The London United Tramways Type 'W' 159

LUT begun electric operation in West London in1901 with a large fleet of open top, short canopy, double deck bogie cars with seating for 69 passengers.  All were built to a similar style although they came from three different builders.  The most noticeable features were the Robinson staircases, each being two short and straight sections at 180 degrees to each other with a 'landing' between.  Body construction included 6 Tudor arch windows per side, and a monitor roof with coloured glass lights, some of which survive.  The lower saloon of LUT car 159 was discovered at Ewhurst Green, Surrey in 1978 serving along with two others as living accommodation. it was recovered and put into storage in Derbyshire to await its turn in the queue.  It is a Type W car built in 1902 by G.F. Milnes of Hadley.  It is to be restored to original condition, and a start has already been made with a new trolley mast having been constructed.  Also a pair of Brill 22E bogies and various items of electrical and mechanical equipment have been acquired.  As there is no tram that combines all the features of a Type 'W' in the N.T.M collection and none at all with Robinson stairs, this particular restoration will be a very welcome addition to the museums operating fleet.