Alistairs Photo's http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/ 32 rows en-gb 60 PBR Santa Specials 09 Wk3 - part2 http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1795484.html Back down to the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway for the final two days of the Santa specials (21/22 Dec). Heavy snowfall overnight really transformed things and with the sun on Tuesday I got some memorable images. Due to the weather the passenger count was slightly down on last year but the final count for the year was over 9,300 smashing last years total. Roll on 2010. Thursday 24 December 2009: Back down to the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway for the final two days of the Santa specials (21/22 Dec). Heavy snowfall overnight really transformed things and with the sun on Tuesday I got some memorable images. Due to the weather the passenger count was slightly down on last year but the final count for the year was over 9,300 smashing last years total. Roll on 2010.

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]]> Thu Dec 24 2009 PBR Santa Specials 09 Wk3 - part 1 http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1794175.html Popped down on Sunday for some sun and snow, was able to spend too long there as a car fault meant I had to return home to get it fixed :0( Sunday 20 December 2009: Popped down on Sunday for some sun and snow, was able to spend too long there as a car fault meant I had to return home to get it fixed :0(

104 assists on the1st train of the day due to brake problems caused by the sub-zero temperatures 104 in profile, Andy Parry (with the hat) and Jon Goss at the helm A cold and snowy railway A mixed traffic Santa A christ card scene at Furnace Sidings No. 19 blast uphill past the Garn terraces In the background is the lower Garn Lake No. 19 blasts up hill A cold and snowy Sunday in the Eastern Valley No. 19 nears the Whistle Inn The farm is slowly collapsing No. 19 drifts down hill No. 19 drifts down hill no. 19 in profile

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]]> Sun Dec 20 2009 PBR Santa Specials 09 - week 2 http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1792655.html Popped down Sunday afternoon for the second weekend of the Pontypool and Blaenavon Santa Specials. A lot drier than last weekend, although a lot colder. Didn't stop the people turning up though which is good news. Tuesday 15 December 2009: Popped down Sunday afternoon for the second weekend of the Pontypool and Blaenavon Santa Specials. A lot drier than last weekend, although a lot colder. Didn't stop the people turning up though which is good news.

Blaenavon High level as the roof trusses go on BHL in close up John Down comes over all camera shy! looking good the new roof will soon be on Andy May - Sundays King of the Raffle Andy and Findley May, your hosts for the day leaden skies and sunshine, must be Blaenavon No.19 makes a vigorous departure from Furnace Sidings No. 19 storms up the hill as Dave P checks the way ahead I think the parents are more excited than the little one .....and daddy says can he have a train set? A big thank you for Santa and a pony and a.... everyone loves Santa A shaft of light high lights the exhaust from No.19 as the Coity broods in the back ground.

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]]> Tue Dec 15 2009 PBR Santa Specials 09 - week 1 http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1789757.html First weekend of the 09 Santa Specials at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway, the weather may have been rubbish but the trains and the fun weren't with passenger figures up again on last year. Also shots of the ongoing work at BHL and the landslide. Monday 7 December 2009: First weekend of the 09 Santa Specials at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway, the weather may have been rubbish but the trains and the fun weren't with passenger figures up again on last year. Also shots of the ongoing work at BHL and the landslide.

A damp start to the season We must get a festive hard hat for Alastair So what do you want for Christmas Mike and Tref I've got my present I don't need Santa now! Pressies Norman tries to convince Santa he's been a good boy. Tref warming himself So who's been a good girl this year No one plays today as No. 19 sets out from Furnace Sidings Who's been on the Christmas Spirit? Alex G and Dave P, your glamourous crew for the day Ed dries out the glass! Steam and Santa - always a popular attraction Blaenavon High Level looking more and more like a station end of the line Varteg Road Bridge looking north No trains for the present Track has alsp been removed from the Varteg Road Bridge, seen here looking south The station building looking north Looking north, track ready for final alignment and ballasting The station building looking south The fire place will be a welcome addition on winter days Work was also carried out at Forgeside Road Bridge to replace sleepers where the chairs had been corroded by water dripping from the bridge Forgeside work Dave boasting again! Jim, Dave and Andy at work Looking north, this water should run in a culvert along the left handside but that is currently blocked, some work has been carried out to stop the water running down the track The landslide with the water still flowing The secondary landslips looking south The secondary landslips looking north Looking south from bridge 12 showing the secondary landslips caused by the diverted water which ran down the centre of the trackbed The cause - blockage of this culvert caused the water to soak across the ground rather than drain away as normal A huge volume of water still pours of the Coity The landslide looking north The landslide just North of bridge 12 looking south No. 19 again reday for the day ahead It's soggy from this side as well Another happy family leave the station Steam trains always draw the crowds

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]]> Mon Dec 7 2009 The Ghost Train at the PBR http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1776075.html October 31st is Halloween and for the first time the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway ran a ghost train. What a fantastic night with almost 600 people turning up to enjoy the fun and ghastliness. Definatley must for 2010. Some shots of the pway work at BHL on the Sunday are here as well. Monday 2 November 2009: October 31st is Halloween and for the first time the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway ran a ghost train. What a fantastic night with almost 600 people turning up to enjoy the fun and ghastliness. Definatley must for 2010. Some shots of the pway work at BHL on the Sunday are here as well.

