Welsh Highland Railway
Stop Press Page
V4.1648
News (updated 2/9/10)
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Star Picture
This northerly view (22/5/10) shows No.87 hauling the first passenger train to Pont Croesor crossing the Afon Glaslyn bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Welcome to Version 4 of this website, launched on September 8 2004 with news about work on Phase 4 of the WHR scheme. In addition to this Stop Press page and a Phase 1/2 page, there are 9 location pages, covering the Phase 3 works between Waunfawr and Rhyd Ddu. There are a further 9 pages covering Phase 4, the full route through Beddgelert, the Aberglaslyn Pass and on to Porthmadog, including the Traeth Mawr to Pen-y-Mount works recently constructed by the WHR(P) with three regularly updated map links for this area by Laurence Armstrong.
Finally, there are pages covering 'Phase 5', Views from the Line, the history of the abandoned PBSSR works around Beddgelert, Archived News and a Contacts page for volunteers. Another page covers the current operation of the WHR(P) southwest from Pen-y-Mount.
The above OS map shows the route through the Aberglaslyn Pass and Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. Image produced from the Ordnance Survey Get-a-map service. Image reproduced with kind permission of Ordnance Survey and Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland.
Click here to use the free OS Get-a-map service.
Route section pages
Listed below are links to pages featuring progress on different sections of the line or archive views. Jump ahead to News section or follow the section links from page to page. Please note that access to the links below was restored on 2/9/04 at the new website www.isengard.co.uk
Phase 4 pages
Rhyd Ddu to Pont Cae'r Gors (updated 29/6/06)
Pont Cae'r Gors to Hafod Ruffydd Halt (new 8/10/06)
Hafod Ruffydd Halt to Beddgelert Forest Halt (updated 4/12/06)
Beddgelert Forest Halt to Beddgelert Station (updated 1/7/07)
Beddgelert Station Area (updated 30/6/07)
Beddgelert Station to Bryn-y-felin (updated 1/7/07)
Aberglaslyn Pass (updated 2/7/07)
Nantmor to Pont Croesor (updated 16/7/07)
Pont Croesor to Pen-y-Mount (updated 1/4/07)
WHR (Porthmadog) (updated 1/4/07)
Porthmadog Cross Town Link (updated 1/4/07)
Other pages
'Phase 5' page (new 2/4/06)
Views from the Line Page (updated 26/2/05)
PBSSR Works Historical Page (updated 25/3/05)
Rhyd Ddu Opening Page (New 14/2/04)
Archived News Page (updated 31/8/10)
Snow Scenes (updated 29/12/08)
Rolling Stock News Page (updated 28/12/04)
Phase 4 News Page (updated 3/3/05)
Volunteer Contact details page (updated 19/3/10)
Phase 2 and 3 page list (updated 27/8/08)
Access to Phase 2 pages is currently being progressed.
If you would like an automated announcement of site updates, email me at the NEW (2010) address below replacing the letters 'dot' in 'dotnet' with a full stop
isengard@ssesurfdotco.uk
This has been introduced as an anti-spam feature.
Disclaimer
There has never been any intent by myself to suggest that the views on these pages represent the views, opinions or policy of the FR, the WHRCL or the WHRS.
I am happy to confirm that this is an INDEPENDENT web news service.
Stop Press!!
New construction images/text will be posted on a regular basis.
New text in RED!
Phase 2 DVD released
Following many requests, your webmaster's Hi8 (stereo) Phase 2 analogue camcorder footage has been captured with a digitiser and edited to make a 2 hour DVD. All footage is from the year 2000, including:-
Click here for the Clip List.
The previous Phase 3 VHS video has been edited from original material onto DVD. Both Phase 2 and Phase 3 DVDs come in library boxes with smart illustrated inserts and a clip list (no commentary). The DVDs themselves are attractively labelled with a snowy alpine railway scene at Rhyd Ddu. The DVDs can be provided in any format (+R/-R/+RW/-RW) and the DVDs are not regionalised. Special orders for NTSC versions could be considered if the technology proves workable. All monies raised from the sale of these DVDs will go to the WHRS to support Phase 4. Contact the WHR/FR Shop. Limited numbers of copies of both DVDs will be on sale at WHRS events.
Phase 3 Video Offer
A new video offer for Phase 3 was launched at Easter 2004. The last video generated over £1,000 all of which was donated to the WHRS and the new video sold out at Super Power 2004, raising over £400 for Phase 4 funds.
The new video shows the construction, works trains, Royal test trains and the opening to Rhyd Ddu. The video is over 1.5 hours long covering the period 2000-2003. It also includes a few Gala clips and a 'chase the train' sequence at Llwyn-y-bedw. The special Xmas Edition now contains K1 in action footage and the 2005 Gala and the delivery of K1 to Dinas.
