WHR

News Archive Page

2021

April-June

V4.3 updated 1/8/21

with news to 30/6/21

 

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

June loco roster

Date 10:00 MP 10:15 GV 11:00 GE 11:05 MP 12:10 WW

12:25 MP

13:15 WW

13:40 MP

13:40 GV 14:20 WW

15:00 MP

15:25 WW Dduallt shunt Notes
1/6/21 Prince DLG+ME 87 Blanche Palm Prince DLG+ME Blanche Palm X  
2/6/21 Prince DLG+ME 87 Blanche WP Prince DLG+ME Blanche Palm X  
3/6/21 WP 130 87 Blanche Prince WP 130 Blanche Prince X  
4/6/21 Prince 130 X ME WP Prince X ME X X  
5/6/21 WP ? 87 Blanche X WP ? Blanche X X  
6/6/21 WP X X Blanche X WP X Blanche X X Final Woodland Wanderer
7/6/21 Blanche X X ME X Blanche X ? X X Lyd on PTG tours to Dinas/WP + Palm to Blaenau
8/6/21 Blanche 130 87 DLG X Blanche 130 DLG X X  
9/6/21 Blanche 130 87 ME X Blanche 130 ME X Moelwyn  
10/6/21 Blanche 130 87 DLG X Blanche 130* DLG X Moelwyn *DLG from Pont Croesor on return
11/6/21 WP X X Blanche ME WP X Blanche X Moelwyn  
12/6/21 X ? 87 X 12:25 X ? X X Moelwyn  
13/6/21 Blanche X X DLG X Blanche X X X ?  
14/6/21 X X X DLG ME Blanche X DLG X Moelwyn  
15/6/21 ME 130 87 Blanche X ME 130 Blanche X Moelwyn  
16/6/21 ME 130 87 Blanche DLG ME Blanche DLG X Moelwyn  
17/6/21 Blanche * 130 87 DLG ME Blanche DLG ME X Moelwyn * Moelwyn on rear
18/6/21 X X X WP Blanche ME X WP X ?  
19/6/21 WP ? 87 Blanche DLG WP ? Blanche X ?  
20/6/21 WP X X Blanche ME WP X Blanche X Moelwyn  
21/6/21 Blanche X X DLG WP Blanche X DLG X UC  
22/6/21 Blanche 130 87 ME Lyd Blanche 130 ME X Palm  
23/6/21 ME 130 87 DLG WP ME 130 DLG X Moelwyn  
24/6/21 WP* 130 87 DLG Lyd DLG# 130 Lyd X Moelwyn * Moelwyn pilot out and  # back
25/6/21 Blanche X X DLG ME Blanche X DLG X Moelwyn  
26/6/21 WP 130 87 Blanche Lyd WP 130/87 Blanche X Moelwyn Garratts swopped at Beddgelert
27/6/21 Lyd X X Blanche Prince VoF X Prince X Moelwyn Vale of Ffestiniog for Lyd failure
28/6/21 Prince X X Blanche WP Prince X WP X Moelwyn  
29/6/21 Blanche 87 130 ME ? Blanche 87 ME X Moelwyn  
30/6/21 DLG ME+Lyd 87 Blanche Prince DLG ME+Lyd Blanche X Moelwyn 87 light to Dinas

 

Covid surge latest

The chances of any further relaxation of Welsh Covid regulations now seems remote as First Minister Mark Drakeford considers the latest Delta variant figures. Gwynedd in particular is seeing a surge in cases according to the Daily Post report. Many more school's are also seeing whole classes of children sent home than in the January peak when one pupil tests positive. From 3/7/21 vaccination centres in Wales will offer a 'no appointment necessary' walk-in service to any adult over 18. Some 75% of adults in Wales under 50 have now had their first vaccination.

 

F&WHR traffic 30/6/21

Porthmadog had a bright start to Wednesday with a warm 24C maximum forecast in the afternoon. Four of the five Mountain Prince trains were fully booked with compartments only available on the 15:00 service. Both Glaslyn Venturer trains today are fully booked for the first time but both trains on Thursday are still bookable. No.87 ran light engine early to Dinas to haul the 11:00 Gelert Explorer as No.130 was having attention to its motion. The loco only arrived in Porthmadog on Saturday. The need for a spare Garratt or heavy haul diesel like Castell Caernarfon has never been greater as Dinas is without a spare loco to haul the Gelert Explorer.

The Gelert Explorer from Caernarfon is fully booked until 5/7/21 suggesting more services should be added from the north end of the line now as the WHR must be turning away prospective passengers! Some additional trains will be run with Mondays added in July except 12/7/21 and Friday 30/7/21. During August the Gelert Explorer become a 5 day a week FSX service as the Snowdonia Star through service takes over FSO from Saturday 31/7/21-Sunday 4/9/21. On Saturday 24/7/21 the set seems to be reserved for The Snowdonian special run on the WHR though booking details have yet to be released. 

The day saw an interesting development on the traction front with Merddin Emrys and Lyd coming over early, presumably together. The Fairlie parked in the WHR loop while Lyd went to collect the Glaslyn Venturer rake from the yard and shunt it to the WHR platform at 09:26. Merddin Emrys then coupled to the north end and Lyd ran round and coupled as pilot loco. This is presumably a test run for Lyd after its failure in traffic on the Mountain Prince on 27/6/21. Lyd carried the new Glaslyn Venturer headboard.

 

This easterly view (30/6/21) at 09:38 shows Lyd and Merddin Emrys on the 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer substituting for No.87. This gives Lyd a trial run after its release from works following failure on Monday. The loco is sporting its new headboard. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

David Lloyd George was noted coming over from the depot at 09:45 and coupled to B set in the FR platform at about 09:50 ready for the 10:00 Mountain Prince departure that left on time. At 10:40 Boston Lodge released Blanche for the 11:05 Mountain Prince. The loco ran to the seawall siding at 10:48 and collected the A set to shunt into the FR platform by 10:55. Prince arrived about 11:40 and shunted the C set to the FR platform, departing on time with the 12:25 Mountain Prince passing the returning 10:00 service at Minffordd.

David Lloyd George arrived at Porthmadog with the return leg of the 10:00 at 12:50 but the F&WHR Railcam was stuck on 12:50 for some hours until about 15:30. Meanwhile up at Tan-y-bwlch Moelwyn was coupled to the rear 12:25 service at 13:14 for Dduallt pilot duties. The 15:00 Mountain Prince hauled by Blanche paused at signals for a couple of minutes at Minffordd awaiting entry to the loop. Prince passed towards Porthmadog at 15:18 with the return working of the 12:25 once the loop was clear.

At 16:24 Merddin Emrys and Lyd arrived back at Porthmadog in the WHR platform with the return working of the 13:40 Glaslyn Venturer. The Fairlie immediately shunted to the fuelling point to fuel and water for its next workings. Lyd remained attached to the rake to shunt it to the sidings. The shunt move took place at 16:34 with a few minutes to spare before the return of the 13:40 Mountain Prince booked for 1645. Lyd shunted to the fuelling point at 16:41 while the returning 13:40 hauled by David Lloyd George approached over The Cob arriving at 16:45. Merddin Emrys and Lyd departed light engine for the depot at 16:52. Blanche left for the depot a few minutes later at 17:03.

Blanche arrived back at 17:53 and promptly ran round before shunting its rake to the sea wall siding at 18:06. The loco left promptly afterwards light engine for Boston Lodge bringing the day's activities to a close.

Although five Mountain Prince trains will run on Thursday, only the 10:00 and 15:00 currently have compartments available. Both Glaslyn Venturer trains are available to book tomorrow but the Gelert Explorer from Caernarfon is fully booked until 3/7/21.

 

Llangollen resurrection 29-30/6/21

A crucial piece of Llangollen Railway PW is being completed that should see the line ready for approval for passenger trains at the end of July. The track has been relaid over the Dee Bridge and gauged. The check rails have been laid out and need to be welded on 30/6/21 and fitted. The green liveried Class 108 and Class 109 Wickham DMUs were prepared for service though it is hoped the diesel locos and hauled stock will be used rather than DMUs!

 

F&WHR traffic 29/6/21

Porthmadog dawned cool with sunny periods and a maximum temperature of 17C forecast.

Blanche left Porthmadog a few minutes late on the 10:00 Mountain Prince passing Minffordd at 10:13. Meanwhile No.87 was ready for its first trip on the 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer replacing No.130 which will haul the Gelert Explorer. The two locos exchanged duties on 27/6/21. The train left at 10:17. Moelwyn was stabled at Tan-y-bwlch waiting for Dduallt pilot duties.

 

This easterly view (29/6/21) at 10:16 shows No.87 ready to depart on the 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer. The fireman is seen moving coal forward ready for the 'right away'. No.130 swopped duties with No.87 on the Glaslyn Venturer on Saturday as part of a Wedding Reception run from Porthmadog to Beddgelert, giving the Gelert Explorer passengers two different haulages! Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Merddin Emrys emerged from Boston Lodge at 10:40 and ran straight to the sea wall siding at 10:46 to shunt the A set to the FR platform by 10:54 ready for the 11:05 Mountain Prince. The train left on time.

In the afternoon Blanche departed at light engine for the depot at 16:58 after bringing the 13:40 back to Porthmadog in the sunshine. Merddin Emrys pulled into the WHR platform at 17:48 in strong sunshine. The loco ran round and shunted its rake to the seawall siding several minutes later before going to water/coal at 18:05. The Fairlie departed light engine for the depot at 18:16 to close the day's activities.

 

This easterly view (26/6/21) at 17:47 shows Merddin Emrys arriving in the WHR platform with the return working of the 15:00 Mountain Prince. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

On Wednesday 30/6/21 three of the five Mountain Prince trains are already fully booked with just the first and the last having compartments available. Only the 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer is bookable as the afternoon train is already fully booked. The Gelert Explorer from Caernarfon is fully booked until Monday 5/7/21.

 

F&WHR traffic 28/6/21

Monday 28/6/21 dawned mild with sunny periods at Porthmadog, maximum temperature 21C. The 11:05 and 12:25 Mountain Prince trains were fully booked but compartments are available on the other three trains. Compartments have become available on the Gelert Explorer on 29/6/21 which is other fully booked until 3/7/21. All this week's six Glaslyn Venturer trains are currently bookable.

At 09:45 Prince was released from Boston Lodge and came over The Cob to couple up to the B set stabled in the FR platform. The train departed a few minutes late at 10:04. Blanche arrived at 10:45 to shunt the yard bringing the A set from the seawall siding into the FR platform for the fully booked  11:05 Mountain Prince which departed on time. Welsh Pony departed on time at 12:25 Mountain Prince hauling the C set, passing Minffordd at 12:35. This is the first time two England engines have been out in a while hauling the Mountain Prince trains.

Welsh Pony arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 13:11 and Moelwyn coupled to the rear a few minutes later. The train departed for Dduallt at 13:19 allowing Blanche to run round its train minutes later. Prince departed Porthmadog on time at 13:40 with its second trip of the day. Blanche arrived back at 17:57 with the return 15:00 Mountain Prince and ran into the FR platform, the run round being clear as Glaslyn Venturer rake was out of the station on flange lubrication duty. the loco ran round at 18:03 and shunted the rake to the seawall siding at 18:11 and promptly departed for the depot light engine at 18:12 to bring a close to the day's services. Normally the B set is left in the FR platform overnight for the 10:00 departure but this was not the case today. Vale of Ffestiniog arrived at Tan-y-Bwlch with the Glaslyn Venturer rake at 18:52 on flange lubrication duties with Moelwyn coupled to the rear and departed for Dduallt at 19:09, arriving back at 19:22.

The Glaslyn Venturer rake must be returned to Porthmadog after a second run of flange lubrication duties planned for this evening. The rake must be in Porthmadog by 09:45 for the 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer departure on Tuesday. Three of the four Mountain Prince trains are available on Tuesday with just the 11:05 and 12:25 fully booked. All the Glaslyn Venturer trains for this week are bookable, perhaps reflecting their position near the bottom of the booking page even after the Woodland Wanderer and Back to Blaenau trains which do not run until the last week of July! The Gelert Explorer is fully booked until 3/7/21. 

 

F&WHR traffic 27/6/21

Sunday dawned bright with sunny periods forecast at Porthmadog and a maximum of 21C. All Mountain Prince trains except the 11:05 had space today.

Lyd shunted onto the B set in the FR platform by 09:45 ready for the 10:00 Mountain Prince which departed on time. Blanche came over to shunt the yard at 10:27 and draw out the A set for the 11:05. The rake was shunted into the FR platform by 10:45 and left on time. Prince was prepared for the 12:25 which was sold out. The loco turned up at 11:40 to coal and water before shunting the C set to the FR platform from 11:49. The 12:25 left on time and arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 13:15. Moelwyn was coupled to the rear at 13:18 and the train set off for Dduallt at 13:23 allowing Blanche to run round at 13:35.

Meanwhile down at Porthmadog Lyd ran round at 13:27 onto the B set in the FR platform to form the 13:40 Mountain Prince, which was sold out soon after midday. The train left on time. At 15:36 Blanche was shunting in the platform which did not depart with the 15:00 Mountain Prince until 15:45, some 45 minutes late after an earlier operational problem. The train passed Minffordd at 15:56. The train passed Prince at Minffordd which had an extended wait in the loop for some reason, possibly associated with the late running trains this afternoon before departing for Porthmadog at 16:12. Prince arrived at Porthmadog at 16:19 some 49 minutes late. Prince shunted its rake to the yard at 16:31 and headed for the depot light engine at 16:34.

Meanwhile up at Tan-y-bwlch Moelwyn arrived back with Vale of Ffestiniog on the rear at 16:26 some 80 minutes late revealing that Lyd had been the cause of the afternoon's disruption. This was the first diesel substitution of the season. There was no sign of Lyd. Blanche arrived at 16:37 and at 16:45 set off for Dduallt at 16:45 with Moelwyn on the rear. Vale of Ffestiniog ran round at 16:47 as soon as Blanche's train had cleared the shunt limit.

 

This westerly view (27/6/21) at 16:37 shows Blanche arriving at Tan-y-bwlch with the late running 15:00 while Vale of Ffestiniog is on the rear of a diesel substituted 13:40 following a problem with Lyd. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Blanche arrived back at Tan-y-bwlch at 17:09 some 45 minutes late and ran round at 17:26 with people returning to the train after a shorter break than normal. Vale of Ffestiniog passed through Minffordd at 17:24 and arrived at Porthmadog at 17:34 some 70 minutes late. Vale of Ffestiniog hauled the Glaslyn Venturer rake out at 17:46 towards Blaenau Ffestiniog passing Minffordd at 17:54. Blanche left Tan-y-bwlch at 17:37 and passed the Funkey ECS working departing Minffordd at 18:02. Blanche eventually arrived in Porthmadog' s WHR platform at 18:10, some 20 minutes late. As the Glaslyn Venturer rake had been removed Blanche could have run round in the FR platform but stuck to its diagram. Due to congestion caused by late running Moelwyn was left at Tan-y-bwlch.

Blanche ran round at 18:15 but was held at the king point for several minutes. The loco eventually shunted the rake to the seawall siding before heading off light engine to the depot at 18:35. Meanwhile the Funkey arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 17:26 and Moelwyn attached to the rear. The driver was kept waiting by the guard for several minutes until 17:35 for the right away which was surprising for an ECS train. The train was on flange lubrication duties, between Minffordd and Dduallt which continued until Vale of Ffestiniog's transmission became hot. The train came back down, presumably only to Minffordd as it then went back up the hill, passing Penrhyndeudraeth about 20 minutes after going down. The train did three runs in all, the final one coming down past Penrhyndeudraeth at 9.40pm and stabling at Boston Lodge before bringing the day's activities to a close.

 

This westerly view (27/6/21) at 18:25 shows Vale of Ffestiniog arriving at Tan-y-bwlch with an ECS working. Moelwyn was attached to the rear before the train eventually proceeded presumably to Glan-y-pwll Carriage Shed. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Monday's 11:05 is already fully booked but the other four Mountain Prince workings have compartments available. The TWThO twice a day Glaslyn Venturer is bookable for weeks to come. The Gelert Explorer from Caernarfon is fully booked until Saturday 3/7/21 indicating additional trains from this end of the line might garner much needed revenue.

 

Traction review 27/6/21

The addition of Lyd to the fleet in early June has seen some use of the L&B replica loco on Mountain Prince services this week. Prince has not returned to service after visiting the SBR two weeks ago. Palmerston has also seen little use although it did turn up as the Dduallt shunt pilot on 22/6/21. This is normally a Moelwyn duty but Upnor Castle has also stepped in occasionally. Whilst usually going up light engine before the first service to prove the route, on 24/6/21 Moelwyn was attached to the rear of the first train, the 10:00. The Dduallt shunt loco appears to travel light engine back from Tan-y-bwlch immediately after its last duty arriving back at Boston Lodge about a hour before the service train departs Tan-y-bwlch.

Welsh Pony and Blanche have made up the bulk of the small engine haulages with increased use of both Fairlies over the last few weeks. No.130 acquired a train name headboard Glaslyn Venturer on the west side running plate facing passengers at Porthmadog. This will help passengers select their train when both Mountain Prince and Glaslyn Venturer are in the platforms at the same time at 10:00 and 13:40. It seems No.87 has swapped duties with No.130 on 26/6/21 as the Wedding Reception special saw the locos exchanged at Beddgelert from the Gelert Explorer.

While No.130 has performed well, No.87 had a problem on 9/6/21 and No.130 was detached from the returning Glaslyn Venturer at Pont Croesor to rescue it. By that time No.87 should have been almost back in Caernarfon as it departs Beddgelert before the Glaslyn Venturer arrives! In the end it was not needed but David Lloyd George was steamed and rescued the Glaslyn Venturer from Pont Croesor. The need for a large diesel loco is illustrated as Vale of Ffestiniog may not be able to haul the Gelert Explorer rake unassisted. It is well past time to complete the rebuild of WHR's Funkey Castell Caernarfon! So far the F&WHR has been lucky in having sufficient small engines available for traffic and always in light steam as standby locos.

 

Comparison with L&BR

The L&BR which often exchanges locos with the F&WHR is offering a turn up and go service rather than pre-booking like the FR&WHR. With the staycation this year both railways are benefiting from increased visitors to the tourist areas where they are located. Both railways see Mondays and Fridays as low traffic days so do not offer a service on those days (FR does offer a daily Mountain Prince but all other trains do not operate). The L&BR is advertising special days in advance including its September Gala 25-26/9/21 but the F&WHR has yet to commit to SuperPower 17-19/9/21 though states that K1 will visit from the SBR this Autumn.

 

FR locos at SBR 26/6/21

This easterly view (26/6/21) shows Lilla and K1 inside Statfold Barn's display shed around the turntable. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Mark Hambly and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Will The Snowdonian run this year?

The Snowdonian was cancelled last year because of COVID. The Snowdonian website still has no details about booking even though the train is due to run on 24-25/7/21 in just 4 weeks time! The absence of major timetable changes casts doubt on the possibility that the trains will run. The website says the WHR leg will be on Saturday and the FR leg on the Sunday. However, the Glaslyn Venturer rake is not booked to run on Saturday 24/7/21, so its possible to use this rake for The Snowdonian. On Sunday 25/7/21 The Glaslyn Venturer set is currently shown as only available for the afternoon service at 13:40 so could be booked for use on The Snowdonian. with a run from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog and back in the morning. As regards the Mountain Prince all of July's five daily trains are planned on Sunday's except Sunday 25/7/21. This might indicate a rake of heritage coaches being set aside for The Snowdonian as only two rakes are needed for the advertised 3 train service.  

 

North Wales main line 26/6/21

TfW livery Class 67 No.67025 and its Mk4 rake were used as a Saturday Crewe-Bangor Relief train on 26/6/21. Also No.67008 with today's 1K67, 1005 Holyhead-Crewe which was the first run of the Mk4s in passenger service between Chester and Crewe. The Holyhead-Cardiff train sets do not run at weekends and is available for general spot hire use if not undergoing maintenance. Previously 1D68 has been an ECS turn to allow or a set swap at Holyhead for maintenance purposes. This was an innovative way to use the set swap to provide a better service for passengers. Well done TfW.

The ugly Class 179 appeared on the NWC for the first time on 25/6/21 with No.179002 apparently covering all the branches and noted running to Blaenau Ffestiniog. This train has a central end door reminiscent of southern region EMUs but on the positive side this will make it easier for passengers to transfer to another coupled unit when trains are crowded and for buffet trolleys to serve the whole train.

 

F&WHR traffic 26/6/21

Saturday started out grey and mild at Porthmadog with sunny periods and 19C maximum forecast. All five Mountain Prince trains remained bookable this morning but the Gelert Explorer from Caernarfon was fully booked until 3/7/21

Welsh Pony left on time hauling the B set with the 10:00 Mountain Prince. Moelwyn was already waiting in the westbound platform at Tan-y-bwlch for Dduallt shunt duties at 10:00 presumably having come up light engine earlier. Blanche turned up at 10:31 to shunt the A set from the seawall siding to the FR platform ready for the 11:05 Mountain Prince. The train left on time and was sold out by departure time.

Both Lyd and No.130 came over about 12:00. Vale of Ffestiniog turned up with an empty B wagon in tow at 12:09 and ran through the WHR platform road for Boston Lodge. This was presumably a returned wagon from the WHR loco ash operation out of Dinas. The 10 coach Glaslyn Venturer rake was hauled out by No.130 at 12:18 and reversed into the WHR platform. This delayed the departure of the 12:25 a little which left with the C set at 12:29 behind Lyd.

 

This easterly view (26/6/21) at 12:09 shows Vale of Ffestiniog arriving from Dinas with an empty B wagon while No.130 shunted the Glaslyn Venturer set to the WHR platform. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

With The Cob now clear No.130 shunted the rear four coaches to the yard and then ran around the remaining 6 coach rake in the WHR platform. This special train up the WHR appeared to be a private booking for a wedding reception as Observation Car No.152 was adorned with a label 'Alex and Zanna Just Married'. The loco ran round to the front of the train at 12:40 before departing presumably for Beddgelert at 12:58. Meanwhile Welsh Pony arrived back at 12:55 with the returning 10:00 service for the 13:40 service.

 

This easterly view (26/6/21) at 12:40 shows No.130 running round preparing to haul the wedding special. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

At 16:29 the wedding special rolled back into Porthmadog with No.87 on the front indicating a loco swap at Beddgelert. So No.130 must have continued back to Dinas with the Gelert Explorer. At 16.33 the loco collected the four coaches detached at midday and shunted them back onto the rake in the WHR platform to reform the Glaslyn Venturer 10 coach rake before shunting the completed rake back to the yard.

 

This easterly view (26/6/21) at 16:28 shows No.87 arriving in the WHR platform from Beddgelert with the truncated Glaslyn Venturer set from the wedding reception. It seems the loco had been exchanged with No.130 at Beddgelert to give No.130 a turn on the Gelert Explorer and No.87 on the Glaslyn Venturer. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Welsh Pony arrived back at 16:49. One in the FR platform No.87 could shunt the rake from the WHR platform to the yard at 16:50 and departed light engine for the depot at 16:56. Meanwhile Welsh Pony left light engine for the depot at 17:08.

All except the 11:05 Mountain Prince trains have compartments free tomorrow.

 

Lilla and Britomart at Statfold 25/6/21

Lilla and Britomart arrived at the Statfold Barn Railway from the F&WHR on Friday in readiness for the Quarry Hunslets 150+1 event on 10-11/7/21.  They are expected to operate the passenger service on the “high level” line, with Lilla at one end of the train and Statfold paired with Britomart at the other. See Statfold website for full details.

 

Moving Pictures No.52 25/6/21

Click on the YouTube window to watch 30 mins 47 seconds of video covering Lyd's special PTG Tours train on the WHR 7/6/21, Palmerston and Welsh Pony double headed to Blaenau Ffestiniog and Prince and K1 at the Statfold Barn railway. This YouTube was published on 25/6/21 (nominally 16/6/21) and was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a 4K 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.

 

F&WHR traffic 25/6/21

Friday dawned grey and mild at Porthmadog with a chilly damp day forecast 13C maximum. All trains are sold out today except the 10:00 Mountain Prince. All five Mountain Prince trains on Saturday and Sunday were still bookable this morning. The Gelert Explorer is fully booked for several days ahead and the first available compartment is now available on 3/7/21! Surely time to start adding extra trips for this MFSuX service?

Steam was noted being raised at Boston Lodge at 09:47 and Blanche arrived to couple onto the B set left in the FR platform at 09:47. This train was to form the 10:00 Mountain Prince which left a quarter of an hour late at 10:15 after some problem was resolved. The rain set in later and David Lloyd George arrived by 10:35 to refuel and water before shunting the yard at 10:50. The A set was dragged out of the seawall siding at 10:55 and shunted to the FR platform in time for the 11:05 Mountain Prince departure which left on time.

Merddin Emrys left Boston Lodge at 11:35 and came over to shunt the C set for the 12:25 Mountain Prince departing 6 minutes late at 12:31. The train arrived at Tan-y-bwlch shortly after 13:05 and departed for Dduallt with Moelwyn on the rear about 15 minutes later allowing David Lloyd George to run round at 13:25. At 14:40 the Fairlie remerged from refuelling/watering at Porthmadog to run round and couple up to the 15:00. This was fully booked by now and left on time. At 15:51 the C set was shunted back into the yard and Merddin Emrys departed for the depot shortly afterwards.

David Lloyd George arrived back at Porthmadog on the return working of the 15:00 at about 17:45 and ran round its train in the WHR platform by 17:51. The rake was shunted to the seawall siding while other locos were being disposed of at Boston Lodge. The loco went to refuel and water at 18:01 before departing light engine for the depot at 18:10 to close the day's activities.

Four of the five Saturday trains are available with only the popular 11:05 fully booked. Compartments have become available on the Gelert Explorer on Saturday 26/6/21 but otherwise the train is fully booked until the following Saturday 3/7/21. Next week's Glaslyn Venturer are all bookable.

 

New Summer services from 24/7/21

The Summer is well and truly upon us here at the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways! Whilst the weather has been mixed as it often is here in North Wales, there has been nothing but excitement around the Railway as we have welcomed visitors back for peak season! Since reopening back in April, our four experiences along both the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways have proved hugely popular with visitors, and it has been a joy to see people enjoying their visit with many trains fully booked more recently. We are now at a point where we can begin to offer a greater variety of services and we are delighted to announce that we will be introducing 3 new experiences in July! These will be the; Back to Blaenau/The Quarryman, The Harbourmaster and Snowdonia Star services.

Details of each of these services are noted below:

Back to Blaenau/The Quarryman will run the full length of the Ffestiniog Railway from Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog, with a break to enable passengers to explore ‘the town that roofed the world’. A chance to discover its impressive slate sculptures, poetry band trail and selection of privately run shops, cafes and pubs. The train will then return through the Vale of Ffestiniog to the harbourside at Porthmadog, following the route of slate trains from quarry to coast.

We are very excited to be offering a service along the whole line of the Ffestiniog Railway and are pleased to return to Blaenau Ffestiniog. Nearly forty years ago, trains proudly steamed back into Blaenau Ffestiniog and now we are doing it again for the first time in over 18 months.

The Back to Blaenau/The Quarryman service runs Tuesday to Thursday from 27/7/21-2/9/21 departing Porthmadog at 11:40 and returning after a 1.5 hour break in Blaenau Ffestiniog (some sources say 1 hour) at 14:45.

The Harbourmaster will run the full length of the Welsh Highland Railway, from Porthmadog’s Harbour Station, travelling 25 miles ‘coast to coast’ across the foothills of Yr Wyddfa (Snowdon) to Caernarfon. Here, passengers can enjoy a break to explore the historic town with its impressive castle, ancient town walls, narrow streets and views across the Menai Strait. The train will then head back to Porthmadog - past meadows, moors and mountains as it travels through Snowdonia. The train departs at 09:40 and after a 2.5 hour journey gives at 2 hour break at Caernarfon before departing at 15:10 for the return journey.

A First class ‘Gold’ and a pre-order collect & go hamper service is available on this service.

The Harbourmaster service runs Fridays and Saturdays from the 31/7/21-4/9/21.

Snowdonia Star will also run the full length of the Welsh Highland Railway, but starting from Caernarfon Station, giving an option for passengers joining from the North Wales Coast. Arriving in Porthmadog, passengers will have time to explore the coastal town with its wide High Street and busy harbour and enjoy the facilities at Harbour Station. The train will then return to Caernarfon, to complete a ‘Grand Day-Out’ enjoying the dramatic scenery of the beautiful Snowdonia National Park.

A First class ‘Gold’ and a pre-order collect & go hamper service is available on this service.

The Snowdonia Star service celebrates the dedication of  the Welsh Highland Railway Society and the hard work and support of its members in the rebuilding of this railway from Caernarfon back to Porthmadog.

Since the opening of the first section of track to Dinas in 1997, embankments have been rebuilt, bridges replaced stations constructed and track laid. Supporters have paid towards buildings and bridges, carriages and even locomotive restoration, such is their love for this very special railway. The work was completed in early 2009 when the final piece of track was laid and fitted with the golden bolts to complete the track and connect with the Ffestiniog Railway.

The Snowdonia Star service runs Fridays and Saturdays from 25/7/2-4/9/21 the service departs 10:00 from Caernarfon and has a 2.25 hour journey with a 2 hour break in Porthmadog, departing at 14:15 for the return journey.

Full information regarding these new services will be available on our website: https://www.festrail.co.uk

The Booking site will be opening bookings for these services from 10:00 on 24/6/21. Tickets will be available for these services between 24/7/21 July and 5/9/21.

The priority for all these services will be to keep all staff, volunteers and visitors safe. Note: Your group must consist of people who are in your bubble and who you are permitted to travel together with according to Welsh Government guidance applicable at time of travel.

The detailed FAQs page on our website will help with many of your questions.

Ticket prices will vary depending on your choice of experience; and work on the basis that you must first purchase a compartment or seating bay in order to travel. This seating bay is cleaned before travel and is then yours for the duration of your visit.

Most compartments and seating bays hold up to six passengers but if you are a party of more than six, please telephone our booking office on 01766 516024 to make your booking.

Please Note: If you are unable to book online, have special or disability requirements, or you simply need help with your booking, please phone to book on 01766 516024. The Booking Office is open 09:00 – 17:00 daily.

 

WHRS Members’ Travel

Whilst the F&WHR still need to make as much as possible from every train, we recognise the huge contribution the societies have made to keeping the railways going – both financially and through volunteer help at all levels. Current 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 our online Buy Now gateway. You will need your 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 our online Buy Now gateway. You will need your 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.

 

Other services from 24/7/21-5/9/21

The Summer timetable extends from 24/7/21-5/9/21 over the School Summer Holidays, following which an Autumn timetable, still in planning, will apply. With the new Snowdonia Star service seemingly using the Gelert Explorer rake on Fridays and Saturdays, the Gelert Explorer will not run those days from 31/7-4/9/21 but has now been expanded to run FSX 25/7/21-5/9/21. Similarly the Glaslyn Venturer rake will seemingly be used for the Harbourmaster service Fridays and Saturdays 31/7/21-4/9/21 but has now been expanded to run FSX 25/7/21-5/9/21.

The FR's Back to Blaenau/The Quarryman service is a bit of a conundrum as it is operating Tuesday-Thursday, the same days as The Glaslyn Venturer but offers a Pullman/Observation option. It must use some of the spare coaches from the stored fleet of modern coaches at Glan-y-pwll/Boston Lodge but in absence of another Observation car, this suggests one will be taken off the Glaslyn Venturer rake.  

The Mountain Prince runs daily until 25/7/21 with 5 trains a day showing as planned for most of the July timetable. It is then replaced by The Woodland Wanderer from 26/7/21 to 5/9/21 for the School summer holidays. This is currently showing as 4 planned daily trains but the previous Woodland Wanderer timetable showed six trains. More may be added according to demand.

 

F&WHR traffic 24/6/21

Thursday started off a grey day at Porthmadog but the weather will be a mild 17C with sunny periods. All Mountain Prince trains are fully booked today and all except the 15:00 fully booked Friday. This afternoon's Glaslyn Venturer is sold out. The Gelert Explorer is fully booked until 3/7/21. The F&WHR Booking website has already been expanded to show the new Summer services (see above) in anticipation of their start from 24/7/21 for the school Summer Holiday peak season. Tickets for these Summer Services can be booked from today at 10:00. Of the original service names proposed only the Snowdonia Star retains its name.

