Two views of The Cymdeithas Teithwyr Heart of Wales Line Rheilffordd Canol Travellers’ Heart of Wales Cymru Association Explorer HoWLTA NEWSLETTER Autumn 2015

A little bit of history was made on 26 August 2015 The photo, taken on 26 August 2015 depicts Number 134 when DBS 66187 hauled the first train of HTAs 66187 heading 6G05, the 0833 from Margam PRICE (bogie hopper wagons) to Gwaun cae Gurwen Yard, leaving the Heart of Wales Line at (GCG) to load coal destined for Aberthaw Power Pantyffynnon and onto the GCG branch where it £1.50 Station. The normal coal flow from GCG is in will soon be facing the steeply graded line Free to Members MEA box wagons to Onllwyn, where it is blended including one section of 1 in 40 at Garnant. before onward transit to Aberthaw Power Station. [Photo © Stephen Miles] The `Heart of Wales Meanderer`, headed by diesels 37612 and 37611, tackling the Sugar Loaf on 21st April 2014. [Photo © Stephen Miles]

Loughor Viaduct [Photo © Stephen Miles]

Along the Line ...... 7 In This Issue... HoWL Forum Update... 10 150 Years from Knighton to Unusual Places for a Day Llandrindod ...... 3 Out No.1 ...... 16 Memories of George Membership Matters! ... 17 Scarfe...... 4 New Chairman’s Letter... 18

28 Printed by PostDatum, Llandovery From the Editor’s Desktop Clippings Many readers will, benefit from more volunteers - particularly to like me I suspect, be fill the still-vacant posts of Secretary and relieved to know Minutes Secretary). Please Note that HoWLTA Of necessity this issue is largely devoted to The views expressed in this Newsletter are not seems to have domestic matters - the AGM Minutes, reports necessarily those of the HoWLTA committee. weathered the from several individual stations, news of the emergency that important work of the HoWLF, our new arose during the summer with the imminent Chairman’s first letter and, several items HoWLTA Subscription Rates loss of several officers and committee referring to one of our longest standing Individual membership ... £8 Overseas membership ... £15 members. As you can read elsewhere in this members, the late George Scarfe. Family membership ... £10 Corporate membership ... £12 issue our members rallied at the AGM and But there’s still room for drawing attention The above rates apply from 1st March 2015. Renewal date is 1st March each year. since, and we are now well on the way to to some of the joys of our line. Something 50% discount if joining after 1st September having a full committee again (although, also that I am sure George would share. as you will read elsewhere, we could still Peter Berry HoWLTA NEWSLETTER Advertising Rates (Black & white adverts only - colour rates on request) HoWLTA Annual Draw FRONT COVER One issue 1 year (4 issues) Thank you to everybody who entered the draw HALF PAGE (128mm x 90mm) ...... £80 £200 which is an important generator of income for QUARTER PAGE (61mm x 90mm) ...... £45 £120 PICTURE# HoWLTA. More than 1,400 tickets were EIGHTH PAGE (61mm x 43mm) ...... £25 £70 bought and the lucky winners are: Taken at low tide on 27th June SIXTEENTH PAGE (61mm x 22mm) ...... £15 £40 £100 No.2396 Mrs Emma Carmichael, Llandrindod 2015 the photograph shows a £75 No.533 Mr. P. Sutton, Llanwrtyd Class 150/2 unit forming the HoWLTA NEWSLETTER Copy Dates £50 No.732 D.S. & C.A. Gwynne, 0900 (SO) Shrewsbury to Rhandirmwyn Winter 2016 (pub. mid-February Copy by 25th January 2016 £25 No.3316 Anne Smith, Llanelli Central service (via the Heart of Spring 2016 (pub. mid-May) Copy by 25th April 2016 £25 No.2984 Mr. C. Lloyd, London E2 Wales Line) as it crosses the Summer 2016 (pub. mid-August) Copy by 25th July 2016 £15 No.255 Mr. J.L. Davies, Deal, Kent Loughor viaduct between Llanelli Autumn 2016 (pub. mid-November) Copy by 24th October 2016 £15 No.1742 Miss J. Price, Knighton £10 No.14 Mr. William Francis, and . Llandrindod [Photo (c) Stephen Miles] CONFIDENTIALITY OF PERSONAL INFORMATION ON MEMBERS £10 No.2365I. Greaves, Bucknell HoWLTA uses the personal information that members provide to us for internal administration purposes including £10 No.478 Mr. David Collett, Studley, maintenance of a membership database, sending out the HoWLTA Newsletter through the postal system and to Warks notify details of any other relevant HoWLTA activities. No information is, or ever will be, passed to any person or organisation outside of HoWLTA without your personal and specific permission. HoWLTA CONTACT DETAILS If you wish to place any additional restrictions on the use of your personal information, please contact the The address for general correspondence and all HoWLTA membership matters is Membership Secretary. HoWLTA, c/o Llandovery Station, Llandovery SA20 0BG Letters relating to the HoWLTA Newsletter should either be posted to Important Notice HoWLTA members are reminded that under no circumstances should they write or The Editor, Twin Oaks, Castle Close, Llangadog SA19 9AH speak on behalf of HoWLTA unless they have specific authorisation from the or emailed to [email protected] committee to do so. Any deviation from this ruling will be acted on immediately, as it is important that all matters which carry the HoWLTA tag should have the approval Contact details for other officers and committee members are given on p. 17 of the committee.

