Welsh Highland Railway
Stop Press Page
V4.2068
News (updated 28/1/12)
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Images updated from 27/1/12
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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 15/1/12)
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:-
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
Cob widening progress 27/1/12
Click on the YouTube box above to watch 4 mins 28 secs of video from 27/1/12 widening The Cob for the WHR platforms in 2013. The YouTube clip is best watched at1080p resolution. This video was taken by John Wooden on a camcorder.
The Cob widening project has reached an important stage with over half the 25,000 tonnes of rock delivered. Some recycled fill from the Porthmadog Bypass project is being used from the Jones Bros. bypass construction compound near Tremadog as well as the normal Minffordd Quarry supply. Large boulders weighing some tonnes are being placed in an interlocking network of rock armour at the foot of the embankment to dissipate wave energy now sections of the embankment have reached their final width and profile. Sand infiltration is prevented by a geotextile underlay. Sections of the embankment are above the final level as material has been stockpiled in advance of the Half Term WHR/FR services from 11/2/12, when access for the 20 tonne lorry deliveries will be more problematic. Work has continued after dark as some of the highest tides of the year (greater than 5m) have limited access to the foreshore on some days.
Prince returns to Boston Lodge 24/1/12
The original FR loco Prince returned from the SVR's engine house on 24/1/12. It is to enter Boston lodge for a full rebuild and will hopefully appear for the 150the anniversary of steam on the FR in 2013. See full story on F&WHR website.
ROTWG 23/1/12
Dr. Simon Melhuish reports: We continued re-gapping the left-hand rail from Gwâl-y-Dwrgi (just north of Hafod-y-llyn) up the Nantmor incline, and onwards to Nantmor Crossing on both rails.
This southerly view (23/1/12) shows the ROTWG re-gapping both rails over the Nantmor road bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (23/1/12) shows the ROTWG re-gapping both rails up to the Nantmor level crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
Team Wylfa report 24/1/12
On Tuesday evening 24/1/12, Team Wylfa carried on with work from the No.134 Group Working Weekend. They worked on No.133's tender braking system and released the two 'flanged' brake blocks from the front bogie.
This Dinas view (24/1/12) shows No.133's flanged brake blocks removed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on a Canon 500D digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
Unfortunately, it was almost time to pack up by they had achieved this so the 'flanges' will have to wait for another night before they are ground off and the brake blocks refitted. In addition to removing the offending brake blocks, others in the team attended to the main brake cross shaft under the vacuum brake cylinder. It was reported as being stiff in its bearings. The heavy brake return spring was released - its rusty tensioner rod, surprisingly, yielded to some brisk wire brushing and after an application of easing oil, the nuts easily unscrewed. With tension released, the cross shaft was found to be reasonably free so grease nipple holes in the underside of the bearings were cleaned out, new grease nipples fitted and grease pumped in. The shaft now turns freely so the return spring was clipped back on and re-tensioned.
This Dinas view (21/1/12) shows No.134's refurbished frame stretcher bolted up into the frames. The area above the stretcher inside the frames (both sides) was badly wasted and has been built up by welding then grinding back smooth. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This Dinas view (21/1/12) shows No.134 with temporary bolting from the outside, LHS. A good view of the refurbished rear frame stretcher rear Bissel truck pivot looking forward. Contrast this with a picture taken when the boiler was lifted in April 2004. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This Dinas view (6/4/04) shows No.134's wasted rear frame stretcher, which shows all the ribs were virtually non-existent and corroded away. When cleaned off, there were holes through the main web. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This Dinas view (21/1/12) shows No.134's rear frame stretcher. Meurig Williams at Brunswick Ironworks has done a remarkable job of restoring this cast steel item. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
Tuesday Gang report 24/1/12
Tony Baker reports: This was one of those days where everything we touched ended up wrecked. But do not be alarmed, for this was the intention. The allotted task was to have been taking off fishplates, greasing and putting back north of Rhyd Ddu at crossing LC 39.08. However, grease does not adhere to metal very well in pouring rain so we switched to an inside job. The new engine shed extension at Dinas was ready for some demolition so we spent the day knocking down the breeze block wall between the existing engine shed and the extension. Above the breeze blocks was a wooden screen which was also demolished. By the end of the day the upper part of the wall down to the mezzanine floor was no more. We stopped there as the floor was not to be demolished at this stage. Another wet day maybe.
