Welsh Highland Railway

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News (updated 18/5/12)

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Star Picture

This northerly view (26/2/11) shows the Blanche leading Merddin Emrys out of Caernarfon on the 1430 return. 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.

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 WHHR) 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 WHHR) 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 6' 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 5/5/12)

Snow Scenes (updated 16/1/11)

Rolling Stock News Page (updated 28/12/04)

Phase 4 News Page (updated 3/3/05)

Volunteer Contact details page (updated 3/9/11)

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' 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:-

• construction trains
• stock gauging trains
• test running trains
• the first steam to Waunfawr
• the Opening Day
• September's Gala with Taliesin and Russell
• December Snow Scenes

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 DVD Clip List

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.

News Section

WHR timetables

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

Rail Ale 18-20/5/12

As well as it being Rail Ale this coming weekend, the No. 134 Team will be at work at Dinas. Visitors can inspect progress (cylinders re-bored, loco rear drag box on the way out for replacement etc, etc). Volunteers should have some merchandise for visitors to buy as well, so raising more funds for the rebuild. The new tender may be back from Boston Lodge for visitors to inspect. See F&WHR website for full details. The roster does no show specific locomotives for this weekend but the Caernarfon-Porthmadog trains are likely to be hauled by No.87/143 with the extra shuttle trains hauled by a diesel, probably Castell Caernarfon.

Team Wylfa report 15/5/12

Clive Briscoe reports: The A Team had a short evening on Tuesday as Pete Tabord has just restarted his business and needed an early start to travel to London to a client on Wednesday morning. So, it was just check and oil the set and away!

Rhyd Ddu-Blaenau Ffestiniog service 9/4/12

This southerly view (9/4/12) shows Vale of Ffestiniog hauling the Porthmadog-Rhyd Ddu early service. This was very lightly loaded during the cold wet (even snowy) Easter peak timetable. An FR rake was used for this 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (9/4/12) shows Vale of Ffestiniog hauling the Rhyd Ddu-Porthmadog early service. This usually picked up a few passengers at Rhyd Ddu, the campsite and Beddgelert on its southbound run. With a change of engine at Beddgelert, the rake then runs onto Ffestiniog as the 1140 service thereby offering a Rhyd Ddu- Ffestiniog through train after the shunt into the platform at Porthmadog and a wait of 25 minutes. 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 15/5/12

Tony Baker reports: On Tuesday 15/5/12 the gang started by collecting timber from Boston Lodge, which is to be used to construct platform benches. We then proceeded to Beddgelert where the benches there needed rearranging. They are heavy, 7 of us managed them but would not like to carry them far. Then to Rhyd Ddu to carry on with our maintenance of "T" bolts. This time we had all the necessary tools and were able to deal with even the most stubborn. This location is now completed. Finally back to Dinas to put the timber collected earlier into store. Heavy showers and a white covering on Snowdon, yes, it is May.

North Wales Track Gang appeal

Dafydd Thomas reports: Following our successful clearance train of the week before last, we will now be having the next one on the evening of Monday, 21/5/12. Please let me know if you can assist. Those who can, please come to Dinas by 16:00 to load up and prepare the train; train to depart at 17:00. Paul Bradshaw will be supervising this one, so please report to Paul upon arrival at Dinas.

Views from 9/4/12

This southerly view (9/4/12) shows No.87 running round at Caernarfon on another rainy Easter day. 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (9/4/12) shows Lyd shunting Porthmadog Harbour as the WHR train departs in the rain. Although the weather was poor it did cause good condensation. 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Hugh Napier launch YouTube 11/5/12

Quarry Hunslet Hugh Napier was launched at Porthmadog on 11/5/12. Eventually the loco is to feature as an operational exhibit at the National Trust's Penrhyn Castle. Over the next few months it will travel around the UK as a roving ambassador for the NT. The loco will feature, along with Lillian, Eigiau, Stanhope, Sgt. Murphy, Bronllwyd and the home based locos at the WHR's Quarry Power event in 14-16/9/12.