2 HoWLTA Newsletter HoWLTA Newsletter 27 Line Representatives & Station Adopters 150 Years from Knighton to Llandrindod Shrewsbury John Creswell On October 10th, the Mayors of Llandrindod place is the Heart of Wales as it winds its Church Stretton Church Stretton Rail User Group Craven Arms Richard Watkins and Knighton opened the curtains on a way through cuttings and along embankments Broome Alan Belcher plaque commemorating the 150th into the borderlands of the Mynd Hills and Hopton Heath Paula Tucker Anniversary of the Central Wales Railway Shropshire. Bucknell Beryl Starr; Bucknell WI; Ray Davies reaching Llandrindod. The band played, the See you on the train! Gill Wright Knighton Shauna Davies & Platform Pals crowd gathered, the Town Criers from both Knucklas Steve Crump; Jim Penser Towns shouted and Queen Victoria came out Llangynllo Anne Deakins; George Scarfe (unofficial adopters) of retirement to celebrate. It was a fitting Llanbister Road John & Lynda Morris tribute to our old friend, George Scarfe, whose Dolau Steve Vipond; Dolau Action Group meticulous attention to detail which made Penybont Sue & Tony Cooke Llandrindod Llandrindod Wells (Cefnllys) CP School possible the task of taking over from him Builth Road Sara Poulson when he became too ill to carry on, and his Cilmeri Ann & Stephen Frodsham many friends who wanted to give something Garth Joasephine Lewis; Janet Williams back, turned a quiet celebration into a special Llangammarch Ron Birchell; Llangammarch Community Council occasion. Llanwrtyd Wells John Price; Ainsley Jones; Station Action Group It gave me an insight into what needs to be Sugar Loaf Peter & Margaret Joyce Cynghordy Gill Wright done to make things like this work. It takes ^ The plaque unveiled to record the 150th Llandovery Llandovery Town Council; Friends of Llandovery Station time and effort so now must begin the work Anniversary. [Photo Brian Dotson] Llanwrda Richard Rees; Hywel Jones for the big one in 2018 when it will be 150 © Llangadog Dennis Harrison; Marion Lomax years from the time the whole line came Llandeilo Ros Bellamy together at Llandovery. There will of course Ffairfach David Rimmer be one big event but the idea is to have things Llandybie Gwyn Irving going on throughout the year at all the v A much reduced reproduction of the Ammanford Ammanford Lions stations to make it really local to the poster used to publicise the 150th Pantyffynnon Mike Smith, Amman Valley Railway communities that the Line serves and to do Anniversary. [Artwork © P Reynolds] Pontarddulais Pontardulais Partnership Llangennech Llangennech Community Council; David Edwards this I will need your Bynea Friends of Bynea Station, Deryk Cundy help. Bring me your Llanelli Friends of Llanelli Station ideas; help me to Gowerton vacancy engage with all the Swansea Felicity Cobley towns and villages and most import- antly the people who make your Useful Telephone Numbers / Web Sites communities tick. Llandrindod Station Ticket Office (Kelsham Hanna) ...... 01597-822053 National Rail Enquiries ...... 08457-484950 At the same time (Customer Services) ...... 08456-061660 the new franchise HoWLTA web site...... www.howlta.org.uk will be nearly due – HoWL Forum web site ...... www.heart-of-wales.co.uk a n o t h e r British Transport Police (24 hours National Freephone No.) ... 0800-405040 opportunity to National Helpline...... 08457-114141 show the world what a wonderful

26 HoWLTA Newsletter HoWLTA Newsletter 3 MEMORIES OF GEORGE SCARFE News from the Association As many of you will be aware, George stations helped to co-ordinate station Membership Matters 2016 Annual General Meeting passed away on September 22th. A adoption groups at the northern end of the 200 Club : HoWLTA’s Monthly Draw The next AGM will start at 11.30am on memorial service was held at Holy Trinity line. He had very high standards, which we Saturday, 17th September 2016 at the The latest winners of the monthly draw are: Church, Llandrindod, on October 17th, must do our best to maintain, not least as a Victoria Hall, Llanwrtyd Wells. attended by at least 250 people, many of tribute to him. August 2015 £20 R G Davies, Bucknell Non-Committee Members them being HoWLTA members. George re-joined the HoWLTA Committee £15 C B James, Swansea All members are entitled to attend the AGM George got to know the Central Wales Line in 2014 with the express purpose of £10 R Lloyd, Swansea of course. Non-committee members are also £10 P Adams, Ludlow (as it was then always known) in the 1950s, organising celebrations to mark the 150th most welcome to attend ordinary quarterly £10 P Lodwick, Lampeter largely due to staying with relations at anniversary of the official opening of the or intermediate committee meetings, but are September 2015 Lloyney, near Knucklas. He moved to Central Wales Railway between Knighton £20 B Glenister, Chesham advised to confirm time, date and venue with Llandrindod in 1978, and when HoWLTA and Llandrindod. The photo exhibition and £15 K Lloyd, the Vice-Chairman, Mike Watson on was formed in 1981 he soon became a film show in Llandrindod on August 29th £10 D Pembridge, Telford alunwatson.hotmail.com beforehand. member. He joined the Committee in 1983 was his brainchild, as was the unveiling of a £10 R Palmer, Llandod plaque at Llandrindod station on October £10 D Davies, Ammanford Newsletter Stuffing Session and was part of the membership team from October 2015 1983 to 1989. 10th, the exact anniversary of the opening The next stuffing session (for Newsletter £20 R Deegan, Lancaster #135) will be at Llandovery Station on Thurs- In 1983 George’s interest in practical of the line. Aeron Hughes and his helpers, £15 R J Kerby, Woking £10 A D Thomas, Ammanford day, 11th February 2016. This will start support for railway activities led him to Gill Wright and Geraint Morgan of ATW were instrumental in carrying out George’s £10 Mrs Ledgard, Ffairfach at 11am to suit the arrival time from Swan- volunteer to look after Dolau station, and £10 A M Richards, Garth sea (but will be a bit early for the train from wishes. the famed Dolau Station Action Group was Congratulations to our latest winners! Shrewsbury). George was a quiet, unassuming man who All 200 Club and membership subscriptions were due formed. George became co-ordinator of the for renewal on 1st March 2015. Have you renewed Your help would be appreciated if you can group, a position from which he stepped was loved and respected by many different or joined us? Just £5 per number, buy as many as you spare a couple of hours. We’ve had a good down a mere 30 years later, having led the groups of people: his railway enthusiast wish! turnout recently, and it’s become a great volunteers to numerous awards for their friends, the railwaymen at all levels with Nigel Bird, Membership Secretary. chance for a chat! whom he came into contact, the church gardening and station maintenance If you can help please email the editor on community in Llandrindod, his former work 2015/16 Committee Meetings activities. It was typical of his self-effacing [email protected] . nature that George wished to be known as colleagues and neighbours. In his final days, These will continue to be held just before co-ordinator rather than chairman – he was he was anxious not to make a fuss or to be publication of the HoWLTA Newsletter each Note from the Treasurer quarter. Intermediate meetings (IM), usually at interested only in results, not power in any a burden to others: but he had helped so Please ensure that all monies for raffle ticket 6 weekly intervals, will be held as required. of its forms. many people over the years that everybody sales, donations, etc are sent to the Treasurer, Meetings will normally be held at Llanwrtyd As if that wasn’t enough, during the 1980s now wanted to help and support him. We and any membership matters, for example, Wells Station, timed to fit train times (usually change of address or resignation, which do George played a major part in organising will miss him greatly. Mike Watson starting at 11.15am , and ending at 3pm). not involve money, should be directed to the the on-train buffet service which HoWLTA Saturday, 9th January 2016 (QtlyM) Editor : I wanted to include a suitable photo of Membership Secretary. provided at that time, mainly on Saturdays. Saturday, 5th March 2016 (IM) * George to go with these tributes.The front cover He was determined to make the line as of an earlier Newsletter (#82) seems apt, Saturday, 16th April 2016(QtlyM) attractive as possible in order to attract showing George meeting HRH The Queen and Saturday, 28th May 2016 (IM) * Please remember our address potential passengers. the Duke of Edinburgh at Dolau. The more Saturday, 9th July 2016 (QtlyM) for correspondence : Even when he stepped down from his co- recent beautiful colour photos of Dolau Station Saturday, 3rd September 2016 (IM) * HoWLTA, c/o Llandovery Station, Saturday, 15th October 2016 (QtlyM) ordinator role at Dolau, George continued taken by Mike Evans are also approprate (see Llandovery SA20 0BG to volunteer at Pen-y-bont and Llangynllo pp. 14-15). * Dates to be confirmed.

