2009 Photograph archive.

"2009" Photograph archive
Last updated on Wednesday, 18 May 2011

Photographs taken on 28th & 30th December 2009.
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 01/01/2010

Monday, 28.12.09. Didn't they do well? Yesterday Dave Price and Trefor have turned No. 7 into an 0-4-0...	...with trailing truck following behind...	...the ashpan....
...and the spark arrestor all removed...	...together with the trailing truck side control assembly and slide pads, and brake weigh-shaft...	...and safety valve assembly all in one day!
But then, with a spanner that size, nothing is going to resist movement for long!	Wednesday, 30.12.09. Paul Bailey ponders which rail to bend next...	...and then matches them up for a re-adjusted turnout being regauged ready to finish off the yard arrangements at Maespoeth.

Photographs taken on 11th & 12th December 2009.
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 14/12/2009

Friday, 11.12.09. No. 7 is fuming...	...as Malcolm tries a back-hander past Trefor!	Saturday, 12.12.09. Sara has been making up new cushions for the carriages...
...painted the footboards...	...and the train has been decorated...	...ready for a special guest - but where is he?
Hiding in his grotto!	Santa had a few helpers - like a (very cold!) snow fairy...	...and a pixie complete with winter warmers...
...and her brother!	Operations went smoothly with fantastic photos...	...of pushmepullyous...
...shunting operations...	...and trains heading off...	...into the distance.
Also tackled was the manufacture...	...and fitting of a bracket to take a rear lamp on No. 21...	...and an attempt to repair the well fried telephone exchange...
...by our....	...resident experts!	Loadings were very good...
...which kept Santa busy all day...	...which exhausted the crew!

Photographs taken on 28th November and 6th December 2009.
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 07/12/2009

Saturday, 28.11.09. Ffridd Wood is no more.	Dick makes ready to load bags of sand and gravel into waggons - between the showers!	Santa's Grotto has arrived in the Carriage Shed.
Steve, Paul and John discuss tolerances around the vertical mill.	The fireman's side water valve is being re-bedded - with emergency lighting to hand!	Sunday, 6.12.09. Y Mochyn is ready for the Santa trains!

Photographs taken on 28th November 2009.
Corris 150 at the Talyllyn Railway.
Taken by Sara Eade
Uploaded on 03/12/2009

No 3 and the Corris train waits for its passengers at Wharf Station	The Corris Train seen from the other side!	Maker's plate and number.
Corris Society members take a ride.	In two halves!	Trefor in his element!
At Rhydyronen...	...everyone gets off onto the station.	Sand was required to get out of Rhydyronen.
Brynglas.	Corris waggon with coal.	Watering at Dolgoch.
Andy takes a turn on the footplate.	Arrived at Nant Gwernol.	Coaling up at Nant Gwernol.

Photographs taken on 28th November 2009.
Corris 150 at the Talyllyn Railway.
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 03/12/2009

Loco No.3 at Tywyn Wharf, proudly carrying the Corris 150 headboard.	The train was made up of (L to R) the Corris brakevan (CR 11/ TR 6), a "Queen Mary" waggon (CR 13 / TR 1), the Corris carriage (CR 8 / TR 17) and loco No.3 (which had the same number on both railways).	Don't stand there after the guard blows his whistle !
The waggon and van seem from inside the carriage.	The "Corris Mixed" at Rhydyronen	Now where did that train go ?
Watering at Dolgoch	Plenty of steam at Nant Gwernol

Photographs taken between 31st October & 22nd November 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 23/11/2009

Saturday, 31.10.09. It's Haloween!	Saturday, 21.11.09. Santa's sign has been displayed, and material has been delivered for some of the winter's works.	Adrian welds more Flowforge for the east side of the pit in the Carriage Shed...
...then cleans up the edges...	...before starting on another panel...	...leaving ghostly images on the shed walls!
Sunday, 22.11.09. Not a lot of Flowforge left to complete to finish the east side of the pit!	Sara has been working on Van 204...	...and Mike Floate (un-noticed by me previously) has painted the rail ends on the newer turnouts in Maespoeth Yard. Thanks, Mike!

Photographs taken on 24th & 25th October 2009
Taken by Mike Floate
Uploaded on 27/10/2009

AGM day and it is wet as no 6 heads for the shed.	There is to be a gravity train so Dick Kidner, Peter Gray, Patrick Jolley, Graeme Jolley & Roger Gray lend a hand.	The empty stock ready to depart for Corris.
Dick & Graeme open the gates by the Triangle.	Later in the day Paul Bailey and Graeme wait for no 6 to leave ahead of the Gravity run.	Paul gets the message ‘line is clear….’.
John shelters Sam Kennion from a heavy shower as we await the departure.	Graeme gets the final orders from Dick:	"Walk the train slowly down to the crossing…
… make sure you get a pic of Patrick in his ultra bight coat…	…check John Arnold is OK and that everyone is aboard…	…then give the train a shove…
… and make sure you let go!"	Later the cuttings from the hedge which had been used as cushions are put out for the bonfire.	The next day… David Coleman drives the Dean Hill brake with Graeme & Patrick riding.
A decision is made to…	… hand shunt the Lydd in between no 6 and the brake van.	Peter, Graeme and Patrick unloaded sleepers along the line where needed.
No 6 between the Spinney & Rock Cutting.	The sun suddenly bursts through on the way back to Maespoeth….	… where Richard Saffrey is supervising a bonfire.
More sleepers were taken on a second train and when unloaded a start was made on replacing sleepers.	Back in the shed a new library trolley arrived on Saturday and by Sunday something had already been placed on it!	Rosie had heard about the trolley and so it was loaded on a train with the barbecue to be taken to the museum…
… where we find Jill & Peter hard at work.	Roger has finished the wall and shows Alf.	No 6 ready to head back to Maespoeth.

Photographs taken between 22nd & 25th October 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 27/10/2009

Thursday, 22.10.09. Trefor caught in the act, fitting a new fuel tank to the "Ant".	Saturday, 24.10.09. But he won't keep still! Andy Cooper trims boards for shelving...	...which Richard Saffery is ensuring get filled...
...with the assistance of Patrick Jolley.	Later, Patrick works with another new volunteer, preparing timber for more (narrow?) shelving.	Meanwhile, in the Engine Shed, Dave Ingram examines the innards of the main steam valve on No. 7...
...and John Reynard watches the vertical mill doing its work, on a 12 minute pass, milling replacement side plates to the valve die blocks on No. 7.	More generally, in the Carriage Shed, Sam, Andy, Roger and Peter prepare for a spot of painting...	...of the brake van (204)...
...the building's steelwork...	...and the walls!	It rained during the day, but despite that, everyone was in good spirits...
...including the driver for the day, Mike Floate.	Preparations in progress for Santa!	A special photo for Marten Bowtle, as requested by Paul Bailey.
Sunday, 25.10.09. The tank of No. 7 is drained to locate a weep in the system...	...followed by a repaint inside the bunker.	Meanwhile, a gang wanders up the line, dropping off sleepers...
...and changing some of them...	...while Richard fills the shelves...	...neatly done!
At the end of the day, Mike goes for a ride while Peter returns to the Signal Box for the next stage of shunting to put everything away.

Photographs taken on 10th October 2009
Taken by Sara Eade
Uploaded on 12/10/2009

Andy gets No 7 ready for Special train on 10th October.	Smokey coal makes a difference!	Yes all present and correct me thinks!
Wow!	Only the top crew will do!	John Smallwood and his special train on the Corris to celebrate 50 years as a railway volunteer.
Run past at Triangle.	Looking good!	Richard cutting the hedge on the roadside and Sara taking the photo and cutting the hedge on the railwayside.
Paul pushes the Ant and Richard watches.

Photographs taken on 27th September & 10th/11th October 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 12/10/2009

Sunday, 27.9.09. Super power in the cab of No. 7 - Andrew, Trefor and Elwyn.	What are these masts and cables?	Just Derek running an amateur radio station, communicating with other Heritage Railways around the UK as part of "Railways on the air".
The masts weren't up for long - here Steve gives Derek a hand to take them down at the end of the day.	Saturday, 10.10.09. No. 7 and crew rest easy after taking No. 7 express up to Corris...	...and obviously have a serious discussion going on!
Meanwhile, Mike is painting in the Carriage Shed...	...and there is plenty of fresh fuel for the barbeque!	John continues to machine side plates to provide spares for No. 7...
...and Trefor and Paul finish off buffing and coupling arrangements on No. 5.	Sunday, 11.10.09. The Slater's Arms is under new management...	...with new signs to advertise the fact. Food for thought?
Back in working condition, the "Ant" has been shunted out of the shed...	...and work has continued on carriage No. 22 as Sara shunts the stock back in.	The mini excavator has been cleaned up and re-painted...
...but the sleepers have acquired a yellow rash in places!	After a number of years out in all weathers, van 204 has come in for a make-over. One door has been removed for refurbishment.

