We will then meet again in October 2018.

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

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

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

Please contact Tym Crowther with dates and times when you will be available. Help is also needed at Dinas to set up on Saturday the 12/5/18 and Sunday 13/5/18. There is also lots to do on Wednesday 16/5/18 and Thursday 17/5/18 if you are available. Finally it all has to be taken down again on the 21/5/18.

Lyn for SuperPower?

The possibility of the long-promised visit of replica Baldwin Lyn to this year's WHR SuperPower seems to have improved after confirmation the loco is fit to take part in the L&BR's 12-13/5/18 Gala. Recent revelations that the loco has not yet entered service on the L&BR due to problems with its 'Porta' wheel profiles, as reported by Heritage Railways magazine, seem to have a solution. Previously, alteration to the pointwork to a larger radius had proved necessary as the loco did not run through the points smoothly at temporary Killington Lane terminus.

Following of approval of Planning Permission on 6/3/18 the L&BR is seeking to raise £16.5 million to rebuild the 3.5 miles of Stage 1 to Blackmoor Gate in 3 years time and Wistlandpound Reservoir station a couple of years later. It is a condition of the Planning Permission that the full funding must be in place before the work starts. A shuttle bus link to Lynton will precede Phase 2, the extension to a new Lynton terminus at a new location. Finally Phase 3 will see the line extended to as near the Barnstaple terminus as possible with some hoping for a link into the Barnstaple BR station.

The F&WHR's L&BR replica Lyd is going to the L&BR's Autumn Gala on 29-30/9/18.

Bank Holiday Footplate duties

Lilla and Hugh Napier operated the Footplate Experience at Porthmadog Harbour station over the Sunday/Monday of the Bank Holiday weekend.

No.134 update 21-22/4/18

The April working party had some nice warm sunny weather on the Saturday which was far better than any of the previous working party weekends of the year so far. Volunteers are still concentrating on some of the smaller 'loose ends' jobs. They continued with the painting of the various axle box covers for the pony trucks as well as a number of the components for the Krauss Helmholtz pivot assembly that were primed last time. The team also dug out a number of the castings acquired from South Africa a few years ago, such as the brake ejector, to start loosening the various fittings to make it easier when the time came for their full overhaul.

On the Sunday, as well as another coat of undercoat on the various components mentioned above volunteers also straightened and salvaged what they could of the old oil pot covers for the pony truck axle boxes. All these were very battered and most were unserviceable with only three contenders worth considering. The team will probably be able to repair two of these and so will replace the other six.

Volunteers then concentrated their efforts on the castings for the cab and tender spectacle plates. One volunteer had recently returned from a spell in South Africa where he spent some time with friends at the Apple Express in Port Elizabeth working on NG15 No.124. Whilst there he gained some fresh understanding of the loco's spectacle plates to give him confidence to start work on the various brass castings he had made for our cab and tender windows. 

The team therefore set to and started to machine and polish the various components. This involved cleaning and initial polishing of the spectacle plate frame casting and turning the pivots down to size. Volunteers simply turned down until the various casting marks had been removed then went to the nearest mm below that. Holes were then drilled in the casting to take the pin as well as those need to mount the casting to the cab plates. The job was not quite finished so will continue in June's working party, which occurs on the Beer Festival weekend.

Slowly but surely it is all heading in the right direction so onto next month. See No.134 webpage for full details and images.

Rhyd Ddu snippets 26-27/4/18

John Sharp reports: On 26/4/18, the service locomotives on the afternoon trains were changed over at Rhyd Ddu to allow No.87 some time at Boston Lodge. No.138 took our train on to Caernarfon. No.87 had a difficult climb from Beddgelert, apparently due to a lack of steam, in turn caused by inexperienced firing, but we got there. On Friday, 27/4/18, we were just packing up to leave when the track machine passed by. It appeared to cover all of the track in the station before heading south.

