WHHR Xmas action 25/12/09

Team Wylfa report 15/12/09

On Tuesday evening 15/12/09, with Santa Specials running and a week of trains between Christmas and New Year, the short set needed a quick check and oil up. That will be it for carriage checking this year, and indeed the last working party for 2009 too.

Nadolig Llawen to all our readers from Team Wylfa, we will possibly be back at work on Tuesday 5/1/09 but more likely the following week, 12/1/09.

Tuesday Gang report 15/12/09

Tony Baker reports: Another dry and sunny Tuesday (15/12/09) was spent on yet more level crossing construction. LC 96, on which most of the effort today was spent is, I believe, unique in that it spans 2 tracks. Does anyone know different? Consequently there is a lot more work as there has to be additional animal guards between the 2 tracks. (Several correspondents have pointed out there are double track level crossings at the south end of Dinas and Waunfawr stations, however each has its own characteristics and neither of them are quite like this one.)

This northerly view (15/12/09) shows the fitting of extended animal guards at LC96. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Rest of the World Gang report 12-13/12/09

Dafydd Thomas reports: The Rest of the World Gang spent the weekend sorting rail at Dinas ready for moving to the new rail stacks.

Santa Trains and snow 12/12/09

With the last of the felled trees cleared from the Caernarfon-Dinas section Santa Trains started on 12/12/09. Snow may also be on its way to North Wales and there is snow on the mountain tops.

Garratt News 8/12/09

Both power units of No. 87 have been run out and the boiler module (now on ambulance bogies) stripped ready for re-painting as of 8/12/09. Although originally planned to be SAR black livery, the loco will now be turned out in Great Eastern blue, with No.138 soon to appear in maroon and Pete Waterman's No.109, in black. The final livery for No.143, currently black, and No.140, currently red, (if ever rebuilt) are unknown.

These northerly view (27/10/2004) show No.138 at Dinas with a southbound train coloured using Photoshop to give a flavour of the appearance of the Garratts next year. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Dave Waldren and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Bits and pieces

WHR passenger numbers were up by 63% and fares income up by 121% by the end of services in October.

Lyd has seen steady work over the summer with the Joy valve gear with most of the cab now in production or finished. It is hoped to complete Lyd in 2010.

No.140's boiler is away at Pete Waterman's L&NWR works at Crewe having new superheater flues and small tubes and will be fitted to No.143 on its return next year, so that No.143 can return rapidly to service after its 10 year overhaul.

No.87 operated well but the grate was heat damaged. It is to be replaced with a high chrome version. the collision with the farm tractor at Bron-y-fedw revealed the loco was sitting a bit low on its springs which will be corrected during winter maintenance. Improvements will also be made to the rocking and drop grates.

No.138's boiler is nearing completion and the new cladding sheets are ready. The hydraulic test will come soon.

The newish WHR pw loco No.9 (to be named Castell Cidwm?) is to have its wheels pressed in slightly to reduce its gauge from 2 foot to the WHR's 1'11.5". The loco needs chopper couplings and an exhauster to make it fit for work.

Coach No. 2115, Bodysgallen, is to receive a major overhaul of external panelling. Inside, little will change.

Team Wylfa report 8/12/09

Clive Briscoe reports: We attacked No.134 again last night - attempted to unscrew more cylinder cover studs but they all resisted our best efforts. Unfortunately, the large Stilson wrench we used last week had been taken away and the only ones left had badly worn jaws and wouldn't grip the stud shanks. Plan B was to drill out several small studs that had sheared around the front end frames and re-tap the holes. These are for locating the front end footplates. At the end of the evening, all the sheared studs had been drilled through ready for stud extractors or careful collapsing then re-tapping on the next visit.

Cambrian Steam 2010

West Coast Rail (WCR) seems confident of running Cambrian Coast Steam in 2010 despite Railway Magazine's views on the likelihood of a portable ERTMS unit being available (see below). The 2010 season has been extended from Monday 26/7/10 to Friday 3/9/10. Trains will run Monday to Friday leaving Machynlleth at 1005 and returning from Porthmadog at 1455. Trains are extended to Pwllheli on Mondays/Wednesdays/Fridays. Despite the requests of the local councils, Criccieth is still not a stop. Trains call at Dovey Junction, Tywyn, Barmouth, Harlech and Minffordd. The full return fare is £33 (child £21) but pay on the day tickets can be purchased subject to availability with a booking fee of £2.50. See WCR website for full details.

Tuesday Gang report 8/12/09

Tony Baker reports: Today we continued with the construction of LCs 96 and 97 (at Hafod-y-llyn). The corral fencing is completed at 96 and three quarters finished at 97. At start was made installing the long crossing timbers. Another dry Tuesday believe it or not.

North Wales Track Gang report 5-6/12/09

Dafydd Thomas reports: The weather was terrible on Saturday 5/12/09 and everybody got a good soaking. We did get some respite on Sunday afternoon but the rain was replaced by a bitterly cold wind. We had three working parties over the weekend, namely:

• One on the lumber clearance between Caernarfon and Dinas.
• One at Cae Pawb, Porthmadog pulling cables through the ducts from Snowdon Street to Cae Pawb catch points.
• One at Castell Cidwm aligning the track towards Snowdon Ranger.

Cambrian Coast steam 2010?

Railway Magazine reports that Network Rail has finally agreed to fund the development of a portable ERTMS unit for steam and heritage traction on the Cambrian Coast Line. However, it seems the system is unlikely to be ready for the 2010 Cambrian Coast Express season in August.

Seeing out the old year and welcoming the new

Paul Bradshaw reports: The WHR is offering the ultimate experience of 2009. Starting on Monday 28/12/09 the Black Hand and Rest of the World Gangs will be celebrating the success of 2009 WHR operations by running a joint working party to prepare for another fantastic WHR year in 2010. The target for 2010 train services is Pont Croesor. To help achieve that the object of our joint celebration will be to produce a perfect alignment at Hafod-y-llyn Isaf. The Gangs will be working from Monday 28/12/09 and work will continue through until Friday 1/1/10. Come for any or all the days in this period. We will be glad to see you again and to have your help.

If you want to join us or need more information contact Dafydd Thomas or Paul Bradshaw. It will help us to plan if you can let us know sooner rather than later when you will be coming.

See Contacts page.

Volunteer appeal for North Wales Track Gang 5-6/12/09

Dafydd Thomas reports: The weekend of 5-6/12/09 is going to be a busy one. There are three work sites on the go, so you cannot say that you are not being offered variety. To cover these three jobs we need about 20 volunteers, so please come along if you can.

The jobs are:-

• The tree clearance train, loading and hauling the cut trees from the Caernarfon - Dinas section back to Dinas. Train will depart Dinas and shuttle back and forth as required.
• Cae Pawb, highly technical job assisting Roland Doyle with installing more bits for the catch points mechanism. Meet up at Porthmadog or road transport from Dinas.
• Castell Cidwm to Snowdon Ranger aligning the track so that it can be tamped and brought up to 20mph running. PW train from Dinas - 9:00 to Castell Cidwm, road transport return in the evening on Saturday, reverse procedure on Sunday.

Please let me know if you can come so that we hopefully tackle all three jobs. See Contacts page.

Tryfan Junction Saturday Gang 5/12/09

Andy Keene reports: We achieved our objective of completing the haunches for the edge of the platform and clearing a bit more around the signalling equipment. We started a trench to locate the signalling equipment further north but abandoned it as the rain was filling the hole too quickly.

This westerly view (5/12/09) shows the fitting of haunch concrete to the platform edge kerbstones at Tryfan Junction. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andy Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These westerly and easterly views (both 5/12/09) show work to clear the old signalling rods and quadrant brackets at Tryfan Junction. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andy Keene and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (5/12/09) shows the digging of an exploratory trench at Tryfan Junction to find the eastern end of the signalling rods. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andy Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Achievement Wales Awards 2009 4/12/09

Paul Lewin reports: The Festiniog and Welsh Highland Railways has won the Achievement Wales Award 2009 for Innovative Marketing. The Daily Post Awards were presented by TV presenter Nick Owen in a ceremony at Llandudno on 4/12/09.

National Railway Heritage Awards 2/12/09

Mike Hart reports: Lord Adonis, Secretary of State for Transport presented the National Railway Heritage Awards (NRHA) in London on 2/12/09.

1) Heritage Railway of the Year:- was awarded to The Welsh Highland Railway in recognition of the rebuilding of the line from Caernarfon to Porthmadog.

2) Best Overall Entry:- went to Welsh Highland Railway Construction Ltd.

Both were accepted by WHRCL Director Mike Hart accompanied by Alasdair Stewart WHR Project Engineer and WHRCL Director Malcolm High.

3) Ffestiniog Railway Society won the Network Rail Partnership Award for the reconstruction of Boston Lodge Old Locomotive Shed, which award was received by FR Society Chairman Howard Wilson.

It was a proud day for Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways.

See award documents 1 and 2.

These views (all 2/12/09) show the NRHA Award ceremony. In the first view Mike Hart receives the Award plaque from Lord Adonis, Transport Secretary, for Heritage Railway of the Year. In the second view the group, including Iain Aitkin, Managing Director of Ian Allan Publishing (extreme left) Malcolm High (left of centre-Financial Director WHRCL) and Project Engineer Alasdair Stewart (centre) are pictured with the Best Overall Entry Award. In the third view Mike Hart receives the Runner Up Certificate in the Volunteer Award category from Pete Waterman. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are © NRHA and may be reproduced but copyright is retained. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 1/12/09

Clive Briscoe reports: On the evening of 1/12/09, just two of us were at work and the subject was No.134. The cylinder and valve chest studs were the target - we have to remove them all for replacement as most are quite heavily corroded. As they have been in place for probably most of the loco's life, they are partially corroded in too and don't give up without a fight! The first job was to try and chip away the rust seal between the stud and the casting, without damaging the casting. We dug our trusty needle gun out and this seemed to do the trick.

Next, a liberal soaking in easing oil, leave for as long as possible, then brute force with a large Stilson wrench... The studs are necked deliberately with the idea that if a serious priming event occurred and the cylinder/piston hydaulic'd then they would give or fail as the cylinder and cover came under the immense pressure of such an event and save the cylinder and covers from cracking. So, as we put pressure on with the wrench, so most of the studs failed at their necks and we were left with stubs.

Luckily, all bar one had enough of the narrower plain stud remaining for another 'bite of the cherry' and by the end of the evening, we'd got 8 of the studs out on the LHS rear. Looking around the cylinders, there are a number which will need very careful drilling out and the remainder of the studs then collapsing into the middle as they have broken off too short to get the Stilsons on. It will be occupying us and the No.134 Team for the next few weeks.

Tuesday Gang report 1/12/09

Tony Baker reports: On Tuesday 1/12/09 we carried on with the construction of LCs 96 and 97 at Hafod-y-llyn. At LC96 the corral bars were fitted onto the posts concreted in last week and yet more posts were planted at LC97 ready for corral bars to be fitted next week. Also a small team extended the culvert at the entrance to the NT property to give a wider approach road. It was the first dry Tuesday for a while!

This northerly view (1/12/09) shows the fitting of coral bars to the posts at LC96. Castell Caernarfon was the PW loco. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (1/12/09) shows the repair of a culvert at the southern entrance to the National Trust property at Hafod-y-llyn, which through heavy use, had seen a deterioration. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Wylfa Power Station - Project Delivery 'Team Build' Event Report 30/11/09

Clive Briscoe reports: Just got my 45 years service badge from the FRS and for the first time in all those years, got PAID to work on the railway (albeit from my full time employer..!). Why? On Monday 30/11/09, my department at Wylfa Nuclear Power station descended on the WHR for a Team Build event. Approximately 15 people each at Caernarfon and Rhyd Ddu proceeded to 'bond' whilst digging and raking ballast to recreate the ballast shoulders, weed and cut back brush, spread and level the large heaps of loco ash that was starting to accumulate, paint the ends of the check rails at points and the Caernarfon buffer stop.

Perhaps the most spectacular visual work was the transformation at Caernarfon - the team there cleared out all the brush from under and around the water tank and spread the LARGE piles of ash to create a neat, level area alongside the tank and between the wall buttresses. Also a large section of oil contaminated ballast alongside the platform entrance was dug out, replaced and the ballast packed under a number of sleepers that were loose in this area. The station buildings were pressure washed and at the top end of the platform, the oil contaminated platform was steam cleaned by the team using equipment, and under the supervision, of one of the power station's contractors that we'd hired in for the day, Pressure Cleaning Services of Caergeiliog, Anglesey.

At Rhyd Ddu there was in addition, some more technical work done - the down line from the south end points to approx half way down the platform had the fishplates removed, greased and replaced and the animal traps at Kent's Crossing cleared out of silt and other unmentionable material. It was a dry day but cold, especially for those of us at Rhyd Ddu where the snowline was not much above the station. All in all, it was a win-win situation - the railway gained a lot and Wylfa's department, following an internal re-organisation, found new friends and colleagues.

