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Dotto Train To Return To Ryde?

The former Dotto Train on Shanklin seafront

The much-loved Dotto Train that served the Island in the 80s, 90s and 00s, could be coming back to an Island town.

Once a huge hit for locals - but especially holidaymakers on the Island - the Dotto trains were axed from Shanklin, Sandown and Ryde in 2011.

Cuts to the Isle of Wight Council's budget were blamed.

Now, though, it seems as though plans are moving full steam ahead for a Dotto train to be reintroduced on Ryde Esplanade.

(The original Dotto Train on Ryde seafront in the 1980s. Picture - Twitter @RydeAbide)

When the trains were scrapped in 2011, the former council head of highways and transport, Peter Hayward, said that 'spending money providing Dotto Trains wasn't justified, and a replacement would cost £100,000.'

But now, speaking to Isle of Wight Radio's sister title, the Beacon magazine, Councillor for Ryde North West, Phil Jordan, said:

"I had the tiring pleasure of walking from the pier end to the Dell cafe and back, to agree the potential route for the Dotto Train.

"Ryde Town Council are moving forward with plans to re-introduce a Dotto Train in Ryde and working on many of the administrative tasks needed to get one into operation.

"The council are currently and actively sourcing a Dotto Train for this much wished for attraction.

"I have never wavered in my efforts on this, and so pleased we are getting close to the day that Ryde can once again boast a Dotto Train running along our seafront. Choo Choo."

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