Moelwyn and Welsh Pony left Porthmadog double heading the 10:00 Mountain Prince while No.130 waited on its train in the WHR platform for the 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer. Normally the Dduallt shunt loco would have gone up to Tan-y-bwlch light engine before the 10:00. David Lloyd George turned up about 10:35 to shunt the 11:05 which left on time. Lyd arrived at 11:35 to shunt the 12:25 to the FR platform departing a few minutes late at 12:28 with the C set.

David Lloyd George arrived back at Porthmadog at 18:00 with the returning 15:00 Mountain Prince but unusually piloted by Moelwyn for possibly the first time. The two locos detached independently and ran round with Moelwyn going on shed and the Fairlie shunting the rake to the seawall siding and departing promptly at 18:19 for the depot bringing activity at Porthmadog to a close.

 

This easterly view (24/6/21) at 18:00 shows Moelwyn and David Lloyd George double heading the return working of the 15:00 Mountain Prince. This is a most unusual move as the diesel normal returns light engine. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Trains on Friday continue to be busy with all but the 15:00 Mountain Prince sold out. The Gelert Explorer is fully booked until 1/7/21 and there are no Glaslyn Venturer trains until 29/6/21 being they are TWThO but they are still bookable.

 

Snowdonia Star/Castle Star services

The F&WHR GM Paul Lewin has mentioned that through services from Caernarfon to Porthmadog (Seren Eryri/Snowdonia Star) and vice versa (Seren Castell/Castle Star) are likely to resume later in the Summer. Summer started on 21/6/21 and the proposed start of these services is likely to coincide with the school summer holidays and any future easing in COVID restrictions due around the same time in late July. With much of the WHR stock used in the current WHR services, the question must be asked which stock will be used or will be current WHR services be replaced? The FR rake used on the Glaslyn Venturer could be used on a Porthmadog-Caernarfon train but what could be used on a Caernarfon-Porthmadog train except the existing Gelert Explorer rake or additional FR modern coaches from Glan-y-pwll or Boston Lodge storage with COVID complaint compartment screens fitted.

 

F&WHR traffic 23/6/21

Wednesday turned out to be a bit grey with forecast maximum of 15C and showers later. All five Mountain Prince trains are fully booked and the first three of Thursday's five trains are also fully booked. Both Glaslyn Venturer trains today are fully booked for the first time but Thursday's trains are both bookable. With such high demand for these WHR services, maybe the timetable should be increased from TWThO to additional days? The Gelert Explorer is also doing very well and is fully booked for the next 6 trips so Saturday 3/7/21 is the next available day. This is another example where additional trains might make sense (see Star services above).

No.130 was running round its rake in the WHR platform at Porthmadog by 09:30 for the fully booked 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer. Meanwhile steam was being raised in Boston Lodge for the 10:00 Mountain Prince. Merddin Emrys turned up at 09:46 and coupled to the B set already in the FR platform. The Glaslyn Venturer departed at 10:19 after waiting for 3 late arriving passengers. By 10:20 Moelwyn was back on duty at Tan-y-bwlch waiting for Dduallt pilot duties.

David Lloyd George turned up at 10:42 to extract the A set from the seawall siding for the 11:05, leaving on time. Merddin Emrys set off from Tan-y-bwlch for Dduallt at 10:48 with Moelwyn coupled to the rear, arriving back at 11:13.

By midday the weather had closed in and it was raining in Porthmadog. Welsh Pony left on the 12:25 Mountain Prince with the C set on time, passing Minffordd at 1238 with much condensation due to the damp weather. No.130 arrived back at Porthmadog at 12:59. The loco ran round at 13:04 ready for the 13:40 afternoon Glaslyn Venturer. The 13:40 Mountain Prince left on time, as usual slightly before the Glaslyn Venturer which departed at 13:44. David Lloyd George departed on the 15:00 Mountain Prince at 15:03.

David Lloyd George arrived back with the 15:00 Mountain Prince at 17:47 and ran round 5 minutes later. The rake was propelled to the seawall siding by 18:00 and the loco disposed to the depot after watering, leaving at 18:15.

The F&WHR has responded to the demand at Porthmadog as all five Mountain Prince trains on Thursday are fully booked and three of Friday's five are also fully booked. So additional trains have been laid on at the weekend with five trains on Saturday and Sunday. A change to the bookings page now sees all trains from Porthmadog on the same page and both Glaslyn Venturer trains are shown as available on Thursday. Saturday 3/7/21 is the first bookable date on the Gelert Explorer with the 5 trains before that fully booked so surely time to consider additional trains from Caernarfon?! Seven trains are operated from Porthmadog on some days and just one 4 days a week from Caernarfon.

 

F&WHR traffic 22/6/21

Tuesday was a fine day at Porthmadog with temperatures of up to 19C. There are still compartments available on the 15:00 Mountain Prince today but possibly for the first time both the Glaslyn Venturer trains today are sold out. The Gelert Explorer is fully booked until Saturday 26/6/21.

No.130 made it across The Cob drawing its rake from the Carriage Sheds into the WHR platform at 09:58, just minutes before the booked departure of the 10:00 Mountain Prince hauled by Blanche, which departed on time. The 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer had a good crowd of passengers. This train left at 10:17 and steam was being raised in Boston Lodge for the 11:05.

Merddin Emrys arrived at 10:34 to shunt the yard and prepare for the 11:05 departure. The 12:25 was hauled by Lyd for the first time departing at 12:29.

The F&WHR's webcam live stream failed briefly at about 13:10 to all three webcams simultaneously for a few minutes as Vale of Ffestiniog rolled past the recently arrived No.130 in the WHR platform via the through line light engine heading west. Lyd was arriving at Tan-y-bwlch during the failure. The Dduallt shunt engine at Tan-y-bwlch appeared to be a steam loco for the first time and Palmerston was duly noted on the duty at 13:22 instead of a diesel.

 

This westerly view (22/6/21) at 13:22 shows Palmerston on the rear of the 1225 Mountain Prince instead of the normal diesel. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Down at Porthmadog No.130 returned from the watering point at 13:27 and ran round to attach to the west end of the train. As usual at 13:40 Blanche departed slightly before the similarly timed Glaslyn Venturer which left at 13:44. Meanwhile Palmerston with Lyd on the rear arrived back at Tan-y-bwlch at 13:45. Lyd ran round at 14:45.

 

This westerly view (22/6/21) at 13:22 shows Lyd running round the 1225 Mountain Prince ready for the return journey from Tan-y-bwlch. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

The sun came out in the afternoon and Merddin Emrys arrived back at Porthmadog at 17:45 with the A set and ran round promptly to shunt the rake to the yard. Upnor Castle arrived light engine at 17:53 and made its way to the yard just before the shunt into the seawall siding at 18:00. After detaching the Fairlie ran back to the siding at 18:05 to allow the diesel to depart with two empty Bocoal wagons for Minffordd Yard. However, the train unusually passed Minffordd via the eastbound loop at about 18:15, rather than reversing into the yard. The Fairlie went to water at 18:07 before departing for the depot at about 18:20 bringing activity to a close for the day.

All five Mountain Prince trains are due to run on Wednesday 23/6/21 and all trains except the 15:00 are sold out. While Wednesday's Gelert Explorer is fully booked. Some compartments on Thursday's train have become free but Saturday's are now sold out. The Glaslyn Venturer is becoming more popular with Wednesday morning's train already sold out, however there are seats on the afternoon train.

 

F&WHR traffic 21/6/21

Its officially Summer, but Monday dawned grey and mild (Max 17C) at Porthmadog with plenty of tourists around. Today's Mountain Prince trains are fully booked today.

David Lloyd George hauled the A set on the 11:05 leaving Porthmadog on time. Blanche was on the 10:00 and had arrived back in Tan-y-bwlch from Dduallt by 11:20 with Upnor Castle leading. The Fairlie departed Tan-y-bwlch at 11:54. Down at Porthmadog Welsh Pony arrived light engine from Boston Lodge at 12:00 for the 12:25 with the C set.

Welsh Pony departed Tan-y-bwlch at 14:50 with the return working of the 12:25. Meanwhile down at Porthmadog David Lloyd George ran round at 14:46 ready for the 15:00 Mountain Prince which departed at 15:03 but came to a stop at Minffordd signals before entering the loop at 15:14. Welsh Pony left the loop at 15:16 and arrived in Porthmadog about 10 minutes later. The loco ran round at 15:34 and shunted its rake to the yard before leaving for the depot at 15:41.

Blanche arrived back at Porthmadog at 16:48 on the B set with the return working of the 13:40. After running round and disposing of the rake to the yard, the loco left light engine for the depot at 17:00. David Lloyd George arrived in the WHR platform at Porthmadog with the final train of the day at 17:54. After running round and shunting the rake to the yard at 18:05, the loco left for the depot at 18:24, one of the latest departures, bringing the day's activities to a close.

Tuesday-Friday's timetable currently shows five Mountain Prince trains available. The first four on Tuesday are sold out but there are compartments available on the 15:00. Three trains are already sold out on Wednesday too. The Gelert Explorer is available Saturday 26/6/21 and the Glaslyn Venturer is available Tuesday to Thursday this week for both the morning and afternoon trains.

 

F&WHR traffic 20/6/21

Sunday was a sunny mild day at Porthmadog with temperatures of 19C maximum but a little breezy at first. Sunday's trains are fully booked though there is availability on the Mountain Prince on Monday afternoon services but there is no 10:00 service currently booked for Monday. The Glaslyn Venturer has availability from Tuesday-Thursday which can mop up passengers when all five Mountain Prince trains are fully booked. The Gelert Explorer has now had Wednesdays added until the end of the timetable on 23/7/21 and trains are booked up to Wednesday 23/6/21. While the service is now MFSuX, additional Monday services have been offered on 5/7/21 and 19/7/21.

Welsh Pony departed Porthmadog on time with the 10:00 on the B set passing Minffordd at 10:11. Upnor Castle was on duty for the Dduallt shunt at Tan-y-bwlch in place of the normal Moelwyn, which presumably has maintenance at the weekends. At 10:30, Blanche was released from Boston Lodge and the loco arrived to shunt the yard at 10:35. The A set was propelled into the FR platform at 10:45 and departing on time.

Merddin Emrys was provided for the 12:25 and it departed Porthmadog at 12:28 with the C set. It was raining by the time it arrived in Tan-y-bwlch around 13:15 where Blanche was detached from the 11:05 and waiting to run round.

The 15:00 arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 15:50 and, wasting no time, Upnor Castle was coupled up at 15:52. The train departed for Dduallt at 15:58. Welsh Pony ran round at 16:09 ready for the return working of the 13:40 which departed Tan-y-bwlch at 16:17. It arrived back in Porthmadog at 16:54. After shunting the rake to the yard, the loco departed for the depot at 17:04.

Blanche arrived back at Porthmadog with the return working of the 15:00 at 17:56 in the WHR platform. The rake was shunted to the FR yard at 18:15 and the loco dispatched to the depot at 18:20 to conclude the day's activities.

By the afternoon, the Gelert Explorer is now fully booked for the remainder of June except for 26/6/21 with the first compartments available on 1/7/21. Monday's Mountain Prince has been increased to the full five trains with three of those already sold out. Five trains will be offered M-F next week but only propose two on Saturday at the moment! The Glaslyn Venturer however is still available twice daily TWThO.

 

North Wales suffering COVID third wave?

WAG's first Minister Marl Drakeford is anxious that North Wales appears to be suffering a third wave of COVID caused by the Delta variant with some of the highest rates of infection being seen in the Conwy district, possibly imported from the hotspots around Manchester by people with second homes in North Wales. It is for this reason that Mark Drakeford is delaying any further announcement about relaxation of COVID rules for 4 weeks until just before the F&WHR's Summer timetable is announced. This puts the F&WHR in a difficult position with regard to its proposed reopening to Blaenau Ffestiniog where it views the platforms as being too narrow for social distancing. Any further relaxation of the current compartment booking procedure also seems unlikely in this environment limiting the number of people that can be carried unless additional trains are put on both of the WHR services.

 

Llangollen news

One small part of the Llangollen Railway has reopened with news that Carrog station's 5532 Shop and Tea room is reopening with hot and cold food Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays 09:30 to 16:00. As of 14/6/21 Class 31 No.31271 has been passed fit for service and Class 47 No.47449 has also been started up. Steam engine No.3802 has also passed its 'ready to run exam' so the LlR has 3 locos to chose from to run its initial services in a month or so's time as well as its DMU fleet. The railway has enough coaches to run two rakes though initially it may choose to run compartment stock with a compartment booking system and no intermediate stops like the F&WHR/GCR/G&WR etc.

Davy, the ex ICI Class 08 lookalike private shunter, has now arrived at Shakerstone. The railway still aims to reopen for the school holidays towards the end of July if at all possible. Small 0-6-0 Austin 1 is off for a season of hire duties at Midsomer Norton and Foxcote Manor is at its new home base of WSR but may visit its old home at Llangollen sometime. It seems that some of the coaches removed from the LlR had never actually run on the railway but had been used as store rooms.

 

F&WHR traffic 19/6/21

Porthmadog was set to see a mild cloudy day on Saturday with 20 C maximum. With the full 5 Mountain Prince trains operating today only the 11:05 is fully booked. The Gelert Explorer is fully booked until 23/6/21.

At 09:42 Welsh Pony arrived at Porthmadog from Boston Lodge to shunt the yard for the 10:00 Mountain Prince which left 5 minutes late with the B set, passing Minffordd at 10:15. Blanche arrived later and drew out the A set from the yard at 10:41 for the 11:05 which left on time. Meanwhile a David Lloyd George was being steamed in Boston Lodge for the 12:25. The loco arrived at 11:28 almost an hour before the departure time of 12:25, allowing the crew a lunch break. The 12:25 left on time. Blanche was back for the 15:00.

Blanche left Tan-y-bwlch with the return working of the 15:00 at 17:21 arriving in Porthmadog in the WHR platform at 17:53 as usual. The loco promptly ran round but shunted to the refuelling point. The loco left the yard at 18:14 and propelled the rake to the FR yard by 18:21. Blanche left light engine for the depot at 18:25 bringing activities to a close.

The five Mountain Prince trains on Sunday are fully booked except for the 15:00 train. The Gelert Explorer is now fully booked until Thursday 24/6/21 however there are plenty of seats on the Glaslyn Venturer TWThO from 22/6/21.

 

More Historic Railway structure destruction

Readers may remember the story from January warning of the destruction of unused railway structures. Petitions, campaigns, press releases have had no effect whatsoever on the Tories and the rampant destruction by Highways England of the Historic Railways Estate is reaching new high levels. Any Government initiatives such as ‘reversing Beeching’ or encouraging people to cycle by putting cycle paths on disused railways appear to be irrelevant. Highways England are doing their utmost to make sure neither will happen, or at least make it so expensive that projects cannot go ahead. Another one was lost recently EDE 25, lying midway between Warcop and Kirby Stephen. Both the Eden Valley Railway Trust and the Stainmore Railway aspire to extend south and north respectively to meet up and make a more viable 11 mile route than what is possible within their respective current limits of operation. The HRE Group has been on the case for some time. Then in early June contractors turned up unexpectedly as they do, and in a couple of weeks it will all be over.

The inspection report dated February 2020 stated everything was in good condition with no risk. The cost of work required: £7,500 for minor re-pointing and repair to accident damage on the parapet (presumably subject to an insurance claim). However there is no chance of that happening. HE let the contract on 10/3/21 for £123,580, to ‘remove the associated risk of structural collapse and harm to the public’. What risk? In 1998 there was load assessment showing 17 tonnes. The bridge is unrestricted, but all through routes in the area have 18 tonne weight limits imposed for environmental reasons. Only local vehicles are exempt. No planning consent was needed for infill, citing permitted development rights. Take a good look at the photo below as the bridge has been there since 1862, but that is the last time you will see it. Any notions of the economic benefit of Heritage Railways are ignored.

 

This Warcop view (January 21) shows the bridge on the Eden Valley railway shortly before demolition started blocking a future preserved railway. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright HRE Group and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

The condition of a bridge does not matter. The HE remit is to ‘reduce liabilities and remove assets’. So many more will be infilled or demolished eventually. They cannot be transferred to heritage railways, so unless the highway authority wants them, which they do not, that is the end. Heritage value, environment or historical context is not important unless it is already listed (even then it is not guaranteed to be safe). This has to be a new low in civil engineering and has upset many career civil engineers.

If you are interested in what goes on in Wales, unfortunately Highways ENGLAND controls WALES (and Scotland). The map below shows all structures owned by HRE:

Map of Structures

They are not all for demolition straight away, but constant vigilance is required especially for those on Traws Link Cymru (the plan to join the north and south Wales routes via the Cambrian Coast. One is under immediate threat at Pont-Llanio overbridge AYT 55 as shown on the earlier map:

Previous Map of structures

 

F&WHR still recruiting catering staff 18/6/21

It seems that like many catering outlets the F&WHR is having difficulty recruiting staff. Another advert has been released seeking to employ new staff at Spooners, namely chefs, food and beverage assistant and kitchen assistant. One of the difficulties pubs and restaurants, as well as farmers, are currently having is recruiting temporary staff now that Brexit has made it more difficult for foreign workers to come to the UK. See job description for more details.

 

WAG COVID restrictions latest 18/6/21

Mark Drakeford, WAG First Minister, has delayed any decision on further easing of COVID rules for 4 weeks until mid July in view of the 'third wave' of COVID caused by the Delta Variant. This means that the F&WHR will have to continue with its compartment strategy when considering the service post 23/7/21. The current booking system shows that the Summer timetable from 24/7/21 has not yet been decided though there are already many bookings in advance for July and even some full trains on 30/6/21.

 

F&WHR traffic 18/6/21

Friday was sunny and mild 20C at Porthmadog in contrast to the heavy rain, 12C cold conditions and thunderstorms southeast of the Fosse Way. Compartments were still bookable on the 15:00 even in the afternoon. There were no Glaslyn Venturer or Gelert Explorer trains as the F&WHR believes there is no market for ANY WHR service on Fridays or Mondays.

The first train, the 11:05 Mountain Prince, was hauled by Merddin Emrys with the A set, departing on time from the WHR platform unusually and passing Minffordd at 11:15. The 12:25 arrived at Tan-y-bwlch in sunshine at 13:07 hauled by Welsh Pony with the B set. Meanwhile, down at Porthmadog, Blanche arrived light engine at 13:09 and shunted onto the C set to form the 13:40 in the FR platform. This was mysteriously already present due to some shunting after the 12:25 had departed and departed on time. Merddin Emrys arrived back in Porthmadog at 14:06 to form the 15:00 after Zoono cleaning. This left on time passing Minffordd at 15:10.

The final movements of the day saw Merddin Emrys return at 17:54 arriving in the WHR platform. After detaching the loco ran to the yard at 18:03. The loco was back on the train by 18:15 and shunted the rake to the yard. The Fairlie left for Boston Lodge at 18:26 to conclude the day's activities.

 

This easterly view (14/6/21) at 17:54 shows Merddin Emrys arriving in the WHR platform with the return working of the 15:00. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Saturday and Sunday see the Mountain Prince extended to the maximum 5 services again. All are currently bookable except the 11:05 both days and the 13:40 Sunday. The Gelert Explorer is fully booked again but compartments were available on 23/6/21. There are no Glaslyn Venturer trains at the weekend.

 

Sarah Green by-election victory 18/6/21

Sarah Green, who won an amazing victory in the Tory stronghold of Chesham & Amersham Parliamentary by-election yesterday for the Liberal Democrats, was the party's candidate for the Arfon constituency in the 2019 General Election. Arfon is the constituency that includes the WHR and Caernarfon. She had previously campaigned to support the North Wales Tourist Industry and the WHR. Sarah was opposed to Brexit which has cut off the EU funding stream that helped restore the WHR. It's good to have another MP in parliament who knows the value of the WHR to North Wales even though she represents a Home Counties constituency.

 

F&WHR traffic 17/6/21

Thursday dawned sunny and mild at Porthmadog with a maximum forecast 18C compared to the stifling weather endured in the Midlands and South East overnight. The 15:00 Mountain Prince was still bookable as were the two Glaslyn Venturer trains. There is no Gelert Explorer of Friday but Saturday's was fully booked a week ago. The opportunity to add one on Sunday has not been taken so far. The next available MFSuX Gelert Explorer is on Wednesday 23/6/21.

David Lloyd George arrived at 10:30 to shunt the A set to the FR platform for the 11:05 Mountain Prince. The 10:00 service arrived at Tan-y-bwlch in sunshine at 10:48 with Blanche and the B set and Moelwyn already coupled to the rear for the Dduallt shunt as the Porthmadog-Minffordd section was busy. Previously, it appeared that Moelwyn has come up light engine before the first train. The train left at 10:54 for Dduallt. The 11:05 departed Porthmadog at 11:08 with the A set passing Minffordd at 11:22 after a 3 minute signal check for no apparent purpose.

At lunchtime the afternoon Glaslyn Venturer was sold out, possibly for the first time, even though there were compartments available on the 15:00 Mountain Prince! It appears the Glaslyn Venturer is gaining its own popularity. The 12:25 Mountain Prince departed on time with the C set behind Merddin Emrys passing Minffordd at 12:35 with no signal check this time.

At 12:57 No.130 returned with the Glaslyn Venturer and Blanche had arrived a few minutes earlier with the returning 10:00 working. Unusually No.130 ran to Boston Lodge for attention rather than to the fuelling point in Harbour Station while both rakes of coaches were Zoono cleaned by staff ready for the simultaneous departure at 13:40. The loco was back by 13:17 and running round at the same time as Blanche. Both departed on time with Blanche passing David Lloyd George at Minffordd. The Fairlie arrived at 14:11 with the Zoono team ready to clean the rake for the 15:00 service which was also sold out.

Friday is back down to four Mountain Prince trains with the 10:00 dropped from the schedule. The 15:00 is still bookable though. There are (currently) no trains on WHR Fridays!

 

F&WHR traffic 16/6/21

Wednesday proved to be a misty day at Porthmadog with lower temperatures and rain forecast for the afternoon. The full five Mountain Prince workings were planned for the day with just the 15:00 still available in the morning. Both Glaslyn Venturer trains are bookable today though in the final hour the curious message 'Phone to book ' comes up suggesting FareHarbor software uses a different system for these trains as this message is not seen with other services. The new Wednesday Gelert Explorer is also bookable, thought all the other trains this week are fully booked.

No.130 arrived at 09:30 to shunt the Glaslyn Venturer rake to the WHR platform. At 09:45 Merddin Emrys was shunting the yard whiles No.130 ran round its rake in the WHR platform. The 10:00 left a few minutes late as did the 10:15. Blanche left with the A-set on the 11:05, arriving at Tan-y-bwlch at 11:51 and Moelwyn was attached to rear minutes later. David Lloyd George arrived at Porthmadog at 11:34 to shunt the C set for the 12:25 Mountain Prince to the FR platform.

Merddin Emrys arrived back at Porthmadog at 12:52 with headlight on due to dull conditions. No.130 arrived back from Beddgelert at 13:00 with a good crowd. Both would be Zoono cleaned ready for the simultaneous 13:40 departures and both trains left on time in the increasingly murky weather.

There will be five Mountain Prince trains on Thursday 17/6/21 but the first and last trains are still bookable. There are no compartments left on the Gelert Explorer until 23/6/21 but Thursday's Glaslyn Venturer has compartments available on both morning and afternoon trains. Thursday is forecast to be sunny and a mild 19C at Porthmadog.

 

Spooners fully booked 15-16/6/21

Spooners is doing just as well as the F&WHR. Both 15/6/21 and 16/6/21 were fully booked for evening food service. Booking is essential. Last year a modern coach was left on the platform and this could be used for overspill. Some thought might be given to repeating that experience.

 

WHRS donations via Amazon Smile

Help Amazon to help the Welsh Highland Railway Society on Amazon Prime Day! Did you know you can support WHRS/CRhE by using Amazon Smile when you shop online at Amazon? Instead of using the normal Amazon website, if you instead use https://smile.amazon.co.uk. Amazon donates 0.5% of the net purchase price (excluding VAT, returns and shipping fees) of eligible purchases to the charitable organisation of your choice – CRhE of course! Regular users (Prime Members) of Amazon will be aware of their Prime Days – this year Amazon are doubling the donations to CRhE. Prime members who shop Amazon Prime Day deals from 21-22/6/21 can do more than discover great deals: Simply shop at smile.amazon.co.uk/ch/1094938-0 or with Amazon Smile on in the Amazon Shopping app, and Amazon Smile will DOUBLE donations to Cymdeithas Rheilffordd Eryri at no extra cost.

 

F&WHR traffic 15/6/21

Today was sunny but fresher in Porthmadog with a maximum temperature of 20C compared with the much higher temperatures in the Midlands and South East. Four Mountain Prince trains were operated and by the end of the day even the 15:00 was fully booked, The Glaslyn Venturer continues to mop up spare custom but the Gelert Explorer was fully booked.

No.130 left on the 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer on time and well loaded. Blanche arrived at 10:32 to shunt the 11:05 Mountain Prince into the FR platform which also left on time. Merddin Emrys passed Minffordd at 13:51 with the 13:40 Mountain Prince departing on time before the second run of No.130 with the slightly delayed Glaslyn Venturer.

Now that the Gelert Explorer runs MFSuX with additional Wednesday workings throughout June, tomorrow's Wednesday train offers the only seats available this week, such is the popularity of the service. There are 5 Mountain Prince runs tomorrow with the first four already sold out. However, both Glaslyn Venturer trains are still available for booking tomorrow.

 

F&WHR traffic 14/6/21

The new week brought cooler weather and sunny periods to Porthmadog. Four Mountain Prince trains were booked today at 11:05, 12:25, 13:40 and 15:00 with the first and third already fully booked. This combination requires three engines in steam with the 11:05 becoming the 15:00. These were the only trains available today as the Gelert Explorer is MFSuX (16/6/21 is still bookable) and the Glaslyn Venturer is TWThO and still surprisingly all seats are bookable this week as they have been until now. Volunteers were continuing to work on painting the station building

David Lloyd George emerged from Boston Lodge at 10:40 and headed across The Cob departing on time with the A set at 11:05. At 11:55 Merddin Emrys arrived in the WHR platform with 5 FR modern saloons and detached. The loco ran to shunt the FR yard, leaving the rake in the platform. The C set was shunted to the FR platform at 12:03 arriving at 12:10. So both double Fairlies were on the Mountain Prince trains today, possibly a first!

 

This easterly view (14/6/21) at 11:57 shows Merddin Emrys running around a rake of 5 FR coaches it had brought over from Boston Lodge. The coaches are probably the Glaslyn Venturer rake having received programmed servicing. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

At 12:45 the B set was shunted to the FR by Blanche for the 13:40 Mountain Prince. Merddin Emrys arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 13:09 and departed at 13:17 with Moelwyn on the rear. Blanche arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 14:29 with the 13:40 Mountain Prince working, departing promptly for Dduallt at 14:35 with Moelwyn on the rear and Merddin Emrys ran round at 14:41 once the platform was clear.

 

This westerly view (15/6/21) at 11:57 shows Merddin Emrys arriving at Tan-y-bwlch on the left whilst David Lloyd George waits to run round and take the 11:05 back to Porthmadog and form the 15:00. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Down at Porthmadog David Lloyd George ran round 14:48 ready for the 15:00 which departed a few minutes late. After returning with the 13:40, Merddin Emrys shunted the C set into the yard at 16:10. The coaches from the WHR platform had been shunted to the yard, presumably by Blanche after shunting its own rake to the sidings. David Lloyd George arrived back in Porthmadog at 17:50 and left the rake in the platform, before watering and returning to the depot at 18:03 to close the day's activities.

Tuesday's timetable showed the same pattern of four trains and the same pair were booked out a day ahead. Wednesday has five Mountain Prince trains rostered with the first three booked out two days in advance!

 

Cambrian Railways arrival 14/6/21

With the Cambrian Heritage Railway Oswestry at last having some Mk1 coaches, after purchase from the Llangollen Railway, having a loco to pull them with must have come high on the agenda! No.73129 was purchased from the G&WR recently and arrived at Oswestry on 14/6/21. This 600HP loco saw much use on tracklaying trains on the Broadway extension opened a few years ago. Now at the G&WR it will be able to haul 7/8 Mk1's (no ETH). The loco will retain BR blue and be refitted with City of Winchester nameplates and a buffing plate to make it compatible with buckeye fitted Mk1 coaches. The CHR is intending to extend train services for a couple of miles to Weston Wharf where they have built a new station and installed a Mk3 catering coach as a facility. The railway is hoping to staff the coach with volunteers. A tamper will arrive in July and after a ballast drop will be tamping the extension and the five points installed over 4 days. A further proposal is to construct the former Down Main platform track creating a three track station at Oswestry.

The railway now has 3 Mk1 coaches including No.3950 which has returned from loan to another heritage railway. The railway has been closed since December 2019 but hopes to reopen late summer this year.

 

F&WHR traffic 13/6/21

It was a mild sunny day as Porthmadog, compared with nearly 30C where Prince was visiting Statfold Barn Railway. David Lloyd George was on the 11:05 Mountain Prince arriving back from Dduallt at 12:22. Blanche left Porthmadog on the 13:40 on time. There was a 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer but no afternoon working.

Prince worked top and tail with other locos including Saccharine at Statfold Barn from platform 3 and via the High Line and was also paired with the same loco Saturday. Prince will return to the F&WHR early next week.

 

This southerly view (13/6/21) at 11:38 shows Prince approaching the balloon loop at the far end of the Statfold barn Railway. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a iPhone 8 Plus and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

F&WHR traffic 12/6/21

It was a better start to the weekend on Saturday with clearer skies and higher temperatures forecast at Porthmadog. Only three trains were offered on the FR with the 11:05, 12:25 and 15:00, the first two fully booked by the previous day. The Gelert Explorer was fully booked today. Sunday is also showing just three trains on the FR, with the 13:40 replacing for the 12:25. The Wednesday additional Gelert Explorer was added in response to this week's trains being fully booked and the decision has been made to run trains every Wednesday for the rest of the spring timetable. So for the rest of June the Gelert Explorer is MFSuX with July seeing some additional Monday trains added as already some days in July are fully booked! The repainting of the station building continued.

Blanche turned up about 10:30 for the first Mountain Prince working and coupled to the A set which had been left in the platform overnight. The train left on time with steam being raised for the 12:25 at Boston Lodge. Moelwyn was waiting at Tan-y-bwlch for the 11:05 which arrived at 11:44 and departed with Moelwyn on the rear at 11:51. The 12:25 left on time with David Lloyd George in charge, passing Minffordd at 12:35.

The double Fairlie only made one trip but Blanche was back at Tan-y-bwlch at 16:40 running round its train ready to return from its second trip. The train had left by 17:15. Blanche ran into the FR platform at 17:41 and leaving the rake in the platform before leaving for the depot at 17:51 and bringing proceedings to a close.

 

Caernarfon Castle progress 12/6/21

The design of the new cab for Castell Caernarfon to replace the current fibreglass cab is complete and materials will soon be ordered shortly. Will this engine follow F&WHR policy and receive a Caernarfon Castle nameplate in addition to its current Welsh-only nameplates when it emerges from Boston Lodge?

 

F&WHR traffic 11/6/21

Friday was another grey misty mild day at Porthmadog and even more so around Tan-y-bwlch. Today's five Mountain Prince trains were fully booked so the TWThO Glaslyn Venturer could have run today and mopped up those passengers who were disappointed as the Gelert Explorer is FX and also fully booked until 22/6/21 so an additional Wednesday service on 16/6/21 might be a good idea. The service runs MFSuX from 22/6/21.

