WHR

News Archive Page

2020

July-September

V4.3 updated 2/11/20

with news to 30/9/20

Newly archived sections are placed at the top of this page.

WHR trains confirmed until 31/10/20

The WHR train service is now confirmed until the end of October, currently seen as the end of the season, with a departure from Caernarfon (to Beddgelert and return) at 11:00 every Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday. All of these trains will offer the full range of hampers, which can be pre-booked with tickets. The station shop/cafe at Caernarfon and the small Beddgelert shop will also for food and other memorabilia.

WHR Pullman bookings good

A comment received from a correspondent: Your updates are greatly appreciated and thanks to one of your recent news postings my wife and I were able to take advantage of the new WHR First Class Luxury Pullman Day Out yesterday (28/9/20). We strongly recommend it. It was a wonderful day out and the service provided was top-notch! Brilliant! All thanks to you! Incidentally, all 5 places in the carriage were occupied which just goes to show how popular it has been!

F&WHR confirms operations continue despite North East Wales lockdowns 30/9/20

Although restrictions have now been imposed on four of the North Wales counties, Gwynedd and the F&WHR are both still open for business. Visitors from within Gwynedd or outside the four counties of Conwy, Denbighshire, Flintshire and Wrexham are still able to travel on trains - and, if necessary, to travel through the local lockdown areas to reach the railways. (NB: residents of lockdown areas further away remain unable to travel out of their area).

See BBC website for full details.

Xmas services possible

The F&WHR has confirmed that Xmas Holiday services are possible but that it is too early to confirm. These are usually 26/12/20 -1/1/21 for the FR and 27/12/20-1/1/21 for the WHR as Machynlleth Powerbox is closed on Boxing Day and unable to release the Cae Pawb crossing. With that not required in the current WHR operation it is possible WHR trains will operate for the full week as on the FR.

FR services and lockdown 30/9/20

Wednesday 30/9/20 was a damp misty day in Porthmadog and the FR coaches in the WHR platform were blocking the WHR loop point close to Spooners. Blanche hauled the A set departing at 10:00. Linda turned up for the 11:05 with the B set. At 10:52 Moelwyn, sporting a Jolly Roger flag, appeared dragging the bogie tank wagon No.66 with Upnor Castle on the rear. This was to mark the passing of long-time employee Gerald 'Jed' Perks. The first service train carried a photo of Jed for one last journey up the railway. Jed's regular fuel train also carried a wreath.

This view (30/9/20) shows Moelwyn working the commemorative fuel tank train into Porthmadog with wreath attached. 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.

Upnor Castle detached later and by 11:20 had moved the FR coaches in the WHR platform clear of the WHR loop points and removed them to Boston Lodge. Merddin Emrys was provided for the 12:10, hauling the Colonel Stephens set. Although the weather became sunny in the afternoon, Merddin Emrys returned at 14:50 and the rake was locked and shunted to the sidings as the 15:25 did not run. The C set was propelled to the seawall sidings at 15:13.

The Welsh Government has identified new COVID restriction measures from 1/10/20 for Flintshire, Denbighshire, Conwy and Wrexham County areas. These require essential journeys only for residents and currently do not affect passing holiday traffic to Gwynedd, an area which is currently less affected. The A55, A5 and even the B4391 Bala/Llangynog Berwyn Pass all pass through these restricted areas. If transit later becomes restricted then the only access to the F&WHR will be via Mid-Wales e.g. Welshpool/Dolgellau A458/A470.

No.130 update 29/9/20

By 29/9/20 the final part of No.130's cladding to be made had been completed at Dinas. These are the four cylinder claddings and now have gone to Boston Lodge for painting. The inside primer and undercoat have already been completed.

FR services 29/9/20

Tuesday started out sunny but a little chilly at Porthmadog with fine weather forecast for the day. The FR rake was still blocking the WHR loop point outside Spooners. Blanche was on the first train departing with the A set at 10:00 prompt. Merddin Emrys emerged at Boston Lodge about 10:25 and trundled over to the yard, arriving at 10:40 to shunt the B set into the platform and finally departing 11:09. Linda arrived at 11:30 and after some consultation with the signaller extracted the C set from the seawall sidings

Blanche arrived back from its second trip at 15:38 and shunted its train to the yard at 15:55. Moelwyn arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 15:43 presumably from Glan-y-pwll, with bogie fuel tank wagon No.66, the replica Quarryman's open 4-wheeler No.33 and bogie coal wagon No.63 with a metre cube water container. The freight departed at 14:47. Merddin Emrys had run round its train in the arrival platform to facilitate the freight passing. The freight passed Minffordd at 16:13 heading for Boston Lodge. Merddin Emrys started back from Tan-y-bwlch at 16:15 so there was no 15:25. With the evenings drawing in the 15:25 is less popular as it arrives back in Porthmadog just before 18:00.

Friends of Gowrie update 28/9/20.

Although many WHR supporters would sooner seen a group recreating the single Fairlie Moel Tryfan, the Gowrie Locomotive Trust is making progress recreating the short lived NWNGR Fairlie that lasted from 1908-1918. Despite the difficult conditions created by the global pandemic, the Gowrie Group has managed to make quite significant progress this year and have now had over half a ton of castings produced for the loco. In addition to this, the new calculations for the boiler have been used to make the necessary adjustments to the CAD file for the frames, and the group in the process of receiving the first quotes for the cutting of them.

But they need more support to sustain this momentum. For just £20 per year, supporters can sign up to the "Friends of Gowrie" and receive a quarterly newsletter containing in-depth details of the Trust's activities and progress, priority sponsorship opportunities, and access to workshop open days. Additional benefits are also available to those who contribute larger and regular amounts. Please visit Friends of Gowrie for a full list of incentives and to download the forms.

NR Conwy Valley reopens 28/9/20

TfW reopened services on the Conwy Valley line from Llandudno Junction to Blaenau Ffestiniog on Monday 28/9/20 after a test train and driver refamiliarisation runs. The line has been closed for repair since Storm Francis in the Spring. The are six services a day with the first and last remaining bustitutions.

See TfW website for latest status of Welsh train services.

FR services 28/9/20

Monday 28/9/20 was a damp misty day at Porthmadog and the FR rake in the WHR platform was close to Spooners thereby blocking the WHR loop. Linda was on the 10:00 and Blanche on the 11:05. Merddin Emrys hauled the 12:10 with the Colonel Stephens set.

With 2/3 of the population of Wales (essentially South Wales) now facing a second lockdown and Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford considering the less severe situation in North Wales, fears must be growing that any changes in WAG COVID rulings will affect F&WHR operations again and the planned 'Bygones Gala' for 9-11/10/20. Nevertheless it appeared bookings are going well with the 11:05, 12:10 and 15:25 fully booked for the next few days.

FR services 26/9/20

Saturday dawned fine and sunny but with a brisk cold wind at Porthmadog. The FR coaches remained parked close to Spooners, obstructing the WHR loop point. There does not appear to have been a 10:00 service, possibly the first time this train has been dropped from the timetable. Linda hauled the B set on the 11:05 departing at 11:07 and passing Minffordd at 11:20 and arriving at Tan-y-bwlch at 11:57 where it performed the shunt itself at 12:05 so presumably the point problem was fixed and shunt release by Upnor Castle is no longer required..