These views (all 30/11/09) show the Wylfa Power Station team at Rhyd Ddu, work on the level crossing and on the fishplates. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Clive Briscoe. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Rest of the World Gang report 28-29/11/09

Steve Broomfield reports: Cut 'lumber' was collected from between Dinas and Bontnewydd, and subsequently it was offloaded in Dinas North Yard. Both Conway Castle and Upnor Castle had to be used, due to very slippery rails. Sunday's tasks were more mundane - unloading 164 wooden sleepers and the associated baseplates from a 'B' wagon to Dinas Yard (these having come from Bryn-y-felin) and taking a load of miscellaneous wood from Dinas North Yard to the South yard.

These two northerly and one southerly views (all 28/11/09) show work on gathering cut wood near Bontnewydd and unloading it at Dinas. Conway Castle was on the north end of the train and Upnor Castle on the south. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Steve Broomfield and were taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Winter work programme

A new set of tines has been constructed for the KMX tamper/liner to allow tamping of SAR joints. Pirtek has been refurbishing the KMX by providing new hydraulic pipes and other fittings. It is hoped to raise the speed limit to 20 mph from Castell Cidwm bridge to Glan-yr-afon Viaduct. Some 600m need aligning. Clogwyn-y-gwin to Rhyd Ddu should be raised to 15mph and Pont Cae'r Gors to Hafod Ruffydd 20mph. Another aim is to make a more consistent speed limit in the Beddgelert Forest to allow steam engines to operate more efficiently. The completion of signalling at Rhyd Ddu and Beddgelert will allow better responses to difficulties such as rescuing a failed train. In all 6 minutes could be cut off the existing schedules if all these works are completed. This will be more attractive to passengers and improve timetabling.

Porthmadog Bypass 2010

Work is expected to start on the Porthmadog Bypass in 2010 and will affect the WHR just south of Pen-y-Mount Halt. The contract was to be awarded during the Autumn. A 3 span viaduct will be constructed over the WHR and WHHR, which runs parallel at this point. The central span will clear both railways. A flood relief culvert will go across both railways just north of the bridge which will cut the WHR for a short time. Work in 2011 will include the cutting under the FR just east of Minffordd station.

Level Crossing progress

Electricity supplies have been provided at Pont Croesor and Snowdon Street. A spur will run from Snowdon Street to Cae Pawb crossing, feeding the crossing keeper's cabin there. Work on signage and fencing will occur later this year. The power supply for the signals and trap points at Cae Pawb will come from Network Rail's reliable supply to maintain security of track circuits.

MGB Rail will provide the circuitry to allow the WHR and NR systems to interact and allow trains to cross safely. Consideration was given to various fault scenarios including failure of the track circuits during a WHR train crossing and the possibility of the system resetting during the transit. The control equipment will be placed in off-the-shelf cabinets just to the north of the cabin site to reduce clutter in the cabin. The control equipment may be installed in the cabinet until the cabin is built.

Work is also underway to build the trap point mechanisms. Highrail Systems have made the rods, cranks and baseplates and detector units.

Bits & Pieces

The WHRS/FfR is to set up a training scheme for 15-17 year olds similar to Kid's Week on the FR. The WHRS is looking for help to organise the scheme.

DoE Award Scheme volunteers aged 16-25 have been working as stewards on the WHR this year.

The two Funkey's were paired on the 1135 from Caernarfon on 17/8/09. They often ran paired in South Africa.

Around £18,000 was raised by the No.134 Appeal last Summer and more is still coming in. The estimated cost of restoration is up to £300,000.

Up to the end of August the WHR was 58% up on bookings and trolley sales up even more. Autumn bookings were stronger than expected due to the Indian Summer that produced temperatures exceeding 20^oC at the end of October!

Services for 2010 commence on Sunday 28/3/10, not 27/3/10 as previously advertised.

Some bins have been removed as passengers are taking home their waste. It has been difficult to organise a regular bin emptying teams and full bins attract vermin.

At Beddgelert station a solar panel was provided initially for the station master's office but it was hoped that mains electricity would be installed by the October Half Term to provide hot water/lighting. The buffet trolley needs a hot water refill by Beddgelert. The new Portaloos were purchased from Glasfryn Hire.

There will be no Boxing Day trains this year. The Winter service is from 27-12/09 to 2/1/10 with just one train a day-the 1100 steam hauled service from Caernarfon. This is also a cut back from previous years when a two train service was offered.

The 2010 Beer Festival will be from 7-9/5/10.

Contractors reduced fire risk in Summit Cutting over the Summer by cutting back long grass.

KMX and Daffodil, the ballast plough, have received attention so that they can upgrade the Caernarfon-Dinas section this Winter. They will then go on to attend to the Hafod-y-llyn to Pont Croesor. section.

Kilometre posts and structure identification plates will be completed south from Rhyd Ddu the following Winter.

Alun Evans Appeal

Glyn Evans reports: £1,000 (donations at Alun Evans funeral) is being handed over towards the restoration  and upgrade of the mess coach, the former Combination Car from Chattenden & Upnor. The people who work in all weathers deserve some comfort. Donations were also made to the Cambrian Heritage Project and will also be given to the W&LR.

Summit sign

Dafydd Thomas reports: On 27/11/09 the North Wales/Black Hand Gang were engaged in Day 2 of installing the Summit Sign at the summit of the WHR, between Pitts Head and Pont Cae'r Gors. The first job of the day was to bail out the hole that was dug on Monday, 23/11/09. This location is not the driest this time of year; pity is wasn't the case in the summer (when fires occurred)! The next job was to erect the shuttering around the hole, followed by the first concrete pour. It will probably take another couple of visits to complete the job with the sign erected.

These northerly views (both 27/11/09) show work on the foundation for the Summit Sign in Summit Cutting. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Peter Roughley and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Vale of Ffestiniog report 26/11/09

The FR's Vale of Ffestiniog has returned to the FR and was lifted at Boston Lodge on 26/11/09 for attention to gearboxes and wheelsets. The loco was carried to Minffordd by the same lowloader that returned K1 to the WHR after the Warley Exhibition event at the National Exhibition Centre.

Team Wylfa report 24/11/09

Clive Briscoe reports: Due to the extreme weather forecast ('Don't go out unless you really have to' - from the Met Office) in the Bangor/Anglesey Bridges area around the time we were supposed to be going to Dinas, I had to hastily phone around to cancel our visit on 24/11/09. It was still blowing a gale here the next morning.

Somehow, I have managed to persuade my Wylfa departmental manager to hold a Team Building event on the WHR. If you're passing Rhyd Ddu or Caernarfon Stations on Monday, you'll see something like 15 people at each giving them the 'once over' - from de-littering, bush bashing, painting, greasing fishplates and track clips through to levelling and tamping track. Please give us a wave of encouragement or even stop for a quick chat or even bring your PPE and join in the fun.

WHRS North Wales Group Xmas Party

Dafydd Thomas reports: What has now become one of the 'must go to events' of the year is the Cymdeithas Rheilffordd Eryri / Welsh Highland Railway Society - North Wales Group's Christmas Party. This year will not be an exception despite the fact that the Goods Shed at Dinas is a bit full of various railway bits and pieces, including two locomotives.

The party is on 5/12/09 at 7.30pm. We have a new venue - Llanwnda Community Centre, which is next to Ysgol Felinwnda. This is a brand new building, with heating, yes that what I said! and the other necessary facilities. This is located three quarters of a mile down the road past the entrance to Dinas yard; for those who need to use SatNav to find their way around the post code is LL54 5UG.

The evening will have the usual successful mix of great hot food, live music and of course real ale (with some soft drinks, lager and wine for those who prefer); all this for an all inclusive price of £15 per head. Send your cheques - made out to CRhE Grwp Gogledd Cymru / WHRS North Wales Group and send them to Elwyn at Cae'r Odyn, Rhostryfan, Caernarfon. LL54 7PB.

Tuesday Gang report 24/11/09

Tony Baker reports: On 24/11/09 the Tuesday Gang were continuing work at the new platform at Tryfan Junction. Also the Tuesday Gang have adopted the station they built at Hafod-y-llyn and Dave George of the group has built and installed a wooden planter which will be filled with bulbs next week.

These northerly views (both 17/11/09) show work on the level crossing at Hafod-y-llyn loop. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Steve Broomfield and were taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Steve Broomfield reports: The other section of the Tuesday Gang spent 24/11/09 digging holes and installing posts for the 'corral fencing', each corner of the National Trust crossing at Hafod y Llyn. The weather was wet, windy, dark and generally miserable. Volunteers also installed the supposed 'sheep-proofing' at the middle crossing on 'the long straight' to Parry's Farm.

No.134 report 22/11/09

Laurence Armstrong reports: There were problems with the dew point Saturday on a rather humid day so painting of No.134's frames stopped. On Sunday we managed to finish of the painting as the dew-point was not a problem. All the loco frames are now done as are the bogie and other components. The steam brake was removed and refurbished. We also started to remove old studs from the cylinder covers - a not too successful operation at times. See website for full details.

This view (22/10/09) shows No.134's frames, now painted in black undercoat at Dinas. Red is being used for internal surfaces to make inspection easier. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Laurence Armstrong and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

North Wales Track Gang report 21-22/11/09

Dafydd Thomas reports: Over the weekend 21-22/11/09 the Black Hand Gang changed wooden sleepers for South African steel sleepers on Curve 58 in the Aberglaslyn Pass (just south of Bryn-y-felin bridge). A total of 107 sleepers were changed over the two rather wet and windy days. This location has been a problem almost from the start as the wooden sleepers would not hold the curve but now the SA steel sleepers should cure that.

This northerly view (22/11/09) shows the North Wales Track Gang working to realign a curve in the Aberglaslyn Pass at the end of the long straight south of Bryn-y-felin. Upnor Castle was the pw loco that day. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Warley Exhibition NEC views 21/11/09

These views (all 21/11/09) show K1 with the WHHR stand, the Baldwin Appeal and the Beddgelert Station model railway. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Michael Chapman and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

K1 visits NEC 20/11/09

Andrew Rutter reports: K1 is the 'Star' full size steam locomotive at this year's Warley National Model Railway exhibition in Hall 5 at the NEC this weekend. The loco is on a low loader with the volunteers preparing the stand around her in the morning and later in the day with the job finished. The stand is a combined Ffestiniog Railway Society and Company, with FfR Travel, Welsh Highland Railway (K1 group), WHHR, with model layouts representing scenes on both railways.

This westerly view (19/11/09) shows K1 on a low leader at Dinas, ready to leave for the NEC. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These views (both 20/11/09) show K1 at the NEC. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andrew Rutter and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 17/11/09

Clive Briscoe reports: On the evening of 17/11/09 we (2 of us in the end!) turned up at Dinas and proceeded to check and oil the remaining carriage stock for the last time for 2009. Next week we will be on other things - most probably No.134.

BURA Awards

The Welsh Highland railway is one of the 6 winners of the British Urban Renewal Association Awards for 2009. Click on the link for BURA's press release.

Dr. Ben Fisher Nantmor Halt Appeal

Over £2,000 has been raised for the WHRS as a result of the appeal for Ben Fisher in TSR. The appeal is still open and will go towards the cost of building a halt at Nantmor this Winter. Contact WHRS Treasurer Ian King. A previously donated legacy has also been made for this purpose. The halt is expected to be widely used by walkers through the Aberglaslyn Pass as well as local residents.

Clearance train 17/11/09

Steve Broomfield reports: The Tuesday Gang had two elements today, part sent to Tryfan Junction to carry on the platform construction activities not completed on previous visits, the other 'half' were engaged on the clearance of cut timber between Dinas and Bontnewydd. The latter activity proved to be minimal, as the contractors had been hampered by inclement weather on Monday and Tuesday morning (there is an element of tree climbing, which cannot be undertaken 'in the wet' for safety reasons). A couple of photos of unloading the works train (with Conway Castle), at Dinas, are attached.

These southerly and northerly views (both 17/11/09) show the clearance train unloading logs at Dinas with Conway Castle after tree clearance working north from Dinas. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Steve Broomfield and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 17/11/09

Tony Baker reports: Despite frequent heavy showers the Tuesday Gang managed to install the concrete kerbing for the platform edge at Tryfan Junction on 17/11/09. This job had been scheduled for last Friday but the weather put paid to that. The finished job was sheeted to prevent the night's promised downpour from washing away the cement.

