Dogs on Trams: Yappy Days Indeed

Why dogs on Metrolink trams is a long time coming

For some people, the 1st August is Yorkshire Day, a celebration of all things to all Yorkshire folk. For example, its cultural tapestry, scenery and fine food. In Greater Manchester, it is observed by Saddleworth folk with festivals and white roses. It kicks off Saddleworth’s summertime events like the Rushcart Festival and (unofficially this year) the Yanks Weekend.

Defending our Station Ticket Offices

How closing all our station ticket offices will make train travel even less accessible

Manchester Victoria station, 4th June 1986

For a young lad raised on Thomas the Tank Engine and orange and white buses, there was nothing more exciting than travelling by train. Especially an InterCity one. Back in 1986, train journeys were a rare treat for me as we went everywhere by bus.

Our Big Fat ’80s Tameside Quiz: The Answers

Is your knowledge of the ’80s Tameside acceptable in the 2020s?

We’re probably running a bit late with this one: the answers to your Big Fat ’80s Tameside Quiz!

Besses Boys Band: Sunday Brass at the Boarshurst Band Club (17 July 2022)

Joyous finale to concert season at Boarshurst for James Holt and Co.

Besses Boys Band rounded off the 2021 – 22 season of Boarshurst concerts in style with a most likeable programme. Without being too demanding nor light hearted without being too light hearted, the programme included two great solos and an original piece. One that only had its second ever public performance.

In Pictures: Tameside Pride 2022

Glorious weather makes for successful post-lockdown Pride event

After two years of virtual events due to COVID, Tameside Pride returned to Cheethams Park today. Running from 12 midday till 5pm, it was a joyous afternoon with fairground rides, stalls and live music. There was also an appearance from Greater Manchester Police’s Police Community Support Officers.

Our Big Fat ’80s Tameside Quiz: Another Past of the M60 Special

Is your knowledge of the ’80s Tameside acceptable in the 2020s?

Following the success of our previous article, we have decided to follow this up with a quiz. This will test your knowledge on all things of a Tameside nature from the 1980s.

Fifteen Things You Could Do in 1980s Tameside That You Can’t Do Today

A Past of the M60 Special on the things we used to love doing in our borough back in the ’80s

42 years. 42 years ago at this time of writing was 1980. Thanks to Xanadu and Olivia Newton-John, ELO got its first and only Number One single in the UK. The 343 was extended north of Top Mossley to Oldham, taking over the 416 route. Tameside’s top football club was Mossley AFC, when Messrs Skeete, Moore and Smith made mincemeat of opposing defences. Back then, they went to Wembley and lost 2 – 1 to Dagenham in the F.A. Trophy Final.

Milnrow Band: Sunday Brass at the Boarshurst Band Club, 10th July 2022

Harmony Street’s finest on fire in outstanding concert

With the thermometer days away from reaching a record high temperature for 2022, the hottest ticket at Boarshurst was Milnrow Band’s concert. With a packed house, The Mecca of Brass Banding was entranced by Gareth Brindle’s band. Each and every piece was tighter than Scrooge on austerity measures and the programme was immensely enjoyable from start to finish.

Why Will Greater Manchester’s Buses Be Yellow and Black?

The significance of Transport for Greater Manchester’s chosen colour scheme

Once upon a time, you could tell a city or town bus by its colour scheme. Bury’s were in a lighter green than Stalybridge, Hyde, Mossley and Dukinfield Transport Board. Oldham meant maroon and cream, later Devon Cream and Pommard. As for London’s buses, you couldn’t imagine seeing them in blue instead of red.

Silk Brass: Sunday Brass at the Boarshurst Band Club (03 July 2022)

Stylish show makes for memorable night of music

Consistency runs through Silk Brass like ‘Blackpool’ does with a stick of rock. At each concert, Tony Wyatt and Co give their audience a merry dance, with a lively programme of classics and future classics. Last Sunday’s concert was no exception, as we had a welcome mix of music from 19th to 21st centuries.