WHR

Archived news 2003

V4.1 dated 29/12/04

Diary 20-27/7/03

Some people have been wondering where I've been the last week as there have been no updates during that time. Well, I was camped at Waunfawr making the next WHRS charity Construction Video and recording images of the action for the website! Here is an abridged account of those 8 days for all those who had withdrawal symptoms!!

20/7/03

Ballast train noted between Salem and Tros-y-gol near LC35. No ballast lining immediately south of here to LC38 as this section may have bent rails replaced before the public service starts. A ballast train was operated at 1800 with Upnor Castle.

21/7/03

Early morning ballast train noted at Bryn Afon LC37.

All three small diesels located at Plas-y-nant siding showing Dolgarrog as well as Taxi-2 have worked through from the Snowdon ranger section. Harold and Taxi-2 work south and Dolgarrog works north over Plas-y-nant bridge.

This southerly view (21/7/03) shows Harold, Taxi-2 and Dolgarrog all stabled in the siding at Plas-y-nant preparing for a hard days work at different locations. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Conway Castle and tamper work on ballast south of the Water Works near LC32. This was filling in a gap in ballast while progress south was subject to correcting the alignment at OB62, Pont Cerrig-y-rhyd. 

This southerly view (21/7/03) shows Dolgarrog at Plas-y-nant setting off north for work with a small excavator on the ex-MOD ramp wagon No.333. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

In afternoon Taxi-2 worked right through to Rhyd Ddu to collect small excavator on DZ wagon and stable on Ffridd Isaf curve.

22/7/03

0800 ballast working with Upnor Castle completing the lining as far as LC35 where the bent rails commence.

A string of 5 rails was constructed on the straight north of OB62 to get better fishplate joins. This was lifted with 6 RRMs and deposited in the 2 foot at Plas-y-nant bridge to replace the easterly rail of the temporary track across the bridge.

Tamper came through OB62 Pont Cerrig-y-rhyd and across the bridge to Plas-y-nant. Curves through OB62 were aligned and ballasted.

Taxi-2 at Rhyd Ddu worked with a scaffold platform to lop overhanging branches. At 1730 there was a ballast drop near Salem with Upnor Castle and a final working from Caer Moel dump is stabled at OB62 overnight effectively finishing ballasting north of Plas-y-nant.

23/7/03

Upnor Castle and ballast train held at OB62 as Plas-y-nant bridge not ready. It has been decided to use flat sleepers for the time being at Plas-y-nant rather than the tapered sleepers which have been stored on site (30mm higher on east rail for super-elevation of curve on bridge). The tapered sleepers have shown signs of splitting. This curve will now be subject to a low speed limit until the matter is re-visited.

Taxi-2 was at work with the mini-excavator on the DZ wagon with fill also on the wagon widening the narrow embankment at Ch.14400 just short of Rhyd Ddu.

Harold was on l/c duties south of Snowdon Ranger with all l/cs on this section reported as finished.

This southerly view (23/7/03) shows Harold at LC51 propelling Mike Hart's braked truck on level crossing duties. The footpath is now diverted to run on the west side of the track in front of the old station building to LC51. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The easterly rail over Plas-y-nant bridge was fixed in position but remained to be joined at the south end at 1700. This work must be finished tomorrow as the tamping and ballasting must be completed to allow for an HMRI visit on Saturday 26/7/03.

Caernarfon Castle and B wagons went south for a short distance from Waunfawr with the tree lopping train at 1800.

Some GTRM staff have been appointed to strengthen the pw team.

24/7/03

Taxi-2 still working on widening just north of Rhyd Ddu. Additional widening has taken place west of LC44 as the track has been shifted 50cm to north to give and even curve out of the OB71 at Castell Cidwm.

Harold was on l/c duties at LC61 near Clogwyn-y-gwin.

Another string of 5 rails was carried onto Plas-y-nant bridge by 6 RRMs, this time from the loop straight. This formed the western rail across the bridge. Temporary rails were removed and then the link-up completed at 1700 in the pouring rain. The tamper and Conway Castle's train then came over the bridge for the first time and Upnor Castle propelled its train up to the bridge for a ballast drop immediately north of the bridge. This presaged the start of a frantic ballasting effort with up to three runs before and after passenger operations every day.

Fencing has gone up at the level crossing at Plas-y-nant bridge. This is the future access to the halt. Initially fitted with barbed wire, this was replaced by normal wire the next day!

This southerly view (24/7/03) shows Conway Castle propelling the tool van and the mess coach and dragging Daffodil over Plas-y-nant bridge for the first time. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/7/03) shows the tamper coming over the bridge for the first time. The tapered sleepers (see foreground) have been set aside due to cracks. The flat sleepers do not allow super-elevation and so there will be a speed limit on the bridge and the tight curve south of it that gives access to the right hand running line in Plas-y-nant loop. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

25/7/03

Ballast runs with Upnor Castle dropped ballast right through to far end of loop, though getting a good 'top' in the loop was difficult with the undulations caused by continued subsidence.

A second pw team has been hand ballasting from a newly delivered FR wagon (No.92) north from Snowdon Ranger. There is still a fence across the track to allow cattle to cross at the old LC45 just south of Castell Cidwm and the new LC45 further south remains to be completed.

Harold is refuelled at Rhyd Ddu.

26/7/03

Upnor Castle hauls a ballast train north to collect ballast from the pile just north of Waunfawr at Cyrnant at 0800 and returns south full at 0830.

Conway Castle and tamper are at Plas-y-nant and all three small locos at Rhyd Ddu.

Owing to misinformation from the night before and no mobile signal in the Nant-y-Betws Pass, I miss the visit of Prince to Plas-y-nant and Ty'n-y-weirglodd cutting.

This northerly view (26/7/03) shows Prince with heritage rake rounding the curve on the rock ledge into Plas-y-nant. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ben Fisher taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The rake consisted of Nos. 23/10. Once the rake was propelled to Plas-y-nant, Conway Castle helped shunt release Prince so that it could lead back to Dinas.

This westerly view (26/7/03) shows Prince in Ty'n-y-weirglodd cutting. The tamper team engineer is indicating to Prince's driver not to come any closer! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ben Fisher taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The tamper made it through OB71 with 2 inches to spare later in the day!

Ballast workings with Upnor Castle continue into the evening dropping ballast at LC45-46 on the Castell Cidwm-Snowdon Ranger section.

27/7/03

Upnor Castle starts early on Sunday morning with a Cyrnant trip at 0715 and 0815, passing Waunfawr southbound fully laden at 0748 and 0845. Each trip takes a round hour even with 25mph running on the good sections of track. It seems with all these loads going into the final 1 km section leading to Snowdon Ranger, that the track can be readied for a Royal Train right through to Rhyd Ddu on 30/7/03....just!

John Sreeves bravely goes to stand under UB51 at Betws Garmon to check deflections under loaded ballast hoppers!! 

The Grand PW Shunt!

On 5/7/03, the WHR was witness to the Grand PW Shunt, the movement of the pw train from Rhyd Ddu to Betws Garmon by road. As the track had a 400m gap at Castell Cidwm, there was no alternative but to move the whole train to Betws Garmon and work south from there.

Due to a problem with the availability of the lorry transport, the movement all took place on 5/7/03 and your correspondent (getting up at 5am and covering the 200miles to Rhyd Ddu in record time!) was able to record the event for posterity. This was 'last chance saloon' for this website as the pw rake had been stationary for the previous month at weekends.

First activity was the loading of wagon DZ1423 at Betws Garmon ramp. This had been delivered to Betws Garmon by an early morning working with Caernarfon Castle. Conway Castle, the Rhyd Ddu pilot loco, then shunted it into the arrival line at Rhyd Ddu and prepared to load the mess van up the Rhyd Ddu ramp onto the lorry. This done in a round trip of an hour with gravity unloading at Betws Garmon. Next in line for the 'Loco Motion' lorry was Conway Castle.

This southerly view (5/7/03) shows Conway Castle shunting the mess coach up the ramp ready for departure to Betws Garmon ramp. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

While waiting for stock to be transported, the pw gang was busy tamping Snowdon Ranger platform with Upnor Castle, two ballast wagons, the regulator and the tamper. By 1230, the tamping had been finished and the more northerly of the two hoppers was filled. With the lorry now waiting at Rhyd Ddu for the first hopper, the rake set off for Rhyd Ddu at a fast pace before coming back to ballast and plough the platform with the remaining full wagon.

