British Trams Online News

Manchester Metrolink T68A 2003 has become the latest tram on the system to receive a name following the application of “Dave Hansford” vinyls. Dave is one of the longest serving drivers on Metrolink and has recently retired. He first became a member of staff before the system opened in 1992 and held a number of operations positions but in recent years he had reverted to full-time driving. It is hoped that the name will remain in situ until 2003 is withdrawn from service which it is now thought will be towards the end of this year.

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Thursday 1 August saw further problems for Manchester Metrolink with a car colliding with a tram on Mosley Street in the morning and then during the evening an overhead line problem on the Bury line.

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A pensioner has tragically died after being hit by a tram at Freehold stop on the Rochdale line of Manchester Metrolink. The incident happened at approximately 1700 on Wednesday 31 July and according to reports the man walked from the platform into the path of a tram arriving at the stop. Despite the efforts of the emergency services, who were on the scene quickly, the man passed away at the scene. Metrolink services were suspended until 1930 when the Police gave permission for normal operations to resume. The driver of the tram is being offered counselling.

With a Test Match taking place at Old Trafford and a SkyRide cycling event in Manchester city centre this weekend sees a break from major route closures on Metrolink although there will be a temporary closure between Altrincham and Timperley. This will see no trams run between these two stops until 0830 on Sunday 4 August with a replacement bus service in operation instead. Normal services will resume from 0830 for the remainder of the day.