These northerly views (both 17/11/09) show progress with the platform edge kerbstones at around midday. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Tony Baker and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Rest of The World Track Gang report 14-15/11/09

Members of the Imperial College Railway Society (ICRS) worked alongside the ROTWG over the weekend of 14-15/11/09. The aim was to correct the curve just south of Bryn-y-felin bridge which had moved and so eliminate the temporary 5mph speed restriction (TSR). Volunteers replaced wooden sleepers with South African spade-ended sleepers using the clips they had assembled a month or so back. The lack of adequate space for ballast meant that the wooden sleepers were sliding sideways as the track through the pass expanded and contracted, resulting in very poor joints and a 5mph TSR. Wooden sleepers may look the part, but provide poor lateral stability in situations like this. Some 120m are being replaced between Bryn-y-felin southwards to Sheepfold Cutting (Corlan).

The pedestrian crossing leading to the Fisherman’s Path needed to be removed and replaced (although the sheep guards were left off to enable the tamper to work its subtle magic before they are replaced). There was still a steady stream of walkers over this crossing, even in mid-November and, as always, a ready supply of interested passers-by asking when the railway would be open completely.

ROTWG volunteers finished up by moving a stock of steel sleepers to one of the next curves, further down the pass.

This southerly view (14/11/09) shows the ROTWG/ICRS working to replace wooden sleepers with steel at Bryn-y-felin level crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/11/09) shows Upnor Castle locked behind a stop-block at Bryn-y-felin. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/11/09) shows the steel sleepers now in place with a few wooden sleepers for the transition to the bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (15/11/09) shows ICRS students, many of them of Chinese extraction (and female!) getting used to PW work. China is rapidly expanding its high speed rail network and is sending students overseas to gain experience. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Roger Dimmick's FR official photos

Photos from the 31/10/09 transit of stock to the WHR for the photo-charter are now visible on Roger Dimmick's fotopic website.

Tryfan Junction 10-11/11/09

Tony Baker reports: The Tuesday Gang Spent 10/11/09 working at Tryfan Junction. The job was to install shuttering for platform edge and to remove debris and growth from the signal box foundations. The concrete was poured on Wednesday 11/11/09 and the platform edge was to be installed on Thursday. During the excavations an interesting bit of ironmongery emerged.

This northerly view (10/11/09) shows the clearance of the former NWNGR signal box base. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (10/11/09) shows the excavation and consolidation of a base for the platform edge foundation using a whacking plate. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (10/11/09) shows the excavation of signalling or point rods found close to the former station building on the east side, opposite the signal box. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (10/11/09) shows further excavation revealing a quadrant plate and the rods/wire tubes running eastwards, parallel with the railway. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (10/11/09) shows the volunteers examining the discovery of the former point/signal works. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (10/11/09) shows the complete set of discovered point/signalling equipment. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (10/11/09) shows the completed clearance of the former NWNGR signal box base, opposite the station building. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (10/11/09) shows its takes 4 to carry the heavy blocks for the platform edging. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (10/11/09) shows the shuttering complete for the platform edge footings. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Andrew Keene reports: Work continued the following day with a concrete delivery. Volunteers achieved their objective of laying the concrete base for the edge of the platform.  Plan A failed when the concrete delivery lorry got stuck at the entrance to the site and had to be unloaded before it would move again!

This northerly view (11/11/09) shows the west end of the shuttering just prior to the concrete pour. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (11/11/09) shows the concrete delivery lorry had a bit of a problem with the soft ground. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (11/11/09) shows the platform edge footings complete by the end of the day. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 10/11/09

Clive Briscoe reports: We were back in action on Tuesday night 10/11/09. We started going through the carriages - giving them what will probably be their last check and oiling before they're needed again next season.

Clearance train appeal 9/11/09

Ian Hartill (WHRCL) has appealed for help with the tree felling operation, currently underway between Dinas and Caernarfon: Michael Edwards has started cutting down the trees towards Caernarfon and we are starting on the tidying/picking up the fire wood. If any one is available this weekend 14-15/11/09 to lend a hand this would be very helpful because Paul Bradshaw so far only has a small turn out for this weekend. Dai is the loco driver, and Martin Duncan will be on hand to drive the grab crane.

This southerly view (9/11/09) shows Upnor Castle on the tree clearance train with the mulching machine on a jubilee skip base. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Ewing (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

North Wales Track Gang report 7- 8/11/09

Work took place on the trap point at the north end of Cae Pawb crossing. A broken weld here must also be repaired. The longer sleepers for the point mechanism were also installed. Work on the south trap point long sleepers was completed in October.

The track panel immediately north of the trap points was to be disassembled to enable the effects of the rail movement earlier in the year to be remedied. At one time the displacement due to the effect of the heat had been 38mm. The point blade that was on the trolley had just returned from Boston Lodge where holes had been drilled in it to accommodate the new mechanism.

This southerly view (7/11/09) shows the trap point being dissembled. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (7/11/09) shows the longer sleepers in place to support the trap point mechanism. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

More views from the returning photo-charter 6/11/09

The cavalcade proceeded to Rhyd Ddu where it was split, with a complicated shunt taking place at around 1015. Taliesin took a DZ wagon of steel sleepers to Bryn-y-felin to be unloaded around 1100. K1 and No.143 later ran freight run pasts for the photo-charter, passing through Beddgelert Station in heavy rain at 1140.

Merddin Emrys, Taliesin with the heritage rake and WHR carriages for repair later departed for Porthmadog, crossing Britannia Bridge in the dark at 1730. The crossing of Britannia Bridge was un-eventful although the battery box on the WHR open carriage caused a moment's anxiety as it was awfully close to the platform edge at the back door of Spooner's. The feedback from the photo charter people is positive. Despite the pretty appalling weather they have endured over the last few days, they would like to come back again next year.

These northerly and westerly views (both 6/11/09) show the Merddin Emrys and Taliesin leading K1 and No.143 around Ffridd Isaf curve. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Simon Barber and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (6/11/09) shows Merddin Emrys leading the cavalcade past Rhyd Ddu before a complicated shunt took place. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Barber and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (6/11/09) shows K1 and No.143 in Rhyd Ddu station after the shunt had placed the heritage stock in the sidings. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (6/11/09) shows Merddin Emrys  with Taliesin having shunted into the yard at Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly and southerly views (both 6/11/09) show Taliesin around 1100 with a DZ wagon of steel sleepers at Bryn-y-felin curve which were later unloaded for the re-sleepering there. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Simon Banbury and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Fundraising for the Welsh Highland Railway

Andy Savage wrote to sponsors in early November with a progress newsletter and an appeal to continue funding: 

'Rather than send round another newsletter I thought that I should write to you to clarify the present position with completing the WHR. As you know our original target was to open the complete line by Easter this year, and we did not achieve this. With hindsight this was a good thing – we were stretched to achieve what we did do, with the amount of route learning and development of rules and procedures that did take place, and the WHR has been physically stretched by the need to maintain newly installed track as it consolidated under the trains.

The present position is that the Office of Rail Regulation has now passed the line as far as Pont Croesor (the bridge itself) for passenger traffic, so as well as the passenger trains that we have run to Hafod y Llyn since May we can now run ‘topped and tailed’ special trains to within sight of Porthmadog. The line from Pont Croesor to Traeth Mawr, and from Pen y Mount to Harbour station, does not have ORR approval, and is not yet in a state when we could apply for it.

Why is this the case? There are two reasons: we have temporarily run out of money, and there are engineering works that have to take place by others that have stopped us from proceeding.

Looking initially at the costs that we had assumed in planning the work:

• We assumed that the railway from Pen y Mount to Pont Croesor would be built for us at no cost, on the basis of our agreement with the 64 Company. In fact we have had to provide all the track material, and construct and ballast all but 700 metres of the formation, including the two mitigation bridges, at our own cost. Whilst we appreciate the 64 Company’s contribution, it was not what we expected from them.
• No-one anticipated the collapse of the training wall at Britannia Bridge. We have incurred, in good faith, over a quarter of a million pounds of extra cost on a structure that we had no involvement in, and the NWTRA is now contesting that bill, and has only paid some £70k to us.
• We assumed that the engineering of the old PBSSR to be comparable with NWNG section. It turned out that we had assumed the condition to be far better than it actually was – in particular the embankments proved to be far worse than those of the NWNGR, and we had to completely rebuild two at Nantmor, and one at Weirglodd Isaf.
• The clearances in the Goat tunnel were not as expected, due to the re-grading and diversion of the route in 1923, and we had to do considerable extra work here.
• The cuttings at Cutting Mawr and Nantmor needed extensive rock anchoring when we got up into them. This was not obvious from the ground when we inspected them before we started work.
• The arrival of the Ospreys, and the visitor centre at Pont Croesor, has increased traffic at that level crossing so that we now have to provide a controlled level crossing, where we had expected to have an open one.

In addition there are other works that have been created outside the WHR, but which affect it.

• When we planned Phase 4 we assumed, with Network Rail’s agreement, a very simple control system at Cae Pawb. No-one foresaw the introduction of ERTMS on the Cambrian, and that has cost us a considerable amount extra. In addition the ERTMS system will not be complete until early 2010, and until it is we have very limited, and expensive, access over the Cambrian, so regularly running trains over it is not an option.
• Construction of the Porthmadog by-pass is about to start. This will involve considerable works over, and under, our railway (and the WHHR’s one as well). There is likely to be a seven week period sometime next year when we cannot run any trains into Porthmadog.

These items alone have put well over two million pounds extra into the project costs, with no increase in the grant aid to match it. The result of all this is that we have spent all the money that we have raised so far, including borrowing against that which has not yet come in (there are some benefits of the recession and the current low rates of interest) to complete the railway to Pont Croesor. At present we cannot afford to do all the remaining works, and until the NWTRA pays up, or we find extra sources of income, we will be limited in what we can complete.

Largely because of our financial problems we have another issue. We cannot afford to carry out the alterations to Harbour Station at present. However, there are only limited windows when we can do those – essentially only when the daily service is not running. So, to open through in 2010 we would have to start work this November, and complete it before the daily service starts in March 2010; sadly that is not possible going to be possible, and it will have to wait at least another twelve months to be done – hence driving the decision to open to Porthmadog at Easter 2011 at the earliest.

So what are we proposing to do?

Thanks to your collective generosity on the special train in May this year we have been able to let a contract to do all the road signing on the three automatic open crossings – Pont Croesor, Snowdon Street and Britannia Bridge. Although the electronics won’t be in place this, and the issue of formal Level Crossing Orders, will allow us to operate trains over the crossings as if they were failed without the need to seek road closures. It will also mean that we can remove the tarmac in the flange-ways that we have been advised to install at present.

We have the money to pay for the Network Rail crossing, which will be commissioned in February.

During the Winter we will put a major effort into the whole of the WHR track between Caernarfon and Pont Croesor to improve running times, so that we can operate a more robust timetable next year. (We will not be putting more than a minimal effort into the track south of Pont Croesor until the winter of 2010/11, as it will not see regular traffic next year, and does not have ORR approval for public trains).

We are investigating more ways of raising the money that we need to complete the WHR – not just to get open to Porthmadog, but to fund the millions of pounds worth of other works that remain to be done to give us the railway we deserve – more carriages, a large diesel, stabling facilities at both ends for all the carriages, proper station facilities at Porthmadog and Caernarfon, the station building at Beddgelert, a train control system that matches the traffic – the list is still long. One way that you can help, as many of you already have, is by extending your existing covenant standing orders. I will be writing to those of you who have recently reached, or are about to reach, the end of your five year covenants asking if you would consider doing that. If you want to do so you don’t have to wait for my letter: please drop a note to the WHR appeal administrator at Harbour Station, or an email to whrfundraising@festrail.co.uk, and we can arrange it with you as quickly as possible.

Finally, we have decided, with support from our sponsor, that we can run a special train for you in 2010. It will be on March 27th., and will run from Caernarfon to somewhere in Porthmadog. I can’t say where it will go to, because that will depend on the by-pass works. Provided we have clearance to remove the tarmac in the crossing at Pont Croesor we should reach Pen y Mount crossing, and if the by-pass works permit we would hope to go Llyn Bach. There will only be the one train, with all available corridor coaches on it, and if we do go into Port we will arrange to stop there for a while. Please do book the date in your diaries – we hope we’ll see you there, and we aim to hand out your certificates, and the remaining model carriages, then.'

Photo-charter returns to FR 6/11/09

With the photo-charters now over, the two Fairlies and their heritage train returned to the FR on Friday 6/11/09. The opportunity was also be taken to take Bodysgallen to Boston Lodge Carriage Works for the planned upgrade over this Winter. The rake included both K1 and No.143.

