Welsh Highland Railway
Stop Press Page
V4.3638
News (updated 10/6/18)
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Images updated from 9/6/18
Star Picture
This northerly view (19/9/17) shows No.87 being dragged from Boston Lodge to Dinas following failure on 16/9/17 with a frame problem. Vale of Ffestiniog provides the traction at 1040 approaching Summit Cutting at Pont Cae'r Gors. The weather had improved from that of the dismal SuperPower weekend. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Welcome to Version 4 of this website, launched on September 8 2004 with news about work on Phase 4 of the WHR scheme. In addition to this Stop Press page and a Phase 1/2 page, there are 9 location pages, covering the Phase 3 works between Waunfawr and Rhyd Ddu. There are a further 9 pages covering Phase 4, the full route through Beddgelert, the Aberglaslyn Pass and on to Porthmadog, including the Traeth Mawr to Pen-y-Mount works recently constructed by the WHHR with three regularly updated map links for this area by Laurence Armstrong.
Finally, there are pages covering 'Phase 5', Views from the Line, the history of the abandoned PBSSR works around Beddgelert, Archived News and a Contacts page for volunteers. Another page covers the current operation of the WHHR southwest from Pen-y-Mount.
The above OS map shows the route through the Aberglaslyn Pass and Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. Image produced from the Ordnance Survey Get-a-map service. Image reproduced with kind permission of Ordnance Survey and Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland.
Click here to use the free OS Get-a-map service.
Route section pages
Listed below are links to pages featuring progress on different sections of the line or archive views. Jump ahead to News section or follow the section links from page to page. Please note that access to the links below was restored on 2/9/04 at the new website www.isengard.co.uk
Phase 4 pages
Rhyd Ddu to Pont Cae'r Gors (updated 29/6/06)
Pont Cae'r Gors to Hafod Ruffydd Halt (new 8/10/06)
Hafod Ruffydd Halt to Beddgelert Forest Halt (updated 4/12/06)
Beddgelert Forest Halt to Beddgelert Station (updated 1/7/07)
Beddgelert Station Area (updated 30/6/07)
Beddgelert Station to Bryn-y-felin (updated 1/7/07)
Aberglaslyn Pass (updated 2/7/07)
Nantmor to Pont Croesor (updated 16/7/07)
Pont Croesor to Pen-y-Mount (updated 1/4/07)
WHHR (Porthmadog) (updated 1/4/07)
Porthmadog Cross Town Link (updated1/4/07)
Other pages
'Phase 6' page (new 2/4/06)
Views from the Line Page (updated 26/2/05)
PBSSR Works Historical Page (updated 25/3/05)
Rhyd Ddu Opening Page (New 14/2/04)
Archived News Page (updated 1/6/18)
Snow Scenes (updated 31/10/15)
Rolling Stock News Page (updated 28/12/04)
Phase 4 News Page (updated 3/3/05)
Volunteer Contact details page (updated 18/5/16)
Phase 2 and 3 page list (updated 27/8/08)
Video list (new 9/11/15)
Access to Phase 2 pages is currently being progressed.
If you would like an automated announcement of site updates, email me at the NEW (2013) address below replacing the letters 'dot' with a full stop
Isengard@talktalkdotnet
This has been introduced as an anti-spam feature.
Disclaimer
There has never been any intent by myself to suggest that the views on these pages represent the views, opinions or policy of the F&WHR, the WHRCL or the WHRS.
I am happy to confirm that this is an INDEPENDENT web news service.
Stop Press!!
New construction images/text will be posted on a regular basis.
New text in RED!
Click here for Laurence Armstrong's latest WHR North map dated 5/11/07
Click here for Laurence Armstrong's latest WHR Middle map dated 14/3/10
Click here for Laurence Armstrong's latest WHR South map dated 14/3/10
Click here for Mike Schumann's Phase 4 TWA maps courtesy of Steve Harris/WHRS
Click here for John Sreeves Gradient profile courtesy of Steve Harris/WHRS
Click here for Chainages and OS Map Reference
Snowdonian Limited 9/6/18
After a non-stop run from Porthmadog to Caernarfon The Snowdonian Limited paused at Dinas at midday for a hog roast in brilliant sunshine and a visit to Dinas Works.
This southerly view (9/6/18) shows No.143 hauling The Snowdonian Limited with an 'on the move' token exchange at Dinas at 10:52. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (9/6/18) shows the train returning from Caernarfon at 11:50 after a brief look at the new Caernarfon station building. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This view (9/6/18) shows No.130 in Dinas Works. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This view (9/6/18) shows Castell Caernarfon in Dinas Works taken apart for an extensive rewire. The bonnets are at Boston Lodge for repainting. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (9/6/18) shows the train returning from Caernarfon passing Hafod-y-llyn in the afternoon. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This westerly view (9/6/18) shows the train returning from Caernarfon crossing Britannia Bridge in the afternoon before the Ladies took over for a trip up the FR. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Boston Lodge report 6/6/18
Diesel No.9 was fitted with a new compressor in June after its recent failure in traffic. The loco is maximum speed 15 mph and is ideal for heavy PW work but cannot match passenger needs due to its low maximum speed.
Works shunter Harold is being refurbished after a start made as a volunteer project. The loco saw use on construction trains on the WHR about 10 years ago. It had a failed clutch and this has now been replaced. The shunter has been restored to its green livery.
This easterly view (16/5/18) shows newly restored works shunter Harold freshly painted in original green livery at Boston Lodge before acquiring the name Harold painted on the bonnet. The loco will feature at the Hunslet Gala representing that company's prodigious diesel loco output. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
A new coach underframe (plus bogies) is under construction for the L&BR. Unlike the previous three coach underframes constructed for the L&BR which were dual braked, this will be vacuum fitted only.