Welsh Pony was B set on the 10:00 service which arrived back in Tan-y-bwlch from Dduallt at 11:28. Blanche left Porthmadog on time with A set on the 11:05 service. The 12:25 with the C set was hauled by Merddin Emrys (circular smokebox screw) with thick sea fog. At 14:25 Welsh Pony arrived at a foggy Tan-y-bwlch where Moelwyn was quickly attached to the rear and left for Dduallt at 15:56. Merddin Emrys ran round at 14:43. At 15:47 Merddin Emrys left Porthmadog for the depot having shunted the C set into the yard. Moelwyn left Tan-y-Bwlch at 15:53 on the rear of the 15:00. Work seemed to be underway painting the station building at Tan-y-bwlch. Welsh Pony departed for Porthmadog at about 16:15 and Moelwyn arrived with Blanche on the rear 5 minutes later. At the end of the day the A set was left in the platform and, with all quiet by 18:00, the signalman made his way home.

Two of the three Saturday Mountain Prince trains are already fully booked with availability limited to the 15:00 as of the end of Friday. There are compartments available on the 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer on Sunday but the Gelert Explorer is fully booked until 16/6/21.

 

F&WHR traffic 10/6/21

Thursday dawned a grey day with mild conditions and little chance of seeing the eclipse! The next three Gelert Explorer trains are fully booked and compartments are not free until 17/6/21 suggesting additional days could be run to increase F&WHR income. There are four Mountain Prince trains today but the first three are fully booked with only the 15:00 available. The F&WHR has responded to the high level of demand and will run the maximum five trains on Friday. Compartments on both the Glaslyn Venturer trains is still available today. These trains run TWThO for the rest of June and until 22/7/21, the end of the Spring Timetable, but, exceptionally, the 10:15 will run on Sunday 13/6/21.

There was nothing wrong with No.130 yesterday as it was back in traffic on Thursday, arriving at Porthmadog at 09:25 to shunt the yard. On Wednesday afternoon, the loco had been taken off the train at Pont Croesor to go back to Beddgelert to assist an ailing No.87 on the Gelert Explorer. In the event it was not needed as No.87 was fixed by the crew. The episode showed how quickly the F&WHR can respond to an incident by providing a spare loco, David Lloyd George, to collect the Glaslyn Venturer rake left behind at Pont Croesor.

Blanche also arrived at 09:35 from Boston Lodge to shunt the yard for the 10:00 Mountain Prince. After Blanche arrived No.130 shunted the Glaslyn Venturer rake to the WHR platform and ran round ready for the 10:15 departure which came at 10:17. At 10:28 David Lloyd George arrived and extracted the rake from the seawall siding and propelled it into the FR platform for the 11:05 Mountain Prince departure. Meanwhile up at Tan-y-bwlch Moelwyn was waiting for Blanche to arrive which came at 10:40. The train arrived back from Dduallt at 11:12 hauled by Moelwyn with Blanche on the rear.

No.130 arrived back from the afternoon Glaslyn Venturer at 16:24 with a large crowd on the afternoon Glaslyn Venturer. The rake was shunted to the yard by 16:45 and Blanche arrived back with the Mountain Prince at 13:47 allowing No.130 to be disposed to the depot. Blanche then shunted its rake to the sidings and followed to Boston Lodge light engine at 16:58. David Lloyd George returned at 17:52 to the WHR platform before promptly running round and shunting the rake to the seawall siding. The loco watered at 18:10 then left for the depot at 18:25 bringing the day's activities to a close.

Friday has 5 Mountain Prince trains and the 15:00 is still bookable though the Gelert Explorer was fully booked.

 

No.87 10/6/21

This northerly view (10/6/21) shows No.87 approaching Rhyd Ddu with the Gelert Explorer around midday. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

F&WHR traffic 9/6/21

The day dawned a little grey at Porthmadog but quite mild with all the Mountain Prince trains fully booked. There was however room on the Glaslyn Venturer. The Minffordd and Tan-y-bwlch webcams were back on line after several days out of action.

No.130 was running round the Glaslyn Venturer rake at 09:55 and Blanche was approaching from Boston Lodge coupling directly to the 10:00 Mountain Prince in the FR platform, departing a few minutes late at 10:05. The Glaslyn Venturer left at 10:18, also a few minutes late. Merddin Emrys arrived to shunt the yard at 10:30 and dragged the rake out of the seawall siding for the 11:05 Mountain Prince which left on time.

Blanche arrived at 12:50 with the return working of the 10:00 while No.130 arrived at 12:55 with the return working of the well filled Glaslyn Venturer. Both were Zoono cleaned and readied for their respective simultaneous 13:40 departures with No.130 visiting the yard for water/fuel at 13:02. Blanche completed its run round at 13:11 and No.130 at 13:20. At 14:42 Merddin Emrys was running round in preparation for the 15:00. Moelwyn returned to Tan-y-bwlch from Dduallt at 14:54 with Blanche on the rear.

It appeared there was some operational problem in the afternoon with No.87 on the Gelert Explorer. No.130 was detached from the returning afternoon Glaslyn Venturer at Pont Croesor to go back to Beddgelert to assist and David Lloyd George was steamed and stood at the WHR platform starter for a while waiting permission to go up the WHR as time approached 16:00 to bring the Glaslyn Venturer, marooned at Pont Croesor, back to Porthmadog. As the weather became murky the loco crew turned on the Fairlie's front lights. The Fairlie departed at 16:10 towards Beddgelert to rescue the Garratt's train.

 

This easterly view (9/6/21) at 15:57 shows David Lloyd George departing light engine to rescue the Glaslyn Venturer from Pont Croesor as No.130 had been removed to help No.87 near Beddgelert. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This easterly view (9/6/21) at 16:53 shows David Lloyd George arriving with the rescued Glaslyn Venturer. No.130 had been detached at Pont Croesor loop to help No.87 north of Beddgelert. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Blanche arrived back at 16:45 with the return working of the 13:40 Mountain Prince. At 16:53 David Lloyd George reappeared hauling the late Glaslyn Venturer due in the platform at about 16:20. No.130 was not attached and had been detached at Pont Croesor to go and assist No.87 at Beddgelert. At 16:55 Blanche left light engine for the depot. In the end No.87 was fixed by the crew and No.130 was not required. The late running Glaslyn Venturer rake was shunted to the yard at 17:07 and the Fairlie returned to the depot at 17:22. No.130 returned light engine at 17:26 via the WHR platform road and left for the depot two minutes later.

 

This easterly view (9/6/21) at 17:26 shows No.130 surprisingly arriving light engine under its own power after all the drama of the afternoon. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Meanwhile up at Tan-y-bwlch Merddin Emrys departed at 17:15, a little later than normal. The Fairlie arrived in the WHR platform at 17:52 and after running round, shunted the rake to the seawall siding at 18:00 and left a little later to finish off the activity for the day.

All compartments on the Mountain Prince were fully booked for 10/6/21 as was the Gelert Explorer but there were still compartments available on both Glaslyn Venturer trains.

 

YouTube of Delivery of DMU No.158824 to Barmouth 9/6/21

Network Rail closed the Cambrian Coast immediately east of Machynlleth to raise a bridge and prevent frequent flood closures. Unfortunately one of the Class 158s based at the depot (No.158833) developed severe wheel flats so a replacement was brought in from Cardiff. The only place this could be done apparently was Barmouth which saw a unit being brought from Cardiff over the route of the long closed Ruabon-Barmouth line with the assistance of the Police who stopped traffic for a while as they do for delivery of wind turbine components.

 

Click on the YouTube window to watch 23 mins 8 seconds of video covering the delivery of DMU No.158824 to Barmouth by Allelys through the narrow streets of Barmouth. Video taken on a digital car cam and published 9/6/21. It is best watched in 1080p HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on the YouTube link. Video courtesy Priest Abnormal Load Services.

 

Priest Abnormal Load Services assisting Allelys has released a video showing the negotiation of bends through Barmouth, travel along one way streets the wrong way and right angled junctions. A second YouTube, published on 19/6/21, shows the unloading process. In some locations the assistant had to attach a rear control module to manually set the steering rear wheels of the trailer through tight spots and chicanes past parked cars.

 

Click on the YouTube window to watch 8 mins 5 seconds of video covering the speeded up unloading of DMU No.158824 at Barmouth by Allelys in the station yard. Video taken on a digital car cam and published 19/6/21. It is best watched in 1080p HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on the YouTube link. Video courtesy Priest Abnormal Load Services.

 

Main line news

A TfW DMU developed wheel flats and was removed from Barmouth by road a few days ago as it was stuck on the wrong side of the Machynlleth Black Bridge upgrade works in early June. DMU No.158824 was sent to the Cambrian to replace it as a miscalculation had left no contingency reserve at Machynlleth. The new unit was brought in by road transport movements to Barmouth by Allely's via Ruabon-Barmouth route on 9/6/21. Pity there was no track on the route to help!

Following on from TfW's statement that it will look at the West Wales and Heart of Wales line again a study has come out in favour of a HoWL upgrade to link Swansea to HS2 at Crewe.

 

Glaslyn Venturer working timetable

Locos available: No.87, No.130, Merddin Emrys plus David Lloyd George or possibly double headed small locos if not required by other FR trains.

Boston Lodge 09:30* ex 10:15
Porthmadog dep. 10:15 13:40
Beddgelert arr. 11:00 14:25
Beddgelert dep. 12:00 15:25
Porthmadog arr 12:55 16:20
Next turn where applicable 13:40 N/A
Boston Lodge where applicable N/A 16:35

*Train engine may come over earlier to shunt yard.

 

Prince at Statfold YouTube 8/6/21

Click on the YouTube window to watch 6 mins 47 seconds of video covering visiting England locomotive No.2 Prince' is seen at the Statfold Barn Railway, visiting from the Ffestiniog Railway. 'Prince' is seen participating in a 30742 Photo Charter on the 8/6/21, ahead of their upcoming 'enthusiast weekend'. For more information on 30742 charters visit: 30742 Charters. Video produced by Steaming Around Yorkshire. Video taken 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.

 

F&WHR traffic 8/6/21

Tuesday appeared to be another fine warm day on the F&WHR but the Minffordd and Tan-y-bwlch webcams were still out of action. Blanche arrived at 12:47 hauling the B set with the return working of the 10:00 Mountain Prince. No.130 arrived back with the Glaslyn Adventurer arrived back about 13:00 and the Garratt shunted to the FR yard to water before running round to the north end of the rake by 13:14. Blanche then ran round at 13:11 for the 13:40 which is timed to depart the same time as the second Glaslyn Venturer.

 

This easterly view (8/6/21) at 14:40 shows Blanche departing for Dduallt at the same moment that No.130 sets off for Beddgelert. This is the first day that the simultaneous departures could happen. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

For more images of a typical No.130's day trip to Beddgelert see F&WHR Insider webpage.

 

This southerly view (6/21) shows No.130 with the afternoon Glaslyn Venturer crossing Britannia Bridge tramway section. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on an iPhone camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Shortly afterwards David Lloyd George arrived hauling the A set at 14:03 with the return working of the 11:05 Mountain Prince set to become the final working of the day, the 15:00. This train was also sold out departing at 15:04 after the driver had to get out to check to guard's Right Away....maybe an RA indicator is needed on the curved FR platform?

 

Prince moves to Statfold Barn 7/6/21

Prince arrived at Statfold Barn Railway near Tamworth on 7/6/21 in preparation for the Trangkil 50 Weekend 12-13/6/21. Prince will be running with Trangkil No.4, the last commercially built UK steam loco. Tickets are limited by social distancing rules. Contact Statfold Barn for more information.

 

TfW Mk4 announcement

On the day that the Mk4 rakes returned to Holyhead-Cardiff services (one return service a day), it was announced that some 20 of the 30 additional fully refurbished coaches purchased by TfW from the aborted Grand Central Blackpool-Euston trains will be used on 4 rakes of five coach Swansea-Manchester trains via Shrewsbury from December 2022. This will allow time for repainting into TfW livery and staff training. TfW confirm they will also revisit plans for Heart of Wales and West Wales branches as the Swansea-Manchester trains used to continue to Haverfordwest. No mention has been made of reinstating the Holyhead-Manchester loco hauled services but one five coach rake could surely be put to use on this formerly loco hauled route, not to mention Holyhead-Birmingham International, and still leave a maintenance spare rake. While the Swansea-Manchester trains do benefit travellers from Mid-Wales and the Marches, it seems that South Wales is being favoured again. See TfW Press Release and video.

Freightliner has run some trial trips to Penmaenmawr stone terminal which is being reactivated bringing freight back to North Wales.

 

Llangollen appeal for volunteers

The Llangollen Railway Trust has purchased the rights to run the railway and owns sufficient rolling stock to run the railway this summer. It is keen on restarting the service late July/early August. For this to happen work must be completed on the Dee Bridge, at Berwyn Tunnel and at Glyndyfrdwy as well as several other jobs that cannot be afforded by paid staff/contractors. The trust is appealing for volunteers to help get the railway open over the next three weeks lead time.

 

F&WHR traffic 7/6/21

Monday dawned as a fine day on the F&WHR but the Minffordd and Tan-y-bwlch webcams were still out of action. There was a large gathering of people on the platforms at Porthmadog before 0800 for PTG Tours special working and Lyd, newly released from Boston Lodge, came over at 07:46 to shunt the yard at Porthmadog. The loco dragged the B set out of the seawall siding and propelled the rake back into the WHR platform before running round at 08:00. This explains why the B set would not be available for additional services on the FR today. The train departed at 08:17 up the WHR to Caernarfon with guests with packed lunches.

 

This easterly view (7/6/21) at 08:17 shows freshly outshopped Lyd departing for Caernarfon with the C set carrying the PTG Tour excursionists. The A set had already been shunted to the platform for the 11:05 Woodland Wanderer. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

There were briefly three trains at Rhyd Ddu with Lyd heading north on the excursion, Vale of Ffestiniog on a stock transfer with one coach to Boston Lodge and Harlech Castle on a PW working.

 

This southerly view (7/6/21) shows Lyd with the PTG tour at Dinas at 11:21. With no Gelert Explorer on Mondays the train has the freedom of the line. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on an iPhone camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

On return from Caernarfon the tour was rostered to have an England engine to Blaenau Ffestiniog to complete the 80 mile round trip, possibly in the path of the 15:00. It is surprising that the Glaslyn Adventurer rake was not used as it was free today. Prince left the F&WHR for Statfold Barn's weekend event 12-13/6/21 later this week buy low loader from Minffordd yard.

 

This easterly view (7/6/21) shows Lyd with the PTG tour running round at Caernarfon. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Paul Lewin (F&WHR) and was taken on an iPhone camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

The A set was in the platform from the start of the day, possibly shunted there by Lyd earlier. The leading coaches were pressure washed as they get covered in soot from locos. Blanche turned up at 10:17 for the 11:05 service which left on time. Vale of Ffestiniog turned up at 11:48 to shunt the Porthmadog Carriage Sidings. At 11:58 the Funkey removed the two WHR coaches stored over the weekend in the yard and shunted them back into the WHR platform before running round and heading to Dinas at 12:10. This train waited until staff had their lunch break probably passing the PTG Excursion at Beddgelert where that had stopped for lunch. Possibly as a result of taking the two extra WHR coaches to Dinas the Thursday Gelert Explorer is no longer fully booked.

 

This easterly view (7/6/21) at 12:37 shows Vale of Ffestiniog departing for Dinas with two freshly outshopped WHR coaches. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

The Mountain Prince was fully booked by midday so the F&WHR had to turn passengers away yet again even though the Glaslyn Venturer rake was standing idle, surely a miscalculation? At 13:00 steam was being raised for the 13:40 Mountain Prince and Merddin Emrys arrived a few minutes later to water and coal then shunt the yard. The C set was shunted into the platform at 13:27 ready for the 13:40 Mountain Prince which departed on time.

More steam was being raised at Boston Lodge at 13:45 in anticipated of a loco change for the PTG Tour excursion. Blanche arrived back at 13:08 with the return working of the 11:05, running round at 14:30 and departing on time at 15:00. Lyd arrived back at 15:18 with the replacement haulage coming across The Cob. Lyd was promptly detached and shunted to the FR yard while passengers made use of the facilities. Two England engines coupled to the front at 15:25, Palmerston with Welsh Pony inside. At 15:48 Lyd returned to Boston Lodge as the excursionists rejoined their train. The train left for Blaenau Ffestiniog at 16:00. At 16:16 Harlech Castle ran through the WHR platform non-stop with a different PW train featuring the WHR mess car, not the weed killer rake seen the Dinas in the morning.

Merddin Emrys arrived back at 16:41 with the C set. After shunting the rake to the yard the Fairlie left for the depot at 16:58. The excursion arrived back from Blaenau Ffestiniog at 19:06 with Palmerston leading Welsh Pony. The pair left for the depot at 19:19 bringing the day's activities to a close.

 

This easterly view (7/6/21) at 19:06 shows Palmerston leading Welsh Pony into Porthmadog with the return working of the PTG excursion. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Already three of the four Mountain Prince trains are sold out of Tuesday and Wednesday, though it is possible the F&WHR might offer a fifth train. The Gelert Explorer is fully booked for three of the four days this week with availability limited to Wednesday. However the Glaslyn Adventurer is avilable on all four days this week (MFSX).

 

NG15 boiler report

Laurence Armstrong reports:

Since lockdown eased No.134's boiler (manufactured by Henschel in 1957) has been under repair at Locomotive Maintenance Services in Loughborough. The firebox has been cut away in all places indicated by the initial inspections and grit blasted, and a 'scope of repair' was agreed on the 18/5/21. Work has now commenced on repairing the firebox which involves several patches, many new stays & refitting of the foundation ring which will result in a much better condition of platework for the future than widespread crack repairs & local thickening. The boiler is in generally good condition prior to repair especially the inner firebox which is great news for the future, the main area of concern on the boiler was the corrosion to the platework near the foundation ring. In line with our acceleration of the planned completion of No.134, LMS have confirmed resources available to work on the boiler during this year as long as our funding can keep pace.

We currently have sufficient funds for the commenced firebox repairs but in order to complete the boiler and have it returned to Wales fully tested we need additional support to cover the barrel repairs, front tubeplate, smoke tubes & superheater flues. We would be delighted to receive any donations now in order to keep to our accelerated plan and bring this long-awaited locomotive type into service for the first time in the UK on the fantastically scenic Welsh Highland Railway. We prefer all donations to be channelled through Cymdeithas Rheilffordd Eryri/WHR Society as your kind support will also be boosted for the project by 25% Gift Aid. Donations will be kept in restricted fund only for use on loco No.134. We will shortly be refreshing our Reward Scheme to recognise donations from the past and future on this project so that benefactors can enjoy advantageous access to the loco in future. Many thanks for your continued support - and fingers crossed for a return to steam next year!

 

Weed killer train 7/6/21

A very 'Heath Robinson' weed killer train has appeared on the F&WHR at Dinas to cope with the rapid growth of grass across the track in various places at this time of year.

 

This southerly view (7/6/21) shows Harlech Castle with the weed killer train at Dinas. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on an iPhone camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This southerly view (7/6/21) shows the weed killer train at Dinas. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on an iPhone camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

North Wales Main line 7/6/21

The loco hauled Holyhead-Cardiff service is back with Mk4 rakes in public service. The first train was the 1v91 the 05:34 to Cardiff hauled by TfW liveried No.67008.

Meanwhile on the Borderlands Line No.67030 with translator vehicle was taking a Class 508 EMU to Eastleigh for refurbishment.

 

F&WHR traffic 6/6/21

There were still quite a few holidaymakers around Porthmadog at the weekend but only four Woodland Wanderer trains to serve them. All the trains were fully booked by midday showing that additional services could have been run to garner extra income at 12:15/15:25. The 10:05 left behind Welsh Pony. Blanche arrived at 10:42 to shunt the yard for the 11:05, repeating the loco roster of the previous day. Welsh Pony arrived back at 12:34 in plenty of time for Zoono cleaning and running round the rake for the 13:15 service.

Monday sees the return of the Mountain Prince with three of the potential five trains booked to run. Already two of the three are fully booked with only the 15:00 available. The Gelert Explorer is operating MFSuX this week and Tuesday and Thursday are already fully booked showing suppressed demand on the WHR. This week the Glaslyn Venturer is operating MFSX with all days bookable.

 

North Wales Track Gang 5-6/6/21

This northerly view (6/6/21) shows Vale of Ffestiniog with the Mess car and wagons at Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Set Composition

Trains run in fixed formation sets with compartment numbers as last year. Additional open coaches may be added when weather improves. Compartment Nos. range from 1-24 but Open coaches are not designated.

A Set Comp No. B set Comp No. C Set Comp No.
No.6 Van 23 No.1 Zoo car 23 No. 23 WHR Saloon 18-24
No.2 Four wheeler (First) 22 No.3 22 No.21 Saloon 11-18
No.5 Four wheeler (Third) 21 No.4 21 No.17 Bowsider 5-10
No.19 Bowsider 15-20 No.24 NWNGR   No.12 Brake 3-4
No.26 Saloon 9-14 ?   No.11 Brake 1-2
No.22 Saloon 3-8 ?      
No.113 Brake 1-2 No.10 Brake 1-2    
No.37 Open Not designated        

 

F&WHR traffic 5/6/21

It was another fine day at Porthmadog but to many supporters' surprise no additional trains were rostered and the four that ran were fully booked leading to potential passengers and income being turned away.

Welsh Pony was turned out for the 10:00 and Blanche for the 11:05. Two of the four final Woodland Wanderer Sunday trains are fully booked as the Whitsun holiday week winds down. Both the Tan-y-bwlch and Minffordd webcams were out of action for the second day.

No.87 was on the Gelert Explorer.

 

F&WHR traffic 4/6/21

Friday looked like a reasonable day at Porthmadog with broken cloud and sunshine. There was room on both Glaslyn Venturer trains. Five Woodland Wanderer trains were booked to run with compartments still available on the 14:20 in the morning..

No.130 was rostered again on 4/6/21. It approached Porthmadog from the old Loco Shed rather than Boston Lodge, leading to the possibility that it is stabled overnight there instead at the moment. The Garratt arrived at 09:39 and promptly shunted the Glaslyn Venturer rake to the WHR platform within the shunt limit while another loco was approaching from Boston Lodge for the 10:00 Woodland Wanderer. The shunt was complete by 09:48 and No.130 detached ready for a run round move after Prince had run in to shunt the yard for the Woodland Wanderer. This was a little later than normal at 9:51 and the rake arrived in the platform at the departure time! Merddin Emrys was rostered for the 11:05 and had shunted the A set into the FR platform by 11:50.

 

This westerly view (4/6/21) shows Merddin Emrys hauling the Woodland Wanderer on the morning trip.. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

No.130 left on time on the 1340 as Merddin Emrys arrived back at 13:44. All the Woodland Wanderer trains were sold out by midday so the 15:25 could have been put on. Welsh Pony arrived at 14:47 on its single trip with C set with the 12:15 Woodland Wanderer in lovely sunshine. No.130 arrived back at 16:20 while Moelwyn propelled another WHR coach from Boston Lodge into the yard. The Glaslyn Venturer rake was split behind Observation Car No.152 and the rest shunted to the WHR loop line whilst Moelwyn waited for a path. The WHR coach previously added next to No.152 was left in the loop and the rake was shunted back onto No.152.

Evidently the strengthening of the Glaslyn Venturer was unnecessary or fewer passengers were anticipated after the school Whitsun holiday week. Moelwyn now left the yard to collect the coach from loop. Now Merddin Emrys arrived with the return working of the 14:20 and was held at the trident signal while No.130 shunted the shortened rake into the FR yard at 16:49 as the Glaslyn Venturer does not run at weekends. No.130 left for Boston lodge at 16:30. Merddin Emrys attempted to run round but Moelwyn was blocking the run round with the extracted coach. Moelwyn moved the Panoramic saloon coach (from Nos.2046-48) from the WHR loop to the yard at 16:58 allowing the double Fairlie to complete its run round move and propel the Woodland Wanderer rake into the yard at 17:06. Some shunting occurred in the yard, leaving the two WHR coaches there before the Fairlie left with Moelwyn for the depot at 17:19, bringing the day's activities to a close.

 

This easterly view (4/6/21) at 16:52: shows No.130 departing for Boston Lodge after shunting the Glaslyn Venturer to stable unused in the yard for the weekend. Merddin Emrys has just arrived with the 14:20 Woodland Wanderer. Moelwyn waits in the WHR loop to shunt a coach extracted from the Glaslyn Venturer to the yard. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Only the Porthmadog webcam was available during the afternoon and evening after some failure. There are four Woodland Wanderer trains on both Saturday and Sunday but three of the four on Saturday are already sold out. From Monday 7/6/21 the Woodland Wanderer is replaced by the Mountain Prince with up to 5 trains a day. The Glaslyn Venturer reverts to TWThO operation for the rest of June.

 

F&WHR traffic 3/6/21

Thursday dawned a little cloudy at Porthmadog but with plenty of tourists still around on holiday. All six Woodland Wanderer trains were fully booked for Thursday and Friday's four too which means additional trains are likely to be added to Friday's schedule. However, any disappointed passengers on Friday could book one of the two Glaslyn Venturer trains both of which have availability so maybe that's what the F&WHR plan intended.

No.130 was turned out for traffic at 09:29 today after three days of pairs of double Fairlies. This also means that No.87 is the motive power on the Gelert Explorer today. No.130 waited on the Glaslyn Venturer rake in the FR platform until Welsh Pony arrived at 09:39 light engine. No.130 then shunted the 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer to the WHR platform and ran round while Welsh Pony shunted the B set into the FR platform for the 10:00 Woodland Wanderer which left a few minutes late. No.130 left on time with its new headlights switched on. Blanche was provided for the 11:05 and left on time with the A-set. At 11:44 Prince was shunting the C set into the platform for the 12:10 Woodland Wanderer.

 

This easterly view (2/6/21) at 10:16 shows No.130 hauling the Glaslyn Venturer on the morning trip for the first time in four days. This was the first appearance of the headlights in use. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

No.130 arrived back at 13:12 a little later than normal but with plenty of time for the Zoono cleaning squad to prepare the train for the 13:40. Welsh Pony departed on time at 13:15. Upnor Castle was shunting the yard at 14:50 and left at 14:55 for Boston Lodge light engine maybe after delivering some rolling stock from programmed maintenance. Welsh Pony was shunting the B set back into the sidings at 16:00 with the return service from the 13:15 before leaving light engine for the depot at 16:07.

Prince arrived at Tan-y-bwlch with the well loaded 15:25 at 16:17 allowing Blanche to depart at 16:19 with the return of the 14:20 service. At 16:37 Harlech Castle with the Mess van, cherry picker and long reach excavator train came through from the Dduallt direction before shunting into Tan-y-bwlch yard to allow Prince to run round at 16:48. Down at Porthmadog the afternoon Glaslyn Venturer had been shunted into the FR platform by 16:40 and the loco was back at Boston Lodge. Prince left Tan-y-bwlch at 17:18 and arrived at Porthmadog at 17:52. Some passengers in the 4 wheelers had to detrain onto the ballast on the wrong side from the platform as usual. Prince ran round at 17:56 and shunted the rake to the sea wall. The loco set off for the depot at 18:10 bringing the day's activity to a close.

Staycation numbers have been surprisingly high around the F&WHR with occasional gridlock in Porthmadog. They will be swelled by the exclusion of countries like Portugal from the GREEN list today. People who have their fingers burned over holiday cancellations may flock to Wales where Porthmadog has benefitted from Mediterranean temperatures of late! By late afternoon the 12:10 had been added to the services offered on Friday as all four previously advertised trains were fully booked. This requires 3 engines in steam for the Woodland Wanderer. Saturday's Gelert Explorer is also fully booked but both of Friday's Glaslyn Venturer trains were available to book as of Thursday afternoon.

 

Moving Pictures No.51 2/6/21

Click on the YouTube window to watch 32 mins 09 seconds of video covering the F&WHR including a cab ride to Dduallt on a double Fairlie and pair of double Fairlies working the Glaslyn Venturer. This YouTube was published on 2/6/21 and was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a 4K 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.

 

F&WHR traffic 2/6/21

The weather at Porthmadog became more cloudy with rain forecast in the afternoon but bookings continue to be very pleasing. The Cob and High Street remained grid locked with tourist cars. All six Woodland Wanderer trains were sold out on Wednesday morning and all except the 15:25 were sold out for Thursday. four trains are currently showing Friday to Sunday but if bookings hold up these might be extended to 5/6 trains. The Gelert Explorer is fully booked Wednesday/Thursday but the Glaslyn Venturer has availability both days.

 

This easterly view (2/6/21) at 07:48 shows Upnor Castle taking Romanian coach No.2060 on an early morning trip from Boston Lodge to Dinas. This was its first departmental coach duty of the day. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

The first move of the day was Upnor Castle taking Romanian coach No.2060 back to the WHR from Boston Lodge Coach Works in a departmental move leaving the WHR platform at 07:48 for Dinas. Glaslyn Venturer Observation coaches were being pressure washed in the FR platform. By 09:00 David Lloyd George (recognisable by its whistle being towards the right of the dome and flatter roof profile) had come over from Boston Lodge and at 09:16 drew the Glaslyn Venturer rake out and shunted the coaches into the WHR platform. The loco ran round the train and coupled up by 09:32 and it appeared for a while that the F&WHR was going to chance this long heavy train with just a single double Fairlie even given the 1 in 40 gradients north of Hafod-y-llyn! However Merddin Emrys arrived at 09:37 dropping off Prince at the station limits before coupling to the front. So today the pair were operating in reverse order and it is a mystery what has happened to No.130 which ran the very first Glaslyn Venturer. Prince then ran into the yard, shunted the B set for the 10:00 Woodland Wanderer rake to the FR platform arriving at 09:46 and departed on time. The Glaslyn Venturer also departed on time at 10:15.

 

This easterly view (2/62/21) at 09:28 shows David Lloyd George running round the Glaslyn Venturer rake after bringing it into the station. For a while it appeared the rake might be single headed. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Blanche shunted the A set into the FR platform by 10:50 ready for the 11:05. Upnor Castle was back from Dinas with a spare WHR coach at 12:26 which it ran round in the WHR platform. Welsh Pony arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 12:57 with the C set and the two double Fairlies arrived back at Porthmadog for Zoono cleaning at 13:00. Prince left on time at 13:15 with the Woodland Wanderer. At 15:09 Welsh Pony ran round ready for the 15:25 in Porthmadog FR platform which ran late again departing at 15:33 in damp conditions. The loco returned to Porthmadog WHR platform at 17:49. The rake was shunted to the yard by 18:00 and Welsh Pony set off to the depot at 18:05 bringing the day's activities to a close.

 

This easterly view (2/6/21) at 12:26 shows Upnor Castle running round a WHR coach in the WHR platform that it had presumably brought back from its early morning trip to Dinas. This was its second departmental coach duty of the day. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

The Woodland Wanderer is fully booked on Thursday and two of Friday's four trains are already fully booked so it is possible one or two trains may be added on Friday. Thursday's and Saturday's Gelert Explorer are fully booked indicating there is suppressed demand for trains out of Caernarfon with no Fridays of Sunday services and only one train a day. Compartments are available on the Glaslyn Venturer on Thursday and Friday but there are no Saturday or Sunday services planned.

 

Llangollen Railway will be 'smaller' in future

The Llangollen Railway will be smaller in future as it matches it size to its budget. There are likely to be no more huge events such as 'Steel, Steam and Stars' and the railway will be more volunteer led like the G&WR rather than having 27 employees as in the past. The Trust has 10 coaches, plus two it purchased in the auction and two of those auctioned are likely to stay at the railway. Sadly though it has lost an RMB to the Spa Valley Railway so on board refreshment service may be reduced. Coach No.3950 is not moving far....just down the road to the Cambrian Heritage Centre at Oswestry. The Class 08 lookalike Davy has gone to the Battlefield Line. The LR is likely to open in late July/August for the school holidays and may feature diesel haulage as the fleet of three mainline diesel locos is privately owned by the Llangollen Diesel Group and there is only one steam loco GWR 2-8-0 No.3802. The extensive DMU fleet is also privately owned.

 

F&WHR traffic 1/6/21

The first day of June was fine and sunny again. there are six Woodland Wanderer trains planned today and all but the 14:20 and 15:25 are fully booked. The Gelert Explorer is fully booked today and the Gold tickets have sold well as every June day ahead except 23/6/21 is fully booked! The new Glaslyn Adventurer finds itself in an identical position. Upnor Castle shunted the WHR rake leaving the coach WHR No.2048 and No.152 in the WHR platform for spray cleaning the Observation car windows. As these are next to a loco twice a day its essential they are cleaned for the Gold compartment passengers! Upnor Castle shunted the rest of the rake onto the two coaches in the WHR platform and then returned to the yard.

