These northerly views (18/12/10) show No.138 running south alongside Rhostryfan Road with several inches of snow, presumably on the 1430. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Daniel Kirkman and were taken on a digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (18/12/10) shows the snowbound Caernarfon. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Daniel Kirkman and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Santa Specials 19/12/10

All day brilliant sunshine and six inches of snow were present on the WHR on 19/12/10 and all three Santa Specials ran. The mode of operation is as follows. Castell Caernarfon draws the rake out of the Carriage Shed and shunts it into the southbound platform. No.138 arrives from the Loco Shed runs past the train and shunts onto the front of the rake. The assemblage then departs for Caernarfon at about 1000. At Caernarfon, No.138 runs around and waters so the rake is double headed uphill to Waunfawr. At Waunfawr, No.138 runs around and leads the rake back to Caernarfon with the Funkey on the rear. For the ECS at the end of the day, the rake stops adjacent to the Carriage Shed and No.138 shunts off to refuel. The Funkey drags the rake into the headshunt and propels it back to the Carriage Shed. Finally No.138 shunts to the Loco Shed.

There are two more days of operation on 22-23/12/10 and the Caernarfon Station shop is open for business all day. Snow is likely to lie on the ground on those days as some 15cm was present on 19/12/10 with little sign of melting and forecast temperatures not rising until 22-23/12/10. The main roads are clear and your editor had no problem driving 200 miles along the A14/M6/M56/A55 route.

This northerly view (19/12/10) shows the snowbound Dinas with Castell Caernarfon at 0954 having drawn the ECS out of the sidings. The Funkey's cowcatcher is an effective snow plough! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (19/12/10) shows the snowbound Dinas with No.138 running into the station from the Loco Shed. The Garratt's cowcatcher ploughs a strip almost 6 feet wide! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (19/12/10) shows No.138 reversing onto its train at Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (19/12/10) shows the No.138 departing ECS for Caernarfon at 1005 from the southbound platform. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (19/12/10) shows the snowbound Dinas with the second Shotton loco ready to depart for LOROL. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (19/12/10) shows the snowbound Caernarfon with No.138 taking water at 1022. The Garratt ran around the first train of the day to lead Castell Caernarfon to Waunfawr. The Funkey's cowcatcher is an effective snow plough! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (19/12/10) shows No.138 running around the Santa Special. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This backlit southerly view (19/12/10) shows No.138 shunting onto the Santa Special. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (19/12/10) shows No.138 coupled up to the Santa Special at 1037, a few minutes late from the booked 1030 departure time. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (19/12/10) shows No.138 double heading Castell Caernarfon passing Cae Moel on the Santa Special at 1059. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (19/12/10) shows No.138 running around after taking water at Waunfawr at 1126. There was about 20cm of snow here and the points needed to be unblocked to close properly to complete the run round at the north end. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (19/12/10) shows No.138 coupled up to the Santa Special, ready to depart Waunfawr. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (19/12/10) shows No.138 departing Waunfawr at 1141. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (19/12/10) shows No.138 having arrived at Caernarfon with time to run round before the 1230 departure despite the earlier late running. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (19/12/10) shows No.138 running around the Santa Special at 1215, ready for the 1230 departure time. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (19/12/10) shows the No.138 at Hendy Crossing at 1237 with the second train of the day. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (19/12/10) shows the No.138 at Rhostryfan Road at 1345 with the second train of the day. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (19/12/10) shows the No.138 at St. Helen's Road at 1404 with the second train of the day. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (19/12/10) shows the No.138 at St. Helen's Road at 1435 with the final train of the day, which left on time. Local lads with their sledges offer a friendly wave. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (19/12/10) shows the No.138 at The Mount cutting at 1453 with the final train of the day. Conway Castle sits in the depot headshunt. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (19/12/10) shows the No.138 at The Mount cutting at 1545 with the final train of the day. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Santa Specials 19/12/10

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 57 seconds of video of No.138 approaching Cae Moel on 19/12/10 in the snow, working the first Santa Special of the day. The YouTube clip is best watched at 1080p HD standard. This video was taken by Barrie Hughes on a Panasonic SD700 HD camcorder and is best batched in Chrome which offers 1080p HD settings.

Santa Specials 23/12/10

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 1 minute 15 seconds of video of No.138 accelerating away from Plas Bodaden on 23/12/10 in the snow, working the first Santa Special of the final day of operation. The YouTube clip is best watched at 1080p HD standard. This video was taken by Barrie Hughes on a Panasonic SD700 HD camcorder and is best batched in Chrome which offers 1080p HD settings..

