Caernarfon progress 30/6/18

This westerly view (30/6/18) shows the new rotunda feature with glazing being added. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (30/6/18) shows the new bus bay being completed. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Hunslet Gala 24/6/18

This northerly view (24/6/18) shows Lyd approaching the Afon Nanmor bridge (a section of the original remains on the hillside above the loco). The train was hauling the half size replica of NWNGR loco Beddgelert from the Fairbourne Railway on a flat wagon behind the loco. Funds for the restoration of the loco were raised by way of a booking fee donated by the F&WHR. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Roger Dimmick (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (24/6/18) shows TRANGKIL No.4 double heading with CHAKA'S KRAAL No.6 returning from Hafod-y-llyn on a demonstration freight. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Roger Dimmick (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/6/18) shows CHAKA'S KRAAL No.6, a Hunslet 0-4-2 from North Gloucester Railway at Toddington, at Pont Croesor on the tail end of a Boston Lodge to Hafod-y-llyn demonstration freight working. The train was topped by TRANGKIL No.4. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (24/6/18) shows TRANGKIL No.4, from the Statfold Barn Railway, at Pont Croesor on a Boston Lodge to Hafod-y-llyn demonstration freight working. It was a busy scene with No.138 heading south on a service train from Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Hunslet Gala 23/6/18

This southerly view (23/6/18) shows CHAKA'S KRAAL No.6 crossing Ynysfor level crossing on a demonstration freight to Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Roger Dimmick (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (23/6/18) shows CHAKA'S KRAAL No.6 passing Parry's Pig Farm on a demonstration freight returning from Hafod-y-llyn. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Roger Dimmick (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Hunslet Gala 22-23/6/18

The Hunslet Gala saw good weather and attendance was also good. Indeed 'Ladies to Caernarfon' was fully booked. Any photos would be welcome for publication.

This easterly view (23/6/18) shows David Lloyd George on the Beddgelert shuttle arriving at Beddgelert with heritage stock at 1648. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (23/6/18) shows TRANGKIL No.4 on the Beddgelert shuttle arriving at Beddgelert with heritage stock at 1650 seemingly having pilotted the Fairlie. Built in 1971, this was the final steam loco constructed by Hunslet and was too large to operate on the FR. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (22/6/18) shows CHAKA'S KRAAL No.6 arriving at Porthmadog on the through lines with a demonstration freight. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Palmerston at BLR 21/6/18

This westerly view (21/6/18) shows Palmerston ready to depart the temporary Bala terminus on the Bala Lake Railway. This is the first tender loco to haul a passenger train on the BLR since BR days. The BLR has published plans to extend the railway into the town centre but not the old Bala Town station site. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Palmerston arrives at BLR 19/6/18

In a first, Palmerston arrived at the Bala Lake Railway on 19/6/18. This is the first tender loco to run on the line. The loco has been loaned for the BLR's Gala which was moved to release their Quarry Hunslets for the F&WHR's gala. Palmerston will run on 21/6 and 23-4/6/18. See Narrow Gauge Enthusiast Group Facebook for image of Palmerston arriving at the BLR.

John Sutton adds: Locomotive Fernilee was the first tender engine to visit the Bala Lake Railway. It pulled a single coach down the line under test with no passengers in the week before the FR's Quirks and Curiosities Gala 18/4/17-1/5/17. However Palmerston is the first tender locomotive to pull passenger on the BLR.

Caernarfon progress 15/6/18

This northerly interior view (15/6/18) shows the fitting out of Caernarfon's new station building now it is fully enclosed. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly interior view (15/6/18) shows the view from the upper cafe floor being fitting out of Caernarfon's new station building now it is fully enclosed. This offers a new view of the castle across the, some would say dangerous, shared pedestrian/vehicle roundabout below. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (15/6/18) shows the new rotunda feature compete on the top of Caernarfon's new station building. Safety fencing and a safety harness are present for working at height. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

All set for Hunslet weekend

Timetables for the Hunslet125 Gala can now be downloaded from the F&WHR website.

The W.D. Hunslet No.1215 will not now be visiting as it is still not ready so Monday's special event when it was to run the full length from Porthmadog to Caernarfon is cancelled. The loco may come to SuperPower in September if it is completed by then.

A special Routemaster bus service will run between Porthmadog and Minffordd to supplement the shuttle service.

The Fairbourne Railway's half size model of the NWNGR's Beddgelert, currently out of ticket, will be visiting Minffordd and on Sunday will be on a train to Beddgelert (presumably on a wagon!). The £5 reservation fee for this special train will be donated to the loco's restoration fund. See F&WHR website for full details and tickets.

There will be 25 locos in steam over the weekend and 19 visiting Hunslets. Two of the Hunslets, CHAKA'S KRAAL No.6 and TRANGKIL No.4 are too large for the FR so may feature in the Porthmadog area and on the WHR.

This plan view (19/6/18) shows the arrangements at Minffordd Yard over the Hunslet 125 Gala. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Busy times!

Your web editor apologises for lack of updates recently but is almost fully occupied marking A-Levels for the next few weeks and even had to cancel his holiday/visit to the Hunslet Gala so any images would be welcome. Normal service will be restored in early July.

Derailment of No.143 10/6/18

The Rail Accident Investigation Bureau announced on 20/6/18 that it is investigating a minor low speed derailment of No.143 hauling the 1000 from Caernarfon on 10/6/18 at Clogwyn-y-Gwin South footpath crossing, just north of Rhyd Ddu, following a suspension failure. The leading wheelset became derailed and the coaches would have been removed by a rescue loco from Dinas. It is probable that northbound trains were turned back at Rhyd Ddu while the loco was rerailed. Full story and pictures are available from the RAIB who will make a Safety Digest available in the next few weeks. See RAIB website for full details.

There were no injuries to staff or passengers. Damage to the loco and infrastructure seems to have been slight as the loco was rostered for service again by 16/6/18.