David Lloyd George and Merddin Emrys were rostered for the 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer again, arriving in the WHR run round from the depot at 09:20. then locos uncoupled and separately coupled to the Glaslyn Venturer thereby reversing the order of the locos. Upnor Castle shunted the B set into the platform at 09:28 and all was set for the first passengers. The Planet then returned to shunt the yard. Prince turned up at 09:47 to haul the 10:00 Woodland Wanderer, departing at 10:02.

At 10:22 Upnor Castle left propelling a coal wagon to Boston Lodge. Blanche arrived at 10:39 to haul the 11:05, departing on time from the FR platform. The WHR ground signal starter for Britannia Bridge and also the one for the run round were being maintained at 11:25 and steam was being raised for the 12:10 service over in Boston Lodge. Palmerston arrived at 11:32 and shunted the C set into the FR platform. All Tuesday's trains were fully booked by midday.

In the afternoon things slipped a little and Palmerston arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 16:31, some 20 minutes late. The return working of the 14:20 left with Blanche by 16:40. Palmerston ran round at 16:49. With the Glaslyn Venturer shunted into the FR platform, Blanche was running round its train in the WHR platform at Porthmadog via the WHR loop at 17:18 about 20 minutes late. Palmerston left Tan-y-bwlch at 17:26 and was back at Porthmadog in the WHR platform at 18:01 only a few minutes late after cutting the Tan-y-bwlch stop a little shorter. The loco ran round at 18:07 and shunted the rake to the yard before leaving for the depot at 18:24, bringing the day's activities to a close.

On Wednesday 2/6/21 five of the six Woodland Wanderer trains are fully booked with compartments available only on the 13:15. There are compartments available on the both Glaslyn Adventurer trains but the Gelert Explorer is fully booked.

 

New coach No.2048 31/5/21

New panoramic style coach No.2048 was launched on 31/5/21 paid for entirely by long standing supporter Peter Campbell, who is often to be seen around the railway. The is the third of three panoramic coaches to be built through WHR Society Funding or private sponsorship. This is the first modern coach sponsored for the WHR though a NWNGR replica No.24 was previously sponsored by Mike Schumann. The coach had been shunted into the Glaslyn Venturer rake behind Observation car No.152 for the occasion and remained in the rake for the week.

 

F&WHR traffic 31/5/21

Bank Holiday Monday looked to be a fine day at Porthmadog. The 11:05, 12:10 and 13:15 Woodland Wanderer trains were sold out leaving only the 14:20 available as the 15:25 was cancelled in anticipation that day trippers might take the long trek home early in the afternoon to avoid jams on the A55. Despite the cancellation three locos are still required for the Woodland Wanderer services. Prince was on the 10:00 Woodland Wanderer arriving in Tan-y-bwlch at 10:47. Smart work saw the loco running round at 10:54.

 

This easterly view (31/5/21) at 10:17 shows David Lloyd George and Merddin Emrys hauling the first Glaslyn Venturer of the day out of the WHR platform. This train was heavily loaded with an extra WHR carriage compared to the previous day. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

David Lloyd George and Merddin Emrys were rostered for the 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer, pairs double Fairlies as it appears that No.130 threw a cotter from the crosshead! A new one must be made at Boston lodge and the motion checked for any damage. At 10:30 Blanche came over from Boston Lodge to haul the 11:05 Woodland Wanderer and extracted the A set from the yard before propelling it into the FR platform departing at 11:07. At 11:28 Palmerston left Boston Lodge and arrived at 11:32 to shunt the C set out of the seawall sidings for the 12:10 Woodland Wanderer.

 

This easterly view (31/5/21) shows Merddin Emrys and David Lloyd George hauling the first Glaslyn Venturer back from Beddgelert approaching Pont Croesor with Cnicht in the background. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Andrew Thomas and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Tuesday 1/6/21 and Wednesday 2/6/21 offer six Woodland Wanderer trains and all except the 15:25 are already fully booked both days. Compartments are available on both Glaslyn Adventurer trains both days but the Gelert Explorer is fully booked Tuesday.

 

F&WHR traffic 30/5/21

Bank Holiday Sunday dawned bright sunny and warm with a huge number of tourists in campsites around Porthmadog so the FR's 11:05 and the 12:10 were both fully booked but there were compartments available on the new Glaslyn Adventurer. No.130 had arrived in the WHR Platform early with its 10 coach train by 09:30 with Observation Cars each end. Welsh Pony arrived 09:51, coupled to the A set in the FR platform and departed at 10:00am on the first Woodland Wanderer. With two trains in the parallel platforms at the same time, lets hope people got on the right one! Steam was also being raised in Boston Lodge for the 11:05. No.130 on the first 10:15 Glaslyn Venturer left at 10:19 with Observation No.150 on the south end and No.152 on the north end.

 

This easterly view (30/5/21) at shows No.130 hauling the Glaslyn Venturer approaching Bryn-y-felin in lovely sunshine. This train had Observation cars at both ends as with the Gelert Explorer. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

An hour before departure of the second Glaslyn Venturer FareHarbour was showing tickets as 'not available online and to ring up the booking office' whereas FR tickets for earlier trains were available online. At 10:36 Merddin Emrys was shunting the A set into the FR platform for the 11:05. David Lloyd George was noted shunting the yard again at 13:15 just before Welsh Pony left with the 13:15. Merddin Emrys arrived at 13:43 and promptly afterwards David Lloyd George propelled a Bocoal wagon across The Cob to Boston Lodge.

 

This easterly view (30/5/21) at 13:06 shows No.130 running round the return working of the first Glaslyn Venturer in the WHR platform. This train was heavily loaded. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

No.130 arrived at 12:58 and promptly ran round giving a passenger and his son a cab ride along the platform. The 13:40 left for Beddgelert at 13:47. The FR's 14:20 passed Minffordd at 14:33 and passed Prince returning with the 12:10 Woodland Wanderer. At 15:10 Prince was running round its train ready for the 15:25. At the same time David Lloyd George was back from Boston Lodge in the WHR through line at Porthmadog with a WHR coach presumably released from coach works for return to Dinas. The Fairlie ran round at 15:38 and pulled up at The Cob signal at 15:41 waiting for the return of the 13:15. Welsh Pony arrived back at 15:55 and shunted its rake to the sidings leaving light engine for Boston Lodge at 16:14.

 

This easterly view (30/5/21) at 15:29 shows David Lloyd George with a spare coach in the WHR platform that was to be added to the Glaslyn Venturer rake on its return at the end of the day. The Fairlie was acting as shunter for the day and had earlier moved an empty coal wagon to the Boston Lodge. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

No.130 arrived back from Beddgelert at 16:20 and the loco detached and left light engine for Boston lodge at 16:25. David Lloyd George now detached from the coach in the WHR run round and coupled to the front of the train. Observation car No.152 was detached and rake drawn forward onto The Cob and shunted back onto the spare coach in the WHR run round and coupled up. The lengthened rake was then shunted back onto No.152. At 16:55 Merddin Emrys arrived back with the 14:20 Woodland Wanderer. The signalman came out to change points in the yard and the Fairlie shunted the A set to the yard. David Lloyd George shunted at 17:10 with the extended rake from the WHR platform to the FR platform. At 17:17 Merddin Emrys coupled up to the front of David Lloyd George and the two left together at 17:20 light engine for Boston Lodge leaving the rake in the platform. This meant the return working of the 15:25 Woodland Wanderer would need to terminate in the WHR platform. Prince arrived back at 17:58 and shunted the final Woodland Wanderer to the yard before heading light engine for the depot at 18:05 bringing the events of the day to a close.

The 15:25 has been dropped for Bank holiday Monday as it is thought day trippers will be going home. Six Woodland Wanderers operate Tuesday-Thursday however.

 

No.130 transfer to Boston Lodge 29-30/5/21

No.130 was transferred from Dinas to Boston Lodge either 29-30/5/21 to haul the first Glaslyn Venturer on 31/5/21. It double headed with No.87 to Beddgelert and back on 27/5/21. This was presumably the first time the new Plas-y-nant bridge has been loaded with two Garratts, a working banned in the past. The new Garratt may have come down light engine or on the front of No.87 to Beddgelert on 30/5/21 Gelert Explorer before continuing light to Boston Lodge.

 

FR traffic 29/5/21

It was a bit dull in the Porthmadog area but becoming warmer. Six trains were booked today and at least 3 were sold out. The trains are 10:00, 11:05, 12:10, 13:15, 14:20 and 15:25. The first train was hauled by Prince arriving in Tan-y-bwlch about 10:45 and promptly shunting into the westbound platform and running round. The second train was hauled by Merddin Emrys and the third by David Lloyd George all running to time. David Lloyd George ran round the 15:25 without shunting it as no other train needed to use the eastbound platform. At 16:47 Merddin Emrys brought the return working of the 14:20 into the WHR platform. Some passengers have to get off trackside at both Tan-y-bwlch and Porthmadog from four wheeler coaches. The Fairlie then ran round before propelling its rake into the seawall carriage siding and departing light engine for Boston Lodge at 17:05. David Lloyd George also ran into the WHR platform at 17:51 and shunt procedure was a little different. The rake was propelled out onto The Cob and dragged back into the Carriage Sidings. The loco then ran round and left for Boston Lodge at 18:08 bringing the day's activities to a close.

The 11:05 Woodland Wanderer on Sunday is sold out but the other 5 trains all have room as do the Gelert Explorer and the Glaslyn Venturer.

 

This easterly view (29/5/21) at 16:53 shows Merddin Emrys running round the return working of the 14:20 Woodland Wanderer in the WHR platform. This is needed as the rake is propelled into the dead end seawall siding. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

During the course of the day Blanche went to Glan-y-pwll to collect some carriages presumably to form the first Glaslyn Adventurer on Sunday.

 

WHHR reopens from 29/5/21

The WHHR opened weekends from 29/5/21 SSuO with four trains a day throughout June. Advance booking was recommended. Russell celebrated its 115th birthday and the newly delivered replica Pickering Brake No.12 was in use. In July the train service is amended to WThSO until 15/7/21. See WHHR website for full details.

 

Double Garratts 28/5/21

Nos.130/87 powered the Gelert Explorer back from Beddgelert on Friday 28/5/21. This might be considered a running in turn for No.130.

 

FR traffic 28/5/21

Four trains were planned today with the 11:05 and 13:40 being sold out in advance. The weather started damp and rainy so no one made use of the Open coach on the 10:00. David Lloyd George hauled the first train at while Moel Hebog and Harlech Castle top and tailed a PW train in the WHR platform which included the Mess car and the cherrypicker. Harlech Castle was detached at 10:15 and used to shunt the B set to the platform maybe as steam was still being raised for the 11:05. Having completed the shunt at 10:25 Harlech Castle resumed its position on the rear of the PW train at 10:33. Merddin Emrys emerged from Boston Lodge at 10:36 and connected directly to the B set in the platform after fuelling and watering.

 

This easterly view (28/5/21) at 10:12 shows Moel Hebog and Harlech Castle top and tailing a PW train in the WHR platform. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Up at Tan-y-bwlch Moelwyn was waiting to attach to the rear of the 10:00 working which arrived at 10:42. At 10:50 the Fairlie shunted to the FR platform to couple to the 11:05 while the PW departed towards Boston Lodge. Merddin Emrys departed on the 11:05 on time making two Fairlies the haulages of the final Mountain Prince trains today.

 

This westerly view (28/5/21) at 11:46 shows Merddin Emrys arriving at Tan-y-bwlch on the 11:05 whilst David Lloyd George waits to return with the 10:00. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Upnor Castle was waiting with the FR Mess coach at 15:20 in the WHR platform for the 15:00 Mountain Prince to clear the section to Minffordd. Steam shunting was taking place at Boston Lodge around the same time. At Minffordd the PW train crossed over to the wrong line at 15:38 and reversed into the yard. At 16:12 Upnor Castle was back in Porthmadog station yard awaiting further duties. There was much steaming activity in Boston Lodge with locos on test in the yard.

 

This westerly view (28/5/21) at 15:28 shows Upnor Castle arriving at Minffordd wrong line to shunt the PW Mess car into the yard. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

After Merddin Emrys arrived back at 16:43 with the 13:40 Mountain Prince, Upnor Castle was used to remove part of the rake. It might be the case that a station pilot is require with the six trains a day envisaged over the school Whitsun Holiday break in addition to the twice daily WHR Glaslyn Adventurer starting up. The three four wheelers and the first saloon were drawn out at 16:53 and propelled back into the sidings where a spare bowsider was attached and shunted back onto the rake in the platform. Upnor Castle detached and waited detached in the FR platform. Merddin Emrys departed light engine for the depot at 17:07 and the diesel shunted up the platform light engine for instructions before coupling up again and shunting the lengthened rake to the seawall carriage siding. The diesel returned to the depot shortly afterwards.

At 17:42 David Lloyd George appeared on the return working of the 15:00 and went straight into the FR platform, breaking the recent practice of using the WHR platform to terminate this service. The loco left for Boston Lodge light engine at 17:50 apparently leaving the rake in the platform, again unusual, ending the activities for the day.

 

Whitsun Holiday trains

Six trains are planned per day for the Woodland Wanderer from 29/5/21 through until 3/6/21 with four trains planned over the final 3 days of the school holiday. some of these trains are already fully booked! The Gelert Explorer is operating additional days with no services on 4/6/21 and 6/6/21. The new Glaslyn Venturer runs from Sunday 30/5/21 to Friday 4/6/21 over the holiday week.

 

Welsh 'Steam Ale' launched 28/5/21

F&WHR announcement

'The F&WHR are delighted to announce that will be working with Porthmadog local brewery ‘Purple Moose’, who have produced a ‘new, own-labelled, railway themed beer’ exclusively for sale at the railway. ‘Welsh Steam Ale’ is a refreshing golden pale ale - the perfect accompaniment to a magnificent train journey through the mountains. The F&WHR’s Food and Beverage Manager, David Bevan and ‘Purple Moose’ Managing Director, Lawrence Washington met on the platform at Porthmadog Harbour Station to officially launch the new partnership.

The ‘Welsh Steam Ale’ bottle features the signature ‘Purple Moose’ design together with a photo of ‘Welsh Pony’, the historic steam engine that was rededicated last year following a long overhaul. This ale is now on sale exclusively at railway catering outlets, make sure you grab a bottle to take on the train, to take home with you or to enjoy in Spooner’s..! It has been a long wait for the hospitality sector to re-open - but, now we can all look forward to sitting out on the beer terrace at Spooner’s to enjoy a local ale..! See Purple Moose Brewery.'

 

North Wales Track Gang

The Black Hand Gang will be working every fortnight from 22-23/5/21 on various track projects on the WHR. There is still work to finish at Plas-y-nant Halt and sidings ground frame at Beddgelert.

 

Final Mountain Prince 28/5/21

Friday sees the final Mountain Prince workings for a couple of weeks as the Woodland Wanderer takes over from Saturday which does not go beyond Tan-y-bwlch.

 

This westerly view (25/5/21) shows Blanche about to depart Porthmadog on the Mountain Prince. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This westerly view (25/5/21) shows Welsh Pony emerging from the east portal of Garnedd Tunnel on the Mountain Prince. This section of the line above Tan-y-bwlch will fall silent for the next two weeks. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

FR traffic 27/5/21

All trains on Thursday 27/5/21 were sold out including the 12:25. A fourth train, the 10:00 was added late in the day for Friday as two of trains were already sold out.

At 10:35 Prince emerged from Boston Lodge arriving at 10:43. The signalman came out to manually set the points in the yard so that the locos could haul out the rake. Welsh Pony was on the A set on the 10:00 departure arriving at Tan-y-bwlch at 10:45 and returning to there at 10:18. Moelwyn was on the rear and the Open coach was very popular as the weather was finally warming for the Bank Holiday weekend. The Tan-y-bwlch awning had been erected after the storm damage of a few weeks ago. A third loco was being steamed at Boston lodge for the 12:25. Prince departed on time at 11:05.

David Lloyd George left Boston Lodge at 10:24 after Prince had cleared the section at Minffordd and shunted the C set out of the seawall siding at 10:29. The signalman came out to set the points in the yard again. Lyd was shunting in the yard light engine at 11:33 presumably still on test. It worked light engine to the WHR platform at 11:37. Once the Fairlie had shunted the C set into the platform it detached and went to the fuelling point. A fifth loco Palmerston arrived from Boston Lodge at 11:50 and coupled up to the C set. Lyd disappeared light engine up the WHR shortly after midday.

Welsh Pony returned at 12:50 with return working of the 10:00 and David Lloyd George shunted the yard. At 13:02 the Fairlie shunted two four-wheelers and a saloon into the seawall siding. Leaving the saloon in the siding, the Fairlie hauled the two small coaches past the Old Loco Shed but its subsequent activity is a mystery. To use a Fairlie as a stock shunter seems excessive when the FR has a number of diesels available in Boston Lodge that could do the job more economically.

Prince departed Tan-y-bwlch at 13:34. Palmerston left Porthmadog on time at 13:40 while Welsh Pony arrived back at Tan-y-bwlch at 13:43. Prince arrived back at Porthmadog at 14:05 ready for Zoono cleansing and the 15:00.

 

This easterly view (27/5/21) at 17:56 shows Lyd arriving back from a test run up the WHR. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Lyd arrived back from its WHR test run at 14:13 and so had time in its 2 hour trip to try out its performance and brakes on the 1 in 40 around Beddgelert. The loco paused in the WHR platform for a while for the token before setting off for Boston Lodge at 14:17.

At 17:03 Welsh Pony left Porthmadog for Boston Lodge light engine having shunted its rake to the sidings. Prince arrived on the final working at 17:51, arriving in the WHR platform as on the previous two days. This time however the loco detached and was about to run round when the signalman advised the rake be propelled as yesterday so the loco was coupled up again! The rake was then propelled out onto The Cob and dragged back into the yard.

 

Glaslyn Venturer test trains

With the Glaslyn Adventurer due to start on Sunday 30/5/21 staff familiarisation trains might be expected in the next few days. Already Lyd has been up to Beddgelert on 27/5/21. Modern FR coaches with top and tailed Observation cars are expected to be utilised with the saloons having Perspex dividers.

 

FR traffic 26/5/21

Although the trains were fully booked in advance on Wednesday it was too late notice to add the 12:25 and potential passengers had to be turned away. The FR added a 12:10 on Thursday as it was clear a similar situation was occurring with all trains except the 15:00 sold out. Friday is currently showing 3 trains with the 11:05 already sold out. The timetable changes to the Woodland Wanderer (Tan-y-bwlch only) from Saturday 29/5/21-Sunday 6/6/21 with up to six trains a day. In fact 6 trains are operating everyday until Thursday 3/6/21 with the 11:05 booked.

Palmerston departed Porthmadog at 11:07 on the B set with newly restored Open coach No.39 added to the front, passing Minffordd at 11:16. Blanche was on the 10:00 A set arriving back at Tan-y-bwlch from Dduallt at 11:19 pilotted by Moelwyn.

Palmerston arrived back in Porthmadog on the return working of the 15:00 at 17:56, pulling into the WHR platform as yesterday. The sun was shining again and the train appeared well loaded. As yesterday the train was propelled out on The Cob at 18:02 before being hauled back into the sidings at 18:05. Palmerston ran round and departed for the depot at 18:18 to conclude the activities for the day.

 

This easterly view (26/5/21) at 17:56 shows Palmerston having arrived unusually in the WHR platform with the return of the 15:00. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

WHR 25/5/21

No.87 was the loco on the Gelert Explorer on 25/5/21.

 

Lyd 25/5/21

Lyd went on a test run to Minffordd on 25/5/21 after its 10 year overhaul and may soon join the small loco fleet hauling the Mountain Prince and Woodland Explorer.

 

This westerly view (25/5/21) shows Lyd on test at Minffordd after completion of its 10 year overhaul at Boston Lodge. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

North Wales main line

The Cambrian Coast Line between Machynlleth and Shrewsbury is closed from 15/5/21-28/6/21 as work proceeds to increase the height of Black Bridge just east of Machynlleth by 1m to reduce frequent flooding at this site. There is a bus link between Machynlleth and Shrewsbury. What was wrong with turning back trains at Newtown or even Caersws to reduce the length of the bustitution? NR/TfW needs to get out of this bustitution mentality! See NR website for full details.

On 18/5/21 Cambrian Heritage Railways moved their Pacers by road to Oswestry from Gobowen. The DMUs have been at Gobowen since delivery by rail on 22/5/20! Apparently the Highways Authority would not allow them to use the extant A5 level crossing to move the short distance to Oswestry though all the track is present. With the movement of the units from Gobowen it seems the CHR has abandoned its recent plan to provide a Pacer link between Gobowen and Park Halt for the local hospital. The CHR hopes to open Oswestry to Weston Wharf by late summer (August Bank Holiday?) and on 19/5/21 received a BR Mk1 coach back from hire at another railway.

On 20/5/21 67008 hauled a 4 coach + DVT test train from Cardiff to Holyhead. The train was returned by 67010. Loco hauled train services between Holyhead and Cardiff are expected to resume in the Autumn.

 

FR traffic 25/5/21

Four trains were set to run on Tuesday 25/5/21 with the first three already fully booked. The same services are offered Wednesday and the first three are again sold out at the start of the day with only the 15:00 free to book. Adding the 12:10 departure would require a third loco in steam and crew. Palmerston hauled the 10:00 and was noted shunting the A set into the FR platform at 09:45 on a relatively sunny morning, passing Minffordd at 10:12 with Moelwyn attached at the rear.

Volunteers were in action at Tan-y-bwlch improving the car park surface. Palmerston set off at 10:59 from Tan-y-bwlch for Dduallt. Prince left Porthmadog on time with the 11:05 with the B set. Palmerston departed Tan-y-bwlch at 12:25 with the return working of the 10:00.

 

This easterly view (25/5/21) at 17:48 shows Prince having arrived unusually in the WHR platform with the return of the 15:00. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Prince arrived back from the 15:00 working at 17:48 and unusually ran into the WHR platform. The loco propelled the rake out onto The Cob and then ran back into the yard to leave its rake in the sidings, running round and departing to Boston Lodge at 18:12 to conclude the activities of the day.

All four trains on Wednesday are fully booked but there is the option to add a 12:10 service. Two of the four Thursday services are also already fully booked. Thursday's Gelert Explorer is also sold out in both Gold and Standard classes.

 

F&WHR service plans 24/5/21

The F&WHR has announced its plans covering the upcoming Half Term late Spring bank Holiday week. The aim is to add a service to Blaenau Ffestiniog this Summer if the 2m social distancing rule is relaxed. There are still problems recruiting people to fully staff the catering outlets. The F&WHR are offering catering jobs until October but these may be extended if traffic holds up into the Winter Timetable. See F&WHR announcement.

 

FR traffic 24/5/21

Monday dawned with improved weather compared to the wet weekend. Four train services were provided with the 10:00/11:05/13:40/15:00 requiring two locos in steam with the two midday trains sold out. Prince was on the 10:00 passing Minffordd at 10:11. Blanche was on the second train, departing Porthmadog at 11:05.

 

No.143 news 24/5/21

Garratt No.143 is going through its refurbishment cycle and on 24/5/21 the loco was shunted out to Dinas North Yard by Vale of Ffestiniog to have its boiler removed for assessment. In accordance with F&WHR policy a local contractor with a crane fitted lorry Hughes Specialised Transport Ltd of Blaenau Ffestiniog provided their 18 tonne crane. The crane was fitted with outriggers so it could lift No.143's 12 tonne boiler off the boiler cradle. The boiler was placed on flat car DZ No.2005 and parked at Dinas for assessment by a boiler engineer. No.143 will be fitted with the refurbished boiler donated by the Puffing Billy Railway from No.129. No.130 was shunting by Dinas on test during the procedure.

 

Construction and delivery of WHHR Pickering Brake coach delivered 23/5/21

Click on the YouTube window to watch 19 mins 35 seconds of video the speeded up contract construction and delivery of the replica Pickering brake coach No.8 to the WHHR on 23/5/21. Video published 15/6/21 taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) 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.

 

The new build replica Pickering brake van, numbered as No.8, was delivered to the WHHR at Pen-y-Mount on 23/5/21. The two Pickering brakes delivered to the NWNGR in 1907 were originally Nos. 4/5 and continued as Nos.8/9 in WHR days. Welsh Pony was in charge of the duty. The coach was first taken on a test run to Minffordd. The Guard's compartment has double doors for wheelchair access and an internal door allows wheelchair access to the saloon. This was probably the first visit of Welsh Pony to WHHR metals. The WHHR's diesel loco Emma took the carriage forward to Gelert's Farm depot. For more images from Glenn Williams (F&WHR) see the Friends of the F&WHR webpage.

 

This westerly view (23/5/21) shows Welsh Pony hauling the WHHR's replica Pickering Brake coach No.8 on a test run to Minffordd before delivery to the WHHR. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Glenn Williams (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This southerly view (23/5/21) shows Welsh Pony propelling the WHHR's replica Pickering Brake coach No.8 across Pen-y-Mount Junction onto WHHR metals to the WHHR. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Glenn Williams (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

FR traffic 23/5/21

Prince was on the 11:05 with the B set and Upnor Castle was at Tan-y-bwlch for the Dduallt shunt duty. Welsh Pony handled the transfer of the Pickering private contract brake to the WHHR (see separate story) and was noted in the WHR platform at 13:30 while Palmerston was being prepared for the 13:40 departure with the longer A set, which was fully booked. Welsh Pony departed for Pen-y-Mount at 13:46 and was back in Porthmadog station at 15:18 while Prince passed Palmerston, running a little late it seemed, at Minffordd at 14:02.

 

This easterly view (23/5/21) at 13:41 shows Palmerston departing Porthmadog on the Mountain Prince with Welsh Pony on a transfer departmental working taking the new-build replica Pickering brake coach No.8 to the WHHR at Pen-y-Mount. Welsh Pony's headlight is blazing as the weather is poor and it was about to cross the Britannia Bridge tramway section. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Plas-y-nant upgrade 22-23/5/21

North Wales Track Gang volunteers were again working at Plas-y-nant over the weekend of 22-23/5/21 erecting platform fencing at the site of the halt and concreting in the fencing poles.

 

This northerly view (22/5/21) shows Vale of Ffestiniog with the Mess car and wagons. Volunteers were concreting in fence posts for the back of the platform over the weekend. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Mainline news

WalesRail, the nationalised company running Welsh Railways (officially TfW) has purchased the former fleet of Mk4 coaches destined for the abandoned Grand Central London-Blackpool service. TfW already intends to strengthen its 3 Mk4 Holyhead-Cardiff rakes by 1 coach and timing trials with the longer rakes have begun. These amount to some 15 of the 45 coaches. The question therefore arises as to what the other 30 coaches purchased are for. An obvious candidate is the promised restoration of the Manchester/Manchester Airport-Holyhead/Llandudno trains (one rake), the frequency of which could be increased by an additional rake. These were well liked services and very popular when leaving Manchester in the evening peak as crowd shifters. Other suggestions have included the Swansea-Manchester services (via Shrewsbury). With 30 spare coaches there are a possible 5x5 coach rakes leaving a set of 5 as spare for the fleet.

WalesRail could increase the frequency of the Holyhead-Cardiff service and even run some via Chester-Crewe-Shrewsbury rather than via Wrexham as there have been many complaints about the Crewe-Chester DMU shuttle currently planned as being adequate for the link into the WCML services. Holyhead services have been forgotten about in HS2 planning. As a final thought, Grand Central's paths exist so maybe WalesRail could take up the option and run North Wales-Euston services, succeeding where Arriva tried and failed.

 

FR traffic 22/5/21

Three trains are booked to run Saturday with a 10:00, 11:05 and 13:40, requiring two locos in steam. The latter two trains are fully booked. Sunday will also offer 3 trains starting with the 11:05. The WHR's Gelert Explorer is also fully booked today and indeed on Tuesday and Thursday next week too suggesting additional services are needed! The Bank Holiday weekend sees additional services on Sunday 30/5/21 and Monday 31/5/21. There is also a midweek additional on Wednesday 2/6/21 during the school Whitsun Half Term Holiday week but that is also fully booked. The FR changes to the Woodland Wanderer timetable to Tan-y-bwlch only from 29/5/21 to 6/6/21 during the holiday weeks with six trains a day offered until 3/6/21.

Saturday dawned brighter and sunnier with the wind having dropped compared to the storms of the previous days. Welsh Pony departed on the 10:00 on time with the A set while the second engine was making steam at Boston Lodge ready to come over for the 11:05. Moelwyn was back on duty waiting for the 10:00 to arrive at Tan-y-bwlch. Prince was the loco for the 11:05 and left Boston Lodge at 10:35, shunting the yard at Porthmadog at 10:44 and departing on time with the B set.

A problem with wiring meant that the last train of the day spent an extra hour at Tan-y-bwlch as the token could not be withdrawn. It eventually departed Tan-y-bwlch at 18:03.

 

Locos used on public trains April

Date FR TYB pilot WHR
27/4/21 Prince + Criccieth Castle/Welsh Pony N/A N/A
28/4/21 Prince /Welsh Pony N/A N/A
29/4/21 Blanche/Prince N/A N/A
30/4/21 N/A N/A 130

 

Caernarfon station 'Y Stesion' fully open 21/5/21

The De Winton Cafe or ‘Caffi De Winton’ is now open every day from 09:00 to 15:00. The F&WHR are serving a large selection of refreshments, tasty meals and homemade cakes - available for takeaway or to enjoy indoors. The shop is also open seven days a week, from 09:00 to 16:00. There’s a wide selection of gifts, railway and local souvenirs, books, DVDs (and much more) on the shelves for visitor.

A brand-new railway preservation magazine, TRACKSIDE, is out today (Friday) - and the F&WHR features in the launch issue. Read General Manager Paul Lewin’s incisive article as he outlines his expectations and hopes for the future of Britain’s incredible railway heritage. The magazine covers steam, diesel and electric heritage. Copies of TRACKSIDE are available from the Harbour Station gift shop. For more details see www.tracksidemag.co.uk to find out more about the magazine.

Tickets can also be purchased at Y Stesion for the WHR Gelert Explorer service from Caernarfon to Beddgelert - although, to avoid disappointment, it is strongly recommended passengers book seats before travelling as some trains are fully booked days in advance. The online booking service is proving very popular, especially as it helps passengers plan their day-out in advance of their visit.

The Gelert Explorer is the premier WHR service - it begins at the modern, award-winning station and takes passengers across the foothills of Snowdon, over a mountain pass, on a scenic journey filled with variety. There is a tempting selection of Hampers available, which can be pre-booked for collection at ‘Y Stesion’ for passengers to enjoy along the way. For an extra special treat, Gelert Explorer First Class Gold packages are also available on every train but must bb booked in advance.

Upon arrival at Beddgelert, passengers can explore the village, walk beside the river and learn more about the legend of Gelert, the faithful hound of Prince Llewellyn. There are numerous shops, cafés and pubs - and the ice cream parlour in the centre of the village is not to be missed. Click on festrail.co.uk/trains for further details and online booking. The F&WHR look forward to welcoming all to ‘Y Stesion’.

 

FR traffic 21/5/21

Four trains were booked to run on Friday, with the late addition of the 10:00 as the other three were fully booked, so only two locos required in steam. Weather was pretty poor in Porthmadog and it was hoped that the storm had not brought down trees across the line. Upnor Castle went up the track early to check it was clear and to perform the duty of the Dduallt shunt loco. The Planet's cab provides a little more protection from the weather than the exposed cab of Moelwyn.

The 10:00 departed on time from the WHR platform unusually with Prince in charge. This waited for a PW train to arrive from Dduallt with Harlech Castle, the Mess car and the cherry picker which had presumably been used on line clearance duties. The PW train left at 10:57 for Minffordd Yard passing Minffordd at 11:29. Prince arrived back from Dduallt at 11:22 and arrived back at Porthmadog at 12:52 in plenty of time for the 13:40.