The whole consist left Dinas at around 0850. No.143 and K1 and the freight stock were destined to do run pasts for the photo charter. The train was shunted at Rhyd Ddu before Merddin Emrys and Taliesin took the FR and WHR passenger stock south. One DZ held the SAR sleepers to be used to replace the wooden ones between Bryn-y-Felin and Corlan where the formation is too narrow to allow the wooden sleepers to hold the track in place laterally. These were delivered to site by Taliesin in what is believed to be the first steam hauled works train on the WHR. The sleepers were dropped off by the Rest of the World Gang - during its current working week - in preparation for the re-sleepering exercise to be done during the current closed season.

The stock returning to Porthmadog were Van 10, 23, 20, 1, 101, 120, 24, 2115 (Bodysgallen) and 2021(WHR open) in that order.

These two southerly and one northerly views (all 6/11/09) show the Merddin Emrys and Taliesin leading K1 and No.143 back to the FR leaving Dinas at about 0845 in a cavalcade worthy of a SuperPower Gala! Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Stuart McNair (WHRCL) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These easterly views (all 6/11/09) show the Merddin Emrys and Taliesin leading K1 and No.143 back to the FR an hour later approaching Rhyd Ddu between Glan-yr-afon and Ffridd Isaf curve. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andrew Thomas and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly and westerly views (both 6/11/09) show the Merddin Emrys and Taliesin leading K1 and No.143 back to the FR at Rhyd Ddu where Merddin Emrys took water. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andrew Thomas and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (6/11/09) shows Merddin Emrys leading the cavalcade across Britannia Bridge into Porthmadog Harbour station at 1730. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

More images of the transfer from the FR to the WHR on 31/10/09 will be released during this weekend's updates now the embargo is over.

Steve Barber's YouTube links 6/11/09

Steve Barber took some views of the photo-charter's return to Porthmadog on 6/11/09.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 1 mins 26 secs of video of Merddin Emrys crossing Network Rail on returning to Boston Lodge. This video was taken by Steve Barber.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 0 mins 26 secs of video of clearing the flangeways on Britannia Bridge. This video was taken by Steve Barber.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 1 mins 47 secs of video of Merddin Emrys crossing Britannia Bridge on returning to Boston Lodge. This video was taken by Steve Barber.

Andie Shaw's Photo-charter YouTube links 5/11/09

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 4 mins 12 secs of video of Merddin Emrys climbing the 1 in 40 between Beddgelert and Beddgelert Forest Campsite on 5/11/09. This video was taken by Andie Shaw.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 9 mins 23 secs of video of Merddin Emrys climbing the 1 in 40 between Beddgelert Forest Campsite and Summit Cutting on 5/11/09. This video was taken by Andie Shaw.

Photo-charter views from 5/11/09

Richard Stagg has kindly sent some images from the 5/11/09, a very wet day when most of the photographers seem to have kept their cameras in their bags.

These northerly and southerly views (both 5/11/09) show the Taliesin at Pont Croesor and the train on the way home in the afternoon. It seems the charter was terminated early because of the weather. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Richard Stagg and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

No.87 news 4/11/09

The front and rear tanks of No.87 were delivered to Boston Lodge by lorry on 4/11/09 for repainting into SAR black livery.

This westerly view (4/11/09) shows No.87 shunted by Vale of Ffestiniog, having lost it's front and rear tanks. It is believed they have gone to Boston Lodge for their repaint into SAR black. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Alasdair Stewart (WHRL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Photo-charter scenes 4/11/09

No contributions have been received from 3/11/09. Are there any photographers who would like to share their images from that day?

Michael Baker has kindly sent some of his images from 4/11/09 when Merddin Emrys, then Taliesin worked in the Aberglaslyn Pass in the morning and both nearer Pont Croesor in the afternoon.

This southerly view (4/11/09) shows Merddin Emrys emerging from T3 in the Aberglaslyn Pass as seen from above T2 at 1015. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (4/11/09) shows Merddin Emrys emerging from T3 in the Aberglaslyn Pass as seen from above T2. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (4/11/09) shows Merddin Emrys emerging from T2 in the Aberglaslyn Pass. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (4/11/09) shows Taliesin rounding the curve at Bryn-y-felin at 1235. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (4/11/09) shows Taliesin heading off down the Aberglaslyn Pass. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (4/11/09) shows Merddin Emrys between Croesor Junction and the Afon Dylif at 1400. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (4/11/09) shows Merddin Emrys and Taliesin being serviced on the bridge at Pont Croesor before returning to Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (4/11/09) shows Taliesin on the bridge at Pont Croesor at 1500, just prior to return to Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 3/11/09

Tony Baker reports: On Tuesday 3/11/09 we worked at Hafod-y-Llyn fitting the animal guards onto the level crossings on the section onwards to Pont Croesor. For the first time for a while the whole gang worked at the one site. LC 98 was completed and LC 99 half completed before failing light put an end to proceedings. All told we have 5 crossings to do in this area. During the day we had visits from Taliesin and Merddin Emrys as they worked the photo specials as far as Pont Croesor.

These northerly views (both 3/11/09) show the Tuesday Gang working on the animal guards at level crossings on the long straight south of Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Tony Baker and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

More from 3/11/09

David Mitchell has kindly offered a few more of his photos from the photo-charter on 3/11/09.

This westerly view (3/11/09) shows Merddin Emrys on the rear of the train at Rhyd Ddu at 1000 as the charter headed south. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Mitchell and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

David Mitchell has also kindly provided some views from the photo-charter on 3/11/09, which appeared to be a brighter day than some that week! During the morning there were some run pasts in Beddgelert Forest but in the afternoon the action transferred to the flatlands of the Traeth, south of the Aberglaslyn Pass.

This southerly view (3/11/09) shows Merddin Emrys approaching Hafod Ruffydd level crossing at 1115. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Mitchell and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly views (both 3/11/09) show Merddin Emrys and Taliesin watering at Beddgelert Station at 1140. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright David Mitchell and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly views (both 3/11/09) show Taliesin making repeated runs across the Afon Dylif bridge at 1300 and 1340. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright David Mitchell and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (3/11/09) shows Merddin Emrys approaching the Afon Dylif bridge at 1440. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Mitchell and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (3/11/09) shows Merddin Emrys crossing the Afon Dylif bridge at 1500. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Mitchell and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (3/11/09) shows Taliesin running south near Ynysfor level crossing with the peak of Cnicht in the background at 1554 as the day drew to a close. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Mitchell and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (3/11/09) shows Taliesin at 1620 with a blast of sunshine on Cnicht at the end of the day's activities. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Mitchell and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Winter maintenance 2/11/09

The Rest Of The World Gang on Monday 2/11/09 saw concrete block ballast retaining walls erected. Concrete blocks (about 400?) were delivered to various locations and a ballast wall was then built at Bryn Afon. The 'works train' was (unusually) hauled by Vale of Ffestiniog, until it failed at Bryn Afon and had to be rescued by Upnor Castle. We then went back to Waunfawr, to await the arrival of the Photo Charter train, and returned to Dinas conjoined!!

This northerly view (2/11/09) shows Vale of Ffestiniog on a maintenance train near Bron-y-fedw Uchaf. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (2/11/09) shows members of the Rest of the World Gang placing ballast retaining blocks on the sharp curves between Ty Nant and Plas-y-nant. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Simon Banbury and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Photo-charter scenes 2/11/09

The 2/11/09 saw the photo-charter in the Aberglaslyn Pass. A works train was also out on the line.

These northerly views (both 2/11/09) show the Taliesin approaching the level crossing in Beddgelert Forest Campsite with Merddin Emrys on the rear at about 0950. The train is believed to have made run pasts in the Aberglaslyn Pass. The Forestry Commission has tarmaced the short length of road between the two level crossings over the new bridge seen on the right of the first view. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Barrie Hughes and were taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Castell Caernarfon was noted back in traffic on 2/11/09 (following the rumoured fire and timing problems) when it was placed in the siding at Rhyd Ddu presumably to render assistance to the photo-charter out on the line south of there if need be. One other working noted was Vale of Ffestiniog on a PW working consisting of two B wagons loaded with blocks, presumably for the Ffridd Isaf curve and coach No.1001, noted at Castell Cidwm, southbound at about 1030 am.

This northerly view (2/11/09) shows Castell Caernarfon back in action stabled in the siding at Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX 6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (2/11/09) shows Merddin Emrys departing Beddgelert Station at 1120 for the Aberglaslyn Pass. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Bob Gartside and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly views (both 2/11/09) show Merddin Emrys at Bryn-y-felin and running through the Aberglaslyn Pass. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Bob Gartside and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These easterly, northerly and southerly  views (all 2/11/09) show Taliesin running through the Aberglaslyn Pass. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Bob Gartside and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These southerly views (both 2/11/09) show Merddin Emrys approaching Waunfawr with its headlight on the chimney. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Simon Banbury and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These southerly and northerly views (both 2/11/09) show Merddin Emrys at Waunfawr with the works train in the other platform hauled by Upnor Castle and Vale of Ffestiniog. The second view shows Castell Caernarfon on the rear of the photo-charter. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Steve Broomfield and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

No.140 on arrival was largely complete but one look at the work taken to overhaul the power unit from it which will end up under No.138 next year says it all. Yes complete but like all other NGG16's the wear from hundreds of thousands of miles in Africa is all too apparent.

Badger action II

It seems the badgers are back on the little used section south of Pont Croesor.

This westerly view (16/10/09) shows the badgers are still doing their best to close the route at the Creasy Embankment, just north of Pen-y-Mount. The line must be cleared before the planned stock transfer. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Peter Jenkins and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

10.30am, 11.00am, 12.20pm (SVR Limited), 1.40pm (SVR Venturer), 2.10pm (Kidderminster - Arley only), 3.00pm & 4.20pm.

Depart Bridgnorth:

There was an exchange of views. Each side now has a better understanding of the other's position. The discussions have been positive and constructive. Both organisations are looking forward to further meetings in the near future and to working together.

Welsh Highland Railway Limited

With ERTMS coming to the Cambrian Coast from October 2009, the WHRCL has saved money by not installing an intermediate RETB electronic operation (the existing system) at the NR crossing at Cae Pawb. The ERTMS signalling design work has been completed and an order had been placed with a signalling contractor in early September. The system will be fitted before Christmas 2009 and will be made operational during an NR possession in the February half-term holiday 2010, when the cessation of school trains for a week allows NR to close the Cambrian Coast for a few days.

Loco report 8/9/09

No.143's driving axle, with the split fly crank, has been removed for assessment and repair. Boston Lodge have been looking at No.140's boiler too and in the workshop, some further progress on No.140's power bogie was noted.

Grit for blasting No.134's frames is due to be delivered very shortly and it is hoped to have the grit blasting contractor in to blast the frames clean and apply the primer in the next week or two.

Tuesday Gang 8/9/09

Tony Baker reports: The third wet Tuesday in succession (8/9/09) saw the gang engaged at 3 separate sites. Firstly lineside vegetation clearance continued on the section between Caernarfon points and St Helen's pedestrian crossing. This work is being carried out using the newly introduced safety case procedures which enables non tracksafe personal to be allowed to work lineside at a given location on a given date. This work was completed today.

A second gang worked at Hafod-y-llyn installing signage to enable the coming weekend trains to proceed to Pont Croesor. This new signage takes the form of a 'Stop and Obtain Token' sign at the point where the construction trackwork becomes operating company trackwork. When this was done the gang moved to Cemetery Crossing to make minor adjustments to the signage there in preparation for pending boundary fence changes. A third gang started work on the manhole under the water tower which houses the new water meter.

CRhE/WHRS 2009 AGM

If any members have not received a Proxy Form please let me know and I will e-mail a copy. Proxy forms may be returned by e-mail provided a signature is scanned in.

Alastair Wilkinson

Co. Secretary

CRhE/WHRS

E-mail: wilawlknsn@aol.com

ATW's Cambrian Coast Express London plans

Arriva Trains Wales has submitted a formal proposal to the Office of Rail Regulation to run a new direct train service from Aberystwyth to London Marylebone. Subject to approval by the ORR, the new service will extend two daily direct trains to and from Aberystwyth. BR stopped the direct London service in 1991. Should the proposal be approved, the new service is expected to be introduced following completion of new track and ERTMS signalling work on the Cambrian Line, possibly in 2010 using refurbished Arriva Trains Wales' Class 158 fleet of trains. The service could eventually be extended with a portion from Pwllheli.

ATW's planned Marylebone-Aberystwyth service would follow much of the route used by open access train operator Wrexham and Shropshire Railways and has already sparked complaints that it could extract revenue from the existing London-Wrexham service by calling at stations such as Shrewsbury/Telford etc. However, Arriva says it has now modified its planned timetable to reduce the likelihood of this happening by timing trains to run in the gaps between W&SR's services. W&SR has itself led a campaign to improve train speeds between Birmingham and Marylebone. Awkward layouts still exist from the days when BR singled the line north of Bicester, which persisted after redoubling.

