Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway : News

The track relaying gang are delighted with the progress made during the last fortnight which has seen the renewal of two heavily used occupation crossings near Sylfaen station, along with the associated drainage and trackwork.

Both crossings at Sylfaen looking towards Welshpool at the end of the 2009 season. 20 October 2009.

Rails and wooden shuttering are in place in readiness for the concrete. The upper crossing received similar treatment during the previous week. 23 February 2010.

The completed crossing includes steel fibers in the concrete for strength to enable it to withstand modern farm machinery and Powis Estate timber traffic vehicles. Evidence of the extensive new drainage to deal with water coming off the adjacent A458 road can be seen on the left hand side of the picture (black pipe below the left most traffic cone). 24 February 2010.

The final stretch. Only a short distance now remains before reconnection to the Llanfair end of the railway at Sylfaen station, although ballasting, tamping, fencing renewal and tidying will keep the track gang in the open air for weeks to come.

Meanwhile workshop staff were not to be outdone and by the end of the traditional February workshop week significant progress had been made on the reassembly of Joan in addition to the more routine maintenance tasks on locomotives 1, 2 and 19.

'Joan' is temporarily rolled out into the daylight to evaluate the week's assembly work. 21 February 2010.

Release date 15^th February 2010

Joan back on the rails

The rebuilding of Joan has made significant progress today when her frame was lowered on to her wheels to make a rolling chassis in readiness for the new boiler which is due around April. Reassembly work will continue over the coming weeks in addition to other winter maintenance tasks on 'The Earl', 'Countess' and No.19.

Release date 11^th February 2010

Member No.13 – John Hurdley

As his 70^th birthday approaches, long serving member John Hurdley announced his retirement from active work on the W&L. After attending the formulative meeting of preservationists in Birmingham, John became member No.13 (he believes 1-12 were reserved for the original Board members) and has remained a loyal supporter of the W&L since those early years.

Home at the W&L was his campervan that made regular trips from his home in Harborne, Birmingham. Known for his dry humour, quick wit and occasional acerbic comment, John announced his retirement in typical fashion:

“My campervan is clapped out and so am I – but I shall be back to check that you are doing it right!”

John worked as a Guard, Booking Clerk, Blockman and Controller during the running season and was part of the track gang involved with major renewals during the winter months. On Friday 5^th February, his final day, he worked on the half-mile track refurbishment on Sylfaen Bank. To mark the occasion, a cake was produced and John was put in charge so that the gang could benefit from his wisdom one last time!

Terry Turner, GM commented: “I understand an early assessment suggested he should not be let loose on the public! We wish him well and are most grateful for his loyalty, commitment and effort. We face the continual challenge of finding younger replacements if the W&L is to continue to improve and prosper.”

At the moment of John's retirement the relay was within site of Sylfaen station. Two occupation crossings block the straight forward entry into the station, along with a substantial amount of drainage work.

Mid-Wales might have been under several inches of snow in the past couple of weeks, but this hasn’t stopped Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway staff and volunteers from pushing on with a major track renewal programme.

The narrow gauge line is currently renewing half a mile of track on Sylfaen Bank, around two miles west of Welshpool. Before Christmas the old track, some of which dated from the 1960s, was dismantled and removed, and despite the arrival of seriously wintry conditions the gang returned to the work site in early January.

Despite further snowfalls, work continues on Sylfaen Bank, a notorious area that has seen three separate road vehicle incursions on to the track from the adjacent A458 road in the past year. Railway management are pressing for the erection of crash barriers along this stretch of the A458.

Welshpool & Llanfair General Manager, Terry Turner, said: “We are acutely aware of the tight deadline before we open to passengers at Easter, and have even resorted to the use of a flame-thrower to remove snow and heat rails so that they may be curved without risk of breakage in the sub-zero conditions.”

He added; “Considerable culvert and drainage work always precedes track laying and afterwards there is a small matter of spreading and consolidating over 1,000 tonnes of ballast before the Easter opening. Investments such as our Romanian ballast wagons, South African tamping machine and other forms of mechanisation allow projects like this to be completed by a small staff assisted by an equally small number of regular volunteers.”

Meanwhile in the workshop at Llanfair Caereinion, work continues on the annual maintenance of the W&LLR’s operational fleet of steam locomotives, as well as the restoration of 0-6-2 tank ‘Joan’, which formerly worked in the distinctly warmer climes of Antigua. Some volunteers are battling from as far a field as Bedfordshire and Surrey to spend weekends in the workshop.

