Welsh Highland Railway

This southerly view (3/11/19) shows No.608 hauling a heritage rake heading for Beddgelert between T2 and T3 in the Aberglaslyn Pass during the photo charter. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Phil Brown (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Welcome to Version 4 of this website, launched on September 8 2004 with news about work on Phase 4 of the WHR scheme. In addition to this Stop Press page and a Phase 1/2 page, there are 9 location pages, covering the Phase 3 works between Waunfawr and Rhyd Ddu. There are a further 9 pages covering Phase 4, the full route through Beddgelert, the Aberglaslyn Pass and on to Porthmadog, including the Traeth Mawr to Pen-y-Mount works recently constructed by the WHHR with three regularly updated map links for this area by Laurence Armstrong.

Finally, there are pages covering 'Phase 5', Views from the Line, the history of the abandoned PBSSR works around Beddgelert, Archived News and a Contacts page for volunteers. Another page covers the current operation of the WHHR southwest from Pen-y-Mount.

The above OS map shows the route through the Aberglaslyn Pass and Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. Image produced from the Ordnance Survey Get-a-map service. Image reproduced with kind permission of Ordnance Survey and Ordnance Survey of Northern Ireland.

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

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

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.

Here is an activity F&WHR members can help with whilst 'locked down' at home, using their railway knowledge to expand captions on old photos of the two railways and identify locations. Images from iBase resource will be pasted on F&WHR Insider Facebook page for consideration and comments collated. If needed, you can zoom into the photograph further on the website, as they can be viewed in greater detail via the archive zoom. Simply visit F&WHR iBase resource, enter the iBase reference number into the search box, then click on the photo until you reach the level of magnification you require. There are also instructions as to how to give a 3 word location code that defines a 3m square location box.

Your webmaster hopes there is a better response than the appeal for help with archive images from 1996-7 featured on these pages to tie down dates/locations which generated nil response.

Click on the YouTube window to watch 6 mins 35 seconds of video covering the appeal for image analysis. This YouTube was published on 1/4/20 and was taken by John Wooden on a professional 4K camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on YouTube link.

With the Government recommending a 'stay at home' policy, TfW has reduced services to a Sunday service to reflect demand so the loco hauled train have disappeared. A bus service is operating on the Conwy Valley line which it is hoped will be restored and made more weatherproof before the Summer should holiday traffic return. See TfW website for latest service reductions.

Elsewhere on the North Wales railways the new cement service to Padeswood (near Buckley) has started recently and TfW has confirmed that the loco hauled Crewe/Manchester-Holyhead/Llandudno service will continue and additional Mk4 coaches have been purchased to cover this. Mk3 coaches continue to be used with an extended derogation until they arrive. The proposed new freight services from Penmaenmawr stone quarry and Llandudno Junction (household refuse) have not commenced yet. An attempt to use the Valley triangle for reversing a steam loco on a recent excursion could not be completed due to NR not maintaining the junction points in a useable condition despite guarantees to the promoters!

Here are the final two images from October 1996, just prior to the start of WHR construction. Subsequent images (starting January 1997) will have detail from your webmaster's notepad used in coverage for magazines of the period. The two previous images shown further below have been re-dated to an accurate date of 10/11/96 through internal cross-referencing of notebooks. Both of the images shown below confirm structures on the Carnarvonshite Railway (sic) were build for future expansion to double track which fortunately gave space for both the Lon Eifion and the WHR.

This southerly archive view (26?/10/96) shows the Lon Eifion crossing Bontnewydd Viaduct as the contract for reconstruction was being considered. Both the Seiont and Gwyrfai viaducts were stripped out, waterproofed and repointed under the Mowlem's contract in 1997. The old Nantlle Tramway bridge over the Afon Gwyrfai can be viewed to the left from this point. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 SLR camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly archive view (26?/10/96) shows the Lon Eifion passing under Plas Dinas overbridge. The old Nantlle Tramway tunnel is in a lower cutting to the left under the same road. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 SLR camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Scanning of your webmaster's slide collection through the construction and launch period of the WHR to 1998 has made good progress over the last few weeks and with the help of friends and magazine articles your webmaster wrote, most slides now have dates. Updates will appear more regularly after this gargantuan task! Apologies for lack of updates over the last two weeks while this process was completed.

This northerly archive view (10/11/96) shows the former level crossing style gate erected at the future Hendy Level crossing to prevent vehicular access to Lon Eifion long distance path. In the cutting just north of the crossing there was a caravan in adverse possession selling plants from a makeshift garden centre. By this time the caravan was left abandoned on site for the WHR contractors to remove but some of the shrubs have survived over 20 years to make an interesting wild garden in this area. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 SLR camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

The WHR reconstruction in 1997 used the former LNWR Afonwen-Caernarfon branch, itself largely on the Nantlle Railway alignment. Much of the formation of the 1825 Nantlle Railway was used by the Carnarvonshire Railway (later LNWR) to reach Caernarfon Harbour and the CHR Caernarfon Branch (opened 1852) although many curves were eased meaning the WHR is now as much as 50 m off the route of the Nantlle. The Carnarvonshire Railway opened to a temporary station at Coed Helen cutting known as Pant on 2/8/1867 but the Cross Town link to Caernarfon station was stalled. This meant that the Nantlle operated an isolated section between Coed Helen and Caernarfon Quay for about 4 years. The tunnel under Coed Helen Road and the shelf to the now demolished Seiont Bridge is still visible today. The Caernarfon Town line was opened 5/7/70 connecting both the isolated Llanberis Branch and Afonwen branch to Caernarfon station through what is now the road tunnel. The horse worked Quay branch followed in December 1871 at which point the isolated section of the Nantlle line through Coed Helen tunnel was abandoned.

This southerly archive view (10?/11/96) shows the former Nantlle Tramway tunnel under Coed Helen lane. The tramway saw extended use after the Caernarvonshire Railway built to Pant (Coed Helen Cutting) with transhipment there. It finally fell into disuse a few years later when the Caernarfon Cross-Town link and Quay Branch was opened. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 SLR camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Click on the YouTube window to watch 23 mins 42 seconds of video covering the work on K1's removal from the F&WHR, news from the Carriage Works and an illuminated Blanche on footplate rides. This YouTube was published on 20/12/19 and was taken by John Wooden on a professional 4K camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on YouTube link.

