53's top deck for winter. We have work parties next week, Wednesday and Sunday, from about 11 am, come along! Also found picture of works car at old Steine, will try to enhance!

Thursday 14 October 2010

Don't forget meeting next Monday, 7.30 sharp! We will also be at the Brighton Model Railway club exhibiton on the 14th of November in Brighton, trains and trams!

Monday 27 September 2010

Went to visit the works car yesterday, with some old school friends. Mr. and Mrs. Dowling were gracious hosts and have asked me to forward their appeal: it needs a re-paint, any one up for it? The society will try, but this is a small job, which just needs some willing hands! My friends were so impressed with 53 that they have joined, we now do a family membership, two adults, and up to three kids for twenty pounds, bargain!

Sunday 26 September 2010

We will be meeting at the Lord Nelson Pub, in Trafalgar Street, Brighton on Monday, October the 18th at 7.30pm. It is a Harvey's pub, 5 mins from the main rail station, non-members welcome.If you have any interest in 53, then come along.

Wednesday 22 September 2010

I must mention our resident boffin, Paul Marriott is the website designer, who as we speak is adding all the buy type stuff to the website I mentioned earlier! Respect to the PAUL MASSIVE....

Tuesday 21 September 2010

Tony Belcher and El presidente have acquired some Brighton Corporation official plans of the tramways, showing extensions built and proposed extensions, great drawings! Tony's eagle eye spotted them on e-Bay, so .......! They all add to the archive material which should go with the tram.

Monday 20 September 2010

If you go to the website and are feeling generous, we are now accepting donations through Pay Pal.We will also shortly have our list of items for sale, so check em out, from t-shirts to fridge magnets....

Saturday 18 September 2010

Society membership is now at 42, remember 53 will get a special gift package of various 53 items, so sign up! We need more work party volunteers, so please consider, and a meeting will be arranged for next month, so watch the skies !

Monday 13 September 2010

Despite pleasant weather, being next to a tram shelter and a bulging table of goodies, we only made £22.60 yesterday at Amberley, not a great result.Still if you don't try.....

Thursday 9 September 2010

We are at the Amberley Bus rally,the Chalk Pits Museum near Arundel, this Sunday, the 12th. We have a lot of different trinkets and cool stuff for sale, so come along! El Presidente will personally lighten you of money for this superb tramcar, what more could you want?

Monday 30 August 2010

As August ends, we now have forty members.We have decided that whoever is the fifty third, will receive a special package of 53 material! It could be you!

Thursday 26 August 2010

Well, it's radio time tomorrow, I am on the local BBC service at 7.30am., Radio Sussex I believe.Thank goodness it is from home, still it all helps 53! Trams can improve your social standing!

Tuesday 24 August 2010

Well dear readers, more publicity, we are in the Lewes edition of the Sussex Express today, from the sense of the article, I need to walk around in an anorak, not easy in hot weather! The 53 stand is at the Amberley Bus Rally on the 12th of September, so come along and see the chalk pits, the buses and El Presidente.

Tuesday 17 August 2010

Television appearance tonight, 6-6.30pm ITV, Meridian! Catch me if you can, and more importantly , 53!
Today I was interviewed by Mr. Malcolm Shaw of Meridian television inside 53! The programme will go out on ITV within a week, so tune in to ITV Southern, and watch El Presidente explain his tram needs!

Thursday 12 August 2010

Back off holiday, nice trams in Montpellier! I hope you all saw the article in the Brighton Evening Argus, on the 2nd of August,there is also the possibility of a TV slot! I hope the Gratz tram is now in the right area, we now need to give her a lick of of paint, but also to get 53 mobile again. If you are thinking about membership, it is only £10 a year, and the work parties are fun, so just do it! Possibility of plans, watch this space!

