Dick, Kerr & Co. of Preston were developing an overhead high voltage system for
an overseas customer and asked the LYR for permission to run trials on one of their
lines. The LYR agreed to the use of the short branch from Bury to Holcombe Brook
and the installation was carried out with all costs being met by Dick Kerr.
The system was powered by overhead transmission of 3500 volts dc with power
taken from the local electricity supplier. Two trains each consisting of a motor car
and trailer operated the service. Pantographs on the motor car supplied four 1750
volt 250hp motors. After three years service the equipment was sold to the LYR. In
1917 it was decided to change the system to third rail to bring it into line with the
recently (1916) electrified Manchester - Bury service. The trains were not converted
and after meny years storage were used by the LMS for diesel railcar experiments.
One of the two 2-car sets built for the experimental overhead system
used on the Holcombe Brook branch.