Photographs taken on 2nd/3rd/4th October 2009
Taken by Sara Eade
Uploaded on 06/10/2009

02/10/09. Steph Reveley models Andrew's overalls!	Andrew cooking bacon on the shovel.	Bacon rolls being consumed at Maespoeth.
Students from the Physics dept at Aber Uni arrive at Corris.	OK when you're ready follow me!	Andrew poses!
Keeping an eye on the loco!	Students from The Physics Dept clearly enjoying themselves.	Steph does the watering.
Chris gets the Lyd flat ready for trackwork.	Adrian puts on the brake.	Guess whose found a prince at Aberllefenni.
03/10/09. The first of 15 sleepers replaced on 3rd Oct.	Geoff and Ade take a break!	Andrew and Trefor take a break!
Geoff and Trefor with one of the sleepers.	Sara preparing for the gang by removing spring clips and dog spikes.	Five of the gang of 7 replacing sleepers on the 3rd October.
Six of the seven - Andrew, Trefor, Ade, Jeff, Weasel and Pyro with Sara behind the camera.	04/10/09. Sara drilling sleepers.	Richard banging in dog spikes.
Weasel and Pyro watched by Mr Weasel.	Geoff gets the next one ready.	Sara and Weasel tamping track with Kango's.
Pryo drills another hole!	Richard distracts Stella!

Photographs taken on 15th & 20th September 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 21/09/2009

Tuesday, 15.9.09. One engine in fume inside Maespoeth shed - No. 6 coupling up to No. 7 for a Special for Steam Railway magazine.	Richard Greenhough with No. 6 draws the stock on to the headshunt while Sara contemplates jumping off!	The obligatory group photo before setting off up the line.
Ivo Peters Bentley alongside the train at Corris - as Sara tries to hide from the camera!	The Bentley waiting to cross the line at Braichgoch Farm accommodation crossing.	How it was done - the driver's eye view!
Sunday, 20.9.09. The Ant is re-assembled and the engine is running!	A group of Aberystwyth University students who had been clearing culverts up the line, are greeted on their return by Stella - and Steve.	Steff drives No. 6 to fill waggons with hedge cuttings from alongside the main road...
...and then joins in the work...	...before, job done, the cuttings are shunted to the bonfire site!	Somebody has been busy re-painting edge lines on steps and platforms. Now you can see them in the dark!

Photographs taken on 15th September 2009
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 18/09/2009

This morning (Tuesday 15th) we ran a special train for the Steam Railway team undertaking the "Great Big Welsh Grice" - an attempt to ride on all 13 Welsh narrow-gauge railways in 51 hours (spread over three days). We were their first port of call today and we ran them from Maespoeth to Corris and back, starting at 08:00, before waving them off on their way to Llanfair Caereinion.
The SR team travelled in Ivo Peters' 1951 Bentley Mark VI (now owned and driven by Julian Birley), which posed for photos with the train at Corris.

The Bentley & No.7 at Corris.	It is not often that No.7 can be seen at Corris at this hour of the morning !	The sun is just lighting up the hillside above Corris village.
Braichgoch Farm Crossing.

Photographs taken on 15th September 2009
Taken by Sara Eade
Uploaded on 16/09/2009

Getting the Steam Railway Special together.	Richard Greenhough and Trefor Davies putting No 7...	... to the head of the train.
Coupling up whilst David Coleman talks to Julian Birley, owner of Ivo Peters' Bentley.	The Steam Railway Team and No 7.	Our latest Guard and the Editor of Steam Railway Danny Hopkins.

Photographs taken at the Model Railway & Toy Exhibition on 29th/30th & 31st August 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 16/09/2009

0084.jpg	0085.jpg	0086.jpg
0087.jpg	0088.jpg	0089.jpg
0090.jpg	0091.jpg	0092.jpg
0093.jpg	0095.jpg	0102.jpg
0112.jpg	0113.jpg	0115.jpg
0116.jpg	0117.jpg	0118.jpg
0120.jpg	0121.jpg	0122.jpg
0123.jpg	0124.jpg	0125.jpg
0126.jpg	0148.jpg	0149.jpg

Photographs taken between 24th & 31st August 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 16/09/2009

Monday, 24.8.09. The sun starts to peep out as No. 7's fire is lit...	...and stays out through the day - a fireman's view rearwards...	...and forwards.
Clearances are tight on the west side!	Tuesday, 25.8.09. Bob polishes brass and copper work as Dave Price brings up the carriages with No. 6.	Saturday, 29.8.09. The school car park is full and the Model Railway Exhibition hasn't opened for business yet!
Jill and Rose prepare sandwiches for the day.	Trefor brings the first train up to Corris...	...propelling the heritage waggons in front.
In the Engine Shed, a surprised John Reynard is milling plates for No. 7...	Sunday, 30.8.09. ...and Adrian is fettling up a new buffer beam for Loco No. 5.	On another mill is a buffer beam for the next batch of bogie carriages.
Richard Shipman gives Sara Eade a gruelling Rules Test!	For the evening barbeque, No. 6 is put on the train...	...while the food is cooked...
...by Chris, Jill, Rose and Janet in turn (thanks, ladies!).	Monday, 31.8.09. The train's brakes are being tested before the first working departs for Corris.	Later in the day, the gravity train approaches Maespoeth.
No. 5's new rear buffer beam has been fitted and painted.	Ian Packham awaits passengers on the miniature train...	...and gives an idea of the driver's eye view!
Alf attends to a customer in the Museum.

Photographs taken on 17th August 2009
Taken by John Arnold
Uploaded on 24/08/2009

Mike Floate takes a quick snack while (he thought) no-one was looking.	Neil puts paint on the wall of the carriage shed.	A guard's view of the train moving towards Maespoeth.
The S & T has a new fridge.	No. 8 is being tended to ...	... as is No. 5.
Superb shot of the signal box with the photographer stood on the footplate of No. 5, in the shed.	Alan Witts gives "the shed talk" to visitors at Maespoeth.	"The Benedetto family" take over the running of the museum for the weekend.

Photographs taken on 3rd & 8th August 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 13/08/2009

Monday, 3.8.09. The conversion of the tramway in Upper Corris to a multi-use path is nearing completion.	Has there been something bearly special on last weekend?	Half the carriage in the Museum has received undercoat.
Saturday, 8.8.09. Steff tackles the overgrown roadside hedge at Maespoeth...	...while Richard talks to the P. Way van ever so nicely...	...before chatting with a group from the Glyn Valley Tramway.
Peter Guest fixes new fence behind the Signal Box.	Steff, Weasel and his father prepare to dispose of the hedge cuttings from earlier in the day.

Photographs taken between 1st & 4th August 2009
Taken by Mike Floate
Uploaded on 17/08/2009

Why is weasel looking so contented?	Trefor knows – it’s Teddy Bear Specials weekend!	Roger is ready with the train staff.
Sue Dunn says to husband Geoff: ‘ I know why you are called Weasel – look at his face!’. Honest – this is exactly what she was saying!	Jack & Andy Cooper, Paul Bailey and Weasel move no 5 back into the shed.	Trefor eases no 7 into Maespoeth with the first Teddy Bear special.
No time for photos while entertaining the children – and already it is time to head back to Corris with Steve Parr as guard.	Richard Foyn, Weasel and a member from Llangollen unload the coal.	Geoff & Sue Dunn help a youngster with his chance to win a prize – everyone who tried did win!
A train arrives at Corris…	… where Alf Oxford is acting as Control for the day.	Various games are laid out between the platforms and other activities are available outside the shed.
The next day no 6 collects the wagons…	… ready to be positioned ahead of the next service train.	Trefor helps move the wagons into the siding at Corris…
… where a group gather…	… to join Richard in the gravity train with Martin Riley.	Tuesday morning sees rolls heating on no 7…
… someone is cooking sausages!	It’s got to be…	...Andrew cooking for John and Mike.
This wild flower last summer inspired me to photograph the wild flowers which grow at Corris station.	So nice that we later saw a non-travelling visitor carrying six she had picked. Please don’t!	More food?
Bacon this time…	...but you’ve just eaten Andrew!	It’s OK – he was cooking for Steph & Weasel.

Photographs taken on 4th August 2009
Taken by John Arnold (& with thanks to Tony Goode)
Uploaded on 13/08/2009

Mike Floate carefully brings No. 6 towards the carriage shed to collect the carriages...

...while Andrew looks after breakfast...

...and later has helpers oiling the motion.

