When a pensioner spotted ancient tram lines near his home this week his childhood memories came flooding back and caused him to become “quite emotional”.

Duncan Law came across the tracks at the junction of Woodford New Road and Forest Rise in Walthamstow when he was walking past road works.

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The 69-year-old remembers travelling on the trams as a child before watching workmen cover up the lines to make way for busses years later.

Mr Law said he was surprised to see the tracks intact and so well-preserved underneath the surface.

“I was 10 years old when they were covered up during the eight-week bus strike in 1958 and I remember seeing the workmen doing it,” he said.

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Lea Bridge Road looking towards Bakers Arms with tram c1923, Leyton. (Photo from Vestry House Museum archive) 

“It was sad because they were so much part of our lives in those days.

“They were different times and you could go out and it was always safe.

“I have always been interested in transport and it was quite emotional really when I saw them.”