BCIMO 'Family Day' draws over 550 visitors and raises £8,000 for charity

UKTram member, the Black Country Innovative Manufacturing Organisation (BCIMO), recently hosted its first-ever Family Day, bringing together over 550 visitors from the local community, rail industry and beyond.

Held at the Very Light Rail National Innovation Centre in Dudley, the event marked the 200th anniversary of the modern railway with a vibrant celebration of heritage, innovation and community.

The event offered a packed programme of activities to mark the 200th anniversary of the modern railway. Guests were treated to live demonstrations, interactive zones, classic fairground rides and an exclusive ride on the Coventry Very Light Rail (CVLR) vehicle, with over 400 people experiencing the full test track and tunnel in a first-of-its-kind preview.

Visitors also had the chance to board Tram 16 – the last of the Midland Metro T69 fleet – which was donated to BCIMO by UKTram. Now repurposed as a test vehicle, Tram 16 featured as part of the event’s innovation showcase, supported by former West Midlands Metro drivers and partners Grinsty Rail.

Alongside live music, presentations and community engagement, the event successfully raised over £8,000 for five charities: The Kaleidoscope Plus Group, Railway Benefit Fund, 4Louis, Railway Children, and Young Lives vs. Cancer.

The event is a fantastic example of how centres like BCIMO are creating meaningful connections between innovation and the wider public and how, together, we can celebrate the sector’s achievements while supporting local causes.

Read BCIMO's full feature article here.