4 HoWLTA Newsletter HoWLTA Newsletter 25 HOWLTA INCOME AND EXPENDITURE ACCOUNT FOR THE PERIOD 1ST JULY 2014 TO 28TH FEBRUARY 2015 Year ended 30/6/2014 INCOME 3637.50 Subscriptions 953.50 1855.00 200 Club 428.00 1838.00 Raffle 1460.00 2114.20 Donations 480.50 941.30 Sale of goods 233.30 325.00 Railcards 60.00 158.02 Royalties 45.52 1455.00 HOWL Forum 0.00 165.00 Advertisements 0.00 0.00 Old cheques written back 103.77 0.00 HOWTA 1626.67 0.00 Newsletter 233.97 12489.02 5625.23 Less: EXPENDITURE 5351.42 Newsletter Inc envelopes and postage 3828.90 990.00 200 club 690.23 449.00 Raffle 481.00 92.00 Fees, subs 0.00 436.69 Insurance 0.00 100.00 Railcards 55.00 279.97 Walks booklets 0.00 3500.00 HOWL Forum 0.00 1350.00 Surveys 0.00 40.00 Lottery licence 0.00 425.80 Timetables and business cards 45.00 6.30 Travel 0.00 245.00 Grants to stations 19.94 118.65 AGM 0.00 1000.00 HOWLDC donation 0.00 57.35 Miscellaneous 0.00 0.00 General postage 200.65 0.00 Station audit forms 10.88 0.00 AGM Costs 12.00 14442.18 5343.60 -1953.16 EXCESS OF INCOME OVER EXPENDITURE 281.63

HOWLTA BALANCE SHEET AS AT 28TH FEBRUARY 2015

30/6/2014 CURRENT ASSETS 38000.00 Investments 33000.00 1677.48 Bank Account 11601.24 39677.48 Less: CURRENT LIABILITIES 0 Receipts in Advance 4377.53 0 Creditor 264.60 4642.13 39677.48 39959.11 Represented By: 41630.64 Brought forward 39677.48 -1953.16 Excess of Income over Expenditure 281.63 39677.48 39959.11