Steam was being raised at 10:30 at Boston Lodge for the 11:05 and then Welsh Pony departed at 10:35. The loco arrived at 10:41 and left on time after shunting its rake to the platform, passing Minffordd with the B set at 11:14.

At the end of the day Welsh Pony shunted the B set back into the sidings at 1802 having run round the rake. The loco set off light engine for Boston Lodge at 18:06 to draw the stormy day's activities to a close.

 

FR traffic 20/5/21

The five trains booked for Thursday 20/5/21 were completely sold out in advance with the late addition of a 10:00 service. Up to five Mountain Prince trains can be run each day. Two of the three Friday trains and one of the two Saturday trains are already fully booked so a Saturday 10:00 service was added shortly after 11am Thursday showing the FR reacting to demand.

Prince left on time on the 11:05 with the B set passing Minffordd at 11:16 in overcast windy weather! Welsh Pony was already at Tan-y-Bwlch with the 10:00 on the A set at 11:49 having returned from Dduallt when Prince arrived in the rain. Blanche arrived with the C set on the 12:25 at 13:09 with unsurprisingly no one in the Zoo car (four wheel Obs No.1) considering the rain! Moelwyn was coupled to the rear at 13:12. Swift work saw the train depart for Dduallt at 13:15 allowing Welsh Pony to run round at 13:18.

A storm set in later with 70mph wind, driving rain and trees were brought down blocking roads in the area. All the trains appeared to get back safely but Porthmadog looked pretty stormy at 18:00.

 

North Wales main line 14-20/5/21

The Tories launch of 'Great British Railways' (why not simply call it British Rail and have done with it?) is to be welcomed as a late adoption of Liberal Democrat/Labour policies of the last 30 years. The country has yet to see the details of how the UK Government will replace what they admit is the 'broken franchise system' that they forced on the country back in the 1990s leading to the highest fares in Europe. Since then WalesRail (aka TfW) has recently become nationalised and ScotRail is following suit.

DB liveried Class No.67010 was out on the North Wales Coast driver training between Crewe and Holyhead for this Autumn's loco hauled reintroduction.

On 14/5/21 Europhoenix liveried No.37800 Cassiopeia was on driver training duties. It seems that ROG and going to be in charge of the TfW Class 197 trial runs on the North Wale Coast.

As expected the Penmaenmawr-Crewe Basford Hall Virtual Quarry stone trains did NOT commence on 17/5/21 timetable change. Although the sidings have been cleared recently and the huge stone hopper refurbished several months ago some trackwork may be required to return the sidings to use after an extended period OOU. The paths are 06:44 and 16:53 off Penmaenmawr and two return paths 07:53 (08:53 MO) and 18:44 from Basford Hall. RealTime Trains shows train headcodes 'obfuscated' for most freight operators for some strange reason. As the actual headcodes are showing (6K51/6K17 outbound and 6D61/6D17 return empties) and GBRf is the only operator giving this information at the moment it is likely GBRf is the operator. They operate stone trains on several routes including out of Wellingborough Yard. GBRf crews are passed for the route to Holyhead as they still operate path retaining runs to Valley Nuclear Electric sidings.

Class 37 No.37612 visited Blaenau Ffestiniog around 1 pm on 20/5/21 on an NR test train on a Bangor-Crewe run.

 

This easterly view (19/5/21) shows Statesman Rail's The Snowdonia Statesman arriving at Blaenau Ffestiniog from Hull with the train made up in mock Pullman livery. Rail Blue large logo liveried 47593 top and tailed the excursion. Prince and Palmerston had brought an ECS rake of 10 bogies up from Porthmadog to give the passengers a trip to Tan-y-bwlch and back. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Trains may run more slowly than previous years to conserve fuel and reduce costs with lighter traffic during the pandemic.

 

FR traffic 19/5/21

Only two trains were provided on 19/5/21 and both were sold out days in advance. Blanche was on the 10:00 service train. A second train departed Porthmadog at around 11:05 appearing to be the ECS for the Snowdonia Statesman that was booked to arrived at Blaenau Ffestiniog form Hull at midday hauled by 47805 top and tailed with 47593. The FR train was formed as a double length train with the saloon coaches from the B and C sets hauled by Palmerston and Prince possibly directly from the yard as Welsh Pony was noted shunting in the FR platform at 11:09 with a DZ wagon with some panels removed.

After running round at 11:20 Welsh Pony shunted the DZ to the Harbour Station coaling point and collected two empty B coal wagons. At 11:40 this departmental working left for Minffordd Yard to refill the coal wagons and at 11:50 was noted arriving wrong line at Minffordd and shunting back into the yard.

 

This westerly view (16/5/21) at 11:52 shows Welsh Pony arriving at Minffordd to shunt the empty B coal wagons to the yard and refill them. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Meanwhile the special continued to Blaenau Ffestiniog ECS passing Tan-y-bwlch at 11:45 where the 10:00 service train with Blanche was waiting. Once clear this allowed Moelwyn to s 's train by 12:09 and exchange places with Blanche. The return working of the 10:00 then set off for Porthmadog a few minutes later where it was to form the 13:40. The 14:20 arrived in Tan-y-bwlch at 14:20 with Moelwyn on the back already and departed at 13:40. The station was already occupied by the special working which had to run round before Moelwyn returned from Dduallt. Palmerston and Prince shunted the special down to the western shunt limit and back up into the eastbound platform at 14:46 leaving the westbound platform free for the return working of the 13:40 which arrived back at 14:54. At 15:07 Blanche pulled forward to let the excursionists take photos before the excursion left for Blaenau Ffestiniog at 15:17. Blanche ran round at 15:34 and departed for Porthmadog at 16:05 leaving the platform clear for the ECS working ex Blaenau Ffestiniog which arrived there at 16:53.

 

This easterly view (19/5/21) shows Prince and Palmerston arriving at Blaenau Ffestiniog to meet the excursion. The tracks look very rusty as current services are limited to Porthmadog-Dduallt. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This easterly view (19/5/21) at 17:28 shows Palmerston and Prince arriving back at Porthmadog ECS with the 10 coach special use for the excursion. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Blanche shunted its rake into the yard at Porthmadog at 17:02 with the light engine heading back to Boston Lodge at 17:06.  This left the line clear for the ECS from the excursion to arrive and be shunted which passed Minffordd at 17:20 arriving in Porthmadog at 17:28. The rakes needed to be shunted ready for the three trains on Thursday however the two locos returned directly to Boston Lodge by 17:55 leaving the shunt for the following day's locos.

 

FR traffic 17/5/21

Spooners reopened for inside service today. The 3 train service on Tuesday is showing as sold out as is the two train service on Wednesday. As the FR has the ability to run 5 Mountain Prince trains it is surprising that no others have been added to the timetable.

Blanche appeared to have brought the A set back from maintenance today directly to the FR platform and ran round it by 10:24. The train left on time at 11:05. Film crews were back on the platform taking advantage of the brighter weather. The orange army were maintaining the track in the station. The train passed Minffordd at 11:15 where it stops for token exchange and arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 11:48 in sunshine. Blanche received some help from the rear from Moelwyn as it departed at 11:55.

By 12:30 the train had returned to Tan-y-bwlch and at 12:35 Moelwyn ran round with Blanche following to the eastern shunt limit to exchange places. Work appeared to be underway on the station building.  Down at Porthmadog Prince turned up to shunt the rake from the seawall siding at 13:07 and the rake was in the platform a few minutes later. It passed Blanche at Minffordd at 13:50 and arrived back at 14:05. Blanche ran round at 14:25 and was coupled up for the 15:00 by 14:28 and left on time.

 

This westerly view (16/5/21) at 12:35 shows Moelwyn running round to the rear of the train to exchange positions with Blanche on the return working of the 11:05. Blanche ran round shortly afterwards. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

At 14:22 Moelwyn ran to the west end of Tan-y-bwlch ready for the 13:40 which arrived at 14:24. Some people ask to get off at Tan-y-bwlch and use the facilities, foregoing the trip to Dduallt. The train left at 14:36 with Moelwyn on the rear.

By the end of the day the F&WHR had added a 12:25 on Tuesday, which requires 3 engines in steam, as the other three trains were fully booked. However the two trains on Wednesday are also fully booked but additional services cannot be run as there is a special working in association with the Snowdonia Statesman railtour arriving at Blaenau Ffestiniog.

 

FR traffic 16/5/21

The 11:05 is sold out right through to 22/5/21. The two trains on Wednesday 19/5/21 are already sold out but there are no signs of enhancing the service on this day as the potential is there to operate 5 trains in the Mountain Prince timetable. The day started off cloudy but dry at Porthmadog. Prince left Boston Lodge at 10:23 to refuel and water at Porthmadog at 10:28 before shunting the rake to the platform. At 12:25 Moelwyn led Prince's train back into Tan-y-bwlch from Dduallt and by 12:43 the locos had changed places. At 12:25 Upnor Castle was stabled rather unusually in the seawall siding at Porthmadog and was still there early afternoon but had goner by 16:00. Blanche arrived light engine from Boston Lodge at 13:03 for the 13:40 departure. Meanwhile Prince left Tan-y-bwlch at 13:31. Blanche departed Porthmadog on time at 13:40 and passed Prince at Minffordd at 13:50. Prince resumed its journey at 13:55 arriving at Porthmadog at 14:05 in plenty of time for the deep clean team to prepare the rake for the 15:00. It had run round at 14:16. Blanche arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 14:24.

Prince arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 15:44 and departed for Dduallt at 15:53 once Moelwyn was attached to the rear. This allowed Blanche to run round at 15:59. Departure came at 16:10 leaving the platform free for Prince to return from Dduallt at 16:23. Blanche arrived back at Porthmadog at 16:46 and ran round at 16:55. The loco shunted the stock to the sidings at 17:00 and departed light engine for Boston Lodge at 17:05 after being held at the signalbox for several minutes as Moelwyn arrived at Pen Cob light from Tan-y-bwlch at 17:07 and shunted into the depot. With the line finally clear at 17:12 Blanche departed for the depot, somewhat later than usual.

Prince departed Tan-y-bwlch at 17:15 with the return working of the 15:00, passing Minffordd at 17:41 and arriving at Porthmadog at 17:50. The loco propelled the rake out at 18:04 in an unusual move all the way across The Cob to the Carriage Sheds, presumably for planned maintenance.

 

This easterly view (16/5/21) shows Prince propelling the return working of the 15:00 out of the platform and across The Cob at 18:05 presumably for servicing at Boston Lodge. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Dinas volunteer weekend 15-16/5/21

Another of the monthly Dinas working parties occurred last weekend 15-16/5/21. Lilla and Bill were used to shunt rolling stock. The large water carrier was cleaned with a pressure wash and some B wagons taken inside the Loco Shed to repaint after pressure washing. A date has not been set yet for the June working party.

 

This northerly view (13/5/21) shows Lilla hauls B922 to the Loco Shed for pressure washing and painting. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Paul Lewin (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

NG15 No.134 update 15-16/5/21

Lilla shunted No.134's tender out of the Good's Shed so as volunteers could steam clean it in the open. Whilst it had spent a good few years under cover it was in the Carriage Shed where unfortunately quite a few birds nest in the roof space and had duly left signs of their presence all over the tender body! The tender body rests on the rolling chassis of No.133's tender. Volunteers started to tidy up the axle boxes for No.134's tender underframe and the intention is to get the tank onto No.134's as soon as possible. The axle boxes had unfortunately spent an unplanned long period outside due to the pandemic hitting so volunteers have a number of seized nuts on studs to attend to! There are still a few to finish off next time then the axle boxes will be available for the paid staff to refurbish the journals, fit new seals and machine the horns.

It was still a bit of an 'admin' weekend with volunteers tracking down various components and moving them into a more logical location ready to go to wherever they are needed to be worked on. This involved getting the tender wheels into a B-wagon ready to be taken to Boston Lodge on the next departmental movement between the two depots. Whilst the tender wheels have been worked on before, they still need their flange profiles tweaking a small amount. The tender vacuum cylinder is also going to Boston Lodge as it has been some time since it was overhauled. Even though the cylinder has not been used it was decided to have it checked out and give it a brand new sealing ring then the cylinder should be good few years service.

The boiler had previously been sent to Locomotive Maintenance Services (LMS) in Loughborough. This is now being worked on and the first stage is for the known areas of wastage to be cut away and those areas sandblasted. The Group will then get a better idea about the extent of any further concerns about the condition of the boiler over and above the initial inspections and defined areas of repair.

For a full report and images see the NG15 No.134 website.

 

WHR news 15/5/21

No.130 hauled the Gelert Explorer on Saturday 15/5/21 and was said to be running well. The headlights on the loco work now so the loco can be used in the evenings in future.

 

Further changes to webcams

Access to the FR webcams is now via Railcam using YouTube's player and functionality has been lost again. There appears to be no ability to roll back time other than the standard 15 second rewind and pinching on an iPad to select and magnify does not lock that view area as it did with the previous player.

 

Llangollen crane issue resolved

There is some great news about the Llangollen Railway's historic Cowans Sheldon crane. The owner of Sandbach Commercial Dismantlers who won the Cowans Crane in the auction last week has met with several LR Trust representatives on site. He has very kindly agreed to keep the crane in one piece and on the railway for the foreseeable future. The Railway also has the option to buy it back over an extended period, including offsetting the value raised from supplying day-to-day scrap materials to SCD. The urgent priority obviously remains on raising funds for the re-opening of the railway later this year (and both the Rolling Stock and Full Steam Ahead appeals are still open), but there will be a specific fundraising programme to support the crane.

 

Webcam changes

The FR's webcams have changed and are showing Railcam logos. The Inside Motion links have lost their roll back functionality and display as a regular YouTube stream which can be viewed as full screen but not selectively pinched to make larger sizes on an iPad for example. Free membership of Webcam can restore that lost functionality via the Railcam website but makes it a little slower to switch between the three FR webcams.

 

Llangollen latest

The Llangollen Trust says they are on track to reopen the line late July or early August following the auction of the bankrupt Company's assets on 12/5/21 and have acquired essential plant and the accessible coach M4858 from the auction. Two friendly bidders acquired two more of the 9 Mk1's up for sale which will therefore stay on the railway. The railway now has at least two full length rakes of coaches, however it has lost the RMB to the Spa Valley Railway. One concern is the Cowans 50 tonne crane which a scrap merchant purchased for £35,000 to be cut up on site. This working crane, the ex-Laira breakdown crane, is fully operational and a campaign has been launched to buy it back from the scrap merchant. For more details and a link to donations see Llangollen Trust's Press Release.

To reopen the line some additional work is needed on the Dee Bridge and in Berwyn Tunnel. Meanwhile the waiting room at Corwen station is under construction on the new island platform and the token signalling system has been tested which will eventually allow a second train to follow between Carrog and Corwen. The signal box itself is nearing completion externally.

 

FR traffic 15/5/21

Saturday dawned a bit rainy and dull in Porthmadog but with all three trains fully booked, it appeared too late to add an extra 12:25, which would have required a third engine in steam. The 11:05 is already fully booked for the next three days but the FR can add an extra on Wednesday as the only two trains currently advertised, the 10:00 and 13:40 are already fully booked. These only require one loco in steam however. With the Prime Minister admitting he has let Indian variant into the country and its rapid growth, a potential fourth wave of COVID is possible. Many visitors may be seeking to have a quick holiday before the possibility of further lockdowns materialises.

Prince left Boston Lodge at 10:30, arrived at Porthmadog Harbour Station at 10:38 and by 10:45 it had shunted the A set into the platform. The train departed on time. Up at Tan-y-bwlch, no attempt had been made to restore the short lived awning blown down in the gales over a week ago. Work was underway on the wall of the small station building opposite the signal box. Moelwyn shunted to the westbound platform at 11:10and 11:42 moved to the west end in order to allow a quick coupling to the rear of the arrival of the 11:05 from Porthmadog which came at 11:48. Departure for Dduallt came at 11:55 with some assistance from the diesel loco. Moelwyn arrived back at 12:23 with Prince on the rear and passengers had their hour break. Prince arrived back at Porthmadog at 14:08 in plenty of time for the Zoono Gang to clean the train before the 15:00 working.

 

This westerly view (15/5/21) shows Prince arriving on the 15:00 while Palmerston awaits a run round at 15:46. The locos sport different coloured Mountain Prince headboards. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Palmerston left Boston Lodge at 12:10 and arrived to shunt the yard at 12:19. The rake was shunted into the platform at 12:48 and the loco crew took their lunch break with the sun coming out. Up at Tan-y-bwlch the locos had swopped places by 12:55. Palmerston passed Prince at Minffordd at about 13.55 as the former made its way to Tan-y-bwlch. About 20 people gathered to watch the spectacle of Prince departing on time at 15:01 on its second turn of the day. Meanwhile Moelwyn arrived back at Tan-y-bwlch at 15:00 with Palmerston on the rear for an hour's break for passengers. Prince passed Minffordd at 15:13 and arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 14:46. Moelwyn was connected to the rear by 15:49 and the rake set off for Dduallt at 15:52 allowing Palmerston to run round at 15:57 and couple to the west end at 16:05. There was some difficulty obtaining a vacuum and the train did not leave until 16:18, the second time a brakes problem has delayed a service in the same week. Palmerston's departure cleared the platform just in time for the 15:00 to arrive back from Dduallt at 16:26 for the customary hour break (often shortened to 45 mins on the last train of the day). Prince had uncoupled and moved over to the water tower by 16:34.

Down at Porthmadog Palmerston was shunting its rake into the seawall siding at 16:56 then ran light engine to Boston Lodge at 16:59, back on schedule despite the late start from Tan-y-bwlch. Prince departed at 17:14 and passed Minffordd at 17:36. Arrival at Porthmadog came at 17:44 and run round at 17:51. The rake was shunted to the yard at 17:57 and the loco departed light engine to Boston Lodge at 18:00 bringing activities to a close for the day.

At the end of the day, next Wednesday's peculiar timetable with only two FR trains, which are already sold out, has not seen any additional trains added.

 

Spooners indoor dining reopens 27/5/21

Following WAG advice Spooners will reopen services for indoor locals and visitors from 12:00 until 22:00 drinks only table service. The take away food option will continue to be offered from 09:00 to 16:00 as the F&WHR is still building its catering team despite advertising for staff some weeks ago. This is also true of other catering outlets where foreign workers have gone home due to BREXIT issues and UK workers don't wish to take on insecure basic wage jobs. No mention is made about the De Winton Cafe at Caernarfon in the announcement.

 

TfW advises timetable changes from 16/5/21

Transport for Wales has advised that there will be timetable changes from Sunday 16/5/21, mostly for North Wales.

 

FR traffic 14/5/21

Only two trains were advertised today and so only one engine was required in steam. Blanche was the rostered traction and departed on time at 11:05. Blanche had run round at Tan-y-bwlch by 13:17 and departed by 13:39, passing Minffordd at 13:58 and arriving at Porthmadog at 14:07 for the Zoono squad to clean before the 15:00 departure. Moelwyn was stabled at Tan-y-bwlch waiting for the 15:00.

Moel Hebog was in the WHR platform at Porthmadog with a S&T cherrypicker train during the lunch break and shunted to the east end of the platform at 13:15 where the FR/WHR starter signal received some attention. Preparation may be underway for the Glaslyn Venturer including getting the track/signals ready and driver training as services commence on 30/5/21. Meanwhile Blanche ran round at 14:31 after coaling and watering for its 15:00 service.

It was all go at 14:52 with Moelwyn running round the S&T train and Upnor Castle bring the C set back from maintenance at Boston Lodge. Blanche left on time with the 15:00 with over 20 bystanders watching the proceedings. Once clear of the shunt limit, Upnor Castle, having run round, shunted the rake into the yard. Meanwhile Moel Hebog with the cherrypicker attended the advance starter/shunt signal halfway along the platform departing at 15:57. It arrived at Minffordd at 16:09 and shunted into the yard. Upnor Castle emerged for the yard at 15:10 and took instructions from the signalbox. Blanche passed Minffordd at 15:13 and having cleared the section, this allowed Upnor Castle to set off light engine for Boston Lodge at 15:16.

 

This easterly view (13/5/21) shows Moel Hebog on the cherrypicker rake in the WHR platform at 14:57. Blanche is preparing for the 15:00 in the FR platform and Upnor Castle has just returned the C set to the yard from planned maintenance. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Blanche arrived Tan-y-bwlch and after Moelwyn was coupled to the rear, the train left for Dduallt at 15:50 and arrived back at 16:19. Blanche ran round at 16:27 while Moelwyn went light engine to Boston Lodge. The train was back in Porthmadog by 15:50 and Blanche ran round at 17:55. At 17:58 the rake was shunted to the yard and Blanche departed light for Boston Lodge at 18:03.

In the week ahead the standard three trains 11:05/13:40/15:00 operate most days except Wednesday when so far a 10:00 and 13:40 are booked to run. This was likely to be revised as there were only 3 compartments left across the two trains by the end of Friday. Thursday, Friday and Sunday are currently showing as back to the usual 3 trains and the 13:40 had been reinstated for Saturday by the end of Friday. The popular 11:05 is sold out Saturday and some other days next week.

 

North Wales main line 14/5/21

No.37800 was said to be making several Chester-Holyhead runs on 14/5/21, presumably for driver training.

The Autumn introduction of loco hauled Mk4 trains will sadly not feature Shotton station, a vital interchange with the Borderlands Line.

 

Open coach No.39 soon to join fleet 14/5/21

This Boston Lodge view (14/5/21) shows No.39 hauled out into the sun for some finishing touches. The coach may join the B set in coming weeks offering a pleasant experience in the hopefully warmer Late Spring Bank holiday soon to come. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Glenn Williams (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

No.138's new cylinder 13/5/21

No.138, currently in red livery and under repair, was the first Garratt on the WHR and has served the line very well for over two decades. When dismantled for its current refurbishment it was found that, as suspected, the left hand cylinder on the hind unit, was leaking from a large crack previously repaired but not fit for further service. Fortunately our former works manager Tony Williams (who retired last November) had the foresight to get a spare cylinder cast. This is now being machined up ready for fitting. This work is sponsored by Welsh Highland Railway Society who would welcome donations via the WHRS website.

 

This Boston lodge view (13/5/21) shows No.138's new cylinder being machined ready to fit to the loco. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Paul Lewin (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

FR traffic 13/5/21

At 1000 the Harbour Station platform seats were receiving attention with new seating planks being provided for some. There was 1 compartment left on the 11:05 but the 13:40 was fully booked as was the 15:00 and tomorrow's 11:05 tomorrow (one of only two trains operating Friday-Sunday on the FR). Yesterday's film crew appeared to be working on the platform throughout the morning.

The day kicked off with Blanche emerging from Boston Lodge at 10:20 and running into the yard to collect the A set. The rake was shunted under the platform canopy by 10:37 and departed on time at 11:05 in dull weather. The train arrived at 11:48 and Moelwyn was waiting at the west end to be coupled to the rear. This was achieved in short order at 1152 and the train set off for Dduallt at 11:54. Some people had chosen to sit in the Open coach No.37 rather than the brake No.113. The train arrived back at 12:21 for an hour break. Light rain was falling. At 12:26 Blanche detached and ran round as the rain set in. The train left for Porthmadog at 13:28 passing the 13:40 at Minffordd at 13:55 and arriving at Porthmadog at 14:05 in plenty of time for the Zoono Squad to prepare the coaches for the 15:00.

Meanwhile down at Porthmadog, Welsh Pony had arrived early at about 12:50 and shunted the C under the platform canopy by 13:00 ready for the 13:40. The platform has become a spectator sport area with a least a dozen watching or photographing the departure. The train left on time and passed Minffordd at 13:50 and arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 14:28. Moelwyn coupled up to the rear at 14:30 and the train left for Dduallt at 14:33 arriving back at 15:03 for an hour's break.

Blanche left Porthmadog on time on the 15:00 in wet conditions, passing Minffordd at 15:12. The train arrived at 15:41 and Moelwyn was coupled up by 15:45. The train left for Dduallt at 15:48. Meanwhile Welsh Pony ran round by 16:15 and departed for Porthmadog at 16:19 passing Minffordd at 16:49 and arriving at Porthmadog at 16:58. Moelwyn had arrived back on the 15:00 at 16:31 after a longer than normal trip to Dduallt. Blanche ran round at 16:41 and hung round by the footbridge at 17:00 before coupling up at 17:28 and departing for Porthmadog at 17:34.

Welsh Pony had not run round by 17:25 even after being signalled for a long period and diesel assistance was called for from Boston Lodge. Moelwyn, having recently arrived light engine from Tan-y-bwlch off the 15:00 service, arrived in the FR platform at 17:35. There may have been a problem with vacuum brakes as a further long signalled shunt did not occur until 17:45. There was a risk that if the rake was not moved the returning 15:00 would have to run into the WHR platform. Moelwyn emerged at from the platform at 16:58 with its wheel's spinning dragging the failed rake. The diesel managed to propel the rake into the yard at 18:01 and the rake was placed in the seawall siding.

 

This easterly view (13/5/21) shows Moelwyn coming to the rescue at 17:33. It appeared that the brakes of the 13:40 rake were binding as the loco struggled to extract the rake from blocking the platform. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Blanche arrived back at 18:05 in the FR platform which had been cleared with minutes to spare! The return working of the 15:00 had possibly been held for a few minutes at Minffordd. Moelwyn emerged from the yard light engine and took instruction from the signalbox. At 18:09 it was shunted into the FR platform while the yard points were set for Welsh Pony to shunt out. At 18:14 Moelwyn coupled to the rear of Welsh Pony and the pair set of light engine for Boston Lodge at 18:16. Once beyond the shunt limit, Blanche was signalled to run round and shunt its rake to the yard. The rake was shunted at 18:22. At 18:26 Blanche left light engine for Boston Lodge bringing the day's activities to a close.

The FR has today increased its offering to three trains on Saturday and Sunday with the addition of the 13:40 but Friday still only has 2 trains despite one being fully booked already.

 

Llangollen auction 12/5/21

Over 60 bidders came to 'pick over the bones' of the Llangollen Railway with the Mk1 coaches being in greatest demand. The auctioneer suggested over £1 million could be raised. It was surprising that railways from Cornwall, Norfolk and the North came to buy the coaches. The Llangollen Trust itself hoped to buy some of the rolling stock and equipment. See BBC News story.

 

FR traffic 12/5/21

All three trains today are sold out leading to the suggestion that additional trains might soon be introduced on an ad hoc basis as up to 5 trains a day can be run in the Mountain Prince timetable. The 11:00 and 13:40 are sold out on Thursday too. The decision to reduce the service to just 2 trains on Friday-Sunday most be questionable in the circumstances.

The action kicked off at 9:30 when steam was noted being raised and a diesel shunted out onto The Cob and set back towards the Old Loco Shed. Blanche eventually left Boston Lodge at 10:23 and made its way across The Cob to shunt Harbour Station Yard. The rake was shunted under the canopy at 10:37 as the weather was wet and windy and departed on time at 11:05. Moelwyn was waiting the arrival at Tan-y-bwlch which came at 11:50, was coupled up by 11:53 and departed for Dduallt at 11:56. The train was back by 12:24 for passengers to have an hour break and arrived back at Porthmadog at about 14:00.

Meanwhile, after the 13:40 from Porthmadog with Welsh Pony had cleared Minffordd loop, the KMX tamper and running truck emerged from Minffordd Yard at 14:05 and appeared to head towards Tan-y-bwlch. Blanche arrived back at Porthmadog at 14:11 to form the 15:00 service after Zoono cleaning. At Tan-y-bwlch a video/drone team was setting up to record the arrival of the 13:40. The train arrived at 14:28, Moelwyn coupled to the rear and it left for Dduallt a few minutes later arriving back at 15:01. Down in Porthmadog the sun had come out and Blanche departed on the 15:00 arriving at Tan-y-bwlch at 15:49. Moelwyn was connected to the rear at 15:52 and the train left for Dduallt at 15:54 allowing Welsh Pony to water and run round on the 13:40 at 16:00.

 

This westerly view (12/5/21) shows the KMX tamper/liner departing Minffordd Yard at 12:05. It appeared to head towards Tan-y-bwlch. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Later in the afternoon one loco, presumably Welsh Pony, entered Boston Lodge at 17:25, a little later than usual. Blanche passed Minffordd at 17:39 on the return working of the 15:00. The train arrived back at Harbour Station at 17:48 and pulled under the platform canopy. The loco ran round at 17:54 and shunted the rake to the yard at 17:58. Blanche left for Boston Lodge at 18:04 bringing the day to a close.

Compartments are only available on the 15:00 on Thursday. The timetable still shows only two trains from Friday-Sunday (11:05 and 15:00) and the 11:00 has only one compartment left on Friday. There are plenty of compartments left on the Gelert Explorer Thursday and Saturday.

 

Insidemotion webcams site overwhelmed!

The F&WHR's FR webcams (there is still no WHR Dinas webcam!) were recently moved to an alternative 'Insidemotion' website probably to prevent bandwidth being used blocking ticket sales. Now the 'Insidemotion' website itself is being overwhelmed with the website frequently showing almost 100 webcam viewers and sometimes the message 'Resource Limit Is Reached' is displayed so the webcams are inaccessible.

 

Welsh Hospitality to reopen from 17/5/21

One of the first acts of Mark Drakeford, WAG's First Minister after Labour were re-elected last Thursday has been to confirm the re-opening of Welsh Tourism including indoor restaurants from 17/5/21. WAG is offering a package of financial support. Businesses will be able submit applications by the end of the May and they will receive between £2,500 and £25,000 depending on their circumstances. Funding will be calculated based on the size of the business and the type of restrictions they are under. This support is in addition to the Welsh Government’s £610m non-domestic rates relief which will mean more than 70,000 retail, leisure and hospitality businesses pay no rates in 2021-22.

An announcement might be expected shortly from the F&WHR about opening the Spooners, De Winton Cafe and the Tan-y-bwlch cafe to inside dining. The existing F&WHR timetable continues until 23/7/21 and is being reviewed in the light of current demand and the anticipation of a UK-wide staycation this summer as many traditional foreign holidays are closed by COVID.

 

Expansion of F&WHR services?

So far the only expansion of F&WHR services known is the proposed Glaslyn Adventurer which runs twice daily Porthmadog to Beddgelert from the Bank Holiday Monday 31/5/21 with trains running TWThO generally. An enquiry about all F&WHR trains in early July found that many are booking up quite heavily in advance with only a few compartments left two months in advance of travel. Many preserved railways have advised a return to a more normal timetable in mid-May with the relaxation of COVID regulations. The F&WHR is still considering its options from 23/7/21 when the current timetable ends.

 

Portillo on the FR broadcast 13/5/21

Another episode of Great Railway Journeys will be shown on BBC2 on 13/5/21 at 18:30. Michel Portillo recounts his journey from Blaenau to Barmouth with footage of the FR. The programme is available on BBC iPlayer for the following 30 days.

 

FR traffic 11/5/21

On 11/5/21, the 11:05 and 13:40 were fully booked but there were seats available on the 15:00. The Gelert Explorer had the unusual message 'Call to book' showing in the last 20 minutes before departure which may be the usual response close to departure time. Blanche was shunting the C set with Coaches Nos.23/21/17 and the two brakes Nos.11/12 into the platform at 10:43 for the 11:05. As usual recently the rake was shunted under the platform canopy, departing at 11:06. Blanche passed Minffordd at 11:16 and Moelwyn was already waiting at Tan-y-bwlch to attach to the rear when it arrived at 11:44. The train had departed for Dduallt within 10 minutes. The train has arrived back from Dduallt by 12:50 and Moelwyn and Blanche had changed ends. There were showers at Tan-y-bwlch as the train left for Porthmadog at 13:30.

Meanwhile, down at Porthmadog Palmerston had propelled the rake for the 13:40 under the platform canopy, leaving at 13:42., passing Minffordd at 13:51.

 

FR traffic 10/5/21

Both the 11:05 and 13:40 were sold out today but there were compartments left on the 15:00. Blanche shunted the A Set into the platform under the awning at 10:45 as it was a blustery day with passing showers. Moelwyn was at Tan-y-bwlch. Blanche was back from Dduallt and had exchanged places with Moelwyn by 12:35. At 13:07 Palmerston arrived and shunted the C set from the seawall sidings and shunted it under the platform awning, departing on the 13:40.

