Alun's Images http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/ 12 rows en-gb 60 A walk from Park Hall Halt to the outskirts of Gobowen Station on Friday 21st August 2009. http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/c1746495.html On this day myself and Andy Wilson began to tidy up the line around Park Hall Halt as it looks an eyesore to the Orthapedic Hospital, Gobowen. As well as tidying up the line, I decided to walk the line as far as possible towards Gobowen Station. When I mean as far as possible I mean to the boundary fence between Network Rail and Shropshire County Council. Part of the problem of going into Gobowen station is that it needs a new deviation line to be built. A small section of the Gobowen - Blodwell Quarry line up to the Council boundary is used by Timber trains as a reversal to run around the trains. Many people have mentioned to me that the Cambrian Heritage Railways of Oswestry should concentrate on rebuilding the line to Gobowen from Oswestry but as we see in these pictures it's far from easy. Thursday 27 August 2009: On this day myself and Andy Wilson began to tidy up the line around Park Hall Halt as it looks an eyesore to the Orthapedic Hospital, Gobowen. As well as tidying up the line, I decided to walk the line as far as possible towards Gobowen Station. When I mean as far as possible I mean to the boundary fence between Network Rail and Shropshire County Council. Part of the problem of going into Gobowen station is that it needs a new deviation line to be built. A small section of the Gobowen - Blodwell Quarry line up to the Council boundary is used by Timber trains as a reversal to run around the trains. Many people have mentioned to me that the Cambrian Heritage Railways of Oswestry should concentrate on rebuilding the line to Gobowen from Oswestry but as we see in these pictures it's far from easy.

A view from Park Hall Halt looking towards Gobowen after some intial clearance by Andrew Wilson. A view from Park Hall Halt looking towards Oswestry and Blodwell Quarry. Park Hall Halt itself is covered in vegitation and this is situated to the left. The heavily but unwalkable track going through Park Hall Halt towards Oswestry. The Park Hall overbridge can be seen ahead. We'll go up there on the next picture. Foggy Dewhirst of Last of Summer Wine would have a field day hiding here from the Japanese troops in Burma. A view from Park Hall overbridge looking towards Gobowen. In a zoomed in view from Park Hall overbridge looking towards Gobowen, we can see volunteer Andrew Wilson tidying up the line. A view from Park Hall overbridge looking towards Oswestry, Llynclys and Blodwell Quarry. A zoomed in view shows there's just about a railway here. Look at the shiny rails. A view of the Park Hall name board posts. We're now starting our walk at Park Hall Halt and we're going to walk the overgrown line as far as is possible to Gobowen. Walking the track from Park Hall Halt towards Gobowen. In this view the undergrowth here is thick but due to local people using the line as a walk, it's just about possible to get through. Walking the track from Park Hall Halt towards Gobowen. In this view the track is still heavily overgrown but thankfully as local people have the walked the track it's just about possible to get through. Walking the track from Park Hall Halt towards Gobowen. At last the undergrowth from here onwards has eased off. According to a few sources, timber trains used to run in recent years to this point so this is possibly the reason behind the vegitation being less. Walking the track from Park Hall Halt towards Gobowen. At long last we can see a railway rather than a jungle. In this view we can see the sleepers are no good. In a public consulation meeting in Oswestry, my dad and brother heard from the late Councillor David J Lloyd that the sleepers from the A5 Level Crossing to Gobowen were last replaced in 1949 and this view here shows this. This here shows in our unofficial debate that running trains to Gobowen first is wrong. The sleepers from Oswestry to Gobowen will all be needed to be replaced. However, since we've not walked and looked at the sleepers from the A5 Level Crossing to Oswestry we can't really completely close the debate. We'll have to walk that section ASAP. We're now approaching the end of our walk and at long last we can see a tidier railway. No We're now approaching the end of our walk and at long last we can see a tidier railway. No We're now at walks end. We're not allowed beyond the green fence as this Network Rail property. If we did go beyond the gence it would mean we're committing criminal trespass. The reason why this fence is here is due to the fact timber trains use the line to this point to run around trains. A new deviation line will have to be built I'm guessing to the left. With a buffer stop on the Network Rail boundary the rail has been cut here so technically the line to Oswestry and Blodwell Quarry is no longer connected to the national network. A view from the Network Rail buffer stop looking towards Gobowen. A zoomed in view from the Network Rail buffer stops looking towards Gobowen. To see a view of where this line ends up look at http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/p57799383.html A view looking from the Network Rail and Shropshire County Council looking towards Oswestry and Blodwell Quarry.

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]]> Thu Aug 27 2009 The Cambrian. Machynlleth - Pwllheli on Wednesday 19th August 2009. http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/c1744410.html Despite the fact that I'm still unemployed I treated myself to a trip on West Coast Railway Company's 'The Cambrian' from Machynlleth to Pwllheli. This was steam hauled by Standard 4 76079 as these trips have always been since they started in 2005. This was my first trip behind main line steam since 'Penine Limited' September 2008. Since I'm on state handouts I can't really afford to travel on steam hauled trips. I have however travelled on three diesel hauled charters since being made redundant in November 2008. Hopefully when I've got a job, I will once again travel behind steam and since this is unlikely for the forseable future given the current recession then this years steam trip is probably the last for myself. I hope to travel on the odd diesel charter. In the meantime, I really enjoyed myself on the Cambrian steam. I've not photographed much of the 'Cambrian' due to there being many pics further down the album. Sunday 23 August 2009: Despite the fact that I'm still unemployed I treated myself to a trip on West Coast Railway Company's 'The Cambrian' from Machynlleth to Pwllheli. This was steam hauled by Standard 4 76079 as these trips have always been since they started in 2005. This was my first trip behind main line steam since 'Penine Limited' September 2008. Since I'm on state handouts I can't really afford to travel on steam hauled trips. I have however travelled on three diesel hauled charters since being made redundant in November 2008. Hopefully when I've got a job, I will once again travel behind steam and since this is unlikely for the forseable future given the current recession then this years steam trip is probably the last for myself. I hope to travel on the odd diesel charter. In the meantime, I really enjoyed myself on the Cambrian steam. I've not photographed much of the 'Cambrian' due to there being many pics further down the album.

