Carriage No.37 ready for action 31/3/21

FR Open carriage No.37 has been completed by the Coach Works and turned out with compartment dividers made of flexible plastic sheets attached to hooks on the inside of the vehicle. This doubles the carrying capacity of the vehicle which is popular in warm weather.

This westerly view (31/3/21) shows Boston Lodge pilot Moel y-gest shunting the completed open coach No.37 to make space for other projects in the Coach Works. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Glenn Williams (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (31/3/21) shows the detail of the flexible plastic dividers in open coach No.37 that have doubled the capacity of the coach. These can easily we removed at a later date when COVID is hopefully over. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Glenn Williams (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Plas-y-nant bridge trackwork completion 31/3/21

With the replacement bridgeworks complete on 11/3/21, PW staff moved in to replace the track on 31/3/21. Rails displaced by the project were dragged back onto the bridge, set to gauge and screwed down to the sleepers fixed to the waybeams. The work was in readiness for some stock transfers that need to take place before services commence on the 1/5/21.

This northerly view (31/3/21) shows PW staff using a gauge bar to set the gauge of the rails to be screwed down to the new Plas-y-nant bridge. Wooden sleepers have been bolted to the waybeams and the rails are screwed down to the sleepers. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (31/3/21) shows PW staff using a gauge bar to set the gauge of the rails to be screwed down to the new Plas-y-nant bridge. The additional rails outside the running rails are check rails used on all bridges on the WHR to contain movement of any derailed rolling stock. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Conwy Valley line reopens 29/3/21

An NR test train visited the Conwy Valley line on 23/3/21 with 37099 and 37175 (3Q08 Crewe to Crewe via Llandudno and Blaenau Ffestiniog) in advance of reopening. Train services resumed on the Conwy Valley line for Easter from Monday 29/3/21. This was after the train service had been disrupted by Storm Christophe's heavy continuous rainfall on 20/1/21 which caused several washouts of the track on the Conwy Valley Line between Llandudno Junction and Blaenau Ffestiniog. This despite the several month's closure for 'resilience' repairs last year to future proof the line from the increasing incidence of storms. The route had been bustituted since late January. There were a few cancellations on the first day due to staffing or stock availability and so the first train was the 16:17 from Llandudno and the 17:35 return. Two trains ran on 30/3/21 in the morning and the service was restored to the standard 4 trains a day on 31/3/21 allowing travel to work/shopping in Llandudno and back.

F&WHR timetable and fares announced 29/3/21

The F&WHR timetable (subject to any WAG COVID rule changes) and fares were announced on 29/3/21. A live calendar of services is available on the F&WHR website and shows when trains are fully booked. All trains run subject to demand and additional trains may be run if the demand increases. 'Y Cerdyn' discounts for local residents remain suspended until further notice but FR and WHR Society Member's discounts are shown in a later story. The first Mountain Prince was sold out within hours of opening bookings on 29/3/21. The calendar shows services to 23/7/21 as follows:

The Mountain Prince operates daily 1-28/5/21 and 7/6/21 to 23/7/21 from Porthmadog to Dduallt Barn Cutting. It is replaced by The Woodland Wanderer from Porthmadog to Tan-y-bwlch daily from 29/5/21-6/6/21 for the Spring Bank Holiday/school Half Term Holiday week and will be extended to additional dates over the school summer holidays.

The Beddgelert Explorer runs STThO 1/5/21-5/6/21 from Caernarfon to Beddgelert with additionals on 30/5/21 and 2/6/21 during the Spring Bank Holiday school half term break. The service is expanded to 4 days a week, MFSuX from 29/6/21-23/7/21 with an additional on Monday 5/7/21.

The Glaslyn Venturer initially operates 4 days a week Porthmadog to Beddgelert FSSuX from 29/5-3/6/21 and then three days a week TWThO until 22/7/21.

Timetable

The Mountain Prince departs Porthmadog at 11:05 and 15:00 but an additional two rakes can be put into service according to demand providing up to five departures a day with the third rake providing just one trip. The diesel loco used for top and tail between Tan-y-bwlch and Dduallt Barn Cutting will probably come up with the first train and return with the final working. The journey allows an hour break at Tan-y-bwlch for the cafe and toilets. Departure from Tan-y-bwlch is about 13:00 and the train arrives back at 13:50 ready for Zoono cleaning and use in a second working at 15:00 which departs Tan-y-bwlch around 17:00 and arrives back at Porthmadog at 17:45. Additional trains can be added running at roughly hourly intervals.

The Woodland Wanderer also departs at 11:05/14:20 leaving an hour for exploring the woods at Tan-y-bwlch. This train also arrives back at 13:50 and so departs Tan-y-bwlch about 13:00. Two additional rakes can be put into service at roughly hourly intervals according to demand offering up to six round trips a day.

The Gelert Explorer departs Caernarfon at 11:00 and arrives back at 1600, with 1.5 hours to explore Beddgelert giving a 5 hour trip (although the F&WHR website suggests this is 6 hours!). The return service departs Beddgelert around 14:15. There is only one train a day but, as it uses most of the WHR stock with new Perspex divider 'compartments' for up to 6 passengers in a 'bubble', there will be plenty of seats compared to last year. The train will include the two WHR Observation Cars, one at each end as well as the Pullman coach Bodysgallen.

