Saturday 18th and Sunday 19th August will see the return of the Isle of Man Railway’s 1940’s ‘Island at War’ weekend. Step back in time and join them for an action-packed weekend of unique 1940’s wartime events.
 
The Home Guard will be returning to Douglas station issuing ID’s and practicing bayonet drills for those that are thinking of travelling without their papers!
 
Port St Mary station will host the home front and display a fine selection of wartime farming equipment and memorabilia.
 
A free shuttle service will operate from Ballasalla station to the Aviation and Military museum and Port Erin will again be preparing for a splendid V.E Day tea party.
 
There are many additions this year, including reports of an unexploded bomb at Castletown station; all casualties are to report to the temporary medical bay!
 
Other additions include Land army girls working the farm at Cregneash and an ‘Internee Trail’ from Port Erin station, guiding internees from the train to the Erin Arts Centre, just as many would have been during the war.
 
As with last year, those in suitable 40’s attire are granted half price travel on the steam railway but don’t forget to watch out for the spy...and some other surprises on the train!
 
Top secret reports have been leaked that there is also to be an ‘Evening at War’ on Saturday 18th August, consisting of a hangar dance with a big swing band, dancers, spivs and military personnel at an undisclosed location. Rumour has it that tickets to this VIP event are very limited and will include:
 
•         Travel warrant to and from the secret venue
•         High level security papers for entry into the celebration
•         3 course NAFFI take away and contraband wine
•         Donation to the British Legion
•         Entry into the grand raffle, prizes include off-island evacuee tickets, undercover railway experiences and non-rationed culinary indulgences
 
We suggest contacting Douglas steam railway station on 01624 673623 for tickets, but keep it under your hat.