UKTram Remembers Geoffrey Claydon (1930–2025)

UKTram is deeply saddened to learn of the passing of Geoffrey Claydon, a remarkable figure in the light rail community whose dedication, influence and generosity of spirit have left a lasting mark on the sector. 

Geoffrey was born in Birmingham in 1930 and first fell in love with trams in 1939, when he used to visit his aunt in Wednesbury by tram.

From a young age he was determined to spend the rest of his life in support of trams. In 1944, he joined what is now the Light Rail Transit Association and began serving the body as Chairman, President and Patron.

Geoffrey was also an early member of the Tramway Museum Society, which operates the National Tramway Museum at Crich, serving for many years as Secretary and later as President.  For nearly five decades he considered himself as an enthusiastic amateur in the rail world, pursuing a distinguished career as a lawyer in the civil service that saw him rise to the position of Principal Treasury Solicitor and Legal Adviser, Department of Energy. 

As the founding Chair of the UKTram Heritage Group, he held the position with passion and commitment from its inception until his retirement in 2022. His contribution to tramway preservation, sector collaboration and legislative progress cannot be overstated.  

A distinguished lawyer in the civil service, Geoffrey brought together his professional expertise and lifelong enthusiasm for trams in the early 1990s when he accepted a project to modernise railway and tramway legislation. This work laid the foundation for the development of modern light rail networks in the UK, ensuring they were built on clear, workable legal frameworks. 

Beyond his many achievements, Geoffrey was a mentor and advocate for many in the sector, including UKTram Managing Director James Hammett, who paid a personal tribute: 

“Having had the pleasure of being taken under Geoffrey’s wing, I owe a huge part of my own development and that of the sector to him. Geoffrey was one of my key mentors from a young age. We have lost not only a true gentleman, but one of the biggest advocates and influencers our sector has ever known.”  

Even in retirement, Geoffrey remained an active voice for the heritage community and continued to offer insight, wisdom and encouragement to his peers. His passion for preserving the legacy of tramways while supporting the evolution of the sector was unique and inspirational. 

UKTram and its members extend heartfelt condolences to Geoffrey’s family, friends and colleagues. His legacy will continue to guide and inspire generations to come.