Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway
Stop Press Page
V4.5004
News (12/10/24)
You are visitor No.
to this website
Modern images updated from 26/9/24
Archive images updated from 28/7/03
Star Picture
No.590 safely tucked away at Gelert's Farm depot WHHR after loaded test trains between the FR and Beddgelert. It was intended the loco would feature in a launch event at the WHHR and in the WHR100 event at the end of June but the loco developed a hot box after several days of testing. This image is courtesy WHHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
Welcome to Version 4 of this website, launched on 8/9/04 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)
Caernarfon Cross Town Link (updated 10/10/10)
Other pages
Phase 1 images (Updated 8/9/23)
Railtours 2023 (Updated 15/12/23)
The 40km Dream Phase 1 (Updated 12/2/21)
The 40km Dream Phase 2 (Updated 1/4/21)
'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 1/10/24)
Prince Charles Visit July 2003 (updated 5/1/22)
Snow Scenes (updated 17/12/23)
Rolling Stock News Page (updated 28/12/04)
Phase 4 News Page (updated 3/3/05)
Volunteer Contact details page (updated 23/6/21)
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 and other maps courtesy of WHRS
Click here for John Sreeves Gradient profile courtesy of WHRS
Click here for Chainages and OS Map References
Timetables
2024 Timetable
Trains commence on Saturday 25/3/24 and continue until 31/10/24.
Click on the image to enlarge and click again to enlarge to full size where available. This image is courtesy the F&WHR. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.
To compare with the archived 2023 timetables click here for upper half or here for lower half of the timetable.
Works Visit Shuttle timings
The three coach rake consists of a bugbox, a bogie coach and the Sentrybox brakevan No.3. This changed to a two coach rake by
Mostly twice a day TThSX from 16/10/24
Porthmadog ECS arr | 09:35 |
Porthmadog dep | 10:10/11:20M |
Boston Lodge Halt arr | 10:15/11:30M |
shunt to refuge | 10:20 |
Boston Lodge Halt dep | 12:15/12:30M |
Porthmadog arr | 12:20/12:40M |
shunt to yard | 12:25 |
Porthmadog dep | 15:45 SuX |
Boston Lodge Halt arr | 15:50 SuX |
shunt to refuge dep | 15:55 SuX |
Boston Lodge Halt dep | 17:50 SuX |
Porthmadog arr | 18:00 SuX |
Porthmadog ECS dep | 18:10 SuX |
Times for the hour long Mini tours are shown with an M.
F&WHR events 2024
SuperPower will return for 2024 as a weekend event but not on the Friday even though the FR's Bygones Weekend will again be a three day event. This replaces the low key WHR Society Members' Weekend last September to match the Society AGM so appears to be aimed at the general public as well and might feature appearances by both No.590, the WHHR's Baldwin and Russell given the disappointment when No.590 failed just before the Centenary of the WHR event. The WHR Members' Weekend in September 2023 was relatively poorly attended but the F&WHR's promised Baldwin did turn up at Dinas for cab rides. As last year, it seems the Snowdonian Limited has been dropped from the schedule but a rerun of The Snowdonian does occur on Saturday 21/9/24.
Date | Event |
1/1/24 | Final Day of Festive Trains |
10-11/17-18/24-25/2/24 | Half Term Holiday Blanche cab rides at Caernarfon Station |
29/2/24 | Palmerston goes to Aberystwyth on display and August Gala |
15-16/3/24 | NLHF Boston Lodge Open Days with steam shuttle to Boston Lodge Halt |
23/3/24 | First day of 2024 Season |
29/3/24-1/4/24 | Cab rides at Caernarfon and Porthmadog over Easter weekend |
6-7/4/24 | Britomart and Hugh Napier visit Beamish 'Wheels of Industry' Gala |
20/4/24 | The Snowdonian |
4-5/5/24 | 'Friends of the Ffestiniog' events at Porthmadog (standard WHR service) |
6/5/24 | Family Fun Day at Blaenau Ffestiniog with extra train to Tan-y-bwlch |
11/5/24 | Caernarfon Food Fair (connections available via The Harbourmaster) |
18-19/5/24 | Model Railway Workshop |
27/5/24 | FELINHELI Bank Holiday cab rides Caernarfon Station |
28-30/5/24 | TWThO The Cwellyn Half Term Holiday service |
2/6/24 | PTG Tour with James Spooner solo to Caernarfon and Lyd on the FR |
7-8/6/24 | Rail-Ale (Dinas with connecting shuttles) |
20/7/24-31/8/24 | Saturday cab rides at Porthmadog with VELINHELI or HUGH NAPIER |
26/7/24-2/8/24-9/8/24-16/8/24 | FO Palmerston 12:30 return working Aberystwyth-Devil's Bridge |
24-26/8/24 | Velinheli at Bala Lake Railway Gala |
24-26/8/24 | Palmerston running at VoR Rheidol Steam Festival |
13/9/24 | Palmerston photo charter at VoR |
20/9/24 | Palmerston last day at VoR 'Behind the Scenes' and cab rides at Aberystwyth |
14-15/9/24 | SuperPower and WHRS AGM involving extra trains/launch of NG15 No.134 |
21/9/24 | The Snowdonian II with K1 |
28/9/24 | Trailffest (special train following runners) |
4-6/10/24 | FR Bygones Weekend (may involve additional services on WHR) |
7-8/14-15/21-22/12/24 | F&WHR Santa Specials Caernarfon-Rhyd Ddu/Santa's Grotto at Porthmadog |
26/12/24-1/1/25 | Festive trains on F&WHR |
Timetable w/c 12/10/24
Click on the timetable to enlarge. Copyright F&WHR.
F&WHR 12/10/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog predicted sunny periods and showers with temperatures of 2-13C. Saturday's train service was for 5 trains with 3 on the FR (two Mountain Spirit and The Quarryman). There were two through trains on the WHR.
The ECS for The Harbourmaster arrived at Porthmadog at 09:22 in the hands of No.143. The Garratt departed at 10:03 as Merddin Emrys arrived in the FR platform with the ECS for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit. The Fairlie ran round by 20:20. The Snowdonia Star arrived at 1220 and proceeded ECS to the depot at 12:28 hauled by a Garratt.
Linda arrived with The Quarryman in the FR platform at about 13:00, By 13:15 the loco had run round and was shunting the ECS rake to the yard to make way for the returning Mountain Spirit.
James Spooner returned with the afternoon Mountain Spirit in the sunshine and ran round at 17:45. The ECS departed at 17:50 to close the day's activities.
Xmas comes early to Spooner's
Christmas has come early to
Spooner's restaurant, The menu will be available Friday nights from
29/11/24.
Perfect for your Works' Christmas Party or a Festive Family
Gathering - Spooner's is the place to be this Christmas.
The F&WHR has cooked up a delicious seasonal menu, packed with
classic Christmas favourites using locally sourced ingredients. From
traditional roast turkey to indulgent desserts, there is something
for everyone, with vegetarian and vegan options to ensure no-one
misses out on the festivities!
Join the Spooner's crowd every Friday night for fantastic food,
festive drinks, and the F&WHR's famously warm atmosphere. Be sure to
book your table early, as spaces are limited.
Available from 15:00 on Fridays ONLY - from 29/11/24 onwards.
Advance booking required - phone 01766 516032 - with your menu
choices and any details of dietary requirements.
Celebrate Christmas with the F&WHR at Spooner's
ℹ You can download a copy of the menu from here:
bit.ly/XmasMenu2024-ENG
Click on the advert to enlarge. Advert copyright F&WHR.
F&WHR 11/10/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog predicted a cold snap with sunny periods and temperatures of 5-12C. Friday's train service was for 1 train on the FR (the 10:40 Mountain Spirit). There were NO public trains on the WHR.
The Mountain Spirit returned to Porthmadog at lunchtime and was returned ECS to the depot later. The opportunity was taken in the absence of public services to run a PW train and a diesel loco was noted in the WHR platform with the FR Mess Car No.1111 later in the afternoon.
Loco roster w/c 12/10/24
With a 'quiet' Autumn Service week ahead, there will be FIVE
steam locos to see on the FR and up to THREE working on the WHR.
Service trains on the Ffestiniog Railway:
MERDDIN EMRYS and JAMES SPOONER - the
oldest and the youngest FR Double Fairlies - will be sharing duties
on the Mountain Spirit and Woodland Wanderer services.
BLANCHE will make one appearance this week - on Sunday
afternoon's Woodland Wanderer service...
...while sister loco, LINDA, will be in charge of all
four Quarryman services from Blaenau Ffestiniog.
Boston Lodge Tour specials are running on four days this week,
worked by PALMERSTON.
Over on the Welsh Highland Railway, the fleet of NG/G16 Garratts
will be in charge of the service trains - but exact duties have not
been published at present.
Check the captions on each loco portrait
for further details of their individual workings.
--------------------------------------------------
NOTE: This information is provided in good faith, solely as a guide,
but could be subject to change at any time.
F&WHR 10/10/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Thursday predicted a cold snap with sunny periods and temperatures of 2-12C. Thursday's train service was for 6 trains, four on the FR (two Mountain Spirit, one Woodland Wanderer and one The Quarryman). There were two through trains on the WHR.
No.130 arrived in the WHR platform with the Snowdonia Star at 12:26. The loco detached and immediately ran to the fuelling point in the yard. Blanche arrived with The Quarryman at 12:52 and No.130 emerged from the yard followed by Blanche running round and shunting the rake clear of the FR platform. Merddin Emrys then arrived with the return working of the Mountain Spirit into the FR platform at about 13:30, As a variation of working practice, Blanche then shunted its rake from the yard out on The Cob and back into the WHR run round loop and as a result standing alongside No.130. At 13:50 Blanche shunted light to the rear of Mountain Spirit rake, leaving its own rake in the WHR loop and shunting the Observation car back to the seawall siding to reduce the rake to match demand. Merddin Emrys returned to its train at 14:00 and James Spooner emerged from the yard shortly afterwards, making its way to the Woodland Wanderer rake in the WHR loop. The Garratt departed at 14:20 followed by the Fairlie ECS to the depot .At 14:50 Blanche shunted The Quarryman back to the FR platform and departed on time with the return working.
No.143 returned at 16:25 with The Harbourmaster in pleasant afternoon sunshine. The train departed ECS for the depot by 16:40.
F&WHR Xmas plans
Click on the advert to enlarge. Advert copyright F&WHR.
Here at the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways plans are all set
and confirmed for the exciting Festive activities so get ready to -
Steam into Christmas..!
The F&WHR is delighted to be offering a variety of festive fun this
November and December as we look forward to Santa Trains, Santa's
Christmas Carriage Grotto and Christmas Holiday Trains.
During this festive period, Santa will be visiting both of the
railways, providing visitors the opportunity to meet him aboard the
Welsh Highland Railway Santa Trains or in his magical
Christmas
Carriage Grotto at Porthmadog Harbour Station.
The popular Santa Train services, which run from Caernarfon
to Rhyd Ddu, will take place on 7-8/12, 14-15/12, 21-22/12/24.
Santa's Christmas Carriage Grotto will be available to visit
in Harbour Station, Porthmadog on 7-8/12, 14-15/12, 21-23/12/24.
⚠Please Note: Tickets for both the Santa Trains and
the Christmas Carriage Grotto must be booked in advance.
The F&WHR will also be running a selection of Seasonal Scenic Snowdonia
Specials between the 5 days of 28/12/24-1/1/25 (New
Year's Day) inclusive, so there will be plenty of opportunities to
shake off those Post-Christmas Blues. However, this is a reduction
on the 7 days of trains offered pre-COVID over the same period
including Boxing Day on the FR.
ℹ Booking Links for the Santa Trains, Santa Grotto and
Seasonal
Specials are available on the Steaming into Christmas webpage;
https://www.festrail.co.uk/christmas/
SMR derailment at Clogwyn 8/10/24
The loco propelling the SMR coach up Snowdon became derailed at Clogwyn loop on Tuesday and passengers were returned to Llanberis. Normal services resumed on Wednesday after the RAIB were informed.
GVT Chirk progress 6/10/24
Further progress has been made with the Glyn Valley Tramway station at Chirk. Volunteers have removed the remaining loose bricks that formed the foundations of the ticket office and stored the bricks for reuse. New foundations will be constructed to modern standards on the existing footprint. The Chirk ticket office will be rebuilt in the style of the original building. Some of the track donated by the SMR and laid against the platform face has been removed to facilitate the rebuilding of the Chirk ticket office.
F&WHR 6/10/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Sunday predicted a day of sunshine with temperatures of 11-18C. Sunday's train service was a Gala service with many extra trains. There were two through trains on the WHR.
All three webcams were available today with 4/5G. Some WiFi networks such as Kettering General Hospital, where your webmaster is esconsed, would not show the gala live feed due to high traffic on the webcams. This may also have been the case on earlier days this week when webcam views were not available.
