Over the May Bank Holiday weekend (26th-28th May), the Isle of Wight Steam Railway will be hosting ‘Three Island Ivatts’ – a special tribute to the Ivatt Locomotive Trust which will see 3 Ivatt engines in steam together for the very first time.
The trio of engines engines were gifted to the Isle of Wight Steam Railway in various states of repair and have all been returned to full operational condition over the past 10 years. This weekend represents a great milestone for both the Railway and the Ivatt Trust.
Both Ivatt 41313 and 41298 are now based permanently on the Isle of Wight, whilst 46447 which is on long-term loan to the East Somerset Railway and will be transported to the Island especially for this event. What makes this event so unique, is that the guest locomotive, unlike the rest of the Railways tank engines, has a separate coal tender. This weekend will therefore also be the the first time that a tender locomotive has ever run on the Island’s railway network.
Peter Vail, General Manager of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway has said:
”Even if you are not a dyed in the wool steam engine fan, you can’t help but be impressed by the sight and sound of these three special locomotives in operation together.
“We started to plan for this event as soon a the restoration of Ivatt 41313 was completed last autumn. This gala event is a tribute to the Ivatt Trust that made this possible, as well as a way to say thank you to our team who have worked so hard on this project.
“To have all three of these impressive Ivatts running together, is a dream come true for many here at Havenstreet.”
This 3-day event will provide fun and thrills for both rail enthusiasts and casual visitors alike. Entertainment includes a Real Ale Bar serving Island beers and the refreshment rooms at Havenstreet will be serving up delicious meals and snacks. Explore the award-winning Train Story Discovery Centre, an interactive museum where you can get up close with Victorian and Edwardian railway vehicles, and discover their lasting impact on all our lives.