The Glaslyn Venturer departs Porthmadog twice a day at 10:15 and 13:40 and gives about an hour to explore Beddgelert. The 10:15 departs at about 1200 and arrives back at Porthmadog at 13:00 ready for cleaning and use on the second train of the day which arrives back at 17:45. This train is set to use modern FR rolling stock with Perspex dividers forming 'compartments' for up to 6 passengers in a 'bubble'. The train will include the two FR Observation Cars, one at each end. This is likely to be a long train pulled by a Garratt based at Boston Lodge (or possibly a double Fairlie if unavailable).

While the FR probably has sufficient modern coaches to add additional trains on The Glaslyn Venturer route at hourly intervals, the absence of any other Observation cars means the service would have to be advertised differently. If this year's anticipated boom of staycations materialises it is possible the F&WHR might have to disappoint intending passengers at peak times. Congestion at Beddgelert with two trains running round is possible as from 1/6/21 both WHR trains will run round in Beddgelert, though it appears The Gelert Explorer is timed to arrive and depart between the two Glaslyn Venturer trains. The WHHR might also apply to run Russell services having passed a satisfactory test two years ago to Beddgelert.

Prices

Fares are based on a compartment for two/additional adults/additional children (3-15)/dogs within the same 'bubble'.

The Mountain Prince                                     £60/£30/£1/£3

The Woodland Wanderer                               £50/£25/£1/£3

The Gelert Explorer  (Standard)                    £88/£44/£2/£3

The Gelert Explorer (Gold-bay of 4)             £128/£64/£32/guide dogs only free

The Gelert Explorer (Gold Obs-bay of 6)     £138/£64/£32/guide dogs only free

The Glaslyn Venturer (Standard)                  £70/£35/£1/£3

The Glaslyn Venturer (Gold-bay of 4)          £100/£50/£25/guide dogs only free

The Glaslyn Venturer (Gold Obs-bay of 6)  £110/£50/£25/guide dogs only free

Hampers (Basic)                                            £10 pp

Hampers (Pullman)                                        £28.50 pp

Single passengers must pay the compartment fare. Single journeys must pay the full return fare. It is possible to make a through journey from Caernarfon to Porthmadog (or vice versa) on days when both the Gelert Explorer and Glaslyn Venturer are operating but this would require full return fare booking of a compartment on both trains so would be very expensive.

Locos

The F&WHR is unable to specify which loco will be on a particular train due to the fluid nature of the rostering. The Gelert Explorer and The Glaslyn Venturer will be hauled by one of the Beyer Garratt Locomotives. The Woodland Wanderer and The Mountain Prince will be normally hauled by one of the smaller locomotives such as Welsh Pony, Prince, Palmerston, Blanche or Lyd but double engines could be used according to availability. The F&WHR reserves the right to change motive power at short notice which may very occasionally be a diesel if there is nothing else that is available. This is unlikely on the WHR as there is no diesel able to haul a full length train.

Drakeford reveals WAG COVID relaxation plans 28/3/21

Speaking on 'Andrew Marr' on BBC on Sunday the Welsh First Minister said he would be announcing the 'prospectus' for reopening Wales on Thursday 1/4/21 for the whole of April and into May. Specifically on 22/4/21 he will make announcements giving Tourism and Hospitality, such as the F&WHR, firm guidance as to when they can reopen. Currently the F&WHR plans to reopen on 1/5/21. Outdoor Hospitality can however open in late April he hoped if the COVID keep going in the right direction. Support for businesses including the F&WHR are unlikely to be announced before the WAG Senedd elections on 6/5/21.

WAG's COVID rules latest 27/3/21

Wales opens up for internal travel and holidays in self-contained accommodation on Saturday 27/3/21 but holidaymakers from England are not allowed to travel until 12/4/21 at the earliest. Infection rates in North Wales have levelled out recently so First Minister Mark Drakeford is likely to be more hesitant about further relaxation. Currently it is planned to allow Wales' outdoor hospitality to reopen from 22/4/21 but this date is at risk of any increased infection rates. The F&WHR does not see itself able to run economic services until visitors from England are allowed so late April/early May remains a more likely time to restart services.

Members benefits after reopening (26/3/21)

Whilst the F&WHR still need to make as much as possible from every train, they recognise the huge contribution the Societies have made to keeping the railways going – both financially and through volunteer help at all levels. So, up to 23/7/21 travel privileges for members are as follows:

Annual members will be entitled to book a standard class compartment/seating bay on their member railway at no charge. This covers two people. Any additional people in the compartment pay full individual ticket price as appropriate for that train. They may also book a compartment on the other railway at a 50% discount to cover two people travelling. Again, extra people in the compartment pay the full individual ticket price. This can be done through the online Buy Now gateway. Members will need their membership number with six numbers and prefixed by the letter F – e.g. F123456 for Ffestiniog Society members or W – e.g. W001234 for Welsh Highland Society members. Family memberships with more than two members will need to telephone the booking office to book their ticket. 01766 516024.