Photographs taken on 1st August 2009
Taken by Richard Foyn
Uploaded on 06/08/2009

No. 6 and ...	...No. 7 pose for photographs.	The grass has soon grown on the new bank...
...on the approach to the carriage shed.	Inside, heritage waggons are stored on the East road.	Racking has been erected on the West side.
All seems eerily quiet - must be lunchtime.	Loco No. 7 is patiently waiting for "the off" from Maespoeth.	I wonder what Steve is up to ?
What the ...?	Ah! Steve has fabricated his own little furnace and is casting scrap brass into...	...what looks like ...
Yes. It is. A new door handle for the carriage that Roger Gray is restoring in the museum.	Paul Bailey fits the new buffer beam to the rear of Loco No. 5...	...and gets prepared to weld it into place.

Photographs taken on 18th & July 2009
Taken by Mike Floate
Uploaded on 06/08/2009

Nos 6 & 7 at the start of the day.	Andrew locks the gate on the way up to Corris for the first time.	Richard Shipman gives a shed talk to the first group of passengers.
No 7 gleams in the sun – apart from the smokebox. Someone has been at it again with polish not oil!	Lunchtime already and two pasties are lined up on the firebox.	Wild flowers at Corris station…
… surely someone can name them?	Wild or garden flower?	An hour later Trefor claims his pastie and allows Andrew a quick sample.
Up at Corris Andrew eats all of his on his own.	Corris member, Les Butler, has a chat with Andrew and Steph.	The air brake has been playing up again. Remarkably all it took this time was for Andrew to show it the hammer.
Sara Eade as trainee Controller flags away the last train of the day.	Malcolm and Trefor reflect in Dave Ingram’s superb shine to the paintwork…	…only to find it is raining. Richard hears there are no passengers on the first train…
… and so spends his time practicing his juggling skills.	The Lydd wagon is brought up to the loco shed to be loaded with machines and benches.	Steph asks where it’s all going…
… to the far end of the carriage shed.

Photographs taken on 19th July 2009
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 20/07/2009

Carriage 22 was shunted from one side of the carriage shed to the other on Sunday...

Carriage 22 sees the light of day for the first time since the skeleton of the superstructure was assembled.

Still using waggons 201 & 202 as slave bogies, the new carriage enjoys the late afternoon sunshine.

All the rolling stock stored in the shed (other than the crane and carriages 20 & 21) had to be moved to switch carriage 22 from the east road to the west road.

Very good views of the green Dulas Valley can be had from carriage 22 !

Easing the carriage into the west road.

The south end of the lengthy train, hauled by No.6.

Photographs taken on 18th July 2009
Taken by Dick Kidner
Uploaded on 19/07/2009

Andrew primes the new front buffer beam of No. 5.	Trefor getting to grips with the innards of No. 5.	Paul has blown a fuse with his welding!
Mike Floate firing for the day.	Rosie in cheerful mood in the museum.	Well loaded train departing from Corris.
Andrew now has a go at the rear buffer beam.	The front beam beautifully primed!	Trefor in his habitual home in the pit! (About to fix the rear buffer).
The 3 metal bashers admire their new creation.	Sara Eade and Steph Reveley send off the train.	Trefor having fun!
A future volunteer being instructed by Andrew.	The brakes have failed! (Just a scare for a trainee guard!)

Photographs taken on 5th July 2009
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 06/07/2009

The first Sunday of the month, so another gravity train was run, as part of the ongoing celebrations of the railway's 150th anniversary.	Here the four-waggon run, crewed by Steph, Weasel, Sara, Dave and Eric, ...	...approaches Maespoeth ...
...before coming to a halt in the south platform.

Photographs taken on 19th & 21st June 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 22/06/2009

Friday, 19.6.09. Andy Cooper drives No. 6...	...after taking delivery of pallet racking...	...and steel sections for the next two bogie carriages.
Sunday, 21.6.09. Andy draws all the Heritage waggons out of the Carriage Shed for the modeller's day...	...and then with the vans magically added, sets them all back into the south platform for inspection.	Richard sorts out fishplates to improve the joint into the east road of the Carriage Shed, closely watched by Sarah Eade.
Andy has been working on the pallet racking...	...and tidied up the Heritage waggon remains.	Yesterday, No. 5's rear buffers and couplers were removed as part of an exchange agreement.
A scene from the future - a steam loco charging up Maespoeth bank?	At the end of the day, No. 6 drops the vans back into the Carriage Shed while the Heritage waggons wait their turn.	Trefor coals No. 7, assisted by Andrew...
...and Guard John Wormington waits for No. 6 to come back from putting waggons away so that he can finish his duties with the passenger train. The sign for the Teddy Bear's weekend has been erected.

Photographs taken on 13th & 14th June 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 15/06/2009

As thanks for loaning us equipment to help build the Carriage Shed, Steve tries to get Brian Roberts' floor screeder to work - with poor result - so far!	Choked flangeways have been cleared, as the 17.00 from Corris approaches!	No. 6 awaits No. 7 to clear the train so that the passenger carriages can be put away.
John Reynard tries his hand at driving, while Trefor prepares to hand over the train staff at the Signal Box.	Dave Price prepares the coal as No. 7 is eased up and No. 6 heads for the passenger carriages...	...before Richard Greenhough hooks up No. 5 to put away in the Engine Shed.
John has been machining a new die block for No. 7...	...after turning up spring supports for Carriage No. 22.

Photographs taken on 11th June 2009
(School Party from Wrexham)
Taken by Dick Kidner
Uploaded on 15/06/2009

No. 6 and coaches 20 and 21 at Corris - a rare sight these days.	David bringing in the money (and Andrew making the tea!).	A special has been laid on for visitors from Wrexham who are enjoying the museum (and the shop!).
The party arrives at Maespoeth.	Nos. 5 and 7 await inspection.	Richard Shipman extols the virtues of the Corris!
A nice warm day- its cooler in the shed.	The youngsters appreciate the full history of the Corris waggons!	The group photo at Corris after an exciting and educational day.

Photographs taken on 3rd & 7th June 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 10/06/2009

Wednesday, 3.6.09. Not a lot is left of the rotten frames of two Heritage waggons!	Sunday, 7.6.09. No. 7's cylinders are warmed up as Chris Britchford propels the carriages into the platform with No. 6.	Yesterday, No. 5 was fitted out with side buffers - it just needs the sand boxes putting back!
With Chris Guarding on the train, hubby Adrian gets sparks flying on carriage No. 22!	No. 5 waits with two man manriders while No. 6 is despatched to clear the Carriage Shed headshunt siding of rolling stock.	Nos. 5 and 6 both in fume while shunting around the Carriage Shed and lower yard...
...during which No. 5 prepared the gravity train for later in the day...	...which duly arrived back in the yard, all the photographers being up the line!	After loading up with materials from the Engine Shed, Richard drives No. 5 to put all the waggons away again...
...before fixing the sand boxes back on No. 5.	By the end of the day, the roof of carriage No. 22 is really taking shape!

Photographs taken on 6th & 7th June 2009
Taken by Paul Bailey
Uploaded on 08/06/2009

Changing the buffers on No 5. First we had to weigh the new buffers to make sure that they weighed the same as the "toast racks" we were taking off.

10 p.m. (!) and the new buffers are fitted on the front. Rear is still yet to be done.

By the light of day the rust colour of the buffer beam seemed to blend in well with the faded paint on No 5!

Photographs taken on 30th May 2009
Talyllyn Tracksiders day
Taken by Paul Bailey
Uploaded on 02/06/2009

Saturday 30th May. The tracksiders arrived for a working visit to Corris...	...and posed for a photo before...	...setting out to work. Some on trackwork with Andrew...
...some clearing dead leaves off the line and later painting Corris station fence...	...and some extending the platform at Maespoeth.	The old fence post put up a valiant fight but was eventually removed!
All the hard work prompted a desire for lunch...	...but the Tracksiders were soon back at work.	Their leader, Ian Evans, took a turn at firing No 7 up to Corris before...
Driving back down (and stopping EXACTLY in the right place I might add!).	Trackwork continued until late in the afternoon, but by the end they had...	...painted Corris station fence..
...cleared some of the leaves near the triangle...	...added a few metres of platform at Maespoeth and...	...drilled and fixed a considerable amount of pointwork and track. Very many thanks to all who participated.

Photographs taken on 30th May 2009
Taken by Dick Kidner
Uploaded on 01/06/2009

The works train is ready	A delivery of coal ready for unloading	The Tracksiders are visiting from the Talyllyn
Mike Floate and 2 Tracksiders allow the train to pass before clearing leaves from the track	Andrew Rawlins supervises the fettling of the southern loop points	A busy station scene- lots of work and plenty of visitors
Richard Greenhough and George Williamson replacing a sleeper in yard	Catherine Bailey providing very welcome refreshment on a very hot day	Tracksiders extending the North platform
Richard gets the new sleeper in	Trefor lends a hand to the track gang	More tea- very welcome!
The fence goes in behind the new platform	More Tracksiders at work on the new track	The new platform edge
Sparkling paint job on the Corris station fence	The victorious painters!

