Full steam ahead for dinosaur adventures

Full steam ahead for dinosaur adventures

31 July 2019

THE Downpatrick and County Down Railway’s programme of summer events got underway last week to a ‘roaring’ success.

The Jurassic Express was the first big event of the railway’s exciting summer programme and was more successful than they could possibly have imagined.

Railway chairman Robert Gardiner said: “Who knew dinosaurs and railways went together?”

“We had baby dinos and their keepers on the train, and when the train got to Inch Abbey the passengers disembarked and walked down to our picnic area where ‘Roary’ the T-Rex was waiting for them.”

He added: “Even though you know they are puppets, it’s still quite unsettling when Roary the T-Rex charges at you.”

 “We carried over 600 dino-fans on five packed-out trains throughout the day, with people travelling as far as Dublin.”

Visitor Jen Banks said: “It was fantastic, my son Lorcán was beside himself and daughter Sarola was terrified. The train is lovely and all the volunteers made it so special. Fab time.”

Lee Monahan commented: “Another great day; thanks again guys.”

Lynsey Smyth said: “Was a great day. My wee boy Olly had a ball.”

Elaine McMillan said: “We had a great day. Think I was worse than the kids for enjoying it.”

Ranger Claire Johnston, from Jurassic Hire, said: “We had so much fun on the day. We love what we do and enjoy it as much as the kids, if not more.

“Whilst researching my daughter’s dinosaur-themed party, I realised that Northern Ireland was lacking life size T-Rex dinosaurs to hire.

“I decided I would take a leap of faith and jump into the crazy world of family entertainment. I haven’t looked back. I love what I do. I love seeing the expressions on people’s faces when they see a full size dinosaur.”

Mr Gardiner said the programme of special events, supported by Newry Mourne & Down Council, continues throughout the summer months.

“Our next one is the ‘SuperTrain’ on August 10 where the Avengers battle the evil Red Skull to stop the demise of the Downpatrick & County Down Railway from happening as he plans to turn all the steam trains into dirty diesels.”

This August also sees the start of some events for the grown-ups at the DCDR, with the first of these events giving wine-lovers a chance to enjoy some Hungarian wines with the ‘Whistle and Wine’ steam trains this Saturday and the ‘Gin Express’ on August 17.

A full list of events can be found online at www.downrail.co.uk.