Life members will be entitled to book a first class or standard class compartment on their member railway at no charge. This covers two people. Any additional people in the compartment pay full individual ticket price as appropriate for that train. They may also book a compartment on the other railway at a 50% discount for two people travelling. Again, extra people in the compartment pay the full individual ticket price. This can be done through the online Buy Now gateway. Members will need their membership number with six number and prefixed by the letters FL – e.g. FL001234 for FRS life members or WL – e.g. WL000123 for WHRS life members.

Ticket prices will vary depending on member's choice of experience; and work on the basis that members must first purchase a compartment or seating bay in order to travel. This seating bay is cleaned before travel and is then the member's for the duration of their visit. Most compartments hold up to six passengers but if members are a part of a group of more than six, please telephone the booking office on 01766 516024 to make a booking.

Please Note:

If members are unable to book online or they have a combination of guests that does not easily fit the above, please phone to book. 01766 516024. This is a largely untried system so please bear with the Booking Office. The Booking Office will be open 10:00 – 16:00 on weekdays.

Whilst the F&WHR is offering free compartments, there is a donation option at the end of the booking. The F&WHR would be extremely grateful if members could find a little extra, which will in turn, help the Company next Winter. Note: Members will be required to verify their discounted purchase by showing their signed membership card on check in with the station hosts. Failure to do so will result in the full fare being charged.

The Talyllyn Railway is kindly offering a 75% reduction on compartment prices to members of either FR or WHRS societies until 23/7/21, but members must telephone in advance to book on 01654 710472. Please remember that the TR too needs all the help it can get so members may wish to offer a small donation when making their booking.

Gift Cards

Current gift card holders will be able to use their card for booking online. If the booking has been deferred from 2020, they should call the Booking Office on 01766 516024 to reschedule.

Note: Gift Vouchers can now only be used for purchasing travel related items, either on line or through the Booking Office. Any remaining balance can either be used for further travel related sales or be transferred onto a voucher which can then be used at one of the F&WHR's retail or catering outlets. This must be done through Porthmadog Booking Office. New sales of Travel Gift Cards will be done through the online travel experience portal and will be for travel related sales only.

The Online Shop remains open and is the perfect place for railway merchandise and gifts! The shop has hundreds of fantastic items available including Artwork, Books, Calendars, Clothing, DVDs and Model Railway supplies. The ‘A Year in the Life of the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways – 2020’ DVD/Blu-ray is now available to buy from the web shop. Take a look back at the highlights from an historic year at the F&WHR with over 4 hours of footage!

F&WHR announces start of season (26/3/21)

As predicted, the F&WHR intends to open for business, subject to any changes in WAG's COVID rules, from Saturday 1/5/21. Initially two services have been announced with two others joining later. It is possible an earlier opening may be allowed by changes in WAG's rules. The initial timetable covers 1/5/21-23/7/21 when a Summer Timetable will be issued anticipating higher demand in the school holidays from late July to early September. With international travel curbed by high rates of infection in mainland Europe, the UK government is suggesting that holidaymakers do not book foreign holidays but holiday within the UK. F&WHR tickets go on sale from Monday 29/3/21 at 10am when full details will be available on the F&WHR website along with FAQs. The initial trains are The Woodland Wanderer/The Mountain Prince on the FR and The Gelert Explorer and The Glaslyn Explorer on the WHR.

The Woodland Wanderer utilises the Heritage compartment sets from Porthmadog to Tan-y-bwlch. This operation will be very similar to last year's with pre-booking essential and passengers travelling in their 'bubbles' in the same compartment with an hour break at Tan-y-bwlch. Trains will operate according to demand with from 1 to 6 run possible as last year. There will be an hour break at Tan-y-bwlch and the cafe will be open. The Mountain Prince will be an additional service with up to 5 trains from Porthmadog to just beyond Dduallt. A heritage diesel will be attached at Tan-y-bwlch and the train will advance to Barn Cutting, just beyond the Rhoslyn spiral bridge to give enhanced views over the Rhinog mountains. It will then return to Tan-y-bwlch for a refreshment break. There will be from 1-5 of these services operating as an extension of The Woodland Wanderer.

On the WHR, last year's operation will be repeated with Perspex screens separating the WHR coaching stock into virtual 'compartments'. There will be one service a day but trains will only operate 4 days per week. The two WHR observation cars Glaslyn and Gwyrfai will top and tail the train. One of these will be turned so that both observation cars give good views in one direction. The popular hamper service will again be offered on this train. Later in the year a second train will operate presumably with modern FR stock fitted with Perspex dividers between Porthmadog and Beddgelert. This will also have the two FR Observation Cars attached and presumably one will be reversed to give better views.

Spooners, De Winton and Tan-y-bwlch cafes will open probably as take-aways when services restart but Porthmadog Harbour Shop will be closed except for online purchases. Last year the F&WHR General Manager suggested that services would operate over the full length of the F&WHR. However, it does not appear there will be a through service on the WHR, while the FR's tracks will remain rusty beyond Dduallt. It seems that the Beddgelert 'Frontier' operation of the 1930s is here to stay for a while at least and trains may not even permit a through journey.