No.138's PW train 10/6/18

Following on from Saturday’s Snowdonian Ltd No.138 had to be returned to Dinas on 10/6/18. The Infrastructure Dept. took the opportunity to use this as a positioning move for some of the Engineers vehicles that will be required to support tamping work on the WHR. See video on F&WHR Facebook page.

Snowdonian Limited 9/6/18

After a non-stop run from Porthmadog to Caernarfon The Snowdonian Limited paused at Dinas at midday for a hog roast in brilliant sunshine and a visit to Dinas Works.

This southerly view (9/6/18) shows No.143 hauling The Snowdonian Limited with an 'on the move' token exchange at Dinas at 10:52. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (9/6/18) shows the train returning from Caernarfon at 11:50 after a brief look at the new Caernarfon station building. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (9/6/18) shows No.130 in Dinas Works. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (9/6/18) shows Castell Caernarfon in Dinas Works taken apart for an extensive rewire. The bonnets are at Boston Lodge for repainting. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (9/6/18) shows the train returning from Caernarfon passing Hafod-y-llyn in the afternoon. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (9/6/18) shows the train returning from Caernarfon crossing Britannia Bridge in the afternoon before the Ladies took over for a trip up the FR. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Caernarfon Station progress 8/6/18

This northerly view (8/6/18) shows the new rotunda feature making an appearance on the top of Caernarfon's new station. Safety fencing and a safety harness are present for working at height. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

VivaRail Class 230 for Conwy Valley 7/6/18

The Conwy Valley line to Blaenau Ffestiniog (as well as Wrexham-Bidston and Chester-Crewe) will see the newly refurbished ex-District Line D stock now known as Class 230. The D78 stock has 18m aluminium bodied coaches, built by Met-Camm in Birmingham and was introduced in 1978, entering service in 1980. The stock was withdrawn between 2015-7 but the vehicles were said to have much life left in them. Vivarail has announced that it has been chosen as preferred bidder to supply a fleet of Class 230 D-Trains to KeolisAmey for the Wales and Borders franchise. The trains will be the first to come into service as part of the new franchise and will demonstrate KeolisAmey’s commitment to providing new, high quality rolling stock to Welsh passengers.

This mock up view (6/18) shows the proposed Wales & Border livery on a Class 230. The single leaf doors are colour differentiated for those with poor eyesight. The large T logo stands for 'Transport for Wales', the WAG Agency that controls transport funding. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright VivaRail and is computer generated. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Adrian Shooter, CEO of Vivarail (and ex-MD of Chiltern), said "This is a very exciting day for us and we are proud to be supplying the first of the new trains for Wales. We know that KeolisAmey want to bring the best new trains to their passengers so our interior layout has been designed to do exactly that. As well as the wide and spacious carriages the trains will have a Universal Access Toilet, WiFi, air conditioning, USB ports and 3-pin sockets. There will be a range of seating layouts and plenty of space for bikes and luggage. With KeolisAmey we have been determined to give passengers the very best travelling experience and the trains they deserve: modern, comfortable, reliable and environmentally-friendly."

"In conjunction with our partners at Creactive we have worked on a livery design that will be seen across the whole fleet. Our aim has always been to provide innovative solutions for operators and to that end I’m delighted to announce that our trains will be built as battery/diesel hybrids to cut down on emissions and make use of the exciting new technology we have developed over the past two years. As the UK’s leading battery train manufacturer we know that emission-free trains are the future and we will continue to spearhead that development. With this hybrid fleet we will deliver a train that is clean, green and reliable, making use of GPS systems to cut out the engines in stations and environmentally-sensitive areas."

This mock up view (6/18) shows the proposed 2+2 seating arrangement which includes bays with tables, 3-pin power sockets and USB ports. Hopefully the seating will be a little more comfy that the hard look envisaged here. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright VivaRail and is computer generated. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Adrian Shooter added “Our trains will come into service in summer 2019 and will form the flagship fleet for Wales and Borders and I look forward to taking the first journey in North Wales next year. I would like to congratulate KeolisAmey in their successful bid and thank our many friends from across Wales for their active support over the last few years.”

Colin Lea, Mobilisation Director, KeolisAmey Wales Cymru, said: "We are proud to announce that KeolisAmey and Vivarail will provide a step-change in passenger comfort and service quality on three North Wales routes (Wrexham-Bidston, Conwy Valley, Chester-Crewe) by introducing these units, fitted with the latest passenger comfort appliances such as power supply at all seats, high-speed Wi-Fi, air-cooling, bike spaces, and a brand new seating layout reflecting the needs of the passengers on these routes. In addition, these innovative hybrid trains, fitted with state-of-the-art monitoring systems, will provide a significant change in performance and reliability, helping KeolisAmey to deliver a more reliable service for its customers."

Design and build of the 3-car trains is already underway at Vivarail’s two sites and orders have been placed with the leading supplier of Universal Access Toilets based in Cwmbran. The fleet of 5 trains will move to Wales for final testing and commissioning in early 2019.

This mock up view (6/18) shows the proposed bike and buggy area utilising tip up seats near one of the single leaf power doors. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright VivaRail and is computer generated. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Hunslet 150 update 7/6/18

Hunslet Margaret will be visiting from the VoR. There will be WHR specials on Friday. As well as the Ladies Day out to Caernarfon on Saturday 23/6/18, Taliesin and Prince will haul Vintage FR sets and there will be WHR specials to Hafod-y-Llyn and Beddgelert from Porthmadog. Visiting locos will also run freight trains on the lower reaches of the Welsh Highland and a passenger train heads to Beddgelert in the late afternoon. There will be further specials on the WHR Sunday.

See F&WHR website for full details and booking forms.

