Click on the YouTube link above to watch 19 mins 5 seconds of video featuring the FR Santa Special hauled by Lyd and Linda on 17/12/16 published 18/12/16. Bill was the Porthmadog pilot loco and delivered 'Santa' despite being allocated to Dinas, where it has yet to appear. This video was taken on a professional Betamax camcorder by John Wooden (F&WHR). It is best watched at 1080p HD mode available on e.g. Chrome.

This easterly view (17/12/16) shows Lyd leading Linda passing the site of Hafod Garregog Halt. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (17/12/16) shows Lyd leading Linda climbing the 1 in 40 Nantmor Incline. The heavy gradients north of Hafod-y-llyn Halt require two small engines. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (17/12/16) shows Lyd leading Linda passing Nantmor Halt. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (17/12/16) shows Lyd leading Linda threading the Aberglaslyn Pass. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (17/12/16) shows Linda leading Lyd passing the Hafod-y-llyn Halt returning to Porthmadog. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (17/12/16) shows Linda leading Lyd crossing the Afon Glaslyn bridge approaching Pont Croesor. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Trackwork Volunteering 2016-17

Keeping the permanent way, in particular, and the infrastructure in general, fit for trains to run is an essential task. Volunteers have a lot to offer by assisting with this. We have a mix of weekend and weekday working parties. The Black Hand, Tuesday Gang and Rest of the World Gangs will be very glad to accept your help. Contact the relevant organiser to let him know when you plan to join us. Please do not just turn up as that makes it difficult for us to plan ahead.

Please note dates for 2016-7 notified 26/7/15.

The programme for the remainder of 2016 is as follows:

Heritage Carriage Shed in use 14/12/16

The new Heritage Carriage Shed at Boston Lodge saw use from 14/2/16 although there are a few finishing-off jobs still to do. Although nominally a Carriage Shed, the shed has initially been used to store locos as previously advised. Once the remaining two roads are jacked and packed, more rolling stock is expected to arrive.

This Boston Lodge view (14/12/16) shows from left to right the KMX tamper liner, Prince, Earl of Merioneth and Conway Castle. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This Boston Lodge view (14/12/16) from the opposite angle shows the same stock stored on the third siding and the single entrance door in the distance. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Coach stock news 13/12/16

Martin Kressman reports: HR Pullman carriage 'Bodysgallen' was returned to Dinas on 13/12/16 from Boston Lodge having had its Romanian bogies replaced with the now standard roller bearing equipped bogies.

Tuesday Gang 13/12/16

Tony Baker reports: On Tuesday 13/12/16 the Tuesday Gang completed the Blaenau end foot crossing at Tan-y-bwlch and lifted the Porthmadog end which we will resume in the New Year.

This westerly view (13/12/16) shows the situation at Tan-y-Bwlch station crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Coach stock news 13/12/16

Martin Kressman reports: HR Pullman carriage 'Bodysgallen' was returned to Dinas on 13/12/16 from Boston Lodge having had its Romanian bogies replaced with the now standard roller bearing equipped bogies.

K1 News 12/12/16

Clive Briscoe reports: Just a word about K1. Soon after K1's boiler ticket ran out, the former K1 Group 'minders' (down to 2) were finding it a bit onerous as they were not getting any younger and decided to call it a day. They had a word with our No.134 Group leaders about us doing work on K1 as and when we had spare labour (we had been helping them previously). K1 regrettably falls in the same league as the England locos on the FR - not a front line loco but WILL be returned to service in due time but will mainly be a volunteer led project. As most are aware, we've had our own problems keeping the No.134 project going these last 18 months with only just enough of us to keep No.134 afloat hence K1 is lying in dry, secure storage for now (inside the Dinas Carriage Shed-Ed). The front tank is off outside - almost certainly it won't be going back on as it's all but life expired. So that's the story. Both projects could do with extra hands - especially as we now appear to have a new focus on getting No.134 on the move again.

Martin Kressman adds: Despite being kept undercover in the Carriage Shed it was noticed over the summer that, due to the humidity in the shed, K1's motion was rusting quite badly. Consequently over several Thursday evenings whilst we were servicing the carriages Rod and, most particularly, Pete Tabord, spent time de-rusting the motion using emery paper and paraffin/oil. Agreement has recently been reached with Tony Williams (Works Manager) that this should be augmented with the application of Waxoyl to delay further deterioration. The three of us and Cedric Lodge are planning to get together one Tuesday after the new year to do this. (Tuesdays are when I normally work in the Loco Shed at Dinas). We are intending also to make a list of all items that have been removed from the loco and to identify their whereabouts. In the longer term we are looking to get management permission to start removing the boiler tubes.

FR Carriage No.152 progress 12/12/16

This southerly Dinas Loco shed view (12/12/16) shows the completed frame for FR Observation coach No.152. The coach is occupying NG15 No.134's former location. When complete the frame will be moved to Boston Lodge Coachworks for fitting out. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.130 News 12/12/16

Tony Williams, Works Manager at Boston Lodge, reports:

1. All the driving wheelsets are now fitted with tyres.

2. The two wheelsets that need the fly weight pressing off and new keys making and fitting, following fitting with new tyres, have been taken to CMS Cepcor in Coalville for attention. They should be back early in 2017.

3. The crankpins have been sent for hardening and we expect them to be returned this month. We will not be looking to fit them to the wheelsets until the two wheelsets are returned from Cepcor and they can all be done at the same time.

4. The two vacuum reservoirs are rusted through and beyond repair. We are in the process of making new ones. Most of the straps that hold them to the cradle, other than for a few pieces, are reusable. The new pieces are made, the old strapping cleaned off and painted and these are now fitted to the cradle ready for the new reservoirs.

 5. The vacuum brake cylinders have been refurbished though the pistons were too worn to reuse. New cast vacuum cylinder pistons from stock have been machined and fitted to the cylinders. The pull rods have been replaced with new stainless steel rods and the neck ring fittings are also new. The cylinders are complete and ready for fitting to the cradle other than for the vacuum release valves which have not yet received any attention. We have done a little work on the fittings that hold the cylinders to the cradle as well as the shafts but these are not yet ready to be bolted to the cradle.

KS4415 update 11/12/16

In December, work focussed on the brake system with attention to the handbrake. The brakes will be completed before the loco is placed back on its wheels. Two heritage chopper couplings have been made up. the style is as originally fitted with a split face rather than a solid face that the current FR choppers have. for images see KS4415 Facebook page.

No.134 moves again 11/12/16!

Clive Briscoe reports: At last things are moving on the No.134 front again! This weekend was a huge housekeeping exercise in our new base next to where we started, in Dinas North (station) yard. Some of No.134's components were moved in during the last working weekend in October but had literally been thrown in. This time, most items, including tools, were carefully sorted and placed on the shelves in some sort of order. The loco and tender chassis - loaded with components made a rare trip into daylight on the siding alongside the store/small new workshop so all the bits could be offloaded into store. Altogether, a good weekend with lots achieved so we can really get going again in January. The first task is to reassemble the front and rear trucks with the objective of fitting back on the loco and making it a complete, sprung rolling chassis. Oh yes, change of plan for the truck bearings - not roller, Vesconite plain bearings!

See the No.134 Facebook page where there is a short video of the loco being hauled out of the Carriage Shed by Castell Caernarfon and a dead No.87 carrying components for store in the new No.134 base by the former Clip Shed.

No.134 Working Party report 10-11/12/16

Laurence Armstrong reports: There was no November working party this year as due to various reasons a substantial number of the team turned out to unavailable for the allotted weekend. The December working party on the other hand made up for the lost time with plenty achieved.

Whilst this wasn't direct work on the loco or tender it was, however, making great strides ready for a fresh start in the New Year. We spent the weekend, much as with the October working party, collecting and sorting all our various components in our new workshop. Now in the possession of plenty of shelf space we're able to make a much better attempt and keeping all the components in a more logical order. Before these had been kept on pallets and inevitably got moved around with parts sometimes not where they should be. The only parts left on pallets now are the motion components still in the loco shed awaiting machining by the full time staff. We also have a substantial bench in the workshop and so various vices and bench grinders were selected to adorn it. We'll fit these next time.

On the Saturday we also took the opportunity to cover our boiler again as the various tarpaulin sheets that had covered the various openings, the dome and inspection hatch for example, had badly deteriorated with both UV and windy weather. Another tarpaulin was used to cover the whole top and this was well tied down so hopefully it'll better withstand the vagaries of being stored outside.

Whilst we'd brought many of the remaining components into the new workshop from the Loco Shed and from out from our original home in the 'Clip Shed' we used when we started the restoration, in October there were many parts still on the tender and loco frames from when it was moved out of the Loco Shed and into the Carriage Shed. With the help of the duty diesel driver we therefore moved the loco and tender frames from out of the Carriage Shed to just outside our new workshop where we were easily able to transfer all the parts inside and onto the shelving.

Part of the component movement exercise also involved bringing the pony trucks into the workshop. These had been taken into the Carriage Shed alongside our frames, however the full time staff had brought them from out of there to make them more accessible. We were therefore easily able to move them into the workshop. Our intention is that we'll work on these as one our first major tasks of the New Year.

So with everything now in one place, we're in a good position for 2017 and to make good progress towards completing the restoration. The working party dates for 2017 are now available in the Working Party Dates page. For images see No.134 Website.

Santa Specials 10/12/16

This northerly view (10/12/17) shows No.143 supported by Castell Caernarfon on the first train of the day. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Tom Waldren reports: For the last two weekends before Christmas, I helped out with the Santa trains at Dinas. In the mornings, I left my lodging (Minffordd Hostel) at 07:00 arriving at Dinas around 07:30 for signing in. This year, the Santa trains ran from Dinas to Rhyd Ddu, making three round-trips each day. The first job was to clean the train engine, No.143. I usually start by cleaning the paintwork with an oil-based solution, finishing off with a good wipe from a clean cloth. I then move on to the brasswork using good-old ‘Brasso’, starting with the name plate and moving onto the pipework.

After the loco crew have lit the fire, oiled and performed their checks, they help with the cleaning, but as you know, the Garratts are big locos and require quite a team to get them really clean. Between the trains, I helped out with directing cars in the car park and to the temporary overflow area in front of the Goods Shed when the main car park was full. On the first train of each day, Funkey diesel Castell Caernarfon assisted No.143, double-heading up the line to Rhyd Ddu and returning ‘top-and-tail’. On arrival back at Dinas, the Funkey left the train and waited in the South Yard, where I worked the ground frame points, using the key on the token to unlock/lock them.

After the next service train departed, the diesel was moved under the shunt-token into the North Yard for stabling, there being limited accommodation available in the South Yard and Loco Shed. At the end of the day, when the last train returned, I helped with cleaning out the train, which mainly consisted of picking up Christmas present wrapping and other rubbish whilst the coaches were being shunted into the Carriage Shed. I then walked over to the South Yard and assisted the loco crew with disposal. This consisted of raking out the ash from the ashpan and barrowing it over to the ash pile. The final task of the say was to shovel up any spilt ash after the loco had moved into the shed.

First Santa Specials 10-11/12/16

Linda and Lyd double headed the FR Santa Specials to Beddgelert over the weekend and No.143 officiated at Dinas on the WHR Santa Specials. Castell Caernarfon was used on the first train to Rhyd Ddu to assist traction rather than run round at Snowdon Ranger. Any photos of the WHR Santa Specials would be welcome.

This westerly view (10/12/16) shows No.143 leading Castell Caernarfon past Tryfan Junction on the first of the WHR's Santa Specials. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Withers and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (10/12/16) shows Linda leading Lyd watering at the Heritage water tower at Beddgelert on the FR's Santa Special. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Andrew Withers and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (11/12/16) shows Lyd leading Linda out of Porthmadog Harbour station heading for Beddgelert on the FR's Santa Special. This is having to use the WHR this year due to extensive PW works on the FR. Linda was facing east for the return journey. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (11/12/16) shows Lyd leading Linda crossing Britannia Bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (11/12/16) shows Lyd leading Linda passing Hafod-y-llyn where the Green timetable trains terminated just before the 1 in 40 of the Nantmor Incline. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (11/12/16) shows Lyd leading Linda threading the Aberglaslyn Pass. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (11/12/16) shows Lyd leading Linda between Bryn-y-felin and Cemetery Crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (11/12/16) shows Linda leading Lyd running round in Beddgelert. Linda is facing south to lead on the return journey. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

T&BFCRC concerned about Llan Ffestiniog station development 9/12/16

The Trawsfynydd and Blaenau Ffestiniog Railway report that a development being planned between the Goods Shed and the platform at the site of Llan Ffestiniog station. Although the boundary markers are quite close to the track it does not impede the passage of trains. Unfortunately it does mean the reinstatement of the cattle dock and yard area will be prohibited if this goes ahead.

The funds contributed for the failed Crowdfunding of a Class 08 purchase have been allocated to development of the Maentwrog Road station site which will be the railways operational base. The former siding using for Explosives traffic and Goods shed still exist at this location. With work on clearance of the Cwmbowydd Road level crossing to Blaenau Ffestiniog section nearing completion, attention will shift to the Maentwrog Road station site in the near future. Volunteers have been clearing the track of accumulated rubbish and vegetation almost every weekend.

Heritage Carriage shed progress 9/12/16

This southerly Boston Lodge view (9/12/16) shows the completed track laying in the new Heritage Carriage shed. Buffer stops will be required and possibly ballast! The shed may be pushed into use over Winter to store locos and at-risk rolling stock. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Welsh Pony news 8/12/16

After a dearth of news since August there has been a burst of activity news on this loco project. Progress has been made at a reduced rate due to the need to maintain the working fleet.

This Boston Lodge view (8/12/16) shows the current state of assembly of Welsh Pony's boiler. Various components have been made ready for fitting to the backhead shown. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

T&BFCR miss out on Class 08

The Trawsfynydd & Blaenau Ffestiniog Community Railway has announced their Crowdfunding venture failed to obtain the Class 08 locomotive No.08757 but thanks those who donated. The reopening of the railway, however, remains unaffected with at least one offer of the use of a locomotive on the table. The T&BFCR will happily refund any money that was collected into the PayPal account, but would like to suggest to all those who donated with their consent that the donations are put to good use setting up facilities at Maentwrog Road Goods yard which will speed up getting the line ready for operations and also attract locomotives and rolling stock to be based there. The rewards listed in the Crowdfunding will still be honoured once the railway is operational just as they would have been had they reached the target.

Traws clearance reaches Blaenau 8/12/16

The T&BFCC volunteer clearance work has finally reached Blaenau Ffestiniog joint NR/F&WHR station after struggling through dumped rubbish, undergrowth and overgrowth all the way from Cwmbowydd Road level crossing. While there are now over 500 members of their Facebook page, a smaller number has joined the T&BFCR Society and donations for the EWS Class 08 Crowdfunding appeal do not appear to have not reached their target by the deadline of 8/12/16 as the Society does not have a rich benefactor.

This westerly Boston Lodge view (8/12/16) shows clearance work reaching the headshunt of Blaenau Ffestiniog station. Volunteers have struggled through an overgrown 250m from Cwmbowydd Road level crossing with minimal help from a hired in excavator. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright T&BFCR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Bow Street station funding 7/12/16

The Welsh Assembly has applied for £6.8m to provide 3/4 of the funding for a new Bow Street station on the Cambrian coast route between Borth and Aberystwyth. TRAWS hopes this scheme, said to provide economic regeneration of the area, presages a favourable view of the TRAWS Caernarfon-Carmarthen reopening. See BBC story.

Dinas Christmas Cafe 7/12/16

Preparations are complete for Dinas to become the starting point for the WHR's Santa Specials this weekend and for the Xmas Holiday trains 27/12/16 to 1/1/17. Staff have been busy putting the finishing touches to this year's festive hub on the Welsh Highland Railway at Dinas. The historic Goods Shed has been transformed for the season and will house a 'pop-up' café, entertainment and waiting area on the days that trains are running. It seems there will be a bit of a Christmas Market atmosphere at Dinas as variety of craft/gift/local produce stalls will also appear there in the run up to Christmas.

This easterly Dinas view (7/12/16) shows advertising for the Dinas Hub Christmas Cafe on the Lon Eifion cycle track. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This Menu view (7/12/16) shows food on offer at the Dinas Christmas Cafe, including mulled wine. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Heritage Carriage shed progress 7/12/16

A milestone was reached on 7/12/16 when a train entered the new Heritage Carriage Shed for the first time. The works train, hauled by Moel-y-Gest, ventured inside to allow the remaining rail required to complete the third siding to be unloaded. There is still work to be done on packing /levelling the sidings and to fit buffer stops. The main doors should be completed by the end of this week. There is a short video on F&WHR Facebook page showing the first train moving into the shed.

This southerly Boston Lodge view (7/12/16) shows tracklaying inside the Heritage Carriage shed track layout with Boston Lodge works shunter Moel-y-Gest on the works train. Only the left hand track and buffer stops need completion. Plastic sleepers are being used as they are more durable. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 6/12/16

Tony Baker reports: On Tuesday we continued with the Blaenau end crossing at Tan-y-Bwlch. The gap on platform side was filled with cold tarmac and we started replacing the timbers on the car park side. Work will > 

This easterly view (6/12/16) shows the Tuesday Gang continuing work at Tan-y-Bwlch station crossing on the car park side. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

WHHR Santa Specials 10-11/12/16

In addition to the WHR's Dinas-Snowdon Ranger Santa's and the FR's Porthmadog-Hafod-y-llyn Santa, the WHHR is running 3 Santa Specials both days this weekend at 1100, 1300 and 1500.