Standard 4 76079 at Machynlleth. A view of the fine fire inside 76079's cab. A view of Machynlleth Station showing how busy the train was on that day. A view of Machynlleth Station showing how busy the train was on that day. We're now departing Machynlleth. 76079 racing along the section between Machynlleth and Dovey Junction. 76079 racing along the section between Machynlleth and Dovey Junction. We're now leaving Dovey Junction and will then head across the Wooden Trestled bridge over the Dovey river. We now cross over the Dovey river bridge. We now cross over the Dovey river bridge. Approaching Tywyn and we pass the Talyllyn Railway. We receive a whistle from the Talyllyn Railway's steam loco Dolgoch and our steam loco 76079 sends a replied whistle. This is one of the highlights of riding on this train. Approaching Tywyn and we pass the Talyllyn Railway. We receive a whistle from the Talyllyn Railway's steam loco Dolgoch and our steam loco 76079 sends a replied whistle. This is one of the highlights of riding on this train. The volunteers also wave to us too. We're now at Tywyn station and a number of people are joining our train here. Our train then races along as we leave Tywyn. 76079 really works hard here. Our train then races along as we leave Tywyn. 76079 really works hard here. We then come into a Barmouth where we're in contact with a plastic train (158 DMU)!!! We're now approaching Harlech and we see a superb view of the Castle. A view of Harlech Castle. A view of Harlech Castle. We're now at Harlech Station and we pass DRS Class 37218 and its Network Rail train. We're now passing Minffordd Quarry and along here the track is to be diverted to allow the new Porthmadog bypass to be built. Construction of the bypass is due to begin in 2010. We're now passing Minffordd Quarry and along here the track is to be diverted to allow the new Porthmadog bypass to be built. Construction of the bypass is due to begin in 2010. We're now passing over Cae Pawb Level Crossing. According to a Festiniog Railway Company press release, the Welsh Highland Railway will not now be running over this crossing to Porthmadog Harbour until 2011. We're now approaching Porthmadog and here we can see a view of the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway (WHHR). The volunteers who run this railway are very friendly. Like the Talyllyn Railway, the WHHR were also whistling their steam loco Gelert at our train and likewise our steam loco 76079 whistled back. It's nice to see this sort of friendly relationship between railways. A view of the WHHR's steam loco Gelert. We're now passing the WHHR's Porthmadog station. We're now passing the WHHR's Porthmadog station. Even Harry Potter's made an appearance on our train!!! A view of Standard 4 76079 at Pwllheli. The train was very busy as seen here. A view of Standard 4 76079 at Pwllheli. The train was very busy as seen here. We're now about to depart Pwllheli. 76079 at Porthmadog. 76079 at Barmouth. We're now crossing over Barmouth bridge. We're now crossing over Barmouth bridge. We're now crossing over Barmouth bridge. A superb view from Barmouth bridge looking over the estuary towards Dolgellau. We're now passing through Morfa Mawddach halt and it was here that the GWR line to Dolgellau and Ruabon diverged to the left. Parts of this line have been preserved by the Llangollen and Bala Lake Railways. 76079 at Machylleth after arrival from Pwllheli. The old and new together. Standard 4 76079 running around its train. Machynlleth. 76079 shunting its stock into the sidings for the night. Machynlleth. 76079 shunting its stock into the sidings for the night. Machynlleth.

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]]> Sun Aug 23 2009 A walk from Gas Works Overbridge to Middleton Road Overbridge on Tuesday 18th August 2009. http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/c1742682.html We now take a walk from Gas Works Overbridge to Middleton Overbridge showing how overgrown this section of railway has become in recent years. With so many people locals walking the railway, there's a virtual clear path right through. As we leave Gas Works Overbridge, the track is invisble due to thick undergrowth. As we go along a bit the track gets a little more visible in places. On our final approach to Middleton Overbridge, the track becomes becomes harder to walk but it's just about possible to walk through with ease. I noticed many young kids walking the line on this day. The amount of litter on the track is unbelievable. In 2002 a Road Rail Vehicle hired in by Oswestry Borough Council sprayed the railway from Gobowen to Blodwell Quarry with weedkiller. This is what happens when a railway is left to its own devises. There are a number of other disused railways in the country which include the Trawsfynydd Railway, Amlwch line, Wye Valley Railway. Tuesday 18 August 2009: We now take a walk from Gas Works Overbridge to Middleton Overbridge showing how overgrown this section of railway has become in recent years. With so many people locals walking the railway, there's a virtual clear path right through. As we leave Gas Works Overbridge, the track is invisble due to thick undergrowth. As we go along a bit the track gets a little more visible in places. On our final approach to Middleton Overbridge, the track becomes becomes harder to walk but it's just about possible to walk through with ease. I noticed many young kids walking the line on this day. The amount of litter on the track is unbelievable. In 2002 a Road Rail Vehicle hired in by Oswestry Borough Council sprayed the railway from Gobowen to Blodwell Quarry with weedkiller. This is what happens when a railway is left to its own devises. There are a number of other disused railways in the country which include the Trawsfynydd Railway, Amlwch line, Wye Valley Railway.