This northerly view (5/7/03) shows the Loco Motion lorry delivering Upnor Castle to the Betws Garmon ramp. To the right is the Head of Steel from Bryn Gloch now complete over the Betws Garmon bridge. With the completion of the pw delivery on 5/7/03, the ramp was due to be removed and the track slewed and joined to that from Bryn Gloch on 7/7/03. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (5/7/03) shows Duncan Milner and his son James removing the link-span after Upnor Castle had rolled down the ramp. The team had made several journeys between the two ramps. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Finally, the remaining stock ran up to Rhyd Ddu in the afternoon. At 1500 the second ballast wagon was propelled onto the lorry. An hour later it was Upnor Castle's turn with enough room for Daffodil too! Finally, the lorry returned to Rhyd Ddu to load the tamper at 1700 at the same time as the WHR(P) Barclay shunter was being unloaded off its Hyab lorry.

This westerly view (6/7/03) shows the diesel mechanical WHR(P) loco loaned to the WHLR (Barclay No. 554 of 1970) being unloaded at Rhyd Ddu station whilst the tamper was being loaded. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Progress to 27/7/03

Excellent progress was made over the several days to Saturday 26/7/03. Work had been held up by track laying at Plas-y-nant but a marathon effort to replace the temporary track over the bridge saw the final link up at 1700 on 24/7/03. An intensive pw operation began with up to three pw runs from the ballast dump just north of Waunfawr both before and after public services. On Sunday 27/7/03 these passed Waunfawr at 0715 and 0815 northbound!

The tamper squeezed through OB71 at Castell Cidwm on 26/7/03 and pw gangs have been working with the 3 small locos south of OB71. One pw team has been laying ballast between OB71 and Snowdon Ranger from a small wagon and getting the cross level right by hand in advance of the tamper. This will speed things up on this section. FR wagon No.92 has been brought over to help.  

In preparation for the Royal Visit, Prince arrived at Dinas on 26/7/03 (presumably in steam) and was immediately trialled to Plas-y-nant with two coaches (Nos.10/23) carrying the HMRI l/c inspector from Waunfawr. The loco is due to haul the Royal Train but further tests, including a run to Rhyd Ddu are likely before 30/7/03. The loco ran as far as Ty'n-y-weirglodd cutting where the tamper was in action at LC44. It then propelled back to Plas-y-nant where Conway Castle helped the shunt allowing Prince to lead back to Dinas. Some sections were taken at 5mph.

Following operation of the Royal Train on 30/7/03 (preceded by Caernarfon Castle as shunt loco) there will be a further intensive operation to get the track right for the public service, which is now likely to start on 9/8/03. One area of concern is the bent rails through Salem. However, north of Tros-y-gol and south of Snowdon Ranger the pw train has been noted operating at up to the 25mph line speed proposed for the route.

Progress to 17/7/03-the final link-up

Desperate measures were in order to complete the line through OB71 by 17/7/03 so that the HMRI team could see a complete line during their inspection visit on 18/7/03 and travel on it on a diesel hauled special with Harold and a DZ wagon. This loco will be light enough not to move the track before it is tamped. In order to give a flavour of the event here are some verbatim reports from Team Wylfa and Roy Woods (WHRS magazine editor) that catch the sense of excitement of this major milestone in the history of the project.

This easterly view (17/7/03) shows Harold meeting WHR(P) loco Taxi-2 at LC44 late in the evening in pouring rain. The weather did not however dampen the spirits of the volunteers from Team Wylfa or the permanent track gangs. Loco drivers shake hands as the two locos clunk buffer beams over the 'Golden Spike'. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright WHLR courtesy Jan Woods taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report

It's done! Your Team Wylfa correspondent was there helping lay the final length. We joined the track gang just as the final length was being laid, just after 1830 (17/7/03). At 2010 last night, the final fishplates were clamped just west of the level crossing (LC44). At 2030 FfR's 'Harold' came south from Plas y Nant to meet WHR(P)'s 'Taxi 2' coming from Rhyd Ddu nose to tail over the joint and for the team photos. Shortly after offloading timbers for the crossing, Taxi 2 and bogie wagon became the first train from Rhyd Ddu through the section since the demolition train in 1941.

This easterly view (17/7/03) shows Team Wylfa celebrating at LC44 as the locos meet. From left to right are Clive Briscoe, Martin Baker and Andy Lomax. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Roy Woods report

At 2030 on 17/7/03, the last rail joint was cut and fish-plated near Castell Cidwm - thereby completing through track from Caernarfon to Rhyd Ddu.  It was an historic occasion celebrated with fish and chips all round.  This marks not only the reinstatement of the North Wales Narrow Gauge Railway but also fulfils its dream of reaching Caernarfon.

The "Golden Joint" was ceremoniously cut by Colin Burtt and his track gang, witnessed by Mike Schumann (volunteering with the Gang) and Jan Woods from the Dinas Project Office. After several days of blazing sunshine with temperatures soaring to over 30 degrees Centigrade - today the heavens opened and torrential rain poured onto Snowdonia.  This did not perturb the stalwarts of the Track Gang who continued into the evening undaunted.

This southerly view (19/7/03) shows the track now complete south of OB71. The RRMs are visible in the foreground and the cut rails further on show where the splice took place. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Price taken on a Fuji Finepix 6800 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

At the completion of the work, Ffestiniog Railway locomotive 'Harold' and on-loan WHR (P) Barclay locomotive met and the drivers shook hands.  This meeting was a symbolic gesture bridging not only a gap in the track but a gap across the years and across Companies. The Forty Mile Dream draws nearer.

Tracklaying news and HMRI visit

On 16/7/03 both TG1 and Paul Bradshaw's teams worked together. They first shifted the Pandrol clipped rail under OB71 approx. 5m south, to project from the south end of the bridge. A further two panels on metal sleepers then made the closure to the rails coming down from Snowdon Ranger. Another panel was laid out from the north end of the bridge, part on the Pandrol clips under the bridge, part on metal sleepers. A modified fishplate was used under the bridge with the wrap-around part usually under the rail removed.

This westerly view (19/7/03) shows the track now complete west of OB71. Click on the image to enlarge. The final alignment has necessitated the removal of the concrete cess inspection pit which collects the overflow from a field spring to the right. This image is copyright Chris Price taken on a Fuji Finepix 6800 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

On 17/7/03 both gangs again worked together. Formation works at LC 44 were completed during the day and 3 panels were laid west towards LC44 from the one projecting from under OB71. Another panel was laid west across LC 44 and a final one east from the rails coming from Plas-y-Nant. The final closure was just to the west of LC44, taking place about 8pm at Ch.9920 approx.

This northerly view (17/7/03) shows the cutting of the final rail splice just west of LC44. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The Barclay loco 'Taxi-2' and DZ wagon came through OB71 from the south and were stabled at Plas-y-Nant overnight on 17/7/03 along with Harold. A shunt in the morning of 18/7/03 saw Harold and the DZ going to Waunfawr then taking HMRI up to Rhyd Ddu. Presumably the pw train was moved out of the way to Waunfawr as well as it has not yet passed OB62. Later it was back at Tros-y-gol stabled for the weekend.

So far at Salem the tamper has ventured to the straight just before OB 62 (Pont Cerrig-y-rhyd) where the North Wales Track gang was replacing bent rails last weekend. The track needs aligning and packing under OB 62 before a width clearance check can be made under the bridge with the tamper.

This southerly view (19/7/03) shows all the pw stock stabled at Tros-y-gol. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Price taken on a Fuji Finepix 6800 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

At Rhyd Ddu, the point on the run round loop has been positioned just south of the platform and work was in hand on 18/7/03 to complete the link between the run round and the headshunt on wooden sleepers. The headshunt itself has not yet been laid. Fence posts have been erected for the back of the platform and would appear to be the circular type to have wire stapled to them. These are a temporary measure and will be removed when the platform is completed to full width when the railway runs through to Beddgelert.

This easterly view (19/7/03) shows the complex level crossing for the Snowdon Path at the south end of Rhyd Ddu station (LC65). This is now complete with large safety areas (left) for the cyclists and walkers and all the warning signs required by the HMRI. The road crossing has been moved slightly to the right and is now square to the formation. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Price taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

As a result of the HMRI visit on 18/7/03 a long list of tasks has been identified which must be finished in the next 10 days before the Royal Visit. Please contact Jan Woods at Dinas on 01286-830200 and volunteer to help get the line finished.

Prince Charles to open WHR

It has been announced that Prince Charles will open the WHR to Rhyd Ddu on 30/7/03. Timetables will be announced on 21/7/03 subject to HMRI approval.

