Winter Working Party report 30/12/12

Dafydd Thomas reports: The post Christmas  tree and vegetation clearance at Tryfan Junction (27-30/12/12) got into its stride on Friday and Saturday with a good turnout of volunteers from the North Wales/Black Hand Gang and the Rest of World Gang.

Happy New Year to you all.

Lyd's Ash Train 29/12/12

Passengers hauling by No.138 on 29/12/12 had a double treat. Not only did they see Gelert on the WHHR test train but also Lyd on an ash train working. The train travelled from Boston Lodge to Rhyd Ddu where Lyd ran round. The ash was tipped in the upper S curve just above the Forest Campsite to strengthen these narrow embankments. The train was then used to collect brash on its return journey.

Richard Stagg adds: I was firing Lyd on Saturday and the run round at Rhyd Ddu was quite a complex shunt as the two brake vans at the end of the train also had to be run round so they were in their correct position for the return trip.

This easterly view (29/12/12) shows Lyd at Rhyd Ddu with the ash train. The train is wrong line in the platform, presumably after running around about 1203. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dave Thurlow and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (29/12/12) shows Lyd at Beddgelert Station with the ash train at 1430. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dave Thurlow and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (29/12/12) shows No.138 at Beddgelert Station passing Lyd with the ash train at 1431. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dave Thurlow and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (29/12/12) shows Lyd with the ash train catching the sunset light as it crosses The Cob at 1550 with the WHR wagons, now full of brash. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a Canon SX20is digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

WHHR trains on WHR in 2013?

The test train on 29/12/12 is a further step in the 'rapprochement' of the two railway companies since the new WHHR management took over and their EGM in March 2011. This is the first time a WHHR train has reached Beddgelert, albeit an ECS working. This is a significant development in the trust between the two organisations as the train was allowed out on the WHR main line at a time when it would pass a passenger train and without a back up loco (the braking systems are incompatible as the WHHR uses air brakes, unlike the F&WHR's vacuum brakes). Other workings since the WHHR's management change include:

• Gelert ran light engine to water at Beddgelert on 25/6/11, following a test train run to Hafod-y-llyn that day (braking tests were conducted on Nantmor Bank).
• Chaloner transfer from Caernarfon to WHHR 23/7/11.
• Chaloner made the transfer from the WHHR back to the WHR on 6/8/11.
• Gertrude was dragged to Minffordd on 13/11/11 for onward transfer to Warley Model Railway Exhibition.
• Gertrude returned 26/11/11 via Minffordd hauled by SBR No.9.
• There have also been some helping hand movements between the systems, e.g. on 29/1/12 when telegraph poles were exchanged.
• Mike Hart's Simplex was transferred to the WHHR for their 22/4/12 Bank Holiday Weekend event.
• A WHHR AGM Members' Special train travelled from WHHR to Hafod-y-llyn on 21/7/12.
• During WHR Gala Penrhyn Quarry locos visited the WHHR terminus overnight 15-16/9/12 before continuing to Boston Lodge.
• Photo Charter freight from WHHR to Hafod-y-llyn on 21/9/12.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 9 mins 42 secs of video of Gelert on 29/12/12 working a test train from the WHHR to Beddgelert. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a Sony HVR Z5E professional camcorder and is best watched at 1080p HD resolution and normal speed.

When the five coach WHHR rake is finally approved for use on the WHR, following alterations to couplers, the WHHR eventually hopes to be given permission to run specials to Beddgelert initially. In the longer term, the Agreement between the railways would allow for regular services under a financial arrangement that does not abstract revenue from the F&WHR. As the F&WHR has reduced its service to a maximum of three trains a day in the peak timetable for 2013 there are plenty of paths available. In 2012 the F&WHR ran an early morning and evening peak service from Porthmadog to Rhyd Ddu that was deemed commercially unsuccessful and has been dropped for 2013. When the railway first opened to Waunfawr and Rhyd Ddu various early morning and evening diesel hauled services were tried, including Fish & Chip specials but these were also withdrawn even before the recession.

Tryfan Junction clearance 29/12/12

This easterly view (29/12/12) shows clearance of brush by the working party at Tryfan Junction. Work has yet to start on lengthening the platform to the area outside the station building. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andy Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (29/12/12) shows clearance of brush by the working party at Tryfan Junction has improved sight lines approaching the station. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andy Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (29/12/12) shows No.138 passing Tryfan Junction at 1530. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andy Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

ROWG January plans 19/1/13

Richard Southey advises: If anyone has considered joining us but not yet made the leap, the ROWG's next working week starts on 19/1/13. We will hopefully be putting the point in at Harbour for the WHR platform. We'd love to meet you.

Gelert for Beddgelert 29/12/12

On 29/12/12 the WHHR's Gelert made a loaded run to Beddgelert hauling a rake of 5 coaches, including the Gladstone Coach No.8, Toast Rack No.42, Replica Ashbury No.10, Buffet Car No.9 along with VoR brakevan No.2 to test the couplers and kinematic envelope of the WHR coaches on the sharp curves either side of Bryn-y-felin bridge. This train crossed the Caernarfon-Porthmadog service train at Beddgelert. Images welcome!!

This westerly view (29/12/12) shows Gelert leaving Pen-y-Mount Junction at about 0900 on a test train for Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a phone camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (29/12/12) shows Gelert at Pont Croesor at about 0950 on a test train for Beddgelert. Note the new sand boxes to assist adhesion on the 1 in 40. The area has been subject to flooding. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a phone camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (29/12/12) shows Gelert passing Nantmor on a test train for Beddgelert. Another wet day in North Wales but at least it makes for good condensation on the coal burning Bagnall! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a phone camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (29/12/12) shows Gelert with the test train at Sheepfold Cutting at 0951. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a Canon SX20is digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (29/12/12) shows Gelert passing Sheepfold Curve on a test train for Beddgelert. The train must have undertaken several run pasts or else the photographer has super-human speed to get between the viewpoints! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a phone camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (29/12/12) shows Gelert passing Bryn-y-felin on a test train for Beddgelert. The train must have undertaken several run pasts or else the photographer has super-human speed! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a phone camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (29/12/12) shows Gelert crossing Bryn-y-felin on a test train for Beddgelert. The train undertook tests on the sharp curves to see if the deflection of the coaches cutting the corners was outside the WHR kinetic profile. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a phone camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (29/12/12) shows Gelert with the test train at Beddgelert Station at 1033. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a Canon SX20is digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (29/12/12) shows Gelert watering at Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a phone camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (29/12/12) shows Gelert at Beddgelert at the limit of its test run. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a phone camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (29/12/12) shows Gelert with the test train at T4 at 1245. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a Canon SX20is digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (29/12/12) shows Gelert passing Ynysfor level crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a phone camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (29/12/12) shows Gelert passing Ynysfor level crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a phone camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (29/12/12) shows Gelert with the test train passing No.138 at Pont Croesor at 1406. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a Canon SX20is digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

Michael Chapman reports: Some of the locations were only possible because I was invited to take photos by the WHHR. Deflection tests were done on the carriages below and above Bryn-y-Felin bridge on the sharp corners - some work is required; John Whalley (F&WHR) is preparing a report for Martyn Owen (WHHR). The WHHR train passed No.138 at Beddgelert and Pont Croesor. Gelert's spark arrestor and new sanding gear all performed well. The weather was awful with heavy rain, Pont Croesor car park was under water as was the Fisherman's Path in the pass. The WHHR train arrived back at their WHR Porthmadog Station at approx 3:15pm. While the deflection tests were being done I was allowed off the train to take photos; this was with the permission/supervision of Martyn Owen and John Holmes from the WHHR and Jonathan Walsh and John Whalley from the F&WHR. On the return journey the train paused for photos outside the long tunnel! Despite the weather everyone enjoyed themselves.

Weather set fair for New Year's Day train

After days of stormy, rainy but mild conditions it looks like the weather will improve for the final service of the Winter Mince Pie Specials on New Year's Day. No.138 is diagrammed for the duty.

ROWG report 27/12/12

Steve Broomfield reports: Thursday 27/12/12 was the first day of the inter-holiday WHR work party, clearing vegetation in the area of Tryfan Junction. So, the two of us (Paul Bradshaw and myself) cleared the northern area from the road crossing to west of the station building. On Friday 28/12/12, Dafydd Thomas leads a somewhat larger 'gang', which will also have the aid of the 'chipper' for the cut brash. This activity will continue on Saturday 29/12/12 and Sunday 30/12/12.

This westerly view (27/12/12) shows No.138 passed on the 10:10 from Caernarfon) at about 10:53. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

Lyd's visit to L&BR

Lyd is to visit the Lynton & Barnstaple over their 10-12/5/13 Gala. The loco will be returning in SR green for the visit to Woody Bay provided that the two replica coaches Nos.7/17 (using recovered components), being rebuilt by the L&BR Trust's Essex Group at Great Yeldham, are completed in time. See L&BR's Coaches website.

Lilla at L&BR

Lilla has been visiting the L&BR and hauling Santa Trains. Like the F&WHR there was no snow but services were well patronised. See L&BR website for images of Lilla on the L&BR.

Mince Pie Specials start 27/12/12

Train services begin on 27/12/12 and run for 6 days until New Year's Day. Red liveried No.138 is set to haul the 1010 Caernarfon-Porthmadog service and 1350 return from Porthmadog each day. This allows 1 hour 20 minutes for viewing progress with the changes to Harbour Station or The Cob/Signal box/Relay Cabin etc. or to take a leisurely lunch in Spooners. Images would be welcome.

Happy Christmas!

Your web editor wishes all readers of this website a Happy Christmas.

Four England locos meet up 22/12/12

On 22/12/12 four England engines lay side by side in Boston Lodge possibly for the first time since the old FR Co. days. They are being prepared for the 150th Anniversary of Steam in 2013. Prince and Princess will be painted in matching deep red livery and appear in events around London as detailed below. The pair will visit Dublin’s Heuston Station, the Great British Beer Festival at Olympia and take part in celebrations on the Ffestiniog Railway throughout the year. Welsh Pony is losing its pleasing blue livery and is receiving a cosmetic restoration to be displayed in green, while Palmerston will be in steam on the F&WHR in maroon, its current livery. Some events will take place on the WHR which saw all of these locos in steam. For full details and images, see FR website.

Snow on the FR 18/12/12

Andrew Thomas (F&WHR) Press Officer has released a YouTube video on 18/12/12 showing a series of animated photos of the FR in the snow (Photos: Chris Mace/Music: The Mermen). The images can be viewed at 1080p and a variety of speeds between x0.25 and x2. This is presumably last year's snowfall. The current weather forecast for Caernarfon to 29/12/12 shows temperatures as high as 11 Centigrade and rain, sometimes heavy, every day, so not much chance of snow this Winter.

Prince to be fitted with A4 chime whistle

Boston Lodge has been presented with an engraved chime whistle from A4 Silver King. The whistle was provided by Bill Poacher, grandson of Bill Hoole, who drove Prince on the FR during his retirement from top link ECML driving duties. The whistle will be fitted to Prince in 2013.

Signal box plan

The new Harbour station signal box is a relatively low elevation traditional design, the floor of which rises about 1m above the track bed. It has large sliding windows and a toilet and stove for staff comfort. Operation of points and signals is effected through a lever frame at the east end of the box with an illuminated track diagram and CCT monitors to observe distant locations. Micro ETS installations for Minffordd and Pont Croesor are included and a Control desk, so it seems Control is moving out of Harbour Station offices, at least at quiet times.

This southerly view plan shows how the Porthmadog Harbour Station signal box will look when complete. Click on the image to enlarge. Image copyright F&WHR.

Tuesday Gang report 18/12/12

Tony Baker reports: Tuesday 18/12/12 was the last of our 2012 working parties. We resume on the 8/1/13. On 18/12/12 we were back in drains/ditches mode. Cae'r Gors cutting just south of the lines summit has steep sides and on the forestry side is flanked by a very wet and boggy area. When this section of line was rebuilt a drainage channel was cut alongside our boundary fence to take away surplus water. This ditch had become overgrown with reeds and other vegetation and was no longer fit for purpose. So, accompanied by Nic Byrne the F&WHR lineside maintenance manager we dug it out and managed to get it flowing again. We concentrated on the two ends where the worst boggy bits were and by days end the water was flowing out again. The danger in this sort of situation is that if a lot of water builds up at the side of the cutting it could course a landslip.

This southerly view (18/11/12) shows the Tuesday Gang ditching on the west side of the Pont Cae'r Gors Cutting. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (18/11/12) shows the Tuesday Gang ditching on the west side of the Pont Cae'r Gors Cutting showing the overgrown state of this wet area. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (18/11/12) shows the Tuesday Gang ditching on the west side of the Pont Cae'r Gors Cutting with the water now flowing freely. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

Where's the snow-we do know (14/12/12)!

The weather forecast for the next 5 days from Christmas Eve for Caernarfon is for heavy rain and temperatures as mild as 9 degrees. This is bad news for any chance of snow for the Mince Pie specials, though there are four days after this forecast until the final New Year's Day train on 1/1/13 where the weather could change. The snow is all in Germany it appears! See the following images of the  Harz system, courtesy of Michael Chapman. The HSB network was formally twinned with the F&WHR in September 2006. The Harz mountains are midway between Cologne (Koln) and Berlin, in Central Germany, and Festiniog Travel regularly organises trips to the 1m gauge network. A tour is planned for the Harz Autumn Gala on 16-23/10/13. The Brocken peak railway rises to 1141m (a similar height to Snowdon) and is usually snow covered from September to May. Visit the Festiniog Travel website and download their online 2013 brochure (where the tour mentioned above is incorrectly dated to take place in 2012). Festiniog Travel ploughs back profits into the F&WHR.

This  Harz view (14/12/12) shows No.99 7247-2 on a typical Harz train with open balcony coaches in heavy snow at Schierke, awaiting the passage of a diesel power with the snow blower returning from The Brocken Summit. The 2-10-2 K57's were mostly built in the 1950's. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This  Harz view (14/12/12) shows No.99 7247-2 on a typical Harz train in a passing loop in heavy snow at Brocken Summit Station. The Brocken has its own Alpine microclimate above the tree line but is often plagued by fog. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

This  Harz view (14/12/12) shows No.99 7247-2 on a typical Harz train in a station in heavy snow at Brocken Summit Station. All Brocken locos carry snow boots and a heavy duty snowplough is also employed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio and displayed at 96dpi.

Where's the snow-we don't know!

The lyric from the Santa and his helpers on the Santa Trains is quite apt (see YouTube link below) with mild wet weather forecast over the Xmas period, disappointing the photographers who like snow shots/video. With the unusual decision not to schedule February Half Term services in 2013 and services not restarting until 23/3/13, 1/1/13 seems the last chance of snow this Winter. Temperatures as high as 12 degrees are forecast over the next 5 days. No.143 continues with the last six Santa Specials this weekend and red liveried No.138 is set to haul the 1010 Caernarfon-Porthmadog service that runs for six days from 27/12/12 to 1/1/13.

On Sunday we returned to Castell Cidwm to improve the sheep resistance of the accommodation crossing at LC34.79. The opportunity was taken while we were in the area to clear out debris washed down the hillside onto a number of the occupation and accommodation level crossings.

A forward notice also about January 2013 – we do not have a meeting in January, but we resume again on the 3rd Thursday in February.

• Chilli and Rice.
• Lobscouse.
• Ham salad with a jacket potato.

Anyone wanting a pudding will be charged an extra amount.

The bar will be stocked with:

• A choice of three real ales.
• Lager.
• A selection of wines.
• A choice of soft drinks.

The entertainment will be provided by a local group called Gypsy Jazz, (whom many will recall entertained us a few years ago when we held the Christmas Event at Felinwnda Community Centre).

All those who wish to join us please contact myself Elwyn Jones – 07840910460 or Dafydd Thomas – 01248 681019 to book your place.

Full payment, noting number of partygoers, should be sent by Monday, 26/11/12 to:

Dafydd Thomas,

Ty Croes, Crymlyn,

Abergwyngregyn.

Llanfairfechan. LL 33 OLU.

Cheques should be made out to: - WHRS – North Wales Group.

Tuesday Gang South 6/11/12

The following tasks were undertaken by the TGS on 6/11/12...

• 1) The wooden rails at foot crossing LC45.08, Ty'n y Coed, were replaced/repaired. Some minor 'bushwhacking' was done at the same time, to improve visibility.
• 2) An anti-trespass 'triangle' was taken to Nantmor for a future replacement job (LC49.50).
• 3) An ERC was replaced in the middle of crossing LC51.53.
• 4) Some of the 'chicken mesh' on LC51.70 was removed, as it had become dangerous.
• 5) The damaged anti-trespass grids at Gatws Bach, LC53.96, were repaired.
• 6) The damaged fencing rails at LC54.26 were replaced/repaired.

This westerly view (6/11/12) shows the fencing at LC45.08 at Ty'n-y-coed. 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 6/11/12

Clive Briscoe reports: Team Wylfa had a busy night on Tuesday this week. With no carriage oiling to do, we were like wasps around a jam pot scrambling over No.134. However, carriage and wagon axlebox oiling did rear its head - Andy and I walked down to the South Yard with several plastic drums and 5 litre oil cans to collect some axlebox oil. On return to the Clip Shed, we set about soaking bundles of unbleached wool strands in the plastic kegs - in fact, we used up all our stock as we're likely to need most, if not all of it, cleaning out and repacking several B & DZ wagons that we've been asked to look at shortly. Once the Winter carriage maintenance has been finalised, a fair number of the axleboxes on the current F Set will need similar attention from mid-February.

On No.134, we took several more rusty components off the storage shelves and by the end of the evening, they had passed through the 'gleaming' stage and had been painted with Galvafroid primer. Next week we will continue with this work with undercoat being applied. Also, there are a number of the previously drilled pilot holes through the loco's frames that need opening out, tapping and screwing compression fittings into for the lube oil and grease lines.

When driving out at 10pm, our headlights caught some of the B & DZ wagons that need attention in the bay platform road so if we find these have been shunted onto the fuel road outside the Goods Shed, we will be able to run extension leads to floodlights and, providing it is dry, start servicing the axleboxes as well as working on No.134.

Snow report November

With trains operating from Porthmadog to Beddgelert during the weekends until 9/12/12 and Santa Trains operating weekends from Caernarfon to Waunfawr for 3 weekends from 8/12/12 plus the Xmas Holiday services from 27-31/12/12, here are some useful resources to check if there is snow around the WHR.

First Hydro has four webcams in the Llanberis valley. If the one pointed at Llanberis shows snow, this would give a good indication of snow in the Gwyrfai valley around Rhyd Ddu as they are around the same height. However, it should be noted that snow cover generally decreases from east to west. First Hydro weather cameras

Other useful resources include the A55 webcams. The Treborth Interchange (Bangor-Parc Menai A487/A55 Junction) webcam can be helpful though it is much nearer sea level than most of the WHR. Caernarfon Station postcode (with no spaces) is LL552YD and gives quick access to this when the filter is applied.

The WHR(P) webcams would show the rare sea level snow cover at Porthmadog, though not all are currently working. http://www.webcam.whr.co.uk/gelertsfarm/

The Meteorological Office provides a useful radar weather map covering the last 6 hours that shows the rain/snow coming into Britain and can be watched as an animation updated every 30 minutes. See Rainfall radar though this is being replaced with an updated website.

The main Meteorological Office website also has a Porthmadog/Wales page that shows the predicted weather for the Porthmadog area for the next five days, though this is being replaced with an updated website.

'Autumn Gold' voucher valid until 9/12/12

Vouchers which entitle passengers to discounts on the 'Autumn Gold' Porthmadog-Beddgelert service can be downloaded and printed from the F&WHR website, where there is a link at the bottom of the page. Multiple copies of the vouchers may be printed. The vouchers entitle passengers to discounts of 10% on travel and meals at Spooners, £2.95 off the Travellers' Guide DVD and 50p off the Guide Book. The travel vouchers are valid for families or groups of up to six passengers and valid with standard fares but not with special events.

First snows of Winter 4/11/12

Snow came early to the mountains of Snowdonia and provided a snowy background to the first of the Autumn Gold weekend trains from Porthmadog to Beddgelert on 4/11/12.

This northerly view (4/11/12) shows No.87 on the straight approaching Pont Croesor with the snowy background of the Moelwyn massif on the first day of the Autumn Gold weekend service to Beddgelert. Taliesin was used in previous years on this service. 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.

This panoramic northerly view (4/11/12) shows No.87 on the straight approaching Pont Croesor with the snowy background of Cnicht and the Moelwyn massif as the backdrop. 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.

Porthmadog-Beddgelert services start 4/11/12

Sunday 4/11/12 sees the start of the Porthmadog-Beddgelert only service centred on coach tour traffic. This has been very successful in recent years after it was first run as a substitute to the FR's coach tour offering when this was unavailable due to engineering works. Trains run at 1100 and 1450 from Porthmadog with a 45 minute or half hour break at Beddgelert. A round trip from Beddgelert can be undertaken at 1230 with a 55 minute break at Porthmadog, allowing a quick meal at Spooners! Trains operate for six weekends from 4/11/12 until Sunday 9/12/12, when staff are used instead on Santa Specials of both FR and WHR.