A view of the propped up Gas Works Overbridge looking towards Llynclys and Blodwell Quarry. A view looking from the same location as last picture looking towards Oswestry. The track is located to the left somewhere in the heavy undergrowth. Our walk will start here. We're now walking the line between Gas Works and Middleton Road Overbridges. The track is on the left in the undergrowth. With so many local people walking along here, there's a virtual clear path through. At long last we can see a glimpse of some rails and sleepers. Then the track becomes invisible once again. We now pass the Oswestry Arriva Bus Maintenance depot to the left. Again we can see some rails and sleepers. Now though we can only see the sleeper ends to the left. We now pass the Halfords Store which can be seen to the left. The undergrowth here isn't too bad although brambles are beginning to encroach on to the track. The track then becomes a little visible again. From this point to Middleton Road Overbridge, we've got to walk along the track itself which is a pleasure. The track along here is patchy as far as the undergrowth goes. At last we see a clear section of track. From here to Middleton Road Overbridge the track is very heavily overgrown but just about walkable. When I did this walk I noticed a number of young kids walking this line. We're now on the approaches to Middleton Road Overbridge and can see just how thick the undergrowth here is on this section. Even though it's annoying people walk the track but at least it's kept just a small path for us to walk this. The track seems to be more heavily overgrown as we're on the final approaches to Middleton Road Overbridge. The track seems to be more heavily overgrown as we're on the final approaches to Middleton Road Overbridge. The track seems to be more heavily overgrown as we're on the final approaches to Middleton Road Overbridge. The most heavily overgrown section of track on this railway around Oswestry. Middleton Road Overbridge can be seen ahead. The track looks as though it's less overgrown here just before Middleton Road Overbridge. A view of Middleton Road Overbridge. A view from under Middleton Road Overbridge looking towards Oswestry and Gobowen. The track ahead has been tidied up recently. Sometime next year, it's planned to run trains from Oswestry Station to this overbridge. The Station itself is just around the right corner out of sight. A major problem along this section of track is the amount of rubbish thrown here over the years. This seems to happen to all these disused railway lines such as the Trawsfynydd one where at the Blaenau end of the line, it's full of old washing machines and fridges. However suprisingly on this line, I've yet to see any dumped fridges or washing machines. A view from under Middleton Road Overbridge looking towards Llynclys and Blodwell Quarry. We've just walked along this section of track.

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]]> Tue Aug 18 2009 The Cambrian Heritage Railways Trust's Teddy's Bear Picnic Event on Sunday 16th August 2009. http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/c1742661.html On this day the Cambrian Heritage Railways Trust held their Teddy's Bear Picnic Event. Steam loco Isabel ran its trains hourly up and down the line from Llynclys South to Penygarreg Lane. For the smallest visitors a minature railway also ran on the platform at Llynclys South. On day I arrived there in the morning the minature railway was being tested ready for the smallest visitors. The steam loco which pulled the minature railway was Hunslet Holy War. Of course the real 2ft gauge steam loco Hunslet Holy War is based at the Bala Lake Railway some 30 miles from Llynclys South to the West. Tuesday 18 August 2009: On this day the Cambrian Heritage Railways Trust held their Teddy's Bear Picnic Event. Steam loco Isabel ran its trains hourly up and down the line from Llynclys South to Penygarreg Lane. For the smallest visitors a minature railway also ran on the platform at Llynclys South. On day I arrived there in the morning the minature railway was being tested ready for the smallest visitors. The steam loco which pulled the minature railway was Hunslet Holy War. Of course the real 2ft gauge steam loco Hunslet Holy War is based at the Bala Lake Railway some 30 miles from Llynclys South to the West.

A busy scene at Llynclys South. The minature railway can be seen in the platform. The minature railway steam loco Hunslet Holy War being prepared for steaming. A closer view of minature steam loco Hunslet Holy War. On special events, it's always nice to see the past. I suppose these type of cars would have been seen on the roads in this area prior to the railway from Whitchurch to Buttington Junction closing in 18th January 1965. A busy scene at Llynclys South. The minature railway steam loco being tested prior to carrying passengers. The minature railway steam loco being tested prior to carrying passengers. Well in this case a support crew member has joined in!!!

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]]> Tue Aug 18 2009 Latest Cambrian Heritage Railways News onTuesday 11th August 2009 and Thursday 14th August 2009. http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/c1740509.html On Tuesday 11th August 2009, the Gwern y Brenin Overbridge 54 had its first train delivered in the from of a Rail Trolley. This was the first rail movement down this section of line since the August 19th 1993 Weedkilling train. This Rail Trolley now makes tool carrying far easier. We can just put them on board the Rail Trolley and push them to the head of clearance. Recently we've had a few bonfires in this section to tidy up this area of rubbish. I'd like to thank the following people for helping volunteer Brian Rowe (Cambrian Railways Trust Volunteer Coordinator and Vice Chairman), Colin, Kevin and least of our hard working and regular Andrew Wilson. We've also cleared the small self setting trees growing on the former second track. As more self setting trees have been cleared, we can see the A483 traffic going over the Level Crossing at Maesbury Road in the distance. After the long curve at Gwern y Brenin, the track is a long straight all the way to the A483 Level Crossing. Friday 14 August 2009: On Tuesday 11th August 2009, the Gwern y Brenin Overbridge 54 had its first train delivered in the from of a Rail Trolley. This was the first rail movement down this section of line since the August 19th 1993 Weedkilling train. This Rail Trolley now makes tool carrying far easier. We can just put them on board the Rail Trolley and push them to the head of clearance. Recently we've had a few bonfires in this section to tidy up this area of rubbish. I'd like to thank the following people for helping volunteer Brian Rowe (Cambrian Railways Trust Volunteer Coordinator and Vice Chairman), Colin, Kevin and least of our hard working and regular Andrew Wilson. We've also cleared the small self setting trees growing on the former second track. As more self setting trees have been cleared, we can see the A483 traffic going over the Level Crossing at Maesbury Road in the distance. After the long curve at Gwern y Brenin, the track is a long straight all the way to the A483 Level Crossing.

A view of our Rail Trolley looking towards Oswestry and Gobowen. Note all the tools on the vehicle. This now saves carrying tools on such a vast distance. Tuesday 11th August 2009. A view of our Rail Trolley looking towards Llynclys and Blodwell Quarry. Note all the tools on the vehicle. This now saves carrying tools on such a vast distance. Tuesday 11th August 2009. A few yards from Gwern y Brenin Overbridge 54 looking towards Oswestry and Gobowen, we can see bonfire piles ready to burn. Tuesday 11th August 2009. We're more a less in the same location as the last picture and can see one of the bonfire piles burning. Tuesday 11th August 2009. In this view we can see that a few yards from Gwern y Brenin Overbridge 54, the track is straight right through to the A483 Maesbury Road Level Crossing. If here in person, you can see the road traffic clearly. Tuesday 11th August 2009. In this view we can now see that the former double trackbed has been cleared of small self setting trees to the right. Thursday 13th August 2009. A view of our regular volunteer Andy Wilson driving the Rail Trolley. I wonder if he'll consider driving a diesel loco down this section in the future!!! Thursday 13th August 2009. The beginning of the long straight to the A483 Level Crossing has also been cleared of brambles and other self setting trees. This view shows a bonfire pile burning looking towards Oswestry and Gobowen. Thursday 13th August 2009. We're now at the same location as last picture but at the end of the long straight from the A483 Level Crossing and we're now looking towards Llynclys and Blodwell Quarry. This view shows a bonfire pile burning looking towards Oswestry and Gobowen. Thursday 13th August 2009. This view here shows a much more tidier railway line on the approach to Gwern y Brenin Overbridge 54. Thursday 13th August 2009. A view from Gwern y Brenin Overbridge 54 looking towards Oswestry and Gobowen at the end of the day. Compare this view to http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/p57961119.html taken on Sunday 3rd May 2009 before clearance began. Thursday 13th August 2009.