Linda arrived at 10:13 in the WHR platform carrying Y Cymro headboard. Merddin Emrys departed at 10:18 from the FR platform possibly with the 10:10. Linda ran round after the Fairlie had departed. At 12:10 Merddin Emrys departed with the Ivory/Brown Victorian Shuttle to Blaenau Ffestiniog. Lyd was present in the WHR platform. James Spooner shunted Lilla light engine in the yard at 12:20.
12:35 Linda arrive in FR platform with Col. Stephens shuttle from Tan-y-bwlch.
12:55 Linda runs round,
13:10 Linda shunts its rake to WHR platform.
14:15 Hunslet loco noted shunting yard
14:15 Mountain Spirit arrive from Blaenau Ffestiniog.
14:30 Spooner's Boat rolls into yard from Pen Cob Junction.
14:35 Merddin Emrys shunt yard and run round.
14:40 Merddin Emrys depart on Mountain Spirit.
15:00 Shuttle arrive in FR platform.
15:03 Shuttle dep WHR platform and Lyd run round.
15:15 Lyd shunt back to WHR platform.
15:50 Palmerston and Upnor Castle shunt yard.
16:20 Palmerston slate/mixed freight depart for Minffordd Yard with steam loco.
16:37 Steam loco hauls mixed from into Minffordd Yard from east while Palmerston freight stands at home signal.
16:46 Palmerston propels freight into Minffordd yard.
Monday 7/10/24
It was thought that the Gala rakes would be resorted for normal trains until the end of the season. However, no special ECS shunts were noted today.
Bygones Gala YouTube 9/10/24
Click on the YouTube link to watch 33 minutes 35 seconds of video showing the best of Bygones starting from 4-6/10/24 This video is copyright F&WHR and was published on 9/10/24. It is best viewed at 1080p with Chrome and was videod on a 4K camcorder by John Wooden (F&WHR).
Laptop problems 6-9/10/24
Frequent changing of hospital wards and problems with the laptop/mouse has made it difficult to record traffic over the Gala. Hopefully the problems will be resolved by 10/10/24 and your webmaster could be home soon.
F&WHR 5/10/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Saturday predicted a day of sunshine with temperatures of 11-18C. Saturday's train service was a Gala service with many extra trains. There were two through trains on the WHR.
All three webcams were available this afternoon with 4G. Some WiFi networks such as Kettering General Hospital where your webmaster is esconsed, would not show the gala due to high traffic on the webcams. This may also have been the case on earlier days this week when webcam views were not available.
F&WHR 5/10/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Saturday predicted a day of sunshine with temperatures of 11-18C. Saturday's train service was a Gala service with many extra trains. There were two through trains on the WHR.
All three webcams were available this afternoon with 4G. Some WiFi networks such as Kettering General Hospital where your webmaster is esconsed, would not show the gala due to high traffic on the webcams. This may also have been the case on earlier days this week when webcam views were not available.
At 17:05 The Harbourmaster returned ECS to the depot with its Garratt loco. The weather was surprisingly dull compared to the forecast! Lyd was shunting wagons in the yard at Porthmadog .at 17:10 before coupling up to Hugh Napier at 17:15. At 18:00 David Lloyd George was shunting two coal wagons in the yard. At 18:02 Merddin Emrys arrived with/ the Mountain Spirit into the WHR platform. Linda then set off across The Cob with a short rake from the FR platform while the Fairlie ran to the refuelling point. DLG left light engine and Merddin Emrys was back in the WHR platform at 18:30 to collect its rake and departing with the ECS at 18:45.
Merddin Emrys returned at 19:10 light engine and at 19:40 reappeared with a short rake looming out of the darkness. The lcoc ran round by 19:50. Criccieth Castle crossed The Cob and at 19:53 dropped off two loaded B wagons full of coal in the WHR platform. Merddin Emrys emerged from the yard and Criccieth Castle was shunting the yard at 20:30.
F&WHR 4/10/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Friday predicted a morning of sunny periods but more overcast in the afternoon with temperatures of 8-18C. Friday's train service had 2 trains in total comprising 2 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit) and NO trains on the WHR.
All three webcams were OOU again this morning with the Minffordd/Tan-y-bwlch webcams now unavailable for a fourth day possibly following storm damage to the datalink on Monday night. No observations were possible today with all the webcams out of action.
Gala latest
Preparations are well underway for the fantastic
Bygones Gala Weekend, celebrating and showcasing the incredible
collection of historic locomotives, carriages and waggons at the F&WHR.
There will be trains representing different eras of the FR's long history - from
the 1830s right through to the 2020s. The weekend will see the return of some
old favourites - such as freshly-overhauled Small England Palmerston
(some might have preferred single Fairlie Taliesin!)
and the iconic gravity trains - plus the appearance of a few surprises as well.
Tickets and further details available online @
https://www.festrail.co.uk/october-4th-6th-bygones-weekend/
Come along and enjoy a great weekend with the FR - there will be plenty of trains,
tasty food and drinks from the F&WHR cafés, with the chance to catch up with friends
old or make friends new.
F&WHR 3/10/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Thursday predicted a day of showers and sunny periods with temperatures of 8-16C. Thursday's train service had 7 trains in total comprising 3 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit, two Woodland Wanderer and The Quarryman) and the two through trains on the WHR.
All three webcams were OOU again this morning with the Minffordd/Tan-y-bwlch webcams now unavailable for a third day possibly following storm damage to the datalink on Monday night. No observations were possible today with all the webcams out of action.
Local Residents offer continues to end of season
The half price offer will continue for local
residents until the end of the season at the end of October: 1-31/10/24. The
local discount offer has been in place since 22/4/24 when the Spring promotion
started.
Between the 1-31/10/24 the F&WHR will again be offering a 50%
discount for the whole family, on a choice of train services, to local residents
with their primary address in any postcode area from LL22 to LL78 (inclusive).
Click on the advert to enlarge. A map showing eligible areas is given in the April update.
Trains from Porthmadog:
▪ 14:20 - MOUNTAIN SPIRIT [Standard]
▪ 14:20 - MOUNTAIN SPIRIT [Gold]
▪ 14:50 - WOODLAND WANDERER [Standard]
Trains from Blaenau Ffestiniog:
▪ 11:40 - THE QUARRYMAN [Standard]
▪ 11:40 - THE QUARRYMAN [Gold]
Trains from Caernarfon:
▪ 11:30 - GELERT EXPLORER [Standard]
▪ 11:30 - GELERT EXPLORER [Gold]
The voucher code is: LOCALSOCT
This code will only work on these specified train services between the
1-31/10/24
ℹ Discount offer is for tickets only and does not include Guidebooks or Food &
Drink.
This code can be used to apply the discount when making bookings online, on the
phone, at the F&WHR Booking Office counters or on the trains, via the Guard.
PLEASE NOTE: Customers must bring proof of residency (e.g. Driver’s License)
on the day of travel to show at the check-in desk.
More details and online tickets @www.festrail.co.uk/trains
- the F&WHR look forward to welcoming you here!
Rolling stock preparations for FR Bygones Gala 3/10/24
This northerly view (3/10/24) shows the Victorian rake shunted into the station by Harlech Castle after the rake had received attention in the paint shop. Van No.1, the curly roofed van, has received a repaint with bright ivory upper panels and gold leaf to pick out the beading as a form of lining of the purple-brown lower parts. Other coaches are Nos.2/5/15 and 18 which will be paired with the similar livery of James Spooner. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR.
F&WHR 2/10/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Wednesday predicted a day of sunny periods with temperatures of 8-17C but maybe more cloudy in the afternoon. Wednesday's train service had 6 trains in total comprising 3 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit and The Quarryman) and three on the WHR (two The Aberglaslyn and The Gelert Explorer).
All three webcams were OOU this morning with the Minffordd/Tan-y-bwlch webcams now unavailable for a second day possibly following storm damage to the datalink on Monday night. No observations were possible today with all the webcams out of action,
F&WHR 1/10/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Tuesday predicted a day of showers and sunny periods with temperatures of 11-16C. Tuesday's train service had 7 trains in total comprising 5 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit and Woodland Wanderer trains and The Quarryman) with two through trains on the WHR.
In addition to the Minffordd/Tan-y-bwlch webcams being out of action, the Harbour Station webcam was also OOU this morning with a strange message about the video being restricted, which normally only happens when there is an accident. No observations were possible today with all the webcams out of action.
Russell available over FR Gala weekend
Do you fancy having the chance to drive a 2ft gauge steam engine or diesel
locomotive along the WHHR's entire line? On Sunday 6/10/24 or 13/10/24 you could
do this and realise a life long dream. The WHHR is offering several slots
throughout the day where you will have one to one tuition on how to drive the
WHHR
steam or Diesel engines including the chance to drive from Porthmadog (WHHR) to
Pen-Y-Mount and return. We will be using Russell, the PBSSR's
original 1906 built Hunslet steam engine or Emma the WHHR's 1994 built
Hunslet diesel locomotive to fulfil these sessions. Russell will be withdrawn
early next year for its 10 year overhaul so this will be one of the last chances
to drive the loco.
Sessions will run from 10.45am at 15 minute intervals, bookable in advance at
bookings@whr.co.uk
or turn up and wait on a first come first served basis (pre-booked time slots
will take precedent over waiting participants).
Each 15 minute session cost £45 for steam or £25 for diesel and will include
driving instruction and a round trip with your hand on the regulator/throttle.
The shop at the WHHR will also be open all day for
all your book and model needs.
Caffi Russell's Café will also be open all Day serving Breakfast from 9am until
11.30am, lunch 12pm until 4pm.
Drinks and Home Made Cakes served throughout the day.
(Persons must be 18 yrs old or over, must be wearing suitable clothing and
footwear. Contact WHHR at the above address for further details).
F&WHR 30/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Monday predicted a windy overcast day with increasing showers and temperatures of 9-14C and a wind warning overnight. Monday's train service had just 4 trains in total comprising 2 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit trains two shuttle trains for visitors to Boston Lodge Tours) with no trains on the WHR.
Following the Welsh Medium Boston Lodge Works visits last Monday, the next English Medium visits were today 30/9/24. Only the Harbour Station webcam was in use this morning.
At 13:35 Harlech Castle with headlight blazing turned up hauling two B wagons of fuel across The Cob. Five minutes later the loco ran round and propelled the wagons into the refuelling point. David Lloyd George arrived at 13:59 with the return working of the Mountain Spirit. Harlech Castle stabled in the yard light engine then departed for the depot at 14:15. At 14:18 DLG ran round its train while steam shunting took place in the New Carriage shed and departed on time with the afternoon working. At 14:42 the Works Shuttle arrived with the Linda on the front into the FR platform. The loco ran round at 14:45 and departed with the ECS at later in the afternoon. Vale of Ffestiniog arrived light engine at about 14:10.
DLG ran round at 17:44 and had removed the ECS Mountain Spirit from the FR platform by 18:00. Linda tuned up with the return Works Shuttle at 18:00 in the WHR platform and departed propelling the ECS at 18:03.
Boston Lodge Works visits in October
Starting 13/10/24 there will be a series of Boston Lodge Works visits TThSX until 30/10/24. These are all full tours timed to depart on the 10:10 Shuttle departure from Porthmadog except for 16/10/24 when the tour is at 15:45. There are no Mini Tours in October. No works tours are currently anticipated in November.
Crimebeat Special 29/9/24
Crimebeat is a UK charity that helps prevent young people from getting involved
in criminality. The monies raised from the train will be used to fund between 8
and 10 local community projects in Gwynedd and Anglesey (Ynys Món). The train
operated between Caernarfon and Porthmadog.
Sarah Foskett JP, High Sheriff of Gwynedd said: "The train had several sponsors
- not least the Ffestiniog and Welsh Highland Railways via their generosity in
donating a train for the event and their massive staff support - but also
companies like Hogans, Breedon, Castell Howell, Harlech Foodservice, Crime
Prevention Services, Glasfryn Ices and other donations."
"We sold nearly all (i.e. not the open carriage) seats on the train and
passengers were all from the local communities. We had current and retired
Judges, Court Staff, Police, His Majesty's Lord Lieutenant, Deputy Lieutenants,
past High Sheriffs - all of whom care about youth in our communities."
"I was lucky to have my Police Cadets to help out, as well as the Army Cadets,
both groups being visible and helping passengers on the day."
F&WHR 29/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Sunday predicted a windy overcast day with increasing showers and temperatures of 9-14C and a wind warning overnight. Sunday's train service had just 5 trains in total comprising 3 trains on the FR (a morning Mountain Spirit and an afternoon Woodland Wanderer and two shuttle trains for visitors to Boston Lodge Tours) with just one train on the WHR (the Gelert Explorer).