North Wales Group report 3-4/11/12

Dafydd Thomas reports: On Saturday, 3/11/12 the North Wales Gang completed packing the sleeper voids in the Down loop at Beddgelert station. On Sunday, 4/11/12 we carried out a Hallade survey of the curve immediately south of Bryn-y-felin bridge to Corlan (Sheepfold Cutting). The information from survey has been fed back to the Ff&WHR's Infrastructure Dept who will work out a better and correct alignment for the curve. Once we have the necessary information we can start to align a smoother curve. Following the survey we cut back vegetation and overhanging tree branches north of Bryn-y-felin road over-bridge up to a point just beyond the rear of Bryn-y-felin house.

End of the Autumn through train service 3/11/12

Saturday 3/11/12 saw the end of the Autumn through train service on the WHR. Autumn shoulder holidays have been increasingly popular over the years as couples without children and retired people take advantage of cheaper off season accommodation. It was unusual for the service to finish on a Saturday. This is the end of through services on the WHR until the Xmas holiday week.

Snow Scenes

With snow coming to North Wales at the start of November and Winter scenery coming before Xmas in recent years, it is perhaps time to remind users of this website of the Snow Scenes page again. The main opportunities for WHR images in the snow are with the 3 times a day Santa Specials from Caernarfon to Waunfawr or the Xmas/February Half Term trains (18-22/2/13) though sometimes snow falls as late as March and even early April this year! When snow falls at lower levels, the Porthmadog-Beddgelert service (see above) can operate in the snow briefly! See Snow Scenes page for previous years' scenes.

This northerly view (23/12/10) shows No.138 at 1444, departing Caernarfon a little late, on the last Santa Specials of 2010. 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.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 1 minute 7 seconds of video of No.138 accelerating away from Hendy crossing on 23/12/10 in the snow, working the first Santa Special of the final day of operation. The YouTube clip is best watched at 1080p HD standard. This video was taken by Barrie Hughes on a Panasonic SD700 HD camcorder.

Steampipes London Film show 3/12/12

'Velorail', a potential competitor attraction to the F&WHR using bicycle powered rail frames on the Blaenau to Llan Ffestiniog Branch, has not made any further progress as the promoters are still attempting to raise £100,000 to fund the project.

Clive Briscoe reports: As usual, the Team Wylfa A Team were at Dinas on Tuesday evening. As has already been stated previously, we have the E Set shedded at Dinas for the next few weeks due to there only being one train from each end of the railway each day in this low season. This week and next, Martin's B Team are having a break so the A Team have the whole set to check and oil so there was no spare time afterwards to do some more work on NG15 No.134.

There is another No.134 Working Weekend this coming weekend (20-21/10/12) so if anyone would like to help, please contact either myself, Clive Briscoe, Andie Shaw or Pete Randall beforehand using the links from the Contacts page on the NG15 dedicated website.

Tuesday Gang report 16/10/12

Peter Roughley reports: On 16/10/12 the weather was from cool and rainy with sunny periods and there were six volunteers. We continued digging out the long ditch between LC 25.05 (Rhos Isaf Road) and LC 25.53 (Plas Bodaden) and by close of play I would estimate we were at 25.29, roughly half way. It could take another two working days to clear the whole length. Progress is slowed by the nature of the matted grasses and weeds and substantial quantities of deposited silt which have to be manually wrested from the ditch. The completed section is looking much improved.

Rail purchased for Harbour station 10/10/12

About 1km of 75lb rail has been obtained from Isle of Man Railways for completion of the new Harbour Station track layout. The 101 lengths of rail were delivered on 10/10/12 and will be used to construct the new loop for the WHR trains to run round independently of FR movements. The remainder of the rail will be used for the fan of Harbour Station sidings and the FR platform.

17-18/11/12

12-13/1/13

16-17/2/13

16-17/3/13.

Please contact John Startin in the usual way to confirm whether you will be attending etc. john@steambuff(dot)co(dot)uk

Team Wylfa report 25/9/12

Clive Briscoe reports: Team Wylfa's multinational A Team were at work on Tuesday evening. The Team comprised English, Welsh, German and Australian members! In addition to Ulrich looking in for his last visit with us until next Spring, it was the turn of our Australian part-timer, David Powers to look in. However, the evening did not go swimmingly - that being the operative word. There was water EVERYWHERE at Dinas. To start with, we had difficulty getting to our tools in the Clip Shed - there was a deep lake about 6ft wide outside the door approx 4" deep. So, after carefully wading in and opening the door, we then found that there was about the same depth of water across most of the floor. Only a small, dry pathway existed across the north end between No.134's loco chassis and the benches. The tool cupboards - luckily sitting on pallets, were dry inside but getting to them was a real problem. Somehow, we managed with only slight dampness appearing in the writer's left boot.

Worse still was that the coal road, where just a few days ago, a line-up of formerly derelict ex-PQR locos had been lined up during the Quarrypower Weekend was all but submerged. Outside the Carriage Shed, spare carriage No.24 was sitting in a lake. It was dry inside the Carriage Shed but the inspection pit was full to within a foot or so of the top so the pump was switched on and took over an hour to empty it. However, by morning it will probably be full again judging by the jets of water spurting through cracks in the masonry lining. Because it was still raining and No.24 was sitting in a lake, we checked and oiled the bottom half of the E Set leaving No.24 and the top end to Martin and the B Team on Thursday - the weather forecast is promising to be dry. Since the Clip Shed was flooded, no work was possible on No.134 so we finished early and went home.

North Wales Track Gang report 22-3/9/12

Dafydd Thomas reports: Over the weekend of 22-23/9/12 the North Wales/Black Hand Gang were engaged in track maintenance work at Beddgelert station, which involved preparing the Down loop for tamping. We were also able to level the track in about two thirds of the siding at Beddgelert using ballast that had been delivered there earlier. This now looks a lot more like the finished job. The Caernarfon end of the siding remains to have a Catch Point installed followed by being aligned and levelled (and a ground frame -Ed).

This southerly view (22/9/12) shows the North Wales Track Gang ballasting the recently extended Beddgelert station siding. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Russell progress 22/9/12

Michael Chapman reports: The work done so far on Russell at Keef's includes;

• fitting the motion weigh-bar shaft

• fitting expansion link mounting brackets

• fitting the slide bars

• lining-up the main piston rods

• machining the pistons

• machining new leads on the cylinder liners

• removing the pony trucks for modification to traverse tighter curves

Since the appeal was re-launched in June monies have started to come in at a steady rate but more is urgently required to get the loco finished ASAP. Please visit: http://www.whr.co.uk/s2/commercial/2012/RussellAppealLeaflet.pdf

This Keef view (22/9/12) shows the whole chassis. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Martyn Owen and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This Keef view (22/9/12) shows the cranks. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Martyn Owen and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This Keef view (22/9/12) shows the slide bars fitted. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Martyn Owen and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

WHHR freight charter to Hafod-y-llyn 21/9/12

Click on the YouTube link to watch 1 min 16 secs of video of the WHHR's Gelert on 21/9/12 hauling a freight rake towards Hafod-y-llyn. The video in best watched at 1080p quality and was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder.

Rest of the World Gang 15-21/9/12

Phil Nock reports: A group of old ROTWG's, numbering just into double figures, met at Dinas on the morning of Saturday 15/9/12. We were tasked with clearing soil that had washed down the hillside and built up in LC36.52 and LC36.70 Bron-y-Fedw, not far below Glan-yr-Afon viaduct, along with clearing the turf in the anti-personnel grids. Vegetation was also cleared to improve sightlines. Periodically little quarry engines chuffed by.

On Sunday, having emptied 2 B-wagons full of loco ash onto the Carriage Shed floor and graded it, we returned to Bron-y-Fedw, armed with concrete blocks, to build a ballast retaining wall. Today's steam treat was Blanche and Linda thundering by on an up train, which cheered us up no end, as by lunchtime the liquid sunshine was rather strong.

This northerly view (18/9/12) shows the ROTWG building the ballast wall at Bron-y-fedw. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tim Evans and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (18/9/12) shows the ROTWG building the ballast wall at Bron-y-fedw. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tim Evans and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (18/9/12) shows the ROTWG tightening bolts. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tim Evans and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Monday took us to LC28.42, Tan-yr-Allt foot-crossing, between Tryfan Junction and Waunfawr. This too had suffered from a lot of washed down soil contaminating the ballast. Drains in the area were also checked and scorched earth applied to lineside vegetation.

This southerly view (18/9/12) shows the ROTWG clearing brash at Tan-yr-allt. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tim Evans and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (18/9/12) shows the ROTWG tightening T-bolts near Waunfawr. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tim Evans and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

We returned to Bron-y-Fedw on Tuesday, with a fresh supply of blocks to finish the ballast wall. A few of us also spent the day lubricating and tightening T-bolts as far as Glan-yr-Afon viaduct.

Our activities on Wednesday were sited down from Waunfawr, where vegetation was again shown no mercy for several hundred yards, a fence cut by fishermen off to the Gwyrfai repaired and the state of the drains between Waunfawr and Tan-yr-Allt assessed. Also, as if that wasn't excitement enough for us, T-bolts were given the "squirt and twist" treatment over the mile or so of track we were working on.

Variety is the spice of life and Thursday saw us at Betws Garmon station reducing a large pile of collected brash to matchwood with the big chipper. Its meal was supplemented by further lineside growth cleared that day in the station area. And, you guessed it, some of us just couldn't resist lubricating and tightening half a kilometres worth of T-bolts as well.

Our last day was Friday and, because there were no trains, we had a works train and all of Phases 2 and 3 to indulge ourselves on. Our first task was to make up a French drain at Caeau Gwynion, where a drainage ditch had previously been dug at the bottom of the embankment, causing a temporary speed restriction. Fun was had by all fighting with a 50m long coil of 6" slatted drain pipe, as we unwound it and then rolled it down the bank into the trench. There then followed an hour of precision shovelling from a DZ full of ballast, as we backfilled the trench. And that was before lunchtime.

This northerly view (18/9/12) shows the ROTWG shovelling ballast onto a French drain at Caeau Gwynion. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tim Evans and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

After lunch, taken in blazing sunshine, with stunning views across Llyn Cwellyn, we had a leisurely run up to Rhyd Ddu to run round, gathering cut brash as we went. The return journey was very reminiscent of Phase 4 construction trains, sat safely in a wagon, admiring a series of vistas you cannot even get from the Pullman Observation Car. The brash was offloaded at Betws Garmon and then off we went into the sunset. Shredding that lot could wait for another day.

Great week, as ever. Our next one starts on 10/11/12. Come along, unless you're frightened of enjoying yourself!

Tuesday Gang latest 18/9/12

Tony Baker reports: The Tuesday gang spent the 18/9/12 at Coed Helen where a further 30 seized T bolts were dealt with. We have now completed from Hendy crossing 21.43 to St Helens Rd OB 20.77. Further sections from Bronant LC 23.36 to Hendy remain to be done to complete Caernarfon to Dinas. Six of us worked on this whilst a further three went to Meillionen Halt, which we have adopted, and planted bulbs and various spring flowering plants. All trains seen during the day were well loaded. Most encouraging for this time in the season.

Team Wylfa report 18/9/12

Clive Briscoe reports: On Tuesday evening this week, we were joined by our good friend from Germany, Ulrich. Ulrich is perhaps more well-known with the Black Hand, Rest of the World and Tuesday Gangs doing PW work with his wife Gabi. However, he joined Team Wylfa too - I think it was as long ago as 2004 when we were preparing the Clip Shed for No.134’s restoration. Since then he always joins us on Tuesday evenings whenever he is over from Germany.

With four of us present, we soon had the F Set checked and oiled (leaving this time, the top end of the set to be oiled by Martin and the B Team on Thursday evening) then moved on to No.134 work. More holes were drilled and tapped in the loco’s chassis for lube line pipe clips and other through-frame fittings whilst the side rod cleaning, started on the working weekend last Saturday, was continued by some of the others. The rods had been cleaned and greased when they were taken off in 2004 but had lain, covered, on a pallet under the bench since. Last week, the covers were pulled off and it was discovered that the wet grit blast that had been used to clean the loco’s frames had got inside and the rods were not in a very good state.

On Saturday, whilst your scribe was cleaning up the first ones, he found some interesting discoveries – some of the rods were not No.134 originals but had been around the fleet. One looked to have been sister loco No.135’s. But not only that, it was also stamped, roughly, with ‘146’. Another of the rods was originally on No.120, the one that WHHR had until recently when it was sold to Collection X. So, just like the Garratts, commonality within the fleet led to interchanges of not only boilers, but individual parts.

Tryfan Junction restoration 16/9/12

A fireplace was installed by September and the first fire lit in the chimney on 16/9/12. The WHHG invited the Secretary of Llanwnda Community Council to light the first fire.

Quarry Power tailpiece 16/9/12

This northerly view (16/9/12) shows Bronllwyd, carrying its 1930's livery for Surrey CC as GP39 used during the building of the Guildford bypass. This loco is leading Britomart, Eigiau, Linda and Blanche across a very wet Britannia Bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (16/9/12) shows the two Penrhyn Ladies crossing Britannia Bridge on the final working of a wet Sunday, the final two of four locos. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (16/9/12) shows the Cavalcade crossing Britannia Bridge on the final working of a wet Sunday lead by Bronllwyd, now carrying its original GP39 name and livery. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (16/9/12) shows the Cavalcade on the final working of a wet Sunday lead by Bronllwyd, now having shunted back into the platform at Porthmadog Harbour Station. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Britomart and Moelwyn bugbox express 16/9/12

This northerly view (16/9/12) shows Britomart and Moelwyn at Rhyd Ddu. The pair uncoupled from their short bug box rake and ran to the southern water tower so that Britomart could water. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (16/9/12) shows Britomart and Moelwyn at Pitt's Head. The whole journey was subject to heavy rain and Moelwyn's cab is open to the elements! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (16/9/12) shows Britomart and Moelwyn between the two Beddgelert Forest campsite level crossings. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Dismal Sunday at QuarryPower 16/9/12

After a satisfactory Friday and Saturday, Quarry Power saw almost continuous rain on Sunday (with hail forecast!) until the final curtain came down with the Cavalcade across Britannia Bridge. Numbers attending were noticeably thinner on the ground with just one or two passengers on the Britomart/Moelwyn working, the 1040 from Caernarfon to Pont Croesor. In addition to the absence of Lilian notified in advance on this website, Sgt Murphy could not be spared from the Teifi Valley Railway. However, coffee pot loco Leary put in an appearance on Friday/Saturday.

KMX 15/9/12

This northerly view (15/9/12) shows the KMX tamper liner parked at Hafod-y-llyn with its running truck. The KMX had a very thorough upgrade at Plasser's at the end of last year and the roof details look different. The computer system has been updated to deal with 2 foot gauge track rather than the previous 1 metre mine's gauge track it was designed for. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Cwmcloch cavalcade 15/9/12

This northerly view (15/9/12) shows Castell Caernarfon parked at Rhyd Ddu at 1330 after an unidentified role in Quarry Power. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/9/12) shows No.143 clearing the section from Rhyd Ddu before the Cavalcade sets off one by one for Cwmcloch top crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (15/9/12) shows Eigiau and the vertical boilered loco arriving at Cwmcloch top crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (15/9/12) shows Stanhope arriving at Cwmcloch top crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (15/9/12) shows Lilla arriving at Cwmcloch top crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (15/9/12) shows GP39 arriving at Cwmcloch top crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (15/9/12) shows Winifred being propelled by Hugh Napier arriving at Cwmcloch top crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/9/12) shows Hugh Napier about to return with footplate staff relaxing after the hard climb from Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (15/9/12) shows Winifred being dragged back to Beddgelert by Hugh Napier. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/9/12) shows Leary allowed to run on its own downhill to Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (15/9/12) shows the Cavalcade returning to Beddgelert from the area set aside on farmland by kind permission of the Cwmcloch farmer. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Peter Roughley and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (15/9/12) shows Linda and Blanche approaching Beddgelert in the middle of the Cwmcloch S bend from the area set aside on farmland by kind permission of the Cwmcloch farmer. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Peter Roughley and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

QuarryPower YouTube 15/9/12

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 14 min 43 secs of video of QuarryPower from 15/9/12. The video in best watched at 1080p quality and was taken by Dave and Tom Waldren on a camcorder.

Line up at Beddgelert 15/9/12

This northerly view (15/9/12) shows Hugh Napier at Beddgelert Station. Saturday afternoon was a little dull with the occasional light shower. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/9/12) shows Winifred at Beddgelert Station. The loco is on a wagon as it still has its Penrhyn gauge wheelsets. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/9/12) shows GP39 at Beddgelert Station. Saturday afternoon was a little dull with the occasional light shower. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (15/9/12) shows Eigiau at Beddgelert Station. Saturday afternoon was a little dull with the occasional light shower. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Roland Doyle advises that Paul Lewin has written to guards thanking them for their cooperation with the ETS trial. 'The trial has already obtained some valuable data which has lead to improvements in the system. The initial trial is for 3 months and is due to end on Friday 21/9/12. The shadow working arrangements should continue until then. A formal review will follow this in the Autumn and no doubt further information on the next steps will follow.'

This northerly view (15/9/12) shows the former Iarnrod Eireann token machine installed at Beddgelert operations room. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Saturday at Quarry Power 15/9/12

This northerly view (15/9/12) shows the Penrhyn 'Ladies' arriving at Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/9/12) shows the cavalcade leaving Dinas passing the Dinas loco shed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/9/12) shows the cavalcade passing Bryn-y-felin. Saturday afternoon was a little dull with the occasional light shower. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/9/12) shows the cavalcade passing Hafod-y-llyn. Saturday afternoon was a little dull with the occasional light shower. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

QuarryPower YouTube 14-15/9/12

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 10 min 12secs of video of QuarryPower from 14-15/9/12. The video in best watched at 1080p quality and was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder.

Quarry Power prequel 14/9/12

This westerly view (14/9/12) shows the Cavalcade heading north through the Aberglaslyn Pass for stabling at Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Weather set fair for QuarryPower 15/9/12

Saturday's weather for QuarryPower looks cloudy with sunny periods and little chance of rain. However, the weather on Sunday deteriorates with heavy rain forecast for much of the day with the possibility of a little sunshine at Porthmadog towards the end of the afternoon.

Tuesday Gang report 11/9/12

Tony Baker reports: On Tuesday 11/9/12 the Tuesday Gang resumed the work of clearing the long drain at Coed Helen that was started last week. As reported a section of channel had collapsed and this was cleared out and a four inch pipe inserted. In addition where the channels with slatted lids were situated in areas where debris was being washed down the sides of the cutting the lids were swopped for the non slatted type. The work on the drain was taken as far as it could be awaiting management decision on how it was to be terminated. Work then switched to making a start on rectifying the 38 seized and loose T bolts between crossing and OB 20.95. About half were dealt with by close of play.

This northerly view (11/9/12) shows the Coed Helen drain collapse. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (11/9/12) shows the Tuesday Gang clearing the Coed Helen drain. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang south

Steve Broomfield reports: The following tasks were undertaken by the TGS yesterday...

1) The old (and rather battered) Running-In Board at Snowdon Ranger was removed from the wooden posts to ground level and secured, in preparation for its replacement (which is to be on three steel posts).

2) Eight Polish fishplates were recovered from foot crossing gate weight duties (at Nantmor, Pont Croesor and Pen-y-Mount) and replaced with older variants, deemed unfit for their original purpose.

3) Timetable stocks were replenished at Snowdon Ranger, Meillionen and Pont Croesor.

North Wales Track Gang report 8-9/9/12

Over the weekend of 8-9/9/12 the North Wales/Black Hand Gang were engaged in preparations at Dinas for the forthcoming Quarrypower weekend. This involved the building of a stillage for the real ale that will be available in the Goods Shed on Friday and Saturday along with tidying up the Goods Shed. There was also a lot of grass and dead vegetation strimming, clearing up rubbish, surplus bits of material left around the north yard and a good general tidy up of the whole area. On Sunday we also managed to dispose of a large quantity of loco ash to level out and make a start on providing a better walking surface in the Carriage Shed.

This northerly view (4/9/12) shows the new oil tank at the north end of Dinas platform. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Peter Roughley and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa Express 7/9/12

Clive Briscoe reports: Team Wylfa had a ride on the cushions from Dinas to Beddgelert and back last Friday night (7/9/12). For some time we had been promised a ride up the line for team members and their long suffering wives as a thank you for keeping the carriages oiled these last few years. It turned out to be quite a magical night. We were originally to have a diesel up front but various loco problems on Thursday and Friday meant that Castell Caernarfon had been sent south to cover for one of the Garratts which left us with Upnor Castle. Further thoughts from management after No.143 had been returned to health meant that when we turned up, No.143 was at the head of our train. The weather was perfect and long term stalwart of Team Wylfa and the Tuesday Gang, Peter Tweeddale was fit enough to join us. Peter has been quite poorly since this time last year and has been in and out of hospital. It turned out to be Peter and Brenda’s wedding anniversary so it was quite a little party with Peter’s spirits boosted no end by being with his old friends and colleagues.