Click on the WHHR's Xmas Banner to enlarge. this image is courtesy Michael Chapman.

Santa Specials 6/12/16

A privately chartered Santa Special ran on 6/12/16. The first public Santa Specials are due to run this Saturday/Sunday 10-11/12/16 from Dinas to Snowdon Ranger (or possibly Rhyd Ddu) at 1000/1215/1430. There are still tickets available for this weekend but the later dates, 17-18/12/16 and 22-23/12/16, are booking fast. See F&WHR booking form for full details. With the weather warming, snow will be at a premium but photographs would be welcome.

This easterly view (6/12/16) shows a privately chartered Santa Special with Lyd and Linda in charge crossing Britannia Bridge heading for Beddgelert. Two engines are required for the 1 in 40 sections north of Hafod-y-llyn climbing through the Aberglaslyn pass. The public FR Santa Specials operate more economically with one small loco on the flat section to Hafod-y-llyn.  Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Heritage Carriage Shed progress 6/12/16

This southerly Boston Lodge view (6/12/16) shows completion of the track layout in the Heritage Carriage shed. It is hoped that the shed can be used to store at least locos over Winter. The Rest of the World Gang has completed C Road, B Road is halfway up the shed and A Road (furthest left) has reached the door. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Rother Valley Railway 6/12/16

Mike Hart, who led the resurrection of the WHR, officiated at a ceremony at the Rother Valley Railway, Robertsbridge, along with NR Chairman Sir Peter Hendy, to open the NR connection to the new railway. This line will eventually link with the K&ESR a few miles away at Bodiam. Two locos crossed from NR to the RVR for the first time, Nos.66718 and 73951. The WHR's civil engineer Alasdair Stewart is working on the project part time for Mike Hart. See Alasdair's Facebook page for images and also see RVR website for further details.

YouTube F&WHR Advert 3 (5/12/16)

Last days of Orange timetable for 2016

The 7-8/12/16 are the last days of the Orange timetable for 2016 though the timetable reappears MTFX from 1-23/3/17. In the meantime, there is the Green Timetable operating Dinas-Beddgelert twice a day on 27/12/16-1/1/17 and in the February Half Term Holiday 18-25/2/17. This offers also offers a return service from Beddgelert departing 1200 and arriving back at 1445 with a 20 minute break at Dinas.

YouTube F&WHR 2017 Advert 2 (2/12/16)

James Spooner progress 2/12/16

Parts have arrived at Boston Lodge for the new double Fairlie James Spooner. It is planned that the loco will enter traffic in 2020, in time for the 150th anniversary of the Little Wonder trials in 1870.

This Boston Lodge view (2/12/16) shows the firebox for James Spooner with other components that arrived recently. It is hoped the loco will be completed by 2020. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This Boston Lodge view (2/12/16) shows the two boiler barrels for James Spooner. The boiler will be a complex welded/riveted construction. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Dan Snow on Lloyd George 7/12/16

Dan Snow's Documentary on Lloyd George, featuring the F&WHR will be broadcast on BBC1 Wales HD on Wednesday 7/12/16 (Channel 952 for those outside Wales-available to record in the HD listings). See BBC advert. The programme will be repeated on BBC4 nationwide in January.

YouTube F&WHR Advert 1 (2/12/16)

FR Coach No.118 disposal 30/11/16

FR 'tin' coach No.118 has been sent to the Golden Valley Railway Butterley. The coach may have seen occasional use on the WHR, being used on The Snowdonian in 2015. The GVR has previously received FR coach No.119. The 1977 built No.118 was one of five 'tin' coaches built 1977-1981 that are now life expired and being replaced by new-build coaches.

This westerly view (30/11/16) shows Criccieth Castle with FR coach No.118 for transport to the GVR, Butterley. The coach was moved to Minffordd yard to propel onto a low loader rather than use the purpose built Gasworks Siding loading point in Llyn Bach car park. It was a frosty morning and temperature in some parts of North Wales reached about -10C! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (30/11/16) shows Criccieth Castle propelling FR coach No.118 onto a low loader next to the new wagon shed in Minffordd Yard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (30/11/16) shows FR coach No.118 on a low loader but loaded on temporary bogies as the GVR is only buying the coach body. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Traws Class No.08757 appeal

The Crowdfunding appeal for EWS' 08757 raised a total of £3,712 from 105 backers by the initial deadline on 28/11/16. EWS has given the T&BFCR an additional 10 days to raise the full £19,600 bid.

The Cambrian News reports that volunteers have now completed the initial clearance between Cwmbowydd Road level crossing and Blaenau Ffestiniog station and are now moving to Maentwrog Road station where the main operating base will be. They need the Class 08 to work pw trains to the advancing head of steel as access is difficult on this section to Llan Ffestiniog.

Orange timetable fades out

December sees the Orange WThSO timetable become irregular with no service on Saturday 3/12/16. The final trains are on 7-8/12/16 primarily for coach traffic for the alpine views of mountains in the snow (snow is forecast for Friday 2/12/16). The Orange timetable resumes in March with trains from 1-23/3/17. The Green timetable, with two trains a day from Dinas to Beddgelert, runs from 27/12/16 to 1/1/17 and during Half Term, 18-25/2/17, a frequent time for snow in North Wales. The new season Yellow timetable starts on 25/3/17 with trains operating from Caernarfon Station MFX.

Tuesday Gang report 29/11/16

Tony Baker reports: The gang found themselves on the FR this week at Tan-y-Bwlch changing the timbers on the pedestrian crossing at the station (as part of Winter Major Works programme at this location-Ed). The centre and platform side outer timbers were changed leaving the car park side outer timbers for next week. The height difference between the top of the 75 lb rail and the platform edge means that a slope will be needed. This will be done next week with cold tarmac.

This easterly view (29/11/16) shows the situation before work started at Tan-y-Bwlch station crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (29/11/16) shows work in progress on the centre and side timbers for the crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (29/11/16) shows the state of the crossing at the end of the day with gap to the platform edge requiring filling with tarmac next week. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Car parking charges withdrawn

All Gwynedd car parking charges have been withdrawn for the first two weekends in December and the Xmas weeks 15-27/12/16.

KS 4415 progress 26-27/11/16

The Kerr Stuart No.4415 Group were working at Boston Lodge over the weekend of 26-27/11/16. The main task was making the pins that attach the radius rods (chain tensioners) to the axleboxes. They also got some fixings ordered and did a test assembly of one of the axleboxes. Volunteers are getting closer to having all the bits of the chassis ready to be reassembled on its wheels. For images see KS4415 Facebook page. There are also images on the KS4415 Blogspot, which gives an update on the decision to restore the original power unit rather than one of two replacements the group has obtained.

Santa Specials to run to Rhyd Ddu?

There are rumours that Santa Specials will run to Rhyd Ddu rather than Snowdon Ranger (where there is no loop) to avoid having to top and tail the trains. The Santa Specials run on 10-11/12/16, 17-18/12/16 and 22-23/12/16 from Dinas. FR Santa Specials have been diverted to the southern end of the WHR this year due the Winter Major Works Programme on the FR and run from Porthmadog to Beddgelert on the same dates, except for 23/12/16 (a rare case of more trains on the WHR than the FR!). See F&WHR website for times and fares.

No.130 news 25-27/11/16

On 25/11/16 No.130's boiler cradle appeared complete with all the riveting and painting done. On 26/11/16 work was in progress on the foundation ring. All four sections have been made and will be machined on the new horizontal borer. On 27/11/16 the vacuum brake reservoirs were deemed life expired having many holes in them but the brackets are in good condition. These reservoirs came from SA off NGG No.155. The brackets will be tidied up and new reservoirs made. The WHR already have the right size tube to fabricate the reservoirs. Additionally, the heavy brake arms that also came from No.155 only need a little fettling up before they can fitted. For images see No.130 page.

Trains halted by fallen trees 23/11/16

Martin Kressman reports: The 11:15 departure from Porthmadog was terminated at Pont Croesor on 23/11/16. The line between Pont Croesor and Hafod-y-Llyn was blocked by fallen trees following the recent gale force winds.

This northerly view (23/11/16) shows staff clearing the line north of Pont Croesor as seen from Vale of Ffestiniog. While the first train was terminated at Post Croesor, the second train ran through to Hafod-y-llyn as booked. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Ben Rosen and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

TRAWS scheme optimism

A Welsh Government Minister has stated that the re-instatement of the Aberystwyth-Carmarthen rail link is achievable before the Feasibility Report has even reported. Ken Skates AM, Cabinet Secretary for Economy and Infrastructure, has announced that he will call for the results of the Feasibility Study to be incorporated into a future national transport finance plan. See Cambrian News story (very slow link).

T&BFCR Class 08 appeal latest

With one day left to go the Trawsfynydd and Blaenau Ffestiniog Railway has raised about 18% of the £19,600 needed to secure the EWS loco. Some 104 backers have raised a total of £3702 towards the purchase as of 27/11/16. The Crowdfunding appeal finishes at 8pm on 28/11/16.

No.130 progress 23/11/16

The new tyres on the driving wheels of No.130 were being shrunk onto the wheelsets on 23/11/16. The first two axles are finished and now just need profiling. More progress is expected later this week. For images see No.130 Facebook page.

Tuesday Gang report 22/11/16

Today the Tuesday Gang completed the work at Coed Mawr LC 44.30 (the more northerly of the two level crossings at Beddgelert Forest campsite-Ed) when we changed out the rotten RHS outer timbers. Six volunteers attended and a steady drizzle throughout.

This easterly view (22/11/16) shows the preparation of side timbers for the Coed Mawr crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (22/11/16) shows the completed Coed Mawr crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Traws Class 08 still needs donations

Having reached 17% of needed donations (some £3,462 of the £19,600 tendered cost) there are still 5 days left to raise this vital funding for the Trawsfynydd and Blaenau Ffestiniog Community Railway. There are some 94 backers of this project so far and the Crowdfunding finishes at 8pm on 28/11/16. Similar wheelbase GWR 0-6-0 tank engines used to operate on the route so the sharp curves and checkrails on the converted F&B narrow gauge section should not be a problem for this loco.

The project is gathering pace and is currently making good progress clearing the length from Cwmbowydd Road level crossing as far as the Blaenau Ffestiniog station headshunt. There is a working party this coming weekend 26-27/11/16.

No.130 news 21/11/16

Riveting of the boiler cradle is well underway. The new centre stretcher that carries the vacuum cylinders should now be in place. For full report see No.130 Facebook page.

WHHR Santa Specials

The WHHR is running Santa Specials on 10-11/12/16. Tickets are still available. There are trains at 1100, 1300 and 1500 both days and tickets cost £8.50 adult £9.50 children. See WHHR website.

Winter sunshine on WHR 19/11/16

Trains are continuing to run to Hafod-y-llyn SWTHO until 8/12/16 and from 1-23/3/17. Santa trains 10-11/12/16, 17-18/12/16 and 22-23/12/16 from Dinas to Snowdon Ranger. A twice daily green timetable service runs Dinas-Beddgelert over the Xmas holidays 27/12/16-1/1/17 (NR crossing is blocked Boxing Day as Machynlleth powerbox is closed) and 18-25/2/17.

Click on the YouTube link above to watch 4 mins 48 seconds of video of Lyd hauling the Orange timetable train to Hafod-y-llyn 19/11/16. This video was taken on a professional betamax camcorder by John Wooden (F&WHR). It is best watched at 1080p HD mode available on e.g. Chrome.

NG15 No.134 news

The November working party due 19-20/11/16 was called off as not many of the regular volunteers could attend.

Snow report 19/11/16

Martin Kressman reports: Following storms overnight last night consisting of thunder and lightning, high winds, rain, sleet and snow there is now a thin blanket of snow on the Carneddau, the Glyders, the Elidirs and Snowdon down to around 500m (Rhyd Ddu is about 200m above sea level-Ed).

Traws 08 funding reaches 13%

With 7 days left to raise the £19k EWS asking price, the Trawsfynydd and Blaenau Festiniog Community Railway has raised some £2,653 from 79 donations so far. The group aims to use the loco on PW trains and maybe hauling passenger trains on the branch. See Crowdfunding website.

Snowy Snowdonia

This easterly view (11/16) shows Lyd about to set out on a train to Hafod-y-llyn with great views of the mountains. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Although Martin Kressman reports that snow had disappeared from Snowdon by 10/11/16, the weather forecast for Snowdon shows heavy snow predicted from Friday 18/11/16 to Tuesday 22/11/16 and the mountains are likely to be covered in snow during the Orange timetable trains SWThO this weekend and next week.

Trains on Film 20/11/16

Rob Bradley reports: A film show planned for Sunday 20/11/16 in Cell Blaenau, the old police station in Blaenau Ffestiniog. If successful, further similar shows are possible.

Click on the advert to see details of a film show planned for Sunday 20/11/16 in Cell Blaenau, the old police station in Blaenau Ffestiniog. If successful, further similar shows are possible.

Tuesday Gang report 15/11/16

Tony Baker reports: The gang was back at LC 44.30 Coed Mawr (the more northerly of two crossings at Beddgelert Forest campsite-Ed) where we changed the left hand outer timbers. We discovered the telephone cable which feeds instruments at the crossing and the halt under the timbers so extra care had to be taken. Next week we will do the right hand side.

This northerly view (15/11/16) shows the Meillionen Halt telephone cable discovered during the repair of the eastern side of the crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/11/16) shows the completion of the eastern side of the crossing with the telephone cable protected.. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Aerial view of Lyd 14/11/16

Click on the link to see a view of Lyd returning to Porthmadog from Hafod-y-llyn, passing the former Hafod Garregog Halt.

Trawsfynydd 08 appeal hits 10%

Neil Parry advises that the Crowdfunding Appeal for the purchase of a Class 08 loco from EWS for the Trawsfynydd and Blaenau Ffestiniog Community Railway has hit 10% with 10 days remaining to raise money. Some 68 backers have contributed over £1,900 of the £19,600 required. An additional benefit for those contributing £250 or more is to be entered in a raffle for a pair of GWR first class tickets.

Lyd 12/11/16

Lyd was still carrying the Remembrance Day wreath on 12/11/16.

This southerly view (12/11/16) shows Lyd carrying the wreath crossing the Afon Nanmor bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Norman Bond (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/11/16) shows Lyd crossing the Afon Nanmor bridge on its return from Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Norman Bond (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

WHR Society East Anglian Group meeting 17/11/16

David Gander reports: Our next meeting takes place this coming Thursday 17/11/16. We welcome Steve Sedgewick who will be presenting ‘Railway Photography – A Different Point of View’.

Our December meeting will be on Thursday 8/12/16, and will be our traditional ‘Members’ Slides and Mince Pies’. We will meet again then in February.

We meet at the Six Bells Pub, 9 High Street, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5DH. We meet up any time after 6-6.30pm and an evening meal is available in the restaurant or bar. Prices are reasonable. The meetings are usually held in the Function Rooms, accessed from the car park at the rear of the pub, and start around 8pm with a halfway break for coffee (£1.20 per person). We finish around 10pm. There is a charge of £2 per meeting for Group members, £3 for non-members. Fulbourn is easily accessible from the A14/M11 corridors and is served by Stagecoach bus Citi 1 (This bus runs every 30 minutes until 23.36, via Cambridge railway station where it arrives at 00.05) Car parking can be busy but there is space available on Church Lane, a 3-5 minute walk to the pub. You are most welcome to join us. We meet on the third Thursday of the month (excepting December when it’s the second Thursday), with meetings held until May – with a break in January.

Caernarfon Station progress 11/11/16

With Caernarfon station buildings now cleared, a skip is being used to remove away the debris. The F&WHR is advertising for its Santa Specials and advising passengers they must travel from Dinas.

This northerly view (11/11/16) shows the debris from the demolition of the old station Portacabins structure being placed in a skip for removal. The F&WHR has put up posters advertising Dinas as the station for Santa Special Trains. on the right can be seen the stopblock protecting the truncated headshunt. In future the track will be extended almost up to the old BR tunnel portal. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

T&BF CC win bid for Class 08

The Trawsfynydd and Blaenau Ffestiniog Community Railway has won a bid with EWS for one of the Class 08 shunters they are disposing. No.08757 is currently in operational condition at Crewe Electric Depot. The T&BF are hoping to raise £19600 by crowd funding with just 13 days left to fund the cost of the loco and its removal to a secure location from Crewe. The loco would be used on engineering trains during the reconstruction phase and maybe on passenger trains when services resume. Currently the volunteer group is working to clear the line from Cwmbowydd Road level crossing to Blaenau Ffestiniog NR station stopblocks. See T&BFCC crowdfunding website for details of how to contribute. There are various levels of donation reward from £10 to £1,500: the £10 donation reward is a 1 hour cab ride whereas a £1,500 donation reward is a full day's driving course and the loco carrying the donor's name for two years when the railway is operational.

This loco is in RES red livery and has in recent years been seen at BS/DIRFT/BS/Swindon/Whatley Quarry (2004), Acton/TO (2008), Westbury (2009), Westbury/Didcot/Westbury/Didcot/Hinksey (2010), Didcot (2011), Crewe Electric (stored 2013).

