The rather functional bracket contrasts sharply with the elaborate appearance of the rest of the structure. The modern green gate to the left prevents access to the interior.

A Revo control gear box is bolted to the structure, with the bracket emerging from the top of this.

The lantern may have had an external bowl and refractor dome surrounding the lamp when new; however, if it did, both are now missing. The side-entry version of the Bell Top tended to be rarer than its top-entry equivalent.

Surprisingly, the gear box was unlocked, and I was able to reach up and open the door. A BILL fused isolator is located at the bottom, with a Venner time switch (installed sideways-on to save space) positioned above. A Revo-branded Philips ballast is located at the top, while a large capacitor (which may be leaking electrolyte, judging by the dark ends to the casing) is sandwiched below. A Revo two-prong bolt passes through the fixed part of the box.

The lower enclosure, housing the supply cable termination, is made by Franco - the forerunner to the Road Signs Franco, Signature and Mallatite sign companies.

The lantern's manufacturer is cast into the other side of the canopy.

This plaque attached to the structure explains its significance.

See also Great Barr Street, Digbeth.

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