Following the Welsh Medium Boston Lodge Works visits last Monday, the next English Medium visits are on 29-30/9/24. All three webcams were in use today.
David Lloyd George hauled the first train, the 10:40 Mountain Spirit.
The Trident signal
The traditional-style trident signal halfway across The Cob was blown away in a storm in February 1967, having managed some 38 years service in this location. This year the new trident suffered a similar fate. Seemingly, modern timber simply does not last as long and the combination of rot and high winds took its toll having been installed as recently as 2014 (so only surviving 10 years until 23/8/243).
This westerly view (historic) shows the wooden trident signal out on The Cob as it was before its recent storm damage collapse. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR.
The trident has been replaced with a modern colour aspect signal. The Yellow
aspect indicates a route set for the Station Yard (i.e. not suitable for
passenger trains), whereas the green aspect will indicate a route into one of
the two platforms. The following signal No.10 has a route indicator which shows
the specific platform, yard or loop.
A decision on replacing the trident has yet to be made as it is an expensive
item, not readily affordable from the F&WHR revenue budget. The initial
specification for the replacement (subject to funding) would include a stainless
steel lattice post to overcome the corrosion and wind loading issues. Maybe the
FRSoc could sponsor a wooden replica if they have funds available? However, it
may be some time before the trident is seen in place once more.
F&WHR 28/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Saturday predicted an improving day, initially overcast, but breaking to an afternoon of sunny periods and showers and temperatures of 8-14C. Saturday's train service had just 4/5 trains in total comprising 3/4 trains on the FR (a morning Mountain Spirit and an afternoon Woodland Wanderer.
Following the Welsh Medium Boston Lodge Works visits on last Monday, the next English Medium visits are on 29-30/9/24. All three webcams were in use today.
The sun came out at the end of the day's trains and there were rainbows after the afternoon's showers. Staff brought railings to place down the centre of the Porthmadog platform to divide it into two for Saturday's Trailffest event where cross country runners parallel the route of the FR and supporters cheer them on from a parallel train, details of which are shown below.
First train of the day was the 10:05 The Harbourmaster which left on time from the WHR platform. The 10:40 Mountain Spirit arrived in the FR platform as the Garratt departed. At 10:40 Vale of Ffestiniog arrived light engine and reversed onto the rear of the rake in the FR platform as the winning post was set up for the runners at the west end of the platform near Spooners. The train departed at 10:45.
The combined Woodland Wanderer/The Quarryman rake arrived next with David Lloyd George on the front and a couple of coaches were shunted to the seawall siding leaving a 10 coach rake. Blanche and Linda coupled to the front and the train departed at 11:43. The Snowdonia Star arrived at 12:25 and No.130 had refuelled and watered by 13:42 and run round the train to couple to the front. The train had left on its return working by its usual time of 14:05.
Linda and Blanche arrived back at 15:25 as the bulk of the contestants started to appear at the finish line at Porthmadog. Linda collected the spare 2 coaches from the seawall siding and shunted them onto the head of the train. Next, the train was split from The Quarryman and shunted back into the yard. Blanche now ran round to the rear portion of the train and coupled up. Blanche departed with The Quarryman for Glan-y-pwll depot at 15:53. The flags and barriers were disassembled at 17:30 after the prize giving ceremony.
Personal note 26-27/9/24
Your webmaster is back in hospital for a few days and so website maintenance may be affected adversely, though I will try to maintain as near normal service as I can in the circumstances.
F&WHR 27/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Friday predicted a day of sunny periods and showers and temperatures of 5-14C. Friday's train service had just 2 trains in total comprising 2 trains on the FR (a morning Mountain Spirit and afternoon Woodland Wanderer) and no trains on the WHR.
Following the Welsh Medium Boston Lodge Works visits on Monday, the next English Medium visits are on 29-30/9/24. All three webcams were in use today.
The sun came out at the end of the day's trains and there were rainbows after the afternoon's showers. Staff brought railings to place down the centre of the Porthmadog platform to divide it into two for Saturday's Trailffest event where cross country runners parallel the route of the FR and supporters cheer them on from a parallel train, details of which are shown below.
11:30 depart Porthmadog
12:55 arrive Blaenau Ffestiniog
13:20 depart Blaenau Ffestiniog
15:00 race ends at Porthmadog Harbour
For full details see Trailffest website.
Loco Roster w/c 28/9/24
With the coming week ending on the first day of the FR Bygones Weekend
there will be NINE steam locos - plus trains powered by Gravity or Wind - to see
on the FR and up to FOUR steam locos working on the WHR.
Service trains on the Ffestiniog Railway:
Double Fairlies DAVID LLOYD GEORGE and JAMES SPOONER
will be sharing duties on the Mountain Spirit and Woodland
Wanderer services.
Saturday sees a couple of special trains appearing in connection with the
Trailffest run from Tan-y-grisiau, worked by BLANCHE or
LINDA.
LINDA will also make an appearance on a Woodland Wanderer
service on Sunday - while the midweek The Quarryman services from
Blaenau Ffestiniog will be worked by BLANCHE.
Boston Lodge Tour specials on Monday and Tuesday will be worked by LILLA.
Over on the WHR, the fleet of NG/G16 Garratts will be in charge of the service
trains - but exact duties have not been published at present.
The FR's BYGONES WEEKEND will involve most of the locos above, but
event services will also feature the use of:
LYD
HUGH NAPIER
PALMERSTON and
MERDDIN EMRYS
There will be Gravity runs on Friday with Slate Waggons and Spooner's Boat,
which (weather permitting) will also be sailing across the Cob - while Pioneer
Garratt K1 will make a couple of trips to Beddgelert.
Click on the captions on
each loco portrait for further details of their individual workings.
--------------------------------------------------
NOTE: This information is provided in good faith, solely as a guide, but could
be subject to change at any time.
No.134 gauged to Waunfawr 26/9/24
Click on the Facebook link to see Laurence Armstrong's image of No.134 being gauged against Waunfawr platform for the first time on 26/9/24. Already an errant piece of concrete has been removed from the platform edge at Dinas and adjustments made to the valve gear to clear the platform edge kerb stones.
F&WHR 26/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Thursday predicted a day of increasing showers with some sunny periods around midday and temperatures of 8-15C. Thursday's train service had 5 trains in total comprising 3 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit and The Quarryman) and the two through trains on the WHR.
Following the Welsh Medium Boston Lodge Works visits on Monday, the next English Medium visits are on 29-30/9/24. All three webcams were in use today.
No.143 arrived in the WHR platform at 09:30 for the 10:05 Harbourmaster service. An S&T train worked on The Cob signals between services and arrived in the station hauled by new blue loco Moel-yr-hydd at 10:00. The S&T loco ran round at 10:06. James Spooner turned up at 10:17 on the ECS for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit in the FR platform, running round at 10:23. A third steam train was prepared at Boston Lodge.
Caernarfon Castle hauled the Snowdonia Star into Porthmadog and ran around promptly in the WHR platform. Blanche was shunting in the yard at 13:17. Merddin Emrys arrived on an unadvertised Woodland Wanderer at 13:22 into the FR platform.
This easterly view (26/9/24) shows Caernarfon Castle preparing to lead the Snowdonia Star rake back to Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes and taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
F&WHR 25/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Wednesday predicted a day of increasing showers with temperatures of 7-15C and a cold snap with more rain due later in the week. Wednesday's train service had 6 trains in total comprising 3 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit and The Quarryman) and three on the WHR (two The Aberglaslyn and a Gelert Explorer).
Following the Welsh Medium Boston Lodge Works visits on Monday, the next English Medium visits are on today 24/9/24 and subsequently on 29-30/9/24. All three webcams were in use today.
No.130 hauled the ECS for the 10:10 The Aberglaslyn into the WHR platform at 09:40. This was followed by James Spooner which hauled the 10:40 Mountain Spirit into the FR platform at 10:00.
No.130 returned with The Aberglaslyn at 13:03. The loco detached and ran to the yard to refuel and top up with water. Blanche ran round The Quarryman at 13:18 in the FR platform. The loco coupled up about 13:30 and shunted for Beddgelert at 13:42. At 14:33 the loco shunted its rake out of the seawall siding and into the FR platform ready for the 15:25 return working.
No.130 returned in heavy rain at 16:26 before continuing ECS to the depot 12 minutes later. The last one home was James Spooner arriving at 17:43 in the FR platform on the Mountain Spirit. After refuelling and watering James Spooner ran round at 18:12 in sunshine and coupled up to the ECS rake which then departed at 18:17 to close the day's activities.
F&WHR 24/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Tuesday predicted a day of showers and sunny periods with temperatures of 7-16C and a cold snap with more rain due later in the week. Tuesday's train service had 9 trains in total comprising 7 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit, two Woodland Wanderer, The Quarryman and two English Language Boston Lodge shuttles). The two through WHR trains are running today.
Following the Welsh Medium Boston Lodge Works visits on Monday, the next English Medium visits are on today 24/9/24 and subsequently on 29-30/9/24. The two through WHR trains are running today. All three webcams were in use today.
No.130 arrived with the ECS for the 10:05 The Harbourmaster at 09:45. Merddin Emrys arrived with the ECS for the Mountain Spirit at 10:05, just before The Harbourmaster departed. The Fairlie ran round about 15 minutes later. At 10:38 James Spooner turned up with the ECS for the Woodland Wanderer into the WHR platform and ran to the yard to refuel and water immediately. The loco worked back to the front of the train at 11:00 as the 11:20 Boston Lodge mini shuttle approached across The Cob. Lilla pulled into the FR platform with its 2 coach train at 11:06.
No.143 was on the Snowdonia Star and had run round by 13:20 in the WHR platform. James Spooner returned at 13:20 with the Woodland Wanderer into the FR platform. Merddin Emrys arrived with the Mountain Spirit at 13:55 into the FR platform and six minutes later the Fairlie swop took place ready for the 14:05 return working. Merddin Emrys shunted the seawall siding and propelled the Woodland Wanderer back into the FR platform at 14:30. Blanche now came across The Cob light engine and stopped by the signalbox for instructions. Lilla emerged from the yard and commenced shunting while Blanche also entered the yard. Merddin Emrys left on time with the Woodland Wanderer at 14:50. Blanche drew The Quarryman rake out of the yard and propelled it into the FR platform before departing on time. Lilla hauled the shuttle rake out of the yard and propelled it back into the FR platform at 15:30 before departing as the afternoon Boston Lodge shuttle at 15:45.
No.130 arrived back with The Harbourmaster at about 16:30 and departed promptly for the depot at 16:40. Merddin Emrys returned at 17:05 with the Woodland Wanderer. James Spooner followed with the Mountain Spirit and finally at 18:30 Lilla with the Boston Lodge shuttle, to close the day's activities.
Palmerston at L&BR 24/9/24
Palmerston arrived by low loader at Woody Bay today as a 'slight' diversion on its route back from the VoR, where it has had an extended summer season. Palmerston is due to spend the Gala at the L&BR before returning to the F&WHR for the October Gala.
See L&BR Gala details.
F&WHR 23/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Monday predicted an overcast day with temperatures of 11-17C. Monday's train service had 4 trains in total comprising 4 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit and two Welsh Language Boston Lodge shuttles) and one WHR service (the Gelert Explorer).
Following the Welsh Medium Boston Lodge Works visits today, the next English Medium visits are on the 24, 29, 30/9/24. All three webcams were in use today.
James Spooner arrived with the ECS for the Mountain Spirit at about 10:15. The Mountain Spirit returned at the end of the afternoon at about 17:30 and James Spooner ran round at about 17:50 as the Boston Lodge shuttle approached across The Cob. Lilla arrived with the two coach rake at 17:57 and handed the token over allowing James Spooner to depart with its ECS a minute later. Lilla propelled its ECS rake back across The Cob at 18:09 to close the day's activities.
F&WHR 22/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Sunday predicted a day of sunny periods and temperatures of 13-17C, clouding over later, with a widespread heavy rain warning for Sunday afternoon/evening. Sunday's train service had 6 trains in total comprising 5 trains on the FR (the Mountain Spirit and Woodland Wanderer trains and three Boston Lodge shuttles) and one WHR service (the Gelert Explorer).
Following the Welsh Medium Boston Lodge Works visits on 23/9/34, the next English Medium visits are on the 24,29,30/9/24. All three webcams were in use today.
Blanche came over with the Boston Lodge Shuttle at about 09:45 and had run round in the WHR platform by 09:55 ready for the 10:05 Shuttle visit for Snowdonian II passengers. Merddin Emrys was running round in the FR platform ready for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit.
Merddin Emrys returned with the Mountain Spirit at 14:00 and started its run round to the yard to collect the rake for the Woodland Wanderer, while Harlech Castle coupled up for the ECS move. Blanche detached and ran to the refuelling point. The loco worked back to the train and departed at 15:05 on the final Snowdonian II Boston Lodge shuttle.
