Unique Altrincham electric pair in new £40,000 appeal
A £40,000 appeal to complete the restoration of two unique Manchester South Junction & Altrincham Railway coaches has been launched.
The Altrincham Electric Railway Preservation Society is heading the appeal, which is rebuilding Metropolitan-Cammell coaches Nos. 117 and 121 at the Midland Railway – Butterley.
The society has completed the external restoration of MSJ&AR centre trailer car No. 117 as the latest stage in a project that has taken more than 40 years.
Now attention is again turning to No. 121. The coaches were introduced in 1931 to the pioneering 1500V DC Altrincham branch. Based on the LMS Type 1 design, teak framed and with metal side sheet panels, they gave 40 years of service until April 30, 1971.
The society secured their purchase from scrap dealer TW Ward of Swansea, and they began life in preservation at the Embsay & Bolton Abbey Railway before moving to their current home.
Funds were raised over many years to progress the external restoration of No. 117. The sight of this carriage coming out of the workshops after being fully repainted green by the Butterley DMU Group has promoted the project to the point where No. 121 has seen some initial work started.
Thanks to recent donations from readers and supporters, the required asbestos stabilization work has just been completed.
The AERPS now believes that
No. 121 could, in due course, be brought up to same level of external restoration as No. 117, thereby creating a unique two-coach LMStype compartment stock train for preserved line use.
Better condition
No. 121 has had little attention over the years but as a starting point is actually in better condition than the vehicle just completed. More internal components are present, and it is envisaged that a roof repair rather than replacement will be possible.
Window glass and other parts are held in stock, while the timber framing will need work and fresh external steel sheeting is required.
Both coaches need their internal compartments rebuilding, so the society is seeking sponsors on a compartment by compartment basis.
Society spokesman Nick Dodson said: “It is clear that over time more people are starting to appreciate these two unique survivors.
“The two vehicles represent an important part of electric railway and commuter history, and it is believed that they have a useful future ahead of them that is worth supporting.” ➜ To help the society progress its plans for the restoration of No. 121, donations are invited to Altrincham Electric Railway Preservation Society, c/o Mr Roger Morris, Restoration Officer, 38 Wolseley Road, Sale M33 7AU.