Checked and reviewed K J Morris, 24/6/15

24 HoWLTA Newsletter HoWLTA Newsletter 5 Regular reports from station representatives/ (2) Lord Bourne of Aberystwyth has had to stand adopters, even if only annually, would also be very down as a Vice-President as he has become a 150th Anniversary Celebrations welcome. Adoption of the report was proposed by Minister in the Wales Office visitors to the area who come and Gill Wright, seconded by Richard Watkins and Civic dignitaries lead explore our magnificent scenery while (3) Altaf Hussain AM and Carolyn Harris MP did carried unanimously not reply to our invitations to them: the Committee railway’s 150th the train is also important for commuters 10. Appointment of President and Vice- will approach them again as soon as possible.] anniversary celebrations and students.” Presidents 11. Election of Committee for 2015-16 The Committee gave notice that, in accordance The meeting expressed its thanks to Nigel Bird, Last weekend (10th October) saw the with its powers under section 5(f)(2) of the Len Elliott, Gwyn Irving, Kevin Knell, George 150th anniversary of the opening of the Constitution, it had appointed the following to serve Scarfe, who had had to stand down from the Central Wales Railway between from today’s meeting until the 2016 AGM: Committee for a variety of reasons, for their work Knighton and Llandrindod. on behalf of the Association The following valid nominations for 2015-16 had Opened in 1865, the line covers 19 miles been received and those concerned were declared through the uplands of north Powys and elected, on the proposal of Catherine Berry, includes the stations of Knighton, seconded by Christopher Price and carried Knucklas, Llangynllo, Llanbister Road, unanimously: Dolau, Pen-y-Bont and Llandrindod. Chairman: Brian Dotson;Vice-Chairman: Mike Watson; Treasurer: Andrew Cook; Publicity Co- The Mayor of Knighton, Councillor Chris Civic parties after unveiling of commemorative plaque, ordinator: David Edwards; Newsletter Editor: Peter Branford travelled by train where she was including the town criers, Jan Swindale and Derrick Berry; Committee members: Ray Davies, Chris welcomed at Llandrindod by the Town’s Price; the Mayor of Knighton, Chris Bamford and the Horrocks, Rex Lloyd, Roger Price and Gill Wright. Mayor, Councillor Chris Rouse. Mayor of Llandrindod, Chris Rouse. On the far right is Mike Watson pointed out that that left Committee Gill Wright of HoWLTA and next to her is Queen vacancies for Secretary, and Membership Secretary, Victoria (aka Sue Spoonley) [Photos © Brian Dotson] and that we also definitely needed a Minutes Secretary, an Assistant Membership Secretary and Gill Wright, committee member from the Assistant Treasurer, as well as a variety of other Heart of Wales Line Travellers’ volunteers for various tasks. He said that following Association said; “It’s been wonderful to the recent appeal letter to members, Rob Hulme see so many people come along to had offered his services as Membership Secretary and that a further ten members had said they would celebrate the anniversary, which helps HoWLTA President Prof Stuart Cole help if needed. It was planned that after the next raise public awareness of the line. On a [Photo © Peter Berry] Committee meeting, these people would be personal note, I’m pleased to have been President: Prof Stuart Cole contacted with a list of specific roles remaining to involved in helping deliver today’s Vice-Presidents: Lord Berkeley of Knighton, Peter be filled Black AM, MP, Geraint Davies MP, 12. Election of Auditor successful event, which had originally AM, Suzy Davies AM, Philip Dunne A commemorative plaque was unveiled The meeting noted that the accounts presented today been planned by our colleague George MP, Jonathan Edwards MP, Nia Griffith MP, Mike at the station while the Llandrindod had been audited by Mr K J Morris and that he was Scarfe, who sadly passed away recently.” Hedges AM, AM, Bethan Jenkins AM, willing to perform this task again in the current Town Band entertained guests and Daniel Kawczynski MP, William Powell AM, Rhodri financial year. There being no other candidates from passengers on the platform. Further events are planned in 2018 when Glyn Thomas AM, Simon Jenkins AM, Joyce the Heart of Wales Line, which runs the floor, Mr Morris was elected, on the proposal of Speaking at the station, Councillor Rouse Watson AM and AM between Llanelli and Craven Arms, will Rob Christie, seconded by Gill Wright and carried said; “The railway has always played a [NB: (1) Chris Davies MP accepted our invitation unanimously celebrate 150 years since completion in to be a Vice-President after the AGM and so has key role in the history of Llandrindod and 13. Discussion of motions notified in its entirety Geraint Morgan been added to the above list it’s important to recognise this historic advance by members: none had been received milestone. Each year we welcome many Community Affairs Manager, ATW 14. Open Forum: no items 15. Any Other Business: no items 6 HoWLTA Newsletter HoWLTA Newsletter 23 > the need to work with the business community to based fund, whereas at some unspecified date it develop the line for the economic benefit of the apparently became an investment into a single areas which it serves property company based in South Africa. The Along the Line.... > that it is essential that full electrification reaches Committee is adamant that it has never been given Llangadog hedging---pretty colourful trees-----hardy Swansea, and not stop short at Cardiff or elsewhere, a written or verbal explanation for this change, still trees and trees for wetlands etc. So, if less that its approval was ever sought. Because of Our adopters team of three is now an such that the new bi-modal IEP trains run under you need trees have a look at the diesel power for the remainder of the journey this we feel that members’ funds are at a significantly adopters team of two as Eileen has increased risk and so have been trying to get the Woodland Trust website. Sadly, their 8. Constitutional amendments departed for pastures new in Bristol. entire remaining balance returned, to be placed in offer does not include Copper Beech. The Committee proposed the following a standard building society account (as was the case However, we shall endure and march amendments to the Constitution and Rules of the before the investment was made) ever onward as we have always done in Dennis Harrison, Marion Lomax Association: 4. A member asked how the Association could the past. And, marching forward this Section 5: continue, given that £32k of its funds are tied up in autumn we have our new hedge to be Knucklas > Amend (c) to (c) (1) South Africa: it was stated that we have had to cut planted in November. This will be a Folk Down the Track has been going now > Add new clause (c) (2): “elected and co-opted expenditure to a minimum, but that we have enough Green Beech hedge (we cannot afford for 5 years. Every third Thursday of the members of the Committee, but not the President income from subscriptions, the 200 Club and donations to cope with normal running costs. the high cost of Copper beech ) of about month there is Folk Music played in the or Vice-Presidents, must be fully paid-up members bar at the Castle Inn, Knucklas - it is an of the Association” However, a consequence has been that we have 20 metres to screen Arriva's awful been unable to afford more than £500 towards concrete and wire fence bordering the open session so anyone can sing or play. Mike Watson explained that the purpose was to publicity for the new Mondays to Fridays timetable close a loophole which had come to light during platform edge. This will partly screen the We always start just after 7pm so train the year. There were no questions or comments, 5. Adoption of the report and accounts was then side yard of Station House which has travelers can come and join us. and adoption was proposed by Tim Record, proposed by Tom Taylor, seconded by Nicola been used for commercial purposes in In February, April, June, August, Coulson and carried, with one abstention seconded by Tom Taylor and agreed unanimously the past. Also, and conversely of course October and December we also have a 9.2 Membership Secretary 9. Officers’ reports it will screen the platform from Station band playing in the function room and 9.1 Treasurer In the unavoidable absence of Nigel Bird, Mike Watson read his report to the meeting. As at House property. We have high hopes. these evenings are advertised as Folk 1. In the unavoidable absence of the Treasurer (Ray September 7th, there were 805 members (with Down the Track. Trend), copies of his report were distributed, Our bushes and flowers in their wooden corporate members counted as one, rather than as I tend to send out the reminders to all together with the audited income and expenditure ten as in the past, and joint memberships counted boxes are looking very presentable and account covering the period July 1st 2014 to our supporters only a few days as two). There were also 363 members of the “200 we have had the good fortune to receive February 28th 2015 (the latter taking account of beforehand and this seems to work well. Club”. Adoption of the report was proposed by a small supply of Tanalised timber---- the decision at last year’s AGM to change the end If you have any questions please ring Rob Christie, seconded by Brian Maund and carried enough to complete yet another standard date of the Association’s financial year) 01547-528223 unanimously box. Eileen donated another bush for it 2. A member asked about the difference between 9.3 Newsletter Editor Siggy Haynes the £40k figure for the investment in the report before her departure and we hope to compared to the income and expenditure account The Editor, Peter Berry, said that four quarterly have it installed before September is out. editions of the newsletter had been published, as figures of £38k for 30/06/14 and £33k for 28/ Our line of bush boxes grows ever longer If your club or organisation would 02/15. It was explained that this was because of usual. The next copy date was to be October 26th. transfers made at our request from the investment The number of copies produced was declining, and we may well write to Arriva asking if like to enjoy a talk/slide show account to the current account since July 2012, to largely due to the decline in the number of members, they can extend our platform by a few about the cover day to day running costs particularly due to removal of non-payers from the metres to accommodate them all. list: Peter felt that it was very important that we Heart of Wales Line, then call 3. A member who had not been present at the should try to reverse this trend. As far as content of Finally ---- a message all other Adopters. Tony Birdwood 2014 AGM asked why the investment had been the newsletter is concerned, he would like to publish made in the first place. It was stated that this was We have just received an email from the on 01550 777344 or 07852 115390 a series of “along the line” articles, particularly Woodland Trust offering bundles of trees or email done in order to try to improve on the interest because he receives little copy specific to the received on members’ funds, but that the original northern and southern extremities of the route. for a variety of different objectives--- [email protected] investment was made into a diversified, mainly UK- member of the Heart of Wales Line Travellers’ Association