Merddin Emrys was back at Porthmadog at 17:05 with heavy rain falling. Blanche came back from the final shuttle at 17:20 into the WHR platform. Both locos ran round at 17:25 but Blanche went to refuel in the yard. The Fairlie departed at 17:27 with the ECS. Blanche left with the shuttle at 17:48 to close the day's activities.
F&WHR 21/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Saturday predicted a day of sunny periods and temperatures of 14-21C, clouding over later, with a widespread thunderstorm warning for Saturday afternoon. Saturday's train service had 5 trains in total comprising 3 trains on the FR (The Quarryman and two Woodland Wanderer trains) and two through WHR services. The Snowdonian II was running between 08:00 and 18:00 with various traction, often double headed and using the Mountain Spirit rake.
Following the Welsh Medium Boston Lodge Works visits on 23/9/34, the next English Medium visits are on the 24,29,30/9 /24. All three webcams were in use today.
First train today was the ECS for The Snowdonian II which arrived at about 08:15. Run round followed about 10 minutes later and Linda and Blanche departed double headed at 08:45 for Blaenau Ffestiniog. The 10:10 The Harbourmaster rake arrived ECS at about 09:30. The 11:10 Woodland Wanderer arrived in the FR platform at 10:25 and the rake appeared to have been strengthened a little since the Mountain Spirit was not running today. At 10:27 Britomart propelled a B wagon full of coal out onto The Cob.
This southerly view (21/9/24) shows Linda leading the triple header across Snowdon Street level crossing and onto the short tramway section that leads to Y Cwt bridge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes and taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
This southerly view (21/9/24) shows Linda leading the triple header onto the short tramway section that leads to Y Cwt bridge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes and taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
The Snowdonian II crossed Snowdon Street at 11:48 but had to wait for the Snowdonia Star to pass at Pont Croesor so arrival at Beddgelert at 12:46 was a little later than expected. Britomart was at Beddgelert with its coal wagon near the water crane and the loco crews set to with vigour to refuel the Ladies and then water them. The train eventually got underway again at 12:58 and made a fine sight on the 1 in 40.
This northerly view (21/9/24) shows Britomart with the single B wagon of fuel for topping up the two Ladies. The loco crews worked with gusto to refuel the two locos within 10 minutes using coal back to transfer the fuel across the platform. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes and taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
The train stopped again at Rhyd Ddu and restarted at 13:39 before taking a long break at Waunfawr for buffet lunch. Here the ladies detached and were noted returning light engine passing Rhyd Ddu southbound at 14:40.
This northerly view (21/9/24) shows Britomart with staff carrying bags of coal across to the Ladies in the other platform. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes and taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
This northerly view (21/9/24) shows Blanche separated from James Spooner to position it under the water crane. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes and taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
This southerly view (21/9/24) shows Blanche coupling up to James Spooner after refuelling wand watering at Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes and taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
This southerly view (21/9/24) shows Blanche starting off in a cloud of steam with James Spooner hidden in the exhaust at Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes and taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
This southerly view (21/9/24) shows James Spooner emerging from the steam as it restarts from Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes and taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
This easterly view (21/9/24) shows The Snowdonian restarting from Rhyd Ddu at 13:39 as seen from the Cwellyn Arms. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes and taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
James Spooner soldiered on into Caernarfon with the rake alone where another short break was arranged. K1 had been prepositioned in the loop by the water tank ready to drop onto the front of the train, producing thick yellow smoke. James Spooner ran round and dropped back onto the front of K1 to double head back to Porthmadog. At 16:40 the pair arrived at Waunfawr and left just 9 minutes later after taking on water. The Snowdonian II arrived Rhyd Ddu at 17:12 and was due back at Porthmadog at 18:10 but arrived more than an hour late when the fire had to be thrown out at Rhyd Ddu after a problem developed with an injector.
Sunday Boston Lodge Shuttles
Passengers on The Snowdonian II were entitled to a visit to Boston Lodge on Sunday 22/9/24. Shuttles were set to depart Porthmadog at 10:05, 12:40 and 15:05.
Tan-y-bwlch tea room times
Summer holidays are now in the past and so, with fewer trains coming to
Tan-y-Bwlch Station, the F&WHR is adjusting the opening times.
10:00 – 16:00
Saturday, Sunday, Tuesday and Thursday
10:00 – 15:00
Monday, Wednesday and Friday
However, as you can see, the Tea Room will still be open every day for everyone
who is looking for some great food and refreshing drinks while enjoying the
woodland walks and nature trails - and don't forget the children's railway
themed play area as well!
Arrive by train, on foot, by car, motorbike/trike or by bicycle - all are
welcome - so come along and treat yourselves. The F&WHR look forward to seeing
you here!
--------------------------------------------------
FREE PARKING at Tan-y-Bwlch Station, but please do not park in the turning area
at the station entrance. This needs to be kept clear for ease of access for
vehicles arriving from the Maentwrog direction!
F&WHR 20/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Friday predicted a day of sunshine and temperatures of 13-21C. A widespread thunderstorm warning has been given for Saturday. Friday's train service had 3 trains in total comprising 2 trains on the FR (a Mountain Spirit and a Woodland Wanderer trains) and one WHR service ( a Gelert Explorer). With trains looking so full and coach parties so bouyant, cutting back services so harshly might be counterproductive. Following the Welsh Medium Boston Lodge Works visits on 23/9/34, the next English Medium visits are on the 24,29,30/9/24. All three webcams were in use.
First up was James Spooner which arrived at 10:10 into the FR platform with the ECS for the Mountain Spirit. The loco ran round about 10 minutes later ready for the 10:40 departure which came on time. Sometimes a diesel is used to bring in the new rake for the 14:50 Woodland Wanderer. There are only30 minutes to refuel, water and run round which is hard for the train engine to achieve from the 10:40 working. The ECS is best left to a diesel loco.
Today Harlech Castle appeared at 13:15 in the WHR platform hauling coach No.124 and the new green painted platform car on what appeared to be a gauging turn against the platform edge. At 13:30 the gauge was checked against the FR platform before running round in the yard. James Spooner rolled in at 13:53 with the returned Mountain Spirit and the test train departed towards Boston Lodge.
This easterly view (20/9/24) shows Harlech Castle taking the new infrastructure wagon around Harbour Station for gauging trials. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image courtesy F&WHR taken on a web camera.
Another option is to bring over the Woodland Wanderer with a fresh loco as in this case with Blanche appearing in the WHR platform at 14:10 and promptly running round. The Fairlie ran round its ECS rake at 14:20 and shunted the 6 coaches from the rake at 14:2 and5 to the seawall siding with the front 3 being returned to the rake in the platform, thereby shortening the rake in the platform for Saturday. The leading two coaches were now shunted back to the seawall siding. The final movement was to shunt the observation car and one saloon back onto the rake as the Woodland Wanderer left on time. The Fairlie left with the ECS at 15:06 for the Carriage Shed.
Loco roster w/c 21/9/24
It is a 'quieter' week this week as the number of tourists in North Wales
reduces, so there will only be TEN steam locos working on and around the F&WHR.
The Snowdonian II special on Saturday will see four locos (
LINDA, BLANCHE, JAMES SPOONER and K1
) working in double and triple header combinations - along with the appearance
of BRITOMART on a fuel supply run.
Service trains on the Ffestiniog Railway:
Double Fairlies MERDDIN EMRYS and JAMES SPOONER will
be sharing duties on the Mountain Spirit and Woodland Wanderer
services.
The Quarryman services from Blaenau Ffestiniog will be worked
initially by LYD (which worked up to Blaenau Ffestiniog on
Thursday) then by BLANCHE from Tuesday.
Sister loco LINDA will make an appearance on a Woodland
Wanderer service on Sunday and Friday.
Boston Lodge Tour specials will be worked by BLANCHE on Sunday,
then by LILLA on Monday and Tuesday...
Over on the Welsh Highland Railway, NG/G16s Nos.130/143 will be in
charge of the service trains.
• No.130 will start the week working from Porthmadog.
• No.143 will start the week working from Caernarfon.
• On Wednesday the two locos will swop trains at Beddgelert and finish at the
other end of the railway.
Check the captions on each
loco portrait for further details of their individual workings.
--------------------------------------------------
NOTE: This information is provided in good faith, solely as a guide, but could
be subject to change at any time.
The Snowdonian II timings 21/9/24
Despite the weather forecast being for afternoon thunderstorms across North Wales, some may wish to go out and photo The Snowdonian II, particularly as it features K1 and last Sunday's SuperPower had such poor weather.
ECS 08:15?
08:45 Linda and Blanche Porthmadog to Blaenau Ffestiniog
SHORT BREAK 10:00-10:15?
10:25 Blanche and Linda Blaenau Ffestiniog to Porthmadog (Pen Cob Junction)
11:35 James Spooner, Blanche and Linda Porthmadog (Pen Cob Junction) to Waunfawr
LUNCH BREAK 13:00-14:45?
14:55 James Spooner Waunfawr to Caernarfon
SHORT BREAK 15:30-15:45?
16:00 James Spooner and K1 Caernarfon to Porthmadog 18:10
ECS 18:30?
F&WHR 19/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Thursday predicted a day of sunshine and temperatures of 10-25C and continuing into Friday. Thursday's train service had 7 trains in total comprising 5 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit and two Woodland Wanderer trains plus The Quarryman) and the two through WHR services. Following the Welsh Medium Boston Lodge Works visits on 23/9/34, the next English Medium visits are on the 24,29,30/9/24. All three webcams were in use.
The Harbourmaster left on time at 10:10 and Merddin Emrys arrived with ECS for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit, running round by 10:30. This was followed by the 11:10 Woodland Wanderer in the hands of James Spooner which arrived in the WHR platform seconds before the Mountain Spirit departed. The Fairlie was operating with the cab roof open given the warm fine weather.
The Snowdonia Star arrived at about 12:30 and 5 minutes later continued ECS to Boston Lodge. At 12:55 Blanche turned up with The Quarryman. After running round, the rake was shunted to the seawall siding and the loco was unusually disposed to Boston Lodge light engine. Next back was the Woodland Wanderer with James Spooner. This loco shunted its rake to the yard and was soon prepped for the Fairlie hand-over. Upnor Castle arrived from over The Cob with two B wagons loaded with fuel at about 14:15 and departed across The Cob light engine at 14:30. The Woodland Wanderer returned with James Spooner which went to fuel and water. Mountain Spirit returned with Merddin Emrys and James Spooner swopped to take the train forward for the afternoon working. Linda did not return from Boston Lodge. Instead, Lyd came over light engine at about 14:30 and took over The Quarryman rake while Merddin Emrys hauled the Mountain Spirit.
The Harbourmaster arrived back at around 16:30 and departed ECS for the depot at 16:35. The Woodland Wanderer returned at 17:05 with Merddin Emrys. The loco ran round at 17:15 and the ECS departed at 17:20. The final loco to return was James Spooner on the Mountain Spirit which arrived back at 17:38. The loco ran round at 17:53 and departed with the ECS at 17:58 to close the day's activities.
WHR Santa Trains Volunteer Appeal
The Santa Trains will be running on 7, 8, 14,
15, 21 and 22/12/24.
The F&WHR needs new volunteers to assist Santa to give the children and their
families a good time.
Roles needed:
🎄 Elves.
🎄 On Train Hosts/ Train tidier.
🎄 Station Hosts.
🎄 Train cleaners.
Above all else, it is a fun day out - not only for the children and their
families, but also for the volunteers.
If you can help, please contact us by emailing -
volunteering@crhe.uk
F&WHR 18/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Wednesday predicted a day of sunshine and temperatures of 13-21C and continuing into Thursday. Wednesday's train service had 8 trains in total comprising 5 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit, The Quarryman and two Works Visits) and three WHR trains (two The Aberglaslyn and the Gelert Explorer). There are two Boston Lodge Works visits with an 11:20 'Mini' morning visit and an full length afternoon visit at 15:45 on Wednesday 18/9/24. It is possible there may be some reorganisation of rolling stock in tidying up after SuperPower over the next few days. All three webcams were in use.
The first movement of the day came as No.130 hauled the ECS The Aberglaslyn into the WHR platform at 09:44. Merddin Emrys arrived at 10:00 with the Mountain Spirit in the FR platform. The Fairlie ran round at 10:10 and the well loaded train departed at 10:40 on time. Linda hauled The Quarryman into the FR platform a Porthmadog at 12:50. At 12:57 No.143 arrived back with The Aberglaslyn. The Garratt uncoupled and ran round without shunting to the yard to refuel or water.
