WHR

News Archive Page

2024

March

V4.1 updated 26/4/24

with news to 31/3/24

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

F&WHR 31/3/24

Easter Sunday 31/3/24 was forecast to be a day of sunny periods at Porthmadog and temperatures of 7-12C, with settled weather much as yesterday. Sunday sees no less than 6 departures from Porthmadog including two Mountain Spirit workings and two Woodland Wanderers and The Aberglaslyn but just one Gelert Explorer from Caernarfon. Both the Tan-y-bwlch and Minffordd webcams were out of action yet again today for the fourth day running. Steam was being raised at 09:00 at Boston Lodge.

Linda was expected first light engine as it was booked for cab rides 10:00-16:00. However, first up was Vale of Ffestiniog hauling the ECS for the 10:15 The Aberglaslyn which arrived in the WHR platform at 09:48. It seems that No.130, currently resident at Boston Lodge, is not available today. Linda turned up light engine at 09:55 and ran directly into the yard ready for its 10:00 start of the final day of its cab ride duties. David Lloyd George turned up at 10:07 hauling the ECS for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit into the FR platform.

This easterly view (31/3/24) shows Vale of Ffestiniog substituting for No.130 on the ECS The Aberglaslyn while Linda arrives light engine in the yard for cab rides. No.130 arrived later to take up its duty on The Aberglaslyn which departed late as a result. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR and was taken on a web camera.

At 10:15 the Fairlie ran round the Mountain Spirit while No.130 arrived light engine and ran direly to the yard to take on fuel and water (maybe footplate crew had forgotten the clocks went forward today?). The Aberglaslyn was now destined to depart late but at least had a steam haulage. The Funkey detached at 10:24 and reversed onto the WHR loop line to run directly back to Boston Lodge where steam was being raised for the Woodland Wanderer. At 10:29 No.130 emerged from the yard to run round The Aberglaslyn and coupled to the front at 10:37, departing at 10:40, some 25 minutes late. DLG departed simultaneously on the Mountain Spirit on time. James Spooner (with cab  roof removed) arrived at 11:00 in the FR platform on the ECS for the 11:10 Woodland Wanderer. The loco ran round at 11:05 and the train departed on time at 11:10.

The lunchtime returning services began with No.130 at 13:17, still 23 minutes late after its late start in the morning. The loco uncoupled and went to refuel 5 minutes later. James Spooner was next back, arriving in the FR platform at 13:25 with the Woodland Wanderer. No.130 returned to its rake at 13:30 ready for the 13:40 afternoon run which left on time. Lastly DLG arrived at 13:54 in the WHR platform and James Spooner went to couple to the other end while DLG uncoupled and ran to the yard to refuel and water. The Mountain Spirit left at 14:23 a few minutes late. Steam shunting was noted at Boston Lodge at 14:35.  Velinheli came over to the station yard light engine at 14:44. DLG ran round at 14:48 and departed at 14:50 on time. Despite the damp weather a mountainside fire seemed to have started on the hillside above Talsarnau with white smoke blowing across the mountain.

F&WHR 30/3/24

Saturday 30/3/24 was forecast to be a day of sunny periods at Porthmadog and temperatures of 7-12C. Saturday sees no less than 5 departures on the FR from Porthmadog including two Mountain Spirit workings and two Woodland Wanderers and The Harbourmaster but just one Snowdonia Star from Caernarfon. There is a fifth FR train in the form of The Quarryman from Blaenau Ffestiniog and already, this early in the season, comments are being made about the disparity between service levels on the FR and those on the WHR. Last year the additional WHR service in the form of The Cwellyn did not appear until the Whitsun Holiday week and the School Summer holidays in August. Both the Tan-y-bwlch and Minffordd webcams were out of action again today for the third day running. There was also a problem with phonecall bookings with some calls being dropped mid call and delays in answering.

First to arrive was No.130 at 09:30 with the ECS for The Harbourmaster into the WHR platform due to depart at 10:05. Linda was shunting in the yard at 09:48 after arriving light engine for the 10:00 to 16:00 footplate ride duty. It was without its demountable tender cab. James Spooner arrived at 09:56 into the FR platform with the ECS for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit, running round at 10:02. The 10 car The Harbourmaster departed on time with apparently two FR coaches at the rear behind the open coach. There was more shunting in the yard ar 10:25 and steam was being raised at Boston Lodge for the Woodland Wanderer. David Lloyd George arrived with the ECS for the Woodland Wanderer in the WHR platform at 10:32 with run round following at 10:34. James Spooner departed a couple of minutes late and DLG then completed its run round of the 6 car FR rake after being held in the WHR through line. The Woodland Wanderer left a couple of minutes late.

No.87 (for the first time this season) pulled into the WHR platform at 12:22 with a short 7 car Snowdonia Star rake and the loco immediately detached and ran to the yard to fuel and water. It seems Caernarfon needs more promotion from the F&WHR if they are having to reduce the length of the 10 car sets usually used on this rake. One coach is usually kept empty to pick up passengers at intermediate stations too! Blanche pulled into the FR platform at 12:47 with The Quarryman. This means Linda and Blanche exchanged duties on this train recently. Though it may have been achieved by light engine moves the swop may have occurred when Linda was last in Porthmadog on The Quarryman on Thursday. No.143 returned to the train at 12:58 to complete the run round, followed by Blanche a minute later to shunt the stock in the FR platform clear for the return of services on the FR. Linda worked to the seawall siding at 13:04 to allow Blanche to shunt The Quarryman rake into the yard.

This northerly view (30/3/24) shows No.87 returning the Snowdonia Star to Caernarfon crossing Britannia Bridge. This was the first appearance of No.87 on public trains this year. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera.

