Photo © Paul Haywood. Please do not re-post without permission.

In 2002, Blackpool 718 (formerly 255) became the third of four Balloon cars to be heavily rebuilt between 1998 and 2004 - all unsurprisingly nicknamed "Millennium" cars.

In 2010/11 all four cars were modified to became part of the "B" fleet, intended to supplement the soon-to-enter-service light rail vehicles at busy periods. They were fitted with these distinctive power-operated sliding doors designed to allow easier step-less access at light rail platforms, instead of the traditional kerb height tram stop loading.
It soon became evident that the light rail vehicles could easily cope with all traffic conditions, so the "B" fleet cars became redundant. In recent years, some have since become part of the Heritage "C" fleet for use on Promenade and Coastal Tours during summer weekends. Thankfully, unlike many of its contemporaries of old, 718 lost its garish all-over advertising and now wears this smart green and cream livery.

Photo taken by Paul Haywood, Sunday 27 June 2021, North Pier, Blackpool

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