A MAN has spoken of his determination to carry on a fight for justice into the death of his wife, who was struck and killed a decade ago this year by a tram speeding at more than three times the limit.
Barry Foxwell, of Trinant, Caerphilly county borough, treated his wife, Maureen, to a seaside holiday in Blackpool to celebrate her 70th birthday in 2009.
But little did the couple know of the horror that was about to unfold as they strolled across the seafront.
Barry Foxwell holding a painting by his grandchild of himself and Maureen
A Blackpool Transport-owned tram, which was being driven by Paul Edensor, was travelling at 20mph rather than 4mph, but the couple expected the tram to stop for people waiting nearby, so they crossed the track.
But the tram carried on and hit Mrs Foxwell.
The 70-year-old never regained consciousness and died one month later at Nevill Hall Hospital, in Abergavenny.
Maureen and Barry Foxwell
And in the tenth year since the accident, Mr Foxwell has slammed Blackpool Transport officials for repeatedly turning down requests for a face-to-face meeting.
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The 79-year-old said: “I am trying to get justice from Blackpool Transport. I cannot rest until they apologise to me in person.
“The only way to get justice now is for them to meet me in person.
“This is now the tenth year I have been without my wife. I have been writing letters to ask them to meet, but I get turned down. I want to tell them I am still devastated.”
He added: “The tram driver had already been disciplined for his speeding before. He should never have been able to drive again.”
Mr Foxwell revealed he is still haunted by the incident and that he could never forget it.
He added that he will “never give up” in his efforts to meet representatives from the company.
“I am doing this for my wife and family,” he said.
“I will never give up.I want them to meet me. Justice needs to be met.”
Barry and Maureen on their wedding day
A spokeswoman from Blackpool Transport described the incident as “tragic”, saying: “Blackpool Transport sympathises with the family of Mrs Foxwell. This incident resulted in a full investigation and court case which concluded with a custodial sentence for the driver.”
Edensor had pleaded guilty following the accident and was later locked up for 15 months.
The court also heard at the time his bosses had concerns about him approaching crossings and bends on the track at high speeds.
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