Photographs taken between 27th & 31st May 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 01/06/2009

Wednesday, 27.5.09. The back of the south platform has been filled to take the 7.25" gauge railway...	...the disrupted north platform edging has been re-set...	...and the extension of the north platform rear fencing has been set out.
Thursday, 28.5.09. In the evening, Trefor clears a restriction in one of the gauge glasses.	The grass on the embankment leading to the Carriage Shed has taken well - given the rain and warm weather (in turn)!	Friday, 29.5.09. The fence posts for the north platform extension rear fence have been concreted in position.
Saturday, 30.5.09. Richard Greenhough moves the latest delivery of coal for off-loading...	...the TR Tracksiders arrived, here involved in track spiking under Andrew's supervision...	...and setting up fence panels on the north platform extension...
...while Mike Floate supervises in Corris as the train crew prepare to depart with the 13.00...	...once fireman Elwyn has had a breather - it was hot today!	An Up train heads back to Corris.
Sunday, 31.5.09. Malcolm takes over Control for a while...	...the north platform fencing and edging has been extended and the platform infilled with stone by the Tracksiders.	After intensive use yesterday, the wheelbarrows are wheely tired, but are keen to be ready to work again - Le Mans style!
The Tracksiders also finished the spiking of the new track.

Photographs taken on 23rd & 24th May 2009
Taken by Mike Floate & David Coleman
Uploaded on 28/05/2009

The lack of draught left smoke hanging as no 7's fire was lit.	Maespoeth platform looks superb in the bright late spring sun.	The fireman's view of the station, train and valley.
It must be the first up working - Trefor's face is clean.	Some of the plants around Corris station...	...must be hardy and ..
...this one has been flowering for almost two months since Operation Training weekend!	Guard John Wormington pops down for a chat.	The afternoon sun lights the west side of no 7 at Corris station.
After the last service train the Lydd bogie wagon was pushed up to "The Triangle" under the supervision of Richard Greenhough and Paul Bailey to collect some slabs of slate for the extended platform at the north end of Maespoeth station.	Sunday, 24.5.09. Materials have been laid out to extend the headshunt siding by one rail length

Photographs taken on 24th May 2009
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 28/05/2009

The ECS working on its way up Maes-y-Llan Bank...	...towards Braichgoch Farm Crossing...	...and continuing round Pioneer Curve towards Corris Station.
Leaving Corris at 11:00, the train passes through a green tunnel...	...on its way into the Spinney...	...passing a carpet of bluebells en route to Maespoeth.

Photographs taken between 11th & 17th May 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 18/05/2009

Monday, 11.5.09. The miniature carriage shed roof has been felted...	...the north end of carriage 22's framework has been completed...	...and more items of rolling stock have been brought into the Carriage Shed yesterday, which...
...is now starting to fill up!	Tuesday, 12.5.09. The miniature carriage shed has been "slated"...	...and the base waterproofed, while...
...some 7.25" gauge track has been delivered to reach into the miniature carriage shed in time!	Saturday, 16.5.09. "Race the Train" day - No. 7 backs down to catch up with runners in a race, while all the parents crowd around to support!	Sunday, 17.5.09. The 7.25" gauge track has been connected together...
...and one Heritage waggon has been dismantled with dire effect...	...as has another!	John Simms clears up from a day running the "Meet Kerr" stand in the Carriage Shed...
...where a colouring competition was available for the children.	The crowd of jesters who "manned" Maespoeth during the day - l to r: Richard Shipman, Pete Todd, Mary Jacob, Steve Harris, G Orilla.	Kerr carried a special headboard for the day...
...together with nameplates!

Photographs taken on 17th May 2009
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 28/05/2009

"Kerr" visited Corris Station on May 17th...

...proudly bearing his name on his tank...

...and hauling the Circus Train. Now where did that gorilla get to ?

Photographs taken between 5th & 9th May 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 13/05/2009

Tuesday, 5.5.09. John Reynard and Richard Saffery discuss arrangements for the Carriage Shed opening in between...	...cleaning the workshop area in the Engine Shed.	No. 7 failed in service on Monday, caused by a weeping tube...
Friday, 8.5.09. ...but after being fixed during the day, Malcolm and Trefor are all smiles after testing No. 7 satisfactorily.	Somebody has been working hard, polishing No. 7's buffers to pattern, but...	...a plank broke outside the shed and is lined up for replacement.
The advertising sign boards formerly on the platform fence have moved to the Carriage Shed wall, and new plastic chain has been acquired to screen off some areas for safety.	Some of the displays to inform visitors at the opening ceremony...	...have been set up...
...and just await leaflets and personnel to man them.	Flowers are ready for the new Chairman of Gwynedd Council who will perform the ceremony - Mrs Anne Lloyd-Jones.	Also ready is a display by the A-Team, of Carriage No. 22...
...and the bogies for Nos. 23 and 24.	Many items have been moved outside to clear space for the ceremony...	...and signs set out to guide visitors...
...to the car park and pick-up point for the shuttle bus to the Museum.	Saturday, 9.5.09. Shake a leg! The operating crew at Maespoeth, all ready to go at 08.48!	Sales items waiting to be carried down to the Carriage Shed...
...to be set up, while Richard Shipman sets up the Carriage Shed audio-visual display.	Passengers on the 11.30 Down train - L to R Elfyn Llwyd MP, Cllr John Pughe Roberts (local member), Cllr Caerwyn Roberts (Chairman, Snowdonia National Park) and Gwyn Briwnant Jones (author), all deep in conversation...	...in a somewhat full train!
By late afternoon, time to look at other things - like a new sign that has appeared at Corris...	...and Ali gets back to painting the bars of the hay rack in the stable...	...while after a hard day (a record 22 trains), the operating crew put their feet up.
The crowd at the evening B-B-Q, enjoying the fare cooked by...	...Jill and Chris.	Fred and Janet Garwood renew old acquaintances before...
...the crowd starts to thin...	...leaving the hard core to clean up!

Photographs taken on 9th May 2009
(Carriage & Waggon Shed Opening)
Taken by Derek Borrow
Uploaded on 21/05/2009

An early start for the catering department in the Corris Institute kitchen to prepare the buffet in time. (L to R): Rosie, Tracey, Chris & Angela.	Then carefully transported by Jill & Alf Oxford from the Corris Institute to Maespoeth...	...and laid out in the Carriage & Waggon Shed.
Amongst the stands on display were... for the Falcon Locomotive Appeal Fund...	...The Southern Extension Appeal Fund...	...The Corris Railway Press Stand...
...The Corris Railway Sales Stand...	...The Corris Railway Society Display...	...and Bernard Rockett also had a stand.
Not to be outdone, The "A Team" showed off the progress of Carriage 22 along with bogies for Carriages 23 & 24.	The formal part of the day saw Keith Davis a Master of Ceremonies for the day.	Our good friend Rev. David Gibson gave a blessing...
...before handing over to one of our Vice Presidents, Gwyn Brwnant Jones to make a speech...	...followed by our Society Chairman...	...and then Cllr. Anne Lloyd-Jones made an excellent speech...
...followed by the unveiling of the plaque...	...and was then presented with a floral arrangement by Jack Cooper, son of Andy.	In recognition of their outstanding contribution towards the preparation and building of the Carriage & Waggon Shed, Andy Cooper made three presentations. One to David Coleman as Project Leader...
...one to Steve Wheeler for Civil Engineering...	...and one to Richard Saffery for his Fund-Raising without which none of this would have happened.	The plaque that was unveiled by Cllr. Anne Lloyd-Jones.

Photographs taken on 9th May 2009
(Carriage Shed Opening)
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 28/05/2009

Speeches were made by Gwyn Briwnant Jones (Society Vice-President)...	...Keith Davis (Master of Ceremonies)...	...David Coleman (Society Chairman)...
...while Andy Cooper made a presentation to the three members who had made the most significant contribution to the carriage shed, while paying tribute to all the others who had helped, financially and physically...	...including Gwynedd Council, represented by Cllr. Anne Lloyd-Jones, who was presented with a bouquet...	...before unveiling a commemorative plaque.
No.6 brought the carriages towards the shed...	...to break the tape and formally declare the shed open...	...after which the members and guests were able to tuck into a traditional cold collation.