More from 1/1/12
This southerly view (1/1/12) shows No.143 on the last train of the season calling at Beddgelert on its return to Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dave Waldren and was taken on a Canon 500D digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
No.134 report 22/1/12
Clive Briscoe reports : There was a good turnout for the first 2012 working weekend on the loco. Work concentrated on No.133's tender where two of the group reinstalled the brake shaft that Team Wylfa had free off. They also installed the modified brake pillar and then connected up the brake rigging so ending up with working brakes on the tender. There is a problem with one set of brake blocks on the front bogie - they have worn over the tyre treads and formed a flange on their outer edge. Team Wylfa will be dropping the brake stretcher to attend to these shoes - they have plenty of 'meat' left on them so the 'flanges' will be ground off so they fit properly on the wheel treads and the brakes then adjusted. Also it was noted that the main brake shaft to which the vacuum brake cylinder connects is stiff in its bearings - another 'little' job for Team Wylfa in the next week or two.
Two other members of the No.134 team were busy with angle grinders polishing all the loco's brake and suspension hanger brackets. Once polished, they were sprayed with penetrant dye, left for the requisite time, cleaned off and sprayed with developer. The purpose? Dye penetrant NDT (non-destructive testing) for cracks. At the end of Saturday's work, all that had been checked had passed muster. There were still a large number to be checked however.
Work on the loco's lubrication system was also done - working out where to fit mechanical lubricators on the running plates in lieu of the original hydrostatic system and how to drive them from the expansion links. Then measuring and working out possible pipe runs - all work for later on but necessary now so drawings can be produced so we know how everything will go together in the later stages of the rebuild.
Your scribe was busy all day on the loco's rear frame stretcher. A supply of M24 bolts had been received from Boston Lodge to temporarily hold the frame stretcher to the frames. Only a few available bolts had previously been fitted by Team Wylfa and these M24 bolts were a better fit and would help line up the stretcher properly. As the previously fitted bolts were smaller diameter (3/4" BSW), the majority of the M24 bolts would not go through as there was slight misalignment in all the holes (11 each side) so two podgers having a max diameter of 24.5mm were turned on a lathe in the main workshop - just under 1mm less than the original nominal 1" diameter rivet holes. Podgers are drifts with a long, shallow taper which are driven through out of line holes to bring them into line and allow through bolting of adjacent holes. At the end of the day, the 22-off M24 bolts had been hardened up with a flogging spanner and the rear frame stretcher is now very firmly fixed back in the frames. The next job will be to make and fit temporary braces to the frames just forward of the rear dragbox to prevent any movement of the frames when the corroded dragbox is cut out. After the rear dragbox has been renewed, each bolt hole in the frames/stretcher connection will need to be reamed out in turn and fitted bolts made to suit to prevent any movement whatsoever between frames and stretcher. Cold riveting back into the frames or using high strength friction grip bolts has been discounted.
ROTWG working week 22/1/12
The Rest of The World Gang was engaged in a Working Week from 21-27/1/12. On 22/1/12 they were working on Nantmor Bank, re-gapping the left-hand (westerly) rail from Gwâl-y-Dwrgi (Hafod-y-llyn) to Nantmor.
This northerly view (22/1/12) shows the ROTWG removing the level crossing to free the left hand rail. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (22/1/12) shows the ROTWG cutting rail. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (22/1/12) shows the ROTWG drilling the new rail end. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
More New Year's Day views
This easterly view (1/1/12) shows Vale of Ffestiniog drawing the WHR train into Harbour Station. 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 easterly view (1/1/12) shows Criccieth Castle arriving to shunt the station. The loco was later to drag the Observation car back to Boston Lodge. 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 (1/1/12) shows No.143 clearing the WHR rake from the platform to allow the FR train to arrive. 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 easterly view (1/1/12) shows the WHR rake being propelled into the sidings at Harbour Station. 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 (1/1/12) shows No.143 shunting the WHR into the sidings at Harbour Station. 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.
WHHR events
For those of you who sampled the delights of "Sunday Night at the Farm" in 2011, you will be delighted and enraptured to know the event returns in 2012! You will be warmly welcomed to the WHHR 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 WHHR 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 our superbly restored Buffet Car. The Engine Shed will be filled with the sounds of a live band. So why not join us for the evening?
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. If this is not enough and your appetite has not been filled you can do it all again on Saturday 2/6/12. The music will be different, but the welcome will be equally warm.
