Back to the Future !
Not quite with a DeLorean but travelling along Blackpool promenade on Sunday one could see (and ride on) a 1970s Blackpool Corporation green and cream Atlantean and have the choice of a green and cream Balloon car or Standard 147.
This was the final day of the Catch22 Bus Service 12 which on Sundays runs as far as the Cabin (although the indicator shows 'Gynn Square') and there was little hesitation in 'catching a ride' on Atlantean 334. The Heritage trams were both double deckers capturing the remnants of riders on the 2015 Season and the tailend of the October Half Term School Break which has become one of the busiest periods in Blackpool's calendar. Below : Former BCT 334 looms out of the dullness heading for Gynn Square.


Taking a moment's break on Calton Gate before heading back to the Promenade and another journey to the Pleasure Beach. Classic scene from 1970s Blackpool.
Where else in Britain can one see both vintage buses and trams in regular service? London of course has its open platform Routemasters specially retained on two or three services - to keep the tourists happy. But Blackpool has both buses and trams in proud municipal green and cream for the same purpose.
No doubt 2016 will throw up some equally compelling heritage rides but everyone with interest in old buses and trams should be well satisfied with the complement of vehicles running around Blackpool this year. Even Stagecoach got in on the act with a splendidly repainted bus in traditional Ribble MS cherry red and cream on the Preston to Blackpool service.

Standard 147 lightly loaded on Sunday afternoon passes an iconic building.
Well done to all the operators. Images : John Woodman