Miniature

THE 7¼in gauge Wootton Electric Tramway was created by Howard C. Burford and ran in his Isle of Wight garden for nearly 40 years.

Howard claimed it was unique ‘in the Northern Hemisphere’, being the only known tramway of this gauge powered through an overhead wire. It was also operated as a portable line visiting local events and many sites on the mainland, such as London Transport Acton Depot and Crich. All was conveyed by Land Rover and a specially adapted caravan, but later, a much converted Bedford VAL single-deck bus, including family accommodation.

Howard died on January 4 aged 90. He had been unwell for the last couple of years and made provision for the tramway, including cars Nos. 27 and 96, to be donated to the Heaton Park Tramway Museum, Manchester.

This includes the caravan as the tramway will be taken to events publicising the museum. The equipment is currently in storage.

PETER NICHOLSON Howard Burford driving tram No. 96 on the Wootton Electric Tramway garden line. Power, at 40V, was supplied by an overhead wire, the current passing through on-board batteries. These could be charged, as well as ensuring direct supply to the motor was constant. The traction standard and stop sign is portable, as this section of track was taken to events as required.

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