The loco was driven into Porthmadog with its old Penrhyn fireman Gareth Williams on the footplate. See BBC story. After the naming the loco, the loco hauled a 7 coach FR rake special to Beddgelert carrying guests with Linda and Blanche (in reverse) inside. The loco received a religious blessing at Beddgelert and was passed by the WHR train before returning to Porthmadog at the head of Linda and Blanche again.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 9 mins 56 secs of video of Hugh Napier on 11/5/12, including general views of the SSSIII event and the TR's Dolgoch in action sharing the central rail with the FR's gauge. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder and is best viewed at 1080p HD standard.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 7 mins 7 secs of video of Hugh Napier on 11/5/12, including BBC/ITV/SC4 TV footage and commentary, some in Welsh. This video was assembled from broadcast footage by FRWHR Marketing (FR&WHR) on a camcorder and is best viewed at 480p HD standard.

Blaenau 30 YouTube 5-6/5/12

The FR event saw the rarely used platform 2 in use. A track block allowed footplate rides on Lilla further along the platform and out of use Mountaineer was also stabled at the far end of the platform.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 9 mins 0 secs of video of Blaenau 30 Event on 5-6/5/12, including SBR's Peckett in action. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder and is best viewed at 1080p HD standard.

Easter views 7/5/12

This southerly view (7/4/12) shows No.87 making light work of the climb through Pont Cae'r Gors to the summit with Moel Hebog behind. The international fame of the WHR is growing and a German photographer gets into the image. 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (7/4/12) shows No.143 breasting the summit the summit with Ffridd Uchaf and snow on the mountains behind. This photo location on the edge of the forest is a little difficult to get to from the Pont Cae'r Gors level 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (7/4/12) shows Earl of Merioneth watering at Rhyd Ddu. This loco was to be on the front on the return working. 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (7/4/12) shows Merddin Emrys awaiting its turn to top up with water at Rhyd Ddu. 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

EAG Meetings 17/5/12 and 3/6/12

Richard Watson advises: Here are details of the next two East Anglian Group activities. On Thursday 17/5/12 Jon Marsh, the well known producer of excellent DVDs on many railway subjects, makes a welcome return with a programme of narrow gauge and other railway footage, entitled "Steam in the Blood".

Sunday 3/6/12 Visit to Cambridge Museum of Technology, The Old Pumping Station, Cheddars Lane, Cambridge, CB5 8LD. Steam–up day including steam rope hauled narrow gauge incline. Meet at the gates at 11.00 a.m., admission charge. http://www.museumoftechnology.com/ for further details.

Baldwin Boiler on display

This Gelert's Farm view (5/5/12) shows the new Baldwin boiler, presented as a focus for fundraising to complete the loco. The loco is to carry running number No.590. This will allow many historic views to be recreated. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

WHHR Gala 5-8/5/12

This northerly view (5/5/12) shows No.143 at Pen-y-Mount Junction as seen from Gelert at 1210. Gelert is running round its train via the headshunt and a track block protects the connection! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Michael Chapman, copyright Mark Herbert (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (6/5/12) shows Doll racing No.143 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (8/5/12) shows Mike Hart's Simplex returning from the WHHR dragging the completed NG15 tender to Boston Lodge. The working is passing Porthmadog Harbour Cob widening. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Mike Hart reports: Just to complete the 'picture' the Simplex was returned so it would be at Minffordd to load onto a lorry bound for York on 9/5/12 - where it will be Palmerston's helper/back up with the NG line operations at Railfest at the NRM, York (2-10/6/12). Palmerston follows in a few days time.

WHHR Gala and 'Blaenau 30' YouTube

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 17 mins 16 secs of video of the WHHR Gala and Blaenau 30 Gala on 6/5/12. This video was taken by Steve Llewellyn on a camcorder and is best viewed at 1080p HD standard.

Tuesday Gang report 8/5/12

Tony Baker reports: We spent 8/5/12 checking for loose T bolts at Pont Croesor and Rhyd Ddu. We were confined to the section between the north and south point blades i.e. station limits because we did not have a Track Safe Supervisor but found plenty to keep us busy. Where seized bolts were encountered they were treated to a splash of diesel to lubricate them prior to a further visit.

