Y lein Dyffryn Conwy
June 4th 2005 saw the first visit of a Class 40 to the Conwy Valley line for nearly 20 years. The "Whistling Slater" was run jointly by Pathfinders Tours and the Class 40 Preservation Society. The tour started from Bristol and ran as 1Z51 05.36 Bristol Temple Meads - Blaenau Ffestiniog and was formed of 10 vehicles. After visiting Blaenau the tour continued to Holyhead before returning to Bristol. Unfortunately the weather in Blaenau was atrocious and the tour arrived in a downpour which severely restricted photo opportunities. The loco performed faultlessly all day - a credit to the class 40 group.
Arriving
in Llanrwst North where the service train was crossed
At
the platform of Llanrwst North, note the crossed
plastic
spades above the left bufferbeam!
Storming
through Roman Bridge
About
to pass the old station - formerly Blaenau Ffestiniog North
Running
round in Blaenau, in a cloudburst!
Leaving
Blaenau for Holyhead with a Ffestiniog Railway train on the right.
Next page: Steam to Blaenau Ffestiniog