WELSH HIGHLAND RAILWAY
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The construction of this railway (2 foot gauge)between Dinas and Porthmadog was begun in the 1870's, finally reaching Porthmadog in 1923.Carrying mineral and passenger traffic,after a checkered history,it finally closed to passenger,goods and mineral traffic in 1937.The line was lifted in 1941 for the war effort.1997 saw the Ffestiniog Railway with the aid of various grants reinstating the line starting with Phase1 Caernarfon to Dinas on the defunct standard gauge trackbed,opening October 1997.Phase2 on the original trackbed to Waunfawr opening September 2000,Phase3 Rhyd Ddu August 2003.Spectacular views are to be found on the WHR with much more in prospect when it reaches the Aberglaslyn Pass, Beddgelert. |
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| Alco 2-6-2T "Mountaineer" built in the USA 1917 for the British Army in France during WW1. Seen here at Dinas on"loan" from the FR for service to Caernarfon. |
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"Mountaineer"
in Dinas station about to haul the first train of the day.
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| Ex South African railways 2-6-2+2-6-2 NG16 class Beyer -Garratt No"143" built 1958, outside Waunfawr station during the first week of Phase2 opening.This loco will change places for a diesel to haul the train into the platform enabling143 to run round for the return journey to Caernarfon. |
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Built
in South Africa, Funkey Diesel "Castell Caernarfon"
is about to draw the train into the platform at Waunfawr
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Garratt
"143" taking on water at Waunfawr
prior to setting off for Rhyd Ddu.
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| G.England & Co.0-4-0 "Prince" built 1863/4 on "loan" from FR, pictured here at Waunfawr during the opening week of Phase3.Fireman Nigel peering into the cab. |
| "Prince" crossing the restored bridge at Plas-y-Nant on route for Rhydd Ddu. Nigel riding the tender! |
Garratt
"143"at Plas-y-Nant bridge. |
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GARRATT "143" standing at Rhyd Ddu 2003
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Ex South African railways 2-6-2+2-6-2 NG16 class Beyer -Garratt No 138 "Millennium"letting off steam at Dinas during the Super Power weekend Sept 2004 |