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]]> Fri Aug 14 2009 Cambrian Heritage Railways Carriage & Wagon report by Tony Warren. http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/c1737236.html CARRIAGE AND WAGON UPDATE by Tony Warren Currently the C&W team at Llynclys are working on Mk1s TSO E4965, TSO E3610, and Brake End 35334. E4965 is approximately 80% finished, however we still have to carry out repairs to the doors,the chassis needs painting and new brake blocks need to be fitted. In view of the lack of funding the final application of coach paint might be deferred until next year. Moving on to TSO E3610, preventive maintenance is being carried out to help stop further deterioration, this coach is 4th in line for restoration. As regards Brake End 35334 the restoration of this vehicle has just commenced. We hope that as and when funding becomes available,we can make the necessary adaptations to enable us to take passengers in wheelchairs. In the meantime the external bodywork is the focus of our activities, which requires an enormous amount of sanding and filling. Should you wish to join the C&W Team at Llynclys and contribute to restoring these valuable coaches, why not come down any Sunday to see the work we are doing and have a chat. Tony Warren C&W Manager From your webmaster Alun Evans (Alun the spray) I must thank Tony Warren for allowing us to see and publish details of the Cambrian Heritage Railways Carriage & Wagon department's restoration plans for the future. Thursday 6 August 2009: CARRIAGE AND WAGON UPDATE by Tony Warren Currently the C&W team at Llynclys are working on Mk1s TSO E4965, TSO E3610, and Brake End 35334. E4965 is approximately 80% finished, however we still have to carry out repairs to the doors,the chassis needs painting and new brake blocks need to be fitted. In view of the lack of funding the final application of coach paint might be deferred until next year. Moving on to TSO E3610, preventive maintenance is being carried out to help stop further deterioration, this coach is 4th in line for restoration. As regards Brake End 35334 the restoration of this vehicle has just commenced. We hope that as and when funding becomes available,we can make the necessary adaptations to enable us to take passengers in wheelchairs. In the meantime the external bodywork is the focus of our activities, which requires an enormous amount of sanding and filling. Should you wish to join the C&W Team at Llynclys and contribute to restoring these valuable coaches, why not come down any Sunday to see the work we are doing and have a chat. Tony Warren C&W Manager From your webmaster Alun Evans (Alun the spray) I must thank Tony Warren for allowing us to see and publish details of the Cambrian Heritage Railways Carriage & Wagon department's restoration plans for the future.

A view of Mk 1 Coach Tourist Open E3610. See report for more details of plans for this Carriage. A view of Mk 1 Coach Tourist Open E4965. See report for more details of plans for this Carriage. A view of Mk 1 Coach Brake End 35334. See report for more details of plans for this Carriage. A view of Mk 1 Coach Brake End 35334. See report for more details of plans for this Carriage. A view of Carriage & Wagon Head Tony Warren painting the Brake End 35334. I must thank Tony Warren for allowing us to see the Carriage & Wagon's plans for the future.

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]]> Thu Aug 6 2009 Latest Cambrian Heritage Railways News from Thursday 23rd to Saturday 25th July 2009. http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/c1732478.html We now take a look at some of the latest work undertaken by the Cambrian Heritage Railways of Oswestry. On Thursday 23rd July, we cleared the railway from the A483 Level Crossing South towards Llynclys. Much work was accomplished this day. I'd like to thank the following people Brian Rowe (Cambrian Railways Trust Volunteer Liason Officer and Vice Chairman), Gavin Ellis, Andy Wilson, Michael, David, Colin, Ken Owen (Cambrian Railways Society Vice Chairman), Bob Evans. On Saturday 25th July, we cleared the railway from Porthywaen School Level Crossing further towards Blodwell Quarry. I'd like to thank the following people Brian Rowe (Cambrian Railways Trust Volunteer Liason Officer and Vice Chairman), Gavin Ellis, Andy Wilson, Michael, David, Colin, Ken Owen (Cambrian Railways Society Vice Chairman), Bob Evans. At long last the relationship between the Cambrian Railways Trust and Society is much stronger as these two days show. The two organisations are working together very well and shortly I hope they both join together as one. The odds the two organisations once had against one another are now thankfully long gone. I'd like to remind people once again that sometimes my site isn't updated as much as it was. This doesn't mean no work is happening in the Cambrian Heritage Railways. If anyone wants to hear the news before I add the update to the site, then email me alun.evans7802@tiscali.co.uk and I'll add you to my online unofficial Cambrian Newsletter. Monday 27 July 2009: We now take a look at some of the latest work undertaken by the Cambrian Heritage Railways of Oswestry. On Thursday 23rd July, we cleared the railway from the A483 Level Crossing South towards Llynclys. Much work was accomplished this day. I'd like to thank the following people Brian Rowe (Cambrian Railways Trust Volunteer Liason Officer and Vice Chairman), Gavin Ellis, Andy Wilson, Michael, David, Colin, Ken Owen (Cambrian Railways Society Vice Chairman), Bob Evans. On Saturday 25th July, we cleared the railway from Porthywaen School Level Crossing further towards Blodwell Quarry. I'd like to thank the following people Brian Rowe (Cambrian Railways Trust Volunteer Liason Officer and Vice Chairman), Gavin Ellis, Andy Wilson, Michael, David, Colin, Ken Owen (Cambrian Railways Society Vice Chairman), Bob Evans. At long last the relationship between the Cambrian Railways Trust and Society is much stronger as these two days show. The two organisations are working together very well and shortly I hope they both join together as one. The odds the two organisations once had against one another are now thankfully long gone. I'd like to remind people once again that sometimes my site isn't updated as much as it was. This doesn't mean no work is happening in the Cambrian Heritage Railways. If anyone wants to hear the news before I add the update to the site, then email me alun.evans7802@tiscali.co.uk and I'll add you to my online unofficial Cambrian Newsletter.

