The Whistling Slater Railtour, June 4th 2005
June 4th 2005 saw the first visit of a Class 40, 40145, 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.
40145 arriving at North Llanrwst where the service train was crossed.
At the platform of North Llanrwst, note the plastic spades above the left bufferbeam!
Storming through Roman Bridge.
About to pass the former Blaenau Ffestiniog North station.
Running round in Blaenau, in a cloudburst!
Just the headboards to add before departure.
Leaving Blaenau for Holyhead with a Ffestiniog Railway train on the right.
Next page: Steam to Blaenau Ffestiniog in 1998 and 1999.