Linda, on the other hand, coaled and watered and rejoined its train at 13:15 after running round. At 14:52 Lilla was noted shunting the yard preparing for the afternoon Boston Lodge Works Visit shuttle. The Quarryman departed at 15:25. At 15:35 Lilla shunted its two coach rake to the platform and a large group of blue tabard coated Boston Lodge Works visitors joined the train by the signalbox, departing at 15:42.
Merddin Emrys arrived back at 17:30 and at 17:45 the loco ran round at 17:45. Lilla arrived with the Works Shuttle at 17:50 and dropped off the participants in the WHR platform near the signalbox. Unusually the loco ran round at 17:53 while Merddin Emrys departed with the ECS for the Mountain Spirit. Lilla left with its ECS at 18:04 to close the day's activities.
GVT progress
The Glyn Valley Tramway volunteers spent the weekend cementing the remaining loose stone blocks into the platform face at Chirk. The platform face is nearing completion and already has track alongside for gauging.
F&WHR 17/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Tuesday predicted a day of sunshine and temperatures of 10-21C. Tuesday's train service had 7 trains in total comprising 5 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit, two Woodland Wanderer and The Quarryman) and the two through trains on the WHR. There are two Boston Lodge Works visits with an 11:20 'Mini' morning visit and an full length afternoon visit at 15:45 on Wednesday 18/9/24. It is possible there may be some reorganisation of rolling stock in tidying up after SuperPower over the next few days. All three webcams were in use.
First up was No.143 on The Harbourmaster which arrived at 09:50 departing at 10:07. The next train was the 10:40 Mountain Spirit which arrived at about 10:15 into the FR platform hauled by James Spooner.
SuperPower 2024 YouTube 17/9/24
Click on the YouTube link to watch 37 minutes 11 seconds of video showing the best of SuperPower starting with K1's special train Friday evening and ending with a brief mention of Sunday's washout! This video is copyright F&WHR and was published on 17/9/24. It is best viewed at 1080p with Chrome and was videod on a 4K camcorder by John Wooden (F&WHR).
Boston Lodge visits now in Welsh medium 23/9/24
The F&WHR has been running its new ‘behind the
scenes’ Guided Tours of Boston Lodge engineering works for nearly six weeks now.
These tours have proved hugely popular with visitors since they launched back in
July and the F&WHR is now delighted to announce that on Monday, 23/9/24 the
F&WHR will be offering morning and afternoon tours in Welsh!
▪ Option 1 at 11:20 will be a one-hour ‘Mini’ Tour, ideal for those who want an
introduction to the railway and its history, with views into workshops, yards
and sheds. Visitors will also get a chance to see some of the famous locomotives
and heritage carriages at close quarters.
▪ Option 2 at 15:45 will be the F&WHR full two-hour ‘Behind the Scenes’ Tour, perfect
for those with an interest in heritage railways, offering a more in-depth
experience across the whole site, and a visit to the ‘Small Loco’ shed, where
unique and historic steam, diesel and electric locomotives are on show.
Both tours will be presented entirely through the medium of Welsh and will start
from Porthmadog’s Harbour Station with a short train ride across The Cob
embankment to the Works.
Please note: Some restrictions apply - due to the nature of the ground surface
and activities of a working environment.
ℹ Tickets for the F&WHR's Welsh Language Guided Tours can be booked by calling the
Booking Office: 01766 516024
The next English Language tours will be on 18/9/24.
Palmerston on its final VoR photocharter 13/9/24
Click on the YouTube link to watch 14 minutes 22 seconds of video featuring Palmerston's final photocharter on the Vale of Rheidol in September.
F&WHR 16/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Monday predicted a day of sunny periods and temperatures of 10-19C. Monday's train service had 5 trains in total comprising 2 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit) and the Gelert Explorer on the WHR. There are two Boston Lodge Works visits with an 11:20 'Mini' morning visit and an full length afternoon visit at 15:45. It is possible there may be some reorganisation of rolling stock in tidying up after SuperPower over the next few days. All three webcams were in use.
The ECS for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit came over at 10:10 and the James Spooner ran round at 10:25 and departed on time. Lilla arrived at 11:06 with a short 3 coach rake for the mini Boston Lodge Works tour at 11:20. Caernarfon Castle was involved with sorting all the rakes back into their normal order at Dinas.
This northerly view (16/9/24) shows Caernarfon Castle reorganising rolling stock after SuperPower passing through Waunfawr with the large water carrier wagon. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on an iPhone camera.
No.134 Autumn test running
The volunteer team managed to get No.134 into a steamable condition for SuperPower, a superb achievement. There is additional work to do before the loco can undergo gauging and load testing. Already a piece of concrete has had to be removed from the down platform to allow the loco to safely pass to the North Yard for the SuperPower cab rides.
The loco must be fitted with a spark arrestor, sand boxes and some minor components before light engine gauging trials can be anticipated. Due to the loco's 4 coupled long wheelbase, particular attention will be given to how the loco rides through the curves and tramway sections, especially the tight tramway curve onto Britannia Bridge. The lead coupled axle has some play and is steered into curves by the Krauss-Helmholtz mechanism on the lead pony truck. See Wikipedia for details. Experience will tell if lower speed limits need to be set for the NG15 on these tight curves.
Following gauging, loaded speed trials will be run this Autumn to establish a timing load for current operations such as the Snowdonia Star and the Gelert Explorer. It is likely these will be very similar to the NG16s timing loads.
F&WHR 15/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Sunday predicted a day of heavy rain and temperatures of 7-17C. However at Dinas the weather will improve with sunshine possible by the end of the afternoon. Sunday's train had 4 trains in total comprising 2 trains on the FR (the morning Mountain Spirit and the afternoon Woodland Wanderer hauled by the same Fairlie) and The Harbourmaster and Gelert Explorer on the WHR. There are additional trains on the northern half of the WHR in association with SuperPower on Sunday between Caernarfon and Rhyd Ddu. It is possible there may be some reorganisation of rolling stock in tidying up after SuperPower over the next few days. All three webcams were in use.
The Sunday SuperPower timetable features several interesting trains with both K1 and Australian diesel No.9 out and about on a variety of mixed rains, including demonstration freight. The signaller arrived at 09:30 just as steam was being raised m Boston Lodge. No.143 arrived with the ECS for the 10:20 The Harbourmaster at 09:47. David Lloyd George arrived at 10:10 for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit and ran round shortly afterwards. The Garratt departed at 10:22 and, surprisingly, there was still an empty B wagon coupled to the rear of the rake. DLG departed at 10:43 with a well loaded train to Blaenau Ffestiniog.
There were frequent torrential downpours which continued into the Sunday afternoon. The showers stopped and the sun came out as SuperPower packed up for another year. Up at Dinas many were sheltering in the Goods Shed while No.134 shunted up and down the bay platform and the North Yard headshunt giving cab rides. No.9 was stabled with its one coach rake in the North Yard and its 13:55 Caernarfon-Dinas working was cancelled.
This easterly view of Dinas (15/9/24) shows PW loco No.9 sidelined with the SAR brakevan and NWNGR No.24. Sadly this advertised train was not available. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR taken on an iPhone camera.
David High explained the proposals for the planned Dinas through Carriage Shed.
This plan shows work due to start this winter based on the bay platform area as of 6/9/24. North is to the right. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR taken on an iPhone camera.
Towards the end of the afternoon K1 arrived at Dinas on the 13:45 demonstration freight from Rhyd Ddu at 15:07 with the damp air causing much condensation of steam. The loco detached and went to the depot. Shortly afterwards No.143 appeared on the 1445 'Additional' from Caernarfon to Porthmadog. This set still had an empty B wagon attached to the front as it passed through Dinas at 15:27.
This southerly view (16//9/24) shows K1 arriving at Dinas about half an hour late at 15:07 with the 13:45 demonstration goods from Rhyd Ddu. The six wagon freight was wreathed in steam caused by excessive condensation in damp conditions. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
This northerly view (16/9/24) shows K1 running light back to the depot at 15:17. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
This northerly view (16/9/24) shows No.134 giving cab rides in the bay platform at 15:23. In the foreground is a ride-upon miniature railway laid for 100m or so of the bay platform. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
This northerly view (16/9/24) shows No.143 arriving about 30 minutes late at Dinas with The Harbourmaster Extra. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
Switching to Porthmadog, the weather was clearing up about 17:00 when trains began to return home. First back was DLG which was on the Woodland Wanderer which arrived back at about 17:30. No.143 then arrived on the Additional The Harbourmaster from Caernarfon at about 17:30. After 10 minutes the train proceeded ECS to the depot to close the day's activities.
Russell back in traffic for SuperPower weekend
Russell was made available on the WHHR for the weekend but it will only be back in traffic for a short while as the loco must receive its 10 year boiler overhaul April 2025. The loco has had a new con rod fitted after a serous crack was found in one of the con rods in the Spring. Now the F&WHR has rebuilt No.134 is it possible that the WHHR will rebuild their example No.120? Supporters will be keen to see Baldwin No.590 return to the railway from reparations at the VoR where it has been since the Spring. During WHR100 event last year many bought tickets for a ride behind the Baldwin and the WHHR has promised to honour the tickets. The WHHR is operating an MFX timetable for the rest of September, a SSuThO service for the first two weeks of October, a full service over the English and Welsh school's Half Term Holiday weeks with the season ending on 31/10/24.
F&WHR 14/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Saturday predicted a day of sunny periods and temperatures of 14-17C. Saturday's train service had 5 trains in total comprising 3 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit and The Quarryman train) and the two through trains on the WHR. There are additional trains on the northern half of the WHR in association with SuperPower on Saturday. It is possible there may be some reorganisation of rolling stock in preparation for SuperPower over the next few days. All three webcams were in use.
At 09:30 No.143 was noted reversing round Boston Lodge curve propelling The Harbourmaster rake with an empty B wagon on the rear.
This northerly view (14/9/24) shows No.134 on demonstration runs in the bay platform at Dinas. Saturday had much the better of the weekend's weather. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Alan Frewin taken on a digital camera.
Friday SuperPower photos 13/9/22
Contributions of images for publication (with due credit given) are welcomed as your webmaster had to attend a family wedding on Saturday. Alan Frewin has kindly contributed these images.
This easterly view (13/9/24) shows Vale of Ffestiniog with a short 3 coach rake heading up the Aberglaslyn Pass. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Alan Frewin taken on a digital camera.
This northerly view (13/9/24) shows K1 on a special Friday evening working to Rhyd Ddu. The loco is paused by the Waunfawr water tank. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Alan Frewin taken on a digital camera.
Friday Freight on NWC main line 13/9/24
This easterly view (13/9/24) shows No.66305 Embsay & Bolton Abbey Steam Railway propelling the Wellingborough slate empties into Glan Conwy Yard at Llandudno Junction. This is done in two portions because of the length of the rake. The advertised ballast train from Penmaenmawr did not run, Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes taken on a Canon EOS2000D digital camera.
F&WHR 13/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Friday predicted a day of sunny periods and temperatures of 10-15C. Friday's train service had just 2 trains in total comprising 2 trains on the FR (a morning Mountain Spirit and an afternoon Woodland Wanderer trains which require only one engine in steam). There were no trains on the WHR presumably to allow staff to shunt the rakes into order for SuperPower on Saturday. It is possible there may be some reorganisation of rolling stock in preparation for SuperPower over the next few days. All three webcams were in use.
The ECS for the Mountain Spirit was in the platform about 10:00 and David Lloyd George ran around at 10:15 before departing on time with a well loaded train at 10:40.
No.134 to offer cab rides
New NG15 No.134 will offer cab rides during SuperPower weekend after a tremendous effort by volunteers and staff to complete the loco by SuperPower Weekend. The loco was test run around Dinas Yard on 11/9/24.
This northerly view (11/9/24) shows No.134 being tested in steam running through the northbound platform at Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR taken on a digital camera.
Moving Pictures No.98 13/9/24
Click on the YouTube link to watch 35 minutes 44 seconds of video showing the latest news, including a Carriage Works Update and Palmerston on the Vale of Rheidol. This video is copyright F&WHR and was published on 14/9/24. It is best viewed at 1080p with Chrome and was videod on a 4K camcorder by John Wooden (F&WHR).
Loco roster 14-20/9/24
This coming week there will be 11 steam locos
and 3 diesels working on and around the F&WHR - excluding Shunters and Works
Trains!
On the FR: Double Fairlies MERDDIN EMRYS, DAVID LLOYD GEORGE
and JAMES SPOONER will be sharing duties on the Mountain
Spirit and Woodland Wanderer services.
The Quarryman services from Blaenau Ffestiniog will be worked by
Hunslet 2-4-0TT LINDA.
Sister loco BLANCHE will make an appearance on a Woodland
Wanderer service on Friday.
LILLA will be working Boston Lodge Tour specials on Monday and
Wednesday.