The Cob widening latest 20/1/12
The F&WHR has set up a website to cover The Cob widening. Daily video updates of the ongoing Cob widening work are now available on FRTV. As 25,000 tonnes of rock from Minffordd Quarry are brought to Harbour Station by lorry to widen The Cob prior to the major re-modelling of the station over the Winter break in 2012/13, the F&WHR has set up a camera to monitor progress. Each day is compressed into a couple of minutes. Updates are posted at the end of each day and on Monday morning for weekend work. On 20/1/12 there were 8 days of progress to be viewed. See FRTV website.
This easterly view (13/1/12) shows The Cob widening with a lorry tipping the latest delivery. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Firth and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This easterly view (13/1/12) shows The Cob widening with bulldozer spreading the latest delivery. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Firth and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This westerly view (13/1/12) shows The Cob widening with a lorry working back up the ramp into Harbour Station. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Firth and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
Team Wylfa report 17/1/12
Clive Briscoe reports: Regrettably, after a few good sessions recently, this week we were down to just two of us due to illness. However, it did not stop us progressing with NG15 No.134. The previously reported brake shaft from No.133's tender had a bit more fettling of the previously seized bearings, the holes previously drilled in the bearings were tapped and grease nipples were fitted and the bearings greased. What a difference! The assembly moves around under its own weight now. The lower faces of the bearings and crank arms that didn't get a coat of red oxide were then painted so all should be ready for refitting on the tender frames on Saturday 21/1/12 - the first No.134 group working weekend of 2012.
We found some more large bolts to temporarily hold the loco's rear frame stretcher/Bissel truck pivot back in the frames, fitted them and tightened them up. There are enough in now so that if we wanted to remove the loco's rear dragbox for manufacturing a new one, we could. However, I suspect that this will wait until we have either riveted it back in place or fixed it in place with High Strength Friction Grip (HSFG) bolts.
In the Loco Shed, all of No.138's cylinders have now been re-bored and the boring bar has been brought down to the Clip Shed ready to assemble and re-bore No.134's out-of-square cylinders.
On Thursday 2/2/12, the Team is having a social evening at the Snowdonia Park Hotel in Waunfawr. A bar meal, good ale and chat but perhaps more important, letting our wives/partners meet up with the Team so they know who their hubby's are going out with grovelling under carriages etc! If anyone wants to drop in and say 'Hello', feel free. We'll be there from 7pm.
Tuesday Gang report 17/1/12
Tony Baker reports: On Tuesday 17/1/12 the gang attached new fencing to the posts at Hafod-y-Llyn which were concreted in last week. We then repositioned the hinges on the gates where the ballast dump had been so that the latches were fully home in the metal posts. Moving on to Canal Curve we fitted posts hung on chains underneath the gates where a large gap was allowing sheep onto the line. Then it was back to Dinas, take lunch and knock in a post at Dinas cutting to take a new metal kilometre mark. Finally to Tryfan Junction where we concreted in 2 more posts for a timetable display and 3 more posts for 3 more kilometre marks. Every now and again we get a day like this where we need to shoot round completing lots of small but important jobs. All part of the fun!
North Wales track gang report 14-15/1/12
Over the weekend of 14-15/1/12 the North Wales - Black Hand Gang carried out track maintenance work at Gwâl y Dwrgi. This involved the installation of staggered rail joints on the curve at Gwâl-y-Dwrgi (at the foot of Nantmor Bank-Ed). A couple of rail joints at this location have been problematic for some time causing a temporary speed restriction to be in force. Over the two very sunny but cold days of the weekend the task was more or less completed.
On Saturday the furthest inside length of rail at the Caernarfon end of the section being worked on was unclipped and cut in half. One half was then moved to the furthest or Blaenau end of the section. Gwâl-y-Dwrgi foot crossing was then lifted to facilitate moving the rails. All the inside rails were freed then moved up the half rail length; joint gaps were adjusted and the other half rail cut to fit as a closure rail. All the rails were then clipped down.
On Sunday, the first job was the reinstatement of the foot crossing. This was followed by the necessary but tiresome job of re-positioning sleepers and the installation of an additional sleeper per half length of rail close to each new rail joint to give the necessary support for the rail. The hardest part of this operation is getting the very well packed sleepers to move; it involves a lot of digging out ballast, pushing with bars and persuading with sledge hammers. By the end of the day there remained only the sleepers around one new rail joint to be repositioned. Once this is completed the railway's Permanent Way staff can move in and do their bit with the tamper thus hopefully allowing the temporary speed restriction to be removed.