This southerly view (7/9/12) shows the Team Wylfa Express at Clogwyn-y-gwyn on a beautiful evening. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

On arrival at Beddgelert, we found Roland Doyle ‘playing’ with the new electronic token system so we had an impromptu demonstration of this impressive amalgamation of 19^th and 21^st Century technology. He told us that it has now been ‘pressure tested’ and been found hacker proof (access codes change automatically after every use-Ed). It has now been tweaked so that it is now almost 100% reliable – the only likely failures are if the BT telephone lines go down, in which case it is no different to the telegraph wire linked MES system on the FR for which arrangements for controlling trains in event of a MES failure are already in place. He told us the initial trail of the WHR system was ending in two weeks after which a report of the trail would be prepared for the FR's independent advisors to consider. Apart from having a Controller and diesel driver on standby, we crewed the train from team members and friends. Many thanks to FR management for giving us this treat.

This southerly view (7/9/12) shows members of Team Wylfa enjoying an evening journey in the Pullman car Bodysgallen. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Lilian unavailable for Quarry Power

Charlie O'Mahoney reports: The Launceston Steam Railway is, of course, the home railway of James Evans (Lyd project/ Fairratt proposal) and consequently where both the Lyd and 'Fairratt' projects were started; plus we have all been very supportive of the rebuilding of the Welsh Highland. We are also developing a diesel railcar which is likely to have a test run on the WHR, and were due to be sending our Hunslet Lilian to the Quarrypower weekend (but unfortunately she will now not be going as we require her to stay in Cornwall to maintain our own services, and we have no working locomotive available to cover for her if she went to Wales).

Launceston Steam Railway Appeal

Charlie O'Mahoney reports: I have copied below our 'Appeal' email; if you can offer us any support it would be much appreciated.

'For many years the LSR has set its sights on the final extension of the railway to the small village of Egloskerry, two miles further on from the present terminus at Newmills. To this end, more than a decade ago we purchased the final section of trackbed required at the Egloskerry end. Some three years ago, the railway was approached by Cornwall Council with a proposal to enable the railway’s extension to Egloskerry in conjunction with the creation of an off-road multi-use trail between Launceston and Egloskerry. Cornwall Council succeeded in their bid for funding from the South West Regional Development Agency for this project, together with projects at Bude and Caradon Hill. The railway agreed to fund the cost of track laying and materials, whilst the project would fund the other elements. Last year however, Cornwall Council decided it could no longer fund the railway’s extension, but would nonetheless ensure that the trail was constructed in such a way as to ensure that the route of a future railway extension was not compromised in any way.

Following a review earlier this year by the funders (now taken over by DEFRA) concerned over lack of progress overall, the Bude project and the Launceston to Polson Bridge section were cancelled. Under considerable pressure and the threat of withdrawal of funding, Cornwall Council decided to push ahead with a much reduced scheme in an attempt to meet the closely monitored deadline for completion and have applied for planning permission for a multi-use trail which involves almost half of the trail being on-road, and the section between Newmills and our trackbed at Egloskerry (where the trail once again takes to the road) being constructed down the centre of the trackbed! If approved, this would forever prevent any possibility of the railway extending its business to Egloskerry our ultimate destination and would also cut us off from the trackbed we already own at Egloskerry.

Already a number of local people have registered objections - not least because we are the town’s major tourist attraction - but any person can comment on planning applications, and we are hoping that as many as possible will support us and the landowners in objecting to the current plan.

The planning application can be viewed at http://planning.cornwall.gov.uk/online-applications/applicationDetails.do?activeTab=summary&keyVal=M8WK1DFG0H900 (or by entering the application number PA12/07870 in the Cornwall Council online planning website) and comments can be made by selecting the comments tab. Additionally you can sign a petition of objection to the application at www.ipetitions.com/petition/lsr/

Further information may also be found on the ‘News’ and ‘TRAC Project’ pages of the LSR website www.launcestonsr.co.uk

We would be most grateful for whatever help you are able to give. All we are asking for is for Cornwall Council to change their plans so that rail and trail can share the route.

Many thanks for taking the time to read this Launceston Steam Railway Appeal'

Preparations for QuarryPower 14-16/9/12

Preparations are underway for the annual WHR Gala which this year is a themed QuarryPower event over next weekend, from 14-16/9/12 and including the WHRS AGM during the evening of 15/9/12. Full details are available on the F&WHR's QuarryPower microsite. Volunteers are still needed. Please contact andy@tymcrowther.eclipse.co.uk to volunteer. Locomotives will be moving to Dinas in preparation, some by lorry and others by rail from Dinas/Minffordd yard on Friday (any images welcome).

On Friday there will be triple headed shuttle trains between Dinas and Caernarfon using the quarry locos. Saturday sees a Linda/Blanche double header from Porthmadog to Caernarfon and a cavalcade of all the quarry locos arriving one by one at Beddgelert. Sunday afternoon will see a sextuple header from Pont Croesor to Porthmadog after their overnight stop at the WHHR's Gelert's Farm depot.

Timetables may be downloaded from the microsite. A 24 page A5 Spotters' Guide is available for £3.50 with full stock list, working timetables, train graphs and rolling stock formations etc.

Dinas progress 4/9/12

The new diesel fuel storage tank was mounted on the recently cast base at the north end of the northbound platform at Dinas station by 4/9/12. The tank allows locos to be refuelled whilst connected to a passenger train rather than shunting into the yard if they run short of fuel whilst hauling a service

No.138 report 4/9/12

Clive Briscoe reports: It was noted that the rear unit now appears complete with the tank/bunker having been refitted. One side of the front unit appears to have all the motion complete with the other side nearly so. Last week, the coal burning grate and ashpan were noted fitted under the boiler.

Team Wylfa report 4/9/12

Clive Briscoe: Just 3 members of the A Team attended on Tuesday evening 4/9/12 this week. Not to worry, we got into our stride and soon despatched the top end of the F Set leaving the bottom end for Thursday's B Team to check and oil up. By 20:45, we had returned to the Clip Shed and whilst your scribe went up to the Loco Shed to replenish the oil bowser, Pete and Andy carried on with last week's job and completed mounting the extra vice on the bench. We now have 3 workplaces - 1 on the steel bench next to the pillar drill and now 2 on the wooden bench. As was commented on in last week's report, with many more of No.134's components coming out of storage to be fettled prior to refitting, an extra vice was urgently required.

When your scribe returned after taking the filled oil bowser back to the Carriage Shed, he made short work of fitting the remaining new studs in the RHS cylinder bypass valve flange so that's both sides now fitted. We're slowly plodding along and keeping the project going whilst the main No.134 Team have been busy running trains over the summer. The first working weekend after the summer break is over Quarrypower Weekend when we'll be happy to show people the rapid progress now being made. We'll also have various things on show that you can buy to help fund the restoration too - showing you around does have strings attached!

Tuesday Gang report 4/9/12

Tony Baker reports: On Tuesday 4/9/12 the Welsh Highland Drains Gang aka Tuesday Gang was in action at Coed Helen. Between OB 20.95 and Hendy there is a long uphill straight. Running most of the way along here on the LH side is a covered drain which consists of a concrete trough with concrete slab lids. The lids are mostly solid but there are two stretches where the lids have elongated slots to allow surface water to enter the drain. Unfortunately debris washed down from the steep bank also enters. The result over the years is that it gets blocked up so we were charged with clearing it out. First the build up of soil and such on top of the lids had to be shovelled away. Then lids were lifted at intervals to see how the flow was. Where the lids were solid it was ok but the slotted sections were well blocked. The most effective way to clear it was found to be using hands to scoop it out. We are not sure if this drain predates the WHR rebuild. It may be an ex-BR installation. At one point something heavy had passed over it causing the trough to collapse. It is planned to replace this bit with a pipe. We expect to spend one more Tuesday on this. It makes a change from T bolt maintenance.

QuarryPower volunteer appeal

Dafydd Thomas appeals: A plea for volunteers. Tym Crowther tells me that some of you have been a little shy in contacting him to offer your services for helping over the Quarrypower weekend. There are those of you who have told me or fully intend to come but not told anyone; I forget and Tym is not clairvoyant so please we need to know if you are coming - contact Tym NOW please - andy@tymcrowther.eclipse.co.uk

So please contact Tym, if you can do only a morning or afternoon it helps.

Red timetable reviewed

The Merddin Emrys evening train finished on Thursday 30/8/12. An unadvertised refreshment service was offered during the final two weeks of August on the FR rake. Most trains ran on time. On 16/8/12 the train ran 30 minutes late, presumably because of problems on the FR as the train is effectively a through service from the FR (1510 from Blaenau Ffestiniog) with a 25 minute layover in Porthmadog. There must be some question about the viability of this service next year as it was consistently lightly loaded due to the recession affecting the number of holidaymakers in Beddgelert area campsites.

Another issue is the policy of running 10 coach trains with 3 hour gaps between services. Inevitably some people arrive at Caernarfon delayed by traffic/roadworks etc and just miss a service. Experience suggests they are unlikely to wait three hours for the next train and find alternative holiday activities. The three peak services offered this year at 1000, 1255 and 1550 should be looked at again as they are the poorest peak timetable offering from Caernarfon in recent years. The imminent return of K1 to traffic might allow the 'mega-trains' policy to be looked at again with shorter, more frequent trains offered. The existing 20 coaches in use could form 3 sets of 6/7 coaches. This would also reduce wear and tear on the NG16s which are currently being worked hard according to maintenance staff and, despite their best efforts, both No.87 and No.143 are clanking and requiring some TLC this Winter.

Prince and Princess to visit London in 2013

Princess is to be removed from Spooner's to allow a visit to London next year. Princess was the last loco used on the old FR and was said to be worn out. The event will celebrate the 150th anniversary of steam on the FR. The England engines were built in 1863 and Princess was the first delivered to the FR along with the long scrapped Mountaineer. The pair will be repainted in identical lined red livery for display on St. David's Day 1/3/13 with Princess at Paddington (presumably in the 'Lawn' area) and Prince operating on a specially laid track at LT Museum's Acton depot. It is hoped the publicity generated will attract visitors to the F&WHR in 2013. All four England engines will appear at the FR's 150th Anniversary of Steam event later in 2013, including blue liveried Welsh Pony pulled out of the Minffordd Yard storage shed and Palmerston, possibly lined up with some of the original rolling stock.

WHHR involvement in QuarryPower 14-16/9/12

WHHR members have been advised of the full details of QuarryPower as the event is now developing into a cooperative effort between the F&WHR and the WHHR. On Saturday at 1000, there's a chance to see the quarry locos lined up in scrap line order for the first time in 50 years. Each of the engines will be showcased on the S bend above Beddgelert, providing photo opportunities from the Cwmcloch public footpaths. They will then travel through Beddgelert and the Aberglaslyn Pass as they make their way to their overnight stop at Gelert's Farm on the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway. The WHHR will be operating an enhanced service throughout the day, half hourly during the day and hourly in the evening, and a viewing area will be available at Pen-y-Mount from where passing trains can be seen throughout the weekend.

Highlights to watch out for at the WHHR station are a special menu and extended opening hours for The Russell Tearoom, and both books and models at discount prices at the WHHR’s well known and acclaimed bookshop. Tickets are now available from the FR booking office at Harbour Station, either in person or by telephone on 01766 516024, and further details of this event can be found on the WHHR's website.

Team Wylfa/No.134 report 28/8/12

Clive Briscoe reports: It was a somewhat unusual evening for the A Team this week. Your scribe arrived to see the ECS stock arriving from Caernarfon with No.87 on the front, but, it didn't come into the yard. Instead, it dropped off the carriages before the yard points and continued into the station on the up line, changed the token and continued to the Loco Shed. Caernarfon Castle was fired up and backed onto the train which now pulled into the station, picked up the token and was off to Porthmadog. It was the E Set and we were expecting to service the F Set this week. What was going on? A quick call to Control solved the problem. The line was flooded on Bank Holiday Monday and the stock was now in the wrong place, this was an ECS working to position the E Set back in Porthmadog. We wouldn't be seeing the F Set on Tuesday night as it would be coming up in another ECS positioning move at 7am on Wednesday morning.

This northerly view (27/8/12) shows No.143 stopped just short of the flooded cutting approaching Castell Cidwm bridge at 1800. Castell Caernarfon is attached to the rear to haul the train back to Caernarfon. The flooding followed exceptional Bank Holiday rainfall in the area. This cutting sometimes causes problems but these have occasionally been exacerbated by persons unknown blocking the drainage. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Sharp and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

So, the Team got stuck in on NG15 No.134 for the evening instead. Loosely speaking, it can be summarised thus: Sweepers, nutters and the vice squad. Firstly we had to sweep out the water that had flooded the Clip Shed floor from Monday's rain. Only then could we start work and this is where the nutters and vice squad made their move. Your scribe approached one of the contractors working at the Wylfa power station with a small list of urgent 'wants' for the No.134 project: We were short of heavy 7/8" washers for under the cylinder cover stud nuts; 3/4" ones and 3/4" BSW nuts for some of the steam chest and cylinder bypass valve flange studs. One of our vices had non-matching jaws and another vice that we had been donated had none at all and we needed to put it into service. Our pillar drill was not easy to use as we had no machine vice to hold work that needed drilling. Could they possibly offer us some sponsorship? A week later and their manager dropped a heavy box on your scribe's desk. Many, many thanks to D-B Ltd.

So the nutters' job was to undo the rear end cylinder cover nuts, one at a time and fit a washer beneath and retighten. All the LH and RH rear cylinder cover nuts are now fitted with heavy washers to spread the load. Job done! Also, all bar two of the new 3/4" BSW studs for the RHS cylinder bypass valves were fitted (after running a tap through the rusty threaded holes first, to clean them up) and new washers and nuts loosely fitted to both LH and RHS.

So what of the vice squad? The new jaws were fitted to the big Record #25 vice mounted on the steel bench and the #23 vice was lifted out of the cupboard and fitted with its new jaws. Then, the team started to move an existing heavy duty vice on the main wooden bench along to one end to make room for the #23 vice at the other end. By the end of the evening, the one vice had been moved and bolted down in its new position and the #23 positioned, a wooden load spreader made from a large piece of 1/2" plywood and 3-off 5/8" BSW x 4" bolts and nuts located and cleaned up - ready to bolt the vice down. However, the holes need to be marked and drilled through the worktop next week in order to bring it into service. Oh, the new machine vice was tried on the pillar drill - it does the job very nicely, thank you. One other small task got done as well - a second coat of black Hammerite paint on all the new lube line pipe clips. So, a VERY productive evening spent on No.134.

You can get some idea of what No.134 will look like with its new tender as, since last week, there has been some shunting in the yard and the tender has now been shunted up to No.133.

This northerly view (22/8/12) shows No.133 lined up with its tender chassis carrying the new tender for No.134. This gives a good impression of how No.134 will look when completed, hopefully in 2015. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (22/8/12) shows No.133 lined up with its tender chassis carrying the new tender for No.134. This gives a good impression of how No.134 will look when completed, hopefully in 2015. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (22/8/12) shows No.133 lined up with its tender chassis carrying the new tender for No.134. This gives a good impression of how No.134 will look when completed, hopefully in 2015. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (22/8/12) shows No.133 lined up with its tender chassis carrying the new tender for No.134. This gives a good impression of how No.134 will look when completed, hopefully in 2015. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 28/8/12

Tony Baker reports: On Tuesday 28/8/12 the gang continued with the work started last week to eliminate dips in the track at the southern end of the station at Pont Croesor. Two more dips were dealt with and a dropped joint was sorted south of the Blaenau end points. The method used was to identify position of dip using sighting boards, jack up the track, and kango the sleepers.

This northerly view (28/8/12) shows the Tuesday Gang Kangoing a dip in the track just north of Pont Croesor south loop points visible in the foreground. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

WHR Harbour Station works to finish 2014

Work to complete Porthmadog Harbour station for WHR arrivals has been put back to be completed for the start of the 2014 season. This will mean a further year of piloting the WHR train in and out of the Harbour station's FR platform during the whole of the 2013 season. It had been hoped to install the new king point for the station throat before the start of the 2012 season, but late delivery has caused the whole plan to be rescheduled. A contract will soon be let for the new wave wall. This is will consist of slate dust coloured concrete to blend in with local rock colours. The new wall will be 270m long and formed of one metre sections. The castings will fit into a concrete trough foundation. The new wall is likely to be placed in October and will take about a month to install. There has been some slight subsidence of the widened Cob within the limits expected and some test diggings have been made. Once the new wall is complete the old wave wall can be broken out allowing the start of work on tracklaying. With the new king point in position, the new sidings can be laid fairly independently of existing FR traffic.

About £300,000 of the £700,000 Phase 5 Appeal raised so far has been used as match funding for the £960,000 Cob Widening project. The widened area has been fenced off to deter people from crossing the line. The tarmac throat crossing, previously used by rock delivery lorries, has been reduced in width in places and the seaward siding relaid.

This easterly view (21/8/12) shows Criccieth Castle ready to haul the Caernarfon-bound train out onto The Cob. Meanwhile No.87 returns from an unusual trip to Boston Lodge during the short turn around. The Cob Extension is seen fenced off with site fencing that has been re-erected and a nearer wooden fence. The tarmac lorry access road has also been reduced in width near the platform and where the seaward siding crosses it. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Loco problems 26/8/12

Upnor Castle had to double head the service train with Castell Caernarfon due to a fault with No.143 on 26/8/12 (This illustrates the urgent need to get K1 and No.138 back in action-Ed). The Garratt was repaired by the end of the day and was able to take the last Up train from Dinas to Porthmadog.

This easterly view (26/8/12) shows Castell Caernarfon with Upnor Castle hauling the return working of the first train of the day from Caernarfon with Criccieth Castle drawing the rake out onto The Cob. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (26/8/12) shows Castell Caernarfon with Upnor Castle hauling the first train of the day from Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Lilla on tour 25-31/8/12

Lilla has been travelling around various locations promoting the F&WHR. Having visited the Penrhyn Castle on 18-19/8/12, the Quarry Hunslet will be touring the country over the next few weeks to places as far apart as Yorkshire and Devon. Next stop is the NRM in York from Saturday August 25/8/12 until Friday 31/8/12. Next up is the Birkenhead Transport Festival in Birkenhead Park on 22-23/9/12 where the loco will be offering passenger rides in the Ashbury Carriage along a specially laid section of track. Tiny Quarry Hunslet Britomart will also be present on static display. Finally, Lilla will travel to the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway in Devon for their annual Autumn Steam Gala on 29-3-/9/12 as Lyd will not be available until next year. There will be F&WHR representatives at all three events who will be happy to chat and answer your questions about the railway. See F&WHR website for more details.

This northerly view (11/9/11) shows the Lilla in Dinas north yard for cab rides at SuperPower 2011. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Paul Martin advises: Fresh from its star turn at Penrhyn Castle last weekend Lilla arrived at the National Railway Museum during the evening of 20/8/12 and was to be unloaded in the morning of 21/8/12. Lilla will be operating from Bank Holiday Saturday through to the following Friday giving footplate rides for a small charge. On the Bank Holiday Saturday, Sunday and Monday the intention is to run a mini Gala with Rocket and Puffing Billy working the passenger train, City of Truro in steam to be cabbed, Lilla giving footplate rides and Teddy doing drive an engine. Details are on the NRM website here. For the rest of the week Lilla will be giving footplate rides with, probably, Rocket on the passenger train. Lilla's visit finishes on the Friday taking part in a Boys' Brigade event.

We need some help to look after Lilla and to promote our railways and the forthcoming Quarry Power event. Each day we need a driver, fireman [appropriately F&WHR qualified] and a couple of people to manage queues hand out leaflets etc. At the moment the roster looks a bit thin and we may struggle to actually operate on the weekdays. If you can help please get in touch by e-mail.

Micro-ETS trial latest

Roland Doyle gave your webmaster an update on the Electronic Token System on trial between Beddgelert and Pont Croesor. The system runs in parallel with existing staff and ticket systems to assess reliability. A 3 month period terminating on 18/9/12 was judged suitable. Roland designed interfaces for the ex-Iarnrod Eireann (Irish Railways) red Tyer's token machines of which some 17 were donated to the F&WHR in 2008. The system avoids the not inconsiderable cost of 25km of lineside copper cable suitable for telecomms. Copper cable is also vulnerable to theft as NR has found out to its cost.

The system uses the internet to link to a reliable server in Gloucester and feeds back signals to the token machines and to Control in Porthmadog Harbour to power a mimic display. So far the system has produced no wrong-side errors with Safety Critical software installed but has failed to release tokens on about 10% of occasions at Pont Croesor. This was found to be because the telephone wire from the local exchange was just longer than recommended for the modem and signals were being affected by electronic noise. A standard household modem had been in use but installation of a top quality industrial standard modem has cured the problem. If the trial is successful, the system may be installed throughout the WHR and also the FR, which often suffers from interruptions when trees bring down telephone lines. Roland hopes to market the system for other heritage railways and even some third world country's main lines. He was on hand in late August to monitor the operation of the system at Beddgelert. A full account of the Micro-ETS system can be found on the WHRS's project website.

Boston Lodge alterations for Garratts

Boston Lodge works is having alterations to improve Garratt servicing as one Garratt starts from there everyday for the two train service. A concrete apron is being constructed outside the Erecting Shop. This will allow locos to be lifted and placed on ambulance bogies so that attention can be given to the power bogies. A preparation/maintenance pit is being constructed alongside the Loco Shed.

