NEARLY 1,000 people enjoyed the Island's historic railway network over the Easter weekend.
A three day Rush Hour on the Railways event saw almost 500 people taking the tram to the Snaefell summit on Easter Sunday.
Community, Culture and Leisure Minister David Cretney MHK said: "The railways enjoyed a bumper weekend.
"It was the first time since 1995 that the Snaefell Mountain Railway started operating at Easter, as opposed to May, and the number of passengers taking the opportunity to visit the newly refurbished summit seems to vindicate that.
"Almost 900 people travelled on our trains over the weekend, half of them on Easter Sunday, making the most of the beautiful, panoramic views and the delicious Sunday lunch at the summit.
"We were obviously fortunate with the fine weather but I am sure that raising the profile of the Island's railways is really making a difference."
Highlights of the Rush Hour on the Railways programme included three visits to the historic Crogga estate – with access to the miniature railway and boating lake. There was also a Real Ale train to Castletown and photo opportunities on the Peel line.
The next special event on the Snaefell Mountain Railway – Pie in the Sky - will take place this weekend, Friday, May 6 and Saturday, May 7.
It will be hosted by the Isle of Man Astronomical Society. Tickets cost £29 per person which includes a return tram ride from Douglas to Laxey and supper at the Summit Restaurant. Tickets are available from Douglas Railway Station or telephone 01624 673623 to book.
