Olympian Departs

Volvo Olympian 377 has departed for pastures new - here is seen in Line 11 colours back in 2004 (Brian Turner)

Blackpool Transport Volvo Olympian 377 was collected by the North East Electrical Traction Trust on Sunday 25th October and driven to their Sunderland base, where it rejoins some former Blackpool trams at the North England Land Air and Sea Museums. It is proposed to restore it to green and cream.

377 entered service in November 1994 in green and cream initially on the 6, but soon moved onto the 22/22A. In 2001 it was allocated to route 14 as part of the new Metro network but was switched to Line 11 in April 2002 after a repaint into turquoise and yellow. It was repainted pool black/yellow in March/April 2005. In September 2011 it was repainted into the revised black and yellow livery then went to Bus and Coach World, Blackburn, for fitting with seat belts for a school baths contract. It was withdrawn after service on the farewell event on 23 July finishing with the 1800 Fleetwood to Starr Gate.

Preserved Pair at Rigby Road, 377 about to depart for its new home, while 362 returns to its hold home for use on the free bus service as part of the Anniversary Weekend (Paul Turner)