The Harbourmaster with No.130 arrived back at 16:23 in strong sunshine. The train left ECS just 5 minutes later for the depot. James Spooner arrived back at 17:03 into the FR platform with the Woodland Wanderer. The loco ran round at 17:15 and waited for the Mountain Spirit which arrived back on time in the WHR platform at 17:37 behind DLG. James Spooner advanced down the platform and eventually left with the ECS at 17:39 while DLG began its run to the yard to refuel and water. Run round came at 18:05 and the ECS departed for the depot at 18:10 to close the day's activities.

Loco roster 30/3/24

James Spooner was diagrammed foe the Mountain Spirit and David Lloyd George for the Woodland Wanderer. These two locos may swop duties at midday.

No.130 was allocated to The Harbourmaster (the two Garratts may swop duties mid week at Beddgelert)

No.143 was rostered  for the Snowdonia Star

Blanche was diagrammed for The Quarryman

Linda was allocated for footplate rides at Porthmadog 30-31/3/24

Hugh Napier was allocated for footplate rides at Caernarfon 30/3-1/4/24

Lyd is also likely to be used on one of the lighter services

F&WHR 29/3/24

Friday 29/3/24 was forecast to be a cloudy day with showers later at Porthmadog and temperatures of 6-10C. The light dusting of snow on the Rhinogs had almost gone by the morning. Friday sees four Porthmadog departures including two Mountain Spirit workings and two Woodland Wanderers (the first of the season) but just one Gelert Explorer from Caernarfon. Holiday makers are increasing in the area despite the typically chilly weather of Easter Weekend. Both the Tan-y-bwlch webcam and Minffordd webcams were offline in the morning.

The first train today was the two light engines destined for the Caernarfon footplate experiences. These came over The Cob at about 09:30 and departed for Caernarfon at 09:39 while steam was being raised in Boston Lodge for the day's FR services.

This easterly view (29/3/24) shows Hugh Napier and Britomart departing for Caernarfon where they were due to give footplate rides from midday after refuelling and watering probably at Dinas. The train was due to pass the 11:30 Gelert Explorer departure, probably at Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR and was taken on a web camera.

David Lloyd George arrived in the FR platform at 10:00 on the ECS for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit, the first time the loco has been out on a public train this season. The loco ran round at 10:10 and coupled up shortly afterwards as steam was being raised at Boston Lodge for the first Woodland Wanderer of the year. James Spooner arrived at 10:28 on the ECS for the 11:10 Woodland Wanderer in the WHR platform making two Fairlie departures within half an hour on this schedule. The loco ran round immediately and coupled to the other end.

Harlech Castle arrived in the FR platform at 11:01 with brake van No.51 and the cherrypicker rake and ran round at 11:10 as the Woodland Wanderer departed. The works train departed at 11:31 but stopped halfway across The Cob probably to attend to some signal problem as the rain swept in. This is thought to be an interlocking issue between the Trident signal and the King point and may require the points to be manually operated and locked until fixed.

This easterly view (29/3/24) shows Harlech Castle on the cherrypicker rake while James Spooner waits to depart with the 11:10 Woodland Wanderer departure from the WHR platform. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR and was taken on a web camera.

Having returned a little late into the WHR platform James Spooner ran to the yard to refuel and water at 13:55 with DLG approaching across The Cob. The Mountain Spirit arrived back in the FR platform at 14:06. A Fairlie swop occurred with James Spooner going on the 14:20 Mountain Spirit at14:15 which departed 3 minutes late while DLG re-fuelled and watered ready for the 14:50 afternoon Woodland Wanderer. The loco returned to the train at 14:41 and departed roughly on time. It was common practice last year to swop Fairlies mid-shift to even out staff duties and loco mileage. At 15:08 Upnor Castle propelled the cherrypicker rake into the station yard having taken over from Harlech Castle. By 15:30 the train was back out on The Cob maintaining signals. At 18:06 the ECS for the Mountain Spirit left the FR platform for the depot to close the day's activities.

NLHF Collecting Memories project

The NLHF interpretation of the F&WHR is entering a new phase by appealing for memories and images of key events in the history of the F&WHR. See the Interpretation and Boston Lodge project website. Local papers are carrying the story and pictures.

Caernarfon station 'Top Trumps' promotion

Britomart was at Caernarfon station on 29/3/24 and over the weekend to Bank Holiday Monday offering cab rides and to promote the launch of the F&WHR Top Trump cards. Click on the advert to enlarge. Copyright F&WHR.

During the Easter weekend (Saturday, 30/3/24 - Monday 1/4/24) there will be a whole host of activities taking place at ‘Y Stesion’ (aka Caernarfon station), between 09:00 - 17:00 every day, including:
 

• Launch of our brand-new F&WHR ‘Top Trumps’ edition!
   
• ‘Top Trumps’ Quiz Sheets (with a special Easter gift for those who complete it..!)
   
• Footplate Rides on some of our historic ‘little steam locos…
  12:00 - 16:00 - 29/3/24 – HUGH NAPIER & BRITOMART
  10:00 - 16:00 - 30/3/24-1/5/24– HUGH NAPIER
   
• Easter themed Arts & Crafts

There is even an opportunity to grab some complimentary Limited Edition extra Top Trumps cards whilst visiting!
The new F&WHR ‘Top Trumps’ edition will be available to buy in all F&WHR shops and online.
Entrance is free and the station houses both a large gift shop and Caffi de Winton, selling a range of freshly prepared snacks to eat in or take-away.

F&WHR 28/3/24

Thursday 28/3/24 was forecast to be a cold breezy day of sunny periods but showers later at Porthmadog with temperatures of 6-10C. There was a light dusting of snow on the Rhinogs for the second day above 300m. Thursday sees a repeat of Tuesday's service with three Porthmadog departures including two Mountain Spirit workings. There are two through WHR trains. The Quarryman runs again. Holiday makers are increasing in the area despite the chilling typical Easter weather as Easter Weekend approaches. The Tan-y-bwlch webcam was offline all day.

