We reach the halfway stage of the alphabet in this series today with the letter M in focus.
After a few letters where it was a case of what we would choose we return to the more predictable with Manchester Metrolink chosen for the letter M. Opening in 1992, Manchester Metrolink has become the UK’s largest and most comprehensive tram system with regular extensions opening. The network now runs to Altrincham, Ashton-under-Lyne. Bury, East Didsbury, Eccles, Manchester Airport, MediaCityUK, Rochdale and most recently The Trafford Centre. Originally operated by a fleet of T68 trams, the network is now run by 147 Bombardier designed M5000s.
For a period the T68/T68A trams ran alongside the M5000s and its during that time that this photo was taken outside the steps to what is now Manchester Central with the Midland Hotel in the background. The T68A on the left is 2002 with the then new M5000 being 3012 which is off to Eccles. (Photograph by Gareth Prior, 3rd May 2011)