The 5th Birthday Party held for Nottingham Express Transit in Old Market Square on Monday 9th March has been declared a success with a new world record set for the most high fives within an hour by one person – 413 people gave Des Coleman from the BBC a high five, beating the record by five.
As well as the high five record there were performances from local gymnasts, the Flying Angels and county champion cheerleaders from Chilwell School. Raffle prizes were also given away to see West Side Story and Riverdance at the Royal Centre and to watch a Nottingham Rugby match.
Following the public celebrations, many people and businesses involved in helping to make the tram a success gathered in the Council House for speeches by several key guests including the Chairman of Arrow, Mark Fowles. A specially created birthday cake in the shape of a tram was cut by the Mayor of Nottingham and the video created by Diploma students was also screened.
Geoff Hoon, Secretary of State for Transport, was unable to attend the event but sent his congratulations: “Congratulations to NET Line One on its fifth anniversary. In addition to providing many people with excellent transport links, the tram has opened up a huge number of opportunities for business growth and economic regeneration. When visiting Nottingham, I have travelled on the tram many times. It is easy to use, punctual and very convenient. NET Line One is regarded highly both in this country and abroad."
Source: Nottingham Express Transit & This is Nottingham