F&WHR gift vouchers

The F&WHR is offering attractive gift vouchers with views of both railways and values from £5-£50. They can be used for food, gifts or train tickets. See F&WHR website.

Lyd 10/11/16

This easterly view (10/11/16) shows Lyd reversing onto the second train of the day ready to head for Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Max Birchenough and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (10/11/16) shows Lyd crossing Britannia Bridge heading for Hafod-y-llyn on the second train of the day. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Max Birchenough and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (10/11/16) shows Lyd carrying a poppy wreath for its run to Hafod-y-llyn as a mark of respect for Remembrance Day as no trains actually operated on 11/11/16. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 8/11/16

Tony Baker reports: The gang started work this Tuesday on LC 44.30 which is the main level crossing in the Forest Campsite. Heavy rain was forecast for after lunch so we concentrated on the centre timbers this week. Rest will follow next week all being well. We just finished at 1pm when it started. Lunch was then taken.

This northerly view (8/11/16) shows the preparation of the central timbers with notches cut to accommodate the track clips. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (8/11/16) shows the preparation for installation of the central timbers. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (8/11/16) shows the bolting down of the central timbers, with notches being cut out to accommodate the track clips. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (8/11/16) shows the central timbers finished and the poor state of the outer timbers. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Caernarfon Station progress 6-8/11/16

On Sunday 6/11/16 the toilet block was moved to its new position alongside the temporary station building at Ty Seiont (the old Age Concern Wales building at the south end of the platform). On Tuesday 8/11/16 the old station Portacabins were demolished allowing the sewer contractors full access to the site.

This westerly view (6/11/16) shows the toilet block moved to its new location alongside Ty Seiont. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (8/11/16) shows a local contractor, Robin Thomas of Caernarfon, demolishing the old station Portacabins structure in preparation for the sewer diversion. As far as possible the F&WHR likes to use local contractors. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Year in the Life of F&WHR 2016 YouTube

Click on the YouTube link above to watch 5 mins 48 seconds of promotional video for the upcoming 'Year in the Life of the F&WHR 2016' DVD published 7/11/16. The three DVD/BluRay set contains about four hours of video filmed in 2016. This video was taken on a professional betamax video camera by John Wooden (F&WHR) and is best watched in 1080p HD mode.

Aerial view 2/11/16

Click on the YouTube link above to watch 2 mins 5 seconds of video of Lyd hauling the Orange timetable morning train through the teletubby bridges on The Traeth on 2/11/16. This video was taken on a Phantom 2 quadcopter video camera by John Rawlings and is best watched in 480p mode available on e.g. Chrome.

This southerly view (2/11/16) shows an aerial view of Lyd passing the first of the 'teletubby' bridges in The Traeth with the morning train. Lyd is hauling a seven coach FR rake approaching Pont Croesor which apparently is not open during the Orange timetable. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a quadcopter digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

New F&WHR webshop website

The new on-line site has been launched in time for purchases for Xmas. Items to be purchased can be loaded into a basket along with pre-booked tickets for travel and a single payment made. To celebrate the launch of the new site, UK first class postage prices have been reduced to just £1.99.

More snow 7/11/16

More snow fell on Snowdon early this week and the snow line came down to 500m on 7/11/16. However, Rhyd Ddu is at the 200m contour so there is currently no snow around the height of WHR.

Snow at last 5/11/16!!

Martin Kressman reports: There was a light dusting of snow on Snowdon above about 800m on 5/11/16.

Volunteering on the T&BF CRC

The enthusiast group clearing the NR Trawsfynydd Branch is looking for volunteers this weekend and 19-20/11/16 starting from Cwmbowydd Crossing, Blaenau Ffestiniog and working towards the NR station. B&B can be arranged. The group claims to have a Freight Operating Company interested in operating the branch. one way of operating the NR station is to have a stop block (locked with the Betws-Blaenau token) part way along the platform that can be removed for excursions or through freights. See volunteer website.

Snow report 3/11/16

The current cold snap is generating snow on Snowdon at least with snow forecast to fall from 3-7/11/16 creating an alpine backdrop to the WHR for the Orange timetable which commenced WThSO from 2/11/16. The Daily Post has a snow report.

This poster view (3/11/16) shows the WHR's Orange timetable advert with views from previous years. This year's Orange Timetable runs WThSO from 2/11/16 to 8/12/16 and from 1-23/3/17. Trains run between Porthmadog and Hafod-y-llyn but can only be joined at Porthmadog. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

EU regional funding may now come through 3/11/16

The High Court has ruled today that the Prime Minister does not have the authority to trigger Brexit (subject to an appeal the Government has stated they will make). Teresa May has been told any decision to trigger Article 50 and start Brexit negotiations must be subject to a vote in Parliament. This will delay any process (if passed by Parliament) to leave the EU and give time for essential grants the F&WHR is seeking to come through if the UK was to leave the EU. Hopefully this will now secure the funding for Caernarfon station and for similar railway projects such as the Bala Lake Railway's Extension project (see below) which had been in doubt.

Hafod-y-llyn ready for Orange timetable 2/11/16

Hafod-y-llyn loop was used a few years ago for similar Winter season services to the Orange timetable that started today, primarily for coach traffic. A new ground frame was required and so the S&T department constructed a large concrete pad was cast by the mainline points to support the ground frame and cranks. The PW Department levelled the crossover so that the rodding would continue to operate smoothly after the track was packed. After several years work in development a token key lock was fitted, tested and commissioned just in time for the first service on 2/11/15.

Gwynedd Council to close Duffws station toilets?

One of the public toilets being considered for closure by Gwynedd Council is the facility built in the old FR terminus at Duffws in Blaenau Ffestiniog. If this large iconic building is closed it might be an idea for the F&WHR to buy it for their own use. However the building is on the opposite side of the main road from Blaenau Ffestiniog station though it does have a large car park often used by F&WHR travellers who commence their journeys at that end of the line as the current station car park is very small and often fully occupied at peak times.

A copy of the following letter to the FR management has been received for publication on this website: 'For the first time in several years, yesterday I drove to Blaenau to take the 11.45 train to Porthmadog. I followed the sign at the entrance to the station for the trains and (presumably) the station car park. After parking up I went to pay at the machine to discover that parking is limited to 3 hrs. The 11.45 train arrives back at Blaenau at 14.45. Thus 3 hours parking is not sufficient to make anything but a trip on the train to Tan-y-Bwlch without the risk of receiving a parking fine. As a result, fortunately, I found an unrestricted parking spot on the main road thus depriving Gwynedd Council of a fee and travelled all the way to Porthmadog as intended.

Maybe a word with Gwynedd Council is required.'

First day success for Orange timetable 2/11/16

With pleasant sunshine in North Wales, well over 100 passengers turned up for both trains on the first day of the Orange timetable. Trains run at 1115 and 1405 from Porthmadog WThSO 2/11/16-8/12/16 and 1-23/3/17 offering a 10 mile round trip. Trains can only be joined at Porthmadog so Pont Croesor does not seem to be open and neither does the short temporary platform installed at Hafod-y-llyn itself a few years ago. It remains a mystery why trains are not running to Beddgelert as last year as there seems to be plenty of time in the timetable from 1230 when the rake arrives back in Porthmadog and the second departure at 1405. It seems likely that operating on the flat Traeth to Hafod-y-llyn allows a small loco to be used and thus saves fuel costs compared with an NG16 or Double Fairlie, which would be required for the 1 in 40 onwards through the Aberglaslyn Pass to Beddgelert. A Green timetable operates on the WHR over the Xmas Holiday from 27/12/16 to 1/1/17 and in the February Half Term holiday from 18-25/2/17 with trains from Dinas at 1015 and 1330 to Beddgelert. A return journey is possible from Beddgelert at 1200.

This northerly view (2/11/16) shows Lyd crossing Britannia Bridge returning from Hafod-y-llyn on the first train of the day. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (2/11/16) shows Lyd running around the first Orange timetable train at Hafod-y-llyn. The station might be used to keep costs down as a small loco can be used with a relatively large rake on the flat Traeth section of the railway rather than the 1 in 40 north of this point. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Click on the YouTube box to watch 1 min 37 secs of video of Lyd hauling the first Orange timetable train from Porthmadog to Hafod-y-llyn on 2/11/16. This video was taken on a professional betamax video camera by John Wooden (F&WHR) and is best watched in 1080p HD mode.

Tuesday Gang report 2/11/16

Tony Baker reports: On Tuesday 2/11/16 we completed the refurbishment of crossing 41.34. This is one of the largest crossing on the WHR and facilitates access to the Forestry Commission (now Natural Resources Wales since 1/4/13) to bring out timber at Cae'r Gors. All timbers needed replacing, the existing being twenty feet long. We devised a method to replace using existing stock and two additional pairs of the metal straps used for fixing outer timbers. We spent three Tuesdays here, first week centre timbers, second week left hand outer, third week right hand outer.

This southerly view (11/10/16) shows the preparation for installation of the central timbers, also showing rotten outer timbers. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (11/10/16) shows the gang preparing to fit the central timbers. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (25/10/16) shows the central timbers complete but outer timbers rotten and in need of replacement. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (25/10/16) shows the preparation of the outer left (east side) timbers. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (25/10/16) shows the east side timbers fitted. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (1/11/16) shows the outer right (west side) timbers ready for fitting. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (1/11/16) shows the Natural Resources Wales crossing at Cae'r Gors completed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Aerial views 1/11/16

This southerly view (1/11/16) shows an aerial view of Rhyd Ddu station with Llyn y Gader behind and Moel Hebog to the left. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a quadcopter digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (1/11/16) shows an aerial view of Waunfawr station with the Snowdonia Parc Brewpub to the left. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a quadcopter digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Internet problems 31/10/16

The F&WHR suffered internet problems on 31/10/16 which may have caused difficulties with on-line booking.

Aerial views 31/10/16

This westerly view (31/10/16) shows the new Pont Briwet bridge opened 7/15 and the new Llandecwyn Halt. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a quadcopter digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (31/10/16) shows the new Pont Briwet bridge and the widened road leading to Penrhyndeudraeth station. The landscaped remains of the former Cooke's Explosives factory are visible in the foreground, now a public park. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a quadcopter digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (31/10/16) shows the new Pont Aberglaslyn bridge and the Porthmadog Bypass. The NR wooden viaduct is to the left of the concrete road bridge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a quadcopter digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (31/10/16) shows the Minffordd Quarry and the Porthmadog Bypass. The NR alignment was diverted to the right to make way for the bypass and no facility has been provided for any future siding despite previous use of rock from the quarry to repair the Cambrian Coast line following storm damage. There does not seem much left of the hill the quarry is excavating. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a quadcopter digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Aerial views 30/10/16

This easterly view (30/10/16) shows a high angle view of Boston Lodge. Incomplete trackwork for the new Heritage Carriage Shed, with roof partially completed, is visible behind the Coach Works. The old Loco Shed is visible to the left. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a quadcopter digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (30/10/16) shows a low angle view of Boston Lodge. Piles of excavated stone and loco ash are stockpiled on the right to extend the Carriage Shed onto the foreshore. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a quadcopter digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

PBSSR Archive view

This southerly view (1906?) shows the construction of the 'bridge to nowhere' in Beddgelert, one of the major features of the abortive PBSSR project. The sign to the right reads 'Bruce Peebles Engineers Edinburgh, Contractor to the North Wales Power and Traction Co.' Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright National Library Of Wales and was found by David Power. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

FR Santa Specials to run to Beddgelert!

To allow the trackwork at Tan-y-Bwlch to be completed unimpeded with an extended possession, the FR Santa Specials will run to Beddgelert this year-a first! Trains run at 1100 and 1415 from Porthmadog on the 10-11/12/16, 17-18/12/16 and 22/12/16. The traditional Victorian Christmas train makes the round trip in 1 hour 45 mins and there are discounts for parties of 20 or more. With November turning out to be the coldest for several years these trains will give added opportunities to photograph the WHR in the snow if the current weather persists. See leaflet for full details.

Caernarfon headshunt 30-31/10/16

Work started on clearing the Caernarfon headshunt on 30/10/16 following the last train of the season on 29/10/16. The aim is to clear the area so that the Victorian sewer can be diverted into a new 3m deep rock cut trench along the line of the retaining wall which will eventually be under the railway rather than the new station building. The wooden fencing was removed on 30/10/16 and the headshunt itself removed on 31/10/16 with the area subsequently fenced off for contractors.

This northerly view (30/10/16) shows preparation for removing the Caernarfon headshunt. The old fencing has been removed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (30/10/16) shows preparation for removing the Caernarfon headshunt. The station building will also be removed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Stock move to Dinas 30/10/16

No.87 and Vale of Ffestiniog hauled a rake of rolling stock including several B wagons and a rake of coaches to Dinas on Sunday 30/11/16 for winter storage. See Peter Proctor's video.

This southerly view (30/10/16) shows No.87 hauling the stock train to Dinas passing through Beddgelert at 0942. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (30/10/16) shows Vale of Ffestiniog double heading the stock train to Dinas passing through Beddgelert at 0942. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (30/10/16) shows the stock train to Dinas passing through Beddgelert at 0942. As well as the B wagons, the second WHR rake was being returned from Boston Lodge for winter storage at Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Aerial views 29/10/16

This northerly view (29/10/16) shows No.143 crossing Pont Croesor bridge. It appears the Glaslyn Wildlife Centre car park has expanded to the left to include the former Pont Croesor Halt car park. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a quadcopter digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

T&BFCRC report 29/10/16

After another working party last weekend the volunteers of the Trawsfynydd-Blaenau Community Railway Co. reached the ground frame for the trap point (and buffer stop) that protect the operational railway in Blaenau Ffestiniog station. Heras fencing prevents access from the worksite to the station. The volunteers will be working back to Maentwrog Road station where the operational base will be constructed. See T&BFCRC Facebook page.

Coach No.2047

Work on new saloon coach No.2047 is progressing for release to traffic next year but has been delayed  by FR coach No.118. The flooring and windows will be fitted soon while the doors, tabletops and seats are well underway. This coach has the wider panoramic style windows given to the previous coach No. 2046. Arrival of the coach will reduce the need to use old FR stock on WHR trains.

Martin Kressman adds: The introduction of carriage No.2047 will not reduce the need for the use of FR carriages on the WHR until carriage No.2041 is re-introduced once it has been converted into a brake cum toilet saloon. This work is currently being undertaken at Boston Lodge without a completion date having been advertised. The carriage will be re-numbered No.2091.

TRAWS looking for drone hire

TRAWS, the campaign looking to reopen the Bangor-Carmarthen route, is looking to hire a drone to video the trackbed between Aberystwyth and Carmarthen. The Welsh Assembly Government has voted £300,000 for a full feasibility report on this section. See TRAWS Facebook page.

Snow report Winter 2016-7

With last year's winter not producing any reported snow on operating days around the WHR, photographers will be looking forward to a colder winter this year. Temperatures are finally dropping, after record high October temperatures over 22C on 31/10/16 in North Wales. Temperatures are forecast to drop throughout this week to 8 degrees around Rhyd Ddu after a mild Autumn and snow may soon appear on Snowdon. Snow showers are forecast on forecast on Snowdon summit from Thursday night right through to Monday 7/11/16. Check out the updated Snow Scenes page for previous years' snowy scenes on the WHR.

This poster view (31/10/16) shows the WHR's snow trains advert. This year's Orange Timetable runs WThSO from 2/11/16 to 8/12/16 and from 1-23/3/17. Trains run between Porthmadog and Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Sewer diversion work

The first step in building the new Caernarfon station (assuming post Brexit EU funding comes through) takes place soon now that traffic has ceased for the season. Track will be removed to allow contractors to excavate a trench along the foot of the retaining wall to accommodate the diverted sewer which otherwise would lie under the location for the new station buildings. Volunteers will be needed to clear the station car park and remove the headshunt track.

Santa Specials

The recently refurbished historic buildings at Dinas Station will be transformed for Santa's visit and will feature a Christmas Market with craft and gift stalls, as well as refreshments and tasty snacks. All Santa Trains will start and finish there after running to Snowdon Ranger top and tailed. Fares are available on the F&WHR website.

This poster view (31/10/16) shows the WHR's timetable leaflet. This year's Santa trains feature a Christmas Market at Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

MOSI Beyer-peacock archive

Thanks to Norman Bond (F&WHR) for details of the link to Manchester's Museum of Science and Industry (MOSI) image archive. For example choose Beyer, Peacock in the search box to view that company's archive. See MOSI image website.

Carriage Appeal continues

The 2016 Carriage Appeal will continue into 2017. It will cost about £150k to build an Observation Car similar to Glaslyn. When complete this will create two similar rakes. Seats in Glaslyn are often sold out well in advance. It may however be necessary to reverse the service car so the toilet is available to the First Class passengers without having to pass through the food preparation area. Another coach being converted to provide a toilet for the second class part of both sets This year some First Class passengers have experienced awkwardness from buffet staff about passing through to the toilet and have been told not to touch the working surfaces.

Buoyant traffic

After a rather lacklustre start to the season 2016 traffic has improved right through to September, when heavy 'shoulder' traffic was seen on several days, though additional spend did not always follow. It seems the Brexit fuelled drop in the pound's value has deterred some people from taking foreign holidays and improved the numbers of those coming to visit the F&WHR from mainland Europe. Indeed, Eurostar traffic is severely down, compounded about worries about terrorist activities in Paris, Nice and Brussels and Eurostar is planning redundancies and scrapping some of its original Class 373 Eurostar fleet (see Railway Gazette webpage).

