Correspondence.
Page 17
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Wagon Repairs.
The Editor, "THE COMMERCIAL MOTOR."
Sir,—Referring to the letter signed "Stand By" in the issue of June 29th, we beg to point out that this company is always prepared to do repairs to steam wagons at reasonable prices. We are also prepared for breakdowns, as we are open all night, and have always a motor ready to "tow home." Permit us this opportunity of congratulating you upon the production of the "COMMERCIAL MOTOR." —Yours faithfully, PROVINCIAL CARRIERS, LTD. 45, Horseferry Road,
London, S.W.
Electric Trains v. Motor Buses at Hastings.
The Editor, ‘• THE COMMERCIAL MOTOR."
Sir,-1 am very much interested in the above question, and I thought a few facts about the same, in addition to those in your most excellent paper, might be of sefvice to you.
In 1699 the Bill was passed for the running of electric trams in Hastings and the vicinity. The Bill allowed lines to be laid for a circular route from the Memorial through Ore, Baldslow, Hollington, and Silverhill back to Memorial, and from W. Marina to Bexhill and Kewhurst. In 19o2 work had not been commenced, and the tramway company brought in a Bill for laying a track along the front. This was thrown out and presented again in 1903. At this time the first motor bus appeared on the scene, and had it not been for tyre troubles, which necessitated it running on iron tyres for one week, soon after starting, the Bill would probably have been thrown out again.
The above bus was delivered in February, 1903, and since then others have followed at the following times :--June, 1903; January, 1904 (2); March, 1904; April, 1904; June, roo4 ; July, 1904; September, 1904 (2); November, 1904; and March, 1905; and three more are expected now. ft is intended to ultimately run a 3min. or 5min, service along the sea front.
The tramway company only started their work in November, 1904, and expect to have everything ready by July; judging by the state of things at present this is impossible. The trains cannot possible pay here. To those who wish to set up a motor bus service Bexhill affords a splendid opening.—Yours truly, Pao-Bus. Marina, Hastings.
Payments for Licenses.
The Editor, "THE COMMERCIAL MOTOR."
Dear Sir,—Will you kindly tell me what license—and its cost—is required for a steam trolley to carry five tons, with trailer to carry three tons; also for a petrol van to carry two or two-and-a-half tons? Are the licenses issued by the county councils, and are there any restrictions as to travelling at night beyond the usual carrying of lights?
I shall be much obliged if you will kindly answer these questions, as I have some idea of putting a machine or two on the road. Enquiry relates to Kent (East). 1 have been much interested in your valuable little paper, which should have a prosperous and useful career.—Yours faithfully, G. B. BAYLEY. lo, Elgin Road, Croydon.
[No excise license is required in respect of a motor vehicle used exclusively for trade purposes or goods haulage, provided the vehicle bears the full name and address of the owner in letters not less than one inch deep and of a colour properly distinguishable from the background upon which they are painted. Any driver must obtain a motorcar license, which is issued on application to any registration authority on payment of 5s., and each vehicle must be registered under the Motorcar Acts at a cost of a single payment of „4":r. There are no restrictions as to travelling at night beyond the requirements for lighting the vehicle and carrying a red light behind. The makers always deliver motor vehicles with brackets and lamps in suitable positions. We shall be happy to answer any further questions which may arise over the project you have in hand. ED.]