Saturday 31 July 2010

We have had to call in the professionals to move the Gratz Tram into final position, we just could not do it ourselves. This should be done on Monday the 2nd of August.Our membership has now reached 35, and so I have written to the farmer to sort out an agreement between the society and himself, as we need to make sure our time and effort is safeguarded. A lot of members have commented about this, so let's see what happens, the best result is for a trust to own 53, that makes grants and Lottery funding a possibility.

Monday 26 July 2010

Had a fair day at the Worthing Bus rally, plenty of new members, but overheads reduced profit, still worth it though, and more membership forms given away. Onwards and upwards!

Thursday 22 July 2010

The 53 massive will be at the Worthing Bus rally,on the sea front, Sunday, so do come along, say hello and sign your life away!

Thursday 15 July 2010

Had fun yesterday propping up the Gratz tram, in preparation for it's final shift into its proper place.We are back next week to finish this, then we can clean out the inside, put a desk in and get it functioning as the HQ. Have given the Argus the spiel, so I hope they get a story out.Don't forget next Monday at the Lord Nelson pub at 8PM!!!

Wednesday 7 July 2010

Gratz tram arrived today, had fun getting off the trailer, but she is now ours! Need to maneuver her a bit more to get in the exact place, but she is there!

Monday 5 July 2010

Wens is the day the Gratz tram appears, contact me if you want to be there, and don't forget meeting on the 19th, be there!

Friday 2 July 2010

It is time for another meeting, so if you can make the Lord Nelson Pub, Trafalgar Street, Brighton, on Monday, the 19th of July at 8pm, you will be most welcome.Remember it is your society, so take part and enjoy, or in other words,just get ya feet wet! There is a lot that has happened.

Thursday 24 June 2010

No joke folks, this little 4 wheeler will be parked close to 53 in a couple of weeks. She is coming down from Scotland, courtesy of our mystery benefactors.I think we need another meeting.......watch this space!

Saturday 19 June 2010

NEW WEBSITE!!!!!!!!!! brightontram53.org.uk , go have a look!!!!!!

Thursday 17 June 2010

I haven't had much time to blog, but rest assured, a lot is happening! An awful lot! Suffice to say, we will be moving to a website shortly, domain name is bought, er watch this space!

Sunday 13 June 2010

Whew, just got back from the Bton Bus rally, a great day, looks like we made £250, but will check again. New pic of 53 for ya!

Thursday 10 June 2010

I cannot publish on this blog yet, but a lot of wacky things have happened this week. For the moment though, remember we have a work party tomorrow, meet at 10.30, and get to the Brighton buses Rally on Madeira Drive Sunday, we have a stand there, number 18!

Wednesday 2 June 2010

Tomorrow is the day Rowan from the Bluebell gives 53 a professional look over and assessment. We would also like to announce that a 53 website is to be set up, we felt that the blog is getting hard to read, so as soon as it is set up , the address will be here!
The society has been organising the display for the 13th of June, and even a raffle is to be held, prizes include a tram dvd and a year's free membership, so come one, come all!

Friday 28 May 2010

I am pleased to announce that Mr. Roger French of Bton Buses supports our endeavour, and I hope to submit an article to the staff magazine shortly. Please note that we are going to upgrade to a website, as this blog is getting crowded! Watch the skies for more details, and remember a tram is your best friend, so help restore it........

Wednesday 26 May 2010

I was struck by the workman like approach to the tram's construction.it is all to a high standard, but is definitely no frills! Compared to an Edwardian tram that is an easier body to restore, and a comment on the approach to things in 1937.I am still amazed how the steel work has held out, some surface rust, but a little graft will alter that.

Monday 24 May 2010

We had the first proper meeting of the society last night (23rd of May), and a lot was discussed and agreed upon.I for one, was still basking in the glow of the first work party, what a great bunch of people you are! We will be at the Bton Buses rally on the 13th of June, on Madeira drive, Brighton, so come along and say hello!

Saturday 22 May 2010

First work party, with some pics, a great day!

Sunday 16 May 2010

Wrote to Mr. R French of Brighton & Hove Buses, re 53. He cannot offer anything but moral support, bu he is behind the project and has offered to put an article in the staff mag, so to work.Brighton's new MP next!

