News
WELSHPOOL & LLANFAIR
LIGHT RAILWAY
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News from the Line
'Winter Maintenance - 25 January 2012 Photos: Kevin Heywood
2012
2011
2010
2009
Release date 21st January 2012 Track Relaying Underway As is customary at this time of year the railway's track gang has spent the first few weeks of the year dismantling the section of railway between Coppice Lane to a point some 430 metres East of that location (in the direction of Sylfaen station). With the track bed clear and graded, the relaying work commenced this week using new 50lb rail to match the rail used during last month's Level Crossing renewal at Coppice Lane and the rail previously used on the section of line between that location and Castle Caereinion station. There is much to do, but it is a significant step towards re-opening at the end of March.
The railway begins to take shape once again. Coppice Lane Level Crossing is situated beyond the parked vehicles - 20 January 2012
25 January 2012
Photos: Kevin Heywood
Ends Release date 20th December 2011 2012 Timetable Changes Looking forward to next season the 2012 Timetable features a few changes following customer comments during the last few years. During the low summer season the railway will be operating an extra three weeks of mid week (Tuesday to Thursday) trains, one extra during May and two in September. People wishing to travel mid week rather than at weekends will now be able to do so from 22 May until the end of September. Our popular GWR replica Pickering Carriages will be playing a larger role next season, with four weekends featuring additional Vintage Trains, and with an additional train added to enable passengers to complete a return journey from both Llanfair Caereinion and Welshpool. The final change allows anybody purchasing a full return journey during non-event days to have unlimited travel throughout the day, particularly useful for those who wish to sample different locomotives and rolling stock. We look forward to welcoming you all to the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway. Download a PDF of the 2012 Timetable Leaflet Ends Release date 20th December 2011 Level Crossing Renewals In the closed period between 30th October and the ‘Santa Train’ season, three level crossings at Cyfronydd, Castle Caereinion & Coppice Lane were dismantled and totally refurbished with new materials. A four-day road closure at each crossing allowed the installation of pre-built track panels constructed in heavy rail section. After ripping out of old materials, the new panels were set up and levelled prior to flooding with C45 concrete with reinforcing strands. With this work successfully concluded, the track gang began dismantling 55 lengths of life expired track beyond Coppice Lane towards Welshpool. This will be replaced by new 50lb rail in 40’ (12m) lengths laid on ‘Pandrol’ baseplates and Brazilian hardwood sleepers. Completion of this work gives a cumulative total of 5.5 miles of track refurbished since the turn of the century.
Cyfronydd Crossing before renewal. November 2011 Photo: Tony Beardsell
To enable each crossing to be refurbished in the short window available during the road closures each panel was constructed at Llanfair and transported to the desired location by rail.. Each panel took about a week to construct and involved pre-bending of the rails (four for each crossing), drilling approximately 32 holes in the rails and bolting everything together to the correct gauge. October 2011 Photo: John Jacobs
The finished panel at Coppice Lane prior to flooding with concrete. December 2011 Photo: Tony Beardsell
Photo: Tony Beardsell
Photo: Tony Beardsell
Cyfronydd Crossing after completion. November 2011 Photo: John Jacobs
Ends
Release date 29th August 2011 Art Exhibition Set to Benefit Railway The work of a group of talented artists goes on show in Welshpool this week, and is set to boost the funds of the Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway. Members of the Machynlleth branch of the Society For All Artists are staging the show in the railway’s exhibition room at Raven Square station in Welshpool, on all days that the railway is operating between 2nd and 18th September. The pictures on show all feature various aspects of life on the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway, and are the result of a day that the group spent on and around the line earlier in the year. A variety of styles are included, including some quirky and unusual pictures. All the paintings on show will be on sale, and the group has announced that a large percentage of the proceeds from the exhibition will be donated to the railway, which is almost entirely operated by volunteers. According to W&LLR spokesman Andrew Charman the pictures are fascinating and show great talent. “I immediately recognized some of our regular volunteers,” he said. “It will be great to host this exhibition, particularly as an extra attraction at our annual Steam Gala on 3rd-5th September, while the donation will be particularly welcome as we start to plan for our winter maintenance programme.” The art exhibition is open every day from 2nd to 18th September except Monday 6th and 13th, and Friday 9th and 16th, when the line will not be open. Full details of the railway’s opening and train times are available by calling 01938 810441 or from the timetable page. of this website.