Click on the YouTube box above to watch 1 minute 7 seconds of video of No.138 accelerating away from Hendy crossing on 23/12/10 in the snow, working the first Santa Special of the final day of operation. The YouTube clip is best watched at 1080p HD standard. This video was taken by Barrie Hughes on a Panasonic SD700 HD camcorder and is best batched in Chrome which offers 1080p HD settings.

This northerly view (23/12/10) shows No.138 with Castell Caernarfon at 1042, just south of Hendy Crossing, on the first train of the final day of Santa Specials. No.138 was substituting for the booked K1. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (23/12/10) shows No.138 with Castell Caernarfon at 1105, at Plas Bodaden, on the first train of the final day of Santa Specials. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (23/12/10) shows No.138 at 1127, running around at Waunfawr, on the first train of the final day of Santa Specials. Exiting the car park in the snow can be tricky as it gets very icy! Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (23/12/10) shows No.138 at 1128, pausing for refreshments whilst running around at Waunfawr, on the first train of the final day of Santa Specials. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (23/12/10) shows Castell Caernarfon at 1156, on the rear of a Santa Specials. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (23/12/10) shows No.138 at 1255, running a little late after a stop near the Carriage Shed, on the second train of the final day of Santa Specials. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (23/12/10) shows No.138 at 1329, arriving at Waunfawr, on the second train of the final day of Santa Specials. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (23/12/10) shows No.138 at 1403, running a little late, on the second train of the final day of Santa Specials. This area has become overgrown reducing photographic opportunities. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (23/12/10) shows No.138 at 1444, departing Caernarfon a little late, on the last Santa Specials of 2010. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

Xmas Service 27/12/10

The Xmas service started on 27/12/10 with snow still on the ground at Caernarfon and No.138 paired with Castell Caernarfon. With the line blocked at Goat Tunnel and the loop out of action at Beddgelert, No.138, ran around to the rear of the train at Rhyd Ddu and the Funkey led the rake downhill. An attempt to water at Beddgelert was unsuccessful as the valve was jammed, despite the locos chimney being placed under it for 10 minutes! Passenger numbers were relatively light (despite the alpine snowclad scenery), although the roads to Caernarfon were clear.

This northerly view (27/12/10) shows No.138 with Castell Caernarfon at 1100, departing Caernarfon with snow still lying on the ground though thawing fast. No.138 was substituting for the booked K1. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This westerly view (27/12/10) shows No.138 with Castell Caernarfon at 1119, passing Cae Moel with snow still lying on the ground though thawing fast. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (27/12/10) shows No.138 with Castell Caernarfon at 1145, passing Salem with snow still lying on the ground. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (27/12/10) shows No.138 with Castell Caernarfon at 1151, passing Castell Cidwm with snow still lying on the ground. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (27/12/10) shows No.138 with Castell Caernarfon at 1206, approaching Rhyd Ddu with snow still lying on the ground. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (27/12/10) shows Castell Caernarfon at 1255, arriving at Beddgelert with snow still lying on the ground. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (27/12/10) shows No.138 at 1301, having arrived at Beddgelert on the rear end of the train as the loop was out of use due to icing of the point mechanism. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (27/12/10) shows No.138 at 1304, with the driver trying to open the valve on the water crane at Beddgelert. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (27/12/10) shows No.138 at 1308 at Beddgelert, with the chimney placed under the valve on the water crane to try and warm and free the valve (unsuccessfully). The loco had to water at Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

WHR snow scenes 28/12/10

FR diesel Harlech Castle broke through the icicles in the tunnels whilst making a line inspection trip form Porthmadog to Beddgelert on 28/12/10, the first visit by the loco to the WHR. While the service train did not progress beyond Beddgelert again, Harlech Castle departed south just before No.138 returned north from Beddgelert.

These northerly and southerly views (28/12/10) show Harlech Castle stabled in the northbound track at Beddgelert with snow rapidly thawing. Click on the images to enlarge. These images are copyright Barrie Hughes and were taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Images post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (28/12/10) shows No.138 with Castell Caernarfon at the other end of the train, ready to depart Beddgelert with snow still lying on the ground, though thawing fast. Click on the image to enlarge. This image is copyright Barrie Hughes and was taken on a Kodak DX6490 digital camera. Image post processed using iPhoto Plus4 and displayed at 96dpi.

On the return journey, a points problem at Waunfawr saw the train stopped by the TOTP cabinet and then run through Waunfawr wrong line, possibly to water.

Happy Christmas!

Your webmaster wishes all readers a Happy Christmas and a successful 2022. Watch out for the special Xmas Edition tomorrow!!

