WHR

News Archive Page

2010

V4.15 updated 5/9/10

with news to 15/8/10

Newly archived sections are placed at the start of this page. This page contains archived news from 2010.

These Dinas views (30/6/10) show the Pont Croesor Halt shelter complete and in use with a bench arranged against the back wall. It is intended to paint the protective corner woodwork – this latter is not original. The building is a mirror image of the shelter that used to exist at Ynysfor (now known as Gatws Bach). The arrangement was worked up from the one photo known to exist. 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.

Tuesday Gang report 29/6/10

Tony Baker reports: On 29/6/10 the Tuesday gang was busy at Pont Croesor and at LC118. At Pont Croesor we installed posts at each end of the loop lines to carry the stop boards necessary to enable through running. Also at the Porthmadog end a cable duct was installed under LC115 to supply current to the point indicator light and home signal. On the river bridge all cables were tidied into cable ties and secured to bridge sides. Further toward Porthmadog a second team installed eight wooden posts for the corral fencing at LC118. Access was gained from LC116 from where the rail skate ferried material to site. Because Minffordd Yard is considerably nearer than Dinas some materials were sourced from there.

Team Wylfa report 29/6/10

Clive Briscoe reports: Team Wylfa attended at Dinas again on the evening of 29/6/10 - only 2 of us again unfortunately. The E Set got checked and oiled. We've been spoiled these last 3 weeks as we've had our good friend Ulrich from Germany with us. He went home last weekend, many thanks for your help yet again Ulrich and Gabi- and on behalf of the other groups you've been working with on the PW too.

The first of the two SAR bogies that have been modified to have roller bearing axleboxes is now in service on the bottom end of coach No.2042. If trials are successful, over the next few years, more conversions will be done as time and money allow.

These Dinas views (29/6/10) show the ex-SAR bogies now fitted with roller bearings. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Clive Briscoe and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Dinas Loco report

K1 is noted as having been moved from the Goods Shed to the Loco Shed where tools now surround it so hopefully, it will not be long before we see it out on the line again.

Pont Croesor waiting shelter 29/6/10

Steve Broomfield reports: Contractors (from Hereford) were in action on 29/6/10, erecting the 'station shelter' at Pont Croesor Halt.

This northerly view (29/6/10) shows contractors erecting the waiting shelter at Pont Croesor. This is being completed in the 'tin hut' style of the original WHR similar to the WHHR's replica at Pen-y-Mount Junction. 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 westerly view (29/6/10) shows the Pont Croesor 'tin hut' waiting shelter nearing completion. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Parry (FR) and was taken on a iPhone 3GS digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Three Peaks charity walk

Andy Savage reports: We did the 3 Peaks on Friday and Saturday in a train sponsored by Wrexham & Shropshire Railways. It must be the first time one of their locos has appeared at Fort William! The view from the top of Snowdon was, at 02.00 Friday, absolutely superb, with the lights from Llandudno to at least Harlech visible. Rhyd Ddu seemed a long way below us!

The Ratty (Ravenglass & Eskdale) was great, with clear skies, and the views from Scafell Pike were also brilliant. After the usual night's sleep we climbed Ben Nevis - good views most of the way, but the mist caught us near the top, although there were gaps. Our total climbing time was just over 15 hours.

The team I was in raised £11,000, the best of any team by a long way. The whole event raised £137k. My thanks to all who sponsored us - all the sponsorship goes to the Railway Children charity. If anyone still wants to chip in www.justgiving.com/rhtandco remains open.

This southerly view (24/6/10) shows 87002 and a Class 67 provided by W&SR hauling the Three Peaks Express on its first leg to Bangor for Snowdon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andy Savage and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (24/6/10) shows the group at Ravenglass on its second leg to Dalegarth for Scafell Pike. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Andy Savage and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (24/6/10) shows the group at the summit of Ben Nevis. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Andy Savage and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Installing at TOTP 26/6/10

Andrew Thomas gives step by step instructions on how to install a Train Operated Trailing Point mechanism :

• Install two long sleepers to support the TOTP mechanism and location cabinet.

• Ballast and shovel pack, then kango.

• Manhandle TOTP mechanism base plate and secure.

• Avoid squashing curious and fearless pigeon.

• Build block wall under sleepers.

• Fill block wall with conveniently located loco ash from 100 year culvert, top with ballast.

• Manhandle TOTP mechanism into position and secure to baseplate.

This southerly view (26/6/10) shows the long sleepers being installed at Pont Croesor south loop points. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (26/6/10) shows volunteers carry the heavy steel base plate into position. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (26/6/10) shows volunteers positioning the base plate. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (26/6/10) shows volunteers drilling the base plate. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (26/6/10) shows a pigeon inspecting the works in a quiet moment. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (26/6/10) shows the flange on the tiebar to which the rods and connected. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (26/6/10) shows the base plate ready for the TOTP mechanism to be fitted. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (26/6/10) shows the concrete walling to support the weight of the heavy TOTP unit. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (26/6/10) shows volunteers filling the void with old loco ash. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (26/6/10) shows volunteers carrying in the heavy TOTP unit. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (26/6/10) shows volunteers fitting the TOTP unit. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (26/6/10) shows the TOTP unit being screwed down to the long sleepers. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (26/6/10) shows the TOTP unit in place before fitting the location cabinet to protect it. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tyseley Open Day 26/6/10

Britomart and Lilla ran at Tyseley Open Day over the weekend of 26-7/6/10 with FR General Manager Paul Lewin driving. Both locos have previously appeared at WHR Super Power events, though normally based on the FR.

This northerly view (26/6/10) shows Lilla and Britomart running along the specially laid 2' gauge track at Tyseley. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These southerly views (26/6/10) show temporary 2' gauge track laid at Tyseley with Britomart and Lilla. 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.

Rest of the World Gang Report 26/6/10

Steve Broomfield reports: Today's Rest of the World Gang activity (26/6/10) was to replace the long sleepers at the South end of Pont Croesor loop, then install the mounting plate, TOTP mechanism and cabinet. A concrete block wall was constructed, to support the assembly, and the enclosure was filled. Some ballasting and tamping, using Kango hammers, then completed the task.

These northerly views (26/6/10) show the fitting of the trailable point mechanism at Pont Croesor south points. 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.

Wednesday Gang report 23/6/10

Steve Broomfield reports: The TOTP (trailable points) mechanism/cabinet from the north end of Hafod-y-llyn loop was today transported to the south end of Pont Croesor loop. Installation is a planned Rest of the World Gang activity this coming weekend.

Tuesday Gang 22/5/10

Tony Baker reports: The Tuesday Gang spent the day on 22/5/10 disconnecting the TOTP mechanism at the north end of Hafod-y-llyn ready for it to be transported on Wednesday to the south end of Pont Croesor. All cables were disconnected and returned on a drum to Dinas and all screws holding the assembly down to the long sleepers were loosened off ready. Meanwhile another gang were ferrying materials up from Dinas to LC 115 ready for the weekend. Three trips were made, one with the very heavy point timbers and two with the even heavier concrete blocks.

Team Wylfa report 22/6/10

Clive Briscoe reports: A crack team of 3 hit the F Set on the evening of 22/6/10 and finished checking/oiling up in record time. With Bob back from holiday and our good friend from Germany, Ulrich with us, we quickly mobilised and split up to do the main tasks. Ulrich took on opening up the axleboxes of the spare carriages and bike wagon down the carriage shed siding outside whilst Bob and myself took on a side each of the main set inside. Then Ulrich and myself went around with the oil bowser, checking the axleboxes internally and topping up the oil whilst Bob replaced the flange lubricator grease sticks. After that, Bob and Ulrich closed up the axleboxes whilst I went around all the couplings with the oil can and had a look underneath the carriages to check that no bits were dropping off. Simple when you have a good crew who know what they are doing!

It is hard to realise that we are now half way through the running season and only another 5 Tuesdays when we can do this job - after that the peak service kicks in and the sets return to Dinas too late for us to do until September. There is much other work for us to do so we won't be idle - there are some essential maintenance jobs to attend to in the Clip Shed workshop and of course, in there, No.134 beckons... A change is as good as a rest, as they say, so we're all looking forward to some other tasks. Why not come along and see what we get up to?

Loco news

With No.143's and one of No.140's part overhauled power bogies now in Boston Lodge, for the first time in a long while, both working NGG16s can be safely put to bed in the loco shed again. K1 is still in the Goods Shed awaiting the return of the repaired blast pipe.

With No.143 expected back in service later in the year, No.109 following from Pete Waterman's LNWR at Crewe before long then No.134 in a couple of year's time, a question to ponder is where are we going to keep all these locos? Answers, cheques and cash in plain brown envelopes addressed to Dinas Loco Works please.

NG15 Group report 20/6/10

The June NG15 working party was held over the weekend of the 19-20/6/10. The working parties are now being well attended by volunteers not associated with running the trains, therefore good progress is being made with No.134 during the summer months. See report here.

The reverser cross shaft was finally removed from the frames, an aborted task from the previous month. This will allow a more permanent repair to be done to one end where there had been an 'on shed' running repair in South Africa. Another item that was troublesome to work on and that again finally submitted this weekend was the stripping down of the front bogie pivot.

This Dinas view (20/6/10) shows the front brake hanger was refitted after a repair to make it fit correctly! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andie Shaw and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Another completed job is that all the bushes for the spring pillar guides have now been removed. As well as the team's activities, Brunswick Iron Works have been attending to the wastage where the rear frame stretcher fits and have been repairing the running plate supports. In all it was a good weekend's progress.

These northerly views (20/6/10) show repairs to wastage and the running plate support. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andie Shaw and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tyseley tracklaying 20/6/10

Dave Waldren reports: Further to the appeal on your website for help laying track at Tyseley Loco Works for next weekend's Open Day, three of us from the WHRS West Midland Group turned up on Sunday 20/6/10 to help Paul Lewin and three guys from the West Lancs. Railway (whose track panels we were borrowing) and Dr. Peter Jarvis. We had a great time working in perfect weather and the Tyseley guys were pleasant and helpful. In fact the whole thing was a triumph of friendly cooperation between different railways - FR Co., Tyseley Loco Works, West Lancs. Light Railway and WHRS. This is how it should be! Lilla and Britomart will be arriving during the week and will be running next Saturday and Sunday, flying the flag for the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways. Princess Elizabeth (the loco, of course...) was in light steam on an adjacent track, alongside Pitchford Hall. The Open Day should be a great event; for more information visit http://www.shakespeareexpress.com/tlw_ods/next_od.htm.

This time it was Paul Lewin who had the long drive home, not us, which made a rare and pleasant change!

These northerly views (20/6/10) show temporary 2' gauge track being unloaded and laid at Tyseley in preparation for the FR's visiting locos this coming weekend. 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.

North Wales Track Gang report 19-20/6/10

David Firth reports: The Black Hand Gang was involved in adjusting the levels of track in the approaches to the Pont Croesor platform and the track level in relation to the platform. This work was undertaken with the protection of P4.4 hazard and stop boards. This was necessary as the gang were using jacks to lift the track and generators and kango hammers to compact the ballast under the sleepers.

The gang started by providing a positive cant on the curve from the crossings to the Caernarfon loop point. This was followed by moving the track away from the platform edge at the Caernarfon end of the platform and lifting it to give a good clearance above platform level. The dip between the point and the platform was then reduced and a positive cant provided. As the level of the railhead had dropped in relation to the platform since opening to Pont Croesor. The gang started lifting the track further down the platform to provide a good clearance between rolling stock and the platform. This was all carried out in very warm, hot weather and the 12 volunteers were very grateful for the breaks provided by the arrival of the train services. (Ed. I well remember the welcome arrival of the FR train at Dduallt bringing supplies of free drinks when working as a Deviationist on the cutting at Site 1 in the blazing sunshine!)

This northerly view (20/6/10) shows the Black Hand Gang with the track setting gauge and Duff Jacks at Pont Croesor using Kango tampers. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Firth and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Steve Broomfield adds: The North Wales Black Hand Gang spent the weekend jacking and packing half of the platform road at Pont Croesor between trains. The reason was that the battery boxes on some carriages were catching the edge. It was very hot, gruelling, dusty and thirsty work, particularly on the Sunday. (Ed-the KMX tamper could not enter the section in traffic.)

This westerly view (20/6/10) shows the 'Black Hand Gang 4 tine manpowered tamper' at Pont Croesor using Kango tampers. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Neil McMaster and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (20/6/10) shows the excess ballast being repositioned. 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 (20/6/10) shows the track straightened and tamped level through half of the platform. 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.

CTRL final works to start soon

A report in the Caernarfon and Denbigh Herald advises that the CTRL will be completed by September or October. The report indicates that a few special workings will operate into Harbour Station this Autumn, including the Supporters' Special, with full passenger services commencing early (possibly Easter) in 2011. It suggests that '6 trains a day will terminate at Harbour Station with the remainder terminating at Pont Croesor'. This is probably meant to read as three trains will start from and terminate at Harbour Station.

Brownies visit 19/6/10

On Saturday 19/6/10 some 211 Brownies from across Anglesey and their leaders rode the Welsh Highland Railway on a special train from Waunfawr to Caernarfon before visiting the castle. This was part of the Centenary celebrations for the Girl Guides organisation, Brownies across the UK were given the task of riding on a steam train.

Dinas snippets 19/6/10

These northerly views (19/6/10) show progress No.138 shunting at Dinas from the team repairing a DZ. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Marcus Ingram and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly views (19/6/10) show progress No.143's bogie at Dinas off to Minffordd on a transporter and a new roller bearing fitted bogie. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Marcus Ingram and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Baldwin progress

The WHHR's £160,000 appeal for funds to complete a Baldwin loco has raised some £90,000 so far. The Imperial War museum's No.794 is currently at Alan Keef's and when complete will run as No.590, the loco that ran on the WHR from 1923. The US style bar frames have been completed and work has started on a new boiler at Israel Newton's Bradford works. the next stage will be driving wheels, axles and axleboxes, along with crankpins and new tyres but work will not start until more of the estimated £250,000 needed has been raised.

PW stock move 18/6/10

The DZ wagons were collected from Pen-y-Mount on 18/6/10. In the afternoon they were moved back to Dinas with a train consisting of 3 Ballast Wagons, 2 DZ Wagons the SAR Brakevan and the rail bolster wagon for their annual service by the permanent staff.

Pont Croesor panorama 17/6/10

This southerly view (17/6/10) shows No.87 crossing the bridge at Pont Croesor. In the background are Boston Lodge works, the NT Glaslyn viaduct and bypass works for the Porthmadog Glaslyn Viaduct. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Thurlow and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

FR Co. statement 16/6/10

Relations with the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway.

The management of the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways is concerned that sections of correspondence between it and the WHHR have been misquoted or taken out of context in statements made by the WHHR which appear in the current issue of Steam Railway magazine.

In order to clarify the situation and to ensure that the full facts are available to our staff and volunteers, we publish in full the most recent letter to the WHHR below. We strongly believe that the two organisations have complementary offerings and our preferred course of action remains collaboration.

16th June 2010
James Hewett,
Chairman
Welsh Highland Railway Ltd
Tremadog Road
Porthmadog
Gwynedd LL49 9DY

Dear James,
I was somewhat puzzled to receive your letter of 31st May, since you had already replied to my last letter of 29th April on May 10th. In the first letter you stated that you would be consulting with your Board and with your Members about the offers made to you, initially some 20 months ago.

Between sending your first and second replies, I note that you issued a press release, and gave interviews. This was not ‘consultation’, which is gathering opinion. It initiated a campaign against the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways intent on damaging us. Moreover it was misleading in suggesting that we had denied you any access to our railway, whereas that is exactly what our offers would have given you.

So, while I continue to hope that you remain intent on consultation, I worry that the press campaign and this second letter reflects a change of policy on your part.

We have not responded publicly to date. This could be misinterpreted, and so I do want to be sure that you properly understand our position, and hope that you will explain it to your supporters.

We think that there are three broad ways in which WHHR could relate to the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways.

The first is cooperation. This is our preferred option, and would be a relationship in which you adopted a role that was complementary to and compatible with what we are doing. We have worked to that end, both in helping you with your museum and in co-operating in various ways of marketing narrow gauge railways. We have also offered you the opportunity to bring your heritage rolling stock to work with ours on the Welsh Highland Railway, and for you to run the occasional special train for your members. We consider that such a relationship could evolve naturally over time, and have been surprised by the lack of response from you since the proposals were outlined 20 months ago.

However, we appreciate that there will be some people to whom a greater degree of separation, even complete independence, is important. The agricultural proverb that good boundaries make good neighbours illustrates a natural aspiration in people to be able to do what they want within their own patch. If that summarises the consensus view within your supporters, then we are quite prepared to live with that, and adapt accordingly.

There is a third position. There has been evidence of it in the past, and I fear that this is what we are facing now. That position could be summarised as outright hostility from your organisation towards ours, and not just from a few people privately, but more generally and publicly.

We note that you have an AGM in July.

You state that the matter is of great importance to you – important in the context of the fifty year history of your organisation. However important it may be, it is a matter between your organisation and ours, and will only be resolved between the two organisations. Others may have a view, but they are not stakeholders. We hope that you ensure that the issue is put to your members, that you will ask your supporters to support cooperation, and that they will agree.

If however the hostility continues, either because your members are not asked to take a view, or because you decide collectively that hostility is what is wanted, then we will have to respond. It would then be impossible for us to continue cooperating as we have done to date. In such circumstances, the exhibits loaned to your museum would need to be returned forthwith, and we would reconsider all other arrangements and contractual obligations between us and you.

I do hope that you will ensure that the matters set out in this letter are widely communicated within your supporters, and that your supporters as a whole believe that cooperation is best for all of us.

I look forward to hearing from you, and hope that you will be able to reassure me that your members will indeed be able to consider the matters set out in this letter.

Yours sincerely,
John Prideaux
Chairman,
Ffestiniog Railway
Harbour Station
Porthmadog

Team Wylfa report 15/6/10

Clive Briscoe reports: Another diminished Team met at Dinas on the evening of 15/6/10. Those that didn't come missed a fantastic evening - warm and very sunny. As we got out of our cars, No.87 could be heard pounding up the bank ECS from Caernarfon, sounding fantastic, and delivered the E Set into the Carriage Shed exactly on time as we walked down to the shed with our tools. After some hard graft, we managed to check and oil the set in time to stand at the Carriage Shed door and look out across Caernarfon Bay, listening to the birds singing as the sun went down and gave us another simply stunning Dinas sunset. It's on nights like this that all the hard work gives you an unexpected reward and makes it all seem worth it.

Pete Waterman's blog 15/6/10

There is further progress to view on Pete Waterman's blog as the wheels for his Garratt are now back at Crewe from Boston Lodge.

Tyseley Open Day 26-7/6/10

Paul Lewin reports: Tyseley Open Day is coming up the weekend 26-7/6/10 and Lilla & Britomart will be there to fly the flag for the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways. We have a kind offer of 450' of portable track from the chaps at the West Lancs, which means we will be able to run up and down alongside the like of 'Princess Elizabeth' and some of those very nice GWR engines that Bob Meanley and his team turn out so splendidly. Now the challenge. We need a couple of strong track laying type chaps to help us out next Sunday, that is the 20/6/10, to bolt together all the track panels and help pack them so they are nice and flat. This task would best suit enthusiastic folk from the midlands who can get away with doing something like this on fathers day! Or you might see it as your Fathers' Day treat. Offers to paul.lewin@btinternet.com with contact details would be warmly welcomed.

Tuesday Gang report 15/6/10

Tony Baker reports: Today (15/6/10) we began work on the stretch from Pont Croesor to Porthmadog. The first job was to fight our way through the undergrowth to LC 118 (57.28). On the way we encountered the badger sett and had a fair bit of sand to clear before we could get the rail skate through. Once there we concreted in 2 posts for signage and then proceeded to LC 117 ( 56.70) and LC 116 (56.25) to concrete in 2 more posts at each. Meanwhile 3 volunteers were left down the line to clear the growth out of the trackbed ballast. More ballast is to be laid here so weeds must be removed. Obviously the annual weed killer train missed this section. At the end of the day it was beginning to look like a railway again. When we reached LC 116, we met the KMX tamper working its way south. The Matisa tamper was parked under the first of the circular bridges, meaning we had to unload the skate, carry everything past and reload it. Still we achieved our objectives by end of play.

This northerly view (15/6/10) shows volunteers pushing the rail skate through the overgrown trackbed north of Pen-y-Mount. 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 (15/6/10) shows volunteers shovelling sand displaced from the badger sett alongside trackbed north of Pen-y-Mount. 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.

Bypass culvert progress 15/6/10

Steve Broomfield reports: Balfour Beatty were in action today (15/6/10), digging out the section of the WHR where the culvert is to be placed under the trackbed, near Pen-y-Mount.