Work is underway on the cradle frame for the new double Fairlie James Spooner, though the new boiler is being welded off site. Work is expected to restart on Welsh Pony this summer after a protracted break with attention to valve gear.
Harlech Castle is receiving attention after failing some time ago. The transmission is back from being rebuilt by an outside contractor. A vacuum brake exhauster is to be fitted as a policy change for PW trains will see them fully fitted in future.
Conwy Castle is also receiving attention as a volunteer led rebuild project. This loco's superstructure will be restored to a style more in keeping with the original design and when it emerges it will look like Upnor Castle. This loco will only be used on PW trains.
The KMX Tamper/Liner is also in Boston Lodge at the moment receiving attention. The machine was build by Framafer (a subsidiary of Plasser & Theurer), it is a very useful machine and keeps the line in fine fettle doing work that would take many volunteers shovel packing. Originally used in a French mine on a metre gauge underground railway, the frame was cut in half to remove it from underground.
This southerly view (18/5/18) shows an aerial view of Boston Lodge. From left to right can be seen Harlech Castle minus its engine, the KMX receiving attention with the frame of the press nearer the Erecting Shop. Green shunter Harold is behind Hunslet Moel y gest standing outside the Erecting Shop. To the right is a WHR B wagon repurposed for coal carrying and another B wagon carrying the bonnets of WHR Funkey Castell Caernarfon, presumably for repainting in the Coach Works. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera using a quadcopter. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
VivaRail Class 230 for Conwy Valley 7/6/18
The Conwy Valley line to Blaenau Ffestiniog (as well as Wrexham-Bidston and Chester-Crewe) will see the newly refurbished ex-District Line D stock now known as Class 230. The D78 stock has 18m aluminium bodied coaches, built by Met-Camm in Birmingham and was introduced in 1978, entering service in 1980. The stock was withdrawn between 2015-7 but the vehicles were said to have much life left in them. Vivarail has announced that it has been chosen as preferred bidder to supply a fleet of Class 230 D-Trains to KeolisAmey for the Wales and Borders franchise. The trains will be the first to come into service as part of the new franchise and will demonstrate KeolisAmey’s commitment to providing new, high quality rolling stock to Welsh passengers.
This mock up view (6/18) shows the proposed Wales & Border livery on a Class 230. The single leaf doors are colour differentiated for those with poor eyesight. The large T logo stands for 'Transport for Wales', the WAG Agency that controls transport funding. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright VivaRail and is computer generated. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Adrian Shooter, CEO of Vivarail (and ex-MD of Chiltern), said "This is a very exciting day for us and we are proud to be supplying the first of the new trains for Wales. We know that KeolisAmey want to bring the best new trains to their passengers so our interior layout has been designed to do exactly that. As well as the wide and spacious carriages the trains will have a Universal Access Toilet, WiFi, air conditioning, USB ports and 3-pin sockets. There will be a range of seating layouts and plenty of space for bikes and luggage. With KeolisAmey we have been determined to give passengers the very best travelling experience and the trains they deserve: modern, comfortable, reliable and environmentally-friendly."
"In conjunction with our partners at Creactive we have worked on a livery design that will be seen across the whole fleet. Our aim has always been to provide innovative solutions for operators and to that end I’m delighted to announce that our trains will be built as battery/diesel hybrids to cut down on emissions and make use of the exciting new technology we have developed over the past two years. As the UK’s leading battery train manufacturer we know that emission-free trains are the future and we will continue to spearhead that development. With this hybrid fleet we will deliver a train that is clean, green and reliable, making use of GPS systems to cut out the engines in stations and environmentally-sensitive areas."
This mock up view (6/18) shows the proposed 2+2 seating arrangement which includes bays with tables, 3-pin power sockets and USB ports. Hopefully the seating will be a little more comfy that the hard look envisaged here. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright VivaRail and is computer generated. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Adrian Shooter added “Our trains will come into service in summer 2019 and will form the flagship fleet for Wales and Borders and I look forward to taking the first journey in North Wales next year. I would like to congratulate KeolisAmey in their successful bid and thank our many friends from across Wales for their active support over the last few years.”
Colin Lea, Mobilisation Director, KeolisAmey Wales Cymru, said: "We are proud to announce that KeolisAmey and Vivarail will provide a step-change in passenger comfort and service quality on three North Wales routes (Wrexham-Bidston, Conwy Valley, Chester-Crewe) by introducing these units, fitted with the latest passenger comfort appliances such as power supply at all seats, high-speed Wi-Fi, air-cooling, bike spaces, and a brand new seating layout reflecting the needs of the passengers on these routes. In addition, these innovative hybrid trains, fitted with state-of-the-art monitoring systems, will provide a significant change in performance and reliability, helping KeolisAmey to deliver a more reliable service for its customers."
Design and build of the 3-car trains is already underway at Vivarail’s two sites and orders have been placed with the leading supplier of Universal Access Toilets based in Cwmbran. The fleet of 5 trains will move to Wales for final testing and commissioning in early 2019.
This mock up view (6/18) shows the proposed bike and buggy area utilising tip up seats near one of the single leaf power doors. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright VivaRail and is computer generated. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Hunslet 150 update 7/6/18
Hunslet Margaret will be visiting from the VoR. There will be WHR specials on Friday. As well as the Ladies Day out to Caernarfon on Saturday 23/6/18, Taliesin and Prince will haul Vintage FR sets and there will be WHR specials to Hafod-y-Llyn and Beddgelert from Porthmadog. Visiting locos will also run freight trains on the lower reaches of the Welsh Highland and a passenger train heads to Beddgelert in the late afternoon. There will be further specials on the WHR Sunday.
See F&WHR website for full details and booking forms.
