IN response to the letter headlined "Why do trams stop so early?" (Yours Truly, April 12), we would like to advise readers of the following.

Metrolink provides extra trams for special events, whenever possible. We largely have to depend on venues keeping us informed of major events they are holding, in order for us to be able to plan extra services and arrange for drivers to stay on later.

We liaise with the MEN Arena and were aware that Westlife were appearing on Sunday, April 8 and that the concert was likely to finish later than the time we were given. Consequently, we were able to arrange two later trams, one to Piccadilly and one to Bury.

It is not always possible to run later services, as Sunday night is when major engineering jobs are undertaken. If we have work that is essential, it is important we stop at the scheduled time to allow enough time for the work to take place. As trams restart just after 5am the next day time is quite restricted.

The times of first and last trams are advertised at all stops and our customer services team is available seven days a week to help customers plan their travel.

CHERYL BEVAN,

press and PR officer,

Metrolink.