Douglas Bay Horse Tramway has announced the death of Michael Crellin, a central figure in the tramway’s history and a respected member of the Isle of Man’s agriculture and heavy horse communities.

Mr Crellin, who served the tramway for over five decades, is remembered not only as an exceptional horseman and blacksmith but also as a true Manxman who dedicated his life to preserving local heritage.

He began his journey with the horse tramway back in 1973, where he started as a blacksmith apprentice under the late Tommy Joughin.

By the 1980s, he had risen to the role of stables foreman and became responsible for managing a stable of around 60 horses.

He also oversaw much of the farrier work relating to the Douglas Bay Horse Tramway.

His dedication and skill eventually led to his appointment as tramway superintendent in 1992, a role in which he balanced overseeing the tram horses’ care with driving the trams along Douglas Promenade when demand required.

Beyond his professional duties, Mr Crellin was a steadfast advocate for the heritage of the tramway horses, maintaining a tradition of their participation in vintage ploughing competitions.

Since 2018, he took on the role of farm manager, overseeing the Clypse and Honey Hill grazing fields near Onchan, where the tram horses are kept.

A prominent figure in the Isle of Man’s heavy horse community, Mr Crellin served as chairman of the Isle of Man Heavy Horse Society for many years.

His presence at the Royal Manx and Southern District Agricultural Shows was a constant, where he proudly showed both the tram horses and his own draught horses, winning numerous prizes across various categories.

The tramway’s statement reflects the deep impact Mr Crellin had on the community, noting that he was ‘known by so many, much respected, and will be sorely missed’.

The Douglas Bay Horse Tramway, along with countless colleagues and friends, paid tribute to Mr Crellin on social media.

One person said: ‘Such sad news, rest in peace Michael. A very talented man.

‘Thinking of his family at this difficult time.’

Another added: ‘A familiar face to enthusiasts and visitors on the horse tramway. Condolences to his family and friends.’

One person recounted how much of an impact Mr Crellin had on her son.

She said: ‘Michael, along with Robert Maddrell, played a massive role when it came to my son’s love of horses.

‘From mucking out, riding on the trams up and down the promenade all day every day and then learning to plough the good old fashioned way. Taken far too soon.’

A former colleague added: ‘A real gentleman and true horseman, a pleasure to work with. Rest easy Micheal and condolences to all his family and friends.’