Moving Pictures No.19 6/6/18
Click on the YouTube link to watch 27 mins 39 seconds of video covering events on the F&WHR including the Beer Festival and a Boston Lodge update. This YouTube was published on 6/6/18. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional betamax camcorder and is best watched in 1080p HD in Google Chrome browser or View on YouTube.
Details of WalesRail services 4/6/18
Of direct interest to the F&WHR is that there will be co-funding of a new joint NR/F&WHR station building at Blaenau Ffestiniog as part of local partnership and economic master plan to support the Conwy Valley Line and the F&WHR.
The new Keolis/Amey franchise is to hire in Mk IV rolling stock made redundant by the introduction of Azumas on the ECML in early 2020 to run its loco hauled services Holyhead-Manchester/Cardiff. The new Directly operated LNER service of the ECML will be disposing of the Mk IV rakes over the next few years as the new IEPT is introduced. The new WalesRail franchise does not seem keen to buy the new Mk V coaches being introduced by Transpennine this year despite encouragement from several sources. The seating and ride in Mk IV coaches has been compared unfavourably to Mk III coaches for many years.
The replacement of the Mk III coaches is necessary as they are not compliant with controlled emission/disabled access, however Chiltern successfully introduced compliant Mk III's after refurbishment including plug doors. There will be an expansion to three loco hauled trains per day on the Cardiff -Holyhead route as part of a 2 hourly service. Sadly no expansion of loco hauled services is envisaged throughout the franchise. However, there will be faster services with some stops moved to other services. Three four coach sets plus DVTs will be used based at Cardiff Canton for the North Wales-South Wales service but no mention is made of the Crewe/Manchester-Holyhead/Llandudno loco hauled trains!
From 2021 a new class (unspecified) of long distance/rural DMU, the CAF Civity, will be introduced which will successively replace Class 175/158/153/150 by 2024. The DMUs will be based at Chester and Machynlleth and operate North Wales and Cambrian services. There will be 51 2-car and 26 3-car trains.
The North Wales Metro from Wrexham to Bidston (for Birkenhead/Liverpool) will be run by the new Class 230 Vivarail units (ex-District Line). These hybrid units will be battery assisted and 5 three car units are envisaged based at Wrexham/Chester. Tables will be available in some bays. There will be a doubling of service to two trains per hour, one of which will be limited stop. Shotton station will be refurbished with integrated High and Low level facilities to improve interchange between the two routes.
The North Wales Coast will see several route changes. There will be 1 train per hour on the routes Manchester Airport-Bangor, Chester-Crewe and Llandudno-Liverpool. The latter new service will make use of the Halton Curve that will be reopened this year and call at Liverpool South Parkway, Runcorn and all stations to Llandudno. Another innovation will be a 2 hourly Cardiff-Central Liverpool Service via Wrexham using the Halton Curve.
Aberystwyth-Shrewsbury will see all trains stopping at the new Bow Street station (Aberystwyth Parkway) from its opening in 2020 and an increase to regular hourly services on this route. No mention is made of improvements for the Cambrian Coast Line to Pwllheli. Even the Heart of Wales Line will see an improvement from four to five trains per day plus a turn back service at each end of the route.
Several stations will see improvements but there is no sign of the long called for Connah's Quay station. Chester will get yet another concourse, bus interchange and an improved car park. Wrexham General will have a 'multimodal interchange'. Machynlleth is to be a pilot station for a 'dementia friendly design' after consultation with stakeholders. Many other changes are envisaged in South Wales.
See also BBC News report, Rail Gazette and International Rail Journal reports.
No.143 Britannia Bridge 18/5/18
This southerly view (18/5/18) shows an aerial view of Porthmadog station with No.143 departing and crossing Britannia Bridge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera using a quadcopter. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Britannia Bridge level crossing incidents 1/6/18
The F&WHR has called in the local police to deal with continuing incidents of abuse the Britannia Bridge level crossing with car drivers sometimes failing to stop at red lights and cyclists not using the designated cycle lanes. On 23/5/18 the F&WHR's Safety Officer met with the local PC SO to discuss abuse of the crossing and what could be done to improve the situation. See Cambrian News story.
Caernarfon Station progress 1/6/18
This southerly view (1/6/18) shows the new stone cladding around the staff entrance at the south end of the station building as seen from Segontium Terrace. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Porthmadog basks in sunshine 4/6/18!
For two days in the last week or so Porthmadog has been the warmest place in the country, reaching 25C. that together with the hatching of the Glaslyn Osprey chicks may bring increased tourism to the F&WHR. However the redevelopment of Beddgelert Forest Campsite to log cabins the consequent temporary closure of the Halt may damage traffic as many people used to get on at this location. Another concern is the rising cost of fuel now exceeding £1.30 per litre because of international worries and the weakness of the pound because of Brexit. The F&WHR is a full tank of petrol away from major conurbations. A campaign is growing for a People's Vote on the final Brexit deal.
Palmerston to visit Bala 21-24/6/18
Palmerston will make its first ever visit to the Bala Lake Railway and will run on 21/6/18 and 23-4/6/18. This is in return for the BLR moving their annual steam Gala forward a week to 16-18/6/18 to avoid a clash with the F&WHR's Hunslet Gala. It will be the first tender loco to run on the BR line since standard gauge days!
The Snowdonian Limited 9/6/18
The Snowdonian Limited will run on Saturday 9/6/18. There will be a Friday evening tour of Boston Lodge at 16:45. The train departs Porthmadog at 09:15 non-stop for Caernarfon with a light breakfast and a hog roast and works visit to Dinas on the return. This is followed by a run to Blaenau Ffestiniog with afternoon tea at Tan-y-bwlch and a return to Porthmadog by 19:15. Tickets are £185 with limited first class for £400. All funds raised go to the Diamond Jubilee fund supporting sustainable development of the F&WHR. See F&WHR website.
Wylfa B funding go ahead 4/6/18!