Platform 2 Get your witches brew and black bile here all aboard the ghost train The dead centre of the railway! Ghostly apparitions dare you ride the train Wizards ears, devils eyes, bats pooh and ....... Here, try this devils eye teas up the ghost watches from the side lines Dracula stalks the platform We won't ask what ken was doing in the coffin! Tom's not scared, he's got a sandwich Ghostly appirations on the platform A ghostly moonlit night the ghost train leaves Furnace sidings Come my pretties, taste my wares Come ride with me AARRGGGGHHHHHHHH!!! The pway train creeps down the line (thanks to Jon and Sam for the location) fesh track in BHL

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]]> Mon Nov 2 2009 Wirksworth Autumn Chopper http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1773086.html A David Williams charter at the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway with class 20 D8001. The morning was rather dull and very very damp but the afternoon more than compensated for it. An excellent day out. Monday 26 October 2009: A David Williams charter at the Ecclesbourne Valley Railway with class 20 D8001. The morning was rather dull and very very damp but the afternoon more than compensated for it. An excellent day out.

Appearing out the mist 8001 climbs the 1 in 30 to Ravenstor Appearing out the mist 8001 climbs the 1 in 30 to Ravenstor Appearing out the mist 8001 climbs the 1 in 30 to Ravenstor 8001 arrives at Ravenstor, the gate on the left led to Middlepeak Quarry Ravenstor from the incline The puddles gather on the platform at Shottle 8001 at Shottle, the oil tanks on the left are part of the Peak Oil depot. Shottle station, as you can see this laid out to be double track, but never was. Another view of a damp Shottle platform. Approaching Shottle from the south. As the sign says, Idridgehay Looking more 1959 than 2009 A room with a view And then teh sun came out, a period piece at Wirksworth. 8001 and train head away from Wirksworth Just check out those colours Shottle at track level Shottle from the road brisge last of the light as 8001 shunts just outside Shottle station

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]]> Mon Oct 26 2009 RSH 7169 restoration http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1763366.html A collection to document the restoration and return to service of RSH 0-6-0ST 7169. Originally built in 1944 and sold into preservation in 1973 7169 has been masquerading as 68005 since then. Once restoration has completed 7169 will return to service at it's new home, the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway in an authentic industrial livery. Saturday 3 October 2009: A collection to document the restoration and return to service of RSH 0-6-0ST 7169. Originally built in 1944 and sold into preservation in 1973 7169 has been masquerading as 68005 since then. Once restoration has completed 7169 will return to service at it's new home, the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway in an authentic industrial livery.

Being inspected at the Embsay and Bolton Abbey (A Hinshelwood) Being inspected at the Embsay and Bolton Abbey (A Hinshelwood) Some of the October 10 work crew (M Mahabir) Buffers off! (A Hinshelwood) The bunker before (A Hinshelwood) The bunker after (A Hinshelwood) The back of the cab before (A Hinshelwood) The back of the cab after (A Hinshelwood) October 24 crew (M Mahabir) Stays out (A Hinshelwood) Stays out drivers side (A Hinshelwood) Steam cleaned (A Hinshelwood) 21st November team (Alex H) 21st November the to do list (Alex H aka lovebunny) 21st November Mog Inside (Alex H) 21st November Mog inside (Alex H) 21st November Springs off (Alex H) 21st November Mog underneath (Alex H) Saturday 12dec - pins removed from axle box keeps and springs, bunker and cab footplates removed. (Alex Hinshelwood) 12th December Footplates removed (Alex Hinshelwood) 12th December Chris about to remove the bunker (Alex Hinshelwood) 12th December No more bunker (Alex Hinshelwood) 12th December Cylinders bored out (Alex Hinshelwood) 12th December Inside frames rubbed down (Alex Hinshelwood) 12th December Cracked firebox (Alex Hinshelwood) 12th December Cracked firebox (Alex Hinshelwood) 12th December more cut out (Alex Hinshelwood) 7169 arrives at the Flour Mill 08/09/09 (M. Mahabir) 7169 unloaded from the lorry 08/09/09 (M. Mahabir) 7169 is backed into the Flour Mill 08/09/09 (M. Mahabir) Just a couple of weeks later and it has been dismatled 02/10/09 Frames and wheel sets 02/10/09 Work has already begun 02/10/09 Saddle tank and cab 02/10/09 The tubes have been removed 02/10/09 No more will it carry this number 02/20/09 Before a clean (M Mahabir) Being steam cleaned (M Mahabir) In need of a clean (A Gourlay) After a clean (M Mahabir) Work needed (M Mahabir) October 17th work crew (M Mahabir)

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]]> Sat Oct 3 2009 PBR 6435 photo charter http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1755681.html On September the 14th the Compo Club held a photo charter at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway using their guest engine, panier tank 6435. Whilst the mornng was very dull the sun finally arrived in the afternoon and some stunning shots were finally obtained. A quick night shoot was tacked onto the end to round off a superb days photography. Tuesday 15 September 2009: On September the 14th the Compo Club held a photo charter at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway using their guest engine, panier tank 6435. Whilst the mornng was very dull the sun finally arrived in the afternoon and some stunning shots were finally obtained. A quick night shoot was tacked onto the end to round off a superb days photography.