Things are not quite as easy to explain over on the WHR, due to the intensive
'Super-Power' weekend timetable and the allocation of NG/G16 locos to services
later in the week not yet being specified.
However, all three NG/G16s (Nos.87/130 /143) will be in action on
passenger trains over the 'Super-Power' weekend - along with Pioneer Garratt
K1 and diesels Castell Caernarfon, Vale of
Ffestiniog and No.9.
Latest addition to the loco fleet - NG15 No.134 - will be in steam
over the weekend, on display and offering footplate rides in Dinas Yard.
Check the
captions on each loco portrait for further details of their
individual workings.
Listing specific details for all locos over 'Super-Power' weekend would be
overly complicated, but more information is available on the event timetable @
https://bit.ly/WHR-SP24-TT
--------------------------------------------------
NOTE: This information is provided in good faith, solely as a guide, but could
be subject to change at any time.
Cafe De Winton opening 14-15/9/24
Cafe De Winton will be open for breakfast baps
and hot drinks from 08:00 on Saturday and from 07:30
on Sunday.
£6.00 for a sausage, bacon or egg bap with a tea or filter coffee over the
SuperPower Weekend.
F&WHR 12/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog for Thursday predicted an improving day with showers and sunny periods and temperatures of 5-14C but a sunny evening. Thursday's train service had 7 trains in total comprising 5 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit, two Woodland Wanderer trains and The Quarryman). There were also the two through trains on the WHR. It is possible there may be some reorganisation of rolling stock in preparation for SuperPower over the next few days. All three webcams were in use.
The ECS for the 10:10 The Harbourmaster was in the platform by 10:00, departing at 10:09 behind No.130 as the Mountain Spirit approached across The Cob arriving at 10:15. Merddin Emrys arrived with the ECS for the Woodland Wanderer at 10:32 in the WHR platform while David Lloyd George ran round in the FR platform and departed at 10:43.
The Snowdonia Star arrived at about 12:15 and the loco went light engine to refuel. Linda arrived at 12:51 with The Quarryman in the FR platform.
At 13:04 Linda shunt to yard. Towards the end of the afternoon the sun came out and the squalls faded to leave blue skies. At 18:00 the Mountain Spirit returned to Porthmadog. After running round the ECS departed at 18:30 to close the day's activities.
Cambrian Coast Express 12/9/22
Class 37s Nos. 97302/4 hauled the Cambrian Coast Express 7 from Pathfinder on 12/9/24. The train arrived on time at Pwllheli though intermediate photos may be few and far between due to the frequent squalls that hit the Cambrian area.
This easterly view (12/9/24) shows the Cambrian Coast Express railtour arriving at Porthmadog just as a hailstorm hit. No.97302 leads 97304 into the station where a number of people got off to visit the town and narrow gauge railways. The weather improved after this final squall. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Barrie Hughes taken on a Canon EOS 2000D digital camera.
No.134 moves in steam 11/9/24
Just in time for SuperPower, NG15 No.134 moved under its own steam for the first time on 11/9/24 and successfully ran through the sharp curvatures of the Dinas Depot headshunt and pointwork leading to the northbound loop in Dinas station. The loco is likely to be in steam during SuperPower making demonstration runs in the Dinas station area. A test programme during the Autumn will see the loco run in and it will hopefully join the fleet by Xmas in revenue earning service when any snags have been worked through. The stop-go project originally started just after the two NG15s arrived at Dinas in 1998 on a 'no budget' basis but the team disbanded when asked by the management to focus on core activities. Various restarts occurred during the intervening period with major progress resuming in 2008 under Pete Randall's leadership, who sadly died before seeing the fruits of his labours. Since 2020 Adrian Strachen has led the project to its completion.
Click on the YouTube link to watch 8 minutes 51 seconds of video showing the first movements of No.134 under steam at Dinas depot. This video is copyright F&WHR and was published on 11/9/24. It is best viewed at 1080p with Chrome and was videod on a 4K camcorder by John Wooden (F&WHR).
F&WHR 11/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog on Wednesday predicted a mixed day with showers and sunny periods and temperatures of 4-15C. Windy conditions were likely to persist until finally fading on Wednesday afternoon. Wednesday's train service had 6 trains in total comprising 3 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit and The Quarryman). There were also three trains on the WHR (two The Aberglaslyn and the Gelert Explorer). It is possible there may be some reorganisation of rolling stock in preparation for SuperPower over the next few days. All three webcams were in use.
No.87 was away first with the 10:15 The Aberglaslyn while James Spooner was preparing to run round the 10:40 Mountain Spirit in the FR platform. Run round came at 10:25 and the train departed at 10:40. The Aberglaslyn was back by 13:00 and the Garratt went to refuel and water and ran round at 13:30. Linda shunted the yard at 13:35 and coupled to the rake in the FR platform. Merddin Emrys arrived at 13:40 light engine for the Fairlie swop. The loco parked by the signal box as James Spooner arrived at 14:10 with the Mountain Spirit and the Fairlie swop took place. James Spooner ran to the yard to refuel light engine after the Mountain Spirit had departed. Linda departed at 15:27 with the last of the afternoon departures, the return working of The Quarryman, as violent squalls with hail thundered by.
Trains began to return home and the last one was the Mountain Spirit noted in the FR platform at 17:40. The train had departed ECS by 18:20 to close the day's activities.
Cambrian Coast Railtour 12/9/24
Pathfinder is running a Cambrian Coast Express railtour on Thursday 12/9/24, a day with a stormy forecast until late afternoon. The train departs Swindon very early and calls at stations via Kidderminster to Shrewsbury with Premier Dining available as far as Wolverhampton. The train will drop passengers off of Barmouth/Minffordd (for Portmerion), Porthmadog for WHHR/F&WHR and Pwllheli. The Pwllheli times are 14:35/16:20. The traction is likely to be the usual Class 67 to Shrewsbury and double headed Class 97/3s on the Cambrian.
F&WHR 10/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog on Tuesday predicted an improving day with showers at first and sunshine later and temperatures of 8-16C. Windy conditions are likely to persist until Wednesday. Tuesday's train service had 7 trains in total comprising 5 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit, two Woodland Wanderer and The Quarryman). All three webcams were in use.
No.87 was first out and arrived with the ECS for the 10:05 The Harbourmaster by 09:30. Merddin Emrys arrived with the ECS for the Mountain Spirit by 10:00. James Spooner arrived at 10:43 in the WHR platform with the ECS Woodland Wanderer, delaying the departure of the Mountain Spirit until 10:45. The Woodland Wanderer followed at 11:11.
The Snowdonia Star arrived in the WHR platform around 12:30 in the rain behind No.143. The loco remained attached as The Quarryman was in section approaching the terminus. This arrived at 12:50 in the FR platform behind Linda which was not wearing its cab back sheet despite the weather. The Garratt took the Snowdonia Star to the depot a couple of minutes later and Linda ran round at 12:55 before clearing the Woodland Wanderer rake to the seawall siding to allow space for later arrivals.
The ECS for the return working of the Snowdonia Star arrived back at 13:40 in the WHR platform with Linda acting as station pilot, shunting an empty B wagon for coal onto the rear of the rake for return to Dinas. Merddin Emrys arrived back at 13:57 with the Mountain Spirit. The loco ran round at 14:02 and prepared to shunt the rake clear of the FR platform as the Snowdonia Star departed. James Spooner completed the Fairlie swop and departed at 14:22 on the Mountain Spirit. Merddin Emrys extracted the Woodland Wanderer rake from the seawall siding at 14:30 and propelled it to the FR platform before departing at 14:50. Linda came out the yard to shunt The Quarryman rake to the FR platform to form the 15:25 departure, completing the afternoon departures 2 minutes late.
The trains returned in the late afternoon as the sun came out. The final arrival was the Mountain Spirit that pulled into the WHR platform by 18:00. The loco worked into the yard to refuel and water. Run round was completed by 18:15 and the ECS departed for the depot at 18:20 to complete the day's activity.
Parys Mountain copper mine to reopen?
A report in the Daily Post suggests that Parys Mountain Mine in Anglesey might reopen for the extraction of Copper, Zinc, Silver etc, The area has been a mining site since the Bronze Age. The concentrate could be transported to smelters in England by the Anglesey Central Railway which runs just 2km away and has a potential railhead at the former Rhosgoch siding tank farm rather than trucking ore into Amlwch itself.
SuperPower latest
Come and join the F&WHR for special weekend celebrating the railway's collection of some of the world's most powerful narrow gauge locos - steam and diesel. The F&WHR is going to be running lots of extra trains for you to ride on, using a variety of steam and diesel locomotives from around the world.
Click on the advert for full details of SuperPower. It looks like No.134 is complete and is in steam. The cylinder end covers are on in this view courtesy F&WHR.
You can buy a rover ticket to travel on as
many trains as you like - from Caernarfon to Dinas, Waunfawr, Rhyd Ddu,
Beddgelert or even Porthmadog. If you prefer, first buy a train ticket to Dinas
- then for just £5.00 you can visit this historic station, where the F&WHR will
be showing off newly restored loco
No.134. There will also be miniature train rides and stalls - and it
will be a great place to watch all the trains going past on their way to and
from Caernarfon.
Visit the SuperPower website (or one of the F&WHR Booking Offices) for more
information.
https://www.festrail.co.uk/september-14th-15th-whr-super.../
F&WHR 9/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog on Monday predicted an improving day with temperatures of 11-18C. Monday's train service had 3 trains in total comprising 2 trains on the FR (the morning Mountain Spirit and the afternoon Woodland Wanderer). Merddin Emrys was used for both. All three webcams were in use.
Vale of Ffestiniog was noted standing on The Cob at about 17:45 presumably to collect the ECS from the Woodland Wanderer. Merddin Emrys would have refuelled and watered and returned to the depot light engine to close the day's activities.
The Snowdonian II 21/9/24
Demand for The Snowdonian Special
in April was so great that the F&WHR are running an extra train, The
Snowdonian II, offering an unforgettable day-out on an 80-mile
round-trip over the full length of the F&WHR. In previous years there has been a
Snowdonian Limited that ran through Porthmadog non stop.
▪ So, at 08:45 on Saturday 21/9/24, The Snowdonian II will steam
out of Harbour Station, Porthmadog - heading first to Blaenau Ffestiniog, then
running all the way to Caernarfon, before returning to Porthmadog.
▪ Penrhyn Ladies LINDA and BLANCHE will be in charge
of the train over the Ffestiniog Railway, before being joined by Double Fairlie
JAMES SPOONER for the run to Caernarfon. Having completed the
outbound leg on the Welsh Highland Railway, LINDA and
BLANCHE will be replaced by pioneer Garratt K1 - providing
two contrasting types of articulated steam loco for the return to Porthmadog.
▪ The Snowdonian II weekend includes an optional evening meal on
the Friday 20/9/24 and the opportunity to join a FREE tour of Boston Lodge Works
on the Sunday 22/9/24. A light breakfast and buffet lunch on Saturday 21/9/24
are included in the ticket price - with further refreshments available onboard
the train from the Buffet Car.
▪ Tickets are still available for The Snowdonian II, so don't miss
your opportunity to enjoy eighty miles of Welsh Narrow Gauge Railway in one day!
ℹ Follow the link below for further information and to book your place on the
train:
https://www.festrail.co.uk/the-snowdonian-2/
----------------------------------------
Click the link below to see the F&WHR's video round-up of April's The
Snowdonian:
https://youtu.be/SbAK5bhNBrY
Webmaster's Holiday
Your webmaster will be taking a holiday at Porthmadog for the next 2 weeks and this may lead to some disruption to the website. Normal service will resume from 24/9/24.
F&WHR 8/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog on Sunday predicted an increasingly rainy day with temperatures of 11-18C. Sunday's train service had 3 trains in total comprising 2 trains on the FR (the morning Mountain Spirit and the afternoon Woodland Wanderer). The same Fairlie will be used for both duties. There was just one train on the WHR, the Gelert Explorer. All three webcams were running normally today.
James Spooner was on the 10:40 Mountain Spirit arriving ECS several minutes before Upnor Castle arrived light engine at 10:25 to work the yard. The Fairlie arrived back at 13:56 in the FR platform. Vale of Ffestiniog hauled the ECS Woodland Wanderer into the WHR platform at 14:08 and then coupled up to the Mountain Spirit at 14:18 and departed with the ECS at 14:34. The Fairlie coupled to the front of the Woodland Wanderer after fuelling and watering and departed 6 minutes late at 14:56.
At the end of the day James Spooner returned around 5pm. At 17:20 the loco departed with the ECS to close the day's activities.
Class 37409 on Heart of Wales Railtour 7/9/24
A top and tailed Class 37 hauled railtour operated over the Central Wales line on 7/9/24 taking in Sugar Loaf summit, Stormy down and the Lickey Bank. The LSL Intercity livery rake was used and 37409 was in Provincial livery. Click on the YouTube link to watch over 8 minutes including some drone footage courtesy of Mr Thrash37. The railtour originated in Crewe and headed to Swansea, then Cardiff and back via Birmingham.