Boston Lodge report 6/6/18

Diesel No.9 was fitted with a new compressor in June after its recent failure in traffic. The loco is maximum speed 15 mph and is ideal for heavy PW work but cannot match passenger needs due to its low maximum speed.

Works shunter Harold is being refurbished after a start made as a volunteer project. The loco saw use on construction trains on the WHR about 10 years ago. It had a failed clutch and this has now been replaced. The shunter has been restored to its green livery.

This easterly view (16/5/18) shows newly restored works shunter Harold freshly painted in original green livery at Boston Lodge before acquiring the name Harold painted on the bonnet. The loco will feature at the Hunslet Gala representing that company's prodigious diesel loco output. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

A new coach underframe (plus bogies) is under construction for the L&BR. Unlike the previous three coach underframes constructed for the L&BR which were dual braked, this will be vacuum fitted only.

Work is underway on the cradle frame for the new double Fairlie James Spooner, though the new boiler is being welded off site. Work is expected to restart on Welsh Pony this summer after a protracted break with attention to valve gear.

Harlech Castle is receiving attention after failing some time ago. The transmission is back from being rebuilt by an outside contractor. A vacuum brake exhauster is to be fitted as a policy change for PW trains will see them fully fitted in future.

Conwy Castle is also receiving attention as a volunteer led rebuild project. This loco's superstructure will be restored to a style more in keeping with the original design and when it emerges it will look like Upnor Castle. This loco will only be used on PW trains.

The KMX Tamper/Liner is also in Boston Lodge at the moment receiving attention. The machine was build by Framafer (a subsidiary of Plasser & Theurer), it is a very useful machine and keeps the line in fine fettle doing work that would take many volunteers shovel packing. Originally used in a French mine on a metre gauge underground railway, the frame was cut in half to remove it from underground.

This southerly view (18/5/18) shows an aerial view of Boston Lodge. From left to right can be seen Harlech Castle minus its engine, the KMX receiving attention with the frame of the press nearer the Erecting Shop. Green shunter Harold is behind Hunslet Moel y gest standing outside the Erecting Shop. To the right is a WHR B wagon repurposed for coal carrying and another B wagon carrying the bonnets of WHR Funkey Castell Caernarfon, presumably for repainting in the Coach Works. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera using a quadcopter. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Moving Pictures No.19 6/6/18

Click on the YouTube link to watch 27 mins 39 seconds of video covering events on the F&WHR including the Beer Festival and a Boston Lodge update. This YouTube was published on 6/6/18. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional betamax camcorder and is best watched in 1080p HD in Google Chrome browser or View on YouTube.

Details of WalesRail services 4/6/18

Of direct interest to the F&WHR is that there will be co-funding of a new joint NR/F&WHR station building at Blaenau Ffestiniog as part of local partnership and economic master plan to support the Conwy Valley Line and the F&WHR.

The new Keolis/Amey franchise is to hire in Mk IV rolling stock made redundant by the introduction of Azumas on the ECML in early 2020 to run its loco hauled services Holyhead-Manchester/Cardiff. The new Directly operated LNER service of the ECML will be disposing of the Mk IV rakes over the next few years as the new IEPT is introduced. The new WalesRail franchise does not seem keen to buy the new Mk V coaches being introduced by Transpennine this year despite encouragement from several sources. The seating and ride in Mk IV coaches has been compared unfavourably to Mk III coaches for many years.

The replacement of the Mk III coaches is necessary as they are not compliant with controlled emission/disabled access, however Chiltern successfully introduced compliant Mk III's after refurbishment including plug doors. There will be an expansion to three loco hauled trains per day on the Cardiff -Holyhead route as part of a 2 hourly service. Sadly no expansion of loco hauled services is envisaged throughout the franchise. However, there will be faster services with some stops moved to other services. Three four coach sets plus DVTs will be used based at Cardiff Canton for the North Wales-South Wales service but no mention is made of the Crewe/Manchester-Holyhead/Llandudno loco hauled trains!

From 2021 a new class (unspecified) of long distance/rural DMU, the CAF Civity, will be introduced which will successively replace Class 175/158/153/150 by 2024. The DMUs will be based at Chester and Machynlleth and operate North Wales and Cambrian services. There will be 51 2-car and 26 3-car trains.

The North Wales Metro from Wrexham to Bidston (for Birkenhead/Liverpool) will be run by the new Class 230 Vivarail units (ex-District Line). These hybrid units will be battery assisted and 5 three car units are envisaged based at Wrexham/Chester. Tables will be available in some bays. There will be a doubling of service to two trains per hour, one of which will be limited stop. Shotton station will be refurbished with integrated High and Low level facilities to improve interchange between the two routes.

The North Wales Coast will see several route changes. There will be 1 train per hour on the routes Manchester Airport-Bangor, Chester-Crewe and Llandudno-Liverpool. The latter new service will make use of the Halton Curve that will be reopened this year and call at Liverpool South Parkway, Runcorn and all stations to Llandudno. Another innovation will be a 2 hourly Cardiff-Central Liverpool Service via Wrexham using the Halton Curve.

Aberystwyth-Shrewsbury will see all trains stopping at the new Bow Street station (Aberystwyth Parkway) from its opening in 2020 and an increase to regular hourly services on this route. No mention is made of improvements for the Cambrian Coast Line to Pwllheli. Even the Heart of Wales Line will see an improvement from four to five trains per day plus a turn back service at each end of the route.

Several stations will see improvements but there is no sign of the long called for Connah's Quay station. Chester will get yet another concourse, bus interchange and an improved car park. Wrexham General will have a 'multimodal interchange'. Machynlleth is to be a pilot station for a 'dementia friendly design' after consultation with stakeholders. Many other changes are envisaged in South Wales.

See also BBC News report, Rail Gazette and International Rail Journal reports.

Wylfa B funding go ahead 4/6/18!