The F&WHR reacted promptly to Government advice and closed the railway on 18/3/20 just prior to the start of the Easter Season on 28/3/20, so a great loss of income is anticipated and an appeal has been made for financial aid to support the railway and retain key staff. This will ensure the railway can restart as soon as allowed by the Government when the Covid-19 virus crisis is over. The F&WHR shops and cafes are also closed down and staff furloughed, with a few safety critical staff retained for security of the railway and premises. Click here to see Appeal.

Click on the YouTube window to watch 3 mins 53 seconds of video covering the F&WHR's General manager appealing on behalf of the railway concerning the economic damage the shut down of the railway will do to its future. The video includes some archive footage. This YouTube was published on 26/3/20 and was taken by John Wooden on a professional 4K camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on YouTube link.

Images of the final train on 14/3/20 were captured on the WHHR webcam apparently the Hafod-y-llyn service returning in the late afternoon with Linda or Blanche in charge.

Click on the YouTube window to watch 0 mins 47 seconds of video covering the F&WHR's final Hafod-y-llyn train before shutting down following government advice about Covid-19 measures. The video also shows Emma shunting Russell. This YouTube was published on 18/3/20 and was taken by the WHHR webcam courtesy Andrew Goodwin (WHHR). It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on YouTube link.

All the construction images from 1996-7 to the opening of the WHR have now been scanned and will published along with the associated story over the next few weeks. Apologies for the delay but this has sometimes involved opening slide mounts and checking sprocket holes/exposure number positions to separate out mixed batches of slides, an onerous task as the slides were not catalogued at the time.

Help dating images is very welcome including 'before' or 'after' dates. So far, disappointingly, no communications have been received about any images that have been identified with a date with a question mark against it despite the slides being on line for over 6 months now since the series of archive views started. If readers of this website are self isolating or 'locked down' might an interesting few hours could be passed checking the images against your own records to see if any of the questionable dates can be confirmed or narrowed down?

Winter 2019/20 has been disappointing with no trains in the snow images to hand. While the tops of the mountains often had a white dusting, the weather was mostly wild, wet and windy which caused some disruption to the line. There were very few days that saw a frost and February seemed to be more like March weather with a series of storms and floods.

Following storm Ciara, extensive floods closed the Conwy Valley Line for the second year in succession washing away ballast and destroying fences in places. Maybe some large diameter culverts are required at these locations? Network Rail closed the line from 11/2/20 and after inspection of the route a programme of work was being prepared tom restore the service, presumably by the summer holiday season. See ITV News.

Click on the YouTube window to watch 23 mins 08 seconds of video covering the work on Welsh Pony and James Spooner. This YouTube was published on 16/11/19 and was taken by John Wooden on a professional 4K camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on YouTube link.

Caernarfon station's new glass panel exterior has received shattering blows, possibly from a sledgehammer. It was always feared that the expensive frontage might suffer from the unwanted attentions of the areas less desirable residents. The Police and the F&WHR will pursue the individuals concerned using extensive CCT records to recover the estimated £5,000+ damage. The damage was done overnight by vandals on 22/11 and 28/11/19. See North Wales Chronicle report for full details.

As suggested in this column back in October the F&WHR has announced that K1, the pioneer Garratt type loco is to move from Dinas. The loco has been partially dismantled for a 10 year overhaul in 2014 including re-tubing and bogie maintenance. However with the F&WHR trying to ensure 2 Garratts are completed this year and running two in service, there has been no time to progress K1.

The loco is going to the Statfold Barn Railway where cosmetic restoration and reassembly will occur. See Inside Motion press release. The loco might return to Dinas in 4 year's time and be restored to traffic if time allows.

Thursday 28/11/19 saw the final Orange timetable train of the year. Taliesin has been hauling the Hafod-y-llyn trains SWTO. This service resumes in 2020 MTFX from 26/2/20. In the meantime Santa Specials will operate SSuO and possibly in snowy conditions at Rhyd Ddu for the three weekends until 22/12/19.

In a further sign of the good relationships that have flowered recently between the two railways, the WHHR has commissioned a replica Pickering Brake coach from the F&WHR Boston lodge Carriage Works. This will allow the WHHR to complete the prototypical heritage rake seen in so many photos of the old WHR. In a further cooperative move the coach will be equipped with both air and vacuum brakes allowing it to be used on the WHR's main line. The coach will be built to the original WHR loading gauge and will not replicate the cut down versions used on the FR in the 1930s period. A generous sponsor has made the replica possible. Although when built in 1907 the two Pickering brakes coaches were originally numbered Nos.4/5, they became Nos.8/9 under the FR's tenancy before disposal in 1942 by auction. It is possible that one of these original numbers might be used on the new vehicle, on which work has already started. The coach is due to be outshopped in 2021 and will feature a disabled person space. Currently the WHHR is using an ex-VoR brakevan which appeared in BR blue in recent years.

Pickering Brake for Welsh Highland Railway

The Welsh Highland Heritage Railway at Porthmadog has let a contract with the Festiniog Railway Company for the construction of a replica Pickering Brake Composite Coach.

The original Welsh Highland Railway had two Brake Composite Coaches that were built for the North Wales Narrow Gauge Railway in 1907 by R.Y.Pickering of Wishaw, Lanarkshire. One or other of these coaches appears in almost every photograph of an original Welsh Highland train, but sadly they were auctioned off and were lost when the original railway was scrapped in 1942.

It has long been an ambition of the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway to have a replica of one of these iconic coaches to provide a brake coach for our heritage train and now thanks to a generous sponsor that dream will be realised.

As the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway’s existing volunteer resources are fully committed to other projects the construction of the replica has been contracted out and the Festiniog Railway Company are the successful bidder.

The interior of the coach will be adapted to incorporate a wheelchair accessible compartment. The coach will be fitted with air and vacuum brakes to allow it to work with Welsh Highland Heritage Railway and Festiniog and Welsh Highland Railway locomotives and carriages and will be at full height (the original coaches were cut down in 1924 to fit the Festiniog Railway loading gauge).