Team Wylfa report 8/5/12 and on tour!

Clive Briscoe reports: Your scribe is back from his hols so Team Wylfa's Tuesday 'A' Team were back in action. As your scribe is still suffering a little jet lag, as soon as we had completed our work checking and oiling part of the F Set (B Team will complete on Thursday evening), we had an early night and finished just after 9pm. I will now reveal that your scribe has just 'done' Australia in a 2½ week visit there. Whilst there, he paid a visit to 2 narrow gauge railways with links to F&WHR. Firstly in Perth, the Bennett Brook Railway who have two NG15s - sister locos to the WHR's No.133 & 134. Their engineer took time out to show your scribe and his wife around - to the extent of opening the loco shed and starting up their big diesel loco and taking them on a tour of the line. Afterwards taking them around the works and meeting up with some of their volunteers. I know you follow us periodically on this website so publicly, Derek, many, many thanks to you and your BBR colleagues for the great welcome.

Next came the Puffing Billy Railway in the Dandendong Hills above Melbourne. Their CEO is a well known ex FR personality. They have NGG16's as well as their Victoria Railways narrow gauge 'A' Class Baldwin Prairie Tanks. They have just received their second NGG16 from Port Shepstone to assist with spares in rebuilding the first one to 2' 6" gauge. Again, I received an amazing reception and got to fire 8A on the way back from Gembrook. Unfortunately, I've lost the piece of paper with the driver and fireman's names but they too, like our BBR friends will probably read this - you were on 8A on the Gembrook train on Wednesday 25/4/12. Thank you from the bottom of my heart - the video of the train coming over the curved trestle came out perfectly - you know what you did in order for me to get it... Thanks guys, I owe you one when you come to visit F&WHR.

'Blaenau 30' Event 5-7/5/12

The FR is celebrating the 30th anniversary of the return to Blaenau Ffestiniog this weekend. Your webmaster was invited to the original event having been a Deviationist in his teens! Statfold Barn Railway's Peckett Harrogate hauled shuttle trains at Blaenau Ffestiniog. This loco had previously been a long time resident of Porthmadog but was deemed unsuitable (see FR story). For full details of event see FR story.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 14 mins 51 secs of video of the Blaenau 30 Gala on 6/5/12. This video was taken by Dave, Tom and Matt Waldren on a Panasonic SD900 camcorder and is best viewed at 1080p HD standard.

This easterly view (5/5/12) shows Palmerston near Glan-y-pwll at 0840. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Matt Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (5/5/12) shows the Peckett Harrogate near Glan-y-pwll at 0853. This loco was resident of the FR for nearly 30 years but was never repaired as it was deemed unsuitable for services. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Matt Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (5/5/12) shows Blanche on a short freight near Glan-y-pwll at 1036. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Matt Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (5/5/12) shows Earl of Merioneth arriving at Blaenau Ffestiniog at 1135 carrying the Dinas/Porthmadog 1832/1982 headboard with an ATW Conwy Valley service arriving at the same time. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Matt Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (5/5/12) shows Lyd at Penrhyndeudraeth level crossing at 1300 carrying Y Cymro headboard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Matt Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Views from 6/4/12

This southerly view (6/4/12) shows Vale of Ffestiniog on the first train out of Porthmadog arriving at Rhyd Ddu. This train only operates in the peak red timetable and turns back at Rhyd Ddu. It was very lightly loaded over the cold wet Easter this year. 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (6/4/12) shows Vale of Ffestiniog about to return to Porthmadog on this Early Bird 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang 1/5/12

The Tuesday Gang carried on with T bolt maintenance of track north of Dinas on 1/5/12.

Campsite views 4/4/12

This southerly view (4/4/12) shows No.87 on the first train out of Porthmadog passing Beddgelert Forest Campsite crossings on one of the few sunny days at Easter. 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (4/4/12) shows No.143 on the first southbound train of the day passing Beddgelert Forest campsite level crossings. 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang South 1/5/12

Steve Broomfield reports: On 1/5/12 the TGS completed the following tasks at Pont Croesor. Some 63 new trees were also planted, mainly along the car park's western boundary fence.