Wylfa B will be Britain's next Nuclear Power Station. On 4/6/18 the UK Government revealed it was in talks to fund Wylfa B Nuclear Power Station (aka Wylfa Newydd) rather than ask a private company to take the scheme forward as the government could raise funds at cheaper rates than private finance. Wylfa B will make a contribution to low-carbon electricity generation. See BBC news stories about Wylfa Nuclear Power Station. De-fuelling Wylfa A commenced at Easter 2016 after shut down in December 2015 and will be completed by the end of 2018. Some 500 trainloads of part used nuclear fuel rods are being extracted and sent to Sellafield for reprocessing and are the last commercial freight on the North Wales Coast line. See BBC news story. Some 25% of the fuel rods were recovered in the first 9 months. With the Government considering funding the project and input from the WAG, it is possible the scheme will change from that envisaged originally by Horizon Nuclear who wanted to bring everything in to a new dock at Wylfa. For example revitalisation of the Amlwch line could be part of the project to receive construction materials at a base at the former tank farm at Rhosgoch with a new road across fields to the site. WAG has aspirations to reopen the line to Llangefni for commuter traffic into Bangor to reduce the need for yet another road bridge across the Menai Straits.

It is to be hoped that North Wales railways will benefit from materials brought in to build the power station, the delivery of fuel rods and that removal of spent fuel rods at Valley Nuclear Sidings might continue after a brief pause from 2019 until the reactor is constructed.

Porthmadog basks in sunshine 4/6/18!

For two days in the last week or so Porthmadog has been the warmest place in the country, reaching 25C. that together with the hatching of the Glaslyn Osprey chicks may bring increased tourism to the F&WHR. However the redevelopment of Beddgelert Forest Campsite to log cabins the consequent temporary closure of the Halt may damage traffic as many people used to get on at this location. Another concern is the rising cost of fuel now exceeding £1.30 per litre because of international worries and the weakness of the pound because of Brexit. The F&WHR is a full tank of petrol away from major conurbations. A campaign is growing for a People's Vote on the final Brexit deal.

Palmerston to visit Bala 21-24/6/18

Palmerston will make its first ever visit to the Bala Lake Railway and will run on 21/6/18 and 23-4/6/18. This is in return for the BLR moving their annual steam Gala forward a week to 16-18/6/18 to avoid a clash with the F&WHR's Hunslet Gala. It will be the first tender loco to run on the BR line since standard gauge days!

WalesRail announcement 4/6/18

From 14/10/18 KeolisAmey, who have been awarded the WalesRail franchise, will set about a series of improvements for what they say is a new era for passengers and for Wales with more services, newer trains, better stations and a more reliable networking, including:

These improvements are part of a series of investments totalling £1.9bn that will be made over the 15-year contract period to bring about a transformation in rail travel for people and communities the length and breadth of Wales and its borders. The contract will run from 4/6/18 until 14/10/33, with rail services transferring on 14/10/18. It also includes delivering the next phases of the South Wales Metro project.

As part of the South Wales Metro development, journey times will be reduced and the frequency of trains will be increased, while new Metro vehicles will bring on-street running back to Cardiff. The link from Penarth, Barry and Bridgend to destinations north of Cardiff Central will be maintained using new tri-mode trains which can run on power from overhead electric cables, batteries and diesel engines.

Smart ticketing will be rolled out across Wales making travel easier and fares more flexible. New cheaper off-peak fares will be introduced, including reductions to fares in North Wales and at the heads of the Valleys.

KeolisAmey is a joint venture partnership between international transport operator Keolis (70% owned by SNCF) and infrastructure asset management specialist Amey, owned by a family Spanish business Ferrovial. So Labour have part achieved their objective of renationalising Welsh Railways, albeit owned by France!

While the announcement does focus on the major population centre of South Wales, there is some news for North Wales with the Wrexham-Bidston Metro improvement but many feel this would be better as an extension of the Liverpool DC electric network giving through journeys to the heart of Liverpool rather than an uncertain connection at windswept Bidston station. There is no mention of improving the North Wales to Cardiff service which suffers from overcrowded Class 158s and would be better served, as many feel, by an off-the-shelf a loco hauled operation such as TransPennine Express is introducing this summer. There is no mention of the re-dualling of Wrexham-Rossett to improve reliability or of services to Liverpool Lime Street via the currently being rebuilt Halton Curve.

Improvements to Cambrian Line services will directly affect the F&WHR and reduction in fares on North Wales Coast may bring more day-trippers but the Bangor-Caernarfon gap is still a problem for travel by train to the WHR. This awaits a TRAWS campaign for Bangor-Afon Wen. Stage 1 of the TRAWS scheme (Aberystwyth-Carmarthen) is awaiting the outcome of a WAG Feasibility study now 3 months overdue and said to be at the final draft stage.

The Snowdonian Limited 9/6/18

The Snowdonian Limited will run on Saturday 9/6/18. There will be a Friday evening tour of Boston Lodge at 16:45. The train departs Porthmadog at 09:15 non-stop for Caernarfon with a light breakfast and a hog roast and works visit to Dinas on the return. This is followed by a run to Blaenau Ffestiniog with afternoon tea at Tan-y-bwlch and a return to Porthmadog by 19:15. Tickets are £185 with limited first class for £400. All funds raised go to the Diamond Jubilee fund supporting sustainable development of the F&WHR. See F&WHR website.

Service Car No.2010 back in service 2/6/18

Due to technical difficulties with Service Car No.2010 the F&WHR announced on 31/5/18 that they were unable to provide hot food on the following Welsh Highland Railway trains, the 10:50 train from Porthmadog and the 14:20 return from Caernarfon. However, the trolley service of hot & cold drinks, cakes, biscuits and confectionery - together with our range of beers, wines and spirits - was however continue to be provided on these trains.

Following some fast work in the repair shop the problems affecting Service Carr No.2010 have been fixed and the vehicle returned to traffic on 2/6/18 after just 2 days out of use. The full range of hot & cold food, drinks, snacks etc. is again available on ALL Welsh Highland Railway services after a gap of just 2 days.