First train of the day heads up the valley into Furnace Sidings First train of the day heads up the valley into Furnace Sidings Blaenavon High Level - with a passenger train! Guess who's just driven his first Pannier Waiting departure time Leaving BHL Approcahing Forgeside Road Bridge Approcahing Forgeside Road Bridge Forgeside Road Bridge Forgeside Road Bridge dodgy things you find at the line side Someone got the camera instructions wrong Family portrait a north bound heads away from Blaenavon The competion Photographers! 6435 charges up to bridge 14 ARAF The local goods heads up to Furnace Sidings The guards Cocked up the exposure, hence the burnt out exhaust (D'oh!) Sunny at last Brisge 14 Bridge 14 with locals Heading for Furnace Sidings Stormimg the hill Stormimg the hill Stormimg the hill Jon high on his perch Andy Knock starring as the water boy Taking water your crew for the afternoon 6435 and freight storm out of Furnace sidings Catching the last sliver of light 6435 heads away to Brynmawr Catching the last sliver of light 6435 heads away to Brynmawr Furnace sidings night time Furnace sidings night time Furnace sidings night time Furnace sidings night time Furnace sidings night time Furnace sidings night time

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]]> Tue Sep 15 2009 PBR 140th Anniversary Gala http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1755671.html September 12/13 2009 was the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railways anniversary gala celebrating 140 years since the line from Brynmawr to Blaenavon first opened in 1869. Guest star was pannier tank 6435 from the Bodmin and Wenford Railway and with No. 19 and Peckette 1555 (Ivor) the railway put on it's biggest show yet, and all with plenty of glorious sunshine for the camera. Tuesday 15 September 2009: September 12/13 2009 was the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railways anniversary gala celebrating 140 years since the line from Brynmawr to Blaenavon first opened in 1869. Guest star was pannier tank 6435 from the Bodmin and Wenford Railway and with No. 19 and Peckette 1555 (Ivor) the railway put on it's biggest show yet, and all with plenty of glorious sunshine for the camera.

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]]> Tue Sep 15 2009 PBR transport rally 09 http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1751184.html August Bank Holiday is the the traditional time for the Pontypool and Blaebavon Railways annual transport rally. As always plenty of vintage vehicles, train and bus rides and despite the damp weather plenty of visitors. Sunday 6 September 2009: August Bank Holiday is the the traditional time for the Pontypool and Blaebavon Railways annual transport rally. As always plenty of vintage vehicles, train and bus rides and despite the damp weather plenty of visitors.

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]]> Sun Sep 6 2009 Ivor the Engine at the PBR 2009 http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1744484.html Ivor the Engine came to the Pontypool and Blaenavon railway on August 15/16 for his annual holiday, this time joined by number 19. Everyone had a good time, the Green Meadow community farm brought Bluebell the Donkey and friends, there was face painting, a bouncy castle and plenty of smiling faces. Sunday 23 August 2009: Ivor the Engine came to the Pontypool and Blaenavon railway on August 15/16 for his annual holiday, this time joined by number 19. Everyone had a good time, the Green Meadow community farm brought Bluebell the Donkey and friends, there was face painting, a bouncy castle and plenty of smiling faces.

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]]> Sun Aug 23 2009 PBR diesel gala 2009 http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1732467.html 4 main line diesels, sunshine, showers, failures, resurrections, 2 namings, 2 rakes of stock, a birthday party and a hell of a lot of fun. Not your average diesel gala at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway. Monday 27 July 2009: 4 main line diesels, sunshine, showers, failures, resurrections, 2 namings, 2 rakes of stock, a birthday party and a hell of a lot of fun. Not your average diesel gala at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway.

The errant 73 (looks spiffy though). Now this reminds me of something but I'm not sure what The birtjday girl Well i never The gang and in sunshine but without me Damp weather doesn't deter the photographers Les Emry, Alex Hinshelwood and Steve Organ

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]]> Mon Jul 27 2009 Mallaig at last http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1728076.html Friday 17th and Saturday the 18th saw Spitfire Railtours take 37069 and 20302 to Fort William, Mallaig and Oban and there was no way I was going to miss this one. A very early start, a very late finish but what a tour, excellent company, superb thrash and the evening run to Mallaig was something else again. A big thanks to the DRS fitter who managed to get 302 working at Fort William so we could take it to Mallaig, saved our weekend. Sunday 19 July 2009: Friday 17th and Saturday the 18th saw Spitfire Railtours take 37069 and 20302 to Fort William, Mallaig and Oban and there was no way I was going to miss this one. A very early start, a very late finish but what a tour, excellent company, superb thrash and the evening run to Mallaig was something else again. A big thanks to the DRS fitter who managed to get 302 working at Fort William so we could take it to Mallaig, saved our weekend.