ATW's services do not connect with W&SR's services at Shrewsbury and providing connections might be a better way forward. W&SR hope to expand to fill the gaps in their services in future and have just taken delivery of a refurbished rake of MkIII coaches in their own colours.

Rest of the World Gang Report 5-6/9/09

Andrew Thomas reports: It’s not all beer and skittles on the Rest of the World Gang. Sometimes vital but prosaic tasks need to be done and this weekend (5-6/9/09) was no exception. With the Winter Major Works Programme requiring the replacement of wooden sleepers with South African immediately south of Bryn-y-felin bridge, we needed to prepare hundreds of South African track clips in a variety of sizes (to allow for gauge widening).

This southerly view (5/9/09) shows ROTWG volunteers freeing up SAR bolts for the Bryn-y-felin curve works. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

The wooden sleepers, although decorative, provide little resistance to lateral movement, resulting in 'threepenny' bit shaped joints and attendant TSRs. To maintain acceptable journey times, 5mph TSRs need to be banished to history. Hence a weekend spent selecting the components, soaking them in diesel, applying brute force and harsh language to ensure the basics are available for the relaying exercise. An additional bonus of this activity means that the Clip Shed and its immediate environs are tidier than they have been for years, although we have little confidence this will last for long.

This southerly view (5/9/09) shows No.143 shunting as seen from the Loading Dock. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

As some recompense for this character-forming job, on Sunday afternoon in pouring rain, a small but select band moved the PW train, comprising Upnor Castle, two ballast wagons, two DZs and a B wagon, the mess coach and SAR brakevan from Hafod-y-llyn to Pont Croesor in order to clear the way for next Friday’s Platelayers’ Special and the following weekend’s public excursions to Pont Croesor.

Tuesday Gang report 1/9/09

Peter Roughly reports:- On 1/9/09 one group continued with trackside clearance of gorse, buddleia etc. from Caernarfon Station towards St Helens Road Bridge, which was commenced last week, to enable easier treatment with herbicides and other treatment next month. Next Tuesday should see this job completed.

The other group attended Bron-y-fedw Isaf (just south of Snowdon Ranger) to try and sandbag the undercut of the banking prior to underpinning with concrete but, due to the recent high rainfall, the amount of water coming down the watercourse prevented progress being made. Another attempt will be made next week and we are praying for a week of sunshine and NO MORE RAIN!

Team Wylfa report 1/9/09

Clive Briscoe reports:- In a nutshell, 1/9/09 was the usual carriage story. We were very short handed - just 2 of us - but we did manage to get the F Set checked and oiled at last. It was another late finish for us at 2230.

Mainline news

Cantrail Destination Boards 6/7/09

NG15 No.134 Appeal

Dafydd Thomas reports: During August it is proposed to place NG15 loco No.133 on Y Maes (the town market square) at Caernarfon in order to draw attention to a campaign to raise some much needed funds for the restoration of an NG15 and for other unfinished bits of the railway. Could you help with manning the stand, if only for a morning or afternoon. Please give me a call as it would be a help. Contact Dafydd Thomas (see Contacts page).

Team Wylfa report 30/6/09

Clive Briscoe reports: Carriages and yet more carriages was the call last night (30/6/09). The usual checking and oiling up routines on a very sultry, sticky evening with the scale of the task only broken up by hiss and clank of No.143 as she shunted the late train back into the shed, fuelled up and returned to the Loco Shed. And of course the beautiful sunsets you get at Dinas. We welcomed our German team mate Ulrich back last night, he will be with us for the next two weeks.

A note to any prospective helpers - we will NOT be at Dinas next Tuesday 7/7/09 but WILL be there the following evening, on WEDNESDAY 8/7/09.

Tuesday Gang 30/6/09

Tony Baker reports: The Tuesday Gang covered three activities on Tuesday 30/6/09. Two volunteers were on fire watch at Pont Cae'r Gors, four at Beddgelert continued with the anti-sheep fencing on top of the west wall. We have now reached the stage where the first of the wires was threaded through the stanchions. Ironically there has been no sign of any sheep in the field since we started this job. A further five continued with the construction of Hafod-y-llyn 'Parkway' as we have named it.

So far, four 10 tonne lorry loads of quarry waste have been dropped off here. The ditch behind required piping first, then the quarry waste carefully placed on top of the pipes so as not to break them. Finally, large quantities of loco ash were spread over the quarry waste. There is no truth in the rumour that the company only came up with this project because they had accumulated large quantities of loco ash which they did not know what to do with! The platform is long enough to hold 2 carriages and has been placed in the correct position on the loop so that the Service Car is one of the two. Tuesday was very hot and muggy and each calling train brought us very welcome ice cold water. Bird lovers may be interested to know that we had a visit from a low flying Hen Harrier. Next week, weather permitting, should see the conclusion of this project.

These northerly views (both 30/6/09) show work in progress at Hafod-y-llyn on unloading loco ash to provide a short platform for emergency use. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Tony Baker and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly and easterly views (both 30/6/09) show work in progress at Beddgelert on providing sheep proof wire through stanchions cemented into the wall along the west side of the station. If the station is sheep-proof, it will be possible to replant the flower beds and see them flourish. The presence of a full time station master might also discourage sheep! Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Steve Broomfield and were taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Beddgelert Station master wanted

The Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways are looking for a Station Master/Ticket Seller at Beddgelert Station. This fulltime position is for the High Summer period from 18/7/09 until 13/9/09.

The applicant will have to:
• look after all aspects of service at Beddgelert Station
• sell tickets and give information
• check cleaning of toilet blocks and order supplies in conjunction with cleaner
• clean platform, buildings and steps
• liaise with Marketing Department regarding timetable posters
• ensure village information points have timetables and relevant literature
• assist trolley crews with water tanks

Also included is Meillionen (Forest Campsite) Halt:
• regular check of information at campsite and halt
• ensure timetables are available
• day-to-day liaison with campsite staff in case of problems
• clean platform and shelter

Required skills:
• good knowledge of the WHR or the ability to acquire it quickly
• be able to work alone, be self motivated and organised
• accuracy with cash, ticket sales and accounting
• ability to talk to the public
• ability to deal with problems
• ideally a driver with own vehicle

Send your request for an application form to ingrid.dejongh@festrail.co.uk
For more information contact the Commercial Department on 01766 516072 or 516023.

Rest of the World Gang 29/6/09

Steve Broomfield reports: Activity today consisted of jim-crowing a poor rail joint in the vicinity of Plas Bodaden Farm. This involved undoing the SA fittings on one and a half panels of track (one side only), in order to do the jim-crowing and generate 'acceptable' gaps. There were only three of us today, so the time taken was more than we had expected. In addition, several of the SA fittings proved particularly obstinate.

This southerly view (29/6/09) shows the Rest of the World Gang working on PW at Plas Bodaden on a day when no public trains were running. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Rest of the World Gang 28/6/09

Andrew Thomas reports: The Rest of the World Gang spent Sunday 28/6/09 removing, cleaning, greasing and replacing fishplates between Aspinall’s and Waunfawr. It was hot, humid and midge infested. We rescued several small frogs found living behind said fishplates.

This northerly view (28/6/09) shows No.143 near Aspinall's Curve on the 1000 ex-Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (28/6/09) shows No.87 near Aspinall's Curve on the 1135 ex-Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (28/6/09) shows No.143 at the site of the landslip on the 1430 ex-Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (28/6/09) shows the Observation Car on the rear of the same train passing the site of the landslip. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Castell Caernarfon progress 27/6/09

The reassembly of Castell Caernarfon was underway on 27/6/09 and it is hoped to have the loco back in action in the first week of July. The loco was shunted back into the Goods Shed. The loco is likely to double head with Vale of Ffestiniog until run in.

This northerly view (27/6/09) shows the work underway to complete Castell Caernarfon outside Dinas Goods shed. Vale of Ffestiniog is the depot shunter and the comparison of heights shows just how much the FR Funkey was cut down to fit the FR's restrictive loading gauge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ben Fisher and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Fire Duty 27/6/09

Volunteers with tracksafe credentials have been positioned at Summit Cutting on 'Fire Duty' recently following a third fire on 14/6/09 reported by Steam Railway, this time following the passage of No.143. Volunteer Dave Waldren managed to put out the trackside fire on that occasion with a spade.

These northerly and southerly views (both 27/6/09) show No.143 breasting the summit on the 1000 from Caernarfon. The second view includes a patch of scorched grass from a recent fire. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andrew Thomas and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (27/6/09) shows the Observation Car on the rear of the same train. The scorched fence posts can be seen on the right from previous fires, a common sight in BR steam days. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly views (both 27/6/09) show No.87 approaching the summit on the 1135 from Caernarfon, still carrying the Aberglaslyn headboard. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andrew Thomas and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Friday freight 26/6/09

Ben Rosen drove the Friday pw train to Hafod-y-llyn on 26/6/09 assisted by Will High. They dropped off the water carrier wagon at Rhyd Ddu and then proceeded to drop loco ash from another wagon at Hafod-y-llyn to make up the platform.

It is surprising that the FR management has persisted with the no trains on 'Mondays and Fridays in June' timetable despite the presence of people turning up at Caernarfon 'on spec' having heard of the attractions of the extended run through the Aberglaslyn Pass. Trains have been reportedly heavily laden trains on other days, though traditionally, Mondays and Fridays have been lighter, seen as travelling days for holidaymakers to reach or return from North Wales. The Monday/Friday timetable gaps continue into July and daily services do not commence until Tuesday 7/7/09. One advantage of the 'days off' however is the freedom to run PW operations.

NG15 No.134 appeal

An appeal is to be launched on 3/8/09 in Caernarfon to raise funds towards the restoration of NG15 No.134. Sister loco No.133 will be displayed in the town centre to attract attention to the fundraising campaign that will continue throughout August when most visitors come to Caernarfon. Steam Railway reports that the 27 day campaign hopes to raise £1,000,000.

Meurig Williams of Brunswick Ironworks, the Caernarfon-based company which has provided bridges, water towers etc. for the WHR, is behind the appeal. He has agreed to build the new superstructure for the loco's tender and the appeal will hopefully provide the necessary funds for the steelwork. Mr. Williams has also obtained sponsorship for the movement of sister loco No.133 to Caernarfon town square (Y Maes). A series of fund raising events is planned. No.134's restoration is likely to cost £250,000 and any money raised over that would go towards the completion of Beddgelert station building.

Bits & Pieces

The decision to delay opening of the Porthmadog Extension until Easter 2010 might allow Russell's attendance, assuming it is completed in time by the WHHR. Merddin Emrys is in good condition too on the FR (despite a few problems with priming and the superheater) and that will permit 4 locos that originally used the route to be present at the Opening Gala in 2010.

Race the Train will take place on 22/7/09 with the special train leaving Caernarfon at 1930.

Halloween Trains may operate in the Autumn.

Lyd is receiving attention from a full time fitter at Boston Lodge and the completed boiler is back in the frames and lagged, clad and installed. No.87 needs some attention to valve events but otherwise is receiving praise. No.138 is likely to remain as an oil burner because of lack of time to convert to coal. Oil prices are at a record low and further coal conversion is unlikely. Cinders have also been an issue at Summit Cutting! The boiler is at Boston Lodge for smokebox repairs along with the old cab and new tank which may emerge in a new colour! No.143 continues to clank and leak water from the tank.

A new Railway Letter stamp was issued on 21/5/09 to mark the opening of the WHR through the Aberglaslyn Pass. The 25p stamp features No.143 at Caernarfon. A first day cover was planned for late May at £5 and a block of 9 stamps at £2.25 per sheet.

Water wagon

As previously mentioned, a B wagon has been adapted to carry water containers to help deal with the fires that have taken place at Summit Cutting. The ideal place to stable the wagon would be in Rhyd Ddu yard along with a diesel loco such as Upnor Castle. Assuming a driver was available, the railway could then mount a fast response to support the Fire Brigade with additional water in any location where water might be in short supply.

This northerly view (14/6/09) shows the newly completed water wagon carrying about 4000 litres of water in 4 IBCs. The load of 4 tonnes is connected to an engine driven pump. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dave Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 22/6/09

Clive Briscoe reports: It was the same old story but having a much better turnout on the evening of 22/6/09. The F Set was all checked and oiled up by 10pm, an 'early' finish for a change! There will be an evening special on Friday 24/7/09 - a second Team Wylfa special. The first was to celebrate our first year of existence in 2004 and each year since I have been nagged by some who came and enjoyed themselves, 'Are you doing another train this year?' but could not get sufficient numbers to justify. With the opening to Beddgelert and beyond, the asking became a torrent so I gave in.

'Y Fforiwr Glaslyn (Glaslyn Explorer)' will leave Caernarfon for Hafod-y-llyn at 1700 and I already have a full train of Wylfa and Trawsfynydd Nuclear Power Station staff, friends and families. The train will be crewed by volunteers from Team Wylfa and friends, the driver being an ex-Wylfa 'reactor driver' (now a Team Leader at Trawsfynydd).

