Description

The railways of Wales had a varied character, ranging from the heavy industry of the South to the rural Mid- and North.  The country was badly affected by the Beeching Report of the early 1960s which saw many lines and stations closed.

The Last Years of Welsh Steam presents the British Railways period using over 200 evocative colour and black and white images.  These have been captured from the lineside, at stations, sheds, and industrial locations.  

Some of the places featured include: Aberystwyth; Afon Wen; Bala; Bangor; Barmouth; Barry; Bedwas; Blaenau Ffestiniog; Brecon; Builth Wells; Cardiff; Carmarthen; Colwyn Bay; Devil’s Bridge; Fishguard; Holyhead; Llandudno; Llanidloes; Machynlleth; Magor; Merthyr Tydfil; Mountain Ash; Neath; Newport; Portmadoc; Pwllheli; Rhyl; Severn Tunnel Junction; Swansea; Talyllyn; Towyn; Welshpool; Whitland; Wrexham.

Many of Collett’s GWR designs are featured, as are those of Hawksworth and Churchward.  Some Stanier LMSR locomotives worked in the country, particularly in the North.  Several Taff Vale Railway engines remained in service, as did Swansea Harbour Trust shunters and these are present.  With extensive colliery sidings, industrial locomotives were required and a small selection are included.