The DoI Minister has thanked volunteers who cosmetically restored a steam engine for display.
Engine number 9, Douglas, was unveiled after being spruced up by the Steam Railway Supporters Association.
With the DoI removing the asbestos from engines around 2020, it gave the supporters an opportunity to cosmetically restore the engines which one chuffed their way through the Manx countryside.
Having been withdrawn from service in 1953, the engine was actually sold but never left the railway and was returned to railway ownership in recent years.
Post on her constituency page, Dr Michelle Haywood thanked the volunteers for their work that will see the engine go on display at the museum in Port Erin.
She said: “It was a real treat to be invited to unveil ‘Douglas’ after an extensive cosmetic restoration.
“The loco sat in the corner of the shed for decades until the Department removed the asbestos and made it safe for the volunteers from the Railway Supporters to get to work on the restoration.
“It was a treat to meet several of the Thursday gang who worked to restore this 1896 engine to its now stunning finish.
“The running gear had been replaced not long before it was sidelined in 1956 and had very little wear on it. It doesn’t currently have a boiler so can’t run on its own steam, but will be heading to Port Erin for display at the Railway Museum.
“Many congratulations and a huge thank you to all involved in this project.”
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