Tuesday Gang report 22/6/09

Tony Baker reports: The gang again split up and carried out drain clearance outside the PW at Dinas, progressed the installation of stanchions to the rear wall at Beddgelert and progressed the construction of Hafod-y-llyn platform.

This northerly view (22/6/09) shows the 1135 ex-Caernarfon arriving at the partly constructed temporary halt at Hafod-y-llyn. No. 87 had 9 fully loaded carriages and there was just time for the Tuesday Gang to get liquid refreshments from the Buffet Car before it set off back to Beddgelert. The sound it made climbing Nantmor incline with 9 on was terrific. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

North Wales Track Gang report 21/6/09

Dafydd Thomas reports: Over the weekend 20-21/6/09 the North Wales / Black Hand Gang further extended the siding at Pont Croesor to the south by another 5 panels of track (2 on Sunday), all on South African sleepers. We also removed the check rails at Pont Ynys Ferlas (Afon Nanmor), deemed not necessary by HMRI. A second gang was working on the new station shelter/staff accommodation at Beddgelert station where they completed the roof of the building.

This northerly view (21/6/09) shows the North Wales Track Gang extending Pont Croesor siding on the site of the future loop. The loose rail was later fitted. Three more full panels are needed to complete the job. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Pont Croesor siding extended 20/6/09

The North Wales Track Gang was busy extending the Pont Croesor siding to the south on 20/6/09. Three more panels were added on 20/6/09.

This northerly view (20/6/09) shows the North Wales Track Gang extending the siding at Pont Croesor. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (20/6/09) shows the North Wales Track Gang extending the siding at Pont Croesor. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

New coaches in use 20/6/09

The newly delivered FR coaches Nos.119/120 were put into traffic on Saturday 20/6/09, the day after they arrived. Nine coach rakes are now possible in regular service.

Coach No.119 delivered 19/6/09

Coach No.119 and Lilla were loaded up at Minffordd Yard on 19/6/09. The coach was delivered to Dinas and will be used almost immediately to strengthen trains. Lilla was included in the load as it was en route to Tyseley for an event there over the weekend of 27-28/6/09.

This northerly view (19/6/09) shows the Loco-Motion moving coach No.119 to Dinas. Lilla was off to Tyseley Open Day . Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Howard Wilson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Castell Caernarfon reassembly 19/6/09

The former rail gantry was used to lift the power unit and gearbox into the chassis of Castell Caernarfon at Dinas on 19/6/09, the day after the components were delivered.

This southerly view (19/6/09) shows Castell Caernarfon's power unit being placed in the loco's chassis. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (19/6/09) shows Castell Caernarfon's under the Dinas rail gantry. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

New coaches arrive at Dinas 19/6/09

Two FR coaches, Nos.119/120 were delivered to Dinas by lorry on 19/6/09 to increase the length of the standard rakes in response to high passenger loadings. The coaches were delivered by road as it was easier than organising a path through the CTRL.

This southerly view (19/6/09) shows coach No.120 being delivered to Dinas to supplement the coach fleet. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Castell Caernarfon parts return 18/6/09

Castell Caernarfon's Funkey power unit returned to Dinas on 18/6/09 along with a couple of coach bogies. The repair of the loco had Boston Lodge had been awaiting parts from India. When the loco is reassembled, it is anticipated it will run double headed with Vale of Ffestiniog on test for a while on the late afternoon train until it is run in.

This southerly view (18/6/09) shows Castell Caernarfon's power unit being unloaded under the Dinas rail gantry. Two coach bogies were also delivered on the same lorry. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 16/6/09

Clive Briscoe reports: A somewhat depleted team (two of us!) somehow managed to achieve the objective - E Set checked and oiled in its entirety.

There have been some recent concerns about the freight/works stock that do not get as regular checking as perhaps they might. 'Wagon Doc', Marcus, can't get down as much these days and Team Wylfa simply haven't the resources either to be checking these as well. As above, we are more than fully stretched just to keep up with the carriage stock during the main running season. However, what we do have is the knowledge and tools for the job. Are there any individuals out there who might be prepared to form a two or three man team to spend say a regular day per month - weekday or weekend - going around the DZs, Bs, construction wagons etc. checking/oiling up and keeping the records? (Which with the amount they are used, should be more than adequate to keep them in tip-top running order). The running gear is virtually identical to the carriages in most cases so we can train you up and get you authorised by Boston Lodge. Contact me in the first instance (see Contacts page).

Tuesday Gang report 16/6/09

Tony Baker reports: On 15/6/09 the Tuesday Gang was split between Beddgelert and Hafod-y-llyn. At Hafod-y-llyn the temporary platform was progressed. First the drainage ditch behind was piped and then a ton of slate waste was laid on top as a first stage to constructing the platform. More slate waste will be laid and finally topped off with loco ash. Normally, no one will alight here, so ash will not be carried into carriages by feet. The Beddgelert gang dug a pit under the water tower for the installation of a water meter and also progressed the installation of stanchions in the wall at the rear of the station onto which a wire fence will be installed. Hopefully this will make the station sheep proof.

This northerly view (16/6/09) shows the Tuesday Gang installing stanchions in the wall at the north end of Beddgelert Station. The wiring will hopefully keep out the sheep that have decimated the flowerbeds. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Weekend tracklaying report 14/6/09

The Rest of the World Gang relaid Croesor Junction curve on 14/6/09, introducing staggered joints, re-gapping and replacing fishplates with the 'Darlington' type.

This northerly view (9/6/09) shows Conway Castle on a works train at Croesor Junction curve while the Rest of the World Gang work on staggering the joints and fitting new fishplates. The old Croesor Tramway trackbed continues straight on through the gate by the tree to the right. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

More coaches to move to the WHR

Several sources have reported that passenger loadings on the Welsh Highland Railway have risen appreciably this year. Some trains have been full and standing especially for the Beddgelert to Hafod-y-llyn section. Many more passengers are joining at intermediate stations such as Beddgelert Forest Campsite for short section journeys such as Meillionen (Forest Campsite) to Hafod-y-llyn. The increases are thought to be due to the attractions of the new journey through the acclaimed tourist attraction of the Aberglaslyn Pass. The recession is also likely to have had an effect as more people seem to be holidaying in North Wales rather than going overseas this year. The FR is also seeing the benefit of improved loadings. The railway has also received positive press coverage.

Daily Telegraph Travel report

With Summer High season approaching fast the decision has been taken to send another two coaches from the FR's fleet to improve capacity. Presumably these will transfer via the CTRL. Although the preferred option was Nos.22/26, they have the wrong kind of electrical connectors so Nos.119-120 are to be sent north. They will normally be marshalled next to the lock up coaches Nos.23/24 at the bike wagon end of the train. The transfer is expected within a week and the new 9 coach trains should be in use by late June.

Beddgelert toilets 13/6/09

The new temporary toilets at Beddgelert are plumbed in and now that the necessary cleaning equipment is there it is expected that they will be in use from 16/6/09. The plastic ones are serviced by Glasfryn and they will go shortly afterwards.

Beddgelert station new waiting shelter/staff room 12/6/09

These southerly and northerly views (both 12/6/09) show work in progress at Beddgelert on providing a new temporary staff room/waiting shelter in front of the concrete foundation for the future station building. The basic structure, partition, end door and roof framework has been completed. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Steve Broomfield and were taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Porthmadog Bypass start 2010

Work on the £50 million Porthmadog Bypass will start in early 2010 and will take up to 2 years to complete. The route crosses the WHR/WHHR just south of Pen-y-Mount Halt on a viaduct. The bypass will remove through traffic, reduce congestion in Porthmadog and ease the impact of the Britannia Bridge tramway.

Click on this link for the BBC report on the bypass.

Easter 2010 Porthmadog opening?

A report in Heritage Railway Magazine quotes Paul Lewin (FR General Manager) as suggesting opening may be delayed from 'after the Summer peak' until Easter 2010 due to funding delays and works required on the signalling for the Cae Pawb level crossing/tramway sections on the CTRL section. The FR is still awaiting settlement of a bill for work on the training wall repair on the north west corner of Britannia Bridge on behalf of the Welsh Assembly Government.

Beddgelert station new waiting shelter/staff room 11/6/09

Work started on the shelter on 11/6/09 and was set to continue on 12/6/09.

These southerly and easterly views (both 11/6/09) show work in progress at Beddgelert on providing a new temporary staff room/waiting shelter in front of the concrete foundation for the future station building. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Steve Broomfield and were taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Beddgelert views 9/6/09

This northerly view (9/6/09) shows Conway Castle on a works train in Beddgelert station. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (9/6/09) shows the KMX tamper at Beddgelert station Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 9/6/09

Clive Briscoe reports: Team Wylfa had a better turnout than of late so with 4 of us at work, we completed the carriage checks and oiling up of the set before 10pm for a change (although by we'd written up the record book it was just gone 10!). Our German team member, Ulrich, called in to say hello with a friend he'd brought from Germany to show him the railway. He will be back working with the track gangs and us for a few weeks in July and we very much look forward to him coming.

Fire-fighting wagon 9/6/09

A fire-fighting wagon has been put together and was in the bay platform on the evening of 9/6/09. It is a B wagon loaded with 4 x IBC's (1000 litres water each) all piped up to an engine driven fire pump. The wagon maybe stabled at Rhyd Ddu following two outbreaks of fire that have occurred near Pitt's Head.

Tuesday Gang report 9/6/09

Tony Baker reports: The gang split into two on 9/6/09. Half assisted with the base of the new Beddgelert "Wendy House" waiting shelter/staff room. Because it is a temporary installation it does not have a conventional concrete base but has a wooden frame base, which is fixed to metal straps which in turn are concreted into 8 holes dug in the ground. The wooden hut itself will be bolted to this frame on Thursday all being well. This building, when it is replaced by the permanent station will be moved to Nantmor.

The other half of the gang assisted with the installation of stanchions into the stone wall at the back of the station. To achieve this the capping stones are removed every 5 metres and a stanchion concreted in. The capping stone is then replaced in the wall. Hopefully when this is completed the sheep will no longer be able to get into the station a eat the flower beds.

This easterly view (9/6/09) shows the Tuesday Gang constructing the base for the temporary station booking office. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (9/6/09) shows the Tuesday Gang constructing the base for the temporary station booking office. No.143 is passing with a train from Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (9/6/09) shows the wooden base for the temporary waiting shelter/staff room being constructed at Beddgelert station next to the access path, with the permanent concrete base to the right. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

North Wales Track Gang report 6-7/6/09

The North Wales Track Gang started work on 6/6/09 on the Pont Croesor PW siding on the site of the future loop. Conway Castle was used on the PW train. Four panels were installed making a 70m siding. This included the long sleepers for the point lever and the point lever itself. The use of South African sleepers and clips for the siding made the operation a bit slower than usual as they take longer to install than the ERCs. This siding will allow somewhere to stable the works train south of Hafod-y-llyn and enable re-marshalling of the train as required for work to finish the section from Hafod-y-llyn to Porthmadog. Sleepers were laid out for a future extension to the south.

This southerly view (7/6/09) shows the North Wales Track Gang working on the siding point at lunchtime on Sunday. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (7/6/09) shows the siding point at lunchtime on Sunday with LC114 beyond. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (7/6/09) shows the siding being laid at Pont Croesor on the site of the future loop. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (7/6/09) shows sleepers laid at Pont Croesor on the site of the future loop. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (7/6/09) shows the North Wales Track Gang cutting rail to connect up the siding being laid at Pont Croesor on the site of the future loop. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (7/6/09) shows the siding nearing completion at Pont Croesor on the site of the future loop. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (7/6/09) shows the siding point lever at Pont Croesor on the site of the future loop. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

'Welsh Highlander' tour 6/6/09

Vintage Trains Excursions ran the "The Welsh Highlander" railtour hauled by GWR Castle Earl of Mount Edgcumbe from the West Midlands. Visitors were brought to Dinas from Llandudno Junction for a double headed journey on the WHR to Hafod-y-llyn and back hauled by Nos. 87/143. The size of the party required a 13 coach rake. The train was too long for the loop at Hafod-y-llyn so No.87 went into the loop on its own allowing the train to pass before No.143 ran around. The reason for the road trip starting from Llandudno Junction rather than Bangor was that the loco was out of gauge for the platform.

It seems No.143 had a problem with its motion on return (a sheared mechanical lubricator linkage) and it was failed at Rhyd Ddu, the train continuing single headed with No.87. No.143 was left at Rhyd Ddu to be collected by Vale of Ffestiniog, while No.87 worked the railtour train back to Dinas on its own. The weather was atrocious at times and affected other events in the area. The annual 30km Welsh 1,000m Peaks Race involving 245 competitors due to finish on the summit of Snowdon was abandoned due to strong winds, heavy rain and low cloud.

