THORN

Alpha 4

A classic lantern often seen on columns.

Manufacturer: Thorn Lighting

Model: Alpha 4

Mount: Column

Lamp: SOX/LPS

History & Background

The Thorn Alpha 4 was a very common sight on British and Irish roads from the 1960s right through to the 2000s! It was designed purely for SOX lamps and gave off the gold/orange glow that defined so many streets and main roads of the time. The Alpha 4 had a distinctive look and was often found lighting dual carriageways and major routes. They’ve mostly disappeared today but are now one of the classics of British and Irish streetlights.

My Observations

My town in Ireland used to be covered with these, but they've very swiftly been replaced by HPS/SON and LED fixtures. The pictures in the gallery are of the last ever Thorn Alpha 4 in my town and now, it has just been replaced by an LED! It's very sad to see them go and I've never got to see it turned on :(

Gallery

Click to enlarge.

Alpha 4 on column — This is the last one in my town.