This northerly view (14/1/12) shows a half rail removed at the start of the job between Hafod-y-llyn and Nantmor bank. 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 (14/1/12) shows Dafydd Thomas looking into sun (rarely seen at this time of year and with not a trace of snow on the mountains!) as the NW Track Gang align the track. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Firth and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (14/1/12) shows the North Wales Track Gang crowing the track over to make a smooth curve. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Firth and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (15/1/12) shows the completed curve realigned. 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.
Snow for February services?
After being spoilt for snow at the end of 2010, 2011 saw no lying snow around the WHR. The latest cold snap may warm up again next week but there is plenty of time yet for Winter to bite. There will be services from 11-19/2/12 during the February Half Term school holidays (except Saturday 18/2/12 when perhaps there are specials operating?). These are the 1045/1415 from Porthmadog. A single return service is also offered from Caernarfon at 1100 which forms the 1415 from Porthmadog on its return. The trains cross at 1215 and 1545 at Rhyd ddu allowing halfway journeys from both directions.
The February Half Term is a common time for snow to fall in North Wales and the snow season sometimes continues into March/April. The Porthmadog-Beddgelert service (primarily aimed at coach parties) continues every weekend from 25/2/11 to the start of the new season trains on 24/3/11 with two trains at 1100 and 1415 from Porthmadog. A return service from Beddgelert is possible at 1230 arriving back at 1500.
More views from 1/1/12
This northerly view (1/1/12) shows No.143 departing from Caernarfon on the last public service of the Xmas Holiday trains. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This easterly view (1/1/12) shows No.143 passing through Tryfan Junction Halt on the last public service of the Xmas Holiday trains. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This southerly view (1/1/12) shows the new steel gate across the waiting room at Nantmor Halt. The purpose of this is to keep the sheep out as they tend to use it as an overnight refuge in Winter. 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 easterly view (1/1/12) shows the new (hopefully) weatherproof sign at Nantmor 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (1/1/12) shows No.143 approaching Nantmor 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (1/1/12) shows No.143 passing through Nantmor Halt on the last public service of the Xmas Holiday trains. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (1/1/12) shows No.143 crossing Pont Croesor on the last public service of the Xmas Holiday trains. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This easterly view (1/1/12) shows No.143 passing Pont Croesor Halt. On this date the ticket office/shop had yet to be removed to Blaenau Ffestiniog. 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 (1/1/12) shows No.143 passing Llyn Bach car park. The loco is crossing the Gasworks siding point. The siding has not been completed and the short stub used during construction has been removed. 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 (1/1/12) shows No.143 and Vale of Ffestiniog at Porthmadog prior to the final train of the Xmas Holiday. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
WHR Timetable 2012
The 2012 timetable is now available on the F&WHR website running to the end of December. Services start on 24/3/12 with weekend and midweek trains (MFX). The weekend services offer two round trips from Caernarfon and the midweek ones three. There is a full time over the Easter school holiday fortnight with 4 Red timetable days during the week 7-10/4/11.
The Red peak timetable has major changes to address the problem of the lack of early trains last year from Beddgelert Forest campsite. The F&WHR believe campsite customers want to go to Porthmadog, not Caernarfon so this year there is an 0810 Porthmadog-Rhyd Ddu diesel hauled train, returning at 1000 from Rhyd Ddu. There are only three departures from Caernarfon (down from 4 last year!), all steam hauled. The last train last year, the 1725 from Caernarfon was lightly loaded last year and has been dropped with the final departure now being 1550. However, a steam hauled 1645 from Porthmadog to Rhyd Ddu allows campsite users to return in the late afternoon. This returns from Rhyd Ddu at 1830.
April continues with MFX services and even May sees 3 days with no trains. The Red timetable is back in action for 4 days in the Spring Bank Holiday week but there are a further 3 days with no services in June. July and August see a full timetable. The red timetable only operates on M-Thu from 24/7/12 (last year from 19/7/12), and is not extended to Bank Holiday Sunday as last year. In all there are 27 days of peak Red timetable operation, down from 34 last year, when the peak timetable extended on and off until 8/9/11.