Photographs taken on 28th April & 2nd/3rd May 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 04/05/2009

Tuesday, 28.4.09. The Corris 150 banner has been displayed to advantage at Maespoeth!	Saturday, 2.5.09. No. 6 eases down to the Carriage Shed with a waggon load of tables for the shed opening weekend...	...and pulls forward to make its way there - the view from the Signal Box.
More preparations for next weekend - a temporary fence at the back of the south platform.	No. 7 heads off to disposal.	The Ant has been mounted on a trolley...
...complete with tree growing in the arm!	The pit fencing has been supplemented with a chain.	Sunday, 3.5.09. No. 7 moves off to join its train...
...and then heads off for Corris with Malcolm in charge.	Ali and Steve Harris add more displays to the Stable Museum at Maespoeth.	Between trains, Andrew moves the Ant carefully into the Engine Shed...
...before assembling the waggons for the gravity train.	The two active diesel locomotives rest between turns.	After the arrival of the gravity train, passengers look around as No. 7 prepares to move back into the north platform.
More Flow Forge is cut...	...and welded to...	...increase the length of pit fitted with the grillage.
Richard returns tools to the P Way van after an intensive period of track laying!

Photographs taken on 20th & 26th April 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 28/04/2009

Monday, 20.4.09. The final panels of track are all but completely spiked - just the ones in between to do now!	Sunday, 26.4.09. Steph and Weasel paint more of the Carriage Shed walls...	...before Steph as assistant Guard advances on No. 6 as Bob Winchcombe drives No. 7 back to disposal and Dave Price (fireman) waters the weeds...
...before coaling up as Steph takes the carriages...	...down to the Carriage Shed so that the train can reflect in the newly painted walls!	A line of posts have been set up ready for temporary fencing for the opening ceremony and...
...it appears No. 7 has been made ready to haul a Royal Train!

Photographs taken on 18th & 19th April 2009
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 20/04/2009

The "Stella Shed", future home for our 7.25" stock, now has doors.	No.7 attracts admirers at Corris.	Drilling & spiking of the new track is taking place...
...with Andrew & Trefor hard at work.	Meanwhile, Steph does her knitting....or could she be untangling phone cables ?	Peter replaces the fence at the rear of the signal box.
Steve has been extending the retaining wall at the rear of the north platform.	The view north from the temporary buffer stops.	The ex-Shildon lever frame waits to be installed.
By the end of the day Peter has most of the fence installed.	Maespoeth Yard looking unusually empty, with all locos in the engine shed and carriages and heritage waggons in the carriage shed.	Guess who's coming to Corris ?

Photographs taken on 14th & 19th April 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 20/04/2009

Tuesday, 14.4.09. One of those essential little jobs...a faulty telephone cable is replaced with a new one in duct alongside...	...and across the track.	The end of the yard headshunt has been fully ballasted.
Sunday, 19.4.09. Doors were fitted to the miniature carriage shed earlier in the week - and the first length of track laid into it (replicating Maespoeth bank?).	Siding space is still in short supply inside the Carriage Shed...	...because the Ant is being stripped down to try and cure starting problems
Fence palings have been cut...	...and some used to renew the fencing behind the Signal Box...	...and the retaining wall behind the north platform has been extended and raised and is now all but finished!

Photographs taken on 17th & 18th April 2009
Taken by John Arnold
Uploaded on 20/04/2009

John Arnold replaces the Corris Railway poster at Wharf Station at the Talyllyn Railway...

...and brings one back from the TR for the board at Corris Station...

...then Master Jack Arnold takes proud dad to Maespoeth.

Photographs taken on 11th & 12th April 2009
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 20/04/2009

Truman the railway horse attracted plenty of attention from our passengers.	He pulled waggons along the track by the south platform.	Truman features in the books about Rachael the Railway Horse.
Approaching the signal box...	...with the waggons at the end of his traces.	Truman was appropriately sporting GWR badges on his blinkers.
The number of waggons pulled was gradually increased.	At the end of the day Truman took a short train of waggons up to Triangle Crossing...	...before letting the waggons gravitate back and following behind...
...back to Maespoeth.	Truman became the first horse for at least sixty years to make use of the stable at Maespoeth. Here he stands outside being fed and watered in preparation for his day's work.

Photographs taken on 12th April 2009
Taken by Kevin Geraghty-Shewan
Uploaded on 20/04/2009

Arriving at Corris.	At Maespoeth Station.	Horsepower!
Ian Cryer and Truman.	Maespoeth Signal Box.	Nice cup of tea.
No. 5 Alan Meaden.	No. 6 at Maespoeth.	No. 7 at Corris.
No. 7 waiting at Maespoeth.	Stoking for the return journey.	Third Class Carriages at Corris.
Waggons at Maespoeth.	Yellow flag at Corris.

Photographs taken on 11th April 2009
Taken by Martin Riley
Uploaded on 15/04/2009

A feature of the weekend was a horse-drawn display at Maespoeth.	The locomotive was suitably "decked out"...	...but while the passenger operations continued so did the preparation for getting the carriage shed linked up to Maespoeth Yard in time for May 9th...
...with may volunteers just getting on with it...	...with "heads down". Here Richard Shipman takes time out to straighten his back.	The view from the South is certainly impressive...
...and even the locomotive crew join in in between services. (Driver Trefor Davies in overalls).	There are many rails and plates to be drilled - here Adrian attends to a fixing plate.	Alf & Jill Oxford make a flying visit to see the progress at first hand.
Now this is a sight not seen on the Corris Railway for many, many years! Now where is the rhubarb?

Photographs taken between 7th & 13th April 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 15/04/2009

Tuesday, 7.4.09. Steve has a helping hand to assemble the miniature carriage shed...	...and the 1 in 8 turnout has been shortened as part of its re-gauging.	Wednesday, 8.4.09. Hand shunting is in progress by Trefor and Andrew to give them a flying run at...
...the new ski jump!	Thursday, 9.4.09. The Tuesday gang arrive on the wrong day to work on the Carriage Shed approach turnout, while the Aber gang have one rail of the turnout ready to be connected.	By evening, the turnout has been re-gauged and connected up, so...
...attention turns to laying in the carriage shed headshunt siding (assisted by Mike Floate and Trefor).	Which road into the Carriage Shed?	Good Friday, 10.4.09. The south platform road is unusually empty...
...and No. 5 waits to deliver heritage waggons into the Carriage Shed.	The mini excavator stands ready to load tippers and the crane waggon has been delivered to the Carriage Shed headshunt for storage.	Richard paints more of the shed floor...
Richard tops Maespoeth bank with No. 5 and a tipper loaded with ballast - a view sure to be popular with photographers in years to come!	Track lightly spiked, the heritage waggons are dropped towards the Carriage Shed.	A visitor photographs the service train...
...which departs while Andrew with No. 6 awaits clearance to perform a shunt.	Richard Foyn drives No. 7 to disposal...	...while No. 6 shunts the lower yard and No. 5 brings a further load of ballast up to the south platform road.
Saturday, 11.4.09. The horse operated demonstration freight train attracts interest (and traffic)!	Andrew and Paul drill and spike intermediate sleepers...	...while Adrian drills plates for the Carriage Shed turnout and 2 Richard's insert extra sleepers on the approach.
Mike gets pulled away in readiness for the next train load of passengers.	The horse box certainly looks the part!	Towards evening, the horse waits patiently as No. 7 and passenger train is "crossed" by No. 6 on a train of heritage stock.
A horse hauled special works up the line...	...so that Andrew Kennedy can video its passage...	...and then record it walking back while he takes a gravity run!
Finishing touches are applied to the turnout while the passenger train is run down the main line...	...before being propelled carefully and under close supervision...	...into the Carriage Shed for the first time...
...which certainly got heads scratching!	The miniature carriage shed has also progressed!	The horse looks the part in the field (by kind permission of Mrs Lloyd).
Sunday, 11.4.09. What a magnificent weekend!	Passengers wander down the platform to examine progress...	...as Richard paints the pit floor.
The turnout to the Carriage Shed receives more attention and has been partly ballasted.	Monday, 13.4.09. The yard looks impressive from the other side of the valley while No. 7 simmers in the north platform...	...before departing for Corris again.
Paul and Adrian fabricate Flowforge panels...	...to create a walkway alongside the pit...	...while John machines fishplates to fit some of our odd rail sections.
Frank's van has become a travelling advert for the railway...	...which Trefor is anxious to tell his friends about as Mike coals No. 7.	After a successful weekend, Richard and Adrian muse on progress...
...before a gravity run of waggons coasts into the Carriage Shed for storage...	...to be followed by the passenger stock over the newly completed turnout...	...where they joined the other waggons.
Plenty of paint has arrived to finish the inside of the Carriage Shed ready for its opening (if labour is available!)...	...and the locos are lined up in the Engine Shed in numerical order.	All ready for the next special event!