This northerly view (1/5/12) shows an anti-trespass sign was fitted to the new fence at the North end of the down platform at Pont Croesor. 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (1/5/12) shows The posts supporting the fencing installed last week (where the booking office formerly stood) were trimmed in height at Pont Croesor. 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

North Wales Gang report 30/4/12

Dafydd Thomas reports: The longer hours of daylight not only permit early morning working but also evening working parties. Members of the North Wales / aka The Black Hand Gang were out during the evening (30/04/12) between 17:00 and 20:00 collecting tree prunings between Tryfan Junction and Tan-yr-allt. The opportunity was also taken to deliver fine slate waste to Waunfawr, so that the area next to the new platform buildings can tidied up; this area was disturbed when services for the buildings were put in. Aggregate for the installation of posts for a new running-in board at Snowdon Ranger was also delivered to that halt.

Palmerston at SSSIII 22/4/12

Tim Evans reports: Palmerston took part in the Steel, Steam & Stars III event at Carrog on the Llangollen Railway. A stretch of dual gauge track had been constructed in the yard for Palmerston and Dolgoch to give footplate rides. As you can see Palmerston had an opportunity to rub shoulders with many visiting standard gauge locos including Tornado, Britannia, Super D, LNWR Coal Tank, Caley 828 & GNR N2, as well as flying the flag for the F&WHR. The event continues until next Sunday 29/4/12. Palmerston was due to be in steam the following weekend giving footplate rides again with Dolgoch. Unfortunately the weather was not the best for photos.

This Carrog view (22/4/12) shows Palmerston on the dual gauge track alongside Tornado. This image is copyright Tim Evans and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This Carrog view (22/4/12) shows Palmerston on the dual gauge track alongside a tank engine. This image is copyright Tim Evans and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Additional WHR services over Blaenau 30 Gala Weekend 5-7/5/12

An extra service is being provided over the Return to Blaenau Gala weekend. The 0810 Porthmadog to Rhyd Ddu and return will run Saturday-Monday, probably diesel hauled.

WHHR Gala 6/5/12

Visitors to the Blaenau 30 event on the FR will also be warmly welcomed to the WHHR Gala on Sunday 6/5/12, to enjoy Beer, BBQ and live music while sampling the delights of Narrow Gauge steam late into the evening. You are invited to the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway in Porthmadog to join an evening celebrating all things Narrow Gauge. As part of our May Bank Holiday Gala on Sunday 6/5/12, we will be running an intensive evening service between Porthmadog and Pen-y-Mount, from 6.30pm till 10.30pm with all trains stopping at Gelert's Farm, where you can view our museum, while enjoying a beer and a burger (other food types will be available), or just travel up and down the line enjoying "First Class" travel in the WHHR's superbly restored Buffet Car. The Engine Shed will be filled with the sounds of a live band. Entry to this event is by means of a £5 donation to the RUSSELL Fund (discounted entry if purchased in conjunction with a daytime Gala ticket). This covers unlimited train travel during the evening and entry to the shed and Museum. Food and drink charges will apply. You can do it all again on Saturday 2/6/12. The music will be different, but the welcome will be equally warm.

K1 progress 21-22/4/12

Andy Rutter reports: Interestingly K1 still has a huge following once again illustrated at this Working Party. An American from New Jersey came to see K1, preferably in steam. He has been all over the world including the Dundas Tramway in Tasmania and has a strong interest in the Garratt locomotive type not adopted in the States. We, the working party team of two, did all that was possible by way of a tour of the engine. It is not unusual for someone to poke his or her head around the door at Dinas looking for K1 when the team have been there! Normally it is someone from the Antipodes, but this time the gentleman was from the USA!

