A PIECE of Taunton’s history was removed this week when the last tramline pole in the town was taken down.

But it could be back making an appearance in the town centre.

Taunton had a tramline system in place from 1901 to 1921, with the route running from the depot in East Reach westwards to East Street then northwards past the Market House into North Street.

After passing over the Town Bridge the line continued along Bridge Street and Station Road to the original terminus outside the railway station.

But this week the pole, known as a cast iron standard, was taken down from its home in Greenway Crescent.

The standard, used to carry the overhead line, is believed to be the last remaining one in the town, with another out at Bishops Lydeard.

The post had lived part of its life as a lamp post and has now been taken down to go spend some time at the Somerset Heritage Centre in Norton Fitzwarren.

Greenway Crescent resident John Cleverdone says the pole was moved one metre around five years ago when new houses were put in the crescent.

He added: “We fought to keep it on the street as it is a piece of Taunton’s heritage.

“It is a shame to see it go but hopefully it will be put somewhere else in the town to show people the heritage of the trams.

“I think there are a lot of people today who wouldn’t know we had trams in the town.”

A spokesperson for Southern Electric said they were asked to move five or six of the tramline poles by Taunton Dean Council for their heritage centre.

They said they understand that they are being restored and will be displayed in the town centre.