Ends
Release date 25th July 2011
Loco No.12 'Joan' has entered the testing stage beyond Llanfair station limits. So far so good - Driver Tony Purse takes her on her second outing to Castle Caereinion (The first took place on 22 July)
You couldn't ask for a better evening - a temporary pause at Heniarth to check all is well.
Journey's end for now - Castle Caereinion. The evening was declared a success, but there is still plenty of work ahead to keep the hard working workshop staff occupied before she can enter passenger service. All photos - Bruce Webber. 24 July 2011
A few days later 'Joan' finally steamed back to Welshpool. Photo: Bruce Webber. 28 July 2011
The final test in July and Joan is ready to depart Sylfaen with the two Hungarian carriages. Photo: Mervyn Pritchard. 31 July 2011
Although the paint work is not yet finished, 'Joan' is now seen in all her glory. Photo: Keith Bide. 8 August 2011
Photo: Keith Bide. 8 August 2011
Departing Welshpool Photo: Peter Little 8 August 2011
Test train at Cyfronydd. Photo: Peter Little. 8 August 2011
Ends
Release date 4th July 2011 Joan on the move for first time in two decades Hard-working volunteers and staff at the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway celebrated reaching a major milestone on Sunday (3rd July) when one of the line’s steam locomotives moved under its own power for the first time in 20 years. Loco no 12 ‘Joan’ is an 0-6-2 Kerr Stuart tank which was built in Stoke-on-Trent in 1927, for service on the sugar lines of the Caribbean island of Antigua. It has been under restoration at Llanfair Caereinion for five years, the work including fitting a new boiler. The restoration was paid for by an appeal amongst members and supporters of the railway that raised £135,000. On Sunday a fire was lit in Joan before much of the day was spent carefully checking everything was working correctly, along with weighing the engine using specialist equipment. Finally in the afternoon the regulator was gently eased open, and with a blast on the distinctive and deep-throated whistle Joan moved forward. The rest of the day was spent running around Llanfair yard, watching closely for any signs of problems, but initial results looked highly encouraging. There are still several jobs to do before Joan is complete and ready to haul passenger trains. The team working on the engine hope that if enough volunteer help comes forward in the next few weeks Joan can be made ready for the summer high season before playing a starring role at the line’s annual Steam Gala on 2nd to 4th September. Joan was found in Antigua by W&LLR Trustee Tony Thorndike and repatriated in 1971. The loco was a mainstay of the line’s fleet during the 1980s but firebox issues resulted in it last being steamed in 1991. W&LLR Press Officer and locomotive fireman Andrew Charman was particularly pleased to see Joan on the move on Sunday. “This was the loco I travelled behind when I first visited the railway in the early 1980s,” he said. “To see the engine in steam again is great and I am looking forward to having a go on the footplate.”
'Weighing the locomotive' - one of the many tasks undertaken during the morning whilst pressure was being raised. Photo: Bruce Webber
The safety valve lifts as ‘Joan’ demonstrates her keenness to be underway for the first time in 20 years on Sunday. Photo: James Charman
And another milestone is achieved. After two decades 'Joan' finally moves under her own power again. Photo: Rolf Thomas
Ends Sierra Leone Railway No.85's New Neighbour
Photos: Anthony Coulls The W&L's ex Sierra Leone Railway No.85 has been moved to a new position at NRM 'Shildon' and now sits alongside one of the World's most famous steam locomotives, LNER Class A4 No.4468 'Mallard'. Built in 1938 in Doncaster, 'Mallard' is the holder of the official world speed record for steam locomotives at 126 mph, approximately 8 times faster than the W&L's maximum of 15 mph.