The railway would of course welcome more volunteer help, which whatever the weather usually provides plenty of fun for all concerned, as well as the warm feeling of a job well done – anyone interested can contact the W&LLR on 01938 810441.

Steampipes - 10 December 2009

Steampipes is a unique show featuring railway films, cartoons and comedy with organ accompaniment. Now in its 32nd year, Steampipes is not only a fund-raiser for the Ffestiniog, Talyllyn and Welshpool and Llanfair Railways but also an important social milestone in the railway calendar as enthusiasts and supporters of all three railways gather for this popular annual show.

This year’s event is on Thursday 10 December at 7pm at Friends House, 173 Euston Road, London – opposite Euston Station. The programme will feature film of big steam American railroading, the Metropolitan Railway and Brill branch in 1928, London trams in the 1930’s, Talyllyn and Welsh Highland Railways in the pre-preservation era, Class A1 locomotive construction at Doncaster, LNWR locomotives at work in the 1950’s and careers in transport in 1953. There is a supporting programme that includes organ solos, a cartoon and silent comedy.

Rob Foxon will present the Show and Len Rawle will be at the organ to accompany the silent films. All seats cost £9 (£4.50 under 16) from R.Patenall, 10 Greta House, 60 Hardy Road, Blackheath, London, SE3 7PA. (Cheques to be made payable to the Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society; please enclose sae with your booking).

Kenneth Charles Fenton MBE – 1926-2009

ALL involved with the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway are mourning the loss of one of the line’s greatest servants. Ken Fenton, whose service to the W&LLR included over 35 years as Company Chairman through some of the most challenging times for the line, passed away peacefully on Friday 23^rd October after a brave battle with cancer.

Born in December 1926 in Filton, Gloucestershire, Ken’s education was interrupted in 1946 by military service. He spent three years in the Corps of Royal Engineers, achieving the rank of Commissioned 2^nd Lieutenant. Returning to University he went on to gain a first class honours degree in engineering before embarking on a very successful engineering career. Initially working on stresses in aircraft engines at the Bristol Aeroplane Co and then the Post Office Engineering Dept developing machinery for mechanised mail handling and sorting, Ken then joined the Midland Iron Co in 1961, serving as the company’s Managing Director between 1971 and 1992.

But it was Ken’s long involvement in the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway that brought him into contact with so many people, all of whom he impressed with his combination of enthusiasm and practical stewardship, particularly through many of the difficult times that the line faced following its preservation. Ken joined the preservation company in 1963, the same year that the first volunteer passenger train service began. Within five years he had been elected a Trustee, and in 1970 became Company Chairman, a post he held for a remarkable 35 years.

As well as his official role Ken was very much a hands-on volunteer, taking on any task from firing the locomotives to assisting with the accounts and running the railway booking offices – just a week before his death he was on duty as Station Master at Llanfair Caereinion. His work for and dedication to the railway was recognised in 2003 when he was awarded the MBE for services to tourism in Wales.

Describing Ken as “one of life’s real gentlemen,” W&LLR Chairman Alan Higgins led the many tributes, saying; “In a career spanning some 46 years with the W&LLR, Ken Fenton presided over the company from the difficult financial times of the early days of preservation, through the centenary of the line’s building in 2002, when he hosted a royal visit from the Prince of Wales.

“Ken could silence a board of trustees with a glance but always had time for a chat with volunteers, members and customers alike. His expertise, dedication and commitment were legendary and his MBE in 2004 was never more deserved.”

Alan added; “Not only does the railway mourn the passing of a former Chairman, who was so instrumental in firmly establishing the W&LLR on the long road to success with many innovative ideas and solutions, the membership are all mourning the loss of a unique person and a special friend.”

W&LLR General Manager Terry Turner said; “Ken was Chairman of the W&LLR for over 35 years and the results of his leadership and financial acumen are all around us. He was a gentleman and a great friend to all who had the privilege of knowing him.”

Chris Walker worked alongside Ken for more than 20 years as Company Secretary and then Vice-Chairman, during the challenging early years of the line. He said; “After the early inaugural work of Stanley Keyse and Sir Thomas Salt, Ken became the most significant influence by far on the course of this railway where his canny combination of financial prudence, careful pragmatism and subtle personal skills steered us from a very marginal and fragile organisation to one of the most substantial and cohesive narrow gauge lines over 40 years.”

Ken’s wife Mercia, to whom he was married for 47 years, died in 2007. He leaves daughter Caroline, son John and grandchildren Tobias, Robert and Rosemary, to whom all at the Welshpool & Llanfair offer heartfelt condolences.

