1977 would prove to be the final year that the Railway Company would operate services, the following year saw the government take over the line and at the conclusion of the 1978 season under the auspices of the M.E.R. Board the Supporters’ Association compiled a lengthy report covering the two years and making their suggestions for the future operation of the railway.

Reproduced here in full for the first time since its initial publication in February of 1979, in an historical context this makes for very interesting reading and illustrates the situation the railway found itself in during the earliest part of the nationalisation era.  Some of the ideas put forward may seem shocking to a modern reader but they serve to show just where the railway stood at this time.

This was the third such document which was compiled by the Supporters’ Association and followed one which covered the unsuccessful short line workings of 1975-1976 and offered an analysis of the then-present situation, including proposals for 1977 and beyond.  It was published in September of 1976 and will also be made available to view on this website in the fullness of time.

History shows that the railway has continued to operate successfully on an annual basis since the time of publication, though with the loss of many historical aspects, notably in and around Douglas Station which was still largely in tact at the time of publication.  We hope readers will find this a fascinating glimpse into the past and to show the level of dedication at that time.