Ends Updated 21st April 2011 Sierra Leone Railway No.85 moves to Shildon SLR loco No. 85 has finally departed Llanfair Caereinion to begin a five-year display at the NRM 'outstation' in Shildon. The locomotive arrived at 'Locomotion' on Monday 18 April and was safely craned on to a standard gauge 'weltrol' bogie wagon during that evening. It is expected that No.85 will be the centrepiece of a display celebrating 50 years of Sierra Leone independence.
'The Earl', a one time resident of the National Railway Museum at York, is on shunting duties for the day as No.85 begins her journey to County Durham. Photo: Andrew Charman
Farewell for now. Loco No.1 'The Earl' gives No.85 a helping hand on to her transport to 'Locomotion'. 13 April 2011 Photo: Andrew Charman
Photo: Richard Pearson
Photo: Richard Pearson
The loco has safely arrived at Shildon and craned on to the standard gauge weltrol wagon before being moved undercover. 18 April 2011 Photo: Richard Pearson
Ends Railway open in time for Easter It has been a long wait this year but finally the Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway is opening its new running season on Saturday (16th April) and looking forward to welcoming visitors and particularly families on their Easter school holidays. Staff and volunteers have been hard at work over the winter to ensure the railway is ready for another hopefully busy season. Several sections of track have been relaid, one of the original engines has had its boiler lifted out and tubes replaced, while the volunteer team of ‘hedgebashers’ have been opening up the views for passengers, particularly on the rollercoaster section of line between the Banwy river bridge and Cyfronydd station. Trains will be running every day until Easter, and over the Saturday to Monday of Easter weekend itself a busy two-train timetable will be worked, with children visiting getting an extra surprise. Accompanied children who ride the line between Good Friday and Easter Monday will be given a free chocolate egg. Full details of services can be obtained on the timetable page. With the season getting underway, the pace will quicken for the hardy staff and many volunteers who run the eight-mile narrow gauge line. A major priority will be the return to steam of the line’s no 12 ‘Joan’, an 0-6-2 Kerr Stuart tank built in 1927 for service on the sugar lines of Antigua. Joan has been at Llanfair since 1971 but was last steamed in 1991. Over the past five years a meticulous restoration has been taking place, including the fitting of a completely new boiler, and the final pipework is now being added ready for a return to service early in the new season. W&LLR General Manager Terry Turner is looking forward to the new season, saying; “The weather has been glorious in the last few days showing just what a beautiful part of Mid-Wales we live in. Hopefully many visitors will come and discover the best way of seeing our scenery, from the carriages of a Welshpool & Llanfair train!” Ends Workshop Update - Photo Feature By the end of February visible progress is testimony to all of the hard work undertaken in the workshop so far this year. In addition to the very regular weekend teams, and an ever increasing mid week presence, this year saw a record breaking 133½ man days during the traditional nine day workshop week (12 to 20 February). The photographs below show some, but not all, of the work that is being undertaken this winter to help ensure trains can operate during 2011.
With her last duty performed during the December Santa specials ,Countess was well on course for her boiler lift and examination. 15 January 2011 Photo: Bruce Webber
Meanwhile 'Chattenden' is having her rear axle replaced. This locomotive is now mobile once more having also received attention to a failed transmission coupling. 15 January 2011 Photo: Bruce Webber
Work underway on a new balcony end for carriage C569. 15 January 2011 Photo: Bruce Webber
She's not in steam, but at least there is a fire in her grate. A few more weeks will pass until Joan reaches working pressure, but testing has begun. 15 January 2011 Photo: Bruce Webber
One month on and the water tanks are being trial fitted. 15 February 2011 Photo: Eileen Niblock
Fixings are being drilled in readiness for final assembly. The water tanks will be removed again to fit the boiler lagging and cladding. 15 February 2011 Photo: Eileen Niblock
In addition to the main steam locomotive projects the remainder of the fleet requires attention and annual boiler tests. 15 February 2011 Photo: Eileen Niblock
'Countess' receiving repairs to her firebox as part of her 10 yearly boiler exam. February 2011 Photo: John Clark
The interior of Countess's boiler before retubing. February 2011 Photo: John Clark
Evidence of Joan's final livery. 26 February 2011 Photo: Bruce Webber
And her water tanks are fitted once again. 27 February 2011 Photo: Bruce Webber
There is still a long way to go, but 'Joan' is recognisable once more. 27 February 2011 Photo: Bruce Webber
A few days after this piece was originally posted Joan's cab was fitted. 6 March 2011 Photo: Bruce Webber Ends Release date 7th December 2010 Workshop Update - Photo Feature
Pipework and cab fittings are well underway on Joan, the workshop's highest profile job this winter. However, in addition to this steam loco, the remainder of the fleet must undergo maintenance after the Santa trains have finished.
