Northern Ireland’s rail system, like many parts of the Island, is merely a remnant of its former glory. It was conceivable to journey from Dublin to Donegal through Enniskillen, or via the ancient Derry Road by way of Tyrone and Omagh. However, in 2024, Translink operates a notably scaled-down network. The county of Down once prided itself on a comprehensive rail network that connected virtually every corner of the county to Belfast and the coastal areas.
Establishing itself in August 1848, the Belfast & County Down Railway (BCDR) inaugurated its first segment for travelers between Belfast and Holywood. Gradually, the network expanded from Bangor and Donaghadee on one coast to Ardglass and Newcastle on another. The railways rapidly integrated into everyday life where they were present, providing numerous employment opportunities. A 2008 BBC television documentary features conversations with previous BCDR employees, their eyes twinkling faintly as they reminisce about their rail days.
One tells the story of surreptitious troop movements carrying American soldiers during World War II, on the same day he found a thoroughly intoxicated train guard on the Ballykinlar Halt platform post arrival. Perhaps enlisting off-duty rail workers from nearby pubs on short notice to manage these clandestine trains wasn’t the most strategic move.
Another gentleman recounts the day he underwent his examination to become a fireman on the historic steam trains utilized in the network, and of maintaining his nourishment during his shifts. These workers showed unreserved commitment to their jobs, even frying their meals on the very shovels they used to stoke the coal fire.
“I made a delightful fry with some bacon, eggs, soda bread, tatty bread, and a bit of lard… using my shovel.”
The eventual decline of the BCDR ensued in 1948, coinciding with the creation of the Ulster Transport Authority. The battle for survival against inexpensive and more practical road transport was futile.
Gratefully, some components of the ancient network still function under the management of voluntary staff from the Downpatrick & County Down Railway (DCDR). The track to Downpatrick was decommissioned in 1950, with the reestablishment process by the DCDR commencing in 1985. The railway, for an extended period, has been servicing the public using antique diesel and steam locomotives, the only full-size heritage railway line on the island. Under typical circumstances, the trains navigate a triangular route from Downpatrick via Inch Abbey to an ancient loop-line platform.
Regrettably, the DCDR is currently recouping from the impact of some of the most severe flooding Northern Ireland has experienced. Last year’s deluge left areas of the town submerged under a metre of water, causing extensive damage to a large part of the railway station, its workshops and carriage gallery building. Consequently, the line was forced to cease its festive Santa Train events.
According to DCDR chairman Robert Gardiner, the major task since November has been drying out… the unseen damage has heavily impacted us. Around twelve volunteers are working tirelessly to restore all aspects of the railway, including engines, rails, coaches and buildings.
Gardiner suggests the bulk of the challenge lies in the rolling stock as the floodwaters were approximately 3ft high resulting in everything being submerged. The shock was tremendous and the emotional impact on the voluntary team was significant. All rolling stock continues to be meticulously evaluated or trialled. Unfortunately, despite the labour being voluntary, the costs associated with this process are steep. Although efforts to revive the line after the floods are continuing, no locomotives have been operational since the deluge last year.
Gardiner revealed £250,000 is needed to accomplish full recovery. As part of the fundraising initiative, a successful movie night was held in February featuring the 1937 Will Hay film Oh, Mr Porter and additional fundraising events are in the pipeline.
Another ray of hope for the afflicted railway was their very own Jonathan King receiving the Young Volunteer of the Year award at the yearly UK Heritage Railway Association awards. Awarded partially for his response to the flooding, including his ability to monitor the damaged site and assist elsewhere in the town due to his close proximity, Gardiner shared.
Gardiner maintains an optimistic outlook as the railway restoration progresses, anticipating the resumption of a variant of the train service sometime during the impending summer months. Despite the challenges, he firmly asserts that the DCDR is here to stay – a beacon of hope in tumultuous times. For those wishing to support the flood recovery efforts the DCDR are undertaking, contributions can be directed to downrail.co.uk/appeal, the official online appeal set up by the DCDR.