Nottingham Tram Seeks City's Unsung Heroes for 2026 Honor

Imagine seeing your neighbor's name rolling through the city streets next to legends like Torvill and Dean. That's exactly what Nottingham Express Transit wants to make happen.

NET is calling on residents to nominate their community heroes for a special honor in 2026. The winner will have their name displayed on a dedicated tram for an entire year, joining a fleet that already celebrates notable figures like goalkeeper Mary Earps and fashion designer Sir Paul Smith.

The Community Hero tram launched last year to recognize people who make a difference without seeking the spotlight. These are the folks leading local activism, showing extraordinary kindness, or demonstrating exceptional commitment to making Nottinghamshire better.

In 2025, the honor went to Dr. Marcellus Baz BEM, founder of Switch Up charity, and the organization Pulp Friction. Both names rode tram number 204 throughout the year, reminding passengers that heroes live among us.

The nomination process is simple. Residents fill out an online form explaining why their nominee deserves recognition. They can include photos and videos that showcase the person's impact. A panel of judges will review a shortlist and select the winner.

"Many of our trams are named after notable people in our city," said Alison Sweeney, NET's head of marketing. "We wanted to extend that opportunity towards people who do so much but perhaps go under the radar."

The Ripple Effect

This initiative does more than honor individuals. It reminds an entire city to notice the good happening around them. When commuters see a Community Hero tram pass by, they're prompted to think about their own neighbors making quiet differences.

The recognition also validates work that often goes unnoticed. Community builders, volunteer organizers, and everyday helpers rarely receive public acknowledgment for their contributions. A year-long tribute on public transit sends a powerful message that their work matters.

The winner will attend a special unveiling ceremony and be the first to see their name on the tram. It's a moment that celebrates not just one person, but the spirit of community service that keeps cities thriving.

Nominations close April 30th, giving Nottingham residents just days to spotlight someone special. The chosen hero must live, work, or study in Nottinghamshire and be available for a ceremony between May and July 2026.

Your daily commute could soon feature the name of someone who's been quietly changing lives.