Preston just after 7am Ardlui From a railway carriage From a railway carriage From a railway carriage From a railway carriage looking over Rannoch Moor Loch Treig Loch Treig Loch Treig Loch Treig Loch Treig Loch Treig Loch Treig Loch Treig Spean Bridge Spean Bridge A lot of very worried people as 302 refued to start Looking back to Ben nevis looking back to Ben Nevis Looking down Loch Eil to ben Nevis and Fort William Looking West a long Loch Eil under moody skies Fassfern, loch Eil The colours were changing by the second Shades of light and dark Down near Kinlocheil Meal Nam Damh an hour later than planned 20302 storms over Glenfinnian Viaduct Views to die for just magnificent almost black and white Loch Eilt - not a breath of wind to disturb the surface Loch Eilt and its islands You run out of words trying to describe the scenery more of Loch Eilt Just stunning - looking down the length of loch Eilt glimpses of Rois-Bheinn and loch Ailort glimpses of Rois-Bheinn and loch Ailort glimpses of Rois-Bheinn and loch Ailort glimpses of Rois-Bheinn A congregation no more Dramatic skies 37069 brings up the rear Loch nan Uamh Loch nan Uamh and Ardinsh Loch nan Uamh Loch nan Uamh and Ardinsh Looking out to the Cuillin Sound, Point of Sleet on the right, Eigg of the left Welcome to Mallaig Mallaig at last

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]]> Sun Jul 19 2009 pbr 1960s weekend and beer festival 2009 http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1726384.html The second annual 1960s weekend at the PBR, combined with the beer festival saw the 31 D5627 working its first public trains (before failing), the first train over the rebuilt bridge 13, more people than ever at the evening disco and a good time had by all. Shots of the disco are in the pasword protected file to spare everyones blushes (mine included). Wednesday 15 July 2009: The second annual 1960s weekend at the PBR, combined with the beer festival saw the 31 D5627 working its first public trains (before failing), the first train over the rebuilt bridge 13, more people than ever at the evening disco and a good time had by all. Shots of the disco are in the pasword protected file to spare everyones blushes (mine included).

we had a vintage bus for the first day heritage traction all round 104 just had to get in on the act D5627 waits its turn 421 and Bill on shed D5627 ready for the off In profile D5627 did work honest - seen here passing the Garn lake nearing the farm driftign down hill This is not what I had in mind for D5627 on Sunday Paul hiding in the weeds Thumper and 31 Don't ask 104 creeps under the rail over rail bridge waiting to cross bridge 13 104 works the first train across the rebuilt bridge 13 - must get thosetrees sorted out track work 104 under a blue sky working on bridge 14 the ninidigger, useful as ever Looking cool on the job taking a break 104 with the Hark earning its keep Number 19 storms the hill on a sunny sunday The new benches proved very popular A cheery place is the tea room A view from the an overall scene from bridge 14 to bridge 12 - those trees need trimming and the chairs go back on bridge 14 Dave -posing as always Phil

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]]> Wed Jul 15 2009 37421 first shots at the PBR http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1721478.html 37421 arrived at the PBR on the 1st July so a trip was in order to get he first images plus a update of latest development work Sunday 5 July 2009: 37421 arrived at the PBR on the 1st July so a trip was in order to get he first images plus a update of latest development work

37421 outside the top shed 37421 outside the top shed - Lovely 37421 outside the top shed down at bridg 12 the timbers have been secured Train driver and guard (Rob staying very grease free for a change you train crew and station staff for the day The platform building at BHL is coming on rapidly Still work to do on the cellars even a floor is appearing, this will be for the ticket office. Bev supervising the hard work Smiling in the sun From the south end on a spot of sun the low wall in the foreground is to protect the site of the signal box 421 and a spot of sun 37421 and thumper outside the top shed 421 posing 421 under dark skys D5627 (31203) at the whistle Inn after it's first ever loaded test run (sounded lovely) D5627 at furnace sidings D5627 heads south to Blaenavon (I wish - but not long now)

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]]> Sun Jul 5 2009 PBR - Garn lakes 09 http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1719575.html Sunday June 28th 2009 was the Garn Lakes country fair and for a change the sun shone, the ground was dry and it was oh so warm. This ensured we had a good day at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway with trains full and the tea room and buffet none stop all day. More days like this please. Tuesday 30 June 2009: Sunday June 28th 2009 was the Garn Lakes country fair and for a change the sun shone, the ground was dry and it was oh so warm. This ensured we had a good day at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway with trains full and the tea room and buffet none stop all day. More days like this please.

If only he'd asked, we could have lent him No. 19, a much quicker way to start a fire. Dry and warm for the country fair for a change Say cheese :0) Dave Haylins doing his famous phone juggling act. just check out those awesome photographs. Packed and busy at the fair No. 19 sets off up the hill Past the boating on the lower garn We must get brighter rolling stock rather him than me Birds of prey on display Watch out foe this guy, you'll meet him later Lovely birds It's all go as 19 rolls back down the hill A packed approach road to the railway Bus tours round the town on offer Getting the evil eye from Andy and Sam Even the little ones need a helping hand now and again Nice to see a packed car park A hive of activity Stocling up on ice cream before the next trip Summer on the Coity, Sunshine, ponies, steam and the country fair As 19 skirts the lake the fair goes on Someone got itchy feet and decided to go watch the trains A quicj wing stretch She's an attraction in herself! Thumper and M&M The bottom shed with most of the scaffoldign now removed llanwern and the shark our new shark - she's lovely down at the end of the yard Bridge 12 deck work bridge 12 as you've never seen it before some lovely timber there It'll be gopod for a long time to come This is the route the Big Pit branch will take. Showing the difference in height between the branch and the mainline, thats the deck of brodge 12 in the background Can't wait to start photographing trains here - just the 1 in 24 gradient under the bridge Only a little clearing to do better start chopping soon On the way back from town catching a few rays Furnace sidings on a hot sultry day Mark V enjoys the ride back down the hill everyone loves ive cream Tom tried hard to smile This is how you smile Ice creams for the crew These people are waiting for the bus - which had ih fact broken down - it was a long wait Just can't get enough of that ice cream 19 gets a few admiring looks