Less glamorous tasks are also being undertaken such as wagon restoration and servicing of the diesel locomotives.
And just for a change some of the volunteers take a weekend off to prepare the station and carriages for the Santa season. All photos: Bruce Webber Ends
Release date 7th December 2010 Winter Trackwork Underway Marking a change from single lengthy track renewals of recent years, the W&L's track gang is turning its attention to four shorter jobs this winter. The first close to Sylfaen has already been completed during November, other than tamping and final ballasting. With a short term absence of diesel locomotives (No.7 Chattenden is currently mid overhaul, and Diema locomotive No.17 was undergoing a few minor repairs), steam locomotive No.2 'Countess' deputised for a couple of days on the 25th & 26th November to perform ballasting duties and move recently purchased rails from Welshpool to the second work site near Cyfronydd. No.17 was available again the following week to complete the tasks. The remaining renewals this winter are both in the Llanfair Caereinion to Cyfronydd section of line, which will be made available to the track gang after the Santa Special trains this month.
No.2's short stint on works train duties coincided with the first winter snow in the area. New rails from Poland are being loaded for transportation to the winter's second work site near to Cyfronydd. 26 November 2010 Photo: Tony Beardsell
The opportunity to capture a W&L steam loco in the snow are quite rare. Once again the loco crew has taken pride in the locomotive's appearance despite the lack of customers and earlier than normal start to the day. 26 November 2010 Photo: Graham Hall
By the 3rd December ice is covering much of the River Banwy, but work continues on the railway. Photo: Bruce Webber
Ends
Release date 29th September 2010 Llanfair
loco favourite heads north for display A
steam locomotive regarded as a favourite by many crews on the
Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway is to take a new starring
role with Britain’s National Railway Museum. Hunslet
2-6-2 tank locomotive No.85, No.14 in the W&LLR fleet, was
withdrawn in April following the expiry of its boiler ticket. The
loco now needs a complete overhaul including a new boiler, and with
newly restored No.12 ‘Joan’ due to enter service next season
No.85 is unlikely to return to action for some time. Therefore
rather than have the historic loco stored out of sight in the stock
shed, staff at the W&LLR have negotiated a loan for No.85 to go
on display at the National Railway Museum’s ‘out-station’,
Locomotion – The National Railway Museum in Shildon, County
Durham. The loan period will initially be for five years but can be
extended. The
loco is likely to form the centerpiece of a display highlighting the
twinning of the National Railway Museum and the Sierra Leone Railway
Museum. Built in 1954 in Leeds, No.85 spent its working life on the
Sierra Leone Government Railways in the West African state. It was
repatriated by the W&LLR in 1975, since when it has been one of
the most popular and most regularly-employed locomotives at the
Welshpool & Llanfair, its user-friendly nature making it a
favourite for driver experience courses where members of the public
are introduced to the skill of driving a steam locomotive. In
April No.85 bowed out in style at an African Train Weekend. Guests
at the event included three members of the Sierra Leone High
Commission and Steve Davies, now the head of the National Railway
Museum based in York but the man who as a British Army officer
serving in Sierra Leone was instrumental in setting up the railway
museum in the country. Commenting
on the loan, W&LLR General Manager Terry Turner said that the
railway was delighted to see No.85 going to the museum, adding;
“Until such time as No.85 can be returned to service, it is
important that the locomotive is on public display demonstrating how
Britain exported narrow gauge railways to the world, while also
promoting our railway. And there is no better place for it to be
displayed than at Locomotion." Anthony Coulls – Senior Curator, Rail Vehicle Collections for the NRM and a fellow Sierra Leone Railway Museum activist with Steve Davies, is looking forward to welcoming No.85 for display. He said; “No.85 has been a popular loco on the Welsh narrow gauge scene for over three decades, we hope that display in the NRM will introduce the engine and the Sierra Leone National Railway Museum to a new audience who we hope will wish to visit both the W&LLR and Sierra Leone in due course.” Ends
'Chevallier' Arrives at Llanfair - Photo Feature Manning Wardle 0-6-2T 'Chevallier' (No. 1817 / Built 1915) has arrived for her Gala appearance at the W&L fresh from her overhaul at the Flour Mill.