The September shoulder services continue to operate though this year there is a missing day on 21/9/12. Mondays are Fridays have no services in October as last year, though there is a three train Yellow service from Caernarfon in the school Autumn holiday week for 5 days from 28/10/12. Normal services finish on 3/11/12 to be replaced by the weekend only Porthmadog-Beddgelert shuttles largely laid on for coach parties. Xmas Holiday services run from 27-31/12/12 with one round trip from Caernarfon. There may be a service on 1/1/13 as previous years.
Cambrian Coast Express disappears!
West Coast Rail has removed adverts for the Cambrian Coast summer dated steam worked Machynlleth-Pwllheli express from its adverts. After several years of successful operation, there were no trains last year due to the completion of ERTMS project and the failure of NR to plan for and provide a mobile ERTMS unit for visiting traction. This year, even the holding advert for 'The Cambrian' offering trains in the future has disappeared from WCR's webpage. The rake is being used for a second daily 'Jacobite' run in Scotland. This is a disappointing turn for the Cambrian Coast and one that should have been planned for by NR. The company appears to have passed responsibility for a solution to WCR for possible introduction in 2013, should they remain committed to the operation, given the extra expense. Many local authorities in the area are annoyed with NR's poor planning over this issue.
Team Wylfa report 10/1/12
Clive Briscoe reports: Another good turnout this week and pretty well all the goals that we set ourselves for No.134 this week were achieved. The remaining pipe spools for No.133's vacuum brake train pipe were completed-the ends were screwed 1½" BSPT. The ligaments between the chain drilled holes around the loco's suspension rod holes were not only cut through but the badly worn sections were actually removed. Pete is 'King of the angle grinder!' All that remains now is to dress the edges prior to cutting new sections of steel to weld in to restore the holes to true rectangles. The previously seized brake rod from No.133's tender that was freed last week suffered more abuse from Andy, but this time it was more kindly - a chipping hammer and power wire brush brought the assembly up from a rusty chunk to something a little prettier. He then set to with a paint brush and a tin of red oxide paint. Next week, two grease nipples will be fitted to the previously drilled bearings and a coat of top coat applied.
Meanwhile, your scribe measured up for bolts to hold the loco's rear frame stretcher/Bissel truck pivot. It has just arrived back from machining at Boston Lodge after major rebuilding in the hands of Brunswick Ironworks. A fine job they have made too, it looks like new and not the very corroded component that was sent there a while back. Two lengths of 1" BSW studding were located and with some jiggling, holes in the stretcher were aligned with those in the frames and the two were married up once again. Some tapered dowels will have to be made to align all the holes properly, then the remaining holes will need to be reamed and either fitted bolts made or the components riveted together as they were originally. For now though, bolting it in place with slightly undersize 1" bolts will do as this will allow the corroded rear dragbox to be removed for renewal without the frames springing apart.
In the Loco Shed, a cylinder boring bar has been obtained and No.138's power bogie cylinders are being re-bored. As soon as No.138's cylinders are completed, No.134's miss-aligned cylinders will be re-bored true with this same equipment so there is significant progress all round. However, the No.134 Project needs more money to carry on with some of the jobs planned for 2012 so if you haven't bought a No.134 tee shirt yet, you can help us by buying one - they are available from the No.134 project website.
Work starts on The Cob widening 11/1/12
Mike Hart reports: Following some further trial digging in the sand on 10/1/12 to double-check conditions, the morning of 11/1/12 saw the arrival of a large bulldozer and construction work got underway the same afternoon when the tide was out. The basic plan is that a trench is dug in the sand which is then covered with a plastic membrane on which the rock is placed. During low tides the area of work will be able to extend with further sections of membrane laid and sufficient rock placed to get above most of the higher tide water levels. Then when the tide is in work will move back to increase the height of sections that have already seen that initial depth of rock cover.
Click on the YouTube box above to watch 9 min 45 secs of video of the start of The Cob widening project on 11/1/12. This clip is best viewed at 1080HD standard and was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder.
Hugh Napier steam test 10/1/11
Click on the YouTube box above to watch 1 min 32 secs of video of Hugh Napier's steam test on 10/1/11 at Boston Lodge. This clip is best viewed at 1080HD standard and was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder.
