Welsh Highland Railway

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News (updated 14/9/17)

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Star Picture

This northerly view 14/4/14 shows No.138 drifting down towards Beddgelert Forest Campsite at 1116. Most of the services leading up to the Easter Bank Holiday weekend were hauled by Nos. 87/143 so this was a relatively rare outing for the red Garratt. The train was due to depart Beddgelert at 1125. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

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

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

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

Click here to use the free OS Get-a-map service.

Route section pages

Listed below are links to pages featuring progress on different sections of the line or archive views. Jump ahead to News section or follow the section links from page to page. Please note that access to the links below was restored on 2/9/04 at the new website www.isengard.co.uk

Phase 4 pages

Rhyd Ddu to Pont Cae'r Gors (updated 29/6/06)

Pont Cae'r Gors to Hafod Ruffydd Halt (new 8/10/06)

Hafod Ruffydd Halt to Beddgelert Forest Halt (updated 4/12/06)

Beddgelert Forest Halt to Beddgelert Station (updated 1/7/07)

Beddgelert Station Area (updated 30/6/07)

Beddgelert Station to Bryn-y-felin (updated 1/7/07)

Aberglaslyn Pass (updated 2/7/07)

Nantmor to Pont Croesor (updated 16/7/07)

Pont Croesor to Pen-y-Mount (updated 1/4/07)

WHR (Porthmadog) (updated 1/4/07)

Porthmadog Cross Town Link (updated1/4/07)

Other pages

'Phase 6' page (new 2/4/06)

Views from the Line Page (updated 26/2/05)

PBSSR Works Historical Page (updated 25/3/05)

Rhyd Ddu Opening Page (New 14/2/04)

Archived News Page (updated 4/9/17)

Snow Scenes (updated 31/10/15)

Rolling Stock News Page (updated 28/12/04)

Phase 4 News Page (updated 3/3/05)

Volunteer Contact details page (updated 18/5/16)

Phase 2 and 3 page list (updated 27/8/08)

Video list (new 9/11/15)

Access to Phase 2 pages is currently being progressed.

If you would like an automated announcement of site updates, email me at the NEW (2013) address below replacing the letters 'dot' with a full stop

Isengard@talktalkdotnet

This has been introduced as an anti-spam feature.

Disclaimer

There has never been any intent by myself to suggest that the views on these pages represent the views, opinions or policy of the F&WHR, the WHRCL or the WHRS.

I am happy to confirm that this is an INDEPENDENT web news service.

Stop Press!!

New construction images/text will be posted on a regular basis.

New text in RED!

News Section

WHR timetables

Click here for Laurence Armstrong's latest WHR North map dated 5/11/07

Click here for Laurence Armstrong's latest WHR Middle map dated 14/3/10

Click here for Laurence Armstrong's latest WHR South map dated 14/3/10

Click here for Mike Schumann's Phase 4 TWA maps courtesy of Steve Harris/WHRS

Click here for John Sreeves Gradient profile courtesy of Steve Harris/WHRS

Click here for Chainages and OS Map Reference

Webmaster's holiday

This webpage will not be updated until early October as your webmaster takes his annual holiday.

Caernarfon station progress 11-13/9/17

This westerly view (11/9/17) shows the situation at the end of the day. The cherrypickers have been hard at work erecting the steelwork and most of the central circular section is complete. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (11/9/17) shows the situation at the end of the day as seen from the road. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (12/9/17) shows the situation at the end of the day. The cherrypickers have been hard at work erecting the steelwork and the central circular section is complete. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (12/9/17) shows the situation at the end of the day as seen from the road with the steelwork extending to the south. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (13/9/17) shows the situation at the end of the day with the steelwork extending to the south. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (13/9/17) shows the situation at the end of the day with the steelwork extending to the south forming the Exhibition Hall. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (13/9/17) shows the situation at the end of the day with the steelwork extending to the south and the frontage nearing completion. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Caernarfon station steelwork erection progress 8/9/17

This southerly view (8/9/17) shows the cherrypickers hard at work erecting the steelwork as seen from the tunnel entrance. 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 (8/9/17) shows the northern end of the steelwork for the new station erected. The curved frontage is becoming more apparent. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Caernarfon station steelwork erection progress 7/9/17