PLANNING FOR PHASE 4

Official statement 

Once public trains are running to Rhyd Ddu the WHR will put in hand steps to arrange a party to celebrate the success of all they have achieved to date with the team, probably around the Super Power weekend in September. Clearly the construction of the WHR does not stop at Rhyd Ddu. Already the WHR(P) have started constructing the line northward to Pont Croesor and the WHR's task is to raise the funds to complete the gap. The Directors are working on plans to do just that.

First, there will still be work to finish off the first three phases to ensure the WHR is a first class railway with all the finishing touches e.g. station buildings. Second, the WHR are planning the steps needed to enable the WHLR to construct the rest of the railway. This involves the planning, engineering, organisation and legal matters which are ongoing.

Third, the cost of building the remainder of the line on through to Porthmadog must be funded. The WHR project has received much support in various discussions with a number of sponsors and we are confident that a package or series of packages can and will be put together over time. Unfortunately, the Millennium Commission are unable to support a further phase of construction. The funds required are substantial and the demand on their limited available funds is high, in fact too high to enable them to help us too at the same percentage level of support as for Phases 1 to 3.

So, the Directors will continue to build on the help they have been offered from other sources and clearly this private sponsorship and continued help from Welsh Highland Railway Society will be key to success. The WHR are delighted to have reached Rhyd Ddu and, after a well earned breather, the team will set to in order to provide the enhancements to the railway as opened to provide a high level of service. The Directors will continue to plan and obtain funding to extend the line southwards.

Progress to 17/7/03

At OB71 work is nearing completion. The concrete slab laid by Jones Bros. was not absolutely level and it was necessary to grout under the plates to make up the differences to provide a level bearing surface.

This northerly view (13/7/03) shows the special base plates fitted under OB71. The rail clipped to the base plates were temporary, helping to hold the base plates in position as they were screwed down. The steel plates are set at 70cm intervals and were fitted on the morning of 13/7/03. Pandrol type clips hold the plates to the rail. The plates are screwed into three holes pre-drilled into the concrete by Celtest. During the afternoon of 13/7/03, the holes were blown clear with a compressor and the three bolts set in a flexible compound in the holes. The gauge frame now shows adequate clearance through the bridge. The space under the sleepers will be filled with a filler material that will provide some resilience. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Paul Bender taken on Canon 20 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The original illustration showed the track higher than its final level. This helped the holding down bolts to be positioned vertically in their holes while the epoxy resin set around them. The track was subsequently lowered so that the grout layer to be added under the plates was a minimum of 20mm thick.

This vertical view (16/7/03) shows the special base plates fitted under OB71, now with 20mm of grout supporting them. The additional rails will presumably be check rails. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ben Fisher taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The trackwork connection to the south is being done on the morning of 16/7/03 whilst the formation through LC44 was dug out so that the rail head from the north can be extended and the final link completed. Team Wylfa laid out most of the final sleepers either side of the bridge on 15/7/03. The permanent track gang planned to start work on LC44 early in the morning on 16/7/03.

The temporary rails are to be unclipped and slid out half way. The other set of rails will be added and joined in the middle of the bridge. The final task is to join up the 2 sections either side. A Golden Fishplate is expected to be driven on 17/7/03, thus completing a through track between Caernarfon and Rhyd Ddu for the first time since the 1941 demolition train ran.

Progress to 13/7/03

Conway Castle was at Betws Garmon with two loaded hoppers on 12/7/03. It did not move all weekend. Upnor Castle was at Tros-y-gol with Daffodil, the tool van, the mess coach and the tamper. They did not move all weekend.

This southerly view (12/7/03) shows Conway Castle standing at Betws Garmon station with the loaded pw hoppers. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Volunteer action was concentrated at Salem, where sections of track had become distorted and were being replaced with new straight(er) rail!

This northerly view (13/7/03) shows the distorted track at Salem. Volunteers were replacing this and realigning the section to allow this section to be tamped and lined during the coming week. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

With the necessity of remedial measures, it will now be impossible to run a steam train on 18/7/03 for the HMRI inspection. The HMRI have asked that certain signs at l/cs be moved to 2.5m from the track. There is also the section through Pont Cerrig-y-rhyd to Plas-y-nant to be correctly relaid/aligned. The management are still hopeful for an opening on 30-31/7/03.

This northerly view (12/7/03) shows the diesel mechanical loco Harold on loan from the FR stabled in the recently lengthened Plas-y-nant siding. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

There has been no further tracklaying progress towards OB71 but materials are stored on the access track for completion of the gradient up from the bridge and the ballasting.

This easterly view (12/7/03) shows the Head of Steel from Plas-y-nant just short of LC44. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (12/7/03) shows the Head of Steel near LC44 from Castell Cidwm bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Geotextile has been laid either side of the bridge under the ballast as it is understood this may still be a damp spot in winter. The new steel base plates were laid through the bridge on 13/7/03 and screwed down to the concrete with a resilient compound in the drilled holes. The rails used (see Star Picture above) are only temporary to get the alignment correct. There will be a joint under the bridge when the track is completed by 14/7/03. It is the intention to complete the gap by 17/7/03 at the latest in view of the HMRI visit.

This southerly view (12/7/03) shows check rails now laid on base plates across Betws Garmon bridge. On this date they were still to be screwed down. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

A group of six loco drivers walked the route from Rhyd Ddu to Waunfawr on 12/7/03 for route familiarisation purposes and said they were very impressed with the views from the line.

Level crossing work continues south of Castell Cidwm and Rhyd Ddu level crossing was effectively finished on Saturday with Brian Humphries grading the approaches. The triangle section anti-sheep grids remain to be fitted. A new nail gun has speeded up the process considerably. The track boards of the level crossings are made to a new design that eases removal to allow maintenance tamping in the future.

Rhyd Ddu south point was fitted by 11/7/03 and the track ramp was removed. There is room for about 40m of track south of the left hand point. Neither the run round nor the pw siding are essential to the opening of the railway as a Caernarfon Castle shunt operation could be maintained for a few weeks as happened at Waunfawr with Phase 2 opening.

This southerly view (13/7/03) shows the headshunt point at Rhyd Ddu. There appears to be 40m clear south of the point, enough for two locos. A pw siding may be laid to the right of the view with another left hand point off the run round track. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa are appealing for help on Tuesday and Thursday with level crossing signs (see below for contact info.).

Progress to 10/7/03

The first two wagons full from Cyrnant left on 9/7/03 before the start of public services whilst total possession was available. The Caer Moel dump had been used in the previous 2 days of ballast runs. No ballast trains were expected over the weekend.

This northerly view (5/7/03) shows the ballast train being loaded at LC51 at Snowdon Ranger with Upnor Castle in charge. This was the last day of ballast work on this isolated section of route before the pw train moved to Betws Garmon by lorry to work south from there. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

At Rhyd Ddu, the panels of temporary track formerly leading to the rail stack at the south end were lifted on 9/7/03 during the evening, along with the unloading ramp on the track closest to the car park. Work on creating the formation for the headshunt, crossover and PW siding started on 10/7/03, using the two left hand points in store at Rhyd Ddu.

A decision has been made to stick with the existing steel sleepers in the platform and avoid changing to wood as previously advised. Even though wooden sleepers are in stock and would look better in a station, avoiding the change will save vital time in the race to finish the track and open by the end of July.

At Castell Cidwm, Celtest pressure washed under the bridge on 9/7/03 ready for the final protective coating to be applied to the cut surfaces of the concrete to finish their job. The gap in the trackwork is now estimated to be 10 panels (about 180m), after track gangs laid a further two panels on 9/7/03 (one each side of the bridge) taking the southern Head of Steel to Ch.10060. The northern Head of Steel is just short of LC44 (Ch.9900 approx).

This northerly view (5/7/03) shows the diesel mechanical WHR(P) loco loaned to the WHLR (Barclay No. 554 of 1970) at Ffridd Isaf curve with DZ 1423 in tow. Llyn Cwellyn is visible in the background. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Plas-y-Nant siding was completed on 10/7/03. It has a total length of 9 panels (162m), 8 of which are useable. The siding runs from the point at LC41 to about UB66. This is over half the future length of the loop when completed for Phase 4.

This northerly view (6/7/03) shows the siding under construction at Plas-y-nant. When Phase 4 is constructed this will be extended southwards to become the northbound track of the passing loop. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The pw train has made good progress south from Betws Garmon throughout the week. It has now passed Bryn Gloch and on 9/7/03 was noted immediately south of Cae Hywel bridge with Upnor Castle in charge.