The first arrival by 09:45 was No.130 hauling the ECS for The Harbourmaster which was due to depart at 10:05 as James Spooner rolled in with the ECS for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit. The Fairlie ran round by 10:25  and departed on time. No.143 arrived with the Snowdonia Star at 12:27. The loco detached and ran to the fuelling and watering point at 12:30 while some attention was given to the Service Car. Linda pulled in with The Quarryman at 13:03, some 13 minutes late, with demountable tender cab fitted in view of weather. At 13:06 the Garratt ran back to the depot and at 13:15 completed its run round shortly after Linda had completed its own run round. The Quarryman rake was then shunted to the yard to allow the returning Mountain Spirit access to the FR platform.

This easterly view (27/3/24) shows Linda with a canvas cab awning to protect footplate staff from the weather. The train eventually returned to Boston Lodge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR and was taken on a web camera.

This easterly view (28/3/24) shows Linda with the demountable tender cab backsheet fitted to protect footplate staff from the weather. The loco briefly returned to Boston Lodge on Wednesday afternoon to have it fitted between duties. No.143 is running round after watering in the yard. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR and was taken on a web camera.

Moel-yr-hydd was noted on the cherrypicker rake at 12:04 passing Minffordd  and heading east but the webcam went off line later. The second run of the Mountain Spirit departed by 14:25. No.130 was back a little early with the return working of The Harbourmaster and departed ECS for the depot at 16:28. With the rain showers in the afternoon the snow line retreated to about 400m on the Rhinogs. At 17:50 the Fairlie was running round the returned Mountain Spirit which departed ECS for the depot at 17:56 to close the day's activities.

This northerly view (28/3/24) shows No.143 shunting a 7 coach part of the ECS from the Carriage Shed at Dinas to form up the Snowdonia Star. There was early morning snow around the northern end of the WHR as well as the Rhinogs at Porthmadog. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a iPhone camera.

This northerly view (28/3/24) shows No.143 shunting part of the ECS from the Carriage Shed at Dinas to form up the Snowdonia Star. There was early morning snow around the WHR as well as the Rhinogs at Porthmadog. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a iPhone camera.

Easter weekend footplate rides confirmed

There will be footplate rides available on three different Hunslet locomotives during the Easter weekend. Two will be working at 'Y Stesion - The Station', Caernarfon and one at Harbour Station, Porthmadog. All three of these locos were built in the same factory in Leeds and worked for slate quarries in North Wales:
▪ Y Stesion, Caernarfon:

Friday 29/3/24
HUGH NAPIER & BRITOMART - 12:00-16:00 (after an ECS run from Porthmadog in the morning)
Saturday 30/3/24
HUGH NAPIER - 10:00-16:00
Sunday 31/3/24
HUGH NAPIER - 10:00-16:00
Monday 1/4/24
HUGH NAPIER - 10:00-16:00

▪Harbour Station, Porthmadog:
Saturday 30/3/24
LINDA - 10:00-16:00
Sunday 31/3/24
LINDA - 10:00-16:00
There is no need to pre-book and there is no charge, although donations are always welcome towards the cost of coal etc.

Snowline report

A website that started last year to give regular snow cover reports over winter has filled a much needed gap in the Meteorological Office's reports. However it has not been updated since 16/3/23 despite snow being visible on some of the mountains around Porthmadog. There are snowline reports back to 2000 on this website and links to various local on line weather stations. Snow definitely fell on the Rhinogs 27-28/3/24.

F&WHR 27/3/24

Wednesday 27/3/24 was forecast to be a cold breezy day of sunny periods and showers at Porthmadog with temperatures of 3-8C. Wednesday sees four Porthmadog departures with two Mountain Spirit workings and two The Aberglaslyn workings to Beddgelert. The Quarryman runs again and the Gelert Explorer from Caernarfon. Holiday makers are increasing in the area despite the chilling typical Easter weather for the school holidays take their two weeks break either side of Easter.

No.143 was on the 10:15 The Aberglaslyn working, the first of the new season, and James Spooner on the well loaded 10:40 Mountain Spirit which was noted departing a few minutes late and arriving at Minffordd at 10:53. The train arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 11:22 and it appeared some kind of trolley, maybe a buffet trolley, was removed from the middle of the train and taken to the rear along the platform. The train departed at 11:30 and was planned to cross The Quarryman at Tan-y-grisiau.

At 12:57 No.143 returned from Beddgelert while Linda arrived across The Cob on The Quarryman at 13:00. Given the weather Linda might have had its demountable tender cab fitted but instead a white sheet had been fitted to protect footplate staff. The loco is tabled at Glan-y-pwll but the tender cab is probably at Boston Lodge. At 13:05 the Garratt worked to the fuelling point. Linda ran round at 13:15 and departed on time. This was followed by the Garratt running round and departing at 13:41. No.143 was to be replaced by No.130 at Beddgelert in the afternoon. James Spooner arrived back on time in the FR platform at 13:56. and the loco soon detached to fuel and water. The train left 5 minutes late at 14:25.

Steam shunting was noted at Pen Cob Junction at 14:45, possibly Linda collecting the demountable tender cab. Linda departed at 15:25 on time with The Quarryman.

Dinas Carriage shed plans

The F&WHR Trust's  Diamond Jubilee Appeal is raising funds for an estimated £600,000 revamp of Dinas, the major part of which is for a new Carriage Shed in the bay area to ensure all coaching stock is stored under cover. Every pound donated will be matched by a pound from the F&WHR Trust so the target is £300,000.

The aim of the upgrade is to:

• store 10 car WHR service set undercover
• store 6 car Heritage set undercover
• store all locos under cover
• maintain all coaches under cover
• improve train access to North Yard
• provide new Catering and Cleaning stores
• provide undercover coach washing and preparation area
• provide improved loco coaling facilities
• reduce train preparation time

Three options were exhibited at SuperPower last year and Option 3 has now been chosen as the version that matches the future needs of the F&WHR at Dinas the best.