Photographs taken between 30th March & 5th April 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 07/04/2009

Monday, 30.3.09.By the evening after a miserable day, more rails and sleepers...	...have been set out ready for spiking.	Wednesday, 1.4.09. After the excitement of the gravity runs, Dave and Trefor sort out weeping washout plugs in the smokebox of No. 7...
...and a little more track has been prepared...	...and spiked sufficient for trolleys to pass.	Sunday, 5.4.09. Dave brandishes a wandering oil can as he and Trefor trial steam No. 7 to test for leaks (again!).
The track work has progressed.	Dave and Trefor take a break while waiting for pressure to build...	...which finally results in No. 7 blowing off, so Trefor puts the blower on...
...so that the smokebox door can be opened to check the plugs again...	...before moving off to take water.	Steve Wheeler tries his hand at driving...
...with Dave Price firing (and Trefor in the middle).	After successful trial trips without problems, Dave and Trefor can take their lunch.	Richard spikes more track down...
...and the rails leading out of the Carriage Shed to the turnout have been curved ready for spiking.	A triumphant Dave drives No. 5 to return the carriages to the engine shed - for how much longer?	By evening, the track is really shaping up...
...but there is still a bit of work to be completed before the sections are all connected up!	The first part of the miniature carriage shed has been trial fitted in position.

Photographs taken on 1st April 2009 -
150 years to the day since the first train travelled on the
“The Corris Machynlleth & River Dovey Tramroad”
Taken by Steve Harris
Uploaded on 02/04/2009

Richard Shipman, Steph Reveley and Andrew Rawlins take part in the re-enactment of the first ever gravity train on the Corris Railway on 1st April 1859.

Richard and Andrew have their hands on the brakes as they approach Maespoeth...

...another approach to Maespoeth.

Photographs taken on 1st April 2009 -
150 years to the day since the first train travelled on the
“The Corris Machynlleth & River Dovey Tramroad”
Taken by Dick Kidner
Uploaded on 02/04/2009

Richard, Steph and Andrew await departure from Maespoeth of the anniversary train.	No 5 and carriage 21 make up the rest of the train	-on the way up
The lovely anniversary plaque in place at Corris.	Ready for departure.	Leaving the crew of the gravity train to fend for themselves at Maes-y-Llan crossing.
The train arrives at Maespoeth after a very rapid run.	The Mail Waggon kindly lent by the TR.	Another run-this time with Richard Greenhough in the chair!
The plaque on No. 5.

Photographs taken on 1st April 2009
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 07/04/2009

The official Anniversary run was watched by the staff and pupils from Corris School, who lined Maes-y-Llan bank to cheer and wave. (the hi-viz jackets in the distance were being worn by Steve Harris and Andrew Kennedy, who were doing lineside filming of the runs).	On the way for another run, Steph and Andrew ride up in the waggons.	Gravity running past Maes-y-Llan, with the safety train just rounding the corner in the distance.
Steph and Andrew enjoying the gravity run.

Photographs taken on 29th & 30th March 2009
Taken by Alf Oxford
Uploaded on 31/03/2009

Saturday 28/03/09. Peter Guest puts a coat of paint on one side of the display trolley.	Keith Rogers puts a coat of paint on the walls.	Peter then turns his attention to the stand for the Corris Station model.
Jill Oxford fills up the shelves on the counter display...	...having firstly retrieved stock from the storage area under the model layout.	Sunday 29/03/09. Bill Newton changes the glass in the low-level display cases.
Peter fills up the Falcon display racks...	...while Chris Newton sorts out books to go onto the display shelves.	Peter then puts the Peter Barmfield drawings onto the newly mounted shelves.
Chris Newton updates the stock-check sheets.	Rosie Guest and Jill put more stock onto the shelves...	...while Bill puts a quick coat of paint onto the display area.

Photographs taken on 29th & 30th March 2009
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 31/03/2009

A number of Corris exiles are returning home to help celebrate the railway's 150th anniversary. First up was the Mail Waggon....	...followed by waggon 16...	...followed by the side-door waggon. Loading onto Steve's trailer was done with the help of Armco and the winch on Andrew's Land Rover.
Offloading at Maespoeth was done with the help of the gantry.	The exiles joined our home-based heritage waggons at Maespoeth.	During the weekend, three turnouts were moved into position and tracklaying could get under way, continuing on Monday. This was the view looking north from Brynllwyd North Crossing on Monday afternoon.
The stub of what will become the main line south towards Esgairgeiliog.	The nearest turnout will link the new main line to the carriage shed road...	...while the second one will provide a storage siding...
...and the third access to the two roads inside the carriage shed.	Looking south from the carriage shed. Still plenty of tracklaying to do !	Inside the shed, a strange structure takes shape. Is it a kennel for Stella ?
You don't think that would keep her in, do you? No, it is for the planned 7.25" miniature railway...	...and will be installed at the end of the platform, next to the carriage shed...	...where a dwarf wall has been constructed to form its base.
The rake of waggons takes it's place at the entrance to the Southern Platform.

Photographs taken between 23rd & 29th March 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 31/03/2009

Monday, 23.3.09. Evan, Richard and Elwyn move stored items so that the ballast temporarily piled on top can be cleared before...	...Richard gets distracted by a 'phone call!	The train is out so that S4C's "Wedi 7" programme can interview Gwyn Briwnant Jones in connection with the railway's 150th Anniversary.
"One for the Album." Gwyn photographs the film crew at Corris - the interviewer was Gerallt Pennant (blue anorak). Yes, it was raining!	Back at Maespoeth, the ballast pile has gone a long way!	Tuesday, 24.3.09. Almost at the southern end of our land, the trackbed is almost down to level.
In the evening, the film crew are back for a live link.	Wednesday, 25.3.09. Stone supplies have come in and been spread for the new track - but it is turning wet!	Thursday, 26.3.09. Where's the turnout gone?
There it is!	Not much more to do now, but we need some drier weather.	At least the south platform has been levelled and given a rough stone surface.
Friday, 27.3.09. By evening, the stone has been levelled - ready for track laying!	Saturday, 28.3.09. Dave waves his big stick - designed to fetch the wooden block out of the saddle tank!	Frank builds the miniature carriage shed, Dick paints pit edge fence stanchions...
...while Weasel and Andrew lay track outside.	Dave and Trefor make up a new safety catch for No. 7's ash pan.	Steve scratches his head after two sides and an end of the miniature carriage shed has been fabricated, while track laying resumes on the other approach track to the shed.
Two Richards join the track laying gang...	...closely inspected by Dick!	Rather cutting it fine! A turnout on the move.
Sunday, 29.3.09. The mail has arrived - from Tywyn!	Trefor steams No. 7 to check for leaks - and Weasel's father, Ken, arrives to see his son on his birthday, and fills in time helping clean No. 7.	Two waggons down - one to go.
Richard Rugog calls by to move some turnout parts...	...into position...	...so that by evening, the new layout is taking shape!
Not a bad weekend - the miniature carriage shed is trial assembled...	...and we have a fine rake of waggons assembled ready for the gravity train.

Photographs taken on 23rd & 24th March 2009
Taken by Gerallt Pennant of S4C for "Wedi Saith" (After Seven).
Uploaded on 31/03/2009

No. 7 leaves the shed with S4C in attendance ...	...and gives a good show of steam..	...before waiting at Maespoeth platform.
Malcolm (right) & Elwyn crew the loco.	No. 7 poses at the entrance to the engine shed.	Blowing down at the end of the day.

Photographs taken between 16th & 22nd March 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 25/03/2009

Monday, 16.3.09. Evan and Glyn check levels of their excavation...	...and by lunch time, Steve makes ready to receive fill at the back of the north platform...	...as material arrives for the south platform.
In the evening, Dave Ingram and Trefor fire No. 7 to check for leaks.	Tuesday, 17.3.09. The south platform is shaping up nicely...	...as is the Carriage Shed approach!
The bolstered Tuesday gang hard at work - consuming their sandwiches!	A slide bar slipper has been white metalled...	...and in the evening, Trefor and Dave discuss gauge glass seals.
Wednesday, 18.3.09. The bank edge is being reinforced by the excavated material...	Thursday, 19.3.09. ...things are shaping up well with stone supplies coming in regularly...	...and yesterday, the timber cladding on the south gable was extended.
In the evening, Andrew and Richard give the carriages a thorough servicing and inspection...	...while Trefor paints inside the bunker of No. 7.	Friday, 20.3.09. Carriage No. 22's frames have made it to the shed...
...and the final touches are being given to the access to it.	By the evening, the cladding has been added to and much has been stained...	...and Richard and Peter recover old sleepers that are in the way.
Saturday, 21.3.09. Dave and Trefor discuss points with Mike Floate during the Training Weekend...	...while Andy and Paul work on other points...	...and Richard takes a class of trainees in an outdoor classroom.
First training runs were with loco No. 6...	...soon replaced with No. 7...	...while No 6 receives some TLC in the shed.
By evening, the new turnout is taking shape.	Sunday, 22.3.09. No. 7 and train drops back to clear the line for a Fire Train.	Only one more rail to cut for the new turnout!
Much of the floor of the Carriage Shed has received a coat of paint...	Much discussion takes place...	...while No. 7 gently simmers in the platform...
...before starting off for Corris again, as the finishing touches are applied to the new turnout.	Mike cleans a safety post for the pit edge as Richard dirties it for him...	...and there are plenty more to be painted!
The south gable end is nearing completion, all ready for opening.