Further co-operation between two of the ‘Great Little Trains of Wales’, has seen the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway award a contract for the building of a further replica ‘Pickering’ carriage to the Ffestiniog Railway.

W&L GM, Terry Turner: “Being aware of the superb standard of workmanship from Boston Lodge on previous W&L carriages, we are absolutely delighted to award this contract to the FR and look forward to further co-operation with them.”

Brake/Composite No. 6338 will be delivered next year and join identical Brake/Composite No.6466 and ‘All Third Saloon’ No.4154 to complete the replication of the three original carriages built by R.Y.Pickering in 1902 and scrapped by the GWR in 1936.

FR GM, Paul Lewin: “We are delighted with the opportunity to complete the Welshpool & Llanfair set of carriages. We had always hoped to be able to do this since agreeing the contract for the first replica carriage back in 2003. To see all three carriages hauled by an original W&L locomotive will be a dream come true for both W&L members and the carriage works team at Boston Lodge. The contract helps to secure jobs in North Wales during difficult economic times and retain traditional skills.”

THE Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway (W&LLR) staged a highly successful annual Steam Gala over the weekend, with thousands of railway enthusiasts descending on the mid-Wales narrow gauge line for three days of action and entertainment.

Young Train Crew at the 2009 Gala. Photo Andrew Charman

The crew of the youngest train before setting off from Llanfair - guard James Charman, firemen Harry Billmore and Dan Abbott (on the loco) and drivers John Travis and Richard Newby

Photo: Andrew Charman

All ages were very much in evidence at the event, which on Sunday climaxed with the running of a double-headed train entirely crewed by the youngest qualified volunteers in their respective departments. Drivers John Travis, 25, and 29-year-old Richard Newby (who flew back from New Zealand specially for the event), were joined by firemen Dan Abbott, 23, and Harry Billmore (20), while the guard was 18-year-old James Charman, who only qualified last month and was working on his first gala event.

This year’s Gala was extended to three days for the first time, and the experiment was justified by a very busy Friday with several trains running full. Enthusiasts came from far and wide to see the many attractions that included a complete African Train – both the locomotive and rolling stock having been repatriated from Sierra Leone and restored to original condition. Other highlights included mixed trains, goods trains, the chance to see inside the railway’s workshops and on Saturday a very popular night photography session.

Speaking after the event W&LLR General Manager Terry Turner said he was very pleased with the success of the Gala, and particularly the running of the ‘youngest train’. “Our ability to run a train such as this demonstrates how the railway is attracting young volunteers helping to ensure its future – more are always welcome,” he added.

While the Gala is over for another year the railway’s season continues, with trains running every day except Monday and Friday until 20 September and then weekends until the end of October. Full details, including the timetable, can be found on the railway’s website at www.wllr.org.uk

Young people make big difference at Mid-Wales steam line

AS the volunteer staff at the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway (W&LLR) prepare for their Annual Steam Gala this coming weekend (4-6 September) much useful help has come in recent weeks from young people.

During the summer months the W&LLR has hosted several parties of students taking part in the Duke of Edinburgh’s Award scheme. Staying for a week at a time in the railway’s volunteer accommodation at Llanfair Caereinion, the youngsters have been involved in all aspects of the line’s operation.

Photo: Andrew Charman

Under the expert supervision of W&LLR operational staff, the students have carried out tasks ranging from parks and gardens work at the stations and duties in the shops to locomotive and carriage maintenance. Some even managed to get up at the crack of dawn to assist in lighting-up of the steam locomotives.

According to Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway Press Officer Andrew Charman the “Does”, as the youngsters are affectionately known by the line’s staff, have been a great help, especially in the weeks leading up to the gala event when everyone makes an extra effort to ensure that the railway looks at its best.

“The Does have proven enthusiastic and hard-working, and the complete opposite to the all-too familiar headlines you read about young people in newspapers these days,” Andrew said. “For them the steam locomotive is a mystery, something from long before they were born, yet some of our students have been really taken by the W&LLR and are keen to return and carry out further volunteer work on the line.”

Young people will again be making the headlines on Gala Sunday, when the railway runs a double-headed steam train entirely crewed by its youngest qualified volunteers, including a guard aged just 18 years.

This year’s Gala has been extended to three days, opening on Friday 4^thSeptember, and will feature the line’s most extensive timetable, with all available steam locomotives working trains. There will be double-headed, mixed and goods trains, and plenty of extra attractions at the stations including vintage vehicles, sales stands and a chance to see inside the railway’s workshops.

