METROLINK bosses are celebrating record passenger numbers.

October proved to be a mega-month for the company as the best ever passenger figures were recorded for the second time in 12 months.

Over the 31 days, 3.3 million passenger journeys were made across the network, breaking the previous record of 3.1 million in October 2015.

The introduction of an early bird service to Manchester Airport has provided even greater connectivity to one of the region’s biggest employers, while an expanded new-look stop in St Peter’s Square has also opened, allowing for more frequent services to run from East Didsbury into the city.

Peter Cushing, Transport for Greater Manchester’s (TfGM) Metrolink Director, said: “I am delighted that record numbers are continuing to get on board with Metrolink.

“These figures once again demonstrate how Metrolink is set up to support Manchester’s ever-growing economy.

“It also demonstrates our ability to support the many major events that the region attracts, such as the Olympic Parade and Rugby League Grand Final, which both took place in October.

“We are now in another busy period for the network, with the Christmas Markets now open and festive season upon us.

“With the Second City Crossing just around the corner I look forward to welcoming even more people on board with Metrolink in 2017 – our silver jubilee year.”

More than 36m journeys are expected to be made on Metrolink before the end of the year – up from 33.3m in 2015 and 30.4m in 2014.

For more information on Metrolink services visit www.metrolink.co.uk, call Metrolink Customer Services on 0161 205 2000 or follow @MCRMetrolink for live travel updates.