It now seems that tracklaying may be completed early next week with the final join being formed at Ch.10000 at Castell Cidwm road bridge (OB71). A clearance test programme could then start before the HMRI visit on 18/7/03, though much remains to be done on level crossings and culvert headwalls. 'Team Wylfa' report they have completed enough clips to complete the tracklaying programme as of 10/7/03.

Progress to 8/7/03

There had been some concern that the tamper would not fit through OB53, the new main road bridge at Betws Garmon, but it did venture across UB51 on 7/7/03 for clearance tests under Pont Betws. It was found to foul at the top on two projecting stones on the original NWNG (southern) side of the bridge. Stonemasons trimmed these back on 8/7/03 and the tamper will now go through - just! The humps in the ballast between UB51 and UB52 were raked out yesterday and the tamper team worked on both sides of the river bridge UB51 on 8/7/03.

The Head of Steel was just 2 lengths short of LC44, the farm crossing to the west of Castell Cidwm bridge on 8/7/03, and these two panels should go in on Wednesday morning. Celtest are still drilling the concrete bridge trough for the sleeper fixings and need access along the trackbed east for the remaining 100m east of LC44 to OB71. So there will be a short pause before staff can finally join the two halves of the railway.

An evening possession enabled Conway Castle and the ballast wagons to run down to Caer Moel on 7/7/03 to start clearing the ballast dump left from Phase 2. It is intended that a series of early morning and evening possessions will allow both this and the Cyrnant ballast dumps to cleared. The ballast will be used for tamping and lining south from Betws Garmon, saving lorry movements.

Progress to 7/7/03

The tracklaying gang slewed the ski-slope to make the connection at Betws Garmon on 7/7/03. The first loco across the river bridge was Harold, with RRMs and the braked Hudson flat that was formerly behind Dolgarrog (moved by Hyab lorry from Snowdon Ranger on 5/7/03). TG1 then moved back to Plas-y-Nant and continued laying south towards OB71 at Castell Cidwm. Over 92% of track had been laid by 6/7/03 discounting the Plas-y-nant loop, which will not be completed as part of this phase of tracklaying.

This southerly view (7/7/03) shows the level crossing team completing LC46 at Caeau Gwynion with Dolgarrog and the ramp wagon. This image is one of a series taken by Roger Dick during his final visit in his role as consultant to the Millennium Commission. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Roger Dick taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The small hump between UB51 and UB52 will be taken out in the next few days. The temporary track over UB64 will also be replaced by permanent track. The base plates for OB71, the main road bridge at Castell Cidwm, have been painted and are now ready for Celtest to fit to the concrete by drilling holes in the slab base. This is only a temporary answer to the problem at this bridge and a 10mph speed restriction will apply, not the ideal solution with an extensive 1 in 75/90 gradient immediately south of the bridge.

This southerly view (22/6/03) shows the East Anglia Group celebrating the successful linking of the track through Snowdon Ranger at 1545 at Ch.11350, with Mark Neilson (extreme left) leading TG3. Also present, (left to right) John Ewing, Howard Stukey, Bob Turner, Jon Barlow, Mathew Wellman, Michael Oshaughnassy, John Hopkins and David Wilcox. With thanks to Colin Burt TG1, Bob Gartside, Richard Fryer, John Sreeves and a special thanks to Peter and Joan Garthwaite of Betws Inn for loan of tea making facilities. Volunteers were allowed to remove their safety helmets as they were standing on the level crossing. Over 75% of the track has now been laid. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Progress to 6/7/03

All the pw stock was transferred from Rhyd Ddu to Betws Garmon on 5/7/03, following the delivery of DZ1423. The ramps at each location will now be removed. This will allow the completion of the points, headshunt and siding at Rhyd Ddu.

The WHR(P) Barclay shunter was delivered on time at 1700 on 5/7/03 complete with 'on loan' labels and Gelert's Farm 'shed code' on its buffer beams! After a little shunting in the platform, it set off with the single DZ wagon for Snowdon Ranger. FR staff have also managed to resurrect Dolgarrog so this will mean two fitting out trains in action on the isolated Castell Cidwm to Rhyd Ddu section.

Good track progress has seen a total of 30 lengths laid south of Plas-y-nant siding point, taking the Head of Steel to Ch.9694. Meanwhile, the Head of Steel at Castell Cidwm is at Ch.10078 leaving a gap of some 384m to complete the railway. This is likely to be done by 11/7/03.

This northerly view (6/7/03) shows the Head of Steel at Ch.9694, south of Plas-y-nant. Over 50% of this section has now been completed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (6/7/03) shows the Head of Steel approaching Ty'n-y-weirglodd cutting. This area is now fully fenced. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Various outstanding stonemason jobs on the culverts and cesses plus the level crossing work will delay stock clearance proving of the line for a further week but it is hoped to run a double headed test train with both Garratts for the HMRI on 18/7/03. This would lead to an opening around July 30th. if all is satisfactory. No.138 has just had its brick arch renewed in preparation, whilst No.143 is currently handling the passenger turns.

OB71 was finally clear on the afternoon of 6/7/03 with Celtest cutting out the concrete haunches that had proved foul of the loading gauge. They will now drill and fit the base plates into the concrete floor slab. Following completion of the track through the bridge, it is hoped that the tracklaying gang will be able to lay through the bridge by Friday and complete the link at Ch.10078, just south of the bridge.

This easterly view (6/7/03) shows the Celtest works complete at Castell Cidwm bridge. Track will be bolted direct to the concrete floor slab that braces the abutments. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (6/7/03) shows Celtest has cut out the concrete haunches that were foul of the loading gauge. The heavy waste blocks are being cut up for removal. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Tracklaying progress 3/7/03

This northerly view (5/7/03) shows the track laid north of Betws Garmon bridge past the site of Betws Garmon station. The ramp and the stock moved by lorry the same day are visible in the background. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The intention is that track gangs will then slew the track back and make the connection early on Monday morning, whilst the tamper team have a possession at Waunfawr station in order to re-marshal all the tamper train stock into the correct order.

This southerly view (5/7/03) shows the Head of Steel at Betws Garmon station with the ramp and lorry visible to the right. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The tamper team worked out of Snowdon Ranger on 3/7/03, with Conway Castle standing by the farm crossing north of the station whilst the ballast hoppers were being loaded. Dolgarrog was moved further down the line towards Castell Cidwm. The platform end fence at the south end had to be removed as it was foul of the loading gauge of the tamper.

Paul Bradshaw's team laid track as far as the southern point at Plas-y-nant by the evening of 3/7/03. The point is to be moved to one side and not installed and the loop will not be laid as part of the present tracklaying programme. By 3pm on 4/7/03, track was already over 100m south of this point and heading south rapidly towards Castell Cidwm.

There is presently a three panel siding off the northern point. This might be extended later so that it can stable the whole of the of the tamper train. It will be the only point where shunting can occur during the daytime to reorganise the order of the pw train/tamper when passenger trains are running at Waunfawr.

Five more panels (90m) were added from the Head of Steel at Caeau Gwynion to a point immediately to the south of Castell Cidwm bridge on 2/7/03. A company called Celtest are currently trimming the concrete under the Castell Cidwm road bridge. This work has stopped further progress here. A similar operation took place during Phase 2 at the Rhostryfan road bridge.

New loco for Rhyd Ddu

Yet another diesel loco will be seen at work on Phase 3 construction work next week. Thanks to our friends at WHR(P) one of their Barclay 3 tonne diesels is being shipped up to the currently isolated OB71 - Rhyd Ddu section to haul the fencing contractor's material train, replacing the small Simplex Dolgarrog that has a broken drive chain. The Barclay loco will be the only diesel loco on that section until the remaining track is joined near Castell Cidwm in a week or two.

This southerly view (5/7/03) shows the newly delivered WHR(P) shunter at Snowdon Ranger having worked its first test train on this section from Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Barclay 554 'Taxi-2' was moved on Saturday afternoon. Information about the WHR(P)'s two Barclay locos can be found at:
http://www.whr.co.uk/enthus/stock/barclay.html and http://www.cleeve.com/whr/barclay/

'Race-the-train' Special

The Eryri Harriers are holding their sixth annual race-the-train event on 23/7/03. There is an evening special train for spectators at £2.00 a return ticket around 7pm from Caernarfon.