Click on the image to enlarge. This plan is copyright F&WHR.

The new shed built in the bay platform provides through storage for a 10 coach WHR rake at expense of losing the little used bay platform. A shorter road on the east side of the Carriage Shed has enough space for a heritage set of NWNGR/WHR coaches (to be formed) or the summer dated The Cwellyn set. The shed also contains a covered servicing and catering stores as well as having room for 16 coaches.

Option 3 was chosen as it is the most cost effective, provides the largest amount of additional undercover storage and has no phasing issues as the current Carriage Shed can continue to be used until it is ready. The new shed eliminates the scarcely used bay platform and reduces views from the northbound platform across the yard which is little used except in special events and galas. The shed provides some protection from the weather for passengers on the adjacent platform. The new through line to the east of the station building reintroduces a historic feature and will require a fixed crossing point for safety even though tracks will be level with the gravel. It allows a rake to leave the shed in a southbound direction. There is even a headshunt siding to avoid shunting clashes with movements on the main line. To accommodate the new link, the existing south loop point will be moved north a short distance to allow for the new yard point. The shed will have a low pitched roof and be clad in wood so that it does not clash with the historic stone and slate Goods Shed and station building. For less than the cost of modifying the existing carriage shed, the railway gets a larger better shed and retains the original carriage shed for locos and other rolling stock.

Details of the shed are:

• Portal frame building 140-145 m in length
• Side cladding with Yorkshire timber boarding for ventilation as well as traditional profile steam sheet
• Through shed with space for 10 coach rake
• Storage road with room for 6 heritage coaches
• Indoor coach cleaning with lights, power and drains
• Carriage electrical charging and toilet pump out facilities
• Carriage inspection pit 16-18m long
• Concrete floor throughout and powered roller shutter doors
• Insulated Catering and Cleaning materials store
• Provision for later fitting of solar panels on roof
• Trains can access mainline in both directions without shunting
• Concrete pad at north entrance will provide improved loco fuelling facilities

A comprehensive construction survey of the whole site is underway with detailed design work to follow, bearing in mind the proximity to the two remaining historical features. For example the low pitch of the roof compared to NWNGR/WHR structures gives less impact and will weigh less too. Phase 1 will be to install the new trackwork, possibly during the WMWP of 2024/5. This will allow normal operations to continue while the new shed in built. Phase 2 is the construction of the new shed which is expected to be completed later in 2025.

Ex BR Manager Dr John Prideaux is chairing the Dinas Steering Group and these plans have been developed over an extended period since 2017. The group's aim, as well as extending the life of the coaching stock by having it under cover, was to reduce the complicated (though interesting) shunts needed each day to prepare trains for service and to put them away at night. Using the bay platform means the shed will match the length of the 10 coach mega trains used these days with no need to split the set. The adjacent infrastructure yard can be developed with improved efficiency as trains can depart to the south without a shunt (the most likely direction for them to depart). 

F&WHR  26/3/24

Tuesday 26/3/24 was forecast to be a cloudy day at Porthmadog with temperatures of 6-10C. Tuesday sees a repeat of Saturday's train services with the two Mountain Spirit workings out of Porthmadog today and the two through trains on the WHR, The Harbourmaster and the Snowdonia Star. Holiday makers are likely to be in the area is greater numbers from today as next weekend is Easter Bank Holiday weekend and many school holidays take their two weeks break either side of Easter.

Linda came over The Cob light engine arriving in the WHR platform at 09:23 before shunting over t0 the FR platform at 09:26. This was probably to take The Quarryman rake ECS to Blaenau Ffestiniog for the 11:40 first working of the season. In previous years it is believed the rake may have been kept at Glan-y-pwll depot and the loco outstabled there returning to Boston Lodge at regular intervals for maintenance. A considerable number of people were on the platform at 09:30 ready for the 10:05 The Harbourmaster which was crossing The Cob ECS at 09:40 as Linda shunted the yard, departing with the ECS for The Quarryman at 09:47. James Spooner arrived in the FR platform at 10:20 with the ECS for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit. As the Fairlie ran round Bill arrived light engine in the WHR platform to pick up a coffee before proceeding onto the WHR at 10:32. This loco seems to be returning to Dinas from its winter duty as Glan-y-pwll pilot. The Fairlie left on time and arrived at Minffordd at 10:50, continuing at 10:54 towards Tan-y-bwlch. The passing loops on the WHR are going to be busy today with two northbound trains.

Another departmental working turned up at 11:20 with Harlech Castle propelling the empty rail bolster wagon. The train set off towards Boston Lodge at 11:37. No.130 arrived from Caernarfon at 12:24 on the Snowdonia Star probably passing Bill at Beddgelert The loco uncoupled and ran to the yard to coal and water a few minutes later. The loco ran round just after 13:00. The Quarryman had arrived on time and was shunted to the yard at about 12:20 to clear the FR platform for the returning Mountain Spirit.

This easterly view (23/3/24) shows Harlech Castle with the rail carrying bolster wagon. The train eventually returned to Boston Lodge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR and was taken on a web camera.

James Spooner returned at 13:55 and uncoupled to coal and water. No.130 departed a few minutes late at 14:08 on the return Snowdonia Star. The Fairlie ran round at 14:18 and the train departed a few minutes late at 14:23. The return working of The Quarryman was then signalled to shunt back to the FR platform for the 15:25 departure. At 14:40 Linda shunted the rake back to the platform ready for the return The Quarryman. At 16:31 No.143 arrived back with the returning The Harbourmaster. The ECS departed for the depot at 16:46.

This northerly view (26/3/24) shows Caernarfon Castle shunting the ECS from the Carriage Shed at Dinas to extract the Combination Car. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a iPhone camera.

This southerly view (26/3/24) shows Caernarfon Castle shunting the Combination Car to the workshop at Dinas. This stop-go project has made little progress in the last few years. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a iPhone camera.