Christmas Cwellyn/Glaslyn services

This northerly view (22/12/21) shows K1 and No.87 approaching Castell Cidwm in an advert for Festive Trains. K1 is currently based at Boston Lodge so is more likely to be seen on the Christmas Glaslyn services. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

At the end of 23/12/21 the loco and carriages of 2021's final Santa Special train are being tucked up in their sheds for the Christmas break but they will not be there for too long. The trains were a sell out this year justifying the WHRS pushing the F&WHR to allow them to be run. After all the family Xmas celebrations there will come a time when people need a break from the TV, Xmas games, food and drinks. The F&WHR can help with that as they are running their seasonal scenic Christmas Cwellyn trains again from Caernarfon to Rhyd Ddu from 29/12/21 to 1/1/22. In fact, there will be two trains each day, departing at 10:45 and 13:45 - perfect for those who like an early start, as well as for those who enjoy a little 'lie-in'! So, why not book your tickets now for a revitalising train ride through the beautiful scenery of Snowdonia. It is a great way to get rid of those post-Christmas Day blues! Further information and links to online booking available at festrail.co.uk/Christmas. On 24/12/21 all 8 Christmas Cwellyn trains had compartments free. The F&WHR will also be running Christmas Glaslyn trains hauled by K1 from Porthmadog to Beddgelert and return on the 30/12/21-1/1/22, departing at 10:50 and 14:15. All six trains had compartments free to book. The Met Office weather forecast suggest there will be snow on the mountains of Snowdonia over the Xmas weekend perhaps creating an alpine backdrop for the Festive Season Trains.

Moving Pictures No.58 20/12/21

The latest moving picture shows K1's first Christmas Glaslyn run on 18/12/21. For some reason the train stopped briefly at Nantmor and struggled to get the 7 coach rake restarted on the 1 in 40 there but made it to Beddgelert after severe slipping. The suspected reportable incident referred to below must have happened on the way back and information received from walkers in the Aberglaslyn Pass suggests the train was stopped just south of Sheepfold Cutting (aka Corlan). Although the Saturday afternoon and all Sunday services were cancelled, it is to the credit of the F&WHR that the Christmas Glaslyn service operated normally on 22/12/21 after the rear four coaches of the train were recovered on 19/12/21 (see below).

Click on the YouTube link to watch 17 minutes 4 seconds of video covering K1 and No.130 on Santa Specials. The video has a new title sequence.. This video was published on 20/12/21 and is best viewed at 1080p in Chrome or on YouTube. This video was produced by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional 4K Betamax camcorder.

F&WHR traffic 22/10/21

The Winter Solstice was on 21/12/21 and longest night that followed saw freezing temperatures with clear skies across much of the UK but with rain and 9C maximum temperatures forecast at Porthmadog. Snow is forecast on the mountains from 25/12/21.

At 08:57 Upnor Castle arrived light engine from Boston Lodge. The loco set off towards Beddgelert at 09:00 presumably on a proving run to check the line is clear in advance of the 10:50 Christmas Glaslyn.

This easterly view (22/12/21) shows Upnor Castle light engine departing Porthmadog northbound at 09:00, presumably on a proving run. Snow is forecast on the mountains from 25/12/21. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

The signalman turned up at 09:30 to open the box in preparation for the shunting before the 10:50 Christmas Glaslyn departure. Steam was visible at 09:41 in Boston Lodge with shunting into the Carriage Shed. K1 emerged from the Carriage Shed at 10:05 and crossed The Cob light engine at 10:10 to extract the rake from Harbour Station yard 10:10. At 10:20 the 7 coach rake was hauled onto The Cob and shunted into the WHR platform by 10:23 with Observation Car No.152 Eryri-Snowdonia on the front for the Gold passengers. K1 ran round at 10:28 and had coupled up by 10:32 as passengers joined the train.

This easterly view (22/12/21) shows K1 running round. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy the F&WHR webcam. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Departure was delayed until 11:08 by passengers arriving late. Seemingly, some of the cast of Aladdin were present to wave the train away with Widow Twankey visible at least!

This easterly view (22/12/21) shows K1 departing with the 10:50. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy the F&WHR webcam. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

The train arrived back at 13:06 with the weather having turned rainy by midday. The loco immediately uncoupled and shunted to the yard to coal and water while the rake was subject to COVID compliant deep cleaning. The loco remerged from the yard at 13:25 and ran round its train before coupling up at 13:30 ready for the 14:15 departure which was on time. This in turn arrived back from Beddgelert at about 16:10 and the rake was disposed to Boston Lodge, promptly departing at 16:16 as it would not be required again until 30/12/21 when the Christmas Glaslyn trains will run until 1/1/22.