'Team Wylfa' appeal for volunteers

Team Wylfa - a group of engineers from the power station on Anglesey have now been at work on Tuesday and Thursday evenings for a few weeks. Roland has now organised a second track gang to work during the day and they simply haven't enough track clips to keep them going. On Tuesday and Thursday evenings we will be at Dinas making up track clips from about 7pm.

For the record, each track panel has 24 sleepers which requires 24 sets of clips. A set comprises: Type '0' with lug; Type '0' without lug; Type '2' / 'M2' and Type 'M8'. So, we need about 1000 of each making up to complete the gaps in the track. If you can't make it in the evening, turn up at Dinas during the day and someone will show you where the track clips, bolts and spring washers are. Even the odd hour spent will speed up tracklaying. If you can make it, phone Jan at Dinas on 01286-830200 or Clive Briscoe on 07974- 927027 (On answerphone 08:30 - 17:30)

Progress to 29/6/03

Volunteers reached UB51 on 29/6/03 with Harold in action carrying rails between Plas-y-nant and the Head of Steel. Good weather saw the gang complete 9 lengths, drag a pair of rails onto the bridge and complete the closure with a short length. Over 84% of the track has now been laid.

This northerly view (29/6/03) shows the North Wales Group completing the track between OB53 and UB51 at Betws Garmon. Harold was used to shunt rails to the head of steel. By the end of the weekend, track had reached the bridge at Ch.7010. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (29/6/03) shows the North Wales Group completing the track onto UB51 at Betws Garmon. The rails on the bridge are not screwed down onto their base-plates. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

With 50 staff now in action excellent progress is being made. The tamping/lining train currently in operation from Rhyd Ddu to Castell Cidwm will complete its work through Snowdon Ranger by the mid-week and be transferred by lorry back to Betws Garmon on 4/7/03. On 27/6/03, the ballasting operation was approaching Snowdon Ranger from the south.

It is intended to complete the bridge tracklaying at UB51 on 30/6/03. The loading ramp slew at Betws Garmon will then be restored to plain line and connected up to UB51 to give the pw train a long section to work on to Plas-y-nant. This will leave only 86m of temporary track to be completed at Plas-y-nant and the section south of there to Castell Cidwm. Track gangs will be advancing south from Plas-y-nant during the week and hopefully the train will be able to tamp and line the track right through to Castell Cidwm by mid-July.

This northerly view (28/6/03) shows the temporary track completed across Plas-y-nant bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

On 28/6/03, the permanent staff were slewing the track straight using a theodolite and walkie/talkie south from Plas-y-nant. Permanent track has been extended north to Ch.9126 and a reverse curve put in the track in order to be correctly aligned when approaching the bridge. No progress has been made with the trackbed immediately north of Castell Cidwm bridge yet.

At Rhyd Ddu the station access has received its slate fines access ramp from the future site of the station building. LC51 has been moved slightly south to make it square to the line. Dolgarrog is being used to deliver the level crossing contractor to remote sites to complete level crossings on this section. A new design of easily removed l/c fittings is being used, presumably to make future tamping through the l/cs easier.

Opening end of July?

A large party is planned for all involved in the rebuilding during the Articulated Weekend in September. The WHLR is working towards opening the WHR to Rhyd Ddu during the last few days of July. The management cannot yet be specific as there is much to do and some unexpected jobs are bound to crop up.

The plan is that the minute HMRI approval is given and the necessary (30ish) test trains have run, the service will be extended to Rhyd Ddu. If all goes as planned, the first public trains to Rhyd Ddu might start in the week July 26-31 with some celebration at that time. As the month of July progresses, the time slot for the opening date will be narrowed down.

Progress to 27/6/03

Harold is moving rails down from the Plas-y-Nant stockpiles two pairs at a time, one set of RRMs in front of the loco and one set behind. The loco is now starting OK after some attention to the fuel pump on-site by Boston Lodge a few weeks age.

A further 9 panels will get to the river bridge UB51 at Betws Garmon and it is hoped that the North Wales gang will complete this during the course of the weekend 28-29/6/03. Two track gangs will be working from Monday, TG1 from 6am to 3pm, and Paul Bradshaw's team probably 11am to 8 pm. Paul's volunteer gang has been working late this week.

New loop at Beddgelert Forest?

This website promoted the advantages of a new loop at Beddgelert Forest Halt some time ago. The WHLR is now definitely considering a loop at the location. This loop would be extremely useful being half way up the difficult-to-work sharply curved 1 in 40 incline from Beddgelert station to the summit. If trains run into difficulties on this section, e.g. wet rail/forest leaf mulch etc, then late running reactions on other services can be minimised.

Progress to 25/6/03

Tracklaying gangs are making progress northwards from Caeau Gwynion l/c (LC45) towards the ballast boundary near Castell Cidwm bridge (OB71). They completed the 300m from Ch.10420 to Ch.10140 on the morning of 25/6/03. The pace of work has increased and work was underway at this location on an evening shift at 1830 on 24/6/03. Tracklaying has now reached over 80% of the total necessary.

A solution to the problem of Castell Cidwm bridge is in hand. The track can be laid through OB71 on steel base-plates bolted direct to the concrete floor to obtain greater vertical load gauge clearances required by the new larger rolling stock (e.g.. Caernarfon Castle). This has been achieved by doing away with the 20cm depth of the sleepers. The base-plates have been made and are currently in store Dinas yard.

A team of HMRI visited on 24/6/03 and made the usual list of tidy up jobs that must be completed before the railway opens. A volunteer gang is continuing to do the signage at the 33 level crossings between LC22 (Waunfawr campsite crossing) and LC65 (Snowdon path crossing Rhyd Ddu).

Volunteers are now needed to help get the railway open for the school Summer Holiday traffic. Please contact Jan Woods at Dinas on 01286 830200 (office hours), or email jan@welsh-highland.demon.co.uk.

Progress to 22/6/03

The main progress has been the linking of track through Snowdon Ranger Halt on 22/6/03. Rails were dragged south from the 2 foot north of LC51 by running the rollers around the 18m lengths as they moved over the sleepers. Finally rails were bolted down northwards from the platform end towards the level crossing and south on steel sleepers from LC51 until they met with a short closure length at Ch.11350 where the current footpath crosses the line.

This southerly view (22/6/03) shows the completed track through the platform and past the old station building. The footpath from the station access to LC51 is to be diverted to run parallel with the track on the west side past the old station building with fencing separating it from the track. This will form a good photographic vantage point in the future. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Meanwhile UB51 had the waybeam plinths poured on 18/6/03 and the next day the bearing plates were grouted in. The beams were bolted down by 20/6/03 and the sleepers clipped to the beams by midday on 22/6/03.

This northerly view (22/6/03) shows the sleeper deck on UB51 completed on 22/6/03. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Ballasting has been finished from UB52, the flood relief channel, through OB53, Pont Betws. It will be possible to lay track through here to complete the link between Betws Garmon and Cae Hywel next week.

This northerly view (21/6/03) shows the trackbed ballasted between UB52 and OB53 south of Betws Garmon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Metric measures used by the engineers in building the railway have been adopted for naming locations. Mike Schumann, the WHLR's engineer, was busy fitting black enamelled cast oval plates to bridges, level crossings etc on 21-2/6/03. These start at 20.00 for the Footbridge OB1 in Caernarfon station. This allows 20 km work of space for the FR if this is ever changed.

This easterly view (21/6/03) shows the new location plate fitted to UB56 at Cae Hywel. This places the bridge at Ch.12.48 from OB1 at Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Locations already fitted include UB51 and UB56. It is hoped these location markers will make it easier for staff reporting problems as there are 127 level crossings to learn the names of otherwise!

Much work remains to be done on crossings and signage. A volunteer gang has much of this in hand and progress is being made north from Rhyd Ddu. The ramp wagon has been moved to Rhyd Ddu and Conway Castle is hauling it working with the builders who are doing additional finishing works. One task is to widen the embankment around Ffridd Isaf curve which currently would not allow safe detraining of passengers.

This northerly view (21/6/03) shows the construction of LC64 immediately north of Rhyd Ddu. This is the location where the former loco shed and rail store were situated. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Progress to 20/6/03

With the first train crossing the viaduct on 18/6/03, the ballast train could gain access to the 1km section onwards to Snowdon Ranger Halt. The train on the viaduct shots were re-enacted on 19/6/03 for official photographs to be taken for posterity. It was hoped the ballast train could proceed north from 23/6/03.

