Full steam ahead!

 

The train that left Llanfair Caereinion at 10am on Saturday launched two weeks of continuous operation for the narrow gauge line, before it settles down to its traditional early season pattern of weekend opening.

 

Over the four days of Easter, from Friday 6^th until Monday 9th April, two trains will be in operation, ensuring everyone visiting will have plenty of opportunity to take a steam-hauled ride through the Banwy Valley. Over this period, all children will also receive a free Easter egg.

 

The trains might not have been running over the winter but much work has been carried out. A small but dedicated gang has replaced the track and re-laid the road surface at Cyfronydd, Castle Caereinion and Coppice Lane level crossings, and also re-laid a substantial section of track leading from Coppice Lane towards Sylfaen Station.

 

In the workshop a great deal of winter maintenance has been carried out on the line’s resident fleet of steam locomotives and the carriage stock.

 

In another innovation, younger visitors to the line in 2012 will find a new playground and picnic area awaiting them at Llanfair Caereinion. The equipment was funded by an Awards for All grant.

 

For more information on the railway, including the full timetable, log onto www.wllr.org.uk or call 01938 810441.