Some of the Crich Tramway Village volunteers, who also work at Nottingham Express Transit (NET) have raised funds for two charities.
A special trip to NET was advertised at £30 per ticket and included a behind-the-scenes tour of the Wilkinson Street depot and trip on a special tram, designated to run on sections of the track not normally experienced during daily trips.
The idea was suggested by Daniel Patterson, and his team of helpers for the event included Sam Burton-Smith, Nathan Spearing and Niall Dorsett.
Photograph above shows left to right: Sam Burton-Smith, Niall Dorset, Nathan Spearing and Daniel Patterson.
Around 40 people signed up, in the knowledge that money raised would benefit local charities.
£1,200 was raised and was then matched by NET operators Keolis. The £2,400 total is to be shared between Forever Stars, and Crich Tramway Village.
Daniel commented: “For many enthusiasts, the chance to ride a tram on sections of the track that are only used for turning or service access can be a really exciting prospect.”
“Of course, a guided tour of the depot was also a huge draw and we were delighted at the number of people who bought tickets, and everyone who took part really enjoyed this unique experience.”
Jo Sharp, from Forever Stars, an East Midlands charity supporting the bereaved parents of stillborn babies, and Amanda Blair, Marketing Manager at Crich Tramway Village, visited the depot to collect the money raised.
Photograph above shows left to right: Nathan Spearing; Amanda Blair; Jo Sharp and Daniel Patterson.
Jo Sharp of Forever Stars commented: “It’s always fantastic to receive local support, and this was made even greater by the fund matching from NET, which has always been a great corporate supporter of Forever Stars. These funds will make a huge difference to the work Forever Stars can carry out.
Amanda Blair, Marketing and Business Development Manager at Crich Tramway Village, added: “We’re extremely grateful to Dan and all those who helped to organise the day out. We also appreciate the support and matched contribution from NET.
“It’s fantastic that young tram drivers from NET are also volunteers at Crich Tramway Village, as they bring energy, enthusiasm and skills which help us to best serve our visitors.”