This southerly view (15/6/10) shows the track removed for the flood relief culvert works. An excavator has cut through the sand embankment. 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 (15/6/10) shows the track removed for the flood relief culvert works. An excavator has cut through the sand embankment. 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.

PW volunteers appeal 14/6/10

Paul Bradshaw reports: There is no shortage of opportunities to join in the big heave to get the WHR open to Harbour Station by the end of September. Weekend working parties happen every weekend. The next one (19-20/6/10) is a Black Hand Gang one. Contact Dave Firth (Email: defirth@btconnect.com Phone: 01766 890367). The Tuesday Gang are out every Tuesday.

The next ROWG weekends are on 26-27/6/10 and 10-11/7/10. If you are intending to join ROWG on either of these weekends please note that the contacts for the weekends will be:

for 26-27/6/10 Tim Evans. Email address: timothy.evans2@virginmedia.com Phone: 07775 520938

for 10-11/7/10 Phil Nock. Email address: lowerbeaumontpark@yahoo.co.uk Phone: 07947 341817

For subsequent ROWG weekends, working weeks etc. contact Paul Bradshaw as usual. And don’t forget, we have a working week starting on Monday 30/8/10.

PW wagon maintenance 14/6/10

Vale of Ffestiniog was used on 14/6/10 as PW diesel and will perform that duty for the week. It will be based at Pont Croesor (south of service trains) and will run ballast trains in the morning on the next section towards Porthmadog as far as the lifted rails where the culvert works are underway near Pen-y-Mount. On Friday 18/6/10 it will return to Dinas with most of the PW wagons for their annual service on 20/6/10.

A volunteer's perspective 12/6/10

Rob Bradley reports: Wow… What a day, these are Saturday's proceedings on the track gang. It was my first visit this year and the day dawned bright and beautiful with sunshine and a light cooling breeze. I arrived at Pen-y-Mount at 9am ready for a day’s action on the mainline. I also learnt that today was an exercise in railway de-construction as we were to remove the track and ballast to allow commencement of the construction of the culvert for the bypass construction. There were 9 of us today including our leader Paul Bradshaw.

The first task was to move the DZ wagons further towards Pont Croesor to allow us to lift the two lengths of rail. Releasing the brakes and starting them, moving required some effort due to a bent brake wheel and the lack of, motive power but once moving we quickly got them out of the way. Adjacent to us, the WHHR main line was being prepared ready for action as we heard Gelert getting a team up for the day’s activities. Does anyone know where else, two steam railways are adjacent to each other in the UK?

Firing up the generator, we removed the track bolts attaching the rails to the, wooden sleepers and dragged the two lengths of track out of the way and stored, them safely further towards Cae Pawb using the tongs and rollers. By this time the first WHHR train of the day steamed past heading for Pen-y-Mount with hardly a chuff, carrying a handful of passengers.

The next task was to move the sleepers to the DZ wagon and thus the track was clear and all that was left for us to do was to remove the ballast. Creating a chain of wheel barrows and with lots of physical effort we managed to shift half of the ballast, depositing it further down the line on the adjacent track which had not been fully ballasted. We then stopped for a well-earned lunch break just after the second visit of Gelert steaming past, this time with 20-30 people on board, all looking curiously at a bunch of men shovelling like demons!

After lunch we set back to digging out the ballast and were visited by some of the WHHR gangs on the other side of the fence commenting on what a great job we were doing. I wasn’t sure whether they were being serious or they could have just been glad that they were not doing it (of course they had done the same job as the culvert had already been position under their track). Again Gelert steamed past with another handful of passengers. It does make you wonder how they survive with such low numbers. I guess that Saturday is quiet as it is a changeover day for people holidaying in the area.

By now we had removed all the ballast and all that remained was for the newly ballasted area further down the line to be tidied up and the day was done by 1500 so we all went our separate ways until next time. Before leaving we eyed the view of overgrown track leading towards Pont Croesor looking every bit liked a disused line from the early days of the narrow gauge revival with nature taking a hold on the trackbed. We’ll soon be sorting that out!

Noticing that the last service of the day from Beddgelert to Pont Croesor was at 1610, the lure of the England game was soon replaced by the thoughts of a trip to Pont Croesor and back. Having been on the Volunteers' Special back in September I was eager to see what the line was like in service. So off I went up to Beddgelert with enough time for one of those legendary ice creams before the climb up to the station ready for the train. When I got there I found it delayed by 15 minutes during which time one of the other track gang members arrived to meet his wife who was on the train and he had been lured to try it as well. The reason for the delay was, I believe sticking brakes, so I was not expecting too much when boarding the open carriage but boy was I wrong. Compared to what I had seen on the WHHR, the train was pretty full with only a couple of spare seats.

After the usual slow jaunt through the pass in beautiful sunshine we soon dropped down to Hafod-y-llyn and onto the straights of the Traeth. The turn of speed was fantastic as the driver had the chance the open up the regulator. We quickly crossed the Nanmor and Dylif bridges as the vista of Snowdon and Cnicht opened before our eyes. We took the curve at Croesor Junction in exhilarating fashion at full line speed and headed off past Gatws Bach and alongside the B4410 into the terminus with the wigwags wailing, drawing to a halt as the majority of passengers left to return to their transport. I used to think that Rhyd Ddu to Beddgelert was my favourite section, but not anymore and couldn’t wait for the engine to run round and head of back to Beddgelert in the manner it has arrived. How proud I felt that I had been involved in such a fantastic project and what a great job all those who had worked on it, not least the tamper, which has produced such a smooth ride.

I was hoping to take a video of the run round Croesor Junction curve, unfortunately the batteries on my smartphone had succumbed to the lack of signal and died just as we entered the curve. Oh well, save that for another time. I enjoyed every minute of the return journey. Needless to say I missed most of the football match and what a great decision that turned out to be. If you haven’t been on the new extension yet, then don’t waste any time. Again there is only one word for it… WOW!

Thanks again everyone for making today such a success and I hope to be back again in a few weeks for another instalment. I’ve added a couple of videos to YouTube to give you an idea of today. Apologies as they are not very good!

Gelert at Pen-y-Mount

No.87 at Gatws Bach

Rest of the World Gang report 12/6/10

Steve Broomfield reports: On Saturday 12/6/10 the Rest of the World Gang hand shunted the two DZ wagons north of the area where Porthmadog By-Pass work is required, then removed two panels of track (for the culvert works) and loaded the sleepers and baseplates onto one of the DZs. Finally, the ballast from this area was removed & utilised on the nearby track, south of the gap.

This northerly view (12/6/10) shows the track removed for the flood relief culvert works. Care will need to be taken with cable for the Cae Pawb crossing strike-in treadle. 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 (12/6/10) shows the track removed just south of Pen-y-Mount. The public footpath to the right has been recently strimmed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (12/6/10) shows Gelert passing on a WHHR service. In the foreground, sleepers removed from the trackbed for the culvert works can be seen piled in the DZ wagon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

WHHR will build the Pen-y-Mount platform

The WHHR has reconfirmed that it intends to build the Pen-y-Mount platform on the WHR as it owns the land. Construction awaits the completion of ballasting and tamping of that section. The platform will run south from the waiting shelter at Pen-y-Mount Junction. There is still no agreement with the WHR for trains to stop at the platform.

Pen-y-Mount flood relief culvert 12/6/10

Track was due to be lifted over the weekend of 12-13/6/10 to allow the Porthmadog Bypass contractors access to build the haul road level crossing and complete the piling.

This northerly view (31/5/10) shows the high view from the cab of LyD2 on the WHHR as the loco approaches the recently concreted haul road crossing for the Porthmadog Bypass. Two DZ wagons are visible on the right, ready to lift the track on the WHR main line. 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.

Rest of the World Gang report 11/6/10

Steve Broomfield reports: Having transported wagon No.96, by road, from Minffordd Yard to Snowdon Street, the Rest of the World Gang transferred ballast from the remaining pile at Llyn Bach 'straight' to the area of the south catch point at Cae Pawb.

This westerly view (11/6/10) shows the ballasted catch point south of Cae Pawb crossing. The old Porthmadog New (1923) water tower has seen reuse as a support for an electronics box. 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 8/6/10

After the Half Term flurry, it was back to a low season timetable on 7/6/10 so the train sets were back at Dinas. The E Set was just being put to bed on our arrival, so we were able to make an early start on checking and oiling up. Our good friend from Germany, Ulrich, finally made it over - this time courtesy of North Sea Ferries to Hull and the M62 rather than trying to fly through a volcanic ash cloud which stopped him last month. As usual, he kept us on our toes and we completed F Set and attended to E Set's flange lubricators, finishing exactly on time at 10pm.

Dinas report 8/6/10

K1 is in the Goods Shed with 'Do Not Move' signs on it.

Wagons Roll Group plans

The next working party date for Wagons Roll is Sunday 20/6/10, at Dinas.

No.87 problems 9/6/10

No.87 was hauling a very fully loaded train from Pont Croesor at 1220 on 9/6/10. It stopped at Nantmor when the driver heard a knocking after crossing the level crossing. After a delay of some 10-15 mins the train proceeded to Beddgelert where engineers came from Dinas to inspect the loco. It appears that a cotter pin sheared. No. 87 should have hauled the 1440 ex-Caernarfon but was taken off at Dinas and replaced with Castell Caernarfon, which ran about 2 hours late arriving back at Caernarfon about 2030, having made up a bit of time. The loco was back in action on 10/6/10 having been repaired overnight.

This southerly view (31/5/10) shows No.87 crossing the Afon Glaslyn at Pont Croesor. 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.

Upnor Castle progress 9/6/10

Boston Lodge is working on the repair of Upnor Castle and has removed the cab to disassemble the transmission. The loco is generally credited as having built the railway, having been used since 1997 on the project.

These Boston Lodge views (9/6/10) show progress with the repair of Upnor Castle. The loco is seen with its cab removed for access to the transmission. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Humphrey Davies and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

No.138 view 8/6/10

This westerly view (8/6/10) shows No.138 approaching the former Hafod Garregog Halt on the 1210 ex-Caernarfon. 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.

Tuesday Gang report 8/6/10

This northerly view (8/6/10) shows work being completed on the vehicle crossing at the former Hafod Garregog Halt. 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 westerly view (8/6/10) shows work being completed on the footpath crossing at the former Hafod Garregog Halt. 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.

Tamping to Pen-y-Mount 6/6/10

The permanent staff has started tamping from Pont Croesor to Pen-y-Mount and both tampers have been in action.

This westerly view (6/6/10) shows both tampers working south of Pont Croesor towards 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.

North Wales Track Gang report 5-6/6/10

David Firth reports: There were 7 volunteers and the weather was fine, dry and very warm. After installation of yellow flag boards, gang worked in shifts at Ynysfor level crossing down-line to create ballast shoulders from LC45.67 to 54.40. On Sunday the same number of volunteers worked at Ynysfor again. The weather was warm and sunny to start but became overcast with a cold wind at times. Volunteers created ballast shoulders and reduced excess ballast in two foot. Some vegetation was cleared from side of line. Two volunteers went to Rhyd Ddu and tightened the south loop point switchblades. They attempted to tighten the siding point switchblades too but these nuts were solid and will require treatment of WD40 or diesel oil before they can be tightened.

This northerly view (5/6/10) shows volunteers making the ballast shoulders just north of Ynysfor level crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Firth and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

First Porthmadog train October?

Mike Hart reports: Paul Bradshaw is looking to organise volunteers to get the track between Pont Croesor & Harbour Station Junction up to scratch this Autumn (see below). On top of that we are preparing for the installation of the equipment for the two level crossings in Porthmadog (Snowdon Street and Britannia Bridge) this Autumn. There is much more of course to do at Harbour Station before that is ready for regular WHR services but, if all goes to plan, we hope the October Donors' train will be the first Caernarfon-Harbour Station working.

Trevor Heath adds: There is a particular reason for getting new works completed by the end of September, which applies not only to the Welsh Highland, but to all heritage railways in Britain. From October 1 the new ROGS regulations (or The Railways and Other Guided Transport Systems (Safety) Regulations 2006, to give its official long winded government title), come in to full effect. For the last four years we have been in a transition period, when the old regulations could still be used. It was in part due to intensive lobbying by the Heritage Railways Association that the transition period was extended to four years. However, the deadline is now approaching and anyone not finishing the approval process for major new works by the end of September will have to start all over again.

Volunteer appeal

David Firth reports: To all those intending to work with the North Wales Track Gang/Black Hand Gang this weekend - 5-6/6/10. Please go to Dinas for 8.00 a.m. on both days. We will be doing some work at Dinas, but also carrying out work on the running line so orange hi-viz essential. Hope to see you there. defirth@btconnect.com

Bits & Pieces

WHR passenger numbers (excluding rovers and special events) nearly doubled in 2009 to 72049 and traffic revenue topped £1million. The new kitchen at Dinas will help provide the trolley team with a wider menu. Trolley revenue contributed well over £100,000 thanks to Daron and his team.

New toilets are in place at Caernarfon with extended decking.

Following consultations with HMRI, Hendy Crossing has changed from 'Stop and Proceed' to an 'Open Approach Crossing'. This saves time on the longer journey to Pont Croesor and also helps the difficult restart for southbound trains with the carriages hanging on the steep Coed Helen Bank. Change to 'Staff and Metal ticket' operation this year has also saved time at section boundaries as paper tickets no longer need to be written.

Beddgelert and Pont Croesor stations will have Casio ticket issuing machines to help speed and record sales. A land line has been provided at Meillionen (Beddgelert Forest Campsite) Halt for operational use in case of difficulties as mobile signals are very poor in this area.

Caernarfon station now has a Staff and Ticket token so that a train can shunt there. Previously loco changes took place on the approaches to Dinas.

Bypass works

On 1/6/10 some SAR wagons were parked on the WHR main line between Pen-y-Mount to Cae Pawb section near the future flood relief culvert.

Mike Hart adds: We expect the Porthmadog Bypass contractor to start the next phase of the culvert which is under the WHR mainline with associated temporary crossing next week. We have put two wagons there to be loaded with the ballast to be recovered from under the two or three track panels that will be lifted to enable the works. It is too good to get bulldozed into a roadway!

This northerly view (30/5/10) shows Castell Caernarfon on an evening pw run at Waunfawr. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tom Waldren (14) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (30/5/10) shows Castell Caernarfon on an evening pw run at Castell Cidwm. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Matt Waldren (almost 11!) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 1/6/10

Peter Roughley reports:

• At Dinas a pole was installed behind the green loco oil tank to act as a holster for the nozzle to aid the refuelling process.
• An audit of timber in stock was carried out to ascertain our requirements for the final section to Porthmadog
• At LC105 (Hafod Garregog) missing timbers were re-fabricated and the CCT Grids re-installed (removed previously for tamping). Further work to be carried out next week will progress the fitting of the outer crossing timbers.
• At LC103 (Parry's Pig Farm) ballast that had been moved to the side during the many re-modellings of the track had encroached onto the roadside fence and was moved back to increase the ballast shoulder.
• At LC114 (Pont Croesor) the three pedestrian gates were fitted with self closing apparatus. A gap between fence posts on the farmer's accommodation crossing was closed with corral rails. A large puddle that had formed in the entrance to the railway's car park was infilled with spare slate waste from the trackside.

This easterly view (1/6/10) shows the completion of LC105 at the former Hafod Garregog Halt, situated just beyond the level crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 1/6/10

Clive Briscoe reports: A small team attended again on the evening of 1/6/10. Unfortunately for us, it was a red service day and the E Set was still out on the late service train until its return at 2145 so we were unable to check and oil it up. The permanent staff will have to cover this rake later this week. There were several carriages and the bike wagon on the F Set that had not been seen to last week so these were done. With spare time on our hands, we attended to some plastic kegs that we use to soak wool in prior to repacking axleboxes. These had been exhausted and required cleaning out and refilling with fresh oil. Wool bundles that we had made up some time ago were placed in soak ready to refill several axleboxes that require cleaning out and repacking shortly. The wool bundles usually require a minimum of one week in soak before they are ready to use in an axlebox.

LyD No.2 view 31/5/10

The WHHR has returned its massive Polish diesel LyD No.2 to service. The loco may not be allowed on the WHR main line as its long wheelbase is though likely to 'straighten' some of the sharper curves!

This easterly 'worm's eye' view (31/5/10) shows LyD No.2 standing at the WHHR terminus at Tremadog Road. 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.

No.138 view 31/5/10

Beddgelert seat dedication 15/5/10

Harry Gow reports: On Saturday 15/5/10 Maggie Jager, Keith Jager and I with cousins and friends were present for the dedication of the bench for Mike Jager on Beddgelert Station. The plaque reads "He had Wales in his heart and steam in his blood" along with Mike's full name and birth and death dates. The view from the bench is magnificent over Snowdonia. WHR engine crews have adopted it for their breaks. Mr. David Firth of Beddgelert represented the WHR, and I gave Maggie a money order from Transport Action to mail to the Treasurer of the WHRS. (Editor's note: There was also a small donation to the costs of running this website of which Canadian Mike Jager was an enthusiastic supporter over the years.)

These northerly and westerly views (15/5/10) show the new seat on the platform at Beddgelert with Maggie Jager. The siding now has a proper lever and FPL. Vale of Ffestiniog passes with the service train. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Harry Gow and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Rest of the World Gang report 15/5/10

Steve Broomfield reports: The Rest Of The World Gang were in action at Pont Croesor on Saturday, firstly attaching the (8) so-called "St. Andrew's Crosses" above the wig-wag road crossing lights. The next task was to jack and pack the short stretch of track between LC113 and the North end of the bridge, after a ballast drop (there was a considerable 'dip'). This activity was rather hampered by Castell Caernarfon going to and fro, to prove the operation of the signalling system. We also noted the application of tarmac to the access route and to the platform. White lines were also being applied to the road surface on the approaches to the B4410 bridge and crossing.

This southerly view (15/5/10) shows Castell Caernarfon on the bridge at Pont Croesor making repeated crossings of the B4410 to test the electronics. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/5/10) shows Castell Caernarfon on the crossing at Pont Croesor making repeated crossings of the B4410 to test the electronics. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (15/5/10) shows the lights working as Castell Caernarfon (in the distance) makes repeated crossings of the B4410 to test the electronics. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/5/10) shows Castell Caernarfon on the bridge at Pont Croesor making repeated crossings of the B4410 to test the electronics. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/5/10) shows Castell Caernarfon running repeatedly across LC114 at Pont Croesor to test the detection and level crossing electronics. White lining has been completed on the road approaches. 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.

These southerly views (15/5/10) show work on the platform and approaches at Pont Croesor Halt. The first view shows the access path with the foundations for the toilet block and the ramp to the car park. The second view shows the completed tarmac surface of the platform. 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.

Pont Croesor test train 14/5/10

The completed automatic level crossings at Pont Croesor were put to use for the first time on 14/5/10 as the first test train to the new station crossed the Afon Glaslyn, the main road, the access to the RSPB Osprey Centre and the farmer’s occupation crossing. Tarmacing of the platform was being finished off on the same day and the first elements of the station buildings have been delivered to site. The train was headed by No.87 and tailed by Castell Caernarfon. Although the station loop is complete, it was obstructed by a PW train for the test, necessitating top and tailing. Further test trains are likely for staff familiarisation prior to the opening date.

The WHR will operate an Opening Special for invited guests on the morning of 26/5/10 with public services later in the day. On returning from Pont Croesor, Nantmor Halt will also be opened and dedicated to the late Dr. Ben Fisher who ran the official WHR website until his untimely death last Summer.

This westerly view (14/5/10) shows No.87 on the test train at Pont Croesor. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Parry (FR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 1 min 9s of video of Castell Caernarfon departing Pont Croesor on 14/5/10 on a test train. This video was taken by Andy Forsyth.

East Anglian Group Meeting 20/5/10

Richard Watson reports: Just a reminder about the next meeting of the WHRS East Anglian Group. Thursday 20/5/10 - Martin Shrubsole - Queensland Sugar Cane Railways. Formerly known as sugar tramways, Queensland's sugar railways have come a long way since they were first established as steam and horse hauled tramways in the 1880s. Today they represent probably the world's most advanced series of 610 mm gauge railways. Along a 1,750 km coastal strip stretching from just north of Brisbane to just north of Cairns there is over 4,000 km of track! The WHRS East Anglian Group meets at the Black Bull pub, 27 High Street, Balsham, near Cambridge CB21 4DJ. 6.30 p.m.-ish or a bit later for a pint and a "natter", and the meeting starts at 8.00 p.m.

Pont Croesor report 12-13/5/10

Castell Caernarfon was in action on the 13/5/10 ballasting the platform road at Pont Croesor Halt. The lights and detectors were fitted and the platform tamped.