This northerly view (7/9/17) shows the situation at the end of the day. The cherrypickers have been hard at work erecting the steelwork. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (7/9/17) shows the situation at the end of the day. The curved front of the building is becoming obvious. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (7/9/17) shows the situation at the end of the day. The curved front of the building is becoming obvious. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (7/9/17) shows the situation at the end of the day. Two cherrypickers have been hard at work erecting the steelwork. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Palmerston for SuperPower 7/9/17

Palmerston will be heading north along the Welsh Highland Railway next week - and will be in steam at Dinas, providing footplate rides, on Saturday 16/9/17. So there will now be a total of nine locomotives in use during SuperPower 15-17/9/17.

Blanche progress July 17

This northerly view (7/17) shows Blanche's boiler removed for refurbishment during Kid's Week in July. Blanche's tender has a fixed cab on its tender while Linda's, seen in the background, has a demountable cab for running in reverse in inclement weather. 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.

Caernarfon station steelwork arrives 6/9/17

This northerly view (6/9/17) shows a large crane hired from Danny Lawlor (Bagillt, Flintshire) unloading the steelwork for the new Caernarfon station building at 10:04. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (6/9/17) shows some of the steelwork for the new Caernarfon station building at 10:05 already placed on the ground while a surveyor checks the alignment of the pads that the steelwork upstands will be bolted to. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (6/9/17) shows, with one lorry already unloaded, the crane unloading the steelwork from the second lorry at 10:06. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (6/9/17) shows the northern end of the steelwork for the new station erected. This is probably the wall section that carries the station name. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (6/9/17) shows a cherry picker in use to connect up the steelwork at the tunnel end of the site at 17:42. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Welsh Pony progress 5/9/17

This Boston Lodge view (5/9/17) shows progress with the cab of Welsh Pony. Sensitive restoration of the cab continues however the roof was too corroded to repair. New roof profiles are being installed. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Dai Jones and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.130 progress 1-6/9/17

Good progress was made with No.130 in early September. On 1/9/17 the loco's dome hole had been cut and the double plate fitted. All the holes had been drilled and riveting will soon start. The base of the dome has been overhauled and is ready to fit. The top part of the dome is just having a few rivets replaced and a small amount of weld building up. Generally, it is very good condition.

On 2/9/17 The second stage former and the outer throatplate were ready to be formed. It should be completed by 18/9/17 and tacked in place.

On 4/9/17 The front section of the barrel was practically finished and the tubeplate had been inserted and partially riveted up. The sling stays bracket was in and riveted. This section will be offered up to the rear barrel section shortly.

On 5/9/17 the pads for all of the boiler fittings had been made and machined. Most have now been tacked in place including the steam dome, safety valves and manifold. These are on the rear section of the boiler barrel. The clack pad is fitted to the front section.

On 6/9/17 the rear section of the barrel was fully gigged and in position. The pads were all tacked in and the dome doubling plate was being fitted. The next stage is for the two sections to be offered up and then the throat plate made.

No.143 2/9/17

This southerly view (2/9/17) shows No.143 emerging from Goat Tunnel. 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.

Caernarfon station update 4/9/17

This southerly view (4/9/17) shows the foundations nearing completion with only the south end to do. The holding down bolts for the steelwork is apparent and it cannot be long before steelwork appears. The safe walking route along the trackbed from the Castle Slate Quay car park is still in use on the trackbed alongside the retaining wall while the footpath along St Helens Road is out of use. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Archive alterations

The archived news for 2017 was becoming too big for FrontPage to handle thanks to photos provided by this website's supporters. So it has been split into quarterly sections, 2017a being January to March, 2017 being April to June and 2017c, just started, being July to September.

Caernarfon plan latest

The Daily Post has revealed details of the latest plan for spending some £15m on revitalising Caernarfon, including the area between the castle and the WHR station. Some £3.5m will be spent on redeveloping an artisan quarter in the formerly run down area between the castle and WHR station. CADW, the WAG historic monument service, is planning improvements to the castle itself and upgrading road links.

