Metrolink supporting Poppy Appeal

TfGM Committee Vice Chair Councillor Doreen Dickinson launches the Poppy Tram with members of the Lancashire Fusiliers

A special poppy tram will run on the Metrolink network in Greater Manchester in coming weeks as part of the Armistice Day commemorations today (Sunday 10 November).

Tram 3020 – a new generation M5000 tram named the ‘Lancashire Fusilier’ after the historic regiment – has been decorated to raise awareness of the Royal British Legion’s annual appeal.

The Railway Chaplain conducted a special commemorative service at the St Peter’s Square stop as the poppy tram was launched on the network.

Councillor Doreen Dickinson, Vice Chairwoman of the Transport for Greater Manchester Committee, said: “We have a strong tradition of support for both the poppy appeal and the Lancashire Fusiliers.

“This is the sixth consecutive year a poppy tram has run across the Metrolink network, and it no doubt reminds thousands of people of the appeal.

“I hope it prompts people to spare a few moments to reflect on the work of our Armed Forces, past and present, and their families and friends.”

Tram 3020 was named after the Lancashire Fusiliers earlier this year after a long-standing older vehicle of the same name was retired from passenger service.

The Lancashire Fusiliers were formed on 5 November 1688 and have been involved in the American War of Independence, the Napoleonic Wars and both World Wars.

They were originally called the 20th Foot and changed their name to the 20th Lancashire Fusiliers on 1 July 1881. They merged with three other regiments in 1968 to form the Royal Regiment of Fusiliers.

Tony Dale, who works for Metrolink, was a member of the Fusiliers from 1975 to 1987. He said: “This is the sixth year of poppy presentation on the tram and we are proud to be able to support the poppy appeal.

“We must remember that it is not only physical injuries that the armed forces may receive in battle, but a lot of the mental problems that soldiers may incur during and after campaigns.

“The Royal Regiment of Fusiliers’ “Six VC's before breakfast” are well known for heroic deeds as with all armed forces. The Lancashire Fusilier tram and Fusilier family are proud of their reputations and are fully supported by Transport for Greater Manchester and Metrolink.”

On Sunday 10 November, there will be changes to some Metrolink services while Remembrance Day commemorations take place. Passengers can check the Metrolink website (www.metrolink.com) for more information.

A motion passed by the TfGM Committee earlier this year followed “the Association of Greater Manchester Authorities and individual Greater Manchester local authorities in lending its full backing to the campaign urging the Ministry of Defence and the Chief of the General Staff to reconsider their plans to disband Royal Regiment of Fusiliers.”