Wednesday 12 May 2010

I have done a new sheet for May, if anyone wants a copy e-mailed to them, please contact the society through it 's e-mail address.There are two others,March and April, so if you want more.....

Sunday 9 May 2010

The one item that hasn't surfaced is a proper plan of 53, or one of a similar class.I would imagine that the plans got burnt at the depot, but hope still lingers that somewhere someone had the sense to save something. There are places besides Brighton to look, but no luck so far, see what your gran has in the attic!

Wednesday 5 May 2010

Not too much to report, suffice to say, two work parties are being organized, and don't forget the 23rd of May for the meeting! A big thank you to Mr. James Type, who has not only paid his sub for the year, but has become the first to donate a sum of money, which puts him on the roll of sponsors, the first of many I hope!

Wednesday 28 April 2010

Further to the last blog, the following weekend days, a Saturday or Sunday, are available for the clean up, 15th, 16th, 22nd, 23rd and 30th of May.The inspection is the 4th so plenty of time.The area around the tram needs cleaning and inside the tram, so any takers?
Sorry for the delay in new posts, computer problems.Regarding the inspection of 53 on the 4th of June, I will be speaking to the owner to arrange clearance of the area. The tram is on a trailer, but there is a small tree growing in front of her and that needs to go.53 could also do with a quick clean inside, to make sure Rowan can access all areas. I am aiming for a Saturday in May, can anyone help? It is your chance to see her!
Don't forget the meeting......

Sunday 18 April 2010

Ok folks, the first proper meeting of the 53 Society is on the 23rd of May at 8pm sharp. It is in the rooms of the Brighton Model Railway Club, which is located in the main building of the London Road Railway Station, Ditchling Rise, Brighton, which is on the Bton to Lewes line.If you come up the steps from Ditchling Rise, it is on your left.If you come in from the platform, it is on your right.The meeting will refine the organisation of the society, and hopefully fill any posts left in the committee, so get along!

Friday 16 April 2010

Looks like venue sorted for a proper first meeting, probably a sunday evening in May.Stay tuned tram folks!

Thursday 15 April 2010

Nothing new to report, but I am now looking for a meeting venue in earnest!

Tuesday 13 April 2010

Good news, Rowan from the Bluebell has agreed to come down and see 53 in early June to give a professional assessment of her condition and a costing for repairs.We will need a work party or two to clear the area, so anyone for a spot of light clearing and cleaning? Dates will be set later, once the owner is contacted.

Sunday 11 April 2010

The 53 bank account is now open, first cheques were put in Friday.This is a two signature account, and at the moment we just want to see money going in! Am looking for a suitable venue for the next meeting, have had one suggestion, if you know of anywhere central, then please....
The next step is to organize the society, and get Rowan down to give a realistic valuation of 53s repair bill. This will entail the first work party to clear the area around 53, but I will organize more before any date is given.

Friday 9 April 2010

Sorry for gap, away to see relatives.This was not without it's use as Big Ade,in-law, imports wood, and can get hold of teak or mahogany.If the framing for 53 needs replacing we are potentially covered, though this won't be cheap! Thank you for all your membership fees, will get back to you shortly.

Wednesday 31 March 2010

The first people have joined, congrats to John Z and friend! There are to be three signatures on the society cheques, to be flexible and safe.It will be time for the first proper meeting of the society, so watch this space,we all need to be informed and agree on what next.Amberley museum might be interested in keeping 53, we are waiting to confirm this. I have also started work on a draft agreement between the owner and the society, so that any money spent by the society is safe.Remember, even if you live faraway, your ten pounds will help restore this unique vehicle!