At 17:48 Blanche was running round to shunt its 15:00 service back to the yard. The rake had unloaded under the platform awning again. The loco left light for the depot at 17:57 bringing the day's activities to a close.

The 11:05 was fully booked for Tuesday and Wednesday and the 13:40 only had one compartment left.

 

Plas-y-nant works 8-9/5/21

The North Wales Track Gang was working at Plas-y-nant over the weekend of 8-9/5/21 with Vale of Ffestiniog in support. With the No.87 operating on the Saturday, the PW train retreated to Rhyd Ddu, while the volunteers continued their task re-installing the footpath crossing to Plas-y-nant Halt.

 

This northerly view (9/5/21) shows Vale of Ffestiniog at Rhyd Ddu presumably to allow No.87 on Gelert Explorer to pass. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This southerly view (8/5/21) shows No.87 approaching Plas-y-nant bridge with the return working of the Gelert Explorer. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Welsh COVID rules to change 17/5/21

With Labour re-elected to govern WAG Mark Drakeford, the First Minister, has confirmed there will be a review of COVID on Friday 13/5/21, possibly leading to further relaxation of COVID regulations from 17/5/21. As COVID rates in Wales have fallen to a low level, it is widely expected that indoor dining might be allowed in Spooners and the De Winton Cafe and potentially on trains too. Despite this there has been a small outbreak in a holiday camp at Black Rock Sands, just outside Porthmadog. Labour has promised an additional £200 million to assist businesses affected by COVID and some of this may come the F&WHR's way and possibly help the bankrupt Llangollen Railway too.

 

Llangollen auction latest

Labour made election promises to help the Llangollen Railway which this week is seeing an auction of the part of the rolling stock owned by the Company including 9 Mk1 coaches. It has been made clear that the shunter up for sale is the Company's hybrid private built 08 'Davy' built for ICI and named after chemist Sir Humphrey Davy. The bidding closes on 12/5/21 at 2pm. Supporters hope that the Llangollen Trust will be able to secure some of the rolling stock. Click here for auction catalogue which includes 9 BR MkI coaches. It is not clear how many coaches are left in the Trust's ownership to run a service but the railway also has a considerable number of privately owned DMUs and the Diesel Group has its privately owned operational Class 08/26/47 locos and Wirral Council's Class 03. There is a Class 31 on an extended visit to the railway but long term Llangollen resident Foxcote Manor is away at the West Somerset Railway and signed up there for the next few years.

 

Historic railway bridge concern continues

John Sreeves writes: You may be aware that Highways England is proposing to demolish or infill hundreds of redundant railway structures throughout the country (including Wales and Scotland); an act of desecration finishing off what Beeching started. A campaign to prevent this happening is gathering support where many railway routes could be reopened or repurposed for leisure activities. The attached document highlights examples where some bridges are under immediate threat; others will follow. All bridges in HRE ownership are recognisable by a stencilled black and white panel painted on the parapet or abutment, showing the former line reference and bridge number. Constant vigilance is needed, as HRE are using underhand tactics to get their way. By declaring ‘permitted development rights’ or ‘emergency powers’ they are able to circumvent the planning system. In many instances, people only get to know about it when the bulldozers turn up on site. Some of the bridges do indeed need remedial work, or have weight restrictions, but not to the extent to justify demolition. Please keep a watchful eye for any railway infrastructure in your area that may be under threat, thereby prejudicing reuse of the former railway route.

For further details see HRE Securing its Potential leaflet.

 

Penmaenmawr stone paths from 17/5/21

The diagrams for the new Penmaenmawr stone trains are now available on RealTime Trains. The Jumbo empty westbound working 6D17 leaves Crewe Basford Hall at 18:44 and arrives Penmaenmawr at 20:46. The two loaded eastbound workings are 6K61 Penmaenmawr dep 06:44, arriving Crewe Basford Hall 08:43 and 6K17 Penmaenmawr dep 16:53 arriving Crewe Basford Hall arr 19:20. It is not known exactly when the trains will start as driver training has not yet occurred.

Clearance work is also underway at Llandudno Junction Yard for a future freight flow of slate waste from Penrhyn Quarry which will be loaded in the yard from lorries.

On 6/5/21 No.67015 hauling a Mk4 coaches test ran from Cardiff to Holyhead and back. This was a test train to determine timings and fuel consumption under various load conditions. The paths for loco hauled service begin 13/9/21 according to RealTime Trains. Users of this route currently have to change at Shrewsbury (Sunday there are some through trains).

 

FR traffic 9/5/21

Sunday was a day full of excitement on the FR due apparently to a failure on the 13:40. Initially things went well with David Lloyd George on the 11:05 arriving back from Dduallt at 12:20 carrying the Mountain Prince headboard, unlike the previous day. Moelwyn was back on the pilot duty. There were still compartments available on the 13:40 and 15:00. The locos had changed ends at Tan-y-bwlch by 12:47. The double Fairlie returned to Porthmadog on time presumably passing Welsh Pony at Minffordd on the 13:40. However, running round its rake at 14:20 the double Fairlie left Porthmadog light engine for Minffordd. It stopped to deliver packages near the Minffordd signal, presumably to effect a repair of Welsh Pony, then staff opened the location cabinet to set the route into the westbound platform at Minffordd at 14:36. This may have been connection with the late running of the 13:20 which had not arrived in Tan-y-bwlch by 14:40. As the Fairlie was to be the train engine for the 15:00, another loco was rapidly steamed at Boston Lodge. Welsh Pony emerged from Minffordd Yard siding at 14:54 presumably having been replaced by the Fairlie on the late 14:20 at Minffordd. It then appeared to run back light engine to Boston Lodge.

Palmerston emerged from Boston Lodge at 15:05 and departed at 15:15, just 15 minutes down. David Lloyd George arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 15:08, some 40 minutes late after recovering the failure, and had gone to Dduallt within 10 minutes. Moelwyn arrived back at 15:35 with the Fairlie on the rear. Palmerston arrived at 16:04 with the B set and Moelwyn coupled to the rear at 16:08. The rake set off for Dduallt at 16:13 freeing the platform for the Fairlie to run round at 16:17 and depart for Porthmadog at 16:37. Moelwyn returned with the late running 15:00 at 16:44.

 

This westerly view (8/5/21) shows David Lloyd George carrying the correct headboard for the first time, finishing its turn a little early at 17:25 after being pressed into service to take the 13:40 forwards from Minffordd after Welsh Pony experienced a problem. Originally it had been booked for the 15:00, which was taken over by Palmerston, rapidly turned out from Boston Lodge. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Meanwhile at 17:25 David Lloyd George ran round after watering at Porthmadog and shunted its rake to the yard, departing light engine for the depot at 17:34. At the same time Palmerston was watering, running round at Tan-y-bwlch. It departed for Porthmadog at 17:37 passing Minffordd at 18:03, arriving at Porthmadog at 18:13 and pulling forward under the platform awning as did most trains this week. After watering Palmerston ran round at 18:29 and propelled the rake into the yard. The day's activities came to and end when the loco headed light engine back to the depot at 18:40.

The Mountain Prince 11:05 is sold out for the next three days but both the afternoon trains have compartments free all week. The Gelert Explorer has free compartments but only runs TThSO in the week ahead.

 

FR traffic 8/5/21

The day kicked off wet and windy yet both the 11:05 and 12:40 were fully booked with compartments still available on the 15:00. Welsh Pony came across from Boston Lodge at 10:35 and shunted the seawall siding before drawing the A set out at 10:50 and propelling it right under the platform awning to protect the passengers from the weather. The 11:05 left at 11:06 and illustrated the unusual section event caused by wind over the signalbox and relay cabin where the wind from the sea generates a lower pressure on the leeward side which sucks smoke up to the roof ridge before propelling it north towards Traeth Mawr.

The train passed Minffordd at 11:17 and Upnor Castle was already waiting at 11:20 having taken over the Dduallt shunt duty from Moelwyn for the weekend The train arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 11:52 in pouring rain and Upnor Castle connected to the rear at 11:57. The train departed for Dduallt at 12:04 with assistance from the diesel. The train arrived back from Dduallt about 12:35 pilotted by Upnor Castle. There was good condensation in the damp air but fortunately the rain had stopped. Welsh Pony detached at 12:42 and went to water. Upnor Castle shunted to the rear at 12:47 and immediately afterwards Welsh Pony ran round to the front of the train. Welsh Pony departed at 13:31.

 

This westerly view (8/5/21) shows Welsh Pony running round its rake at Tan-y-bwlch at 12:47 just after Upnor Castle had exchanged placed with it. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

The 14:20 was a surprise on Saturday as double Fairlie David Lloyd George was turned out for the 13:40. After arriving and pausing in the platform for a while, it shunted the rake into the platform under the awning at 13:35. The double Fairlie departed with the 5 bogie C set with no Open coach at 13:41 crossing Welsh Pony at Minffordd at 16:58. The loco carried a special headboard celebrating the Chief Mechanical Engineers 60th birthday. Welsh Pony arrived at Porthmadog at 14:08 and again pulled forward under the awning.

 

This westerly view (8/5/21) shows David Lloyd George passing Minffordd at 13:53 carrying the a headboard celebrating the CME's 60th Birthday. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

David Lloyd George arrived at Tan-y-bwlch by 14:30 and Upnor Castle was coupled to the rear by 14:33. The train left for Dduallt at 14:35 and arrived back at 15:05. Meanwhile down at Porthmadog Welsh Pony left on time on the 15:00 and arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 15:44. With the Planet coupled to the rear, the train had left for Dduallt within 10 minutes and arriving back about 30 minutes later.

 

This westerly view (8/5/21) shows Welsh Pony arriving at Tan-y-bwlch at 15:44 passing David Lloyd George carrying the a headboard celebrating the CME's 60th Birthday. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

David Lloyd George ran round at 16:05 and departed for Porthmadog at 16:17 passing Minffordd at 16:43. This left the platform free for Upnor Castle to arrive at 16:20 piloting the return of the 15:00 return working. The Fairlie pulled into Porthmadog at 16:52 and, as is the new style of operation, disappeared under the platform awning. After watering the Fairlie ran round at 17:12 and shunted the rake to the seawall siding at 17:18 before leaving light engine for Boston Lodge at 17:20.

At 16:23 Welsh Pony detached and after exchanging places with Upnor Castle, watered and ran round to couple to the west end of the rake by 17:15. The train departed for Porthmadog at 17:20, passing Minffordd at 17:46 and arriving at Porthmadog at 17:56 this time pulling up a little short as the rain had ceased. Welsh Pony ran round at 18:09 and moved the rake to the sidings. The loco left light engine for Boston Lodge at 18:18.

There is no WHR service on Sundays for some reason but there are three FR services tomorrow with the 11:05 sold out as usual.

 

FR traffic 7/5/21

Vale of Ffestiniog was in the WHR platform with a Mess car, a flat wagon and a B wagon from at least 10:30 while steam was being raised at Boston Lodge for the 11:05. The Funkey left for Dinas just before Blanche arrived a little late at 10:48. Blanche ran through the FR platform, collected its train (including WHR coach No.23 but no Open) which was positioned under the platform awning because of the rain. It set off on time and passed Minffordd 11:16.

 

This easterly view (7/5/21) shows Vale of Ffestiniog ready to depart with a short works train towards Dinas at 10:21. The loco may have been used to shunt the 11:05 in Harbour Station under the awning earlier as the train engine was late and it was raining. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a webcam and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

The train arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 11:46 where Moelwyn had been waiting since before 10:30. The diesel was coupled up at 10:49 and the train set off for Dduallt at 11:55 and was back within half an hour. By 13:15 the locos had swopped ends and departed at 13:30 for Porthmadog to become the 15:00 passing .

Meanwhile down at Porthmadog Welsh Pony was propelling the rake for the 13:40 under the awning at 13:15 even though it had stopped raining. The loco left on time at 13:40 with the A Set with Open coach No.37 on the rear. The train passed Minffordd at 13:50 passing Blanche at Rhiw Goch. Welsh Pony reached Tan-y-bwlch by 14:25 and after a trip to Dduallt it arrived back at 14:59. Blanche ran round in Porthmadog at 14:39 while another engine, presumably Prince or Palmerston, was noted in steam at Boston Lodge. Meanwhile Blanche departed Porthmadog at 15:03 for Dduallt.

At 15:58 Welsh Pony ran round at Tan-y-bwlch after Blanche had departed for Dduallt. The England departed for Porthmadog at 16:10 passing Minffordd at 16:42 and arriving at Porthmadog at 16:50 and pulling forward towards the awning. Moelwyn returned at 16:20 with Blanche on the rear. Blanche ran round at 16:54, watering on the way.

Meanwhile Welsh Pony propelled the rake out and then dragged the rake back into the sidings before running round. The loco emerged at 17:06 and paused at the signalbox until 17:10 when it left light engine for Boston Lodge. Blanche left Tan-y-bwlch at 17:13 and passed Minffordd at 17:36. The train arrived at Porthmadog at 1745 pulling right forwards to the awning. Blanche ran round at 17:52. The loco left light engine for Boston Lodge at 18:03.

Saturday 8/5/21 shows the 11:05 Mountain Prince fully booked again but there is no problem with compartments on the two later trains. There are plenty of compartments available on the Gelert Explorer too.

 

No.87 Gelert Explorer 6/5/21

The 6/5/21 was a sunny day with a lot of snow on the top of the mountains. Snowdon had a good covering. No. 87 was allocated for this day and No.130 was rostered on 11/5/21 possibly for the first time since its appearance on 30/4/21 following a problem with No.87. For additional images see F&WHR Facebook page.

 

This northerly view (6/5/21) shows No.87 with the Gelert Explorer headboard waiting for the 11:00 departure from Caernarfon. This service runs TThSO at present but could be extended to additional days if traffic grows and appears to be preferring No.87 at the moment. Click on the image to expand . This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Fence repair 6/5/21

It is over 20 years since the WHR fencing was installed and the fencing is being renewed in places such as Castell Cidwm where there is a lot of cattle in neighbouring fields.

 

This southerly view (6/5/21) shows No.87 passing the Infrastructure Gang replacing fence posts at Castle Cidwm with the Gelert Explorer. Snowdon shows a good covering of late Spring snow after recent storms. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

FR traffic 6/5/21

The Porthmadog signalman arrived by bicycle at 09:45 and stored his cycle in the signalbox before opening he box for traffic.
The day was to see sunshine and showers and there was snow overnight even in Porthmadog with a light covering on the Rhinogs. At the start of the day both the 11:05 and 12:25 were fully booked with seats only available on the 15:00. The 11:05
was also sold out for the Thursday with an identical pattern of three trains operating.
Prince
arrived at Harbour station at 10:38 to draw out the A-set which was shunted into the platform by 10:46 ready for the 11:05, which departed on time. The 11:05 was sold out and the 12:25 had one compartment left. The 15:00 as usual was less popular as it arrives back at nearly 6pm. Prince passed Minffordd at 11:16 and arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 11:52 with Moelwyn coupling to the rear at 11:54 and the train departing for Dduallt at 11:59. Moelwyn arrived back from Dduallt at 12:27 with Prince on the rear.

Welsh Pony hauled the second train with the B set containing NWNGR coach No.24 departing Porthmadog on time at 12:25 and passing Minffordd at 12:36. The train arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 13:13 and Moelwyn coupled onto the rear at 13:16. The train departed at 13:21 for Dduallt allowing Prince to detach and water at 13:23. Prince departed for Porthmadog at 13:38.

Moelwyn pilotted Welsh Pony's train into Tan-y-bwlch at 13:51. Prince arrived back at Porthmadog at 14:12 with the Zoono squad ready to prepare it for the 15:00 departure, the last of the day. Moelwyn and Welsh Pony had exchanged places by 14:15 and the train departed for Porthmadog by 14:55 leaving the diesel at Tan-y-bwlch.

Prince departed Porthmadog on its second trip on the 15:00 arriving at Tan-y-bwlch at 15:44. Moelwyn was attached to the rear at 15:48 and the train departed for Dduallt at 15:53. All was over for the day by 18:00.

Friday sees a change in the timetable with the 11:05, 13:40 and 15:00 running which requires two locos in steam. The 11:05 is already sold out for Friday 7/5/21. This pattern persists until 13/5/21 though may be changed at short notice according to demand. While there are three trains this Sunday on the FR there is no Sunday service on the WHR. The WHR's Gelert Explorer is TThSO until 29/5/21. Three dates are already sold out 18/20/27 May suggesting there is suppressed demand.

If the WHR trains regularly sell out the F&WHR could run a short train out of Caernarfon to Rhyd Ddu or Waunfawr for people who want a shorter trip comparable to the FR offering. This could even operate on the same day as the Gelert Explorer using the spare modern FR coaches or on days it does not run. However, from 1/6/21 the Glaslyn Adventurer will run TWThO and exceptionally on Bank Holiday Monday 31/5/21 twice a day from Porthmadog to Beddgelert at 10:15 and 13:40 carefully missing the dwell time of the Gelert Explorer at Beddgelert on days when they both run.

 

Open Coach No.39 ready to join fleet 5/5/21

FR Open coach No.39 will soon be ready to rejoin the fleet after some hard work by the Coachworks team. With better Summer weather approaching, it is likely the open Coach will be added to the B set to provide more choice.

 

This Boston Lodge view (5/5/21) shows No.39 hauled out into the sun for some finishing touches. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Glenn Williams (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

FR traffic 5/5/21

The Porthmadog signalman arrived by bicycle at 09:45 and stored his cycle in the signalbox before opening he box for traffic. The day was to see sunshine and showers and there was snow overnight even in Porthmadog with a light covering on the Rhinogs. At the start of the day both the 11:05 and 12:25 were fully booked with seats only available on the 15:00. The 11:05 was also sold out for the Thursday with an identical pattern of three trains operating.

Prince emerged from Boston Lodge at 10:30 and ran through the FR platform to water and coal before shunting the yard. At 10:49 the loco extracted its rake from the yard and propelled the rake into the platform, departing on time at 11:05. At 11:09 Moel Hebog was propelling a flat wagon out of Minffordd yard into the Up line at Minffordd station. Prince passed Minffordd at 11:16. Moelwyn was already waiting at the west end of Tan-y-bwlch by 10:40 for the arrival of Prince which came at 11:47. The awning had been removed after it had blown down two days before. Moelwyn was coupled to the rear at 11:50 and the rake departed for Dduallt at 11:56. The train was back by 12:40.

Meanwhile, Welsh Pony exited Boston Lodge at 10:30 and shunted directly to the yard in preparation for the 12:25. The rake was in the platform by 11:50, over half an hour before departure and left on time at 12:25, passing Minffordd at 12:36. Welsh Pony arrived at 13:05 and Moelwyn was coupled up to the rear by 13:08 and the train left for Dduallt. The station could do with a Right Away indicator as the guard had to walk the length of the platform to attract the attention of the footplate crew due to the curved platform, eventually departing at 13:18. Prince then ran around at 13:22 and departed for Porthmadog at 13:34.

Moelwyn with Welsh Pony of the rear arrived back at Tan-y-bwlch at 13:44. The England engine uncoupled at 13:55 and watered exchanging places with Moelwyn by 14:22, departing at 14:53. Meanwhile down at Porthmadog, Prince departed on the 15:00 on time with just one compartment left vacant. On its return Prince left Tan-y-bwlch about 17:00 and passed Minffordd at 17:36 before arriving at Porthmadog at 17:46. The rake was propelled out of the platform at 17:53 then dragged back into the yard. Prince left light engine for Boston Lodge at 18:00.

 

SMR cuts steam services

The Snowdon Mountain Railway has decided to withdraw its Heritage Steam Service for the 2021 season. They will be dedicating all available timetable capacity to the Traditional Diesel Service which will operate throughout the season from 22/5/21 (subject to weather) and in line with the prevailing Government restrictions. The impact on SMR operations is detailed on their website and during the booking process. Passengers who have already booked onto the Heritage Steam Experience will be contacted via email over the coming days. Hafod Eryri, the Summit Visitor Centre, will remain closed during the 2021 season and further details are available on the Summit Visitor Centre page. Trains will operate to Clogwyn with a half hour layover there and will not reach the summit. There are no facilities at Clogwyn. The half hour layover does not allow time for a walk to the summit and back.

 

Criccieth Castle repaint 5/5/20

Criccieth Castle is in Boston Lodge paint shop for a much needed repaint. There may be minor alterations to the paint scheme but the main features will remain as now.

 

Moving Pictures No.50 4/5/21

Click on the YouTube window to watch 23 mins 53 seconds of video covering the F&WHR including the first day of the FR's train service in miserable weather and No.130 on the Members' Special of 30/5/21 again in mostly dull weather. This YouTube was published on 4/5/21 and was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a 4K 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.

 

Llangollen Railway may be back sooner than expected 28/4/21

The Llangollen Railway Trust has agreed a deal with the Receivers with some railway assets and the right to run the railway purchased. Talks have started with WAG, Business Wales, Denbighshire County Council and the National Heritage Lottery Fund about saving the railway. A new Safety Case needs completion and the Trust has been getting external help with this. Some £85,000 has been donated in the Appeal and the Trust will be able to bid in the auction on 12/5/21 for some of the rolling stock. A further £100,000 is needed to reopen the railway and the Trust is now looking more positively at a possible July/August reopening.

 

FR traffic 4/5/21

Harlech Castle was noted arriving from Dduallt at 08:40 on a PW train and departed at 08:43 towards Minffordd. This may have been a precautionary run to check the line was clear after the overnight storms as there were three workings booked to Dduallt Barn Cutting, the 11:05 (sold out), 12:25 and 15:00, so only two steam locos are required today. This pattern persists until Friday when the 12:25 is replaced by a 13:40, repeated on Saturday. Sunday sees only two trains, an 11:05 and a 15:00 operated by one steam loco. Trains will be added and removed from timetable according to demand. e.g. the 12:05 has disappeared from the booking page after Thursday 6/5/21.

Prince came over from Boston Lodge about 10:30 and was shunting the rake to the platform at 10:45. The train departed on time at 11:05. Moelwyn was already waiting in the Up platform at Tan-y-bwlch at 11:10. The train arrived at 11:52 and Moelwyn swiftly attached to the rear at 11:54. The rake departed for Dduallt at 12:00. Palmerston had arrived early at Porthmadog and shunted its rake to the platform by 11:50 for the 12:25 service which departed on time. Departing Tan-y-bwlch at 13:15 with Moelwyn on the rear. Prince ran round at 13:18, tanked up and departed for Porthmadog at 13:35 to become the 15:00. At 14:00 Palmerston ran round and at 14:05 Moelwyn ran round to stable by the signalbox awaiting the arrival of the 15:00.

Vale of Ffestiniog arrived at 14:33 with several modern FR coaches in the path of the 13:40, presumably for store in Glan-y-pwll. This rake may be used in the Glaslyn Venturer in the summer. Vale of Ffestiniog detached went to stable next to the signalbox. Prince departed Porthmadog on time on the 15:00 departure. The diesels had shunted around by 15:20 with Vale of Ffestiniog on the west end of the FR Super Barn rake. Moelwyn was waiting to go on the rear of the 15:00. At 15:23 the Funkey propelled the FR rake out of the a station and back into the Up platform, leaving the Down platform for the 15:00 arrival.

Prince arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 15:49 and Moelwyn coupled to the rear by 15:53 ready to depart for Dduallt. Vale of Ffestiniog departed for Porthmadog at 15:55 and Prince for Dduallt at 15:56.

 

More F&WHR jobs 3/5/21

The F&WHR are pleased to announce that they have new Carriage Cleaning job opportunities available at the F&WHR. To view these jobs and the relevant application forms please visit the 'Jobs' page on their website.

 

Bank Holiday Monday 3/5/21

There was no Gelert Explorer on Monday 3/5/21 (a Bank Holiday!) though one did run on Sunday 2/5/21 whereas normally the train does not run Sundays. It is planned to run TThSO for the next few weeks. In contrast the FR expects to run 5 services on 3/5/21 and the 11:05 was sold out despite the foul weather forecast with heavy rain and strong winds throughout the day.

Blanche was allocated for the 10:00 service arriving light engine at Porthmadog at 09:39 to extract the rake from the yard. The 5 bogie rake with no Opens or four wheelers was shunted into the platform by 09:48 with strong wind and rain setting in. Departure came on time at 10:00. Meanwhile a cold wet Moelwyn was waiting in the platform at Tan-y-bwlch to attach to the rear for the Dduallt return pilot duty. It had probably brought up the Rhiw Goch signalman.

Prince arrived at 10:38 to shunt it rakes out of the yard. The rake, with three four-wheelers (but an unoccupied Open understandably!), was shunted into the platform by 10:49. Unusually the train shunted right under the awning in view of the atrocious weather so that passengers could board the train and remain dry. Prince departed on time at 11:05. Meanwhile Blanche arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 10:43 and Moelwyn rapidly coupled to the rear. The rake left for Dduallt Barn Cutting at 10:53 after Blanche had replenished its water tank. It arrived back at 11:20 and stabled waiting for the arrival of the 11:05. Passengers made their way to the Tan-y-bwlch tea room.

Prince arrived at 11:47 and short work was made of coupling Moelwyn to the rear by 11:52 while the loco replenished its water supply. Prince departed for Dduallt at 11:55.allowing Blanche to run round to the front of the train by 12:05. The train left for Porthmadog by 12:15. Meanwhile, at Porthmadog Palmerston had shunted the third set including three 4 wheelers No.24 and No.10, right up to the Harbour Station awning given the stormy wet weather. The train departed at 12:27, a couple of minutes down, and had to cross with the returning 10:00 service at Rhiw Goch.

Meanwhile Prince returned from Dduallt pilotted by Moelwyn and was back in Tan-y-bwlch by 12:25 and passengers made their way to the tea rooms with a few hardy souls making it to the end of the platform to photograph Prince in the rain. Blanche arrived back in Porthmadog at 12:53 and the compartments were rapidly cleaned by the Zoono squad ready for the 13:40.

Palmerston arrived at Tan-y-bwlch about 13:10. Moelwyn quickly coupled to the rear and the train departed by 13:25. The awning erected just a few days before to provide shelter for waiting passengers collapsed in the storm and staff disassembled the structure to stop it blowing away in the gale. At 13:27 Prince ran round to the front of its train and coupled up by 13:35, departing at 13:38 and passing the 13:40 from Porthmadog, which departed a couple of minutes late at 13:42, at Rhiw Goch about 20 minutes later. Meanwhile Palmerston arrived back from Dduallt at 13:50 pilotted by Moelwyn.

Blanche arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 14:30 on the 13:40 from Porthmadog and Moelwyn promptly coupled up to the rear of the train at 14:32, departing for Dduallt at 14:38. With the Down line now clear, Palmerston ran round at 14:45 and departed for Porthmadog at 15:00. Meanwhile Prince departed Porthmadog at 15:00 with the final train of the day, set to pass Palmerston at Rhiw Goch. Palmerston reached Porthmadog about 15:45 and shunted its rake to the yard at 16:03. The light engine left for Boston Lodge at 16:04 with the crew no doubt keen to get back with thick storm clouds blanketing The Cob.

Blanche arrived back at Tan-y-bwlch from Dduallt at 15:10. Prince arrived with the 15:00 from Porthmadog at 15:52. Moelwyn attached to the rear by 15:55 and the train departed for Dduallt at 15:58. Blanche ran round at 16:02 and was coupled to Moelwyn by 16:10. The train left for Porthmadog at 16:12 and arrived there about 16:50 just as the sun came out. Blanche ran round at 17:00 and shunted the rake to the sidings at 17:10 before leaving for Boston Lodge light engine at 17:15, bringing the day's activities to a close.

 

F&WHR Webcams move to new website 3/5/21

Heavy use of the webcams in recent days has apparently caused delays to booking tickets so the webcams have been moved to the insidemotion website. This should provide faster access for webcam users which at times was taking over 1 minute and, more importantly, reduce latency for on line ticket sales.

 

Mountain Prince 1/5/21

This westerly view (1/5/21) shows Prince having arrived at Tan-y-bwlch and Welsh Pony on the rear of the train waiting to return to Porthmadog. The weather was mixed with occasional sleet and a dusting of snow on some mountains but strong sunshine at times too. Click on the image to expand. This digital camera image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Later on 1/5/21 your webmaster was at Tan-y-bwlch to observe the Mountain Prince operations.

 

This easterly view (1/5/21) shows Welsh Pony having run round and ready to depart for Porthmadog at 12:18. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

An hour later another train had pulled in from Porthmadog and Moelwyn coupled to the rear to pilot the return from Dduallt.

 

This easterly view (1/5/21) shows Moelwyn having attached to the rear of a train from Porthmadog at 13:19. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Gelert Explorer 1/5/21

Those WHR Society members who were unable to book on the Members' special on 30/4/21 and hoped to travel the following day on the first day of public services might have been disappointed to see No.87 turned out for the duty. The rake contained 47 numbered compartments with Observation car Gwyrfai at the north end and a reversed Glaslyn at the south end. The Saturday was much brighter at times though there were still occasional hail showers and the north facing summits of the Carneddau had a covering of snow. Snowdon had the odd patch.

 

This easterly view (1/5/21) shows No.87 preparing to haul the 10:15 ECS round Gelert Explorer rake from Dinas to Caernarfon. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This easterly view (1/5/21) shows No.87 preparing to haul the 10:15 ECS round Gelert Explorer rake from Dinas to Caernarfon. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This easterly view (1/5/21) shows No.87 returning from Caernarfon hauling the 11:00 to Beddgelert passing at 11:15. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

The Porthmadog signalman arrived by bicycle at 09:45 and stored his cycle in the signalbox before opening he box for traffic. The day was to see sunshine and showers and there was snow overnight even in Porthmadog with a light covering on the Rhinogs. At the start of the day both the 11:05 and 12:25 were fully booked with seats only available on the 15:00. The 11:05 was also sold out for the Thursday with an identical pattern of three trains operating.

 

No.130 Member's Special 30/4/21

The WHR Soc. Members' train from Caernarfon to Beddgelert started from Dinas at about 10:15 after Bill had drawn the train out of the Carriage Shed. The ECS was in Caernarfon by 10:30 and the loco posed for a while before departing about 5 minutes down after waiting for members at about 11:05. Although there are 47 compartments, it was surprising that several were empty after the train was said to be full after one day of members applications opened. Many compartments contained just one person. A painting by Rebecca Kitchin was presented to Peter Best once the train arrived - The F&WHR is indebted to Peter Best, who was present on the train, for making the restoration of this locomotive possible.

 

This easterly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 running round the Gelert Explorer rake at Caernarfon ay 10:33. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 approaching Cae Hen Crossing at 11.14 with plenty of steam to spare after climbing Coed Helen bank. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 approaching Cae Hen Crossing at 11.14 with plenty of steam to spare after climbing Coed Helen bank. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 arriving Waunfawr at 11.46 after an extended stop at Dinas waiting for food to be delivered for guests. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 approaching the new Plas-y-nant bridge at 12.03 with the sound of a swarm of angry bees in the background as a quadcopter drone hovered taking video. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 crossing the new Plas-y-nant bridge at 11.46 after a water stop at Waunfawr. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 arriving at Rhyd Ddu at 12.21. There was no rolling stock in the sidings. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 arriving at Rhyd Ddu at 12.21 and stopping to take water under the 'bag'. There is no longer a chain to operate the valve. It is operated by the fireman standing onto top of the loco water tank. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 crossing the Afon Meillionen bridge at 12.57. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 crossing the Afon Meillionen bridge at 12.57 giving a few toots of its whistle for the level crossings. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 arriving at Beddgelert on the Members' Special inaugural run of the loco. The weather was mixed with occasional sleet and a dusting of snow on some mountains but strong sunshine at times too. Click on the image to expand. This digital camera image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This westerly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 having arrived at Beddgelert and the presentation of a painting to sponsor Peter Best by F&WHR General Manager Paul Lewin and driver Jonathan Whalley looking on. The weather was mixed with occasional sleet and a dusting of snow on some mountains but strong sunshine at times too. Click on the image to expand. This digital camera image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This southerly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 approaching Hafod Ruffydd crossing at 15.20 after leaving Beddgelert shortly after 15:00. Passengers had about 2 hours in Beddgelert, time to visit the famous ice cream parlour in the village which was open. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This southerly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 approaching Rhyd Ddu at 15.30 after a brisk climb up the Nant Colwyn Pass. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This southerly view (30/4/21) shows No.130 arriving at Dinas at 16.30. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS 1300D post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

At the end of the day No.130 propelled the rake into the Carriage Shed.

