Representatives from across the light rail heritage sector have been discussing the challenges faced by organisations preserving the country’s rich tramway history.

Led by its chairman Geoffrey Claydon, The UKTram Heritage Committee met online this week to discuss the impact of the ongoing coronavirus restrictions.

James Hammett, Managing Director of UK Tram, explained that, since the committee last met in in February, 2020, the organisation’s main focus has been centred around offering support to the industry through some very challenging times.

Mr Claydon also thanked all individuals who had helped the sector through the past year, including Steve Oates, Heritage Railway Association CEO while Jamie Swift, UKTram Marketing and Commercial Manager pledged to continue providing advice and assistance in areas including customer services, marketing, ticket sales and websites.

The meeting also included a presentation on a new hazard perception tool that’s being developed by Ian Rowe Associates on behalf of UKTram while other hot topics of discussion included new legislation that will allow volunteers under the age of 16 to work on heritage systems. Due to current circumstances, the legislation’s progress through Parliament has been subject to further delays.

The next meeting of the Heritage Committee is set to take place in June and with further details to be confirmed.