SUPERTRAM SERVICE SPREADS FESTIVE CHEER AS CONDUCTOR’S CHOIR SING ONBOARD FOR WESTON PARK CANCER CHARITY

Published 16 December 2024 at 1:46pm

On Saturday, December 14th, passengers aboard a Supertram service were treated to a heartwarming spectacle as the choir 'Glee Bah Gum' took to the tracks for a special carol singing fundraising event. The event, made possible with the help of Supertram conductor and choir member David Pering, brought festive joy and community spirit to the 14:19 service from Middlewood Park and Ride stop.

A group of 16 choir members serenaded passengers with a delightful mix of classic and modern Christmas carols on the service from Middlewood to Meadowhall, returning to Cathedral. All accompanied by David's skilled guitar playing! This unique event not only entertained passengers but also raised funds for the Weston Park Cancer Charity, a cause supported by both Supertram and Glee Bah Gum.

Ricky Petch, the choir director, spoke about the excitement of spending his first Christmas with the choir as director and the first supporting Weston Park Cancer Charity. Supertram proudly displays the charity's Westie mascot on their tram windows, symbolising their ongoing support and collaboration.

"Supertram plays a vital role in transporting many Weston Park Hospital cancer patients to and from the hospital," explained Ricky. "This partnership reflects our combined dedication to serving the community and supporting those in need."

David Pering, Supertram conductor and choir member said: "It was really lovely to sing carols and Christmas songs on the tram today. The best thing was to see so many tram passengers, singing along or swaying to the music."

The event showcased Supertram's commitment to the community and highlighted the talents and passions of its employees. Elsie Dineen, Marketing and Communications Officer at Supertram and organiser of the event expressed her pride on the day: "It's great to be able to give the staff who give so much of their time servicing passengers day-to-day, a platform to celebrate a different side that the public don’t see.

“This hopefully reminds everyone, especially during the busy Christmas period that our conductors, like everyone else, just want to enjoy the festive season and spread cheer.”

Cat Rhone, Deputy Chief Executive Officer of Weston Park Cancer Charity, said: “We’re very grateful to Supertram for organising such a festive day of fundraising onboard one of their trams!’

 “Supporters like Supertram help us to be there, at every step, for the one in two people in our region who will be diagnosed with cancer in their lifetime. We’re sure that passengers gave generously and enjoyed the dulcet tones of the ‘Glee Bah Gum’ choir!”

The carol singing event aboard Supertram not only filled the tram with festive music but also reinforced the strong bond between Supertram, its employees, and the community it serves. As the festive season continues, Supertram remains committed to supporting charitable causes and celebrating the talents within its team.