Bridge finally disappears
Reporter: KAREN DOHERTY
Date published: 24 January 2011
Photo: Pictures VINCENT BROWN and CHRIS SUNDERLAND
BULLDOZERS move in to start dismantling the bridge.
IT’S going, going, gone as the last part of the historic mumps bridge is demolished.
Around 40 people turned up to witness the south section of the bridge being removed by cranes on Saturday afternoon.
They filmed the occasion and took photographs at it was hoisted into the air in just a matter of minutes — signalling the end of a proud symbol of Oldham’s industrial heritage.
And in the end there was no applause or special ceremony to mark what for many is a sad loss. Instead, the mood reflected the chilly, winter weather as people mourned the loss of the landmark but looked forward to the future
The north bridge was removed in August as part of work on the Metrolink extension from Manchester to Oldham and Rochdale which will open later this year.
Trams will run at ground level and a further extension into the town centre will be completed in 2014.
Peter Robinson (46) from Clarksfield watched the final moments of the railway bridge with his 10-year-old daughter, Gabrielle.
He said: “It is a sad loss, it is part of Oldham’s history. I am not right impressed with the trams, I am a train person, but times change. It is a good thing for the town because it will get more people in, providing they get the links right.”
Gabrielle added: “It is exciting to watch it. It was good when we used to go across the bridge on the train to Blackpool and Manchester with my mum.”
Tony Doyle (51) travelled from Sheffield for the event and said: “Sheffield is famous for its steel, the amazing steel which made this part of Oldham’s history. It’s a very sad occasion.”
And fiance Karen Ford (27) who was born in Oldham added: “I am sad, very sad. I have known the bridge for ever — it is going to seem very strange not to see it.”
Amateur photographer Paul Barnett (47) from Hathershaw was among those who recorded the moment and explained: “I am sad really. It is a big Oldham landmark and I have always known the area as Mumps roundabout.
“It is good the trams are coming, we need a decent transport system to Manchester and other places.”
SIGNED prints from a watercolour of Mumps Bridge painted by Saddleworth artist David Ford are on sale for £20 in aid of Dr Kershaw’s Hospice, Royton.
Ring David on 01457-875239 or Dr Kershaw’s appeals office on 0161-624 9984 for details.