Phase 2 is also available in DVD format mastered from digitised analogue footage.
Phase 3 is now available in DVD format mastered from VHS tape for better reproduction!
Click here for Phase 3 Construction video Clip List
Sept 2007-Aug 2008 Edition of Phase 4 DVD
A new edition appeared at Garratt 50 including scenes from SuperPower 2007 through Palmerston at Beddgelert, the Supporters' Specials in the Aberglaslyn Pass to the final stages of linking up at Traeth Mawr. The DVD is an hour long. John Wooden sold them from his shop and also his on-line shop with all money raised going directly to the WHRS for Phase 4 funds. Following the review to be published in the Winter 2009 TSR, more copies will be produced over Xmas.
Click here for FR on-line shop
Click here for the latest YouTube Clip or on the box below
Click on the YouTube box above to watch 1 min of video of Prince crossing Bryn-y-felin bridge on 27/10/08 working a photo-charter. The quality of the YouTube clip does not represent the quality of the DVD. This video was taken by Barrie Hughes on a JVC Everio GZ-MG21EK camcorder.
Click here for Laurence Armstrong's latest WHR North map dated 5/11/07
Click here for Laurence Armstrong's latest WHR Middle map dated 14/3/10
Click here for Laurence Armstrong's latest WHR South map dated 14/3/10
Click here for Mike Schumann's Phase 4 TWA maps courtesy of Steve Harris
Click here for John Sreeves Gradient profile courtesy of Steve Harris
Click here for Chainages and OS Map References
Tuesday Gang report 31/8/10
Tony Baker reports: Work continued at Pont Croesor installing signage for through running. This includes fixed distant and home signals at both ends of station and point indicator at south end. At Porthmadog another team continued at crossing LC 123A erecting corral fencing on the east side and 4 posts on the west side. At this crossing the gates were changed from being latched to being self closing. It was a glorious sunny day. Twelve volunteers were present at the 2 sites.
This easterly view (31/8/10) shows the erection of fencing for the footpath crossing at the Council Depot. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Team Wylfa report 31/8/10
Clive Briscoe reports: Another good turnout on the evening of 31/8/10- our now usual team of 4 was joined by another former Wylfa colleague - Gordon, a good friend of Bob, to see if he would like to join us. Not to be outdone, two of Rest of the World Gang - Steve Walker and Bob le Marchant also offered their services so there were 7 of us in total!
Despite the main peak service being over, the order of running the sets has NOT changed as previously thought so the F Set is still out until very late. (There were no remaining passengers for Caernarfon last night so the service terminated at Dinas at 2100 and came straight in after Vale of Ffestiniog had run around the train). That was to have been our priority so instead, No.134 benefited from the large team. Paul and Pete removed the final, stubborn nut from the last of the tender bogie spring hangers and then, with the assistance of Bob le Marchant, proceeded with cleaning them all up ready for NDT inspection. Meanwhile Bob W and Steve carried on cleaning out accumulated carbonised cylinder oil from the valve / cylinder steam ports. Just when you think the last has been cleaned out, you find another big lump partly blocking the ports...
With such a large working party, another outstanding housekeeping job was done. Gordon and myself emptied one of the tool cupboards and finally sorted and classified the mass of tools that have been donated to us over the last two years. It is now possible to SEE and SELECT the tool/s you need without having to empty half the cupboard out first in order to find them.
So, another very productive evening.
Construction news 31/8/10
Piling work south of the bypass haul road crossing will retain the railway while the viaduct pier next to the railway is being constructed. The pile driver left the site during the evening of 31/8/10. It is expected the piles will have been driven home to rail level or cut off at that height. Lyd, Taliesin and some heritage coaches are due to pass on Friday 10/9/10 hauling heritage coaches for SuperPower. They are due to leave Porthmadog around 8am and will stand at Beddgelert from 1000 until 1130 and are due at Dinas at 1300. The area is due to be ballasted on 2/9/10.
