The first horse trams operated by Isle of Man Railways drew crowds of photographers to Derby Castle on Saturday morning.

The first tram of the 2016 season was the no. 44 Royal Tram pulled by Douglas, which departed at 9am. The second tram was Athol Garage's branded tram no. 45 pulled by Steve.

Kate Beecroft MHK, Political Member with responsibility for Public Transport, said: ‘The happy sight and sound of horse trams on Douglas promenade is a sure sign that the summer season has begun. Everyone at Isle of Man Railways’ recognises the importance of the horse trams as an intrinsic piece of the Isle of Man’s heritage railways offering. We are committed to ensuring horse tram services operate the full length of the promenade during 2016 and look forward to resolving their longer term future in the coming months.

‘I hope residents and visitors will also show their support for the horse trams by purchasing the Go Horse Tram cards and keeping them busy.’

Isle of Man Railways will operate the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway until 30 October 2016, although not every day of the week except at peak season. Full details can be found in the horse tram timetable available to download from www.rail.im or pick up from Derby Castle ticket office or the Welcome Centre in Douglas Sea Terminal.

Horse tram fares are ?3 for adults and ?2 for children for single journeys, which can be purchased on the tram. Day tickets are available at ?6 for adults, ?3 for children or ?15 for a family. Season-long Go Horse Tram cards valid until 30 October 2016 are ?30 for adults and ?20 for children and holders of Isle of Man senior citizens’ 60+ cards. Go Explore cards are valid for travel on all bus and rail services operated by Isle of Man Transport, including the horse trams.

All Go Horse Tram cards and tickets can be purchased from Derby Castle ticket office and the Welcome Centre in Douglas Sea Terminal.

It should be noted that there are no horse trams today (Tuesday) or Friday but the horse trams will be in operation tomorrow and Thursday then from Saturday 7 May through to Wednesday 12.

Photo: Kate Beecroft MHK gives Steve the tram horse some polos after his first lap of Douglas promenade. She is pictured with Director of Transport Ian Longworth (left) and Michael Crellin, tram supervisor and stable foreman.