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]]> Tue Jun 30 2009 Wet little engines http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1709613.html June 6/7 was the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway's first ever little engines event. Sadly a very very wet and dismal day on the Saturday resulted in a very low turn out and whilst Sunday was the better the cancellation of a sponsored walk by the organisers (and not telling us) was a bitter dissapointment considering the work we had put in. Oh well, better luck next time. Monday 8 June 2009: June 6/7 was the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway's first ever little engines event. Sadly a very very wet and dismal day on the Saturday resulted in a very low turn out and whilst Sunday was the better the cancellation of a sponsored walk by the organisers (and not telling us) was a bitter dissapointment considering the work we had put in. Oh well, better luck next time.

A damo and dismal start to the weekend The top shed and what a sight, two mainline diesels being worked on. And from the other end. 19 struggles up the hill in atrocious conditions Almost there A well earned rest at the Whistle Inn Princess sat this one out as her driver was needed elsewhere Lennie and Princess having a chat A comaparison of railway gear, then and now Shaun the shunter gets his pole out. Davinia (from Devenport) and Princess discuss the appalling weather Lennie from llanwern on his last weekend of mainline duties And still we relaid track 1387 declined the offer to take part and spent the weekend on the pway train bil caddick sulked away at the back of the bottom shed. As Davinia heads up hill she hides her face from the sun with her exhaust. No sunburn here. heading to the Whistle Inn, the wind blowing the exhaust horizontal Davinia catches a few rays at Furnace Sidings Sunday afternoon and finally there was some suneshine For the last trains of the weekend Davinia went home leavig number 19 to handle the trains. Both trains were in full sun and Ian Smith and Paul Gane put on a good show 19 pulls away from Furnace Sidings There was a rumour that with Ian and Paul on the foot plate 19 would pull a wheelie but a side on shot shows all wheels firmly on the rails. Ian leans out to confirm they are not pulling a wheelie Roger Lewis back in the cab Lennie gives a helping hand As some one forgot they were guard Shaun the shunter had to double up Blasting past the old farm couldn't resist another shot passing the cottages Northbound on the last train of the day Passing the Garn Terraces. D65627 awaiting fitters attention

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]]> Mon Jun 8 2009 just an ordinary day http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1706363.html No event, no special trains, just a normal running day at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway with 73128 doing the honours and so much sun how could I not make a quick trip? Monday 1 June 2009: No event, no special trains, just a normal running day at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway with 73128 doing the honours and so much sun how could I not make a quick trip?

A normal running day but still busy 1387 back in service 1387 and train at Furnace Sidings Loading up for more track playing 73128 skirts the lower Garn Lake on a lovely summers day heading past the abandoned farm Glimpses and buttercups Stone walls and 73's, not your southern region landscape here. 73128 at the Whistle Inn A carpet of buttercups as 73128 heads towards the Whistle Inn Glimpses of the DXS Class 31 D5627 (31203) peeks out over the gorse Bridge 12 (rail over rail bridge) under going some serious work. Bridge 13 looking so much better. Bridge 13 ready and waiting. Bridge 13 looking north Bridge 13 looking south Until this is complete we cannot get back down to Blaenavon

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]]> Mon Jun 1 2009 cowboys 'n' engines http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1703540.html late May bank holiday and stunning weather for the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway's Cowboys 'n' Engiones weekend. Plenty of sun, plenty of people and loads of fun. Tuesday 26 May 2009: late May bank holiday and stunning weather for the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway's Cowboys 'n' Engiones weekend. Plenty of sun, plenty of people and loads of fun.

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]]> Tue May 26 2009 Welshpool trip http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1698269.html A great Sunday out at the Welshpool and Llanfair with the Shropshire Railway Society to celebrate their 40th Anniversary. Thanks for the invite guys. Saturday 16 May 2009: A great Sunday out at the Welshpool and Llanfair with the Shropshire Railway Society to celebrate their 40th Anniversary. Thanks for the invite guys.

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]]> Sat May 16 2009 Early May Bank holiday preservation action http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1693196.html Action from the Swindon and Cricklade, Pontypool and Blaenavon and Margam Park railways over the May bank holiday. Featuring the most OTT teddy going! Tuesday 5 May 2009: Action from the Swindon and Cricklade, Pontypool and Blaenavon and Margam Park railways over the May bank holiday. Featuring the most OTT teddy going!

