Steam train to run in Athlone this weekend

The Railway Preservation Society of Ireland is running a vintage steam train called the 'Western Gateway' on Sunday next from Athlone to Ballinasloe return.

The train will be headed by Loco No.4 built in 1947 which was acquired by the RPSI in 1971. The locomotive has run many miles in preservation and is used extensively on long tours.

The carriages were built in 1963 and purchased by the RPSI in 2006 when the last of them came out of service. They have been repainted since in a blue and cream livery. The organisers hope to bring 250 passengers from Dublin on the day.

The train boasts a bar and a diner which were built by volunteers. Teas, coffees, sandwiches, rasher and sausage baps and burgers can be purchased in the diner.

The society was formed in 1964, just after steam ceased running in Ireland, to preserve railway heritage which was fast disappearing at the time.
The train departs Athlone at 1.20pm and departs Ballinasloe at 3.10pm for the return trip.

Fares: €12 Adult/€6 under 16’s.
Tickets on sale at: Gala Shop, The Crescent, Athlone and Iarnrod Eireann station, Athlone.