This southerly view (31/8/10) shows piling underway adjacent to the CTRL immediately south of the haul road crossing south of Pen-y-Mount. The piling seems to intrude on the WHR kinematic envelope and may be of a temporary nature while the abutments of the bypass flyover are constructed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
LyD2 No.60 hauls first passenger train
This northerly view (26/8/10) shows the WHHR's LyD2 No.60 being painted ready for passenger service. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This easterly view (31/8/10) shows the WHHR's LyD2 No.60 arriving at Porthmadog with its first ever passenger train. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
North Wales Track Gang report 30/8/10
Dafydd Thomas reports: A slightly longer weekend - Friday to Sunday, 27 - 29 August, saw the North Wales /Black Hand Gang in action at Waunfawr station continuing with the installation of the shelter on the platform. Over the weekend the base and floor for the first shelter was completed, the sides, internal partition and the gable ends erected as well as the roof spars installed. A trench and pipe for a water supply for this shelter, which will incorporate a disabled person's toilet, was installed. A pit was dug in the Up platform to access an electricity supply duct and to provide a route for a communications duct. The pit will become a draw pit manhole when completed. The second shelter will contain an Operating Dept office which will double up as a booking office when required (as at Rhyd Ddu).
These northerly, easterly and southerly views (28/8/10) show the waste pipes being installed and the erection of Waunfawr waiting shelters. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Steve Broomfield and were taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Lyd on test 27/8/10
On 27/8/10 Lyd was noted coupled to stock at midday at Harbour Station. It was load tested to Tan-y-Bwlch with eight coaches in the morning and nine in the afternoon. The train achieved section times and the burner is now working better but the loco still needs a few tweaks. It is hoped the loco will be passed fit to haul passenger trains in time for SuperPower on 11-12/9/10.
These FR views (27/8/10) show Lyd shunting at Porthmadog station at midday in readiness for a test train. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Chris Price and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Castell Caernarfon back in action 24/8/10
Castell Caernarfon was noted in pw use at Hafod-y-llyn loop on 24/8/10 having been repaired following its wiring fire in early August. The ballast pile appears to have moved south to Hafod-y-llyn Isaf farm, giving shorter ballast runs for the staff completing the Pont Croesor to Porthmadog Harbour Station section.
This southerly view (24/8/10) shows Castell Caernarfon in the pw loop at Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This southerly view (24/8/10) shows the new ballast pile at Hafod-y-llyn Isaf farm. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Bypass works 24/8/10
The level crossing is still not in use but the embankment is now being built up on the west side of the WHR and the Minffordd Quarry is rapidly eating its way through Y Garth hill! The final week of August leading up the Bank Holiday weekend saw Porthmadog jammed with traffic for much of the day again, possibly because traditional local holidays rather than flights seem to be increasing in popularity again. The completion of the bypass might ease these problems and make it easier for the WHR trains to cross Britannia Bridge.
These easterly and westerly views (24/8/10) show progress with the bypass embankment. The second view shows sheets piling being constructed over a field culvert before the embankment to the west is started. The bypass viaduct will cross the line to the south of the haul road level crossing. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and were taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Rest of the World Gang report 21-22/8/10
The ROTWG tamped the section of the CTRL adjacent to Wilkinson's through the chicane alongside Llyn Bach in readiness for the proposed through passenger working at the end of October, the Supporter's Special, (subject to HMRI approval). The volunteers used Kango hand tamping tools.
These northerly views (22/8/10) show tamping of the CTRL alongside Wilkinson's store. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and were taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Normal service resumed
Your webmaster has completed his summer holidays and normal service will now be resumed with daily updates likely. Anyone who wishes to send images should be able to send larger images in groups rather than individually as the new ISP seems to be much more able to cope.
Nantmor train length sign 3/8/10
This southerly view (3/8/10) shows one of the several train length signs south of Nantmor Halt. These assist the driver in stopping his train clear of the level crossing which is not visible due to the sharp corner south of the halt. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Dragons on the WHHR Railway 28/8/10
WHHR Press release
An unusual dragon theatre group will be performing at a WHHR railway museum in Porthmadog over the August Bank Holiday weekend. Alchemy will be bringing their exquisite, hand crafted, dragon puppets to the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway as part of a fun weekend with a dragon theme. But unlike many theatre performances, these dragons will be mingling up close with passengers, showing off their graceful movements, causing plenty of laughs and even the odd spot of mischief. The event, 'Fun Whatever The Weather' runs throughout the Bank Holiday weekend. Managers at the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway hope it will bring extra visitors to the attraction, and to the town of Porthmadog for the end of the summer.
This view shows a Dragon puppet that will be seen at the WHHR's Bank Holiday weekend event. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy WHHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Martyn Owen, Chairman of the WHHR, said, 'The high summer season this year has been one of the most bizarre in the recent history of our charity. We started the summer with visitor numbers which were steady, but down on the same period in previous years. Then, all of a sudden, we found ourselves rushed off our feet. It really has been a summer of two halves. It’s almost as if many people put off taking their holidays until the very last minute in the hope that the weather might improve towards the end of the summer. We’re just hoping that the tourist industry of Porthmadog can keep up the busy pace for the all important Bank Holiday weekend.
