He strolls along the platforms, wanders on the tracks, and laps up the attention of doting passengers. For years, charming black and white cat Batman has been patrolling the Chorlton Metrolink stop, receiving cuddles from travellers as they wait to catch their tram.
Often known as the ‘Chorlton tram cat’, Batman became a social media sensation, and he has a firm place in the hearts of the south Manchester suburb’s commuters. Now, a new mural has been unveiled, immortalising the beloved moggy at the tram stop which has become his second home.
“We know that Batman the cat has become quite the Metrolink celebrity in recent years,” said Danny Vaughan, head of Metrolink at Transport for Greater Manchester (TfGM). “So it’s great to see him taking centre stage on a piece of art which I’m sure will be enjoyed by passengers.”
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The station’s lift shaft, off Wilbraham Road, has been painted by Manchester-based artist Caroline Daly to coincide with the Chorlton Arts Festival. The mural was commissioned by Chorlton Voice, with the design chosen from a number of options proposed by artists, following several years of planning.
It also features green spaces and birds to reflect local biodiversity. The mural was officially unveiled today (May 30), with Jeff Smith MP cutting the ribbon, and it now catches the eye of commuters and passers by.
(Image: TfGM)
Carolyn Kagan, chair of Chorlton Voice, said: “We first raised the possibility of a mural with Metrolink back in 2014, and we’re thrilled that it has finally been made possible thanks to a partnership between Chorlton Voice, TfGM, Manchester City Council and local community groups and traders. We had some great proposals from artists and are delighted with the work that Caroline Daly has done, and so many people have already commented on what a lovely change from the grey concrete it is.
“The mural will be a focal point for Chorlton and contribute to a strong sense of community, and we hope there will be many more Metrolink lift shaft murals.” Mr Vaughan added: “We have worked very closely with Chorlton Voice on this project over several years, so I’m delighted to see this brilliant artwork finally come to fruition.”
In 2019, the Manchester Evening News spoke to the family who had adopted Batman. While many assume he lives at the Metrolink stop, the popular ‘tram cat’ was actually moved into a loving home nearby.
Nicci Cuff adopted Batman after he walked into her house as a stray and refused to leave. Having three other rescue cats at the time, Nicci had planned to re-home Batman, but couldn’t bear to let him leave.
(Image: Joel Goodman)
“He was so friendly that I couldn’t say no to him,” she said. “I found him a home, and the night before he was due to go, he was sitting on my knee and I was just crying.
“I couldn’t let him go. I think he was meant to stay.”
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