This northerly view (19/6/03) shows the short 25m gap in track in the cutting immediately north of the viaduct In the foreground is the track completed this week across the viaduct, while in the background is the track from Snowdon Ranger. Click on the image to enlarge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright WHLR, courtesy Jan Woods. Image taken on a digital camera, post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

On the morning of 19/6/03, the track was finally completed across the viaduct and the tamper made its way across as a light weight machine to test the bridge strength. The girders hog or arch upwards slightly in the middle by design. Every third sleeper has a base-plate that attaches the rail to the bridge.

One rail was surveyed and screwed down then the other rail spaced out from that. The curve north off the bridge needed to start on the bridge to avoid exceeding minimum radii requirements. The track therefore swings up to 25cm to the west on the final few sleepers at the north end of the bridge.

This southerly view (19/6/03) shows the tamper working its way onto the bridge, now replete with rails. the bridge hogs slightly in the middle by design. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright WHLR, courtesy Jan Woods. Image taken on a digital camera, post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (19/6/03) shows Upnor Castle, propelling Daffodil, working the first train over the Glan-yr-afon viaduct since 1941, following the tamper, now safely over the span. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright WHLR, courtesy Jan Woods. Image taken on a digital camera, post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (19/6/03) shows Upnor Castle, propelling Daffodil, working the first train over the Glan-yr-afon viaduct since 1941, consisting of ballast wagons and mess van. However, the tamper had the honour of being the first item of rolling stock across the viaduct. WHLR Manager Roland Doyle almost looks pleased! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright WHLR, courtesy Jan Woods. Image taken on a digital camera, post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (19/6/03) shows Upnor Castle propelling the ballast wagons and mess van south away from the viaduct at the end of the test. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright WHLR, courtesy Jan Woods. Image taken on a digital camera, post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Tracks were joined to the north of the Glan-yr-afon Viaduct on the morning of 20/6/03 and there is now continuous track from Rhyd Ddu to Snowdon Ranger Halt. Both regular staff and volunteers will be laying track at Snowdon Ranger Halt this weekend, so the track should be joined up at LC51 with the next section to Castell Cidwm by Sunday/Monday. Volunteers are invited to come along and help.

Progress to 15/6/03

This easterly view (15/6/03) shows all the stock working on the Rhyd Ddu to Glan-yr-afon section stabled securely for the weekend on Ffridd Isaf curve. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Work was reaching a conclusion on the shuttering for the waybeam supports at UB51 over the weekend. A concrete pour is due here on 18/6/03.

This northerly view (14/6/03) shows the completed bridge as seen from LC30, just south of the bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Work was also underway firming up the trackbed with slate waste between UB52 and OB53. This section had been vibrator rolled during the previous week and ballast might be laid by 20/6/03.

This northerly view (14/6/03) shows work has been underway to strengthen the trackbed with rolled slate waste between the flood channel bridge (UB52) and Pont Betws (OB53). Ballasting could follow before the end of June. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

There was no further progress at Plas-y-nant and the loop track will be the last item to be laid. The Plas-y-nant bridge, UB64, still needs its sleeper deck fitting. The start of the permanent track has now been identified as Ch.9140, with the point considerably to the north of the location shown in the TWO maps.

This northerly view (15/6/03) shows the point at the north end of Plas-y-nant loop. This has been placed considerably to the north of the location indicated in the TWO maps. In the background, behind the RRMs, is the short track gap onto the Plas-y-nant bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Glan-yr-afon viaduct was completed on 14/6/03 with all of the timber decking being screwed down to the waybeams. The steel cage erected when the FR took ownership of the route from the Official Receiver (for insurance purposes) was ceremoniously cut down at midday on 14/6/03. Track could be completed over the viaduct by 20/6/03 and the bridge could see its first train since 1941!

This northerly view (15/6/03) shows the completed viaduct. The grids have no kicker plate as originally intended. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The ballast train has visited the south end of Glan-yr-afon Yard as indicated by the slip burrs on the rails! Top ballast has reached this point though sleeper nuts have been loosened to allow tamping. These will be tightened by a Geismar air tool as one of the last jobs.

The permanent gang had laid track across the yard on a bank up to a metre high and well back from the wall that supports the edge.

This southerly view (15/6/03) shows the completed track across Glan-yr-Afon Yard. The trackbed was built up by over a metre in places and swung to the east away from the edge of the retaining wall to improve the lifetime of this structure. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Over the weekend volunteers laid track to within a length of the viaduct, with the Head of Steel now at Ch. 12699.

This northerly view (15/6/03) shows the Head of Steel just north of LC57, just over a length short of the Glan-yr-afon Viaduct. Track may be laid over the viaduct itself by 20/6/03. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

At Rhyd Ddu, two right hand points are now stored at the south end as the siding is apparently going to be fitted from the start.

Snowdon Ranger platform has been finished with yellow warning strip (high speed trains pass this platform!) and the ballasting will be linked up with the north end on 16/6/03. It has been decided to use wooden sleepers in this platform.

This southerly view (14/6/03) shows the completed platform with slate fines ramp at Snowdon Ranger Halt. Wooden sleepers are to be used in the platform itself and are seen stacked on the north end of the platform. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Dolgarrog is stored on the track just north of the station. This loco will come into its own on all the small finishing jobs, when the ballast train has passed.

This northerly view (14/6/03) shows the sheeted loco Dolgarrog stabled north of LC51 at Snowdon Ranger with the ramp/transporter wagons. Rails laid in the '2-foot' are for completing the track gap at Snowdon Ranger. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

It is intended to lay track over Glan-yr-afon viaduct and through Snowdon Ranger this week, allowing the ballast train to work to Castell Cidwm bridge, now finished by Jones. The l/c for Caeau Gwynion farm was completed by 14/6/03.

There is also progress at Porthmadog with the trackbed now extending 210m north of Pen-y-mount and a further 180m cleared north of that. The WHR(P) team are using Chainage 0 based on Pen-y-Mount l/c (LC121 Ch.33550 approx.).

This northerly view (14/6/03) shows the basic clearance of the former trackbed at a point approx. 390m northeast of Pen-y-Mount. The original ballast and sleeper spacings are evident. Clearance continues as far as the two telegraph poles in the distance. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Progress to 8/6/03

Preparations for ballasting have begun at Glan-yr-afon. Presumably this means that the viaduct works are now completed and the missing 364m can now be placed and track laid from Ch.12552 to Ch.12916. This will allow the ballast train, currently rapidly advancing down the Nant-y-Betws Pass, to continue on the next section to Snowdon Ranger.

At Snowdon Ranger, the ex-MOD transporter No. 333 has been moved to the north end of the station at Ch.11350 (current footpath access). This pair of 4 wheel wagons consists of a ramp and carrier. While it was on the ballast last weekend, it is hoped to rail it this week. The vehicle will be used to carry small tracked excavators to complete culvert wing walls and ballast retaining walls between Snowdon Ranger and Glan-yr-afon.

There are also several level crossings to complete around Snowdon Ranger though a start has been made. The rail stack was being cleared last weekend with a view to completing the ballasting and tracklaying through Snowdon Ranger Halt to LC51. Presumably, 'Dolgarrog's' shed, adjacent to the old station building, will also be removed.

This southerly view (29/5/03) shows start of work providing a permanent level crossing at LC53. The summit of Snowdon is visible to the left. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

UB51 details

The bridge is designed to carry any of the locomotives currently in use or projected in double-headed formation. Dynamic effects relating to 25mph running are allowed for. The NGG16 Garratt locomotives are 2-6-2 + 2-6-2 arrangement, weigh 61.5tonnes and are 48’ 5.25” long. The railway has two SAFB 2-8-2 NG15 tender locomotives which are to restored for future use. These weigh 67.8t and are 54’3” long.

The veteran K1 locomotive (actually an amalgam of K1 and K2), which will be restored to working order later this year, weighs 34t, but has the heaviest axle loads of any of the FR’s or WHR’s stock at 8.75tonnes. All possible permutations of double heading with either locomotive leading in either direction had to be considered, and the net result was equivalent to about half of Network Rail’s standard bridge loading.

Following delivery to Waunfawr on 13/5/03. Assembly was very rapid, as these types of bridges are designed to be put together during overnight possessions. The whole job from delivery to assembly was completed in just over 10 hours. Assembly on dry land was the preferred method, in order to avoid the need to erect scaffolding and to provide safer working conditions for volunteers and fabricators to finish the work. The weight of the whole bridge when assembled was 35 tonnes, and this was lifted into place over the Gwyrfai River on 5 June 2003.