Saturday night will see the traditional night photography session at Llanfair, with a real ale bar operating throughout the weekend. Meanwhile on Saturday and Sunday a garden railway model show will be held at Llanfair Caereinion Leisure Centre, just up the hill from the W&LLR’s Llanfair station.

Former Sierra Leone Railway No.85 has received a surprise livery change to Matt Black (representing her appearance in Africa) in time for Gala operations in September. The remarkable transformation from its previous lined-out midnight blue scheme to plain black was effected in just three days – its previous appearance can be seen in the news item for 18^th July. Photographs by Bruce Webber below show her 'fresh' from the paint shop.

The two recently refurbished ex Sierra Leone Railway carriages Nos. 1066 and 1207 were re-united with locomotive No.85 for a test train to Welshpool and return on Friday 17th July. The train is scheduled to make a couple of journeys during the Steam Gala (4th to 6th September). Details of times and booking details for the First Class carriage are available on our gala page. The locomotive is nearing the end of her 10 year boiler certificate so the opportunity to see the re-united train should not be missed.

The test train assembled at Welshpool Raven Square station. Photo: Tony Beardsell

The locomotive and carriages originally arrived on the railway in 1975 and were gradually restored over the next few years. After many years of service the carriages were withdrawn a few years ago and the opportunity has been taken to recreate an example of a first class and a third class carriage in keeping with the original drawings.

Unloading SLR Carriage in 1975. Photo Bruce Webber

Unloading one of the carriages at Castle Caereinion station when the W&L first acquired them on 8th August 1975.

Photo: Bruce Webber

Unloading No.85 in 1975. Photo: Bruce Webber

Unloading No.85 at Llanfair Caereinion on 7th August 1975.

Photo: Bruce Webber

Train at Raven Square.

The locomotive and carriages in use at Raven Square station shortly after services had been restored to that station in 1981.

Photo: W&L Archive Collection

A visit by the Pre-War Austin Seven Club will give some visitors to the railway this weekend (27 & 28 June) an added treat. It is anticipated that over 30 cars, made up largely of Austin Sevens, will gather at Llanfair Caereinion during the early afternoon before their owners and guests depart on a special private train at 2.30pm for a trip to Welshpool and back. The cars will also assemble at Welshpool Raven Square station on Sunday morning for about an hour and a half from 10.00am before moving on to Powis Castle.

In addition to the ordinary steam trains operating this weekend there will also be an 11.30 departure from Llanfair Caereinion with the Replica Pickering carriages and one of the original locomotives. Further details are available on the timetable page of this site.

Comings…………

On Sunday 29^th March, ex-SLR ‘First Class’ carriage No.1207 returned to the W&L after refurbishment in Romania. The original insect-infested leather armchairs were removed by the W&L upon arrival from Sierra Leone in the 1970s and replaced with bus seats. In seeking to restore ‘as built’ condition as far as possible, SLR 1207 has been fitted with ‘ivory’ internal panelling and 16 new leather armchairs in the ‘Dawn Mist’ shade specified on the original Gloucester C&W drawings.

W&L GM, Terry Turner: “For the first time ever, we can offer the sight and ambience of an original Sierra Leone Railway train by pairing 1207 and previously restored ‘third class’ 1066 with motive power provided by ex-SLR Hunslet loco No.85”.

The final part of the SLR trilogy, No.1048 (third class) is surplus to requirements at the W&L and has been out of service for some time. The carriage has left the W&L for modification and refurbishment and will eventually reappear as a buffet car on the South Tynedale Railway in Cumbria!

W&L GM, Terry Turner: “We were delighted to assist our friends at South Tynedale Railway in their quest for a new carriage and we have the added bonus of finding a new use for a historic vehicle”.

STRPS Spokesman, Brian Craven: “The South Tynedale Railway has been working to improve passenger facilities for some time, especially as we work to extend our running line a further 2.5 miles to Lintley and Slaggyford, Northumberland. The Society is excited to be receiving SLR 1048 from the Welshpool & Llanfair Railway and to be involved in conserving such an important heritage vehicle for contemporary use. We cannot speak too highly of the support, guidance and encouragement we have received.”

A colourful scene. Taiwanese Sugar Corporation diesel No.175 hauls ‘Laurel Green’ SLR 1207 whilst 1048 prepares to leave Welshpool by road.