Alchemy claim that their baby dragons have all been carefully hatched from eggs at a small dragon sanctuary in the Welsh Marches, and are recognisable by their enthusiastic love of sausages. Martyn Owen added, 'It might seem strange to have a dragon theme to a weekend at a steam railway, but you never know what is lurking inside the firebox of some of those engines. Other attractions over the weekend at the WHHR include a children's book signing by the popular author Alan Cliff from Rhyl, known for his series of books on Jack the Station Cat, a dragon hunt around the Engine Sheds and a family hog roast on the Saturday (27/8/10) from 1500.
Tuesday Gang report 24/8/10
Tony Baker reports: We continued with the installation of trespass grids on the CTRL section. LC123/124 are complete and the foot crossing at the council yard LC123A has been started. Picture attached of LC124 finishing off. Meantime other teams from the Tuesday Gang were fitting out the ops room at PC station building, planting yet more posts at PC to facilitate through running, installing crossing timbers at LC117 and at the request of a local farmer pulling up ragwort from the trackside between Pont Croesor and Pen-y-Mount. A busy day indeed.
This northerly view (24/8/10) shows the completion of the anti-trespass grids at Council Yard Crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Team Wylfa report 24/8/10
Clive Briscoe reports: An amazing seven people turned up for Team Wylfa's working party on Tuesday evening 24/8/10 - probably the most we've had for well over 4 years. With Bob back and my 2 new recruits, Paul and Pete, we were joined by 'Team Clark' - Pip and his 2 sons. Paul and Pete carried on removing No.134's tender bogie spring hanger brackets so they can be Non Destructive Tested and the rest of us blitzed the E Set and F Set spares (which are taken off the set for the late train). In a record 1½ hours, the carriage checks and oiling was complete so we were all able to join Paul and Pete in the Clip Shed workshop to continue work on No.134. Thanks 'Team Clark' - you appeared to have had a good evening with us and we look forward to you coming again in the not too distant future. Many hands made light work of lots of jobs and it was a very productive evening.
Lyd action 23/8/10
Lyd made it up to Blaenau Ffestiniog for the first time on the evening of 23/8/10 after gauging trials in Garnedd Tunnel. No major obstacles were encountered.
These FR views (23/8/10) show Lyd being gauge tested in Garnedd Tunnel. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andrew Thomas and were taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
These FR views (23/8/10) show Lyd being gauge tested at Dduallt and Tan-y-grisiau. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andrew Thomas and were taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
These FR views (23/8/10) show Lyd being gauge tested at Blaenau Ffestiniog, watering and gauge testing. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andrew Thomas and were taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Prince at the Engine House 23/8/10
This Engine House view (23/8/10) shows out of ticket Prince (the boiler is life expired), a frequent visitor WHR, at the SVR's new exhibition facility at Highley. The loco arrived on 21/7/10 and is likely to be on display for a year before the FR take it back to Boston Lodge for its 10 year overhaul. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Webmaster's Summer holidays
There will be a break in this website's service from 23/8/10 until 28/8/10 due to your webmaster's 'busman's holiday' on the WHR etc. Please do not repeatedly hit the website looking for updates during this period as this web space and bandwidth are donated by Peter Bowyer of Maple Design who has a business to run on the same server.
SuperPower latest
It is hoped Lyd will haul an inaugural train for supporters and also for the general public later in the weekend. There will be mixed trains and double headers.
Stamp of approval 19/8/10
The UK’s newest steam loco, Lyd, posed for the cameras on 19/8/10 to help launch the Royal Mail’s latest set of special stamps commemorating the 50th anniversary of the rollout of Evening Star, British Rail’s last steam locomotive. Staff from the F&WHR’s Boston Lodge Works posed with copies of the stamps in front of Lyd, now wearing its nameplates, on Thursday morning after the loco had returned from another successful load test on the FR.
Team Wylfa report 17/8/10
Clive Briscoe reports: With the F Set out until late, it was a No.134 night. However, as well as working on No.134, another outstanding job was tackled - the outside lighting to the Clip Shed was disconnected a long while back so that door panels could be removed to get No.134's tender chassis inside. Somehow, they had been left disconnected. With the night's drawing in rapidly, with sufficient manpower for a change, the lighting was recommissioned. This week, I have a mega party promised with 3 extra hands plus Bob back, so there is every likelihood of the E Set being checked and oiled AND some more work done on No.134.
Tuesday Gang report 17/8/10
Tony Baker reports: The work on the section from Pont Croesor to the former Traeth Mawr loop is finished and we are now doing the CTRL section. Last week we did the prepping at Snowdon Street and the northern side of the crossing into the Council Yard. Strangely this crossing does not have a name or number. Today (17/8/10) we installed the grids themselves. Pictures attached show work in progress at the southern side of Snowdon Street and the northern side of the Council Yard crossing.