This easterly view (11/5/10) shows the LC114B complete with lights. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Stuart McNair (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These southerly views (12/5/10) show Castell Caernarfon ballasting the platform road at Pont Croesor, possibly the first time the Funkey has been used on ballast duties. The flange treadle detector is visible in the first photo. Its position allows run round moves without triggering the crossing lights sequence. 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.

Tony Baker reports: To update, our coalition partners, The Wednesday Gang, completed the remaining installation of the other 4 wig-wag or road lights on Wednesday 12/5/10.

This southerly view (12/5/10) shows the LC114A complete with lights. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Stuart McNair (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/5/10) shows the tamper carefully crossing the B4410. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Stuart McNair (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (12/5/10) shows the 2m wide platform ballasted and ready to receive tarmac. Fence posts are ready to receive fencing along the rear of the platform. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Stuart McNair (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/5/10) shows signage being added to the new road lights at LC114B. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (13/5/10) shows the tamper working through the platform at Pont Croesor. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report/Pont Croesor progress 11/5/10

Tony Baker reports: Today the whole Tuesday Gang was at Pont Croesor and what a hive of activity it was. Apart from us, there were contractors building the platform and fencing and specialist electrical contractors cabling up the various signals including the wig-wags. Our jobs were to pull in cables, install the TOTP mechanism and fit the cabinet over it, put signs on posts and put the wig-wag assemblies onto their posts. As fast as we put them up, the electrical contractors were wiring them in. We managed four out of the eight today and tomorrow hopefully, the Wednesday Gang, with whom we have formed a coalition will do the other four. We also made a start installing the CCT grids at LC 114 A.

These northerly views (11/5/10) show progress at Pont Croesor level crossings. The first view shows the level crossing road lights being erected across LC114B. The second view shows the contractor wiring the electronics for the crossing in the location cabinet. 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.

Pont Croesor progress 9/5/10

These northerly and southerly views (9/5/10) show progress at Pont Croesor Halt. The first view shows a cable duct being constructed across LC114B. The second view shows fencing starting on the approach to the platform. 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.

Beddgelert flowerbeds 9/5/10

This southerly view (9/5/10) shows changes at Beddgelert. The reason behind the removal of the flowerbeds is that they prevent disabled access to the train as you cannot deploy the on-train ramps when the coach door is adjacent to the flowerbed. The beds also proved to be a trip hazard but gardeners will try again with some sheep proof plants later. 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.

West Midlands Group venue

Dave Waldren reports: Due to a huge price-hike by our usual venue, please note that all WHRS West Midland Group meetings (including this Thursday's talk about WHR bridges by John Sreeves) will take place at the Dame Elizabeth Hall, Firbank Close B30 1UA (off Oak Tree Lane Selly Oak, Birmingham) and not at the Saracen's Head as published in TSR. Any enquiries, please contact Mike Hadley (contact details as in TSR). The accommodation is ground floor, spacious and there is ample car parking. If you have never been to a West Midland Group meeting, please come along; you can be sure of great company, superb speakers and a very warm welcome!

Beer Festival 8/5/10

This Dinas view (8/5/10) shows the Rough Shunters playing to the audience and the beer beginning to flow. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (8/5/10) shows Vale of Ffestiniog entering Beddgelert Station at 1015 on a Beerfest shuttle. 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 Halt progress 8/5/10

Work continues to open the halt at Pont Croesor on 27/5/10. Fencing has been completed along the back of the platform and the platform edging has been done. Tarmac is likely to be laid next week. Work continues at Minffordd Yard refurbishing a similar 'container' type building to the old Caernarfon ticket office (now at Blaenau Ffestiniog) for use at this location.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 2 mins 15 secs of video of progress to 8/5/10. This video was taken by John Wooden (FR) on a camcorder.

NG15 No.134 update 8-9/5/10

The monthly NG15 working party ( normally the third weekend of the month) was unusually held on the second weekend of the month, which coincided with the Welsh Highland Railway's Rail Ale festival! A number of smaller tasks were tackled including straightening the front running board valance, cleaning and priming. This joins the now refurbished kit of parts. During inspection of the frames it was noticed that there were errors in the mounting of the front brake hanger bracket and so this had to be removed and correctly fitted. One job started on the Saturday that had to be abandoned was the removal on the reverser shaft. The brackets were removed from the frames, however the shaft would not release from one of the bearings, no matter how much heat was applied and how heavy the hammer was! Tired muscles meant this had to be left unfinished.

Work continued with the cleaning and undercoating of some more brake rigging components and the decarbonising of the cylinder valve chests. These are now all very clean looking and should not need doing again for quite some time. Finally a start was made on removing some of the spring guide bushes from the top of the horn guide castings and from the associated bracket above this. These brackets were also removed in some cases. This again was not completed as some were very firmly in place and some of the castings had been previously repaired around the guide hole so there were fears this was not a particularly strong area of the casting.

For full details and images see the NG15 website.

Real Ale 7-9/5/10

Click here for the Real Ale Sunday timetable and here for general information. Vale of Ffestiniog is being used on the shuttles. Images from the event would be welcome.

Election result 7/5/10

Plaid Cymru gained the Arfon seat that includes the WHR, so represent the whole of the WHR. The 'hung parliament' result of the election might put the 3PC MPs in a powerful position in a vote for PR.

Belarus visit 6/5/10

John Hine reports: WHRS West Midlands Group spent 4-7/5/10 acting as driver, guide and interpreter for a group of railway professionals from Belarus. Their visit to the UK was organised by NERHT (New Europe Railway Heritage Trust). Oleg Menshikov is Deputy Head of Minsk Area, Belarus Railways. The younger man, Yauzheni Tsyuba, is Chief Instructor at the Minsk Children's Railway College, where teenagers learn how to run a railway both by attending classroom sessions and by actually running a 750mm-gauge line through the city parks. Alla Safonova is Director of the "Dortour" railtours company. They were received very kindly by James Hewett and colleagues at the WHHR at Porthmadog, where they even did some driving. They then went first class (at the observation end of coach No.102) from the Porthmadog Harbour to Blaenau Ffestiniog, hauled by Double Fairlie David Lloyd George.

Their longest narrow-gauge journey was on the WHR, where they travelled the whole (present) length of the line from Caernarfon to Hafod-y-llyn and back in our splendid Pullman No.2100 Glaslyn, which, of course, was officially named by the Queen on 27/4/10. Their visit to the WHR concluded with a tour of the yards, workshop and engine shed at Dinas. On their last day in Wales they joined Llangollen Railway Chairman Jim Ritchie and William Shakespeare (no relation, apparently) for a ride on the LlR. Our guests were most impressed by the scenery of North Wales as well as by the engineering achievements that they saw. Their final trip on the standard gauge, the journey from Gobowen to London (Marylebone) on a Wrexham & Shropshire service, took them to this year's NERHT conference.

This easterly view (6/5/10) shows the Belarus visitors with Elwyn Jones at Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Hine and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

WHR Election report 5/5/10!

BBC News covered the WHR in their election top story on the evening of 5/5/10 with a ride on the WHR and a vox-pop feature from passengers and some views from the train. There were also lineside views at Summit Cutting and elsewhere. The link to politics was David Lloyd George's statue in Caernarfon. He was the first PM to organise MPs remuneration/expenses and was the last Liberal PM almost 100 years ago in 1916. The final national opinion polls show an average of 7 polls as Con 36%/Lab 28%/Lib Dem 28%/Others 8% and indicate a hung parliament and it seems the Liberal Democrats may have a part to play in the new government.

No.138 returns to WHR 5/5/10

A transporter was used to move No.138 back to the WHR on 5/5/10. The loco will be reassembled and probably run-in double headed for a while with a Funkey or No.87.

This westerly view (5/5/10) shows the red painted No.138 being delivered to Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Stuart McNair (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 4/5/10

On 4/5/10 the Tuesday Gang completed fencing at the south end of Pont Croesor bridge and assisted in the positioning of the trailable point mechanism at the north end of the Pont Croesor Halt loop.

These northerly, westerly and southerly views (4/5/10) show work in progress at Pont Croesor. The first view shows fence posts being placed at the north end of LC114 on the approaches to the bridge. The second view shows the trailable point mechanism being unloaded. The third view shows the platform edge kerbing concreted in place at the soon to be opened halt. 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.

No.140's boiler arrives 4/5/10

With Locomotion's transporter in action over the weekend for the galas, the opportunity had been taken to bring No.143's boiler frame from Dinas. On 4/5/10 this was married with No.140's boiler from Crewe and unloaded alongside Spooners Bar onto the WHR for transit to Boston Lodge. The almost complete No.138 will soon be on its way back to Dinas, also probably by transporter.

These westerly and easterly views (4/5/10) show No.140's boiler on No.143's boiler frame. The assemblage is seen on ambulance bogies about to be unloaded and taken into Boston Lodge. 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.

Pont Croesor progress 3/5/10

Steve Broomfield reports: On Monday 3/5/10 the Rest of the World Gang worked southwards from Pont Croesor to Pen-y-Mount, tightening SA fastenings and fishplate bolts, and replacing missing / broken ER clips. A quantity of the 'usual' badger spoil was also removed from the trackbed.

This westerly view (3/5/10) shows the loop realigned to get rid of the kink. Here the ROTWG has replaced relevant fishplates with the stronger (Darlington) type. 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 westerly view (3/5/10) shows Pont Croesor Halt platform with platform edge blocks ready to place. 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.

Pont Croesor Halt plan

Click here for the Pont Croesor plan.

Beer tanker 3/5/10!

This easterly view (3/5/10) shows a 'beer tanker' in Purple Moose Brewery livery, appropriately parked on the WHR main line outside Spooners Bar. 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.

FR Gala 2/5/10

The FR Gala revealed Lyd in steam, though requiring its cab roof completed and also the difficult Joy's valve gear.

These Boston Lodge views (2/5/10) show the almost completed Lyd. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and were taken on a Olympus E-510 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These Boston Lodge views (2/5/10) show the almost completed Lyd. 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.

BSC locos 2/5/10

This easterly view (2/5/10) shows the two ex-BSC Shotton locos in Dinas North Yard. The wheelsets have been removed so that they can be regauged for use of the WHR/FR when the locos will join the PW fleet. 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.

Rest of the world Gang 2/5/10

This easterly view (2/5/10) shows the LC104 under construction next to the Afon Nanmor bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and was taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (27/4/10) shows LC104 being completed just north of the Afon Nanmor bridge. A section of the former bridge is still visible on the bank 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.

Double Funkey 2/5/10

This northerly view (2/5/10) shows the Vale of Ffestiniog leading Castell Caernarfon down the Nantmor bank into the temporary terminus at Hafod-y-llyn, due to be closed at the end of May. 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.

WHHR Gala 1-3/5/10

James Hewett reports: The Welsh Highland Heritage Railway has been celebrating the way in which a small town in Wales influenced countries from Japan to South Africa and Australia to America. Porthmadog was one of the first places in the world to build railways where the tracks were closer together than normal. The success of narrow gauge railways here in this part of Wales inspired others around the globe. The WHHR gala event over the May Bank Holiday weekend (1- 3/5/10) had an international theme, with a four steam locomotives from round the world in service.

Narrow gauge railways work well in mountainous areas because they are cheaper to build. They can literally weave their way round the contours of the hillside more easily. In the 19th. century, they achieved major success by carrying thousands of tons of slate to the port of Porthmadog. This success inspired others to come and see how smaller railways could succeed in mountain areas where railways had previously been thought impossible. Engineers came from Norway, India and the United States to learn from the way things were done here in Wales. There was even a visit by representatives of the Tsar of Russia.

Over a hundred years later, railways as far away as South Africa, India, Japan and New Zealand can trace a connection back to the success of the narrow gauge in Porthmadog. The story is told in the new museum at the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway, and was also celebrated in the gala event. Steam locomotives in use over the weekend have worked in Spain, Indonesia and South Africa as well as having connections to places closer to home.

These WHHR views (1/5/10?) show Krauss 0-4-2T Sragi No. 1 (Works No.4045) built in Germany in 1899. This locomotive worked in a sugar mill in Indonesia and is seen arriving at the WHHR's Porthmadog terminus at Tremadog Road and running around. WHR visitor Gertrude is also in view. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy James Hewett (WHHR) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These WHHR views (1/5/10?) show Gala event. The first view shows Sragi No. 1 leading the cavalcade of Gelert and Gertrude into Porthmadog. The second view shows Orenstein & Koppel 0-4-0WT Montalban (Works No.6641). This loco was built in Germany in 1913 and worked at the Minas de Utrillas Coal Mines in Spain. The loco is seen arriving at Pen-y-Mount. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy James Hewett (WHHR) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Bypass progress 1/5/10

Chris Dearden (WHHR) reports: Work has started on building the flood relief culvert underneath the formation of the two railways between Pen-y-Mount and Gelert's Farm. The WHHR main line was diverted onto a new temporary course earlier this year and work started at the very end of April to dig away the formation and put sheet piling in place so the first part of the culvert can be constructed. Once the section underneath the course of the WHHR main line has been done, the track will be reinstated so work can carry on underneath the rest of the embankment and then the WHR.

This northerly view (30/4/10) shows progress with the flood relief culvert. The WHHR mainline chicane will be diverted back over the bridge in the summer when completed. 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 westerly view (1/5/10) shows progress with the flood relief culvert and the bypass towards Tremadog. Piling on the section under the WHHR main line has been completed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Mark Holden and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Russell progress 1/5/10

This WHHR Museum view (1/5/10) shows the chassis of Russell. The loco seems a long way from completion having being out of ticket for five years now. 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.

Tryfan Junction Halt opening 1/5/10

Keith Bradbury reports: The Opening Special left by the 1000 departure ex-Caernarfon, almost the first scheduled train to Tryfan Junction for over 70 years. Hauled by "new" No.87, the 15 minute trip soon deposited the invited guests on the new platform. Although only the first stage has been completed, in the general clearance and restoration of a platform, it is a start for the Welsh Highland Heritage Group and its plan to restore the location. Arranged by the WHHG committee, introductions were made, the extent of the works done described and what is planned when funding available, the "official" part of tour was soon over. It was then a case of mingling between the attendees and partaking of a Barbeque.

This westerly view (1/5/10) shows the party at Tryfan Junction Halt with the newly fitted period style running in board. The platform has been finished in gravel, rather than tarmac, in WHR heritage style. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Keith Bradbury and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Rest of the world Gang 1/5/10

Steve Broomfield reports: On 1/5/10, six members of the Rest of the World Gang were doing a passable imitation of the Tuesday Gang, working on crossings from LC97 through to LC103 at Hafod-y-llyn. Crossing timbers and anti-trespass grids were replaced, post KMX tamping, with repairs being undertaken where necessary. At LC103, the anti-trespass grids were constructed from scratch and fitted accordingly.

These northerly and southerly views (1/5/10) show the completion of LC103 at Hafod-y-llyn. 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.

FR Gala postscript 30/4-2/5/10

This Boston Lodge view (1/5/10) shows the red painted No.138 being readied for transport. 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.

This northerly view (1/5/10) shows Welsh Pony. The blue painted loco was plinthed for many years at Harbour Station on the alignment of the WHR, until work started on the route. It is now stored in the sheds in Minffordd Yard out of the reach of salt air corrosion. 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.

These FR Gala views (30/4/10 and 2/5/10) show Brian Faulkner's Lister (used on construction trains around Croesor Junction when Dolgarrog was unavailable) with Blanche and Britomart, all of which have appeared on the WHR over the years. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Brian Faulkner and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Former star picture

This southerly view (17/5/09) shows K1 between T2 and T3 with smoke still emerging from T4 in the background. The rear of the train is still threading T3. The photographer had climbed high on 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.

Gala Locos 30/4/10

This Minffordd Yard view (30/4/10) shows Upnor Castle having returned to the FR for attention and Moelwyn shunting. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a Panasonic FX38 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This Gala view (30/4/10) shows Dolgarrog having returned to the FR for attention in the old loco shed at Boston Lodge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a Panasonic FX38 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Bypass report 30/4/10

The flood relief culvert work near the site of the viaduct over the WHR continues. The WHHR has been diverted and piling is taking place on the alignment. In Phase 2 of the bypass works the WHHR main line will be relaid on its original alignment. All the other lines, including the two sidings, and the WHR line, will then be taken up, and the remainder of the culvert will be built. When Phase 2 is complete, all the above lines will be relaid. Its also planned that a temporary level crossing will be put across all 4 lines, to be used during the construction phase.

This westerly view (29/4/10) shows the haul road level crossing just south of Pen-y-Mount. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ken Farrance and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These southerly and westerly views (29/4/10) show the piling taking place just south of Pen-y-Mount Halt. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Ken Farrance and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Point Croesor progress 29/4/10

These southerly views (29/4/10) show the widening of the formation to the west at Pont Croesor Halt. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Ken Farrance and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Nantmor Halt 29/4/10

These southerly views (29/4/10) show the almost complete waiting shelter at Nantmor Halt. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Ken Farrance and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Bypass piling work starts 28/4/10

Work started on 28/4/10 on piling work for the flood relief culvert under the WHR at Porthmadog, following the completion of an access/haul road for the piling rig. Piling will also be required on the east side of the WHR.

These southerly and westerly views (28/4/10) show the access/haul road to the site of the viaduct over the WHR. The WHHR has been slewed to the east to allow services to continue whilst works are underway. 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.

This northerly view (28/4/10) shows the piling rig on site at the end of the day at the north end of Gelert's Farm. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright WHHR, courtesy of Andrew Goodwin, and was taken on a webcam. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 27/4/10

Tony Baker reports: We carried on with the grid installation programme. Foundations for LC 103 and 104 and grid installation at LC 115. Steve and Lyndon installed crossing timbers at LC 114C (Pont Croesor farmers' crossing), which has been completed. Non of us met the Queen.

This northerly view (27/4/10) shows LC114C being completed at Pont Croesor. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa holiday 27/4/10

Clive Briscoe reports: I got called home to the old house in Treuddyn on Tuesday morning with a break in, so didn't make it to Dinas on the evening of 27/4/10. There would only have been 2 of us anyway, so no great deal. I'm out of the country for the next two weeks so we won't be at Dinas until Tuesday 18/5/10.

These northerly views (27/4/10) show Castell Caernarfon shunting 2040 into the siding at Beddgelert Station. 2040 had to be detached from the 1210 at Beddgelert having run a hot box on one of the axles. Team Wylfa has been unable to maintain the axleboxes recently and it seems likely the FR will appoint a paid position to maintain the fleet. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Chris Jones-Bridger and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Queen names Pullman 27/4/10

Her Majesty The Queen visited the WHR on 27/4/10, travelling on the train from Caernarfon to Dinas and naming the Observation Car 'Glaslyn' at Dinas.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 3 mins 27 secs of video of the Royal event on 27/4/10. This video was taken by John Wooden (FR) on a camcorder.

This northerly view (27/4/10) shows HM The Queen joining the train in Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These westerly views (27/4/10) show HM The Queen naming the Observation Car Glaslyn at Dinas. The coach carries the Pullman coat of arms. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (27/4/10) shows No.87 with drivers at Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dave Thurlow and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

No steam weekend 25/4/10

Last weekend saw no steam action on the WHR, presumably due to the RED operating conditions with the warm dry weather continuing.

This northerly view (25/4/10) shows Castell Caernarfon passing volunteers erecting the waiting shelter at Nantmor Halt. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andy Forsyth and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Volunteer appeal

David Firth reports: The Welsh Highland Railway Society has been offered a stand at the Welsh Highland Heritage’s Gala in Porthmadog. This should be a good opportunity for building bridges between the two of us. We need to man the stand between 10.30 and 16.30 on Saturday 1/5/10, Sunday 2/5/10 and Monday 3/5/10. Would any Society members who could help, please contact David Firth, 01766 890367, defirth@btconnect.com. A little additional help on Friday evening to set the stand up would also be appreciated.

Pont Croesor progress 23/4/10

This southerly view (23/4/10) shows surveying underway at Pont Croesor Halt. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ken Farrance and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Nantmor progress 23-25/4/10

Dafydd Thomas reports: Over the last 4 days, Thursday to Sunday, 22-25/4/10 the North Wales/Black Hand Gang have been busy assisting Roy Tasker to erect the station shelter building at Nantmor. Volunteers also put up a fence at the back of the platform, installed notice boards and a new entrance gate and fence. Although most of the work has been carried out there are still a number of tasks that need completion before 27/5/10.

This southerly view (23/4/10) shows the fencing being completed along the rear of the platform at Nantmor Halt. 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 (25/4/10) shows the waiting shelter at Nantmor Halt nearing completion. The fencing is also complete along the rear of the platform. 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.

