Metrolink 3098 named Gracie Fields

Throughout their history the original T68 trams on Manchester Metrolink all (eventually) received a name even if this was just as a form of advertising. However since their introduction the M5000s have not been so lucky with only two having previously received names. However that has now changed with 3098 being named Gracie Fields to celebrate the Rochdale born superstar as part of celebrations being planned in September as a new statue is unveiled in her home town.

The only other M5000s to have been named are 3009 (Coronation Street 50th Anniversary 1960-2010) and 3020 (Lancashire Fusilier) with 3098 being the first to be named after an individual. Rochdale Borough Council Leader, Cllr Richard Farnell, commented: “When Gracie was growing up in Rochdale in the early part of the last century, trams were the main mode of public transport. It’s fitting therefore that the world’s most famous entertainer of the 1930s and 40s should now be honoured by naming a modern tram of the 21st century after our singing superstar.”

3098 will not be limited to running through to Rochdale and will be able to seen across the network on those lines already fitted with TMS.

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1 Response to Metrolink 3098 named Gracie Fields

  1. Erik Ickerbobs says:

    Northern Rail 156466 was also named Gracie Fields on the last day of the Oldham Loop before converting it to tram.

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