This northerly view (27/4/18) shows No.87 shunting off the train at Rhyd Ddu after difficulties hauling the train up the 1 in 40 from Beddgelert. The loco subsequently hauled the southbound service to Porthmadog and is understood to have received attention at Boston Lodge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Sharp and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (28/4/18) shows the KMX tamper-liner working through all the tracks at Rhyd Ddu. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright John Sharp and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

KS4415 update 19/4/18

The KS4415 team have tested the vacuum pump made from a recycled motorbike engine. After some final tinkering with the pump, it was ready for a test to see if it works. To get ready for the test volunteers had to reassemble the engine and set the timing. They also made a cover for the magneto drive, because there is no magneto. A length of flexible vacuum hose was sourced, and a collection of pipe fittings was used to get it down to a size suitable for the inlet on the engine. To actually turn the engine over a drive bar was made and set between centres in a lathe. For the test, two vacuum braked brake vans were attached, and the pump was spun at various speeds up to 1000rpm, at which point 21 inches of vacuum was indicated on the gauge in Van No.6. See KS4415 Facebook page for images and video of the test.

Bontnewydd Bypass update 30/4/18

Richard Watson reports: BBC news is reporting yet more delays to the Caernarfon/Bontnewydd Bypass - and the locals are protesting (the bypass will have a bridge over the WHR just north of Bontnewydd Halt and will not link into the A4085 Beddgelert Road-Ed.)

Moelwyn news 28/4/18

Moelwyn, a loco that has reputedly been used on the historic WHR, hauled some Landmark Trust shuttles to Coed-y-bleiddiau, topped and tailed by Blanche, on the afternoon of 28/4/18 following the cottage's restoration and recent availability as a holiday cottage. See Landmark Trust website.

This easterly view (28/4/18) shows Moelwyn on one of the shuttles at Coed-y-bleiddiau. 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.

No.130 news 26-28/4/18

On 26/4/18 Images were published of the steel sheet profiles at Boston Lodge (that had been there a couple of weeks). These are awaiting welding before being taken to Dinas to fit to the loco.

By 28/4/18 three of the four crossheads were finished and ready to assemble to the power units. The fourth was being worked the previous week and the bronze slipper plate was about to be fitted. The slide bars are already fitted, so much of the motion is now complete, if not yet assembled.

See No.130 Facebook page for images.

SuperPower latest 26/4/18

SuperPower this year will celebrate 21 years since the rebirth of the WHR on 11/10/97. The three day event takes place 14-16/9/18. The will be an intensive service at the north end of the line, a model engineering exhibition at Dinas, Double Fairlies, Garratts and visiting locos. Many supporters hope that the WHHR's Russell and the new L&BR Baldwin loco Lyn will be invited.

New Porthmadog webcam in action 25/4/18

After concerns about the low resolution of the Porthmadog webcam a new one has been installed in a slightly different position giving views over the WHR platform and the FR platform and sidings. See F&WHR webcams.

Extra train for Caernarfon Food Festival 12/5/17

Now in its third year, the F&WHR is organising an extra service at 0930 from Porthmadog and 1730 return from Caernarfon to allow visitors to spend more time at the Caernarfon Food Festival on 12/5/17. See special Blue timetable.

Gelert returns to the WHHR 15/4/18

This Gelert's Farm view (15/4/18) shows the WHHR's Gelert on its return to the railway. The loco will be used alongside Russell over the Summer season. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Michael Chapman (WHHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

KS 4415 update 11/4/18

This week at Boston Lodge volunteers been finishing the mounting plate for the vacuum pump that was started a few weeks ago. This involved machining the T slots and checking the fit of the custom made bolts. The other job that has been tackled is making the brackets for holding the vacuum pump. These parts were laser cut and welded together to make a bracket for each side of the vacuum pump engine. Once the brackets were made and fitted we offered the whole arrangement up to the mounting plate. Lastly, we have reassembled the engine with its new valves and it is now ready for testing. See KS44015 Facebook page for images.

No.130 12-24/4/18

By 12/4/18 the boiler looked complete but STILL awaits the green light from British Engineering to approve the welding procedure.