SuperPower bus tour

An open top bus will run from Ty Seiont (Caernarfon station booking office) to Dinas every half hour from 1015 to 1645 and in the reverse direction from 1100 to 1600. It will go around the castle walls and town centre.

No. 9 completes WHR transit 1/9/17

This westerly view (1/9/17) shows Dinas PW shunter No.9 crossing Britannia Bridge. This is the first time the loco has travelled the whole route following protracted restoration after delivery on 29/9/09. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (1/9/17) shows Dinas PW shunter No.9 arriving at Porthmadog while Merddin Emrys sets off for Blaenau Ffestiniog. The loco was reported to run well except for bonnet door opening. 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.

SuperPower timetable

The locos in use for SuperPower 15-17/9/17 are as follows: Garratts Nos. 87/138/143, Earl of Merioneth, Lilla, Lyd, Prince and Funkey diesel Vale of Ffestiniog. Prince and Lyd have been turned to work chimney first towards Caernarfon.

This timetable view (1/9/17) shows Friday 15/9/17 Superpower trains. 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 timetable view (1/9/17) shows Saturday 16/9/17 Superpower trains. 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 timetable view (1/9/17) shows Sunday 17/9/17 Superpower trains. 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.

Wagons repaint completed 29/8/17

Marcus Ingram reports: Both wagons are have now been completed with the help of Tom Waldren. A top coat of Semi Gloss red oxide and correct labelling was added to the wagons.

This northerly view (19/8/17) shows NGY4021 painted and labelled inside the Carriage Shed. A rake of bug boxes is also present presumably brought up for SuperPower. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (19/8/17) shows DZ1424 repainted and labelled inside the Carriage Shed. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Welsh Pony progress 25/8/17

Glan-yr-afon view opened up 25/8/17

This easterly view from the train (25/8/17) shows a large tree has fallen on the east side of Glan-y-afon viaduct opening a better view of the waterfall. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Michael Davies and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

More Garratt substitutions 24-25/8/17

This westerly view (24/8/17) shows Lyd arriving at Porthmadog with Vale of Ffestiniog in support at 1802 due to the continuing lack of availability of a Garratt. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (25/8/17) shows Earl of Merioneth watering at Rhyd Ddu with Vale of Ffestiniog in support at 1050 due to the continuing lack of availability of a Garratt. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

WHR services disrupted 24/8/17

This easterly view (24/8/17) shows Lyd and Vale of Ffestiniog covering for the failed No.87 ready to leave Porthmadog on the 12:55. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Michael Davies and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/8/17) shows Lyd taking water at Beddgelert with Vale of Ffestiniog inside at 1340. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Michael Davies and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (24/8/17) shows Lyd with Vale of Ffestiniog inside restarting from Beddgelert at 1347 (some 12 minutes late). Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Michael Davies and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

TRAWS update 23/8/17

A full feasibility study of the Aberystwyth-Carmarthen rail link will commence in September. The Welsh Assembly has chosen Mott Macdonald, who were involved with the Scottish Border Line reopening study, to run the £300,000 study. See TRAWS website.

Caernarfon Station progress 22-24/8/17

This westerly view (22/8/17) shows a number of massive front foundation excavations under construction for the new two storey Caernarfon Station 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.

This westerly view (22/8/17) shows the steel reinforcement cage for the massive front foundation excavations under construction for the new two storey Caernarfon Station building. It appears this is mostly 'made ground' so the is no firm rock foundation. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (22/8/17) shows further steel reinforcement cages for the massive front foundation excavations under construction for the new two storey Caernarfon Station building. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

VoR Open Day 16-17/9/17

The Vale of Rheidol 'Open Weekend' event has clashed with the WHR SuperPower. There is the opportunity to see their new Garratt No.60, ride behind their diesel No.10 and have a yard/shed tour to see long out of traffic loco No.7 Owain Glyndwr being restored. See WHR website.

Welsh Pony report 21/8/17

This Boston Lodge view (21/8/17) shows Welsh Pony's cab being moved from storage in the Carriage Works to the Erecting Shop, where attention will be given to the roof and panels. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Glenn Williams (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Prince for SuperPower

Caernarfon Station progress 21/8/17

Wagon progress 19-20/8/17

Marcus Ingram reports: Over the weekend worked on NGY4021 and DZ1424 both receiving their first coats of Red Oxide primer after sand blasting them clean last week. On Sunday I was helped by Tom Waldren.