Visiting 6435 arrives at Hayes Knoll from the new Northern Extension Visiting 6435 awaits departure time from Hayes Knoll visiting 6435 departs hayes Knoll for Blunsden 03 D2022 brings up the rear Toms street cred takes a pounding Part of the quiz, looking for honey pots On train fun with Timmy the teddy mmm - chocolate Behingthe scenes trackwork continues, with concrete sleepers replacing the woods Bridge 17 now has track back at last Putting another sleepr in place Our camera shy crew Cooeeeee Everyone loves a teddy This teddy gets everywhere Anyone would think he was enjoying himself poser Another great shot ruined! Easter Sunday and No.19 is again in charge at the PBR Storming past the farm No. 19 is a target for the photographer Working hard No.19 blast up hill towards the Whistle Inn Oh there he is again Putting on a show for the Garn Terraces more honey pots It gets all too much for some bears NO, I don't want a cuddle Everyone loves teddy It's a tiring job being a teddy bear A lovely summers evening at last No. 19 makes a vigorous departure from Furnace Sidings In profile No.19 working hard up the hill Last train of the day slips gently downhill past the garn lakes. The gorse now in full bloom. A rather dismal Monday on the Margam Park Railway A rather dismal Monday on the Margam Park Railway this is actually a diesel!

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]]> Tue May 5 2009 Diesels and kites in the Chilterns http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1688879.html A Sunday day out to the Chinnor & Princes Risbrough Railway to enjoy the delights of their diesel gala. Plenty of action, plenty of sunshine and of course those lovely red kites. Monday 27 April 2009: A Sunday day out to the Chinnor & Princes Risbrough Railway to enjoy the delights of their diesel gala. Plenty of action, plenty of sunshine and of course those lovely red kites.

37219 approaches Thame Junction with the 09:45 from Chinnor iris and 13018 arrive at Chinnor 13018 stands at Chinnor Red kite over Chinnor Red kite over Chinnor Red kite over Chinnor Red kite over Chinnor Red kite over Chinnor Alovely station and totally built from scratch 37219 returns from Thame Junction 37219 nears Thame Junction With the crossing gate closed behind it 37219 heads away from Thame Junction heading for Chinnor D5581 passes bledlow cricket ground W55023 heads out on the 16:30 to Wainhill

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]]> Mon Apr 27 2009 Sunny Sunday Shropshire Selection http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1686845.html A Sunday trip to the Telford Steam Railway for D3429 wiht a side order of WSMR and a quick move to scoop in 67002 Thursday 23 April 2009: A Sunday trip to the Telford Steam Railway for D3429 wiht a side order of WSMR and a quick move to scoop in 67002

67015 at Wellington London Bound 67002 at Wellington, Wrexham bound d3429 at Spring Village d3429 at Horsehay station d3429 and 50479 pass the ex Wellington bracket signal branchline pastoral as d3429 heads back to Spring Village

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]]> Thu Apr 23 2009 PBR Easter 09 - Season starts http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1682309.html It's Easter and that means the 2009 season of the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway has begun. 73128 and Number 19 sharing the duties, lots of sunshine and lots of passengers made it an excellent weekend. The Easter Bunnies breaking all records for the railway, lets hope the rest of the year continues in the same vein. Tuesday 14 April 2009: It's Easter and that means the 2009 season of the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway has begun. 73128 and Number 19 sharing the duties, lots of sunshine and lots of passengers made it an excellent weekend. The Easter Bunnies breaking all records for the railway, lets hope the rest of the year continues in the same vein.

Friday morning and it's dull and grey and damp, not a promising start to the season. The first train comes back from the Whistle, a dismal day seems to be in prospect. 73128 at the Whistle, two coaches is more than adequate for the day. Down the line work has continued on the bridges. This is the new girders for bridge 13. The new metal work (in black) will support the trains, the old metal work will be little more than show. Blaenavon High Level station looking superb with the tarmac on at last Heavy duty engineering work indeed Ken doing a stirling job providig a water supply to the bottom shed Matt and rob smiling before they wrestle with the timing on 1387s engine. By the end of the day the weather had improved considerably and it remained like this for the rest of the weekend. 73128 departs for the shed in bettwr condition sthan it started the day the view from the North, can't wait to catch trains from here Looking south from BHL, one day we shal run trains this way. Of course Bridga 19 has to be refurbished first Saturday morning and not a cloud in the sky Looking more and more like a real station now. A much better day as 73128 drifts down past the farm A gorgeous day as 73128 skirts the lower garn lake A relaxing day in the 2nd mans seat Some of the older ponies Andy knock catching a few rays. As 73128 heads up hill the ponies show little interest A mothers work is never done. Another new born on the Coity 73128 finds its own patch of sun amongst the clouds There were several new additions to the ponies on teh coity. One being born during Saturday whilst we were running. Of course what would Easter be without the Easter Bunny How can you have a serious conversation with Dave around! Colin and Freida in a dramatic moment at Furnace Sidings. Sunday and monday the trains were packed, the reupholstered TSO being especially popular the play grpund at the Whistle Inn was very popular with the kids Mr Rabbit was doing a great job keeping everybody happy Sunday and Monday saw No. 19 in charge, with 1387 on standby. Andy May checking the line and identifying the occasional sleeper that will need replacing No. 19 about to make a smokey departure ben taking a break from his on train duties No.19 storms out of Furnace Sidings. Even with 3 coaches on No. 19 handled the trains with consumate ease, seen here passing the lower garn lake Getting into her stride No. 19 blast up hill With 3 coaches on No. 19 was working hard and sounded superb. Only problem was falling embers were fanned by the strong winds needing some urgent action. Several fires dealt with during the day. Happy passengers Going down hill was easy peasy. Another shot of No.19 really working hard attacking the hill. The fire marshall watches the last train of the day safely home. Thursday saw some last minute PWay work in what can only be described as vile conditions. Thursday saw some last minute PWay work in what can only be described as vile conditions. 73128 was the pway engine 73128 was the pway engine

