Winter Photography Session Brings the Isle of Man Steam Railway into Focus

The Isle of Man Steam Railway, which runs between Douglas and Port Erin, is always a popular mode of transport for visitors and local alike who have the time to fit in with its leisurely pace, but during this weekend there’s been an extra bonus for budding photographers.

Now in its third year, the Winter Photography Event is a joint venture between Isle of Man Railways and the Isle of Man Steam Railway Supporters’ Association, and attracted the support of enthusiastic local photographers, with staged sessions organised along the route of the Victorian transport system.

Starting at Douglas Railway Station and using both bus and train to access areas en route, members of the Isle of Man Steam Railway Supporters’ Association acted as volunteer guides for the occasion. Early birds also had the opportunity of sampling a hearty Fireman’s Breakfast to set them up for the day ahead.

The steam engine Loch (named after a previous Lieutenant Governor of the Isle of Man Henry Brougham Loch) was the focus of the camera lens, together with a rake of freshly painted small F coaches. Built especially for the Douglas to Port Erin line (the sole survivor of a much more extensive steam railway network which covered the Island) the Loch celebrates her 140th anniversary this year.

During the evening railway enthusiasts also travelled by vintage bus down to Port Erin in the south of the Island for a film show and talk about the southern line by Chairman of the Isle of Man Steam Railway Supporters’ Association, Bill Cubbon, in the waiting room of Port Erin Railway Station’ with a hearty hot supper supplied by the Whistle Stop Café.

A similar event on the Manx Electric Railway will take place on the 1st November, 2014.

Valerie Caine
© March 2014 (Photo courtesy of Isle of Man Railways)