One of the highlights of 2009 will be the unique chance to ride on and behind RMS Locotech’s 1949 vintage, 3 foot gauge diesel (known as Bertie) on the scenic and famous Manx Electric Railway. Bertie will be on loan from the Irchester Railway Museum. It is hoped to have cab rides and driver experiences available on the diesel.
An outline programme of the events throughout the Festival are now provided (including some non-tram events):
Thursday 30th July: “Welcome to Isle of Man Transport” Evening Film Show at the Villa Marina presented by Bill Cubbon of the Isle of Man Steam Railway Supporters Association.
Friday 31st July: Isle of Man Steam Railway day. Double headed trains, banked trains and special trains!
Saturday 1st August: Great Laxey Mine Railway. Demonstration ore trains.
Evening. Guided tour on the Manx Electric Railway stopping at places of interest along the line.
RMS Locotech diesels in use on the Manx Electric Railway. An opportunity to ride behind this unique 3foot gauge Ruston and Hornsby diesel engine, dating to 1949 and on loan from the Irchester Railway Museum. Also, in use former Irish stablemate, Simplex diesel “Pig”.
Sunday 2nd August: Groudle Glen Railway operating. All available engines in use; steam, diesel and battery! Two train service.
Great Laxey Mine Railway. Demonstration ore trains.
Special Manx Electric Railway shuttle service running between Groudle and Laxey using unusual tram.
Miniature Railway in operation at the Curraghs Wildlife Park.
Evening Film Show at the Villa Marina
Monday 3rd August: Manx Electric Railway day. 1893 cars 1 and 2 in service. Other unusual stock in service throughout the day. . Unusual combinations.
Evening service including Snaefell Mountain Railway and guided tours at the summit.
Tuesday 4th August: Diesel day on the Manx Electric Railway. Special services operated by RMS Locotech’s Ruston diesel “Bertie” and Simplex diesel “Pig”. It is also hoped to have the new MER freight loco 34 Maria in operation, hauling passenger trailers and a demonstration freight train. Demonstration of RMS Locotech’s unique three foot gauge rail mounted 360 degree excavators.
National Air Traffic Services (formerly CAA) railcars on display.
Groudle Glen Railway evening services
Wednesday 5th August: Vintage bus tour.
Evening trip on the Manx Electric Railway operated by TLP Tours.
Groudle Glen Railway evening services
Further details of the events will be released shortly and all events are subject to availability of the advertised vehicles. The event is being promoted by Isle of Man Transport.
Source: Andrew Scarffe