Sixty years ago, on January 15 1965, the last steam train operated within the vast Penrhyn slate quarries in North Wales. That last train was operated by Avonside loco “Ogwen” – and the driver wrote his name and the date inside the cab to mark this end of an era.

Since then, “Ogwen” has been to the USA and returned, has been restored back to steam and now lives at Apedale – but the inscription in the cab remains!

To mark this anniversary, two ex-Penrhyn locos will operate – “Ogwen” and “Stanhope” with a selection of suitable slate wagons. This will be a very informal day; no passenger trains will operate, and admission will be by donation. Trains will run from around 1200. All being well- and subject to the weather – a night photo shoot will be arranged later in the day.

Note that the advert in January “Narrow Gauge World” magazine contains an incorrect date for this event.

Please note that this event is run by the Apedale Valley Light Railway.  For info see www.avlr.org.uk or e-mail info@avlr.org.uk