These northerly and southerly views (17/8/10) show the completion of anti-trespass grids at Snowdon Street and the Council Depot crossings. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Tony Baker and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (17/8/10) shows the anti-trespass grids nearing completion at the Council Depot crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Lyd latest 16/8/10
These westerly views (16/8/10) show Lyd on test at Penrhyn and The Cob. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Matt Waldren (aged 11) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
North Wales track gang report 13-15/8/10
Dafydd Thomas reports: Over the weekend, including Friday 13th, the North Wales/Black Hand Gang were engaged in preparatory work for the new on platform waiting shelters at Waunfawr. The first task on Friday was to clear a way into the yard at Waunfawr. It is surprising how much vegetation can grow in less than 12 months. We then had to locate the end of a foul drain pipe under the platform. The tarmac covering was particularly tough and would have done the M1 proud.
This northerly view (13/8/10) shows preparatory work for the Waunfawr waiting shelters by members of the North Wales Track Gang. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dp.
These northerly views (14/8/10) show work on the Waunfawr waiting shelters. The first shows concrete being broken out and the second, the support straps being concreted in. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andy Keene and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Saturday saw a continuation of digging out the trench for the foul drain as well as digging out holes and concreting in support straps for the shelter bases. The bases here will be similar to the temporary ticket office at Beddgelert and not on brick as at the permanently located shelters at Snowdon Ranger, Meillionen and Nantmor. Sunday, at long last saw completion of the foul drain necessary for the toilet, which will be part of the down side shelter. A start was also made on the wooden base framework for the shelters as well as a start on digging out trenches for service ducts for electricity, water and communications.
These northerly views (15/8/10) show the pipes being installed and finished for the Waunfawr waiting shelters. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Steve Broomfield and were taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (15/8/10) shows work in progress with the base for the Waunfawr waiting shelter. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Matt Waldren (aged 11) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
West Midlands Gang 7/8/10 and 14/8/10
The concrete for the Lamp Room base at Beddgelert and access path seat was poured on 7/8/10 following a special working by Castell Caernarfon to Beddgelert with a wagon of concreting materials that was stored in the siding. The shuttering was removed a week later by Dave Waldren. Meanwhile members of the WHHG painted Pont Croesor waiting shelter green.
This southerly view (9/8/10) shows the casting complete on the original Lamp Room base. The sharply curved siding over the inspection pit could only be accessed by an England engine (if that!) and it might be better if a new point accessed the depot area from the point of view. The northern half of the existing siding could then be slewed near to the wall to the right to give more useable length. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
These Beddgelert views (14/8/10) show the cast concrete bases for the Beddgelert depot Lamp Room and the seat base on the access path. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Dave Waldren and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This westerly view (14/8/10) shows work in progress by members of the WHHG painting the Pont Croesor waiting shelter green. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dave Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
CTRL Culvert relaid 13/8/10
The flood relief culvert between Pen-y-Mount and the WHHR's Fortmadoc coaling depot was completed in early August and the track relaid over the weekend of 7-8/8/10.
This southerly view (1/8/10) shows track removed but the new culvert complete with backfilling underway. The WHHR is to the right. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
These northerly and southerly views (13/8/10) show the trackbed reinstated and the track relaid with geotextile to prevent the ballast mixing with the sub-base. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Barrie Hughes and were taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
These easterly and westerly views (13/8/10) show the haul road complete but not yet in use. The embankments for the viaduct are under construction just south of this point. The WHHR's two sidings have been reinstated. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Barrie Hughes and were taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Construction report 2- 13/8/10
Tamping had been completed to Pen-y-Mount by late July and the tampers were parked up just south of Pont Croesor for most of the time through to mid-August.
This southerly view (2/8/10) shows the Matisa tamper at Pen-y-Mount. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
With no pw loco available, the ballast wagons remained in the loop at Hafod-y-llyn. Upnor Castle is still under repair at Boston Lodge while Conway Castle is Dinas pilot and only suitable for light work. Only one Funkey has been available and that is required for passenger traffic.
These Dinas views (2/8/10) show Conway Castle acting as Dinas pilot with K1 being prepared for a steam test. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Barrie Hughes and were taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
The WHRCL is planning to complete the signage and lights for the Snowdon Street and Britannia Bridge tramway sections in early September and these are now in store at Dinas. The ERTMS system at Cae Pawb crossing needs a little further work and there is still no resolution of the Crossing Box issue. The WHHR plan to increase the length of their Porthmadog terminus to accept full length WHR trains and also build the platform on the CTRL side of Pen-y-Mount station.