By 22/4/18 all of the complicated components for the smokebox have been finished and looked good. The main steam pipe has been trial fitted and there is not that much to complete now bar the welding.

For full details and images see No.130 Facebook page.

BF&TR News 20/4/18

The BF&TR Society issued a press release on 20/4/18 concerning their attempts to restart the project following the collapse of the project late last year when NR withdrew the licence. A newsletter has appeared an AGM will be held soon. It seems the society aims to lead the project in future and the former company under Colin Dale who is ill, will be sidelined. See Newsletter which details the trials and tribulations of the project and the way forwards. A second newsletter in a few weeks time will call an AGM and elect a Committee to restart the project and negotiations with NR and other stakeholders.

Caernarfon Station progress 20/4/18

This northerly view (20/4/18) shows progress with a test facia panel on the frontage of Caernarfon station. The aluminium alloy panels resemble stainless steel and have been approved by Cadw, the Welsh Heritage agency. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Stuart McNair (F&WHR) and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (20/4/18) shows the view from the De Winton cafe on the first floor of the new Caernarfon station building. The large circular area out the station is the 'shared space' road/pedestrian area thought to be dangerous by many as it gives no clue as to right of way and leaves everyone guessing. 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.

Earl fundraiser success 20/4/18

Some £3,200 was raised for Wales Air Ambulance from money collected in table envelopes on the day and the auction of the headboard for £1,800.

Castell Caernarfon repair started 20/4/18

Castell Caernarfon has been out of action for more than a year. The gearbox was returned over six months ago but it was not possible to start the repair due to pressure of work at Dinas. The WHR has been without a rescue loco for over a year and has relied upon the FR's Funkey. While new diesel No.9 has come on stream for PW work, the WHR is still in need of a heavy duty diesel at Dinas.

Martin Kressman advises: Castell Caernarfon has been taken into the works at Dinas for the repaired gearbox to be fitted. At the same time the locomotive is to be completely rewired.

The Snowdonian YouTube 19/4/18

Click on the YouTube link to watch 19 mins 54 seconds of video covering The Snowdonian on the FR and WHR including aerial views. This YouTube was published on 19/4/18. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional betamax camcorder and is best watched in 1080p HD in Google Chrome browser or View on YouTube.

Moving Pictures No.17 17/4/18

The latest Moving Pictures includes scenes of the last day of Earl of Merioneth and ex-WHR Construction Co. loco Dolgarrog shunting skips at Glan-y-pwll depot, though no coverage of the WHR.

Click on the YouTube link to watch 22 mins 3 seconds of video covering The Snowdonian on the FR and WHR including aerial views. This YouTube was published on 17/4/18. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional betamax camcorder and is best watched in 1080p HD in Google Chrome browser or View on YouTube.

The Snowdonian 14/4/18

Few images have come to hand of the Garratts in action on The Snowdonian. More would be welcome for publication.

This view (14/4/18) shows No.87 hauling The Snowdonian through the Aberglaslyn Pass. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (14/4/18) shows No.87 hauling The Snowdonian passing Caeau Gwynion approaching Castell Cidwm. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Boston Lodge views 14/4/18

This Boston Lodge view (14/4/18) shows the steelwork cut and shaped for the new cab for No.130. This will eventually be taken to Dinas for fitting to the loco. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This Boston Lodge view (14/4/18) shows FR coach No.120 nearing completion at Boston Lodge. It is hoped this coach will be in traffic this summer. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (13/4/18) shows Caernarfon station with cladding in progress as seen from the Segontium Terrace footbridge. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (13/4/18) shows Caernarfon station with cladding in progress as seen from St. Helens Road. The glass facia does not seem to have started. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (13/4/18) shows Caernarfon station with cladding in progress as seen from St. Helens Road. The glass facia does not seem to have started. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (13/4/18) shows Caernarfon station with cladding in progress as seen from St. Helens Road. The glass facia does not seem to have started. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This easterly view (13/4/18) shows Caernarfon station main entrance as seen from St. Helens Road. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (13/4/18) shows Caernarfon station with cladding in progress as seen from St. Helens Road. The glass facia does not seem to have started though the cherry-picker is in place. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (13/4/18) shows Caernarfon station with cladding in progress as seen from the Segontium Terrace footbridge. Both north and south ends of the station building have wing wall extensions. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is copyright Mark Bishop and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