KS4415 update 25/3/24

Keen followers of KS4415 might remember that in August 2021 the group sent the spare McLaren-Benz engine off for a 12 week job. Well, 12 weeks have finally passed, and in March 2024 it found its way back to the group! Welcome home MDB4, a little later than expected!
The first thing the volunteers did was take it apart. The new bearings have been removed from their housings so volunteers could clean out all the oilways. This was well worth doing, because aside from nearly 100 years of general grime, there was also a lot of swarf from the machining operations that have been carried out. Volunteers then refitted the oil pump and used it to pump kerosene through the engine to prove everything was clear.
Lastly, after getting all the bits out that have not been looked at for years it was realised that the engine was missing the arm for the fan belt tensioner pulley. Amazingly one was found on the 1945 McLaren MR4 that was in KS4415 when it came back from Mauritius. This was very pleasing, as up until now that engine has been utterly useless; despite looking like it could have been a useful source of spare parts. At least there will be one of it part that makes it onto the restored loco.

For images see KS4415 page.

F&WHR 25/3/24

Monday 25/3/24 was forecast to be a cloudy day at Porthmadog with temperatures of 7-10C. Monday sees a repeat of Sunday's train services with just the two Mountain Spirit workings out of Porthmadog today and one Gelert Explorer between Caernarfon and Beddgelert. Holiday makers are likely to arrive is greater numbers from today as next weekend is Easter Bank Holiday weekend and many school holidays take their two weeks break either side of Easter.

Steam was being raised at 09:55 and at 10:13 James Spooner arrived in the FR platform with the ECS for the first of two Mountain Spirit trains due to depart at 10:40. The loco ran round at 10:20 and the train departed on time at 10:40 and arrived at Minffordd at 10:50 with its 10 coach rake. Departure came at 10:58 after collecting the token and The train arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 11:25 with a fairly light loading and departed at 11:37 having built up lateness at both stops. The train was noted departing Minffordd during its return at 13:50 some 10 minutes late and arrived at Porthmadog at 14:01, just 6 minutes late. The afternoon Mountain Spirit departed 10 minutes late at 14:30. The train arrived in Tan-y-bwlch at 15:13 and departed at 15:21, some 21 minutes late. At the end of the day, the ECS departed Porthmadog in drizzle at 18:03 to close the day's activities.

Ricky & Sue visit FR screening 2/4/24
The first episode of new three-part series Ricky & Sue and a Trip or two streamed 19/3/24- if you missed it, you can still 'catch up' with the episode on More4 TV channel.
Actors Ricky Tomlinson and Sue Johnston are celebrating four decades on screen together in an all-new More4 series visiting landmark places from their lives and the special destinations the pair have always wanted to see together.
Episode 1 - 19/3/24
In Liverpool, Ricky and Sue visit Brookside Close, where they first starred on-screen together, the Cavern Club, where Sue recalls her friendship with Paul McCartney, and experience Bongo's Bingo
Episode 2 - 21:00 Tuesday, 26/3/24
Ricky & Sue visit the Midlands...
Episode 3 - 21:00 Tuesday, 2/4/24
Ricky & Sue visit North Wales - and take a train ride on the Ffestiniog Railway's Woodland Wanderer service...
You can see the official Press Release with a viewing link by clicking on this link https://www.channel4.com/.../ricky-tomlinson-and-sue...

Short video of first train of season 23/3/24

Click on the Facebook link to see a short video clip of James Spooner with the first train of the season departing Tan-y-bwlch by Alex Spring (F&WHR). The siding at Tan-y-bwlch now contains the large water tank wagon used to assist fire fighting in the forest in the case of hot dry spells in the summer.

F&WHR 24/3/24

Sunday 24/3/24 was forecast to be a day of sunny periods with temperatures of 6-10C at Porthmadog. There are just the two Mountain Spirit workings out of Porthmadog today with one Gelert Explorer between Caernarfon and Beddgelert. Early steam was being raised and shunting at Boston Lodge preparing the ECS rake. At 10:20 James Spooner was already in the FR platform with the first of two Mountain Spirit trains due to depart at 10:40. The train departed at 10:43 and arrived at Minffordd at 10:52 with its 10 coach rake. It was on its way two minutes later after collecting the token and arrived at Tan-y-bwlch at 11:21 with a fairly light loading. No.130 was noted on the Beddgelert Explorer out of Caernarfon today after yesterday's problem substitution, said to be caused by a leaking boiler washout plug.

The Mountain Spirit was back at Tan-y-bwlch at 13:16 and departed for Porthmadog at 13:19 where it arrived by 14:00 ready for the afternoon working. The loco was fuelled and watered and then ran round at 14:18. The train departed a few minutes late at 14:23. Returning from Blaenau Ffestiniog the train was noted passing Minffordd at 17:46, some 26 minutes late and arrived at Porthmadog at 17:54, still 19 minutes late. Run round came at 18:13 and the ECS departed for the depot to close the day's activities at 18:18.

F&WHR Monopoly

A Snowdonia Edition of Monopoly has been produced and was launched at Portmerion on 21/3/24. The new edition is on sale in the F&WHR shop at £34.99 and features Snowdonia/Eryri landmarks but surprisingly none of the F&WHR stations are included although the railway features on the box. It would be interesting to know which four Snowdonia stations replace the London Termini. One of the new penalty cards could be 'You have been caught exceeding the 20mph speed limit'! There must be 3 or 4 castles in the Snowdonia area that feature on the new game board. The classic counters have been replaced and Welsh themed counters including a dragon and a train carriage. See F&WHR story.

