The Isle of Man Railway 1940’s Island at War weekend (2012)
THIS month welcomes the return of the Isle of Man Railway’s 1940’s Island at War weekend.
On the weekend of August 18 and 19, you can step back in time and enjoy an action-packed two days of unique 1940s wartime events.
The Home Guard will be returning to Douglas station issuing IDs and practising bayonet drills for those that are thinking of travelling without their papers!
Port St Mary station will host the home front and display a fine selection of wartime farming equipment and memorabilia.
A free shuttle service will operate from Ballasalla station to the Aviation and Military museum and Port Erin will again be preparing for a splendid V.E. Day tea party.
There are many additions this year, including reports of an unexploded bomb at Castletown station; all casualties are to report to the temporary medical bay! Other additions include land army girls working the farm at Cregneash and an Internee Trail from Port Erin station, guiding internees from the train to the Erin Arts Centre, just as many would have been during the war.
As with last year, those in suitable 40s attire are granted half price travel on the steam railway but don’t forget to watch out for the spy and some other surprises on the train! Top secret reports have been leaked that there is also to be an Evening at War on the Saturday, consisting of a hangar dance with a big swing band, dancers, spivs and military personnel at an undisclosed location.
Rumour has it that tickets to this VIP event are very limited and will include a travel warrant to and from the secret venue, high level security papers for entry into the celebration, a three-course NAFFI take away and contraband wine, a donation to the British Legion and entry into the grand raffle (prizes include off-island evacuee tickets, undercover railway experiences and non-rationed culinary indulgences).
Contact Douglas steam railway station on 673623 for tickets, but keep it under your hat!