Both Photos: Andrew Charman Ends Third Replica Pickering Arrival - Photo Feature The Welshpool and Llanfair Light Railway has taken delivery of replica Pickering carriage No.6338 at Llanfair Caereinion this afternoon. This carriage, constructed at the Ffestiniog Railway's Boston Lodge workshops, completes the replica set. Operating with original locomotive No.2 'Countess', and some of the surviving wagons, the carriages form the passenger portion of the Great Western Railway era mixed train. Following acceptance trials the carriage is scheduled to enter service at the Annual Steam Gala on the 3rd, 4th and 5th September.
All photos: Andrew Charman Ends 'Joan' Photo Update Workshop staff are continuing work with 'Joan' as time permits between routine maintenance and locomotive roster duties. The following photographs show some of the recent progress.
Joan's new water tanks recently manufactured by Brunswick Ironworks, Caernarfon. 15 June 2010 Photo: Geoff Gauntlett
The new tanks being shunted into the workshop by No.17. 15 June 2010 Photo: Geoff Gauntlett
New smokebox door, with old fittings. 5 July 2010 Photo: Bruce Webber
Setting Up Joan's Crosshead and Slidebar. Photo: Bruce Webber
The interior of the smokebox is beginning to take shape. 18 July 2010 Photo: Bruce Webber Ends ‘Chevallier’
heads for Llanfair Gala FOR
the first time in over a decade the Welshpool & Llanfair Light
Railway (W&LLR) is to welcome a visiting steam locomotive to its
annual September Steam Gala. The
locomotive, Manning Wardle 0-6-2T ‘Chevallier’,
has several connections with the Mid-Wales line, and indeed has
visited before, in 1991. ‘Chevallier’
was built in 1915 for the Chattenden & Upnor Railway, a line ran
by the Admiralty in Kent. Years later in 1963 the fledgling
preservationists of the W&LLR obtained their first passenger
rolling stock from the Chattenden line, together with diesel
locomotive ‘Chattenden’
which still runs at Llanfair today. In
1950 ‘Chevallier’ was sold on from Chattenden to Bowaters Paper Mills
in Sittingbourne, also in Kent. This system would later form the
basis of the preserved Sittingbourne & Kemsley Light Railway, to
which the W&LLR later sold on the ex-Chattenden rolling stock. By
this time however, ‘Chevallier’
had moved again, to the railway built to run through the wildlife
enclosures at Whipsnade Zoo and Safari Park in Bedfordshire. Here
the loco remained until 2006, when it was purchased from Sir William
(Bill) McAlpine and moved to the Forest of Dean.
In 2009 a heavy general overhaul began at the Flour Mill
workshop, which is scheduled for completion in August 2010. “We
need to make sure it works once we’ve finished,” commented Bill
Parker of the Flour Mill, “and what better place than the
Welshpool & Llanfair? A
little bit of everything, and a lot of beautiful countryside, steep
gradients and passengers, not to mention enthusiastic volunteers”. “We
are delighted to play host to this historic and immaculately
restored locomotive and thank Bill for making it available to us,”
commented W&LLR General Manager, Terry Turner.
“It will haul its share of Gala trains and is bound to be a
star attraction in GWR green with lots of brass and copper on
display,” he added. The
W&LLR Annual Steam Gala will run from 3rd to 5th
September and feature a number of attractions in addition to ‘Chevallier’.