With K1 in the back of the Carriage Shed we set about the two chosen objectives, the cab floor and the steam feed route for the generator. With the centre section of the floor already newly completed we repaired the existing battens, an additional batten added across the front, and two more behind the rising sections to stop them moving outwards. The existing front batten was replaced such that it reaches the rising sections to reduce the gaps through which coal dust can travel. This was shortened for the oil firing controls. The extra batten at the front is because the main floor section is shorter to allow the fire box door to be removed without having to lift the whole floor. The edge at the back head would benefit from some angle iron flush horizontally with an up stand that allows spilt coal and dust to be shovelled up without it going down onto the frame below. There is a copper pipe here that is badly crushed and requires replacement. Some considerable contortions were needed for some of the fixings as we were not over a pit. The threads below were “painted” to prevent nuts from coming off. The battens behind the risers make a huge difference to the stability of the whole floor.

This Dinas view (22/4/12) shows K1's cab floor being replaced. This image is copyright John Startin and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Ahead of replacing the floor, previous working parties had expended much effort in removing the redundant injector drains both to tidy up and because the left hand (fireman's) side is to provide a route for the generator steam supply. Previous trials with pipe and elbows showed the steam sander pipe to be in the way. This pipe has been adapted but time did not permit a proper job though the connection remains and will take little to finish. That done the steam pipe sections and elbows were offered up to prove the route and the assembly of same. Three sections of pipe remain loosely in place. From the front of the fire box the pipe must go across the engine angled downwards before turning parallel to the frame and cross member to go forward to connect to the side entry on top of the generator. A railroad joint is needed here as there will have to be in the vertical section in the cab to reach the control valve. A reducer will be needed at the entry to the generator. This then showed no further changes were required to the floor before it was put back into position. The floor will be prevented from moving back and forth by the section to be fixed just behind the back head.

This Dinas view (22/4/12) shows K1's generator steam pipe being replaced. This image is copyright Nobby Clark and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

We have sent three sets of suggestions to the Railway Workshops for machining the pivot brass casting that has replaced the Delrin liner. The original base has tell-tale marks as to where the lubrication grooves are in the base and on the spigot. It also shows a distinct lack of lubrication.

This Dinas view (22/4/12) shows K1's Delrin pivot liner base. This image is copyright Nobby Clark and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This Dinas view (22/4/12) shows K1's Delrin pivot liner side. This image is copyright Nobby Clark and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

At the time of writing the next two working parties in May & June may not go ahead due to lack of personnel. We will advise via the website of any changes. If volunteers wish to join a working party please contact John Startin in the first instance. Details of K1 Group contacts are on the main WHRS website. http://www.whrsoc.org.uk/Projects/K1Group.html

YouTube video Palmerston at Carrog 28/4/12

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 5 mins 25 secs of video of Palmerston on 28/4/12, including general views of the SSSIII event and the TR's Dolgoch in action sharing the central rail with the FR's gauge. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder and is best viewed at 1080p HD standard.

Palmerston on tour 28/4/12

This westerly view (28/4/12) shows Palmerston standing alongside the TR's Dolgoch at the Llangollen Railway's SSSIII event at Carrog. This view allows comparison with the TR's wider gauge. This image is copyright Matt Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 24/4/12

Tony Baker reports: On 24/4/12 the Tuesday Gang joined with their coalition partners in the Tuesday Gang South to install a fence and level the ground at Pont Croesor where the station building used to stand. The toilet block has stayed there and is now used by the Osprey project. This meant that folk heading toward the WC were faced with a hazardous unfenced drop down to the car park. The first job was to spread a lorry load of ash from Dinas onto the ground to eliminate the slope. Then 6 fence holes were dug across the gap with the aid of a kango and six posts inserted. The horizontal corral rails were attached and finally the concrete was poured into the holes. Next week when all is set strong the posts will be trimmed.

This northerly view (24/4/12) shows the Tuesday Gang and Tuesday Gang South spreading ash at the suite of the former Pont Croesor station building to level the area. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (24/4/12) shows the finished fencing at the site of the Pont Croesor station building. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

It was gratifying to see that both north and southbound trains were well loaded, the weather being on the whole quite reasonable. At one point the male Osprey flew over on his way back to the nest but did not appear to be carrying a fish for his partner. Three eggs have been laid.