 

Anglesey Central progress 29/4/21

After 6 years of detailed and lengthy discussions with Network Rail Infrastructure Limited, the ACR formally completed the legal steps on 29/4/21 and now have a lease deal for the Gaerwen Junction and Amlwch railway, also known as the 'GLA Line', for the period of 100 years up to and including 29/4/2120. The ACR wishes to convey their appreciation to all Lein Amlwch members, as well as Anglesey communities supporters for their unwavering support. The ACR would also like to record and acknowledge the support received from different areas of the commercial and industrial community as well as the efforts of the Senedd Anglesey representative, who have been extremely busy promoting the restoration of trains on this railway once again.

The supporters group has had a licence to clear the line for several years and many lengths of line are now clear. NR was proceeding with an insurance claim for the replacement of a overbridge at Llangefni on the A5114 just south of the town centre which was demolished by a lorry. The line has been disconnected at Gaerwen Junction for several years. Some rolling stock is stored in the yard at Llangefni. Anglesey Council has a policy of attempting to get the line reopened at least from Llangefni towards Bangor to allow a commuter service and an application has been sent to government for a 'Rolling Back Beeching' grant for a feasibility study.

 

This northerly view (7/8/85) shows 25224 propelling a weed-killing train towards Amlwch from Holyhead Road bridge, Rhosgoch. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was scanned from a slide taken on an SLR camera and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Sunday fully booked!

All trains on Sunday 2/5/21 were fully booked and the 11:05 which was reputedly to be run Monday Only appeared to have been added as a late addition on Sunday. As a result, all three England Engines were in use. At times the F&WHR website was overwhelmed with 'Resource Limit' showing and delays of over a minute connecting.

 

Woodland Wanderer Day 3 29/4/21

Upnor Castle arrived in Porthmadog's WHR platform with a rake of 7 coaches at 10:00 and ran round at 10:05. The rear two coaches including the Observation car No.152 Eryri-Snowdonia were removed and shunted into the WHR run round loop. The Obs was left in the loop and the remaining coach shunted back onto the rake in the platform and the 5 coach rake shunted onto No.152, leaving No.2115 Bodysgallen in the platform alone. At 10:20 Upnor Castle came back to collect the Pullman and attached it to the rear of the train at 10:32.

Having reorganised the WHR rake, the Upnor Castle moved to the station sidings at 10:40 and shunted the A set into the platform at 10:50. At 10:55 it was back on the eastern end of the WHR train in the WHR loop. At the booked departure time everybody was looking at their watches when Moelwyn was noted arriving with the flange lubrication train, now with six coaches and Blanche on the rear. Blanche shunted off 11:08 and made its way to the watering point emerging from the yard at 11:20.The train finally left at 11:24 some 19 minutes late.

Blanche arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 12:00, having made good time and recovering some of the deficit. Harlech Castle was in the Up platform with a short PW train. This would have to depart or shunt to sidings before the 12:10 arrived. Meanwhile, at Porthmadog, Prince was already coupled up to the B set at 12:00 for the 12:10 departing just a minute down and passing Minffordd at 12:22. Meanwhile up at Tan-y-bwlch the 11:05 rake had been shunted to the Up platform and Blanche was running round at 12:25 with the PW train having disappeared. Upnor Castle was no where to be seen in Porthmadog but at 12.30 Garratt No.87 was noted departing towards Dinas hauling the 7 coach rake that had been left in the WHR loop.

Prince arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 13:01 and Blanche left shortly afterwards at 13:06, arriving back at Porthmadog at 13:42 to form the 14:20. As soon as the passengers had got off at Porthmadog, the Zoono team were busy cleaning the compartments in readiness for the 14:20 as people were already arriving on the platform. This left on time and arrived at Tan-y-bwlch just after 3 pm. Blanche arrived back at Porthmadog at 16:50 with the return working of the 14:20. The loco ran round at 17:01 and moved the rake to the sidings at 17:05. Blanche left for the depot at 17:10. No public trains were planned on Friday but Spooners was open for take aways.

There is a special inaugural working of No.130 for WHR Society members on Friday 30/4/21. Peter Best, the sponsor of the loco, will be on this train which will run in the path of the Gelert Explorer departing Caernarfon at 11am. Your webmaster hopes to be there to record the event.

 

Bookings going well

All trains on 29/4/21 appear to have been fully booked including the 14:20 which was the second working by Blanche and the A Set. The Mountain Prince this weekend has 5 trains, the 10:00, the 11:05 (already sold out), 12:25, 13:40 and 15:00. The 12:25 must be the C Set and implies having a third steam loco available for traffic. These trains run to Dduallt Barn Cutting with a diesel loco on the rear to pilot the train back to Tan-y-bwlch. It appears that Moelwyn will be used as much practise has been made with the loco on the rear this week.

 

Woodland Wanderer Day 2 28/4/21

Wednesday started grey and dull. Having left Boston Lodge about 09:30 Blanche had hauled the flange lubrication train with Moelwyn on the rear to Tan-y-bwlch. Moelwyn was noted leading the rake back into Tan-y-bwlch Up platform from the east at 10:26 before leaving for the shunt limit again about 10:30. Next the train was back into the Down platform at 10:32, presumably driver practice shunting moves. It was back out again at 10:37 and finally left for Porthmadog about 10:45 with Blanche still on the rear.

Meanwhile the Woodland Wanderer was loading in Porthmadog at 10:50 and was sold out as were the 12:10 and 14:20 (bar one compartment) suggesting there is suppressed demand. The train left on time at 11:05 and the operation was a little more slick than the first day when the train departed a little late. The 11:05 on Thursday was also sold out.

At 11:35 Moelwyn was back at Porthmadog with Blanche on the rear with the Flange Lubrication Express but had to use the WHR platform as the ECS for the 12:10 needed the FR platform. It had passed the Woodland Wanderer en route. Moelwyn was detached and Blanche shunted the rake into the yard before retiring to the watering point. Meanwhile Welsh Pony emerged from Boston Lodge to arrive at 11:51 and drawing a coach out of the seawall siding to add to the rake for the 12:10 service. Passengers were treated to three locos in action with Welsh Pony shunting their rake into the FR platform, Blanche shunting the yard and Moelwyn stabled in the WHR platform. The 12:10 was in the platform by 12:05 while Blanche continued to shunt removing one of the panoramic coaches from its rake. The 12:10 left on time with 3 four-wheelers Nos.12/3/4 and NWNGR coach No.24 in the rake with two bowsiders and a brakevan No.10. Blanche returned the single coach to the WHR platform at 12:16 and Moelwyn coupled to the rear. The pair set off across The Cob and arrived at Boston Lodge yard at 12:32.

 

This westerly view (28/4/21) shows Welsh Pony working its first train of the new season, the 12:20 carrying the second Woodland Wanderer headboard. There must be three of these as on 29/4/21 a third set with a third loco will be put into traffic. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Meanwhile Prince arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 12:00 with the 11:05. At 12:10, the rake was shunted to the Up platform where it arrived at 12:13. Prince then ran round at 12:15. The 12:10, hauled by Welsh Pony, arrived at 12:58 and rapid hand over of the token allowed Prince to depart at 13:00 with the return working of the 11:05. This arrived back at Porthmadog 13:40 and was to form the 14:20 after Zoono cleaning at Porthmadog. Departing on time, the train passed the returning 12:10 at Minffordd at 12:10. The train arrived back at Porthmadog at 14:45 and the loco ran round by 14:56 and shunted the rake back to the seawall siding at 15:01. The loco was disposed to Boston Lodge at 15:05.

Meanwhile Prince arrive at Tan-y-bwlch with the 14:20 at 15:10, a standard 50 minute journey in good conditions. There was no need for the rake to change platforms with no trains following so it could remain in the Down platform. After taking water Prince ran round by 16:00 and departed at 16:16. The train had a good run arriving at Porthmadog at 16:50 with the engine running round at 16:56. Then rake was shunted to the yard at 17:00 and Prince departed for Boston Lodge light engine at 17:05.

 

Mountain Prince expanded!

With heavy demand for the services this week leading to additional Woodland Wanderer services being added to the timetable, the F&WHR has decided to offer five trains a day on the Mountain Prince this weekend and on Bank Holiday Monday. Trains will depart at 10:00, 11:05, 12:25, 13:40 and 15:00. already the 11:05 is sold out both days. Unfortunately it seems impossible to add additional trains to the WHR if this was to prove popular too. There are currently plenty of seats available on the Gelert Explorer this weekend but it does not run Bank Holiday Monday. Several dates are sold out, 18/5, 25/5, 2/6, 8/6 and 19/6/21. However a short train ride from Caernarfon to Waunfawr/Rhyd Ddu should be possible with an FR rake while the Gelert Explorer was down in Beddgelert if the F&WHR put their minds to it? Otherwise an earlier start to the Glaslyn Venturer could be envisaged from Porthmadog to Beddgelert with FR stock.

 

F&WHR 2021 leaflet available

The 2021 information leaflet (formerly the timetable leaflet) is now available on line. The traditional folded A4 leaflet for tourist information racks in hotels gives details of the four train services available but no timetable information or ticket or prices, referring people to the website. Click here for full details.

 

FR reopening day 27/4/21

One of the first workings was Criccieth Castle which brought over the newly partitioned Open coach No.37 from Boston Lodge and attached it to the rear of the first train in Harbour Station.

 

This westerly view (27/4/21) shows Prince and Criccieth Castle working the first train of the new season, the 11:05 carrying the Woodland Wanderer headboard. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

After many days of sunshine it turned out to be cloudy in North Wales on 27/4/21. Steam was noted being raised at Boston Lodge at 09:22. At 10:00 Moelwyn dragged the coaching stock out of the Carriage shed with Blanche on the rear. Blanche drew forwards onto Boston Lodge curve before setting off on a test run for Tan-y-bwlch at 10:03. These are also referred to as 'flange lubrication' trains, as these carriages are fitted with grease sticks to help prevent squealing when the train passes round the tight curves along the railway. As the train proceeds the lubricating grease is transferred from the wheel flanges onto the rail edge, which ensures that all locos, carriages and wagons benefit from their use with less wear, as well as passengers ears!

Blanche passed Minffordd on 4 modern FR saloons, including panoramic coach No.120 (and one similar), a service car and Observation Car No.102 Eryri Snowdonia at 10:11 with Moelwyn on the rear, presumable practising the Mountain Prince for Saturday. This train arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 11:03 and departed at 11:15 and was shunted back into the Up platform at 11:19. Prince was being prepared at 10:15 for the 11:05 Woodland Wanderer. Some diesel shunting was also noticeable at Boston Lodge preparing coaching stock extraction from the Carriage Shed. Criccieth Castle arrived at Harbour Station with a single coach, open coach No.37, in tow at 10:28 as passengers began to gather for the inaugural train, wearing masks as requested (staff too!).

This was attached to the rear of the Heritage rake stabled in the yard and propelled out onto The Cob after Prince arrived light engine at 10:48 and went to water. The diesel then dragged the rake back into the platform. It consisted of 3 four-wheelers Nos.8/2/5, bowsider No.19 (compartments 16+), No.26 (compartments 10-15), No.22 (compartments 4-9) and a brake/toilet No.113 (compartments 1-3). By 10:53 passengers were boarding. Prince with Criccieth Castle inside, reversed onto the train at 11:05 and it departed at 11:09 some 4 minutes late carrying the Woodland Wanderer headboard.

 

This westerly view (27/4/21) shows Prince and Criccieth Castle arriving at Minffordd in the rain at 11:15. Click on the image to expand. This digital camera image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

After days of brilliant sunshine and weeks of little or no rain the hillsides are very dry, so the diesel was added to ensure that Prince did not have to work too hard on the climb through the Vale of Ffestiniog. As luck would have it a short spell of heavy rain ensued so the diesel assisting may well have proved advantageous on a wet rail in the woods! The rake passed Minffordd at 11:23 and arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 12:00.

 

This westerly view (27/4/21) shows Prince and Criccieth Castle having arrived at Tan-y-bwlch. Passengers were treated to four locos in the station, three visible her and Moelwyn at the other end of the station. Click on the image to expand. This digital camera image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Moelwyn departed with Blanche on the rear still at 12:09 for Porthmadog allowing Prince and the diesel to run round at 12:16. Some passengers made use of the new awning in the car park to escape the light drizzle. Criccieth Castle then coupled separately so it was again inside at 12:52 with Prince following at 12:55.The train departed at 13:00. Blanche had arrived at Porthmadog by this time and, after a lunch break, was noted running round at 13:19. The empty train left for Tan-y-bwlch at 13:25, still with Moelwyn on the rear. It was due to cross the Woodland Wanderer at Minffordd, which had arrived there by 13:28. Blanche passed at 13:36 allowing Prince and Criccieth Castle to proceed on its journey at 13:40. The Zoono cleaning squad was already on the platform awaiting the trains arrival while the 14:20 service arrived at 13.45, allowing plenty of time for a deep clean.

 

This westerly view (27/4/21) shows Prince and Criccieth Castle working the second train of the new season , the 14:20 against the backdrop of a threatening sky. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Upnor Castle arrived light from Boston Lodge at 14:00 and ran into the yard. Prince, with Criccieth Castle inside again, was coupled up by 14:10 and Blanche had arrived at Tan-y-bwlch by then. The second Woodland Wanderer left Porthmadog at 14:21, just a minute late and Blanche left Tan-y-bwlch simultaneously still on the rear of Moelwyn's train. The Woodland Wanderer arrived at Tan-y-bwlch around 15.10. With the train having left Porthmadog Upnor Castle was free to shunt the yard. It drew one WHR coach out before shunting it back to the seawall siding. Then a WHR service car (No.2010 or No.2011) and No.2060 were shunted out and the loco ran round. Further shunting had to await the arrival of Moelwyn's train from Tan-y-bwlch at 15:20. Upnor Castle resumed shunting at 15:22 propelling the two coaches across The Cob to Boston Lodge. All was over by 17:00 when all trains had returned to stable for the night.

The 12:10 arrived at Tan-y-bwlch in sunshine hauled by Welsh Pony at 12:58 allowing the return of the 11:05 with Prince at 13:00. This would become the 14:20 from Porthmadog after Zoono cleaning.

 

Seats selling well 27/4/21

Tomorrow's 11:05 train is Sold Out, but there were some seats remaining on the 12:10 and 14:20 departures.

 

F&WHR lend track for Bala Gala

The F&WHR has lent some of its temporary track frequently used at the Shrewsbury Flower Show temporary railway to the Bala Lake Railway. It has been erected at the new Bala Town Centre station site in preparation for a live steam gala on 12-13/6/21 to draw attention to the BLR's extension plans. The BLR reopens 1/5/21 and tickets must be booked via their website. For full details see BLR website.

 

Tal-y-llyn reopens 1/5/21

The Tal-y-llyn Railway reopens from Saturday 1/5/21. All bookings must be made via the TR website as with the F&WHR.

 

Llangollen Railway may get WAG aid

Speaking during a Labour election visit to the area, the Welsh First Minister Mark Drakeford and Ken Skates, the local Senedd member and Transport Minister, gave indications they might support the Llangollen Trust's attempts to revive the railway given its contribution to the local tourist economy. However there would not be a blank chequebook! Some £200 million has been promised by Labour to supporting businesses across Wales if Labour win the Senedd election due 5/5/21.

 

Class 37 heaven 12-27/4/21

The North Wales Coast main line and branches have become a mecca for photographers of Class 37 locos on main line test trains recently.

12/4/21 37800 on ROG driver training for the Class 197 introduction programme.

20/4/21 97304 John Tiley (37217) ran to Llandudno and the Conwy Valley in its NR livery.

20/4/21 37521 covered the whole route in LSL's green livery for their upcoming excursions.

25/4/21 37800 Great Rocks covered all the lines for LSL in its Trainload construction livery. Lets hope LSL does not splash green all over this too. They are clearly thinking of appealing to a granddad generation but not realising that most septuagenarians' experience is rail blue!

27/4/21 97304 was active again, this time on the Borderlands Line, reversing at James Street, having traversed the Mersey Tunnel, as diesels are not allowed in the single track loop tunnel under Lime Street because of ventilation problems.

 

First visit of No.130 to Porthmadog 26/4/21

Notable amongst a number of test trains and stock movement today was the brief appearance of No.130 in Porthmadog bringing four coaches to Porthmadog for attention and taking four back to Dinas, presumably fitted with Perspex 'compartments' for use on the Gelert Explorer. Blanche was also out do repeat runs to Tan-y-bwlch using modern panoramic coaches fitted with Perspex compartment screens rather than the heritage stock of last year. What was surprising though was the absence of any other small engines being tested. The FR seems to be relying on Blanche. See full details of today's movements below. For further images of No.130 see F&WHR Facebook page with thanks to Chris Parry.

 

This westerly view (26/4/21) shows No.130 crossing Britannia Bridge on its first working to Porthmadog, bring four coaches to Porthmadog from Dinas for attention. Click on the image to expand. This digital camera image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This southerly view (26/4/21) shows No.130 four compartmentalised coaches and 3 B wagons back to Dinas from Porthmadog. Click on the image to expand. This digital camera image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This week's trains are due to be worked by Welsh Pony and Prince. The first train of the season steams out of Porthmadog in the morning on the 'Woodland Wanderer' service to Tan-y-Bwlch and back. The 11:05 service is 'Sold Out', but there are still seats available on the 14:20. The service has been increased to 3 trains a day from 28/4/21 with the addition of a 12:10 departure. On Wednesday and Thursday there are trains at 11:05, 12:10 and 14:20. A 13:40 has also been added to the Mountain Prince service on Monday 3/5/21 and Friday 7/5/21 but there is only one compartment left on the Friday train.

 

Welsh pubs and restaurants open 26/4/21

Welsh outside catering opens from Monday 25/4/21. This means the F&WHR can offer take away and outside seated food just in time for the resumption of services on 27/4/21. In accordance with WAG guidelines, Spooner’s is opening its doors for ‘takeaway-only’ service from the 27/4/21. During the past few weeks staff have been busy creating a system that will maintain the safety of customers and staff. Having been given the green light to re-open, the F&WHR can provide a service that is both as safe and enjoyable as possible. The takeaway service will be available seven days a week between 09:00 and 16:00. The tea room at Tan-y-bwlch also opens for takeaway on 27/4/21 seven days a week from 10:00 until 17:00 with hot food available between 11:00 and 15:00. It is expected that De Winton Cafe will open from Saturday on a similar basis when the Gelert Explorer commences operation.

 

Steam up 26/4/21!

The F&WHR was noted getting steam up during the morning of 26/4/21 ready for test trains in anticipation of starting services on Tuesday 27/4/21. Blanche arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 11:07 with the first train with six modern FR carriages including Observation car No.102 Eryri Snowdonia which must have departed Porthmadog about 1020. After running round the train departed for Porthmadog at 11:29.

 

This westerly view (26/4/21) shows Blanche arriving at Tan-y-bwlch with modern FR stock at 11:07. Click on the image to expand. This webcam image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

At 11:53 Criccieth Castle left Boston Lodge and crossed The Cob with 3 empty B wagons. After uncoupling the loco drew the train out to the signalbox before propelling the wagons to the sidings. Four WHR saloons were extracted and at 12:22 propelled into the WHR loop line. At 12:29 the loco detached and shunted back and forth with the wagons before returning to the WHR loop. A few minutes later the loco left light engine for Boston Lodge.

 

This easterly view (26/4/21) shows Criccieth Castle arriving at Porthmadog with 3 B wagons at 11:57. Click on the image to expand. This webcam image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Meanwhile up at Minffordd, Blanche was strangely running round for a second trip to Tan-y-bwlch. This may have been because Harbour Station was occupied by shunting manoeuvres.

 

This westerly view (26/4/21) shows Blanche running round at Minffordd at 12:13. Click on the image to expand. This webcam image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Blanche arrived back at Tan-y-bwlch at about 13:00 and ran round at 13:07, departing after a lunch break at 13:54 for Porthmadog. The train arrived back at Porthmadog at 14:34 running into the FR platform. Blanche emerged from the yard at 14:50 and set back onto the rake in the FR platform, departing at 14:56 for Tan-y-bwlch, arriving there at 15:41. The loco ran round at 15:50 and departed for Porthmadog at 16:00.

Meanwhile, at Porthmadog No.130 arrived on its first visit to Porthmadog hauling a four coach rake including a Service Car No.2060 and the WHR Observation Car No.2152 Gwyrfai at 13:09 pulling into the WHR platform. At 13:19 the Garratt propelled the rake into the yard before detaching and running through the WHR platform. It coupled up to the rake in the WHR loop and left with the 4 WHR coaches, presumably now fitted with Perspex screens, and 3 empty B wagons at 13:36.

 

This easterly view (26/4/21) shows No.130 departing Porthmadog with four WHR coaches and 3 B wagons at 13:35. Click on the image to expand. This webcam image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Blaenau Test Train 25/4/21

Class 37 No.37219 is due to haul an NR test train to Blaenau Ffestiniog on Sunday 25/4/21 with DBSO No.9708 on the rear. The train will reverse at the terminus between 13:13 and 13:23 without running round and return to Crewe.

 

Tan-y-bwlch 25/4/21

The new Tan-y-bwlch awning is now complete with tables and chairs from Spooners. This will provide a rest area for passengers awaiting their return service during the shunt when FR services increase to more than 2 a day. There did not appear to be any trial running on Sunday, which leaves Monday the last day before FR services commence to regain staff competences and check spare locos out with full loads.

So far it appears only Blanche has seen the cobwebs of Winter dusted off. The three England locos do not appear to have been trialled yet. Both Lyd and Taliesin are awaiting refurbishment. David Lloyd George and Merddin Emrys could be used as last year if a small engine is not available for traffic. The FR's Woodland Wanderer service can be increased to six trains a day with three locos/rakes in traffic (as last year) if the demand materialises simply by putting extras services on the booking website if trains appear to be filling up well in advance.

 

Gelert Explorer booking fast

The Gelert Explorer, Caernarfon-Beddgelert service, is booking well for both Saturday and Sunday of its first weekend. The 3 day-a-week TThSO service may be extended to additional days if demand justifies that as there is only 1 train service a day. Already Tuesdays 18-25/5/21 are fully booked. An extra on Wednesday 2/6/21 is fully booked as is Saturday 19/6/21. Some of these days may be block bookings in association with excursions. From Wednesday 30/6/21 the Gelert Explorer runs four days a week MFSuX. Services are currently bookable until 22/7/21 when services will presumably be revised for the school summer holidays in light of traffic demand and any new WAG COVID third wave regulations (hopefully not!).

 

Hampers now bookable

Food hampers are now bookable for the Gelert Explorer and Glaslyn Adventurer and must be booked in advance at the time of booking the tickets. In addition to the Pullman Pamper Package inclusive on the Gelert Explorer Gold tickets, there are five offerings.

Gelert Explorer

  • £17.50 Prince Llywelyn luxury hamper for one
  • £10 Gelert hamper for one

Glaslyn Venturer/Glaslyn Venturer Gold

  • £12.50 Glyndwr hamper for one
  • £10 Glaslyn hamper for one

The Engine Driver's Lunchbox, child's hamper, is available on both services.

  • £5 standard child's hamper

For full details of contents of hampers click on the F&WHR's hamper ordering webpage.

 

Tan-y-bwlch awning prepares for restart 24/4/21

A wooden base structure was set up at the east end of the Tan-y-bwlch car park by the weekend. On 24/4/21 an awning had been erected opposite the signal box on the wooden base. This may be a waiting room in case passengers have to wait while shunting occurs in inclement weather. Normally when a train follows the first up to Tan-y-bwlch the first one is shunted to the Up platform while people used the cafe and toilets or go for a walk. Last year up to six trains a day operated this way with only the last not requiring a shunt. There did not appear to be any test runs or shunting on 24/4/21.

 

This westerly view (24/4/21) shows the new awning erected today at Tan-y-bwlch. Click on the image to expand. This webcam image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Services booking up quickly

With the possibility of running up to six FR services a day, so far only Blanche appears to have been tested. Lilla is not used on the FR services as it is too small. At least two other small locos from Prince, Welsh Pony and Palmerston might need to be tested in traffic before the service starts on Tuesday. Taliesin's boiler certificate expired in 2020 and it is awaiting boiler repairs and bogie attention which is a pity as it can haul seven bogies but Lyd might appear soon from its 10 year overhaul. Last year double Fairlies were used if a small engine was unavailable on the FR.

Monday could be a busy day as many test runs with a range of locos, not used over the Winter, may be needed before services start on Tuesday, not least for staff competence renewal. The 11:05 on 27-28/4/21, the first two days of The Woodland Wanderer, are fully booked but the 14:20 with the same loco is still bookable on all three days. Both 11:04/15:00 workings of The Mountain Prince are still bookable for 1-2/5/21 next weekend. The 11:00 Gelert Explorer is bookable both 1-2/5/21, though the Gold compartments have sold out on the Saturday.

More details have appeared about The Glaslyn Venturer, which operates TWThO in June and additionally on Bank Holiday Monday 31/5/21. Tickets are available until 22/7/21 for these journeys on the 10:15 and 13:40 from Porthmadog to Beddgelert. There is an hour to explore Beddgelert or visit the famous Glaslyn Ice Cream shop. Pre-order picnic hampers are available on this train as well as the Gelert Explorer. The first train is timed to leave before The Gelert Explorer and the second to arrive after it has departed.

The modern coaches and divided in Perspex compartments for COVID safety with six seats and usually two tables in each compartment. Passengers must stay in their chosen compartment for the return journey. The train will be cleaned using Zoono between the two daily trips during layover time in Porthmadog. There will be two FR Observation Cars on the train (one reversed to provide views on the return journey. Already the Gold Class tickets on the 31/5/21 are fully booked!

 

WHR loco ash train 23/4/21

Upnor Castle was used to dispose of the WHR loco ash on 23/4/21, after Lilla has collected it from Caernarfon on 17/4/21. It was noted hauling four B wagons full of loco ash and the Mess Coach at Tryfan Junction heading south. The ash may have been used for embankment strengthening in the Beddgelert Forest as in previous years.

 

This westerly view (23/4/21) shows Upnor Castle hauling four B wagons full of loco ash from Caernarfon and Dinas approaching Tryfan J7unction, taken from the road bridge. Click on the image to expand. This digital camera image is copyright Jonathan Wilkins (FR member) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This westerly view (23/4/21) shows Upnor Castle hauling four B wagons full of loco ash from Caernarfon and Dinas approaching Tryfan Junction, taken from the road bridge. Click on the image to expand. This digital camera image is copyright Jonathan Wilkins (FR member) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

More F&WHR preparations 23/4/21

Moel Hebog was at Tan-y-bwlch from midday with a flat wagon on the Down line carrying a scaffolding platform completing work on the footbridge begun last year. The loco remained there while staff had a lunch break. It was out of view at 12:45 but was noted back again at 1340 on the Up line in association with work on that side of the footbridge. Staff were noted on the footbridge assisting assembly of the smoke deflectors. At 15:00 the rake was back in the Down platform and the scaffolding platform was packed away. Moel Hebog finally ran round at 15:36 ready to depart for Minffordd Yard. By 16:00 it had coupled up and was waiting to depart with Blanche presumably still in section in the woods.

 

This easterly view (23/4/21) shows Moel Hebog with the scaffolding on the flat wagons at Tan-y-bwlch. It appears stainless steel smoke deflectors were being fitted. The bridge was rebuilt by a private contractor last year and these were the finishing touches. Click on the image to expand. This webcam image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This westerly view (23/4/21) shows Moel Hebog running round the flat wagons at Tan-y-bwlch at 15:35. Click on the image to expand. This webcam image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Meanwhile, down in Porthmadog, Blanche was shunting the Harbour Station yard at 14:25. It emerged from the yard to couple to the rake in the FR platform. Compartment cleaning staff were waiting on the platform to make sure the rake was in good condition internally after several months out of use. The rake, with Moelwyn on the rear, emerged at 14:38 and headed across The Cob towards Minffordd, passing there after a brief signal stop at 14:48. The 6 modern FR coaches included a Service car and Observation car on the rear. This may have been a trial for the Mountain Prince service to Dduallt Barn Cutting due to start on 1/5/21.

 

This easterly view (23/4/21) shows Blanche shunting the yard at Porthmadog station at 14:29. Click on the image to expand. This webcam image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This westerly view (23/4/21) shows Blanche hauling a rake of modern FR coaches through Minffordd at 14:47 presumably for store at Glan-y-pwll. Click on the image to expand. This webcam image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi

 

Welsh COVID rules relaxed 23/4/21

Speaking at the latest COVID Rules briefing on 23/4/21, Mark Drakeford, the Welsh First Minister, has confirmed outdoor attractions can open from Monday 26/4/21 (including F&WHR). The final restriction on hotels and tourist accommodation concerning shared facilities will be lifted on 17/5/21 along with indoor hospitality given continuing good progress with COVID. This means touring caravans can resume visiting Wales and hotels/motels can offer their full breakfast and dining facilities.

If there is no sudden surge in cases it is intended that Wales will move to Alert Level 3 from 3/5/21. A further £200 million has been allocated to support businesses impacted by the lockdown. This will be available after the May Senedd Election. The next briefing will be on 13/7/21 after election on 6/5/21. He thought that further lockdowns would be unnecessary given the trajectory of the pandemic. However, virologists have warned a Summer wave might occur if people ease their precautions too much.

 

Premier Inn steel structure rises 23/4/21

With continuing deliveries of steel, the frame of the new Premier Inn on the site of Ty Moelwyn Tax Office opposite Harbour station continues to grow rapidly. The £8 million motel is likely to be open by 'early next Autumn' and create 30 new jobs in Porthmadog.

 

Coach Works progress 22/4/21

Glenn Williams team at the Boston Lodge Coach Works has finished another two repaints and there are now just two coaches and a Service car to paint before the Winter Work programme is complete.

 

This Boston Lodge view (22/4/21) shows brake/saloon coach No.14 finished. This coach can join the COVID compliant rakes. Click on the image to expand. This digital camera image is copyright Glenn Williams (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This Boston Lodge view (22/4/21) shows four wheel Observation car No.1 finished. This coach can joint the COVID compliant rakes as an extra attached as last year on fine days. Click on the image to expand. This digital camera image is copyright Glenn Williams (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Archaeology Appeal 22/4/21

Paul Lewin (F&WHR General Manager) is looking for a bit of help next week at Boston Lodge. The F&WHR are doing some archaeology work in support of the NLHF bid preparations. From Tuesday to Friday a couple of helpers are needed who can dig away gently with shovels under the instruction of a team leader. If you could help do please email the General Manager at the usual address.

 

F&WHR readied for the off 22/4/21

Tan-y-bwlch was a hive of activity on 22/4/21 with two works trains present at lunchtime. Blanche arrived early with the Mess Van, cherrypicker, an S&T wagon and Van 7. After running round by 10am, Blanche propelled the train towards Dduallt by 10:45. At 12:30 a second PW train was visible with Harlech Castle having run the two containers. Blanche reappeared at 12:42 with the S&T train with a telegraph pole in the grab and both trains basked in the sunlight while staff took a well earned lunch break. Both trains had gone by 14:00.

 

This westerly view (22/4/21) shows Blanche on an S&T train at Tan-y-bwlch heading for Coed-y-bleiddiau where two telegraph poles needed replacing. Click on the image to expand. This digital camera image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This westerly view (22/4/21) shows Harlech Castle on a PW train at Tan-y-bwlch and Blanche with an S&T train arriving from Dduallt at 12:42. Click on the image to expand. This webcam image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

There was also shunting activity at Porthmadog in the afternoon with WHR stock being formed up into a rake ready for transfer to Dinas. A rake of four WHR coaches was shunted into the WHR platform by 15:25 presumably by Conway Castle which turned up with another four WHR coaches from Boston Lodge at 1540 and pulled into the FR platform.

At 15:49 the loco shunted one of the WHR coaches from the WHR platform to the rear of the rake in the FR platform.

