A39R made a return to passenger service at Downpatrick on Saturday 2nd August, over two and a half years after its last passenger working at January 2023 diesel gala. The locomotive had been out of service after the disastrous flooding at Downpatrick in November 2023 and Saturday marked its return to passenger service after repairs. The veteran Metrovick was in action hauling the DCDR's vintage carriage set as the railway's 40th Anniversary celebrations, with 2nd August 1985 being the date that the railway was incorporated.
With the railway's steam fleet unavailable pending repairs to the loco shed, A39R was selected for the prestigious event, and had some cosmetic repairs adminstered by ITG committee member Innis Mennie the previous weekend, ensuring that the loco looked its best.
Proudly carrying the DCDR 40th Anniversary headboard, A39R worked an empty run to Inch Abbey and back prior to hauling three well-loaded passenger trips from Downpatrick and Inch Abbey during the afternoon.
A39R's next passenger appearance will be at the now sold out Diesel Day on 23rd August. If you missed out on tickets, don't fret, it will also be in action at Downpatrick's European Heritage Open Day event on 13/14th September.