Christmas Glaslyn working timetable

This is a work in progress. Any amendments gratefully received. The train will be COVID cleaned at Porthmadog between the first return and the departure on the next service.

WHR Santa Specials fully booked

This easterly view (19/12/21) shows No.130 and Vale of Ffestiniog hauling the afternoon Santa Special around Ffridd Isaf curve into Rhyd Ddu in Winter sunshine. No sign of any snow! The Funkey has been added regularly to assist in case of adhesion problems. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Chris Parry (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

The remaining four WHR Santa Specials on 22-23/12/21 are currently fully booked. There may be some last minute cancellations so it is still worth looking at the Fare Harbor website. Six of the 8 remaining Christmas Glaslyn trains are free to book except the 10:50 on 22 and 30/12/21. All 8 Christmas Cwellyn trains are also free to book.

COVID latest 22/12/21

WAG has increased restrictions saying there can be no attendance at sporting fixtures from 26/12/21 to prevent super-spreader events. Meanwhile there has been more 'dither and delay' from the Prime Minister according to the national press with no additional preventative measures before Christmas despite dire warnings from Government scientists. While the rest of Europe imposes much stricter rules including lockdowns nothing has been announced other easing the 10 day isolation rule.

WAG met 21/12/21 to consider and announce additional measures and these might include precautions that could affect Hospitality and Tourism. It has been reported that these could include measures to restrict restaurants to serve outside only and a two week 'circuit-breaker' lock down, possibly from 28/12/21, which would definitely affect the planned Christmas Cwellyn/Glaslyn services.

On 22/12/21 Mark Drakeford, Welsh First Minister, announced changes that will affect the F&WHR as Wales moves to Alert Level 2 from 26/12/21. The 2m rule returns and no more than six can meet in a group in Spooners. Spooners must provide table service which will hit its buffet offerings. Face coverings must be worn except when eating/drinking and contact details must be taken. Close contacts of people who have COVID will no longer have to self isolate provided they have been fully vaccinated. Instead they must take lateral flow tests to prove they are free of the illness. On the positive side WAG is granting business rate relief next financial year. The F&WHR business rates will be cut to 50% of normal in 2022-2023 but relief will be capped at £110,000 per business.

Barmouth Bridge update 22/12/21

Walkers will get a Christmas bonus when an iconic railway bridge footpath temporarily reopens over the festive period. The 900-yard long Barmouth Viaduct will be open from Christmas Day until 9/1/22 for pedestrians. The Grade II* listed structure has been undergoing a £30m restoration since September, but engineers found it to be in a much worse condition than anticipated. The walkway will close again on 10/1/21 and reopen in mid-February. The longer closure of the walkway will allow Network Rail to repair and replace any elements of the walkway and hand rails of a safety critical nature. The railway works were extended by 17 days and are on track to be completed with the bridge reopened to trains on 29/12/21.

During 2022, the bridge will be closed from Sunday, 11/9/22 to Sunday, 11/12/22 to allow the next phase to be completed. Network Rail will replace the formerly opening girder spans of the viaduct and the associated track. They will also be upgrading the track at the north and south end of the viaduct. TfW will be providing rail replacement services during the railway closure and passengers are advised to check before travelling.

Italian Night at Spooners (23/12/21)

The week before Christmas is always a rush, with so many things to do. So, why not take some 'time out' this Thursday evening? Come along to Spooner's, between 17:00 and 20:00, and enjoy a taste of the Mediterranean - Italian style - accompanied by your choice from a selection of our drinks from the bar. Spooners will have a selection of Pizza, Pasta and Antipasto available - served Buffet style - for only £9.95 per person. Why not have a drink with your meal for just £11.95? (Drinks offer includes a Pint of Lager/Cider / Ale, a175ml Glass of House Wine or a Soft Drink.) If you have any allergies or dietary requirements, please ask a member of staff for our allergen folder and make them aware when ordering.

Boston Lodge on TV

ITV's latest Coast & Country features a good piece on Boston Lodge approximately 16 minutes into this programme originally broadcast on 20/12/21.

Main Line news 20/12/21

North Wales freight has made a welcome return after several years absence with the reopening of the Penmaenmawr stone loading terminal. The first train ran on 20/12/21 with GBRf 60087 hauling the train to Penmaenmawr in the morning. The inbound working 6D60 was 23 JNA wagons from Tuebrook Sidings to Penmaenmawr Quarry. Several photos and a video are available on the Railways of North Wales Facebook page. The last stone traffic from Penmaenmawr was almost 10 years ago. GBRf hauled the Wylfa flask traffic from Valley Nuclear Electric until the final fuel rods were removed on 18/9/19. Other than the occasional route learner, there has been no freight traffic on the North Wales Coast Line in the last two years. The stone train left 156 minutes late in the dark after experiencing problems with the conveyor belt during loading. As a result only 17/23 wagons appeared loaded on 6K22 the 14:23 Penmaenmawr to Tuebrook.