No.138 13/4/18

This northerly view (13/4/18) shows No.138 heading south over Pont Croesor with the water wagon on a very murky day. This loco and water wagon was diagrammed to feature on the WHR leg of The Snowdonian. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy Ben Bucki and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This southerly view (13/4/18) shows No.138 heading south over Pont Croesor with the water wagon DZT2003 on a very murky day. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy Ben Bucki and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This northerly view (8/4/18) shows No.143 heading south over Pont Croesor with a service train. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy Ben Bucki and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

Last trip for Earl of Merioneth 8/4/18

The headboard from the final trip of Earl of Merioneth on 8/4/18 is being auctioned off on eBay and the profits are being donated to the Wales Air Ambulance Charity. The train carried a paper destination sticker in carriages 'The Fairlie Terminal'. On Sunday evening a staff special was run before the loco was finally withdrawn at midnight.

This easterly view (8/4/18) shows Earl of Merioneth returning from Blaenau Ffestiniog on its final working. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (8/4/18) shows Earl of Merioneth's special 'Farewell' headboard. This loco's square appearance did not appeal to all but the loco had its own following. It will be replaced by new loco James Spooner with a more traditional Double Fairlie outline but dry stored against possible re-activation in the future. The headboard is being auctioned off on eBay. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

This view (8/4/18) shows Earl of Merioneth's bring disposed at the end of the day. The loco's smokebox is covered with chalked 'Farewell messages' in a similar fashion to those which were chalked on BR locos in the final days of steam. Click on the image to enlarge and click again to see full size (where available). This image is courtesy F&WHR and was taken on a digital camera. Image post processed and displayed at 96dpi.

The Snowdonian 14/4/18

This year's The Snowdonian special working features the usual 80 mile round trip of the F&WHR using FR stock and an optional visit to Boston Lodge at 1645 on Friday 13/4/18. Linda and Blanche will be used on the FR and double headed Garratts on the WHR. After a light breakfast on the train, lunch will be taken at Snowdonia Parc brewpub followed by afternoon tea on the train.

The use of two Garratts begs the question as to what will haul the 1000 from Caernarfon and the 1050 service trains from Porthmadog that day.

Fares are £180 Third Class and £400 First Class (very limited). See F&WHR booking page.

BF&TR latest

An announcement is due after 14/4/18 about the future of this project which is currently paused as NR withdrew the access licence after concerns about governance of the project.

Final weekend for Earl of Merioneth 7/4/18

This weekend is the final weekend for Earl of Merioneth in passenger service. The loco will be withdrawn after its final run on the 1335 from Porthmadog on Sunday 8/4/18.

Moving Pictures No.16 6/4/18

Click on the YouTube link to watch 20 mins 4 seconds of video covering the rebuilding of Caernarfon platforms, diesel No.9, Earl of Merioneth of the FR, first trains of the new season and aerial views. This YouTube was published on 6/4/18. This video was taken by John Wooden (F&WHR) on a professional betamax camcorder and is best watched in 1080p HD in Google Chrome browser or view on YouTube.

No.130 update 2-6/4/18

By 6/4/18 No.130's second hand turbo generator has at last made it from South Africa to Avening and will next week make the final part of the journey to Dinas. It will not be functional (although it could be) as the loco will be using battery powered LED lights. The NGG 16's look more 'complete' with the turbo fitted.

For full details and images see No.130 Facebook page.

Welsh Pony update 1/4/18

Very little progress has been made on Welsh Pony since the last update on 15/11/17 due to the winter maintenance of the F&WHR's core loco fleet. It is hoped that work will resume soon. Welsh Pony will steam and the F&WHR intend to do the best possible job on it which unfortunately takes time.

Events 2018