No.130's trials 25/3/21

No.130 has received additional snagging fixes and went on a loaded test for the first time on 25/3/21. The train worked six B wagons down to Caernarfon and up to Waunfawr to see how it would perform on the steep gradients on the ex-BR section. This was also an opportunity for staff to maintain competences and F&WHR General Manager Paul Lewin drove the train. Apparently the test went well with 3 return trips between Caernarfon and Waunfawr. Thanks to Paul Lewin F&WHR General Manager for these additional images of the three loaded test train. No.130 may soon be tested to Rhyd Ddu and the 1 in 40 to Beddgelert. Tests with a full length passenger train are likely before the start of The Gelert Explorer currently planned from 1/5/21.

This northerly view (25/3/21) shows No.130 being prepared to depart Dinas with a loaded test train. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Paul Lewin (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (25/3/21) shows No.130 running round the loaded test train at Caernarfon. A surprising amount of loco ash litters the station around the watering point. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Paul Lewin (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (25/3/21) shows No.130 topping up with water at Waunfawr after one of the three test runs from Caernarfon. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Paul Lewin (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (25/3/21) shows No.130 with the 6 wagon test train ready to depart Dinas. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (25/3/21) shows No.130 with the 6 wagon test train arriving at Waunfawr. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (25/3/21) shows No.130 with the 6 wagon test train returning from Caernarfon passing under the new A487 Caernarfon-Bontnewydd Bypass bridge just north of Bontnewydd Halt. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Boston Lodge trackworks 22/3/21

Track has been reconnected to the small loco shed but the track from the point to the Garratt siding has yet to be completed. As a Garratt may be stabled at Boston Lodge when services resume it is essential to complete this siding before they do.

This westerly view (22/3/21) shows the track complete into the small Loco Shed. The unusual curve is to provide additional clearance to maintain a loco outside the shed but still allow passing traffic on the Glan-y-mor headshunt track curving to the right. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

FR job opportunities 18/3/21

With the F&WHR hoping to start services as soon as WAG gives permission, the company is advertising catering job opportunities. Last year some 30 staff were laid off to make economies because of the effect of the various lockdowns and reduced income. Now staff are being hired and further staff will be needed in the near future. Staff will need to be trained so an early start is being made in advance of the next WAG COVID restrictions update expected at the 1/4/21. Jobs are being offered at Spooners and Tan-y-bwlch tea rooms and Caernarfon is not currently mentioned. See FR job advert.

The Snowdonian 2021 (17/3/21)

Both The Snowdonian and The Snowdonian Limited were cancelled in 2020 due to COVID. This year The Snowdonian will run on 24-25/7/21, unusually over two days rather than having a through run. The Welsh Highland Railway leg will take place on the Saturday, and the Ffestiniog leg on the Sunday. There will also be organised tours of Boston Lodge on the Friday and Saturday evenings. The F&WHR hopes to be in a position to confirm more details in the coming weeks. See The Snowdonian webpage.

A487 Bontnewydd Bypass overbridge beams placed

The new bridge beams for the Caernarfon Bontnewydd A487 Bypass were placed just north of Bontnewydd halt recently. They do not allow clearance for standard gauge as hoped. The trackbed would have to be reduced by over a metre to accommodate standard gauge. This kind of simple measure, asked for by WHR engineers during planning, could have facilitated a restoration of the Bangor-Afonwen route as proposed by TRAWS, the campaign group supporting a North Wales-South Wales Cambrian rail link.

Carriage Works update 17/3/21

Progress is being made with Hudson Carriage No.39 which was built by Winson Engineering in 1992 on Wagon No73's underframe. The carriage has had heavy work over the years with a plastic canvas roof fitted 10 years ago and doors some years before that. With the carriage now almost 30 years old the plate work and wooden components were showing significant signs of corrosion and rot. Therefore all the end and floor timber is being replaced and new side steelwork and doors are being fabricated. See F&WHR Facebook page for images.

Boston Lodge trackworks continue 16/3/21

In the absence of any service trains due to WAG COVID restrictions, the opportunity is being taken to complete the trackwork improvements to Boston Lodge's Carriage Shed run round.

This westerly view (16/3/21) shows the first of two new points laid. The rails to the left lead into the small Loco Shed and still needed to be fixed when this images was taken. The track that continues leads to the Garratt siding, the Heritage Carriage shed and Glan-y-mor headshunt for the Carriage Shed run round. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (16/3/21) shows the second of two new points laid. The rails to the lead into the Garratt Siding. The track that continues leads to the Garratt siding alongside the Small Loco Shed but the track needs to be connected to the Garratt pit road off the Carriage Shed run round at the moment. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Moving Pictures No.48 16/3/21

Click on the YouTube window to watch 27 mins 6 seconds of video covering the FR ash train, replacement of Plas-y-nant bridge and movement of No.134 at Dinas. This YouTube was published on 5/3/21 and was taken by Hornby Magazine staff on a digital camcorder. It is best watched in 1080p HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on the YouTube link.