Wylfa B will be Britain's next Nuclear Power Station. On 4/6/18 the UK Government revealed it was in talks to fund Wylfa B Nuclear Power Station (aka Wylfa Newydd) rather than ask a private company to take the scheme forward as the government could raise funds at cheaper rates than private finance. Wylfa B will make a contribution to low-carbon electricity generation. See BBC news stories about Wylfa Nuclear Power Station. De-fuelling Wylfa A commenced at Easter 2016 after shut down in December 2015 and will be completed by the end of 2018. Some 500 trainloads of part used nuclear fuel rods are being extracted and sent to Sellafield for reprocessing and are the last commercial freight on the North Wales Coast line. See BBC news story. Some 25% of the fuel rods were recovered in the first 9 months. With the Government considering funding the project and input from the WAG, it is possible the scheme will change from that envisaged originally by Horizon Nuclear who wanted to bring everything in to a new dock at Wylfa. For example revitalisation of the Amlwch line could be part of the project to receive construction materials at a base at the former tank farm at Rhosgoch with a new road across fields to the site. WAG has aspirations to reopen the line to Llangefni for commuter traffic into Bangor to reduce the need for yet another road bridge across the Menai Straits.
It is to be hoped that North Wales railways will benefit from materials brought in to build the power station, the delivery of fuel rods and that removal of spent fuel rods at Valley Nuclear Sidings might continue after a brief pause from 2019 until the reactor is constructed.
Service Car No.2010 back in service 2/6/18
Due to technical difficulties with Service Car No.2010 the F&WHR announced on 31/5/18 that they were unable to provide hot food on the following Welsh Highland Railway trains, the 10:50 train from Porthmadog and the 14:20 return from Caernarfon. However, the trolley service of hot & cold drinks, cakes, biscuits and confectionery - together with our range of beers, wines and spirits - was however continue to be provided on these trains.
Following some fast work in the repair shop the problems affecting Service Carr No.2010 have been fixed and the vehicle returned to traffic on 2/6/18 after just 2 days out of use. The full range of hot & cold food, drinks, snacks etc. is again available on ALL Welsh Highland Railway services after a gap of just 2 days.
No.130 update 30/5/18-3/6/18
By 30/5/18 boiler tubes had arrived at Dinas.
By 1/6/18 the smokebox door has received some attention. This was one of the few bits from the old boiler that was good to be reused. The door was sand blasted and primed. It is now ready to fit when the time comes.
By 3/6/18 the firebox was inserted and mostly
riveted in. About 50% of the stays have been inserted and tacked in, including
the majority of the crown stays.
Over the next week or two, the balance of the remaining stays will be fitted,
just leaving the welding to start.
WalesRail announcement 4/6/18
From 14/10/18 KeolisAmey, who have been awarded the WalesRail franchise, will set about a series of improvements for what they say is a new era for passengers and for Wales with more services, newer trains, better stations and a more reliable networking, including:
These improvements are part of a series of investments totalling £1.9bn that will be made over the 15-year contract period to bring about a transformation in rail travel for people and communities the length and breadth of Wales and its borders. The contract will run from 4/6/18 until 14/10/33, with rail services transferring on 14/10/18. It also includes delivering the next phases of the South Wales Metro project.
As part of the South Wales Metro development, journey times will be reduced and the frequency of trains will be increased, while new Metro vehicles will bring on-street running back to Cardiff. The link from Penarth, Barry and Bridgend to destinations north of Cardiff Central will be maintained using new tri-mode trains which can run on power from overhead electric cables, batteries and diesel engines.
Smart ticketing will be rolled out across Wales making travel easier and fares more flexible. New cheaper off-peak fares will be introduced, including reductions to fares in North Wales and at the heads of the Valleys.
KeolisAmey is a joint venture partnership between international transport operator Keolis (70% owned by SNCF) and infrastructure asset management specialist Amey, owned by a family Spanish business Ferrovial. So Labour have part achieved their objective of renationalising Welsh Railways, albeit owned by France!
While the announcement does focus on the major population centre of South Wales, there is some news for North Wales with the Wrexham-Bidston Metro improvement but many feel this would be better as an extension of the Liverpool DC electric network giving through journeys to the heart of Liverpool rather than an uncertain connection at windswept Bidston station. There is no mention of improving the North Wales to Cardiff service which suffers from overcrowded Class 158s and would be better served, as many feel, by an off-the-shelf a loco hauled operation such as TransPennine Express is introducing this summer. There is no mention of the re-dualling of Wrexham-Rossett to improve reliability or of services to Liverpool Lime Street via the currently being rebuilt Halton Curve.
Improvements to Cambrian Line services will directly affect the F&WHR and reduction in fares on North Wales Coast may bring more day-trippers but the Bangor-Caernarfon gap is still a problem for travel by train to the WHR. This awaits a TRAWS campaign for Bangor-Afon Wen. Stage 1 of the TRAWS scheme (Aberystwyth-Carmarthen) is awaiting the outcome of a WAG Feasibility study now 3 months overdue and said to be at the final draft stage.
No.134 report 25/5/18
The May working party was held on the same weekend as the Railway's Rail Ale weekend (19-20/5/18)as usual but the volunteers still managed to do some work! On the Saturday they sorted through all the motion as this had been moved from shed to shed a couple of times and was checked to ensure all was present and correct. The team also cleaned it up and oiled the surfaces to prevent rust forming. They hope the motion can be fitted in the near future as they need to have new pins and bushes manufactured. Later on the Saturday volunteers received some instructions to remove the chimney and smokebox door from off the boiler and were able to remove the smokebox door and lower it to the ground.
