New Tram named after Nottingham's boxing hero

One of Nottinghams brand new trams has been named after local sporting hero and boxing world champion, Carl Froch.

The IBF and WBA World Super-Middleweight title-holder unveiled a nameplate on one of the citys new Citadis trams during a special ceremony at The Forest tram stop on Thursday, October 16.

Once the ceremony was complete, Carl travelled on his tram to the city centre where he was awarded Nottinghams highest honour during a glittering tribute to one of the citys most famous sons.

Whats more, a dozen lucky tram customers were given the chance to travel with Carl from The Forest to the Royal Concert Hall where he was awarded the title of Freeman of the City.

Jamie Swift, NET Marketing Manager, explained: To be in with a chance of winning this once in a lifetime opportunity to meet Carl and travel with him on the tram, all customers had to do was answer a simple question in our competition.

We then draw 12 winners from the correct entries and they were invited to join us for the naming ceremony before enjoying a VIP trip to the Royal Concert Hall for the evening celebrations. One of the winners was also presented with a boxing glove signed by Carl.

Originally from the Colwick area of Nottingham, the four times world champion still trains in Carlton and Jamie said the tram naming would be a lasting tribute to his achievements.

We are delighted Carl joined us for the naming ceremony and the tram that now carries his name will provide a constant reminder of the contribution he has made to his home city and the pride we have in his sporting achievements, Jamie said.

Carl said: I feel really proud to be recognised in this way, and travelling on a tram that carries my name was another highlight on a day that Im sure I will never forget.

The boxing superstar is the latest in a line of Nottingham personalities who have had trams named after them. Legendary characters and local heroes such as Robin Hood, Brian Clough, Torvill and Dean, and volunteer Homestart heroine Mavis Worthington have all had trams carry their name.

The first Citadis tram to enter service was named after Nottinghams nurse of the year, Julie Poulter, and in keeping with tradition there are plans to name all of the 22 new additions to the fleet over the coming months.

Councillor Jane Urquhart, Portfolio Holder for Planning and Transport at Nottingham City Council, commented: Nottingham is incredibly proud of Carls sporting achievements. He is a great ambassador for the city and I am delighted that we can pay tribute to his achievements by naming one of the new trams in his honour on the same day that Carl will be installed as a Freeman of the City.

Carl has joined a distinguished list of other Freeman of the City who also have had trams named in their honour including Carls own sporting hero and legendary Nottingham Forest Manager, Brian Clough. 

The 16th October was the citys opportunity to pay tribute to Carl and the many achievements and accolades he has achieved for himself and for his home city.