August was a good month for traffic on the WHR. It remains to be seen whether, when the widely anticipated Brexit induced inflation kicks in, people will feel they have money to pay for petrol to visit the WHR. Work on the new temporary station building Ty Seiont is starting now the lease has been signed and will provide shop, booking office, toilets and office space ready for next March.

End of season 29/10/16

Saturday 29/10/16 sees the end of the WHR season and the closure of Caernarfon station for the diversion of the Victorian sewer under the site as a precursor the starting the new station building. This is subject to confirmation of release of EU regional funds post Brexit, which has caused the General Manager some concern. Ty Seiont (the former Age Wales building) at the south end of the platform and the opposite side of the road will be the ticket office/shop/toilets next year during the station building phase if it actually goes ahead. In the meantime, Santa trains and Green timetable Xmas trains/February Half Term trains will start from Dinas. It is hoped the sewer work will be completed by March 2017 and Caernarfon station can reopen using Ty Seiont ticket office on 25/3/17 for the start of the Yellow timetable.

Bala Lake takes a leaf out of WHR book 28/10/16

The Bala Lake Railway is to extend into Bala from its current terminus at Pen-y-bont at the northeast end of Bala Lake. On 28/10/16 revised plans were released that avoid the need for a new bridge across the River Dee. It is now proposed to use the current B4391 Llangynog-Bala road bridge across the River Dee's exit of Bala Lake as a tramway. This reprises the tramway approach that the WHR took to the route across Britannia Bridge. The £2.5m project is currently seeking planning permission and a European Economic Regeneration grant that may dry up if Brexit proceeds.

See BLR Red Dragon project website.

New Diamond Jubilee appeal

A new urgent appeal has been made to help with match funding towards the new 'Caernarfon Castle' station. The station works will cost almost £2.3m with £1.8m of public funding and £450,000 required to be raised by the F&WHR as match funding. This latter amount must be raised urgently if work is to proceed on time and the station be reopened for the 2018 season.

The new station will have longer platforms capable of accommodating 12 coach trains. The Purcells design uses up all the car park and an arrangement has been made for WHR parking in the Harbour Trust car park however this saw prices of £5 during the summer compared to £2 at the WHR car park. A cleared area of land adjacent to the former De Winton works (currently occupied by a plumbers) is offering car parking for just £2 and is nearer to the temporary station building. The new station building will feature, ticket office, cafe, restaurant, toilets, shop, exhibition area with rails to display historic rolling stock etc. There will be two floors with a lift.

The F&WHR is looking for a 3 year Standing order of £25/£50/£100 per month. The £25 Bronze package includes benefits of 5 years Society membership, an appeal medallion and DVD, an annual tour of inspection of progress, a specially drawn F&WHR poster map and a How's it Going booklet. The £50 Silver package includes additionally participation in the statutory FfR Co.'s 'Share for Life' scheme. The £100 Gold package includes additionally a signed copy of Gordon Rushton's book 'Welsh Highland Railway Renaissance' and a footplate ride on the FR/WHR.

Marchlyn returns to Statfold 27/10/16

Visiting locos Marchlyn and No.19 returned to the Statfold Barn Railway by low loader on 27/10/16. The locos had appeared at SuperPower in September and seen occasional use on the FR as late as mid-October.

Tuesday Gang report 25/10/16

Tony Baker reports: We continued at Cae'r Gors changing the outer timbers on the left hand side. We plan to do the right hand side next week. This has been an ongoing job for the Tuesdays 4-11/10/16 but last week was spent at Boston Lodge helping to finish road 10. I was told that work on road 10 was completed by full time staff on Thursday of last week (20/10/16-Ed).

Dinas progress 12-25/10/16

Martin Kressman reports: Whilst we were carrying on with the erection of the compressed air pipework in the Loco Shed at Dinas contractors were laying a new concrete floor in the Goods Shed in advance of its new (temporary) role as a ticket office and retail area for the Santa Specials and Winter service trains. This will cover the period when Caernarfon station is closed to allow preparatory work for the planned new station building to commence.

This southerly view (12/10/16) shows preparation for concreting of the floor. The old flooring has been broken out and an impermeable membrane laid ready for the concreting. The top of the rails visible on the left will be the new floor level. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (25/10/16) shows the concrete crane pumping concrete into the Dinas Goods Shed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (25/10/16) shows workers using concrete floats to level the new floor. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Birthday special 22/10/16

Lyd and Earl of Merioneth hauled a Birthday Special from Porthmadog to Rhyd Ddu on 24/10/16 in fine Autumn weather. The F&WHR will hire out trains for special occasions when traffic allows. Photos would be welcome.

This northerly view (22/10/16) shows Lyd and Earl of Merioneth hauling Bob Gartside's 80th Birthday Special up the Nantmor incline to Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Heritage Carriage shed update 20/10/16

The new Heritage Carriage Shed at Boston Lodge is progressing well and it was hoped the side sheeting might be complete by 21/10/16. The scaffold contractors are on site to put the safety rails around the building so roofing work can start week commencing 24/10/16. The rear wall and cross drains are now complete under what will become the shed floor. Work on the turnouts is progressing slowly but re-connection of 10 road requires remaining rails to be placed and fixed into position.

This southerly view (20/10/16) shows progress in cladding the new Heritage Carriage Shed at Boston Lodge and install drainage. The shed appears to have an asymmetric end to follow the rock face. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

NG15 No.134 report 19-20/10/16

Volunteers had hoped to have had a party from Imperial College in London joining them this month. However due to pressures of studies only two were able to help for the Saturday only. In view of this the group altered their intended work for it to be more of a weekend of re-organisation. The NG15 Group has been given use of a new workshop and storage facility not far from where they first started the restoration near the Clip Shed. Currently the loco components are stored at various places across the site and intermixed with various NGG16 components as well as K1's. The situation for both volunteers and the Works Manager was getting a bit confusing with the distribution of components so he's decided that No.134's parts best be concentrated in one place. This is a workshop that's currently used for storing mainly NGG16 components.

Volunteers therefore spent the weekend transferring NGG16 parts out from the new NG15 base and transferring No.134's parts into the new workshop. It was all quite easy with the use of the coaling tractor whereby volunteers simply filled the bucket with components then drove over, unloaded, and drove back with the bucket filled with components going in the other direction. One side effect of this is that K1 will also benefit as there will be room to move and store its components on the opposite side of the workshop. Volunteers will move these next time, then with both the NG15 and K1 components all in one place life will be so much easier.

There's still a bit of setting up to be done as regards benches, vices and power tools etc, however it now gives volunteers somewhere where amongst other things they can refurbish the remainder of the smaller components before attachment to the loco or tender. The next Working Party weekend is 19-20/11/16 and December's Working Party has been moved forward a week to be clear of Christmas activities to 10-11/12/16. See NG15 website for full details and images.

KS 4415 report 19-20/10/16

The historic Kerr Stuart shunter received more attention over the weekend of 19-20/10/16. The power unit has been disassembled and steam cleaned revealing unfortunate cracks in the casing as well as the broken crank. The pistons have all been removed and the cam box disassembled and the cam shaft removed. See KS4415 Facebook page.

Penrhyndeudraeth traffic chaos

The A487 main road through Penrhyndeudraeth is subject to resurfacing work for 8 weeks from 3/10/16 until the end of November. A convoy system is in operation and extensive delays may result. prospective visitors to the F&WHR should allow more time for their trains.

Diesel Galas

The Welshpool and Llanfair held a successful Diesel Gala on 24/9/16. Maybe it is time for the F&WHR to get Moel Hebog and the other rarely seen diesels out of the shed and have a diesel day in the shoulder season like other railways do to generate some extra income.

Halloween fully booked

Halloween trains are now fully booked on both WHR and FR.

Leaves on the line 19/10/16

The FR was affected by leaves on the line on 19/10/16 with Criccieth Castle called to assist Earl of Merioneth. As a result of the earlier problems climbing the 1 in 80, the 1135 from Blaenau Ffestiniog departed an hour late. There have been no reports of problems on the WHR.

Tuesday Gang report 18/10/16

Tony Baker reports: On Tuesday 18/10/16 we had a break from level crossing repairs and had a rare chance of a bit of trackwork. We were at Boston Lodge assisting the PW permanent staff with the trackwork associated with the new developments behind the existing works. We laid membrane along the line of the new track joining the point installed by ROTWG on their last visit. We then ballasted this new point and finally started the new trackwork to join the point to the existing carriage siding. This job is ongoing and at this point we do not know if we will be involved again next week.

This southerly view (18/10/16) shows the third and final new point being placed for the newly erected framework of the Heritage Carriage shed at Boston Lodge. The newly redesigned entrance shows a double door on the left rather than three single doors. A hydraulic rock breaker in the background continues to break out the trench for the formation. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (18/10/16) shows the new point being shovel packed. In the background is one of the last of the Post Office telecoms trailers that the GM promised to get rid of! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (18/10/16) shows the trackbed on Teram geotextile, ballasted and levelled with a wacker vibrating plate. In the background is one of the last of the Post Office telecoms trailers that the GM promised to get rid of! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (18/10/16) shows the trackbed on Teram geotextile with base ballast and the Tuesday Gang reconnecting the existing through siding. In the background is the C2 Project Chinese loco shed. The NG15 Project could do with a shed like this at Dinas! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Dinas news 18/10/16

TRAWS scheme moves forward

The Welsh Government has committed £300,000 for a Feasibility Study into the Carmarthen-Aberystwyth section of the TRAWS North Wales-South Wales link line utilising the Cambrian Coast line. See South Wales Evening Post story and BBC story.

East Anglian Group meeting 20/10/16

David Gander reports: With apologies for the short notice, the first meeting of our 2016-2017 season will take place this coming Thursday 20/10/16.

We welcome Dave Waldren who will be presenting a ‘Narrow Gauge Miscellany’ of his videos and pictures.

Our November meeting will be on Thursday 17/11/16, when Steve Sedgewick presents ‘Railway Photography – A Different Point of View’.

We meet at the Six Bells Pub, 9 High Street, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5DH. We meet up any time after 6-6.30pm and an evening meal is available in the restaurant or bar. Prices are reasonable. The meetings are usually held in the Function Rooms, accessed from the car park at the rear of the pub, and start around 8pm with a halfway break for coffee (£1.20 per person). We finish around 10pm.

There is a charge of £2 per meeting for Group members, £3 for non-members.

Fulbourn is easily accessible from the A14/M11 corridors and is served by Stagecoach bus Citi 1 (This bus runs every 30 minutes until 23.36, via Cambridge railway station where it arrives at 00.05) Car parking can be busy but there is space available on Church Lane, a 3-5 minute walk to the pub.

You are most welcome to join us. We meet on the third Thursday of the month (excepting December when it’s the second Thursday), with meetings held until May– with a break in January.

Latest on WalesRail franchising 13/10/16

Railway Gazette reports: The four bidders shortlisted for the contract to be the 'Operator & Development Partner' holding the next Wales & Borders franchise were announced by the Welsh Government's Economy & Infrastructure Secretary Ken Skates on 13/10/16.

They are:

• Abellio Rail Cymru (a subsidiary of the nationalised Netherlands Railway company NS, which runs Merseyrail, Scotrail and Abellio Greater Anglia services);
• Arriva Rail Wales/Rheilffyrdd Arriva Cymru Ltd (a subsidiary of the nationalised German Railways company DB);
• KeolisAmey (Keolis is a subsidiary of the nationalised French Railway company SNCF);
• MTR Corp (Cymru) Ltd (a subsidiary of the nationalised Mass Transit rail corporation of Hong Kong);

(With all these foreign nationalised railways proposing to run our railways the question has to be asked why we cannot do it ourselves with a UK nationalised railway and retain the profits in the UK?-Ed)

The current franchise held by Arriva Trains Wales was awarded by the UK Department for Transport, but the replacement ODP contract is to be awarded by the devolved Welsh Government through a very different process with much more design input from the bidders. The Welsh Government sees the new franchise as a ‘once in a generation’ opportunity to build an integrated transport system, with the contract to be awarded through a negotiated procedure and less tightly specified than a DfT deal. The contract is to run for 15 years from late 2018, but the ODP may have a longer-term role in infrastructure development maybe the TRAWS Scheme-Ed).

The ODP would be required to support the development of the South Wales Metro concept, which aims to provide better multi-modal connectivity. The form of this is very much up for discussion as part of the bidding process, with bidders being asked to submit proposals which could range from 25kV 50Hz electrification of the Valley Lines to tram-train or extensive light rail conversion and street running. The Welsh Government’s in-house company Transport for Wales (TfW) will evaluate the bidders’ proposals against its objectives before deciding which to adopt.

It is envisaged that the lines north of Cardiff Queen Street would be transferred from Network Rail to the Welsh Government and then managed by the ODP through a vertically-integrated model. Separate infrastructure delivery partners would be appointed to undertake Metro construction and maintenance. Bidders will also be asked to submit proposals for complete renewal of the rolling stock fleet (including the dedicated Class 158 ERTMS fleet on the Cambrian, which may be an opportunity to ditch this restrictive system-Ed). The Welsh Government says a 'not for profit' model is to be used for the new contract, but this refers specifically to TfW not seeking premium payments from the heavily-subsidised franchise.

The ODP would be incentivised to deliver quality and value rather than fare revenue, and would focus on train operations and infrastructure development (e.g. the TRAWS scheme?). TfW envisages taking direct responsibility for activities such as station management, ticketing, marketing, car parking and advertising sales. The Welsh Government had hoped to attract interest in the ODP contract from non-profit organisations, but none came forward. The Welsh Government had unsuccessfully lobbied for permission to submit a public-sector bid, which is not permitted by UK legislation. While the overall cost of the contract and Metro project would be dependent on the bidders’ proposals, the Welsh Government believes it has sufficient money in place. UK government funding agreed for Valley Lines electrification can be used for the Metro project, and negotiations are underway to secure European Union funding agreements ahead of the UK (potentially-Ed) leaving the EU.

Holloween Train 27/10/16

Tickets are selling fast for the WHR's Holloween train on Thursday 27/10/16. The train departs Caernarfon at 1830 and gets back at 2100. It stops at Waunfawr station for 'fiendish finger bites' at the Snowdonia Parc Brewpub. Tickets cost £18 adult, £13.70 children (10-15) and £12.10 children under 10. tickets can be reserved at the Caernarfon booking office 01286 677018.

Kerr Stuart 4415 Facebook page

A new Facebook page has been started for F&WHR diesel shunter Works No.4415 which was used on trials on the F&WHR in the 1920s. Some 64 photos showing restoration to date have recently been uploaded.

No.130 Update 10/10/16

On 10/10/16 the final valve chest has been bored and the footplate had been fitted to the cradle. The new frame stretcher that has been built to hold the two vacuum brake cylinders in position is waiting to be riveted up. Additionally, some of the redundant frame holes are being filled. See No.130 Facebook page for images.

Trawsfynydd Railway update

There have now been six working days on the railway in the Blaenau Ffestiniog area since working parties commenced in September. The F&BFRC website shows views of progress with clearance. The society is looking for new members and membership costs £20. Prospective members can join online via the website. If this project comes to fruition it is uncertain whether it will extract traffic from the F&WHR or add another attraction to make a longer stay in the area more likely. In the longer term the railway could be extended up Cwm Prysor with spectacular views to a new loop at the summit alongside the A4212 road to Bala. 

2020 Re-run of Little Wonder loco trials?

Paul Lewin, the F&WHR General Manager, has expressed the view (in Heritage Railways magazine) that in 2020, when the new double Fairlie James Spooner enters service, there could be an event to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the Little Wonder trials. These trials proved the Fairlie concept in that Little Wonder, the first double Fairlie loco, was much more powerful than the England engines operating on the FR at that time. The loco is thought to have been pitted against Welsh Pony, which should be completed and in service by then, although progress has paused over the summer. The Fairlie patent eventually led to the establishment of the modern mainline diesel/electric format with two power bogies.

Taliesin 10/10/16

This easterly view (10/10/16) shows Taliesin being prepared for a change of motive power from that advertised, pictured near the old Loco Shed near Boston Lodge works. Taliesin may he used on the Hafod-y-llyn shuttles in the new Orange timetable that starts in November as in previous years. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Supporters' Special 9/10/16

Click on the YouTube box to watch 1 min 35 secs of video of Lyd sure-footedly restarting the heavily laden Supporters' Special from Beddgelert up the 1 in 40 through the Cwmcloch S bends. This video is copyright John Berry and was published on 10/10/16.

This southerly view (9/10/16) shows Hugh Napier on footplate duties passing the newly erected framework of the Heritage Carriage shed at Boston Lodge. The loco fleet may be stored in here as a temporary measure over winter if the track is laid in time. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Patrick Collins and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (9/10/16) shows Lyd with the Supporters' Special at Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Patrick Collins and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (9/10/16) shows No.130's bogie in Dinas Shed during the Supporters' Special visit conducted by the General Manager. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Patrick Collins and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (9/10/16) shows Lyd with the Supporters' Special at Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Patrick Collins and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

FR Victorian Gala 7-9/10/16 YouTube

Click on the YouTube box to watch 29 min 1 sec of video of the FR Victorian Gala 7-9/10/16. This video features WHR depot pilot Bill in action on shunting duty at Harbour Station. The loco still has not made it to Dinas and from the look of it, the transfer will be a long and uncomfortable ride for the driver! This video is copyright John Wooden (F&WHR) and was published on 13/10/16. It is best watched in 1080p HD mode.