This northerly view (19/8/17) shows progress repainting DZ1424 with the ballast wagon NGY4021 in undercoat to the rear outside the Carriage Shed. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (19/8/17) shows progress repainting DZ1424 with the ballast wagon NGY4021 partially painted to the rear inside the Carriage Shed. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (19/8/17) shows NGY4021 painted but needing labelling inside the Carriage Shed. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (19/8/17) shows DZ1424 repainted inside the Carriage Shed. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Marcus Ingram and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Wylfa Newydd will not use Amlwch Line

Horizon Nuclear which is building Wylfa B (Wylfa Newydd), the new Nuclear Power Station near Amlwch has missed an opportunity to earn green 'brownie points' with planners by bringing in materials via a new dock adjacent to Wylfa rather than by rail. There will also be improvements to the road network between Wylfa and Valley, where transhipment of irradiated fuel would continue if the scheme is given the go-ahead. Wylfa Nuclear Power Station closed down on 30/12/15 but is still being defuelled leading to the last revenue earning freight trains on the North Wales Coast Line for a while yet.

Your webmaster wrote to Horizon Nuclear recently about the possibility of using the Amlwch line to the derelict Rhosgoch tank farm site, where a short haul road across fields could deliver construction materials to the power station. Their reply was negative. If planning permission is given later this year, Wylfa B could open in 2025 providing new jobs in the community. The old power station, which was the last Magnox reactor operating in the world, started electricity production in 1971 and had almost 45 years of generating life.

See BBC news story.

Moving Wheels YouTube No.9 20/8/17

Click on the YouTube link above to watch 21 mins 22 seconds of video showing the WHR up to 19/8/17 published 20/8/17. This video has been produced by John Wooden (F&WHR). It is best watched at 1080p HD mode available on e.g. Chrome.

Cambrian Coast 150 excursion 10/10/17

Pathfinder Railtours is celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Cambrian Coast Line by organising a diesel hauled service from Bristol to Pwllheli on 10/10/17. This will be the first visit by a railtour to Porthmadog for several years and will feature a pair of Class 97/3s on the Cambrian. With over 3 hours in Porthmadog there may be opportunities to visit the F&WHR/WHHR.

NG15 No.134 News 19-20/8/17

Clive Briscoe reports: There was a good turnout and more to do than originally envisaged. The fitted bolts to hold the axleboxes onto the front Krauss-Helmholtz and rear pony truck frames were all but completed. However, there was a 'Small' hitch in making the new cylinder lagging cladding - the template for rolling the shape was made but where were the bending rolls? There was a small hand wind set in the works but all I found was the frame. Luckily, one of the fitter/fabricators was on site and said they'd been dismantled for refurbishment by someone some months ago. He knew where all the bits where and they were duly recovered but how did it all go together? Eventually they were cobbled together into 'something' that would work but still needs some restoration/new bearing blocks for the lifting roll to set the radius but there was a work-around for now.

The tender frame was outside our workshop and had been lifted off the bogies. The Works Manager wants to get the tender frames finished so needed to know what was left to do on the bogies:- wheels to be re-profiled, axle bearings to sort, another 4 composition brake blocks and that's more or less it, everything else has been done.

The frame needs the new front dragbox and the rear dragbox to decide whether to lower it to FR/WHR standard coupling height or to use the usual 'fix' (up to now with ex SAR stock) - fit a cranked drawbar. We had the refurbished vacuum brake cylinder taking up a lot of space in our cramped workshop so that was Sunday's task, to lift it into its cradle in the tender frames.

Taliesin on cab ride duty 19/8/17

This westerly view (19/8/17) shows Taliesin offering cab rides at Porthmadog Harbour Station. This will happen again on Saturday 26/8/17. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where applicable). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.130 progress 18-19/8/17

No.130's tubeplate rivet holes have been drilled in the front barrel section. Also the sling stay angle rivet holes have been marked and drilled in the rear barrel section. Work has been progressing with machining the fitting pads. The sling stay angles that end up riveted to the rear barrel section are being machined to size. These will then require rolling to suit the internal diameter of the barrel. The second stage former for the throatplate is complete and is being prepared for fitting to the already part formed throatplate.