More on the 'Fairatt'

James Evans, proposer of the 0-6-4-0T improved single Fairlie/Garratt project is to sell his ex Dinorwic loco Sybil to kick start fund raising for the new WHR loco. The sale is hoped to raise £50,000 towards the estimated cost of £750,000 for the new WHR loco.

Gelert twin to be tested on WHR?

The WHHR's Bagnall Gelert (Rustenburg Platinum mine No.4) has a twin, No.3, that was delivered to Boston Lodge on 25/6/12 for final completion. Bought in 1982 for the WHHR to be named Moel Tryfan, little was done but it moved away to Yorkshire where more progress was made. The loco may be trialled on the F&WHR before dispatch to the L&BR. See L&BR story.

Coach roller bearing programme

Six FR style roller bearing carriage bogies have been made at Boston Lodge. These will be fitted under the WHR coaches to reduce rolling friction. Already FR Observation Car No.123 has these fitted.

Former star picture

This northerly view (12/4/12) shows No.87 southbound snaking over the Bryn-y-felin bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Matt Waldren (aged 13) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Appeal for Quarry Power stewards

Andrew Tym-Crowther writes: Willing volunteers are needed to assist with stewarding duties over the above AGM & Quarry-Power weekend. There are various duties and a stunning selection of locations. If you are interested please respond with an indication of the days/hours you may be available to help out. If you are available anytime between 12.00am and 11.00pm on Friday 14/9/12, 6.45am and 6.00pm on Saturday 15/9/12, and 9.00am and 3.00pm on Sunday 16/9/12, please let me know. Volunteers are also needed to assist with setting everything up on Saturday 8/9/12 & Sunday 9/9/12, also the final set up on Thursday 13/9/12, and, yes you’ve guessed it, taking it all down again on Monday 17/9/12. Please be generous with your time and respond as soon as you are able. Contact Andrew Tym-Crowther.

North Wales Gang report 25-26/8/12

Dafydd Thomas reports: Today the trench was back filled with spoil, the area levelled and work site tidied up. The remainder of the day was spent tidying up the North Yard. We were not able to carry out our intended task of disposing of loco ash as there was no loco available.

This easterly view (25/8/12) shows the conduit being laid for the oil tank pump in Dinas North Yard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Peter Roughley and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Peter Roughley reports: On 25/8/12 the NWTG/Black Hand Gang were engaged in completing the concrete base for the Diesel Fuel Tank at the north end of Dinas down platform which involved mixing by concrete mixer some 1½ tonnes of aggregate with cement and laying it alongside the previously laid pad. This job was completed by lunchtime. Meanwhile a mini digger was utilised to dig a trench between where a conduit pipe had been installed two weeks ago (under the sidings and fuel road) to enable the conduit to be continued to the Permanent Way Shed. The conduit pipe is now installed all the way from the concrete base to the PW Shed door which will enable a power supply to feed the Diesel Tank pump in due course. On Sunday the mini digger will be able to complete back filling the trench, consolidate the ground and remove the excess spoil from the job.

This northerly view (25/8/12) shows the completed oil tank base with Upnor Castle in the background on the pw train in Dinas North Yard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Peter Roughley and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Lilla NRM postscript 25/8/12

Paul Martin reports: The first day of the NRM Steam Weekend was a great success with Lilla giving around 80 footplate rides, Rocket doing good business giving train rides, driver for a fiver on Teddy and footplate visits on City of Truro which in light steam. The day started with torrential rain but this cleared up by opening time and became hot and sticky. The museum was very busy all day but another downpour just after 4pm signalled the end of operations for the day. We will be doing the same again on Sunday and Monday but it has been decided that Lilla won’t operate on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday. It will operate for the Boys' Brigade event on Friday. Thank you for the offers of help, we now have the revised operating days covered. Lilla and the Simplex will return to Wales on the 3/9/12 in time for Quarry Power.

Winifred added to Quarry Power line up

Winifred, an ex-pat ex-Penrhyn Quarry Hunslet is to make a guest appearance at September's Quarry Power Gala. The loco was brought back to the Bala Lake Railway after 47 years in the USA stored in a warehouse at the Indianapolis Motor Speedway and is probably in the most authentic condition, being effectively untouched since the day she was exported to the US in 1965. See F&WHR website for full details.

Evening trains 23/8/12

This southerly view (23/8/12) shows Merddin Emrys hauling the evening train approaching Bryn-y-felin. There is still no loco for the early morning train despite the return of Linda from Shrewsbury. Perhaps the shortage of steam crews or the fact that the service would garner few passengers makes it unlikely the service will be reinstated in the final week. However, now the Olympics are over, trains are fuller even if the campsites and roads are still relatively empty. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (23/8/12) shows No.87 crossing Bryn-y-felin bridge after Merddin Emrys had cleared the section to Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (23/8/12) shows Merddin Emrys passing Beddgelert Forest Halt on the final train of the day, the 1830 Rhyd Ddu-Porthmadog. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

No.87 views 22/8/12

This southerly view (22/8/12) shows No.87 at Beddgelert on the 1540 from Porthmadog running about 11 minutes late. Most trains were on time during August with drivers restarting well on the steep gradients at Beddgelert and Meillionen (Forest Campsite Halt). The telephoto lens accentuates the slightly dipped joint in front of the loco. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (22/8/12) shows No.87 departing Beddgelert at 1636. The water tower feeds the water crane which can swivel to service locos on both tracks in the station. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Loco Shed progress 22/8/12

This southerly view (22/8/12) shows No.138 on ambulance bogies on the newly extended easterly track of the Loco Shed. Some L section steel bar is stockpiled for completion of the flangeways. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (22/8/12) shows the newly extended easterly track of the Loco Shed and its heavy duty yellow buffer steel buffer stop. Some L section steel bar has been welded in place to complete the flangeways before concrete is flowed around the track slot. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Beddgelert siding extension and water tower 22/8/12

The buffer stop has now been fitted to the Beddgelert Station siding, which has been extended onto a level shelf alongside the southbound platform that may have carried construction track in the 1906 PBSSR construction days or the later 1920s McAlpine WHR construction period. The siding could hold up to five bogie coaches such as a WHHR train from Porthmadog or a WHR shuttle during a Gala.

Shuttering has been fitted to the top of the water tower in preparation for improving the support for the tank, soon to be fitted by the Welsh Highland Heritage Group and already present in Dinas North Yard. Public footpath access to the station may now be gained directly via the subway to Cwmcloch lane just west of the railway bridge past the main water tank rather than uphill through the fields to the lane.

This southerly view (22/8/12) shows the new siding with freshly white painted buffer stops at Beddgelert station. There is narrow clearance between the water tower and Lamp Room. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (22/8/12) shows the new siding with freshly white painted buffer stops at Beddgelert station as seen from the viewing area that now has a WHR bench. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (22/8/12) shows the new siding with freshly white painted buffer stops at Beddgelert station can seen from the platform. The track could have been extended several more metres along the level shelf with a little excavation and built up next to the platform road. With the main line dropping at 1 in 43, the level shelf is over 1m above the platform road at the buffer stops. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (22/8/12) shows the new siding crossing the former inspection pit at an angle with a limited clearance between the Lamp Room and Water Tower. Planking has been placed on the rail reinforcing of the tower, presumably to improve the base for the water tank. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

The siding still does not have a point lever connected and a stop block is fitted before the new section because it has not yet been tamped. In fact the ballast shoulder has been removed at the north end to allow vehicular access for construction of the siding. Currently use of this end is questionable too! The KMX tamper was in Dinas Goods shed on 22/8/12 and made an early morning run south on 23/8/12, passing the Beddgelert Forest Campsite at 8:58 before stabling in the Beddgelert Station siding. The purpose of this visit may have been to tamp and align the siding so it can be used during September's Quarry Power event.

Tuesday Gang South report 21&28/8/12

Steve Broomfield reports: On the 21/8/12 we put up the new 'Map Board' at Beddgelert. On the 28/8/12 we were demolishing some wooden fencing at Harbour Station, in readiness for some further contractor activities.

This northerly view (21/8/12) shows the new F&WHR map board at Beddgelert station at the base of the approach steps. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Linda back at Dinas 21/8/12

Linda was delivered by road back to Dinas by Tuesday 21/8/12 and was noted in the Carriage Shed after its visit to the Shrewsbury Flower Show on 10-11/8/12.

Team Wylfa report 21/8/12

Clive Briscoe reports: This week (21/8/12), at short notice, the B Team had to cancel so on Tuesday evening, the A Team, supplemented by Rod from the B Team set to servicing the E Set in one hit. Because it was the whole set to do, regrettably there was no spare time to carry on with some of the small tasks on No.134 that we’d set our eyes on. However, there was one surprise waiting at Dinas on our arrival – a gentleman had called by to see No.134 – ‘his’ loco and left us a £1500 donation. A very big thank you Mr S. That will go a long way to paying for the replacement rear drag box.

No.143 clanking 20/8/12

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 47 secs of video of No.143 on 20/8/12 clanking a little. This loco will receive some TLC when No.138 becomes available for traffic. This video was taken by Jacob Straw (aged 13) on a handheld camcorder and is best watched at 720p HD quality.

WHR Renaissance book launch 20/8/12

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 5 mins 38secs of video of trains on 20/8/12 some carrying the WHR Renaissance headboard. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional camcorder and is best watched at 1080p HD quality.

On 20/8/12, trains carried a special headboard to celebrate the launch of 'WHR Renaissance', a book covering the rebuilding of the WHR from start to finish produced by Gordon Rushton, a former FR General Manager. The whole civil engineering team was out on the evening train to Rhyd Ddu and Merddin Emrys carried the headboard.

This southerly view (20/8/12) shows Merddin Emrys hauling the evening train arriving at Beddgelert station carrying the WHR Renaissance headboard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Originally subtitled 'The Story of the WHR Restoration 1996-2010', the title now covers the period 1991-2011, from the birth of the project to its completion, in so far as the WHR is complete. As such it covers a period when the politics of the project were difficult. In the writer's own words: 'There are more delicate areas....there are some matters that are controversial surrounding the story. After a great deal of consideration, the way to deal with this was to try to be factual. There may be those who object, and although no offence is intended, those who restored the railway have done it now. Surely the next task is to enjoy it.' The book is 448 pages long and is illustrated with many maps. While your webmaster offered his vast collection of high definition photographs and closely observed knowledge of the project at an early stage, this offer was not taken up.

This northerly view (20/8/12) shows Merddin Emrys watering at Rhyd Ddu station carrying the WHR Renaissance headboard (at the far end). Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

The print run is 2000 copies and copies may be obtained from the F&WHR on line shop at £68 plus £20 donation towards postage as the book is over 2kg! Copies may also be obtained direct from Adlestrop Press for £68 plus £5 p&p, with a free video, of the story that retails for £20 in the F&WHR shops. Those people who are entitled to buy the book at the Special Offer advance order price have all been advised of this by e-mail (your webmaster was not so it may be worth checking!). All the personal coupon codes have been sent out. They have until 30/8/12 to order.

This southerly view (20/8/12) shows Merddin Emrys hauling the evening train running round at Rhyd Ddu carrying the WHR Renaissance headboard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

The next Adlestrop book will cover the Wrexham & Shropshire Railway. This short lived open access operator fulfilled the desire of the former Clwyd County Council (now again Flintshire and Denbighshire County Councils) to reinstate direct Wrexham to London services lost when BR cut the former GWR main line services from Birkenhead Woodside to Paddington via Shrewsbury and Birmingham Snow Hill (a service your webmaster is old enough to remember from the 1950s!). W&S's loco hauled Mk3 service was 'stolen' by Chiltern Railways who now use it for their short Birmingham Moor Street-Marylebone service as DB, the parent company, judged the W&S loadings too low. All that remains is the impressive silver livery on one or two Class 67s and of course Hornby train sets! Wrexham may regain a loco hauled service when the Class 67/DVT hauled ATW trains are diverted later this year, avoiding Crewe by reversing at Chester.

This northerly view (20/8/12) shows the WHR Renaissance headboard on Merddin Emrys as it prepared to haul the 1830 return Rhyd Ddu-Porthmadog evening train, the last of the day. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Rest of the World Gang 17-20/8/12

Paul Bradshaw reports: A small but enthusiastic band of volunteers worked on a variety of tasks over the four days of our August weekend. The main job was to continue the work started on our June weekend. Vegetation was cut back off the retaining wall at Caernarfon Station between the water tank and the ground frame. The path used by loco crews to reach the ground frame was also cleaned up and a fresh layer of ash spread over it. The work substantially improved the general appearance of this area as well as making the wall visible for inspection. Part of Saturday morning was taken up with clearing/rodding surface water drains at Dinas North Yard following a deluge earlier that morning. Our final day was spent oiling and checking T bolts between the Loco Shed crossover at Dinas and the Plas Bodaden level crossing as part of the programme of ongoing maintenance. ROTWG's next outing will be the September working week which starts on Saturday 15/9/12. Join us if you dare.

This southerly view (18/8/12) shows No.87 arriving at Caernarfon passing the ROTWG clearing buddleia from the retaining wall. 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (19/8/12) shows the cleared retaining wall at Caernarfon after the ROTWG removed buddleia from the retaining wall. 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 14&21/8/12

Tony Baker reports: On Tuesday 14/8/12 we bagged up lime pellets to be used for future line side management and on 21/8/12 we were at Pont Croesor dealing with a dip in the track at the southern end of the station. Sighting boards were used and the rectification necessitated the lifting of the level crossing grids and also the crossing timbers themselves.

This northerly view (21/8/12) shows the Tuesday Gang Kangoing a dip in the track just south of Pont Croesor with the loop points visible in the background. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Dinas improvements 14/8/12

Work is underway on improvements at Dinas. A new diesel tank base is being constructed next to the Caernarfon bound platform. A trench for the pump power supply was constructed on 10/8/12.

This northerly view (10/8/12) shows the construction of a trench at the north end of Dinas loop for a fuel pump power supply. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Simon Atkinson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (10/8/12) shows No.143 being coaled at the north end of the platform. A counterweight is attached to the rear of the tractor. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Simon Atkinson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (14/8/12) shows the new base for the fuel tank and pump. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (14/8/12) shows the new fencing along the southbound side of the platform. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Merddin Emrys 14/8/12

This northerly view (14/8/12) shows Merddin Emrys southbound approaching Pont Cae'r Gors having watered at the northbound water tower, the valve lever to the southbound tower being broken. The perfect evening light illuminates the train and an untypical cloudless Snowdon in the background. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Loco news 14/8/12

No.138 is in the final stages of refurbishment with various parts now coming together and painted up. The intention is to see it steaming by QuarryPower. This will allow No.87 to undergo some attention over Winter as some clanking is becoming obvious, and to a lesser extend No.143 is also clanking. The WHR is desperately short of motive power and if there were to be another failure, as with Vale of Ffestiniog rostered for the early morning service from Porthmadog to Rhyd ddu, cancellations would be inevitable unless steam locos could be lent from the FR fleet. K1 needs to be rapidly completed followed by the NG15 by 2015.

This northerly view (14/8/12) shows No.138 on the recently extended easterly track at Dinas Loco Shed on ambulance bogies. The smokebox has recently been painted and a new coal bunker inserted. The tracks now extend the full length of the shed but not yet concreted in. The extending siding could contain three Garratts if parked closely together. No.138's bunkers and tanks are resting on a flat wagon. The nearer track is likely to extend only half way up the shed to allow for a storage area. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Conway Castle is having gearbox attention and with the new No.9, awaiting fitting of recently delivered re-gauged wheelsets, was moved inside the Carriage Shed in early August to clear the Dock Road for the simulated Penrhyn Scrap Line re-enactment.

This northerly view (14/8/12) shows K1 inside the Dinas Carriage Shed having work done on its pivot. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (14/8/12) shows Conway Castle inside the Dinas Carriage Shed having work done on its gearbox. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (14/8/12) shows No.9 inside the Dinas Carriage Shed on wheel skates. It awaits fitting of the recently re-gauged wheels and general refurbishment. The loco has run briefly in Dinas Yard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (14/8/12) shows the Dock Road at Dinas emptied (except for a wheel set) in readiness for the Quarry Power event in September. The loco has run briefly in Dinas Yard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Merddin Emrys Rhyd Ddu 13/8/12

This northerly view (13/8/12) shows Merddin Emrys watering at Rhyd Ddu after arriving with the evening train. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (13/8/12) shows Merddin Emrys watering at Rhyd Ddu after arriving with the evening train. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (13/8/12) shows Merddin Emrys running round at Rhyd Ddu after arriving with the evening train. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Rhyd Ddu water tower valve broken 13/8/12

The valve on the southbound water tank cannot be opened due to a breakage of the lever mechanism. This means southbound trains running short of water will have to pause just outside Beddgelert station to tank up as the Beddgelert water tank and crane can serve both platforms. The Merddin Emrys hauled evening run can water at the northbound tank before running around for the 1830 back to Porthmadog.

This southerly view (13/8/12) shows Merddin Emrys attempting to water at the Rhyd Ddu south water tower but the valve lever had been broken. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Quarry Power 'Penrhyn Coach Tour' update

The Penrhyn Quarry website has advised by an open letter that the WHR Quarry Power coach tour to the Penrhyn sites on Friday 14/9/12 cannot visit the Coed-y-Parc site or even view the site as the cycle path is closed due to scheduled maintenance and many of the buildings are in private daily industrial use. The Penrhyn Railway would not be operating in any case as it is a weekday. Neither of the two water wheels are viewable. The PR website has now withdrawn the open letter and Gwynedd Council confirms the cycle-track adjacent to the Coed-y-Parc site will be open on that day.

B4391 complete

The B4391 across the Berwyns, a popular short cut for visitors to Porthmadog and the WHR, was found to be complete on 11/8/12 bar the white lining and there were no restrictions on vehicles despite the various signs from A5 Wolf's Head roundabout onwards to the contrary.

Webmaster's Holiday

Your webmaster is off on his busman's holiday on the WHR for the next two weeks. Please do not repeatedly hit the website looking for updates as this might cause problems for the server, space on which is kindly hosted by Peter Bowyer of Narrow Gauge Heaven and Maple Design.

Former Star Picture

This northerly view (11/7/12) shows No.87 northbound at Rhyd Ddu. When the sun shines, the dark blue of this loco is much more obvious. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

WHR train to carry Flying Scotsman headboard

Over the weekend of 5-7/10/12 the F&WHR will be celebrating the life of its late President, Alan Pegler OBE, who died earlier this year. As well as many FR classic Gala workings the F&WHR will also be acknowledging Alan’s enthusiasm for the re-born Welsh Highland Railway. The 1100 Porthmadog-Caernarfon and 1540 return service will proudly carry a Flying Scotsman headboard – on loan from the NRM - and special souvenir tickets will be issued. Alan Pegler famously saved A3 No.4472 Flying Scotsman. This train gives a full round trip day out to Caernarfon with an hour in Caernarfon or, with a break of journey, a more leisurely lunch at the Snowdonia Park, Waunfawr. Reservations are strongly advised for this train. See F&WHR website for full details.

Service cut back 8/8/12

A problem with loco availability has led to a cut back in the timetable from 8/8/12, presumably temporary. Due to essential locomotive maintenance, the 0810 Porthmadog – Rhyd Ddu and the 1000 Rhyd Ddu - Porthmadog services will not operate until further notice. Vale of Ffestiniog, the rostered loco, is understood to have broken a drive shaft and the loose end went thought the wall of the gear box. The damage is likely to take a considerable time to fix! Castell Caernarfon has not been moved south to cover the duty as its main task is rescue loco at Dinas so would be out of position for any operational difficulties that arise on the northern half of the WHR. See F&WHR website.

This northerly view (8/4/12) shows Vale of Ffestiniog carrying the Severn Valley Railway Limited headboard southbound at Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dave Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 7/8/12

Clive Briscoe reports: Team Wylfa go for Olympic Gold! On the night Sir Chris Hoy and achieved his 6^th Olympic Gold medal, Team Wylfa were close in pursuit of one themselves. With the B Team on holiday this week, the A Team had to service the whole E Set. They had expected 5 or 6 but in the end it was just the faithful 3 who turned up. However, in a well-oiled routine, honed by years of training and practice, they hit the finishing line in 2 hours dead. Closing the Carriage Shed doors at 2115, it was just left to the leader (me) to go up to the Loco Shed to top up the oil bowser and return it to the Carriage Shed ready for next Tuesday’s administrations and lock up the site. A brilliant team effort for Team Wylfa!

Tuesday Gang report 7/8/12

Tony Baker reports: The Tuesday Gang spent 7/8/12 at Beddgelert Forest campsite area. The first job was to deal with a dip in the track on the upper S bend at location Ch.44.05. We then moved down to Meillionen Beddgelert Forest Campsite Halt and mended a boundary fence damaged by a falling tree branch and also cleared out a ditch at the same location.

These northerly views (7/8/12) show the dipped rail just north of Beddgelert Forest Campsite and the dip fixed after attention from the Tuesday Gang. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Tony Baker and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang South report

Steve Broomfield reports: The following were achieved by the TGS (2 volunteers) on 7/8/12.