Due to good traffic on Saturday, the 13:10 has been made bookable on Sunday 27/9/20 and Lilla's two trains are surprisingly still bookable!

This view (26/9/20) shows Britomart working the 12:10 to Tan-y-Bwlch crossing The Cob. 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.

FR services 25/9/20

Friday 25/9/20 dawned cold and windy but bright at Porthmadog with the FR rake in the WHR platform positioned close to Spooners and blocking the WHR loop point near Britannia Bridge. Linda hauled the A set on the 10:00 service, departing on time and arriving at Tan-y-bwlch at 10:46 in sunshine. Upnor Castle was already at Tan-y-bwlch for the shunt release at 11:00 having travelled up light engine earlier. Blanche was on the B set departing on time at 11:05 and No.5 again hauled the 12:10 departing on time. North Wales seems to be low risk from COVID but today large areas of South Wales representing some 75% of the population of the Principality are going into lockdown with rapidly rising cases of the virus (Llanelli/Cardiff/Swansea).

Gwyrfai returns to service with Pullman relaunch 24-26/9/20

The arrival of Autumn would traditionally have signalled a busy period for the F&WHR on-board catering staff as they would begin to prepare the renowned ‘Pullman Afternoon Tea’ experiences. However, this Autumn, the F&WHR has been busy designing an alternative ‘First Class Luxury Pullman Day Out’, which will act as a provisional substitute for the traditional ‘Pullman Afternoon Teas’. The new package, offering the chance of a luxury day out in the brand new Pullman First Class carriage, ‘Gwyrfai’ on the WHR ‘Back to Beddgelert’ service will start from Saturday 26/9/20 onwards MFSuX.

To book a ‘First Class Luxury Pullman Day Out’ package or for further information please visit the F&WHR website: https://bit.ly/2FZyHVs. Customers who have already booked an original ‘Pullman Afternoon Tea’ can transfer their original booking to a new ‘First Class Luxury Pullman Day Out’ package by calling the Booking Office; 01766 516024.

This view (24/9/20) shows the high quality internal finish of Observation Car Gwyrfai that has been returned to service with COVID compliant Perspex screens forming 4 'compartments'. 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.

North Wales mainline news 24/9/20

TfW liveried No.67025 was in Yorkshire on a route learning exercise on 24/9/20. It is uncertain when/if the loco hauled Mk 4 expresses will enter service on the North Wales-Cardiff service and Manchester trains. With traffic suppressed by the epidemic TfW is saving money by not hiring in the locos.

FR services 24/9/20

Blanche led the A set on Thursday 24/9/20, a damp cool day in North Wales, though the train appeared full. The FR rake was still placed further along platform from Spooners. The train set off a little late at 10:07 but arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 10:50. Upnor Castle must have worked light to Tan-y-bwlch as it shunt release Blanche at 11:00. Linda followed on the 1105 departing in heavy rain at 11:06. Meanwhile Vale of Ffestiniog had turned up light engine at about 11:00 in the WHR loop and shut down. after the squall the crew rejoined the Funkey and it advanced to the end of the loop to collect the token at 11:17.before setting off for presumably the Old Loco shed at 11:21. Normally the Funkey is retained at Dinas as a rescue loco for the WHR service train.

No.5 turned up at Porthmadog at 11:39 to extract the C Set from the seawall siding for the 12:10 service. This was followed by the reappearance of the Funkey at 11:47 with a couple of coaches presumably from store in the old Loco Shed, possibly Observation car Gwyrfai (see story below). No.5 departed on the !2:10 on time with sunny periods and showers predominating. following the departure of Vale of Ffestiniog to Dinas, Blanche shunted the FR coaches in the WHR platform closer to Spooners at 12:55, again blocking the WHR loop point, before preparing for the 13:15 departure.

FR trains released until end of October

While Friday 2/10/30 strangely has no bookable FR trains, tickets have now been released for booking on the most popular trains, the 11:05/14:20 from 16/10/20 until 31/10/20. Such a service can be operated with one train set if necessary, however the F&WHR has said it will add more of the former six train service if demand justifies it. The service on 9-11/10/20 includes a retimed 08:55 which replaces the 10:00 to allow for various special trains running in the Bygones Gala. The odd days in the timetable persist with 1/10/20 seeing the 12:10 working one trip, 5/10/20 seeing a 13:15 added and 15-16/10/20 will also see the 13:15 working one trip.

In contrast tickets for the WHR from 17-31/10/20 MFSuX have not yet been released for booking despite the promotion of the Pullman Experience from 26/10/20 (see above).

FR services 23/9/20

Wednesday 23/9/20 dawned cooler, grey and damp in North Wales and the WHR platform was again occupied by the FR rake parked close to Spooners. It remains to be seen how the Government's statements about the second wave will affect traffic but some parts of South Wales are already subject to partial lockdowns due to high R numbers. This has not yet affected North Wales.

At 16:25 Harlech Castle arrived from the WHR with the cherry picker and a scrap wagon accompanied by a brakevan. The diesel waited in the loop for the signaller to return to the signalbox before heading off to Minffordd at 16:31, passing Blanche there returning from the 14:20 service at 16:40. Blanche shunted the B set into the seawall siding at 17:00 before shunting back to Boston Lodge light engine. Meanwhile, up at Tan-y-bwlch Upnor Castle was attached to the rear of the 15:25 return working to return the loco to Boston Lodge. Upnor Castle piloted No.5 back to Boston Lodge at 18:15 after shunting the C set into the sidings at Harbour station. The Spooners overspill coaches were not shunted back close to Spooners in the WHR platform.

The case of the disappearing 15:25!

Having disappeared from the booking timetable earlier in the week the 15:25 ran again on Wednesday 23/9/20. While the F&WHR has said it will remove trains from the booking timetable if fully booked, surely it would be better to show them as fully booked to encourage tourists to make their booking on another service promptly before alternatives too becomes fully booked? As the 15:25 could be one of the least popular workings, its absence seems to be because management is releasing the 15:25 booking slot only when advance bookings for the earlier trains on a particular day are strong, in order to provide more capacity. The 15:25 continues to be shown in the main timetable. For example on Tuesday 29/9/20 and Wednesday 30/9/20 neither the 12:10 nor the 15:25 are currently bookable which could mean they are already fully booked or that the release of these trains for booking depends on advance bookings for those days and that they will be released later to cope with demand if justified.

FR coach sets

Now that stable rakes are being used, here are the compositions of the three sets normally used.

A set

This set is normally used on the 10:00/13:15 departures with compartment numbers.

This northerly view (12/9/20) shows coach No.39 on the rear of the WHR Society Members special after arrival at Porthmadog at 13:06. The central two bays are marked out of use and the two end bays are clearly well over 2m apart and open to air currents anyway. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

B set

This set is normally used on the 11:05/14:20.

C set (Colonel Stephens' green livery set)

This set is normally used on the 12:10/13:25 (when running)

Any corrections to these lists are welcome.