22 HoWLTA Newsletter HoWLTA Newsletter 7 Penybont We are now beginning on the next for use on the HWL and elsewhere. Michael > some safety-related work and further proposals at portion of the border and are just Vaughan said that this was a matter for the Welsh a few of the level crossings on the route We are passionate about Penybont Government to decide. A bigger issue in his view finishing a bed in the car park which is 2. Members noted that the report did not refer to Station. There used to be six of us - was the need for an overall rolling stock strategy by the issues which, according to ATW (see above), George, Bill and Rex who came over to be planted with daffodils and lady's the WG/ Dept for Transport, given that in 2020 are NR’s responsibility and have caused about two- from Dolau to join us at the station about mantle for a low maintenance eye most of ATW’s fleet would be obsolete in terms of thirds of the operational problems on the line new DDA regulations 2½ years ago. Unfortunately we have catching corner. 6. Report by the Heart of Wales Line Polly and I had a great surprise in mid- > why the first northbound train through Bucknell Forum Joint Line Development Officers lost three stalwart companions within on Mondays to Fridays was now much earlier and September when a film crew with Paul 1. Copies of their report were circulated by David the last year, two have died and the third so less convenient for (for example) school students: Edwards and Gill Wright. It referred to: has health problems. We are now down Merton turned up at the station. it was stated that the timetable had been accepted to three, these being Polly, Margaret and Curiosity overcame us and we took some by the WG on the basis that it was the best that > publicity for the new Mondays to Fridays timetable, including a new “Five Great Days Out” leaflet Carole. distant photos while they were filming could be achieved by re-organising the use made of a finite number of trains > the Heart of Wales Line Enterprise Network We have made great strides with areas on Platform 1. Then they asked us if we would like to chat to Paul Merton. This > whether connections at Craven Arms could be project, especially the on-going work to provide a after 30 years of neglect. The 'boys' community hub at Llandeilo station we did and within about 10 minutes he improved, especially on Sundays: ATW replied that uncovered the disused platform which the timetable was market-driven > meeting NR to discuss what might be done to motioned the approaching train to stop, was covered in grass and restored four > how passengers could have greater influence over speed up journeys on the line original flower beds WG and ATW, in particular by seeking membership > representing the Forum (and therefore HOWLTA, which have now been of ATW’s Passenger Forum: it was stated that the which is a funding member thereof) at a large method of choosing the members of the Forum number of meetings relating to promotion of the planted. was under review line and to the future of Community Rail Last Autumn a retired > whether connections between buses and trains at Partnerships, including the Forum, in the next Wales Forestry Commission Llandrindod could be improved: while it was agreed & Borders rail franchise friend of George came that improvement was desirable, the bus services > supporting ATW by acting as a “minder” at media and chain-sawed the 12 subsidised by Powys CC were themselves under events relating to the line foot hedge on Platform 1 review due to financial constraints > promotion of the line via the Forum and HOWLTA 5. Report by a representative of Network websites, and on social media to a manageable height. Rail We now have a lovely 2. There were no questions or comments from 1. Ian Messner of NR had sent his apologies, but members arising from the report view of the fields and had supplied a report on NR issues relevant to the 7. President’s Address woodland beyond. This line, copies of which were distributed by David platform is really like a Edwards (HoWLTA Publicity Co-ordinator), who Prof Stuart Cole referred in his address to a range then took members through the contents. These of matters, including: long flower border. Last year George Dedication of seat to Bill Smith at Penybont. The included: > the inadequacies of the Welsh language version and we three 'girls' worked on a 50 foot ladies are the gardeners. > the lack of progress on wider use of the fibre- of the customer information system at stations long ivy covered bed with snowberry. optic cable which exists along the route of the line, > that additional rolling stock was unlikely to be Margaret laying unearthed rocks for the as he was catching the train to Knucklas. because of negotiations taking place at GB level available to the Wales & Borders franchise for at back of the border by the hedge and This episode was part of a documentary > the pilot scheme near to Cynghordy viaduct to least four years George with crowbar and pick axe series about Request Stops across remove lineside vegetation to improve views for > the need for improvements to the revised Mondays digging out the aforementioned culprits. Britain's Railways. So Penybont will be passengers to Fridays timetable Polly and I did the digging and planting. famous! > plans for a community hub on NR land at Llandeilo > problems at (for example) Swansea Loop East Junction, where the layout was too restricted to The soil was good and the plants have Any volunteers keen to join us?! >gradual progress with the restoration of Pantyffynnon station building to its original allow optimum timetabling of connections with main flourished with a colourful array of Carole Taylor condition line services flowers.