• 1) Minffordd (car park) - 3 posts were concreted in, for the new F&WHR Map Board.
• 2) Cwm Cloch Ganol (46.43) - 2 SR signs near the crossing were re-painted (white).
• 3) Beddgelert Station - the final gloss coat was applied to the South building door.
• 4) Nantmor Station (49.58) - shelter gate closed (again); more timetables placed.
• 5) Nantmor Bank (50.27) - sight lines were improved by branch trimming.
• 6) Hafod-y-llyn NT (50.79) - sight lines were improved by tree / branch cutting.
• 7) Afon Nanmor (51.96-51.98) - sight lines were improved by tree / branch cutting.
• 8) Llyn Bach (59.40) - a temporary repair was effected to a damaged fencing top rail which needs replacing as it is badly twisted.

This northerly view (7/8/12) shows posts for the new F&WHR map board at Minffordd station on the FR. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

The Snowdonian 14/4/12

These easterly views (14/4/12) show The Snowdonian in the Aberglaslyn Pass. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Matt Waldren (aged 13) and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

The Snowdonian ran on 14/4/12 and a great day was had by all whilst raising funds for Phase 5. The cold conditions dissuaded some from using the open topped bus that paced the train. Linda and Blanche double-headed non stop from the FR to the WHR, with Merddin Emrys and Earl of Merioneth taking over at Pont Croesor. The train ran almost half full and raised £18,000 to be shared between the F&WHR and Phase 5. Almost £9,000 was raised in covenants and donations on the day. The train might run again next year on 13/4/12 and the theme will be 'First and Last' so if Prince's restoration is completed in time, the FR section could see Prince and Lyd, while the WHR section might be hauled by K1 (if completed in time) and No.143.

This northerly view (14/4/12) shows Merddin Emrys working hard rounding the lower S curve just before Cutting Mawr on The Snowdonian. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dave Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Palmerston to visit L&BR

Palmerston is to visit the Lynton & Barnstaple Railway's Autumn Gala on 29-30/9/12. The loco will arrive at Woody Bay on 3/9/12 and return to Boston Lodge for the FR's Vintage Weekend in October. The L&BR's Baldwin Lyn is making progress (see Project Lyn) and another replica Manning Wardle replica project is being dusted off having been stored for some time. After the frames for Yeo were cut they were stored at the Gartell Light Railway awaiting funds. See Project Yeo. It is hoped their display at the L&BR event will give a boost to the funding of construction following the successful completion of Lyd. Lyd's patterns may be made available for the project and lessons learned can be incorporated in the design. Lyd itself will visit the L&BR again next Spring, this time in SR green livery.

Festshopman's blogspot update 5/8/12

John Wooden has made another clip available on his blogspot showing the lengths he goes to in order to get interesting shots in good weather!

Tuesday Gang report 31/7-2/8/12

Tony Baker reports: We put up 3 posts at the Beddgelert Forest Campsite reception area for a WHR information board on 31/7/12 and, after dinner, carried on with our T bolt work north of Dinas.

Tuesday Gang South report 2/8/12

This week, the gang was working on a Thursday with Steve Broomfield erecting a new sign at the reception area of the Beddgelert Forest campsite on the posts erected by the Tuesday Gang earlier in the week. It is hoped this more prominent signage might attract more passengers as traffic has been affected by the recession and the price of petrol this year.

This southerly view (2/8/12) shows the new signage at the reception area of the Beddgelert Forest campsite. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (2/8/12) shows the new signage at the reception area of the Beddgelert Forest campsite. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 31/7/12

Clive Briscoe reports: Last week, it was business as usual with the A Team servicing the carriages (F Set again due to the way the stock rotations worked out) then chipping away at small tasks on NG15 No.134. This included drilling pilot holes ready for tapping out to screw compression fittings in that will ultimately take the fixed pipework on the outside of the frames to the flexi pipes feeding the horn guides on the inside. Meanwhile others in the Team started fitting new studs on the cylinder steam chests. The holes were quickly cleaned out by running a tap down them, then the new studs smeared with Copperslip and screwed in tight. On Thursday with B Team saw the F Set finished off.

Linda to visit Shrewsbury Flower Show 10-11/8/12

'Queen of the Hill' Linda is to visit the Shrewsbury Flower Show on 10-11/8/12 as a further attempt to drum up passengers on the F&WHR this Summer given the effects of the recession and high petrol prices. See full story on F&WHR website.

B4391 nears completion

Work on the B4391 at the summit of the Llangynog-Bala Pass that forms part of a popular direct Shrewsbury/Midlands to Porthmadog route is nearing completion with just a few hundred metres at the western end needing tarmac. The route is being widened slightly, resurfaced, and drainage improved. There are traffic lights and there may be restrictions on lorries/caravans etc for a few more weeks.

Titbits Summer 2012

April's traffic figures were disappointing though train loadings appeared better in May/June. Other railways have also been hit by the recession and high petrol prices but with little sign of a 'staycation' UK based holiday boom, for example the Wensleydale Railway has reduced its advertised loco-hauled diesel services to dmu operation to save money. Volunteer numbers have also reduced possibly due to the long journey and high petrol costs. Another issue is volunteer accommodation at the north end of the WHR. A redundant children's home at Bontnewyd is being looked at being cheaper than £500,000 for a new build.

Rail Ale broke all the records this year despite gloomy forecasts with the recession. The WHRS had stalls at the York NRM Rail Fest and the Urdd Gobaith Cymru annual National Eisteddfod at Glynllifon, a restored regency mansion at Llandwrog, just south of Dinas.

The KMX has performed well and is due a six month service after its busy work since its return from Plasser early this year. As well as the daily early morning PW Gang runs, there is a Wednesday evening track clearance train. This will continue at least until the end of August.

Joint Landscape Group has produced noticeable improvements in the flowerbeds at Dinas, Waunfawr, Rhyd Ddu and Nantmor. The increased volunteer numbers should allow expansion to other stations in the future.

Porthmadog Harbour station plans are nearing completion. LED lamps in traditional signals will reduce maintenance costs. A temporary fence will be installed along the old wave wall as safety issues have been raised about the number of visitors crossing the line at the station throat. There has been some slight settlement of the made ground for the new layout but the contractor has to make this good before the final payment is made. This is likely to be during the Autumn after the end of daily services and then construction of the new wave wall along the seaward edge of the raised ground can be started.

On 16/6/12 a ceremony took place at Nantmor Halt for a new WHRS bench and sign explaining the sponsored nature of this halt. The seat was paid for by local residents, friends and family of Prof. Richard Edwards who lived in the Nantmor area for the last 20 years of his life.

Former Star Picture

This northerly view (26/2/11) shows the Blanche leading Merddin Emrys out of Caernarfon on the 1430 return. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

NG16 No. 87 at Hafod-y-llyn 27/7/12

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 2 min 57 secs of video of No.87 southbound at Hafod-y-llyn on 27/7/12. This video is best viewed at 1080HD standard was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder.

Some further information about No.87 can be found at John Wooden's Blogspot.

Website holiday 31/7/12 to 4/8/12

Your webmaster will be on holiday on these dates and there will be no updates.

Problems have reappeared with gmail and googlemail addresses and the return message is again insisting that their ISP cannot handle message to multiple domains.

WHRS book sale

Tony Baker reports: We are planning a book sale at Dinas on the Quarrypower weekend with proceeds to Phase 5. You will probably have read about it in the latest Snowdon Ranger. Could anyone interested in a title (see book list) contact me by email please. See Contacts. 

Team Wylfa report 26/7/11

Clive Briscoe reports: Team Wylfa A & B Teams were at work on Thursday evening 26/7/11. They serviced the F Set then attended, with such a big team of 6 of them, to a health and safety hazard that has been causing some concern for a while in the Carriage Shed. The steel lintels for the former Caernarfon end roller shutter doors had been laid alongside the shed wall. However, there were webs welded to then which protruded into the walkway between the shed wall and carriages when they are stabled. With only 2 or 3 of us normally on a Tuesday or Thursday, there simply wasn't enough manpower to move them. But with 6 of us... After a hazard / risk assessment, it was deemed safe for all 6 of us to move the offending lintels to safer storage in the next bay. Some rope slings were quickly procured, then with some short lengths of scaffold pole (normally used by us to 'skate' heavy pieces of NG15 No.134 around the Clip Shed) acting as 'tee' handles, we inched the lintels along with ease in the same way that rail lengths are moved using the tongs. All 3 were safely stacked out of the way. Job done at last!

NG15 No.134 news

The second No.134 working party of July was held on 21-22/7/12. The recently fitted slidebars will have to be removed to drill all the holes for the lubrication clips. The driver's side grease block was fitted by the newest and youngest team member who drilled and tapped the block for the fitting and then drilled and tapped the mounting holes after which it was duly fitted to the underside of the running plate.

See full report at the NG15 website.

Peak 'Red' service begins 24/7/12

The peak Red timetable began on 24/7/12. Vale of Ffestiniog is being provided for the 0845 (Tu-ThO) from Porthmadog to Rhyd Ddu and 1000 return. The first week sees the interesting use of Merddin Emrys on the 1645 to Rhyd Ddu (Tu-ThO) and 1830 return, reprising the Easter service. From next week the service become Monday to Thursday, Friday is deemed a travelling to/from North Wales day with fewer visitors in the area. The peak service continues until Thursday 30/8/12. The services were poorly patronised in the Easter Red timetable.

This easterly view (24/7/12) shows Merddin Emrys departing Porthmadog on the 1645 to Rhyd Ddu. As at Easter, this service was lightly loaded, with only 17 passengers. The train returned with just half a dozen, who were all in the Observation Car. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Carpenter and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (24/7/12) shows Merddin Emrys curving across Britannia Bridge on the 1645 to Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Elizabeth Carpenter and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 24/7/12

Clive Briscoe reports: It was a ‘no show’ from the A Team last night as my car failed on the way – alternator / power steering / air-con drive belt went spectacularly. I got it as far as the garage this morning so on Thursday evening, A + B Teams will service the whole set. The Loco Shed extension track was connected up but wasn’t grouted in on Sunday 22/7/12.

Tuesday Gang report 24/7/12

Tony Baker reports: The Tuesday Gang today (24/7/12) continued with T bolt maintenance north of Dinas. About 20 seized bolts were dealt with.

Steve Broomfield reports: There was no Tuesday Gang south this week as there was a North Wales Group Weekend Away.

No.134 report 21/7/12

Clive Briscoe reports: Work proceeded on several fronts. Our youngest crew were set to once more on No.133 - removing the boiler cladding and lagging. This is being undertaken so that the externals can be cleaned of rust and any associated rust pits and treated before they cause serious corrosion of the boiler. We lit a small fire in the smokebox of No.133 to flush out a wasp's nest. Soon afterwards, having lifted the dome cover off earlier, the first ring of cladding and its damp glass fibre lagging had been removed.

This westerly view (21/7/12) shows No.133 apparently in steam in Dinas Yard. In fact, a small fire had been lit in the smoke box to flush out a wasps' nest before attention was given to the locos lagging. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

On the No.134 front, the inside of the frames were cleaned of dust and the first coat of red gloss top coat. Meanwhile, the taught piano wire through the centreline of the LH cylinder and down the frames, roughly placed at the end of the last working weekend, was set up true and the LH slide bars were being set up in line. On the RHS of the frames, more of the lube lines were being routed. Your scribe had another pressing engagement making more pipe clips as they were being used up almost as fast as they could be produced. With access to a ladder (at last!), several light fittings were repaired - they needed new tubes and/or starters. Another big clean-up was carried out in the Clip Shed workshop with yet another sort-out of what was to be kept and scrap components and other rubbish removed. As a sideline, the afternoon train was coaled by the No.134 team members.

This northerly view (21/7/12) shows No.87 northbound being coaled on the afternoon train whilst some of the No.134 team chat with the crew. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

WHHR AGM special to Hafod-y-llyn 21/7/12

The spark arrestor was fitted in Gelert about 1500 and the rake assembled in a big shunt after the 1600 public service had returned to the shed at around 1700. Gelert propelled its rake into the station before detaching to taking water. The rake consisted of the Gladstone car No.8, the toast rack coach No.42, the Buffet Car No.10, bogie coach No.9 and the ex-VoR Guards Van No.2. The train was due to start at 1830 but some delay crept into the proceedings as the final WHR was due to clear the section and arrive at Porthmadog by 1820.

This westerly view (21/7/12) shows the spark arrestor being fitted to Gelert at the WHHR's Gelert's Farm 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (21/7/12) shows Gelert watering at the WHHR's Porthmadog terminus after shunting the rake into the station. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (21/7/12) shows Gelert paused at Pen-y-Mount Halt to collect the token for the crossover to the WHR. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

With the token in the WHHR's possession, the points were unclipped at Pen-y-Mount and the first passenger train (Members Only and No Alcohol signs clearly displayed!) proceeded onto the WHR main line. The train arrived at Pont Croesor just after 1900 and was noted at the site of Hafod Garregog Halt at 1920, arriving at Hafod-y-llyn about 1930. After a photo opportunity, the loco ran around the train and set off back to Porthmadog at 2000 approx.

This view (21/7/12) shows Gelert passing the site of Hafod Garregog Halt just after a band of clod had obscured the beautiful evening sunshine. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (21/7/12) shows Gelert paused at Hafod-y-llyn. Mike Hart shakes hands with the WHHR chairman to symbolise the friendship and cooperation that now exists between the F&WHR and the WHHR. He saw no reason why next year's WHHR AGM special might not run to Beddgelert or even Rhyd Ddu, given successful clearance trails. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (21/7/12) shows Gelert departing Hafod-y-llyn on the return working. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 7 min 00 secs of video of the WHHR AGM Special to Hafod-y-llyn on 21/7/12. This video is best viewed at 1080HD standard was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder.

The coaches had only be gauged as far as Hafod-y-llyn but it is hoped next year the train might be allowed as far as Beddgelert when gauging is complete. As the train is air-braked, there remains the issue of the rescue loco, in this case Gertrude, which had been the public service engine earlier in the day. Maybe one of the LYd2 350HP 0-6-0 diesels could be trialled for clearance as they certainly have the power (equivalent to a BR Class 08!). There are worries that their connecting rods would foul the platforms. The issue of the 1 in 40 in T4, the long tunnel between Nantmor and the Aberglaslyn Pass has been dealt with. The procedure is to allow a train to reverse in section with minimum delay to prevent smoke inhalation and discomfort to passengers.

WHHR special to Hafod-y-llyn 21/7/12

The F&WHR has invited the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway to run a special train for its members over the Welsh Highland Railway following the WHHR AGM on Saturday 21/7/12, following successful spark arrestor tests at the weekend. The train will operate from Porthmadog WHHR to Hafod-y-Llyn and all seats must be booked in advance. F&WHR Chairman Dr John Prideaux said that he was delighted that the WHHR Members would be able to enjoy this journey and that the event marked a further milestone in the improving relationship between the two railways. WHHR Chairman Martyn Owen said that the event would realise an ambition held by WHHR members for many years and thanked F&WHR management for their cooperation. See F&WHR story.

Team Wylfa Report 19/7/12

Clive Briscoe reports: Martin and the B Team, aided by some of the A Team regulars, serviced the set during the evening of 19/7/12 in one ‘hit’.

Tuesday Gang report 17/7/12

This view (17/7/12) shows the clearance of luxuriant growth prompted by the heavy rainfall and sunshine at LC23.36. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tony Baker reports: We spent Tuesday 17/7/12 working between Plas Dinas OB 23.56 and Bronant Level Crossing 23.36 where we dealt with approximately 40 seized T bolts and improved the sightings from Bronant LC. The weather was fine and trains were well loaded.

Tuesday Gang South report

The following were achieved today by the TGS

• 1) LC39.16 - Ffridd Isaf - Sight lines improved by vegetation clearance.
• 2) LC39.25 - Rhyd Ddu N - Sight lines improved by vegetation clearance.
• 3) (LC39.50) - Rhyd Ddu S - Gate Latch 'eased' + one extra weight added.
• 4) LC41.16 - Cae'r Gors FC - Sight lines improved by vegetation clearance.
• 5) LC42.54 - Hafod Ruffydd - Sight lines improved by vegetation clearance.
• 6) Beddgelert Lamp Room - Chain & Padlock added to 'new' ladder storage.
• 7) LC58.15 - Pen y Mount - Sight lines improved by vegetation clearance.
• 8) Porthmadog Harbour Station - New external 'plaque' / information board installed.

North Wales Track Gang report 14-15/7/12

Dafydd Thomas reports: Over the weekend of 14-15/7/12 the North Wales/Black Hand Gang completed two jobs. On Saturday, 14/7/12, we completed phase one of the installation of the extended track on No.2 road in the Loco Shed at Dinas. This will be followed by the concrete to bring the excavation where the track has been laid up to floor level. On Sunday, 15/7/12, we completed the track work and installed the buffer stop on the siding at Beddgelert. This will now need to be levelled with a requirement for more ballast.

This southerly view (15/7/12) shows progress with the siding at Beddgelert station using heritage appearance wooden sleepers. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/7/12) shows progress with the siding at Beddgelert station showing the pinch-point between the Lamp Room and the original Water Tower. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (15/7/12) shows progress with the siding at Beddgelert as seen from the train. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Titbits Spring 2012

Taliesin's boiler pressure has been increased which has improved performance and its timing load has increased to 7 cars on the FR (less on the WHR as it is twice as steep). Lyd is now a coal burner and the conversion work continues on No.138. The ashpan and grate are complete and the fire-hole door has been fitted after being 'borrowed' from No.133. A slightly more robust spark arrestor is being fabricated after experience with those on Nos.87/143. A decision will be made whether to renew or modify the bunker for coal. Work continues on the power bogies at Dinas.

The radiators on Vale of Ffestiniog and Harlech Castle, both occasional WHR visitors, have been refurbished. Pullman Observation Car Glaslyn has had modifications to its drawbar that have reduced buffing noise inside the coach. Prince's boiler is having its 10 year overhaul after return from the Engine House at the SVR. WHR coach No.2042 required a lot more work than anticipated with extensive rot needing replacing. The beadings were replaced and the coach was planned to be in service by the Spring Bank Holiday.

Wagon news 10/7/12

Marcus Ingram reports: I managed to work half a day at both yards on 10/7/12. I did have a long chat with the guy whose putting the new roof on the SAR brake van (which still lacks its fragile duckets-Ed). There is talk that it might be out shopped in PW grey. I will be mocking this up in photo shop for Tony Williams but, if I can, I will try and persuade them not to do this (SAR stock ran in bauxite as running on the WHR and it would be a pity to lose the SAR freight train appearance if the brake van lost its bauxite livery-Ed).

This southerly view (10/7/12) shows progress with ex-SAR wagon No. B1806, now used as a coal wagon between Minffordd, Boston Lodge and Harbour Station. B1806 is seen partially stencilled. This coal wagon had been painted some time ago but never re-numbered at Boston Lodge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (10/7/12) shows progress with refurbished ex-SAR wagon No. DZ1412, again this had been unnumbered since refurbishment at Boston Lodge. It has removable ends and posts and can be converted to a flat wagon if required. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (10/7/12) shows the removable end of refurbished ex-SAR wagon No. DZ1412. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (10/7/12) shows the completed stencilling on ex-SAR wagon No. DZ1412. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (10/7/12) shows the detail of the removable end of refurbished ex-SAR wagon No. DZ1412. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa/No.134 report 10/7/12

Clive Briscoe reports: The A Team were at work as usual on Tuesday evening when the E Set got serviced – this time we reversed the order and oiled up the bottom half of the set leaving the top half for the B Team. With time to spare afterwards, we continued work on No.134. During the working weekend a few days ago, the runs for the lubrication lines were decided and hole centres marked on the frames for fittings to carry the lubrication through the frames to the inside, where flexible pipes will then take the lubricant to the horn guides. The first few of these holes were pilot drilled through. Next, they need opening out to tapping size for ¼” BSP threads for the brass compression fittings.

During the working weekend, the main task was to finally remove the loco’s badly wasted rear dragbox out of the frames. This was successfully achieved.

This easterly view (10/7/12) shows progress with No.134. The picture shows the frames sans dragbox with the temporary steel cross-bracings welded in just ahead of the dragbox position to prevent the frames springing out of line until the new dragbox is fitted. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Another task achieved was the re-erection of the re-ground L & RHS crosshead slide bars.

This easterly view (10/7/12) shows progress with No.134's LH cylinder. Pete Randall (No.134 Project Manager) is seen refitting the piano wire through the LH cylinder which will run down the frames to the rear driver’s centreline so that true alignment of the slide bars can be achieved. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Meanwhile, your scribe completed the last two sets of press die blocks for making lube line pipe clips to take single and 3 pipes.

There will be no Team Wylfa working party next Tuesday as the leader (your scribe) has to go to N Yorkshire on a business trip. Some of the A Team have agreed to assist Martin’s B Team on Thursday so that the F Set can be serviced overall in one ‘hit’.