The last locomotive to visit the W&LLR Gala was Henschel 0-6-0 ‘Siam’
from the Bredgar & Wormshill Railway in Kent, way back in 1995. Ends Release date 14th May 2010Joan's New Boiler Arrives! Joan's new boiler was lowered into the frames this morning after an early morning arrival from builders Israel Newton and Sons. Much work remains to be done but it is hoped that No.12 might be capable of being steamed at the Annual Steam Gala in September.
All Photos: Kevin Heywood, 14 May 2010
Ends Release date 19th April 2010The Third SLR Quietly Returns to the UK
Former Sierra Leone Railway No.85 pauses at Heniarth during her last journey from Welshpool to Llanfair Caereinion, 17 April 2010 Photo: Liz Turner More photographs of the locomotive's last few days in traffic are shown below - see Farewell to 85
Ends Release date 19th April 2010Farewell to 85
The first of the special trains took place on 9 April when the Steam Railway Magazine team made a special visit to ride on the 'African Train' and sample the delights of the W&L. We make no apologies for including a picture of 'The Earl' with the one guest that could not travel on the train - Ivo Peters' Mark VI Bentley. No.85 might have been the star of the show this Easter, but the rest of the railway did not want to take a back seat. Photo: Bruce Webber
The general public were given the opportunity to ride the 'African Train' during the 10 and 11 April. One of the trains is seen heading towards Welshpool at Heniarth. 10 April 2010. Photo: Mike Heath
The African Train approaching Coppice Lane. 10 April 2010. Photo: Mike Heath
A surprise for the photographers - a heavily loaded 13.00 train from Llanfair required the use of an extra locomotive on this train and the returning 14.15 from Welshpool. 10 April 2010. Photo: Mike Heath
Photographic charter trains took place on Monday 12 April 2010. 85 is seen passing the old water tank alongside the River Banwy a short distance from Llanfair Caereinion. Photo: Richard Pelham
Tastefully decorated with flowers and flags, 85 operated two final trains on 17 April for working members, guests from the National Railway Museum and officials from Sierra Leone. 85 rests at Welshpool water tank. Photo: Tammy Stretton
Kate Billmore prepares to pipe off the last train from Welshpool. Photo: Tammy Stretton
Train in the landscape..... Photo: Tammy Stretton
And back to Llanfair. Mechanical Engineer, Colin Tickle, was given the honour of driving the last train from Welshpool. His fireman was Caroline Schubert and guard Elizabeth Hall was assisted by new trainee John Gearey. Photo: Tammy Stretton
Ends
Release date 25th February 2010Winter ProgressThe 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. |
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All photos: Andrew Charman
Ends
Release date 11th February 2010
Member
No.13 – John Hurdley
As
his 70th 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 5th 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.
All photos: Tony Beardsell
Ends
Release
date 14th January 2010
Making
Tracks in the Snow
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.
Photos: Bruce Webber
Ends
Release
date 8th November 2009
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).
View the Steampipes booking form and leaflet here
Ends
Release
date 4th November 2009
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 23rd
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 2nd 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.
Ends
Release date 19th September 2009
A
third Pickering Carriage for the W&L
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.”
Ends
Release
date 7th September 2009
Youngest
train climaxes successful steam gala
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.
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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
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Ends
Release
date 1st September 2009
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
4th September, 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.
Ends
'New Look' for Sierra Leone Railway No.85
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 18th July. Photographs by Bruce Webber below show her 'fresh' from the paint shop.
Ends
Refurbished Sierra Leone Railway train returns to Welshpool
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
Climbing through the woods on the Golfa. Photo: Tony Beardsell
Approaching Coppice Lane level crossing. Photo: Tony Beardsell
Interior of the Third Class carriage No. 1066. Photo: Tony Beardsell
Interior of the First Class carriage No 1207. 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.
......and from the archives
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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 at Llanfair Caereinion on 7th August 1975. Photo: Bruce Webber |
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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 |
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Link to Annual Steam Gala Page
Ends
Pre-War Austin Seven cars visit the W&L
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.
Ends
'Comings and Goings' at the W&L
Comings…………
On
Sunday 29th 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”.
Goings……………
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.
Photo: Bruce Webber
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
Ends
Release date 8th February 2009
Winter Relay Progress
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.
All photos: Tony Beardsell
Ends