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Marcus' Model Railway Journey
- Thread starter Marcus Antonius
- Start date
- Status
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Hornby Total Tank Wagon 407
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Airfix 54378-7, 7 Plank Wagon G.W.R.
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Hornby OO Gauge R6477 GWR Macaw Bolster Wagon R/N 107285 Boxed
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28 Aug 2025
TrawsCymru
Following extensive engagement and consultation earlier this year Powys County Council have undertaken a full redesign of their public transport network across the county.
From 1 September, the TrawsCymru T12 bus service will be replaced by two new services – the X85 between Machynlleth and Newtown and the X76 between Newtown and St Martin’s.
The T14 route between Cardiff, Brecon and Hereford will also be replaced with local journeys between Brecon and Hereford now being provided by a new X44 service.
X76 service will operate between Newtown and St Martin’s.
Passengers will benefit from:
The Powys Day Rover and Montgomeryshire Plus Day Rover will both be sold and accepted on the 2/2A services from the 31st of August.
X85 service will operate between Machynlleth and Newtown.
Passengers will benefit from:
Passengers will benefit from:
Changes to TrawsCymru services in Powys
TrawsCymru
Following extensive engagement and consultation earlier this year Powys County Council have undertaken a full redesign of their public transport network across the county.
From 1 September, the TrawsCymru T12 bus service will be replaced by two new services – the X85 between Machynlleth and Newtown and the X76 between Newtown and St Martin’s.
The T14 route between Cardiff, Brecon and Hereford will also be replaced with local journeys between Brecon and Hereford now being provided by a new X44 service.
X76 service will operate between Newtown and St Martin’s.
Passengers will benefit from:
- Monday to Saturday hourly service.
- 1 bus every 2 hours via Berriew.
- 1 bus every 2 hours via Kingswood and Montgomery.
- New Sunday service between Newtown and Oswestry via Kingswood and Montgomery.
- Improved connections at Newtown to/from the TrawsCymru T4 service to Llandrindod Wells.
The Powys Day Rover and Montgomeryshire Plus Day Rover will both be sold and accepted on the 2/2A services from the 31st of August.
X85 service will operate between Machynlleth and Newtown.
Passengers will benefit from:
- 7 journeys a day, 7 days a week.
- New Sunday service.
- New evening journeys departing Machynlleth at 19:20 and Newtown at 20:30.
- All journeys serving Llanwnog.
- Improved connections at Machynlleth, with easy transfers to/from TrawsCymru T2 services to Aberystwyth.
- Easy transfers to/from the TrawsCymru T4 service to Llandrindod Wells, Brecon and Merthyr Tydfil at Newtown.
Passengers will benefit from:
- A new Sunday service
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28 Aug 2025
New Wrexham General Shelter
A significant investment in new customer shelters is being delivered at stations in north Wales and the Wirral, as part of Network North Wales.
Seven stations on the Wrexham Bidston line are to benefit from more than £400,000 of spending between now and October.
The investment represents a significant improvement to customer facilities at stations, following similar improvements in south and west Wales over the last 18 months.
The work is being delivered for Transport for Wales (TfW) by RWS contractors and is expected to be completed in time for Autumn.
The work forms part of Network North Wales, the vision which aims to deliver an integrated, high-frequency public transport network for North Wales, with Metro at its heart, building on the £800m investment in brand new trains across Wales.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates said: “Through Network North Wales we will transform travel for the people of North Wales and its border communities.
It’s great to see some of the immediate projects getting under way such as the station refurbishments along the Wrexham Bidston line, which we will rename the Wrexham to Liverpool line.
“With the T51 bus service due to begin next month, and plans to increase frequency of trains on the North Wales mainline and double frequency of train services between Wrexham and Chester there are exciting changes ahead.”
TfW Project Manager Laurie Klimowich said the scheme would be “a big improvement for customers”.
She said: “It’s fantastic to be delivering this scheme on one of our key lines that will be integral in the development of Network North Wales.
“The new shelters will be larger modern three or four bay with plenty of seating and space for wheelchairs.
“The old shelters had done a good job but we’re committed to making these investments across our network and this will be a big improvement for customers.”
The stations receiving the investment are:
Recently, shelters that had been replaced in south Wales were moved to TfW’s new Barry depot to provide extra shelter for colleagues working outdoors.
Major investment in station shelters on Wrexham Bidston line
New Wrexham General Shelter
A significant investment in new customer shelters is being delivered at stations in north Wales and the Wirral, as part of Network North Wales.
Seven stations on the Wrexham Bidston line are to benefit from more than £400,000 of spending between now and October.
The investment represents a significant improvement to customer facilities at stations, following similar improvements in south and west Wales over the last 18 months.
The work is being delivered for Transport for Wales (TfW) by RWS contractors and is expected to be completed in time for Autumn.
The work forms part of Network North Wales, the vision which aims to deliver an integrated, high-frequency public transport network for North Wales, with Metro at its heart, building on the £800m investment in brand new trains across Wales.
Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates said: “Through Network North Wales we will transform travel for the people of North Wales and its border communities.
It’s great to see some of the immediate projects getting under way such as the station refurbishments along the Wrexham Bidston line, which we will rename the Wrexham to Liverpool line.
“With the T51 bus service due to begin next month, and plans to increase frequency of trains on the North Wales mainline and double frequency of train services between Wrexham and Chester there are exciting changes ahead.”
TfW Project Manager Laurie Klimowich said the scheme would be “a big improvement for customers”.
She said: “It’s fantastic to be delivering this scheme on one of our key lines that will be integral in the development of Network North Wales.
“The new shelters will be larger modern three or four bay with plenty of seating and space for wheelchairs.
“The old shelters had done a good job but we’re committed to making these investments across our network and this will be a big improvement for customers.”
The stations receiving the investment are:
- Wrexham General
- Hope
- Penyffordd
- Hawarden
- Hawarden Bridge
- Neston
- Upton
Recently, shelters that had been replaced in south Wales were moved to TfW’s new Barry depot to provide extra shelter for colleagues working outdoors.
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28 Aug 2025
T5 TrawsCymru
Transport for Wales (TfW) is launching new hourly services, evening journeys, and distance-based fares from Sunday 31 August, as part of the second phase of improvements to the T5 TrawsCymru service.
This follows the successful introduction of a year-round Sunday service in July, which improved weekend travel options for both residents and visitors.
These upgrades mark a significant step forward in enhancing public transport across West Wales.
The T5 TrawsCymru service, operated by Richards Bros, will see the following key improvements:
Looking ahead, passengers can also expect brand new, high-quality vehicles on the T5 route from March 2026, offering enhanced comfort, accessibility, and environmental performance.
Lee Robinson, Executive Director for Regional Transport and Integration at Transport for Wales, said: "We’re excited to launch the next phase of improvements to the T5 service. These changes will make a real difference to how people travel across West Wales, supporting local communities and encouraging more sustainable journeys."
Simon Richards, Director at Richards Bros, added: "We’re proud to be delivering these enhancements in partnership with Transport for Wales. The increased frequency, extended hours, and new fare options will offer greater flexibility and value for our passengers. We’re especially looking forward to introducing new vehicles next year to further improve the travel experience."
Major service enhancements to T5 TrawsCymru route
T5 TrawsCymru
Transport for Wales (TfW) is launching new hourly services, evening journeys, and distance-based fares from Sunday 31 August, as part of the second phase of improvements to the T5 TrawsCymru service.
This follows the successful introduction of a year-round Sunday service in July, which improved weekend travel options for both residents and visitors.
These upgrades mark a significant step forward in enhancing public transport across West Wales.
The T5 TrawsCymru service, operated by Richards Bros, will see the following key improvements:
- Hourly service Monday to Saturday: The T5 will now run every hour throughout the day, making it easier than ever to travel between key communities.
- Later evening journeys: Extended operating hours will improve access for those travelling for work, education, or leisure.
- New distance-based fares: A fairer pricing structure will offer better value for passengers across the network.
- Aberystwyth–Aberaeron Day Ticket: This new ticket allows unlimited travel on both the T1 and T5 services, ideal for day trips and flexible travel.
Looking ahead, passengers can also expect brand new, high-quality vehicles on the T5 route from March 2026, offering enhanced comfort, accessibility, and environmental performance.
Lee Robinson, Executive Director for Regional Transport and Integration at Transport for Wales, said: "We’re excited to launch the next phase of improvements to the T5 service. These changes will make a real difference to how people travel across West Wales, supporting local communities and encouraging more sustainable journeys."
Simon Richards, Director at Richards Bros, added: "We’re proud to be delivering these enhancements in partnership with Transport for Wales. The increased frequency, extended hours, and new fare options will offer greater flexibility and value for our passengers. We’re especially looking forward to introducing new vehicles next year to further improve the travel experience."
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Thursday 28 Aug 2025
Passengers at Shrewsbury Station
Network Rail Wales and Borders will be carrying out a programme of planned engineering and maintenance works on the Heart of Wales Line between Craven Arms Junction and Llandeilo Junction from 9pm on Friday 12 September to 5.30am on Saturday 20 September 2025.
During the works the railway between Llanwrtyd and Shrewsbury will be closed and a replacement bus service will be in operation.
The work will involve a combination both daytime and overnight activity to carry out maintenance, infrastructure renewals, drainage improvements and vegetation management across key sections of the railway.
In addition, a series of overnight road closures will be in place to allow Network Rail to carry out level crossing maintenance at:
Nick Millington, route director for Wales and Borders, said: “We appreciate that there is always an element of inconvenience for passengers, residents and stakeholders while we undertake work of this nature, but it is essential for the efficiency and sustainability of the network that we do. I’d like to thank everyone for their patience and cooperation as we work hard to maintain a safe, reliable railway for years to come.”
