There is no surer sign of the approach of Spring than the start of operating seasons at many of the heritage tramways across the British Isles which enjoy a break over winter. The first of the systems on the Isle of Man to start running for 2018 was the Manx Electric Railway with Friday 16th March seeing the first passenger services of the year.
The highlight of the day was the first use of Winter Saloon 19 in its Douglas, Laxey and Ramsey Electric Tramway livery. This Brown and White livery hasn’t been seen on the MER for many years and is just one of many different liveries which will be seen on the line throughout this, the 125th anniversary, year. The car has been repainted at Derby Castle over the winter and was allocated to set two for the day which started off with 1010 Derby Castle to Laxey service.
Also in service on the first day was 21 – in nationalised green livery – which was paired with trailer 44 throughout the day and Tunnel Car 7 along with matching trailer 48. 19 ran its first and last trips single motor but was paired with trailer 41 for one trip. Of note was that none of the motors used on this day were in what many would consider the traditional MER colours with the only red on show being on trailers!
Photos from the first day can be seen on the Manx Electric Railway.co.uk Facebook page.
* You will notice most of our Isle of Man based stories are added without photos; if you visit the Isle of Man and see any topical scenes we would love to hear from you so that we can include more images on the website. Please email gareth@britishtramsonline.co.uk if you can help with providing topical newsworthy photos.