A day out with 5310…

No fools here, last Saturday I had the pleasure of the company of an old friend. 5310 was out for the first public diesel turn on the Llangollen Railway in 2026 and I wasn't going to miss a ride...

The weather was cold and mixed and we had sunshine, cloud and rain - along with a chill wind. Wrapped up warm I loved my compartment and spent the majority of the journey with head out the window - the noise and cold wind helping me to feel alive...

 

The steam service was in the hands of the railways beautifully restored 7754 - which, after its holiday in Somerset, has been turned on return so its smokebox faces Llangollen - giving the opportunity for some new photo opportunities this year.

The Railcar group work hard at weekends and their in service trio all bulled up looks great (though I don't have much love for the 109 myself). Alonside the new arrival 110 is in a bit of a state and the 104 is uncovered, looking wonderful in BR blue but sadly, I understand about to leave the railway.

The blue sky beautifully reflected in the Mk1 subs as I came back home to Glyndyfrdwy and the engineering fleet recently returned to the sidings following the track work completed over the winter in Berwyn tunnel. In the sunshine, even the tired and flaking paint on the signal box looks great...

I would definitely miss having the railway on my doorstep - and am lucky to be able to exchange my time producing the Trust magazine for discretionary travel. Next Saturday sees 5310 out again, perhaps I'll take a second trip - the sausage rolls from Gerrard's in Corwen are worth it. If you're ever visiting the railway I'd be happy to pop down and say hello - do just let me know. Until next time, more soon...

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