09/08/2025
With it being 50 years of preservation on the Llangollen Railway, we look back to the early days of the lines operation.
We are lucky to have in our possession one of the first brake vans that arrived in Llangollen in early 1976, just a handful of months after railway preservation got underway in the town.
Our Toad’s starring moment came however in 1981, when the railway operated its first passenger services, with ‘17407’ being vital as it was required to help propel the trains down the line, giving the guard an excellent view should there be any issues. This operation was necessary as at this time the railway didn’t have run-round facilities at each end.
Fast forward to today we have just completed an extensive restoration of ‘17407’, giving her a fresh look for the new era. With the 50th anniversary weekend rapidly approaching we look forward in taking part, helping recreate those original pioneering trains, alongside Austin 1 and Suburbans ‘43182’/‘46140’.
Historical photos below have been provided by Dave Tyrer, and shows photos of those early trains to be recreated next month!