Cambrian's Gobowen proposal 15/3/21

The Cambrian Railways at Oswestry is seeking funding from the Rolling Back Beeching monies to reopen a short length of the railway from Gobowen to a Park Hall Halt which is adjacent to the main entrance to the Robert Jones and Agnes Hunt Orthopaedic Hospital. They could use their recently delivered Class 144 Pacers donated by Porterbrook DMUS currently stored in Gobowen sidings for the service. They see this as a first small step to restoring the service to Oswestry. However the Highways Authority is opposed to reopening the A5 level crossing which still exists. The Gobowen-Park Hall Halt line is only 0.5 miles long and requires some re-sleepering, attention to an overbridge and restoration of the platform. See Shropshire Star report.

Meanwhile the railway is busy extending its Oswestry operation to Weston Wharf, just short of the A483 level crossing, 2 km south of the station. Further extension towards Llynclys is again blocked by the Highways Authority's opposition to reopening the existing A483 level crossing but it could extend to the A5 level crossing some 2 km north of the town centre station. The platform and sidings at Weston Wharf were finished last year. The completion of the run round loop at Xmas means the railway will be ready to extend as soon as permission is given subject to completion of ballasting.

Llandudno Junction Shed webpage moves to new address

The interesting Llandudno Junction shed webpage has moved to a new address. The website has hundreds of images from steam days to modern diesels and includes up to date mainline news about North Wales Railways. Click on Llandudno Junction shed.

Lilla train cleans The Cob 13/3/21

Lilla was used on Saturday hauling a short train to Porthmadog with volunteers clearing The Cob of rubbish washed up on the foreshore. This also renewed competences for staff who have had little experience of operating trains in the last three months.

This westerly view (13/3/21) shows Lilla with the waste train standing at the end of the Porthmadog platform. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Paul Lewin (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Disappointment with WAG's COVID 'roadmap' 12/3/21

The announcement today about cautious relaxation of WAG COVID rules will offer little comfort for the F&WHR and the hopes of reopening at Easter. Mark Drakeford (the Welsh First Minister) announced today that the 'Stay at Home' is being changed to 'Stay Local' i.e. within 5 miles (a little more in rural areas). He further announced that self contained accommodation such as chalet caravans could reopen from 29/3/21 for Easter with the end of 'Stay Local', however, bookings must not be taken from England, where restrictions are still in place. Any further reopening would be halted he said if that was found to be the case. Discussions would take place with local authorities and the Police to see how this might be controlled. There was no mention of further opening for English visitors. The WHR's General Manager has previously stated it would be uneconomic to reopen until English visitors were allowed to return to Wales.

See BBC News story.

Plas-y-nant completed 11/3/21

Beaver bridges completed the installation of the new Plas-y-nant bridge on 11/3/21 and were off site. The PW team will now reinstate the track over the next several days.

This southerly view (11/3/21) shows the final work done on the bridge with walkways fixed in position and ballasting and sleepers repositioned up to the abutments. The bridge is very similar to the structure it replaces. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.d at 96dpi. at 96dpi.

This northerly view (11/3/21) shows the final work done on the bridge with walkways fixed in position and ballasting and sleepers repositioned up to the abutments. The bridge is very similar to the structure it replaces. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.134 moved 10/3/21

On 10/3/21 the rolling chassis of NG15 No.134, complete with pony trucks, was moved from the Loco Shed to create room for the potential restart of the season in the spring. The running fleet of NG16s will require some maintenance. The weather was atrocious but the chassis ran well through the pointwork. Ex-Shotton steelworks shunter Bill was used to haul the chassis out of the shed and move it to the Carriage Shed in the North Yard. With no date from WAG yet that would allow the return of volunteers from England, the chassis is being stored in the dry. When volunteers can return in a few months hopefully, the next job is to attach side rods, which might require its return to the Loco Shed to line up the pinions.

New Plas-y-nant bridge in position (8/3/21)

As predicted the new steel structure of Plas-y-nant bridge was craned into position on 8/3/21 by the Bob Francis crane on site. With the new structure now resting on its bearings all that remains is to finish the bridge this week and to relay the track and clear the site next week. The plan is to return the route for traffic in time for a hoped for reopening at Easter dependent on WAG's announcement about COVID relaxation due 12/3/21.

This westerly view (8/3/21) shows the crane lowering the new bridge structure onto its bearings. The bridge is very similar to the structure it replaces. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (8/3/21) shows the last stage of lowering the bridge into position. The curved waybeams are visible bolted to the bridge cross members.. The walkway grids are being placed either side of the track. A footpath bridge giving access to the land of a local resident has again been provided cantilevered from the west bridge main girder. Some of the new recycled plastic sleepers will be used on site. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

More drone images showing the placement of the bridge are available from the WHR Soc. Facebook page courtesy of Dave Thurlow.

Boston Lodge pointwork continues 8/3/21

Work was visible on the F&WHR webcam at Boston lodge where a second point was apparently being laid giving access to the Garratt siding and future shed.