Tuesday Gang report 10/1/11
Tony Baker reports: We were at Hafod-y-llyn strengthening the fencing on 10/1/11 due to the arrival on the scene of Welsh Black cattle. We needed a Kango to dig the fence post holes in the compacted slate waste. We put in 15 new stout posts with concrete and dug out and concreted in 7 existing posts which only stayed put because they were stapled to the fence wire. One of the cows came to have a look at what we were doing and sank up to its hocks in the mud (Looks like a representative Welsh Black cow has been photo-shopped in to me-the road surface is made of pretty hard standing material compacted slate waste not mud!-Ed).
This westerly view (10/1/12) shows the Tuesday Gang reinforcing the fencing at Hafod-y-llyn to withstand the attentions of the Welsh Black cattle who roam this area. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This southerly view (10/1/12) shows the completed reinforcement of the fencing at Hafod-y-llyn fencing with extra posts between the original fence posts. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
The Cob widening contract let 3/1/12
On 3/1/12 it was announced that Jones Bros Civil Engineering UK had been awarded the contract for the first phase of the major alterations to the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railway's station at Porthmadog to widen the Cob and allow two trains in at once with cross platform exchange. The first phase of the plan involves the delivery of some 25,000 tonnes of rock from the nearby Minffordd Quarry to enable the westernmost 260 metres of the 200 year old Cob embankment to be widened to enable the construction of a new platform for use by Welsh Highland trains and to completely rework the station layout. Work will commence in January and is scheduled for completion by early Spring to allow the resumption of F&WHR train services on 11/2/12. The bulk of the work will be done by then but there will be about for four more weeks working, around the twice a week FR timetable that begins on 22/2/12. Local hauliers will transport the rock from Minffordd quarry to a new haul road constructed across the station at Porthmadog. After delivery, rocks will be put in place one by one at low tide using specialised plant, resulting in a widened and strengthened sea defence.
After The Cob widening phase of the project is complete, railway engineers and volunteers will begin the process of laying track and building new platforms at the historic station. The project is scheduled for completion, in time for the main operating season in 2013 so most of the tracklaying will occur after the Xmas services have finished at the end of 2012.
See F&WHR website for full story.
Team Wylfa 3/1/12
Clive Briscoe reports: Happy New Year to all our readers. Team Wylfa started the New Year with an excellent turnout of 4 members on Tuesday evening. NG15 No.134 was the target - the carriages have now been put to bed again until half term in February so will not require our administrations for some weeks yet.
The seized brake shaft from No.133's tender that has plagued Team Wylfa and the No.134 Group for the last few months had been brought to the Clip Shed by Andie Shaw and Pete Randall just before Christmas. We looked at it, then put it firmly in a vice and gave it a few taps with a hammer. Well it had moved the last time we were in the Carriage Shed. Pete, Andy and Big John Peduzzi decided to 'give it some grief' and after about half an hour, the outer bearing was moving reasonably free on the shaft. Shortly after, whilst your scribe was servicing the pipe dies ready to cut some threads on replacement vac brake pipes, there was a shout of, 'Oooo! It's come off in me 'and!' - the outer bearing had released itself from the shaft... So the lads carried on and lo and behold, within just a few more minutes, the other bearing was turning freely on the shaft but this bearing is effectively captive on the stub shaft.
A quick look at the situation gave a way forward - searching through our drills, I found that we had the correct tapping drill for 1/4"BSP so Pete and Andy were set to work drilling through the cast iron bearings to put grease nipples in - there was no lubrication point on these bearings from new. With the holes drilled, Pete set to cutting the ligaments between the chain drilled holes around the worn loco suspension hanger rod holes on top of the frames. This job will continue for the next week or two then the raw edges will be dressed ready to weld infill pieces in to make up the wear and restore the holes to true rectangles.
Meanwhile, I took Big John to the other side of the loco's frames, where I'd set up the pipe vice, to work with me screwing the ends of the replacement vac brake pipes. By the end of our session, half the spools had been threaded and the remainder to complete No.133's tender brake system should be done next week.
Altogether, a very satisfying start to the New Year.
Tuesday Gang 3/1/12
This easterly view (3/1/12) shows the Tuesday Gang fitting the wing fencing at the side of the Afon Nanmor bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
This easterly view (3/1/12) shows the completed wing fencing at the side of the Afon Nanmor bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.
Click on the YouTube box above to watch 40s of video of the Tuesday Gang in action near the Afon Nanmor bridge. This video is best watched in 1080p HD mode. This video was taken by Andy Keene on a camcorder.
