Bernard Wickham Type 4 prototype trolley, works no 11717, The AddickThis vehicle, which was built as late as 1976 for stock and as a demonstrator, has a somewhat unusual history and is probably the vehicle on the SDR that has had the least use. It appears it may have had been destined for export to Indonesia. It never got there but was discovered in 1989 sitting adjacent to the car park at the Wickham factory in Ware, abandoned and unused. A phone call and exchange of letters resulted in it being purchased by members of the London & Home Counties Group of the South Devon Railway Association. The trolley has an 8hp engine built by Bernard Moteurs of France. It never had a roof, comprising just a basic floor and bench to sit on - obviously designed for warmer climes. After purchase, it was nicknamed the 'Bernard Wickham'. As a temporary measure, it was taken to a member's house in Kent for storage prior to restoration. Unfortunately, it stayed there for nearly 20 years before the decision was taken to put it under cover to prevent further deterioration - a tree was by this time growing through its frames - which is how it ended up in the garage of another member, this time close to the Norfolk Broads. At least it was dry. Doing an internet search, retired banker Bernard Wickham discovered his namesake and, to cut a long story short, very kindly donated the money to restore it to working order. Bernard is chairman of the Charlton Athletic FC former players club, so the trolley is finished in CAFC's red colours and is named The Addick, the name given to Charlton fans! Click here for an article on the Bernard Wickham's history. Back to Wickham Trolleys Back to Rolling Stock |
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