An international scene at Welshpool. SLR 1207 partially obscured by South African ‘Plasserail’ tamping machine (UGM No.9), ‘The Wasp’ ex MOD personnel carrier, Austrian (ex-Zillertalbahn No.W303) transporter wagon and two Romanian ballast hopper wagons! Photo. Bruce Webber

A one way journey. TSC 175 pushes 1048 up the loading ramp for its final journey from Welshpool. Photo Bruce Webber

Opportunities to see and work on the W&L in snowy conditions are quite rare, so the recent poor weather has not dampened the enthusiasm of the W&L track gang who are currently working at the 'Reverse Curves' on the Golfa Bank.

The following photographs provide a snapshot of the outdoor work on the railway during the 'closed' period of the season.

Drainage has been improved throughout the site, the wet January providing the perfect opportunity to find any potential problem areas. During the first week in February the final new pipes were laid, the remaining section of track bed was leveled, and the sleepers and rails were roughly laid in position with mechanical aid.

'The Wasp' has been providing transport to site much to the relief of the gang who otherwise would have to walk up to a kilometer at the start and end of the day carrying essential supplies. This is no laughing matter when you need enough water on site for hot drinks and soup for a dozen people.

Much of the lower half of this year's relay uses a check rail (used on tight curves). Setting up for drilling holes for bolts to secure the check rail to the running rail takes time and patience, not helped by the need to remove the snow first. The relay is using 50lb rail from two sources - new rail from China and second hand rail from Trecwn in South Wales. Most of the sleepers are being re-used on the site as they are made of concrete, although some new hardwood sleepers have also been obtained.

The snow masks the fact that although this section through Quarry cutting is now re-laid, it still requires extra stone ballast and tamping before the railway re-opens to passengers in April.

Famed narrow gauge railways in Wales and Austria gained yet another connection this month.

The Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway has taken delivery of a rollwagen transporter wagon, the vacuum-braked six-axle bogie vehicle, no W303, originally designed to carry standard gauge wagons on the 2ft 6in (760mm) gauge Zillertalbahn in the Austrian Tyrol. A number are still in daily use on the line. Transporter wagons were also used on the 2ft 6in gauge 'Leek and Manifold Valley Light Railway' in Staffordshire, but no examples survived into preservation.

The wagon was found in Romania and refurbished before its journey to Wales. W&LLR volunteers now intend to modify it with a prime role being to carry a hedgecutter to ease the task of flailing back encroaching lineside vegetation. To avoid manual handling of heavy objects such as sleepers, the addition of a hydraulic crane may also feature in future plans.

W&LLR General Manager, Terry Turner commented; “The wagon was spotted on a scrap pile during a visit to Romania and arrangements were made for refurbishment before delivery. With a weight of 7.6 tonnes and a very low centre of gravity, this wagon will be ideal for our hedge flailing operations after suitable modification.”

The most popular passenger carriages on the W&LLR are the open balcony vehicles that were donated by the Zillertalbahn, the first arriving in Wales in 1968. One of the W&LLR locomotives, No. 10 'Sir Drefaldwyn', also formerly worked in Austria.

Meanwhile the W&LLR is busy with its winter work programme. The relaying of half-a-mile of track on the Golfa bank is well underway, with the ex-MOD railcar ‘The Wasp’, purchased in summer, proving a boon for crew transport.

In the workshops at Llanfair, Beyer-Peacock 0-6-0 no 1 ‘The Earl’ has been stripped down in readiness for its 10-year boiler overhaul, while work continues on returning Resita 0-8-0 no 19 to working order after its leading axle failure in August. Progress is also being made on the restoration of Kerr Stuart 0-6-2 no 12 ‘Joan’, with the axle boxes being fitted to the frames in readiness for their re-wheeling.

Llanfair line bucks economic trend

VOLUNTEERS working on the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway have received some good news as the line comes to the end of its regular season this weekend.

At a Members Forum held on 25^th October, it was announced that the budget that had been set for 2008 had been exceeded, despite a season that suffered from poor weather and the economic downturn. W&LLR General Manager, Terry Turner commented: “Encouraged by marketing initiatives throughout the season, visitor numbers have been maintained at 2007 levels. There seems to have been a general downturn of around 10 per cent in Welsh tourism and in such difficult times, this achievement is a credit to all involved.”

Trains run this weekend before the line closes for the winter, though there will be pre-bookable Santa Special trains run over the two weekends leading up to Christmas. Meanwhile the members of the railway will be busy with an extensive winter maintenance programme.