Welsh Highland Heritage Railway Chairman Graham Farr said “I’m delighted that we will be able to add a Pickering Brake to our train of restored and replica coaches to be pulled by our locomotives Russell or 590. I’d like to personally thank the sponsor for his generosity in making this a reality”

Festiniog and Welsh Highland Railways General Manager Paul Lewin said “We are absolutely delighted to be the selected contractor for this carriage. It is very important for Welsh Highland Heritage in general. This year we have really enjoyed working with the team at Gelert's Farm to deliver events with Russell on the Welsh Highland. This project is the icing on the cake and is a great way to round off 2019.”

Work has already started on the construction of the coach and completion is planned for 2021.

The Welsh Highland Heritage Railway’s existing heritage train includes three restored original carriages, No. 8 the Gladstone Car, so called because it was once used by Prime Minister William Gladstone, No. 10 the world’s first narrow gauge Buffet Car, and No. 42 a toastrack coach, and a replica of No.9 a Corridor Coach. These are regularly hauled by the only surviving steam locomotive from the original line ‘Russell’ Hunslet 2-6-2T works number 901 of 1906.

For more information contact the Pickering Project Manager Bob Menzies: bob.menzies1@icloud.com

Bob Branch's Photoshoot had some lovely weather and autumn colours emphasised the splendour of the Aberglaslyn Pass. For details of next November's series of photo charters on the F&WHR email Bob at branchbob@outlook.com.

This southerly view (3/11/19) shows Russell storming up the Nantmor Incline. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Bob Branch and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (3/11/19) shows Russell on the WHHR's rake arriving at Beddgelert after the Baldwin. This was the first time Russell and a Baldwin had been seen at Beddgelert since the WHR closed to passenger traffic on 5/9/36. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Bob Branch and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (3/11/19) shows Russell on the WHHR's rake approaching T4. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (3/11/19) shows Russell on the WHHR's rake emerging T4. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (3/11/19) shows Russell and Baldwin No.608 taking water at Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Click on the YouTube window to watch 1 min 24 seconds of video covering Russell running through T4 during the photo charter on 3/11/19. This YouTube was published on 3/11//19 and was taken by Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) using a camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on YouTube link.

Click on the YouTube window to watch 4 mins 34 seconds of video covering Russell running through the Aberglaslyn Pass into Beddgelert during the photo charter on 3/11/19. This YouTube was published on 3/11//19 and was taken by Andrew Goodwin (WHHR) using a camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on YouTube link.

David Gander reports: Welsh Highland Railway Society East Anglian Group – November 2019 meeting

Our next meeting will be next Thursday, 20t/11/19. We welcome John Day, who will be talking to us about mainline steam in the 21st century – at home and abroad.

Our December meeting will be on Thursday 12/12/19 and will be our traditional Member’s’ Slides and Mince Pies evening. If you fancy a break from all the Election news then why not come and join us for a politics free evening? Please do bring some pictures or video to show us – best on a USB or flash drive – we can provide the laptop and screen.

We meet at the newly refurbished Six Bells Pub, 9 High Street, Fulbourn, Cambridge CB21 5DH. We meet up any time after 6-6.30pm and an evening meal is available in the restaurant or bar. Prices are reasonable. The meetings are usually held in the Function Rooms, accessed from the car park at the rear of the pub, and start around 8pm with a halfway break for coffee (£1.20 per person). We finish around 10pm.

There is a charge of £2 per meeting for Group members, £3 for non-members.

Fulbourn is easily accessible from the A14/M11 corridors and is served by Stagecoach bus Citi 1 (This bus runs every 30 minutes until 23.36, via Cambridge railway station where it arrives at 00.05) Car parking can be busy but there is space available on Church Lane, a 3-5 minute walk to the pub.

You are most welcome to join us. We meet on the third Thursday of the month (excepting December when it’s the second Thursday), with meetings held until May – with a break in January.

This southerly view (3/11/19) shows Prince on the heritage rake at Porthmadog at the start of the day before the Baldwin was attached on the north end. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Bob Branch and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (3/11/19) shows Prince on the rear of the Baldwin's rake heading towards T3 during a run past. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Bob Branch and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (3/11/19) shows Prince on the rear of the Baldwin's rake at Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Bob Branch and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (3/11/19) shows No.608 heading towards Beddgelert passing Russell waiting to follow it up the Aberglaslyn Pass at Pen-y-Mount Junction. With increased usage of this junction anticipated next year it can't be long before it is properly signalled from the signalbox installed some years ago at this location that initially planned for Cae Pawb Crossing. Maybe with the renewed spirit of cooperation between the railways they will agree to the Cae Pawb Crossing Box now in its historical position. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy Bob Branch and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi

This southerly view (3/11/19) shows No.608 heading towards Beddgelert emerging from T3 during a run past. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Bob Branch and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (3/11/19) shows Baldwin No.608 making a run past at Hafod Ruffydd. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (3/11/19) shows Baldwin No.608 assisted by Prince making a run past at Hafod Ruffydd. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (3/11/19) shows No.608 during a run past at Hafod Ruffydd. The loco is reputed to have made a pleasing bark coming up the Nant Colwyn Pass through Beddgelert Forest. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Bob Branch and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

The Baldwin No.590 lookalike No.608 failed whilst in use on the photocharter last week after two run pasts at Hafod Ruffydd. There were a couple of leaking tubes at the top of the boiler and one side rod came loose presumably after a cotter pin came loose. The other side rod was removed at Beddgelert before the loco was returned to Boston Lodge for repair. The loco is new and like all new locos will have a few minor snags to fix before it operates reliably.

The Orange timetable started on Saturday 9/11/19. Trains run from Porthmadog to Hafod-y-llyn SWThO at 1115 and 1415. Passengers can only join the train at Porthmadog. Taliesin was rostered for the first day with Prince rostered for 13-14/11/19.

This northerly view (9/11/19) shows Taliesin working the Hafod-y-llyn train approaching the Afon Nanmor bridge as its returns to Porthmadog. It appears the loco was used instead of the rostered Prince. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (11/11/19) shows Vale of Ffestiniog arriving light engine at Dinas to collect some B wagons. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Keith Holland and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Martin Kressman reports there was a blanket of snow on Snowdon and the Carneddau on 8/11/19. This persisted until 9/11/19 and gave a wonderful alpine backdrop to the Hafod-y-llyn service which started that day. Snowfall was also forecast for Snowdon Summit on 14/11/19 and most days for the following week.

