Memorial is unveiled to historic Wisbech to Upwell tram line
Despite a deluge of rain crowds still turned out for the official unveiling of the new Wisbech to Upwell Tram Memorial.
An enthusiastic, if extremely damp, crowd witnessed the long-awaited unveiling of the memorial outside the health centre at Townley Close - the site of the former Upwell depot.
The honour of revealing the memorial was awarded to ninety-year old Mary Williamson whose husband, Bill, was manager until 1974 of Coote and Warren Ltd coal merchants, who had a branch at the depot.
“I am really delighted to be here and to be part of this” said Mary, “I vividly remember always being anxious when Ted, the shunter, squeezed between the huge, heavy trucks to do the uncoupling and how I was so relieved that he came out again without being crushed!”
To mark the event members of Upwell St Peter's church assisted Bill Smith, Wisbech to Upwell Tram project leader, arranged a display of tram photographs and other memorabilia and also helped supply home-made cakes, tea and coffee. Welle Film Productions – a local community film-making group - also captured footage of the whole event and will release a film later in the year.
“Everyone that came along told me how delighted they were with SDM Fabrication and their staff for producing such a superb tram memorial” said Bill, “people locally certainly have an excellent reminder of the tram’s history, that they, and visitors, can enjoy for generations.”
This event was made possible through public donations, grant funding from West Norfolk borough council's Small Grant Scheme administered by Norfolk Community Foundation, support from SDM Fabrication and the hard work of members of the local community.
For the future, the project team is aiming to produce bespoke installations along the entire tram route involving contributions from Wisbech, Elm, Emneth and Outwell. Donations are welcome and cheques can be sent to: Allan Gullon, Well Creek Trust treasurer. Sylvia House Thurlands Drove Upwell Wisbech Cambs PE14 9AP.