New Year's Day 1/1/12
An unseasonably mild wet and windy weekend saw your webmaster sampling the last trains of the season. At Dinas No.133 was found to be back on the rails in one of the new sidings, off the trailer that it had stood on for the last 12 months or so. Presumably the trailer was required back by the owner.
This northerly view (1/1/12) shows No.133 back on the tracks. The loco was reported to be moved off its trailer in the Autumn. 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 (1/1/12) shows No.133 back on the tracks. 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.
At Tryfan Junction good progress was noted with the restored station building which has its roof and chimney complete. The building awaits the guttering.
This westerly view (1/1/12) shows the Tryfan Junction station building nearing completion, complete with new chimney in replica yellow brick. It might make more sense if the platform were extended along the front of the station building when complete. 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 (1/1/12) shows No.143 passing Tryfan Junction in the heavy squalls that typified the final day of the Xmas 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 easterly view (1/1/12) shows No.143 leaving Porthmadog Harbour on the final working of the Xmas Holiday trains. The viewpoint is the haul road for The Cob widening works which begin next week. Criccieth Castle had drawn the rake out onto The Cob. The train had run with both Pullman cars and six other coaches up to this point. However, the Observation Car was removed from the return working, presumably for winter servicing at Boston Lodge. It was later towed across The Cob by Taliesin and Criccieth Castle with Vale of Ffestiniog (the usual station pilot) on the rear. 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.
Volunteer Programme 2011-12
So that you can get them into your diary the 2010-11 dates for North Wales Track Gang/BHG and ROWG will be:
| January | 21-27/1/12WW | 28-29/1/12 | |||
| February | 11-12/2/12 | 17-20/2/12LW | 25-26/2/12 | ||
| March | 10-11/3/12 | 17-23/3/12WW | 24-25/3/12 | ||
| April | 7-8/4/12* | 13-16/4/11LW | 21-22/4/12 | ||
| May | 5-6/5/12& | 19-20/5/12 | 26/5/12-1/6/12WW | ||
| June | 2-3/6/12& | 16-17/6/12 | 22-25/6/12LW | 30/6/12-1/7/12 | |
| July | 14-15/7/12 | 21-27/7/12WW | 28-29/7/12 | ||
| August | 11-12/8/12 | 17-20/8/12LW | 25-26/8/12£ | ||
| September | 8-9/9/12 | 15-21/9/12WW | 22-23/9/12$ | ||
| October | 6-7/10/12 | 12-15/10/12LW | 20-21/10/12 | ||
| November | 3-4/11/12 | 10-16/11/12WW | 17-18/11/12 | ||
| December | 1-2/12/12 | 7-10/12/12LW | 15-16/12/12^ | 29-31/12/12% |
* Easter
£ August Bank Holiday
^ Possible Santa Special trains
& Bank Holiday
$ Super Power weekend
% Provisional
LW-Long weekend Friday-Monday
WW-Working week Saturday-Friday
Contacts If you intend to join one of the weekend or Tuesday gangs, please contact the appropriate organiser. If you are interested in weekday working or have any queries about track work volunteering, please contact Paul Bradshaw.
Tuesday Gang. Contact Tony Baker for details. Phone: 01492 874579 Email: tony.baker@festrail.co.uk
The P-Way Track Gang can often do with help on week days. If you would like to join them contact Tom (Alun Tomlinson) Phone: 07919 414883 Email: tom@festrail.co.uk
North Wales Black Hand Gang: Dafydd Thomas Phone: 01248 681019 Email: dafydd.thomas@festrail.co.uk
Howard Stuckey: Phone: 07818 821155 Email: howardstuckey@hotmail.co.uk
Rest of The World Gang: Paul Bradshaw Phone: 01766 770034 Email: paul.bradshaw@festrail.co.uk
Postal address: Construction Office, Dinas Station, Llanwnda, Caernarfon, Gwynedd LL54 5UP
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 2011
| 11-19/2/12 | Caernarfon-Porthmadog service |
| 14/4/12 | The Snowdonian Phase 5 special |
| 6/5/12 | WHHR Sunday Night at the Farm |
| 6/5/12 | Porthmadog Model Railway Exhibition-Ganolfan |
| 2/6/12 | Saturday Night at the Farm |
| 22-23/9/12 | SuperPower 2012 Weekend/WHRS AGM |
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 WHHR site
Click here for FR Company websites
Click here for Welsh Highland Heritage Group
Version 4.20
68 updated 28/1/12