Isle of Man Railways are preparing for an exciting programme of events in this year’s Manx Heritage Transport Festival.

The festival runs from the 26th to 30th July and there is something for everyone during the five days.  Government and volunteers have worked together to put on this busy calendar of events.

Events Co-ordinator Anji Street said: ‘Last year’s Manx Heritage Transport Festival was a great success and this year is set to be better yet!’

‘We are very lucky to have some knowledgeable transport supporters to help ensure that each experience and excursion we have planned will appeal to a wide range of people, both local and visitors.’

‘This year we have a green theme and MER Cars 21 & 32, along with trailer 62, have been repainted into their green liveries to celebrate the 60th anniversary since the nationalisation of the MER. Additionally, the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway Car No.45 has been painted into a green livery and the railway volunteers will join in with their items of green rolling stock.

‘The events I am particularly looking forward to are the vintage and classic bus trips, fascinating railway and maritime model displays at Port Erin and the “Green Hills by the Sea” guided Bulgham Bay tour, all offering numerous photo opportunities.’

‘Due to popular demand we are also repeating the bus tour of closed railway lines on the Friday (28th July) featuring a stop at the Wildlife Park to ride on the Orchid Line. There is genuinely something to delight everyone,’ she added.

The Douglas Bay Horse Tramway will also feature enhanced services during the weekend. On Wednesday 26th July the double decker tram pulled by a pair of horses will make a rare appearance for the 9am service.

Additionally, there will be a celebration of the 50th Anniversary of the 1967 re-opening day of Douglas Station on 29 July, with a display of all operational steam locomotives, a Hog Roast and a presentation by the Director of Public Transport within the newly refurbished ticket hall at Douglas Station.

There are more than 30 different events during the festival. Further information can be found in the Manx Heritage Transport Festival leaflet available from www.rail.im or from the Welcome Centre, Derby Castle booking office and main stations.

There are restricted places on some special services so early booking is advised. Go cards are valid for travel on scheduled services.