Following concerns about Class 67 availability No.67015 was given preventative attention at Holyhead over the weekend and ran as a normal passenger train to Cardiff on 20/12/21 as the 05:33 to Cardiff after a little difficulty cold starting before dawn.

TfW intends to introduce an emergency timetable from 22/12/21 to deal with anticipated staff absences during the surge in COVID Omicron cases. See TfW website for more details. Under fire for overcrowding on the North Wales Coast, TfW has said it will redeploy coaching stock released by the 10-15% cuts it is implementing to strengthe2/21

Sunday dawned bright and sunny at Porthmadog with temperatures up to a mild 10C at midday. At 09:15 a train left Boston Lodge and at 09:22 it was noted to be Upnor Castle propelling a DZ wagon with 3 staff. The train crossed Britannia Bridge and was presumably heading for the site of yesterday's problems in the Aberglaslyn Pass that led to the cancellation of Saturday afternoon's Christmas Glaslyn train. Sunday's two trains were also cancelled leading to a substantial loss of income from the 3 trains as well as upset to the refunded passengers. This is almost unprecedented in recent times on the F&WHR except after storms or derailments. There is still no indication of the nature of the problem.

This easterly view (19/12/21) shows Upnor Castle propelling a PW wagon towards Beddgelert departing the WHR platform at 09:22. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR webcam. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

At 12:16 Upnor Castle reappeared dragging a four coach rake with Observation Car No.152 on the rear. Presumably this is the rake recovered from yesterday's incident. Given the 3 hours needed, the rake is likely to have been recovered from Beddgelert/Aberglaslyn Pass, which implies passengers may have been bussed back from there to Porthmadog on Saturday morning or returned in a special working. It has been suggested that K1 could haul a fully loaded seven coach train to Beddgelert but it is not known if the Christmas Glaslyn was loaded to seven bogies on Saturday morning. The train later departed at 12:26 for Boston Lodge.

This easterly view (19/12/21) shows Upnor Castle hauling the wagon and four coaches of the Christmas Glaslyn into the WHR platform at 12:16. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR webcam. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Despite the problems with the Christmas Glaslyn, the WHR Santa Specials operated as normal over the weekend, though without any snow on the mountains in the unseasonable high temperatures and strong sunshine. No.87 was paired with Vale of Ffestiniog again on the Saturday afternoon working. All six remaining WHR Santa Special trains are fully booked as of Sunday though the odd cancellations may mean it is still worth looking for bookings. All eight of the Christmas Cwellyn trains from Caernarfon are still bookable and seven of the remaining eight Christmas Glaslyn trains are bookable with just the 10:50 on 30/12/21 fully booked.

COVID questions 19/12/21

The Government has confirmed the COVID Omicron epidemic is accelerating out of control and the Cabinet was meeting on Sunday to consider the evidence and scientific advice and what additional measures might be necessary. Several newspapers seemed to have been briefed that stronger measures might indeed be needed to prevent the NHS being overwhelmed after Xmas and the Health Minister said on Sunday that he could not rule out such measures BEFORE Christmas. Holland entered a strict lockdown and both Germany and France took strong action to prevent the importing of Omicron from the UK by restricting inbound passengers. It seems another 'circuit break lockdown' might be possible. The next WAG review is on Christmas Eve and may produce stronger measures than those already advised to be implemented from Boxing Day. Any such restrictions may affect the F&WHR's Christmas Cwellyn/Christmas Glaslyn trains planned between 28/12/21 and New Year's Day.

Sunday Roast at Spooners (19/12/21)

Don't forget - Spooner's popular Sunday Carvery is on the menu on 19/12/21! You can't beat a traditional Sunday Roast dinner, especially when you don't have to cook it yourself. So why not take it easy on a Sunday - come to Spooner's and let us look after you! Carvery served between 12:00 and 16:00. Phone the F&WHR on 01766 516032 to reserve a table.

Operational difficulties 18/12/21

Saturday afternoon's Christmas Glaslyn was cancelled after operational difficulties just before departure time! This is most unusual on the F&WHR as normally there is a spare loco in steam or a main line diesel to cope with a loco problem. There seems to be uncertainty about Sunday's trains too as this website went to press!

F&WHR traffic 18/12/21

It was a sunny sunset on 18/12/21 with some shunting of the Carriage Sheds at Boston Lodge possibly with Criccieth Castle noted at 15:45 when the webcams were back in action. There was no sign of steam disposal in Boston Lodge. The temperature at Porthmadog was 10C, mild for the time of year.