On the Sunday volunteers needed to clear some room around the boiler so as to get the tractor in to enable the chimney to be lifted off. This also enabled the team to move the smokebox door into their workshop. With access now better the chimney was lifted off and moved to outside the group's workshop. A start was then made to remove bolts to release the top section of the smokebox itself. With the smokebox having already been condemned at an earlier restoration attempt it had been cut in half horizontally to give better access for the removal of the tubes at that time. It had then bolted back together so that all that was needed was to free off most of those bolts. The whole of the front end of the boiler was then covered over. The only other job tackled was the painting of the axle box covers in gloss top coat.
See NG15 website for full details and images.
Caernarfon Station progress 23-29/5/18
This northerly view (23/5/18) shows the 'dragon scales'. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This southerly view (29/5/18) shows the glass frontage nearing completion including two types of glass, with curved glass around the entrance door. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (29/5/18) shows the 'dragon scales' completed. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This southerly view (29/5/18) shows the glass frontage nearing completion. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Upnor Castle on weed killing train 18/5/18
This easterly view (18/5/18) shows Upnor Castle working the weed killing train around Boston lodge curve. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera using a quadcopter. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Caernarfon/Bontnewydd Bypass go ahead 24/5/18
Work may start as early as November on the long awaited A487 Caernarfon/Bontnewydd bypass, following final approval by the Welsh Assembly. The route runs from the end of the Y Felinheli bypass to the end of the Pen-y-groes Bypass at the A499 roundabout south of Dinas. It runs south of Caernarfon and west of Bontnewydd, crossing the WHR just north of Bontnewydd Halt. The scheme has not pleased all as it does not link into the A4085 to Beddgelert. Passive provision for a future TRAWS Bangor-Afon Wen NR route where the bypass crosses the WHR was requested by WHR engineers. See BBC news story. Plans for the bypass may be found here.
No.143 Aberglaslyn Pass 23/5/18
This aerial westerly view (23/5/18) shows No.143 crossing Bryn-y-felin bridge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera using a quadcopter. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
WalesRail let to Keolis-Amey
Keolis-Amey has won the £5 billion 15 year contract to run WalesRail. The company currently runs the small commuter networks Docklands Light Railway and Greater Manchester MetroLink and has no experience of long distance loco-hauled Intercity services, such as Holyhead-Manchester/Cardiff which dominate the Wales regional railway. The decision seems to have focussed on the need to create a Cardiff Valleys Metro network.
Initial reaction was mixed, though a map produced by the BBC/ATW was an inaccurate map of the current rail network that shows errors in North Wales. Keolis-Amey have stated the network map did not come from them and has asked the BBC to correct the errors. The following errors were noted on the BBC's map:
While Amey has promised new trains, there has been no suggestion that these might be the loco-hauled trains that have proved so successful on the Holyhead Cardiff/Manchester axis and are available off the shelf as a follow on order after the Transpennine order. Proper maps and details of the 'exciting new services' will be released on 4/6/18 unless MTR challenge the award.
See BBC news story which includes the defective map.
Vale of Ffestiniog rescues PW train 21/5/18
Vale of Ffestiniog was called to action on 21/5/18 and after a delay on The Cob around lunchtime forced a path up the WHR, apparently to rescue a stranded PW train. There was a further delay waiting for an ATW train to clear Cae Pawb crossing whilst waiting for the Machynlleth Powerbox to authorise the movement.
This aerial westerly view (21/5/18) shows Vale of Ffestiniog waiting at the site of Porthmadog New whilst the driver walks to the release cabin on the north side of Cae Pawb crossing. An ATW trains is approaching the crossing from Porthmadog. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera using a quadcopter. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This aerial westerly view (21/5/18) shows Vale of Ffestiniog crossing Cae Pawb. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings using a quadcopter and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This northerly view (21/5/18) shows Vale of Ffestiniog apparently rescuing No.9 on a PW train and crossing Britannia Bridge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Footplate rides at Porthmadog Bank holiday weekend
Linda will be available for footplate rides at Porthmadog on Saturday 26/5/18 and Monday 28/5/18 and Hugh Napier on Sunday 27/5/18.
Aerial view of Caernarfon 19/5/18
This southerly view (19/5/18) shows an aerial view of Caernarfon station with the rotunda making its appearance on the top and glass windows fitted. Work is also still underway on the roof so the safety barrier is still in place there. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Rawlings and was taken on a digital camera using a quadcopter. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Caernarfon station progress 18-21/5/18
This northerly view (18/5/18) shows work well underway to clad the front of the building in 'dragon scales'. Work is also still underway on the roof so the safety barrier is still in place there. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This easterly view (18/5/18) shows work well underway to clad the front of the building in 'dragon scales'. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This easterly view (21/5/18) shows the glass front is now starting to appear. Work is still underway on the roof. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Final Draft stage for TRAWS project
The TRAWS Feasibility Study to link Aberystwyth with Carmarthen is nearing completion and said to be in final draft phase, although running 3 months late. One aspect of the study is to look at alternative routes to avoid the clash with the curvaceous Gwili Railway, a steam operation that operates from a point just north of Carmarthen and occupies the trackbed as far as Llanpumsaint. One option that might be considered is to build a new route from Lampeter to Llandeilo (the route of the proposed Swansea and Aberystwyth Junction Railway of the 1860s) and provide a new curve west of Loughor giving direct access to Swansea rather than reverse at Llanelli. This would also benefit the Central Wales Line.
WAG plays down expectations of WalesRail franchise
The Welsh Assembly First Minister, Carwyn Jones, warned passengers that substantial changes including new carriages and electric services are “not going to happen overnight” when the new 15 year 'not for profit' Franchise is let later in May. While new loco hauled services will soon be launched on TransPennine from Liverpool/Manchester-Newcastle there is no sign that penetrating services into England from Wales or vice versa will be improved to this extent despite the rolling stock currently being in construction and available at discount as a follow-on order. See Nation Cymru website.