No.130 update 1-3/6/18

By 1/6/18 the smokebox door has received some attention. This was one of the few bits from the old boiler that was good to be reused. The door was sand blasted and primed. It is now ready to fit when the time comes.

By 3/6/18 the firebox was inserted and mostly riveted in. About 50% of the stays have been inserted and tacked in, including the majority of the crown stays.
Over the next week or two, the balance of the remaining stays will be fitted, just leaving the welding to start.

Britannia Bridge level crossing incidents 1/6/18

The F&WHR has called in the local police to deal with continuing incidents of abuse the Britannia Bridge level crossing with car drivers sometimes failing to stop at red lights and cyclists not using the designated cycle lanes. On 23/5/18 the F&WHR's Safety Officer met with the local PC SO to discuss abuse of the crossing and what could be done to improve the situation. See Cambrian News story.

Caernarfon Station progress 1/6/18

This southerly view (1/6/18) shows the new stone cladding around the staff entrance at the south end of the station building as seen from Segontium Terrace. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.130 update 30/5/18

By 30/5/18 boiler tubes had arrived at Dinas.

No.134 report 25/5/18

The May working party was held on the same weekend as the Railway's Rail Ale weekend (19-20/5/18)as usual but the volunteers still managed to do some work! On the Saturday they sorted through all the motion as this had been moved from shed to shed a couple of times and was checked to ensure all was present and correct. The team also cleaned it up and oiled the surfaces to prevent rust forming. They hope the motion can be fitted in the near future as they need to have new pins and bushes manufactured. Later on the Saturday volunteers received some instructions to remove the chimney and smokebox door from off the boiler and were able to remove the smokebox door and lower it to the ground.

On the Sunday volunteers needed to clear some room around the boiler so as to get the tractor in to enable the chimney to be lifted off. This also enabled the team to move the smokebox door into their workshop. With access now better the chimney was lifted off and moved to outside the group's workshop. A start was then made to remove bolts to release the top section of the smokebox itself. With the smokebox having already been condemned at an earlier restoration attempt it had been cut in half horizontally to give better access for the removal of the tubes at that time. It had then bolted back together so that all that was needed was to free off most of those bolts. The whole of the front end of the boiler was then covered over. The only other job tackled was the painting of the axle box covers in gloss top coat.

See NG15 website for full details and images.

Caernarfon Station progress 23-29/5/18

This northerly view (23/5/18) shows the 'dragon scales'. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (29/5/18) shows the glass frontage nearing completion including two types of glass, with curved glass around the entrance door. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (29/5/18) shows the 'dragon scales' completed. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (29/5/18) shows the glass frontage nearing completion. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Caernarfon/Bontnewydd Bypass go ahead 24/5/18

Work may start as early as November on the long awaited A487 Caernarfon/Bontnewydd bypass, following final approval by the Welsh Assembly. The route runs from the end of the Y Felinheli bypass to the end of the Pen-y-groes Bypass at the A499 roundabout south of Dinas. It runs south of Caernarfon and west of Bontnewydd, crossing the WHR just north of Bontnewydd Halt. The scheme has not pleased all as it does not link into the A4085 to Beddgelert. Passive provision for a future TRAWS Bangor-Afon Wen NR route where the bypass crosses the WHR was requested by WHR engineers. See BBC news story. Plans for the bypass may be found here.

No.143 Aberglaslyn Pass 23/5/18

This aerial westerly view (23/5/18) shows No.143 crossing Bryn-y-felin bridge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera using a quadcopter. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

WalesRail let to Keolis-Amey 23/5/18

Keolis-Amey has won the £5 billion 15 year contract to run WalesRail. The company currently runs the small commuter networks Docklands Light Railway and Greater Manchester MetroLink and has no experience of long distance loco-hauled Intercity services, such as Holyhead-Manchester/Cardiff which dominate the Wales regional railway. The decision seems to have focussed on the need to create a Cardiff Valleys Metro network.

Initial reaction was mixed, though a map produced by the BBC/ATW was an inaccurate map of the current rail network that shows errors in North Wales. Keolis-Amey have stated the network map did not come from them and has asked the BBC to correct the errors. The following errors were noted on the BBC's map:

• FR shows as a WalesRail service
• No Wrexham-Chester line
• No Chester-Crewe line
• Crewe-Wolverhampton being a WalesRail service

While Amey has promised new trains, there has been no suggestion that these might be the loco-hauled trains that have proved so successful on the Holyhead Cardiff/Manchester axis and are available off the shelf as a follow on order after the Transpennine order. Proper maps and details of the 'exciting new services' will be released on 4/6/18 unless MTR challenge the award.

See BBC news story which includes the defective map.

Vale of Ffestiniog rescues PW train 21/5/18

Vale of Ffestiniog was called to action on 21/5/18 and after a delay on The Cob around lunchtime forced a path up the WHR, apparently to rescue a stranded PW train. There was a further delay waiting for an ATW train to clear Cae Pawb crossing whilst waiting for the Machynlleth Powerbox to authorise the movement.

This aerial westerly view (21/5/18) shows Vale of Ffestiniog waiting at the site of Porthmadog New whilst the driver walks to the release cabin on the north side of Cae Pawb crossing. An ATW trains is approaching the crossing from Porthmadog. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera using a quadcopter. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This aerial westerly view (21/5/18) shows Vale of Ffestiniog crossing Cae Pawb. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings using a quadcopter and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (21/5/18) shows Vale of Ffestiniog apparently rescuing No.9 on a PW train and crossing Britannia Bridge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Footplate rides at Porthmadog Bank holiday weekend

Linda will be available for footplate rides at Porthmadog on Saturday 26/5/18 and Monday 28/5/18 and Hugh Napier on Sunday 27/5/18.