The steam dome and smokebox door for No.130 have now been collected. The rivet heads need to be ground off in order to do the machining work so these will require replacing now. Also there is some building up required on the dome so that it is above the minimum thickness. For full details and images see No.130 Facebook.

Caernarfon station progress 17/8/17

This northerly view (17/8/17) shows progress with foundations for Caernarfon station. The space to the right of the foundations is the trackbed for the platform and run round loop. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where applicable). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (17/8/17) shows progress with foundations for Caernarfon station as seen from the buffer stop. The space to the left of the foundations is the trackbed for the platform and run round loop which will be extended north towards the tunnel. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where applicable). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Garratt boilers off for repair 15/8/17

On the 15/8/17 two boilers were moved out of the Carriage Shed for repair at an external boiler maker. Vale of Ffestiniog was used as depot shunter because Castell Caernarfon is out of action again with gearbox repairs. The lorry's crane was used to transfer the boiler off its cradle and accommodation bogies. One boiler is going to Israel Newton (Cromford) and the other to Locomotive Maintenance Services (Loughborough). The second boiler was removed from the former Clip Shed. The boilers are destined for Nos.138/143 when they next need refurbishment but one will be adapted so that it also will fit No.87.

This northerly view (15/8/17) shows two Garratt boilers going for repair at an external contractor. It is hoped this will speed up the return to service of the next Garratt requiring its 10 year overhaul. Local haulier Hughes of Blaenau Ffestiniog was used for the transit. Vale of Ffestiniog is deputising as Dinas shunter for Castell Caernarfon which requires gearbox repairs again. 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.

Classic Car show Dinas 20/8/17

The WHR's Summer of Fun event, 'Classic Car Show & Family Fun Day' at Dinas Station, will take place this coming Sunday, 20/8/17 - 10:00 to 16:00. It will feature a celebration of classic cars, motorcycles and other historic vehicles. There will be a display of over 80 vehicles. There are footplate rides on a Victorian steam locomotive, train rides in vintage four-wheeled carriages, a 1960s Hornby-Dublo model railway layout, stalls, snacks and refreshments.

Entry to Dinas site: £3.00 Adult (one child free per adult) £1.00 per extra child. No unaccompanied under-16 year olds are allowed on the site.

Caernarfon Station progress 14/7/17

This northerly view (14/8/17) shows progress with Caernarfon station with a rainbow over the site. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where applicable). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

EMU offered home at the BF&TR 13/8/17

The Class 414 (No.4311) is subject to a 'Gofundme' crowd funding appeal organised by Neil Parry started on 4/8/17. Some £297 has been raised of the £11,500 goal in the first 10 days. Contributors will get a chance to come to the Grand Opening Voyage on 4311, including half price off tickets to ride. Members of the 2HAP Group will have an opportunity to come help with the rest of the restoration. The unit was restored in 2010 and seating and windows are in excellent condition according to the 2HAP Facebook page.

Romanian coaches go to STR

Romanian coaches similar to the single example purchased by Mike Hart for the WHR (No.2060 delivered 15/4/2007) have been purchased by the South Tynedale Railway based at Alston. The Heritage Lottery Fund supported the purchase of 6 coaches as part of the £5.6 million Slaggyford Extension project opened on 24/7/15. The STR is now 4.5 miles long but is to launch another project to extend along the remaining 8.5 miles of ex-BR trackbed to Haltwhistle Junction (where passengers can exchange with NR) later this year. The new project is estimated to cost £30 million.

Lilla at Shrewsbury Flower Show 12/8/17

This easterly view (12/8/17) shows Lilla on the banks of the River Severn at Shrewsbury Flower show. Train rides in the two four wheel coaches were offered on 12-13/8/17. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where applicable). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Taliesin cab rides 12/8/17

This northerly view (12/8/17) shows Taliesin offering cab rides at Porthmadog Harbour Station. This will happen again on Saturdays 19/8/17 and 26/8/17. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where applicable). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.130 news update

A recently refurbished driver's vacuum brake valve has been delivered and case hardened horns are ready to fit on the loco. Hopefully one of the power units will be re-wheeled by the end of August or early September. The reverser stand has been overhauled and built up where necessary. It has now been fitted to the cradle and fitted bolts made. All of the components for the reverser are now also ready to fit.