No.109 news

At the WHR AGM in September the F&WHR General Manager Paul Lewin stated that there was no progress to report on No.109. This loco had been re-imported from SAR in mid-June 1995 by the Exmoor Steam Railway (nothing to do with the abortive Robin Hood's bay scheme) and arrived at their depot on 3/7/95. No progress was made with restoration other than preventative maintenance such as oiling the rods and painting the platework.

After being impressed by NG16s on a visit to the WHR Pete Waterman acquired the loco for an apprentices project at his LNWR works in Crewe and the loco was transferred there on 16/10/09. Sadly the apprenticeship scheme lost Government sponsorship with the economic downturn and eventually Pete Waterman sold the works and his various locomotives were dispersed with the WHR agreeing to host the boiler and the bogie that had been worked on. These parts came to Dinas on 16/1/14 and lie in the North Yard. Other components are stored elsewhere. Earlier this year Pete Waterman sold his large collection of miniature steam locos at auction to raise money to complete his various loco projects but no further progress has been made on No.109 at Dinas. The GM opined that Pete Waterman may have reached a time in life where he would wish to retire from loco projects.

Taliesin 7/10/16

This westerly view (7/10/16) shows Taliesin arriving at Porthmadog with Merddin Emrys on a freight from Minffordd Yard on the first day of the three day FR Victorian Gala. This train became a mixed train to Blaenau Ffestiniog later. Taliesin may he used on the Hafod-y-llyn shuttles in the new Orange timetable that starts in November as in previous years. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Lyd for Diamond Jubilee Special 9/10/16

Lyd is set to haul the Diamond Jubilee Special on Sunday 9/10/16 taking subscribers to view progress at Minffordd Yard, Boston Lodge and Dinas. The six coach rake will head over the WHR and is above the normal load limit for Lyd on the WHR's 1 in 40 so will make an interesting challenge for the loco. Any photos of the event would be welcome.

Infrastructure update

From early May the PW gang started their 0600 shift with 3 hours of tamping on the WHR before transferring to the FR for the rest of the shift. June saw the annual outing of the weed-killing train. The S&T team has been at work at Hafod-y-llyn installing a lever frame and rodding for the new Orange timetable Winter timetable that starts on 2/11/16. The loco will run round in the loop at this location but it is unclear why trains cannot operate to Beddgelert as there is plenty of time in the timetable to allow this as in previous years.

At Boston Lodge John Roberts of Ffestiniog has been using a large hydraulic rock breaker (commonly called a 'donker' from the noise it makes) to  make good progress in clearing the site of the future Heritage Carriage stock shed. It was necessary to reduce the level of the site to avoid an unacceptable 1 in 60 gradient. It is now 1 in 120. The large volume of rock removed has been stockpiled for use in widening the foreshore area to support the new Carriage Shed. Work on the foundation bases and site drainage took place in September and a start was made on the erection of steelwork in the first week of October. A change in the shed's design sees two roller doors rather than three as there was insufficient room for the door motors. One door will therefore be double track and the other single. The points for the new shed were due to be delivered from trackworks manufacturers K G J Price of Bedwas, Caerphilly and fitted during October. If enough volunteer labour is available track will be laid into the shed during the late Autumn and the loco fleet will be stored inside as a temporary measure over Winter.

The PW Winter Major Works programme sees work on The Cob  from 2/1/17 which will improve the track for WHR ecs moves from Boston Lodge as well as FR services. This will involve removal of the spiked track at the Porthmadog end and footpath/road closures.

L&BR Lyn progress

While all the Lyn components are now to hand at Alan Keef's workshops except for small items like boiler cladding that have been ordered, the L&BR replica Baldwin loco needs some £85,000 to finish. The full rolling chassis was displayed at Keef's workshop open Day on 17/9/16. Given successful fund raising and early completion, the loco may be tested on the WHR this Winter before its first public steaming on the L&BR scheduled for 13/5/17. The L&BR extension scheme is still awaiting planning permission from the Exmoor National Park Planning Authority (the equivalent of the SNPA who administer planning for the WHR). The 762 Club promoting the loco are convinced the WHR is suitable for testing the loco as the heavily graded L&BR route contains similar gradients and curves to the WHR. While the planning application for the southern section of the L&BR near Wistlandpound reservoir has been approved by another planning authority, the ENPA is dragging its feet on the central section. See planning application. A TWO will also be necessary as some land may need to be compulsory purchased.

Palmerston 7/10/16

This easterly view (7/10/16) shows Palmerston hauling the 1000 to Beddgelert, the first of 3 vintage trains to Beddgelert on the first day of the three day FR Victorian Gala. These trains only operate on Friday 7/10/16. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Coach Works report

Work continues on new build WHR saloon No.2047 which will hopefully be ready for Easter 2017. Ex-Shotton Steelwork stockyard shunter Bill has been painted and is awaiting delivery to Dinas as Works shunter.

Merddin Emrys and Taliesin back in action 4-5/10/16

Taliesin was back in action on FR trains on 4/10/16 after a considerable period sidelined. Merddin Emrys emerged from Boston Lodge works on test on 5/10/16 for the first time in a year. Both locos will appear together double headed during the FR's Victorian Gala (7-9/10/16).

This easterly view (5/10/16) shows Merddin Emrys on test outside Boston Lodge without its dome covers. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Dinas update 4/10/16

Martin Kressman reports: The stainless steel vertical stanchions that will support the roof of carriage No15(?)/152 have been tack welded in preparation for the structural welds to be made. The valve cylinder on the left hand side of the rear power bogie of NG16 No. 130 was being re-bored in situ today. We have installed more of the compressed air pipework in the Loco Shed at Dinas on 4/10/16 which eventually will deliver compressed air to various working positions within the building. As the company has obtained a site licence for Dinas it is intended to have more social events in the Goods Shed. Consequently, the uneven concrete floor is being broken up to be replaced with new.

F&WHR Victorian Gala update 7-9/10/16

Visiting locos Marchlyn and Lautoka Mill No.19 will be working in Minffordd Yard during the even which begins on Friday 7/10/16.

Loco update

Merddin Emrys was due to be running during the FR high season but work was necessary on the power bogies. As a result machinists were taken off work on Welsh Pony in order to complete Merddin Emrys in time for the FR's Victorian Gala this coming weekend, the first time it has been in service in 2016. Earl of Merioneth had to be taken out of service for a steam leak on one occasion and Prince and Palmerston were called in to haul the train. The Earl is nearing the end of its life and staff are working hard to fix water tank and smokebox leaks. Even FR Funkey Vale of Ffestiniog has been called in to substitute on an FR train when David Lloyd George broke some fire bars. It has been decided to dispense with the more expensive chrome-steel alloy fire bars as they have not lasted any longer that the standard steel fire bars despite claims they would.

The Funkey has new cylinder heads fitted to its Cummins diesel engine resulting in improved performance and less smoky exhaust. A new roof was fitted to the engine compartment. Nevertheless it failed with a split water hose whilst working 5 wagons to Dinas and had to be rescued by Criccieth Castle.

Progress with Blanche has seen the tubes removed for the boiler inspector to check the boiler. Taliesin's boiler was also checked at the same time and the loco is now available for the FR Gala following work on the power bogie and brake gear. This loco has hardly been used since last year. Lyd deteriorated early in the season with leaking superheater elements which took some time to repair but was back in traffic in time for the L&B Gala in September.

At Dinas, in addition to the fire bar problems, there have been problems with flexible blower pipes in the smoke boxes of the NG16s. Also a new problem has been distortion of the Garratt ashpans. Work continues on No.130's power bogies and boiler cradle, which must be ready to receive the new boiler when it arrives. At Boston Lodge No.130's driving wheels are having new tyres fitted and some of the crankpins replaced. The old pony truck tyres had not yet been removed in early Summer.

Barmouth Viaduct fire 4/10/16

The BBC reports that train services between Barmouth and Tywyn have been replaced by buses after a fire was noted on the Barmouth Viaduct at 0600 on 4/10/16. NR engineers are inspecting the damage. ATW has stated the line will be closed until at least Monday 12/10/16, affecting visitors to the F&WHR over the FR's Victorian Gala 7-9/10/16. See Daily Post story. The small fire was put out by fire crews who used PW trolleys to reach the location of the fire. Journey times are considerably extended by bustitution between Tywyn and Barmouth via Dolgellau. Fortunately a train was stranded north of the bridge so train services will operate between Barmouth and Pwllheli and outstable during the disruption.

No.143 2/10/16

This northerly view (5/10/16) shows No.143 heading towards Porthmadog and about to pass the site of Hafod Garregog Halt. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

WHR Santa trains

With Caernarfon station closed, the 2016 Santa Trains will run from Dinas this year to either Snowdon Ranger or Rhyd Ddu. If the former is used, push pull operation will be needed due to the lack of a loop at Snowdon Ranger. F&WHR management must be rueing the decision not to complete the loop at Plas-y-Nant which would have been the ideal journey length for the Santa Trains and might have provided operational flexibility on the long, steeply graded, Waunfawr-Rhyd Ddu section. Santa trains operate three times a day at 1000, 1215 and 1440 on 10-11/12/16, 17-18/12/16 and 22-23/10/16 and must be booked in advance. See WHR Santa leaflet.

Martin Kressman adds: Santa trains will be top and tailed to Snowdon Ranger to give Santa time to talk to all the children. Passengers will be discouraged from alighting here (although there are toilets on the train there are no toilets at Snowdon Ranger-Ed). The train will then reverse to Waunfawr where passengers will be allowed to alight in order for them to stretch their legs (and toilets are available-Ed) before the train returns to Dinas.

Britomart at the NYMR 1/10/16

Britomart is seen emerging from the former Grosmont horse-worked railway tunnel in images on the NYMR Facebook page on 30/9/16. This is the first steam loco to work through the 120m tunnel which was built in 1836. The tunnel was superseded in 1847 when the double track railway tunnel built when the Whitby-Pickering route was upgraded for locomotive use. Britomart hauled bugboxes Nos. 1/12.

This southerly view (1/10/16) shows the Britomart inside the Grosmont horse tunnel. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Bernard Cruickshank and was taken on a Canon EOS 7D Mark 2 and processed in Adobe Photoshop.

This southerly view (1/10/16) shows the Britomart emerging from the Grosmont horse tunnel. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Bernard Cruickshank and was taken on a Canon EOS 7D Mark 2 and processed in Adobe Photoshop.

This southerly view (1/10/16) shows the Britomart emerging from the Grosmont horse tunnel. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Bernard Cruickshank and was taken on a Canon EOS 7D Mark 2 and processed in Adobe Photoshop.

Autumn timetable

With the end of the Yellow timetable in prospect on 30/10/16, attention now turns to the new Orange timetable. This runs from Porthmadog to Hafod-y-llyn as there are no Winter services on the FR due to trackwork on The Cob, at Boston Lodge and Tan-y-bwlch. It is a pity the Orange timetable could not run to Beddgelert as last year's Green did. There are probably WMWP trackworks planned in the Aberglaslyn Pass. Trains will run SWTO aimed at coach traffic at 1115 and 1405. The train lays over for 95 mins at Porthmadog so there would have been plenty of time to go to Beddgelert. Trains run until 8/12/16 and reappear during March extended to Sundays as well (MTFX). It is not yet clear if it will be possible to join the train at Hafod-y-llyn but if so a return journey would be possible at 1155 arriving back, after time for a meal at Spooners, at 1435. Return journeys from Pont Croesor are possible departing about 10 mins later than Hafod-y-llyn or Porthmadog.

Food on the move

From early August, the new 'At Table Meal' menu which was tried last year in First class has been introduced in Second class too. It is hoped this will reverse the trend in food (and guidebook) sales which were consistently down on 2015 on the WHR. In contrast the sales of food and guidebooks on the FR is an amazing 36% up despite the longer WHR journey and more personal space in WHR coaches lending itself to eating a meal on the train. Spooners is also down 4% overall due to weaker custom in the evening.

Britannia bridge issues 30/9/16

The Cambrian News carries a story about a Gwynedd Council report on the issues of cyclists and flangeways on Britannia Bridge. It is possible the track on the bridge might be upgraded to include a Velostrail section which involves a rubber flangeway infill that is claimed to be easily depressed by rail flanges but not by bicycles. Any such work would require a major closure of the WHR for several weeks to break out the current tramway concrete deck and replace it with Velostrail panels. It would best be done during the Winter closed season and would also cause major disruption to road traffic although that is less important now that the Porthmadog Bypass is open. There is also a question about whether Velostrail panels could be specially manufactured for the narrow gauge track with its complex curves over the bridge.

Merddin Emrys and Taliesin return for FR Gala 7/10/16

Merddin Emrys and Taliesin, missing from the loco roster with problems for much of the year, are to return on Friday 7/10/16 (during the FR's Victorian Gala) with two morning trips coupled together from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog. The locos will appear in new or nearly new liveries.

TRAWS news 27/9/16

TRAWS, the group hoping to reopen the whole Cambrian Coast route from Bangor to Carmarthen, is calling for members to form a northern branch to push for Bangor-Afon Wen (for Porthmadog) to be reopened as an alternative to going ahead with the Caernarfon/Bontnewydd Bypass. However both bypass and railway may be needed in the long term in view of the heavy road traffic through the area. See Cambrian News story and Daily Post story.

TRAWS benefitted from over 1500 signatures when attending the Freshers' Fayre at Aberystwyth University at the end of September.

Trawsfynydd Railway group starts work 23/9/16

Following NR's approval of access arrangement at the end of August the Trawsfynydd & Blaenau Ffestiniog Community Railway has made a start clearing the line. See Cambrian News story and BBC news story. On 23/9/16 the group started clearance at Cwmbowydd Road level crossing in Blaenau Ffestiniog working along the overgrown 200m towards the mainline station. Heras site fencing has been erected next to the headshunt buffer stop to separate the clearance site from the operational railway. A chipper is to be brought in to clear the saplings that have been cut down. Network Rail, which remains in ownership, is to survey the line when cleared. See T&BFCR Facebook page. Initially the group hopes to open the line to Trawsfynydd Lake Halt but the route is largely clear beyond that to Cwm Prysor summit on the A4212 towards Bala and would provide an exciting ride on the high cliff ledge above the valley and over the viaduct near the summit. The attraction would provide an interesting add on for F&WHR visitors at Blaenau Ffestiniog but competition is also likely.

Tuesday Gang report 20-27/9/16

Tony Baker reports: The last 2 Tuesdays (20/9/16 and 27/9/16) have been spent at Weirglodd Isaf LC 43.56 where we replaced a number of rotten timbers. The crossing APG's were clogged with weed before we started and a replacement outer timber was chamfered to fit over the web of the rail. Strangely the centre timbers were 5 inch and the outer timbers 4 inch in depth.

This northerly view (27/9/16) shows the Tuesday Gang lifting the central timbers at Weirglodd Isaf crossing in the middle of the upper S curve. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (27/9/16) shows the Tuesday Gang chamfering the middle timbers for Weirglodd Isaf crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Size issues 22/9/16

Following the problems at the Snowdon Mountain Railway when booked passengers were bumped off trains due to the large size of other passengers, the F&WHR has responded concerning the design of its newest rolling stock, which takes into account this increase in the average size of passengers over the last 100 years. See Daily Post story.

Comings and goings 20/9/16

Gasworks Siding in the Llyn Bach car park was busy on 20/9/16 with two locos arriving and one departing during the evening. Lautoka No.19 and Marchlyn were arriving from Bethesda where they had visited the nascent Penrhyn Quarry Railway over their gala event 17-19/9/16 and Lyd was going away to visit the L&BR Gala on 24-25/9/16. See L&BR website for more details.

This easterly view (20/9/16) shows Lyd heading north during the evening to Gasworks Siding to be transported by low loader to Woody Bay for the L&BR Gala the following weekend. The loco is being propelled by Criccieth Castle. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (20/9/16) shows Marchlyn and Lautoka No.19 arriving by lowloader in Gasworks Siding. Lyd awaits to be loaded (following the unloading procedure) to the right propelled by Criccieth Castle. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.138 update 20/9/16

After appearing on service trains for a few days after SuperPower e.g. 13/9/16, the mid-term overhaul of Garratt No.138 has commenced as the loco had been clanking a bit. The front power bogie has been removed from the locomotive and dismantled, reports Martin Kressman. On 20/9/16 volunteers were cleaning all the filth from the frame and the wheelsets which have been removed. Good progress has also been made on the manufacture of the underframe for new FR Observation Carriage, possibly to be numbered as No.152.

No.134 report 17-18/9/16

Clive Briscoe reports: Not much work done on No.134 this last weekend (17-18/9/16)- sorting and throwing junk away and identifying the remaining parts still stored in our old base, the former Dinas Clip Shed. Once access had been gained, we found our tool cupboards had been moved with several having had their locks removed. Also, our heavy duty 4-wheel flatbed trolley that I made that we use to move gear about the site on has been broken up. We're NOT happy. The few who turned up ended up working on NGG16 No.138, which required some repairs to one of its fore unit connecting rod bearings.

High level discussions will be taking place about finding somewhere suitable for us to work on No.134 - we're not giving up.