The likelihood of the current economic situation continuing well into 2009 has meant that the railway has had to set its new budget accordingly, but Terry Turner added that there would still be plenty of new items appearing on the line over the coming year. “Significant sums are being committed to ongoing capital improvements,” he said.

Current major works include the rebuilding of the railway’s 0-6-2 tank locomotive ‘Joan’ which was built in 1927 by Kerr Stuart of Stoke-on-Trent for a life hauling sugar beet in Antigua. Acquired by the W&LLR in 1971, ‘Joan’ has not steamed since the early 1990s. Currently a new boiler is under construction for the loco at the Bradford works of specialist builder Israel Newton & Sons. One of the W&LLR’s original locomotives dating from 1902, No.1 ‘The Earl’, will also receive a 10-yearly overhaul over the winter and will return to service in early 2009.

The line will soon welcome back the second of its carriages formerly owned by the Sierra Leone Railway. Carriage 1207 has been restored in Romania to First Class status, complete with 16 leather armchairs, to compliment Third Class 1066 which was returned to Llanfair earlier this year. It is expected that both vehicles will be reunited with the ex-SLR Hunslet 2-6-2 No.85 in 2009 to form ‘The African Train’ at special events.

This winter will also see the W&LLR continue its major investment in track renewal. A further half-mile of track will be relaid, almost entirely by volunteers, around the tortuous reverse curves on the 1 in 29 Golfa Bank close to Welshpool. Connecting two recent renewals, this refurbishment will complete the entire route between Welshpool and Sylfaen summit – more than half of the eight-mile line having been relaid since 2000.

In another example of international co-operation, rails removed from the W&LLR during the winter will be sent to Romania to assist with the rebuilding of the Viseu de Sus and Moldovita 760mm (2ft-6in) gauge forestry lines. These lines were devastated by flooding last July.

Meanwhile in the opposite direction, a ‘rollwagen’ (a six-axle bogie transporter wagon used for carrying standard gauge wagons on narrow gauge lines), formerly owned by the Austrian Zillertalbahn with which the W&LLR has long connections, will shortly arrive at Llanfair. The line eventually intends to use this vehicle as a flail, for keeping down lineside growth, and a crane wagon.

Railway geared-up for half-term finale

PARENTS looking for ways to entertain the children over half-term this week (25 Oct-2 Nov) could grab virtually their last chance this year for a steam-train ride.

THE Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway will be running trains throughout the whole of half-term week – the last of its regular season.

Both children and grown-ups are assured of a highly enjoyable eight-mile journey through rolling hills with surprisingly steep gradients for the locos to tackle. This provides plenty of work for the crews, passengers enjoying a close-up view of the footplate action from the open balconies of the line’s Austrian and Hungarian carriages.

Anyone visiting over the weekend of 1-2 November may well share their carriage with several of the railway’s volunteers, who will be taking a last ride before knuckling down for the extensive maintenance work over the winter months. Apart from the Santa Special trains just before Christmas, the line’s locomotive fleet will not be called into action again until next Easter.

Photographer’s friends join him on last ride

ON Saturday (19 October) a small ceremony at the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway marked the last journey of one of the line’s earliest volunteers.

Chris Gammell, who died earlier this year, was originally a railway man, and later became a noted photographer of steam railways. But he was also one of the dedicated band of volunteers that in the late 1950s resuscitated the Welshpool & Llanfair after four years of closure, clearing the track of weeds and readying the line for its eventual reopening in 1963.

In particular he was an instigator of a daring move in 1959 to rescue some of the line’s heritage wagons from the former terminus adjacent to Welshpool’s main line station, before the lifting of the W&LLR’s roadside route through the town. Train movements on this section were officially prohibited, but Chris and his colleagues hired a pair of shire horses to haul the wagons along the track to safety at Raven Square, where the line’s Welshpool terminus is located today.

While Chris photographed many preserved railways, his affection for the Welshpool & Llanfair was amply demonstrated by the fact that the line was one of just two preserved railways to benefit from a generous legacy from his estate – the other being the Bluebell Railway in Sussex.

At Llanfair on Saturday for the handover ceremony were members of Chris’s family, including his two brothers, one of whom flew in from Los Angeles for the occasion. They joined members of GLO, a social group of former railway men which Chris helped to found and which still meets today. All traveled in a specially-reserved carriage on the 3.45pm departure to Welshpool, where close to Castle Caereinion station a small but important ceremony took place, Chris’s ashes scattered through the firebox of ‘The Earl’, one of the railway’s original locomotives built in 1902.

