croydontrams

Croydon

I was very impressed with the Tramlink system, apart from the erratic service being provided on the day I visited. I understand that this was due to a carnival or festival taking place in Croydon that day. The off car ticketing seemed somewhat elaborate, and there was some confusion about which Travelcards were valid on the system. In several hours of riding the system I never saw a ticket inspector, which worries me somewhat. I recall the early days of the Manchester and Sheffield systems when the trams were seemingly awash with inspectors. I find it odd that the experience of Sheffield, where the introduction of conductors lead to increased revenue and passenger numbers has not been noted and copied anywhere else. From a photographic point of view, the Croydon trams were so bright and shiny that some reflective glare was experienced occasionally. They look very impressive, however, so long may they continue to be clean and shiny. I can't believe I haven't been back since.

Croydon Tramlink 2534 leaving East Croydon Station heading towards West Croydon on 1st July 2000.

Croydon Tramlink 2536 at East Croydon Station on a journey to West Croydon and WImbledon, 1st July 2000.

Croydon Tramlink 2538 in George Street, 1st July 2000, blinds already set for the journey round the loop and back to Beckenham Junction.

Croydon Tramlink 2539 speeding along George Street across the end of Wellesley Road on 1st July on route 1 to Wimbledon.

Number 2540 in George Street on 1st July on its way round the one way system to West Croydon and then New Addington.

Croydon Tramlink 2550 at Elmers End Station on 1st July, displaying corporate First Group livery instead of the rather more sedate standard red and white.

The rear end of no. 2550 later in the day, diving down Crown Hill in the centre of Croydon. The barriers are something to do with the Croydon Carnival, or some such festival.

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