Most of the island’s heritage railway lines will be running next week for the first time this year.

Services were stopped due to the Covid-19 pandemic and its impact on the summer tourist season.

They will get back on track to coincide with the first visitors arriving from Guernsey and the beginning of the school summer holidays.

The Steam Railway will reopen to passengers, Thursday to Sunday each week, from July 23 to September 13.

Dining Car specials will be back in operation, Thursday to Sunday, from July 30 with a number of new events planned.

The Manx Electric Railway will re-open, Saturday to Tuesday each week, from July 25 to September 13.

But due to financial and operational challenges the Snaefell Mountain Railway will not be in operation during the summer 2020 season.

Infrastructure Minister Tim Baker MHK said: ’Despite the very limited visitor market we recognise the important and distinctive role the heritage railways play.

’The railways bring a holiday feel to the island and I am sure this news will be well received by Manx residents and visitors from Guernsey alike.

’It’s a limited four day a week timetable that coincides with the opening of the Laxey Wheel and other Manx National Heritage attractions around the Island on selected days over the summer.’

He added: ’I hope this will bring a degree of normality to the 2020 summer period and an opportunity for people to use the railways and see the island in a unique way.’