FR services 22/9/20

Tuesday 22/9/20 saw the end of the warm sunny spell in North Wales and the FR rake was again positioned close to Spooners in the WHR platform for overspill for diners. Upnor Castle was stabled at Tan-y-bwlch in case of further point problems. Blanche was on the A set departing at 10:01. When it arrived at Tan-y-bwlch, the train engine uncoupled and reversed into the departure platform followed by Upnor Castle shunting the rake onto the rear of it. Trains departed as normal from the westbound platform so it appeared cannot be reversed to allow a normal run round but is trailable. David Lloyd George was on the B set departing at 11:05. No.5 hauled the third train departing Boston Lodge at 11:28 to shunt the yard and finally departing with the C set at 12:12 with the weather closing in and becoming rainy.

WHR suppressed demand?

The F&WHR management stated on 20/9/20 that there had been 'a very busy few weeks over the Summer with virtually every train on the WHR being fully booked'. This suggests there was suppressed demand for WHR services and more money could have be made for the F&WHR during these difficult times by operating trains on additional days, not just the four trains a week currently operated (MFSuX) compared to the FR's every day six train a day service (42 trains per week!).

North Wales main line news 22/9/20

Yellow liveried NR Class 150 DMU No.950001 made an inspection trip from Crewe to Blaenau Ffestiniog in readiness for the reopening of the storm damaged branch at the end of September.

Welsh Pony works plate 21/9/20

This view (21/9/20) shows the 1915 rebuild works plate from Welsh Pony that has been returned anonymously. It had been removed some time in the past when there seemed to be no hope of restoring the loco. It will probably be displayed in Spooners alongside other loco name plates and memorabilia. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Paul Lewin (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Tan-y-bwlch shunt release 21/9/20

On 20-21/9/20 Upnor Castle was used as shunt release loco at Tan-y-bwlch following failure of the points near the cafe.

This westerly view (21/9/20) shows Upnor Castle and Blanche posing side by side at Tan-y-bwlch. The diesel was shunt releasing Blanche due to failed points at the west end of the station. 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.

FR services 21/9/20

Monday 21/9/20 was another warm sunny day in North Wales and the FR rake was again positioned close to Spooners for overspill for diners. Upnor Castle had turned up early to shunt the rake to the platform allowing Linda a late start at 09:45 from Boston Lodge. COVID compliant cleaning was underway as passengers joined the train at 09:55 when Linda arrived and coupled up to pilot the diesel. Prompt work by station staff saw the 10:00 depart just 2 minutes late. Blanche then arrived at 10:46 to shunt and haul the B set. Finally No.5 was noted on the 12:10 passing Minffordd at 12:25 with the C set on the 12:10.

Welsh Pony naming ceremony YouTube 21/9/20

Click on the YouTube window to watch 9 mins 15 seconds of video showing the General Manager explaining the naming of No.5 as Welsh Pony at a private ceremony at Dduallt on 10/10/20. This YouTube was published on 21/9/20 and was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional 4K camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on YouTube link.

FR timetable cutbacks

Despite the sunny late September mild Autumn weather passenger numbers must be declining as it seems the 15:25 has been removed from the timetable this week (or is already fully booked which is unlikely) and will only run Saturday/Sunday 26-27/9/20. Four services are planned midweek using two sets until the end of September with the 12:10/15:25 removed from the timetable. Major changes are planned for October with services bookable until Friday 16/10/20. Friday services have disappeared from the FR timetable on 2/10/20 and no public services are offered over the Bygones Event members weekend 9-11/10/20. Initially only the 11:05/14:20 services are offered but on 5/10/20 and 15/10/20 the 13:15 is also offered. On the WHR, services are currently bookable until Thursday 15/10/20. Nevertheless the intention is still to run some sort of service until Saturday 31/10/20 on both railways if passenger numbers hold up and there is no national lockdown.

FR services 20/9/20

Unusually Blanche pilotted Upnor Castle on the first train of the day departing at 10:00. Again it was the Brown van rake so this seems to be the regular A set. The train returned at 1238 without Upnor Castle so that musty have been left elsewhere. Linda was on the second working and was noted departing Porthmadog. at 14:20 on time on its second trip. It passed No.5 at Minffordd which had hauled the third trip and was diagrammed to work the 15:25.

Allan Child has provided details of Upnor Castle's duties at Tan-y-bwlch, presumably caused by the failed point, gleaned from the webcams. 'I was able to check the Tan-y-Bwlch webcam from time to time during the day and Upnor Castle appears to have been used as station pilot there. When Linda arrived with the 11:05, Upnor Castle was standing in the Down platform road. Linda obviously then drew forward sufficiently to allow Upnor Castle to follow and shunt the rake into the Down platform; Linda then ran round the rake (via the Up platform road). When No.5 arrived with the 12:10, the procedure was a bit different; after No.5 had drawn forward Upnor Castle must have followed then set back onto the rake before No.5 ran back through the down platform road and Upnor Castle then shunted the rake into the down platform. Porthmadog webcam at about 15.20 showed No.5 shunting its rake into the seawall siding and then departing for Boston Lodge, so obviously the 15:25 was cancelled and presumably Upnor Castle returned with Linda on the return working of the 14:20'.

Small Engine specials 26-27/9/20

Britomart will work the 12:10 and 15:25 services on Saturday 26/9/20 and Lilla will be in charge of the 12:10 and 15:25 services on Sunday 27/9/20.

Seats are available at the moment, but may well sell out as demand increases. If a particular train does not show on the bookings system it has sold out.

FR services hit by points failure 19/9/20

Saturday 19/9/20 was another fine day in North Wales and the WHR platform was still occupied by FR coaches close to Spooners. Linda hauled the 10:00 with the first rake again leading with the brown van. For a change David Lloyd George was turned out for the 11:05. Blanche was on the 12:10. A set of points malfunctioned at Tan-y-bwlch and this led to late running in the afternoon. As a result Linda on the 13:15 at 13:50 and David Lloyd George arrived at Porthmadog at 14:15 just 5 minutes before its planned 14:20 departure. It was held until 15:03 and departed as passengers were arriving for the 15:25.

David Lloyd George returns 17-19/9/20

This northerly view (17/9/20) shows Merddin Emrys and David Lloyd George posing side by side at Harbour Station. The refurbishment of the red Fairlie had been put back in favour of completion of Welsh Pony and maintaining the small engines for the Heritage service. David Lloyd George made some running in trips back and forth across The Cob and appeared on ITV Wales coverage of the F&WHR on the same day. 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 view (19/9/20) shows David Lloyd George hauling the 11:05 Heritage service crossing The Cob. The loco's last trip was 23/3/20. 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.

BYGONES WEEKEND 9-11/10/20

This year has not turned out the way any of us would ever have expected and it has required the F&WHR to continually review their plans for train services and events. Already of number of events have been cancelled including the famous WHR SuperPower Event.

https://bit.ly/33DTllU

FR services 18/9/20

Friday 18/9/20 was another fine day in Porthmadog and the FR rake was pulled up close to Spooners in the WHR platform all morning. Traffic numbers still look good with many middle aged couples without school age children visiting mid week. With the Covid figures rising again and the Tory Health Secretary refusing to rule out another national lockdown, it seems people are determined to get a staycation holiday in North Wales. Another National Lockdown would likely see F&WHR services immediately stopped again.