UB51 craned in at last

Possibly the most significant event in the history of Phase 3 of the restoration of the WHR was achieved on 5/6/03 (two days late) when UB 51 was craned onto its abutments at Betws Garmon. The trackbed is now complete all the way from Waunfawr to Rhyd Ddu barring some finishing at Castell Cidwm bridge (the final item of Jones Bros. contract).

This northerly view (5/6/03) shows the bridge being craned into its abutments. Disregard the date on the shot! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Mike Hart taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (5/6/03) shows the grey painted bridge being gently let down onto its bearing pads. Disregard the date on the shot! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The bridge is not quite finished yet but has its walkways and rail bearing waybeams complete. Some welding and concreting work remains to be completed around the bearings before track can be laid, possibly by the end of June.

This northerly view (5/6/03) shows the view from UB52 with the bridge now in place. The walkway grid is clearly visible but the wooden sleepers have still to be bolted to the waybeams. Disregard the date on the shot! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Mike Hart taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (4/6/03) shows the bridge abutments nearing completion, the day before the bridge was craned in. The waybeam plinths are nearing completion with rebar cages completed and wooden formwork visible on the both banks. Concrete remained to be poured in this view. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Jon Marsh taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The bridge was successfully set in place around midday on 5/6/03. A 100 tonne Demag telescopic crane was hired at a charge of £6,400 for the day. It weighed around 200 tonnes plus when set up for the lift with balance weights of approx. 100 tonnes for stability. These were necessary because the crane was positioned between the station building and the girders and had to lift the 35 tonne bridge and move it to a greater radius, increasing the moment on the crane arm to almost double the original value.

Painting of the bridge structure was completed a day before the lift. The job started in the morning and took several hours to complete, attracting a considerable audience of local people.

Ballasting train operations begin north of Rhyd Ddu

Another major event has been the linking of the track at Rhyd Ddu North (presumably on 2/6/03) and the commencement of ballasting and tamping operations down the Nant-y-Betws Pass. By 5/6/03, the ballast train had worked to Ch. 13900, just south of Clogwyn-y-gwin incline. Both Conway Castle on the downhill end of the ballast train and Upnor Castle on the uphill end of the ballast regulator Daffodil have seen use beyond Ffridd Isaf curve and UB112.

The permanent track gang seems to have achieved about 600m in four days if the figures are consistent. A further 1 km of track is available to the track gap in Glan-yr-afon Yard and this seems possible in the next week or so. It is hoped that the 400m gap from the yard to the completed track from Snowdon Ranger, north of the viaduct, will be completed by this time allowing the ballasting train to proceed without delay towards Snowdon Ranger.

Ballasting was also underway north from the south end of Snowdon Ranger Halt from 5/6/03 by the contractor constructing the halt. The trackbed through the halt will be completed by the weekend though vehicular access may still be needed at the north end for the completion of the shelter.

The fence posts have now been cut down to 1.5m and wire fencing applied with a wooden bar top. The contractor chose to use some over-length posts because, they were not sure what total length of post was required for the job, the platform being built on fill. The halt shelter is currently being detail designed.

The platform is 3m wide at its northern end as far as the southern end of the shelter and then narrows to 2.5m for the rest of its length. No plans have been made for a siding at this location though there may be space for one at some future date.

Tracklaying at Plas-y-nant

Good news from the North Wales track gang is that 9 panels of permanent track have been laid at Plas-y-nant. Once the left hand point here was placed in position correctly at Ch. 9150 approx, the gang laid a length to the north between the two rail stacks. A further temporary length was laid north of this to Plas-y-nant compound to facilitate the transfer of the RRMs from the Plas-y-nant to Cae Hywel section. Progress was in advance of expectations and got ahead of surveyor's pegs.

This southerly view (6/03) shows the track laid south from Plas-y-nant. Progress was so fast that the tracklaying got ahead of the surveyor's pegs and veered to the west. This had to be corrected and produced the kink in the track halfway along the loop. Rail has been laid in the right hand running (westerly) track through the loop. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Jon Marsh taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Eight panels were laid south of the point along the main line, which is the westerly or right hand track, as viewed from Plas-y-nant. This corresponds to about 170m of track laid and the project has now laid around 75% of the track in total. The remaining track consists of short gaps at Glan-yr-afon viaduct, Snowdon Ranger station, the long section from Caeau Gwynion farm access through Castell Cidwm bridge to Plas-y-nant, a short gap across UB64 at Plas-y-nant, short gaps at UB56 (Cae Hywel) and UB51 (Betws Garmon).

Progress to 31/5/03

Work on the bridge at Betws Garmon is reaching a conclusion. Brunswick Ironworks were completing bolting of the waybeams and edge angles to support the walkways to professional standards. Volunteers are completing the painting of these items. The walkways remain to be fitted.

Work was underway on 29/30 May drilling the abutments to fit the bearing plates on both sides of the river. On 31/5/03 rebar was being worked into the north abutment to provide a re-inforced concrete plinth (one on each abutment) to support the ends of the rail bearer waybeams.

This northerly view (28/5/03) shows the bridge nearing completion. The waybeams are mostly bolted in place and the angle supports for the walkway grid have been bolted to the side girders. These additions still require paint. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The track just north of Betws Garmon station has been formed into a ramp so that the pw train and locos could be delivered to Rhyd Ddu.

This northerly view (28/5/03) shows the track diverted to the west and formed into a ramp immediately north of Betws Garmon station so that the pw train vehicles could be loaded onto a transporter for their journey to Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Some surveying was underway at Plas-y-nant on 28/5/03 to correctly position the point and get the curve onto the bridge correct. The North Wales Gang was laying track from Plas-y-nant from a point between the two rail stacks south towards Castell Cidwm. As the point is a left hand point, the volunteers will initially lay the right hand southbound track. It appears the easterly track will be retained as a siding, locked out of use, until required for operational reasons when the line extends to Beddgelert.

Private contractors have work well underway at Snowdon Ranger Halt and the Halt was at an advanced stage of completion by 30/5/03. The platform is on the west side of the line from Ch.11366-11427.

This southerly view (26/5/03) from the public footpath shows work on the platform nearing completion. The gap in the fencing is the location of the future waiting shelter. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The platform edging had been completed by 29/5 and the platform rolled level ready for tarmac, which was completed by 31/5/03. The concrete foundation for the platform shelter had also been cast at Ch.11378 towards the north end of the Halt. The platform is about 2.5m wide and approximately 60m long with a slight curve.

This northerly view (29/5/03) shows the platform at Snowdon Ranger nearing completion. The platform was tarmaced the following day. Temporary track has been removed to allow contractors access. The nearest length of rail does not have the correct amount of ballast yet as it was inclined to the rail store. There is enough room behind the platform for a short siding facing north with a point to the left of the view. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Work continues at Glan-yr-afon Viaduct. All the handrails are now complete and the four waybeams have been bolted down and painted. A continuous sleeper deck is being laid along the waybeams from the south end as on the other bridges. The scaffolding is being removed from the south end to allow the walkway grid to be fitted.

This northerly view (29/5/03) shows the Glan-yr-afon Viaduct. Handrails are complete and scaffolding is being removed so kicker plates (angle iron attached at the base of the handrails) and walkways can be fitted. The continuous sleeper deck is being built across the viaduct from the south. Access at the north end is still blocked. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright WHLR, courtesy Jan Woods, and taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

By 26/5/03, the track at Rhyd Ddu had been extended across the level crossing (LC65) and the arrival line had also been joined to the point. Initial pw work saw the existing track straightened, levelled and aligned, then ballasted and tamped. Track was also extended to the Head of Steel at Rhyd Ddu north and only required the fishplates on 31/5/03.

This northerly view (28/5/03) shows the short gap in the track at Rhyd Ddu North. Once these rails are joined, perhaps on 2/6/03, the ballast train will be able to start down the Nant-y-Betws Pass. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The company that does the computer analysis for the route had some problems about the alignment into Rhyd Ddu and this has now been taken 'in house'.

This southerly view (28/5/03) shows the completed track past the famous rock, which will now clearly remain in situ. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The ballast train arrived on 22/5/03 and includes both hoppers, tool van, mess coach No.1001, tamper, ballast regulator, Upnor Castle and Conway Castle. The south end of the run round line was formed into a ramp to unload the rolling stock, all of which was stabled on the same track.

This northerly view (26/5/03) shows the temporary ramp build at the end of the run round track at Rhyd Ddu South to offload the pw train vehicles. This may be retained in the short run to allow stock to be transferred back to Dinas for attention if a problem occurs. n the background, Conway Castle is seen in the run-round loop with pw stock behind it. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The stock made its first move on 28/5/03 and was shunted onto the arrival line as the first working over the Rhyd Ddu l/c (LC65). Upnor Castle is assigned to Daffodil duties while Conway Castle hauls the ballast train.