Flying Scotsman visited North Wales on 8/11/19 passing Mold Junction at 1044 on Steam Dreams London-Holyhead North Wales Coast Express. No.60103 hauled the train from Crewe to Holyhead and return. The loco will water at Llandudno Junction and take a break at Holyhead, being turned on the now disused Valley Nuclear Electric triangle.

Other workings on 8/11/19 included 67013 on the ManWAG and 67014 on the Cardiff service with Nos. 67023/27 on the RHTT.

On 7/11/19 Nos. 67023/27 top and tailed an NR test train to Holyhead. The RHTT saw Nos. 56087/113 top and tailing, a service they also worked on 5/11/19.

On 6/11/19 67010 was on the Cardiff service and 67013 on the ManWAG, which it also hauled the day before.

This northerly view (7/11/19) shows No.138 on a demonstration freight at Waunfawr during the final day of the Bob Branch photoshoot run pasts. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Bob Branch and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (7/11/19) shows No.138 on a demonstration freight during a run past just south of Clogwyn-y-Gwin in less than ideal weather! Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Bob Branch and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (6/11/19) shows Russell emerging from T4 on a photo charter working for a group of Americans. Prince and Palmerston were also in use. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Martin Kressman reports: On 5/11/19 at Dinas No.87 was being assembled to cosmetically appear complete (i.e. power bogies underneath, cab, tank, bunker and external pipework etc. in place) in time for a photo-call on 7/11/19. It will then dismantled again to complete the build.

This easterly view (3/11/19) shows all four Observation Cars side by side in Porthmadog Harbour Station. The second from the left is Glaslyn and the fourth the new Gwyrfai. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Click on the YouTube window to watch 21 mins 29 seconds of video covering the launch of new Observation Car Gwyrfai, the delivery of Baldwin No.608 and its test run on 1/11/19 and extended coverage of the photo charter on 3/11/19 with the Baldwin top and tailed by Prince running beyond Beddgelert. This YouTube was published on 5/10/19 and was taken by John Wooden on a professional 4K camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on YouTube link.

This easterly view (3/11/19) shows Russell catching the afternoon sun hauling a special photo charter with the WHHR's cooperation. This was allowed as the WHR services had terminated for the Autumn the day before. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Paul Lewin General Manager (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (3/11/19) shows Baldwin No.608 catching the afternoon sun hauling a special photo charter at the north end of Beddgelert station. So both original WHR locos were available for this special working. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Paul Lewin General Manager F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

As part of a photocharter over several days and including events on the FR, the newly arrived Baldwin No.608 (45190 of 1/3/17) hauled an FR rake to a point beyond Beddgelert. The rake had Prince on the rear to provide vacuum braking. The loco performed well and made an impressive noise climbing the Nantmor Incline. The loco is a little light on its feet and slipped several times departing Beddgelert northbound but then even the heavy Garratt locos can slip starting on the 1 in 40 in this station. Russell arrived at the station on a WHHR rake courtesy of the WHHR and it was possible to recreate historical tableaux. The loco did not proceed past Beddgelert so the Beddgelert-Waunfawr section is available as a new feature for future Russell events. It is hoped Russell and a Baldwin will be available for WHR members at next year's gala.

This southerly view (3/11/19) shows Russell approaching Ynysfor Crossing in the late afternoon sunshine. The Gladstone car is behind the loco. The loco did not pass Beddgelert during the photocharter but has been given permission to travel further north in future events. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (2/11/19) shows No143 heading south rounding Ffridd Isaf curve on the final service train of the season. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Bob Branch and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

A new group is planning to build a replica of England loco Mountaineer in its original side tank form. The project was revealed in the press in August and will be launched on 24/11/19. Click on North Bay Engineering Facebook page for boiler images. For full information see Mountaineer Project website.

This images (1//11/19) shows the start of work on the boiler for the new Mountaineer replica. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy North Bay Rail Engineering. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Baldwin No.608 made its first WHR trip on 1/11/19 after attention at Boston Lodge reaching Pont Croesor. It was supported by Upnor Castle as rescue loco/braking load.

This easterly view (1/11/19) shows No.608 setting out onto the WHR for the first time in steam, departing Porthmadog in poor conditions for a test run to Pont Croesor. Upnor Castle is on the rear to haul the loco back. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (1/11/19) shows No.608 crossing Britannia Bridge for the first time in steam. The poor weather at least caused good condensation effects and the green colour does not really show in these lighting conditions. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (1/11/19) shows No.608 crossing NR at Cae Pawb. the first Baldwin to do so since the original WHR closed. for the first time in steam. Part of the test run would be to see how the loco ran through the tramway section and across this specially constructed flat crossing. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Phil Brown (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (1/11/19) shows No.608 having arrived at Pont Croesor. After any necessary adjustments it is hoped that the loco will make a test run to Beddgelert to see how it performs on the 1 in 40, followed by loaded test runs with short prototypical WHR rakes. The loco performed well and ran through all points acceptably, including crossing Pont Croesor North Point to gain the southbound platform. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

The return of a Baldwin to the WHR allows the recreation of many historical tableaux. The original WHR Baldwin No.590, another 10-12-D 4-6-0T, arrived on the WHR in 1923 purchased from WW1 disposals by Colonel Stephens. It ran on the WHR until closure in 1937 but was out of gauge for the FR. The loco was scrapped in 1942 as part of the war effort metal recovery programme. It is thus 77 years since a Baldwin graced WHR metals.

No.608's history is quite complex. Some 495 Baldwins were delivered for WW1 and this was one of the final batch of 100. It is likely to have seen service on the Western Front. After being constructed for the War Department as Works No.45190 of 1917 the loco was offered for disposal after termination of hostilities in 1918. This loco was likely to have been part of a batch sent with track to the North West Frontier in India to work in in supply depots to support the Third Afghan War which took place in 1919. It then became redundant and became part of the Indian North Western Railway's rolling stock and after storage was sold off in the 1930s.