BF&TR latest
The new management of the Blaenau Ffestiniog and Trawsfynydd Society is hoping to have its AGM at the end of June when a new committee can hopefully be elected and take the project forward. Some areas cleared last year and now grassing over again.
Lyn for SuperPower
Planned for last year but delayed by the late completion of the loco, the L&BR's Lyn is coming to SuperPower for the weekend only. The loco recently receiving attention to its wheel profile at the L&BR. See Lyn update. The L&BR website confirms Lyn is now hauling all trains. In return Lyd is going to the L&BR 29-30/9/18 and will appear alongside Lyn. The L&BR has promised Lyn will come to the WHR for a longer stay on future occasions.
Another 'mystery guest' is also promised and many enthusiasts are hoping this will be Russell. It has been 18 years since the loco appeared at SuperPower 2000 when the line was only open to Waunfawr. Russell has not hauled a train through the Aberglaslyn Pass since closure in 1937!
On the downside, the special train planned for Society members who have been in the society for 25 years has been cancelled.
The society AGM will be on 15/9/18 in Y Galeri Caernarfon. Hopefully extended talks about other railways projects will be kept until the end of the AGM unlike recent years when they have rather taken over the AGM.
Rail-Ale latest
Rail-Ale takes place from 18-20/5/18 and is focussed on the Caernarfon-Waunfawr section again with frequent shuttles. There are 99 beers, 43 ciders and 6 perries, many brewed in Wales! See updated Rail Ale website.
This leaflet view (12/5/18) shows the advert for Rail Ale. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
New Historic WHR video published 16/5/18
A short 3 minute video taken in 1936 has been published by the WHHG costing £5. See WHHG page.
Station View Volunteer Accommodation 13/5/18
Station View next to Dinas station is now available for volunteers from 1/5/18 with discounts for WHRS members. See WHRS webpage.
This view (13/5/18) shows the living room at Station View Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This view (13/5/18) shows the kitchen/dinner at Station View Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This view (13/5/18) shows the bathroom at Station View Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This view (13/5/18) shows a single room at Station View Dinas. Volunteers needs to bring the own bedding, pillows, towels etc. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Waunfawr station plans (12/5/18)
Following a major private donation the Waunfawr station building will be completed in Spring 2019 but a start will be made by September so will be visible for SuperPower. An attempt has been made to recreate the large irregular stone pattern of the original but wit6h the end wall having more entrances the original appearance with large random stonework will not be possible. Many of the larger stones were deemed unusable even though being individually numbered by the WHHG. They were incorporated in the retaining wall for the Snowdonia Parc pub's beer garden. Some of the smaller stones are available under the Waunfawr footbridge on pallets and at Dinas South Yard. See WHHG website for previous views and history.
A concrete foundation pad and service ducts were provided in the original construction of the station in 2000. The original station building was very similar to the Dinas station building with stone facings, yellow brick detail around windows and doors and a hipped slate roof. the new building will incorporate a waiting room, operations room, toilet and accessible toilet. The plans shown below have been prepared by Robert Chambers, a conservation architect.
These plan views (12/5/18) show the currently envisaged layout of the new station building at Waunfawr. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Signalling news
With the Pont Croesor-Beddgelert signalling completed attention moves on to the Rhyd Ddu area this summer, presumably to fit the Beddgelert-Rhyd Ddu section with interlocked starter signals.
Caernarfon Food Festival Special 12/5/18
This northerly view (12/5/18) shows Merddin Emrys stabled at Dinas after hauling the Caernarfon Food Festival Special from Porthmadog. The train was due to return to Caernarfon later to haul the 1730 return to Porthmadog after the normal service train had returned ECS from Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Dinas report 12/5/18
This view (12/5/18) shows long sidelined Castell Caernarfon being repaired at Dinas after return of its refurbished gearbox last September. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This view (12/5/18) shows Castell Caernarfon under repair at Dinas. The operating department will welcome the return of a heavy haul rescue loco at the north end of the line rather than having to rely on the FR Funkey stabled at Boston Lodge up to 25 miles away). This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
This view (12/5/18) shows WHR PW Mess coach No.1001 under repair at Dinas. The return to traffic of this coach will be welcomed by volunteers who often have to work out in inclement weather without a support train. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Moving Pictures No.18 11/5/18
Click on the YouTube link to watch 20 mins 30 seconds of video covering events on the F&WHR including the new Caernarfon station building. This YouTube was published on 11/5/18. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional betamax camcorder and is best watched in 1080p HD in Google Chrome browser or View on YouTube.
Rail Ale 18-20/5/18
The F&WHR is still waiting for the list of real ales, ciders etc, but there is still a good choice of catering vendors on site at Dinas during 'Rail-Ale' 2018. Express Indian Cuisine, Blas Môn Mobile Caterers and Jones' Pizza Co will be 'open for business' on Friday and Saturday - while 'A Lot of Waffle' will be there all three days. For more information see Rail Ale website where timetables are available.
There will be diesel hauled shuttle between Caernarfon and Waunfawr all day with steam hauled shuttle on Friday and Saturday evenings until the last 23:45 from the Waunfawr!
A bookable night bus is also available back to Porthmadog at 22:30 from Dinas.
Appeal for help with 'Hunslet 125'
As 'Hunslet 125' is rapidly approaching, plans have been put in place to prepare Minffordd Yard for the event. With support from paid staff the Waggon Tracks Team are leading a volunteer effort to get things ready. Good work has already been done thanks to Megabash volunteers and a team from Bombardier, but there is still much to do and help make this an event to remember.
There are jobs for all abilities, if you could spare some time on any of the following dates to help please get in touch, details below.