Tuesday Gang report 10/7/12

Tony Baker reports: Today we cleaned out another culvert, this time at Coed Mawr. It had become completely blocked last week and was partially cleared by Tuesday Gang South. However as they did not have wellies and there was reportedly 8' of water they only partially cleared the blockage. We attended, with wellies and found that a large quantity of debris had washed down, mostly leaf mould, very cloggy stuff. We cleared it all out and checked all other culverts in this part of Beddgelert Forest. They were found to be ok. With this culvert blocked the water had poured down the trackbed and exited near to Coed Mawr level crossing leaving a large gap scoured out under the fence. This we filled with boulders. Before and after shots attached. Both trains very well patronised. After lunch we returned to our regular job of servicing T bolts. Seven loose and seized bolts were dealt with.

This view (10/7/12) shows the blocked culvert that lead to water running down the trackbed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (10/7/12) shows the cleared culvert that lead to water running down the trackbed. This one is of a particularly narrow diameter and could be original as renewed culverts used plastic pipe. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang South

• 1) Micro-ETS Guard training for David Barnwell (0935 train from Port.).
• 2) At Beddgelert, the 'new' ladder was installed on brackets in the Lamp Room and the small handle was re-fitted to the South shelter door.
• 3) At Meillionen, an ERC (Pandrol style elastic rail clip) was replaced (44.58) and gate bolts tightened.
• 4) At LC41.16 (Cae'r Gors), loose gate bolts were tightened.
• 5) At LC41.34, sight lines ('Down' trains) were greatly improved, by cutting down some small trees and some general 'bushwhacking'.
• 6) At Nantmor Halt, a hole was drilled in the floor for the 'second' shelter gate bolt and a 'missing' nut on the entrance gate was replaced.
• 7) At Britannia Bridge, the fencing alongside the footpath was repaired and wire 'security' mesh was added...hopefully to prevent future damage. Additionally, Timetables were replenished at Meillionen and Nantmor.

WHHR joins in F&WHR Quarrypower Gala 14-16/9/12

F&WHR Press statement

The Welsh Highland Heritage Railway is joining forces with the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway to play a significant part in this September's Quarrypower event. Half a century ago, the scrap line at Penrhyn was photographed and the locos which looked so sorry for themselves then have now been restored to their former glory. We are celebrating by bringing the engines back, in steam and lined up as they were 50 years ago. We will be running them in a cavalcade at Beddgelert so they can all be seen and photographed against the backdrop of Snowdonia. The Welsh Highland's popular Superpower weekend is to become Quarrypower this year and restored Penrhyn Scrap line locos will be in action over the length of the F&WHR with the added attraction of the chance to see the locos in a convoy on the WHR from Caernarfon to Porthmadog and on both the WHHR and FR over the course of the weekend. For many of the locos it will be the longest single journey they have ever made.

Ticketing
A special Three Day Rover ticket is available, giving access to Gelert's Farm and Dinas plus travel on the FR, WHR and WHHR. It includes the walks and travel on the bus services but note that places on these must be reserved at the time of booking. Tickets for individual days are also available. Prices start at £25. For more details, check the QuarryPower microsite which should be available soon or phone the T&WHR booking office on 01766 516024.

Titbits Spring 2012

The F&WHR has budgeted for reduced income this year after the record breaking traffic levels following the introduction of the full through service last year. However, even this might be optimistic, with the poor weather this Spring and the recession. The high winds and heavy rain around 10/5/12 blocked the FR on two occasions for a total of three days with fallen trees and downed signal cables. In fact additional WHR services to Beddgelert were laid on to compensate for the non-availability of FR trains. The Blaenau 30 event was not as busy as it could have been either but there are lots of charter trains to come and a warmer peak season to hope for. Princess may be going to various promotional events later this year or early next to celebrate 150 years of Steam, the first time it has been out of Spooners in many a year!

Micro ETS latest

A full account of the Micro-ETS system can be found on the WHRSoc website. Some interesting future developments are proposed. The F&WHR Company has asked the developers to look at the provision of operating starting signals which would be set automatically by the removal of the relevant Micro-ETS token, and cleared either by train departure or reinserting the token into the machine it was obtained from. Another possibility includes the provision of intermediate token machines and Long and Short Section Working (the latter particularly useful for using intermediate loops such as that at Hafod-y-llyn and the future loop at Plas-y-nant-Ed).

Special Service Monday 9/7/12

The F&WHR offered an unadvertised WHR service on Monday 9/7/12. This is due to retiming a train to accept a railtour. The timetable shows odd Mondays and Fridays with no service in May/June, the last being 25/6/12. The service on 9/7/12 consisted of a return service from each end, being 1245/1435 from Caernarfon and 1100/1540 from Porthmadog, with the unusual sight of trains passing at Dinas at about 1305 and Pont Croesor at about 1500. The 1245 from Caernarfon had no first class accommodation and no hot food (trolley service only). The usual public service departing Caernarfon at 1115 was retimed to depart at 1245. First Class accommodation on this train had been chartered by The Royal Scotsman - and was strengthened by the addition of FR Observation Car No.100. Passengers from The Royal Scotsman enjoyed a full dining experience during their journey, which required all the catering facilities of the Service Car. As a result, public accommodation was limited to Third Class carriages and with a trolley buffet service only. The 1100 from Porthmadog had the normal first class and hot food/trolley service. A daily service is now available until 20/9/12 after which random Mondays and Fridays have no service.

Blogspot 6/7/12

John Wooden provides a short video on his Blogspot showing progress with Dinas Loco Shed extension.

Dinas Loco Shed progress 3-6/7/12

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 1 min 31 secs of video of the Dinas Loco Shed improvements and refurbishment of No.138 on 6/7/12 between Snowdon Ranger and Ffridd Isaf. This video is best viewed at 1080HD standard was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder.

Clive Briscoe reports: The concrete sub-base cast in the slot previously cut for the track through the Loco Shed extension floor is about 100mm below the general extension floor area. The track is laid on thin steel flats (similar to those under Castell Cidwm bridge where there was restrictive clearance-Ed) which are held down onto this sub-base with masonry bolts. The rail feet are then welded to these flats true to gauge. The whole slot will then be backfilled to rail level with concrete grout but with a tapered wooden spacers against the inner railheads which, when released after the grout hardens, will allow free passage of the loco’s wheel flanges. The rail heads will be level with the floor.

This southerly view (3/7/12) shows the rails laid on the steel sleeper plates. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (3/7/12) shows the rails laid on the metal flats and back filling of concrete grout. The V shaped spacers in the flangeways are visible in the foreground. These will be removed when the concrete hardens. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (3/7/12) shows progress with No.138's rear power bogie, nearing the end of refurbishment. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (3/7/12) shows progress with No.138's front power bogie, nearing the end of refurbishment. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Bryngwyn Slate Trail 5/7/12

On 8/6/12 it was announced that Llanwnda Community Council has received a further grant of £30,000 from the Welsh Assembly that will enable the completion of the Slate Trail footpath on the former NWNGR Bryngwyn branch. The money will also fund repairs to the unique NWNGR pedestrian overbridge at Rhostryfan. The footpath extends to Tryfan Junction, which is the ideal halt from which to explore this fascinating narrow gauge branch line and the slate quarries that it was built to serve. However, the upper reaches of the branch (the section southwest of Rhostryfan) have received little attention.

This easterly view (5/7/12) shows the kissing gate at the upper end of the footpath with sign advertising the trail. This is the section which will receive further improvement. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Davies and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (5/7/12) shows the recently completed Rhostryfan station site with platform, running in board and picnic table on a rather wet day. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Davies and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (5/7/12) shows the sign at the Rhostryfan station site. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Davies and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 3/7/12

The A Team reported for duty as usual on Tuesday evening 3/7/12 and the F Set was the target this week. As usual, we did a visual inspection and replaced the flange lube grease sticks over the whole set then set to and oiled up half leaving the rest for Martin and the B Team on Thursday. With some spare time at the end, it was back to making some more lube pipe clips for No.134 – we’ll be using a few of these this coming weekend – and extra No.134 working weekend that Andie Shaw has shoehorned into the calendar since there will be no No.134 working party in August due to most of the team being on footplate duties during the high season.

A487 Caernarfon-Bontnewydd Bypass approved

The Welsh Assembly Government has approved plans for the Caernarfon-Bontnewydd bypass, however work is delayed by a year to start in 2015 to the annoyance of some local businesses who rely on good access for the tourist trade. See Caernarfon & Denbigh Herald story. The purple route has been approved, see WAG Consultation document.

The bypass will run from the A487 roundabout at the existing terminus of the Pen-y-groes Bypass, south of Dinas, following a route up to 1km west of Dinas station and will bridge over the WHR at roughly right angles just north of Bontnewydd Halt. The route continues to pass south of Caernarfon with a roundabout just north of Bontnewydd. It then crosses the A4085 Beddgelert Road just north of the existing Caeathro roundabout. It is not clear if there is a junction here. The route then runs northeast, close to Caernarfon's industrial estate, with a roundabout with the A4086 Llanberis road before joining the existing Y Felinheli Bypass about 1km east of the Caernarfon end roundabout. There is likely to be a flying junction here to separate the Caernarfon traffic from that bypassing Caernarfon.

Tuesday Gang report 3/7/12

The Tuesday Gang spent 3/7/12 working just south of Waunfawr Station cleaning out ditches and culverts. The problem was caused by vegetation growing in the ditch and either side of the culverts. The farmer here has dug out his ditch on the field above the line but not in his field below the line as yet. Welsh Highland is responsible for the ditch running parallel to the track at 30.36 and the culvert at 30.74. These are now cleared of the encroaching vegetation.

Five volunteers were present assisted by two Community Payback lads. Whilst at this site we checked all the "T Bolts" and found 106 seized which will keep us busy for a while.

This northerly view (3/7/12) shows the Tuesday Gang clearing the ditch just south of Waunfawr south points. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Loco proposals

Not content with instigating the Lyd project, which has lead to a successful replica L&B loco, James Evans is now proposing a 'Fairratt-Meyer' for the WHR (a mixed design with elements of Fairlie, Garratt and Meyer!). This new design would feature a large diameter boiler of NG16 dimensions but with one 0-6-0 power bogie and an 0-4-0 trailing power bogie. These would have separate regulators and would eliminate the problem of one end slipping and robbing the other end of steam that the Garratts have. The short boiler would eliminate the problem the Fairlies have on the WHR where they have to be driven with careful water management due to the 1 in 40 gradient and the risk of priming with the long boiler. Visibility to the front would be improved by having side tanks over the power bogies rather than large front/rear tanks that the NG16s feature. The dome would be replaced with a Belpaire style firebox which would provide a large steam space above the waterline and reduce the chance of priming even with water high in the barrel, allowing it to contain more tubes.

The 35 tonne loco would have many modern features such as machined bogie frames and an all steel welded boiler. Pistons would be larger at the front end to equalise tractive effort. Centralised mechanical lubrication should be possible. The loco would not have frames as such as, like the Fairlies, the boiler itself could perform this function. The loco might cost about £750,000 and repeat orders might be possible if the F&WHR directors are convinced. As regards a name, your web editor suggests Moel Tryfan, an original NWNGR loco, which, to the layman, also appears to have the 0-6-0 + 0-4-0 wheel arrangement, albeit with an un-powered trailing bogie!

Dinas Loco Shed update 1/7/12

This southerly view (5/6/12) shows the concrete broken out of the slot cut in the Welsh Water base. No.138 is visible. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Laurence Armstrong (WHRSoc website) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (23/6/12) shows the concrete laid in the slot cut in the Welsh Water base, some 10cm below the level of the previous floor level. No.138 is visible. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Tidy (WHRSoc website) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (1/7/12) shows rails laid on the new foundation. These will be set to gauge and fixed to the new floor. The rails run to within a metre of the roller door at the north end of the extended Loco Shed. No.138 is visible. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Laurence Armstrong (WHRSoc website) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Harbour Station Resignalling Appeal

The existing Harbour Station frame (ex-GWR Long Dyke Jn.) is worn out and will be replaced by a signal box. With its own run round, the WHR platform will mean that WHR locos will not require access to the FR side of the station thus allowing FR trains to arrive or depart while a WHR train is present or vice versa. The newly extended joint platform will continue to allow a short FR 4x13m coach shuttle train to stand clear of the main FR service train (as sometimes happens now). The shuttle can easily be shunted back into the sidings without going out onto The Cob.

The Mackenzie and Holland home signal posts (and fittings) from the abortive Tan-y-grisiau semaphore signalling scheme are being reused in the Porthmadog Harbour resignalling scheme. The scheme requires a double arm and a trident, which will be motorised along with the points. This will help recreate the historic ambience of the station. A miniature power frame with small levers (as used on LUL) has been delivered to the F&WHR for fitting in the signal box.

An appeal is being made to sponsor parts of the system.

• 5 point motors at £3,000 each.
• 12 track circuits at £300 each
• 28 insulating block joints at £300 each
• 3 route indicators at £300 each
• A multi-fuel stove
• roofing slates to cover signal cabin and relay room, each 10m long
• Breeze blocks for the back walls of the signal cabin and the relay room (10m x 3m)
• Roof insulation for both buildings
• Loan of a 40 foot storage container until completion of the scheme at Easter 2014
• Lots of S&T cable

The names of all sponsors will go on a chart in the signalbox to show who bought what. Offers of help should be directed to John Powell, 21 Madog Street, Porthmadog, Gwynedd, LL49 9BU, who will also organise Gift Aid forms.

Coach Tourism Awards 28/6/12

The F&WHR has won the accolade of being a finalist in the Coach Tourism Awards. The F&WHR was a finalist in the category for Coach-Friendly Visitor Attraction of the year that recognises a visitor attraction that demonstrates its commitment to welcoming coaches, coach groups and coach drivers. The WHR has been very popular with coach tours in recent years, offering more open views than the FR and the provision of afternoon tea and hot food options has been an added bonus, providing welcome reliable income during the uncertain traffic conditions during the recession and the poor weather experienced this Spring. See F&WHR story.

Tuesday Gang 26/6/12

There was no Tuesday Gang this week due to holidays and courses but they should be back together next week.

Tuesday Gang South did make progress. This Tuesday Steve Broomfield was involved in Guard training for Micro ETS system now running in test mode between Beddgelert and Pont Croesor. Some remedial work oiling and greasing gate hinges on Nantmor passenger access gate so it is now self closing again. Also remedial work on Beddgelert passenger access gate tightening bottom gate hinge to prevent gate dropping and rubbing on Tarmac. The hinges on the gate at bottom of path leading into car park are loose in stone pillar. While the gate is working fine, movement of hinge fastening is leading to holes and stone pillar becoming worn further enlarged. Gripfill might be pumped into the holes to try to prevent movement and further deterioration. This is to be done after last train to allow it to harden. Rhyd Ddu South passenger access gate was not closing. The chains, weights fitted and hinges were oiled and greased and the gate is now self closing. Rain stopped all further play.

Tuesday Gang South will now assist Roland Doyle in training guards whenever possible on what ever day of the week is required in operation of the micro ETS system.

Team Wylfa report 26/6/12

Clive Briscoe reports: Nothing really to report – just the usual. The A Team undertook carriage checks and oiling of the E Set – Martin K and the B Team will finish off the E Set on Thursday evening. It was dull and dismal.

YouTube No.87 in Action 25/6/12

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 4 min 18 secs of video of No.87 on 25/6/12 between Snowdon Ranger and Ffridd Isaf. This video is best viewed at 1080HD standard was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder.

RoTWG long weekend 22-25/6/12

Paul Bradshaw reports: The ROWG June long weekend (22-25/6/12) proved to be satisfactorily productive. Our numbers ranged from three on Friday and five the other days. The weather treated us well except on a rather wet Friday. The objective of our activity was to lay bare the retaining wall which you see on the left hand side of the line as the train climbs out of Caernarfon Station. There is now a large pile of brash which in due course will be chipped and shredded. In the meanwhile a number of obstinate lilac and other roots will receive appropriate treatment.

Tryfan Junction windows 24/6/12

Tryfan Junction station building is looking better with three of the four windows fitted on 24/6/12. It is hoped to finish the building by the Quarry Power event as an official opening is planned that weekend.

This Stourbridge view (24/6/12) shows Maurice Castle (left) and Ian Brown (right) both of the West Midland Group, outside Maurice's house in Stourbridge with the last three windows for Tryfan Junction Station building, prior to transportation to Tryfan Junction last Sunday. Maurice and Ian (with help from Mike Hodges), have made four windows in all, which are, as far as can be ascertained, exact copies of the originals. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Mike Hadley and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/6/12) shows the windows fitted to Tryfan Junction station building. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright David Tidy (WHRSoc website) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Russell goes to Keef's 21/6/12

Russell is on its way to Keef's for completion as the project has been stalled for over a year at the WHHR's Gelert's Farm depot. Buckley’s crane arrived at Gelert's Farm about 1200 noon on 21/6/12 and helped move Russell's chassis over the Gantry Crane and into place opposite the caravans. Robert's Haulage arrived at about 1400 and the crane loaded the chassis and boiler onto the lorry. All of the pallets containing components were placed around the chassis and underneath the boiler. After securing and sheeting the load, Russell finally left at around 1630. Following an overnight stop in the Blaenau Ffestiniog area Russell will now be delivered to Keef’s first thing Monday morning.

This Gelert's Farm view (21/6/12) shows Russell's kit of parts. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ken Farrance and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This Gelert's Farm view (21/6/12) shows Russell's rolling chassis. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ken Farrance and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This Gelert's Farm view (21/6/12) shows Russell's boiler. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ken Farrance and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Michael Chapman adds: The speed at which Russell returns to steam and the WHHR and also the WHR is dependent on how quickly the money comes in. I'm told Patrick Keef is very happy with the work that has already been carried out at Gelert's Farm and if the money comes the loco will be back in Wales in a year's time! The tanks will remain at Gelert's Farm for a short while as Brunswick Ironworks of Caernarfon have offered to rivet the tanks for us free of charge. Thanks go to Stuart Weatherby for organising this with Brunswick. The attached Appeal leaflets I helped design have been sent to all of the 1000 WHR Ltd members; it will also be in the next issue of the Snowdon Ranger too. And other publications in due course.

Russell Appeal leaflet.pdf

Three Peaks 21/6/12

Nos. 47802/810 hauled the Three Peaks from Euston to Bangor on 21/6/12 for the ascent of Snowdon. The train was serviced at Holyhead and the rake returned to Bangor ECS to collect to collect the participants for their next stage to Ravenglass on the Cumbrian Coast to ascend Scafell Pike. The train will then go on to Fort William for Ben Nevis. Andrew Savage is making his tenth and final trip raising funds for the Railway Children charity.

Andy Savage reports:

'We achieved the Three Peaks challenge over the weekend. Of the ten times that I have done this, this was the worst ever for weather, and it was so bad on Friday in the Lakes only three of the 44 teams managed to get to the top of Scafell Pike: I'm pleased to say that we were first up there, and first onto the summit of Ben Nevis as well. We were the second team on top of Snowdon, but we were 22nd in the starting line - and, after all, it's not a race (2012 team motto, as we stormed up the hills). Despite the weather it was a great weekend, and a fine conclusion to my Three Peaking days.

My thanks to all of you who sponsored me for this - we are currently at about £5,275, plus Gift Aid, a fine achievement. However, I know that some of you had problems with the site address when I first wrote to you, and I've noticed that another £500 or so would put my total raised for the Railway Children through this event over the ten climbs to £60,000. I would like to reach this target for a sense of personal achievement, but, much more importantly, if you do sponsor us it would be doing a great job to help street children round the world. So, if you haven't sponsored me already, please do think about it. our fund-raising site address, correctly this time, is:

http://uk.virginmoneygiving.com/team/Finchleyflyers

Thanks again..

Also, my thanks again to everyone for their support on all the Three Peaks events that you've sponsored me for in the last eight years. I've enjoyed it, and been greatly heartened by the support that you've all given me.

I promise you I won't be chasing for this event ever again.'

Dinas Loco shed improvement 20/6/12

The concrete floor in the northern part of the Loco Shed, now under the ownership of the F&WHR, is at a slightly different level to the southern part of the shed. Work has been in progress during June to redress the issue. On 5/6/12, a diamond cutting disc was used to define a slot wide enough for the track on the eastern side then the concrete floor was broken out with a hydraulic breaker. By 20/6/12 a new concrete base had been laid at the correct level (about six inches lower) to extend the eastern track right up to the northern end of the Loco Shed. Track laying on this section will allow up to two further locos to be stored under cover in this area of the Loco Shed.

Tuesday Gang South 19/6/12

Steve Broomfield reports: The following have been achieved by the TGS this week working over Monday and Tuesday.

• 1) Frame of station name board at Pont Croesor repainted (black).
• 2) Notice board at entrance to Pont Croesor station site re-positioned.
• 3) Speed Restriction signs repainted at Ynysfor(N) and Afon Dylif(S).
• 4) Fencing repaired South of Pont Croesor station.
• 5) Beddgelert - South platform shelter door sanded and first coat of paint applied.

This northerly view (18/6/12) shows the Pont Croesor Halt sign moved to the fence facing the car park. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang 19/6/12

Pete Roughley reports: On Tuesday 19/6/12 five of us were involved in installing 9 posts at various sites between Pont Croesor and Glan-yr-Afon to take 8 of the new chainage markers and 1 for the on-going installation of Level Crossing Plates on Phase Four.

Team Wylfa report 19/6/12

Clive Briscoe reports: Last week, Team Wylfa A & B Teams serviced the F Set on Tuesday and Thursday evenings as usual. The A Team was able to do another quick job on the 2 tonne A frame hoist in the Clip Shed (for the NG15 No.134 project) before they signed off – they wire brushed and oiled the hoist and load chains.