F&WHR website problems 18/12/21

After the F&WHR's Fareharbor ticket sales went down for a while on Friday afternoon all three Webcams were also down on Saturday so enthusiasts could not watch the departure of K1 on the first of the Christmas Glaslyn services. The problems extended to all three webcams. The F&WHR seems to be experiencing ongoing technical problems with its website. It is also possible the F&WHR has switched off its webcams in response to the difficulties experienced on Saturday with the Christmas Glaslyn, following cancellation of the afternoon working, as they have also switched off comments on their Facebook page (see above).

COVID cancellations affecting hospitality and tourism 18/12/21

The Welsh population seems to be responding to Mark Drakeford's (the Welsh First Minister) suggestion that people reduce their social contacts over Christmas. Hospitality has been particularly hit with many people cancelling meals out. Your webmaster has cancelled a planned Christmas get together with his family who live in North Wales. Due to a few cancellations the Santa Specials have availability on the 13:00 on Sunday 19/12/21 as of Saturday afternoon but returned tickets for later dates were quickly resold.

Oswestry Earthquake 17/12/21

The Liberal Democrats overturned a huge 23,000 Tory majority to win the North Shropshire by-election by 6,000 votes on 16/12/21. This has implications for rail in the area. The Tories will need to win this seat back and must make good on Boris Johnson's promises to electrify and extend London trains to Shrewsbury and to restore the Gobowen-Oswestry branch.

New COVID rules 17/12/21

The new WAG COVID rules are basically to follow the 2m rule and to have separate entrances and exits in businesses. These come into effect in Wales on 27/12/21 and should not be onerous for the F&WHR to instigate as this is what they were doing earlier in the year.

FR trackwork 16/12/21

Alex Spring (F&WHR PW Manager) reports about the section between Boston Lodge and Rhiw Plas bridge:-

'Nearly done, after just over five weeks hard slog by the close of play tomorrow (17/12/21) we will have a complete railway again having prepared just over 250m of formation, re-ballasted and relaid the track using plastic sleepers. The opportunity was also taken to improve the water supply and drainage to the cottages and 75m of track drainage was lowered such that is now below sleeper level. After a well earned Christmas break work will resume, delivering 400 tonnes of ballast and lifting and lining the track. A big thanks to the PW team and volunteers that have worked tirelessly to get us this far.

Power bogie returns to Dinas 14/12/21

The second refurbished power bogie off No.138, the front unit, has returned to Dinas by lorry. This is destined to go under No.143 which is the next loco to be restored. It was not possible to transfer via rail as the pony truck tends to derail when not loaded by the boiler frame. Also the section to Pont Croesor was under a PW possession in preparation for the regular Christmas Glaslyn services from18/12/21.

This southerly view (14/12/21) shows the second refurbished power bogie from No.138 leaving Boston Lodge for Dinas. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Paul Lewin (F&WHR General Manager) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Broken WHR starter signal

Recent storms have exacerbated wood rot and led to the WHR starter signal bracket collapsing and being secured in place awaiting fresh wood. This signal normally controls ECS trains from the WHR platform working onto The Cob which will now be given the right away by traditional green flag.

COVID shock 16/12/21

WAG is set to make an announcement about changed COVID rules on Friday after a record number of people were reported infected on Wednesday with 78,610 new cases across the UK and 88,376 on Thursday. In some places like London, Manchester and the Scottish Lowlands the Omicron infection is approaching 50% of the new cases, doubling every 2-3 days. In North Wales schools are shutting early for Christmas on Friday. Some 62 cases of the Omicron variant have been identified in Wales but more than a third (23) of them are in South Wales (Cardiff and the Vale of Glamorgan). Already cancellations and staff absences are affecting hospitality and tourism across the UK. Any new COVID measures might impact the F&WHR Santa Specials and Christmas Cwellyn/Glaslyn trains.

Cold snap forecast for Christmas trains 16/12/21?

The recent misty mild spell is coming to an end today according to the Met Office forecasts. Temperatures are set to drop to 5C maximum this weekend and down to 3C maximum by the final Santa Specials on 22-23/12/21 bringing a higher likelihood of snow, at least on the peaks.

First Christmas Glaslyn to run Saturday 18/12/21

The first Christmas Glaslyn service will run on Saturday 18/12/21 hauled by K1. The 10:50 service will take a short break at Beddgelert for watering and run round before returning to Porthmadog 2.25 hours later ready for deep cleaning before the afternoon working. Seats are still available to book on all four trains this Saturday/Sunday. The Christmas Cwellyn service from Caernarfon to Rhyd Ddu runs for the four days from 29/12/21-1/1/22.