Aerial view of Caernarfon 19/5/18

This southerly view (19/5/18) shows an aerial view of Caernarfon station with the rotunda making its appearance on the top and glass windows fitted. Work is also still underway on the roof so the safety barrier is still in place there. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera using a quadcopter. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Upnor Castle on weed killing train 18/5/18

>This easterly view (18/5/18) shows Upnor Castle working the weed killing train around Boston lodge curve. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera using a quadcopter. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.143 Britannia Bridge 18/5/18

This southerly view (18/5/18) shows an aerial view of Porthmadog station with No.143 departing and crossing Britannia Bridge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera using a quadcopter. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Caernarfon station progress 18-21/5/18

This northerly view (18/5/18) shows work well underway to clad the front of the building in 'dragon scales'. Work is also still underway on the roof so the safety barrier is still in place there. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (18/5/18) shows work well underway to clad the front of the building in 'dragon scales'. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (21/5/18) shows the glass front is now starting to appear. Work is still underway on the roof. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Final Draft stage for TRAWS project

The TRAWS Feasibility Study to link Aberystwyth with Carmarthen is nearing completion and said to be in final draft phase, although running 3 months late. One aspect of the study is to look at alternative routes to avoid the clash with the curvaceous Gwili Railway, a steam operation that operates from a point just north of Carmarthen and occupies the trackbed as far as Llanpumsaint. One option that might be considered is to build a new route from Lampeter to Llandeilo (the route of the proposed Swansea and Aberystwyth Junction Railway of the 1860s) and provide a new curve west of Loughor giving direct access to Swansea rather than reversing at Llanelli. This would also benefit the Central Wales Line.

WAG plays down expectations of WalesRail franchise

The Welsh Assembly First Minister, Carwyn Jones, warned passengers that substantial changes including new carriages and electric services are “not going to happen overnight” when the new 15 year 'not for profit' Franchise is let later in May. While new loco hauled services will soon be launched on TransPennine from Liverpool/Manchester-Newcastle there is no sign that penetrating services into England from Wales or vice versa will be improved to this extent despite the rolling stock currently being in construction and available at discount as a follow-on order. See Nation Cymru website.

BF&TR latest

The new management of the Blaenau Ffestiniog and Trawsfynydd Society is hoping to have its AGM at the end of June when a new committee can hopefully be elected and take the project forward. Some areas cleared last year and now grassing over again.

Lyn for SuperPower

Planned for last year but delayed by the late completion of the loco, the L&BR's Lyn is coming to SuperPower for the weekend only. The loco recently receiving attention to its wheel profile at the L&BR. See Lyn update. The L&BR website confirms Lyn is now hauling all trains. In return Lyd is going to the L&BR 29-30/9/18 and will appear alongside Lyn. The L&BR has promised Lyn will come to the WHR for a longer stay on future occasions.

Another 'mystery guest' is also promised and many enthusiasts are hoping this will be Russell. It has been 18 years since the loco appeared at SuperPower 2000 when the line was only open to Waunfawr. Russell has not hauled a train through the Aberglaslyn Pass since closure in 1937!

On the downside, the special train planned for Society members who have been in the society for 25 years has been cancelled.

The society AGM will be on 15/9/18 in Y Galeri Caernarfon. Hopefully extended talks about other railways projects will be kept until the end of the AGM unlike recent years when they have rather taken over the AGM.

Rail-Ale latest

Rail-Ale takes place from 18-20/5/18 and is focussed on the Caernarfon-Waunfawr section again with frequent shuttles. There are 99 beers, 43 ciders and 6 perries, many brewed in Wales! See updated Rail Ale website.

This leaflet view (12/5/18) shows the advert for Rail Ale. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

New Historic WHR video published 16/5/18

A short 3 minute video taken in 1936 has been published by the WHHG costing £5. See WHHG page.

Waunfawr station plans (12/5/18)

Following a major private donation the Waunfawr station building will be completed in Spring 2019 but a start will be made by September so will be visible for SuperPower. An attempt has been made to recreate the large irregular stone pattern of the original but wit6h the end wall having more entrances the original appearance with large random stonework will not be possible. Many of the larger stones were deemed unusable even though being individually numbered by the WHHG. They were incorporated in the retaining wall for the Snowdonia Parc pub's beer garden. Some of the smaller stones are available under the Waunfawr footbridge on pallets and at Dinas South Yard. See WHHG website for previous views and history.

A concrete foundation pad and service ducts were provided in the original construction of the station in 2000. The original station building was very similar to the Dinas station building with stone facings, yellow brick detail around windows and doors and a hipped slate roof. the new building will incorporate a waiting room, operations room, toilet and accessible toilet. The plans shown below have been prepared by Robert Chambers, a conservation architect.

These plan views (12/5/18) show the currently envisaged layout of the new station building at Waunfawr. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Signalling news

With the Pont Croesor-Beddgelert signalling completed attention moves on to the Rhyd Ddu area this summer, presumably to fit the Beddgelert-Rhyd Ddu section with interlocked starter signals.

Caernarfon Food Festival Special 12/5/18

This northerly view (12/5/18) shows Merddin Emrys stabled at Dinas after hauling the Caernarfon Food Festival Special from Porthmadog. The train was due to return to Caernarfon later to haul the 1730 return to Porthmadog after the normal service train had returned ECS from Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Dinas report 12/5/18

This view (12/5/18) shows long sidelined Castell Caernarfon being repaired at Dinas after return of its refurbished gearbox last September. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (12/5/18) shows Castell Caernarfon under repair at Dinas. The operating department will welcome the return of a heavy haul rescue loco at the north end of the line rather than having to rely on the FR Funkey stabled at Boston Lodge up to 25 miles away). This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (12/5/18) shows WHR PW Mess coach No.1001 under repair at Dinas. The return to traffic of this coach will be welcomed by volunteers who often have to work out in inclement weather without a support train. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Moving Pictures No.18 11/5/18

Click on the YouTube link to watch 20 mins 30 seconds of video covering events on the F&WHR including the new Caernarfon station building. This YouTube was published on 11/5/18. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional betamax camcorder and is best watched in 1080p HD in Google Chrome browser or View on YouTube.