Boiler makers Adam Dalgleish advise that as of 11/8/17 the rear barrel section is in place and tacked to the outer side sheets; the dome rivet holes and dome doubler holes are drilled in the barrel section; the transverse stay holes are drilled and the transverse stays are being made; the second stage former for the throatplate is now complete; the holes for the sling stay hanger angles are currently being marked out with drilling to follow. Most of the fitting pads are now machined. The manifold pad is now tacked in place; the front tubeplate is being fitted to the front barrel section for marking of the rivet holes. This will have to be removed again to rivet the gusset stay to barrel brackets. For images see No.130 Facebook page.

BF&TR update 12/8/17

The Blaenau Ffestiniog & Trawsfynydd Railway has posted completed views of its early August major clearance campaign at Maentwrog Road yard and the adjacent station on its Facebook page. They are taking orders (by 15/8/17) for full size 36" x 10" brown GWR totem station signs for the 6 stations between Blaenau Ffestiniog and Trawsfynydd Lake Halt (the initial destination of the railway). The BF&TR Facebook page has also become a repository of older images of the line including some snow scenes from 1981.

A 78 hp Case International Tractor has arrived on site and will be powering the new chipper from next weekend's working party.

Caernarfon Station progress 8-12/8/17

This southerly view (8/8/17) shows setting out of the new Caernarfon Station building. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (12/8/17) shows setting out of the new Caernarfon Station building at the tunnel end of the site. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Tuesday Gang report 8/8/17

Tony Baker reports: On Tuesday 8/8/17 the Tuesday Gang rebuilt a collapsed APG at LC 52:89. The base timbers had rotted and so were replaced with stronger material. We also changed the hinges on the field gate at LC 53:06 and replaced a broken catch.

This northerly view (8/8/17) shows the Tuesday Gang completing work on APGs near Erw Fawr. Click on the image to enlarge. Click again to see full size (where applicable). This image is copyright Andy Dawson and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Lilla replaces Palmerston at Shrewsbury 11-12/8/17

Lilla is to feature at the Shrewsbury Flower show over the weekend of 11-12/8/17. The loco, featuring its new green Cilgwyn livery, will replace the previously advertised Palmerston on passenger shuttles on a specially laid track along the banks of the River Severn at the Quarry Park Shrewsbury. See Shrewsbury Flower Show website for further details.

North Wales freight

Your webmaster makes occasional contributions of slide scans to the North Wales Coast Railway website. The edition posted on 7/8/17 contains a set of images of the Brymbo branch freights taken in 1980.

WHR 'Coming of Age' Event 2018

It is a sobering thought that Autumn 2018 will see 21 years since the start of services on the WHR. The F&WHR hopes to hold a Coming of Age event to celebrate the Caernarfon-Dinas service that started on 13/10/97.

Trawsfynydd Lake Halt rediscovered 5/8/17

Having cleared the trackbed at Maentwrog Road, volunteers working on the Blaenau Ffestiniog and Trawsfynydd Railway have uncovered the remains of Trawsfynydd Lake Halt just south of the Trawsfynydd Nuclear Power Station siding. Next weekend they intend to do more work at Maentwrog Road depot. See BF&TR Facebook page.

Taliesin on cab rides 5/8/17

This easterly view (5/8/17) shows Taliesin offering cab rides at Porthmadog. There do not appear to be any plans to offer cab rides at Caernarfon/Dinas during this year's Summer of Fun. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where applicable. This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Loco news Summer 2017

Failures of the braided steel smokebox blower pipes are causing problems. Nos.87/143 have not steamed consistently well this season so far with occasional late running and even stopping mid-section for a blow up! Adjustments to coal supply may help and also teaching the firemen not to overload the fire at Caernarfon. No.143 has failed twice in service and needed helping home by the FR's Funkey, Vale of Ffestiniog. No.143 was soon fixed with a new grate and brick arch. This is in consequently delayed the return of No.138. The Dinas JCB Loadall also broke down and blocked access to No.138's bunker and water tanks.