Linda turned up at 09:50 and promptly shunted the rake with the brown van leading into the platform. Quick work by platform staff saw the train leave on time at 10:00. Merddin Emrys was next shunting at 10:46 ready for the 11:05 departure. No.5 hauled the third train, the 12:10, passing Minffordd at 12:25 with three 4-wheelers, NWNGR coach No.24, 2 saloons, brakevan No.10 but unusually no Open coach.

Trawsfynydd Transformer delivered via Black Rock Sands 16/9/20

A new transformer was delivered to Trawsfynydd via Black Rock Sands beach on 16/9/20 being unloaded from a large flat bottom barge, The Terra Marique, on Black Rock Sands beach. The transformer completed it s journey to Trawsfynydd via road through Porthmadog, across The Cob on 18/9/20. The transformer for the Ffestiniog Pumped Storage scheme had arrived by rail via the Conwy Valley line in 1962 but this was unavailable due to the continuing repair of storm damage and the unwillingness of NR to countenance out-of-gauge loads. See YouTube of the 1962 delivery when BR was more pro-active.

For images of this year's delivery see BBC News story and Daily Post story.

FR services 16/9/20

Wednesday dawned fine at Porthmadog with the FR rake in the WHR platform close to Spooners. Blanche was active at Boston Lodge at 09:30 and hauled the serviced rake back to Porthmadog arriving at 09:45, before shunting it to a siding. This is the second day that the serviced rake has not been put into instant service suggesting rakes are used in a particular order. After further shunting, another rake led by the brown van and two other four-wheelers with 4 saloons and an Open at the rear, departing on time at 10:00. Merddin Emrys hauled the second rake and No.5 the third.

Wylfa B cancelled? 15/9/20

The BBC has reported that Hitachi, the developer behind Wylfa B, has withdrawn from the project. Hitachi owns Horizon Nuclear the official developer of Wylfa Newydd site. This comes days before the Environment Permit was to be confirmed and will hit job prospects in Anglesey hard if no other developer is found. It also means no resumption in the flask traffic that was expected once the power station was in operation. The Tory Government recently delayed the Planning Consent yet again until 30/9/20 and seem unable to make a decision on this project which is so vital for jobs in North Wales during the COVID pandemic. See BBC story.

A Sunday Times report said China's General Nuclear Power Corporation was keen to buy the site as part of plans to build a fleet of nuclear reactors but Trump has cautioned against accepting offers from China. The construction of the power station would have offered 9,000 much needed jobs in North Wales and when operational in 5 years time Wylfa B could power up to 5 million homes. There is a danger the National Grid could become unstable due to the closure of old Nuclear Power stations (in addition to the almost complete closure of coal-fired power stations) and the reliance of unpredictable wind turbines and solar power.

FR services 15/9/20

The FR stock was positioned close to Spooners in the WHR platform and it seemed another fine day at Porthmadog. At 9:50 Linda arrived with a rake from Boston Lodge which had probably been serviced as part of a regular cycle. The rake was shunted into the sidings and the rake for the first train extracted. This process meant that the 10:00 departed some 6 minutes late. However, Blanche was much more prompt with the second train which left on time at 11:05. No.5 was turned out for the 12:10 duty arriving at 11:42 to shunt the yard. It had a full length rake of 5 bogies (including the Open) and three four-wheelers. Palmerston is apparently out of action following the fusible plug leak that led to last week's failure.

Moving Pictures No.44 14/9/20

Click on the YouTube window to watch 36 mins 46 seconds of video covering No.5's first visit to Tan-y-grisiau on 5/9/20 and the WHRS Members' Special on 14/9/20 to Beddgelert, both locations Welsh Pony had not visited since the early 1930s. The YouTube also captures your webmaster admiring locos at Beddgelert, another possible first! This YouTube was published on 14/9/20 and was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional 4K camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on YouTube link.

WHR news

Plas-y-nant bridge will be replaced this winter during the WMWP. When the WHR was rebuilt, the other two bowstring bridges at Betws Garmon and Salem were treated differently. The first was completely replaced with a structure acquired from BR and the second lifted out and repaired on the south bank near the Water Works. The Plas-y-nant bridge was lifted and repaired in situ but experiences more lateral forces being on a curve and has deteriorated.

There will be no F&WHR Santa Trains this year however the question of an Xmas Holiday Timetable is yet to be settled.

North Wales main line 14/9/20

Class 67s Nos.67023/7 top and tailed the NR Q train Crewe to Holyhead and back to Liverpool on 14/9/20.

The September Edition of Back Track magazine (Vol.34 No.9) features an article on the Buckley Railway in North East Wales.

F&WHR timetables confirmed until mid October

The FR timetable now shows trains confirmed daily until 16/10/20 with the 11:05 and 14:20 bookable but the other 4 trains 'Not Yet Released'. This gives the FR the opportunity to add extra trains as traffic develops. One set can perform the 11:05 and 14:20 duties. On the strength of the Autumn 'shoulder' traffic so far all six trains are now bookable until the end of September. On the WHR a similar pattern exists with trains shown MFSuX until 15/10/20 (a correction as the October trains had previously been shown running every day) with the 11:00 once a day Caernarfon-Beddgelert service. Both FR and WHR services are shown as 'possibly running' later in October until Saturday 31/10/20 but currently not bookable.

New Welsh Social distancing rules from 14/9/20

F&WHR statement

• Station Toilets - we ask you to follow a 'One Out, One In' routine when entering, this will help avoid unintended crowding due to the restricted spaces and single entry/exit doors.

FR services 14/9/20

Monday dawned fine and warm and there were plenty of tourists in North Wales. The FR coaches on the WHR platform had been moved clear of the WHR point next to Britannia Bridge. Blanche hauled the 10:00, Merddin Emrys on the 11:05 and Linda on the 12:10.

Bygones Weekend may feature WHR trains

Officials inspected the historic WHR water tower at Beddgelert on 12/9/20. It has emerged that the FR 'Bygones Weekend' event 9-11/10/20 will be extended to Beddgelert making it a joint FR/WHR event as there was no SuperPower over the weekend of 11-13/9/20, just two WHRS members only special trains from Porthmadog to Beddgelert on 12/9/20. This will appease WHRS members who might rightly consider holding an FR exclusive event unfair.

It was announced on 11/9/20 that Hugh Napier would not be ready in time for the Bygones Weekend as the amount of work needed on the motion was more extensive than thought at first. However, it should still be in service for the ash movement trains planned for winter weekends.

FR trains 13/9/20

The three FR coaches had been shunted back close to Spooners on 12/8/20. Sunday started out a little damp but cleared up later. A couple who had unfortunately been double booked in Spooners actually ate in there Friday. Linda was on the 10:00 and Blanche on the 11:05.

