Thorn EMI Alpha 9 90w SOX. Although now declining in numbers, this gearless version of the Alpha 9 is still the most common type of Alpha-9 to be found in the UK. This example came from Sutton in Ashfield, Notts, where until recent times many of these lanterns could be found; however, ongoing lighting renewal schemes have all but wiped out the type in the Town. Regardless of this many other examples of Alpha-9 installations can be found across other parts of Nottinghamshire, and indeed across the UK.

These lanterns are very simple in their design and construction, having no reflector plate above the lantern, or metal rim to secure the vacuum-formed bowl against the underside of the canopy. Access to the lantern is gained by releasing a large spring-clip under the rear of the lantern's canopy, which allows the plastic bowl to hinge downwards on its front mounted hinge.

The lantern in the collection is in very good condition, although it was stored for sometime before being acquired in August 2005. Fortunately, this Alpha 9 doesn't require much work to restore it to as-new condition, but a good clean up with soap and water wouldn't be a bad start! The lantern is currently in store and awaiting attention.

My thanks to the kind offices of Sutton in Ashfield District Council for saving this lantern for me.

A rather dusty looking Thorn Alpha-9 with Royce-Thompson S300 Photocell, seen perched on top of my car roof shortly after acquisition from Sutton in Ashfield District Council.

Still in service, a remote-geared Alpha-9 in Kimberley, Nottinghamshire inJuly 2005.

Here's some other 'Alpha' family lanterns to look at as comparisons:

• Alpha 9 Deep-bowl lantern
• Alpha-9 shallow bowled 'geared' lantern
• Alpha-5 135w SOX lantern