Sunday 28 March 2010

Wow, thank you all for turning up, that was a quick meeting!! It was very heartening to meet you all, welcome aboard indeed!. Good , now let's get cracking! Membership fees are now being taken £10 per year.Please send to me , G.Hall at 14 Malling Down, Lewes, East Sussex, BN7 2BN. Please make cheque payable to Tram 53 society, no paypal, credit card here, sorry! Receipt will be sent, if you could include a stamped addressed envelope, thank you.Now is the time.

Tuesday 23 March 2010

Only six more days to the first meeting, so don't be shy, come along! James has sent a cover of the tramways guide, wonder if these walks are still possible?

Thursday 18 March 2010

Mr. J Goddard supplied me with pictures of a model he made of the "F" class tram, this is what 53 could look like again one day.

Tuesday 16 March 2010

Don't forget, just over a week and a half to the first meeting, please get there,there is a lot to sort out, with some urgent matters for discussion!
James Guest has sent some more photos of tram badges, I am knocked out by the quality of them.

Monday 15 March 2010

Mr. John Goddard of Brighton very kindly sent in these superb pictures of some tramway memorabilia he owns.They were from his grandfather originally, and include a built by badge from a tram! Thank you very much for sharing them with us.
Went to the Engineerium Saturday, and spoke to the owner, Mr. Holland. He was very interested, and politely listened to my description of the plans for 53. I did mention about displaying 53 there, and he said he would consider. It is one possible option.

Thursday 11 March 2010

In preparation for the first meeting in March, I am pleased to announce that we have a secretary, a publicity officer, and a signatory for the society cheques.If any of you are still hesitating, we still need a treasurer and others....Remember March the 28th at the Hope in Brighton, time 7.30pm.If you have a chance, do go to the James Gray photo collection of the Brighton Regency Society.This is an on-line photo resource of old Brighton and covers all areas.If you go to the Lewes road section, there are shots of the tram depot being constructed,as well as the trams themselves, just type James Gray collection in google!.

Sunday 7 March 2010

OK, it is time for a meeting! Venue, the Hope Bar, Queens Road, Brighton, just up from the clock tower and close to buses, with a ten minute walk from the main station. Date, Sunday the 28th of March, time 7.30pm.Please make an effort to attend, we need to ratify and set up the Society, it is YOUR chance to make this happen!

Thursday 4 March 2010

More photos courtesy of James Guest, tramway memorabilia!

Monday 1 March 2010

My first article has appeared in tramways monthly for 53, check it out on page 20 of the 2010 Feb ,issue at www.tramways-monthly.com

Sunday 28 February 2010

I have had some encouraging new contacts, especially as concerns a Brill truck! Though this is in the future, it is worth pursuing! We now have a Publicity Officer, but other slots are still available! It is also time to call a first general meeting to ratify this, it will be in the Brighton area, and I hope for late March.Please get down there if you can, I will try to choose a convenient venue, it would be great to meet up, and I can up-date you in person about what is happening.

Wednesday 24 February 2010

Have been told that there are Brill 21e trucks of 3ft 6" gauge at Clay Cross, time to contact Crich again! OK, I was joking about Cheryl and the Molls(Deliberate mistake), but it is close.

Tuesday 23 February 2010

Looking at those seafront photos, how can you not want to restore this beauty? English tram fans, awake!! Who is that Cheryl Cole celeb type floozy, and the Pussycat Molls anyway?! 53 has more style!
Jim Guest of Portsmouth kindly sent these photos of 53 on Brighton seafront in the 80s, not much different from today, except for less rust!

Sunday 21 February 2010

Have worked on a constitution, and might have a membership secretary. Some authors of local transport history have been most helpful with publicity, and membership applications are beginning to roll in. If any of you are feeling bold, we now need a publicity officer, chiefly to handle a newsletter/magazine. Dare you put yourself forward?

Friday 19 February 2010

Nothing new to report, but waiting to hear from Crich and Brighton Council.Picture added of 53 on Brighton seafront in the 80s, courtesy of A. Piatt.

Tuesday 16 February 2010

Managed to get some flyer's round Hove, in the museum, library and Brighton and Hove buses! Also contacted some folks at Brighton council, so the publicity builds!

