BLACKPOOL, the only town in Britain to have kept its trams since Victorian times, prepares to celebrate a tramway centenary this summer.

From June 28 to July 19 a host of events will commemorate the first ever tram journey from Blackpool to Fleetwood on July 1, 1898.

The climax will be a Centenary Day grand cavalcade with vintage trams from every decade of this century taking passengers along the seafront.

As cities like Manchester and Sheffield re-introduce trams as modern 'people-movers', Blackpool's continuous allegiance to the tramcar is a mark of distinction.

Michael Morton, of Blackpool Transport Services, said: "We've had inquiries from all over Europe, both from tram enthusiasts and others who have found out about the centenary through the transport press.

"But the celebrations are aimed at everyone, not just diehard tram fans - it will be fun for all."

Centenary events will start with an open day at the Rigby Road tram depot on June 28, with veteran vehicles, model trams, memorabilia and a 'pull a tram' contest for Imperial Cancer Research.

On July 1, the first trip to Fleetwood will be re-created with a vintage tram carrying civic dignitaries from North Pier to the port.

On July 11 and 12, Fleetwood Leisure Centre hosts a festival of model tramways.

And the grand cavalcade of historic trams sets off from the Pleasure Beach at 11am on July 12, trundling along the seafront in fine style.

Tickets are £9.50. That evening Fylde Tramway Society hosts a film show at the Savoy Hotel.

On July 13, comes a Lytham Buses Antiques Roadshow, with trips on vintage buses including a tour to a country pub.

Vintage tram services follow every day until July 18, culminating in Fleetwood Tram Sunday on July 19.

Information and tickets are available from the Commerical Manager, Blackpool Transport, Rigby Road, Blackpool FY1 5DD, tel 473001.

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