This evening a test train was operated to Port Erin Station with No.13 Kissack and van G.1, also using carriages F.18 and F.26 for braking purposes; this is the first time that G.1 has completed a full-line test since completion of the restoration of the historic vehicle by the Association.  The van, which is the oldest vehicle on the railway pre-dating the momentous opening on 1st July 1873, made a successful run and will feature during the extended Summer Transport Festival in July.

This is also the first time No.13 Kissack has been south since last year following a protracted overhaul, details of which will be covered in the upcoming edition of our official journal Manx Steam Railway News which will be at the printers shortly; the locomotive will take part in the anniversary day on Saturday, for which a special timetable will be in force, with many different commemorative plaques being the undoubted highlight.

Timetable “R” continues on a daily basis this week until the big day, the Pie & Mash train will operate tomorrow evening with a further dining service on Friday evening.  Head of the anniversary stations have been dressed with themed bunting and posters promoting the host of events distributed from last week.  With just days until the event everything is coming together and all looks set for it to be a momentous occasion in the railway’s history.