Loco roster w/c 23/3/24
To get the 2024 season underway, there will be eight steam locos in action on the F&WHR this coming week.
On the Ffestiniog Railway: James Spooner, David Lloyd George and Linda will be working the passenger services - with Blanche making an appearance on Saturday on an evening Staff Special.
• James Spooner will be busy working two trains every day on the Mountain Spirit.
• David Lloyd George will make its first appearance of the season on Good Friday.
• Linda will be hauling The Quarryman trains starting from Blaenau Ffestiniog.
• Blanche will heading a Private Train on Saturday evening 23/3/24.
Services on the Welsh Highland Railway will be covered by NG/G16s Nos.130/143.
• No.130 will start the week working from Caernarfon.
• No.143 will start the week working from Porthmadog.
• On Wednesday the two locos will swap trains at Beddgelert and work from the other end of the railway for the rest of the week
• Hugh Napier and Britomart will steam from Porthmadog to Caernarfon on Friday morning 29/3/24, and then provide footplate rides in the afternoon and over the whole Bank Holiday weekend, returning after completing the Easter Monday duty..
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NOTE: This information is provided in good faith, solely as a guide, but could be subject to change at any time.

F&WHR 23/3/24

Saturday 23/3/24 was forecast to be a day of showers and sunny periods with temperatures of 6-9C at Porthmadog. With the new season starting today and some school's starting Easter Holidays there were people about on the platform early. Early steam was being raised and shunting at Boston Lodge preparing the ECS rakes. Three departures were due today with ECS trains likely to arrive about half an hour before departure. First up was The Harbourmaster due to depart 10:05 followed by the first of two Mountain Spirit trains due to depart at 10:40. The Snowdon Star was due to arrive at 12:25 and the second Mountain Spirit depart at 14:20.

Large numbers of people had crowded onto the platform by 09.55 and surprisingly the ECS for the WHR service had not left Boston Lodge leaving them standing in the cold windy weather. The ECS eventually arrived behind No.143 at departure time 10:05 and departed 7 minutes late while the ECS for the FR service approached across The Cob. The ECS Mountain Spirit arrived in the FR platform at 10:15 and ran round by 10:30 and departed on time. A large group of sightseers watched the train depart. The train arrived at Minffordd at 10:51 with Observation Car No.152 Eryri Snowdonia on the rear, departing 2 minutes later.

This easterly view (23/3/24) shows No.143 on The Harbourmaster, the first train of the new season. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR and was taken on a web camera.

This easterly view (23/3/24) shows James Spooner arriving with the ECS for the  Mountain Spirit, the first FR train of the new season. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR and was taken on a web camera.

Caernarfon Castle arrived on the Snowdonia Star at 12:57, over half an hour late, having probably substituted for the rostered No.130 for all or part of the journey after a boiler wash out plug was said to have leaked. Some of the lateness might be a reaction to late running by The Harbourmaster. The loco ran round at 13:15 and departed at 14:07, almost on time, just after the Fairlie returned. No.143 returned on time with The Harbourmaster by 16:30 and set off ECS for the depot at 16:43 while Blanche was shunting light engine in the yard. See Friends of F&WHR Facebook page for further images of Caernarfon Castle's journey on 23/3/24.

This easterly view (23/3/24) shows Caernarfon Castle on the Snowdonia Star, running round at Porthmadog. Despite a half hour late arrival due to a late substitution for No.130 no doubt, the return working managed to leave on time. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR and was taken on a web camera.

Blanche shunted a 7 coach rake into the WHR platform with Observation Car No.100 on the rear, presumably from the yard. This is believed to be The Quarryman rake that has not yet moved to outstable at Glan-y-pwll. James Spooner was back at 16:50 in the FR platform with the second Mountain Spirit and run round came 5 minutes later. The ECS set off at 18:00. Blanche set off with the Staff Special (no doubt a thank you from management for their hard work in preparing the railway for the new season) at 18:17 as sunset illuminated the Rhinogs in flaming red. It passed through Minffordd at 18:28 heading for Tan-y-bwlch where it arrived at 19:11 where staff visited the cafe. The train departed at 20:58 on its return journey arriving back in Porthmadog at 21:50. Blanche ran round at 21:55 and the ECS departed for the depot at 22:00 to close a busy day's activities.

Spooners and Tan-y-bwlch tea room change opening hours

Spooners bar extended their hours with the start of the new season - with evening meals now available every day of the week. The revised details are listed below...
CAFÉ:
Open daily 09:00-16:00
for drinks, sandwiches, cakes etc.
BREAKFAST MENU
09:00-11:30
LIGHT BITES & EVENING MEALS
12:00-21:00 - Monday to Saturday
15:00-21:00 - Sunday
SUNDAY CARVERY
12:00-15:00
BAR:
Open daily from 12:00
12:00-22:00 - Monday to Thursday
12:00-23:00 - Friday and Saturday
12:00-22:30 - Sunday

The Tan-y-bwlch tearoom is also changing its opening ours from the start of the new season. Come and enjoy a tasty treat and refreshing drink at the Tea Room at Tan-y-Bwlch Station. You can arrive by train, by road or on foot - there's a welcome for all. The basic hours will be from 10:00-16:00 every day, with hot food available from 10:30-14:30. However, these times will be extended on days when the Woodland Wanderer or The Victorian trains are running to Tan-y-Bwlch. The tea room will stay open until 16:30, with hot food available until 15:30, so staff can more easily serve passengers arriving on those trains.

F&WHR 22/3/24

Friday 22/3/24 was forecast to be a day of sunny periods with temperatures of 5-10C at Porthmadog and showers later. With the new season starting tomorrow there was an expectation of some steam testing as neither Merddin Emrys nor Linda has been noted on test yet and the Mountain Spirit is booked to run twice on Saturday. While no trains were noted at Porthmadog or Tan-y-bwlch at 09:45, staff were present checking the signalbox at Porthmadog at 10:00 as a signaller may be on duty all day starting tomorrow. The drooping WHR platform starter seems to have been fixed.