Rail Ale 18-20/5/18

The F&WHR is still waiting for the list of real ales, ciders etc, but there is still a good choice of catering vendors on site at Dinas during 'Rail-Ale' 2018. Express Indian Cuisine, Blas Môn Mobile Caterers and Jones' Pizza Co will be 'open for business' on Friday and Saturday - while 'A Lot of Waffle' will be there all three days. For more information see Rail Ale website where timetables are available.

There will be diesel hauled shuttle between Caernarfon and Waunfawr all day with steam hauled shuttle on Friday and Saturday evenings until the last 23:45 from the Waunfawr!

A bookable night bus is also available back to Porthmadog at 22:30 from Dinas.

Appeal for help with 'Hunslet 125'

As 'Hunslet 125' is rapidly approaching, plans have been put in place to prepare Minffordd Yard for the event. With support from paid staff the Waggon Tracks Team are leading a volunteer effort to get things ready. Good work has already been done thanks to Megabash volunteers and a team from Bombardier, but there is still much to do and help make this an event to remember.

Contact Will High or Paul Wood. In your email please mention whether you are a current active volunteer. Many thanks in advance.

No.130 update 5-5/5/18

By 5/5/18 the boiler has now been turned, ready to accept the new firebox. It will soon be gently lowered in and the job of securing it to the outer boiler begins.

This northerly view (27/4/18) shows No.87 shunting off the train at Rhyd Ddu after difficulties hauling the train up the 1 in 40 from Beddgelert. The loco subsequently hauled the southbound service to Porthmadog and is understood to have received attention at Boston Lodge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Sharp and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (28/4/18) shows the KMX tamper-liner working through all the tracks at Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Sharp and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

SuperPower latest 26/4/18

SuperPower this year will celebrate 21 years since the rebirth of the WHR on 11/10/97. The three day event takes place 14-16/9/18. The will be an intensive service at the north end of the line, a model engineering exhibition at Dinas, Double Fairlies, Garratts and visiting locos. Many supporters hope that the WHHR's Russell and the new L&BR Baldwin loco Lyn will be invited.

New Porthmadog webcam in action 25/4/18

After concerns about the low resolution of the Porthmadog webcam a new one has been installed in a slightly different position giving views over the WHR platform and the FR platform and sidings. See F&WHR webcams.

No.134 update 21-22/4/18

The April working party had some nice warm sunny weather on the Saturday which was far better than any of the previous working party weekends of the year so far. Volunteers are still concentrating on some of the smaller 'loose ends' jobs. They continued with the painting of the various axle box covers for the pony trucks as well as a number of the components for the Krauss Helmholtz pivot assembly that were primed last time. The team also dug out a number of the castings acquired from South Africa a few years ago, such as the brake ejector, to start loosening the various fittings to make it easier when the time came for their full overhaul.

On the Sunday, as well as another coat of undercoat on the various components mentioned above volunteers also straightened and salvaged what they could of the old oil pot covers for the pony truck axle boxes. All these were very battered and most were unserviceable with only three contenders worth considering. The team will probably be able to repair two of these and so will replace the other six.

Volunteers then concentrated their efforts on the castings for the cab and tender spectacle plates. One volunteer had recently returned from a spell in South Africa where he spent some time with friends at the Apple Express in Port Elizabeth working on NG15 No.124. Whilst there he gained some fresh understanding of the loco's spectacle plates to give him confidence to start work on the various brass castings he had made for our cab and tender windows. 

The team therefore set to and started to machine and polish the various components. This involved cleaning and initial polishing of the spectacle plate frame casting and turning the pivots down to size. Volunteers simply turned down until the various casting marks had been removed then went to the nearest mm below that. Holes were then drilled in the casting to take the pin as well as those need to mount the casting to the cab plates. The job was not quite finished so will continue in June's working party, which occurs on the Beer Festival weekend.

Slowly but surely it is all heading in the right direction so onto next month. See No.134 webpage for full details and images.

Caernarfon Station Progress 20/4/18

BF&TR News 20/4/18

The BF&TR Society issued a press release on 20/4/18 concerning their attempts to restart the project following the collapse of the project late last year when NR withdrew the licence. A newsletter has appeared an AGM will be held soon. It seems the society aims to lead the project in future and the former company under Colin Dale who is ill, will be sidelined. See Newsletter which details the trials and tribulations of the project and the way forwards. A second newsletter in a few weeks time will call an AGM and elect a Committee to restart the project and negotiations with NR and other stakeholders.

Caernarfon Station progress 20/4/18

This northerly view (20/4/18) shows progress with a test facia panel on the frontage of Caernarfon station. The aluminium alloy panels resemble stainless steel and have been approved by Cadw, the Welsh Heritage agency. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (20/4/18) shows the view from the De Winton cafe on the first floor of the new Caernarfon station building. The large circular area out the station is the 'shared space' road/pedestrian area thought to be dangerous by many as it gives no clue as to right of way and leaves everyone guessing. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Earl fundraiser success 20/4/18

Some £3,200 was raised for Wales Air Ambulance from money collected in table envelopes on the day and the auction of the headboard for £1,800.

Castell Caernarfon repair started 20/4/18

Castell Caernarfon has been out of action for more than a year. The gearbox was returned over six months ago but it was not possible to start the repair due to pressure of work at Dinas. The WHR has been without a rescue loco for over a year and has relied upon the FR's Funkey. While new diesel No.9 has come on stream for PW work, the WHR is still in need of a heavy duty diesel at Dinas.