No.608 became No.45 and was sold as one of six to Daurala Sugar Works in Uttar Pradesh in North Central India. In 1981 it was sold on to Ryam Sugar Factory about 500 miles to the east in Bihar. This closed in 1994 and the loco stood derelict there for 20 years. Three locos were repatriated to the Statfold Barn Railway in 2013 and one of these was sold on to West Lancs Railway founder Graham Fairhurst. The loco moved to a private workshop near Leyland in 2013 where ex Horwich apprentice Jack Cuerden (now78) undertook much of the work, though boiler work was undertaken elsewhere. Final assembly and steam testing took place in early October at Johnson's engineering workshop, Southport before delivery to the F&WHR on 11/10/19. the loco was tested the next day at Boston Lodge.

Owner Graham Fairhurst says the loco will remain at the WHR for the foreseeable future but will be available to visit other lines.

The following views are probably from 1/10/96 as it looks like the weather had changed from the photos of the previous day's rail delivery to Dinas.

This northerly archive view (1/10/96) shows the old Bryngwyn incline as seen from Rhosgadfan Road-Y Fron road. The section of track from Tryfan Junction to Bryngwyn was to be sold of to Gwynedd Council for use as the future Slate Trail as it was not envisaged that it would be restored. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 SLR camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly archive view (1/10/96) shows Caernarfon Castle from old Bryngwyn incline as seen from Rhosgadfan Road-Y Fron road. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 SLR camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly archive view (1/10/96) shows the overgrown Summit Cutting from the A4085 road bridge at Pitt's Head. At this time the cutting was overgrown and flooded due to poor drainage at the site of Pitt's Head halt. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 SLR camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly archive view (1/10/96) shows the overgrown Summit Cutting from the A4085 road bridge at Pitt's Head. At this time the cutting was flooded due to poor drainage at the site of Pitt's Head halt. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 SLR camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly archive view (1/10/96) shows Summit level from the A4085 at Pont Cae'r Gors. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 SLR camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly archive view (1/10/96) shows the trackbed in rather open conditions near the Cwm Du Forest Car Park. Later planting obscured the views at this location but a new footpath crosses the line at this point. Snowdon is visible touching the cloud cover. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly archive view (1/10/96) shows the trackbed in rather open conditions at Cwm Du bridge. There are no views from this area now as deciduous forestry has grown since the area was clear-felled in 2000. Snowdon is visible touching the cloud cover. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly archive view (1/10/96) shows the view now lost to forestry looking south towards Beddgelert near the Afon Cwm Du bridge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly archive view (1/10/96) shows the view now lost to forestry looking towards Snowdon near the Beddgelert Forest car park at Cwm du. The track curves north towards Pont Cae'r Gors cutting. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

While work at Dinas had yet to start, some work was underway at Glan-y-pwll building a new shed and test track for Garratts. Money for this came from a government fund set up to ease the closure of the Trawsfynydd nuclear Power Station.

This easterly archive view (1/10/96) shows the headshunt of the Glan-y-pwll test track alongside NR tracks near the former Dinas (FR) station. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly archive view (1/10/96) shows the new shed at Glan-y-pwll and the test track extending towards Glan-y-pwll junction. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly archive view (1/10/96) shows the test track at Glan-y-pwll Junction. Some redundant bridge beams had been used to shore up the disused and dilapidated FR formation at this point. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Things started to move quickly in mid-1996 with the Gwynedd Council site at Dinas sold to the FR and evacuated over the next few months. Track materials were purchased from the redundant SAR Donnybrook line and shipped to the UK but at times it was a race between the locals and the contractors to remove the rail in South Africa. Some came as panels and some disassembled for use on curves. Track components came in B wagons which were stored at Dinas up on the bank behind the future Dock Siding. The following views were taken on 30/9/96 by invitation.

This easterly archive view (30/9/96) shows some of the workshops retained at Dinas that had been constructed by Welsh Water. B1899 complete with bogies and filled with track components stands in front of the shed. the shed was later to be known as the Clip shed where many track clips were cleaned and greased. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly archive view (30/9/96) shows the Goods Shed at Dinas and some initial clearance of the Welsh Water site sufficient for the delivery and storage of track materials. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly archive view (30/9/96) shows the convoy of lorries delivering loose rail to Dinas parked in the area that was to become the future platform. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly archive view (30/9/96) shows bundles of 5 rails being unloaded to a stack on the site of the future Carriage Shed. In the background are the Welsh Water offices that were soon to be removed. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly archive view (30/9/96) shows the pile of rails growing. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly archive view (30/9/96) shows the B wagon bodies, still with bogies attached and full of track fittings, stored on the bank about the future Dock Siding. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly archive view (30/9/96) shows the Clip shed on the left and the erstwhile Gwynedd Council offices. A pile of ballast has been delivered presumably to level the site as tracklaying was not to start until the following Spring as the constrictor Mowlem refused volunteer access to the site whilst it was under construction. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly archive view (30/9/96) shows the south face of Dinas Goods shed which was to become a temporary home to Castell Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly archive view (30/9/96) shows the east face of Dinas station building with an extension that was soon to be knocked down. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly archive view (30/9/96) shows the narrow gauge bridge just south of Dinas station building. The WHR was to use the standard gauge bridge to the left and this bridge remains in use as a road access to the WHR depot at Dinas where they had purchased the southerly half of the Welsh Water building. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Scanning and dating the WHR archive has taken a considerable amount of time, partly due too poor record keeping, partly because some slides need cleaning up but mostly because they were mixed up at some stage and do not have printed dates/numbers on mounts. A few of these photos were published in Railway Magazine for a short period but all predate this website which started about 2000. These pictures were taken around the end of august 1995 with a processing date of 10/9/95.