8 HoWLTA Newsletter HoWLTA Newsletter 21 HEART OF WALES LINE TRAVELLERS ASSOCIATION Builth Wells Draft Minutes of the 34th Annual General Meeting Arriva provided a The Victoria Hall, Llanwrtyd Wells relief service at Saturday September 19th 2015 Builth Road - in the 1.Introductions and welcome: as the > PPM (performance) statistics – on its network, form of a high Chairman, Kevin Knell, was unable to be present ATW had achieved PPM figures placing it fifth out quality loo for use due to family illness, Mike Watson (Vice-Chairman) of 26 train operating companies. On the HWL, by visitors to the chaired the meeting. He welcomed members and over 10 reporting periods an average PPM of about Royal Welsh stated that, although the Mayor of Llanwrtyd Wells 90% had been achieved. Roughly 66% of operational had been invited to be present, he was not and had problems were the responsibility of Network Rail Show. not sent an apology and the remainder of ATW. He acknowledged that This was favour- on a line like the HWL with long gaps between ably commented trains, nothing less than 100% performance was on by passengers - acceptable [Photo © David Edwards] thanks Arriva! David Edwards > the new Mondays to Fridays timetable, which yet in use (hence the barrier in the left Ben felt makes Llandovery to Swansea and foreground), raised platforms at the Llandrindod to Shrewsbury commutable: this market should be developed. Some limited Llangennerch north end of the station. There is a new tweaking of the timetable was planned in December On 6th May 2015, the 0900 Shrewsbury yellow fence to protect passengers from to reduce some of the lengthy waits at passing loops – Cardiff Central formed by 150264 the drop at the rear as the raised section > the Welsh language version of the customer slows for the Llangennech stop and does not cover the full width of the information screens at stations needing passes the new, but, at that time, not existing platform. Stephen Miles improvement, but this was subject to money being found [L to R] Publicity Co-ordinator David Edwards; Vice- Chairman Mike Watson; President Stuart Cole; and > some halts having received humps on their Committee Member Rex Lloyd. [Photo © Peter Berry] platforms to improve accessibility, and that it was 2. Apologies for absence: were received from hoped to take the programme further, again subject Alan Belcher, Peter Black AM, Inez Bond, Angela to funding being available Bridges, Byron Davies MP, Brian Dotson, Philip > funds for an additional shelter on the northbound Dunne MP, Jonathan Edwards MP, Len Elliott, Tim platform at Llandrindod and replacement shelters Haines, Jan Herraty, Chris Horrocks, Julie James at Llangennech having been provided by the Welsh AM, Margaret Joyce, Peter Joyce, Daniel Government, but the shelters had yet to be erected Kawczynski MP, Kevin Knell, Roy Palmer, William > the return of the senior citizens’ free travel Powell AM, George Scarfe, Ray Trend, John concession from October 1st to March 31st, funded Turney, AM and Kirsty Williams AM by the . Ben said that ATW was 3. Adoption of the minutes of the 33rd unable to provide additional coaches to take account AGM, held at Llanwrtyd Wells on Saturday of this, particularly during the period of the Rugby September 20th 2014: adoption of the World Cup minutes was proposed by Catherine Berry, 2. Questions and comments from members seconded by Rob Christie and agreed unanimously concerning this report included: 4. Report by a representative of Arriva > whether the withdrawn London Transport D78 Trains Wales trains being refurbished by Viva Rail could be used 1. Ben Davies and Michael Vaughan represented on short routes in Wales such as Wrexham to ATW. Ben’s report included reference to: Bidston, thereby releasing some conventional units [Photo © Stephen Miles]

20 HoWLTA Newsletter HoWLTA Newsletter 9 Swansea to Crewe. The latter may well of the Forum as a link body between HoWL Forum update be a good choice for northbound local government and its representatives, journeys as a way of avoiding the Welsh Government and various People, organisational matters, money, and more overcrowding on the 09.33 ex-Swansea, railway organisations associated with People. have also just signed him up as their especially as it might allow you to return the line. More recently he has garnered Our Chairman for many years has been Cllr Community Rail specialist so we look on the 14.05 from Shrewsbury, thereby resources against the difficult times Mansel Williams: sadly, he has been unwell forward to ideas and support from him (and possibly avoiding overcrowding on the being faced by these bodies, in order to for some time. He has now resigned both them!). 1825 publicise our railway line. We are as a Shropshire County Councillor and our Finally, we were saddened by the recent At the time of writing this piece I am extremely grateful for all his work over Chairman. We send sincere thanks for his passing of George Scarfe, and impressed aware of a number of issues concerning many years and wish him a long and unstinting support over the years, and wish by the wonderful turnout for his memorial the reliability of the service. These fulfilling retirement. him and his family well. Our new Chairman service in Llandrindod. Truly, he, and his problems have caused much frustration Although it is only October as I write is Cllr Paul Lloyd of Swansea, and we are quiet but effective work will be missed. and annoyance to passengers and your this piece there will not be another grateful for his support. The new timetable Committee. On a line like ours its very newsletter until the New Year, so may I Many of you will know of Phil Jackson, who We’ve not yet had official statistics about nature causes problems when things go take this opportunity to send Christmas has acted as our key Powys CC contact ever passenger numbers since May. A recent wrong. However the responses from greetings to all members and their since the Forum was set up. Phil has just mini- survey, mainly of HoWLTA members, the various rail bodies to these difficulties families for the approaching season. taken early retirement after 38 years with showed that there has been a broadly have been less than acceptable at times Brian Dotson, Chairman Powys: we thank him for his help and don’t positive reaction to it. Of the survey and the Association is working hard to know how Powys will manage without him! respondents, which numbered over 100, bring about better outcomes when Marc Lewis will take over as our link: an 55% said they thought it was an problems arise. Please make sure that important role especially as all Forum improvement, 33% said no, and 12% saw if you do experience significant delays finances are channelled via Powys CC. Phil’s both advantages and disadvantages. We and/or cancellation of your train, you departure is symptomatic of the cutbacks plan further survey work and have already being experienced in all of the Forum’s make your travel difficulties known to provided ATW with suggestions for Local Authority members – more about this ATW and send a copy of your complaint improvements. below. to HoWLTA. The Committee The Enterprise Network appreciates that this can be a time We’ve added to our stock of Professors: consuming task but the more you make Prof Paul Salveson, founder of the UK Recent weeks have seen a good deal of wide Association of Community Rail work on getting approval for the siting of ATW and your Committee aware of your Partnerships, has bought a house at our new community ‘hub’ building at travel difficulties, the more we can do to Knighton and intends to share his time Llandeilo. Network Rail and try to improve the service on the line between there and Slaithwaite, his existing Carmarthenshire CC are both behind the and avoid these problems. home. He’s already very involved with our project, but each of them has processes and Finally, another long standing supporter developing Enterprise Network. Arriva plc procedures to follow to grant approval. It’s of our line has taken the retirement path. painfully slow but we’re getitng there. I I am referring to Phil Jackson of Powys RAILWAY BOOKS won’t tempt Providence by estimating County Council. For many years Phil when the building will open, but we want it (Bought & Sold) has dealt with the finances of the Heart to be soon….. Over 4000 listed on my website of Wales Line Forum. During this time www.nigelbirdbooks.co.uk A successful community engagement he has greatly assisted the development telephone 01974 821281 meeting was held in Llandeilo at which both