Beers Festival preparations appeal

Dafydd Thomas reports: This year we have a reduced time available to prepare for the Real Ale Festival, due to a certain event on Tuesday, 27/4/10. We have access to the Goods Shed from Wednesday, 28/4/10 and we hopefully intend to carry out the work according to the timetable below: Working in the evenings, Wednesday to Friday and daytime Saturday & Sunday, also Monday and Thursday. 

• Wednesday, 28/4/10, from 6:30pm - clear the Goods Shed of all unwanted materials.
• Thursday, 29/4/10, from 6:30pm - clean down the walls & repair the floor of the Goods Shed.
• Friday, 30/4/10, from 6:30pm - paint the floor of the Goods Shed.
• Saturday, 1/5/10, from 9:00am - erect stillage, stage and other preparatory work.
• Sunday, 2/5/10, from 9:00am - if required, continue with the above.
• Monday, 3/5/10, from 6:30pm - any remaining tasks.
• Thursday, 6/5/10, from 9:00am - put up marquees, fence off non public areas, etc.

Real Ale Festival: 7-9/5/10. (volunteers still needed, contact Tym Crowther - andy@tymcrowther.eclipse.co.uk / 01286 880408

Of as much importance, Monday, 10/5/10, from 9:00am - put it all away. If you can help with any of this please contact, Elwyn Jones - elwynjos@hotmail.co.uk/01286 830856

Nantmor Halt progress 22/4/10

Volunteers are erecting the waiting shelter at Nantmor. It is identical to that at Meillionen-Beddgelert Forest Campsite.

These westerly and northerly views (22/4/10) show the construction of the waiting shelter at Nantmor Halt. 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.

DB buys Arriva 22/4/10

DB has succeeded in the purchase of Arriva (subject to shareholder approval) which runs Arriva Trains Wales. It already runs EWS, Chiltern Railways (who are introducing some loco hauled expresses with plug fitted MkIII upgrades) and W&SR. DB is known to prefer the flexibility of loco hauled local services in Germany and it is possible that the current Holyhead-Cardiff and W&SR loco hauled service could be integrated into a fleet and extended to the Cambrian Coast.

Observation Car naming

The Observation Car No.2100 is to be named Glaslyn during the Queen's visit on 27/4/10. The 1000 public service will not run on this day. Roads around Dinas will be closed for security reasons.

Pont Croesor Halt progress

Work on the green Portacabin booking office/shop is underway at Minffordd yard. The interior has yet to be started. Meanwhile good progress is being made widening the embankment for a 2m wide platform on the west side of the loop.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 2 min 6sec of video about the construction of Pont Croesor Halt on 21/4/10 working a photo-charter. The quality of the YouTube clip does not represent the quality of the DVD. This video was taken by John Wooden (FR) on a camcorder.

Team Wylfa report 20/4/10

Clive Briscoe reports: With some of the team back from holidays etc, we appeared back at Dinas last night. However, not in the numbers predicted. Ulrich was still stuck in his homeland, Germany, because of the volcanic ash in the air and has cancelled his visit until later in the year, John Peduzzi was diverted onto a test train so that just left two of us. We were due to undertake some more work on No.134 but there was another more needy task - check and oil up the Royal Train! Duly done but with the exception of the Royal Carriage which is safely locked away for some touch up and polishing of the paintwork.

There was a flurry of activity on our arrival, No.87 had been steamed after some modifications and needed a test run. The F Set was removed from the Carriage Shed and up the fuel road by Vale of Ffestiniog then Caernarfon Castle came up behind to couple up at the bottom end. This was because the bay platform road and release roads are currently out due to cable ducting being tunnelled under them, the fuel road is having to be used as a head shunt. Vale of Ffestiniog uncoupled and Caernarfon Castle then hauled the set out onto the main line and No.87 ran down from the station to couple up.

The test train ran to Caernarfon and back, arriving back just as we were putting our tools away. Being a still night, the sound of No.87 pounding up the bank at full tilt from perhaps almost a mile away was shear magic. Over the winter, the valve timings have been vastly improved and it sounded 'sweet'.

We will be at Dinas next Tuesday 27/4/10 but not the following two as I am abroad (hopefully!) on holiday.

Tuesday Gang report 20/4/10

Tony Baker reports: We continued with installing CCT grids by completing LC 111 (54.31) and LC 113 (55.55). We also installed foundations for LC 115 (56.01). In addition a start was made installing the crossing timbers at LC 114C. It is probably not appreciated that each crossing timber is unique and will only fit the crossing it is made for. This is because the cut outs for the clips holding the track to the sleepers will always fall differently. Consequently it is a fairly lengthy process. The contractor arrived on site at Pont Croesor today and started levelling the area where the platform will be.

This easterly view (20/4/10) shows the individual clip cut-outs for the crossing timbers on LC114C (the gated stock crossing). Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (20/4/10) shows the crossing timbers on LC114C being placed in position. The complete sequence of LC114C/B/A can be seen in this view. LC114B, the Glaslyn Osprey Centre crossing is now tarmaced. 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 (20/4/10) shows James Cyf. working on the platform on the west side of Pont Croesor Halt. 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.

Nantmor Halt progress

Dafydd Thomas advises: For those of you that are coming to assist with putting the platform shelter and the fence up at Nantmor from Thursday 22/4/10 onwards, you can either come to Dinas for 0830 or meet up at Hafod-y-llyn at 0945. We will ferry you to Nantmor in the Company vehicle due to limited parking at Nantmor (unless you want to go in the car park and pay). For Friday, it will be a roughly similar time. Saturday and Sunday, 0800 at Dinas and 0900/0915 at Hafod-y-llyn. There might well be another job and/or trackwork at the weekend.

Nantlle Tramway tunnel to be blocked off

A BBC report refers to the proposed use of a tunnel alongside the WHR for bat roosts. This could be the Nantlle Tramway Tunnel on the west side at Coed Helen, close to Caernarfon.

Alan Pegler's 90th birthday 16-17/4/10

Alan Pegler, saviour of the FR back in the 1950s, visited the FR and WHR to celebrate his 90th birthday on 16-17/4/10. As well as a named Prince hauled special on the FR, the party travelled on the 1000 train from Caernarfon in the Observation Car, since named Glaslyn. Without the interest free loan from his father of £3,000, it is doubtful the FR could have been purchased in 1954.

This westerly view (16/4/10) shows Alan Pegler with Prince carrying special birthday headboard at Tan-y-bwlch. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Hopkins and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Mild dry weather brings steam ban 16/4/10

No.87 was banned from the line after a problem with its grate and the declaration of RED days in the second week of the school Easter holidays following an almost unprecedented mild dry Easter. Trains were hauled by Castell Caernarfon (1000/1410) and Vale of Ffestiniog (1210). It was hoped that the steam service could resume on 20/4/10 with the 1000 from Caernarfon. Upnor Castle, operating PW trains south of Hafod-y-llyn during the week, followed the 1435 from Hafod-y-llyn north about an hour later, light engine on 16/4/10.

This southerly view (16/4/10) shows Vale of Ffestiniog hauling the final train of the day out of T3 in the Aberglaslyn Pass. The former WWII Blacker Bombard mortar mount is just in view to the left. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

LC114 complete 15/4/10

LC114 appears complete but requires traffic lights. The temporary lights have been removed.

These northerly views (15/4/10) show the walling completed around the level crossing at Pont Croesor (LC114) taken from LC114B, the Glaslyn Osprey Centre level crossing. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Ken Farrance and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These westerly views (15/4/10) show the walling completed around the level crossing at Pont Croesor (LC114). As at the new Bryn-y-felin bridge a footpath has not been provided. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Ken Farrance and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These southerly views (15/4/10) show the walling completed around the level crossing at Pont Croesor (LC114). At stop block protects the crossing until the lights are installed next month. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Ken Farrance and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 13/4/10

Clive Briscoe reports: We didn't make it again last week as nobody was available. We be there on the evening of 20/4/10 as the wanderers are returning with one volunteer making it back from Australia just before the ash started rising. There should be 4 of us tomorrow night, all being well, then again next Tuesday but then a 2 week break.

Tuesday Gang report 13/4/10

Tony Baker reports: We continued with the fitting of CCT grids and planted another 6 posts for signage at Pont Croesor. The weather was warm and sunny.

This northerly view (13/4/10) shows a buckle in the track at the south end of Pont Croesor loop. The track had not been ballasted or tamped and the weaker fishplates had been used. 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.

Royal Visit/naming of Observation coach

The Liverpool Daily Post has revealed details of the Royal visit on 27/4/10 to Caernarfon. The Royal Train is expected to visit Bangor and the Queen and the Duke of Edinburgh will travel by WHR train from Caernarfon to Dinas, after visiting Caernarfon Castle for the first time since the 1969 Investiture. At that time the standard gauge still extended to Dinas in a disused state but was used for ECS stabling by the several visiting specials that attended the event. At Dinas, the Observation Car will be named (Osprey?) and a plaque unveiled to commemorate the naming. On 13/4/10, K1 and No.9 were being removed from the Goods Shed, the latter on wheel skates, so that the Observation car could have a good clean and touch up painting. The shed will then remain empty until the Beer Festival.

K1 news

The blastpipe weld did not work. Consequently a pattern has been taken so than a specialist company can make a new blastpipe. The loco remains in Dinas North Yard with some side rods removed.

Pont Croesor Halt sign

Richard Watson requests: The EAG is looking for help with transport for the running-in board (sign) for Pont Croesor, from the East Anglian Group site at Mill Green, near Cambridge, to the RhE. The completion date for the sign is imminent. It is more awkward than heavy, and measures just over 3500 x 500 x 150 mm (11 ft 3 ins x 19 ins x 6 ins).

Volunteer appeal

Dafydd Thomas requests: We need volunteers on the following additional days to the usual North Wales/Black Hand Gang days.

• Thursday and Friday, 22-23/4/10 - putting them up Nantmor Halt shelter and fence.
• We will also be continuing on 24-25/4/10 as well as work on the track.
• Monday, 19/4/10 - putting in a service duct for the new trolley water heating point on the platform at Dinas.
• Real Ale Festival - preparations at Dinas, 24-25/4/10 and 1-3/5/10. Please let me know if you can do any of these, thank you. Click on contacts.

Busman's Holiday11-17/4/10

This website will not be updated until 17/4/10 as your webmaster will be on holiday at the WHR. please do not repeatedly hit the website looking for updates as it might cause bandwidth problems for the server, space on which is kindly donated by Peter Bowyer of Narrow Gauge Heaven and Maple Design.

New wagons maintenance group 11/4/10

Keith Holland reports: On Sunday 11/4/10, four of us met at Dinas for our initial work party. As the weather was fine, and we do not yet have a designated area in which to work it was decided to concentrate our efforts on two DZ wagons currently sitting on the bay platform road. We oiled the axleboxes on both DZ1423 and DZ1412 and noted some things to be actioned at our next working party. Then on DZ 1412 we took the main brake rigging apart and greased and replaced all items back as they were. We expect to have our next working party in June.

This westerly view (11/4/10) shows the new wagon maintenance gang with a DZ wagon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

North Wales Track Gang report 10-11/4/10

Over the weekend 10-11/4/10 the North Wales/Black Hand Gang continued with the process of repositioning the sleepers between Hafod Garregog crossing and Pont Ynys Ferlas (Afon Nanmor bridge). On Sunday afternoon we ballasted and levelled the track each side of the Caernarfon end point of Pont Croesor loop.

Loco report 9/4/10

Boston Lodge is working hard to get No.138 back in service by the end of April to rectify the shortage of steam haulage on the WHR (see below). Haulage plans for the week from 10/4/10 are available on the WHR website and show No.87 back in action along with the Funkeys. No.143's boiler (actually a swap from No.140) is due for hydraulic test at Pete Waterman's Crewe Works next week. Attempts are also being made to get the construction of Lyd back on track so that at least the working steam auxiliaries can be demonstrated at the Quirks and Curiosities event on the FR from 30/4/10 until 3/5/10. Those travelling by rail might like to take advantage of the newly introduced Conwy Valley Day Ranger available until 22/4/10 at a very cheap price.

These Boston Lodge views (9/4/10) show No.138 nearing completion. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This Boston Lodge view (9/4/10) shows No.138's dome in daylight, giving a better impression of the natural light colour of the loco. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These Boston Lodge views (9/4/10) show Lyd under construction. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Steam in the pass 8/4/10

These northerly and southerly views (8/4/10) show No.87 passing through the Aberglaslyn Pass, threading T2 and T3. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Dave Thurlow (F/WHR S&T) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Phase 5 news 8/4/10

A local newspaper has reported moves to rebuild the NR link from Bangor to Caernarfon. This follows Welsh Assembly proposals for the Amlwch line on Anglesey and interest in the Aberystwyth-Caernarfon line. If constructed, a terminus on the lower car park near Morrison's with a short WHR tramway style rail link through the tunnel providing cross platform interchange. The North Wales Transport plan includes the 10 mile link in long term plans but Gwynedd Council is still trying to sell off land in Y Felinheli, half way along the route.

Rhyd Ddu 7-9/4/10

Castell Caernarfon and Vale of Ffestiniog double-headed as usual down to Beddgelert on 7/4/10. However, on 8/4/10 returning from Beddgelert there was news that No.87 had a problem. So Vale of Ffestiniog was detached at Beddgelert, along with the bicycle wagon. Castell Caernarfon took the coaches to Rhyd Ddu and waited for the late-running No.87. It seems the locos then swapped trains, as some time later No.87 passed by Glan-yr-afon again.

These easterly and southerly views (7/4/10) show Vale of Ffestiniog, this time single heading, arriving at Rhyd Ddu at 1700 and No.87 departing northwards shortly afterwards. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and were taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Chris Price reports: On Thursday 8/4/10, I went to Beddgelert to photograph No.87 in blue. However, two problems ensued: The FR Funkey Vale of Ffestiniog sprang a leak on the midday train and was detached at Beddgelert and shunted into the refuge siding with coach and bike wagon (to reduce the load). The WHR Funkey Castell Caernarfon went on down to Caernarfon after delays. No 87, for reasons not known by the station staff, failed to come up on the afternoon train, although it had been up and back in the morning train, and the WHR Funkey took over at Rhyd Ddu or Waunfawr I guess, with Ben Rosen driving, well over an hour late. I never did get to see No.87, but it was a lovely afternoon to hang about in Beddgelert and nobody seemed to mind the delay. A batch of folk waiting to get back to Meillionen (Beddgelert Campsite) halt were given a free ride to Hafod-y-llyn to keep them happy!

These northerly and southerly views (8/4/10) show Vale of Ffestiniog at Beddgelert station having been detached after failing and later stabled in the siding. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Chris Price and were taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly and southerly views (8/4/10) show Vale of Ffestiniog at Beddgelert station and later being passed by Castell Caernarfon. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Chris Price and were taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

It seems that the rocking grate had jammed partially open and there were concerns that the up-standing tips may have got burnt and the grate segments distorted, chromium steel castings notwithstanding. The loco was therefore withdrawn from service pending repairs before any serious damage arose and remained out of use also on 9/4/10. On 9/4/10 Castell Caernarfon was noted heading south over the summit with Vale of Ffestiniog heading north out of Rhyd Ddu on the two rakes. No.87 was back in traffic over the weekend of 10-11/4/10.

WHHR Gala 1-3/5/10

The WHHR has released details of its Gala over the May Day Bank Holiday weekend 1-3/5/10. Click on this link for the poster.

Tampers back in action 7/4/10!

The chances of finishing the tamping of the Pont Croesor extension on time for the 27/5/10 opening are now good with reports that both the KMX and Matisa tampers are back in action. The Matisa is a tight fit through the bridges and tunnels south of Beddgelert. However, it was noted in action at Pont Croesor on 17/3/10 and again on 7/4/10.

This northerly view (17/3/10) shows the Matisa tamper reaching Pont Croesor presumably for the first time. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Pont Croesor Halt contract awarded 7/4/10

The contract to construct the platform and car/coach park at Pont Croesor has been awarded to G. H. James who recently completed the level crossing work at Pont Croesor. Work should begin in earnest this week. It is hoped to open the halt on 27/5/10 when it is intended to extended the railway to Pont Croesor.

Double heading views 6/4/10

With No.87 still the only steam loco available, the two Funkeys Vale of Ffestiniog and Castell Caernarfon have hauled one of the two sets. One Funkey is insufficient for the timing load on the 1 in 40 sections south of Rhyd Ddu.

These northerly, easterly and southerly views (5/4/10) show the Funkey pairing at Nantmor Curve, Ffridd Isaf curve and Waunfawr. 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.

Tuesday Gang report 6/4/10

Tony Baker reports: Today we continued with the construction of CCT grids (Cattle Cum Trespass-the triangular wooden grids) on the Hafod-y-llyn to Pont Croesor section. LC 109 (53.30) was completed after much extra effort to resolve a difference in levels between the track and the contractor installed corral rails. Basically the corral rails were much too high and even dropping to ground level was insufficient. The problem was eventually solved by attaching the CCT framework to the underside of a 4 x 4 peg which in turn was attached to the underside of the corral bar. Another team was planting posts at Pont Croesor. Oh, it rained all afternoon incidentally.

Peter Roughley adds: Six 76mm posts were concreted in at various positions in the Pont Croesor area together with two speed/whistle signposts Signage to be attached later are Advanced LC Warning Signs on both sides of the crossings, Standard Signs for LC114B (the crossing to the RSPB Viewing Centre), LC Warning Signs (road approach) and speed & whistle signs. Some more posts will be required for Point Indicator Lights and Shunt Limit Signs once James Cyf have completed the west platform work, which is still to be started.

Team Wylfa report 6/4/10

Clive Briscoe reports: Sorry to report, there was no Team Wylfa again this week for a variety of problems. Hopefully we will be at Dinas next TUESDAY evening, 13/4/10.

WHHR Easter success 5/4/10

WHHR Press release: The Welsh Highland Heritage Railway in Porthmadog is breathing a sigh of relief after a successful Easter Weekend, despite fears over the weather. Managers at the attraction had feared that rain, wind and even snow in the run up to Easter would affect visitor numbers for the traditional start to the tourist season. James Hewett, Chairman of the WHHR said: 'The sun finally came out late on Good Friday afternoon, and by Saturday morning, we started to see large numbers of cars arriving in town with extra visitors. It was obvious that people had been leaving it until the last minute to decide whether to come away for the weekend, particularly because the forecast for Easter was mixed.'

Easter Sunday proved to be extremely busy at the WHHR, with hundreds of people visiting the Porthmadog-based museum to take part in the annual Easter Egg Hunt and be entertained by the Easter Bunny and Mr. Balwns, the balloon model man. Though Good Friday was relatively quiet, visitor numbers for Easter Sunday itself were comparable with a busy day in August. James Hewett, who is also a Director of Tourism Partnership North Wales, continued: 'A good Easter weekend is essential for the tourist industry at this time of year, as many businesses need extra cash. We know that 2010 could be a tough year for the tourist industry here in Wales, but the sector is well placed to hold its own with some hard work.'

These northerly WHHR views (4/4/10) show Gertrude being prepared for services at Gelert's Farm, running around at Pen-y-Mount and passing Gelert's Farm double heading with Gelert. 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.

No.87 in action 4/4/10

This westerly view (4/4/10) shows blue liveried No.87 approaching Tryfan Junction. 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.

Rest of the World Gang report 3-4/4/10

Dr. Simon Melhuish reports: The gang headed south from Hafod Garregog, towards the ex-Croesor Junction curve. This was recently re-gapped, so the weekend's task was to move sleepers where necessary to match the new joint locations (one of the most back-breaking jobs to face a ganger!).

This view (3/4/10) shows volunteers re-gapping sleepers near Hafod Garregog. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and was taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Paul Bradshaw reports: Our weekend was spent re-spacing sleepers in the section between Croesor Junction curve and Hafod Garregog level crossing(LC52.40). This is a follow-on from the joint re-gapping exercise carried out during our March week. There are a few more sleepers to be re-spaced in the section between Hafod Garregog and Pont Ynysfor. On Sunday we were working within sight of the Osprey nest. The Ospreys were seen several times leaving or alighting on the nest. 'Gwarchod gwalch y pysgod' were in residence in the RSPB caravan. Buzzards were more in evidence than the ospreys.

This northerly view (4/4/10) shows sleeper adjustment between Croesor Junction and Hafod Garregog. Click on the image to enlarge. Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

West Midlands Group report 3/4/10

Dave Waldren reports: A variety of tasks were carried out on Saturday 3/4/10 at Beddgelert by the West Midland Group including some mulching of the flower beds at Rhyd Ddu. Volunteers excavated the former lamp room . There is a "guttering-sized" groove running transversely through the structure ending in a square sump complete with drain hole in the northern end. The base is in 2 levels - our theory is that at some stage the inside was raised and provided with this gully - possibly to drain away spilt petroleum which may have been stored there? It cannot be a urinal as this would be situated on one of the edges, not bisecting the floor.