At 15:57 the loco came back to the WHR platform and shunted the remaining three coaches onto the front of the rake in the FR platform to form one long train of 8 WHR coaches.

By 16:16 the WHR rake had been reversed into the WHR platform and 16:20 the loco ran light to the yard to shunt FR stock.

At 16.20 an FR rake was extracted from the yard and shunted into the FR platform including an FR Observation car on the rear.

At 16:34 the WHR rake was shunted into the now vacant siding in the yard.

At 16:45 Conway Castle took the FR rake over to Boston Lodge. This rake is possibly the modern coaches that came down from Glan-y-pwll a few days earlier.

 

This easterly view (22/4/21) shows Conway Castle shunting WHR stock at 15:49 in Porthmadog Harbour station and the sidings yard. A full rake of 8 WHR coaches was eventually made up. The Observation Cars are already at Dinas. Click on the image to expand. This webcam image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

More Porthmadog shunting 20/4/21

Criccieth Castle was noted coupled to 19 FR coaches in the WHR platform on 20/4/21. The rake was split leaving 7 behind before returning to Boston Lodge. The loco is due to go into the Carriage Works for new doors and very soon for a repaint. The General Manager has invited suggestions for the new livery variant based upon the existing green colour, black frames and red side rods.

 

Senedd Elections: Parties promise North Wales transport improvements

WAG elections are due on Thursday 6/5/21 for the Senedd along with local elections across the UK. Labour are promising to expedite the long promised plan to remove the last two roundabouts on the A55 which are at Penmaenmawr and Llanfairfechan and replace with grade separated junctions. They also promise to provide a new Dee Bridge to replace the existing worn our A494 Dee Bridge at Queensferry, gateway to North Wales for many, and widen the route under the North Wales Coast line there. The Lib Dems are focussed on improving rail services and planning for reopenings such as Bangor to Llangefni on the Amlwch branch to ease congestion on Anglesey. Conversely, Plaid Cymru want to build a new road bridge over the Menai Straits to ease car congestion on Anglesey. The Tories want to invest in improving the M4 in South Wales but have no specific promises for North Wales.

 

Disused railway bridges receive support

The campaign to save disused railway bridges and viaducts (see earlier story) for future transport use such as rail reopenings or cycle paths has won the support of the Transport Select Committee. They have written to the Transport Secretary asking for a rethink on this Tory cost cutting plan to demolish old bridges. See Construction News story which includes an interesting explanatory video. Such demolitions and infilling by the Highways Agency may greatly increase costs of reopening the Bangor-Afonwen and Aberystwyth-Carmarthen rail routes in the future.

 

WHHR set to reopen 29/5/21

The WHHR plans to reopen on 29/5/21 with an initial diesel service but it is planned that a steam service will return in July. Rolling stock is being prepared for a COVID secure service. The Tremadog Road shop is open Wednesday-Saturday 11:00-15:30 but is also accepting email/post orders. It is hoped that the Baldwin No.794 (to run as No.590) will be available in 2022 with work restarting at the VoR workshops as soon as the Welshpool & Llanfair's The Earl is complete.

Staff checked coaches for a fitness to run test on 18/4/21. The railway is hoping to receive the Pickering Brake soon and then will be able to run a full prototypical heritage rake, sidelining the former BR VoR brakevan. The restaurant opens for takeaway on 21/4/21 with outdoor seating from 28/4/21 Wednesday-Saturday 10:00-15:30. Indoor seating will follow when WAG COVID rules allow. See WHHR Facebook page for full details.

 

Cambrian resilience works

NR will close the Cambrian Coast Line between Machynlleth and Caersws from 15/5/21-28/6/21 to raise Black Bridge over the Afon Dulas, 1 mile east of Machynlleth, by 1m. This bridge floods with increasing frequency as a result of global warming leading to disruption to services. Track will be re-graded over the bridge approaches. The project costs £3.6 million. Bustitution will be provided during the six week closure,

 

One week to go 20/4/21!

FR services recommence on Tuesday 27/4/21 given no adverse advice from WAG. There are still plenty of seats still available on The Woodland Wanderer FR train to Tan-y-bwlch though some trains are nearly full. See FR Booking Page for details.

Preparations for the first trains of the season are increasing. On 19/4/21, Vale of Ffestiniog passed through Tan-y-bwlch apparently hauling a rake of modern FR coaches from Glan-y-pwll to Porthmadog.

At 16:45 on 20/4/21 Vale of Ffestiniog shunted a long rake of WHR coaches in Porthmadog Yard presumably after the anti-COVID Perspex screens had turned the stock from Opens into virtual compartments. At 16:56 the Funkey left the yard and headed back to Boston Lodge. It cannot be long before steam comes out on test on the FR for competence runs and running in.

 

Snowdonian Statesman 19/5/21

The Snowdonia Statesman on 19/5/21 'Tan-y-bwlch option' is sold out. The FR steam hauled add-on from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Tan-y-bwlch and return is being run in connection with the excursion from Hull to Blaenau Ffestiniog. The train is likely to be hauled by an LSL Class 47 from Hull to Blaenau Ffestiniog where it lays over for about 3 hours in the afternoon. It is likely to be shunted into the run round to allow normal service trains such as the 14:57 to Llandudno to use the platform. The FR special will see one of the few uses of the Dduallt-Blaenau Ffestiniog this year unless the timetable changes radically. This might impact the advertised timetable.

 

Railway Touring Company specials 19-20/7/21

In association with their Snowdonia and the Northern Fells Tour, the RTC has organised a one way trip over the complete WHR on 19/7/21 from Caernarfon to Porthmadog. The following day there is a complete one way trip over the FR from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog. How this impacts on the normal service timetable is unclear.

 

North Wales Main Line 14-20/4/21

On 14/4/21 a new TfW Class 197 DMU No.197001 was seen at Shrewsbury on route to Crewe where it will be based for driver training on the North Wales Coast. These units have corridor connections allowing them to be assembled into longer trains. Some of the 2/3 car sets will have ERTMS fitted for the Cambrian Lines. The ECS move was hauled by No.66587 from store at Telford's disused railfreight terminal at Donnington. The 77 units will eventually replace all the Class158/175 trains. The two car sets will have just one toilet and so will be failed if that stops working. Doors have been positioned at the 1/3 and 2/3 positions as with commuter stock rather than at the coach ends as with existing stock. The design is similar to Northern's Class 195 though TfW claim improved seating has been fitted.

Freightliner Class 66 No.66547 was noted on a light driver trainer to Holyhead on 14/4/21 presumably in association with the restart of Penmaenmawr stone traffic.

DB livered Class 67 No.67010 hauled the Holyhead-Crewe Mk4 driver trainer on 15/4/21.

NR Class 37 No.97302 Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways / Rheilffyrdd Ffestiniog ac Eryri escorted a tamper bound to Barmouth on 16/4/21. This is necessary as the line is equipped with the discredited ERTMS system which requires stock to be fitted with a form of cab signalling.

A Class 37 on an LSL driver training train 0Z42 visited Blaenau Ffestiniog light engine on 20/4/21 in advance of future railtours. The loco was green liveried 37521 carrying D6812 and was purchased from Colas and immediately repainted to an early BR livery with small yellow warning panels. The loco also ran to Holyhead.

 

K1 confirmed for Autumn visit

Paul Lewin (F&WHR Manager) has confirmed that K1 has been invited to visit the WHR from its new home at the Statfold Barn Railway. Presumably this will coincide with the WHR's SuperPower event planned for September given further improvement in COVID regulations. K1 was restored to use at the SBR last year and has featured in their open days.

 

Boston Lodge shunt 19/4/21

Further shunting of carriage stock was noted taking place at Boston Lodge at 16:20 on 19/4/21.

 

L&BR applies for extension study grant

The Lynton & Barnstaple Railway has applied for a grant of £50,000 from the Restoring your Railway fund to pay for a feasibility study into reopening the whole L&B railway, the only narrow gauge railway to submit a bid. The route to be studied runs from a new station at Lynton, convenient for the Lynmouth cliff railway and town centre, to the former depot area at Pilton in west Barnstaple, the route through Barnstaple to the former terminus having been built over. Lyd regularly visits the L&BR and Baldwin replica Lyn No.762 has also visited the WHR. Various sections of trackbed are being negotiated for or are already in the hands of sister organisation Exmouth Associates, including the recently purchased Bratton Fleming station.

Clearance work is currently underway with test borings along the route of the currently authorised extension between Killington Lane station and Wistlandpound Reservoir (both planned to be temporary termini). The short section currently operating between Woody Bay and Killington Lane reopens 24/4/21. Two new replica Manning Wardle locos Exe and Yeo are planned for the expansion of the line based on the success of Lyd and fundraising for them started in 2019. See L&BR website.

 

WHR tidy up 17/4/21

More than 20 volunteers turned out for the first ‘On Shed with Shane’ weekend on Saturday 17/4/21. The socially distanced work went well with locos cleaned, firewood cut, rubbish moved and plastic litter collected and an ash train run to clear the loco ash from the south end Caernarfon station.

 

This northerly view (17/4/21) shows Lilla running round the ash train at Caernarfon. Click on the image to expand. This iPhone image is copyright Paul Lewin (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This southerly view (17/4/21) shows Lilla coupling up to the ash train at Caernarfon. The loco ash in the foreground has been scraped up by an excavator and loaded into the B wagon. Click on the image to expand. This iPhone image is copyright Paul Lewin (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (17/4/21) shows Bill extracting No.138 from the Goods Shed where it has been stored with one ambulance bogie awaiting the return of its rear power bogie from Boston Lodge. Click on the image to expand. This iPhone image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (17/4/21) shows Bill propelling the rolling chassis of No.134 being propelled into its new home in the Goods Shed where volunteers will be able to work on it in coming months under cover now COVID restrictions have been eased. The FR Van No.7 is attached at the rear. Click on the image to expand. This iPhone image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (17/4/21) shows Bill propelling the new tender up to the rolling chassis of No.134 for the first time, illustrating the incredible length of this loco compared to the NG16s. Click on the image to expand. This iPhone image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (17/4/21) shows No.87 being given a good clean outside the Loco Shed and will be standby steam loco this season. New Garratt No.130 is visible to the rear. Click on the image to expand. This iPhone image is copyright Clive Briscoe and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Moelwyn shunts Porthmadog 15/4/21

The afternoon of 15/4/21 saw Moelwyn shunting stock in Porthmadog Harbour station. Additional rolling stock may have been brought over from Boston Lodge.

 

This easterly view (15/4/21) shows Moelwyn shunting Porthmadog station at 15:58. Click on the image to expand. This iPhone image is copyright Keith Holland and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This westerly view (15/4/21) shows Moelwyn shunting Porthmadog station at 16:01. A bowsider has been added to the seawall siding and additional stock lies behind Moelwyn in the FR platform. Click on the image to expand. This iPhone image is copyright Keith Holland and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

A55 average speed cameras

People travelling by car to the F&WHR via the A55 should be aware of the 40mph average speed cameras on the A55 between Junctions 12/13 Aber to Tai'r Meibion. This is for the final stage of upgrading of this, the earliest section of the A55 to be dualled. The scheme consists of widening, flood prevention and closing central reservation gaps originally provided for farm access. Advance drainage works were completed in 2017 and the whole scheme will be completed by 2022.

 

Welsh 'Reversing Beeching' schemes

Of the 85 applications for £50,000 grants to restore local railways, two are in North Wales. The disused 18 mile Gaerwen-Amlwch line is one of them. While new Anglesey Tory MP Virginia Crosbie supports the project, she may not have won herself any friends by suggesting that the route could be converted into a cycleway! The local council wants the line re-opened as a commuter route and a service restored at least between Llangefni and Bangor to reduce heavy commuter traffic over the A55 Britannia Bridge and A5 suspension bridge. The Local Authority suggest that the cost of restoring the railway would be a lot less than building a new bridge across the Menai Straits. The revivalist group Lein Amlwch supports the restoration of the route and has been clearing sections under an NR licence with the eventual aim of running a heritage service. This could operate between Llangefni and Amlwch if the Local Council succeeds in reinstating the Llangefni commuter service.

The other scheme to appear in the list is the Bangor Caernarfon-Afon Wen route supported by the local Plaid Cymru WAG MP Llyr Gruffydd. This is a more costly and longer scheme and would require rebuilding a few sections, including third railing through Caernarfon WHR station to Dinas. It is part of a broader scheme to link the Cambrian Coast as a through route to Carmarthen proposed by TRAWS, which had a WAG feasibility study a few years ago for Aberystwyth-Carmarthen (click on the link to see the map and documents).

 

Prince to visit Statfold (12-13/6/21)

Prince will not be available for FR duties on 12-13/6/21 and maybe a few days before and after to allow for transport as it will appear at the Trangkil Sugar Mill Event scheduled for that weekend at the Statfold Barn Railway. Tickets for this strictly 'book in advance' event can be obtained from the SBR.

 

Moving Pictures No.49 15/4/21

Click on the YouTube window to watch 23 mins 3 seconds of video covering the WHR including No.130 on test including the first test train to Beddgelert and Lilla and Van No.7 heading north from Beddgelert to Rhyd Ddu in the snow. This YouTube was published on 15/4/21 and was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a 4K 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.

 

Upnor Castle PW working 15/4/21

Upnor Castle was noted arriving at Porthmadog WHR platform at 10:32 on 15/4/21 with a short PW train consisting of Van No.51 and a couple of wagons. The loco ran round the train via the WHR loop by 10:41 and departed back across The Cob at 10:55. It seems run round is still mot possible at Boston Lodge as normally that would have happened there and the train would have been propelled onto The Cob before setting out up the FR.

 

No.130 test train 14/4/21

With the arrival of the WHR coaches in Dinas on 13/4/21, complete with COVID partitions, it was possible for No.130 to run its first test train to Beddgelert with a scratch passenger in advance of the start of the season on 1/5/21. The unusual formation contained two Observation cars Gwynedd and Glaslyn (both turned to face south) behind the loco, a B wagon, WHR coach, Service Car, Romanian Carriage No.2060 and a third Observation Car Gwyrfai on the rear! The rear Observation cars faces north so one faces each way. For other images from Chris Parry see F&WHR Facebook page.

 

This northerly view (14/4/21) shows No.130 being prepared for its first trial on passenger stock to Beddgelert. Click on the image to expand. This iPhone image is copyright Keith Holland and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (14/4/21) shows No.130 on its first test passenger train to Beddgelert. A section of guide rail in the foreground still needs to be fixed in place. Click on the image to expand. This digital camera image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (14/4/21) shows No.130 on its first test passenger train to Beddgelert approaching Rhyd Ddu. Snowdon still has a dusting of snow! Click on the image to expand. This digital camera image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

Work starts on Porthmadog Premier Inn 13/4/21

Progress is being made with the construction of the new Premier Inn on the site of Ty Moelwyn Tax Office which was demolished in January/February. A lorry delivered some of the steel for the framework of the new building on 13/4/21.

 

This northerly view (13/4/21) shows a crane unloading steel from a lorry on the site of the new Premier Inn at Porthmadog as seen from Harbour Station platform. Click on the image to expand. This iPhone image is copyright Keith Holland and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

The Grand Shunt 13/4/21

Tuesday 13/4/21 saw the reverse of last year's 'Great Shunt' with stock being returned from the new Boston Lodge Carriage Shed to be stored in Porthmadog station yard and holidaymakers and spotters turned out to watch the fun. The action kicked off at 09:48 with a train of 10 WHR coaches hauled to Dinas by Vale of Ffestiniog. The rake contained at least one Observation Car and there was possibly a loco on the rear assisting this heavy train up the 1 in 40 out of Beddgelert. The loco returned at 17:08 and went on shed at Boston Lodge. It was expected that there might be a test train to Beddgelert with No.130 the following day.

Meanwhile, in Porthmadog, green PW loco Harlech Castle brought over rakes and shunting also took place throughout the day though the manual points in the yard appeared to need some greasing as much use of the boot was noted to ensure the sidings' points were in the correct position. The WHR showed signs of use as the rust had gone from both platform and run round tracks.

 

This easterly screengrab from the F&WHR webcam (13/4/21) shows Harlech Castle hauling the second rake into the FR platform at 11:36. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

10:36 Harlech Castle was noted running round after pulling four coaches into the FR platform with open No.37 at the west end, FR Nos.106/102 and WHR service car No.2010.

10:40 The train was propelled into the seawall siding and No.37 was left there.

10:46 The train was back out at the signalbox

10:48 The train was propelled into the siding next to the seawall where WHR service car No.2010 was deposited

10:55 The train was propelled back into the third siding where Nos. 106/102 were deposited.

11:00 Harlech Castle left light engine for Boston Lodge.

11:36 Harlech Castle arrived back hauling 7 coaches which were left in the FR platform road. These were Nos.26/24/2021/2022, two WHR saloons (one of the newer panoramic window style from Nos.2046-2048 and one original style from Nos.2040/2042-45 with top light windows) and a green FR compartment coach No.21.

11:44 Harlech Castle left for Boston Lodge light engine.

12:30 Harlech Castle was back with another rake of 5 coaches which ran into the WHR run round track

12:35 Harlech Castle was stabled in WHR platform for staff lunch break.

 

This easterly screengrab from the F&WHR webcam (13/4/21) shows Harlech Castle running round the third rake via the WHR platform at 11:33. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

13:10 Harlech Castle shunted onto the rake in the FR platform.

13:15 Harlech Castle shunted the rake into the siding adjacent to the seawall siding and deposited WHR Opens Nos.2021/2022 there.

13:24 Harlech Castle drew out the remaining three coaches and propelled them into the FR platform.

13:28 Harlech Castle returned light engine to the siding with the WHR Opens.

13:36 Harlech Castle drew out the WHR Opens Nos. 2021/2021 now connected to the Service Car and Pullman No.2115 Bodysgallen, the latter of which must have arrived in an unobserved shunt move before 10:30. The rake headed across The Cob for Boston Lodge.

A delay then ensued while several of the F&WHR's 'orange army' appeared to be giving attention to the pointwork outside the small Loco Shed. Another PW staff member inspected the track all the way across The Cob.

15:12 saw an unusual move in that a rake of 5 coaches (three FR and two WHR) was propelled very slowly across The Cob by Harlech Castle into the WHR platform suggesting some pointwork problem in Boston Lodge Yard which prevented a run round there.

15:17 saw the two original style WHR coaches (from Nos.2040/2042-45) removed and shunted into the siding next to the seawall siding by Harlech Castle.

15:27 Harlech Castle then emerged from the yard light engine before backing onto the 3 coach rake in the FR platform, which was drawn out and shunted onto the WHR coaches just deposited in the sidings.

15:40 Harlech Castle then removed FR coach No.21 from this rake and shunted it back into the FR platform.

15:46 Harlech Castle promptly removed the three FR coaches Nos.21/24/26 to The Cob and shunted them back onto the 5 FR coaches left in the WHR run round line.

15:52 Harlech Castle hauled the combined FR rake out of the WHR run round loop and onto The Cob from where it was propelled back into the seawall siding.

16:05 Harlech Castle was back on The Cob having hauled two of the four FR coaches in the WHR platform. These were propelled to the sea wall where one was left. The other was placed in the third siding from the seawall.

16:20 Harlech Castle collected the final two FR coaches from the WHR platform and propelled them into siding 3 about 5 minutes later.

16:35 with the Grand Shunt job completed Harlech Castle left light engine for Boston Lodge.

It is possible more shunting make take place Wednesday 14/4/21.

Visitors were freely walking on the platform to The Cob and sea wall, some without face masks. The webcam now has a useful 'back 10s' feature. The F&WHR website is noticeably slower this year and the webcams sometimes reach their 'resource limit' when too many people request access simultaneously. Time Outs are imposed on people who watch the webcams for a long while.

 

FR line clearance train 13/4/21

Upnor Castle was up at Tan-y-bwlch running round a lineside clearance train on 13/4/21 at 11am. This train featured Upnor Castle, and, from east to west, the cherry picker, a converted low sided B wagon with the shredder, a B wagon for waste and a brake van. This departed for Minffordd at 11:11.

 

Gelert Explorer 1/5/21

The Gelert Explorer Gold compartments are now sold out on the first train 1/5/21 but standard class compartments are still available. The other trains that first week of the new season from Tuesday 27/4/21 also have availability.

 

BHG/RoWG at Plas-y-nant 10-14/2/21

The North Wales Track Gang (BHG) worked on the Plas-y-nant bridge over the weekend of 11-12/4/21 with their Mess Car ex-FR Coach No.111 (fitted with toilet) in attendance, hauled by Bill, the ex Shotton Steelworks shunter. The loco disappeared from the worksite for other duties from time to time. The main task was to complete the guide rails over the bridge which restrain sideways movement of rolling stock in case of a derailment. The Rest of the World gang was present completing the job on 14/4/21.

 

This northerly view (14/4/21) shows the RoWG fixing guide rails to the bridge at Plas-y-nant in advance of the public service starting 1/5/21. A section of guide rail in the foreground still needs to be fixed in place. Click on the image to expand. This iPhone image is copyright Keith Holland and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (14/4/21) shows the cut up remains of the Plas-y-nant bridge at Dinas on wagons in the North Yard. Click on the image to expand. This iPhone image is copyright Keith Holland and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

North Wales Main Line news

ROG's No.37800 was hired as a Crewe-Holyhead route learner on 12/4/21 in preparation for renewed stone traffic from Penmaenmawr. GBRf has won the haulage contract and there will be two loaded outbound trains a day SuX from 17/5/21. One 'jumbo' return working of empty wagons is envisaged. The orange army was out in Penmaenmawr yard after Easter clearing vegetation and rehabilitating the track. This will mean the welcome return of revenue earning freight to the North Wales coast Line after 2 years of absence since the Wylfa nuclear waste traffic ceased. The other scheme to restart freight from Llandudno Junction Yard has yet to make any progress.

A TfW officials special ran on 8/4/21 from Cardiff to Holyhead and back. The train ran as the 1Z48, the 07:17 ex Cardiff and had the DVT leading at Bangor after reversing at Chester with TfW liveried 67017 on the rear. The driver was advised at Bangor that no platform was available at Holyhead so the train ran into the stabling sidings at Holyhead! Maybe a case for reopening the disused platform 3? The rake consisted of four TfW livery Mk4 coaches including first restaurant plus DVT which can carry bicycles etc. Driver training on the route has been going on for several months and it is hoped the service might be introduced with the timetable change in May given planned COVID relaxation in Wales.

LSL's Crewe-Carmarthen excursion ran into problems on the Central Wales line on 2/4/21 when 45231 'Sherwood Forester' developed wheel flats and was taken off at Llandeilo. The special working continued to Carmarthen sidings with the diesel 20107 which was the 'insurance' loco, arriving 441 minutes late. The steam loco remained there for some days before being rescued by a Class 37.

230008 was on test on the borderlands line on 12/4/21.

 

Dinas Volunteer call

The team that maintain the Welsh Highland fleet based at Dinas are looking for a bit of help with a tidy-up after the long winter and the work to get Nos.87/138 back in traffic. Shane Rademan, the site manager, and the team are looking for volunteers to come and lend a hand on the weekend of the 17-18/4/21. There is lots to do and, as it is a big site, we can spread out well for social distancing safety. There is some work on locos to be done, work around the site and a train collecting bits and pieces from Caernarfon (clearing the loco ash from the south end of the station). If you would like to join in, please drop an email to plewin@ffwhr.com. For more images see F&WHR Facebook page.

 

This northerly view (25/3/21) shows No.130 departing Dinas with a loaded test train heading for Waunfawr. Click on the image to expand. This image is courtesy F&WHR and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

All Britons can holiday in Wales from Monday 12/4/21

Wales will welcome holidaymakers (and non-essential travellers) who live in the whole of Britain from 12/4/21 though they must stay in self-contained accommodation e.g. static caravans and holiday cottages, for the time being. Hotels and motels appear to be limited to Welsh residents only still according to motel websites, though there is still confusion about this as Premier Inn states they are 'open to all'. These and touring caravans sharing communal toilet blocks and showers will follow later, possibly after 17/5/21. Non essential retail can also open from 12/4/21. On 26/4/21 outdoor hospitality reopens, including tourist attractions like the F&WHR. Indoor hospitality will follow later provided the trend in COVID cases continues to fall/remain low.

 

Fairlie Event postponed yet again! 11/4/21

The F&WHR announced on 11/4/21 that they have considered the practicality of holding any major events this year and have decided to cancel the Fairlie Event. Although the overall situation is improving at present, it is impossible to say with certainty what will be the situation throughout the coming few months. Therefore, the F&WHR have regretfully decided that they will not hold the postponed 'Fairlie Eventful' event this year after all, as they cannot give it the status or attention it deserves. It will now take its place as a major part of the planning for our 2022 events programme - when the F&WHR should be able to organise the quality of event they had originally hoped to hold, and which will be a worthy celebration of the 150th Anniversary of the Ffestiniog Fairlie locomotive!

 

WHRS Special Trains sold out 10/4/21

The WHR Society Special /No.130 launch planned for Friday 30/4/21 sold out within a few days of appearing on the internet. There are still plenty of seats on the FR trains 27-29/4/21 and the first Beddgelert Explorer on 1/5/21 though there is only 1 Gold compartment left on this train.

 

'Roles on the Rails' explained 10/4/21

In an attempt to attract volunteers again post-COVID lockdown the F&WHR is making an effort to explain the roles available. A series of articles on the FR's social media will explain what is involved, starting with Loco Crew. See F&WHR Insider page.

 

Pre-season WHRS Members' Special Train 30/4/21

On Friday, 30/4/21, there will be a pre-season ‘Gelert Explorer’ train specifically for members, Caernarfon to Beddgelert and return, as part of testing and preparation for the season the following day. The train will run in the normal path, leaving Caernarfon at 1100 and giving time to take a walk into Beddgelert during the layover. This train will mark the official handover of NGG16 No.130 from the workshops to the operating railway and Peter Best, who sponsored the loco, will be on the train. There is no ticket charge for WHRSoc. members and their immediate family bubble, travelling together in a seating bay. WAG rules require that all passengers travel in their bubble on this service.

There will not be a buffet service on board but the hamper service will be available to book in advance when ordering tickets. Prices vary from £10 per person.

Details of the hampers can be found here.

The De Winton Cafe/Caffi De Winton in Caernarfon station will be open for takeaway only. Hot and cold drinks will also be for sale at Beddgelert during the layover.

To book onto this special train, please click here.

Members will need to enter their membership number with prefix, so will need to have their card ready!

If members have any problems booking they should contact the Booking Office on 01766 516024, which is open 10:00 – 16:00, Monday to Friday. Please note, compartments are strictly limited in number.

IMPORTANT - All ongoing services and events will be subject to any further changes in WAG policy in response to the Covid-19 situation.

 

Lilla visits Dinas 6/4/21

Lilla made a surprise visit to Dinas on 6/4/21 with FR Van No.1 in tow. The loco struggled through variable weather with snowstorms at Beddgelert and Rhyd Ddu. The sun came out later and the staff took the opportunity to take photos on the recently completed Plas-y-Nant bridge without the van. The gate on the bridge has been moved to the correct position on the north side of the bridge. This stock movement is remove the unsightly large piles of ash that have accumulated around the run round track at the south end of Caernarfon station. No doubt B wagons will be filled with the ash and Lilla will haul them to Dduallt for disposal or possibly the Beddgelert Forest site used previously. More ECS trains, including No.130 tests with a full length coach rake to Beddgelert, are likely before services restart in May. For more pictures from Chris Parry (F&WHR) see F&WHR's Facebook page.

 

This easterly view (1/4/21) shows Lilla with FR Van No.1 hauling a stock movement back to Dinas from the FR. The train struggled through heavy Easter snow showers at the summit. This is the only snowy picture from Winter 2020/21 to come to hand. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

This northerly view (1/4/21) shows Lilla with FR Van No.1 detached posing at Plas-y-nant bridge in brilliant sunshine. The gate on the bridge has been moved to the correct position of the property boundary at the north end of the bridge. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

WHR volunteer hostel available for booking from 12/4/21

Cymdeithas Rheilffordd Eryri / Welsh Highland Railway Society’s volunteer accommodation at Dinas, Station View, is available for use by both Society members and others volunteering on both the WHR and FfR with effect from 12/4/21.

Bookings can be made at: www.whrsoc.org.uk/index.php/volunteer-hostel

or by post to: Volunteer Accommodation Dinas, WHR Society/Cymdeithas Rheilffordd Eryri, Station View, Dinas, Caernarfon. LL54 5UB.

The accommodation comprises two bedrooms for sharing and one single room; along with shared bathroom facilities; shared kitchen/ dinner and a lounge. For the time being bookings can only be accepted on a “single occupancy” or “one household” basis in compliance with Welsh Government regulations. Bookings are presently accepted contingent upon compliance with local regulations and may be cancelled at the sole discretion of the Society in the event that regulations change. There is parking for two cars on-site with additional parking at the rear. Facilities for camping are not available.

Provision of facilities for motor homes and small caravans.

There is now a space for a maximum of three vehicles. There are three electrical hook up points with a standard 16amp connection available plus water taps. Enquiries about bookings can be made by email to: proughley@ffwhr.com

 

North Wales main line 3/4/21

GBRf continue to use their path to Valley Nuclear Electric sidings on an occasional basis for crew route retention purposes. There is no traffic from the siding and it seems traffic is unlikely ever again now that Wylfa B project has been abandoned though there is some possibility of traffic as the reactor is disassembled. Nos. 68005/002 hauled one empty nuclear flask there and back on 3/4/21 and presumably ran round the Valley triangle.

 

F&WHR looking for Head Chef 1/4/21

The F&WHR has put out a job advert for a Head Chef for Spooners in anticipation of reopening Spooners with the restart of services in May. Other job opportunities are being offered too as the F&WHR prepares to reopen. See F&WHR job opportunities.

 

Test trains and stock movements likely in April

A series of test trains is likely in April to renew staff competences, test the locos and rolling stock to be used and the systems for dealing with passengers. It seems the WHR test trains cannot start to run to Beddgelert until the completion of tracklaying at Plas-y-nant this week, though shorter trains to Waunfawr are possible. Some WHR stock movements are due as soon as Plas-y-nant bridge tracklaying is complete. This must have been completed by 1/4/21 allowing the stock movement shown below.

 

This westerly view (1/4/21) shows Vale of Ffestiniog with Harlech Castle hauling a stock movement back from Dinas to the FR. The consists contains Bodysgallen presumably going for refurbishment at the Coach Works and the PW Depts' cherrypicler. Click on the image to expand. This image is copyright Phil Brown (F&WHR) and was post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

 

The Woodlands Wanderer to start 27/4/21

The F&WHR is to reopen on 27/4/21, four days earlier than expected, with The Woodland Wanderer Porthmadog to Tan-y-bwlch. Trains will operate for 3 days from 27-29/4/21 (Tuesday-Thursday) at 11:05 and 14:20 with no service on Friday in advance of the previously advised opening Saturday 1/5/21. See Booking page for full details. The WHR Beddgelert Explorer service will not be starting until Saturday 1/5/21. Trains on Saturday 1/5/21 are booking well. Already the 11:05 Mountain Prince is fully booked and just 3 Gold compartments were left on the Gelert Explorer. The booking website gives up to the minute information on train availability and additional trains. See F&WHR booking website calendar view.

 

WAG to allow visitors from England (1/4/21)

Mark Drakeford has announced visitors from England will be allowed into Wales from 12/4/21 and outdoor hospitality will reopen from 26/4/21 allowing the F&WHR to open its De Winton, Spooners and Tan-y-bwlch cafes for take aways and outdoor seating. Indoor hospitality will reopen by the Spring Bank Holiday week at the end of May, all subject to a continuing improvement in COVID infections.

Camping and caravanning in Wales using campsite's shared showers and toilets, as opposed to self contained accommodation that opened on 27/3/21, will probably reopen for the Spring Bank Holiday from Saturday 28/5/21. This will be confirmed in the COVID review on 17/5/21 if infections continue to fall and England is able to follow its 'roadmap' plan out of COVID.

 

Call for volunteers

There has been a call for volunteers to give a 'Spring Time Spruce Up' to the FR and ready it for the return of passengers on 1/5/21. See F&WHR Insider page for contact details. Presumably there will a similar call for the WHR shortly as it opens on the same day.

 

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