Van 11 nearing the end of its restoration to active service, May 2024 © Andrew Scarffe
Numbers Carried: No.11
Built: G.F Milnes, 1898–99
Classification: 6 ton van (with platforms removed)
Current Status/Location: In service.
Year Last Operated: In Service.
Livery: M.E.R Freight Grey with Stencil Lettering
History: Van No.11, built by G.F Milnes and Co. for the Manx Electric Railway arrived at Derby Castle in time for the commencement of the Ramsey parcels traffic in 1899, entering service shortly after.
It was used frequently for goods and parcel traffic throughout the system, being overhauled during the 1957/58 M.E.R Nationalisation, appearing in the Olive Green colour of the period during the mid-1960s. In addition to it’s normal duties, No.11 also appeared on special runs, including during the May 1984 ‘Vintage Transport Weekend’ behind Locomotive No.23. During 1990/91, it was overhauled, and repainted in a darker version of the Freight Grey scheme, but retained the Stencil style lettering. During 1993 the Van was used on demonstration freights, hauled by IoMR No.4 ‘Loch’ and again Locomotive No.23.
No.11 was the last item of Van stock available for general service during the mid 1990s (No.4 only being used for specials), and was used mainly for station-to-station deliveries, finally being withdrawn by 1997. The Van went into off-railway store at Homefield Bus Garage, Upper Douglas during January 2001, latterly removed during November 2009 and transferred to the Jurby Transport Museum, where it remained outside in the rear compound.
In March 2015 Van No.11 was moved to the Laxey Blacksmiths Siding for restoration by the Laxey and Lonan Heritage Trust, which commenced in October with the van stripped back to its bare frame, bodywork overhauled and a new floor fitted.
Following the completion of the overhaul, No.11 was moved to Laxey Car Shed during May 2024 for final works prior to a return to service, which took place as part of the July 2025 Manx Heritage Transport Festival.
Information:
Manx Electric Railway Online 