No.134 Working Party reports: Unfortunately, due to pressure of work on the various NGG16s the F&WHR has been unable to get space in the Loco Shed to work on No.134. Rather that be twiddling their thumbs or going home they set to and helped dismantle NGG16 No.138's leading power unit. The full time staff had started this during the week so volunteers continued taking down the motion and other components off the unit and out of No.138's cab. As they were getting themselves in a right mess from the build up of oil and muck on the floor they also had a go at pressure washing the floor in the area around the power unit.

A visit was made to the tender in the Carriage Shed to see how the modifications to the tender body had progressed. Volunteers anticipated it wouldn't be much as again pressure on shed space meant  Brunswick Ironworks, who are doing the work for the No.134 Group, couldn't get the time in the shed they needed. Next month (15-16/10/16) the group hopes to make much better progress as a group is coming to help from Imperial College in London. There'll be many hands available that weekend so there should be good progress to report.

Funkey rescue 16/9/16

Following a failure of the booked NG16 at Dinas, Castell Caernarfon was called into action on 16/9/16. When it arrived at Porthmadog FR Funkey Vale of Ffestiniog was coupled for the return journey as the train faced the long 1 in 40 climb to Rhyd Ddu which would have been too much for a single Funkey with a full load. The F&WHR admits there is interest in their fleet of diesels as well as the steam locos so maybe there is a case for a diesel Gala in the future?

This northerly view (16/9/16) shows Vale of Ffestiniog leading Castell Caernarfon crossing Britannia Bridge with the 1405 Porthmadog-Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.138 13/9/16

This northerly view (13/9/16) shows No.138 heading south at 1120 with the 1000 from Caernarfon on one of the last days the loco was used before its mid term maintenance. The loco has been clanking showing wear in the power bogies side rods. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Cambrian Coast 'Ghost Train' issue resolved 12/9/16

After a vigorous campaign by locals, the 2000 Barmouth-Pwllheli, which operated as a limited stop service, will now stop at all stations on request from 12/9/16. See Cambrian News story.

No.130 news 11/9/16

Sandstone Railway (South Africa) has provided a working firehole door and two 21 inch vacuum brake cylinders, which will shortly be overhauled with new rolling bands fitted. The boiler cradle work is continuing with an expected finish date of December 2016. The new centre length stretcher has been trial fitted. This will hold the two new vacuum cylinders.

SuperPower YouTube 10/9/16

Click on the YouTube box above to view 7 mins 40 secs of video of SuperPower 2016 'Great and Small III' 10/9/16 published 11/9/16. This video is best watched in 1080p HD format available on Chrome, Firefox and IE/Windows 8.1 etc. Video taken by Simon Roberts (Steaming Around Yorkshire Film Productions) on a camcorder.

SuperPower 10/9/16

This southerly view (10/9/16) shows No.143 running round at Caernarfon at 0949 on the 1000 to Porthmadog. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (10/9/16) shows Palmerston running round at Beddgelert at 1244 on the 1135 from Porthmadog. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (10/9/16) shows Hugh Napier hauling the Slate Shunt at Dinas at 1445. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (10/9/16) shows Hugh Napier hauling Slate Shunts at Dinas at 1447 with a Victorian train in the background. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (10/9/16) shows No.19 shunting at Dinas at 1452 with a Victorian train in the background. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (10/9/16) shows Lilla on the Victorian train at Dinas at 1452 with a Victorian train. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (10/9/16) shows Prince shunting at Dinas at 1453 with a 'Drive and Engine' duties. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (10/9/16) shows Lilla on the Victorian train at Dinas at 1453 with the 1255 ex Beddgelert mixed train in the background. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view inside Dinas Loco Shed (10/9/16) shows No.140's boiler and frame. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view inside Dinas Loco Shed (10/9/16) shows No.130's boiler frame on ambulance bogies. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view inside Dinas Loco Shed (10/9/16) shows No.130's bogie units under refurbishment. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view inside Dinas Loco Shed (10/9/16) shows the frame under construction for the new FR Observation Car No.152. It is not clear why this FR vehicle is being made at Dinas, maybe through lack of space at Boston Lodge. The consequence is that No.134, which previously occupied this space, has been moved to a much less convenient space in the Carriage Shed without access to tools and as a result some disgruntled volunteers have sadly left the project. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (10/9/16) shows Lilla, Prince and Britomart in Dinas North Yard at 1604. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Richard Watson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Ligne de Cerdagne appeal

Robert Kay appeals: I know this is nothing directly to do with the FR/WHR, however it concerns all us railfans. If you can think of any way of publicising the matter no harm will be done. Apparently there is a proposal by the SNCF to close the Ligne De Cerdagne ("Yellow Train") in the Pyrenees. The proposal is apparently wholesale closure. I suspect this is a bargaining ploy designed to force objectors ultimately to accept partial closure, i.e. leave the eastern end running and close the remainder. I'm sure many FR/WHR followers know about the L.de C. I can think of a host of reasons why it should stay open in its entirety, not only sentimental but also concerning the economic health of the area. If the Yellow Train is closed the next line to follow will be the feeder line from Perpignan, leaving the whole eastern Pyrenees almost wholly without a rail link.

SuperPower 2016 YouTube

Click on the YouTube box above to view 28 mins 15 secs of video of SuperPower 2016 'Great and Small III' 9-11/9/16 published 16/9/16. This video is best watched in 1080p HD format available on Chrome, Firefox and IE/Windows 8.1 etc. Video taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional camcorder.

FR Victorian Gala 7-9/10/16

The annual FR Victorian Gala 7-9/10/16 features the popular England to Beddgelert working on the WHR. On Friday there will be three workings on Friday through the Aberglaslyn Pass at 1000, 1300 and 1600; there are no normal WHR service trains on Friday in the Yellow timetable that now applies. The England to Beddgelert service is not repeated on Saturday or Sunday. There are only 50 seats on this train so advance booking is essential and a special ticket is required in addition to the Gala ticket-FR/WHRS members free travel is suspended for the Gala. For full details see F&WHR website and for timetable see FR Facebook.

Britomart off to NYMR for 30/9/16

Britomart will attend the North York Moors Railway Gala 30/9/16-2/10/16. The loco will haul two bug boxes on a short length of track. According to Heritage Railway magazine, track will be laid through the original Stephenson 1836 horse-worked Grosmont Tunnel, currently the footpath that leads to the depot.

SuperPower 11-13/9/16

The weather continued to improve during the weekend and the special trains used during SuperPower were returned from Dinas to Porthmadog over the next few days.

This southerly view (11/9/16) shows Prince heading north at 1034 passing Beddgelert Forest Campsite with the 1020 to Dinas which was to pause at Tryfan Junction for a photo opportunity. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/9/16) shows Hugh Napier and Velinheli (with the GM driving) passing Beddgelert Forest Campsite heading south at 1331 with bugboxes returning to Porthmadog after SuperPower. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (13/9/16) shows No.19 heading south with a brakevan at 1332 returning to Porthmadog. This was the last working to put the SuperPower trains 'back in their box'. No.19 was to be an unexpected guest at the Penrhyn Quarry Railway Gala the following weekend. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

New temporary station building chosen 10/9/16

The General Manager Paul Lewin announced at the WHRS AGM on 10/9/16 that a lease had been signed for the empty Age Wales building on the opposite side of the road at the south end of Caernarfon station on 9/9/16. The building has a shop and toilets and a small car park. While there is some on road parking nearby the nominated agreement with the Harbour Trust involves a current £5 parking charge up from £2 at the WHR car park. Fortunately the owner of the waste ground next to De Winton's has opened their land as a car park for £2 all day and it is closer than the Harbour Trust car park. As the southern station entrance has steps a small area will be reserved at the existing station building location at the north end of the platform for disabled access during the proposed works.

The GM also referred to the Brexit vote and how the small victory for Leave had regrettable created uncertainty about funding the new station project. Both Owen Smith, the contender for the Labour leadership, and Tim Farron Liberal Democrat leader at the Lib Dems Annual Conference this week have called for a final binding referendum (as opposed to the recent advisory referendum) on the outcome terms of the Article 50 negotiations to leave the EU when we know what the real economic cost of Brexit will be rather than the claims of people during the referendum campaign.

This northerly view (14/9/16) shows the former Age Wales building at Caernarfon, deserted since the charity vacated the building in May. The little used southern entrance steps to the platform can be seen 100m away to the right on the other side of the road. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

SuperPower 10/9/16

The weather improved during the day on Saturday and eventually the sun came out. There was plenty of prototypical 'frontier' working at Beddgelert, including use of the newly fitted water tower to recreate historical tableaux of England engines watering as in the 1930s.

This westerly view (10/9/16) shows the newly fitted mainline side watering arm fitted to the original Beddgelert water tower. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (10/9/16) shows No.138 watering at Beddgelert at 1233 having arrived with the 1110 mixed from Dinas including 8 ex-SAR B wagons. This loco had to run round quickly and depart from the Up line at 1255 due to the arrival of Palmerston at Beddgelert Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (10/9/16) shows Palmerston arriving at Beddgelert at 1244 with the 1135 from Porthmadog hauling a short prototypical rake from the 1930s. This train had laid over at Pont Croesor on it journey. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (10/9/16) shows Palmerston at 1312 watering at the newly fitted mainline side watering arm fitted to the original Beddgelert water tower as it would have done in the 1930s. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (10/9/16) shows Palmerston at 1321 ready to depart from the Down platform at Beddgelert with the 1345 for Porthmadog. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (10/9/16) shows Palmerston at 1405 passing Ynysfor level crossing with the 1345 Beddgelert to Porthmadog historically accurate short train. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (10/9/16) shows Britomart at 1617 at Dinas having been used for various activities in the yard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (10/9/16) shows No.19 at 1621 at Dinas having been used for various activities in the yard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (10/9/16) shows No.9 at 1715 at Dinas. The shunter did not appear to have moved despite the diesel enthusiasts hoping it would. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

SuperPower 9/9/16

Friday 9/9/16 was a foul day with rain and windy conditions that tended to spoil the 'frontier' working with prototypical short WHR rakes.

This southerly view (9/9/16) shows Linda heading north with Britomart and the curly roofed van rake on the 1500 from Porthmadog at 1547 after watering at Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (9/9/16) shows Prince heading south with  a short rake on the 1510 from Dinas at 1621 at Rhyd Ddu. The train called at Tryfan Junction  for a photo opportunity on the way. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (9/9/16) shows Linda heading south with a short rake on the 1730 shuttle from Caernarfon at 1553. The train is top and tailed with Britomart which was to lead the shuttle back to Caernarfon at 1800 from the Up Line platform. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Busman's holiday 8/9/16

There will be no further updates to this website until 19/9/16 as your webmaster will be on holiday at the WHR.

SuperPower latest

The F&WHR is running SuperPower this weekend 9-11/9/16. Final details of events, including timetables, are shown on the F&WHR website. The Snowdonia Park brewpub at Waunfawr station is holding a mini Real Ale festival with 123 real ales.

Tuesday Gang report 7/9/16

Tony Baker reports: On Tues last we worked at Trosgl (aka Tros-y-gol between Betws Garmon waterworks and the Gwyrfai river bridge-Ed)) where Level crossing APG's 32.46 were completely rebuilt. The old foundation timbers had completely rotted away and were replaced with more substantial timbers. A return next week will complete as we ran out of triangles.

This southerly view (7/9/16) shows the Tuesday Gang rebuilding the APGs at LC32.46 Trosgl, the road that leads to the pipe bridge. The Afon Gwyrfai river bridge is seen with check rails and the remains of the APGs on the left. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (7/9/16) shows the Tuesday Gang rebuilding the APGs at LC32.46 Trosgl. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (7/9/16) shows the Tuesday Gang rebuilding the APGs at LC32.46 Trosgl, with the waterworks visible to the right. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (7/9/16) shows the Tuesday Gang rebuilding the APGs at LC32.46 Trosgl, with the waterworks visible to the right. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tony Baker and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Nantmawr branch open this weekend 8-11/9/15

The rare Nantmawr branch will open on Sunday with free DMU rides over this short rare piece of track from Thursday 8/9/16 to Sunday 11/9/16 from 10:00 until 16:00. Trains operate until 4pm on this secluded railway just off the A495 near Porth-y-waen. See Nantmawr Visitor website. Steam trains are operating at the rapidly extending Cambrian Railways Oswestry station and diesel trains at the associated Llynclys site.

Double Funkeys 5/9/16

Monday 5/9/16 saw double headed Funkeys on the 1000 ex-Caernarfon and the 1405 ex-Porthmadog presumably due to the lack of availability of an NG16.

F&WHR suspended 4/9/16

The FR suspended services on 4/9/16 after an operational incident unconnected with a freak storm that hit the area. WHR services were not affected. Heritage Railways magazine revealed with an image that one vehicle of an early morning engineering train had overridden a temporary stopblock at the end of a possession before services commenced and a brakevan had partly demolished the lineside wall. After the vehicle was rerailed and the wall made secure for livestock, the line was cleared and normal services recommenced on 5/9/16.

No.6 Festival car park flooded

BBC news covered the storm which flooded the Festival No.6's Traeth car park at the Porthmadog Football Club for the park and ride to Portmerion. The now annual event Festival No.6 celebrates The Prisoner TV series filmed at Portmerion in the mid-Sixties. As well as Prisoner episode tableaux/reconstructions, it has developed into a music and culture festival featuring such bands as Noel Gallagher, The Kaiser Chiefs and Echo and the Bunnymen.

ATW runs crowd-buster again 3/9/16

ATW ran the WAG rake on a diagram that included Crewe/Chester to Llandudno/Holyhead on 3/9/16 after using the four coach rake as a relief train on 27/8/16. There have been many complaints that the normal service on the North Wales coast is inadequate in the summer holiday period. The Gerald Holyhead -Cardiff rake lies unused at Holyhead over the weekend and does not require two days maintenance for its Monday-Friday diagram. It remains to be seen whether this Class 67 hauled crowd-busting service will continue on Saturdays to provide improved travel opportunities for visitors to the WHR area. Given the lack of advertising and the cold rainy holiday weather on 3/9/16 the service was lightly loaded but a welcome surprise to many on the North Wales coast. The train has occasionally been used on Saturdays in the past for special events such as rugby matches. Summer relief services on the North Wales Coast were a common occurrence in BR days. DB liveried No.67013 hauled the relief on the Bank Holiday Saturday 27/8/16.

This southerly Crewe station view (3/9/16) shows No.67002 ready to depart on the 1605 Crewe-Llandudno, a welcome loco hauled train on a Saturday. The train was lightly loaded due to the appalling weather deterring holidaymakers. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5s digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

WHHR LYd2 No.60 haulage 26/8/16

For all those LYd-2 fans out there some exciting WHHR news! LYd-2 No.60 will be hauling trains on Friday the 26/8/16. This is a rare chance to ride behind the only working LYd-2 in the country. Not only is it the only working LYd-2 in the country but it is the most powerful 2 ft gauge loco in the country.

This late afternoon view shows a Pwllheli-Shrewsbury service departing on the Cambrian Coast route that runs alongside the WHHR's Tremadog Road terminus. A LYd2 loco is in the headshunt. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright WHHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Merddin Emrys progress 25/8/16

This Boston Lodge view (25/8/16) shows Merddin Emrys receiving its first coat of undercoat. The loco has new stainless steel smoke-boxes which have now been painted black. Behind is ex-SAR ballast wagon No.4022 ready to return to Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Glen Williams (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

YouTube Afternoon trip on the FR 23/8/16

Click on the YouTube box to watch 12 mins 27 secs of video of Earl of Merioneth on the 1335 to Blaenau Ffestiniog on a sunny day on 23/8/16. Lyd is seen shunting an FR rake in the WHR platform . This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) and was published on 24/8/16. It is best watched in 1080p HD format.

Classic Cars report 21/8/16

Martin Kressman reports: "The Shoreline Skiffle Band" performed in the Goods Shed. The 'Playbus' was in action as a refreshment stand serving hot and cold drinks, snacks and bottled beers and wines as on the on-train trolleys. This gives a whole new meaning to the term 'mess coach'. The weather was fine until just after three so we had good weather for the show sandwiched between Saturday's and today's terrible weather.

This northerly view (21/8/16) shows the Classic Car display in Dinas North Yard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Val Kressman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (21/8/16) shows Lilla giving train rides in Dinas North Yard and Hugh Napier giving footplate rides. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Val Kressman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Classic Cars at Dinas 21/8/16

Over 80 vehicles from the 1920s to 1970s are expected today (Sunday 21/8/16) at the Classic Car Family Fun Day at Dinas. The weather is forecast to be sunny periods for most of the day.

No.134 August working party report 20-21/8/16

On 20-21/8/16 the NG15 No.134 working Party concentrated on the tender and the mounting of the vacuum pipe underneath the tender body. It had been hoped that following last month's working party Brunswick Ironworks would have made the modification to the cut-out on the underside of the tender to allow more clearance for the brake's vacuum cylinder. However this had not been done due to pressure for space on the Loco Shed (see discussion on NG15 Facebook page). This therefore gave volunteers more time to work on and complete all the brackets to hold the vacuum pipe to the underside of the tank. These will be welded on at the same time as the cut-out is completed.

Volunteers had to work in the Carriage Shed so had to collect their tools and parts from the other end of the Dinas site-a long walk! When they finally had everything where they wanted it and found all the tools and jigs needed, the weekend concentrated of the manufacture of the clips to go underneath the tender body. A total of 14 clips were made, although only 12 are likely to be needed, and these were attached to the pipe ready to be welded to the underside of the tank. The next working party is planned for 17-18/9/16. For full details and images see No.134 website.