Mike Hart's Simplex transfer 22/4/12

This westerly view (22/4/12) shows Mike Hart's Simplex at Porthmadog Harbour station ready to transfer to the WHHR for their May Bank Holiday Gala Weekend. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ian Hartill and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (22/4/12) shows Mike Hart's Simplex just north of Pen-y-Mount junction ready to transfer to the WHHR. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ian Hartill and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (22/4/12) shows Mike Hart's Simplex in the WHHR siding at Pen-y-Mount. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ian Hartill and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (22/4/12) shows Mike Hart's Simplex at Gelert's Farm for the WHHR May Bank Holiday Gala Weekend. The whole transfer took three hours. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ian Hartill and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

NG15 No.134 progress

Pete Randall details progress over the last couple of weekends: The weekend of the 14t-15/4/12 was really auspicious for the NG15 team. The tender body was delivered from Brunswick’s and placed on 133’s tender chassis. We now have half the train (by length) mobile on rails and nearly complete, if you look at it that way. As with all major projects there were a few minor issues but by the end of the weekend, the body was secured to the chassis and the handbrake reinstated and operational. (It had needed to be moved to allow the crane to drop the body in place). I hope the photos do it justice. The few who were lucky enough to visit the footplate, all commented on how good the visibility was down the tender; this augers well for the future. Unfortunately, all the little jobs, which each don’t take too long, didn’t get finished.

This northerly view (April12) shows No.134's tender on No.133's chassis standing outside Dinas loco shed. This image is copyright Pete Randall and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

A small team returned this last weekend and completed all the remaining essentials to make the tender properly rail worthy. The handbrake shaft was adjusted so that it operates more smoothly, the couplings were completed (some smaller items were missing from them), the through vacuum pipe was sealed and the springs adjusted on one side of the leading bogie to ensure that the ride was level and that the horn keeps could be properly secured. Boston Lodge Staff have also been working on the project. The new equipment for boring cylinders is now complete and the first cylinder is now almost complete. The finish is extremely good. As soon as this job is complete we can start on the fitting and replacement of the axle boxes prior to re-wheeling the engine.

This Boston Lodge view (April12) shows work on reboring No.134's cylinders at Boston Lodge. This image is courtesy Pete Randall and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

We are planning to take the tender to the WHHR festival over the May Bank Holiday (next week indeed!), so if you want to see a Quarry Hunslet with a tender do drop in and see us. We will have the tee shirts for sale – All the larger sizes now available for those who now find medium challenging, and a beautiful print of the engine as it will look when complete. This has been done by James Hamlin one of our team and is a really superb bit of artistry – who would have guessed that he could do this!! The prints are in two sizes A4 at £15.00 and 60 x 40 cm @ £45.00 both prices include p&p if you want to order on line from me at Pete Randall the larger ones are limited to a run of 50 prints and will be individually numbered. Some have gone but for a suitable donation other specific numbers might be available.

This view (April12) shows a proof of a painting of how No.134 will eventually look. This image is courtesy Pete Randall and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Additional trains on Monday 30/4/12

There are two additional services from Porthmadog to Beddgelert on 30/4/12 due to trees down over the FR where there are no services on Monday. These are the 1100 and 1415. See FR story for full details.

Blaenau 30 Event 5-7/5/12

Statfold Barn's Peckett Harrogate is visiting the FR to celebrate the 30th anniversary of the reopening of the FR to Blaenau Ffestiniog in 1981. The loco was resident on the FR from 1957 to 1987as a potential restoration project. See FR story. There is a view of the loco gauge testing the FR on Twitter. Full details of the event can be found on the FR website.

'Rail Ale' timetables published

The Rail Ale 2012 microsite has been updated with full details of train times for the event on 18-20/5/12. There will be dedicated shuttles from Caernarfon to Dinas and Waunfawr throughout the weekend, including late departures back to Caernarfon for those that wish to drink late into the evening! Service trains to and from Porthmadog will continue to run as normal, and there will be a special additional departure from Porthmadog to Caernarfon on the Saturday morning.

See Rail ale website for full details/timetables. A diesel loco will be used for the shuttles which go on until after midnight!

