IT WAS a sight many people in Merseyside thought they would never see. Yesterday, a modern-day tram was spotted carrying dozens of passengers.
But enthusiasts needn't get excited, as it will only be staying till the end of the month.
And will go no further than a mile-long track in Birkenhead.
When the Liverpool-designed vehicle pulled out of the old tram sheds at Pacific Road Arts Centre, it became the first British privately-funded tram to be launched in 40 years.
It was developed by Gillmoss-based Trampower, whose technical director Professor Lewis Lesley spent more then 10 years designing something he says offers cities a viable alternative in public transport.
However, he couldn't convince Merseytravel, who opted for the Canadian Bombardier design for their own Merseytram project which is awaiting government approval.
Professor Lesley said: "I offered this design to Merseytravel but it was rejected. As a Liverpool-based company it would be fantastic to see it running on Merseyside. I think there is a strong case for a good tram system here.
"Unfortunately, there are always so many obstacles to overcome.
"We are trialling this tram in Birkenhead ahead of introducing it in Blackpool where we hope it will become the first of a large fleet of 85 to modernise their trams, many of which are around 70 years old.
"It is my 22-tonne baby which I have been working on developing since 1993."
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