Photographs taken w/e 21st & 22nd March 2009
Taken by Mike Floate
Uploaded on 23/03/2009

No. 7 simmers outside the shed at Maespoeth while the main line is cleared of freight stock.	Trefor hurries back to the loco as No 6 awaits a departure for Corris.	Richard Shipman ambles across to speak to Dave Price, watched over by No. 7.
The south platform has been back-filled with earth which was compressed by Dave Coleman.	The gable end is almost complete.	The view south - which will change dramatically over the coming few weeks.
At the south end of the new platform a new turnout awaits location within the extended yard layout.	Dave Coleman and Richard Shipman in deep discussion.	The regraded bank leading down to the new shed.
No. 7 halted on the last working south with members behind dealing with small fires - not part of the plan for Saturday!	On Sunday No 7 basks in the sunlight. In just a few weeks time this positioning at the start of a day's work will not happen in this way.	Malcolm attends to No. 7.
New recruit Weasel looks back at Steph checking on rules and planning as trainee Corris blockman.	Wild flowers of Corris station no 1 - some kind of cowslip?	The Fire Train arrives at Corris...
... driven by Roger.	The rare sight of two locos at Corris station.	Dave Price waits the order to...
...proceed on past John Reynard...	...into the yard clearing the platform for the return of No. 6.	Richard G paints the floor in the new shed.

Photographs taken on 20th March 2009
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 20/03/2009

A carriage in the carriage shed !	The chassis of under-construction carriage 22 was moved into the new shed this morning and placed on waggons 201 and 202 so that it can be moved within the shed.	The new formation south of the shed is almost ready for track to be laid...
...once the digger has finished !	On the right is the formation leading out of the shed...	...and on the left is the extension of the main line coming to join it.

Photographs taken between 12th & 15th March 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 16/03/2009

Thursday, 12.3.09. A line up of tipper waggons waits to take spoil to complete the north platform extension.	Saturday, 14.3.09. Efforts have been made to refurbish the tracks on the mini excavator, but the press is not man enough for the job!	Trefor and Andrew work on No. 7 (most of the time)...
...while Dick and Mike prepare the south gable end of the Carriage Shed for the excavators and cladding respectively.	Trefor and Andrew emerge from the engine shed to warm up, removing fence posts...	...while Richard and Dick move blocks to finish off the back of the north platform extension.
Fantastic! The machines have arrived to level the trackbed approaching the Carriage Shed...	...and Steve prepares to turn new parts to refurbish the undercarriage of the mini excavator.	The dunny is back in position, but...
...it looks as though Stella has bitten off more than she can chew!	To provide stone for a gabion and rough stone wall on the approach to the Carriage Shed, it is all hands to sorting pieces on the south platform...	...and then it is stop for a rest while the machines take over.
The machines work in unison...	...except for rogue operators on the dumper, tipping spoil to raise the level of the south platform.	Richard gives son Jack, a lesson in reading levels.
Sunday, 15.3.09. The arsonist has started early...	Steve checks the replaced track on the mini excavator, after...	...new sprockets had been fitted!
Timbers have been installed under another turnout awaiting re-gauging.	Mike takes it easy, watching...	...Steve welding supports to the south gable portal frame to stop thinner volunteers (and others) from getting into the shed.
The stone wall and gabion on the approach to the Carriage Shed completed yesterday.

Photographs taken on 8th March 2009
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 09/03/2009

No.5 has a train of tipper waggons...	...while No.6 sits proudly at the front of a set of vans. Under the tarpaulin is the newly-laid concrete slab which is intended to make it easier to coal No.7 and hopefully prevent the blow-down digging another hole in the ballast !	The chassis of carriage 22 has escaped from the ballast siding and awaits transfer into the new carriage shed so that assembly can re-commence....
...while inside the shed flat waggons 201 and 202 (and a spare pair of wheelsets) have already arrived."

Photographs taken between 6th & 8th March 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 09/03/2009

Friday, 6.3.09. Andrew prepares a Special for a visitor from the BR Residuary Board...	...on a trip up to Corris.	In the evening, Ian Johnson films a video of how an injector works for the Open University.
Saturday, 7.3.09. No. 7 quietly smokes workers out of the engine shed in readiness for its hot boiler examination.	Carriage No. 22's frames are taken for a spin...	...the regauging of another turnout is advancing...
...and another is being assembled while enthusiastic cleaners tackle No. 7!	Then it starts raining - but it doesn't stop work, here supervised by John Reynard in his new coat!	The rain requires waterproofs to be donned...
...while others resort to other means to continue work!	No. 7's safety valves are tested...	...and trains are shunted...
...including by No. 7 once it had passed it's test!	Andy uses the new Corris version rail drill to do the job and prepare to bolt spacer blocks in place...	...while Ian films the injector in use.
By the end of the day, the turnout is shaping up...	...the south platform edge wall is complete...	...and the turnout is ready for craning (and the workers are very wet - and tired!).
Sunday, 8.3.09. In contrast to yesterday, Richard works by himself, shunting stock, exposing the blow-down protective slab (concreted on Friday), and infilling the end with ballast...	...but the site is starting to look different!	This is not what the Carriage Shed was designed to accommodate (but the sun is shining)!
The right profile - but will they suffer...	...at the hands of the Black Hand Gang?

Photographs taken between 23rd February & 1st March 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 04/03/2009

Monday, 23.2.09. The Council are constructing a path on the trackbed of the tramway in Upper Corris, and the excavation revealed rails...	...that were still in existence after last being used c.1926!	Thursday, 26.2.09. The south platform edge wall has been extended slightly...
...as has the foundation wall for the 7.25" gauge Carriage Shed.	A section of railway trackbed south of Pont Pantperthog is receiving a new safety fence - where none existed before!	Sunday, 1.3.09. St David's Day!
Who owns this rarity?	Ah! Frank Walker, taking a break with Steve and Stella.	A good gang is extending and raising the south platform edge wall...
...and filling up the hollow concrete blocks with concrete...	...while Frank cleans up a concrete block prior to carrying...	...it to lay at the south end.
3 weeks to go to the Training Weekend - are the firelighters ready to operate...	...a Fire Train?	The north platform extension is filling up with stacked sleepers - and a turnout in desperate need of re-gauging!
The 7.25" gauge Carriage Shed foundation blocks have been filled with concrete - ready for filling behind!

Photographs taken on 28th February 2009
Taken by Dick Kidner
Uploaded on 04/03/2009

Trefor and Dave Price are thinking of buying a traction engine(?)	No. 5 can be hard to start on a damp day - Richard has a go.	Trefor gets it going – but it fades away.
Finally Dave Price gets it going.	Fully operational!	The waggon neatly stacked with blocks on the Upper Corris - A nice ensemble.
Trefor of course is underneath fixing the brakes - with advice from Dave.	This mixed gauge panel must be moved to allow access by the dumper to move the fill for the new south platform.	Easily done!
The edging for the new south platform is proceeding well.	The ‘blow down hole’ in the middle road is being renovated. The ballast will be covered with a membrane and then with concrete.

Photographs taken on 21st February 2009
Taken by Dick Kidner
Uploaded on 25/02/2009

Lovely stuff! Richard Forsyth is filling a grease gun ready to grease the point rodding in the yard.	Paul, Andrew and Martin Vickers are pondering the geometry of a set of points.	John and Trefor take a break.
Steve and Martin ready to start cementing.	The building of the wall at the North end of the shed (beyond the steps) begins.	Derek Pratt painting the inside of the new shed doors
David is pacing out the line of the new railway.	Martin fills a void with cement-lots of it!	Lunch time!
The points still aren’t quite sorted out!

Photographs taken between 16th & 21st February 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 25/02/2009

Monday, 16.2.09. My word, someone is having a clear out...	...of everything in the old stable at Maespoeth...	...while work progresses in the Carriage Shed...
...to strip the defective undercarriage of the mini excavator...	...and clad the south gable doors.	Tuesday, 17.2.09. Daddy shed is back in the shadow of his much bigger son!
Two doors done, two more to go!	Friday, 20.2.09. At last, the turnout rails have been cut...	...and the south platform edge wall has been started!
Saturday, 21.2.09. John helps Trefor (under the loco) replace the ashpan in position...	...while Steve, and Richard Forsyth, have lunch as Andrew entertains visitors to Maespoeth.	Derek Pratt paints the inside of the freshly clad doors...
...as Paul works on re-gauging one of the turnouts in a fog...	...and Andrew pretends to help Steve build a retaining wall behind the north platform!	Later, Paul fabricates a support plate for the turnout assisted by Richard...
...while another Richard ensures that their clothes smell of wood smoke!	Sunday, 22.2.09. The Black Hand gang has...	...returned!
Not just the hands - but try getting that off, Steph!	The all but finished south gable doors on the Carriage Shed.	The north platform retaining wall at the end of the day...
...and a start has been made on creating the base for a smaller shed for a 7.25" gauge layout.