Sunday 14 February 2010

Had a fun day yesterday, handing out leaflets at the Brighton Model world. met a lot of nice people, and got some great pics of trams, including 53 at the depot, stripped and ready to be a shed! The pictures came from Dinnages of Sussex, who have an excellent collection of transport pics! Also had an e-mail from a contact at Brighton council, who was most helpful, so another line can be pursued for 53.
Do go to www.tramways-monthly.com, as I have dipped quill in ink for a quick article about 53.It is a free on-line mag, and is full of great tram articles. The editor works at Crich, and has promised to help to speed things up there, so more expert advice is available for the project.Don't forget, we are recruiting so e-mail us at tram53project@yahoo.com and get membership details. It all starts now!

Monday 8 February 2010

9.25pm, tired from work, but still musing about the wood used on 53. it might be English oak.Interesting point raised by Tony Funnell at the Bluebell yesterday, as it was the last tram, with the shadow of closure over the system, did they bother with quality wood for the tram? It has done a very good job so far, though! Got the book Tramshed to Go-ahead, very interesting read on the history of brighton transport.

Sunday 7 February 2010

Received scale plans of the fabled Brill 21E truck yesterday, though when I will need then will be a while! Have prepared flyers for the project, and they will be appearing at the Bton Modelworld, so keep an eye out for me! It is time for membership and funds..... Still waiting to hear from the Volks rail people and Crich.

Wednesday 27 January 2010

Met Rowan from the Bluebell carriage works today, a great guy and a very knowledgeable one. I had taken some photos , so he got some idea of 53's construction.He reckons it would be a teak frame. Rowan gave a very sobering account of what you need to do, including health and safety issues, and also the perils of poor preservation. I think cost wise between £15,000 to 20,000 for the body We also talked about where it would end up, and I am not sure about this.A very useful day.

Tuesday 26 January 2010

Just worked out the price for a new truck from Oz, £78,323.27, anyone?
Have got back in contact with the Bluebell, and will see the carriage works people tomorrow. Still waiting for Crich, and have designed a membership form, so join, if you dare! The next move is to start work on the shed to bring it up to scratch.

Thursday 21 January 2010

Late last night i was surfing the net for tram kits, yes, it's that bad, and found an Aussie tram trust that makes new Brill 21E Trucks! That would be very long term and I didn't work out the cost from Aussie dollars, but......tout est possible!

Tuesday 19 January 2010

I am now waiting to hear form the National tramway Museum at Crich for some idea of the construction of the body and frames, and also the choice of wood and joints.I want to make sure it is taken apart carefully! I did have an appointment with the Bluebell Railway Coach Dept, but due to the snow, will have to re-book. Watched a DVD called "No Trolleys to Aquarium", all about public transport in Brighton, which had the sad spectre of the Brighton trams being burnt, not a good sight! This is the last chance......

Sunday 17 January 2010

One of the most important steps has been agreed upon, where to restore the tram.The owner has agreed to extend the present shed it is in, and completely enclose it, power is next door and can easily be fitted to the shed, so that is a major stepping stone. One problem is finding the official plans, whether they survive in some dusty corner of the Council or elsewhere, I do not know, but it is the interior that is lacking in detail .There is one photo, but again, if you know of any others, please let me know.Please bear in mind it is the "F" class, though whether much altered between classes, I don't know!

Saturday 16 January 2010

This project has just got off the ground and a legion of tram heroes are being sought.If you want to help please contact me through this blog, or e-mail at tram53project@yahoo.com
Hello, welcome to the blog spot for the restoration of Brighton tramcar Number 53.This tram is the last of the eighty cars run by Brighton Corporation from 1901 to 1939.The aim of the project is to restore the body, add fittings and as a longer term aim, to re-mount on a truck.
The tram currently resides on a farm in Sussex, but now after many years neglect, a group is being formed to restore her glory!Follow the explosive epic here!