It may not have been the weekend they wanted to organise, but the island’s railway volunteers put on a great show over the Easter weekend.
From Good Friday to Easter Monday, the volunteers presented a full programme including a train and tram ’spotters’ event, looking through the existing and scrapped fleets of the steam railway and the MER.
The volunteers of each railway also provided links to 3D tours of the railways’ work sheds, looked at closed lines and quirky stations and virtual simulations.
Juan Watterson SHK, opened the event by saying ’when the world is in need of memories of happier times and a bit of escapism, what could be cheerier than a reminder of our steam and electric Railways’?
Mr Watterson added: ’Our railways remain a family favourite 147 years after the first steam trains took to the Douglas-Peel line, indeed, my own grandfather Jack Watterson proudly served as a railwayman all over the system for very many years.
’The organisers of this event are to be commended on their initiative to bring this rich heritage into the homes of enthusiasts around the world, and we look forward to welcoming you all in person during better times.’
Rush Hour wrapped up on Easter Monday but the entire weekend’s events including videos and photographs can be found and enjoyed on Facebook by searching for Isle of Man Heritage Railways Volunteers - Steam Railway or Manx Electric Railway Online.