Hugh Napier 20/8/16

This northerly view (20/8/16) shows Hugh Napier giving footplate rides at Caernarfon for the second weekend. However, it did not work on the August Bank Holiday Weekend. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Patrick Collins and was taken on a Nikon compact digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.134 report 20/8/16

Clive Briscoe reports: Not had the report from Sunday yet but Saturday was very frustrating. This weekend's job was to continue with tender work. The tender had been shunted out of the Loco Shed into the headshunt a few weeks ago. It had been put in the Loco Shed so that Brunswick Ironworks (who made the new tank) could return to carry out some minor mods but at the last minute, it had to be moved out for urgent loco work. This was now attempt 2...

We had been told we could shunt everything down the shed to make room so first, lower No.140's boiler cradle back onto its ambulance bogies and bar it down the track. Next in line, No.130's cradle BUT, it was then discovered that some new platework had not been welded in but was carefully aligned on jacks and therefore we couldn't move it. There was insufficient room between it and spare Garratt No.87 to get the tender in...

Plan B, run the tender in on the other road but that meant not enough room to get the in service Garratt in later on. Plan B meant moving No.87 out to the Carriage Shed temporarily but we didn't have a qualified diesel driver to shunt it down the mainline... I had to leave at this point.

It had been intended to continue the tender vac pipe work over the weekend but the 40 x 5 steel strip to make the twin saddle pipe clips STILL hadn't arrived and also with last month's moving of the loco to the Carriage Shed, the press tool I'd made to create them had disappeared. I did eventually find one half and after walking down to the Carriage Shed again and looking around the loco, the Gaffer suggested I make a start on making a replacement for the missing piece. Two hours of work later and one of the team happened to be looking for something else and came across the missing piece under, and hidden in a corner of the Loco Shed...

I'll leave it for others to complete what eventually got done over the weekend but it's really knocking us back all this moving our kit about - we spend so much time searching for our tools, loco parts to work on then moving tools and parts to the workshop to do the required work and then back again that not much actually seems to get done. We're actually losing some of our volunteer team because of the frustration felt. We can see the Company's viewpoint - it's now down to one weekend's work a month on the loco and since there's so little covered space in Dinas (or indeed throughout the whole F&WHR) for locos and stock storage and maintenance and now paid contract work egg No.130 and the new build Observation Car No.152 that now occupies No.134's space in the Loco Shed, that No.134 simply had to be moved out (the Chinese C2 Project has its own shed at Boston Lodge, meets monthly like the No.134 Project Group and when complete this loco will be used on both FR and WHR-Ed).

Perhaps some consideration ought to be made to reinstating a siding in the South Yard again and putting a temporary building up to house No.134 whilst it's being rebuilt? At least we'd be next to the workshop instead of 1/2 mile away. Either that or build the proposed new Running Shed in the North Yard to release the current Loco Shed for purely major repairs and longer term projects. All requires money but necessary if No.134 (and ultimately No.133) is ever going to run. (A previous attempt to restore No.134 some 10 year ago was abandoned when the group was told to concentrate on 'core tasks' and volunteers subsequently left.-Ed)

No.130 progress 20/8/16

This southerly view (20/8/16) shows No.130's completed water tank in Dinas North Yard with new PW diesel No.9 after grit blasting the interior had been completed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Linda on the coal train 20/8/16

A regular freight duty is the coal run to Porthmadog Harbour station to fuel both FR and WHR locos. At the end of Saturday's cab rides at Porthmadog Linda made a trip across The Cob to bring fresh supplies of coal. On the way back the stormy weather was evident and the fireman had to get out and brave the waves at the trident signal to phone and ask to pass it at danger!

This easterly view (20/8/16) shows Linda hauling two of the WHR's loaded B wagons full of coal from Boston Lodge. The strong winds have whipped up the sea with waves crashing over The Cob. A particularly strong gust has dislodged the weather strip between the loco and tender cab. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This composite view (20/8/16) shows Linda shunting the WHR's loaded B wagons full of coal after footplate duties. After the shunt the two empty wagons were returned to Boston Lodge. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Caernarfon station update

Funding arrangements for the £2.2 million Caernarfon station development are said to be 'well advanced' though there remain concerns about the effects of Brexit on the ERDF grants that support the project. Architects will start work in September to finalise the design details of the development. The railway has been working closely with Caernarfon Harbour Trust, which has been extremely supportive of the project, and passengers who arrive at Caernarfon by road will be able to use their car park by the Castle, a short walk from the station. The development makes use of land already occupied by the railway's temporary station buildings and car park. Work will begin in November when contractors move in to relocate a large sewer which runs under the site. Construction of the new station is scheduled to begin in March 2017 for completion in Spring 2018. Due to the works, this year's Welsh Highland Santa trains will run from Dinas rather than Caernarfon and will be even better this year as a number of new features are to be introduced. WHR service trains will operate from temporary accommodation on St Helen’s Road, possibly the vacant area next to the former De Winton works, while works progress but this will not come into use until the start of the 2017 season.

Timetable changes Green timetable, Santas and Xmas trains

As the Winter Major Works Programme incorporates major engineering work planned for Tan-y-Bwlch, starting in November. FR trains will be running from Porthmadog to Hafod-y-Llyn in November and December. Trains continue to head down the Welsh Highland to Beddgelert for the FR Santa services, giving as much time as possible for the Tan-y-Bwlch work. It is better to plan to give extra time now than to have to change our plans at the last minute as last year.

As a result of the closure of Caernarfon station for works over Winter this year trains will start from Dinas for the Winter period. WHR Santa trains will run from Dinas to Waunfawr and the Goods Shed will be festively attired for the occasion. The F&WHR is planning a small retail area, local stalls and some live music. As the Dinas site now has a license too it may help the Winter cash flow. Dinas will continue to be the terminus for Christmas week when trains will run to Beddgelert rather than Porthmadog. The F&WHR has worked out that they can fit in two return trains, giving extra journey opportunities.

Vale of Ffestiniog 19/8/16

Patrick Collins reports: On 19/8/16 my youngest son and I had a morning trip to Beddgelert, out on the 9.40 from Porthmadog and returning on the first return from Beddgelert. While awaiting the arrival of No.140 with the return working we were interested to see Vale of Ffestiniog run into the station to wait for a path to Dinas. Its train consisted of FR Bugboxes Nos.1/12, bound for use at the Classic Car event at Dinas the next day together with four ex-SAR B wagons (fresh from maintenance at Boston Lodge-Ed).

This southerly view (19/8/16) shows Vale of Ffestiniog hauling stock for use on the Classic Cars Family Fun Day on 20/8/16 at Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Patrick Collins and was taken on a Nikon compact digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Merddin Emrys progress 19/8/16

This Boston Lodge view (20/8/16) shows Merddin Emrys receiving its first coat of undercoat. The loco has new stainless steel smoke-boxes. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Welsh Pony progress 18/9/16

This Boston Lodge view (18/8/16) shows the trail fitting of Welsh Pony's boiler to the firebox. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Earl of Merioneth problems 17/8/16

Terry Scott reports: It appears that Earl of Merioneth has been failed. Services on the FR were disrupted on 17/8/16 and Vale of Ffestiniog, David Lloyd George and Lyd were in action.

Bob Rainbow adds: I happened to be relaxing on the hills behind Prenteg on Wednesday and through binoculars from 2 miles off saw Vale of Ffestiniog depart light engine up the FR about 2.30, whereupon Earl of Merioneth came on shed light engine at 3pm. Lyd then left Port with the 14.30 some 15 minutes late. However I was also passing Minffordd about 7.30pm. on Thursday night and Earl of Merioneth was seen hauling a train (it was the Jazz Train to Tan-y-Bwlch-Ed) so the loco appears to be back in action.

This southerly view (15/8/16) shows the return of bug boxes Nos.1/12 from the Shrewsbury Flower Show using the Llyn Bach loading ramp, rather than Dinas. the coaches are being lowered down the ramp by cable before being collected by Criccieth Castle for the haulage across the WHR Cross Town Rail Link. FR 'super Saloon'. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (15/8/16) shows FR 'super Saloon' No.118 being dragged up the ramp by cable for a trip to the Southport Flower Show (18-21/8/16) where it will be displayed with Velinheli. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (15/8/16) shows FR 'super Saloon' No.118 loaded on trailer for a trip to the Southport Flower Show where it will be displayed with Velinheli. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Track work

The North Wales Track Gang has been very active on the PW front this year. The work to clear Dinas North Yard for the enlarged marquees for the Beer Festival involved lowering sidings Nos.4/5. This required clearing the sidings of stock, lifting them back to the points, digging out the formation to a lower depth, laying fresh ballast and relaying the sidings. The BR signal has also been surrounded by a new fence and a new CCTV camera put up.

In late May the gang jacked and packed the new Pont Croesor north point. In June, the gang returned to the siding point ground frame at Beddgelert, work on which has been suspended for over a year awaiting parts. The ground frame is now in its final position and the rodding connected up. An Annetts Key has been obtained from the ex-LNWR Central Wales Line. Experience gained by the S&T Department with rodding the Boston Lodge Old Loco Shed points will come in handy with the future Beddgelert, Hafod-y-llyn and Rhyd Ddu ground frames. Some trailable points have had their return weights increased to ensure smooth operation.

It has sometimes been difficult to pull a Garratt out of the Loco Shed into the headshunt at Dinas due to the increased gradient in the headshunt. This has required sanding in the past through the trap point in damp weather. The S&T Department have been changing points to the PTFE system (rather than the previously used oiling regime) based on frequency of use and the South Yard crossover for the Loco Shed is clearly one of the most frequently used so has recently been converted. It required a lot of cleaning to remove the accumulated grime, including borrowing the Dinas Works steam cleaning lance) before PTFE lubricant was applied. Pont Croesor loop points have also been converted.

SuperPower update

There will be a social event on Friday 9/9/16 with hog roast, bar and entertainment. Prior booking is essential but so far there does not appear to be a booking form on line.

There will be a Slate Shunt at Dinas on all three days.

The 'Frontier' working will simulate the FR's operation of the WHR from 80 years ago on all three days. Short trains will operate from Dinas and Porthmadog to Beddgelert where they will used to reconstruct historical tableaux, including use of the old water tower.

On Friday there will be a photo-stop at Tryfan Junction. England engines will be used on Friday and Saturday.

On Friday the shuttle stock moves from Porthmadog to Caernarfon and there will be a positioning move from Porthmadog to deliver wagons to Rhyd Ddu and Dinas.

The Loco Shed will be open on Saturday.

Sunday will see Garratts on large B-wagon freight trains and collecting spare wagons from Rhyd Ddu sidings.

Classic Car show Dinas 21/8/16

Martin Kressman reports: There is to be a bar in a bus at the Classic Car Show at Dinas on Sunday 21/8/16.

Click on poster for full details of Dinas Classic Car Family Fun event Sunday 21/8/16.

PW progress

Although the Winter Major Works Programme (WMWP) saw most work focussed on the FR, there was work to do on the WHR too. There was a collapsed culvert required a new headwall just south of Castell Cidwm bridge. Water backed up and flooded the line south of Plas-y-nant halt where it was once planned to build a loop. A wall also collapsed near Plas-y-nant.

The WMWP 2016-17 will again see attention focussed on the FR but track will be removed at Caernarfon to coincide with the construction of the new station. A new temporary level crossing will be constructed just north of Bontnewydd Halt to allow a haul road for the Caernarfon/Bontnewydd Bypass which might start this Autumn. When complete the new bypass will bridge the WHR at this location.

Since mid-May the KMX tamper has been in use on an early shift dealing with fault problems reported by train crews and PW inspections. The whole railway has been treated with weed killer (including the FR) and lineside clearance has been continuing.

The PW team has been strengthened recently and some are taking college courses in Civil Engineering/PW skills.

Velinheli at Shrewsbury 12-13/8/16

This westerly view (12/8/16) shows Velinheli plus bug boxes Nos.1/12 on 12/8/16 hauling passengers at the Shrewsbury Flower show. Hopefully this will attract visitors to the F&WHR. The GM is on the footplate in the sun hat whilst the loco carries the new Snowdonian Limited headboard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (13/8/16) shows Velinheli plus bug boxes Nos.1/12 on 13/8/16 hauling passengers at the Shrewsbury Flower show. There was a constant demand for train rides on Saturday, and a great deal of interest was generated. The GM is on the footplate in the sun hat whilst the loco carries the new Snowdonian Limited headboard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Dave Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Coach news

New WHRS funded coach No.2047 is making steady progress. The floor has been fitted and the side panels are in place. After varnishing the interior boards and fitting them the roof insulation can be fitted to be followed by the roof. The coach will be ready before the 2017 season. It has been decided to convert one of the original Winson saloons to a coach similar to No.2091 with a toilet, extra luggage space for stores/bikes/buggies etc.

Hugh Napier footplate rides 20/8/16

Hugh Napier will repeat the footplate rides at Caernarfon on 20/8/16. Meanwhile Linda worked all weekend 13-14/8/16 at Porthmadog Harbour station, whereas the new Caernarfon option is Saturdays only.

Royal Goat Hotel sold

The Royal Goat Hotel adjacent to the WHR's Beddgelert station and used by the F&WHR for The Snowdonian buffet facilities has been sold. The new owners, Parkfield Snowdonia, who operate the recently refurbished Saracens Head pub restaurant with accommodation in Beddgelert. See Daily Post story.

Porthmadog Flour Mill for sale

The old Porthmadog Flour Mill alongside the WHR is for sale. The mill originally had a siding that was worked by the FR. More recently there was a Day Nursery there which had to close when the WHR was built across its frontage. A company bought the building and started to fit it out with double glazing for sale as luxury flats but this project stopped several years ago. The site has planning permission for 27 luxury flats. See Daily post report.

Velinheli at Shrewsbury 11-13/8/16

This westerly view (11/8/16) shows Velinheli plus bug boxes Nos.1/12 on 11/8/16 ready for action at the Shrewsbury Flower show on Friday/Saturday 12-13/8/16. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Hugh Napier at Caernarfon 13/8/16

Hugh Napier will offer footplate rides at Caernarfon between trains on Saturday 13/8/16.

Dinas update

A perennial problem seems to be brick arch collapse in the Garratts. This seems down to over-enthusiastic use of the fire irons. At times the breakage rate has exceeded the ability to produce new expensive arches.

Garratt ashpans have been repaired and are fitted with drenching equipment to avoid lineside fires. These can be left on all the time which also helps reduce dust. However, No.87 has had to have its ashpan repaired as the drench does not seem to have been much used.

No.143 has developed a few problems, with one safety valve blowing off at much lower than the set pressure of 180 lb psi. The loco has also got through two new expensive braided steel blower pipes already whereas the same ones have been fitted to the other two Garratts with no problem. This could be a manufacturing problem.

The new Loco Shed roof has stopped the leaks and the LED roof lights provide better illumination but the loco inspection pit still floods.

Playbus hired 28/7/16

Martin Kressman adds: Tomorrow (13/8/16) a special 'pop-up' café is planned for Dinas station complete with barbecue and licensed bar in support of the Motiv8 charity walk. It will be open between 11:00 and 15:00 serving tea/coffee/soft drinks/beer/cider plus snacks, burgers, bacon rolls, sausage baps. The 'Playbus' will be used for this purpose. The bus is fitted out as a catering facility with tables and seats inside and a large number of refrigerated cabinets for cold drinks and snacks. It is also fitted with a serving hatch along one side. It may also be used for this purpose during Superpower.

This Dinas view (28/7/16) shows the Playbus hired by the F&WHR, presumably for 'Summer of Fun'. The bus is currently showing 'Rail Replacement' as the destination but lets hope not! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.130 update 9/8/16

On 9/8/16 No.130's driving wheel sets (less the tyres) were loaded onto a freight wagon and transported on freight wagon DZ1424 from Dinas to Boston Lodge for attention. The wheel sets will have new tyres shrunk on as well as the journals and crank pins machined. The new water tank (previously allocated to No.140) is being sandblasted before being primed and stored. The tank is 90% complete and needs the internal baffles fitted.

No.130 will have its steam brake removed and thus be identical to Nos.138/143 in having only vacuum brakes. This will require modification of the boiler cradle and the necessary steel profiles were delivered to Dinas in the Spring.

Caernarfon station news

The Daily Post has suggested work may start next March on the construction of the new £2.2 million Caernarfon station following completion of the sewer diversion work this Winter. See Daily Post story.

Vale of Ffestiniog working 9/8/16

Martin Kressman reports: This working was returning the five wagons including the ex-SAR guard's van from their 'MoT' inspection at Boston Lodge. The loco returned after lunch with five more wagons from Dinas for their 'MoT'. These movements will continue until all the wagons at Dinas have been inspected -probably in anticipation of extensive use in mixed trains, simulated freights etc. during SuperPower 9-11/9/16-Ed).

This southerly view (9/8/16) shows Vale of Ffestiniog on a morning stock movement to Dinas, including the ex-SAR brake van, alongside Llyn Bach. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Matthew Hall and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Dinas Loco Shed news

Martin Kressman advises: On Sunday morning 7/8/16 Prince, Lilla and Hugh Napier arrived at Dinas, one of which will be giving footplate rides at Caernarfon Station this weekend. One of the others will be loaded up later to go to the Shrewsbury Flower Show this weekend (the track was being prepared on 9/8/16 at Quarry Park, Shrewsbury, see website-Ed). The third will be going to the Southport Flower show the following weekend.