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]]> Tue Apr 14 2009 Blaenavon winter progress http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1678639.html Plenty of progress on the winter work at the Pontypool and Blaenavon railway, especially good news is the completion of bridge 16, only 3 more to go! Tuesday 7 April 2009: Plenty of progress on the winter work at the Pontypool and Blaenavon railway, especially good news is the completion of bridge 16, only 3 more to go!

TSO sc4300 is having the seats redone - this is the before and this is the after, don'y they look goog The recently uncovered rear wall at Blaenavon High Level The view north and in a years time we should see trains here Blaenavon High Level just awaiting the tarmac. Bridge 16 is now complete, just waiting the track now The scaffolding coming down on bridge 16 The timber baulks in place on bridge 14 bridge 13 with very little left bridge 13 awaits the supporting girders a very skeletal affair Not a job for the faint hearted The work on Bridge 12 is finally in full swing All the track and rubbish on top has gone Work includes the side walls. the yellow marks on the far wall are the numbers of the stones which will need to be reseated. Alex digging for Victory

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]]> Tue Apr 7 2009 the PBRs new shunter http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1673793.html Recently purchased from the VoGR is Hunslet 8526 Bill Caddick, a 1986 rebuild of Hudswell Clarke D1186. Should be put straight into use at the PBRs Easter Saturday. Sunday 29 March 2009: Recently purchased from the VoGR is Hunslet 8526 Bill Caddick, a 1986 rebuild of Hudswell Clarke D1186. Should be put straight into use at the PBRs Easter Saturday.

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]]> Sun Mar 29 2009 139002 First Runs http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1673791.html Popped down to Stourbridge Junction and came across the first public runs of 139002. The first train being the 10:08 from Stourbridge Junction. train was only booked to work until about 11:30 before 153371 replaced it for the rest of the day. Sunday 29 March 2009: Popped down to Stourbridge Junction and came across the first public runs of 139002. The first train being the 10:08 from Stourbridge Junction. train was only booked to work until about 11:30 before 153371 replaced it for the rest of the day.

139002 returns from Stourbridge Town on its first ever public runs 139002 in close up 139002 at Stourbridge Town 139002 shortly after leaving Stourbridge Town 153371 takes over for the rest of the day

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]]> Sun Mar 29 2009 The Bubble is back http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1670525.html Following delays in the comissioning of the class 139 Parry People Movers and after 3 months of bustitution London Midland have returned a 153 to the Stourbridge Town Branch. Couldn't resist the chance to pop back and pleased to find refurbished 153333 doing the honours. Then popped over to Shirley for some spring semaphore action. Sunday 22 March 2009: Following delays in the comissioning of the class 139 Parry People Movers and after 3 months of bustitution London Midland have returned a 153 to the Stourbridge Town Branch. Couldn't resist the chance to pop back and pleased to find refurbished 153333 doing the honours. Then popped over to Shirley for some spring semaphore action.

Departing Stourbridge Junction Arriving back at Stourbridge Junction Arriving back at Stourbridge Junction Approaching Stourbridge Town Approaching Stourbridge Town, in the last three months they've cleared out all the vegetation here and really opened up the shot. At the pocket sized Stourbridge Town Station At the pocket sized Stourbridge Town Station Enroute to Stourbridge Junction Shirley station, and the turnback waits for the road back in. Enterring Shirley Station 150014 leave Shirley for Stratford - Upon-Avon 150 and signal box at Shirley A stratford service waits time at Shirley Shirley Signal Box Shirley Signal Box as a 150 arrives on a terminating service

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]]> Sun Mar 22 2009 More weekend at the PBR http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1668252.html Whilst there maybe no public trains running the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway is still a hive of activity as work is carried out on the new extension. Bridgework, track work and rebuilding Blaenavon High Level as well as general maintenance eork make it a very busy place even in the off season. Monday 16 March 2009: Whilst there maybe no public trains running the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway is still a hive of activity as work is carried out on the new extension. Bridgework, track work and rebuilding Blaenavon High Level as well as general maintenance eork make it a very busy place even in the off season.