A view from the A483 Level Crossing. This is where work began on this day. The good think about the former double track formation is that it allows easy vehicle access. 23/07/09 The volunteers are now leveling off some dirt which was tipped here in recent years to allow cars to drive further down the trackbed. 23/07/09 A view of some work clearance work being undertaken by volunteers. This view is looking towards Llynclys, Blodwell Quarry and Welshpool. 23/07/09 After clearance work looking towards Oswestry and Gobowen. Lineside vegitation has been cut back here. 23/07/09 A view of the volunteers having their lunch. 23/07/09 A view of a much more tidier lineside to the right looking towards Llynclys, Blodwell Quarry and Welshpool. 23/07/09 Whilst some us concentrated our efforts in tidying up the line at this point, others worked a little further towards Llynclys.We now take a walk to see how the other part of the group are getting on. 23/07/09 We're now walking a little further up the line to see how the other part of our group are getting on. 23/07/09 We can now see the other part of our group working hard in this view looking towards Llynclys, Blodwell Quarry and Welshpool. 23/07/09 The other part of the group are working very hard as seen here in this view looking towards Oswestry and Gobowen. 23/07/09 A group photograph. Back Row left to right, Colin, Andy Wilson. Middle Row left to right Brian Rowe (Cambrian Railways Trust Vice Chairman & Volunteer Liason Officer), Gavin Ellis, Michael. Front Row left to right, James, David. Unfortuantely two of our group members are missing. They are Ken Owen and Bob Evans. 23/07/09 A group photograph. Back Row left to right, Colin, Andy Wilson. Middle Row left to right myself Alun Evans (Webmaster of this site and the Editor of the unofficial Cambrian Online Newsletter), Gavin Ellis, Michael. Front Row left to right, James, David. Unfortuantely two of our group members are missing. They are Ken Owen and Bob Evans. 23/07/09 On this day the same gang began clearing the railway further from Porthywaen School Level Crossing towards Blodwell Quarry. We now take a walk down this section to see the current head of clearance. 25/07/09 We now take a walk towards the head of clearance on this day at Porthywaen. It was at this point the head of clearance was situated until this day. This next section was strimmed by Brian Rowe firstly using the blade strimmer and then Ken Owen using the chord strimmer. 25/07/09 Walking the track towards Blodwell Quarry as far as the current head of clearance. This section was strimmed by Brian Rowe firstly using the blade strimmer and then Ken Owen using the chord strimmer. 25/07/09 Walking the track towards Blodwell Quarry as far as the current head of clearance. This next section was strimmed by Brian Rowe firstly using the blade strimmer and then Ken Owen using the chord strimmer. 25/07/09 Walking the track towards Blodwell Quarry as far as the current head of clearance. This next section was strimmed by Brian Rowe firstly using the blade strimmer and then Ken Owen using the chord strimmer. 25/07/09 We're now approaching the limit of the strimmed section of track. Beyond this the vegitation has been lowered using the brush hooks. 25/07/09 As a result of volunteers using the brush hook to lower the vegitation we can now walk a further few yards of the track towards Blodwell Quarry. 25/07/09 We are now approaching the very limit of our walk due to heavy undergrowth. 25/07/09 We're now at the end of our walk and this is the track further on. It's covered in high vegitation. I did personally walk this track with a friend just over a month ago and it was a struggle. As a result, I got scratches all over my legs from the brambles that are geowing high everywhere. 25/07/09 The end of our walk. We can see in this view more closely how thick the vegitation has become beyond here. 25/07/09 A view from the end our walk looking towards Porthywaen School Level Crossing. We're now walking back to the Porthywaen School Level Crossing. 25/07/09 We're now walking back to the Porthywaen School Level Crossing. 25/07/09 We're now walking back to the Porthywaen School Level Crossing. A view from beginning of the strimmed section towards Porthywaen School Level Crossing. 25/07/09

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]]> Mon Jul 27 2009 Latest Cambrian Heritage Railways News from Sunday 12th July to Sunday 19th July 2009. http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/c1728622.html In this album, we take a look at some of the work undertaken by both the Cambrian Railways Society and Trust. Despite the split between Society and Trust many years ago, both groups are now working together which includes volunteers from the Trust volunteering and clearing the Society section of leased railway and vise versa. In my view both groups should get together. During this week, we first began at Porthywaen where Trust volunteers have helped clear the railway line of vegitation towards Blodwell Quarry. This was done by Colin, Mike and David. I walked this section of railway a couple of weeks ago and found it to be one of the most heavily overgrown sections out of all the whole line from Blodwell Quarry to Oswestry & Gobowen. It was a struggle. Just before arrival at Blodwell Quarry where the line goes into the deep Quarry Cutting the railway is clear due to myself clearing this section last year. During the rest of the week the railway from Weston Wharf Goods Shed to the A483 Level Crossing was cleared by Andy Wilkinson, Brian Rowe, John, myself and Gavin. The latter section was patchy as far as the undergrowth goes. For a few yards the line was clear and then unwalkable due to undergrowth. With myself a Society & Trust member, I'm helping out both sections of the leased railway from Gobowen to Llynclys Junction and Llynclys Junction to Blodwell Quarry. I must thank all volunteers who've helped out on this railway. Apolagies if I can't remember all names of volunteers. Monday 20 July 2009: In this album, we take a look at some of the work undertaken by both the Cambrian Railways Society and Trust. Despite the split between Society and Trust many years ago, both groups are now working together which includes volunteers from the Trust volunteering and clearing the Society section of leased railway and vise versa. In my view both groups should get together. During this week, we first began at Porthywaen where Trust volunteers have helped clear the railway line of vegitation towards Blodwell Quarry. This was done by Colin, Mike and David. I walked this section of railway a couple of weeks ago and found it to be one of the most heavily overgrown sections out of all the whole line from Blodwell Quarry to Oswestry & Gobowen. It was a struggle. Just before arrival at Blodwell Quarry where the line goes into the deep Quarry Cutting the railway is clear due to myself clearing this section last year. During the rest of the week the railway from Weston Wharf Goods Shed to the A483 Level Crossing was cleared by Andy Wilkinson, Brian Rowe, John, myself and Gavin. The latter section was patchy as far as the undergrowth goes. For a few yards the line was clear and then unwalkable due to undergrowth. With myself a Society & Trust member, I'm helping out both sections of the leased railway from Gobowen to Llynclys Junction and Llynclys Junction to Blodwell Quarry. I must thank all volunteers who've helped out on this railway. Apolagies if I can't remember all names of volunteers.