This southerly view (30/8/95?) shows the trackbed on the narrow shelf in the gorge at Plas-y-nant. The landowner claimed right of access over the Plas-y-nant bridge which was to result in a gated cantilevered footbridge being required and apparently never used as with the footpath crossing immediately to the north! Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 SLR camera. Slide scanned with Minolta DiMAGE ScanDual III AF2840 and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (30/8/95?) shows the Caernarfon station site used as a car park at that time as viewed from Segontium Terrace footbridge. Gwynedd Council had provided railway style gates on the Lon Eifion to restrict access to vehicles. There was as similar gate at Hendy Crossing. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 SLR camera. Slide scanned with Minolta DiMAGE ScanDual III AF2840 and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (30/8/95?) shows the Caernarfon station site used as a car park at that time with Caernarfon Castle framed by Segontium Terrace footbridge. Originally the Afon Wen and Llanberis branches passed under this bridge and the horse worked Docks Branch took off to the left just after the bridge where the formation became wider. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 SLR camera. Slide scanned with Minolta DiMAGE ScanDual III AF2840 and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Engineers examined Pont Croesor and determined that the existing lintels that carried the WHR were sufficiently strong to carry the rebuilt railway. Initially a concrete ballasted deck was proposed. The bridge was rebuild by Gwynedd Council in 1994 with a new concrete deck and new high impact resistance highway balustrades. As GC was aware that the WHR was being planned care was taken to ensure the railway alignment was unimpeded. the initial plans were for a concrete deck with track ballast trough. Plans changed with the wider loading gauge and a steel beam structure was eventually built slightly cantilevered upstream to the west to allow for wider rolling stock and a walkway.

This northerly view (5-6/4/96?) shows the line of the WHR on the vacant piers adjacent to the recently rebuilt Pont Croesor road bridge. The studs of the holding down bolts are still visible in the concrete lintels. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Sigma SA300 SLR camera. Slide scanned with Minolta DiMAGE ScanDual III AF2840 and post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

The Bala & Ffestiniog Heritage Railway Trust that took over the suspended Trawsfynydd project has engaged Green Dragon Rail to help it prepare H&S documentation to allow it to access the Blaenau-Trawsfynydd Lake section again from 2020 hopefully.

Following a rockfall in Blaenau Ffestiniog Tunnel the branch was closed yet again from 23/10/19 for inspection and repair but was reopened a few days later. Services terminated at Llanrwst and a bus link was provided. The whole line will be closed from 23/11/19-15/12/19 to complete the storm repair from last winter and deal with 600 rock bolts in Blaenau Ffestiniog tunnel to stabilise the loose rock the geological survey identified were necessary. See Daily Post story.

This northerly view (19/9/17) shows view (19/9/17) shows No.87 being dragged from Boston Lodge to Dinas following failure on 16/9/17 with a frame problem. Vale of Ffestiniog provides the traction at 1040 approaching Summit Cutting at Pont Cae'r Gors. The weather had improved from that of the dismal SuperPower weekend. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Canon EOS1300D digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

A new feature this Xmas holiday is an Christmas Pullman Tea on the WHR between Caernarfon and Rhyd Ddu available on 27/12/19 and 31/12/19. See F&WHR Facebook page for full details.

Over the last two weeks the paintwork on the tanks and dome has been completed at Boston Lodge. Eleven coats have been applied to build the depth of the colour and three layers of the sign-writing and lining have been added before two coats of varnish complete the painting. The loco itself is now in the Carriage Shed at Dinas with cab, crinolines and manifold fitted. Most valves have been fitted but are not all connected yet. No.130 must wait its turn as No.87 is first priority to return to steam for the next season.

Click on the YouTube link to watch a 5 minute 27 second preview of the 4 DVD/BluRay Disc set 'A year in the Life of the F&WHR' available from November for Xmas presents etc. This YouTube was published on 21/10/19 and was taken by John Wooden on a professional 4K camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on YouTube link.

This northerly view (20/10/19) shows No.138 on the 1020 for Porthmadog bearing a headboard celebrating a well loved member of the North Wales Track Gang who passed away recently. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (19/10/19) shows Vale of Ffestiniog heading for Dinas with the temporary track panels used at events for storage. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

The FR's Santa Trains will run from Porthmadog to Beddgelert again this year on weekends from 7/12/19 and additionally on Monday 23/12/19. WHR Santa Trains will only operate on the 6 weekend dates over this period running Caernarfon to Rhyd Ddu. Train times from Porthmadog are 11:00and 14:15. See FR Santa leaflet. Train times are 10:00 and 13:40 from Caernarfon see WHR Santa leaflet.

This year there will be two Halloween trains from Caernarfon. Trains depart Caernarfon at 1800 for Waunfawr (where finger-bites are served at the Snowdonia Park Brewpub) and arrive back at 2100. There are also two Halloween trains on the FR

This year's Holloween Poster. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

DB red No.67010 was on the MANWAG working and silver liveried No.67014 on the Holyhead-Cardiff working on 17-18/10/19. No.67025 was noted painted silver/grey and red TfW livery at Toton on 15/10/19 prior to the start of the new TfW dedicated fleet in December. Several locos will pass through Toton to be painted to form the allegedly dedicated fleet.

This easterly view (15/10/96) shows No.67026 in its new TfW livery. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Darren Frearson and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

In 1996 plans for the WHR go well underway with EU grants applied for and a schedule for opening in 1997. With closure of Trawsfynydd Nuclear Reactor some funds were also available for local developments for engineering and the FR built the new shed on the Glan-y-pwll branch. The track was relaid on the branch with a headshunt at the Afon Barlwyd bridge and a three road shed alongside BR tracks near the Crosville depot. This shed would later become home to number 138 and a test track for Garratts. the WHRS were active here sorting out track materials recovered fro the narrow gauge Channel Tunnel construction railway which were being disposed. A set of jacks came to the F&WHR from this source.

Due to some slippage in the schedule, the opening did not occur until 13/10/97 and missed the Summer season holiday traffic!

Track materials were being lifted from the Donnybrook line in South Africa, stored in B wagon bodies to be delivered to Dinas, with extra bogies purchased for coaches. On the rolling stock side two NG16 Garratts had been purchased Nos.138/143 and two Funkeys from PPC Porth Elizabeth SA. Winsons in Daventry had the order for the initial rake of coaches and a giant track laying machine that it was hoped would mechanise the laying of preassembled track panels. A Pullman to be named Bodysgallen was being donated by the owner of the Luxury Spa of the same name at Llandudno. Initially 10 forty foot coaches were to be ordered with a design speed of 25-30 mph in view of the 25 mile length of the WHR. Similar coaches on the Port Elizabeth line in South Africa were operated at 30mph. In the event an initial tranche of 5 coaches (plus the Pullman) was ordered for delivery in September 1997.