Bridge 16, the cycleway is closed for the present due to our work! Blaenavon High Level looking north and looking like a station Looking north from BHL - still a lot to do when we can get trains back down here BHL looking south from the north end BHL Looking north from the north end BHL looking south Bridge 14 and the problems we cause - sorry 2 weeks previous and no deck on bridge 14 2 weeks previous and no deck on bridge 14 Furnace Sidings before the ticket office move more stock in the dxs track laying work in the cutting. The DXS packed with stock at the moment Just another shot of 73128 and train 73128 waits for its next turn of duty Dropping a concrete sleeper into place Track relaying work The rail over rail bridge undergoing a overhaul The cutting looking North from the rail over rail bridge with the freshly laid track in place. No stream down the middle either now the culverts have been cleared A good view of how work intensive the site is - taken from the rail over bridge with bridges 13, 14 and 16 all out of action and being worked on Bridge 13 under cover baulk timbers for bridge 14 the baulk timbers for bridge 13 Bridge 13 under the covers, no decking and a fresh coat of paint I am not worthy Putting the keys in - nice new ones as well 73128 stands guard over the new sleepers 73128 glimpsed from the pway hut Andy was quite relaxed until he went looking for the last of the biscuits Oh, there they are The track gang tacing a well earned break Alex fiddling with his nuts Furnace sidings after the ticket office move new arrivals - the dog fish 37216 undergoing restoration hints of an industrial past A builders no longer with us Trecatty close uo prime colours tools of the trade work bench Back on the tracks after many years Pannier tank smoke box door - just the body, frames, cab etc to go New arrivals - the guv New arrivals - the grampus

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]]> Mon Mar 16 2009 PBR and the snows of February 09 http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1650604.html The heavy snowfalls put paid to any PWay work at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway over the weekend. But with there being plenty of sun around there was still work for the photographer to enjoy. Sunday 8 February 2009: The heavy snowfalls put paid to any PWay work at the Pontypool and Blaenavon Railway over the weekend. But with there being plenty of sun around there was still work for the photographer to enjoy.

Had to stop off on the way down for a couple of shots of the Malverns Had to stop off on the way down for a couple of shots of the Malverns The Black Mountains NOT living up to their name Sugar Loaf SNOWWWWWW Looking up the Clydach Gorge More like the Alps then Wales Snow at the keepers pond Snow at the keepers pond Snow at the keepers pond Snow at the keepers pond Snow at the keepers pond Snow at the keepers pond Blaenavon High Level (or should that be Snow level)! Blaenavon High Level (or should that be Snow level)! Blaenavon High Level (or should that be Snow level)! The view from the end of Platform 1 at Blaenavon High Level. Just over a year until trains will run here on a regular basis Blaenavon from High level Station Blaenavon from High level Station Blaenavon from High level Station The view from the end of Platform 1 at Blaenavon High Level. Just over a year until trains will run here on a regular basis BHL looking South BHL from the south side of the Varteg Road Bridge Blaenavon from the Varteg Road Bridge Blaenavon from the Varteg Road Bridge From St Peters Graveyard St Peters church Graveyard at St Peters Graveyard at St Peters Graveyard at St Peters Blaenavon Workmans Hall Police Station Police Station and Chapel Blaenavon Heritage Centre St Peters church Dave and Andy clearing the approach road Dave and Andy clearing the approach road Snowy ruston Snowy Torch A snowbound yard No trains today A very snowy Furnace Sidings with the Coity in the background Trecatty, our newest arrival Trecatty, our newest arrival 73128 in the DXS 73128 in the DXS Snowy CIG Snowy EMUS Snowy CIG Snowy EMUS

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]]> Sun Feb 8 2009 last day of the PBR bridges http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1643373.html Saturday 24th January and the track was removed from bridges 13 and 14 on the Pontypool & Blaenavon Railway until work is completed on all 4 bridges no trains will run to Blaenavon High Level Sunday 25 January 2009: Saturday 24th January and the track was removed from bridges 13 and 14 on the Pontypool & Blaenavon Railway until work is completed on all 4 bridges no trains will run to Blaenavon High Level

The Middle Shed aka The Alex Drumond Cathedral of engineering is now taking shape. I didn't realise just how big it would be. The Middle Shed aka The Alex Drumond Cathedral of engineering is now taking shape. loading up the sleepers loading up the sleepers loading up the sleepers A happy chappy 73128 and pway train at Furnace Sidings 73128 and pway train at Furnace Sidings 73128 and train roll downhill past the carriage sidings 73128 waits just south of the rail over rail bridge 73128 waits just south of the rail over rail bridge 73128 waits just south of the rail over rail bridge 73128 waits just south of the rail over rail bridge 73128 waits just south of the rail over rail bridge 73128 waits just south of the rail over rail bridge Bridge 16 showing the scale of the work here Bridge 16 showing the scale of the work here Bridge 17 - not much needed here 73128 becoms the last locomotove to cross bridge 14 (Big Pit road bridge) for quite some time working on bridge 14 Andy Knock gets in some cross country skiing practice working on bridge 14 working on bridge 14 Literally the end of the line as 73128 prepares to reverse back dragging the rails out the way bridge 14 without rails bridge 14 without rails 73128 under threatening skies Dramatic clouds frame 73128 the Pway gang 73128 just south of bridge 13 for the last time Bridge 13 with rails removed

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]]> Sun Jan 25 2009 Cold Quarry Collection http://aligrieve.fotopic.net/c1632621.html Another excellent EMRPS night shoot, this time at the Oakammor Quarry Loader on the Churnet Valley Railway. Featured locomotives were 37075, 25322 and Brightside industrial shunter. A cracking if cold night. Monday 5 January 2009: Another excellent EMRPS night shoot, this time at the Oakammor Quarry Loader on the Churnet Valley Railway. Featured locomotives were 37075, 25322 and Brightside industrial shunter. A cracking if cold night.

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]]> Mon Jan 5 2009