Dinas Open Day 12/9/20

This northerly view (12/9/20) shows No.130 with paintwork complete stabled at Dinas outside the Goods shed at 15:28. Much other work needs to be finished before the loco is available for traffic. Surprisingly few came to visit the Dinas offerings. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/9/20) shows Harlech Castle with PW livery stabled at Dinas outside the Goods shed at 15:29. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This Dinas shed view (12/9/20) shows the boiler donated by Puffing Billy Railway with new smokebox fitted at 15:39. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (12/9/20) shows No.87 on the return working of the 11:00 Caernarfon-Beddgelert passing Dinas Loco Shed at 15:41. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This Dinas shed view (12/9/20) shows the current state of progress with NG15 No.134 at 15:39. The loco needs to be wheeled and the K-H pony truck is visible alongside. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This Dinas shed view (12/9/20) shows the detail of the K-H pony truck at 15:39. The ball joint and springs puts a force on the lead drivers that helps lead the loco into curves considering its long wheelbase. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This Dinas shed view (12/9/20) shows No.134's wheels all ready for fitting at 16:02. Much other work needs to be finished before the loco is available for traffic. Behind is No.138 and depot pilot Bill (ex Shotton Steelworks). Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/9/20) shows Vale of Ffestiniog arriving with North Wales Track Gang's volunteer work party at Dinas outside the Goods shed at 16:24. Coach No.111 is currently used as their Mess Coach. In the foreground a new point is under construction. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (12/9/20) shows B wagon No.921 with the remains of the Waunfawr wooden station building at 16:24 that the North Wales Track gang had demolished. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

WHRS Members' Special 12/9/20

This westerly view (12/9/20) shows Upnor Castle moving the three FR coaches in the WHR platform to Boston Lodge at 09:21 to allow the WHRS Members' Special train to run into the platform. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (12/9/20) shows No.5 shunting in the yard to prepare the WHRS Members' Special train to run into the platform. It had arrived behind Merddin Emrys which shunted into the WHR loop line. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (12/9/20) shows Blanche shunting the yard at 09:53 in preparation for the 10:00 service which left a little late as No.5 was also shunting the yard. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (12/9/20) shows No.5 departing the yard at 10:10 in preparation for the 10:15 WHRS Members' Special. The England had extracted two bug boxes from another rake and then shunted an extra Observation 4-wheeler No.12 onto the front of the WHRS Member's special to strengthen the rake. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/9/20) shows Merddin Emrys with No.5 approaching Nantmor on the WHRS 10:15 special. The double Fairlie was required as No.5's lightweight tender could not pass through the hydraulic automatic points. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/9/20) shows Merddin Emrys and No.5 approaching Bryn-y-felin at 11:03. According to the fireman of No.5, Merddin Emrys had eased up to let No.5 work hard on the 1 in 40 grades through the Aberglaslyn Pass. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/9/20) shows Merddin Emrys and No.5 approaching Bryn-y-felin at 11:03. No.5 was working hard and making a lot of smoke. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/9/20) shows Merddin Emrys had detached and run forward to water at the Beddgelert water crane at 11.13. Few stayed on the platform as most members seemed to bring their families who wanted to visit the Beddgelert ice cream parlour! Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/9/20) shows Merddin Emrys running round at 11:18 to attach inside on the return leg.. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/9/20) shows Merddin Emrys having completed the run round. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/9/20) shows No.5 still attached to the rake, waiting its turn to water at 11:11. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/9/20) shows No.5 still attached to its rake before making its way to the heritage water tower at 11:12. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/9/20) shows No.5 watering at the historic Beddgelert water tower replicating scenes from many original WHR photos. The loco will be the centre piece of the Bygones Weekend in October replacing both SuperPower and Vintage Weekend. 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 view (12/9/20) shows No.5 completing its run round at Beddgelert at 11:35. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (12/9/20) shows Merddin Emrys and No.5 coupling up at 11:37. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (12/9/20) shows No.5 and Merddin Emrys passing Cemetery Crossing on the return journey at 12:14. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (12/9/20) shows 4 B wagons stabled at Hafod-y-llyn at 12:28. These could possibly have been on loco ash disposal duties. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on an iPhone camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (12/9/20) shows No.5 and Merddin Emrys crossing Britannia Bridge on the return journey at 12:55. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (12/9/20) shows No.5 and Merddin Emrys shunting to the yard at 13:00 soon after arrival to clear the route for the 13:15 service train. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (12/9/20) shows Blanche ready to depart at 13:07 on the 13:15 standard FR service train. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Michael Portillo on FR 12/9/20

Ex-Tory Minister Michel Portillo visited Porthmadog and the FR on 12/9/20. This was in preparation for another of his 'Great Railway Journey' series likely to be shown early in 2021.

FR trains 11-12/9/20

Merddin Emrys, Linda and No.5 hauled the FR trains on 11/12/20.

On 12/9/20 Merddin Emrys and Linda performed again on the first and third timetabled workings with the rake for the second 11:05 working being allocated to two WHRS specials that day.

FR Scenes from 11/9/20

This northerly view (11/9/20) shows Linda with the second train of the day at 12:36.awaiting the arrival of the third train. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (11/9/20) shows No.5 arriving at Tan-y-bwlch with the third train of the day at 12:58..Linda is waiting to depart. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (11/9/20) shows Merddin Emrys pulling into Minffordd on the 13:15 service. The train had been held at signals for several minutes. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (11/9/20) shows Linda passing Merddin Emrys at 13:35 at Minffordd. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (11/9/20) shows Merddin Emrys ready to depart Minffordd on its second train of the day at 13:37. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (11/9/20) shows No.5 arriving at Porthmadog with the final train of the day, originally the 15:25 from Porthmadog. The weather was deteriorating by this time. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (11/9/20) shows No.5 preparing to shunt its rake to the sea wall siding at 18:06 having run round at Porthmadog. It drizzled overnight. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

FR trains 10/9/29

The weather was much better on 10/9/20 and the Open coaches were in use. Blanche was on the first train with 3 bugboxes, 4 saloons and Open coach No.37. There was a works train at Tan-y-bwlch at 10:10 with the cherry picker wagon probably on its way to Blaenau Ffestiniog. Merddin Emrys was surprisingly turned out for the second train, shunting the yard at 10:49 and departing at 11:05 with five saloons and an Open coach. No.5 hauled the third train with 3 bugs, 4 saloons and an Open coach.

Conwy Valley to reopen 26/9/20

TfW are suggesting that the Conwy Valley line may reopen 26/9/20.

Webmaster's Holiday (11/9/20)

There will be a couple of days' break in updates as your webmaster will be in Porthmadog for the WHRS Members' Day. Normal service will be resumed Sunday 13/9/20.

FR 'Vintage Weekend' cancelled (9/9/20)

The F&WHR has bowed to the inevitable and cancelled the Vintage Weekend due 9-11/10/20 and replaced it with a smaller 'Bygones Weekend' event. This follows cancellation of the WHR's SuperPower event and its replacement with a small scale Members Day on 12/9/20 featuring two special trains from Porthmadog to Beddgelert hauled by No.5 and a socially distanced visit to Dinas to see progress on No.130 etc..

Details of the Covid-aware 'Bygones' weekend, which will feature Heritage trains, passenger and goods - with seats on all trains being pre-booked in the same fashion as the current service trains to Tan-y-Bwlch...

Please Note: this will not be a costumed event, there will be no sideshows/stalls, strict Covid-19 compliant measures will be in place (please bring your face masks etc), access to main stations will be limited to ticket holders - but the F&WHR will be doing their very best to lay on a weekend that maximises the enjoyment of the railway's rich heritage..!