Micro ETS trial 17/6/12

The long awaiting micro Electronic Token system was installed between Beddgelert and Pont Croesor on 17/6/12 and the trial started the next day. The system will be run in parallel with the existing Staff and Ticket system with guards operating the system and carrying a dummy token between the two loops to check equipment reliability. The red token equipment was purchased from Iarnrod Eireann (Irish Railways) a few years ago and will operate with modern electronic controls. The internet based system has been developed by Roland Doyle, previously the manager of the WHRCL.

Phase 5 appeal latest/Harbour Station latest

The Cob Widening project got 66% funding from the National Station Improvement Scheme and as there was over £500k donated to Phase 5, there was easily enough for the 33% match funding. One sponsor has offered to increase funds raised by 10%. A new raised signalbox is needed with relay room. It will take until 2014 until two train acceptance can be achieved. This will cost £500k. Garratts do not fit into Glan-y-Mor shed nor the erecting shop and as one Garratt hauled diagram starts from Porthmadog this is a matter of priority. Finally, the rebuilding of the Glan-y-Mor Carriage Shed will save money in the long term as leaving the coaches out in the sea air leads to rapid deterioration in the paintwork. The Appeal is still open and the second Snowdonian raised almost the same as the £25k profit from the 2011 train. Profits from Gordon Rushton's soon to be published book WHR Renaissance (£68) will also help.

The Widening Project itself was delivered on time and to budget. A new point is about to be delivered for later fitting (probably at the end of the season). The new wave wall will be constructed on the seaward side of The Cob to the same profile and height as the existing concrete structure. This will only be started when settlement of widened area has finished later this year. The station will be semaphore signalled with a home trident signal out on the main line. All points and signals will be electrically operated.

B4391 Berwyn summit roadworks

The B4391 over the Berwyns has long been a shortcut for visitors and volunteers travelling from the Midlands to the F&WHR. However the short isolated Denbighshire section just west of the summit of the pass between Llangynog and Bala has deteriorated badly through neglect over the years. This route is being suggested by SatNavs as an alternative to the A5 via Llangollen and is carrying heavier traffic flows. The 4 km Denbighshire section is being resurfaced and the County Council is proposing road closures or convoy systems with up to 20 mins delay on the busy period leading up to the school Summer Holidays.

See http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-wales-18293616 and http://www.denbighshire.gov.uk/en-gb/DNAP-776ED2

Quarry Power details

SuperPower 2012 has mutated into Quarry Power taking place over 14-16/9/12. Free Travel is suspended but Privilege travel will still apply. Some trains will have limited accommodation so pre-booking will be required. It is best to watch out for announcements. The intention is to recreate as much of the original Penrhyn Quarry scrap line as possible with visiting locos and the F&WHR's own fleet. On Sunday the cavalcade will travel to Beddgelert and back to Porthmadog. It is intended that a K1 hauled train will leapfrog the cavalcade to give people the chance to see them along the line.

On Friday 14/9/12 there will be a guided tour of Penrhyn Quarry (minibus from Dinas) and a Night-Glow photo event at Dinas with Bar and food in the evening with the Rough Shunters musicians.

On Saturday 15/9/12 the Penrhyn locos light up in the fuel road in the morning with bacon butties available. The locos will then line up against the coal road wall to replicate the original scrap line. The Nantlle Silver Band will provide entertainment. In the afternoon the cavalcade runs to Bron Hebog crossing above Beddgelert and then proceed as individual locos into Beddgelert station. The cavalcade reassembles for onward travel to Porthmadog but Lilla and Britomart head back to Dinas for overnight stabling. there will be a Night Glow event at Porthmadog before making their way after the last FR train for overnight stabling at Boston Lodge.

On Sunday 16/9/12 the Penrhyn locos light up at Boston Lodge and visiting locos shuttle between Porthmadog and Beddgelert. There will be an official opening of Tryfan Junction station with a special train from Caernarfon and a Bryngwyn branch guided walk.

Penrhyn locos confirmed so far include Lilian, Eigiau, Stanhope, Sgt. Murphy, Bronllwyd, Hugh Napier and the usual home based locos.

North Wales Track Gang lays Beddgelert Siding 16-17/6/12

The North Wales Track Gang made good progress with the Beddgelert Station siding over the weekend ably assisted by a group of volunteers from the Keithley and Worth Valley Railway. Without their input the siding would not be as far advanced as it is. The siding is being extended south of the water tower on the ledge alongside the southbound platform. This ledge is level compared with the steeply graded platform. Some shaving of the cutting siding may be required in order to allow larger locos to access the southern end of the extended siding which crosses the infilled inspection pit diagonally (see Siding Plan pdf file below courtesy of Stuart McNair, the dotted blue line on the plan is the drainage that passes through Goat Tunnel).

SIDING 170612.pdf

This northerly view (16/6/12) shows the North Wales Track Gang laying the new alignment of Beddgelert Station siding in the pouring rain. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Stuart McNair and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (16/6/12) shows the North Wales Track Gang laying the new alignment of Beddgelert Station siding. The siding is to pass between the water tower and the Lamp Room. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Stuart McNair and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (17/6/12) shows the North Wales Track Gang laying the new alignment of Beddgelert Station siding. The buffer stop tracks in the foreground are in the correct position but the curved rails need to be slewed and cut to close the gap. With the completion of the siding, it is hoped the WHHG funded tank will be placed on the top of the concrete tower and the water supply connected to reconstruct historical scenes at Beddgelert. All that is needed is Russell or a Baldwin! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andy Forsyth and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (17/6/12) shows the North Wales Track Gang laying the new alignment of Beddgelert Station siding. The pinch point between the Lamp Room and water tower is clearly visible. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andy Forsyth and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Flooding problems on 16/6/12

On Saturday 16/6/12 an unusual Funkey swop was diagrammed with Vale of Ffestiniog on the 1100 from Porthmadog and Castell Caernarfon on the 1115 from Caernarfon. There were no balancing passenger workings and the reason for the swop is unknown, possibly to move Castell Caernarfon to Boston Lodge for some attention.

Ben Rosen advises: However, the planned moves did not occur due to staffing issues. In the end No.87 left Caernarfon and Vale of Ffestiniog left Porthmadog at those times. However that day both trains got caught at Rhyd Ddu due to flooding at Castell Cidwm. Both trains returning to Port later that morning. The 15.40 departure to Caernarfon then went from Porthmadog with No.143 attached. No.143 was also meant to run a special that evening which got cancelled due to the Castell Cidwm situation. Normal services resumed on the Sunday.

Tuesday Gang South report 12/6/12

Steve Broomfield reports: On 12/6/12 Tuesday Gang South volunteers completed the grey masonry painting on the Beddgelert shelters, sorted out a loose door lock and the three gate closure 'mechanisms' at Pont Croesor and removed some tree branches which had fallen on the fence just south of there.

Team Wylfa report 12/6/12

Team Wylfa A Team were at Dinas on Tuesday evening, checking and oiling the F Set this week. As there was a reasonably good turnout, we were able to complete the carriage work in good time and continue some work on NG15 No.134. Some more lube pipe clips got pressed and we measured up for moving a spar between the outermost roof support pillar and outside wall, and the lighting cables attached to it, vertically upwards to allow the 2 Tonne A frame hoist to move across from the bay containing the tender chassis to the bay where the loco frames are so that we can lift the loco’s corroded rear drag box off shortly – hopefully at the next No.134 working weekend (that’s if the insurance inspector has re-certified the hoist by then).

When we installed the lighting some 8 years ago (really!!), we didn’t take into account an A frame hoist being available, nor the fact that what used to be a stores bay fitted out with shelving would one day be cleared and No.134’s tender chassis rolled inside. All being well, there should JUST be enough slack in the cables to move everything upwards to give clearance, otherwise, we have some junction boxes and spare cable available if we have to extend them.

The B Team, under Martin, will be present on Thursday evening to finish off the oiling – whilst the whole set was visually inspected and all flange lube grease sticks renewed, A Team only oiled the top half leaving the bottom half for the B Team. Having only half the set to do per night has really taken the pressure off since we only have a small team these days.

Thursday Gang appeal

Martin Kressman appeals: Rod Williamson (my stalwart for 2012) is still on holiday and Nick Parker (my stalwart for 2011) is unavailable this week. Consequently, unless I hear from anybody by midday on Tuesday (19/6/12) to say that they are available, there can be no oiling session on Thursday 21/6/12. Contact Martin Kressman.

RailFest York report 2-10/6/12

The F&WHR has just returned from the UK’s major railway celebration, the nine day RailFest at the National Railway Museum in York. The railway took two locomotives and two carriages to the show and gave rides to over 15,000 people during the course of the event. There were many entries in a competition offering a holiday in Wales with travel passes on the railways. Altogether the train ran 114 miles, offering about 500 trips on the 200m railway and giving over 15,000 people a ride. There were people queuing to board the train on many occasions – especially during torrential rain on Sunday when the railway was offering an extremely popular nine minute sit down out of the rain. The rolling stock consisted of Palmerston, dating from 1863 (the oldest steam locomotive currently running in the UK) and Mike Hart's armoured World War One Simplex tractor, along with FR Carriage 15 (the oldest bogie carriage in the UK) and the unique Victorian Curly-Roofed Van. In the Exhibition marquee in the South Yard, Spooner’s Boat (the only sail-powered rail vehicle in the UK) was on show. See FR website for full details.

This York view (7/6/12) shows Mike Hart's Simplex waiting at the buffer stops at the end of the short F&WHR demonstration line at RailFest, York. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This York view (7/6/12) shows Palmerston passing streamlined Duchess of Hamilton on the short F&WHR demonstration line at RailFest, York. The loco is carrying the headboard of the Festiniog Railway Temperance Society. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This York view (7/6/12) shows Palmerston with its short rake, including the FR's oldest bogie, No.15 and the unique curly roofed van on the short F&WHR demonstration line at RailFest, York. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This York view (7/6/12) shows the F&WHR's station named Porthmadog (Leeman Road) at RailFest, York with large crowds awaiting a ride. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This York view (10/6/12) shows the Bressingham based Quarry Hunslet Gwynedd, No.316 (1883) Hunslet Engine Co. 0-4-0 saddle tank. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This York view (10/6/12) shows the Spooner's Boat, the only sail powered rail vehicle. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Weather on the WHR 8-9/6/12

The heavy rainfall on the WHR over the last few days has produced flooding. There was no service disruption over the 8-9/6/12, in fact the WHR was probably the only train services in North Wales to run as normal! The only problem point was Castell Cidwm, but the water was well below the limit by the afternoon of the 9/6/12, although it was still above the railhead. Earlier in the year deliberate obstructions had been removed from the drains here so it is good to know the drains can now deal with the worst that North Wales to offer without contaminating lubricating oil in the axleboxes.

This southerly view (8/6/12) shows the raging Afon Glaslyn with the railway behind. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ben Bucki and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (9/6/12) shows the extreme flooding of Afon Glaslyn from Pont Croesor bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ben Bucki and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (9/6/12) shows the extreme flooding of Afon Glaslyn from Pont Croesor Halt. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ben Bucki and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (9/6/12) shows flooding of Pont Croesor Halt car park. Signs in the car park advise that flooding may occur. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ben Bucki and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

More on Beddgelert Siding

Dafydd Thomas advises: The siding at Beddgelert Station is being extended by two lengths and a bit from where the siding currently stops; it will not be parallel to the main line as the whole alignment is dependent on being in a precise position between the water tank and the Lamp Hut, which is the pinch point. There are no plans at present to move the Caernarfon end point (this would extend the siding a further length to the north-Ed); that gap between the two points is very handy when putting a single wagon into the siding having brought it from Dinas. The wagon can be left there whilst running the loco round. We might be putting a catch point in the siding entrance but the 'jury' is still out on that one. The lever frame is still waiting on the S & T Dept.

KMX in action 6/6/12

The KMX tamper liner was noted in Beddgelert Siding on 6/6/12 (your webmaster passed it on the 1255 from Caernarfon!). This may have been in connection with work underway on the siding (see Beddgelert Siding story below) or just to get the track machine out of the way of the intensive RED train service.

Wednesday evening clearance train 6/6/12

Due to the RED timetable operating over the Spring/Jubilee Bank Holiday week with the resultant later service trains the Wednesday Evening Clearance Train departed Dinas promptly at 1630 hauled by Castell Caernarfon. Those who could not get to Dinas before 1700 met the train at Waunfawr at 1715 where it passed the 1540 from Porthmadog hauled by No.87 (hauling your webmaster!). From approximately1530 the Funkey shunted the train at Dinas and tools were loaded tools prior to setting off down the line.

Beddgelert Siding news

Dafydd Thomas reports: Over the weekend of 2-3/6/12 the North Wales/Black Hand Gang carried out preparation work at Beddgelert station for the completion of the new siding alignment there. A siding had previous been installed which at its furthest extremity had been aligned with the old Inspection/Ash pit that was still extant at Beddgelert. This siding had limited capacity and the curve leading over the pit was too tight for any WHR rolling stock to negotiate, therefore of not much use. The curve was so tight that it also looked wrong in comparison to the rest of the lay-out at Beddgelert. Also the pit could not have been used as it did not confirm with modern safety standards. Therefore a decision was taken, in consultation with the WHHG, to realign the siding to give a greater length that is of more use.

The Beddgelert Heritage Water Tank project is continuing. The WHHG are waiting for the siding's realignment so that it will be far easier for them to install the tank. The tank, ready painted (noted grey 6/6/12-Ed), sits at Dinas awaiting the move to Beddgelert. Following this it will then be possible to pose all sorts of locos alongside it taking water.

K1 Working Party

A working party has been arranged for the weekend of 28-29/7/12 at Dinas. If any volunteers wish to join the team would they contact John Startin.

North Wales Track Gang 2/6/12

The North Wales Track Gang spent the weekend filling in the Inspection Pit at Beddgelert as it was deemed a hazard. There had been hopes that this feature could been retained but the siding that was constructed to it had an overly sharp curve onto the pit timbers. Sadly any idea of moving the point further south to lessen the curvature or having a second point nearer the pit, which could allow an acceptable curvature, appears not to have been considered. An opportunity to reconstruct historical scenes has been lost (though see new story above). The WHR Heritage Group Beddgelert Water Tower project has also stalled it appears. The tank and fittings have been purchased by the group and a water supply was provided adjacent to the old concrete tower for this purpose during the reconstruction of the station.

This northerly view (2/6/12) shows a DZ wagon in the siding at Beddgelert being used to transport spoil to fill the Inspection Pit. The wheelbarrow is resting on the timber baulks that were used for the track over the Inspection Pit. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andy Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (2/6/12) shows the filled Inspection Pit with a small plant of some kind. Tree roots would damage the concrete structure. The water tower can be seen to the right. A point just north of the waiting shelter could provide an acceptable curve onto the Inspection Pit for small locos such as the England engines or the WHHR's Russell/Baldwin to offer reconstruction of historical scenes during Gala events. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andy Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (2/6/12) shows consideration being given to moving the buffer stops which were never fitted to the end of the siding. Maybe they will be fitted to the end of the existing siding which, so far, has not even received a lever frame. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andy Keene and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 29/5/12

Tony Baker reports: The Tuesday gang spent the 29/5/12, at Caeau Gwynion (just south of Castell Cidwm bridge-Ed). The main job was to clear out a culvert, which although not completely blocked, was silted up and contained large stones and boulders washed down from the hills above. The culvert appears to be un-rebuilt from original and is about two feet square (these culverts had a concrete slab cast over them-Ed). The only way to clean it out was to crawl into it and pass back the stones. Volunteers, of which there were nine of us, took it in turns to crawl in. An accompanying picture shows the cleared culvert at the end of the day. In parallel with this activity volunteers were also dealing with seized T bolts along this section. About 2 dozen were undone, wire brushed, greased and reassembled successfully. Trains both to and from Caernarfon were quite well loaded and the weather was sunny and hot.

This northerly view (29/5/12) shows No.87 with the first train out of Dinas passing Caeau Gwynion at 1046. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (29/5/12) shows Tuesday Gang volunteers clearing rocks from a culvert Caeau Gwynion. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (29/5/12) shows the cleared culvert at Caeau Gwynion. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Team Wylfa report 29/5/12

Clive Briscoe reports: There was another good turnout on Tuesday evening 29/5/12 and this ensured that we got the E Set checked and oiled in good time (the first time we have seen this set in Dinas since the beginning of April due to the stock rotations so far this year). A thorough visual inspection of the whole set, was followed by replacing all the flange lubricator grease sticks (where fitted), oiling the couplings and then oiling the axleboxes on the top half of the set, leaving the bottom half for the B Team to oil up on Thursday evening. After that, it was back to No.134. One team carried on drilling out the rivets on the loco’s rear dragbox (which has to come out for replacement) whilst the others initially split – one to fetch axlebox oil from the south yard ready for the B Team on Thursday and then to cut steel for the other who carried on manufacturing die blocks to press lube line pipe clips – we need a variety of sizes to cope with 2, 4, 6 & 8-off 6mm o/d oil lines as they go down the loco’s frames from the new central mechanical lubricator. Another 2 sets of die blocks were made and welded up. All we need now is the 16 x 3mm flat (which is believed to be on its way) to start making the pipe clips.

Coal Train 29/5/12

This easterly view (29/5/12) shows Vale of Ffestiniog with three loaded coal wagons as Internal Users working heading south to Boston Lodge and rounding the Ffridd Isaf curve near Rhyd Ddu. Apparently a coal delivery intended for Minffordd had ended up at Dinas in error, and, as the coal was needed at Boston Lodge, the Welsh Highland Railway ran a coal train! The Funkey took three empty 'B' wagons to Dinas, where they were filled with around 30 tons of coal and returned in the early evening. This view reminds us that the railway could haul forestry products or slate waste out of the National Park to Minffordd or Dinas in an environmentally sustainable way and thereby earn an income from freight too! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright James King and was taken on a Nokia digital phone camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Olympic Torch 28/5/12

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 6 mins 20 secs of video of the Olympic Torch and the train that carried it on the FR on 28/5/12. The train's headboard, carried by David Lloyd George was presented to a local junior school. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder and is best viewed at 1080p HD standard.

While normal service operate on the WHR on 28/5/12, the Ffestiniog Railway is carrying the Olympic Torch from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog on Monday 28/5/12 and as a result there will be no public services on the FR on that date. Double Fairlie David Lloyd George will carry the Olympic Torch from Blaenau Ffestiniog Station around 1130 and arrive at Porthmadog Harbour Station at 1300. There are limited opportunities to see the torch between Blaenau and Port. The FR leg of the journey will be reported throughout the day on BBC Radio Wales, Radio Cymru, BBC TV, ITV and S4C including live radio coverage from Spooner's between 1200 and 1400. See F&WHR story.

This easterly view (28/5/12) shows the Olympic Cavalcade crossing Britannia Bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Alasdair Stewart (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (28/5/12) shows the police escort for the Olympic Cavalcade crossing Britannia Bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Alasdair Stewart (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

RoTWG Working Week 26/5/12-1/6/12

Paul Bradshaw reports: The Rest of The World Gang volunteers ranged widely over the WHR during the May working week 26/5/12-1/6/12. Saturday saw a small gang chipping brash at Betws Garmon station site. They completed most of the job that day and returned to finish off on Sunday morning. A large mound of brash collected over several weeks was reduced to a pile of chippings. The rest of that day was used to improve occupation crossing sight lines between Caernarfon and Dinas.

Monday was taken up with remedying some of the consequences of the hot weather on the curves at Gwal-y-Dwrgi and Cwm Bychan (north of Nantmor halt-Ed). Slewing jacks were used to good effect. The following day the team were deployed at Tro Ffridd to repair a retaining wall which needed rebuilding. Ballast blocks transported to site by road were used, supplemented by slate slabs. The end result though not elegant should be durable.

This southerly view (28/5/12) shows the RoTWG dealing with a kink in Cwm Bychan. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Paul Bradshaw and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (29/5/12) shows the RoTWG having completed the rebuild of the retaining wall on Ffridd Isaf curve. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Paul Bradshaw and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

On Wednesday a larger gang spent the day in hot conditions realigning track in the Aberglaslyn Pass north of Tunnel 2. A combination of standard track jacks and slewing jacks proved to be effective. Further work was also carried out to the curves at Corlan (Sheepfold Cutting at the north end of the Pass-Ed).

This southerly view (30/5/12) shows the RoTWG maintaining the alignment in the Aberglaslyn Pass. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Paul Bradshaw and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

The weather changed radically on Thursday which was spent on lineside clearance in wet conditions. Some time was spent between Cynfal (just north of Pen-y-Mount) and Pugh's Bridge (the first Teletubby bridge) cutting back gorse and overhanging branches. Then the team moved to Dinas to take out a brash collection train hauled by Castell Caernarfon. The brash was off loaded at Betws Garmon and on Friday the chipper was once more in action there, with the week ending as it had started.

