Historic trip marks Talyllyn railway's milestone

Talyllyn Railway was built to carry slate, but today it carries holidaymakers and day trippers on the line through the Talyllyn valley in Mid Wales.

The landmark journey carried members of Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society and guests through the scenic route of Tywyn Wharf and Abergynolwyn stations. It included a special stop at Pendre station, one of the original stops at the time.

Guests were also treated to refreshments and a short speech by the railways general manager Tracy Parkinson during Friday's journey.

Society chairman Ian Drummond said: "The railway holds two unique records – it was the first statutory narrow-gauge railway designed for steam operation from the outset and it became, in 1951, the world's first preserved railway."

Official celebrations for the 150th anniversary first began in 2014 when the railway remembered its locomotive No. 1 Talyllyn, originally built in September 1864 by Fletcher, Jennings and Co. Of Whitehaven.

Festivities continued throughout 2015 and 2016 honouring the history of the railway and marking prominent dates, including the opening of the line for the transportation of slate and the passing of the Talyllyn Railway Act in 1865.

Mr Drummond said: "The 150th anniversary events have been a great success for the railway, and in many cases have broken new ground in terms of what we can achieve."

The railway is run by a team of volunteers from the society who are passionate about its heritage and organise various activities throughout the year.

The latest was a 100-person strong carol service that took place from Abergynolwyn station.

Seasonal journeys have taken place throughout the month including Santa specials.

These will run tomorrow and Saturday at 11am and 1.30pm.

Pre-booking is advised, and can be completed online or by post by visiting www.talyllyn.co.uk/santa