This easterly view (17/6/96) shows a BR DMU heading towards Llandudno Junction passing the new Glan-y-pwll shed which was to become the initial operating base of the WHRS and see trackworks. The shed was soon to see the first work on an NG16 and three roads were laid inside. A connecting test track was laid from the shed to a headshunt and back along the old trackbed alongside the Afon Barlwyd to the junction with the FR to the right. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

The WHR's Funkey was unaltered given the larger loading gauge designed for the line. It is a large loco for narrow gauge measuring 31' by 7' and weighing 27 tonnes. The loco is vacuum braked as is all F&WHR rolling stock and has a 350hp Cummins diesel power unit. The 6 cylinder unit is turbocharged and linked with a fluid flywheel to the final drive.

This easterly view (26/7/96) shows the unaltered Funkey Castell Caernarfon in new maroon livery displayed in Y Maes, Caernarfon town square. The loco was to be named shortly afterwards. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (26/7/96) shows the Funkey being named Castell Caernarfon by Dafydd Wigley, the local MP, Tony Smare and Mike Schumann in the rain. Unusually for the FR it was monolingual, without a English nameplate Caernarfon Castle on the other side. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (26/7/96) shows the Funkey being named Castell Caernarfon by Dafydd Wigley, the local MP, Tony Smare and Mike Schumann in the rain. Given the weather there were few onlookers! Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (26/7/96) following the naming shows a spare nameplate Castell Caernarfon being presented to Dafydd Wigley, the local MP by Mike Schumann. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (26/7/96) following the naming shows a spare nameplate Castell Caernarfon being presented to Dafydd Wigley, the local MP by Mike Schumann. An information shop was opened on Y Maes and a teenager won the prize of a model railway and later became a buffet attendant! Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (26/7/96) following the naming shows the loco getting thoroughly wet after the ceremony. The loco was on display for a few days before being moved to Dinas, following the FR taking possession of the site. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (26/7/96) shows the complete trackbed north of St Helens Road bridge and passing over the Gwyrfai viaduct. Gwynedd Council had just completed the new A487 Gwyrfai Bridge and included in the design in collaboration with the FR, space for the WHR and the Lon Eifion long distance cycleway. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (26/7/96) shows the complete trackbed with the new St Helens Road bridge passing over. The design allowed for the new WHR Funkey loading gauge with the Lon Eifion long distance cycleway on the left with some ballast on the right for the future railway. This was arguably the first section of the railway to be completed. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (26/7/96) shows the propped Coed Helen lane bridge. The original Carnarvonshire Railway was build with structures completed for double track in future but there was never more than a single track. The prop needed to be replaced and moved to the right as the trackbed would be on the left in this view. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

A new 40 mph speed limit was noticed on the A497 between Minffordd and The Cob, though it is not obvious why as there are no houses on this section. A mobile speed camera was noted on this section in late September.

In coverage of the VoR it was suggested that many enthusiasts would like to see a Rheidol loco visit the WHR, either a GWR tank or a their new NG16. The VoR General Manager Llŷr ap Iolo has responded:

'The VoR has not changed hands. It is the same company which is a charity and the shares are still held by the Trust. Our chairman has passed away.

There has been no discussion about a Rheidol tank visiting the WHR. We will only have two after March as No.9 comes in for a 10 yearly overhaul and new tanks.

Palmerston was hired and paid for when it visited and was not an exchange deal.

There has been no talk of No.60 (the new NG16) leaving VoR metals to date and it will be air braked anyway.'

The change of chairmanship at the VoR has led to hopes that a VoR loco might visit the WHR next year. The F&WHR had hired Palmerston to the VoR in 2015, making a very successful Gala. Until March 2020 the VoR will have three working Swindon built locos No. 6 Llywelyn No. 7 Owain Glyndwr and No. 9 Prince of Wales, no longer carrying their names, so it has more locos than it needs for everyday services and easily afford to have one visit the WHR. No.9 currently carries No.1213 (an original GWR number with some subterfuge to it). When asked in September, the F&WHR's General Manager Paul Lewin said he would welcome a VoR loco visiting the WHR and recognised it would be a big draw.

Following recent fatal accidents at Balham (7/8/16) and Twerton (1/12/18) on the mainline the RAIB has published recommendations about leaning out of trains, including heritage trains. The RAIB recognises that as heritage railways are different e.g. limited to 25mph, lineside clearance will probably suffice. However its advice is that 'Operators of heritage railways, using stock that passengers could lean out of, should review their risk assessments for people leaning out and implement any additional mitigation measures necessary to achieve an acceptable level of safety (paragraph 95b)', see Twerton Accident Report. As the F&WHR operates open coaches and 'open' Gravity trains, this might apply to the F&WHR.

The long promised Baldwin No.608 being rebuilt at Southport arrived unannounced on the F&WHR on 11/10/19 having missed the June Russell event it was originally promised for. It will remain on the F&WHR for some time and be subject to some trials. At the moment it is stabled in Boston Lodge where no doubt some final snagging will take place and presumably the fitment of F&WHR style couplings.

After use in WW1, it was transferred to the North Western Railway of India (where it ran as NWR 45) and finally provided traction Daurala and Ryam sugar factories.

Enthusiasts have long waited for a Baldwin on the WHR and it is hoped that No.794 carrying No.590, the original WHR Baldwin, will be joining the WHHR from Aberystwyth next year. With improved relationships between the F&WHR and the WHHR it is hoped that a Baldwin and Russell will feature at some future event, maybe even No.590 recreating historical tableaux.

This view (11/10/19) shows Baldwin No.608 arriving on a low loader at Gasworks Siding alongside Llyn Bach. The loco is finished in a dark green livery. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (11/10/19) shows Baldwin No.608 being dragged away from Gasworks Siding alongside Llyn Bach. F&WHR Ex-WD Simplex loco Mary Ann and Upnor Castle were used to drag the loco to Boston Lodge for safe storage. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Apologies for the gap in news but scanning had reached a critical stage and images needed to be uploaded to One Drive with a digital name in order to ensure they were stored in the correct date order of film process date YYYYMMDD plus an exposure number. This will make accessing WHR images a lot easier. This task has now been completed after One Drive made it difficult by failing to upload several images when tasked with uploading several thousand. There is no IGNORE DUPLICATE function which would allow a user to quickly upload a second time if the totals did not match! Normal scanning has now resumed producing some mystery WHR slide locations which will feature in a 'Requests for Help' section in future.

