Just a quick glimpse into some of the activity in the carriage works in mid April 2017, before as much as possible is out for the Quirks and Curiosities II event.
In the paint shop is ex Penrhyn Quarry Hunslet (enlarged) Lilla, which has been resident on the Ffestiniog Railway since the Hunslet 100 Gala in 1993. During that time, Lilla has worn various forms of ‘tired’ Penrhyn Quarry Railway livery.
Lilla was originally delivered to Cilgwyn Quarry and used there before the eventual move to Penrhyn. To add to the ‘quirks’ at the forthcoming event, Lilla has been temporarily repainted (and lined out) in Cilgwyn green livery.
This is expected to be short term so come and see it whilst you can.
Amongst other activity in the carriage works is the volunteer-led rebuild of original Ffestiniog Railway van, number 99. This has suffered from many years living outside and, once finished, will live in the new Waggontracks shed.
Other volunteer work progressing is the recreation of bogie carriage 21. This is now looking largely complete, awaiting doors, which can be seen under construction.
A mainstream carriage works task is the newbuild observation carriage 152, to compliment 150 built two years earlier.
Finally, a glimpse in the erecting shop sees the bottom end bogie for Earl of Merioneth nearly ready for reunifying with the loco.
Thanks to Chris Jones for the photos.