Downhill walks on the Bryngwyn branch 14/9/24
If you (or a partner/friend accompanying you
to North Wales over Super-Power weekend) would be interested in something that's
not just 'trains, trains, trains' - the F&WHR has got a great way to enjoy the
stunning scenery of the area, with its mountains and contrasting coastal
landscapes.
On Saturday, 14/9/24, there is an opportunity to take a guided walk down the
ex-North Wales Narrow Gauge Railway's Bryngwyn branch - now restored as a
multi-user path leading from the slate quarries around Moel Tryfan to
picturesque Tryfan Junction station.
A minibus will take you from Dinas Station to the start of the walk at Cae Haidd
(just short of the Bryngwyn terminus) - from where the walk is expected to take
around 90 minutes, finishing at Tryfan Junction with a train back to Dinas.
There are two walks planned – one leaving around 09:45 (returning to Dinas at
12:00) and the other around 13:45 (returning to Dinas at 16:10).
For images of the Slate Trail trackbed walk
see
Festrail Facebook page. The loop of trackbed around Bryngwyn Farm
and Bryngwyn station are private property and not accessible.
⚠These walks will be free to all event Rover ticket holders, but should be
booked so the F&WHR can arrange transport.
Although this is an easily-graded path (being an old railway line and downhill
all the way), the F&WHR strongly recommend participants wear suitable walking
shoes/boots to avoid possible difficulties along the way.
ℹ You can book your tickets and register for the walk from the F&WHR website @
https://www.festrail.co.uk/september-14th-15th-whr-super.../
PLEASE NOTE: Tryfan Junction station building will be open over the weekend,
adding extra interest at the end of the walk before catching the train back to
Dinas.
F&WHR 7/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog on Saturday predicted a sunny day with temperatures of 16-24C. Saturday's train service had 6 trains in total comprising 4 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit, The Quarryman and a Boston Lodge Works visit shuttle). There are also the two through trains on the WHR. All three webcams were running normally today.
No.87 arrived at 09:25 with the ECS for the 10:05 The Harbourmaster which was fully booked (though a coach was retained for hop-on-hop off traffic). At 09:50 Lilla worked into the yard with a short 2 coach rake for the 10:10 Boston Lodge Works tour shuttle. Surprisingly steam was being raised at Boston Lodge for another purpose although there was no advertised train. Lilla ran round in the yard at 10:10 as No.87 departed some 5 minutes late. Another train was waiting at the site of the trident signal. Merddin Emrys arrived with the ECS for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit in the FR platform at 10:15. The Boston Lodge Works tour shuttle left some 15 minutes late at 10:24 from a short section of FR platform by the signalbox. The shuttle arrived back by the signalbox at 12:25 and 12:29 the rake was propelled back to Boston Lodge as there was no afternoon shuttle arranged.
The Snowdonia Star arrived behind No.130 at about 13:35 about 70 minutes late without explanation. Five minutes later the loco shunted to the yard to refuel and water. No.87 was back with The Harbourmaster by 17:00 and departed with the ECS t 17:10. The Mountain Spirit arrived back at around 17:30 hauled by Merddin Emrys. The loco ran round and departed with the ECS about 15 minutes later.
SuperPower update
SuperPower is on 14-15/9/24 with some events
starting on the Friday evening.
K1 has landed - delivered safely from the Statfold Barn Railway &
Museum, where the loco is based while on loan from the F&WHR.
It is great to have this pioneering loco - the world's first Garratt - back on
Welsh Highland Railway metals. K1 will be working a variety of
trains over 'Super-Power' weekend (as well as a private train for Cymdeithas
Rheilffordd Eryri / Welsh Highland Railway Society members on Friday 13/9/24).
Along with the appearance of newly-restored NG15 2-8-2 No.134,
this will bring added variety to the eclectic mix of the home fleet of three
ex-South African NG/G16 Garratts, two diesels from South Africa and a diesel
from Australia (No.9)!
More information and tickets are available from the
F&WHR
website.
IMPORTANT NOTE:
'Super-Power' Rover tickets ARE valid on the WHR service trains that weekend -
although, due to an oversight, some tickets say otherwise.
Space has been reserved on service trains for 'Super-Power' visitors - please
see the Guard to be directed to the appropriate seats.
K1 test run 6/9/24
Pioneer Garratt loco K1 has arrived at the WHR and undertook a test run on 6/9/24 to Beddgelert and back to collect a rake of B wagons for a SuperPower freight train. Vale of Ffestiniog had been on its way to Dinas with empty B wagons for coal and dropped off three at Beddgelert for K1's test train with various loads including No.138's wheelsets. See Andrew Cole's images on Facebook.
Wickham Trolley 'Blaenau or bust!' 6/9/24
The electric powered Wickham PW trolley took another run from Porthmadog towards Blaenau Ffestiniog after trains has finished on Thursday 6/9/24. Previously the experiment had reached Dduallt and the trolley got a little further this time. See Matthew Hall's photos on Facebook.
Meet the Experts dates firming up
The F&WHR is a rich environment for varied
locomotives, rolling stock and all manner of engineering - much of it dating
back to Victorian times. The railway is now offering the opportunity for you to
meet some of the experts and learn more about the details behind the engineering
marvels. This will be a mixture of talks and theory alongside practical hands-on
demonstrations in the historic workshops at Boston Lodge...
On the calendar so far:
▪14/9/24
Kerr Stuart 4415: Diesel Pioneer
- with David High
▪12/10/24
Quarry Hunslets: "They're all the same!"
- with Rob Coulson
▪ Date TBC
A Day with 'Wol'
- with CME Jon Whalley
For more details and to book your place on one of these experiences, visit this
website
https://www.festrail.co.uk/meet-the-experts/ .
SNP planning committee passes BLR extension application
The Snowdonia National Park Authority has accepted the Bala Lake Railway's revised plans to extend to a new town centre terminus in Bala. The plans were originally rejected on the basis that additional tourists would cause sewage problems and thereby damage water quality in the River Dee. The Committee recommended work did not start until after the new sewage works was underway, currently planned for 2025. However, there is little chance of an early start on constructing the extension as the BLR is still fundraising in the absence of EU grants and regional funds since BREXIT and the paucity of Boris Johnson's much vaunted alternative funding mechanism for such projects. See BBC news story.
Cambrian Coast Express 5/9/24
Network Rail's 97/3s Nos. 97302/304 hauled the Cambrian Coast Express rail tour from Bristol Temple Meads to Pwllheli from Shrewsbury on 5/9/24 2024. Click on the Facebook link to see Neil Welford's photos of the rail tour seen here on the 'Doveyation at Penhelig.
F&WHR 6/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog on Friday predicted a sunny day with temperatures of 16-26C. Friday's train service had 3 trains in total comprising 2 trains on the FR (the morning Mountain Spirit and the afternoon Woodland Wanderer and one train on the WHR (the Gelert Explorer). This meant only one Fairlie was required in steam as it could do both trips. All three webcams were running normally today.
At 10:05 James Spooner hauled the ECS Mountain Spirit into the FR platform and left on time at about 10:40. Vale of Ffestiniog was noted standing light engine by the signalbox at 13:50 with a train approaching across The Cob. James Spooner arrived in the WHR platform at 13:55 with the return working of the Mountain Spirit.
This northerly view (6/9/24) shows Vale of Ffestiniog delivering two B wagons of coal from Dinas, passing through Beddgelert.. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright Tom Waldren taken on a phone camera.
The Fairlie had made a coal delivery from Dinas earlier and coupled to the rear of the rake to dispose of it as ECS while James Spooner went to coal and water. The ECS departed at 14:25 as the Fairlie shunted onto the rake in the FR platform which would form the 14:50 Woodland Wanderer.
James Spooner brought the Woodland Wanderer back at about 17:00 and was running round at 17:09 in the FR platform. The ECS left at 17:15 to complete the day's activities.
Loco roster w/c 7/9/24
This coming week there will be up to EIGHT
steam locos working on and around the F&WHR.
On the Ffestiniog Railway: Double Fairlies JAMES SPOONER and
MERDDIN EMRYS will be sharing duties on the Mountain Spirit
and Woodland Wanderer services, swopping at midday.
The Quarryman service from Blaenau Ffestiniog will be worked by
Hunslet 2-4-0TT LINDA.
LILLA will work a Boston Lodge Tour shuttle on
Saturday...
Things are not quite as clear over on the Welsh Highland Railway, as the full
roster has not been released yet.
NG/G16s Nos.87/143 are shown in action over the early part of the
week:
• No.87 will start the week working from Porthmadog.
• No.143 will start the week working from Caernarfon.
• Full details from Wednesday onwards are not yet available - except for
Pioneer Garratt K1 is rostered to work a private train from Dinas,
late on Friday afternoon, to Rhyd Ddu and back at the start of the SuperPower
weekend.
Check the
captions on each loco portrait for further details of their
individual workings...
--------------------------------------------------
NOTE: This information is provided in good faith, solely as a guide, but could
be subject to change at any time.
F&WHR 5/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog on Thursday predicted an overcast day with a few sunny periods and temperatures of 16-19C with increasingly windy conditions. Thursday's train service had 8 trains in total comprising 5 trains on the FR (two Mountain Spirit, two Woodland Wanderer, The Quarryman and an unexpected Works Visit shuttle) and just two through trains on the WHR. Surprisingly there are late advised tours of Boston Lodge today (see below for revised details). All three webcams were running normally today.
No.87 was first up and departed on time at 10:05 with The Harbourmaster as James Spooner arrived in the FR platform with the ECS for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit. Upnor Castle was shunting the seawall siding and took a scratch rake of two coaches to the platform area near the signalbox for the late advertised 10:10 Works Visit Shuttle, the first time it has changed rake and haulage. Steam shunting was visible at Boston Lodge at 10:20 bringing over the ECS for the 11:10 Woodland Wanderer which arrived ECS in the WHR platform behind Merddin Emrys at 10:33. The Fairlie ran round after the Mountain Spirit had cleared station limits and departed on time.
No.130 arrived with the Snowdonia Star at 12:32 and departed on time after tanking up with water. At 14:20 the Mountain Spirit departed with Merddin Emrys is charge after the Fairlie swop. James Spooner was waiting in the yard to shunt the Woodland Wanderer out of the seawall siding and back into the FR platform.
At 14:48 Linda was shunting in the yard to prepare The Quarryman rake for its return journey.
Mountaineer Working Party Report September
Continuing from where volunteers started
earlier in the month, the tanks have now been 90% thickness tested which is
showing good results that the wastage is acceptable and which areas of the tanks
that will require repairs. Dismantling continued with the removal of the weight
shaft, expansion links and valve rods. These have been carefully stored. The
brake shaft and fabrication over the rear pony truck were examined for removal
but it has been decided that these should wait until the rest of the frames are
looked at in the future and can be made immobile for a period of time.
The mock ash pan has been assembled and also tested by shunting the chassis
around the yard, which showed that there's going to be plenty of room for ash
build up and that there is no interfacing issue with the rear pony truck. The
regulator and gauge glass frames were added to the cab with feedback received
from that day's Quarrymen crew, giving positive feedback. Also, in
the cab the oil tank stay was removed ready for work to continue next time on
the shovel plate mock up. The fire extinguisher holder has also been removed.
Plate work and a number of other parts have been sorted and organized ready to
be sent away for shot blasting after further degreasing.
A few members of the team periodically lent a hand to Glan-y-pwll resident Jay
with the dismantling of the GPO van chassis along with loading it into a train
ready for taking it down to Minffordd to be recycled. In exchange for the
group's help, volunteers have had the thank you gift of enough biscuits to keep
their tea breaks well stocked into 2025.
That's all for this time, thank you to all readers and volunteers for the
continued support for the project. Please visit the Appeal page and shop to help
progress the restoration of Mountaineer.
Please find the Appeal page on the Ffestiniog Railway society web site.
https://www.ffestiniograilway.org.uk/.../mountaineer-appeal
The 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 and you can send a message on this page.
Boston Lodge minitours
Boston Lodge Works tours have reappeared for September along with some cheaper shorter 'minitours', only the main tour involving a shuttle train from Harbour Station to Boston Lodge Halt. Mostly these 7 dates (including 5/9/22) are for the 15:45 afternoon visit but Saturday 7/9/22 has a morning visit too and there is a Tuesday date too (24/9/24)! These full length visits take 2 hours 15 minutes and cost £27 (child 10-16 £13.50). See Boston Lodge Main Tour booking page. In October the Main tours at 10:10 MWFSu from 13-30/10/24.