26-28/5/18 - Waggon Tracks Working Party & Yard Tidy-up
2-3/6/18 - Yard Tidying for Hunslet125
18-21/6/18 - Hunslet 125 Prep & Yard Tidy Completion
25/6/18 - Post Hunslet125 Tidy-up
Hunslet 125 Stewarding : 22-24/6/18
The F&WHR also would appreciate the assistance of volunteer stewards over the event to help in Minffordd Yard. Even half a day will be greatly appreciated (08:30-13:30 or 13:00-17:30). The benefit is the satisfaction of helping your favourite railway and free entry to a major centre of activity for the event.
Contact Will High or Paul Wood. In your email please mention whether you are a current active volunteer. Many thanks in advance.
East Anglian Group meeting 17/5/18
David Gander reports: Our final meeting before our summer break takes place this coming Thursday 17/5/18 when we welcome Gordon Rushton. Gordon will be talking to us about his time as General Manager of the Festiniog Railway – as recounted in his recent book ‘I Tried to Run a Little Railway’. Copies of Gordon’s book will be on sale at the meeting.
We will then meet again in October 2018.
We meet at the Six Bells Pub, 9 High Street, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5DH. We meet up any time after 6-6.30pm and an evening meal is available in the restaurant or bar. Prices are reasonable. The meetings are usually held in the Function Rooms, accessed from the car park at the rear of the pub, and start around 8pm with a halfway break for coffee (£1.20 per person). We finish around 10pm.
There is a charge of £2 per meeting for Group members, £3 for non-members.
Fulbourn is easily accessible from the A14/M11 corridors and is served by Stagecoach bus Citi 1 (This bus runs every 30 minutes until 23.36, via Cambridge railway station where it arrives at 00.05) Car parking can be busy but there is space available on Church Lane, a 3-5 minute walk to the pub.
You are most welcome to join us. We meet on the third Thursday of the month (excepting December when it’s the second Thursday), with meetings held until May – with a break in January.
No.130 update 5-18/5/18
By 5/5/18 the boiler has now been turned, ready to accept the new firebox. It will soon be gently lowered in and the job of securing it to the outer boiler begins.
By 7/5/18 the boiler expansion brackets have now been riveted in place on both sides of the outer wrapper plates.
By 17/5/18 construction of Vesconite bearing surfaces and bushes was underway for many of the bearings. It is easy to machine and is self lubricating and holds excellent thermal tolerances.
By 18/5/18 all the side rods and connecting rods were fitted with Vesconite. The WHR have successfully used this material on various bushes in the past but No.130 will have the majority of its bushes made in Vesconite which will be a first for an NG16.
FR Observation car No.152 enters service 4/5/18
The new £180,000 luxury FR Observation Car No.152 entered service on 5/5/18. Its end window is curved in a vertical plane only after problems with cracks in the WHR's Glaslyn observation window which is curved in 2 planes. Enthusiasts hope the brand new vehicle might be used on The Snowdonian Limited on 9/6/18 and appear on the WHR from time to time.
In hand with Helfa Gelf, the North Wales Open Studio event, the railway has instigated a Poster Competition for the Welsh Highland Railway to celebrate the entry into service of No.152. The winning entries will be displayed at Caernarfon Station when it opens later this year.
This view (4/5/18) shows new FR Observation Car No.152 standing in the WHR platform in Harbour Station, waiting for the train from Blaenau Ffestiniog to arrive. It was to be coupled onto the rear of the carriage set, ready for its debut in public service the following morning. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Hunslet Gala update
There will be 15 guest locos at the Hunslet Gala event on 22-24/6/18, in addition to the 5 F&WHR based Hunslets. All but one loco will be in steam. while most events take place on the FR, on Saturday 23/6/18 there will be a special guest run to Beddgelert. On Sunday 23/6/18 there will be shuttle trains to Beddgelert and on Monday 24/6/18 the ex-W.D. 4-6-0 1215 will run to Caernarfon.
See F&WHR website for full details.
Caernarfon station progress 4/5/18
This easterly view (4/5/18) shows progress with fitting the decorative cladding to Caernarfon station frontage. The aluminium alloy panels resemble stainless steel and have been approved by Cadw, the Welsh Heritage agency. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Events 2018
| 1/1/18 | Final day of Mince Pie Specials |
| 10-18/2/18 | Hugh Napier and Velinheli on display at Kings Cross |
| 10-25/2/18 | Purple timetable Porthmadog-Beddgelert MFX |
| 3-15/3/18 | Orange timetable Porthmadog to Hafod-y-llyn MTFX |
| 14/4/18 | The Snowdonian |
| 12/5/18 | Caernarfon Food Festival (Extra services) |
| 18-20/5/18 | Rail-Ale 14th Annual Beer Festival based at Dinas |
| 9/6/18 | The Snowdonian Limited- a limited stop re-run of The Snowdonian |
| 16-18/6/18 | Hugh Napier at Bala Lake Railway steam gala |
| 21/6 and 23-4/6/18 | Palmerston at Bala Lake Railway |
| 22-25/6/18 | Hunslet 125 Gala celebrating Blanche and Linda's 125th Birthday |
| 9/7/18 | Special timetable for Railtour |
| 5-26/8/18 Sundays | Journey to the Past special Dinas-Rhyd Ddu with Prince and two heritage coaches with an extended stop at Tryfan Junction for refreshments, including packed lunch |
| 14-16/9/18 | SuperPower (WHR AGM 15/9/17) |
| 29-30/9/18 | Lyd visit to L&BR Gala |
| 5-7/10/18 | FR Victorian Weekend (may include some WHR events) |
| 31/10/18 | WHR Halloween Train |
| 8-9/12/18 | WHR Santa Specials (routes to be confirmed) |
| 15-16/12/18 | WHR Santa Specials (routes to be confirmed) |
| 22-23/12/18 | WHR Santa Specials (routes to be confirmed) |
| 27/12/18-1/1/19 | WHR Mince Pie Specials (to be confirmed) |
Mainline news
There will be a series of railtours both to and from North Wales in 2018 while de-fuelling and removing contaminated material from Wylfa Nuclear Power Station will continue for another year at least providing the only freight traffic on the route. In recent years steam on the North Wales Coast/Blaenau Ffestiniog has declined and steam on the Cambrian disappeared due to NR reneging on its promise to provide a mobile ERTMS unit. Railtours are diesel hauled unless otherwise specified. It is good to see a few railtours starting from Bangor but sad to see nothing on the Cambrian again!