These northerly and vertical views (3/4/10) show work around the lamp room at Beddgelert station. This was also the kindling store of the 1922 loco stabling point alongside the inspection pit and water tower. The first shows John Hine and Mike Hadley of the West Midland Group excavating the perimeter of the lamp room base at Beddgelert for drainage. The second shows the sump. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Dave Waldren and were taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Easter views 3/4/10

This view (3/4/10) shows Vale of Ffestiniog double heading Castell Caernarfon into Beddgelert on the first train of the day. Snow still dusts the mountains around Rhyd Ddu. 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.

These northerly southerly views (3/4/10) show blue liveried No.87 at Beddgelert. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright John Hine and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Beer Festival preparations

John Wooden has released a short YouTube video about the upcoming Beer Festival planned for 7-9/5/10.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 4 min 25 seconds of video, mostly of last year's Beer Festival. The quality of the YouTube clip does not represent the quality of the DVD. This video was taken by John Wooden (FR) on a camcorder.

Loco report 3/4/10

Progress with Lyd has seen the fabrication of cowcatchers, fuel oil tanks and smokebox door subcontracted to Brunswick Ironworks in Caernarfon, who have produced the water tank supports for the WHR etc. Work at Boston Lodge is progressing with the complex task of adding all the steel and copper piping for all the steam auxiliary equipment.

Prior to the recent transfer working, Vale of Ffestiniog's main transmission was repaired at Mitchell Diesel. The same company also cured Castell Caernarfon's problems.

K1's poor steaming at the end of last year has been identified as caused by a cracked blast pipe. A specialist weld repair is being done at Boston Lodge.

No.138's 10 year boiler overhaul continues to advance at Boston Lodge. It is intended to have the boiler cradle and cab pipework fully reassembled before the unit is returned to Dinas. The new livery is bright red also used on the FR's Moelwyn.

No.143's damaged crank has gone to Baguley in Burton on Trent for rectification. The same company is re-gauging/repairing the new Dinas PW shunter currently numbered 'No.9'.

Boston Lodge also refurbished No.87's engine units over the Winter to ensure reliability over the 2010 season. It is hoped the new high chrome rocking/drop grate castings will not melt.

Pete Waterman's No.109, being restored by the Waterman Trust at Crewe, has had its driving wheels sent to Boston Lodge for turning.

NG15 No.134's axleboxes have been machined at Boston Lodge to true them up. The cast steel rear frame stretcher and pony truck pivot is away at Brunswick Ironworks being refurbished.

WHR locos covered the following mileages in 2009:

Pont Croesor 1/4/10

Work at Pont Croesor on the walling of the level crossing area LC114A appears complete.

This northerly view (1/4/10) shows the walling complete at Pont Croesor. Earth has been tipped alongside the wall in the hope that this area might become grassed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ken Farrance and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These southerly views (1/4/10) show the walling completed around the level crossing at Pont Croesor (LC114). Local stone cladding of the completed concrete parapets looks good. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Ken Farrance and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These southerly views (1/4/10) show the walling completed around the level crossing at Pont Croesor (LC114). No footpath has been provided. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Ken Farrance and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Cae Pawb Crossing 1/4/10

This northerly view (1/4/10) shows the completed arrangements at Cae Pawb crossing with electronics cabinet. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ken Farrance and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Gertrude at the WHHR 1/4/10

This Gelert's Farm view (1/4/10) shows Gertrude stabled in the museum. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ken Farrance and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

No.87 in service 1/4/10

This northerly view (1/4/10) shows No.87 climbing Nantmor Bank with snowy Moel Hebog behind. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ken Farrance and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 31/3/10

Tony Baker reports: On 31/3/10 we continued with the seemingly never ending job of constructing the CCT grids. LC 106,107, and 108 (52.67, 52.90, 53.07 were completed and additionally LC 109 (53.30) and LC 110 (54.01) Gatws Bach had the framework installed and the pegs concreted in ready for next week. The weather people had predicted horrendous conditions but in fact there was the odd shower and long dry but dull periods. At one point one of the Ospreys flew close by to see what we were up to.

Snowstorm 31/3/10

Snowdonia was hit by a blizzard on 31/3/10 and trains ran during the heavy snowfall. No.87 was noted struggling up to Rhyd Ddu at the height of the blizzard.

These northerly and southerly views (31/3/10) show blue-liveried No.87 passing Castell Cidwm at the height of the blizzard. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Bob Gartside and were taken on a Canon SLR digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (31/3/10) shows No.87 approaching Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Bob Gartside and was taken on a Panasonic TZ-5 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Palmerston returns 31/3/10

Palmerston returned to the FR by lorry on 31/3/10. The rest of the rolling stock is presumably available for shuttles during the Beer Festival.

Palmerston filming contract 30/3/10

Palmerston was involved in a BBC filming contract for a follow-up to the Coal House series. This involves a Snowdonia Farmhouse with two families living like slate quarrymen from the 1890s. The FR laid on an authentic consist - Palmerston, Bug Box 1, Van 2 and original WHR bogie No.23 - for a simulated Sunday School outing from Dinas to Rhyd Ddu. The BBC was very pleased despite the rain and the finished show is to appear on screen in the Autumn. On occasion there were three trains at Rhyd Ddu with the shiny blue NG/G16 87 in service alongside the tiny bug box now that the 2010 service started on 27/3/10.

These two northerly and one southerly views (30/3/10) show Palmerston at Dinas and finally at Rhyd Ddu during a filming contract for the BBC. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy Andrew Thomas (FR) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa news 30/3/10

Clive Briscoe reports: There is no working party this week. Hopefully, a couple of us might be able to do something on the evening of Tuesday 6/4/10.

EAG news 28/3/10

Richard Watson reports: The station sign (running-in board) intended for Pont Croesor is almost complete at the East Anglian Group's Mill Green works, Cambridge. Assistance with transport to the railway is requested -if anyone is able to help, please contact Richard Watson, see Contacts page.

This Mill Green view (27/3/10) shows the near complete running in board for Pont Croesor Halt. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a Panasonic FZ38 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

North Wales Track Gang news 27-8/3/10

Dafydd Thomas reports: We were in action at Pont Croesor again, re-positioning the long sleepers and fitting the base plate for the Caernarfon end points of the loop. We were also working at the Blaenau end points, repositioning the spring point lever, due to a slight misinterpretation a fortnight ago, to the other side. They have to be on the running line side of the points. The points at this end are left handed as opposed to the one at Hafod-y-llyn which is a right hander. The directional terms Caernarfon and Blaenau are now the official designations as per the Rule Book. It seems a bit strange for the WHR to refer to Blaenau as it must be on the FR to refer to Caernarfon.

Stock Transfer 25/3/10

A rolling stock transfer took place on 25/3/10 using the CTRL and the new Cae Pawb controls. FR Funkey Vale of Ffestiniog led the rake which consisted of in order No.23, Open No.2021, No.24, No.2115, Van 2, Bugbox No.1 and Palmerston (in steam) at the rear. The movement provides an additional main line loco to support Easter services and a shuttle rake for a filming contract.

This easterly view (25/3/10) shows Vale of Ffestiniog leading the stock transfer past Spooners beer store, soon to be demolished to allow a decent width of platform at this location. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These two easterly and one westerly views (25/3/10) show Bodysgallen at Porthmadog Harbour station. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy Andrew Thomas (FR) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These easterly and westerly views (25/3/10) show Vale of Ffestiniog and Palmerston crossing Britannia Bridge. Each movement across the bridge currently uses a local road contractor to remove the tarmac infill of the flangeways, set up traffic control signs and then replace the tarmac infill. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These easterly views (25/3/10) show Palmerston crossing Britannia Bridge as seen from the open coach. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy Andrew Thomas (FR) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (25/3/10) shows Vale of Ffestiniog leading the stock transfer across Britannia Bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (25/3/10) shows Palmerston pausing having cleared Britannia Bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (25/3/10) shows Palmerston on the rear of the stock transfer having just left Britannia Bridge. 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 (25/3/10) shows Vale of Ffestiniog leading the stock transfer across Snowdon Street tramway section. 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 southerly views (25/3/10) show Vale of Ffestiniog crossing Network Rail. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These two westerly and one easterly views (25/3/10) show Cae Pawb crossing from the open coach. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy Andrew Thomas (FR) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (25/3/10) shows Vale of Ffestiniog leading the stock transfer just north of Cae Pawb crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These easterly views (25/3/10) show the new control unit behind the crossing gate at Cae Pawb crossing Network Rail. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly views (25/3/10) show Vale of Ffestiniog passing through Nantmor Halt. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy Andrew Thomas (FR) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (25/3/10) shows Palmerston on the rear of the stock transfer rounding Cemetery Curve. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (25/3/10) shows Bodysgallen at Beddgelert station. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas (FR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly views (25/3/10) show Palmerston at Beddgelert station. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy Andrew Thomas (FR) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Annual Surveyor Conference 25/3/10

John Sreeves reports: Last Thursday(25/3/10) I had the pleasure of giving a presentation at the 18th Annual Surveyor Conference in Nottingham: Bridges 2010 Strength to Strength. My paper was entitled 'Case Study 1: Bridge Reconstruction on the Welsh Highland Railway'. This was a high level technical conference attended by 223 delegates, predominantly bridge engineers from around the country. It was the first time I had given a talk like this to such a large gathering. My presentation (running to a phenomenal 106 slides - 30.2Mb) is now available on-line at:

http://2010.bridges.surveyorevents.com/conference-presentations.aspx

So apologies in advance to anyone whose photos have been used without their knowing or acknowledgement; I hope you don’t mind too much! It was a great marketing opportunity as every delegate got a copy of the ‘Dragons of Snowdonia’ leaflet, and I answered many questions during the break.

West Midlands Group plans for 2010

The West Midlands Group intends to work on Beddgelert station in the near future.

• Digging out a trench around the base of the lamp hut for drainage, inspection etc and cleaning up the base (with a view to rebuilding the hut that originally serviced locos at Beddgelert stabling point)

• Cleaning up of the base of the old water tower, removal of slate waste (to be used at Rhyd Ddu on the gardens)

• Clearing gorse from the area behind the lamp hut and general tidying of this area

• Removal of visible part of orange wire conduit and painting of conduit bridge over the drainage channel at south end of station (to hide it)

• Painting of toilet block and removal of ownership stickers etc

• Movement of boulders/rocks to strategic places at the end of the fences on the steep slope to discourage people from taking the shorter but dangerous route across the grass

• General enhancement of lower field area - maintenance, planting etc.

• Construction of a concrete base for a bench half way up the zigzag path up from the car park

• Painting of the soon-to-be-installed station buildings at Pont Croesor, Nantmor and Waunfawr.

Bodysgallen ready for return to WHR 25/3/10

A stock movement is planned at 0730 on 25/3/10 to move essential rolling stock to Dinas for the start of the season on 27/3/10. FR Funkey Vale of Festiniog will take the completed Bodysgallen and re-varnished coaches Nos.23/24 back across Britannia Bridge after refurbishment at Boston Lodge.

This northerly view (23/3/10) shows the refurbished Pullman Bodysgallen. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Norman Bond (FR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Porthmadog Bypass 24/3/10

The WHHR has had to make a deviation over a short length of its main line north of 'Fortmadoc' coal depot to allow the construction of a culvert diversion. This is required so that the Porthmadog Bypass contractors can build a culvert under the main line. When this is finished, the line will revert to normal, and the rest of the culvert will be built under the sidings and the WHR line. The end of May is being pencilled in to rebuild the original alignment.

These northerly views (24/3/10) show the diversion of a short section of the WHHR to allow the construction of a diverted culvert for the Porthmadog Bypass. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 23/3/10

Tony Baker reports: The Tuesday Gang continued with the level crossing grids work. LC 52.41 (LC105 Ynys Ferlas), which is a vehicle and pedestrian crossing and so requires 3 sets of CCT grids, was completed and the next crossing LC 52.67 (LC106 Afon Dylif) was 50% done. Further toward Pont Croesor LC 52.00 (LC107) and LC 53.07 (LC108) had the bases constructed ready for the CCT grids to be fitted next week. Alas, our long run of sunny days came to an end after lunch when light drizzle started. However it was not that bad and we pressed on.

No.87 progress 23/3/10

No.87 is being rapidly reassembled ready for the new season's trains.

These northerly and southerly views (23/3/10) show No.87 being reassembled in Dinas North Yard. The loco still requires the dome fitting. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly and southerly views (23/3/10) show No.87 being reassembled in Dinas North Yard. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Observation car returns to Dinas 23/3/10

The Pullman Observation car was noted being returned on a low loader to the WHR on 23/3/10 from the BoBI Exhibition at Olympia.

WHRS website relaunched 23/3/10

WHRS Press Release: Cymdeithas Rheilffordd Eryri is pleased to announce that today, Tuesday, 23/3/10 it is launching its new website. The address to access the website is:-

www.whrsoc.org.uk – for the English language version

www.crhe.org.uk – for the Welsh language version

The website will give Society members and the general public all the latest information about the Society, including membership; the benefits of joining the Society; volunteering; Society projects; the society’s area groups and the Society’s sales section. It will also give information about the Railway, which is scheduled to open through to Porthmadog by 2011; thus reinstating the line from Caernarfon, which closed in 1937. The website is entirely bilingual and those visiting the site can choose to access the information in Welsh or English.

The website has been put together as a volunteer project by two Society members Laurence Armstrong and David Tidy; translation into Welsh by Gareth Gruffydd. The site will also incorporate the former Welsh Highland Railway Project website run, maintained and updated by Dr Ben Fisher. Following the sudden death of Dr. Fisher last July, the much used website has not been updated.

Not only will Dr Fisher’s website be incorporated as an archive within the Society’s site but with the help of Bob Smith, it will also be brought up to date by filling in the gaps of information since last July, as well as restarting the regular updates about the latest developments on the Welsh Highland Railway.

Ospreys return 22/3/10

The WHR News website reports that the ospreys returned to the Glaslyn Estuary on 22-23/3/10. This may help WHR traffic as people visit the Glaslyn Osprey Centre next to Pont Croesor halt which is due to open on 27/5/10 and may also travel on the railway. As part of the halt construction, a car/coach park is being built on the west side of LC114 to accommodate people who may go for a trip on the railway and wish to leave their cars there.

Team Wylfa report 22/3/10

Clive Briscoe reports: It's been a bit disastrous these last few weeks - the majority of the team are currently spread around the UK with paid work and indeed one is 'down under' until mid/end April. There was nobody available on Monday but I had hoped against hope to have had someone to give me a hand last night but not so, he ultimately, had a prior engagement which he couldn't get out of.

So I've unfortunately had to let Boston Lodge know that there are still carriages to check and oil up before Saturday's start of the running season (27/3/10). It looks like Team Wylfa will have be employed elsewhere this year - there are more than enough tasks for us to have a go at, including helping the new Wagons Roll Team and of course, NG15 No.134. We're going to be very thin on the ground until the middle of April and will probably revert back to Tuesdays. Please watch this space for further news.

ROTWG 20-21/3/10

Steve Broomfield reports: A full report on this last weekend's activities (20-21/3/10) is to come from Paul Bradshaw. Volunteer numbers were again disappointing - 3 on Saturday and 4 on Sunday. Upnor Castle was used to deliver concrete blocks for ballast wall building, near Llyn Cwellyn (Saturday,) and a large finished ballast wall at Tros-y-Gol (Sunday). We also did some ballast drops in the Llyn Cwellyn / Snowdon Ranger area, on Saturday, and at Cae Pawb (North side) on Sunday, finishing at 1905 !!!

These southerly views (20/3/10 and 21/3/10 respectively) show the Rest of the World Gang completing the Tros-y-gol ballast wall and Upnor Castle delivering blocks near Caeau Gwynion level crossing. 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.

Dr. Simon Melhuish reports: We (four of us) spent Sunday morning at Salem, south of Tros-y-Gol bridge, constructing a long ballast-retaining wall. We then took Upnor Castle south to finish off a wall started on Saturday. We stopped next at Rhyd Ddu for a bit of shunting and lunch, then it was down to Hafod-y-llyn for more shunting of ballast hopper wagons. We took the Romanian hopper and one of the side-exit hoppers southwards, dropping the latter in the loop at Pont Croesor. We then proceeded to Cae Pawb, where we dropped ballast as close to Network Rail as we could. We are novices with the hoppers, so some shovelling was then required to get the ballast where we wanted it! After a return to Pont Croesor for the other hopper we started on the ballast shoulders, finishing in failing light.

This northerly view (21/3/10) shows ballasting just north of Cae Pawb crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and was taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Free chocolate at WHHR Easter Bunny Event

WHHR press release: 'The Welsh Highland Heritage Railway is celebrating Easter Sunday with free chocolate but you’ve got to find it first! Hundreds of chocolate eggs are being hidden around the Engine Sheds in Porthmadog, and visitors will be able to find them in an egg hunt with instant rewards. The train takes passengers on a short ride from Porthmadog through the countryside, before stopping at the Engine Sheds on the way back.

James Hewett, Chairman of the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway, said: “it won’t necessarily be easy to find the eggs! We’ve spent the whole winter thinking up clever new places to hide them, so there could be chocolate in all sorts of places.” Mr Balloons will also be creating free balloon models for everyone – children and adults - and Rufus the Rabbit will be travelling on the train to help people find the chocolate. Train crews at the WHHR will also be joining in the fun, blowing bubbles as the train steams along. And watch out for extra mayhem: Rufus can be a mischievous rabbit sometimes, and is often known to steal the guard's green flag so the train can't go...... only to run off when the Controller discovers who the culprit is!

The Welsh Highland Heritage Railway also has a number of other special events for children during the year, including the Teddy Bears' Picnic (5-6/6/10), and a family fun weekend with a Welsh Dragons theme (Bank Holiday Weekend, 28-30/8/10).

Throughout the year, the WHHR makes special effort to accommodate families. At the Engine Sheds, children of all ages are encouraged to climb inside the cab of the steam and diesel locomotives, sit in the driver's seat and find out why certain locomotives are called "tank engines", and why you drive some of them sitting sideways.

New attractions for 2010 include the Locomotive With No Name, where you get to have a go at putting your own name on a diesel engine using magnetic letters, or you can do what one child has already done and name it after your mum. You can also learn how the different parts of a steam locomotive fit together by having a go at assembling one of the new wooden models.'

Nantmor Halt Plan

Click here for the Nantmor Halt plan (as built) with thanks to Stuart McNair (WHRCL).

BOBI show at Olympia 19/3/10

The Best of Britain and Ireland show has been running at Olympia over the last few days with the Pullman Observation car at the centre of the attraction. The coach was placed in an elevated position and was open to walk through and sit down. The event is a showcase for travel and tourism operators but was open to the public on the final days.

These Olympia views (17/3/10) show the elevated Pullman coach as the centre piece of the Wales display and a side view of the displays. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy Andrew Thomas (FR) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These Olympia views (19/3/10) show Pete Waterman and FR volunteers with displays. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are courtesy Andrew Thomas (FR) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Pont Croesor 18/3/10

Walling continues at Pont Croesor with a local stone cladding of the recently completed concrete parapet.

These easterly and southerly views (18/3/10) show the level crossing and access at Pont Croesor. Local stone cladding of the completed concrete parapets continues. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Ken Farrance and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These southerly views (18/3/10) show the level crossing at Pont Croesor. The access to the Osprey Centre has been tarmaced and the south west roadside walling completed with local stone. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Ken Farrance and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (18/3/10) shows the completed cladding of the concrete parapet on the north west corner of Pont Croesor level crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ken Farrance and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Nantmor Halt 16/3/10

This northerly view (16/3/10) shows the completed platform at Nantmor Halt. The fence along the rear of the platform remains to be completed. 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 (18/3/10) shows the level crossing and access at Nantmor Halt. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ken Farrance and was taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 16/3/10

Tony Baker reports: Another day's work in glorious sunshine saw the Tuesday Gang complete the trespass signage at Nantmor Halt, complete the fitting of corral rails at LC 108 and continue the work of installing CCT grids with concreting in the wooden supporting pegs at LC 105, 106 and starting 107. In addition to fitting corral rails at LC 108 it had been identified that at this point sheep were getting onto the track by coming up the bank of a land drain. Two of the gang set to preventing this ingress of sheep. A surplus corral rail was mounted on fence posts and reinforced with barbed wire. See attached picture showing the give away sheep's wool on the fence whilst "Dougie" the sheep dog looks on approvingly.

This westerly view (16/3/10) shows the coral fencing being completed at LC108. 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 easterly view (16/3/10) shows the strengthening of sheep defences at LC108. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 15/3/10

Clive Briscoe reports: We finally got to Dinas on the evening of 15/3/10, but only two of us turned up. We made a good start on oiling up the coaches, could really do with a few more bodies next Monday as we are getting short of time to finish off and get all the coaches checked and oiled ready for the start of the running season.