Once all the signage and control signals are installed and tested and the track top ballasted and fully tamped, the Pont Croesor to Porthmadog section will be subject to HMRI inspection and a Supporters' Special may then traverse the whole route to Harbour Station at the end of October.
This northerly view (13/8/10) shows the white stop block at Pen-y-Mount Junction with padlocks from both WHR and WHHR. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
These northerly and southerly views (1/8/10) show the area south of Pen-y-Mount Halt. The WHHR has marked a white line where they intend to put the platform after the line is tamped and ballasted. The platform is planned to be 60m long and will run from the halt building in the first view to the start of the access path on the right in the second view. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Barrie Hughes and were taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (1/8/10) shows the Gasworks Siding point which may be the last section of CTRL to be laid. The detector for the tramway section can be seen just north of the point. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This southerly view (1/8/10) shows the Llyn Bach path collapse has received some attention from Gwynedd Council. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
These easterly and westerly views (1/8/10) show the road alterations at Cob Records access. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Barrie Hughes and were taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
These easterly and westerly views (1/8/10) show the Spooner's beer cellar which will be altered soon to allow the completion of the WHR platform/path, though trains will initially shunt out of the FR platform in 2011 until widening of The Cob and major alterations to the track plan of Harbour Station and can be afforded. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Barrie Hughes and were taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This easterly view (1/8/10) shows the WHR junction at Harbour Station which will be completed with proper levers and FPL. The new FR signal cabin is also in visible. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
These Dinas views (13/8/10) show the signage for the tramway sections in Porthmadog. It is not yet certain that cyclists will be required to dismount when crossing the Britannia Bridge. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Barrie Hughes and were taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
K1 views 10/8/10
This southerly view (10/8/10) shows K1 double heading with Vale of Ffestiniog rounding Ffridd Isaf curve on a running in turn. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Neil McMaster and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This southerly view (10/8/10) shows K1 leaving Beddgelert, disturbing the leaves with its drain cocks. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Bernard Cruickshank and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Rest of the World Gang report 7-8/8/10
Dr. Simon Melhuish reports: The ROTWG reconnected the track that was broken to allow the bypass flood culvert to be built. This was done with short rails, which will later (after bypass construction has finished) be replaced with the original rails. The rails also pass through the temporary level crossing made for bypass construction traffic. The contractors will fix this section using some sort of grout around the track screws.
This northerly view (7/8/10) shows the ROTWG working on Pen-y-Mount Junction, with the WHHR's Gelert running round. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (7/8/10) shows the ROTWG relaying track across the new bypass haul road level crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (8/8/10) shows the complete flood relief culvert with the WHR embankment remade over it. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and was taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Lyd in action 5-8/8/10
After many year's in gestation, replica L&BR loco Lyd moved under its own steam on 5/8/10. Preparations continued over a rainy morning and by midday, Dawn, a young lady Boston Lodge fitter had the honour of fitting the regulator and popping the whistle. The loco is fitted with two whistles, a high pitched replica and a lower pitched GWR type. Later, Jon Whalley, FRCo. CME, posed with the fitter responsible for much of the work, Bob Yates and the General Manager, Paul Lewin. James Evans who led the project for many years after funding the frames himself was unable to be present. The loco then shunted 4 slate wagons and later in the day hauled an ECS across The Cob, now with dome fitted.
This westerly view (5/8/10) shows Lyd with the FR General Manager, engineer and fitter. The loco was being prepared for HMRI inspection on 6/8/10 and was moving around Boston Lodge under its own steam. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This Boston Lodge view (5/8/10) shows Lyd with Boston Lodge fitter Dawn, fitting the final component, the regulator. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This Boston Lodge view (5/8/10) shows Lyd with two whistles, the smaller replica pattern on the left has a higher (some might say irritating) pitch and the larger is a GWR standard whistle. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Initially the loco is in black livery and lacked front cowcatcher and nameplates on the water tanks. The loco is set to appear at the WHR SuperPower event over the weekend of 11-12/9/10 before visiting the Launceston Steam Railway on 19/9/10 and also the Lynton and Barnstaple on 25-6/9/10. The loco will eventually appear in an authentic SR replica livery over the Winter after all the snagging is complete.
These Boston Lodge views (21/7/10) show Lyd's front without cowcatcher, the side view of the assembled Joy's valve gear as it makes it's first move under its own power and the loco shunting 4 slate wagons at 2pm. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Barrie Hughes and were taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Check out video of the day on the FR website.