The water tank originally intended for NG/G16 Garratt No.140 but now to be used on No.130 was being sand blasted on 9/8/16 in preparation for painting. The pipework for the compressed air ring main in the Loco Shed is currently being erected.

Tuesday Gang

Tony Baker reports: Due to several volunteers holidays there was no working party on 9/8/16.

Lyd off to L&BR Gala in September

Lyd is due to leave the F&WHR after SuperPower and attend the L&BR Gala on 24-25/9/16 in Devon. The L&BR has recently had planning approval for the redevelopment of the former station, now a restaurant, and the extension of the railway from there to its intermediate terminus at Wistlandpound Reservoir. Planning permission for the intervening 4.5 mile section Killington Lane to Blackmoor Gate, where a new depot will be established, is expected to be determined in the Autumn by the Exmoor National Park planning committee. If a positive decision is given the L&BR will apply for a T&WO for the route. Phase 2 is to expand back from Woody bay, its current operating headquarters, to a new station site at Lynton. Phase 3 will be to extend as far into Barnstaple as possible, maybe to the extant former Pilton MPD sheds. See Exmoor Associates website who are buying up the trackbed. Several section of trackbed including Snapper halt are already secured. As regards locos, Yeo, No.759, will be completed after the Baldwin, Lyn, now nearing completion at Keef's. Another 3 Manning Wardle locos are planned to develop a replica motive power fleet to match the replica coaches recently completed. See L&BR website for full details.

Beer Festival postscript

The Beer Festival income was up 17% on similar attendance to last year due to higher entry prices (and more cider!). This helped the WHR receipts which have improved after a weak start with poor weather early in the season before the Spring Bank Holiday.

Winter WHR YouTube

Jonathan Guilbert has a video on Linda and Blanche struggling with the rain in December last year as they operate the Green Timetable from Porthmadog to Rhyd Ddu. See YouTube link. The weather has improved considerably since this video was taken with Porthmadog having record UK temperatures on some days this summer!

Chester station event 6/8/16

The F&WHR will have a stall at ATW's Chester Station Community Rail event on Saturday 6/8/16. The event, from 10am-4pm, will see Chester Model Railway Club exhibit one of their model rail layouts and F&WHR will be promoting days out on the railway. There will be a range of stalls and visitors/passengers can find out more about the history of Chester Station with an hour long guided walk by John Whittingham at 11am, 1pm and 3pm.

Cab rides at Caernarfon 5/8/16

As well as cab rides at Porthmadog, next Saturday 13/8/16 will feature cab rides in Caernarfon station between trains. Prince, Lilla and Hugh Napier are being sent to Dinas for use on this duty this week. With no siding available anymore at Caernarfon the loco will have to squeeze up to the end for the headshunt to allow the train locos to run around with permissive working as there is no shunt token at Caernarfon unlike most other intermediate stations on the WHR.

This northerly view (5/8/16) shows Linda giving cab rides at Porthmadog whilst David Lloyd George arrives on an FR train and No.143 waits to depart for Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Aussie KMX

John Browning reports: In view of the recent story on the KM-12 tamper, you may be interested to know that Wilmar Sugar in the Herbert River district of north Queensland has recently had their KMX-12T refurbished by a local contractor. The machine was built in Sydney in 1998 and operates on the approximately 200 miles of 2ft gauge track of Victoria and Macknade sugar mills.

This Australian loco shed view (7/16) shows the Queensland KMX-12T returning from refurbishment. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Chris Hart and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

TRAWS news 4/8/16

During the Labour leadership hustings at Cardiff on 4/8/16 Jeremy Corbyn committed himself to the reopening of the Aberystwyth-Carmarthen rail link as well as renationalising British Railways. His opponent, Owen Smith, also promised infrastructure would be high on his list of priorities.

Porthmadog signalbox video

A time-lapse video of the operation of Porthmadog signalbox has been published on YouTube. It compresses 5 hours into 6 minutes showing all the action out of the window from the shunting of the first WHR train of the day by Vale of Ffestiniog.

Plas-y-Nant bridge

Recent examination of this bridge has indicated it appears to need strengthening.

Caernarfon station latest

The station is likely to close in November to allow the relocation of the sewer under the site. A temporary facility is likely on an adjacent site off the existing footprint (maybe across the road on a vacant site next to the former DeWinton foundry?) for about 18 months. The F&WHR is going out to tender on the detailed design for the station building and also for project management. These have to be arranged within EU funding rules for best value for money. Work is due to start in Spring 2017 once the sewer works are completed. The actual commencement of work ultimately depends on the release of European Union Regional Development funds and these might be affected by the BREXIT situation. While, as the scheme is part of a previously agreed package F&WHR management does not believe so, BREXIT effects may delay the release of ERDF monies until the BREXIT negotiations are complete assuming the Chapter 50 exit trigger is passed by parliament after a debate on the advisory referendum result.

Today (4/8/16) the Bank of England advised it was decreasing the base rate to an historic 0.25% and may reduce it even further to avoid a BREXIT recession over the next 18 months, the chance of which it described as 50/50. The Bank made this decision on the basis of many negative indications from the economy after the BREXIT vote. It warned about increasing inflation caused by the pound's exchange rate collapse that will increase costs of imports. It also warned about unemployment increasing and the effect of such low interest rates on savers such as pensioners. Railway magazines continue to caution about the effects BREXIT on heritage railways such as the WHR, though there are a few bright spots such as increased staycations if people can no longer afford to fly abroad for their holidays and of course the possibility of more foreign tourists as the pound is 10% lower now.

Caernarfon closure effects

Santa and Xmas trains will run from Dinas not Caernarfon this year as work will have started on the sewer, closing the Caernarfon station site from November until the Spring.

SuperPower visitors

Adverts for SuperPower on 9-11/9/16 state there will be visiting locos. WHR enthusiasts would probably like to see Russell from the WHHR and the Baldwin from the Leighton Buzzard Railway to recreate historical tableaux. Friendly relations exist with many railways including, Statfold Barn, the Launceston Steam Railway, the L&BR and of course the VoR, who in September 2014 had a visit by Palmerston. A reciprocal visit by one of the VoR's GWR locos would be a great draw!

WHRS donations

With the Dinas access road coming under F&WHR ownership along with the Loco Shed from Welsh Water a few years ago, the WHRS contributed £6,000 towards re-surfacing the entrance as well as £14,000 to the cost of a new roof for the Loco Shed.

More railtours

Wednesday 10/8/16 sees a diesel hauled Conwy Valley Explorer with dining and FR option. The tour will be hauled by two WCR 47/57 locos top and tailed from Kidderminster calling at various West Midlands locations to Stafford. A 10% reduction is offered quoting FB192 as WCR is keen to see the Festiniog and Trawsfynydd railway reappear as an option in the future as it was previous to being closed. The website mistakenly shows the WHR but there are few railtours to the WHR because of the cost/time delay of coach transfer from Bangor. This would be eased if the Caernarfon-Bangor BR link was rebuilt allowing more railtours to come to the WHR. WCR is also organising outgoing tours from Holyhead, encouraging the Irish enthusiast to come over by ferry as well as picking up passengers all the way along the North Wales coast. On 21/9/16 there is a Holyhead-Bristol/Bath again with two 47/57 top and tail calling at stations to Chester. A similar train from Holyhead running to Edinburgh Festival on 30/11/16 calling at stations to Warrington. See WCR website.

The Railway Touring Company runs the North Wales Coast Express with dining option on 21/8/16 from Crewe and Manchester to Holyhead with steam haulage (Leander or Scots Guardsman) from Manchester Piccadilly along the coast. The train is repeated on 4/9/16 and this will be the last steam train on the North Wales Coast for 2016. See RTC website.

Team Wylfa farewell 2/8/16

Clive Briscoe reports: It's been a bitter sweet week for the old Team Wylfa. On Tuesday, I joined Martin Kressman and a couple of the Tuesday Gang at Dinas to dig a hole in the garden at the Caernarfon end of the down platform. It was to be the final resting place of our former friend and colleague Peter Tweeddale who sadly passed away last year after an epic fight against a brain tumour. Today, Sunday was his birthday and his widow, family and friends assembled on the platform to lower the casket continuing his ashes into the prepared grave once the southbound train had departed.

He had his fun times too, acting as one of Santa's elves on many Santa Specials. Those of us who worked with him on the railway will never forget him - and he'll be watching us from now on. If we ever dare to complain, we'll be hearing, 'What do you want? Jam on it?' - his favourite comment!

Tuesday Gang report 2/8/16

Tony Baker reports: Today we completed our programme of fitting anti slip membrane to all our public footpath crossings when we did LC 22.70 Bontnewydd and LC 33.66 Plas-y-Nant. Due to several volunteers holidays there will not be a working party next week.

Boston Lodge improvement plans

Once the archaeological excavations had been completed in Glan-y-mor Yard clearance commenced and contractor John Roberts of Ffestiniog cleared the rubble and carried out some preliminary rock removal to make way for the Heritage Storage Shed. The rubble generated has been stored ready to expand the site footprint onto the foreshore when necessary permissions have been granted. This will allow the clearance of the Carriage Shed site to create a much larger New Carriage Shed that will accommodate WHR rakes as well as FR rakes. Construction of the new three road Heritage Storage shed close to rock face will begin in late Summer with the aim to be available within months to protect heritage rolling stock over Winter 2016/7. The sewage system is also being renewed.

The latest plan shown below reveals the outline of several locos that might be kept in the shed including a Garratt, two Fairlies in the left hand road, two ladies and Taliesin in the centre road and three coaches in the right hand road. the shed consists of seven bays with the end bays of 5.7m and the five central bays of 6m. The edge of the cliff was surveyed in April 2016 and it is intended to give a 2m clearance zone around the shed on the cliff side. There is a 2m clearance from the centre line of the through road at the north end of the site but this widens towards the south end where some rock nibbling may be necessary.

This Boston Lodge plan shows the latest thinking for the Heritage Storage shed. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was scanned from the FR Magazine. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

The next plan shows the area between the Heritage Storage Shed (HSS) and the existing sheds. In this area it is proposed to build, from north to south, a Garratt shed over the recently constructed new pit road and a new 3 road Small Loco Preparation shed. While tracks for the new Garratt shed are not shown, points for the three new curved points for the HSS are shown, varying in radius between 170m and 130m.

NG15 No.134 report 16-17/7/16

With No.138 in trouble on its way north from Porthmadog, much of the first day of the working party was concerned with helping get an No.87 into steam to be able to swap it with the loco on the service train from Porthmadog, together with sorting out the various bits from having our frames moved to the Carriage Shed. A loco swap was arranged for Caernarfon at lunchtime. As time was of the essence a number of the team helped with the preparation work to make it ready. Once lit volunteers could then get on with our intended tasks whilst it warmed up.

The first, and main task on No.134 for the weekend, was to work on the tender. The full time staff had kindly moved the tender into the Loco Shed for volunteers to work on over the weekend and this move had also allowed Brunswick Ironworks, the company that built the tender body, to do some work on the tender body earlier in the week. The position of a cut-out where the Vacuum Cylinder was to be positioned was adjusted. They were later going to weld on the standoff made by Clive Briscoe to the underside of the tank to support the twin vacuum pipe that will run underneath. To ensure the standoffs were to be positioned correctly some of the team spent Saturday and Sunday cutting the access holes in the body where the pipes were to enter and exit through the floor from the block of four vacuum reservoir cylinders mounted in the rear of the tender. Also the access hole in the rear of the tender was cut where the vacuum brake pipe for the rest of the train will be situated

Saturday also provided volunteers with a bit of light relief when Double Fairlie, David Lloyd George arrived with a Private Charter train from Porthmadog. The loco ran round at Dinas and before returning to Porthmadog and some of the team helped with coaling the loco. For full details and photos see NG15 website. The next Working Party is on 20-21/8/16.

NG15 No.134 moved 1/7/16

Clive Briscoe reports: There's been a big clearout in the Loco Shed AND Clip Shed in the North Yard. Both No.134 loco and tender rolling chassis have been banished to the Carriage Shed. Interesting times ahead - especially in winter, it will be freezing in there!

This northerly view (1/7/16) shows Dinas staff preparing to move the chassis of No.134 from the Loco Shed to the Carriage Shed with one rake stabled at Porthmadog in the running season there is plenty of room inn the shed. The cardboard boxes are the models for the future sand hoppers. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Huw Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (1/7/16) shows Dinas staff preparing to drag the chassis of No.134 across the concrete. This section of the Loco shed does not have rails. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Huw Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (1/7/16) shows Upnor Castle dragging the chassis of No.134 out of the Loco Shed and into the headshunt. The removal of the loco will release room for other paid work e.g. No.130 and the welder to start building carriages. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Huw Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (1/7/16) shows Castell Caernarfon moving the chassis of No.134 from the Loco Shed towards Dinas station. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Huw Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (1/7/16) shows No.134 from the Loco Shed towards Dinas station. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Huw Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (1/7/16) shows the close fit between No.134's cylinders and platform. The loco does not have its pony trucks so will probably ride higher when the suspension is set up properly. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Huw Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This Dinas Carriage Shed view (1/7/16) shows No.134's new home near the entrance to the shed. This will be further from engineering resources. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Huw Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.134 was removed by Upnor Castle after dragging the loco with a chain to the nearest track in the Loco Shed. The purpose may be to extend the track the full length of both roads in the shed. The space is needed for paid work. The chassis was led north by Castell Caernarfon and eased past the platforms where clearance was tight and shunted into the Carriage Shed where K1 and stored. The loco may be moved to the Goods Shed for the volunteers to work on it during the Winter.

FR Chippy Train 2/7/16

A 'Fish and Chip' lunchtime train is to run on the FR on 1/7/16. It seems there are no plans to introduce these on the WHR following abortive evening diesel hauled specials from Caernarfon to Rhyd Ddu several years ago before the through route was completed.

The new lubricant is Teflon based and can be applied from a backpack. It is applied in the form of a three-part liquid, containing a carrier, a cleaning agent and the Teflon particles. When the Teflon is applied, it bonds to the rail at a microscopic level. It is heavier than water, so can be applied in the rain, and is very good at resisting contamination. Oil, sand and leaves can be brushed or wiped off. It is almost invisible, as it is a dry lubricant, the metal changes to a darker colour and appears to have a varnished finish. The Teflon doesn’t need to be applied as regularly as the machine oil, reducing the amount of time S&T staff and volunteers spend lubricating points.

In order to apply InterFlon (a Teflon based lubricant), the old lubricant and any dirt and grease has to be cleaned off. In most cases, this can be achieved through a combination of heavy-duty cleaner, scrapers and a reasonable amount of elbow grease. It is going to take a while to do them all, so staff are prioritising points based on frequency of use and how contaminated they are.

The most recent points to be converted were the South Yard Crossover at Dinas, which gives access to the Loco Shed. These have always required a lot more cleaning than the other points on the railway. The trap point is at the point where the gradient changes. In damp weather it can be impossible to haul a Garratt out of the shed without sanding through the points, although shed staff try their best to avoid doing this. Getting the old oil and muck off the points required a great deal of elbow grease. Fortunately, the works helpfully allowed us to borrow their steam jet wash for the afternoon, which helped loosen the dirt.

No.9 on test 26/6/16

This northerly view (26/6/16) shows No.9 on test in Dinas North Yard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (21/6/16) shows Castell Caernarfon and Vale of Ffestiniog deputising for a failed No.143 for the second day. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR captured by Terry Scott and was taken on the F&WHR's webcam. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.9 on 20/6/16

This northerly view (20/6/16) shows No.9 still not ready for use apparently. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on an iPhone digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.143 failure 19/6/16

Keith Holland reports: No.143 failed on 19/6/16. I gather the 10.00 ex-Caernarfon was diesel hauled.

Service car woes and No.138 problems 18/6/16

WHR service car No. 2011 was unable to provide a hot meal service to the first class passengers on 18/6/16 after the generator failed with a coolant problem. No.138 ground to a halt just before the lower Cwmcloch Crossing on the same day on the 1045 from Porthmadog with leaking brakes and had great difficulty restarting for about 10 mins on the sharp curves compensated to 1 in 43.

This northerly view (18/6/16) shows No.138 running around at Caernarfon after a late arrival following problems with brakes just north of Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.9 still not in traffic? 18/6/16

This southerly view (18/6/16) shows No.9 finally out of the repair shed at Dinas and on trial in the yard. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone 5 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Outside of the Goods Shed, No.143’s front tank and rear bunker, on a DZ flat, have been retrieved from the depths of the Carriage Shed and await reuniting with the loco itself – probably this week.

We meet at the Six Bells Pub, 9 High Street, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5DH. We meet up any time after 6-6.30pm and an evening meal is available in the restaurant or bar. Prices are reasonable. The meetings are usually held in the Function Rooms, accessed from the car park at the rear of the pub, and start around 8pm with a halfway break for coffee (£1.20 per person). We finish around 10pm.

Carrabasset 15/4/16

This southerly view (15/4/16) shows DHR No.19B approaching Rhyd Ddu. As part of a series of images from 2016 celebrating the 12 days of Christmas the F&WHR has released this image of Adrian Shooter's loco and coach Carrabasset on a special charter train. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.