Meanwhile, the North Yard looks as though it has been the subject of a bombing raid. The Mess Hut has been temporarily moved onto the car park and is without power, the former gents alongside has been demolished and large holes are appearing in the yard between the fuel road and release road as it is being cleared and levelled for more stock sidings.

North Wales Track Gang report 14/3/10

Dafydd Thomas reports: Over the weekend 13-14/3/10 the North Wales/Black Hand Gang completed the loop at Pont Croesor. The south end point is now aligned, levelled and packed into place, with a sprung point lever (as at Hafod-y-llyn) installed.

These northerly and westerly views (14/3/10) show the North Wales Track Gang completing the point lever at the south end of Pont Croesor loop. WHRS Chairman Dafydd Thomas looks satisfied with the completed job! 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.

Pont Croesor loop completed 13/3/10

The North Wales Track Gang completed Pont Croesor loop on 13/3/10.

This southerly view (13/3/10) shows the north points at Pont Croesor with long sleepers for the trailable point mechanism. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Peter Roughley and was taken on an Olympus D-380 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (13/3/10) shows David Firth marking the fouling point at the south end of Pont Croesor loop. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Peter Roughley and was taken on an Olympus D-380 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (13/3/10) shows the completed Pont Croesor from LC115. Work is underway fettling the points which initially will be lever operated. A trailable mechanism is likely to be fitted when services are extended to Porthmadog late 2010/early2011. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Peter Roughley and was taken on an Olympus D-380 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Working Week report 12/3/10

Steve Broomfield reports: The Rest Of The World Gang completed their working week on 12/3/10. A 10-strong party met at Hafod-y-llyn and took Upnor Castle and the works train to the curve between Hafod-y-llyn Isaf and Pont Afon Nanmor. There we first removed a small rock, which was impinging on the safe clearance profile, and followed by jacking and packing the 'high' rail, in order to have a consistent 'cant' around the re-laid curve. We then progressed to a point immediately north of Pont Afon Dylif, disconnecting and jacking a half-length of rail and raking ballast from underneath, to remove a pronounced 'hump' in the track.

These northerly views (12/3/10) show the Rest of the World Gang completing the trackwork just west of the Afon Dylif Bridge. The tops of the mountains still had snow on them. 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.

EAG News 10/3/10

The East Anglian Group has removed the final halt signboard from store. It is hoped to have it ready for the opening of Pont Croesor Halt in the Spring. The vacuum system on ex-RNAD wagons Nos.5002/3 has been completed at the EAG's Cambridgeshire base. When complete, these will form part of the Lineside Clearance Train. The EAG is still looking for volunteers. Contact Richard Watson for further details. See Contacts page.

This Mill Green view (12/12/09) shows the Pont Croesor Halt sign removed from store for completion. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a Panasonic FZ38 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This Mill Green view (10/3/10) shows future clearance train wagon No.5002 pushed out from under cover on the extension track. The widened frame and steps can be seen clearly and the vacuum cylinder is in situ between the frames. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a Panasonic FZ38 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This Mill Green view (10/3/10) shows an ex-FR vacuum cylinder in situ on wagon No. 5002. One of the trunnion bearings that was fabricated to support the cylinder is also prominent, as is the flexible hose between the train pipe and the actuating valve. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a Panasonic FZ38 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

WHHG news

The Welsh Highland Heritage Group intends to restore Betws Garmon station building and Glan-yr-afon weigh-house after the completion of the 40m platform and station building at Tryfan Junction. A replacement water tank has been fabricated for Beddgelert Station to fit the original concrete pillars. It also has a replica lamp room in hand to go alongside the pit. The group has also provided the fencing and crossing box at Cambrian Crossing, the last of which should be fitted in place soon.

Google street views of WHR

Google Maps ands Google Earth now feature street views covering some of the WHR.

See http://tinyurl.com/yhl7w9s at Porthmadog and No.87 near Snowdon Ranger http://tinyurl.com/yzaeqvf. Thanks to Keith Bradbury and Roger Dimmick (FR) for the links.

Tuesday gang report 9/3/10

Tony Baker reports: On the 9/3/10, we split into 3 gangs of 4. Gang 1 went off to Cae Pawb to install the distant signals, more commonly known as 'Yellow Ladybirds'. A signal was installed 150 metres either side of the crossing. This was finished by lunch time and we then went off to reinforce gang 2 who were planting posts at LC 108. By end of play 8 posts were concreted in. Some of us had expected to be digging holes in sand but rest assured, there is still a fair bit of "hard stuff" even that close to the Traeth. All materials and tools had to be taken down on the rail skate as there is no road access to that crossing. Meanwhile gang 3 were continuing with what seems to be a never ending job of installing CCT grids. A glorious sunny day with snow still on the tops.

These southerly and northerly views (9/2/10) show the Tuesday Gang fitting signals either side of Cae Pawb crossing. 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.

John Martin reports: I was with the third gang doing crossing grids. It was a lovely day and we got stuck in straight away at 9 o'clock and worked straight through till about 4 in bright chilly sunshine. We completed three crossings: LC99/100/101. This takes us up to the section which is yet to be tamped after the recent relaying. We have been asked to defer work on LC103A/B and LC104 until the tamping has been completed, so we will start next week on LC105A/B and LC106. We hope to do the foundations next week and fit the triangles the week after.

Team Wylfa 8/3/10

Clive Briscoe reports: The carriage oiling did not get off to a brilliant start. My car suffered a total electrical failure and had to be piggy backed home. Hopefully there will be more luck next MONDAY when there are a minimum of 3 experienced old hands promised.

Rest of the World Gang report 6-7/3/10

On 6/3/10 the Rest of the World gang worked on jacking/repacking rail joints northwards along the Gatws Bach straight and reached the site of Croesor Junction. On 7/3/10 the volunteers worked north from the end of the previous day's work towards the Afon Dylif bridge re-gapping the rails.

This southerly view (6/3/10) shows the track joints being jacked and packed just north of Gatws Bach. 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.

Simon Melhuish reports: We gathered and Hafod-y-llyn and rode behind Upnor Castle to Pont Afon Dylif. From there we unclipped as far as the start of the curve into the ex-Croesor Junction - as far as we had reached previously from the south. Next we pulled all the rails northwards, to make space, and started pulling them all south again, to the correct gaps, and re-clipping. We made it about 2/3 of the way back to the bridge by the end of the day. The weather was some of the best, starting at -4C, but with clear skies. Some snow remains on the peaks.

These westerly and easterly views (7/2/10) show track fettling around the Afon Dylif bridge. The first view shows the bridge with Upnor Castle beyond. The second view shows the curve towards Croesor Junction, still looking a bit 'thrupenny bit'. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and were taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (7/3/10) shows the re-gapping exercise near Croesor Junction. 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.

BURA Award ceremony 5/3/10

John Sreeves reports: Alasdair Stewart, Mike Hart and I went to Glaziers Hall in London 5/3/10 to collect the BURA award. We were one of six winners selected from over 100 entrants. Click here for the page from the BURA Awards leaflet.

Bits & pieces

A scaffold wagon is due to visit cuttings between Cutting Mawr (Cwmcloch) and Nantmor to tidy up rock cuttings and slopes before public services recommence. Freeze/thaw action has prised some slabs loose. Some extra rock bolts and a catch fence are likely in Nantmor Cutting.

A review of options is underway to reduce flooding at Castell Cidwm as this can strand trains.

A settlement has been reached over the cost of the Britannia Bridge works.

The same contractor who cut the trees down between Dinas and Caernarfon also won a contract to cut down some trees on the section onward to Waunfawr and Beddgelert to Hafod-y-llyn before Xmas.

Best of British & Ireland travel show

FR Press release: A little bit of Wales visits London

'The Best of Britain & Ireland (BOBI) exhibition is open to the travel trade and the public and is the main event of the year showcasing the tourist attractions of the UK. The First Class Pullman observation car, built for the Welsh Highland in Porthmadog's world famous Ffestiniog Railway Boston Lodge Works, will travel to Olympia by road and will take pride of place on the railway's stand, shared with North Wales Tourism. During the course of the show, celebrity guests will visit the carriage and talk to the press and public. Record producer and railway enthusiast Pete Waterman will be explaining his innovative apprentice scheme aimed at teaching young people essential engineering skills. One of the scheme's first major projects is the rebuilding of a sixty ton Beyer Garratt locomotive for use on the Welsh Highland Railway.

Mayor of Caernarfon Hywel Roberts - who will also be attending the show as a guest of the railway - commented: "As someone who grew up in Ffestiniog I was delighted to see the development of the Ffestiniog Railway into the town of Blaenau Ffestiniog. This was an enormous boost to the tourist industry for Blaenau. And as someone who lives in Caernarfon I was delighted with the reopening of the Welsh Highland Railway into the town. Again a big boost to the tourist industry in Caernarfon. In my early teens I lived in the village of Llanfrothen and on summer evenings we used to go on our bikes to Pont Croesor to swim in the Glaslyn river. I'm therefore particularly looking forward to seeing the opening of the railway to Pont Croesor in the Spring," he added.

For the show, the FR has produced a new video showcasing the attractions of Snowdonia which has been uploaded to YouTube to help in promoting the event. You can view the video here. Full details of the BOBI show, which runs from the 17th-20th of March, can be found here.'

The show is open to the public on the final two days and it is intended that the Observation Car will be back on the WHR for the launch of the 2010 service on 27/3/10.

This easterly view (10/3/09) shows Pullman Observation Car No.2100 at Boston Lodge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Roger Dimmick and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Pont Croesor progress 4/3/10

Completion of road works at Pont Croesor level crossing in March and removal of the long term traffic lights will improve traffic flow on the B4410. It is likely that the route will form an unofficial bypass of Porthmadog whilst work on the Porthmadog Bypass, starting this Spring, causes disruption of the A487, especially during peak holiday times.

This easterly view (4/3/10) shows the local stone cladding being added to the concrete parapet walling on the approach the Pont Croesor level crossing. The shuttering on the opposite side of the bridge was also being removed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ken Farrance and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa rescheduled to Mondays from 8/3/10

Clive Briscoe reports: For the record, it looks like Mondays are going to be the new night for Team Wylfa for now. I've got the promise of one volunteer to give me a hand this coming Monday but more would be better - got a lot of carriages to check and oil up ready for the new season. Any further offers of help would be gratefully received. 7:00 - 7:15pm in the mess hut opposite the WHRCL office.

Coach maintenance appeal 3/3/10

Clive Briscoe reports: Team Wylfa has undertaken the important task to keep the wheels rolling for the past 4 seasons. However, with this year's timings, it is going to be extremely hard to keep up. Tuesdays, our previous night, are out for most of the season since the rolling stock is out until 8 or 9 pm most weeks with the high season trains even later. It is proposed to move to a Monday for the off peak and possibly a Friday evening for the peak 6 weeks.

If you might be available, please contact me urgently on 01407 733595 (office); 01407 830541 (home) or e-mail clive(dot)briscoe(at)magnoxnorthsites(dot)com

Tuesday Gang report 2/3/10

Tony Baker reports: On 2/3/10 the Tuesday Gang continued with the same tasks as last week. Volunteers continued fitting CCT grids and LC107 between the Afon Dylif bridge and Croesor Junction was completed. We will be moving to LC108 next week. While not exciting the work is essential.

Pont Croesor progress 2/3/10

Stone cladding of the new concrete walls now underway at Pont Croesor level crossing. Work on the station site itself is due to start in the next few days. The layout seems to have been agreed with everybody.

These easterly and westerly views (2/3/10) show James Cyf. completing the concrete walling at Pont Croesor level crossing. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Station buildings

John Peduzzi is away in Southport for several weeks helping build the new wooden station buildings for Nantmor, Waunfawr and Pont Croesor.

Wagon maintenance appeal 2/3/10

Keith Holland reports: Recently, management has been concerned that a backlog of maintenance of the wagon fleet has built up, due to many other priorities on staff and volunteer time. In particular, Marcus Ingram, who is responsible for most of the wagon restoration that has been done, has had a change in his work/life situation which prevents him visiting the WHR as often as in the past. Consequently a plan has evolved to form a volunteer team to work specifically on basic TLC of our wagons. We intend to call this team WAGONS ROLL. Marcus has prepared a list of priority tasks and we are seeking volunteers to help. Naturally if you possess some engineering skills that is a bonus, but ANYBODY keen on getting dirty will be warmly received. The initial work party is planned for Sunday 11th April. If you would like to join us, or be notified of future Working Party dates please register your interest by contacting me.

k1_steamhammer@hotmail.com

Team Wylfa cancelled 2/3/10

Clive Briscoe reports: We will NOT be at Dinas Tuesday evening, 2/3/10. Hopefully will be there next week, Tuesday 9/3/10, when we will have to make a start on carriage inspections ready for the new season.

Bontnewydd/Caernarfon bypass proposals 1/3/10

A BBC News report details proposals for A487 Caernarfon and Bontnewydd bypass. The route options are much as indicated previously on this website. From the north end of the existing Pen-y-groes route passes west of Dinas and Bontnewydd, crossing the railway by overbridge north of Bontnewydd Halt. The route then heads northeast to the western end of the Y Felinheli Bypass. The scheme has options up to 10.5km long and costs up to £86 million. Strangely, the Welsh Office document shows WHR stations locations incorrectly with an extra station near Cae Hen!

ATW Cambrian-London service blocked 1/3/10

A BBC report reveals the proposed Arriva Trains Wales London (Marylebone) service has been blocked by the Office of Rail Regulation. The service to be operated with 'spare' Class 158 dmus, threatened the W&SR/ Chiltern operations.

Pont Croesor south point installed 27-28/2/10

Dafydd Thomas reports: Over the weekend 27-28/2/10 the North Wales/Black Hand Gang installed the points at the Porthmadog end of Pont Croesor loop. We also installed the two remaining full lengths of rail in the loop; the closure rail remains to be installed.

This northerly view (28/2/10) shows the track being laid in the westerly platform track at Pont Croesor 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 (27/2/10) shows the south end point being unloaded at the south end of Pont Croesor loop. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Howard Stuckey and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly views (27/2/10) show the North Wales Track Gang completing the point at the south end of Pont Croesor loop. Upnor Castle was used to drag the point into position. 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.

Upnor Castle was used on 27/2/10 to drag the Pont Croesor loop south point into position just north of LC115. It was hoped to complete the missing panels north of the point in the westerly track that will become the initial platform road. It was a nice day in North Wales with Cnicht and the Moelwyns dusted in snow.

Andy Forsyth has provides two YouTube links showing the work on 27/2/10.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 1 minute 22 seconds of video of Upnor Castle pulling the south point into position at Pont Croesor loop on 27/2/10. This video was taken by Andy Forsyth on a camcorder.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 59 seconds of video of Upnor Castle pulling the south point into position at Pont Croesor loop on 27/2/10. This video was taken by Andy Forsyth on a camcorder.

Tuesday Gang report 23/2/10

Tony Baker reports: The gang once again split into two. The level crossing posts and rails team moved onto LC 107. Things were a bit awkward here as a concrete culvert running under the track just where we needed to plant posts meant that we had to extend the length to clear this culvert. It also means that an intermediate post will be required. This will only be sunk down to the top of the culvert. Meanwhile the Animal Grids gang carried on at Hafod-y-llyn at LC 96. The installation of these grids is left until we know that any tamping and realignment is finished in the location. The weather was cold but dry.

Team Wylfa report 23/2/10

Clive Briscoe reports: There were just two of us on the evening of 23/2/10! However, we were 'on a roll' (as Bob put it) with No.134. After further soakings in Plus Gas, hammering to break the rust seal and some cussing, the 4-off blast pipe flange studs eventually yielded to the two of us using the 'horizontally opposed' Stilsons technique. They actually unscrewed - but not without a fight almost to the last thread! As predicted, the final cylinder block stud had to be cut flush with the casting, then carefully drilled and the shell collapsed in on itself.

So that's it. All the cylinder block studs are now out with new ones about to be ordered, including several stepped studs where it has been found that during its working life, some studs have given trouble and the tapped holes have had to be re-bored and tapped to the next size up. e.g. 7/8" BSW to 1" BSW; 3/4" BSW to 7/8" BSW. On a happier note, the 4-off brake hanger brackets unbolted very easily revealing bolts in pristine, reusable condition. The next job is to press out the worn bushes and replace with new.

Nantmor Halt finished 22/2/10

These southerly views (22/2/10) show Gelli completing Nantmor Halt. Fencing remains to be completed along the rear of the platform. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

No.134 report 21/2/10

Clive Briscoe reports: There was another No.134 working weekend on Saturday and Sunday 20-21/2/10. Again, a fair turnout and much got done. During the past week, No.143's boiler was lifted out of the cradle and the same crane used to move No.134's boiler alongside the Clip Shed workshop. As some of No.134's wheelsets were stored there previously, in order to make room for them inside the workshop (and indeed make more working space alongside the loco's frames), the frames were jacked up higher and packing stacks reordered. This gave both space to roll all the wheelsets back under the frames releasing valuable workspace alongside and gives better access under the frames for some of the ongoing work on brake and spring hangers - some of which were removed to the main workshop and worn bushes pressed out during the weekend, as were some of the compensated suspension balance beam bushes (which had been removed on earlier working parties).

Some of the footplating was temporarily replaced to allow measurements for new lubrication and other pipe runs. Work continued up front with most of the carbonised cylinder lube oil now having been chipped out of the valve chests and steam spaces. Some of the remaining drain fittings were removed for overhaul / replacement and all bar one of the seized studs finally removed from the cylinder blocks. This last one should be cut, drilled, collapsed, removed and the thread cleaned out on Tuesday evening.

Rest of the World Gang report 19-21/2/10

Simon Banbury reports: Work took place on the alignment in the snow near Snowdon Ranger and making a thorough job of cementing the inside of the cable box near the Cambrian Crossing. Though it looks very cold as long as you were not in the shade it was surprisingly warm. The temperature did fall rapidly as the sun went down. It also snowed on the hills every evening and then melted by midday.

On 19/2/10 Upnor Castle arrived and saved us a long walk pushing our tools in a wheelbarrow after our alignment tasks on day 1 of the long weekend. Not as spectacular as steam against the snow, but a welcome arrival. We put all the bars and other heavy tools onto the engine and then carried the rest on foot to the next location we were working at.

These southerly and northerly views (19/2/10) show Upnor Castle arriving light engine at the worksite just south of Snowdon Ranger in snowy conditions at 1030. 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.

This northerly view (19/2/10) shows the unloading of retaining wall blocks near Snowdon Ranger. 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.

Tim Evans reports: The ROTWG installed another 2 cable access chambers one south and one north of Cae Pawb in the morning. Each of these were adjacent to the catch points, the northern set also being now fishplated back again by us as it was disconnected to facilitate installation of longer timbers to accommodate the point motor and other equipment. The sleepers of the connecting panel were also shovel packed as the catch point is now on thicker timbers than previously. The whole area requires the use of ballast wagons prior to tamping as nothing has been tipped since laying, though of relatively low priority compared to jobs needed on the operational section for this coming season.

This northerly view (20/2/10) shows the excavation of a manhole for cables on the north side of Cae Pawb Crossing. 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.

In the afternoon we continued with ballast walling north of Rhyd Ddu.

This northerly view (20/2/10) shows the retaining wall blocks near Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tim Evans and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (21/2/10) shows Rhyd Ddu with a snow covering in the morning. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and was taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Cambrian Coast steam 2010

Railway Magazine reports that a different Ian Riley loco, 'Black 5' 4-6-0 No.44871, is being fitted with ERTMS equipment for this summer's Cambrian Coast steam trains. The loco is considered overweight for the Barmouth Bridge, due too much weight being on the tender leading axle, so it is proposed to put a steel former in the coal space to reduce the coal load. The loco is thought to be able to get from Machynlleth to Pwllheli and back on the reduced coal load as the line is easily graded. Whilst not ideal for running tender-first due to the restricted view over the tender, the class has been used on other routes with no turning facility, e.g. Fort William-Mallaig. The Cambrian Line may go over to ERTMS operation before the Summer Holiday steam specials commence.

According to West Coast Rail's website, the timetable and route are still to be confirmed as of 21/2/10.

Gertrude for WHHR 20/2/10

The WHHR reports: Barclay 0-6-0T locomotive Gertrude (1578 of 1918) will be joining the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway fleet for the 2010 operating season. The locomotive was originally built for the Sydenham Ironstone Quarry near Banbury in Oxfordshire, and is a sister locomotive to The Doll, which is based at the Leighton Buzzard Narrow Gauge Railway. Gertrude is on hire from Exmoor Transport, who recently completed an extensive restoration of the locomotive, which had been out of service since withdrawal in 1959. The agreement to bring it to Wales for 2010 will see it steaming for a minimum of 30 days, allowing it to share duties with the WHHR resident Bagnall, Gelert (3050 of 1953).