Final details are being worked out at the present moment and will be available in a few days. Further information will appear on the F&WHR's Facebook and website as soon as possible.

No.130 9/9/20

This Dinas loco shed view (9/9/20) shows No.130 with the cab fitted that was delivered on 8/9/20 (see below). The loco will be the centre piece of a small WHRS members event on 12/9/20 at Dinas replacing SuperPower. 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.

FR services 9/9/20

It was a fine day for a change at Porthmadog and Blanche hauled the first train (10:00), shunting at 09:42. The rake consisted of 5 saloons, the Open coach and 3 bugboxes. Linda hauled the second train (11:05) with 5 saloons an Open coach and 1 bugbox. No.5 was on the 12:10 with 3 bugboxes, coach No.24 and 3 other saloons and an open coach.

Vale of Ffestiniog 8/9/20

This southerly view (8/9/20) shows Vale of Ffestiniog hauling a works train to Dinas crossing Cae Pawb Crossing as seen from Gelert's Farm at 9:30. This explains the shunting of the FR rake in the WHR platform on 8/9/20. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (8/9/20) shows Vale of Ffestiniog hauling a works train to Dinas passing Gelert's Farm. The DZ wagon was carrying a load of old wooden sleepers and the well wagon was carrying the recently painted cab of No.130 which is rapidly nearing completion at Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

WHR timetable for October

A lilac timetable for WHR trains until 31/10/20 is now showing on the timetable website matching the equivalent FR timetable. No specific trains are shown but the information suggests that trains will be running subject to traffic and to watch the F&WHR website/social media for updates.

Single passengers?

Maybe the F&WHR could have standby tickets for single passengers on the understanding that if their chosen train is fully booked they would get their money backed or could travel on a later train if not fully booked. Usually the 15:25 is not fully booked. Recently there have been plenty of seats on the Open coaches due to inclement weather. Turning away potential passenger fares at this time of economic uncertainty for the railway does not make sense.

FR services 8/9/20

Another rainy day in North Wales yet there were plenty of tourists about with people desperate for a staycation before the inevitable second wave (of which signs already showing with cases up markedly nationally). The three FR coaches in the WHR platform had been moved east again to clear the WHR loop point by Britannia Bridge. Linda, with cab back sheet appropriately fitted, hauled the 10:00 with Blanche on the 11:05 and Palmerston on the 12:10 in deteriorating misty weather. Presumably adhesion difficulties in the misty woods caused the afternoon's timetable to be thrown into chaos. Upnor Castle recovered the train and was noted shunting onto the rake at Porthmadog at 14:52 and No.5 hurried over from Boston Lodge clearly substituting for Palmerston to double head at 15:04. Prompt work by the station staff saw the train depart at 15:08, probably the 14:20. Upnor Castle was retained as there is a problem connecting No.5 directly to this rake.

Linda which should have left Tan-y-bwlch at 15:10 on its second trip was still running round at that time. Meanwhile Blanche passed No.5 and Upnor Castle at Minffordd and Palmerston was noted on the rear. It seems that Blanche had rescued Palmerston from where it was dumped after failing on its first trip and all the locos possibly rolled back one train. Prompt station work at Porthmadog saw Blanche run round and shunt the rake to the seawall siding at 15:46 before it took the failed Palmerston back to Boston Lodge at 15:50 so no 15:25 service today. No.5 and Upnor Castle arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 15:50 allowing Linda to depart at 15:55.

Linda arrived back at Porthmadog at 16:25 and shunted the rake to the yard at 16:38. No.5 and Upnor Castle left Tan-y-bwlch at 16:39. At 16:44 Linda was used to shunt the 3 FR coaches back along the WHR platform closer to Spooners (and fouling the WHR point in the process) before being disposed to Boston Lodge at 16:52.

The Snowdonian 7/11/20

The COVID delayed Snowdonian will run on 7/11/20. The £200 fare includes lunch at Waunfawr, No.87 on the WHR and a triple headed England on the FR with No.5 running as Welsh Pony following its naming at the FR Vintage Gala. Almost 80 miles of narrow gauge haulage will be included. With no First class and accommodation limited by social distancing, tickets are fewer than in the past. Booking can be made by post/phone or email. See F&WHR website which has not yet been updated to match adverts in the press.

BBC reports National Lottery Award 6/9/20

The BBC has reported the granting of £250,000 to the F&WHR to help support it throughout the COVID virus crisis. BBC report.

FR services 7/9/20

The 7/9/20 was a showery day in North Wales. Linda, with demountable cab back-sheet fitted, hauled the 10:00 service but with no Open coach in the rake. Blanche hauled the 11:05 and hauled the only rake with an Open coach today. No.5 hauled the 12:10.

FR services 6/9/20

The 6/9/20 was a showery day at Porthmadog. Palmerston was due to haul the first train and as usual the Open coach had been removed from the rake. Concerns about the loco's tendency to slip led to it being piloted by Moelwyn on the first trip only. The diesel had been used to shunt the 3 FR coaches in the WHR platform clear of the WHR loop point close to Britannia Bridge, a sure sign the WHR was due to see a movement. Linda, with demountable cab fitted, hauled the second train. At midday Vale of Ffestiniog turned up in the WHR loop from Dinas with the well wagon which had been to Waunfawr to deliver an excavator helping demolish the wood station building which will be stored for use elsewhere. The Funkey shunted the three FR coaches back close to Spooners to act as Spooners' overspill and allow more socially distanced dining, before disappearing across The Cob with the well wagon. Blanche then hauled the 12:10.

This westerly view (6/9/20) shows Moelwyn and Palmerston running around at Tan-y-bwlch after arriving with the 10:00 from Porthmadog at 10:58, having already reversed its train into the westbound platform. The loco arrived wrong line and then shunted back into the yard. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is a screengrab courtesy F&WHR webcam. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

FR Members' Special 5/9/20

This southerly view (5/9/20) shows No.5 hauling the 12:10 FR Members Special service rounding the Dduallt spiral on its way to Tan-y-grisiau, where it ran round and reversed. This service ran in the path of a revenue earning service and most members did not get to hear of it. 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 westerly view (5/9/20) shows No.5 hauling the 12:10 FR Members Special service crossing Penstocks Crossing, Tan-y-grisiau, where it ran round and reversed. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Alan Frewin and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (5/9/20) shows No.5 running round the 12:10 FR Members Special service at Tan-y-grisiau. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Alan Frewin and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

FR services 5/9/20

Palmerston put in an unexpected appearance on the 10:00 service with the rake again shortened by removal of the open coach. Linda hauled the 11:05 and No.5, back from its visit to Glan-y-pwll, hauled the 12:10.

No.5 ash special 4/9/20

No.5 worked a DZ wagon full of loco ash and a brakevan to Glan-y-pwll on 4/9/20. After collecting the curly roofed van and two bowsiders from Glan-y-pwll carriage shed the mixed rake returned to Boston Lodge.

This Campbell's Platform view (4/9/20) shows No.5 taking a DZ wagon of loco ash to dispose of at Dduallt. The loco then ran to Glan-y-pwll to bring 3 more coaches down to Boston Lodge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is a screengrab courtesy F&WHR webcam. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Additional photos/video are available of the F&WHR Facebook page.