While the ATW blue Class 67s were rarely to be seen on the NWC services, it appears TfW will be requiring a fixed fleet of 5 locos in their livery. It seems that the locos must be fitted with a working driver/guard communication system and door interlock confirmation. No.67008 is first in line and on any day there are only two trains to and from Cardiff (2 diagrams?) with one spare loco. The additional locos could be used for MANWAG services if TfW decides its current extreme rolling stock shortage requires retaining these much loved loco hauled trains after December. After all there is no shortage of Mk4 coaches on the market!

Observation car No.2152 Gwyrfai was launched on 5/10/19 after a brief ceremony at Caernarfon with the Chairman of the F&WHR/Gwynedd Council Chairman and the WHRS Chairman. The Afon Gwyrfai is the name of the river the WHR follows for most of its length north from Rhyd Ddu. With a second Observation car in service both sets are now fully equipped.

This view (5/10/19) shows the launch of No.2152 Gwyrfai into service on the WHR. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

After the VIP launch on 5/10/19 Gwyrfai made its first public runs on 6/10/19 coinciding with the FR's Vintage Weekend where, unusually, there were no events on the WHR. For the first two days the new coach ran coupled to Pullman No.2115 Bodysgallen providing two first class carriages in the set. After the first weekend Bodysgallen was taken out of the set and will held in reserve, being added to either Observation when required to provide more first class accommodation.

“Steam Train Britain” Thursday 17/10/19, Yesterday Channel, 8.00 p.m. (Freeview channel 25, Freesat 159)

"Television’s ongoing locomotive love affair continues with this new 10-part documentary following life on the nation’s many heritage railways. This opening programme begins with one the most famous and beautiful – the Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railway in Snowdonia"

With the Autumn leaf fall season starting Rail Head Treatment trains have begun to operate. On 2/10/19 Nos. 97304/56078 top and tailed the train from Crewe to Holyhead and returned early afternoon.

This view (2/10/19) shows the new boiler for James Spooner part complete at Boston Lodge. The new Fairlie, the second to be named James Spooner, will hopefully enter service in 2020. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

The WAG Transport Minister has released a letter admitting the rolling stock problems and advising some solutions. One good piece of news is that the MANWAG service will be retained as a loco hauled train with Mk4 coaches though the recently introduced Class 37 hauled Cardiff-Rhymney train will soon go back to unit haulage.

The Rail Head Treatment Trains (RHTT) kicked off on 1/10/19 for the leaf fall season which creates braking problems for lightweight DMUs. the first trains were top and tailed by Nos. 97304/56078. On 4-5/10/19 its was the turn of Nos.97302/4.

On 8-9/10/19 No.67014 was on the Holyhead-Cardiff while No.67010 was on the MANWAG on 8/10/19.

UK Railtours 'Snowdonian Panorama' ran from Euston to Llandudno Junction on 12/10/19 top and tailed by Nos.68005/033. The train then ran ECS to Holyhead for servicing. Also venturing briefly into North Wales on 12/10/19 was No.7029 Clun Castle with unusually No.20189 on the rear. This was the Chester Venturer from Dorridge, returning via Wrexham.

On 16/10/19 Nos.56113/096 were on the RHTT which also performed the duty the day before.

Click on the YouTube window to watch 28 mins 22 seconds of video covering Prince hauling the final Journey into the Past on 22/9/19, some aerial views and an FR trip. This YouTube was published on 1/10/19 and was taken by John Wooden on a professional 4K camcorder. It is best watched in HD in Google Chrome browser as only 720p HD available on Windows. Alternatively click on YouTube link.

7-8/12/19	FR Santa Specials Porthmadog-Beddgelert 1100 and 1415
7-8/12/19	WHR Santa Specials Caernarfon-Rhyd Ddu 1000 and 1340
14-15/12/19	FR Santa Specials Porthmadog-Beddgelert 1100 and 1415
14-15/12/19	WHR Santa Specials Caernarfon-Rhyd Ddu 1000 and 1340
21-23/12/19	FR Santa Specials Porthmadog-Beddgelert 1100 and 1415
21-22/12/19	WHR Santa Specials Caernarfon-Rhyd Ddu 1000 and 1340
1/1/20	Final Mince Pie special (two Caernarfon-Rhyd Ddu trains)
15-23/2/20	Half Term Blue timetable Caernarfon-Porthmadog (one return service from each end)
26/2/20-26/3/20	MTFX Orange timetable Porthmadog-Hafod-y-llyn twice a day
28/3/20	Main Season Easter service starts POSTPONED
18/4/20	The Snowdonian POSTPONED/COMBINED WITH SNOWDONIAN LIMITED (see below)
2/5/20	FR AGM and FR extra services?
9/5/20	Caernarfon Food Festival with additional train on WHR?
5-7/6/20	WHR Beer Festival POSTPONED TO 4/6/21
19-21/6/20	Fairlie Eventful (may include some WHR events) POSTPONED TO 18-20/6/21
20-21/6/20	Welsh Pony Launch (may include some WHR events)
11-13/9/20	SuperPower and WHR AGM 12/9/20 may feature Baldwin No. 608
12/9/20	The Snowdonian Limited COMBINED WITH THE SNOWDONIAN
9-11/10/20	Victorian Weekend (may include some WHR events)

January	5-6/1/19	12-17/1/19^WW	19-20/1/19
February	2-3/2/19	9-14/2/19^WW	16-17/2/19
March	2-3/3/19	9-14/3/19^WW	16-17/3/19		30-31/3/19
April			13-14/3/19		27-28/4/19
May		11-12/5/19	18-23/5/19^WW	25-26/5/19^
June		8-9/6/19		22-23/6/19
July		6-7/7/19	13-18/7/19^WW	20-21/7/19
August	3-4/8/19		17-18/8/18		31/8/19-
September	-1/9/198	7-12/9/19^WW	15-16/9/19		29-30/9/19
October			12-13/10/19		26-27/10/19
November	2-7/11/19^WW!	9-10/11/19		23-24/11/18	30-/11/19^WW!
December	-5/12/19^WW!	7-8/12/19