SATURDAY

The day begins with a diesel loco hauling the seven classic mark 1 carriages to Shrewsbury. After reversal, ‘Black Five’ number 45231, ‘The Sherwood Forester’ (courtesy of Locomotive Services Limited) will head the train to Craven Arms, before powering onto the single track Central Wales / Heart of Wales Line, which meanders so interestingly through the rural heart land of the country.

Clickety-clack over the rails, up and down dale, the line undulates between hills and valleys, joining together the market towns and isolated communities. Several stops will be made to water the engine, admire and take photos of it.

Arrival at Carmarthen (1235 to 1530) allows a nearly three hour break whilst 45231 is turned and serviced. The 130 mile return to Shrewsbury will once again enthrall before the diesel takes us home.

COMFIRMED TIMINGS

Table for Two seats are available at a supplement of £35 per person in First Class.

Motive power is expected to be a Class 37 diesel from Birmingham to Shrewsbury and return, with steam from Shrewsbury to Carmarthen and back, subject to the loco passing all the necessary tests.

This excursion is promoted by Pathfinder Railtours on behalf of DB Cargo with support from Transport for Wales.

Photo courtesy of Jack Boskett.