The only narrow gauge public railway in West Wales clocks up 20 years of operation this summer, and intends to celebrate in style with a Gala Weekend.
The Teifi Valley Railway’s event, at its Henllan headquarters near Newcastle Emlyn, will be held over the weekend of 19th & 20th July and will feature an intensive train service. The railway’s 0-6-2T engine Sgt. Murphy, recently returned to steam after extensive boiler repairs will be joined by visiting 0-4-0 vertical boiler tank Taffy, owned by Allan Keef of Ross on Wye, while resident Simplex diesel Sammy will also be hard at work.
Volunteers at Henllan have been kept very busy in recent times rebuilding the line’s passenger rolling stock, most of which was severely damaged in a disastrous fire 18 months ago. Most of the stock is now back in use and will either feature in the frequent service of passenger and goods trains, or be on display.
Various trade and Society stands have been invited to attend the Gala, while a further attraction will be the newly-reopened 71/4-inch gauge line, which will be in regular operation throughout the weekend with visiting locomotives invited to join the celebrations.
For more details on the Gala call Henllan station on 01559 371 077, or check out the line’s website, www.teifivalleyrailway.co.uk which includes full information on the event and a complete timetable.