A view from Porthywaen School Level Crossing looking towards Blodwell Quarry. This shows a much more tidier railway from this area after strimming. We now take a walk down the railway line towards Bldowell Quarry and see a much more tidier section of track. This is as far as strimming has been done but further on Colin, Mike, John and myself have used pole hooks, loppers and saws to cut the vegitation down to ground level and this then makes it easier for the strimmer. We're now at the head of clearance and looking towards Blodwell Quarry. Beyond here the undergrowth is very thick. When I walked this section with someone a few weeks ago I was stung by brambles and nettles. Not recommended. A view from the head of clearance looking towards Porthywaen School Level Crossing. A view of the Colin, Mike and David having their lunch. These volunteers are from the Trust and this shows both railway groups are now working together. I'd like to thank these hard working volunteers. A view at the end of the day showing further work done by Trust volunteers. A view from the A483 Level Crossing looking towards Oswestry and Gobowen showing a much more tidier and cleared section as far as Weston Wharf Goods Shed. We now take a walk towards Weston Wharf and Oswestry see what the Cambrian Railways Trust volunteers have been doing on this line. This section of railway now looks tidy. A view of some of the fire wood which has been chopped from the small trees. We're now half way between the A483 Level Crossing and Weston Wharf Goods Shed and see this view looking back towards the A483 road and Llynclys. This section is much clearer. To the left we see Gavin putting one of the small tree branches on to the bonfire pile. A much more clearer view of the distant A483 Level Crossing. A view of the Morda River Bridge 53. This has been cleared of vegitation too. The undergrowth along this section here was unbelievable. A view from the Morda River Bridge looking towards Weston Wharf Overbridge 52. The last few yards to the Overbridge was more like a rain forest than a railway. A view from under Weston Wharf Overbridge 52 looking towards the A483 Level Crossing and Llynclys. A view from above Weston Wharf Overbridge 52 looking towards the A483 Level Crossing and Llynclys. A zoomed in view from above Weston Wharf Overbridge 52 looking towards the A483 Level Crossing and Llynclys. These views show volunteers at work. Different view but same location. A view from above Weston Wharf Overbridge 52 looking towards the A483 Level Crossing and Llynclys. These views show volunteers at work. A zoomed in view from above Weston Wharf Overbridge 52 looking towards the A483 Level Crossing and Llynclys. These views show volunteers at work.

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]]> Mon Jul 20 2009 Latest Cambrian Railways Trust clearance news between Monday 6th July and Wednesday 8th July 2009. http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/c1723875.html On Monday myself, Brian Rowe and Andy Wilkinson began clearing the railway around the A483 Level Crossing. Andy Wilkinson himself had cleared the railway on Llynclys and Blodwell Quarry side of the A483 on Saturday 4th July and Sunday 5th July. The latter section looks much tidy now the brambles have been cut. The brambles themselves ahd covered the track on the approach to the A483 Level Crossing. On Monday we began clearing the railway on the Oswestry side of the A483 Level Crossing. On Wednesday 8th July myself and Andy Wilkinson went down to Gwern y Brenin Overbridge 54 and began clearing the railway further towards Llynclys. Tuesday evening work parties led by Brian Rowe have cleared the railway right through Gwern y Brenin Forest. Friday 10 July 2009: On Monday myself, Brian Rowe and Andy Wilkinson began clearing the railway around the A483 Level Crossing. Andy Wilkinson himself had cleared the railway on Llynclys and Blodwell Quarry side of the A483 on Saturday 4th July and Sunday 5th July. The latter section looks much tidy now the brambles have been cut. The brambles themselves ahd covered the track on the approach to the A483 Level Crossing. On Monday we began clearing the railway on the Oswestry side of the A483 Level Crossing. On Wednesday 8th July myself and Andy Wilkinson went down to Gwern y Brenin Overbridge 54 and began clearing the railway further towards Llynclys. Tuesday evening work parties led by Brian Rowe have cleared the railway right through Gwern y Brenin Forest.

