The Charlatans' Tim Burgess will be Telling Stories on Metrolink

Charlatans' frontman Tim Burgess

Legendary Charlatans frontman, Tim Burgess is no stranger to hearing himself being played out over the airwaves - but this week he has made his debut on a different set of speakers, as the voice of Metrolink. 

From Monday 29 November, Metrolink passengers will have been able to hear Tim Tellin’ Stories and sharing Some Friendly news across the network. 

The iconic lead singer, DJ, solo artist and host of much-loved Twitter album listening parties has lent his voice to Metrolink as Greater Manchester prepares to welcome thousands of music fans to his Vinyl Adventures Record Fair on 5 December. 

Ahead of the record fair there will be a live gig close to a city centre Metrolink stop on the day of the record fair itself, with more details to follow. 

In the lead up to the event the Salford-born singer will also be revealing the secret locations of 500 lanyards offering free weekend tram travel which have been hidden across Greater Manchester. 

“I always fancied being a station announcer when I was a kid so a big thanks to Metrolink for making that dream come true,” said Tim. 

“We have a brilliant weekend lined up, with a Charlatans gig on the Saturday and Vinyl Adventures on the Sunday is going to be amazing with live sets, DJs, interviews, podcasts and more records than you can shake a stick at - and if you’re lucky enough to find a lanyard you can travel for free thanks to our friends at Metrolink.” 

Anyone planning to attend the event and travel by Metrolink, or any other form of public transport is reminded that face coverings are now a legal requirement for travel unless exempt.  

The Vinyl Adventures Record Fair is being held at multiple venues and shops in Greater Manchester, and as well as giving people the opportunity to get their hands on some new tunes, it’s a celebration of music and independent record stores.  

Shops taking part in the event - which will include gigs, podcasts, talks and much more - include Piccadilly Records, Mars Tapes, Vinyl Resting Place, Clampdown Records, Eastern Bloc Records Vinyl Revival, and Wax and Beans in Bury.  

Artists such as Pete Doherty, We Are Scientists, Badly Drawn Boy and the Lovely Eggs will be hosting their own stalls, while Clint Boon will be selling his vintage organ and synth collection. 

Manchester Piccadilly station will also be hosting three musical performances on Sunday, with Apollo Junction taking to the mezzanine at 11.30pm, followed by a very special guest at 12.45pm and Cold Water Swimmers at 1.30pm.

Danny Vaughan, head of Metrolink at Transport for Greater Manchester, said: “This year Tim Burgess’s Vinyl Adventure Record Fair is back, better than ever and we are delighted to support him. 

“It’s the only thing I know that’s definitely worth checking out this weekend. Whether you’re a vinyl hobbyist or just looking, it’s going to be a great experience for everyone.” 

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