WAG warning (8/3/21)

Mark Drakeford, WAG, First Minister, warned last week that after any easing of COVID restrictions to be announced this Friday (12/3/21), he would re-impose 'stay local' rules if the R number started to rise again. The statement was confirmed again in a WAG Press Conference on 8/3/21.This would be bad news for the F&WHR which is hoping to start a new season at Easter if WAG eases COVID restrictions as expected. The First Minister's comments are in stark contrast to Boris Johnson's statements that his 'roadmap' to easing restrictions is 'irreversible'.

BFI Deviation Rhoslyn spiral video

A new video has emerged of the work of Deviationists in 1967/68 building the Rhoslyn Spiral and the opening of Dduallt station. Your webmaster was a volunteer during his Sixth Form years in 1968/69 and later and is always looking to see film of his younger self or legendary characters like 'The Mad Axeman'. See BFI website.

Linda bows out 6/3/21

Linda hauled a final train on 10/3/21 before reaching the end of its 10 year boiler certificate. The train was formed of FR wagons carrying loco ash at Boston Lodge using Vale of Ffestiniog. The rake was deposited on the curved siding at Dduallt for emptying into the hollow and the loco was noted heading light engine towards Blaenau Ffestiniog, presumably to take on water. It is hoped to have the loco back in traffic in 2022.

In the meantime, if the FR operates a similar small train policy as last year, it will be short of small locos and so Blanche, Prince and Welsh Pony could be used more intensively. It would be useful if Taliesin rejoined the fleet. On occasions Palmerston can be used while the double engines could be used on the Blaenau services as the General Manager suggested the whole route would be used in 2021.

While the UK was in the EU, it benefitted from inward investment of £5bn for infrastructure projects, many under the Trans European Network scheme such as the A55 upgrade or Regional Development programmes. The Tories promised that leaving the EU would see infrastructure and regional development no worse off. In fact the budget has committed under one third of the funds previously allocated by the EU with just £1.5bn. This will mean much needed rail and road improvements, such as redoubling the busy Wrexham to Rossett rail route and the Penmorfa Bypass, put on the back burner.

Plas-y-nant drone views (6/3/21)

Three drone views of the progress with replacing Plas-y-nant bridge published 6/3/21 have appeared on the WHR Society's Facebook page courtesy of Dave Thurlow. See WHRSoc Facebook page.

More Plas-y-nant images 5/3/21

More images have emerged of the Plas-y-nant mains girders which have been cut up and loaded onto a PW train for removal presumably to Boston Lodge as the new bridge is still awaiting track. The Beaver Bridges Twitter Feed dated 5/3/21 shows the images. Beaver Bridges, the manufacturer of the new bridge state that the bridge will be installed next week i.e. from 8/3/21.

The independent Hornby Magazine has released a YouTube featuring video of the FR during 2020 of interest to modellers and F&WHR supporters alike.

Click on the YouTube window to watch 77 mins 17 seconds of video covering the FR and modelling techniques. This YouTube was published on 5/3/21 and was taken by Hornby Magazine staff on a digital camcorder. It is best watched in 1080p HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on the YouTube link.

TfW's named Mk4 DVTs

Charities are to feature as names on TfW's Mk4 DVTs, it has been announced. There are 3 rakes and the service is due to begin in May, with Class 67 hauled trains from Holyhead to Cardiff, now including a lunchtime working via Wrexham. The names chosen are

• Alzheimer's society Cymru (chosen by staff)
• Ty Gobaith Children's Hospital (chosen by staff)
• Royal National Lifeboat Institution (chosen by Twitter Poll)

Porthmadog webcam back on track

After a period when it was focussed on the demolition of Ty Moelwyn, the Porthmadog webcam is now back facing along The Cob, a position it will show the staff competency trains that are due to run in advance of any reopening, hopefully from Easter. See Porthmadog Webcam.

Bala Lake Railway appeal succeeds

The appeal for £50,000 to support the BLR's extension into Bala has received £71,000 in donations and the railway will now progress the next stage in planning the extension. Natural Resources Wales are carrying out urgent essential flood mitigation works at Bala alongside the lake where the proposed railway extension is planned. They were prepared to accommodate the Railway's Bala extension in their works, provided the Railway guaranteed the funding, which it has now done.

Porthmadog Gasworks site to be redeveloped?

The small patch of polluted land beside the WHR in Porthmadog at the north end of Llyn Bach car park may be redeveloped as old gasholder sites are cleaned up. There is currently a national campaign to remove the final gas holders and clean up the associated sites. See BBC news story.

Hope for Bangor-Caernarfon?

The Government allocated £40million in the budget this week for reinstatement of rail services from Exeter to Okehampton in Devon as well as funding East West Rail Oxford-Bletchley and a line in Durham. How long can it be before they invest in Wales reopenings? Prime Welsh candidates are the Llangefni/Amlwch Branch on Anglesey, the Aberyswyth-Carmarthen Branch and of course the Bangor-Caernarfon branch. See Okehampton Times.

