Over the winter break, the Talyllyn Railway in Tywyn, Mid Wales, have been busy completing tasks whilst the railway is shut.

The narrow gauge railway welcomed back brake-third carriage No. 22 in time for the Santa Specials after a prolonged absence. The carriage has been out of action for almost a complete rebuild.

Over the winter, the Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society reached 4500 members for the first time in its history.

Steam locomotive No. 7 ‘Tom Rolt’ has received a brand new paint job. This was undertaken by one volunteer. The last repaint the locomotive had was completed in 2001, so it was long overdue. The existing colour of bronze-green has been retained, but with other features and lining from its original livery.

Elsewhere, the Talyllyn Railway has been busy laying some new sidings at Tywyn Wharf on the site of the old ballast dock. Undergrowth and tree clearance has been completed between Tywyn and Pendre.

Looking ahead to 21st February and the celebration of locomotive No. 6 ‘Douglas”. A large number of guests have been invited which worked at RAF Calshot for a number of years.

The end of March will see No. 1 ‘Talyllyn’ withdrawn from duty for an overhaul. However, No. 3 ‘Sir Haydn’ will return from overhaul at the Vale of Rheidol Railway

• Visit the Talyllyn Railway website
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