We return to the Isle of Man for another set of photos taken on the Isle of Man during the Manx Heritage Transport Festival, held in July 2025. Once again we concentrate on the Manx Electric Railway and see some of the trams, trailer and freight vehicles which were in operation – mainly taken during the highlight of many a festival, the intensive timetable on the last day of the event. Mike Belshaw is our photographer this time.
During the event the following trams were noted in use on the MER:
Motors:
1, 2, 5, 9, 14, 19, 21, 22, 32, 34 (running carrying the number 7)
Trailers:
19, 37, 41, 42, 43, 47, 48, 49, 50, 51, 52, 53, 54, 57, 57, 59, 61, 62
Vans:
4, 11, 16
Ratchet Car 14 uses the crossover at Groudle whilst operating Laxey-Groudle shuttles
On 26th July. This car returned to service in 2018 after a major restoration and went on to win that year’s British Trams Online Tram of the Year contest.
Winter Saloon 22 is paired with illuminated trailer 58 as they’re seen at Groudle. They make a nice matching pair, for a special hire party, possibly a wedding do.
The intensive service on 27th July saw many special workings, including the use of freight vans and trailers on normal timetabled service. This is Dhoon Glen where Winter Saloon 19 is seen with trailer 60 and Trailer 10.
Ramsey Station where Winter Saloons 21 and 22 are seen side by side at Ramsey on 27th July. Both were working with trailers on the timetabled service.
Works Car 34 has been repainted in grey for 2025 and is now carrying the number 7. This tram was originally constructed as a replica of the original Snaefell Works Car which was numbered 7 and this renumbering is a nod to that history. Its with trailer 62 at Dhoon Glen in this shot.
It wouldn’t really be a set of photos from the Isle of Man if we didn’t include one of the original motors would it? This is no. 2 at Laxey with trailer 49 (itself one of the original 1893 trailers) and Van 4 (a mere youngster having been built in 1894!). 27th July again. (All Photographs by Mike Belshaw)