We're now standing on the A483 Level Crossing and looking towards Llynclys, Blodwell Quarry and Welshpool. Cambrian Railways Trust volunteer Andy Wilkinson chopped the brambles that were covering the track. Please note no danger was possible with me standing in the position here due to the fact that I was standing in a safe Island of the road. A view from the A483 Level Crossing looking towards Oswestry and Gobowen. We're now standing on the Llynclys, Blodwell Quarry and Welshpool side of the A483 Level Crossing and looking towards Oswestry. Compare this picture to http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/p47667070.html which was taken on 6th January 2008. Brambles have been removed from the track. We now take a walk along a few yards of the trackbed past the cut brambles and see a clear track towards Llynclys. We're now on the Oswestry side of the A483 Level Crossing and see this view of grass and brambles growing through the track. A view looking over the A483 Level Crossing towards Llynclys. Compare this view to http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/p48109603.html which was taken on 29th January 2008. The track here is also covered in brambles. By mid morning volunteers Andy Wilkinson and Brian Rowe came and cut back the brambles that had begun to cover the track in this area. A view of the cut back brambles on the Oswestry side of the A483 Level Crossing. Going home time says Brian Rowe to the right due to the heavy showery rain that came on us at this stage. To the left Andy Wilkinson seems happy enough to carry on as though it wasn't raining. A view of the A483 Level Crossing control apparetus that brings the barriers down when a train goes over the Level Crossing. This was last used in 19th August 1993 when the last British Rail weedkilling train traversed the branch line from Gobowen to Blodwell Quarry. We're now standing on the Llynclys side of the Gwern y Brenin overbridge 54 and looking towards Oswestry. In recent weeks this section of railway has been cleared by the Tuesday evening gang led by Brian Rowe. We'll now turn around and head towards Llynclys and the head of clearance. We're now standing the same position as last picture. We're now going to walk to the head of clearance. A view yards from here there's several lengths of track in concrete sleepers. A view of the transition from wooden to concrete sleepers. We're now walking along the cleared track through Gwern y Brenin Forest. We're now walking along the cleared track through Gwern y Brenin Forest. We're now walking along the cleared track through Gwern y Brenin Forest. After a long curve the track from here to Llynclys Junction is a long straight. This is after all the former Cambrian Main Line. We're now walking along the cleared track through Gwern y Brenin Forest. After a long curve the track from here to Llynclys Junction is a long straight. This is after all the former Cambrian Main Line. We're now walking along the cleared track through Gwern y Brenin Forest. After a long curve the track from here to Llynclys Junction is a long straight. This is after all the former Cambrian Main Line. We're now approaching the current head of clearance. We're now at the head of clearance and see Andy Wilkinson extending this further towards Llynclys. A view from the head of clearance looking towards Oswestry.

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]]> Fri Jul 10 2009 Latest Cambrian Railways Trust clearance news on Sunday 28th June 2009. http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/c1719102.html On this day a volunteer team led by Brian Rowe (Cambrian Railways Trust Vice Chairman & Volunteer Liason Officer) began clearing the railway from Gwern y Brenin overbridge 54 further towards Oswestry. Here pictures include the head of clearance at the beginning of the day and the head of clearance by the end of the day. I firstly did a Track Inspection walk of the line all the way to the A483 Level Crossing and found the railway virtually clear of undergrowth except two to three places where it's beginning to be unwalkable. I find it's very weird on a lot of disused lines where in places the track is heavily overgrown and others it looks as though a train only ran on it yesterday. From the head of clearance by the day's end, there's a long straight section of track all the way through to the A483 and a lot of this has concrete sleepers which means good news for the railway. The rest is wooden sleepers right through to the A483 level crossing itself. Most of the wooden sleepers look in very good condition. However, some will need replacing. Apolagies for the lack of updates on the Cambrian front recently. This doesn't mean no work has taken place. If anyone wants to know the work done before this update then please email me alun.evans7802@tiscali.co.uk and I'll add you to the unofficial online newsletter. Monday 29 June 2009: On this day a volunteer team led by Brian Rowe (Cambrian Railways Trust Vice Chairman & Volunteer Liason Officer) began clearing the railway from Gwern y Brenin overbridge 54 further towards Oswestry. Here pictures include the head of clearance at the beginning of the day and the head of clearance by the end of the day. I firstly did a Track Inspection walk of the line all the way to the A483 Level Crossing and found the railway virtually clear of undergrowth except two to three places where it's beginning to be unwalkable. I find it's very weird on a lot of disused lines where in places the track is heavily overgrown and others it looks as though a train only ran on it yesterday. From the head of clearance by the day's end, there's a long straight section of track all the way through to the A483 and a lot of this has concrete sleepers which means good news for the railway. The rest is wooden sleepers right through to the A483 level crossing itself. Most of the wooden sleepers look in very good condition. However, some will need replacing. Apolagies for the lack of updates on the Cambrian front recently. This doesn't mean no work has taken place. If anyone wants to know the work done before this update then please email me alun.evans7802@tiscali.co.uk and I'll add you to the unofficial online newsletter.

A view of the Gwern y Brenin overbridge 54 looking towards the A483 Level Crossing and Oswestry. It's further on where clearance has begun. Our main focus of attention recently has been to clear the line behind this view towards Llynclys. However today we began to clear the line in the other direction towards the A483 Level Crossing and Oswestry. We're now walking to the head of clearance at the beginning of the day. We're now approaching the head of clearance at the beginning of the day. A view of the head of clearance at the beginning of the day. Picture 1. Look at Picture 2 to notice the difference after clearance. Picture 2. A view of the cleared railway. Look at Picture 2 to notice the difference before clearance. We now see further views of cleared line. Most of the stuff cleared here was a mixture of self setting twigs (small trees), nettles and brambles. Although much of the line beyond here has been cleared in the next few yards, more work will be needed here soon. Look beyond and you'll notice that the line itself has a clear patch before another section of overgrown railway. A view looking back towards Gwern y Brenin overbridge 54 & Llynclys along the cleared railway. We've now walked a few more feet towards the A483 Level Crossing & Oswestry and can see that brambles and other self setting twigs (small trees) have been removed from the railway. From here onwards for quite a distance the track is concrete sleepers. The end of the day's head of clearance can be seen in the distance. A view of the transition from wooden to concrete sleepers. To the left is to Llynclys whilst to the right is to the A483 Level Crossing and Oswestry. A view showing the head of clearance by the end of the day. This view is looking towards the A483 Level Crossing and Oswestry. A view from the end of the day's head of clearance looking towards the Gwern y Brenin overbridge 54 and Llynclys.

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]]> Mon Jun 29 2009 Latest Cambrian Railways Trust news on Monday 22nd June 2009. http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/c1716587.html With the plan to expand the Cambrian Railways Trust in the near future, more carriages will be needed by the railway for the increased length of line and passenger loadings. Here we take a look at the restoration work done to Mk 1 Coach E4965 built in Wolverton in 1961 and arrived at the Cambrian Railways Trust site at Llynclys in 2005. This work is being led by Tony Warren (Head of Carriage & Wagon) and a band of helpers. To date a lot of repainting has been done and the metal work on the end of coach replaced on both sides. If anyone fancies helping out Tony Warren with restoring the Carriages or the Wagons then please contact him via Brian Rowe on 01691 670916. He's very friendly and welcoming. Tuesday 23 June 2009: With the plan to expand the Cambrian Railways Trust in the near future, more carriages will be needed by the railway for the increased length of line and passenger loadings. Here we take a look at the restoration work done to Mk 1 Coach E4965 built in Wolverton in 1961 and arrived at the Cambrian Railways Trust site at Llynclys in 2005. This work is being led by Tony Warren (Head of Carriage & Wagon) and a band of helpers. To date a lot of repainting has been done and the metal work on the end of coach replaced on both sides. If anyone fancies helping out Tony Warren with restoring the Carriages or the Wagons then please contact him via Brian Rowe on 01691 670916. He's very friendly and welcoming.