Team Wylfa report 2/6/09

Clive Briscoe reports: Team Wylfa had another busy evening on 2/6/09. It was the turn of F Set to be checked plus the 'lock ups' Nos.23/24. All in all, 10 carriages plus a bike wagon were completed, no mean feat for just the 3 of us who turned out. But we did it - all checked, oiled up and flange lube 'grease sticks' topped up on those carriages so fitted. It was another late finish.

No.134 report 2/6/09

As well as Team Wylfa working on the carriages, some more work was done on No.134 on 2/6/09. As Team Wylfa arrived, their first task was to show a grit blasting contractor what was required on the loco's frames in order for him to give a quote. Then, Andie Shaw and Mike Middleton (who had just come off the late turn loco) took over and carried on de-clagging the inner side of the horn guides. Slowly but surely, No.134 is gradually coming back to life.

Pont Croesor loop/siding

An engineering siding is to be constructed at the site of Pont Croesor loop during the weekend of 6-7/6/09 using South African sleepers and fixing materials. This will aid completion of the section south from Hafod-y-llyn to Porthmadog where the siding is now in use as a run-round loop for scheduled passenger trains. There is currently nowhere to pass engineering trains when passenger services are operating. The movement of the Pont Croesor north point south by two lengths on 30-31/5/09 will permit the engineering trains to shunt into the siding without fouling LC114. Another option would have been to put the south point in and complete the Pont Croesor loop for engineering trains.

Tuesday Gang report 2/6/09

Tony Baker reports: In order for the railway to have a suitable place from which to sell tickets at Beddgelert a "Wendy House" similar to Rhyd Ddu is to be erected on the ground immediately in front of the station building foundations. On 2/6/09, in very hot weather, we dug a trench to take power into this building from the nearest service duct. Many large rocks were encountered but we succeeded eventually. The trains were the busiest I had ever seen, the first with 8 carriages hauled by No.143, left for Hafod-y-llyn with standing room only. So much for the theory that everyone makes for the beach when the sun shines. We spoke with many interested members of the public and the prevailing mood was 'Thank you for this magnificent railway'.

These northerly and westerly views (both 2/6/09) show work in progress at Beddgelert on providing a trench for the electric supply. A temporary staff room/waiting shelter is to be built similar to one at Rhyd Ddu in front of the concrete foundation for the future station building. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Steve Broomfield and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Lyd progress 1/6/09

The WHR's fame has spread far and wide and Austrian enthusiast Herbert Ortner visited the railway over the last few days with a group of compatriots, possibly the first from Austria to travel by train through the Aberglaslyn Pass in the modern era. They add that they were impressed by the railway! A visit to Boston Lodge revealed progress with Lyd.

This northerly view (1/6/09) shows Lyd at Boston Lodge with boiler cladding now in black paint. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Herbert Ortner and was taken on a Canon EOS 20D digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Prince goes home 1/6/09

WHR visitor Prince went home via lorry on 1/6/09 so that it could be reversed to face Blaenau Ffestiniog as normal on the FR.

This northerly view (1/6/09) shows Prince loaded onto a lorry trailer at Dinas for its return to the FR. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Rest of the World Gang report 30/5/09-1/6/09

Work was focussed on the track immediately south of LC114C at Pont Croesor. The Pont Croesor loop north point was being moved south by two panels. With the change in geometry there was some trouble getting one of the rails to fit. The reason for the move was to provide adequate space north of the point such that a loco could pull clear without triggering the crossing sequence. When the loop is completed this will allow trains from Porthmadog to run around more easily. Conway Castle was trapped south of the point on 30/5/09 but all was finished by 1/6/09.

This southerly view (1/6/09) shows Conway Castle dragging the point south. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (30/5/09) shows work in progress between LC114 and Pont Croesor loop. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (1/6/09) shows the completed realignment at Pont Croesor loop. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Operations on 30/5/09

Another Red-Red day was declared on 30/5/09 due to hot conditions and fire risk so No.87 was banned from the line south of Rhyd Ddu. Loco exchange took place at Rhyd Ddu and Waunfawr as the trains passed in the timetable. Austrian enthusiast Herbert Ortner recorded the action.

This northerly view (30/5/09) shows No.87 at Waunfawr station limit, shunting off its train to exchange locos for No.143. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Herbert Ortner and was taken on a Canon EOS 20D digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (30/5/09) shows No.143 at Beddgelert station. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Herbert Ortner and was taken on a Canon EOS 20D digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Beddgelert toilets 30/5/09

As of 30/5/09 the Portaloos at Beddgelert are still is use awaiting the connecting up of the mobile toilet blocks.

Fire measures

Red day operations have been implemented on the WHR to combat fire risk. No.87 (perceived to be the riskier loco) is being taken off trains in favour of oil fired No.143 at either Rhyd Ddu or Waunfawr, wherever the two trains pass. Both locos disconnect from their trains outside station limits, run through as normal and water then proceed to connect to the other rake and draw them into the station. The FR also has Red day operations procedure. This can lead to the timetable drifting a little as delays accrue.

There was a second fire in Summit Cutting on 24/5/09 at 1730, just after No.87 had passed, spreading west from the cutting. WHR volunteer Dave Waldren was one of the people who helped extinguish the fire. The fire brigade were called and attended, helping damp down the smouldering embers after the gallant efforts of the volunteers had extinguished the blaze. There have been reports in the local paper about the second fire and the Office of Rail Regulation report about the first fire.

Team Wylfa report 26/5/09

Clive Briscoe reports: Tuesday evening 26/5/09 was a very long, busy night for Team Wylfa and that wasn't just us. On arrival at Dinas, it was like Clapham Junction with Vale of Ffestiniog growling in the yard waiting for the E Set to return and do a loco swap with No.143 for the 'Bangers and Mash' special then a bit later on, No.87 with the F Set passed by on the way to Caernarfon and thence back to Dinas. Now that we have the longer run to Hafod-y-llyn, the late train (with the F Set - which was the one we wanted for checking and oil up) is out until 20:45.

This view (26/5/09) shows No.87, still carrying its Aberglaslyn headboard, arriving on the late train back at Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Then there was the 'Bangers and Mash' train out which didn't get back until after 10pm so the train crews had a long day too. With the bike wagon and carriages Nos.24 and 2060 from the F Set left outside the Carriage Shed, there was tight clearance at the fouling point where the two Carriage Shed lines split so we had to assist in some shunting and clearance tests when Vale of Ffestiniog returned and it was 22:45 before the E Set was safely tucked up for the night.

This view (26/5/09) shows No.143, still carrying its Aberglaslyn headboard, shunting at Dinas. Vale of Ffestiniog is also involved in a shunting manoeuvre. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Will High and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (26/5/09) shows No.87 as sun sets at Dinas, after duty on the Bangers and Mash train. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Will High and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Now that No.138's boiler has gone south to Boston Lodge for final fettling and re-erection, there was only one thing left for us to do until the F Set came back, No.134! A useful 2 hours was spent scraping the crud off the wheels and inner frames in way of the previously inaccessible horn guides. Also, the rear pony truck was finally disassembled into its component parts and the wheelset removed. Then it was time to check and oil up the F Set and by the time the tools had been put away and carriage record book filled in and returned to the works office, it was 23:30!

We were joined for the second time by two very capable teenagers who have come through the ranks on the FfR/WHRS, William High (CTRL Engineer Dave High's son) and his friend Paul Wood, who has worked on the tracklaying gangs. Both have very quickly learnt the carriage checking and oiling up routine and can be trusted to do a good job. They will form a valuable back-up resource on the occasions they can join us. Thanks guys, certainly couldn't have done without you last night.

This view (26/5/09) shows No.138's bogies under reconstruction in the Dinas loco shed with K1 to the left. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Will High and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Aberglaslyn views 24/5/09

This southerly view (24/5/09) shows No.87 southbound between T2 and T3 with the Afon Glaslyn below. In the foreground is the repositioned base of the Blacker Bombard mortar launcher that protected the pass from a threatened German invasion in WW2. The photographer had climbed high on dangerous rocky ledges above T2 on the National Trust's open access land to get this amazing shot! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/5/09) shows No.87 northbound between T3 and T2 with the Afon Glaslyn below. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (24/5/09) shows No.87 northbound north of T2. The embankment is now greening over for the first time since construction in 1906 after the addition of mulch. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/5/09) shows T3 and T4. White smoke/steam continues to issue from the 400m T4 for a few minutes after the train passes, lifted by convection and the train's draft to the north portal. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (24/5/09) shows No.143 northbound at the foot of the Nantmor Bank. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (24/5/09) shows No.87 between T2 and T3 with the Afon Glaslyn below. In the foreground is the repositioned base of the Blacker Bombard mortar launcher that protected the pass from a threatened German invasion in WW2. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/5/09) shows No.87 between T3 and T2 with the Afon Glaslyn below. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Bank Holiday weekend 22-24/5/09

Loadings were good over the Bank Holiday weekend which saw good weather in North Wales. No.87 still carried its Aberglaslyn headboard.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 1 min 16 seconds of video of No.87 northbound at Cwm Bychan on 24/5/09. This video was taken by Stewart Mcfarlane.

This view (24/5/09) shows No.87, still carrying its Aberglaslyn headboard, ready to depart Beddgelert for Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dave Waldren and was taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (24/5/09) shows No.87 rounding the curve onto Bryn-y-felin bridge on its return from Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dave Waldren and was taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (24/5/09) shows the new Observation Car on the rear of a train departing Beddgelert for Hafod-y-llyn as it enters Goat Cutting. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Matthew Waldren (aged 10) and was taken on a Canon G2 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Beddgelert gardening 24/5/09

The Waldren family returned to Beddgelert on 24/5/09 to have another go at tidying up the planters. Sheep had been within the station site again over the past few weeks.

This view (24/5/09) shows work to tidy up the planters at Beddgelert Station. Matthew Waldren and Eirwen Tym-Crowther can be seen hard at work. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dave Waldren and was taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Boston Lodge report 24/5/09

Work has now started on No.138's boiler inside the Erecting Shop at Boston Lodge. Work is also in progress on Lyd with the footplate complete and assembly of valves on the backhead.

This view (24/5/09) shows No.138 in the Erecting Shop at Boston Lodge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Will High and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (24/5/09) shows Lyd in the Erecting Shop at Boston Lodge with valves fitted to the backhead. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Will High and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

North Wales Track Gang report 23/5/09

Dafydd Thomas reports: On Saturday 23/5/09 the North Wales Track Gang carried out bush and branch cutting along the line south from Hafod-y-llyn to OB 217 (the more southern of the two Armco bridges at Traeth Mawr). Branches had been found to be more than a little too close at some locations during the previous Saturday's sponsors' trains.

On Sunday 24/5/09 a start was made on sorting things out at Dinas post construction period. After constructing 12 miles of railway there is a great deal of material, rubbish, tools and equipment that needs to be sorted out at Dinas in order to get the place back in working order as a base for running and maintaining the railway. We have made a start and we will continue with Wednesday evening working parties, so anyone interested please contact Dafydd Thomas - tycroes@btinternet.com / 01248 681019.

These northerly and westerly views (both 23/5/09) show lineside clearance near the Afon Nanmor bridge. Conway Castle collected the cuttings in a ballast hopper. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Steve Broomfield and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Beddgelert alterations

Portable toilet blocks were installed at Beddgelert on 22/5/09 for the start of public services replacing the Portaloos previously installed. The zigzag path has been fenced to prevent people taking a steeper shortcut. The northerly shelter has a plaque showing it is sponsored by the WHRS and the southerly one by Barter Books (Alnwick).

'Aerial' views of Beddgelert 21/5/09

On 21/5/09 Jim Comerford was operating as the radio network relay station located up on the hill above Beddgelert as the mobile signal in the station is not that good. The location provides a good overall view of Beddgelert station

These southerly views (both 21/5/09) show Prince departing for Hafod-y-llyn and later arriving from Goat Cutting to break the banner. Meanwhile No.87 and No.143 await departure with the guests' special to Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Jim Comerford and were taken on a Minolta Dimage 304 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Hafod-y-llyn opening specials 21/5/09

The opening of the WHR from Beddgelert to Hafod y Llyn on Thursday 21/5/09 went smoothly as planned. During the day special trains were laid on for guests and local residents and there was even a first public train over the section (at £50 each!) prior to the start of the timetabled service the following day.