On Sunday 8/8/10, the loco hauled a test train of 6 bogies to a point beyond Rhiw Goch with no problems. Click on the FR's YouTube link. The video with one train closely following another was made with a camera was on wagon No.63 pulled along ahead of Lyd's train by Moelwyn under an engineering possession.
WHHR 30th anniversary 2/8/10
The WHHR celebrated its 30th Anniversary on 2/8/10.
This easterly view (2/8/10) shows the Gelert and Gertrude carrying headboards commemorating the 30th anniversary of the first WHHR passenger train. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (2/8/10) shows the Porthmadog bypass haul road crossing just south of Pen-y-Mount. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
SuperPower 2010 volunteer appeal
Dafydd Thomas reports: This year's Superpower will be centred around the newer part of the railway, namely Beddgelert to Pont Croesor from 10-12/9/10. We need volunteers to not only put up marquees, signage, barriers, etc beforehand on 9th & 10th September but also to man the various stands, give out information and assist with running the trains. If you can help on any of these days, 9-12/9/10 and we will also need assistance to put it all away on Monday, 13/9/10 please let me know, thank you.
Glaslyn Pullman
The evening before SuperPower will see a one off 'Glaslyn Pullman' being run with fine dining. The price is £75 for the four course meal plus train ticket. Both Pullman cars will be used together with service car. See the WHR website.
Bank Holiday bus link
The open top bus will run between Pont Croesor and Porthmadog on August Bank Holiday Monday 30/8/10 but tickets will only be available from the railway's booking offices. See WHR website.
Team Wylfa report July-August
Clive Briscoe reports: We have been steadily plodding on, alternating between checking and oiling the E Set on one week and working on No.134 the other these last few weeks. The F Set, being on the late train, has been unavailable to us with it not returning to Dinas until 2145 or so on Tuesdays. There are two new team members, Peter and Paul (they need Mary for the set!-Ed). Peter has been with the Gardening Gang for some time but due to changing work patterns, has come across to us and Paul is a very useful fabricator/fitter. Both have taken to our jobs like ducks to water.
Next Wagons Roll
The next Wagons Roll workday is Sunday 29/8/10 at Dinas fixing the WHR wagon fleet.
Lost & Found
Your webmaster found a 1GB blue Scandisk SD Card, presumably from a digital camera, on the ground at Pont Croesor on 9/8/10 by the station building. It was handed to the Station Master.
Traffic report 1-13/8/10
Early August saw rainy cool weather almost every day in North Wales and, with the effects of the recession, passenger numbers appeared lighter. TWThX, the first train of the day north from Beddgelert is at 1245 and the WHR may be missing the morning day trip market here. On TWThO the Red peak timetable applies and an early/late diesel hauled train ran to pick up the holidaymakers in the Beddgelert area and return them in the late evening. It ran with a reduced length rake because of timing load issues and was almost empty until running around at Beddgelert. During the first week of August the early/late train was hauled by Castell Caernarfon whilst Vale of Ffestiniog was having radiator work completed (at one stage a tea urn was seen on top of the loco at Dinas!).
This southerly view (1/8/10) shows No.87 at Pont Croesor, ready to depart north. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (2/8/10) shows Castell Caernarfon at Dinas in the newly extended siding. This allows a full length rake to pull clear of the points more easily. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
Vale of Ffestiniog became available in the second week of August, just in time as Castell Caernarfon suffered another wiring fire! The FR Funkey hauled the early and late trains in the second week and no diesel was available for PW work south of Pont Croesor. The mode of operation of this train in the red timetable sees the loco shunt back to Dinas light engine, leaving its rake at Caernarfon. It then reappears an hour later hauling an FR coach, NWNGR coach and bike wagon with a steam loco on the rear. The Funkey goes into the loop and the steam loco shunts the new coaches onto the rake to depart at 1200. The Funkey then runs light to Dinas after the service has departed.
K1 had a steam test on 2/8/10 following fitting of its new blast pipe but suffered a white metal problem when shunted. Rapid work by a dedicated team saw the loco enter service on 9/8/10 on the second train of the day paired with No.138, which remained inside, resulting in an interesting shunt at Pont Croesor. Lots of enthusiasts turned up to photograph the first run of K1 since the Xmas services. K1 was paired with Vale of Ffestiniog for the rest of the week, seeing a complicated shunt at Caernarfon.
This southerly view (9/8/10) shows K1 with No.138 at Pont Croesor. This was the first outing for K1 since Xmas. It was the only occasion that the loco was paired with No.138 all week. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
This southerly view (12/8/10) shows K1 leading the ECS additional coaches from Dinas to strengthen the 1210 departure from Caernarfon with Vale of Ffestiniog on the rear. The loco will run round to lead the rake at Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.
