Pete Waterman relaunches Heaton Park tramway
POP impresario legend and transport enthusiast Pete Waterman formally launched the first Heaton Park tram back into operation in front of delighted guests and members at a reopening ceremony on Saturday, June 5.
At the same time the tramway society celebrated being awarded the Queens Award for Voluntary Service, the highest award that can be given to a voluntary group.
Manchester Tramway Museum Company chairman Keith Whitmore said: “We are over the moon that once again everyone can see and ride on our trams in the park after the longest period that a tram has not been seen running up and down the line.
“During this lean period, volunteers have been tireless in getting the tramway ready for operation again, with much sweat and – at times – tears to ensure we achieved our trams being up and running for the summer.
Queen's Award
“As a double celebration, in recognition of the work our members undertake to give so much pleasure to so many, the Manchester Transport Museum Society has been awarded the equivalent of an OBE.
“Just days before reopening, it was announced that we had been awarded the Queens Award for Voluntary Service.
“Our members will be able to wear their badges with pride in recognition of the hours they put into giving pleasure to so many.”
The first service on reopening day was operated by Stockport tram No. 5 following a seven-year overhaul. To add to the occasion, buses operated from the Greater Manchester Museum of Transport on its first day of opening, as well as a vintage Stockport bus lining up with the tram.
Mr Waterman said he was delighted to support the tramway and thanked the volunteers for ensuring a fantastic first day of operation this year.
The popular tramway will operate every weekend during the summer.