RailFest York 2-10/6/12

Paul Martin FR&WHR Railfest Co-ordinator reports: Having not said much about our preparations for Railfest 2012 for a while I thought it might be an idea to do an update now as we are in the final run up to the event. Firstly, many thanks to all those who have volunteered to help. The rosters for operating the railway and the supporting operations are now mostly covered although there are a couple of days where an extra body could be used. The FR&WHR is involved in two locations during the event.

Well that's pretty much it. As I said before thanks to those who have volunteered and we all look forward to seeing the rest of you at the event.

Family Fun Weekend at WHHR 2-3/6/12

This weekend sees the WHHR's Family Fun Weekend with both Doll and Gertrude running, with a 30 min two train service. There will be several extra attractions, including Mr Balwns (Mr Balloons), Dan the music man, Military Vehicles, fire engines, a treasure hunt, model railways and more. Saturday evening will see services continue into the night, with evening trains running from 6.30pm till 11pm., The sheds will be filled with live music, beer and a BBQ. A very pleasant evening can be had and entry is via a £5 donation to the Russell fund. Sunday evening will give all budding loco drivers a chance to try their hand on the regulator of a steam engine, getting the chance to drive a freight train on the WHHR main line, all for a £10 donation. (Very cheap when compared to many other footplate experience courses offered! Places are limited so please contact the WHHR shop to reserve your place.)

Regular evening works train

From Wednesday 6/6/12 there will be a Clearance Train each Wednesday until 29/8/12. The material to be cleared may not always be cut timber and other vegetation; it may involve actually cutting the vegetation; litter and other rubbish collection; drain clearance and any other small jobs. The diesel hauled train will depart Dinas promptly at 17:00. Those who wish to participate please inform Dafydd Thomas or Paul Bradshaw or even better both. Click here for contact details.

Email problems

Update advice to persons who have requested emails is now being regularly rejected by the following domains:-

gmail

googlemail

ntlworld

virgin

virginmedia

The return message says 'Multiple destination domains per transaction is unsupported'

Any advice on how to deal with this problem would be welcome.

Schumann Special 26/5/12

Martin Kressman advises: The 11.00 departure to Caernarfon from Porthmadog yesterday (26/5/12) was made up entirely of Ffestiniog carriages including No.121, the brand new "Super Barn". The train was hauled by Vale of Ffestiniog. The reason for this was that No.143, Observation car Glaslyn and the rest of the 'E' carriage set were required for Mike Schumann's birthday train later in the day.

Titbits Spring 2012

Although the two open carriages were brought from Dinas to Boston Lodge for repainting over Winter, nothing was done over Winter due to pressure of work and volunteers tidied one up in Dinas Goods Shed. All Glaslyn's windows needed to be replaced as they were letting in water. The coach was re-varnished and the carpets and seats cleaned along with those on Bodysgallen, the other Pullman coach.

Nos. 87-143 both had successful dry boiler exams before the February Half Term service followed by successful steam tests. The locos were in service for Half Term/Easter but more work has been done on them since including No.87's worn rod end brasses and the axlebox oil pads. More recently, No.143 has had a modification to the steam pipe, similar to No.87's which often cracks.

Progress on No.138 has been less visible. e.g. a new stainless steel ashpan. A new spark arrestor is required and a modification to the back of the cab to match No.143's. The steam pipe also needs attention as it also fractures during expansion. A new coal bunker may have to be fabricated. No.138 is needed to relive the pressure on the other two Garratts which are currently all that is available.

The K1 team designed their own high pressure ball joint and that was constructed by Boston Lodge for them. The front end pivot is also being repaired and, after a few other minor jobs, the loco may see action later this season. Both Funkeys are operating well, though Vale of Ffestiniog received a new radiator recently as it sometimes had to run with engine compartment panels off on hot days.

With the extension of track into the former Welsh Water building, the daily shunt of No.138's boiler into the Loco Shed has ceased as the unit is permanently occupying the newly extended track. The new length is on the east side of the building. The mezzanine floor/engineers office area has been taken out.

Team Wylfa report 22/5/12

Clive Briscoe reports: A good team at Dinas on Tuesday evening this week saw the F Set (yet again - on the present stock rotations, we should finally see the E Set again for the first time in almost 2 months next week) done by 8:30 so there was time to do some jobs on the No.134 project again. We finally finished top-coating the ex Penrhyn Castle 2 Tonne 'A' frame hoist, took the 'zip-up' scaffold down and returned it to the Loco Shed extension.

No.138 progress 22/5/12

Clive Briscoe reports: It was noted that one of the power bogie frames from NGG16 No.138 have been painted, along with various other bits of the bogie. Also that piano wires have been set from the centre line of the cylinders down the frames to set the centre lines of the axles in the horn boxes.

Tuesday Gang report 22/5/12

Tony Baker reports: The Tuesday Gang spent 22/5/12 servicing T Bolts, from the North points at Waunfawr Ch.30.20 to point Ch.29.40, a total of 800 metres. Approximately two dozen were found to be loose. Some of these tightened up without any fuss, others were seized and were forcibly undone with a T bar and extended fulcrum .i.e. a piece of scaffold bar. Once taken apart the threads are wire brushed and liberal amounts of grease applied. The nut and bolt are then re tightened but not using the extended fulcrum. All were successfully dealt with. Both the Caernarfon departure and the Porthmadog departure were well loaded on this the first real day of Spring.

Tuesday Gang South report

Steve Broomfield reports: Today, the following activities were completed by the TGS(3), 

• 1) At Pont Croesor the 'new' gate and closure fencing were installed at the top of the 'ramp' between the toilet block and the recently-installed fence. 
• 2) The 'Pont Croesor' sign, formerly on the ticket office/shop, was attached to the aforementioned fence.

This easterly view (22/5/12) shows the station sign moved to the new fence facing the car park at Pont Croesor 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 Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Rail Ale 20/5/12

Sunday 20/5/12 sees the final day of this year's Rail Ale. Any views would be gratefully received.

This Dinas view (20/5/12) shows the commemorative beer glass used as an entry to the event sitting on the specially produced beer mat. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Dan Kirkman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Beer Festival report 19-21/5/12

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 5 mins 7 secs of video of the Rail Ale on 19-20/5/12, including views of the trains. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder and is best viewed at 1080p HD standard.

Dafydd Thomas reports: This weekend saw the majority of the North Wales Black Hand Gang involved with the 8th Real Ale Festival. Preparatory work had of course gone on the previous weekend as well as during the week leading up to the weekend. This year's festival was a huge success with last year's records being surpassed, more people attended, rode on the trains and of course got through more beer. On Monday, 21/5/12 we came back down to earth with the big clear up at Dinas and now the Goods Shed and surrounding area looks as if nothing had happened there.

Bron Hebog model show 26-7/5/12

Rob Waller advises: Our 009 model of Beddgelert, Bron Hebog, will be exhibited at Railex 2012 at Stoke Mandeville this weekend. See www.railex.org.uk. This is the last chance to see the layout for the foreseeable future as there are no more confirmed appearances in 2012 or 2013 to date. You can follow progress on our WHR and FR modelling on our blog http://bronhebog.blogspot.com.

This model view (15/4/12) shows Rob Waller's model of K1 in Beddgelert station. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy Rob Waller and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

KMX rejuvenated

With the KMX returning a little later than planned in January, major training and commissioning was undertaken. The track machine has been at Plasser for several months and £50,000 has been spent on it so it is able to both align and tamp the track. Previously the computer controls were set to the original 1 metre mine's gauge and this caused problems. The tamper now has comfy seats and a cab heater too! It has seen used on all the tasks below over the last few months.

One of the first jobs was the long straight from Hafod-y-llyn to Cei Newydd (the new embankment just before Nantmor Halt). A 5mph TSR has been removed at Plas Bodaden allowing the speed to be increased to 20mph up to Tryfan Junction. Another task was the Afon Clochig area and with the help of NR apprentices the speed limit was returned to 15mph. 15mph is also the aim for the Plas-y-nant to Castell Cidwm section and some work has been done on the straight to Castell Cidwm from Ty'n-y-Weirglodd Cutting.

Further work between Clogwyn Quarry Incline and Rhyd ddu will allow the speed limit to be raised to 15mph here eventually. Attention was also given to the straight from Betws Garmon river bridge to the Pont Betws road bridge. Work is ongoing on getting the cant right through the curves from Cwm Du river bridge up the new forestry footpath crossing at Tro Elain. The Hendy Crossing straight has also been realigned.

Altogether some £5,000 ballast has been placed to improve alignment and train speeds. The KMX tamper will no doubt see early morning use to avoid disrupting public train services over the summer months.

Titbits Spring 2012

During March, the first stage of the Caernarfon Station canopy was completed. This included groundworks and footings for the supports. Gwynedd Council's Town Improvement Scheme will assist with the cost of this work. Work has now been suspended until the Autumn when train services are reduced and the canopy can be erected. Two new benches have been provided. The water tank has also been painted.

The F&WHR has budgeted for a drop in numbers this year after the huge success of 2011's through services. Indeed, February services were disappointing, possibly due to poor weather and March was mixed. A Porthmadog 'Day Away Ticket' giving a 10% discount on services from Caernarfon may encourage more travel (depart before 1015, return after 1530). Fares this year are £33 return with the usual one child free per adult offer. Additional children travel at half fare. There are concessions for Senior Citizens and Registered Disabled. Single supplements for the Pullman/Observation are £8, Dogs/Bicycles are £2.50 (though with limited accommodation for bikes now the bike wagons are no longer included in the rakes). Shorter journey fares include Caernarfon-Waunfawr £10.80 and Porthmadog-Beddgelert £18.00.

Bookings rose by 52% in 2011 to almost 100,000 with income ahead of the FR due to the longer journeys. On train catering produced a profit of £63,000. The WHR cook as left and the duties have been amalgamated with the Senior Steward as take up of hot food was variable and did not always justify the use of employment of a cook. However, the trial of party travel catering last year is being built on this year e.g. morning coffee/light lunch/afternoon tea served on china crockery. This is available to parties of 20 or more and almost every day in May has been booked already! The new stewards' waistcoats will be navy blue. Charter services are increasing and a Guest Driver package introduced.

Rail Ale 18-20/5/12

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

Team Wylfa report 15/5/12

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

Tuesday Gang report 15/5/12

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

Guest driver programme 14/5/12

Lyd is being used on the guest driver programme. Gold contributors to the Phase 4 Appeal were given the incentive of a Lyd cab ride. On 14/5/12 Dan Crow was a guest driver from Boston Lodge to Tan-y-Bwlch, Rhyd Ddu and return to Boston Lodge. See pictures here.

North Wales Track Gang appeal

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

Hugh Napier launch YouTube 11/5/12

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

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

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

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

'Super Barn' coach No.121 10/5/12

Boston Lodge C&W Dept has rolled out the first of three new Super Barn coaches for use on both railways. The coach is to same design as prototype coach No.103, which appeared in 2010. It incorporates features from the WHR design but to the FR profile, allowing the coach to operate on a through rake. Key components from the FR's scrapped No.121 have been used. The coach features double glazing, Eberspacher thermostatically controlled heating, inward opening doors, wider seats with more legroom and provision for mobility impaired persons. The third coach in the series, coasting £100,000 each, will be funded by the WHR Society for through services. For full story see FR News. 

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

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

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

Tuesday Gang report 8/5/12

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

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

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

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

WHHR Gala and 'Blaenau 30' YouTube 6/5/12

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

WHHR Gala 5-8/5/12

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

This southerly view (6/5/12) shows Doll racing No.143 at Pen-y-Mount. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Michael Chapman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Blaenau 30 YouTube 5-6/5/12

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

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

Baldwin Boiler on display 5/5/12

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

Tuesday Gang 1/5/12

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

Tuesday Gang South 1/5/12

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

This northerly view (1/5/12) shows an anti-trespass sign was fitted to the new fence at the North end of the down platform at Pont Croesor. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (1/5/12) shows The posts supporting the fencing installed last week (where the booking office formerly stood) were trimmed in height at Pont Croesor. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

North Wales Gang report 30/4/12

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

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

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

WHHR Gala 6/5/12

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

YouTube video Palmerston at Carrog 28/4/12

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

Palmerston on tour 28/4/12

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

Tuesday Gang report 24/4/12

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

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

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

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

Palmerston at SSSIII 22/4/12

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

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

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

Mike Hart's Simplex transfer 22/4/12

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

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

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

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

K1 progress 21-22/4/12

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Coach No.2042 progress 18/4/12

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

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

Baldwin project moves forward

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

Hugh Napier 18/4/12

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

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

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

No.87 18/4/12

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

Tuesday Gang report 17/4/12

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

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

More Snowdonian views 14/4/12

This easterly view (14/4/12) shows Earl of Merioneth leading Merddin Emrys on a run past back towards Rhyd Ddu. The weather had deteriorated by the afternoon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dr. Simon Melhuish and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

NG15 No.134 progress

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

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

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

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

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

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

Additional trains on Monday 30/4/12

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

Blaenau 30 Event 5-7/5/12

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

'Rail Ale' timetables published

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

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

'Railway Children' Three Peaks Appeal

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

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

Beer Festival YouTube 2010

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 4 mins 41 secs of video of the 2010 Beer Festival. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder and is best viewed at 720p HD standard.

The Snowdonian on YouTube 14/4/12

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 10 mins 4 secs of video of The Snowdonian on 14/4/12. This video was taken by Dave Waldren and family on a camcorder and is best viewed at 1080p HD standard.

SAR Brake Van appeal

Dafydd Thomas reports: The former South African brake van, which did sterling service during the construction of Phase 4 of the railway is now in desperate need of some attention. The main jobs are the fabrication and fitting of a new roof (the current one leaks badly and is beyond repair); some maintenance work on the doors and a complete repaint. There is now an opportunity to do this work undercover in the Carriage Shed at Dinas over the Spring/Summer whilst one carriage set is based at Porthmadog. A team leader is needed to take on this task as well as a small dedicated team to get the job done by the end of September. If you would like to undertake this job or be part of the team please contact me. Dafydd Thomas - see Contacts page.

Tuesday Gang

The Tuesday Gang had a two week break over Easter.

North Wales Track Gang report 9-11/3/12

Dafydd Thomas reports: Over the long weekend, Friday to Sunday, 9-11/3/12 the North Wales /Black Hand Gang achieved a number of tasks at Dinas. The numbers were swollen for Saturday and for Sunday morning by students from Imperial College's Railway Society.

Tasks included:

• Commencement on the installation of a new fence at the rear of the Up platform.
• Laying a short section of temporary track in the loco shed extension.
• Rubbing down and re-varnishing open coach 2021.
• Completion of painting new ends for platform benches; a task that was started by the West Midlands Group.
• Reinstatement of the now repaired bench at Beddgelert, which had been damaged by vandals.
• Installation of the two 'missing' running-in boards at Dinas, as well as a new platform designation sign and a new station sign.
• Spreading of fine slate waste on the area around the Goods Shed; over recent years many dips have formed in this area, which become puddles when it rains.
• General tidying up including sweeping the car park and platforms; giving the access ramp to the Ladies/disabled access toilet a coat of wood preservative.
• In addition there were volunteer gardeners were at work at Waunfawr and Rhyd Ddu.

The group of 10 students from Imperial College was a great help; it was good to have some new young blood volunteering. They were all Civil Engineering students who greatly appreciated the opportunity to have hands on experience of jobs such as mixing concrete and even the simple task of digging a hole.

This northerly view (10/3/12) shows work to extend the Loco Shed tracks with the 6m extension of the Pit Road. It seems there is a step up in the floor to a slightly higher level now the dividing wall has been demolished. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Jim Comerford and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

Palmerston for Llangollen

Palmerston will join the Talyllyn Railway's Dolgoch at the Llangollen Railway's Steam, Steel and Stars III gala from 21-29/4/12. The locos will share the same dual gauge track (1' 11.5" and 2' 3") at Carrog station and will give footplate rides on a special 150 yard temporary track laid in the yard. There will be six visiting steam locos including Tornado. The Llangollen Railway hopes to be running trains to Bonwm Halt, halfway along the Carrog-Corwen extension. The SSSIII organisers hope to raise £60,000 to complete the casting of new cylinders for No.6880 Betton Grange, a new build GWR Grange using components from Barry Ten locos. See the SSSIII website for full details.

Tuesday Gang south report 6/3/12

Steve Broomfield reports: The following were achieved today by the TGS on 6/3/12.

• Nantmor - A second coat of black Hammerite Smooth was applied to the running-in board supports and the spacers supporting the new guttering were stained to match the building.
• Beddgelert - A broken branch, which was overhanging the fence at the bottom of Cwm
  Cloch, near the gateway, was sawn through, to prevent any possibility of future damage.
• Plas-y-Nant - The running-in board (frame and lettering) was given a coat of white primer, following the rubbing down of the framework, accomplished earlier.
• Waunfawr - Using surplus plywood from Beddgelert and newly-purchased framing timber, notice boards were constructed, stained and fitted to both platform buildings (see photos).

This view (6/3/12) shows the Waunfawr Station waiting shelter notice board on the interior wall of the building. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Steve Broomfield and was taken on a Panasonic Lumix DSC-FS3 digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

• Rhyd Ddu - We attempted to sort out the foot crossing central timbers, but the 4 retaining
  bolts proved too stubborn and could not be undone (WD40 was applied, to no avail).
• Rhyd Ddu to Pitts Head 'straight' - a (road-side) level crossing gate was seen to be open
  and the problem identified as a broken 'swing-over' latch (an earlier weld had failed).
  Using some handy blue string, we tied the two gates together, as a temporary solution.
  (I think this is LC40.08, i.e. Beudy Cerrig)

Preparations for the new season

Martin Kressman reports: It is just over two weeks until the start of the summer timetable. Clive Briscoe's team (Team A plus anyone else who cares to help) will be oiling up the set that is at Dinas on Tuesday 20/3/12 in preparation for the opening on Saturday 24/3/12. Thereafter, sessions will be held on Tuesdays (Team A plus anyone else who cares to help) and Thursdays (My team, Team B, plus anyone else who cares to help). Although no trains are scheduled to arrive back in Caernarfon after 6pm, we shall meet at Dinas for 7pm in deference to those who work for a living.

Team Wylfa report 6/3/12

Clive Briscoe: There was a hiccup to our normal service this week - sickness and general non-availability. However, your scribe had promised on Monday to go through all the electrical hand tools, lead lamps and extension leads normally locked away in the tool cupboards and lay them out for periodical PAT testing* on Wednesday. So, your scribe duly went to the Clip Shed single handed - but on arrival, informed a suitable person that if they didn't hear back from me within an hour, they were to 'call out the troops'. With all the gear duly sorted, locked up and phoned back to say all was well and off back home. All being well, all the equipment has passed muster and will be available for use again next week.

* 'Portable Appliance Testing' - all electrical equipment has to be formally registered, inspected and tested on a regular basis these days. Nobody is allowed to bring their own, or bring a new portable electric hand tool onsite without it having been inspected, registered and approved for use under the PUWER Regs - Provision and Use of Work Equipment Regulations - it's the Law.

East Anglian Group meeting

Richard Watson reports: Just a reminder that the next East Anglian Group meeting will be on Thursday next, 15/3/12. Our speaker will be Tony Tomkins, whose subject will be “Buzzrail” – The Leighton Buzzard Narrow Gauge Railway. The LBNGR is a really fascinating railway, so do come along, and bring a friend too! As always, we will be meeting at The Six Bells Pub, 9 High Street, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5DH. The pub is located in Fulbourn village centre and has a large meeting room. Fulbourn is easily accessible from A14/M11 corridors and is also located on CamBus route 1 Note: Last bus runs at 10.37pm, via Cambridge railway station where it arrives at 11.05 p.m. (Sadly Fulbourn Railway station closed in late 60’s!). Car parking can be busy but there are spaces available on Church Lane 3-5 minute walk to the pub.

We meet up any time after 6-6.30pm and an evening meal is available in the restaurant or bar, and prices are reasonable. The meetings starts around 8pm with a halfway break for coffee (£1.20 per person), and we finish around 10pm. See you all there!

Quarrypower promotion video

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 1 min 31 video of Britomart on the FR. This video is best viewed at 1080p HD quality was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a camcorder.

Tuesday Gang 6/3/12

Tony Baker reports: On 6/3/12 the gang carried on from where they left off last week. The first job was to attend to the rail joint discovered last week at Rhyd Ddu. It was 2 cm wide which is slightly more than ¾". In the temperatures prevailing at the moment, a rail joint should be something in the region of 6 to 10 mm. To deal with it, firstly the fishplates are removed on the joint in question and also on the next joint downhill which incidentally had no gap at all. Then all the T bolts on the rail have to be loosened and the rail itself nudged along its length with a crowbar to break the seal. Then, using the blade of a spade in the gap in the web and at the same time pulling on the rail with tongs hopefully it can be persuaded to move. This process is then repeated on the uphill rail and finally the fishplates are bolted back together and the T bolts tightened. This process took about 2½ hours which took us up to lunch time.

This southerly view (6/3/12) shows bolts being tightened after re-gapping just north of Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed using Zoner Photo Studio 13 and displayed at 96dpi.

We then moved down to Castell Cidwm where we continued with the process of lubricating T bolts and greasing fishplates. A goodly number of tools are needed for this job as I explained last week there are different sized nuts on the fishplates and T bolts. Just as well then that under a total possession we can take everything to site by using the rail skate from the nearest road access.