W&LLR spokesman Andrew Charman said that the railway was honoured to have been able to fulfil Chris Gammell’s last wishes. He added; “Obviously we are very grateful for the very generous legacy left to us by Chris, but we are equally grateful for the pioneering work so many years ago by Chris and others like him which provided the basis for much of what we have on the line today.”

GLTW welcomes Snowdon Mountain Railway

The ‘Great Little Trains of Wales’ has - quite literally - reached new heights as members welcome ‘Snowdon Mountain Railway’ to the family.

The GLTW is a very special way of seeing some of the best scenery in the British Isles by narrow-gauge rail; and whilst members share the charm of old-time steam trains, polished paintwork and brass, each railway offers something very different to passengers.

The inclusion of ‘Snowdon Mountain Railway’ brings the consortium to ten (see below for full list of members) and adds further prestige to this already world-renowned brand.

…Amongst its members, GLTW boasts the oldest independent railway company in the world, one of Europe’s most exciting railway projects, and some of the most recognisable engines on the planet – including enthusiasts’ favorite, ‘Russell’.

GLTW Secretary, Ray Reid said: “The Great Little Trains of Wales was started in 1970 to encourage visitors to Wales in general and the narrow gauge railways in particular.

“The addition of the Snowdon Mountain Railway, an established major attraction, to the existing nine railways makes the GLTW a more representative body and its Discount Card an even better bargain.”

Based on Victorian engineering, ‘Snowdon Mountain Railway’ has been taking holiday makers up Snowdon, the highest mountain in Wales and England (3560ft), for 112 years.

The railway is the only public ‘rack and pinion’ railway In the United Kingdom, and with work soon to be completed on the £9m Snowdon Summit Visitor Centre (Hafod Eryri), there has never been a better time to see Wales at its best, by train.

A spokesperson for Snowdon Mountain Railway added: “Snowdon Mountain Railway are thrilled to be a part of the Great Little trains of Wales once again. Snowdon Mountain Railway are looking forward to working with such a prestigious brand and all the people associated with GLTW.”

See the best for less: For just £10 buy the ‘Great Little Trains of Wales Discount Card’ which gives you a 20% discount on the price of a return journey on all 10 members railways (including Snowdon Mountain Railway!) - which is valid for one year from the first date of use (Terms & Conditions apply).

Discounts for Great Little Trains of Wales Card holders with selected accommodation providers close to many member railways!

Mike Hart, Director of Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways recently rescued two Baguley-Drewry standard gauge personnel carriers for preservation. Capable of carrying 14 passengers each, the two-axle railcars were built in 1976 for military use at MOD Longtown, Cumbria.

Despite the standard gauge, a width of less than 8’ led to thoughts of conversion to narrow gauge and discussions with Terry Turner, General Manager of the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway led to re-gauging by RMS Locotech and trial running on the W&L.

The trials proved so successful that the W&L sought outright purchase of Railcar No.9150, having received approval from HM Railway Inspectorate as a track personnel carrier and occasional passenger use at special events etc. Terry Turner commented: “The railcar will greatly aid track refurbishment and maintenance, allowing personnel and tools to be quickly and easily conveyed to remote worksites. We are very grateful to Mike for this initiative”

The second railcar, No.9120, awaits restoration to standard or, perhaps, an even narrower gauge? Mike Hart commented: “Having driven the railcar at Welshpool, I can say that it looks at home there. I’m really pleased to have rescued the railcars and delighted to have found “The Wasp” a new home and purpose at the W&L. The second railcar is in storage at the moment and its future has not been determined”

Compiled by Steve Page, a volunteer guard on the railway, the book contains six walks from points along the line, each one supported by maps and colour photographs. All the walks are graded for level of difficulty and an estimate given of how long each will take, while there are also notes on the flora and fauna of the Montgomeryshire countryside traversed by the railway and the walks, compiled with help from the Montgomeryshire Wildlife Trust.

Several railway members contributed to the book, with the graphic design carried out by David Marsh Design, which creates most of the railway’s publications. The maps were drawn by Bruce Webber, a volunteer driver and Trustee of the charitable company that operates the Welshpool & Llanfair line.

The book was officially launched at Llanfair station tearooms on Tuesday 15^th July, with special guest Mick Bates AM. Steve Page said he was very grateful to all those who had contributed to the book. “Prior to publication the walks have been path-tested by a team of volunteers to make sure that the directions are accurate and can be easily understood,” he added.

The book costs just £1.95 and copies are available from the stations at Llanfair Caereinion and Welshpool Raven Square, on some trains and other good local tourist outlets.