This Launceston view (unknown date) shows Gertrude running around. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Charlie O'Mahoney, courtesy of Tony Brown, and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

James Hewett, Chairman of the WHHR, said: 'We’re delighted that Gertrude will be joining us for the coming season. We believe she will prove a popular, powerful and attractive locomotive, and add some extra variety to the service in 2010. It’s interesting to think that although Gertrude is 92 years old, she had never pulled a passenger train until August of last year. The restored locomotive could now find itself hauling thousands of people in the next few months.'

The agreement is subject to a final inspection by the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway Operating Department at the end of March. Gertrude is then due to arrive in Porthmadog over Easter, and will be steam tested before entering service at the WHHR’s gala weekend on 1–3/5/2010 May. It is not the first time that Gertrude has had an association with Welsh Highland Railway Limited, the charity that runs the WHHR. The locomotive was destined to come to Wales in the 1970s when the organisation was in its early days. It spent some time at Kinnerley in Shropshire, where the company was based at the time, but never made it to Porthmadog.

Mike Hart adds: The loco water tank installed at Caernarfon Station came from the Ironstone Quarry near Banbury in Oxfordshire and was used to fill The Doll and Gertrude.

Bob Rainbow adds: Scenes of her visiting on passenger work are included later in this 11-minute amateur You-tube of the Toddington NG gala last September: www.youtube.com/user/RogerBut

See the Gertrude website for further details and images of the loco.

Final Tracklaying Appeal 20/2/10

Dafydd Thomas reports: The train service starts on the WHR on 27/3/10, just 5 weeks away. There are still a number of tasks that need completing before that date and we need as many volunteers as we can muster to complete these. First up is next weekend, 27-28/2/10, when the Blaenau (south) end points go in at Pont Croesor and hopefully we can get the loop completed. This will be the very last bit of track on the reinstated WHR, now's your chance.

If you can help with any or all of these, please contact me as soon as possible. See Contacts page.

Volunteer working party 19/2/10

Simon Melhuish reports: Today we worked at various locations between Ffridd Isaf and Castell Cidwm improving alignments and building a number of ballast retaining walls. It was pretty snowy first thing and we had about 2cm. It snowed on us off and on through the day.

These northerly views (19/2/10) show volunteer work in a snowy landscape. The first view shows work underway near Snowdon Ranger. The second view shows the retaining wall under construction near Glan-yr-afon. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and were taken on a Canon EOS 300D digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

More engines arrive at Dinas 18/2/10

Shotton Steelworks (Corus) had a 2' 6" network until quite recently. In March 2009 the Cold Strip Mill was under demolition. This building had retained the last narrow gauge line at Shotton since the stockyard railway had ceased working approximately 8 years ago. The internal system had been worked by 2 Hunslet locos, plus a larger battery loco working on a separate short length of track. All three of the locos left the site in 2009.

Webmaster's note: I worked as a student in Shotton Steelworks from 1970-74 and was unaware of the narrow gauge network- an opportunity missed!

These Dinas views (18/2/10) show side and 3/4 views of the two new Hunslet diesels that arrived at Dinas on 18/2/10. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These Dinas views (18/2/10) show front and coupler views of the two new Hunslet diesels that arrived at Dinas on 18/2/10. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Garratt Progress 17/2/10

No.143 is now disassembled at Dinas with parts lying around the North Yard. The loco is being readied for its 10 yearly refurbishment.

These Dinas views (17/2/10) show parts of the disassembled No.143 lying in the North Yard at Dinas. 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.

Pete Waterman's website shows some progress with his Garratt No.109, destined to run on the WHR.

Dinas progress 17/2/10

Dinas Yard has been cleared and the intention is to lay additional tracks in the rail stockyard under the crane gantry for stock storage. One of the toilet blocks is to be moved to Caernarfon station as it is of much better quality than the existing Caernarfon toilet block.

These Dinas views (17/2/10) show the North Yard at Dinas. Conway Castle is seen in the cleared area. With the end of the rail stack, the area has been cleared to allow additional track laying for stock storage. The Portacabin style toilet blocks are to go to Caernarfon station to improve the facilities there. 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.

Pont Croesor progress 17/2/10

James Cyf. was on site at Pont Croesor working on the walling at the B4410 level crossing. They have a works compound on the site of the entrance to the Glaslyn Osprey Project. There are four lengths of track to lay to complete the loop as well as the south end points. The platform will be on the west side and will be a full train length. The waiting shelter and toilets will be near the level crossing.

FR management is hoping that coach tours will pick up or drop off at Pont Croesor and the car park is to be extended in anticipation. There has been resistance to Beddgelert from coach operator Shearings as it involves a long uphill walk from the coach park and many coach trip users are elderly and infirm. Coach trips may run from Caernarfon to Pont Croesor with the coaches running via the A487 between the two stations. This also avoids the difficulty of coaches passing each other in the restrictive Aberglaslyn Pass.

These southerly and westerly views (17/2/10) show work at Pont Croesor. The first view shows walling being completed at the B4410 level crossing. The second view shows the car park which will be extended to the stone wall near the trees in the background. 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.

PW work 17/2/10

With the failure of the KMX tamper in December attention has focussed on getting the machine operating again. The track to Pont Croesor has been ballasted ready for tamping. The KMX has received several visits from experts recently, new parts fitted and it is hoped to have the machine in operation soon as the Matisa tamper cannot pass through the tunnels.

This northerly view (17/2/10) shows the loading of all three ballast wagons sandwiching Upnor Castle at Hafod-y-llyn. Earlier in the day the train had ballasted to Pont Croesor and it was later to travel to Rhyd Ddu. The Hafod-y-llyn area is now fully fenced in. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Snowy alpine scenery but no WHR trains 17/2/10

The WHR had no trains operating over the Half Term holiday but the FR did. For the second year running trains on the WHR were suspended for PW work. Most of this work was in fact completed before Xmas so that the Santa and Xmas-New Year Holiday Trains could run. Mountains around the WHR were clad in snow over the Half Term holiday period and while snow fell on some days, others saw blue sky, day-long sunshine and even people in shorts!

These northerly views (17/2/10) show snowy mountains around the WHR at Pont Croesor. The first view shows Cnicht and the Moelwyns with the track ballasted that day in preparation for tamping. The second view shows Snowdon. 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.

Tryfan Junction works 17/2/10

Recent progress with Tryfan Junction has seen the platform made ready for tarmacing, posts for fencing along the rear of the platform and a start on a path from the gate at the east end of the site. There will be a special train for WHHG volunteers calling at the halt later in the year but the FR remains ambivalent about opening the halt to the public due to worries about extending the already long journey times.

This easterly view (17/2/10) shows the footpath from the Tryfan Junction platform to the gate in the distance. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (17/2/10) shows the Tryfan Junction platform ready for tarmacing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (17/2/10) shows the Tryfan Junction platform ready for tarmacing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Nantmor Halt works 17/2/10

Good progress has been made with the construction of Nantmor Halt and the contractor Gelli hopes to finish the job before the end of February. The 2/3 coach platform has been constructed south of the level crossing and is connected by a footpath. A concrete base has been constructed for a waiting shelter. The platform and path will be tarmaced. A standard length train will have the loco in the cutting around the corner stopping at a marker to clear the level crossing. A system for indicating the 'right away' may have to be operated as the loco will be out of sight of the platform.

This southerly view (17/2/10) shows the footpath to the crossing and the platform in the distance. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (17/2/10) shows the concrete base just laid for the waiting shelter that the WHRS hopes to be able to fund for this location. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (17/2/10) shows the southern end of the platform. The south end of the platform had to be constructed on gabions as a disused access path rises alongside the rear of the platform for a local resident. This path emerges by the concrete base of the future waiting shelter. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Porthmadog Bypass works start 17/2/10

The delayed start of the Porthmadog Bypass finally saw work on the ground around the WHR by 17/2/10 with fence lines and centre lines set out. The route will open in late 2011 and the viaduct across the WHR and WHHR between Pen-y-Mount at Gelert's farm may be finished in April 2011. It may well still be under construction when WHR services start to Porthmadog in Spring 2011.

This westerly view (17/2/10) shows the centreline of the Porthmadog Bypass marked out with red pegs. The WHR crosses from right to left on the Creasy embankment. The Bypass crosses the WHR/WHHR just north of the WHHR's 'Fortmadoc' Loco Coal Depot. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 16/2/10

Tony Baker reports: On 16/2/10 the gang split into 3 teams. Team 1 finished burying a cable duct at Coed Mawr which will eventually provide a telephone service to Meillionen. Team 2 carried on fitting the anti trespass grids to the level crossings at Hafod-y-llyn and team 3 fitted the corral rails to the posts planted last week at LC 106. Snow showers and sunny periods were the order of the day.

Team Wylfa reports 16/2/10

Clive Briscoe reports: Three of us achieved a lot on No.134's cylinder blocks on the evening of 16/2/10. Six more of those pesky, seized cylinder block studs came out, mostly by drilling and very carefully collapsing the remains in on themselves. There's only one of the larger (3/4" BSW) and two 1/2" BSW studs left to remove on the cylinder blocks themselves and four 'easy' ones on the mid frames blast pipe flange now and these should be out at this weekend's monthly No.134 Group working party. Then the cylinder block steam passages, piston valve chests and cylinders themselves can be given a final thorough clean out, working surfaces oiled and temporary covers placed over them until we get replacement studs and start putting everything back together.

Bits & Pieces

The WHRS will fund the waiting shelter at Pont Croesor and is appealing for funds for one at Waunfawr as it will be some time before a permanent stone building can be afforded. This will be a double shelter with one containing the operating office and the other, the ticket office, when traffic justifies manning. The cost is about £12,000.

Pullman Observation car No.2100 is off to Olympia from 17-20/3/10 to the 'Best of Britain and Ireland Exhibition' promoting the railway to tourism.

A new Guide Book is due for 2010 covering the whole of the route.

Caernarfon station will get a new toilet block and be repainted for the new season. The old block will go to Dinas as a staff facility.

The last ECS train from Caernarfon frequently had to be divided in the Autumn due to slippery rails. Hopefully the Winter tree cutting campaign will reduce this problem in 2010.

It has been decided to fit out the Pont Croesor level crossing as an AOCL crossing. Work on the halt should be finished by the end of March when the Glaslyn Osprey Centre reopens. With the platform on the west side at Pont Croesor, the loop will initially be LH running for departures. Running around will not trigger the crossing lights unless an overrun occurs.

North Wales Gang report 14/2/10

Dafydd Thomas reports: Over the weekend of 13-14/2/10 the North Wales/Black Hand Gang were in action at two locations again. One team was at Cae Pawb assisting Roland Doyle with the installation of the catch point motors at that location. The other team were at Dinas continuing with tidying up and reconfiguring the facilities in the North Yard. Over the weekend this team also dismantled the bodywork from mess coach No.1000, which was showing the effects of the weather getting at its wooden body framework.

I should also like to note that the Society does not necessarily have all the funding for the halt at Nantmor as we do not fully know the final cost. Available funds have allowed us to proceed, in association with the Ffestiniog Railway Co, with the necessary groundworks, platform and fencing as well as approach paths. The shelter, if funds allow, will be on the platform and not on the wide area by the level crossing.

Cae Pawb Catch Points 13/2/10

The North Wales Track Gang succeeded in completing fitting of the working catchpoint motor 13/2/10. These links show the first test of the working motor connected to the catchpoint blades on the Porthmadog side of the Network Rail crossing.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 19s of video of the first closing of the catchpoints on 15/2/10. This video was taken by Andy Forsyth.

ERTMS news 13/2/10

Trains across Cae Pawb are replaced by buses from 13-17/2/10 as NR tests ERTMS with empty stock Class 158 dmus during the school half term holiday. WCR's new loco for this Summer's Cambrian Coast Express is currently being fitted with ERTMS equipment in the cab/tender. In order to match the load limits of the Barmouth Viaduct it is understood a tender insert is being considered to reduce the coal capacity.

See Network Rail press release.

Porthmadog Harbour station alterations 11/2/10

The mitigation works at Porthmadog Harbour Station have seen the construction of a new Spooner's beer cellar. This is in advance of the demolition of the part of the previous modern built Beer Cellar that intrudes into the WHR platform. Demolition of the latter structure will follow the opening of the new building.

This northerly view (11/2/10) shows the new beer cellar at Porthmadog Harbour station. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Nantmor Halt works 11/2/10

The WHRCL has managed to get a good contractor at a good price for the Nantmor Halt works. Good progress had been made by 11/2/10 with gabions constructed at the south end to support the lengthened platform. Some £6,500 was raised by appeal in memory of Ben Fisher following his untimely death. Together with a bequest received previously, there is enough money to complete the halt this Spring. With Tryfan Junction and Pont Croesor halts under construction, three new stations/halts may be opened this year.

These northerly and southerly views (both 10/2/10) show the supporting gabions (rock boxes) being constructed at the south end of Nantmor Halt. These will allow the platform to be extended to the south. The vertical pipes will house the wooden paling to support the rear fence of the platform. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Stuart McNair and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly views (both 11/2/10) show the supporting gabions (rock boxes) being constructed at the south end of Nantmor Halt. The land had to be made up and compacted with a vibro-roller to support the boxes. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Stuart McNair and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These southerly views (all 11/2/10) show the platform area being rolled. A wider area nearer the level crossing will allow room for a waiting shelter similar to that at Beddgelert Forest Halt. 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.

Team Wylfa report 9/2/10

Clive Briscoe reports: Four of us turned out on a bitingly cold evening (9/2/10) to work on No.134 again. Those pesky seized cylinder block studs were again the priority with another two removed and threads run through with the appropriate sized tap to clean out the final remnants. Also attacked was the LHS valve chest which had most of the carbonised cylinder lube oil chipped out.

It was noted that No.87's tanks have arrived back from the paint shop in Boston Lodge and look superb in their new blue colour scheme. No.143 continues to be stripped for its 10 year boiler overhaul (having been out of ticket since January). The tanks and cab have now been removed.

Red and Blue Garratts 9/2/10

These views at Boston Lodge (both 9/2/10) show the repainted components for Nos.87/138. No.87's dark blue parts are being loaded onto a lorry for return to Dinas, whilst No.138's are readied for reassembly following the 10 year overhaul. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Norman Bond and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 9/2/10

Tony Baker reports: On 9/2/10, the Tuesday Gang worked as 3 teams. One team concreted in a post for a telephone at Coed Mawr at the campsite and then moved on to Hendy where new signs were fitted to the posts recently installed. They then moved to Caernarfon Station where yet more signs were attached to new posts. The second team worked at Hafod-y-llyn installing Trespass Grids at LC's 97 and 98. The third team concreted in 8 posts at LC 106 to which Corral bars will be attached next week. The weather was dry and sunny and not too cold.

This westerly view (9/2/10) shows the Tuesday Gang completing posts for LC106 just east of the Afon Dylif bridge. A kink in the track just west of the bridge needs some attention. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy 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 report 7/2/10

Paul Bradshaw reports: The small ROWG team (33% up on the previous day) which ventured out on Sunday (7/2/10) were rewarded with excellent weather. The sun shone and it was warm. Llyn Cwellyn was still and the peak of Snowdon sparkled in the bright light. We travelled north from Rhyd Ddu with Upnor Castle and its train (the SAR tool van and No.1001). After collecting concrete walling blocks from where they had been unloaded last Autumn at Glan-yr-afon and near UB36.91 we built three ballast walls at UB36.63 (Bron-y-fedw Uchaf) and one at a culvert near LC36.31 (Bron-y-fedw Isaf). This depleted our stock of blocks so we spent the rest of out time working on the alignment at two locations either side of Snowdon Ranger.

This view (7/2/10) shows Upnor Castle shunting out of Rhyd Ddu yard. The headshunt still has no buffer stop. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Dr. Simon Melhuish and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (7/2/10) shows Upnor Castle passing Glan-yr-afon. In future years this location is an obvious place for restoration by the WHHG with some sidings and wagons and rebuilding of the quarry office/halt in NWNGR style. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Steve Broomfield reports: Today (7/2/10) we picked up the works train at Rhyd Ddu. From there we travelled north, picking up 'spare' concrete blocks, left over from earlier ballast wall construction. We then built three further ballast walls, in accordance with Fred Howes' listed requirements, and also sorted out a couple of minor track alignment problems. All this work was carried out between Glan-yr-afon and Castell Cidwm. The turnout of volunteers this weekend (3 on Saturday, 4 on Sunday) has been particularly disappointing, especially in view of the excellent weather conditions.

These northerly views (both 7/2/10) show the placement of ballast retaining blocks at locations north from Bron-y-fedw Isaf. 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.

Bodysgallen progress 6/2/10

These Boston Lodge views (28/1/10 and 6/2/10) show progress on the rebuild of Pullman coach Bodysgallen, No.2115. The first view shows protection of furniture while the ceiling was being painted. The second view shows the new exterior cladding. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Norman Bond and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Pont Croesor Halt works 6/2/10

G. H. James are starting work on the parapet walls on the corner of the road/level crossing and are establishing a work compound. They may also have tendered for the station platform.

This westerly view (6/2/10) shows the James Cyf. work compound at the entrance to the Glaslyn Osprey Project. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Andy Forsyth and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Rest of the World Gang report 6/2/10

Paul Bradshaw reports: On a bright sunny day, which makes you realise how splendid it can be to be working on the WHR at this time of the year, a small but enthusiastic group of volunteers from ROWG installed two cable access chambers for the Up and Down home stop boards at Cae Pawb crossing on Saturday 6/2/10.

This easterly view (6/2/10) shows the cable access chamber for the Cae Pawb signals. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Steve Broomfield adds: As there were only three of us, activity was limited to installing access points to the cable ducts to the south and north of Cae Pawb crossing. After digging down to the ducting, we cut into the existing pipework and concreted in pre-formed plastic boxes for subsequent access. These are to feed electrical supply to the 'ladybird' signals, to be installed (later) at the two locations.

Team Wylfa report 2/2/10

Clive Briscoe reports: There was small team of 2 (again!) on the evening of 2/2/10. Still, it was very productive with some more of No.134's seized cylinder block studs successfully removed and the threads restored. There are very few left to do now.

Tuesday Gang report 2/2/10

Tony Baker reports: Today (2/2/10) we completed the fitting of corral rails to LC105, the site of Hafod Garregog Halt or Ynys Ferlas, whichever you prefer. Both names seem to be used for this location. Eighteen posts were concreted in last week. Another smaller party were fitting anti-trespass grids at Hafod-y-llyn. The weather was showery but nowhere like as bad as had been predicted.

This easterly view (2/2/10) shows work underway at LC105, Hafod Garregog level crossing. The Tuesday Gang has finished the corral fencing. The site of the halt is visible behind the corral and the steel posts which held the name-board are still visible. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Sponsors Train rescheduled to 30/10/10

Andy Savage has written to Sponsors advising them of the necessity putting the Sponsors’ Special back from 27/3/10 to 30/10/10 this year (the public timetable finishes on 29/10/10). The main reason for this is that the Porthmadog Bypass works may be blocking the WHR just south of Pen-y-Mount, though the lack of availability of sufficient motive power would have been an issue as something special was hoped for. By October Network Rail should have the ERTMS system fully up and running on the Cambrian, so it is hoped to go across Cae Pawb Crossing all the way to Llyn Bach. There will be a good break for everyone in Beddgelert and it is intended to offer something really different on the return from Beddgelert to Caernarfon that should be worth the wait.

Some may have already booked accommodation for the 27/3/10 and will be welcome to tour the WHR fully during that day. Tours of Dinas and Boston Lodge can be arranged for sponsors and there is a public service. If there is enough demand Andy will arrange a session to meet Paul Lewin and himself, plus others, where they will talk over plans for the 2010 season and for future WHR projects.

Dinas in the snow 31/1/10

Snow fell over a large area of North Wales on the final weekend of January. Both Porthmadog and Dinas had a smattering but it soon disappeared.

This southerly view (31/1/10) shows snow lying at Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

North Wales Track Gang report 31/1/10

Dafydd Thomas reports: Over the weekend of 30-31/1/10 we had a good turn out of volunteers which enabled two jobs to be tackled, namely:-

We had a mixture of snow, frozen ground and sunshine to contend with.

This view (30/1/10) shows work underway fitting the catch point motor on the north side of Cae Pawb Crossing. The North Wales Track Gang goes to considerable lengths to ensure a level finish. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Jim Comerford and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These northerly and southerly views (both 31/1/10) show the fitting of the point motor to the north catch point at Cae Pawb Crossing in snowy conditions. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Jim Comerford and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Lyd tour delay

Replica L&BR loco Lyd will be launched at the FR's Quirks and Curiosities Gala 30/4/10-3/5/10. Following running-in over the Summer, the loco will now visit the L&BR later than expected during the L&BR's September Gala. This may allow the loco to appear at the WHR's SuperPower Gala 11-12/9/10.