Harlech Castle propelled the FR Mess Car No.1111 into the WHR platform at 11:17 for filling with water from the platform watering point. Other staff were greasing the pointwork in preparation for the resumption of services tomorrow. The train left at. 12:05 for Boston Lodge. No other movements were noted.

Moving Pictures No.90 22/3/24

Click on the YouTube link to watch 29 minutes 50 seconds of video showing shuttles to Boston Lodge for the NLHF Open Days, a report from the Coach Works and Velinheli's steam test. This video is copyright F&WHR and was published on 22/3/24. It is best viewed at 1080p with Chrome and was videod on a 4K camcorder by John Wooden (F&WHR).

Alco Mountaineer news

Aside from are usual working party reports, there is some exciting news that the boiler is now off Mountaineer. It has also been shot blasted ready for further testing and inspections. Dylan Ham and his team have very kindly carried out this lifting operation for the team. They also arranged for the shot blasting to be carried out by E Jones, Sandblasting and Spraying services, saving the team hours of work. This is another big step in returning Mountaineer to steam.
Click here to see Jay and Dylan's photos.

There are many ways to support the project and get involved.
Please find the Mountaineer Appeal page on the Ffestiniog Railway society web site.
https://www.ffestiniograilway.org.uk/.../mountaineer-appeal
The Mountaineer Group has its own website, where they have a selection of items for you to purchase to support the project.
https://www.alco1265.org.uk/
Finally if you would like to get involved please contact pbooth@ffwhr.com for more information on how you can do this.

F&WHR 21/3/24

Thursday 21/3/24 was forecast to be an overcast day with temperatures of 7-10C at Porthmadog. Steam was being raised at 09:45 at Boston Lodge and it appeared the Tan-y-bwlch PW duty has been withdrawn. With the new season starting in just 2 days there was an expectation of some steam testing as neither Merddin Emrys nor the Penrhyn Ladies has been noted on test yet and The Harbourmaster is booked to run on Saturday and there has been no sign of the Boston Lodge Garratt (No.87?). It could arrive light engine from Dinas on Thursday/Friday. Steam shunting in the new Carriage Shed was noted at 10:15.

At 11:25 blue Hunslet Mines diesel Moel-y-hydd emerged from Minffordd Yard light engine and at 11:30 reversed towards Boston Lodge. At 12:45 a steam train was noted reversing its rake in the area of old Loco Shed sidings. At the same staff were giving Tan-y-bwlch platform benches a good pre-season clean. At 13:00 the short rake departed Boston Lodge Halt and headed back to Porthmadog, possibly with another Boston Lodge Tour Group. James Spooner arrived back in the FR platform at 13:05 with the short 3 coach rake.

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This westerly view (21/3/24) shows Moel-y-hydd shunting out of Minffordd Yard and continuing towards Boston Lodge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR and was taken on a web camera.

Blanche arrived from the WHR at 13:19 with a 5 coach mixed train with a cherrypicker and Mess Car No.111, returning from trackside clearance duties, on the rear. This was probably a working from Dinas which had passed Vale of Ffestiniog's ECS at Rhyd Ddu. At 13:30 the Fairlie ran round but attached to the front of Blanche. At 13:45 Blanche reversed its train into the FR platform with the Fairlie double heading and the short 3 coach rake was coupled to the rear. The assemblage departed at 13:49 for Boston Lodge. At 14:25 green liveried Garratt No.143 arrived in the WHR platform from Boston Lodge and gave a cab ride to a party of 5 along the length of the platform. This must have arrived recently as it was noted on steam test at Dinas on 15/3/24. Others then had a cab ride up and down the platform as there seemed to be a number of families visiting the platform on this windy afternoon. The loco departed for Boston Lodge at 14:52.

This easterly view (21/3/24) shows No.143 giving cab rides in the WHR platform. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR and was taken on a web camera.

Harlech Castle arrived in the WHR platform with the WHR Mess Car No.111 at 15:25 from The Cob and ran round 5 minutes later and departed for the depot at 15:37. With the return of Blanche from Dinas it seems only Linda and Merddin Emrys remain to be tested as of the end of the day on Thursday. Vale of Ffestiniog returned light engine from Dinas at 16:55 into the WHR platform and arrived at Boston Lodge at 17:00 to close the day's activities

FR Coach No.20

Glenn Williams, Carriage Works Supervisor reports:
Introducing Gloucester 'Bowsider' No.20, in roughly late 1950s condition - fresh from the paint shop.
This carriage has really been a team effort with almost every member of the team doing something on it.
▪ New window mouldings and drop lights.
▪ Rebuilt balconies, with wood replacing steel chequer plate.
▪ Cill and door rot removed and new teak timber grafted in.
▪ New carpet in the First Class compartments.
▪ All the door interiors changed from 1990s varnished wood to a painted finish, matching the rest of the interior.
▪ A full repaint into 1950s green and ivory livery - to run alongside Vans Nos.11 & 12, Carriages Nos.17, 21 & 38 to help celebrate 70 years of the FR Society and the first trains to run under the new management.
▪ We have even added the slip boards so prominent in those 1950s pictures.
Look out for it in the 'Woodland Wanderer' set - we're sure it will be very popular with enthusiasts and the general public alike!

For images see F&WHR Facebook page.

F&WHR 20/3/24

Wednesday 20/3/24 was forecast to be a rainy overcast day at first with temperatures of 5-11C at Porthmadog but brighter later. The Tan-y-bwlch and Minffordd webcams were out of action again in the morning, for the second day. Steam tests for the new season might be expected with Merddin Emrys, Blanche and Linda and the Boston Lodge based Garratt. Lyd, James Spooner and David Lloyd George have already been tested at Porthmadog and No.143 at Dinas. No trains were observed at Porthmadog at 09:30. With the new season starting in just 3 days one might have thought there would be more activity anticipating the four passenger trains booked to run on Saturday 23/3/24, the two Mountain Spirit workings, The Harbourmaster and the Snowdonia Star. If the Garratt for The Harbourmaster is not yet at Porthmadog, a light engine positioning move must take place by Friday in anticipation of the start of the new season on Saturday.