Martin Kressman advises: Castell Caernarfon has been taken into the works at Dinas for the repaired gearbox to be fitted. At the same time the locomotive is to be completely rewired.

The Snowdonian YouTube 19/4/18

Click on the YouTube link to watch 19 mins 54 seconds of video covering The Snowdonian on the FR and WHR including aerial views. This YouTube was published on 19/4/18. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional betamax camcorder and is best watched in 1080p HD in Google Chrome browser or View on YouTube.

KS4415 update 19/4/18

The KS4415 team have tested the vacuum pump made from a recycled motorbike engine. After some final tinkering with the pump, it was ready for a test to see if it works. To get ready for the test volunteers had to reassemble the engine and set the timing. They also made a cover for the magneto drive, because there is no magneto. A length of flexible vacuum hose was sourced, and a collection of pipe fittings was used to get it down to a size suitable for the inlet on the engine. To actually turn the engine over a drive bar was made and set between centres in a lathe. For the test, two vacuum braked brake vans were attached, and the pump was spun at various speeds up to 1000rpm, at which point 21 inches of vacuum was indicated on the gauge in Van No.6. See KS4415 Facebook page for images and video of the test.

Moving Pictures No.17 17/4/18

The latest Moving Pictures includes scenes of the last day of Earl of Merioneth and ex-WHR Construction Co. loco Dolgarrog shunting skips at Glan-y-pwll depot, though no coverage of the WHR.

Click on the YouTube link to watch 22 mins 3 seconds of video covering The Snowdonian on the FR and WHR including aerial views. This YouTube was published on 17/4/18. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional betamax camcorder and is best watched in 1080p HD in Google Chrome browser or View on YouTube.

Extra train for Caernarfon Food Festival 12/5/17

This northerly view (14/4/18) shows No.143 on the 1000 from Caernarfon passing No.87 on The Snowdonian. The new starter signals for re-signalled Pont Croesor-Beddgelert section can be seen next to No.143. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (13/4/18) shows No.138 heading south over Pont Croesor with the water wagon DZT2003 on a very murky day. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy Ben Bucki and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.130 12-24/4/18

By 12/4/18 the boiler looked complete but STILL awaits the green light from British Engineering to approve the welding procedure.

For full details and images see No.130 Facebook page.

KS 4415 update 11/4/18

This week at Boston Lodge volunteers been finishing the mounting plate for the vacuum pump that was started a few weeks ago. This involved machining the T slots and checking the fit of the custom made bolts. The other job that has been tackled is making the brackets for holding the vacuum pump. These parts were laser cut and welded together to make a bracket for each side of the vacuum pump engine. Once the brackets were made and fitted we offered the whole arrangement up to the mounting plate. Lastly, we have reassembled the engine with its new valves and it is now ready for testing. See KS44015 Facebook page for images.

No.143 8/4/18

This northerly view (8/4/18) shows No.143 heading south over Pont Croesor with a service train. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy Ben Bucki and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Last trip for Earl of Merioneth 8/4/18

The headboard from the final trip of Earl of Merioneth on 8/4/18 is being auctioned off on eBay and the profits are being donated to the Wales Air Ambulance Charity. The train carried a paper destination sticker in carriages 'The Fairlie Terminal'. On Sunday evening a staff special was run before the loco was finally withdrawn at midnight.

This easterly view (8/4/18) shows Earl of Merioneth returning from Blaenau Ffestiniog on its final working. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (8/4/18) shows Earl of Merioneth's special 'Farewell' headboard. This loco's square appearance did not appeal to all but the loco had its own following. It will be replaced by new loco James Spooner with a more traditional Double Fairlie outline but dry stored against possible re-activation in the future. The headboard is being auctioned off on eBay. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (8/4/18) shows Earl of Merioneth's bring disposed at the end of the day. The loco's smokebox is covered with chalked 'Farewell messages' in a similar fashion to those which were chalked on BR locos in the final days of steam. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

The Snowdonian 14/4/18

This year's The Snowdonian special working features the usual 80 mile round trip of the F&WHR using FR stock and an optional visit to Boston Lodge at 1645 on Friday 13/4/18. Linda and Blanche will be used on the FR and double headed Garratts on the WHR. After a light breakfast on the train, lunch will be taken at Snowdonia Parc brewpub followed by afternoon tea on the train.

Fares are £180 Third Class and £400 First Class (very limited). See F&WHR booking page.

BF&TR latest

An announcement is due after 14/4/18 about the future of this project which is currently paused as NR withdrew the access licence after concerns about governance of the project.

Final weekend for Earl of Merioneth 7/4/18

This weekend is the final weekend for Earl of Merioneth in passenger service. The loco will be withdrawn after its final run on the 1335 from Porthmadog on Sunday 8/4/18.

Moving Pictures No.16 6/4/18

Click on the YouTube link to watch 20 mins 4 seconds of video covering the rebuilding of Caernarfon platforms, diesel No.9, Earl of Merioneth of the FR, first trains of the new season and aerial views. This YouTube was published on 6/4/18. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional betamax camcorder and is best watched in 1080p HD in Google Chrome browser or view on YouTube.

No.130 update 2-6/4/18

By 2/4/18 almost all of the crown stays and side stays have been made and delivered and are just waiting for the boiler to be welded up now.

By 6/4/18 No.130's second hand turbo generator has at last made it from South Africa to Avening and will next week make the final part of the journey to Dinas. It will not be functional (although it could be) as the loco will be using battery powered LED lights. The NGG 16's look more 'complete' with the turbo fitted.

For full details and images see No.130 Facebook page.

Welsh Pony update 1/4/18

Very little progress has been made on Welsh Pony since the last update on 15/11/17 due to the winter maintenance of the F&WHR's core loco fleet. It is hoped that work will resume soon. Welsh Pony will steam and the F&WHR intend to do the best possible job on it which unfortunately takes time.

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