No.150 repaint

FR Observation Car No.150 has emerged from Boston Lodge after a partial repaint. WHR Ashbury replica coach No.24 has taken its place.

This southerly view (15/12/21) shows No.150 after emerging from the Paint shop at Boston Lodge. 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.

F&WHR services in 2022 16/12/21

The Daily Post has reported on the F&WHR plans to cautiously increase services next year whilst still 'living in the shadow of COVID'.

Spooners' Curry night 16/12/21

This week's themed evening brings the warming tastes and smells of curry and spice back to Spooner's. Come along and enjoy an Indian Buffet, accompanied by your choice from a selection of drinks from the bar. Spooners has a variety of curries available from 17:00 to 20:00 - served Buffet style with rice and sundries, for only £9.95 per person. Why not have a drink with your curry for just £11.95?(Drinks offer includes a Pint of Lager / Cider / Ale, a175ml Glass of House Wine or a Soft Drink.) If customers have any allergies or dietary requirements, please ask a member of staff for the allergen folder and make them aware when ordering.

Santa Specials fully booked 15/12/21

The WHR Santa specials were fully booked by Wednesday afternoon. Those people who missed the boat might still find it worth looking for late bookings as there are occasional cancellations. The FareHarbor booking website was down on Wednesday afternoon for a while but all Christmas Cwellyn/Glaslyn services except the 10:50 Christmas Glaslyn on 30/12/21 are free to book.

Caernarfon station Christmas opening hours

'Y Stesion' will be open daily until 23/12/21 and from 29/12/21-1/1/02. On days without trains - the shop and Caffi De Winton will open from 09:00 to 15:00. On days with trains (18-19/12/21, 22-23/12/21 and 29/12/21-1/1/22) - the station will open from 09:00 to 17:00.

Porthmadog Harbour station Christmas opening hours

Main Line news 14-15/12/21

Work is underway refurbishing the stone conveyor at Penmaenmawr ready for the resumption of stone trains from these sidings next year. It is 10 years since stone trains last worked out of Penmaenmawr stone terminal.

Saphos Trains Christmas White Rose dining excursion ran from Llandudno Junction to York on 15/12/21. The train was top and tailed to Chester by 47593 Galloway Princess looking fine in revised livery and 47853. No.46100 Royal Scot replaced 47593 at Chester with 47853 remaining on the rear to York and arriving 8 minutes down. The train ran ECS from/to Crewe.

Garratts on Santa Specials 14/12/21

No. 130 and No.87 hauled the Santa Specials on Saturday 11/12/21 with No.130 on the morning turn. The roster was duplicated on Sunday. Vale of Ffestiniog assisted inside on all workings. Bookings remain high with compartments only available on one of the 8 remaining services as of 13/12/21, the 09:15 on 22/12/21. However, the booking situation remains fluid as by the afternoon of 14/12/21 cancellations had released compartments on the 13:00 on 18/12/21 whereas the 22/12/21 is now fully booked. There were just 5 Santa Special compartments available this morning so it is still worth looking for late bookings.

Most of the Christmas Cwellyn/Glaslyn services are still available to book. The 10:30 Christmas Glaslyn on 30/12/21 is the first to be fully booked but all 8 Christmas Cwellyn services are still available. After a mild week, next weekend is currently forecast to be misty with 5C maximum temperatures at Caernarfon and more potential for snow on Snowdon on Sunday. Any photos of the Santa Specials would be welcome.

This northerly view (11/12/21) shows No.130 being prepared for the morning service on the first Santa Special of the season. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a phone camera.

This northerly view (11/12/21) shows No.87 and Vale of Ffestiniog pausing alongside Dinas depot on the afternoon Santa Special. The diesel was provided for assistance as the conditions were very wet at times. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a phone camera.

This northerly view (12/12/21) shows Vale of Ffestiniog drawing the ECS into the platform at Dinas while the steam loco attaches to the north end. The diesel was provided for assistance as the conditions were very wet at times. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a phone camera.

This northerly view (12/12/21) shows No.130 carrying a 'Merry Christmas' headboard and Vale of Ffestiniog inside ready to depart Caernarfon on the morning Sunday Santa Special. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a phone camera.

This northerly view (12/12/21) shows No.130 running round at Rhyd Ddu while Vale of Ffestiniog remains attached to the rear of the Santa Specials. The diesel would dispose of the stock later in the afternoon. It appears to have been wet and windy at Rhyd Ddu! Click on the image to enlarge and click again to expand fully where available. This image is copyright Tom Waldren and was taken on a phone camera.