The sun came out in the late afternoon and access to the Minffordd and Tan-y-bwlch webcams was restored but it did not appear that there were any movements. A surprisingly large number of people walked on the platform looking for trains and photographing rolling stock suggesting that the F&WHR could have started the 2024 season a little earlier. PW staff were still present at Tan-y-bwlch at 17:00.

Busy Easter events

The F&WHR has a busy Easter ahead. In addition to the train services, there will be footplate rides on a number of Quarry Hunslet locomotives at Caernarfon and Porthmadog - plus the launch of the F&WHR's very own set of 'Top Trumps' collectors cards, with games and activities at Caernarfon. There will certainly be fun for all the family. Visitors can find out more about the Easter activities over the weekend of 29/3/24-1/4/24 on the F&WHR website : festrail.co.uk/easter.

Caernarfon footplate rides:
29/3/24 –             12:00-16:00 – HUGH NAPIER & BRITOMART
30/3/24-1/4/24 –  10:00-16:00 – HUGH NAPIER
Porthmadog footplate rides:
30/3/24                10:00-16:00 – LILLA
31/3/24 –             10:00-16:00 – LILLA

The F&WHR are also looking further forward. This year will see the start of our Guided Tours of Boston Lodge Works - looking 'behind the scenes' and discovering some of the fascinating stories about the historic railway. Details will be added to the F&WHR website as soon as they are finalised. Don't forget - if you want to check what trains are going to be running on a specific date, check the online calendar at festrail.co.uk/calendar.

F&WHR 19/3/24

Tuesday 19/3/24 was forecast to be a day of sunny periods with temperatures of 9-11C at Porthmadog. The Tan-y-bwlch and Minffordd webcams were out of action in the morning. Steam tests for the new season might be expected with Merddin Emrys, Blanche and Linda. At 09:30 a PW train came slowly across The Cob with Harlech Castle propelling a DZ wagon with ballast and the FR Mess Coach No.1111 and waited for clearance in the WHR platform. This may have been in association with the spot PW work from the last few days which saw 4 rails and sleepers taken towards the Aberglaslyn Pass by a small PW train. The train departed for the WHR at 09:42.

At 16:50 Lyd arrived in the FR platform at Porthmadog light engine. The loco moved out to the king point at 17:15 and staff rejoined the loco which then ran into the WHR platform. After receiving some attention to the lubrication of its motion the loco departed at 17:29 for Boston Lodge to close the day's activities.

Infrastructure WMWP complete

With the new season's trains just day's away the final touches are being completed with the WMWP. Here is a list of what has been achieved:
Toilets refurbished at Beddgelert
Harbour station gents toilet refurbished and level access created
Blaenau Platform re-constructed
Spooner's kitchen re-floored
Topsy electrical distribution board replaced in Spooners
Tan-y-bwlch cafe required some work
Micro ETS installed Rhyd Ddu to Waunfawr
Second token machine re-instated at Boston Lodge
New cable from Tunnel North to Minffordd to improve ETS reliability on FR
Tan-y-bwlch water tower refurbished and roofed
600m of track relayed on FR in the Whistling Curve to Hafod-y-llyn and crossing Bothy area
Track laid inside and the fan outside the new Small Loco Shed
All company Personal Computers upgraded
New internal phone system based on MS Teams introduced and commissioned
With cooperation of the F&WHR's neighbouring land owners around 20km of Lineside clearance has taken place
Boston Lodge toll gate steps re built
Oh and staff had two weeks off for Christmas!
Every weekend since November has seen volunteers working on the infrastructure and without this help none of the above could be achieved.
Finally despite having a fairly hefty programme of work to ensure the F&WHR has locos and carriages for the season Boston Lodge built a tool van for Lineside team.
Thanks everyone!

This easterly view (18?/3/24) shows the completed fan of sidings for the Small Loco Shed. Work by the ROWG and White Rose Group over two weekends in March has almost completed the job with a little ballasting and tamping still to complete. The track to the left with the ballast wagon will lead to the new Garratt Shed incorporating a suitable sized pit for maintenance of the Boston Lodge allocated Garratt. The WHRS is funding this single road shed project. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera.

This westerly view (18/3/24) shows the completed new Tool Van, resembling a GWR Toad Brake Van from this perspective. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera.

F&WHR 18/3/24

Monday 18/3/24 was forecast to be a cloudy day with temperatures of 10-11C at Porthmadog. There were no trains visible at 08:15 at Tan-y-bwlch or Porthmadog. Steam test for the new season might be expected with Merddin Emrys, Blanche and Linda. Vale of Ffestiniog was shunting outside the Carriage Shed at 08:30.

Upnor Castle turned up in the WHR platform by 09:25 propelling the FR Mess coach No.1111. The train departed up the WHR by 09:44.

Dinas steam tests 15/3/23

Up at Dinas No.143 received a steam test on 15/3/23.

WHR on TV

The new season is nearly here as final preparations are made for the official ‘first day’ back this Saturday, 23/3/24. The services for the opening Saturday will include the Snowdonia Star, departing from Caernarfon Station, a location which featured on the popular S4C programme; ‘Am Dro’ last month. This popular Welsh language programme sees 4 contestants battle it out to have their favourite Welsh walking trail immortalised in the S4C walk of fame, with a cash prize for the winner. The WHR featured on an episode, aired on the 25/2/24, where Carys (a former FWHR Buffet Steward) lead the other 3 contestants on a walk around Caernarfon and the Foryd (the road around the shore of the tidal inlet west of Caernarfon Harbour), which included a special train journey to kick things off.

So why not come and visit the WHR for your own special train journey at Caernarfon, Porthmadog or Blaenau Ffestiniog this year?
The countdown to the reopening continues!

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