Porthmadog Bypass start 29/1/10

Transport Minister Ieuan Wyn Jones marked the start of construction of the Porthmadog Bypass on 29/1/10 by planting a tree in one of the landscape areas in the development. Work on the viaduct over the WHR and WHHR, just south of Pen-y-Mount, is scheduled to be completed this year before the WHR opens to Porthmadog. Work on the bridge under the FR, just east of Minffordd will be undertaken next Winter and the road opened in 2011. See BBC website.

The final road improvement to affect the WHR will be a A487 Caernarfon Bypass from the north end of the existing Pen-y-Groes bypass south of Llanwnda to the west end of Y Felinheli Bypass east of Caernarfon. This is likely to cross the WHR just north of Bontnewydd Halt. Planning has started for this section of the A487.

Team Wylfa report 26/1/10

Clive Briscoe reports: We worked on No.134 again on Tuesday evening (26/1/10). The main task was to continue running taps through the various sized cylinder block stud holes to clean them out after previous stud removal. Doesn't sound much of a job, but the 7/8" BSW ones for the cylinder cover studs did need some 'grunt' and helped warm us up in the cold shed! There only remain about 8 various sized sheared studs to remove between the two cylinder blocks and clean the threads out - most have been pilot drilled ready for this final assault.

The Sunday No.134 working party (24/1/10) had finally got the rear drawbar out - with the aid of a gas axe the burn the pin out. Also the front SAR style coupler was removed without resorting to the gas axe. The wasted frame in way of the firebox on the LHS has now been built up and ground back smooth, the RHS remains to be so treated.

These Dinas shed views (both 26/1/10) show the left hand cylinder stud removal and the right hand cylinder with studs out. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Clive Briscoe and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 26/1/10

Tony Baker reports: Today (26/1/10) we worked at LC105, the crossing to the Osprey caravan, at the site of the former Hafod Garregog Halt. The job was to concrete in the posts for the corral rails. Some 12 corner posts and 6 intermediate posts were installed. Next week when the concrete has set we will fit the rails themselves. The bottom rail forms the base of the anti trespass grids.

This view (26/1/10) shows work underway at LC105, Hafod Garregog level crossing. The Tuesday Gang goes to considerable lengths to ensure a level finish. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Working Week report 25/1/10

Dr. Simon Melhuish reports: We worked on the other rail, north from the Hafod-y-llyn Isaf farm crossing (LC103), chasing the rail gaps until the start of the big curve round into the long straight. There we introduced a stagger. At the end of the day we were within a few lengths of the end of the curve. I bashed rocks near Pont Ynys Ferlas (the Afon Nanmor Bridge).

These southerly and northerly views (both 25/1/10) show the results of rock bashing just north of the Afon Nanmor bridge after an hour's bashing with a 14lb hammer! Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Working Week report 24/1/10

Dr. Simon Melhuish reports: We worked north from Hafod-y-llyn Isaf, re-gapping the rail on the west side. We got to the end of our previous re-gapping exercise, south from Hafod-y-llyn, so it worked out just right again. We also slewed the alignment in places to make the curves just a little sweeter. Around the crossing by Mr. Parry's farm we moved a lot of ballast to improve the approach for vehicles.

These northerly and southerly views (both 24/1/10) show LC100 and Upnor Castle with the works train, just north of the crossing. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (24/1/10) shows marks of the rock close to the Afon Nanmor bridge which requires trimming to ease the structure gauge to acceptable limits. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Dr. Simon Melhuish and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

NG15 report 23-4/1/10

It took some effort to remove the rear draw bar over the weekend of 23-4/1/10. It seems No.134 had sustained a very heavy collision to the rear at some point in its career and some plate-work is also bent. By the end of Sunday the rear draw-bar had yielded using the 'gas axe' on its pin. More work took place on horn guides, removal of cylinder studs and the painting of some of the wheelsets. It has been decided to replace the drain cock valves in stainless steel.

See NG15 Page for a full report.

Working Week report 23/1/10

Andrew Thomas reports: The Rest of the World Gang were back to Hafod-y-llyn Isaf for the never-ending challenge of making a 21st Century railway fit neatly onto the course of a 20th Century one built on the cheap. We now have an inviting looking straight stretching into the distance across the Nanmor bridge and a series of curves that look good for 20mph. Due to the realignment, we're still chasing gaps headed north towards the loop at Hafod-y-llyn to gain the extra rail we now need to join the railway up again. Due to weeks of surveying, levelling and relaying in this area, it's hard to find a foot of rail or a sleeper that doesn't have some strange and arcane chalk mark on it.

These northerly and two southerly views (all 23/1/10) show the completion of work on Hafod-y-llyn Isaf curve. The first view shows Upnor Castle on the PW train. The second view shows the gang slewing the curve and the third view shows the finished 20mph 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.

Summit Sign 22/1/10

Dafydd Thomas reports: On 22/1/10 the North Wales Track Gang (BHG) completed mixing and pouring concrete into the base of the Summit Sign. However the sign itself was not put up, its legs need to be installed and this will happen later. Paul Bradshaw and the ROTWG are starting a week long working party on Saturday. They aim to complete the work on the track at Hafod y Llyn Isaf.

This southerly view (22/1/10) shows the complete concrete base for the Summit Sign in Summit Cutting between Pitt's Head and Pont Cae'r Gors. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Peter Roughley and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

2010 timetable review

The 2010 timetable was published in January with services extended by 3 miles to a new loop at Pont Croesor in May. Services commence on Saturday 27/3/10 and continue until Friday 29/10/10 (Half Term Holiday but without the final weekend!). Trains operate almost every day except some Mondays and Fridays in April, May and October judged as days that holidaymakers travel to/from North Wales. Workings to/from Caernarfon at the start and end of the day are not shown for the second year in succession as they are deemed ECS workings, which do not carry passengers. The 1705 evening train (Red and Yellow timetables) will not stop at Bontnewydd Halt. This train may become a 'Food on the Move' service on certain days in the peak.

There are six different timetables with evidence of yield management heavily at work. The timetable looks like a rainbow in places e.g. there is a different timetable for every Monday in July. All trains are shown running to Pont Croesor with a footnote saying services should extend south from Hafod-y-llyn on Thursday 27/5/10. Until then, trains will return directly to Beddgelert after running round and wait time there. Surprisingly, Hafod-y-llyn Halt will be closed after the extension is opened. The Tuesday Gang has only recently built the platform there!

Train running times are either 2 hours or 2 hours 15 mins to Pont Croesor with sectional times improved after the major trackwork over the Winter closure. Round trips are between 4 hours 10 mins and 4 hours 40 mins and, despite the length of the route, can still be achieved with two train sets. Beddgelert is reached in 1 hour 30mins or 1 hour 50 mins and 20 mins (15 mins on some of the last trains) is allowed at Pont Croesor for running around and a toilet break. Some 25/30 mins are allowed for the Beddgelert-Pont Croesor running times. All trains pass at Rhyd Ddu except for the early train in the RED timetable that passes at Waunfawr.

The Purple timetable consists of one train a day, the 1100 from Caernarfon. This runs on off peak Mondays and Fridays, including some in July! The Lilac timetable shows two trains a day at 1000 and 1210. The second is planned to be diesel hauled, though may be steam hauled when locos/crews are available. This timetable runs at off peak weekends and some off peak midweek days. The Green and Blue timetables add a 1440 departure and run at 'shoulder' weekends and some off peak midweek days. The Yellow timetable adds a 1705 diesel hauled evening run. The train operates at Bank Holiday shoulders and 'travel to holiday' days in July and August. It gets back to Caernarfon at 2115, so in the early and late season part of the journey will be in the dark. The Red timetable adds an 0800 Dinas-Beddgelert (Only) diesel service that is designed to pick up campers etc. who are looking for a day out in Caernarfon. It departs Beddgelert at 0930.

Click here for the timetable.

Team Wylfa report 19/1/10

Clive Briscoe reports: We finally made it back to Dinas. Well, just 2 of us on the evening of 19/1/10. We worked on No.134 - removal of the remaining seized studs in the cylinders is still the No.1 priority. Several of the few remaining cylinder cover studs were pilot drilled ready for extraction and one of the small valve chest drain flange studs was successfully extracted. Also, most of the fore end footplating studs that were drilled before Christmas were successfully collapsed and removed.

Another working weekend on No.134 is planned by the No.134 Group this weekend. Prior notice of attendance to Andie Shaw is required - see the NG15 website for contact details.

Cae Pawb crossing equipment base complete 18/1/10

The signal cabin will go where the old one was (as close to the position as can be determined – it will look the same anyway) but the relays will be in the cabinets on the new base. This is because there is precious little room in the cabin itself and installation and maintenance will be easier if the kit is on WHR land. Once the cabin is built, the control panel for the signals and trap points will be moved into it from one of the location cabinets.

This southerly view (18/1/10) shows the complete concrete base for the location cabinets in the north east corner of Cae Pawb crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Ray Jarvis and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

ERTMS commissioning

It is looking increasingly likely that the Cambrian ERTMS commissioning date will be in March, rather than the February Half Term date previously announced.

Summit Sign 18/1/10

Dafydd Thomas reports: Today, members of the Black Hand Gang were at work at the line's summit, between Pitt's Head and Pont Cae'r Gors (Summit Cutting) completing putting concrete in the base for the summit sign, which has been commissioned by the Society's North Wales Group. Hopefully the sign will be installed by the end of the week.

North Wales Track Gang report 16-17/1/10

Dafydd Thomas reports: Over the weekend 16-17/1/10 the North Wales Track Gang (Black Hand Gang) were in action again at two locations. A small group were assisting Roland Doyle at Cae Pawb to continue with the work of installing the mechanism for the catch points on the southern approach to the flat crossing with Network Rail. The rest of the gang were continuing with the realignment of the track curve between Hafod-y-llyn Isaf farm crossing (LC103) and Pont Ynys Ferlas (LC196). Once track around the curve had been aligned to the correct curvature that had been calculated using the Hallade system, the track panels were connected back to the rest of the track. Two panels remain to be done as well as correction of expansion gaps at rail joints north of LC103.

This view (16/1/10) shows the workings of the point motor for the southern catchpoint motor unit. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Jim Comerford and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (16/1/10) shows the point motor and detector fitted in place. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Jim Comerford and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

These westerly, northerly and westerly views (all 17/1/10) show the fitting of the point motor and detector at Cae Pawb NR Crossing South. The first view shows the interior of a point motor. The second view shows the point motor and detector in position and the third view shows the western point motor. 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.

Britannia Bridge issues 13/1/10

FR Co. Statement 13/1/10:

'As part of its project to rebuild the Welsh Highland Railway from Caernarfon to Porthmadog, the Ffestiniog Railway was granted rights under a Transport and Works Act to construct the basic railway at this location. The tracks across Britannia Bridge have been in place since June 2008, together with bilingual signs warning road users of railway tracks in the road and advising cyclists to dismount and walk across.

Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways, January 2010

The statement follows revelation of correspondence between the police and the FR last July reported in the local press and the BBC website.

Cae Pawb crossing works 12/1/10

Work has started on the Cae Pawb Crossing controls. A concrete foundation is being cast on the north east corner of the crossing for the location cabinets that will control the crossing. The heritage style crossing cabin was planned for the northwest corner of the crossing in its original location.

This southerly view (12/1/10) shows Jarvis employees building the concrete base for the location cabinets in the north east corner of Cae Pawb crossing. 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.

Pont Croesor opening May

The WHR will open to Pont Croesor for the Spring Bank Holiday in May (31/5/10). Passengers will be able to alight and visit the adjacent Osprey Centre. The WHRCL was taking decisions on 12/1/10 and the intention is to have one full length platform on the west side of the loop at this stage with a shelter and toilets. The improvement in speed limits achieved over recent months on the existing line will mean that the 2 mile extended journey will have little impact on the overall journey time.

January Track Gang appeal

Paul Bradshaw reports: The start of the 2010 running season approaches rapidly. At the end of March trains will run to Hafod-y-llyn as they did in 2009. It is planned that trains will be running to Pont Croesor from late May. Before the season starts there are many tasks to complete. To that end we have a working “week” planned this month. It starts on 23/1/10 and runs through to 31/1/10. We have work to do on Phase 3 and other jobs south of Hafod-y-llyn. Why not join us whether for the whole week or part of it? We need your help.

If you need more information or, even better, you want to let me know that you can join us see Contacts page. I look forward to hearing from you.

Paul Bradshaw, Trackwork Volunteers Co-ordinator Welsh Highland Railway

Team Wylfa cancelled 12/1/10

Team Wylfa on 12/1/10 was cancelled due to the predicted heavy snowfall in North Wales.

Red NG16s

With No.138 soon to appear in red, Raymond Guy from Capetown (South Africa) has provided this image of a red NG16 in service.

This view (1980s) shows red liveried No.116 ready for the off at Port Shepstone. This NG16 belonged to the then ACR and was taken when ACR was at the height of its activities back in the 1980's. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Firth and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Cae Pawb crossing

The plan is for Cae Pawb to have location cabinets installed and the interlocking commissioned in the next few weeks to coincide with NR's February half term blockade of the Cambrian Coast Line for ERTMS commissioning. There will be either two or three cabinets. The crossing cabin is a longer term project. It should go in this year but is not on the 'critical path' as far as getting the signalling equipment sorted out.

Tryfan Junction working party cancelled 9/1/10

The WHHG working party planned for 9/1/10 at Tryfan Junction has been cancelled. The next working party will be in February. It is hoped to have the platform ready for a special planned for 1/5/10, when members of the WHHG will be allowed to get off at the platform. Public opening could follow after the halt is passed by HMRI. For full details see WHHG website.

Loco report 6/1/10

Castell Caernarfon is receiving attention in Dinas Yard. The loco bonnet has been removed and attention is being given to the gearbox. Both the Funkey diesels have transmission/gear box issues and are without key components at the moment.

This westerly view (5/1/10) shows the maintenance of Castell Caernarfon at Dinas following a heavy snowfall. 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.

No.87 is on ambulance bogies at the moment whilst its own bogies receive some Winter maintenance.

This northerly view (6/1/10) shows the maintenance of No.87, now on accommodation bogies, at Dinas following a heavy snowfall. 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 (5/1/10) shows Conway Castle at Dinas following a heavy snowfall. 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.

Tuesday Gang report 5/1/10

Tony Baker reports: Six stalwarts braved the snow and ice to continue the work on the crossings at Hafod-y-llyn. The animal guards are now complete at LC 96/97 but until the pickup is repaired we cannot complete the crossing timbers at this location. By 1430 the snow was becoming quite heavy and not wishing to spend the night at Hafod-y-llyn we made our way home on the long way round via Tremadoc!

This southerly view (5/1/10) shows the Tuesday Gang working on the level crossing animal guards at Hafod-y-llyn during a heavy snowfall. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Firth and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (5/1/10) shows the snowy mountains as seen from Hafod-y-llyn during a heavy snowfall. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 5/1/10

Clive Briscoe reports: A very Happy New Year to everyone, I hope you all had a good Christmas. Just a quickie to let everyone know that should you fancy burning off some of the Christmas pud and haven't joined in any of the many other post Christmas bashes run by other groups, we'll be restarting at Dinas on Tuesday evening 12/1/10, 7pm as usual. Unless any other orders come in from on high to the contrary, we'll be continuing work on NG15 No.134. There's some very meaty 7/8" BSW studs (and stubs of studs) to remove from the cylinder blocks that will tax our muscles plus many other smaller jobs.

K1 working party cancelled

This weekend's K1 working party (9-10/1/10) has been cancelled due to the weather. The next scheduled working party will be 13-14/2/10.

No.134 report 3/1/10

Andie Shaw reports: This is a quick up date on a small working weekend on the NG15 No.134 held this weekend 2-3/1/10. A good start was made on the weld repair about half way through the left side - fumes were not as bad as feared so will continue with this next time. We also removed a lot of the studs from the cylinders. The right hand side studs were completely removed with just 3 to drill out as these are sheared off. The left side on going. For a full report see the NG15 website.

This Dinas view (2/1/10) shows the weld repair in progress. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andie Shaw and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This Dinas view (2/1/10) shows quenching the studs after heating. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andie Shaw and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This Dinas view (3/1/10) shows grinding weld repair on frames were they where they were badly corroded above the rear frame stretcher under the ashpan. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andie Shaw and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This Dinas view (3/1/10) shows all studs removed from rear of right hand cylinder. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andie Shaw and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This Dinas view (3/1/10) shows heating the studs to remove them. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andie Shaw and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

North Wales Track Gang report 2-3/1/10

Dafydd Thomas reports: Over the weekend of 2-3/1/10 the North Wales/Black Hand Gang continuing with the job of realigning the track from UB196 to LC103 (from the Afon Nanmor Bridge to Hafod-y-llyn Isaf farm). The Rest of the World Gang had continued with relaying the track on the curve between these two points, on a slightly different alignment (further from the rock face), from Wednesday (30/12/09) to Friday (1/1/10). The NW/BHG checked the alignment, measuring the chord throughout the two curves; it will then be possible to give the exact amount to nudge the rails at set locations to give an even smooth curve. We also checked the vertical alignment and where necessary jacked and packed the track. Sounds simple but it involved shovelling a lot of ballast. The track has not been reconnected at LC103 as the joint gaps north of this point need to be adjusted.

These southerly and easterly views (both 2/1/10) show early morning snow south from Hafod-y-llyn Isaf (Parry's farm) LC103 and onto the long straight over the Afon Nanmor bridge. The track has been moved further from the rock cutting face. 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.

These easterly and northerly views (both 3/1/10) show the track being lifted and ballasted. 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.

Finally WHR in snow 2/1/10!

The last day of the Winter service saw snow lying at Rhyd Ddu. Passenger services do not resume until 28/3/10 and snow is less likely at Easter.

These southerly views (both 2/1/10) show K1 and No.143 rounding Ffridd Isaf curve in the snow on the final passenger train of the Winter service. This was the first time there had been lying snow at Rhyd Ddu when a passenger train was running for many years. 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.

These northerly and southerly views (both 2/1/10) show K1 and No.143 arriving at Rhyd Ddu on the final passenger train of the Winter service. The snow had almost disappeared by the time the train returned in the second photo. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Alasdair Stewart (WHRCL) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (2/1/10) shows the No.143 leading K1 out of a snowy Beddgelert. Unusually, No.143 was leading on this final return journey of the season as on previous days K1 had been piloting so it could be removed easily at Dinas on return. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Firth and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Porthmadog Harbour snow 2/1/10

This easterly view (2/1/10) shows Blanche and Prince shunting at Harbour Station following a heavy snowfall. 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.

WHHR snow 2/1/10

Chris Dearden reports: It snowed pretty hard in Porthmadog on the afternoon of New Year's Day for the first time since early 2000, and by next morning, there was still enough around for some nice pictures. Volunteers carried on working, finishing off relaying the main line. The job was almost complete, but needed a clear up train to remove old rails and scrap metal ...... something which wasn't easy to do with some of it buried under the snow!

This northerly view (2/1/10) shows the orange Ruston diesel from Hoveringham Quarry heads up the line away from Gelert's Farm with a New Year works train. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Dearden and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (2/1/10) shows Simplex No.4 stands at Pen-y-Mount. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Dearden and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (2/1/10) shows Simplex No.4 pauses along the WHHR main line with a rail recovery train after re-laying over the Christmas holidays. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Dearden and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (2/1/10) shows the spiky form of Cnicht dominates the background as the works train pauses to collect scrap left over from the main line. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Dearden and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (2/1/10) shows the spiky form of Cnicht viewed across the fields with the WHHR track gang and the works train becoming orange dots in a scene dominated by the Snowdonia mountains. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Dearden and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

WHHR in the snow 1/1/10

Andrew Goodwin was lucky with the snow on 1/1/10 and has kindly provided this YouTube clip of the WHHR.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 0 min 40 seconds of video of PW working at Gelert's Farm on 1/1/10 in the snow. This video was taken by Andrew Goodwin on a camcorder.

Track gang report 1/1/10

The combined track gangs were in action at Hafod-y-llyn Isaf (Mr Parry's farm) on 1/1/10. It soon became clear that we were short of 100mm to close the gap. There was snow on the rails!

These southerly and westerly views (both 1/1/10) show the track lifted south from Hafod-y-llyn Isaf (Parry's farm) and the 100mm gap that was left. There was snow on the rails! 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.

These southerly and northerly views (both 1/1/10) show the smooth curve formed south of Hafod-y-llyn Isaf (Parry's farm) with the track further from the rock face and the track to be laid across LC103 to complete the relaying job. 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.

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