Moods of the Welshpool and Llanfair Railway

Opened in 1903 the introduction of a light narrow gauge railway connecting the town of Llanfair Caereinion with the main Cambrian Railway’s network at Welshpool brought about a major change for life in the surrounding countryside. Local industry and farming was transformed as a result of this much quicker, and more economic, method of exporting produce and importing necessary supplies. Passenger traffic was never particularly heavy and that service ceased in 1931. Goods traffic struggled on benefiting from a mini revival during the Second World War, surviving until competition from the improving road system brought about cessation of all services in 1956. That would have been the end of the story but for a band of local people who had fallen in love with the line and were determined to save it. Starting with very limited resources they set about the restoration of the line and the superb events that were held to celebrate the railway’s centenary in 2003 bear testament to the tremendous success that has been achieved. For nearly ten years Mike Heath has been visiting the line and the beautifully landscaped mid-Wales countryside through which it passes, attending many of the special events held there, throughout all seasons day and night. In his latest photographic journey he has sought to show why this line, which is often missed by travellers heading for more well known destinations, is well worthy of a day out all to itself! With 140 photographs in full colour, this book is a fitting celebration of this wonderful line in a glorious landscape.