Boston Lodge pointwork upgrade 5/3/21

Further PW work took place at Boston Lodge on 5/3/21 to upgrade the pointwork in Boston Lodge Yard. Two sets of points are being replaced on the Carriage shed run round road that leads to Glan-y-mor headshunt. The first set gives access to the Loco Shed and the second set to the Garratt siding. While the track was lifted the opportunity was taken to renew surface water drains in the direction of the Heritage Carriage shed and the mains water supply to the Carriage Works upgraded. It is thought that the trackwork has been provided on recycled plastic bearers produced by the usual South Wales manufacturer.

This easterly view (5/3/21) shows the turnout positioned alongside the Carriage works that gives access to the Small Loco Shed. Ground prepared beyond gives space for a second turnout  for access to the Garratt siding (visible in the background) while the track continues around the rear of the Carriage Works to the Heritage Carriage Shed and the Glan-y-mor headshunt. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (5/3/21) shows the ballast bed ready for the second turnout positioned alongside the Carriage Works that gives access to the Garratt siding. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

F&WHR awaits crucial Wales COVID review due 12/3/21

The F&WHR is hoping for good news from WAG's 12/3/21 COVID Review which could allow the F&WHR to reopen booked services over the full lengths of both the WHR and FR at Easter or soon after as currently planned. Modern coaches are being fitted with Perspex screens to allow twice as many people to be carried, though services will still have to be booked in advance on line. It is hoped the railways might be allowed to open in a COVID compliant way for Easter Bank Holiday weekend from Good Friday 2/4/21.

Bala Lake Railway Diesel Gala (17/10/21)

Subject to WAG's COVID regulations, the BLR has announced they will hold a Diesel Gala on 17/10/21. Full details are available on the BLR web site. Many enthusiasts have been encouraging the F&WHR to hold a similar event with its large fleet of diesel locos, some rarely seen on passenger workings. As with the F&WHR, the BLR is still not able to predict an Easter reopening date.

Llan Ffestiniog station plans

Subject to relaxation of the Welsh COVID regulations the Bala & Ffestiniog Railway Heritage Trust hopes to restore Llan Ffestiniog station in regular working parties this year starting from April.

Oldest signal box

NR's oldest signal box is now thought to the crossing box at Llanfair P.G. on Anglesey.

North Wales-Manchester Airport connection row

Plas-y-nant bridge progress 2-4/3/21

On the 2/3/21 the existing structure of Plas-y-nant bridge was craned out by local company Bob Francis Cranes and set down in the field adjacent to the halt where it is said to have been cut up. Another local company M&R Scaffolding had previously installed scaffolding in the river around each abutment in order to maintain the abutments and bearings. The new steel structure with many galvanised parts arrived on 4/3/21 and was assembled on site on wooden sleepers in the field ready to be craned in. The bridge was showing cracks due its skew nature putting unbalanced loads on the main 'bowstring' beams. The Betws Garmon bridge beams have been retained in Dinas South yard for historical reasons and also with the possibility of further use as a turntable.

The installation of the bridge might hopefully be completed this week and track relaid in time for the hoped for resumption of passenger services for the new Season at Easter. The whole project cost about £100,000.

This northerly view (2/3/21) shows the crane team preparing to lift out the whole Plas-y-nant bridge structure, now freed from its bearings. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (2/3/21) shows the crane depositing the Plas-y-nant bridge structure in the field alongside Plas-y-nant Halt. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (4/3/21) shows the galvanised parts of Plas-y-nant bridge ready for assembly in the field alongside Plas-y-nant Halt. The old girders can be seen to have been cut in half for ease of removal. The FR's Mess car is in attendance to the south of the bridge. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Cedric Lodge and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (4/3/21) shows the crane assisting with the positioning of the new girders in the field alongside Plas-y-nant Halt where the kit of parts is being assembled. The cantilevered footpath is to the right but when the structure is swung into place the footpath will again be on the west side of the bridge. Any gate should be placed at the north end of the footbridge where the resident's property begins not the south end as previously! Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Gwynedd COVID shock 4/3/21

The Daily Post revealed on 4/3/21 that Gwynedd has the highest COVID infection rates in Wales. Nevertheless the figures for Wales overall have decreased in recent weeks leading to speculation that the Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford might soon announce relaxation of restrictions allowing the F&WHR to reopen at Easter.

Rail Ale 2021 deferred to 2022

The WHRSoc's annual Rail Ale event will not be taking place this year as the F&WHR continues to adhere to Welsh Government regulations. This event has become a staple social gathering in the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway calendar over recent years. An opportunity for the Railway community to come together, enjoy live music performances and sample some of the finest local Welsh ales. Whilst it is disappointing to postpone the event for yet another year, the safety of all our visitors, staff and volunteers remains the highest priority. The WHRSoc aims to make the next Rail Ale event better than ever and hope all can come together to celebrate this fantastic event in the not too distant future. In the meantime, plans are actively being established for a reopening of train services during Spring. Whilst this will be in accordance to Welsh Government regulations, the F&WHR hopes to see trains steaming along the WHR soon!

