Undoubtedly one of the highlights of the MER 125 events was the return to action of Ratchet Car 14 following the completion of its restoration. Having last run in passenger service in 1978 (and works use two years later), the restoration – a joint effort between volunteers at Isle of Man Railway staff – was a credit to all concerned with the tram looking resplendent and operating with full loads wherever it went.
14 heads off on a special evening tour on 5th September as it passes the Port Jack Chippy. This trip also used Crossbench 16 with the two not getting back until after dark.
On anniversary day – 7th September – 14 made a rare appearance in normal passenger service, running on specials before the Cavalcade got underway in order to get the tram in position. Director of Public Transport, Ian Longworth, is at the controls as the Ratchet Car arrives at Laxey Station heading north.
Following the end of the Cavalcade 14 was used in service again with a special run between Laxey and Derby Castle and it is during that working that we catch the tram once more. (All Photographs by Gareth Prior)