FR services 4/9/20

Prince hauled the 10:00 and Blanche the 11:05. Upnor Castle turned up to remove the Open coach from the third rake as Palmerston was allocated for the 12:10 and has a lower timing load than the other two England locos. This was the first time it had been used since Bank Holiday Monday. The other two trains had an Open coach. Upnor Castle then removed two B wagons at 12:18 to Minffordd Yard for refilling with coal for Harbour Station fuelling point. The diesel returned propelling one B wagon full of coal arriving at Harbour station at 13:56. This allowed Blanche to refuel and shunt onto its train at 14:09 departing at 14:23, a few minutes late.

This Minffordd view (4/9/20) shows Upnor Castle taking two wagons from Harbour station to Minffordd Yard presumably to refill with coal. The loco arrived wrong line and then shunted back into the yard. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is a screengrab courtesy F&WHR webcam. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This Tan-y-bwlch view (4/9/20) shows Palmerston arriving with a shortened rake. The train arrived at 12:55 taking the standard 45 minutes from Porthmadog despite its lower power. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is a screengrab courtesy F&WHR webcam. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

FR to offer October service

The FR's timetable website (as opposed to the booking website) now shows a lilac timetable for the whole of October. Clicking on the lilac timetable gives a message that 'A train service will be operating on this date, however, tickets and times have not yet been released. Keep watching our website and social media channels for the ticket release date.' No such timetable information is provided for the WHR in October although the F&WHR have stated they are considering such a service if traffic justifies it.

FR services 3/9/20

Linda hauled the 10:00, Prince the 11:05 and Blanche the 12:10 in improving weather.

F&WHR 2-3/9/20

This westerly view (2/9/20) shows Prince hauling the 15:25 service departing Harbour Station. 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.

This westerly view (3/9/20) shows Linda hauling the 10:00 service crossing Penrhyndeudraeth level crossing. 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.

This northerly view (3/9/20) shows No.87 hauling the 11:00 service from Caernarfon at Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings taken by a quadcopter. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

WHR 'Back to Beddgelert' tickets released until 1/10/20

With Autumn Staycation improving visitor number to North Wales compared to 'Flycation' with its inherent uncertainties about Covid quarantine, the F&WHR has bowed to requests for more certainty about its WHR service, particularly as the FR was continuing until 30/9/20.

• Passengers can now book their tickets for our Caernarfon to Beddgelert service that will be running up until the Thursday 1/10/20.

• The F&WHR 'Back to Beddgelert' service runs between Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday each week.

• Trains will depart from Caernarfon Station at 11:00, arriving at Beddgelert Station at approx. 12:45.

• Visitors will have a 1hr 30mins visit at Beddgelert before returning on the 14:15 train which will arrive back at Caernarfon Station at approx. 16:00.

• Further trains may be added in October as bookings increase, the situation is being reviewed daily.

• Book online at https://bit.ly/2PYGgx5

All the details are available on the F&WHR website, with links between the various pages, but here are a few shortcuts:

bit.ly/2PREY70 - Details of the 'Back to Beddgelert' train service...

bit.ly/2Y090dc - FAQs about 'Back to Beddgelert'...

bit.ly/3g1QgAx - The new Hampers available for these trains.

FR's timetable becomes random!

With FR services extending until 30/9/20, either heavy booking of some services or attempts at yield management are making the FR timetable look unpredictable. The last day that all six trains can be booked is currently Sunday 13/9/20. The 15:25 disappears after 16/9/20 as the evenings draw in but on that day 3 services are currently bookable 11:05/14:20/15:25. For the next three days only the 11:05/14:20 are bookable but on Sunday 20/9/20 three services again, the 11:05/12:10/14:20. On 21-22/9/20 the first five trains are bookable. On 23/9/20 the first and third sets are out providing four bookable trains. From 24-30/9/20 just two trains are bookable, the 11:05/14:20; however Monday 28/9/20 has three trains bookable with the addition of the 12:10.

Although computer literate people will have no trouble with this, the absence of a regular timetable will make booking for others a confusing process. Maybe the booking website should state which trains are already fully booked and encourage people to book for fear of losing the chance? As with the WHR, the F&WHR will be looking at traffic carefully and judging whether to provide services in October.

FR services 1-2/9/20

September dawned with more fine weather at Porthmadog and back to normal on the loco roster with Merddin Emrys and Palmerston put 'back in their boxes'. The FR rake featuring brakes Nos.11/12 was in the WHR platform as Upnor Castle shunted the yard at 09:50. Prince was standing at station limits receiving attention before entering the yard to shunt its rake to the platform. Upnor Castle then removed two saloon coaches and an Observation car from the yard disappearing over The Cob at 10:00. This made Prince late with the rake arriving in the FR platform at 10:04 and prompt work by station staff allowing the train to get away at 10:08 only 8 minutes down. Time could have been saved by Prince connecting to the rake in the WHR platform.

Linda hauled the second train, shunting directly onto the rake in the WHR platform where it coupled up at 10:42. Maybe Upnor Castle had been present and shunted the rake into the platform. At 10:45 the rake was reversed back to the permanently stabled rake of three FR coaches used as extra seating for Spooners. At 10:48 it drew the 3 stabled FR coaches forward while a lot of attention seems to have been given to the king point, which appeared to require hand cranking. Linda left with its standard rake on time at 11:05, possibly the first public departure from this platform in over 5 months, leaving the three FR coaches repositioned further east along the WHR platform, thereby clearing the western WHR loop point.

Blanche turned up for the third train. Upnor Castle arrived at 12:00 running into the WHR loop to stable. Blanche departed on time at 12:10 by which time Upnor Castle had disappeared, probably up the WHR as the stabled FR coaches had been earlier moved to clear the WHR loop point. The FR coaches were shunted back to be close to Spooners at the end of the day, again fouling the western WHR loop point.

On 2/9/20 rain came in from the west. Linda hauled the 10:00 service but without demountable cab, something the crew might later have regretted. Blanche was provided for the 11:05 and Prince for the 12:10.

WHR services 1/9/20

Today's service had 12 carriages with 30 seating bays. There are very few problems with social distancing on the WHR services despite having three bays in a coach so the central party needs to pass others. The corridor doors are open and have been helpfully marked with signs that indicate the nearest toilet. On the way back the train had 13 coaches as it picked up one, presumably brought to Beddgelert by Upnor Castle (see FR services).

F&WHR receives Lottery Grant 1/9/20

After being forced to shut down all their operations earlier this year due to the devastating COVID-19 crisis, there is finally some light at the end of the tunnel for the F&WHR, one of the largest and most successful tourist railways in Wales, as services get back on track with the help of £250,000 from The National Lottery. When lockdown measures came into effect in March this year, the F&WHR, along with thousands of other businesses in the tourist sector, were just getting ready to open for what would normally have been the start of their peak season. However, as a result of the COVID-19 global pandemic, they were forced to shut down their operations and instantly had to switch into survival mode.

