Historic day for people of Rochdale

Finally arrives in Rochdale! The first Metrolink leaving Rochdale for Manchester via Oldham at 5.59am on Thursday 28 February 2013, and arriving at Victoria Railway Station at 6.50am

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Ghulam Rasul Shahzad OBE took a ride on the first Metrolink tram leaving Rochdale for Manchester via Oldham at 5.59am on Thursday 28 February 2013, and arriving at Victoria Railway Station at 6.50am.

He said: "It was a very positive feeling and experience on boarding the first Metrolink leaving Rochdale."

“I would like to congratulate our MPs, Councillors, GMPTE and all those who worked very hard, have been part of bringing Metrolink to Rochdale, those who supported and financed it, businessmen and businesswomen, drivers and the community who suffered losses and inconvenience for a long time for their patience for such a long time” says

"My friend Christine Mathewson and I decided to be part of the historical journey. We enjoyed our journey and spent some time in Manchester Market Street and the Piccadilly Railway Station where we had our breakfast.

“There were a lot of people and we could see excitement on their faces. They also waited for this historical moment and we had the opportunity to discuss the benefit to the community, businesses and employees who work in Oldham and Manchester. The feedback was very positive as they have waited for this moment for a long time. We whole heartedly support this positive project which will not only benefit the people of Rochdale but the Greater Manchester area.

“Linking the arrival of Metrolink with the other developments in the town e.g. New Council Offices, New Bus Station etc. and the extension of Metrolink to the Town Centre will have very positive impact on the people of Rochdale and particularly the businesses.

"We are very optimistic that it will bring more businesses and life back to Rochdale.”