10 HoWLTA Newsletter HoWLTA Newsletter 19 HoWLEN and the ‘hub’ were discussed. This was just one of the issues discussed New Chairman’s Letter – October 2015 Many ideas and offers of help were when representatives of all five Community It was very good to hear that the condolences to the family of the late forthcoming. Further HoWLEN events are Rail Partnerships (CRPs) in Wales recenlty immediate difficulties regarding the George Scarfe. George was known to to be held along the line in the next few met Minister Mrs to discuss shortage of volunteers to run the many of you for his sterling work over weeks. their future role and funding – now and after Association has been averted. A big many years for the Association, whether Organisationally, HoWLEN is moving ahead the introduction of the new franchise. She thank you to all those members who helping at Dolau or Pen-y-bont stations and we have worked with Wales Cooperative agreed on the need to take action and has offered their services. However, despite or keeping members informed of any Centre to discuss what organisational form asked her officials to collaborate with us in filling the main offices there are plenty special trains using the line. His the Network should take. It seems likely that producing a report and recommendations of other roles for members to play their dedication was an example to all of us we will simply build on the existing Heart on the matter by the end of November. We will do this, taking particular account of part in maintaining and improving the rail and carried out in his quiet, unassuming of Wales Line Development Company Ltd. the way in which recent and forthcoming service provided on our line. If you think manner. He will be much missed by At its September meeting, the Forum franchises have built CRPs in to their many, especially in the Llandrindod area. received a report on HoWLEN’s progress you can help then don’t hesitate to structure. contact one of the Officers shown on It was through his endeavours, along and approved future development work, 120 mile stations gardens the contact page of this newsletter (p.18) with others, that on October 10th we which is being carried out by a steering – we would be very pleased to hear from were able to celebrate the exact 150th group which is in effect part of the Forum. HoWLTA gardeners will have the you. anniversary of the opening of the Central News about HoWLEN is to be found at opportunity on 21st November to meet and www.howlenterprise.co.uk discuss needs for next year and how we take Nevertheless I am delighted to welcome Wales Railway from Knighton to forward the 120 mile stations gardens ideas. Rob Hulme as Membership Secretary Llandrindod Wells. A goodly gathering Working with HoWLTA To have a string of connected but individual and Andrew Cook as Treasurer, together of dignitaries and townsfolk in both HoWLTA is a key member of the Forum. stations is a challenge, but to achieve towns came along to see a plaque The work that Mike Watson and colleagues with Peter Joyce, who has volunteered maximum impact it is the connections that unveiled on the down platform at have done to revitalise its committee is very to be Assistant Membership Secretary. make the whole stronger. However, we still need a Secretary, Llandrindod to commemorate this welcome and they are to be congratulated! Already a number have indicated their wish Minutes Secretary and volunteers to milestone in the line’s history. Our The Forum will need all the practical support to be there and as usual the date does not help with publicity, both for the thanks go to Gill Wright, who took over it can get, to work effectively in the runup suit everybody, but I hope the venue, the preparations begun by George to the new Wales and Borders franchise (due Association itself and for the Line: is Llanwrtyd Station, will. It is a chance to there anyone else out there who feels Scarfe, the Llandrindod Silver Band and in 2018 but likely, sources advise, to be later than that). We look forward to collaborating see what is happening with another building that they can help with these tasks? Geraint Morgan of Arriva Trains Wales on the line. Time will be to suit the arrival (ATW) for all their help on this occasion. with them and are also grateful for their Unfortunately I was unable to attend the financial contribution. of the morning trains. It is also an We are now in the period of the Welsh Annual General Meeting but I am looking Finances and the Future opportunity to swap plants that being a bit forward to working with the Committee concessionary bus passes providing free too much of a good thing in one place but to improve the rail services on our line. travel on the line’s trains. This will Local Authority changes already referred to would be wonderful in another. There are mean that their funding of the Forum is However my task now is a very sad one, continue until March 2016, so please a few spare places but it will now be first much lower than in the past. Whilst Arriva come first served . to offer the Association’s deepest take every opportunity to use the line for destinations on the line and further has pledged to increase its own input until David Edwards / Gill Wright the franchise end. Visit Wales - a previous ADVERTISE HERE afield! Please remember that on Mondays to Fridays there are new trains which funder – has reorganised itself and so far A 1/16th page advert like this costs just not contributed. All of which means a budget might help your journey plans, at 06.42 £15 for one issue (or £40 for a year). already less than half it was 10 years ago, Llandovery to Swansea and 06.03 See page 27 for full advertising rates. and anticipated to lessen year by year.

