Groudle Glen Railway’s star attraction has returned to the Island after being completely restored.

Sea Lion, the railway’s oldest and only original locomotive, needed urgent repairs to her boiler.

The damage was caused by the quality of the water supply, and although chemical treatments were added to lessen the corrosion issues, the condition worsened and the damage became irreversible.

As a result the boiler was sent to North Bay Railway Engineering Services in Darlington – in the end the locomotive had to have a complete overhaul and repair works.

The Steam Packet Company assisted with the cost of transporting Sea Lion to and from the Island.

It’s now undergoing tests ahead of the Christmas service on the line.

Trevor Nall, Chairman of Groudle Glen Railway, said: “It has been a huge upheaval for the volunteers at the railway to have our original locomotive of 1896 undergo such major repair works off-island, but the support generously provided by the Isle of Man Steam Packet Company in transporting the locomotive was crucial in allowing the works to happen.

“Sea Lion will be the star attraction of our Christmas trains this year as she returns to service.”

Steam Packet Company Chief Executive Mark Woodward said: “We were delighted to support this project.

“As Groudle Glen Railway’s oldest and only original locomotive, Sea Lion is such an important part of our island’s heritage.

“She is looking in pristine condition and I’m sure she’ll bring lots of joy to the island this Christmas.”

The restoration of Sea Lion was also supported by the Manx Lottery Trust, Culture Vannin and the Elizabeth Clucas Trust.