The Isle of Man Steam Railway Supporters’ Association has paid tribute to former railway operations manager Graham Warhurst.
Mr Warhurst passed away peacefully in Hospice at the age of 84.
Born in June 1941, Mr Warhurst began his railway career in 1975 during the first year of short line operations between Port Erin and Castletown.
The association said his passion and determination were instrumental in expanding services to Ballasalla Station the following year and restoring full-length operations to Douglas by 1977.
When the government assumed control in 1978, he remained a key member of the management team until his retirement twenty-five years ago.
A familiar figure to staff and passengers alike, Mr Warhurst was known for his hands-on approach, occasionally driving trains himself.
His contributions were recognised in the 1988 documentary The Train Now Departing, which featured an interview with him.
He also played a pivotal role in establishing the railway’s museum in 1975 – an institution that celebrates its fiftieth anniversary this year as part of the Manx Heritage Transport Festival.
Plans are underway to honour his memory at next year’s transport festival, where a specially commissioned headboard created by Sassociation member Dave Archer will be unveiled.
“We pass on our sincere condolences to all his family and friends at this difficult time,” the association said.
You can see his interview with The Train Now Departing below:
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