14/4/18 'North Wales Coast Express' Crewe to Llandudno/Holyhead (steam throughout on main line) from Crewe Saphos Rail.
28/4/18 'The Ynys Mon Express' Leicester to Holyhead (steam) Tornado UKRT.
2/6/18 'North Wales Coast Express' Crewe to Llandudno/Holyhead (steam throughout on main line) Saphos Rail.
14/6/18 'Three Peaks' Private charter Crewe to Bangor
15/6/18 'Three Peaks' Private charter Bangor to Ravenglass and Fort William
12/7/18 'The Conwy Valley Explorer' Dumfries to Betws-y-coed (47/57 throughout) West Coast Rail.
19/7/18 'The Royal Windsor Express II' Bangor (and stations to Chester) to Windsor West Coast Rail.
22/7/18 'The North Wales Coast Express' Manchester Piccadilly-Llandudno/Holyhead steam throughout on main line) RTC.
24/7/18 'The Welsh Mountaineer' Preston to Blaenau Ffestiniog (steam) RTC.
4/8/18 'The William Shakespeare' Bangor (and stations to Crewe) to Stratford-on-Avon (steam throughout) Saphos Rail.
30/8/18 'The Conwy Valley Explorer II' Harrogate to Betws-y-coed (47/57 throughout) West Coast Rail.
17/10/18 'The Pendle Dalesman III' Bangor (and stations to Chester) to Carlisle (steam Hellifield-Carlisle) West Coast Rail.
19/10/18 'Tenth Anniversary Tour' Chester to Blaenau Ffestiniog/Holyhead (Tornado) Private.
Trackwork Volunteering 2018
Keeping the permanent way, in particular, and the infrastructure in general, fit for trains to run is an essential task. Volunteers have a lot to offer by assisting with this. We have a mix of weekend and weekday working parties. The Black Hand, Tuesday Gang and Rest of the World Gangs will be very glad to accept your help. Contact the relevant organiser to let him know when you plan to join us. Please do not just turn up as that makes it difficult for us to plan ahead.
The programme for 2018 is as follows:
| January | 6-7/1/18 | 13-18/1/18WW | 20-21/1/18 | ||
| February | 3-4/2/18 | 10-15/2/18WW | 17-18/2/18 | ||
| March | 3-4/3/18 | 10-15/3/18WW | 17-18/3/18 | 31/3/18-^ | |
| April | -1/4/18 | 14-15/4/18^ | 26-27/4/18 | ||
| May | 12-13/5/18 | 19-24/5/18WW | 26-27/5/18 | ||
| June | 9-10/6/18 | 23-24/6/18 | |||
| July | 7-8/7/18 | 14-19/7/18WW | 21-22/7/18 | ||
| August | 4-5/8/18 | 18-19/8/18 | |||
| September | 2-3/9/18 | 8-13/9/18WW | 16-17/9/18 | 29-30/9/18 | |
| October | 13-14/10/18 | 27-28/10/18 | |||
| November | 3-8/11/18WW! | 10-11/11/18 | 24-25/11/18 | ||
| December | 3-8/12/18WW! | 8-9/12/18 |
^ Bank Holiday weekend
WW-Working week Saturday-Thursday
! Dates for November and December 2018 are provisional pending preparation of the Winter Major Works Programme for 2018-19.
The Tuesday Gang expects to be operating pretty well every Tuesday.
Arrangements may change so contact the working party organiser before you commit yourself to joining us just to make sure.
Contacts
If you intend to join one of the weekend or Tuesday gangs, please contact the appropriate organiser. If you are interested in weekday working or have any queries about track work volunteering, please contact Paul Bradshaw.
Tuesday Gang:
Contact Tony Baker for details. Phone: 01492 874579 Email: SPUDDY43@aol.com
North Wales Black Hand Gang (BHG):Dafydd Thomas Phone: 01248 681019 Email: dthomas@ffwhr.com
Rest of The World Gang (ROWG):Paul Bradshaw Phone: 01766 770034 Email: pbradshaw@ffwhr.com
If you intend to join one of the weekend or Tuesday Gang days, please contact the appropriate organiser. If you are interested in weekday working or have any queries about track work volunteering, please contact Paul Bradshaw. See Contacts page.
Gradient graph
John Hopkins has contributed this image of the gradient profile of the WHR. It makes clear how much of a mountain we have climbed and how steep the drop through Beddgelert is. Maybe most of all, it reveals the challenge facing northbound trains after they stop at Beddgelert!
This image is courtesy/copyright John Hopkins and is derived from data courtesy John Sreeves with additional work by Michael Bentley. Click on the image to enlarge.
Site development
If you have suggestions for development of this site, please contact me by email at the address at the top of the page.
Comments
If you would like to make a comment about this website, why not visit my Guestbook? If you have a correction or require a reply please leave your email address or, more simply, send an email directly to my email address shown near the top of this page, just after the list of links to other pages.
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Maps & Plans and links
Click here for Steve Harris' /WHRS' full list of Historical Maps and Gradient Profiles
DVD material can be purchased from Jon Marsh who is the WHRS' (DVD Only) Mail Order officer. All other materials are now sold in the F&WHRS shop.
Click here for the Mail Order web page
Click here for the Official WHR website
Click here for Official WHHR site
Click here for FR Company websites
Click here for Welsh Highland Heritage Group
V4.3638 updated 10/6/18