The new Mini Tour takes the morning slot on the same days starting 16/9/24 but starts later at 11:20, takes 1 hour 15 minutes (including 1 hour at Boston Lodge) and costs £15 (child 10-16 £7.50). This tour does not seem to include the shuttle ride across The Cob so participants may have to drive there or walk across The Cob. See Boston Lodge Mini Tour booking page. There are no mini tours in October.
NLHF Boston Lodge September YouTube
Click on the YouTube link to watch 7 minutes 38 seconds of video showing the final stages of progress at Boston Lodge as the project might be completed this month. This video is copyright F&WHR and was published on 4/9/24. It is best viewed at 1080p with Chrome and was videod on a 4K camcorder by John Wooden (F&WHR).
F&WHR 4/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog on Wednesday predicted a day of showers and sunny periods with temperatures of 11-16C. Wednesday's train service had 5 trains in total comprising 2 trains on the FR (the Mountain Spirit and The Quarryman) and three trains on the WHR (two The Aberglaslyn and the Gelert Explorer). All three webcams were running normally today.
At 08:00 it seemed an early morning S&T train was working on the trident signal area on The Cob with a diesel loco, possibly Harlech Castle. The signal was brought down in the storm a week ago. The S&T train retreated from The Cob as passenger services began to start. No.143 arrived at Harbour Station at 09:35 with the ECS for the 10:15 The Aberglaslyn in the WHR platform. The only other train due that morning was the ECS for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit. At 14:40 the Fairlie shunted a coach from the seawall siding to reform The Aberglaslyn rake to full length in the WHR platform before departing with the ECS at 14:45.
Today's reduced timetable was due to the arrival of the Snowdonia Statesman from High Wycombe and the provision of an FR train from Blaenau Ffestiniog to Tan-y-bwlch to give participants a ride on the FR. A mix of old bogie coaching stock was noted departing Tan-y-bwlch on the return to connect with the 16:00 return working.
Locals Offer continues for September
Between the 1-30/9/24 the F&WHR will again be offering a 50% discount for the whole family, on a choice of train services, to local residents with their primary address in any postcode area from LL22 to LL78 (inclusive).Trains from Porthmadog:
▪ 14:20 - MOUNTAIN SPIRIT [Standard]
▪ 14:20 - MOUNTAIN SPIRIT [Gold]
▪ 14:50 - WOODLAND WANDERER [Standard]
Trains from Blaenau Ffestiniog:
▪ 11:40 - THE QUARRYMAN [Standard]
▪ 11:40 - THE QUARRYMAN [Gold]
Trains from Caernarfon:
▪ 11:30 - GELERT EXPLORER [Standard]
▪ 11:30 - GELERT EXPLORER [Gold]
The voucher code is: LOCALSSEP
This code will only work on these specified train services between the 1-30/9/24
ℹ Discount offer is for tickets only and does not include Guidebooks or Food & Drink.
This code can be used to apply the discount when making bookings online, on the phone, at the F&WHR Booking Office counters or on the trains, via the Guard.
PLEASE NOTE: Customers must bring proof of residency (e.g. Driver’s Licence) on the day of travel to show at the check-in desk.
More details and online tickets @F&WHR.
F&WHR 3/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog on Tuesday predicted a day of deteriorating weather with temperatures of 10-17C, sunny at first but with . Tuesday's train service had 7 trains in total comprising 5 trains on FR (two Mountain Spirit, two Woodland Wanderer The Quarryman) and two through trains on the WHR. All three webcams were running normally today.
No.130 arrived at 12:25 with the Snowdonia Star. The loco uncoupled and ran to the yard to refuel and water. At 12:52 the loco emerged from the yard as Linda arrived in the FR platform wit the 7 coach The Quarryman.
By 14:00 David Lloyd George had run round the afternoon Mountain Spirit standing in the FR platform and swopped over. James Spooner shunted out of the yard light engine. After the Mountain Spirit had left at 14:22, James Spooner shunted the Woodland Wanderer to the FR platform.Linda departed at 15:27 with The Quarryman as Vale of Ffestiniog arrived in the WHR platform from Dinas with 2 wagons of fuel. At 15:35 the Funkey propelled the B wagons into the fuelling point in the yard. The Funkey departed across The Cob light engine at 15:50 to complete the afternoon activities.
Trains began to arrive home at 16:32 in the WHR platform, firstly No.143 on The Harbourmaster. this departed ECS at 16:41, James Spooner arrived at about 17:00 in the FR platform with the Woodland Wanderer. The loco ran round and took the open coach off the front, propelling it to the seawall siding. DLG arrived at 17:41 in the WHR platform with the Mountain Spirit. James Spooner departed a minute later. DLG detached and ran to the yard to water and refuel before departing with the ECS at 18:03 to close the day's activities.
Million pound upgrade for North Wales & Border stations
TfW Press release 3/9/24:
Transport for Wales has completed a
million-pound investment into Flint and Runcorn East railway stations.
Improvements at both stations include CCTV, help points, customer waiting and
cycle shelters, seating, lighting, waste facilities and signage. Flint station
works also included improvements to the ticket office, waiting rooms, water
refill units, toilet refurbishments, new customer information screens and
landscaping, and was supported by £90,000 funding from Railway Heritage Trust.
Additionally, as part of TfW’s wider Social and Commercial Development Plan a
disused building at Flint has been transformed into two new community rooms and
a staff room. Local councillors were recently invited to preview the new
community spaces as TfW begins its search for a new tenant to move in later this
year.
The Cabinet Secretary for North Wales and Transport, Ken Skates said: “These
much needed refurbishments will make a real difference for station users. By
providing space for community groups, social enterprises, and local businesses –
these stations will become important hubs within the communities they serve.”
Kim Hawkins, Head of Customer Operations (North) said:
“These station improvements offer tangible
benefits to F&WHR passengers at Flint and Runcorn East stations. This investment
will ensure the stations are more welcoming places for passengers and visitors.”
Melanie Lawton, Community Rail Strategy Lead added: “This is a big
transformation and opportunity for Flint. The space looks fantastic and we’re
looking forward to further engaging with the community and working with a tenant
who will give back as they are doing at the community cafe in Llandudno
Junction, Community fridge in Tywyn, money advice service in Abergele, cycle
loan at Bangor plus many more.”
The improvements at Flint are being complemented by Network Rail’s ‘Access for
All’ for scheme which is currently underway at the station. This will mean all
passengers, including those with limited mobility and those carrying heavy
luggage or pushchairs, will have a step-free, accessible route to and between
platforms.
A55 roundabouts misery
The two remaining A55 roundabouts at Dwygyfyllchi and Llanfairfechan will remain unaltered for some years yet causing delay to traffic visiting the WHR. Two road improvement schemes were cancelled last year when TfW imposed a moratorium on all road improvements. Minister Ken Skates responded to more recent appeals to do something about the roundabouts by confirming the moratorium but suggesting they would be looked at again in the future. See Daily Post report.
F&WHR 2/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog on Monday predicted a day of thunderstorms with temperatures of 11-20C. Monday's train service had a bit of the feeling of end of season with just 4 trains in total comprising 5 trains on FR (two Mountain Spirit, The Quarryman and the Boston Lodge Works shuttle) and one train on the WHR (the Gelert Explorer). All three webcams were running normally today.
James Spooner arrived with the ECS for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit in the FR platform at 10:08. There are no Boston Lodge shuttles until Thursday. After running round the loco shunted the front four coaches to the seawall siding to more closely match the coaches to the booking now we are in the 'shoulder' period where family holidays are replaced by retired couples etc. The train left 3 coaches in the siding and shunted the Obs back onto the train. The train left three minutes late.
David Lloyd George must have swopped with James sooner at lunchtime. The Quarryman must have arrived over an hour late so its return time was similarly delayed and the rake was left in the WHR platform form much of the afternoon. Upnor Castle was noted departing the yard with a B wagon of coal at 14:35 and heading across The Cob. Linda shunted out of the yard at 16:05, coupled up ad departed at 16:32, some 67 minutes late for some reason.
DLG arrived with the Mountain Spirit at 17:54 in the FR platform and after several minutes took the ECS back to the depot to close the day's activities.
Boston Lodge Guided Tour: Changed Autumn dates
The normal MWFSu Boston Lodge Works Tour programme has been changed for September. The only dates currently showing on the booking form are Thursday 5/9/24 and Saturday 7/9/24. The situation reverts to normal MWFSu in October from 13/10/24-30/10/24. See booking form.
Super-Power Weekend
Super-Power weekend (14-15/9/24) is fast approaching so make sure you have booked your rover tickets for what promises to be a memorable event! The highlight of the weekend will undoubtedly be the appearance of NG15 No.134, (hopefully shunting around North Yard) and there will be plenty of opportunities to inspect and photograph the loco.
This northerly view (8/24) shows No.134 rapidly nearing completion.. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. Image copyright F&WHR taken on a digital camera.
In addition to this special appearance, there
will also be an intensive timetable between Caernarfon and Rhyd Ddu over the
weekend including service trains and extra event trains. There will be a number
of mixed trains hauled by
K1 or an NGG16 and there are some passenger diesel hauled trains
including an unusual outing for No.9 the Australian PW loco).
During the event weekend, Dinas will be the main hub (open from 08:30 – 18:00 on
Saturday and Sunday), with plenty to see and do including an operating 5” gauge
line, a hot food van and a variety of stalls & information stands in the goods
shed. This may be the last time a major event takes place at Dinas as work
begins this winter on the new Carriage Shed.
There will also be guided tours of the normally off-limits workshops at Dinas,
footplate rides, and much more.
Tryfan Junction and Waunfawr station buildings will also be open during the
weekend and event ticket holders are encouraged to visit.
So, come and support the F&WHR as Super-Power weekend is relaunched in 2024...
tickets are now available on the F&WHR website:
https://www.festrail.co.uk/september-14th-15th-whr-super.../
F&WHR 1/9/24
The Met Office forecast for Porthmadog on Sunday predicted an improving day with temperatures of 15-23C and sunny periods after an overcast morning. Thunderstorms were predicted for much of North Wales all day Monday. Sunday's train service had a bit of the feeling of end of season with just 6 trains in total comprising 4 trains on FR (two Mountain Spirit, two The Aberglaslyn and the morning Boston Lodge Works shuttle ) and the Gelert Explorer on the WHR. All three webcams were running normally today. The two The Aberglaslyn workings were added to the timetable published on Friday over the weekend.
The signalbox was opened at 09:30 as No.87 arrived on a late advertised working of the 10:15 The Aberglaslyn. The shuttle approached across The Cob in the hands of Linda arriving in the FR yard at 09:50. This was followed by the ECS for the 10:40 Mountain Spirit hauled by David Lloyd George. Linda then hauled the shuttle into the short section of FR platform by the signalbox to load the participants in the 10:10 Boston Lodge works tour.
No.87 arrived back at 13:18, over 20 minutes late. DLG arrived back in the rain at 17:38 on the afternoon Mountain Spirit working. Run round came at 17:47 and the loco shunted stock at 17:50 from the seawall siding back onto the rake in the FR platform. Presumably the Mountain Spirit had been reduced in size earlier in the day to save fuel. The ECS departed at 17:59 to close the day's activities. The signalbox was closed 5 minutes later.
Meet the Experts
Boston Lodge is planning to run three courses entitled 'Meet the Experts' based in Boston Lodge. The three courses are
The morning courses last 4 hours and are hands on experiences. For more details see Meet the Experts.
North Wales freight traffic looking up
Despite the apparent demise of the Aberystwyth-Chirk Chronospan log train slate chippings traffic is North Wales is about to get a boost with three paths allocated from Llandudno Junction Glan Conwy Yard from 17/9/24. The new paths shown on RTT are TWThO from 17/9/24.
Chirk progress
Work over the last two weekends has seen the Glyn Valley Tramway platform edging restored in the joint GVT/NR station at Chirk.
Trackwork Volunteering 2024
Volunteering is currently organised differently due to the Covid-19 outbreak. 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 2024 is fortnightly for the North Wales Track Gang in RED but details are still awaited for the ROWG in BLACK:
January | 13-14/1/24 | ||||
February | |||||
March | |||||
April | |||||
May | |||||
June | |||||
July | |||||
August | |||||
September | |||||
October | |||||
November | |||||
December |
Bank Holiday weekend
! Subject to confirmation when the Winter Major Works Programme is available
WW-Working week Saturday-Thursday
The Tuesday Gang expects to be operating most Tuesdays.
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 Phil Nock.
Tuesday Gang:
North Wales Black Hand Gang (BHG): Dafydd Thomas Phone: 01248 681019 Email: dthomas@ffw
Rest of The World Gang (ROWG): Phil Nock Email: pnock@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 websiteClick here for Official WHHR site
Click here for FR Company websites
Click here for Welsh Highland Heritage Group
V4.5004 updated 12/10/24