18 HoWLTA Newsletter HoWLTA Newsletter 11 Post Bag Cynghordy Repairs Update The defects were far more extensive than Membership Matters! originally thought, the contractors were told to stand down and new methodology Heart of Wales Line Travellers’ designed. This is now complete but we –––– have to reapply for listed buildings which Association HoWLTA Emergency Letter is a 3 month process. Officials We are in the process of trialling a few Many thanks to those members who President Professor Stuart Cole CBE responded to the Committee’s layers to demonstrate to CADW and Vice-Presidents emergency letter sent out at the NRW the type of fixing in the hope of Lord Berkeley of Knighton Peter Black AM Byron Davies MP Chris Davis MP beginning of September. speeding up the consents. Geraint Davies MP Keith Davies AM We now have an Assistant Treasurer Ian Messner, Customer Mngr NW Suzy Davies AM Philip Dunne MP (Rob Hulme having offered to do this Appreciation Jonathan Edwards MP Nia Griffith MP in addition to being Membership AM Julie James AM Secretary - which makes logistical As a member of HoWLTA who lives some distance from the Heart of Wales Line, I Bethan Jenkins AM Daniel Kawczynski MP sense). In addition, Peter Joyce has William Powell AM AM rely entirely on the newsletter for offered to be Assistant Membership Simon Thomas AM Joyce Watson AM information about the railway. I must say Secretary, for which we are very Kirsty Williams AM grateful - Rob will contact him shortly. that since you have taken over editorship However, the Committee decided that you have transformed its appearance Committee Members we still need to fill the following posts which must be up there amongst the best Chairman : Brian Dotson, Llandrindod (01597-824408; [email protected]) of newsletters for voluntary organisations. if HoWLTA is to be as effective as Vice Chairman : Mike Watson, Swansea ([email protected]) possible in its support for the line: With that in mind I wondered if you have Secretary [Committee post] ever considered including an article on Secretary : vacancy Minutes Secretary [Committee post] how you transformed the layout. I too Membership Secretary : Rob Hulme, Swansea ([email protected]) have started a quite modest friends type (these two could be the same person if Treasurer : Andrew Cook, Llangammarch Wells ([email protected]) a suitable volunteer was to come of newsletter and would enjoy tips on forward) how to improve the appearance. The Minutes Sec : vacancy Assistant Publicity Officers (to publicise quality which you produce ensures that I Newsletter Editor : Peter Berry, Llangadog (01550-777980; [email protected]) remain a member even though I rarely am the line and the Association, helping Publicity Co-ordinator : David Edwards, Llangennech ([email protected]) David Edwards) - or there could be a [cont. on page 13] publicity sub-group - these people Committee Ray Davies, Bucknell (01547-530443) need not be Committee members Letters for possible inclusion on the Post Bag Members : Chris Horrocks, Church Stretton ([email protected]) Campaigning sub-group - to lobby pages can either be posted to me at Twin Rex Lloyd, Swansea (01792-580324; [email protected]) Oaks, Castle Close, Llangadog SA19 9AH Roger Price, Llanelli (01554-750045; [email protected]) politicians and the rail industry for or emailed to [email protected] Gill Wright, Cynghordy (01550-750261; [email protected]) improvements, with particular focus on the Assembly elections next May. Your letter, if selected for publication, may be If any members would like to take on subject to editing. PLEASE NOTE NEW ADDRESS for Correspondence : one (or more!) of these roles, please Please include your full address, although HoWLTA, c/o Llandovery Station, Llandovery SA20 0BG contact me. this will not usually be published. Mike Watson (Vice-Chairman) Peter Berry HoWLTA is affiliated to Railfuture and Better Transport

12 HoWLTA Newsletter HoWLTA Newsletter 17 Unusual places for a Day Out: A Grand Day Out No 1 in an occasional series: I drove to Dolau station yesterday and a lovely lady, Sarah who lives from the station, exploding on impact. opposite the station let me park in the drive to her farm. Llangennech. The accident occurred on January 13th While waiting for the train - and chatting with an Arriva chap - she brought Now part of the ribbon development 1958, leaving a 40 foot deep crater: the out a tray of coffee for us. What hospitality! between Llanelli and Pontarddulais, pilot’s body was never found. I caught the train and got off at Sugar Loaf. What an extraordinary station Llangennech was once a completely Inland, there is the enjoyable Troserch that is! (Interestingly, the Conductor/Guard who took over at Llandrindod separate rural village with its own hiring Community Woodland within 20 minutes had never heard of Dolau!} fair, ‘stately home’ (Llangennech Park), walk, the other side of the village centre. Using my Brompton folding bike I rode up to the car park, then walked to smithy, church and many shops. You can find out more about it at the top. What a fabulous view! Sadly, the railway is barely visible. It's not In the 19th and early 20th centuries it www.troserchwoodlands.co.uk. There much good for steam train photos like it used to be. was renowned for the quality of steam are footpaths and river banks to explore, Cycling back down via Llanwrtyd Wells and Llangamarch Wells, the road to coal produced from the many mines in and it’s a great place to simply relax and Builth becomes pretty hilly. the locality, and also had two tinplate meditate. Maybe you’ll see the A long soft drink in Builth revived me and I had a pleasant ride around the works, all rail connected. Most of the kingfisher…… park, along with lots of other folk. remains of these have now gone, though The village also has a wonderful new On to Builth Road for a stronger drink at the Cambrian Arms and I caught rail trackbeds, part of an early canal, and community centre: Google ‘Llangennech’ the train back to Dolau. other artefacts can be spied if you look for event details and other facts about Sadly, the area around Builth Road is a bit of a mess. I gather there’s a new carefully enough. Look out for rails the village. There are a number of good owner in the station building now so, hopefully, things may improve. embedded in the surface of one of the pubs: the Bridge Inn is popular for its I expect you have a lot of photos of the delightful Dolau station. roads to the village centre. excellent value for money carvery while Here are a few more taken yesterday (31st July 2015. The village has much to offer the casual at the other end of the village is Tafarn Mike Evans visitor. The station is on the edge of the Morlais. There are others – and Leominster, Herefordshire Loughor Estuary (see p.1). There is a takeaways including a chippie! [Editor : we’re always pleased to see photos of our line - see centre spread, pp rudimentary beach (to which in 1927 Enjoy a trip to Llangennech. You can 14-15)] large groups of up to 1000 visitors came plan for your visit by visiting the sources on day trips from Landore and above, and by getting hold of a copy of able to travel on this wonderfully scenic of the railway as soon as the opportunity Morriston). Naturalists can still find much ‘History of Llangennech’, by Alwyn railway. arises. Paul Scott that is of interest amongst these Charles, published in 1997. There are Just an idea for a possible article in future [Editor : Thanks for your generous comments. I’ll wetlands, which are also popular with copies in Llangennech library….in the newsletters - could one station feature in give the first suggestion some thought, but, mean- fishermen. The wetlands are easily community centre. David Edwards the magazine in each edition, perhaps while, I have no hesitation in enthusiastically accessed from the level crossing next to penned by a station adopter? With just a encouraging station adopters (and others) to the station – do wear waterproof ADVERTISE HERE few lines and a photograph would help submit news and/or photos of their local station for inclusion in our new Along the Line feature. (see footwear! Spare a thought for Flt-Lt J T A 1/16th page advert like this costs just people like me to build up a picture of the Wallace, pilot of a Canberra jet bomber £15 for one issue (or £40 for a year). railway. I do intend to travel the full length pp.7-9) that crashed into the marsh 120 yards See page 27 for full advertising rates.

16 HoWLTA Newsletter HoWLTA Newsletter 13 A colourful welcome to Dolau. [Photos © Mike Evans]

14HoWLTA Newsletter HoWLTA Newsletter 15