Llangollen Steam Railway receivership 2/3/21

Despite receiving two major grants in recent months supporting the railway until it reopens, the Llangollen Railway, recently under new management after internal Board arguments about Corwen station roof columns, went into receivership on 2/3/21. Out of £350,000 owed, some £250,000 is in engineering disputes, presumably with the new build and restoration companies who have been moving their locos away over the last year. The railway was just in the final stages of completing its extension to its new Corwen terminus and hopes to operate in some form in the future, after rehiring staff. Tickets bought in advance will be refunded or offered future bookings. See BBC report.

English 'Road Map' gives hope of WHR visitors 1/3/21

The Prime Minister's 'road map' out of COVID restrictions has given hope to the F&WHR management who are currently planning for reopening at Easter. Paul Lewin has stated it is uneconomic to reopen the FR/WHR without visitors from England. However most virologists refute the Prime Minister's claim that the relaxation of rules is 'irreversible' as he states, suggesting that English school's returning on 8/3/20, could push the R number above 1 again. Meanwhile infections in Wales are dropping and North Wales no longer has the highest rates in the country. Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford will decide in the next few weeks whether leisure activities in Wales such as the F&WHR can reopen for Easter. 

WHR Carriage COVID modifications

Coach No.2048 is being modified at Boston Lodge with bespoke partitions to hopefully double the number of potential passengers that can be safely carried within COVID restrictions on a train. The Perspex sheets have dowelling for support on the edges facing the central aisle. Stainless steel brackets attach the partition to the back of the seats. It is hoped a rake can be finished before Easter when WHR services may restart subject to WAG's COVID regulations. The same type of partition may be fitted to modern FR coaches to increase the carrying potential of FR rakes.

The same card but minus the train was also produced in black and white by Frith and supplied to "J.E. Powell, Beddgelert" who I assume ran a souvenir shop of some kind. Interestingly W.H. Goss of Stoke on Trent who produced an enormous range of souvenir china (one of which was Prince Llewellyn's cottage) listed their Beddgelert stockist in 1921 as "Mrs. Powell, Glan-Afon". Almost certainly the same individual!

Wylfa B site to be sold? 8/2/21

A report in the Daily Post suggests the Welsh government may buy the Wylfa B/Wylfa Newydd site for another developer as it sees the site as having potential for reuse despite a recently released strangely negative Inspector's Report suggesting the Planning Consent be withheld over biodiversity concerns! Nuclear power station developer Hitachi pulled out last September.

A further Daily Post report on 8/2/21 provides more hope for the stalled project that may bring rail freight back to North Wales. GBRf continue to run occasional nuclear flask training runs to Valley Triangle in order to preserve their NR access rights although Wylfa defuelling traffic terminated over a year ago.

Welsh Railways nationalised 7/2/21

TfW officially took over operation of Welsh Railway services (excepting NR's infrastructure) on 7/2/21. These include services through England to Birkenhead, Liverpool, Manchester airport, Birmingham International Airport and the Chester-Cardiff Marches Line through Shrewsbury. TfW is supported by a team from the old operator Keolis/Amey. See Rail News report.

Not even ScotRail is nationalised so TfW has a lot to prove in managing Welsh Railways post-COVID effectively. One measure of success is how quickly they can persuade NR to repair and reinstate the Conwy Valley line which is currently closed again following storm flooding damage in January after several months of closure last year. NR over-hyped its 2020 repair saying the rock armour they added would protect the line against future flooding events! The route remains bustituted.

No.130 moves under own steam 5/2/21

After a couple of years of hard work No.130 was extracted from the Dinas shed by Bill and propelled onto the main line. This allowed the brakes to be tested away from the confines of the depot headshunt and shed roads. The snags list has been dealt with, including the leaking unions, but the loco was sent out without its dome. No.130 has been restored from 'Barry wreck' condition originally for the abortive Robin Hood's Bay project. The COVID secure work environment at Dinas has slowed down progress.

Once out on the main line and detached from Bill, the brakes were tested and found to be a little tight on the curves. The loco was driven into Dinas station under the control of Paul Lewin, F&WHR General Manager and ran through the loop a couple of times to check for hot axleboxes. Snagging will continue with the loco next week before any loaded test runs. It is hoped No.130 will be ready for the new season if/when the WHR is permitted to carry passengers again in the Spring.

Click on the YouTube window to watch 2 mins 6 seconds of video showing No.130 being lit up and having a short test run on 5/2/21. This YouTube was published on 6/2/21 and was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a 4K digital camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on the YouTube link.

National Lottery Heritage briefing 4/2/21

Click on the YouTube window to watch 1 hour 6 mins 4 seconds of video showing a presentation by the F&WHR General Manager Paul Lewin. A list of clickable links to the sections of the video is provided from the YouTube link. This YouTube was published on 4/2/21 and was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a 4K digital camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on the YouTube link.

Moving Pictures No.46 (3/2/21)

Click on the YouTube window to watch 40 mins 43 seconds of video showing No.130 being lit up for a pressure test on 29/1/21 and a survey of the F&WHR Diesel Fleet. This YouTube was published on 3/2/21 and was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a 4K digital camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on the YouTube link.