Isle of Man historic tram restored to 1898 condition

Tram No. 14 first came into service during the Victorian tourism boom

David Lloyd-Jones Tram No. 14 — Tram No. 14 first came into service during the Victorian tourism boom

A once derelict tram has been restored to its original 1898 condition as part of the Manx Electric Railway's 125th anniversary celebrations.

Tram No. 14 arrived on the island some 120 years ago during the Victorian tourism boom, connecting Douglas, Laxey and Ramsey.

However, it went out of use in the 1970s and later fell into disrepair.

Volunteers gave three-and-a-half years of "blood, sweat and tears" to restore the tram, Isle of Man Transport said.

The tram had not been used since the 1970s and had fallen into disrepair

IOMT Tram No. 14 — The tram had not been used since the 1970s and had fallen into disrepair

It will be running again as part of eight days of special events to celebrate Manx Electric Railway's anniversary.

Isle of Man Transport events coordinator Liam Miller said the tram may also be used during future special occasions, and for people who pay for an experience to learn how to drive the trams.

Volunteers said they were proud of the hard work they had put in to restore the tram

David Martin, who worked on the project, said: "It's taken three-and-a-half long years and some cold winter evening's in the shed, but to see it back where it belongs makes it all worth while.

"We've been meticulous, and it is in the same condition as it would have been in when it was delivered to the Isle of Man in 1898."

Lead volunteer Andrew Scaffe added: "It's as good as new. We are so proud of what's been achieved.

"It's been great to see all the happy faces. It makes all those long nights in the shed stripping paint worthwhile."

The tram may also be used in future events

The anniversary celebrations have attracted transport enthusiasts from around the world.

Events include talks by experts and historians, special rides and the unveiling of a plaque.