A view of Mk 1 Coach E4965 at Llynclys. New windows have been added to the toilet end of the coach. New windows have been added to the toilet end of the coach. Here we see a view of Tony Warren painting above the window. He's doing a superb job. Well done Tony. A view on the station side of the coach. A view of the interior of the Coach. Most of the interior work has been done. This was largely done during the Winter. A view from the A483 road side of the coach. Here Tony Warren can be seen peeling of the masking tape which he applied earlier in the day so that he could paint below the windows without getting paint on the glass.

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]]> Tue Jun 23 2009 The Welsh Highland Heritage Railway on Wednesday 27th May 2009. http://alunsphotos.fotopic.net/c1706837.html Having ridden on the Festiniog Railway Company's operated Welsh Highland Railway from Rhyd Ddu to Hafod y Llyn, I then decided to take a look at the new museum that the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway (WHHR) have created at Gelert's Farm. Although the volunteers did mention to me that other works are still needed to complete the museum, I personally thought that it's excellent and I would give it ten out of ten. It's recommended to Joe Bloggs and his family of two young kids who don't really want a long ride by train. The atmosphere at Gelert's Farm is superb. There's a Minature Railway that's been built for the Kids. There's interpretation boards mentioning the history of the narrow gauge railways in the area. There's also a friendly staff atmosphere on this railway. They make you feel welcome and will always answer questions as well as they can. The shop at Porthmadog has an excellent variety of railway books for all to read. Lynn Seal does a good job in running this. I also hope that one day WHHR trains using Russell will once again be seen running through the Aberglaslyn Pass to Beddgelert. This of course depends on negotiations between the WHHR and Festiniog Railway Company. My position with this is very neutral due to me having excellent friends in both railway groups. In my conclusion, a ride on railways in North Wales isn't complete without a trip on the superb and friendly WHHR and exploring its newly opened Gelert's Farm museum. 5* Tuesday 2 June 2009: Having ridden on the Festiniog Railway Company's operated Welsh Highland Railway from Rhyd Ddu to Hafod y Llyn, I then decided to take a look at the new museum that the Welsh Highland Heritage Railway (WHHR) have created at Gelert's Farm. Although the volunteers did mention to me that other works are still needed to complete the museum, I personally thought that it's excellent and I would give it ten out of ten. It's recommended to Joe Bloggs and his family of two young kids who don't really want a long ride by train. The atmosphere at Gelert's Farm is superb. There's a Minature Railway that's been built for the Kids. There's interpretation boards mentioning the history of the narrow gauge railways in the area. There's also a friendly staff atmosphere on this railway. They make you feel welcome and will always answer questions as well as they can. The shop at Porthmadog has an excellent variety of railway books for all to read. Lynn Seal does a good job in running this. I also hope that one day WHHR trains using Russell will once again be seen running through the Aberglaslyn Pass to Beddgelert. This of course depends on negotiations between the WHHR and Festiniog Railway Company. My position with this is very neutral due to me having excellent friends in both railway groups. In my conclusion, a ride on railways in North Wales isn't complete without a trip on the superb and friendly WHHR and exploring its newly opened Gelert's Farm museum. 5*

Steam loco Gelert running around its train Porthmadog. Steam loco Gelert having coupled to its train at Porthmadog. Arrival at Penymount. The trains seemed to be very busy on this day. Out of sight to the right is where the Festiniog Railway run Welsh Highland Railway will run past. Steam loco Gelert running around its train at Penymount. This loco can just be seen at the Penymount Junction point. The railway to the right is the Festiniog Railway operated Welsh Highland Railway. This section isn't operational to passengers yet. Steam loco Gelert backing on to its train at Penymount. In more recent times another platform was built here. This view is looking towards Caernarfon. In more recent times another platform was built here. This view is looking towards Porthmadog. Steam loco Gelert after arrival at Gelert's Farm. Everybody gets off here for look at the museum. For the Kids there's a Minature railway. I missed seeing this train as I spoke to one of the friendly loco crew Andy Carter. For the Family there's a 10p coin operated Model Railway. Inside the museum, we can see a view of three slate wagons. A view of Steam loco Karen. This loco has been out of traffic for a number of years. The Kids are allowed to climb into this engine. You can even see inside the smokebox. A view of a slate and horse wagon. A view of an old steam engine boiler. The old boiler is used as an interpretation board for people who know nothing about boilers on a steam engine. I like this virtual computersised board. 5* A view of a small industrial diesel loco. This diesel looks similar to the Welsh Highland Railways Construction Company's diesel Dolgarrog. As Dolgarrog is currently stored at Dinas, this place here would be an ideal place to display it. Dolgarrog after all is history as it was used constructing much of the modern Welsh Highland Railway. Inside the museum there's plenty for the young Family to do. 5*. Excellent work WHHR. A view of one of the interpretation boards charting the history of the original WHR. A view of I think a platelayers trolley called Busta. A further view inside the musem. One of the Cabs of the LY2 Polish diesels have been opened to the public. A further view inside the newly opened museum. A view of one of the toastrack open coaches. A view of a row of industrial diesels. A view of Hunslet Steam loco Irish Mail. This loco is normally based on the West Lancashire Railway at Hesketh Bank. A view of Irish Mail's well polished name plate. A view of I think the Baldwin's frames. A view of recently restored original WHR buffet car. A view inside the original WHR buffet car. On the way back to the train, I finally saw the Minature Railway Train at last. This train was very full. This is an excellent recent addition to the WHHR at Gelert's Farm. 5*

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]]> Tue Jun 2 2009