The Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway

Book excerpt: “A superb book . . . about the background to the railway, its development and closure and the relaunch into one of Wales’ most pleasant preserved railways.” —The Railway Correspondence and Travel Society Unusually among Welsh narrow-gauge railways, the 2ft 6in gauge Welshpool & Llanfair Light Railway was built to benefit agriculture, not minerals. After several failed attempts to connect the market town at Welshpool with the rural community around Llanfair Caereinion, the 1896 Light Railways Act paved the way for the railway which opened in 1902. Operated by the Cambrian Railways and then by the Great Western Railway, it became the only narrow-gauge steam railway catering for goods traffic under the auspices of British Railways. Sadly, it was closed in 1956 but enthusiasts ensured its revival, which started in 1963. Overcoming many obstacles, the railway is now run by a charitable trust and is a leading volunteer-operated tourist attraction in Montgomeryshire. “As is to be expected by the pre-eminent authority on Welsh narrow gauge and minor railways, this is a work of first-class research, but also one of much interest . . . I have no hesitation in recommending it, especially for anyone interested in narrow gauge or indeed preserved railways.” —The Journal of the Friends of the National Railway Museum “A worthwhile addition to the published material on this delightful railway, and likely to prompt even more interest amongst modellers.” —Railway Modeller “Whether it is a line you know well or not, if you like narrow gauge or minor railways then I am sure you will enjoy this book.” —Michael’s Model Railways