The normal pattern saw No.87 on the first and last steam trains with No.138 on the middle service. No.138 was retired for the rest of the week after K1 became available on 9/8/10. Castell Caernarfon was noted light engine northbound passing Beddgelert Forest Campsite at 1855 on 6/8/10 having delivered a wagon with cement materials for the West Midlands Group work at Beddgelert depot replica lamp room. No.87 ran non stop through Meillionen/Beddgelert Forest Campsite Halt with about 20 passengers waiting in the pouring rain (including your webmaster!) as none of the people at the front indicated to the driver. The disgruntled passengers were not there when the train returned an hour later. Perhaps a large sign could be pinned up in the shelter reminding people to indicate to the driver they want the train to stop.
An FR website YouTube link shows WHR August services.
Go ahead for Pont Croesor-Porthmadog Works 4/6/10
Paul Bradshaw: In the past few days the decision has been made by the FR and WHRCL to complete the works needed to obtain HMRI approval of the remaining section of the new WHR. By mid-September we need to have the section from Pont Croesor to Harbour Station brought up to the standard required for a passenger service. It is expected that with HMRI approval granted it will be possible to run occasional trains from Harbour Station over the WHR later this year and, it is hoped, a timetabled service over the winter.
For our track volunteers this means we need a lot of your help over the next 15 weeks. There is much to do. Tom's team have already started on the hugely important job of tamping this section. They need maximum support from the volunteer track gangs. The volunteer work programme has been adjusted so that we can make this all happen. The details are below.
Track fettling, improving alignments, ballasting, signage and installation of crossing timbers are just a few of the works to be completed. So no resting on our laurels. We have a busy summer ahead.
If you have not been to work with us recently, now is the time to join us. If so far you have not experienced volunteering on the WHR track, this is an excellent opportunity to find out what it is all about.
Briefly the plan is to continue the regular weekend and Tuesday operations, supplementing them with extended weekends (Friday to Monday) and an additional working week. And if you cannot make one of our normal volunteer dates Tom is always glad to have additional help for the Permanent-Way team.
Weekend dates for the next few months are:
| August | 28-29/8/10# | ||||
| September | 4-5/9/10# | 11-12/9/10 | 18-19/9/10* | 25-26/9/10 |
Thereafter the same fortnightly pattern will continue. Red is North Wales Track gang and black is the Rest of the World Gang.
# Working week
Following on from the BHG weekend, 28-29/8/10 we will continue with a working week through to the following ROWG weekend , 4-5/9/10.
*Long weekends
The weekends marked * will be run as long weekend starting on the Friday previous and running through to the Monday following, i.e. from Friday 11/6/10 to Monday 14/6/10 and Friday 17/9/10 to Monday 20/9/10.
Tuesday Gang work parties continue to operate pretty well every Tuesday. In December they will be working on Tuesdays 7/12/10, 14/12/10 and 21/12/10 but not 28/12/10. Normal operations start again on 4/1/11. Contact Tony Baker for details.
The P-Way Track Gang can often do with help on week days. If you would like to join them contact Tom (Alun Tomlinson).
See Contacts page for all organisers.
After September
The usual fortnightly pattern of weekend working parties will continue through the Autumn until the ROWG weekend , 11-12/12/10. Tuesday Gang work parties will continue to operate pretty well every Tuesday.
We also expect to run a working week starting with the ROWG weekend of 16-17/10/10 running through to Friday 22/10/10 and a long weekend from 12-15/11/10. These dates are subject to confirmation shortly.
Remember that without your help we will not achieve the target date.
Gradient graph
John Hopkins has contributed this image of the gradient profile of the WHR. It makes clear how much of a mountain we have climbed and how steep the drop through Beddgelert is. Maybe most of all, it reveals the challenge facing northbound trains after they stop at Beddgelert!
This image is courtesy/copyright John Hopkins and is derived from data courtesy John Sreeves with additional work by Michael Bentley.
Events 2009/10
| 11-12/9/10 | Super Power |
| October 2010 | Sponsor's Special- First train to Porthmadog |
| Autumn 2010/Spring 2011 | Porthmadog Opening? |
Site development
If you have suggestions for development of this site, please contact me by email at the address at the top of the page.
Comments
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Maps & Plans and links
Click here for Steve Harris' full list of Historical Maps and Gradient Profiles
Much material can be purchased from Steve Harris who is the WHRS' Mail Order officer.
Click here for the Mail Order web page
Click here for the Official WHR website
Click here for Official WHR(P) site
Click here for FR Company websites
Click here for Welsh Highland Heritage Group
Version 4.1648 updated 2/9/10