Photographs taken by
Mike Bloomfield.
(No date supplied but assumed to be around 16/02/2009)
Uploaded on 15/04/2009

The doors on the carriage shed start to be fitted out...	...with cladding to match the engine shed doors.S1052308.jpg	One down, one to go...
There we go.	And the approach lightly ballasted as well.

Photographs taken on 14th February 2009
Taken by Dick Kidner
Uploaded on 19/02/2009

About 25 full size sleepers still to be shifted. These are really heavy, so Trefor is brought in to give Richard a hand.	They are neatly stacked on the bogie wagon.	Last one!
All done – for the moment!	Mike does a jig while preparing the doors for cladding.	Steve prepares the highly sophisticated and secret process for white metalling...
...and heats the solder – 85% tin.	John prepares to attack the mixture.	John seems to be worried ?
Trefor keeps the solder hot while Steve prepares the mould.	Pouring the hot metal.	Meanwhile the clearing up goes on- Richard still hard at work.
The Smalley is towed down to the carriage shed to be repaired...	...leaving the ‘top yard’ beautifully clear, ready for the new railway to be laid!

Photographs taken between 5th &14th February 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 19/02/2009

Thursday, 5.2.09. Just a little...	...snow overnight...	...to make Maespoeth look...
...different!	Wednesday, 11.2.09. A bit obvious, really!	Saturday, 14.2.08. The dumper is stripped down to sort out a drive problem...
...and the saw benches have been set up while the Ant has also arrived to sort out a starting problem.	The yard area has been cleared of stored materials, ready for excavating to final levels.	That's the way to do it!
Steve takes a peek behind the scene...	...before struggling with the sausages!	On No. 7, the die blocks have been removed for re-machining...
...and the slide bar slippers have been prepared for white metalling.

Photographs taken on 8th February 2009
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 09/02/2009

A snowy morning at Maespoeth.	Who put the icing sugar on the locos ?	The new doors are being fitted in readiness for timber cladding.
Now where are "ewe" going ?	Around 250 sleepers were moved during the weekend in preparation for grading the formation into the carriage shed.	Bolts have been fitted on the inside of the carriage shed doors.

Photographs taken on 1st February 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 02/02/2009

The turnout being manufactured "in-house" has been laid out for assembly.

Richard moves rails across...

...to stack neatly out of the way of forthcoming earthworks.

Photographs taken on 26th January 2009
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 26/01/2009

The south end of the carriage shed now has its doors, and the steelwork above the lintel is almost ready for timber cladding.	The view from inside the shed.	Not far to go now !
Rolling stock has been moved off the Brynllwyd Headshunt to make space for the re-grading of the haul road, providing a rare opportunity to see this section of line.	How soon can we lay these rails to provide access into the new shed ?	And how soon can we clad the south end so that it matches the north ?

Photographs taken on 24th January 2009
Taken by Dick Kidner
Uploaded on 26/01/2009

The doors are up! Dave Coleman is chipping away a block to allow the right hand door to open fully.	The rail shifting gang assembles to load bits of points onto the bogie.	How shall we do it?
Heave!	The left hand door won't fully open either and Dave is cutting away some concrete- and filling the shed with dust!	That concrete is extremely hard!
Andrew has a go!	Richard and Andy assemble the steel bars above the doors.	A depleted rail shifting crew!
The Saffery brothers tidy up the shed - much needed!	The left hand door can now be fully opened.	Andrew's Land Rover is used to drag rail backwards out of the ditch...
...and then up the hill to the rail loading site...	...where the loading carries on into the evening!

Photographs taken between 20th & 23rd January 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 26/01/2009

Tuesday, 20.1.09. The first load of concrete arrives for the pit floor screed, together with a tester. Mind the pit!	The lorry has gone, and Andrew and Steve screed it off, with Derek looking on, ready to scrape back any surplus.	The main floor is screeded, Steve finishes around the edges...
...and then everybody waits for the next lorry...	...which soon arrives...	...and departs. The screeding has gone well, and Graham comes down to check we are doing it right, fortunately with a tray of tea for us all!
Up in the engine shed, Malcolm supervises John while Meinir interrogates Graham on his latest holiday...	...but the third lorry load has just arrived.	From the working level, the screeded concrete looks good!
The extreme south end floor is finished off...	...and the surplus has gone into the platform retaining wall foundation and filled up the pots in the completed wall.	Time for a quick bite! What a significant day it has been for us - the last concrete into the Carriage Shed - but trust the Americans to push our publicity from the front page!
Wednesday, 21.1.09. The gable end steel work is in position and concreted in, now we don't need to accommodate lorries inside the shed.	Thursday, 22.1.09. Dave Gibson inspects the switch board before adding to the electrics assisted by the brothers Saffery...	Friday, 23.1.09. ...who have completed the cable tray...
...which must have driven someone bananas!

Photographs taken on 22nd January 2009
Taken by Richard Greenhough
Uploaded on 22/01/2009

The south end of the carriage shed with steelwork fitted; next step is to hang the doors.	The haul road into the shed has now become redundant - how soon can we have rails leading into it ?	Steve & Stella (aka Monster Dog or the Staffordshire Bull Terror) at work inside the shed
Steve is silhouetted against the sunlight at the south end of the shed	The pit concrete is complete, and the drain channel opened up	The support posts are now encased in concrete
Dave Gibson works on a piece of the electrical installation...	...while the Saffery Brothers install the electrical trays along the side of the shed.	The Saffery Brothers pause for a photo.
A typical view of the Staffordshire Bull Terror !	Steve dismantles the machine built to smooth the pit floor concrete...	...before carrying out the blocks that were used to weigh it down.

Photographs taken on 20th January 2009
Taken by Dick Kidner
Uploaded on 22/01/2009

08 The last carriage shed cement day- the first batch arrives	Steve operates his rail borne cement shaker with Dave Coleman and Andrew Rawlins doing the hard work down below	The first lorry has departed --Andrew and Richard all lit up
After the second lorry departs Graham drops down for a chat with Derek and others	The very last load of carriage shed cement is about to be unloaded - onto Dave Coleman below.	Rather too much was dropped at the end and some had to be lifted out by hand.
Most of the surplus was placed inside the block retaining wall at the north end of the shed	Dave Coleman and Steve Wheeler survey the scene of their triumph!	Dave does the levelling of the last piece.
...and starts to finish up.	The happy pair!	Andrew and Richard erecting the steel for the south end door frame.
Steve wanging the beam into place.

Photographs taken between 5th and 18th January 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 20/01/2009

Monday, 5.1.09. The pit steel has been re-fixed to allow the floor screed to be placed...	...the feet have had reinforcement welded to them for casting in the screed...	...and it is very cold outside!
Saturday, 10.1.09. What makes you think Trefor has been working on No. 7's boiler?	Here he cleans up the trailing truck frame.	It's a wrap! The pit steel covered to reduce cleaning concrete off it.
Steve welds up another stay to secure the steel in place.	The four gable end doors are ready for priming.	Richard and Trefor transfer pallets on to Steve's trailer.
Saturday, 17.01.09. Graham Morris fills in paperwork after examining No. 7's boiler cold, as Trefor and John look on...	...while Dave grins at No. 5 as Dave goes to close the gates...	...before helping guide Dave back with a short train.
Dick, Richard Forsyth and Paul size up a turnout for re-gauging...	...measured to perfection. How come Richard's overalls are still clean?	The gable end doors have been primed by RIchard (F) and Dick - both sides!
The south end of the pit wall has been shuttered and reinforced...	...but what is this strange contraption?	It's a carrier for the floor screeder!
The columns have been fixed in position with reinforcement bar, and the west wall has had bitumen painted up to the screed level.	Graham, Trefor, Dave and Dave discuss re-assembling No. 7 and it's steam test.	Sunday, 18.1.09. The turnout rails have been marked for cutting - but rain stopped play!
Nearly ready for the screeding concrete.

Photographs taken on 3rd January 2009
Taken by David Coleman
Uploaded on 05/01/2009

Saturday, 3.1.09. Trefor and John keep warm in the S&T Shed while Stella (out of sight) hogs the fire...	...while the dumper creates a fug in the Carriage Shed, blocked in by Andy's sick Land Rover...	...and Richard works out in the clear (but freezing!) air, dismantling turnouts for regauging...
...but surely, these are too optimistic for us?	By the end of the day, No. 7 is just about stripped down sufficiently...	...for it's cold boiler inspection...
...at least three turnouts are dismantled ready for loading on to rail transport...	...and one more awaits movement...	...which justifies a cuppa (and Stella hasn't moved)!