Work has resumed on No.130's power bogies. The horns will be sent away for hardening and the axleboxes white-metalled and machined to fit. The tyres have been cut off the truck wheels and the truck frames will need some repair. It is hoped that No.130 will be available to replace No.87 when it comes in for its next 10 year overhaul. There is still no consideration of reassembling No.140 which continues in its role of a Christmas Tree to support the other Garratts.

With Caernarfon Castle out of action awaiting return of the gearbox, Bill has worked as Dinas pilot but attention has also turned to the little used No.9. It appears that the contract work on the injectors was not up to standard. Additional work, including the injector pumps, resulted in a mainline test which showed improvement but still a need for further work. when work on wagons and Welsh pony comes to an end, attention will be given to new carriage underframes and new Fairlie James Spooner's boiler.

Garratt boilers need long term planning. Israel Newton's Cromford Works has won a contract to overhaul boiler No.7017, previously on No.143, which now carries No.140's boiler. A lot more work was discovered to be needed than initially anticipated and the boiler is expected to go to Cromford soon for removal of wasted platework for return in 12 months or so. Boiler No.7111 will go to a contractor for repair so that hopefully Dinas will have a spare boiler available.

Young Volunteers Training Week 5/8/17

Young volunteers have been working on the F&WHR and one of the projects was to start the reassembly of Blanche.

Caernarfon progress 4/8/17

This westerly view (4/8/17) shows a lamp post being moved as it is within the station building boundary. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

SuperPower details

The 3-day Rover will be £32 for members and the 1-day Rover £16. There will be four sets of coaches in action, one a mixed train, providing an intensive service between Caernarfon and Porthmadog. As well as the three Garratts, Earl of Merioneth will be hauling trains and will be withdrawn soon afterwards. No.87 was brought into Dinas for a period of routine maintenance (new ashpan drench, grate and brick arch as a result of the availability of No.138. Lyd, Prince and Vale of Ffestiniog will also haul trains.

All trains are to be given names of star constellations. As many trains will cross at Rhyd Ddu, catering will be provided there. Friday evening will feature a photographic event at Dinas. Hot food and real ale will be available.

On Saturday the Loco Shed will be open to view progress on No.130 and other projects. The Dark Skies presentation will feature a planetarium (see below) with seating for 25 so early booking is essential.

On Saturday and possibly Sunday there will be a guided walk along the Lon Gwyrfai.

On Sunday there will be a visit to Caernarfon Station site from 1300 to 1400, though there is likely to be little progress by then above the foundations.

New TOC promises North Wales steam 4/8/17

With the paucity of steam workings on the North Wales Coast Line this year, the announcement on 4/8/17 that Jeremy Hosking's Crewe based Locomotive Services (TOC) Limited has been granted a Train Operating Licence for the operation of charter passenger trains on the national network by the Office of Road and Rail (ORR) will be welcomed by enthusiasts. This means that the organisation has secured the three main approvals needed to operate - an ORR Safety Certificate, a Network Rail Access Agreement and an ORR Train Operating Licence. Locomotive Services Ltd spokesman Peter Greenwood said: "We have also recently secured a Network Rail gauging certificate for locos Royal Scot (Royal Scot Class No.46100) and Braunton (West Country Light Pacific No.34046) on the routes which we will operate our first trains over being; Crewe to North Wales and Crewe to Cardiff."

The new TOC's programme of railtours will be announced soon and may bring extra traffic to the F&WHR. The last steam hauled North Wales railtour happened in July and there are currently no more planned for the rest of the year by existing operators.

Caernarfon station delay 4/8/17

The removal of the 14" cast iron gas main that cut across the corner of the site by the roundabout delayed the start of work by a few months so it now seems unlikely that the station cannot open next Easter as hoped as a 3 month delay ensued. The gas main, now diverted in modern yellow plastic piping, was not shown on ground plans and is subject to legal action. Although consideration was given to moving the station building off the pipeline, that turned out to be unrealistic and Wales & West Utilities plan to divert the whole length of St. Helens Road would also take too long. So the short diversion off the WHR site under the road was the final plan adopted but with a considerable bill attached which presumably has been passed to the F&WHR.