Former Star Picture

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.

Main Line news 14/12/21

Class 67 No.67015 hauled the 06:45 Cardiff-Holyhead on 14/12/21 and was on the rear after reversal at Chester.

Omicron emergency

After the Prime Minister sombre declaration of an 'Omicron emergency' in a special TV broadcast late on Sunday evening 12/12/21, Mark Drakeford, Wales First Minister, has responded. Some press commentators see the announcement from Boris Johnson as more of the 'too little, too late' Tory response to COVID or a distraction to the Tories' current 'Partygate' problems in the face of an important by-election in North Shropshire (Oswestry). A statement was later released by Mr Drakeford saying WAG was stepping up the booster programme in Wales and warned that the country was facing a 'serious situation' and more measures could be introduced. Such measures could potentially impact the remaining F&WHR Santa Specials and Christmas Cwellyn/Glaslyn services.

End of the slide scanning project!

Phew!! With the final set of the Prince of Wales slides scanned (shown above) that represents the end of your webmaster's slide scanning project which has encompassed over 30 years and 10,000 slides since January 1970.The Sigma SA300 SLR used until June 2002 developed a cracked base by its battery compartment which would not latch shut as a result rendering the camera unusable. With digital technology looming, a Samsung Digimax 230 was purchased which was used for a few years. However the resolution at 2MP did not match that of slides and a Jessops Centon DF300 was purchased and used for the few weeks of slides leading up to Prince Charles visit before reverting to the Samsung and CF cards again and avoiding the cost of film. Due to the cost of the cards and their small memory the images were downloaded to floppies, some of which have unfortunately corrupted and an external drive that was also used failed. As the Samsung Digimax 230 restarted its picture labelling at 1 every time it was used, a lot of sorting out of these images and cross referencing with the WHR archive will be required before publication on this website.

For the final six months of 2004 a Concord eyeQ 3340z 3.1MP compact was used but with limited functions. At least it had SD card storage which was becoming cheaper. Finally the Kodak DX6490 4MP was purchased from 29/1/05 offering results close to slides and with excellent autofocus.

K1 on test 13/12/21

After some attention at Boston Lodge K1 made a loaded test run up the Aberglaslyn Pass on Monday 13/12/21. There were 8 coaches in the ECS representing a heavy load for K1 on the 1 in 40 representing a loaded 7 coach train (the normal timing load). With both operational Garratts currently at Dinas, it has been confirmed that K1 will be used on the Christmas Glaslyn workings.

'As requested an update on No.143 following last week's update on No.138. No.143 was expected to be available for service for its last season in 2020. It passed annual inspection without problems in February 2020. The expected out of service date being late September. The boiler insurers changed their rules at this time and subsequently told us that the boiler needed immediate withdrawal for inspection and hydraulic test. Whilst we knew that rules were changing to make the ten year ticket run from hydraulic test our previous arrangement was ten years from steam test. This arrangement served us well without problem for the last twenty years. Fighting this decision was futile as by the time the situation was understood there was only a few months left to the expected withdrawal. We now re-hydraulic our boilers with lagging in place immediately before steam test to gain the full ten years of service. For No.143 though this meant a quiet and unmarked end to 9 years service following the outstanding efforts of Tony Williams and the Dinas team to put it in the best of order.

So in 2020 all attention went to completing No.130 whilst No.87 hauled the limited train service. Knowing that we urgently need a third Garratt in service to back up the other two we set about a plan to use the best parts of No.138 and No.143 to achieve a working loco as soon as possible. It is important to remember that most of our Garratts have seen parts interchanged over the years. We decided to take the completed boiler ex No.129 from Puffing Billy in place of the current boiler which was previously in No.140. The cradle frame from No.143 has been overhauled. It is the cradle frame which determines the number the loco carries. The power units under No.143 are fit for a further five years service. If pressed these units were to be deployed again. However we took the opportunity in 2020/21 to completely overhaul the very tired units from No.138. This included a new cylinder on the rear unit. Again due to the foresight of Tony Williams we had a new casting ready. The rear unit was brought to the loco in September 2020, the front unit should make the same journey from Boston Lodge this month.

Site development

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Comments+.

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Maps & Plans and links

Click here for Steve Harris' /WHRS' full list of Historical Maps and Gradient Profiles

DVD material can be purchased from Jon Marsh who is the WHRS' (DVD Only) Mail Order officer. All other materials are now sold in the F&WHRS shop.

Click here for the Mail Order web page

Click here for the Official WHR website

Click here for Official WHHR site

Click here for FR Company websites

Click here for Welsh Highland Heritage Group

V4.4156 updated 28/1/22