'Railway Children' Three Peaks Appeal

Andy Savage reports: As most of you know I have climbed the Three Peaks, Snowdon, ScaFell Pike, and Ben Nevis, to raise funds for the Railway Children charity every year for some years. I am doing so again in June this year - which will be my tenth and last time, as I feel that I should give up whilst I still have some friends left. However, this does not mean that the charity, and its aim to help runaway street children, is any less worthy. The teams that I have taken part in have already raised well over £50,000 in the previous nine events, and I would like to go out with a bang, and raise plenty of cash again this year.

So, once more, can I ask you to support me by your sponsorship. I have a Virgin Giving web site set up, at http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/Finchleyflyers. They have made it very easy for you to give money, and don't take any expenses for the service. As the rail industry provides the train for the event the money that you donate all goes to the objectives of the Railway Children. It is a wonderful charity, and I would be most grateful if you could support it, and me, for this event. And it really is the last time I shall ask you for this.

North Wales Track Gang report 20-22/4/12

Dafydd Thomas reports: A belated report of the North Wales/Black Hand Gang's activities over the extended weekend of 20-22/4/12. On Friday, 20/4/12 we collected the remaining fence panels and additional timber required to complete the new fence at the rear of the Up platform at Dinas. This involved two journeys to Glasfryn Fencing's base at Pencaenewydd and a trip to the builder's merchants at Caernarfon.

On Saturday, 21/4/12 a concerted effort by the volunteers saw the remaining 43 fence panels installed as well as the closure palings at each joint. Sunday, 22/4/12 saw the final touches put to the fence with the tops of the fence posts being trimmed to an equal height with an angular top to allow rainfall to run off; each one being given a liberal coat of wood preservative. A final sweep of the platform saw the job completed.

The finishing touch is the new planters installed on both platforms at Dinas, these will soon be filled a colourful display of plants. The new fence has already had many favourable comments from travellers on the railway as well as locals passing on the adjacent Lon Eifion footpath. Also on Sunday the new fine slate waste was spread around the Goods Shed and outside the station office/waiting room. The Society has also provided a new station sign at Dinas, two new running-in boards and new signs for both the waiting room and to indicate which platform is for Caernarfon and which is for Porthmadog.

North Wales Group visit to Monsal Trail 20/7/12

Elwyn Jones reports: To the ones are joining us on the above trip and for the ones whom have still not decided there is a new video on u-tube made by peakdistrictonline, namely" Monsaltrail video". There's still room on the trip GET IN TOUCH NOW!!!! mailto:elwynjos@hotmail.co.uk

Coach No.2042 progress 18/4/12

Norman Bond (F&WHR) reports: No.2042 is currently in the works. We found more work on it than expected but it is coming together again. There was a fair bit of rotten wood to replace.

This Boston Lodge view (18/4/12) shows progress with WHR coach No.2042. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Norman Bond (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Baldwin project moves forward

This coming weekend (28/4/12) sees a couple of interesting events happening at the WHHR. Early on Saturday morning the new boiler for the Baldwin is being delivered from Israel Newton’s by Buckley’s Crane Hire. The boiler will be put onto Hudson Bogie Wagon and, as soon as space is available, will go on display in the Museum or Big Shed area as a fund-raising focal point. Later in the day DOLL will be delivered by low-loader to Pen-y-Mount ready for the Gala at the beginning of May.

Hugh Napier 18/4/12

This southerly view (18/4/12) shows Hugh Napier paraded for National Trust at Porthmadog. Someone has mischievously named the loco Moel Tryfan! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Price and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (18/4/12) shows Hugh Napier paraded for National Trust at Porthmadog. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Price and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (18/4/12) shows Hugh Napier with No.87 passing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Price and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

No.87 18/4/12

This westerly view (18/4/12) shows No.87 passing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Price and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 17/4/12

Tony Baker reports: On 17/4/12, the gang worked at Dinas carrying out repairs to the foot crossing at the southern end of the platforms. All rotten timbers were removed and replaced and slate fines were spread to give an even approach. The crossing on Phase one would have been laid in 1997 so really it had lasted well.

This westerly view (17/4/12) shows the new boarded crossing at Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andy Dawson and was taken on a smartphone. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Version 4.2164 updated 18/5/12