Problems with overhead wires on tram systems across the British Isles isn’t exactly a new phenomenon but we’re not sure we’ve reported on a situation quite like this before. Services on the Manx Electric Railway have been suspended between Derby Castle and Laxey since Wednesday 20th July after a pick-up with a Land Rover and a load of canoes brought the wires down at Halfway Crossing.
The driver of the over-height vehicle was obviously unaware of the height of the wires and when attempting to drive across the crossing caused significant damage to the overhead pulling down a large stretch and thus immediately seeing services being suspended.
With MER engineers making the scene safe the saga then took another turn overnight on 20th/21st July when 200 metres of wire was stolen. This happened between 1730 and 0830 with the Isle of Man Police appealing for witnesses or anyone who may know where the wire is to contact them.
The replacement of the overhead is now required and its estimated that the repairs will cost up to £5,000. There is no estimate for its replacement but with the Transport Festival taking place next week it is hoped it will all be fixed by then.
A quick update on this story: The Manx Police have made four arrests in connection with the theft of wire, some of which has been recovered.
And, on a technicality, they were kayaks, rather than canoes. They still pulled down the OHL, anyway!