One of the railway's original locomotives, No.1 (822) 'The Earl' will be available for the forthcoming vintage weekend on 28th and 29th June. The locomotive was withdrawn last autumn following a suspicion of defects on two of its axles after routine ultrasonic tests.

New axles have been supplied and fitted to the wheelsets by Baguley Engineers Ltd of Burton on Trent, and returned to the W&L for fitting to the locomotive on 12 June. Workshop volunteers, mindful of the approaching vintage weekend, subsequently rallied around to return the locomotive to operational status over the following two weekends.

'The Earl' will now join the railway's other original locomotive 'The Countess' and former Sierra Leone Railway No.85 at the vintage weekend, whilst No.19 will take a break from regular traffic and act as reserve locomotive.

During the weekend No.1 will haul the demonstration freight trains and No.2 will be paired with the Great Western Era mixed train (featuring both replica Pickering Carriages and heritage wagons). A second passenger set featuring some of the railway's former Austrian 4 -wheel carriages will be hauled by No.85.

THE Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway opens its 2008 season on Good Friday following a highly successful winter maintenance period.

This year’s track programme saw major renewals completed a month ahead of schedule, whilst the railway’s annual ‘Workshop Week’ was dubbed the best ever, with a great deal of essential work carried out.

The previous year’s track renewal from Sylfaen summit down to Cwm Lane (Golfa) level crossing was extended by a further half kilometer towards Welshpool using, firstly, Polish S30 (60lb) and then Chinese 50lb rail. The latter fits into W&L concrete sleepers and a bulk purchase has given sufficient for the next two years.

The railway’s General Manager Terry Turner said a number of factors had contributed to the success. “Mechanisation again paid dividends with ballasting completed in two days using the Romanian hopper wagons and all consolidated in five days with the Plasser tamping machine. We had good weather, few hold ups and the regular gang of local volunteers was boosted by extra people when needed,” he said. “We’re very pleased with the way it all went.”

The workshop week from 16-24 February focused on preparing the line’s operating fleet for the start of the running season, and work carried out included fabricating a new chimney for 1902-built Beyer Peacock 0-6-0 No 2 “Countess” and making various modifications to the most recent acquisition, the Romanian ‘Resita’ 0-8-0 tank 764.425, built in 1954. The major change to the locomotive was the fitting of a Lempor exhaust system to improve performance on the steeply-graded line. Work also continued on the restoration of 1927-built Kerr Stuart 0-6-2 ‘Joan’, with the cylinders being refitted to the frames.

W&LLR Press Officer Andrew Charman, who spent his first ever two days in the workshop after moving to the area last year from Surrey, said it had been a very enjoyable experience. “I spent a couple of days making new lubricator internals for the Resita,” he said. “I’m a complete rookie in this environment but everyone was very helpful and I also brought along a friend who spends most of his weekends in the workshops of the Kent & East Sussex Railway, so I had plenty of guidance. After some years working remotely for the railway it was good to finally get my hands dirty!”

Following the week the W&LLR’s Workshop Foreman Keith Bide said he was delighted with what had been achieved. “It was the best workshop week ever, in terms of both turnout and work cleared,” he said. “Virtually everything critical on the initial work list was cleared, with a number of additional jobs tackled.”

Release date 25^th February 2010

Winter Progress

Release date 15^th February 2010

Joan back on the rails

Release date 11^th February 2010

Member No.13 – John Hurdley

Steampipes - 10 December 2009

Kenneth Charles Fenton MBE – 1926-2009

Young people make big difference at Mid-Wales steam line

Comings…………

Llanfair line bucks economic trend

Railway geared-up for half-term finale

Photographer’s friends join him on last ride

GLTW welcomes Snowdon Mountain Railway

Welshpool buys 'The Wasp'

Take the train to take a stroll

Young visitors invade railway

Release date 25th February 2010

Winter Progress

Release date 15th February 2010

Joan back on the rails

Release date 11th February 2010

Member No.13 – John Hurdley

Steampipes - 10 December 2009

Kenneth Charles Fenton MBE – 1926-2009

Young people make big difference at Mid-Wales steam line

Comings…………

Llanfair line bucks economic trend

Railway geared-up for half-term finale

Photographer’s friends join him on last ride

GLTW welcomes Snowdon Mountain Railway

Welshpool buys 'The Wasp'

Take the train to take a stroll

Young visitors invade railway

Release date 25^th February 2010

Release date 15^th February 2010

Release date 11^th February 2010