Interior design of the station is progressing well. The small cafe in the station will not be a repeat of Spooners catering for the general public and will only plan to serve railway customers. It is to be named 'De Winton' to reflect the history of the loco works opposite the station. The flexible event space at the rear will be commercial space in the summer but available for special events at other times.

This easterly view (4/8/17) shows new signage attached to the Heras site fencing at Caernarfon Station produced by Designer Signs North Wales Ltd. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where applicable). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (4/8/17?) shows No.87 departing Caernarfon with the temporary (formerly Age Wales) station building in the background. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where applicable). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.130 update 2/8/17

At the end of July the rear section of the boiler barrel was offered up to the foundation ring and outer wrapper plates. Also the front section of the barrel was upright and waiting for the fitting of the front tubeplate. The tubeplate was finished and the throat plate former was being assembled. see No.130 Facebook page for images.

Coach No.1001 progress 1/8/17

Martin Kressman reports: Yesterday (1/8/17) we had the Mess Coach (No.1001) over the pit in the Loco Shed at Dinas to enable us to access the underside of the vehicle so that we could dismantle the brake gear which will be refurbished. Contrary to popular belief there is not any concrete beneath the floor.

Tuesday Gang report 1/8/18

Andy Dawson reports: We plumbed the metal gate in the ground on the Croesor side of the fence (LC5308) nearest the access road quite quickly after arriving on site, navigating through a slightly wet number of fields. We then didn't plant the metal post in the gate opposite on the Osprey side of LC5308, as the upright the gate was hanging on was rock solid and what was preventing it closing was a build up of earth behind the gate which we removed and made good. We managed to relocate the gate receiver slightly left of its location thereby making it close securely, but this may need further attention as the receiving gatepost needed drilling. The receiver on the Osprey side could do with replacing along with a couple of unbent screws which were in the post in the first place. The only slight concern would be the gap on the hanging end, but some wire attached to both top & bottom hinge should prevent livestock getting through. The farmer mentioned the next crossing (LC5289) as the support for the triangles has collapsed and needs replacing, but this shouldn't be a long job hopefully.

This northerly view (1/8/17) shows the Tuesday Gang completing work at Erw Fawr level crossing. Click on the image to enlarge. Click again to see full size (where applicable). This image is copyright Andy Dawson and was taken on an Olympus digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Titbits Spring 2017

The Beer Festival has grown to become the largest event on the F&WHR calendar even though numbers were slightly down on 2016. Pint glasses from 2016/7 and generic ones are available from the on-line shop at £3.50. There was a slow start to the season on the WHR at Caernarfon station compared to the FR, possibly due to a difficulty in providing signage as contractors were changing.

No.138 back in traffic alone 1/8/17?

No.138 was noted in traffic on its own on 29/7/17 even though the roster shows No.87/143 in charge week commencing 29/7/17. A short video shows it passing northbound through Nantmor that day on the Narrow Gauge Enthusiasts Group Facebook page.

This northerly view (1/8/17?) shows No.138 hauling a northbound train through the Aberglaslyn Pass. It appears that this loco is now trusted alone on service trains assuming this is not an archive view. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where applicable). This image is copyright F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Caernarfon Station progress 1/8/17

This westerly view (1/8/17) shows the piling well underway and the shape of the station building appearing. Next week contractors might start the foundations. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

BF&TR progress 1/8/17

The Blaenau Ffestiniog and Trawsfynydd Railway is making good progress clearing the line. Heavy plant has been engaged for the 'Big Push' week starting 29/7/17 and is battling the overgrown line south through Maentwrog Road station. See T&BFR Facebook page.

Food Festival Extra 13/5/17

On 13/5/17 Merddin Emrys hauled the Caernarfon Food Festival Extra. Prior to this the ex-Shotton Steelworks shunter Bill arrived at Dinas following a period of use 'running in' at Boston Lodge. It has taken over from Castell Caernarfon, which has had its gearbox removed and sent away to contractors for yet another repair. Bill has been found able to haul the standard 10 coach rakes out of the Carriage Shed whilst the steam loco is prepared in the Loco Shed. Sister loco Ben remains grounded at Dinas awaiting refurbishment from an as delivered state.