Heritage railways across the UK traditionally attract millions of visitors and passengers every year. They support around 4,000 jobs and contribute some £400million of economic impact to the visitor economy. They also play a key role for apprentices and trainees to learn vital heritage skills. Being forced to shut down during their busiest time of year had a devastating effect on the income of F&WHR. However, The F&WHR is amongst a number of heritage railways throughout the UK that have received vital funding from The National Lottery Heritage Fund’s Heritage Emergency Fund. The £50m fund was put together in response to the COVID-19 outbreak to support the heritage sector.

Made possible by National Lottery players, the funding is enabling bills and salaries to be paid and essential repairs and maintenance of tracks, engines and trains to continue. It is also helping organisations look towards reopening for business and getting their volunteers, apprentices and staff back on board. As lockdown measures eased, services eventually re-commenced on the FR on 20/7/20, and on the WHR on 18/8/20, but at a greatly reduced capacity due to carriages having to be adapted and capacity limited due to social distancing guidelines. These restrictions still limit the revenue they are able to generate at this current time. However, the £250,000 grant from The National Lottery is enabling F&WHR to continue to maintain their heritage buildings, work which had to be suspended at the start of the crisis.

To thank National Lottery players for their support, the first WHR locomotive to be rolled out since lockdown measures were eased in Wales, was emblazoned with a special ‘Thank You’ message to all National Lottery players who raise more than £30 million a week for good causes throughout the UK. Highlighting the importance of The National Lottery funding, the F&WHR General Manager, Paul Lewin, said: “Without this funding, we would simply not have been able to afford to continue this highly important work, having effectively lost four months of our high season. The National Lottery Heritage Fund have also been very supportive of our ongoing project to secure the future of the historic railway works site at Boston Lodge by conserving the remaining 19th century buildings to ensure that they can continue to function effectively into the 21st century. Thanks to the invaluable support of The National Lottery and its players, we are pleased to confirm that this project is continuing unabated, despite the current challenging situation.”

Mr Lewin added: “COVID-19 brought all our efforts to a rapid and potentially very damaging halt. The additional support of The National Lottery during this emergency means that we can form a plan that sees our business survive the immediate challenges and go on to flourish once more in the future.” Andrew White, Director of National Lottery Heritage Fund, Wales, said: “Our heritage railways are totally reliant on the summer months for their income. Lockdown has left many struggling and some facing a bleak future. We're thankful to been able to support a number of them with emergency funding thanks to National Lottery players, including F&WHR. The heritage sector is so vital for tourism, jobs and wellbeing as we emerge from this crisis.”

Thirty million pounds is raised every week on average by National Lottery players for projects big and small across the country. Since the outbreak of COVID-19, The National Lottery has announced support packages of up to £600 million across arts, sports, heritage, education and the environment.

To find out more about the range of funding support announced by National Lottery distributors across the UK to date, visit the National Lottery Good Causes website www.lotterygoodcauses.org.uk/coronavirus-pandemic-response.

FR services 31/8/20

Blanche made an early light engine trip to Tan-y-bwlch presumably after receiving some attention passing the 10:00 at Rhiw Goch loop. Prince, Palmerston and No.5 were the rostered locos for the three passenger turns of the day.

Main line trains 31/8/20-2/9/20

On 31/8/20 Class 73s Nos.73961/963 on an NR inspection train covered the Wrexham to Bidston line Borderlands Line.

On 2/9/20 with the line due to reopen in September Nos.70806/15 top and tailed a spoil removal train leaving Llandudno Junction at 07:30 for the Conwy Valley possession.

Amlwch funding 30/8/20

The BBC reports that a bid has been made to fund a study into reopening of the Amlwch Branch.

F&WHR booking

Services begin to wind down from 14/9/20 with the final train of the day, the 15:25, cut that day. The following day currently has a four train service with two sets out. Only one train set with two return services, the 11:05 and 14:20 are bookable for the last two weeks of September from Wednesday 16-30/9/20. currently no trains are shown in October though this may be revised if autumn shoulder staycation traffic remains high. The WHR continues with its one train a day 11:00 service from Caernarfon to Beddgelert until 19/9/20 but if booking remain strong trains may continue until the end of September. Both railways may operate October services if the demand is there for services that can be operated economically.

Bank Holiday weather report

The weather was cool but dry over the weekend and this may have encouraged visitors to travel on the FR where loadings looked good even on the 15:25. In fact the BBC reports it was one of the coldest August Bank holidays on record in addition to the hottest August day on record earlier in the month!

No.87 at Rhyd Ddu 29/8/20

This northerly view (29/8/20) shows No.87 on the 11am from Caernarfon passing Vale of Ffestiniog at Rhyd Ddu returning from delivering platform seats to Beddgelert with the North Wales Track Gang. The loco is still carrying the National Lottery headboard (see story below). 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.

Waunfawr works 29/8/20

Volunteers were dismantling the old wooden waiting room/toilet structure at Waunfawr on 29/8/20. This is no longer needed since the completion of Waunfawr station building.

YouTube 'How to book WHR' 28/8/20

Click on the YouTube window to watch 6 mins 22 seconds of video covering how to book tickets on the WHR. The YouTube also shows scenes from the journey from Caernarfon to Beddgelert on the first WHR train. This YouTube was published on 28/8/20 and was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional 4K camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on YouTube link.

Hugh Napier ready for FR's October Vintage weekend (30/8/20)

Hugh Napier, the National Trust owned locomotive in the care of the F&WHR is currently undergoing a significant overhaul at Boston Lodge. The 0-4-0 large quarry Hunslet (855 of 1904) originally worked at the Penrhyn quarries. In 2018 the two organisations came to an agreement that would see the locomotive stay at the F&WHR for the next ten years and in return the F&WHR would raise the funds to cover the ten-year overhaul of the boiler. This was scheduled for 2021 - however, with the Covid lockdown and with funds on-hand, the decision was taken to start the job a year early as with fewer trains running, loco maintenance has taken less of the works time. The boiler tubes were very thin at the smokebox end and heavily pitted inside the boiler. As the loco was not likely to see much use in 2020 and with space available at Boston Lodge everything seemed to fit together well.

The strip down was completed in July and the boiler was inspected. No work was required other than a re-tube which has now been completed. The longest delay in this being waiting for the tubes to arrive from the supplier. Volunteer loco crew have helped clean the boiler shell and repaint it. The chassis whilst reasonably solid suffers from misalignment. The works team have set about a major overhaul of the wheelsets, horns and slidebars. This along with work on crossheads and rod ends should see the loco fit for use for another few decades.

Given a successful hydraulic test of the boiler, due in mid-September, the engine is hoped to be back in action in time for the FR's Vintage Weekend. Whilst not an FR locomotive, members do enjoy catching a glimpse of Hugh Napier working in the sidings or in the yard at Boston Lodge. The locomotive will be out-shopped in its current, original-style, black livery as the paint is in good condition, only requiring light repairs. As the WHR's SuperPower event has been cut back to a couple of trips from Porthmadog to Beddgelert with No.5, WHR Society members must be hoping that the FR Vintage weekend will be extended onto the WHR. This would have the added advantage of spreading out any crowds and permitting better social distancing.

A full Autumn program of works trains is planned for the loco, mainly moving ash and other materials around the FR. Volunteers wishing to help with this work on trains hauled by Hugh Napier should drop an email to jstirland@ffwhr.com in the first instance.