This southerly view (28/5/03) shows all the stock, except for the tamper, now stabled in the arrival line. This allowed the run-round line to be straightened and levelled prior to ballasting the following day. Adverse cant approaching the platform on the arrival line, corrected the following day, caused a few nervous moments during this shunt! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The following day saw several movements of ballasting, ballast regulation and finally tamping. Additional staff were taken on 28/5/03 and it was hoped the train would set off down the Nant-y-Betws Pass towards Snowdon Ranger from 2/6/03. Saturday morning work might be undertaken if the timescale proves tight.

This northerly view (28/5/03) shows Upnor Castle and the ballast regulator Daffodil at Rhyd Ddu l/c (LC65). Track was laid around the corner to a point just one length short of joining up with the mile of track to Glan-yr-afon Viaduct. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Adventure Week success

Traffic during the WHR Adventure Week was up on the same week last year. Although advertising was limited, trains carried useful numbers, considering some will delay their annual visit until July when the route is hopefully open to Rhyd Ddu. Linda coped admirably with her load of five coaches (2 opens, a saloon, the FR's Obs/Brake No.11 and WHR No.23) and could be heard chuffing all the way from Dinas to Tryfan Junction! In fact the driver was keen to take 6 coaches!!

This northerly view during the May 2003 Adventure Week shows Linda with coaches No.23, Opens Nos.2002/3, a saloon and FR Observation/Brake No.11. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright FR. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Linda was required for driver experience courses on the FR on Saturday 31/5/03 and was withdrawn from service at Dinas at 1230 on Friday after working the first train of the day. This was normally worked by No.138. No. 143 took over Linda's diagram for the rest of the day. Linda was soon on the low loader and was safely back on FR metals by the afternoon. The chimney was capped and lagged during transit to prevent the cool air draft stressing the still hot boiler too much.

Stanhope performed well on 'drive an engine' duties at Dinas but had leaking tubes. It was proposed to run Stanhope to Waunfawr one evening after hours. No.143 emerged from Dinas shed and performed well (it is reported) hauling No.138 (dead) and the full rake as a test of its ability.

David Lewin's miniature railway steam loco Sgt. Murphy was in action on the Down platform at Dinas for the three days of the Bank Holiday weekend, giving rides to children sitting astride its two 'coaches'.

Linda arrives at Dinas

Linda and brake/observation coach No.11 arrived at Dinas on Friday with a coal wagon and Stanhope. Coach No.100 proved too big to fit on the low loader. No.100 had been refurbished at Boston Lodge with new electrics to be compatible with WHR stock.

Upnor Castle, Conway Castle and pw stock were moved to Rhyd Ddu on Thursday 22/5/03 (in heavy rain). Linda is due to haul its first public service at 11.15 on 24/5/03 as part of the WHR Adventure Week. Incidentally, this also represents the first use of Moel Tryfan's wheels (as used under Linda's pony truck) on the WHR since the 1930s if you accept the small transgression of Blanche's pair in 1977 in the area of Dinas loco shed!

Upnor Castle move

The movement of Upnor Castle and its ballast/tamper train to Rhyd Ddu occurred on 22/5/03 along with Conwy Castle. The train was in action at Rhyd Ddu during the WHR Adventure Week giving all the more reason to visit! WHLR staff were completing tracklaying at Rhyd Ddu during the three days prior to delivery.

This northerly view (18/5/03) shows Upnor Castle and the pw train stabled at Betws Garmon station. These several vehicles will be moved to Rhyd Ddu by 22/5/03. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (18/5/03) shows Conway Castle stabled at the north end of Betws Garmon station with the pw train behind. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Progress to 18/5/03

Tracklaying has progressed at Rhyd Ddu with the final fitting of the north point and the completion of the run-round track to the point on 18/5/03. The run round was also extended southwards by two short lengths to ease the delivery of Upnor Castle by the end of May.

This southerly view (18/5/03) shows the completed pointwork at the north end of Rhyd Ddu and the run-round line being connected to it. The left hand point produces a sharp curve for entry into the platform road (left) as this is a temporary feature until the station becomes a through station. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

At Snowdon Ranger, the track gang removed the temporary track at the south end of the Halt, formerly used as a rail loading area. This is to allow the construction by contractors of the platform for the Halt. When work on the platform and building are finished in June, track will be laid along the face of the platform to link with the separate section of track that runs north from Snowdon Ranger North site.

Jones Bros. has ballasting through Plas-y-nant and their remaining task is to complete Castell Cidwm bridge and ballast the approaches either side.

This southerly view (18/5/03) shows the completed ballasting at the north end of Plas-y-nant. The ballast step shows where the wooden sleepers fitted on the bridge will terminate. The railings to the right denote the new private footpath that crosses the side of the bridge. Sleepers have been laid on the formation in preparation for imminent tracklaying in this area. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (18/5/03) from the north end of Plas-y-nant loop shows the completed ballasting and the rail stack and sleepers ready to be laid. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

UB51 was receiving the first of two coats of epoxy grey paint at Betws Garmon. When painting is finished this coming week, the waybeams will be drilled and fitted. The bridge will be craned onto its abutments w/e 8/6/03.

This southerly view (18/5/03) shows the grey epoxy paintwork underway on the bridge girders at Betws Garmon station. In view from right to left are the remains Betws Garmon station building, the Head of Steel, the girders and OB53, Pont Betws road bridge. The ballast bed here is almost a metre deep. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (18/5/03) shows the westerly bridge girder with the weld bead clearly visible in the centre of the view. The protrusion on the lower side is the base that will be in contact with the plinth on the abutment. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Work is now completed on OB53 at Pont Betws. Jones Bros. has cleared the site.

This northerly view (18/5/03) shows the completed concrete haunch supports for OB53 and the cast base from the south face of OB53. A deep drain has also been constructed through the bridge and the area is now dry. These structures will stabilise the original NWNGR bridge abutments which have seen some excavation of the foundations to increase the depth of the formation for the increased loading gauge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright B W Hughes taken on Samsung Digimax 230 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Planning permission has been received for the station building at Rhyd Ddu. It will be a slate roofed building.

UB51 arrives!

The massive 12 tonne bridge girders destined to form the main structural elements of UB51 at Betws Garmon were unloaded at Waunfawr Yard from an articulated lorry on the morning of 13/5/03. Both the main girders, cross members and the four full length waybeams are finished in red oxide undercoat.

Caernarfon Castle was moved to Waunfawr with four flat wagons (the bar-connected pairs) to carry the girders and cross members to Betws Garmon, where track was specially extended close to the bridge. This meant that all three 'mainline' diesel locos were present in the station possibly for the first and last time!

The crane and first lorry carrying main beams arrived spot on at 7.00am. The second lorry carrying waybeams and cross members followed close behind. It was held in a lay-by up the road until the yard was ready to receive it. Unfortunately, slinging took longer than expected and the first train of the day was delayed by 15 minutes while WHLR staff and volunteers frantically cleared Waunfawr station limits of three locos, tamper, plough, ballast wagons and other assorted stock.

This southerly view (13/5/03) shows the construction rolling stock (including Upnor Castle) in the arrival line at Waunfawr. All the construction stock was stabled here while the beams were shunted to Betws Garmon to leave the line clear. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright WHLR, courtesy Jan Woods. Images taken on a digital camera, post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

Firstly, all the stock on the new extension was moved into the Waunfawr arrival platform while Caernarfon Castle shunted two of the flats into the run round loop so as to be near to the crane.

This southerly view (13/5/03) shows the crane transferring the massive main beams from the articulated lorry to a pair of bar-coupled flat wagons just north of the main road bridge at Waunfawr. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright WHLR, courtesy Jan Woods. Images taken on a digital camera, post processed using iPhoto Plus4 image correction technology and displayed at 96dpi.

The crane then transferred the girders onto the flat wagons, close to the main road bridge. Conway Castle was then stabled in the arrival track with the remaining flats presumably to carry the cross girders. Caernarfon Castle subsequently propelled the two main girders and the waybeams to the south end of Waunfawr loop before handing over to Upnor Castle.

The Funkey has been used because of the steep gradient at the north end of the station. The line is relatively level from Waunfawr to Betws Garmon and the heavy load was well within Upnor Castle's capabilities.

This southerly view (13/5/03) shows