Nos.87/143 hauled the Aberglaslyn Pass Opening Special double-headed from Caernarfon carrying invited guests and dignitaries. Vale of Ffestiniog again ran a light engine ahead of the train to Hafod-y-llyn and back up to Rhyd Ddu to thwart any attempts at disruption. Prince and a 3 coach vintage set then ran ECS to Hafod-y-llyn an hour ahead of the Garratt-hauled train in a positioning move. Prince ran round and returned to pause at Cemetery Curve, awaiting the moment to be called forward to break the banner in Beddgelert Station. A volunteer had to man a 'radio relay' station overlooking the area to coordinate the movements due to poor mobile reception.

The Garratt hauled train then arrived at Beddgelert where guests detrained for the reopening ceremony. Caerwyn Roberts, Chairman of the Snowdonia National Park Authority was introduced by Dr. John Prideaux (FR Co. Chairman). The speeches focussed on the anticipated economic benefits from the reopening through the Aberglaslyn Pass and the soon to be opened Porthmadog extension.

Prince broke the banner at Beddgelert around midday whilst arriving from the Porthmadog direction reprising many photographs from the 1920/30s. Later, after the speeches, No.87 led No.143 down the Aberglaslyn Pass with the Opening Special. The locos ran around the train at Hafod-y-llyn. While guests took lunch at the Royal Goat Hotel, the Garratts ran a special to Hafod-y-llyn for residents of Nantmor. Prince's short vintage train went to Rhyd Ddu to pick up the £50 a head passengers who wanted to ride the first public train of the new era through the Aberglaslyn Pass. These trains then passed again at Beddgelert, where the residents disembarked and the guests joined to return to Caernarfon, while Prince continued to Hafod-y-llyn.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 7 min 42 seconds of compilation video of Prince, No.87 and No.143 running the various trains between Beddgelert and Hafod-y-llyn on the Opening Day 21/5/09. This video was taken by John Wooden (FR) on a camcorder.

This southerly view (21/5/09) shows Prince approaching Cemetery Crossing as it returns from Hafod-y-llyn for the banner breaking ceremony at Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ray Cooper and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (21/5/09) shows Prince waiting at Cemetery Curve for the banner breaking ceremony at Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ray Cooper and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (21/5/09) shows Prince breaking the banner at Beddgelert to open the Beddgelert-Hafod-y-llyn section through the Aberglaslyn Pass. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Ewing (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (21/5/09) shows No.87 leading No.143 near LC89 with the Opening Special to Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ray Cooper and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (21/5/09) shows Prince standing in Goat Cutting at Beddgelert whilst returning paying guests to Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ray Cooper and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (21/5/09) shows Prince standing in Beddgelert Station. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ray Cooper and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These views (both 21/5/09) show Prince running north through Meillionen (Beddgelert Forest Campsite) Halt and then returning south later on the first public working from Rhyd Ddu to Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright John Ewing (WHRCL), and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Towards the end of the day all the stock returned to Dinas with No.87 double heading with No.143 and Vale of Ffestiniog double heading with Prince.

This northerly view (21/5/09) shows No.87 running around the train with No.143 entering the headshunt at Caernarfon at the end of the day. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Ewing (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (21/5/09) shows Vale of Ffestiniog hauling Prince back at Dinas at . Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Ewing (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (21/5/09) shows No.138 arriving back on shed at Dinas with No.87 and K1 already tucked up for the night. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Ewing (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Views from the footplate 21/5/09

This northerly view (21/5/09) from the footplate shows No.87 leading No.143 around the Salem curves. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Stagg and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (21/5/09) from the footplate shows No.87 leading No.143 emerging from Cutting Mawr. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Stagg and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

More from 21/5/09

This southerly view (21/5/09) shows No.87 leading No.143 at Caernarfon on the Opening Special for guests. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (21/5/09) shows Prince at Beddgelert, ready to leave for Hafod-y-llyn with the original WHR water tower to the right. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 19/5/09

Team Wylfa were back at work on Tuesday evening 19/5/09 and had a good turnout. We achieved our objective which was a full check and oil-up of E Set and carriages Nos. 23/24 when they returned from a late evening training run to Hafod-y-llyn. This included an additional feature of topping up flange lubrication with 'grease sticks'. This is a new feature recently fitted to the carriage bogies whereby a solid 'grease stick' bears on the root of the flanges and coats the flange and then the rail head with a micro-film of lubricant which reduces wear on the wheel's tyre and railhead. This is especially important with the sharp curves now encountered on the Rhyd Ddu - Beddgelert section and should reduce both carriage and PW maintenance. It was trialled on one of No.143's bogies and carriage No.113 the season before last. A lot of mainline railways use this system, especially in Canada and USA.

Our next working party is next Tuesday 26/5/09 when it will be the turn of the F Set. If enough people turn up, the team could be split between carriage inspections and some work on No.134.

Nest obstruction! 17/5/09

The little used CTRL was found to contain a bird's nest on 17/5/09.

This view (17/5/09) on the CTRL near the site of Porthmadog New, shows a bird's nest impeding traffic. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

K1 Sponsors' Train 17/5/09

Following K1's return from Boston Lodge, its first passenger working was a special on 17/5/09 from Caernarfon to Hafod-y-Llyn (and back!). Although initially fine, the weather got progressively worse on the return journey and the loco struggled with the almost continuous 1 in 40 climb from Nantmor Bank to Summit Cutting and slipped badly. The load of seven fully laden coaches proved too much of a challenge on wet rails and an unscheduled halt at Beddgelert Forest Campsite allowed the boiler to be topped up. Part of the problem was that the loco's sanders were found to be blocked by damp sand.

This northerly view (17/5/09) shows K1 at Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Adam Hawton and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (17/5/09) shows K1 at Caernarfon with detail of the works plate. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (17/5/09) shows K1 at Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (17/5/09) shows K1 crossing the Afon Glaslyn at Bryn-y-felin. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a Canon PowerShot S5IS digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (17/5/09) shows K1 running around at Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Ewing (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (17/5/09) shows K1 struggling up to the summit at Point Cae'r Gors with a towering plume of smoke. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ben Fisher and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Prince arrives at Dinas 17/5/09

Prince arrived at Dinas on 17/5/09 for the special workings on 21/5/09. The loco was delivered by lorry rather than rail so that it could be reversed to face Caernarfon when it broke the banner at Beddgelert. It's date of return is unknown.

This northerly view (18/5/09) shows Prince being unloaded at Dinas by Upnor Castle with Dolgarrog also in view. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

No.138's boiler moves to Boston Lodge 17/5/09

No.138's boiler, cab and new water tank were taken to Boston Lodge on 17/5/09 as a backload for the delivery of Prince for the Opening Specials on 21/5/09. The tank and cab were loaded on DZ wagon No.2004 which was taken with them to Minffordd Yard. It is hoped to complete No.138 for next season and then tackle No.143 which is also in need of a 10 year boiler inspection/overhaul. No.143 will also need a new water tank possibly using the Brunswick Ironworks who made a similar one for No.87. Following on from No.143 is the NG15 No.134 and then, possibly the spare NG16 No.140!

It is likely that No.138 will to return to service with the same rear power bogie that was under it when it was last in service. This power bogie is currently under No.143. The front power bogie is likely to comprise the already overhauled frames of No.140's front power unit fitted out with many components from No.138's own front power bogie. This continues the policy of rotation of components between the four NG16s that has seen success in No.87.

Castell Caernarfon 16/5/09

Castell Caernarfon loco is still in a state of disassembly in the North Yard Dock Siding at Dinas, awaiting return of refurbished gearbox components.

This northerly view (16/5/09) shows Castle Caernarfon in Dinas Dock Siding awaiting return of its gearbox. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

NG15 Working Parties

Pete Randall reports: On 16-17/5/09 the NG15 group held its regular third weekend of the month meeting. The stripping down of the main frames is progressing well with the work nearly complete and ready for the next stage of cleaning and painting prior to reassembly. Anyone interested in joining the group will be most welcome and should come to Dinas Station at 0900 on Saturday. We meet in the Clip Shed which is at the north end of the North Yard car park.

With the Supporters' Specials running on the Saturday, the team took the opportunity to let this group know how the project is progressing and what the next steps are. A couple of presentations were geared around the train times to allow the Supporters to see our work first hand. We are using the Clip Shed for the renovation work, which for those who don’t know it is behind the construction office at the top of the car park at Dinas. We are of course flexible and will watch the running of the train etc.. Please do come along and see what we are doing and the remarkable loco, No.134, in its component parts! We all look forward to seeing you at Dinas.

Appeal for help on Opening Day 21/5/09

Paul Bradshaw reports: Tricia Doyle needs stewards to be stationed at various crossings on Thursday 21/5/09 when the special Opening to Hafod-y-llyn trains are running. If you plan to be there to photograph the specials you could combine that with "guarding" a crossing while the trains pass. Full details of what is involved can be obtained from Tricia. So if you can help, please contact her by phone on 01766 516035 or email her at tricia.doyle@festrail.co.uk

Subscribers' Specials 16/5/09

On 16/5/09 the WHR was host to the annual event for subscribers to the Phase 4/New Trains Appeals (which are still open!) and the first ever train was run from Caernarfon to Porthmadog. The specials showed the guests the section between Beddgelert and Hafod-y-llyn that was set to open to the public six days later. The trains continued from there across the Traeth (the flat grasslands of the former Glaslyn Estuary) to a point just north of Cae Pawb level crossing (the former Cambrian Crossing), on the outskirts of Porthmadog. The lack of signalling beyond there on the complex CTRL section precluded the train proceeding to Harbour Station, although it had been hoped that it might be able to go as far as Llyn Bach. Subscribers were invited to extend their donations to help with the cost of the final stage to complete the signalling for the CTRL section.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 9 min 29 seconds of compilation video of No.87 and No.143 running the various trains between Caernarfon and Porthmadog on the Sponsors' Day 16/5/09. This video was taken by Will High on a camcorder.

Two Garratt-hauled trains were run, utilising the normal sets (less bike wagons). No. 87 hauled the first train carrying Gold and Silver subscribers with No.143 following on the Bronze subscribers' train. Another first was the crossing of the two trains at Beddgelert on the return of No.87. Vale of Ffestiniog was added to the rear of the southbound workings at Hafod-y-llyn and ran top and tailed to a point just north of the trap points protecting Cae Pawb crossing. This was the site of the second version of Portmadoc New Station, the station north of Cambrian Crossing established to avoid paying crossing fees to the Great Western.

As No.87's train passed the WHHR's station at Pen-y-Mount, a WHHR Gelert train set off to run in parallel with the train from Caernarfon up to the point where the two lines diverge near Gelert's Farm Works. The parallel running was repeated when No.143's train arrived. When the trains returned to Hafod-y-llyn, the steam locos ran around before returning to Caernarfon. A short ceremony was held at Beddgelert to thank Barter Books of Alnwick for sponsorship of a platform shelter while the trains were standing at Beddgelert.

This northerly view (16/5/09) shows No.87 passing through the Aberglaslyn Pass near T2. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Anthony Siddall and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (16/5/09) shows No.87 threading T3. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (16/5/09) shows No.87 arriving at Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (21/5/09) shows No.87 rounding the eased curve at Croesor Junction. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Ewing (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (16/5/09) shows No.87 crossing Pont Croesor. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Anthony Siddall and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (16/5/09) shows No.87 threading OB216, the parapet of which is now clad is local stone. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

As the two Supporters' Specials passed Pen-y-Mount on 16/5/09 Appeal Subscribers on RhE were greeted by a WHHR train. The two services then ran parallel to where the routes diverge at Gelert's Farm.

This northerly view (16/5/09) shows the specially made station sign at erected at 'Pen-y-Mount Junction' by the WHHR, advertising possible future connections. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (16/5/09) shows Gelert running parallel south of Pen-y-Mount. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (16/5/09) shows Gelert running parallel south of Pen-y-Mount. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (16/5/09) shows No.87 at the furthest point south reached, just north of the catch point at Cae Pawb. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Anthony Siddall and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (16/5/09) shows Vale of Ffestiniog hauling the train back to Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Will High and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (16/5/09) shows No.143 rounding the curve at Bryn-y-felin. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly, easterly and southerly views (all 16/5/09) show No.143 running through the Aberglaslyn Pass on the Bronze Supporters' Special. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Anthony Siddall and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (16/5/09) shows No.143 rounding the curve at Nantmor. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Working week 29/5/09-1/6/09

Paul Bradshaw reports: It has been decided in view of the sponsors/special trains running over the weekend of 16-17/5/09 that there will not be a ROWG working party on Saturday or Sunday. The next Rest Of The World Gang working party will be a one starting Friday 29/5/09 and continuing to Monday 1/6/09.

The weekend also brought the news that the boiler has been ordered for the WHHR's own resident Baldwin, No.794, which is to be restored as No.590, its sister engine, which once ran on the original Welsh Highland Railway. The chassis of No.794 will leave Porthmadog in the next few weeks for restoration to begin at Alan Keef Ltd.