Buses to replace trains for major engineering works on the Heart of Wales Line
Region & Route: Wales & Western: Wales & BordersPassengers at Shrewsbury Station
Network Rail Wales and Borders will be carrying out a programme of planned engineering and maintenance works on the Heart of Wales Line between Craven Arms Junction and Llandeilo Junction from 9pm on Friday 12 September to 5.30am on Saturday 20 September 2025.
During the works the railway between Llanwrtyd and Shrewsbury will be closed and a replacement bus service will be in operation.
The work will involve a combination both daytime and overnight activity to carry out maintenance, infrastructure renewals, drainage improvements and vegetation management across key sections of the railway.
In addition, a series of overnight road closures will be in place to allow Network Rail to carry out level crossing maintenance at:
- Dolau - closed from 10pm on Monday 15 to 6am on Tuesday 16 September
- Llandrindod Wells - closed from 10pm Tuesday 16 to 6am Wednesday 17 September
- Ffairfach - closed 11.30pm Thursday 18 to 5.30am Friday 19 September
Nick Millington, route director for Wales and Borders, said: “We appreciate that there is always an element of inconvenience for passengers, residents and stakeholders while we undertake work of this nature, but it is essential for the efficiency and sustainability of the network that we do. I’d like to thank everyone for their patience and cooperation as we work hard to maintain a safe, reliable railway for years to come.”
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28th August, 2025
Ivatt 2MT No. 41313
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is hosting its Annual Steam Gala on the 25th to 28th September.
They have announced two extra visitors who will be joining the existing lineup.
BR Standard 4MT No. 80078 will be joining courtesy of S Robinson, and Ivatt 2MT No. 41313 will be joining courtesy of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.
Other already announced special guests include No. 34072 257 Squadron and Standard 2MT No. 78019.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s resident fleet will also be out throughout the gala, including:
Further Visiting Locomotives Announced For North Yorkshire Moors Steam Gala
Ivatt 2MT No. 41313
The North Yorkshire Moors Railway is hosting its Annual Steam Gala on the 25th to 28th September.
They have announced two extra visitors who will be joining the existing lineup.
BR Standard 4MT No. 80078 will be joining courtesy of S Robinson, and Ivatt 2MT No. 41313 will be joining courtesy of the Isle of Wight Steam Railway.
Other already announced special guests include No. 34072 257 Squadron and Standard 2MT No. 78019.
North Yorkshire Moors Railway’s resident fleet will also be out throughout the gala, including:
- Black 5 No. 44806
- Black 5 No. 5428 ‘Eric Treacy’
- BR 9F No. 92134
- Lambton Tank No. 29 ‘Peggy’
- SR Schools No. 926 ‘Repton’
- Cockerill No. 8 ‘Lucie’
- BR Standard 4 Tank No. 80136 renumbered as 80116 for the gala
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BR Standard 4MT No. 80078
Alongside the busy timetable, there will also be shuttle services running between Grosmont and Whitby.
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28th August, 2025
4709's pony truck
The 4709 Group has reported that the next stage in the Night Owl project to recreate a Great Western Railway 2-8-0 4700 class heavy goods locomotive No. 4709 is the completion of its pony truck.
This is a massive and solid assembly that is close to the stage when its axle boxes can be fitted.
Other parts are still being produced at various foundries and machinists, including the compensating beam, counterweight, and the equalisation beam, which includes the all-important pivot assembly.
Construction of 4709 is taking place at Tyseley in Birmingham, and has been underway since 2020.
The pony truck is the leading pair of wheels at the front of the locomotive, and is used to ease the locomotive into curves and reduce wear on the leading set of driving wheels.
It also supports the weight of the front of the locomotive below the smokebox.
If everything goes to plan, the pony truck will be completed by the end of this year.
This latest update follows those in May, where work orders had been issued for machining the compensating beam, refurbishing the brake hanger bracket, and preparing to fit spring hanger brackets, and in July, which reported on work starting on the pony truck.
The group has also issued work orders for the manufacturing of eight springs, a complete smokebox and an equalising beam bracket.
Night Owl project reports progress on 4709’s pony truck
4709's pony truck
The 4709 Group has reported that the next stage in the Night Owl project to recreate a Great Western Railway 2-8-0 4700 class heavy goods locomotive No. 4709 is the completion of its pony truck.
This is a massive and solid assembly that is close to the stage when its axle boxes can be fitted.
Other parts are still being produced at various foundries and machinists, including the compensating beam, counterweight, and the equalisation beam, which includes the all-important pivot assembly.
Construction of 4709 is taking place at Tyseley in Birmingham, and has been underway since 2020.
The pony truck is the leading pair of wheels at the front of the locomotive, and is used to ease the locomotive into curves and reduce wear on the leading set of driving wheels.
It also supports the weight of the front of the locomotive below the smokebox.
If everything goes to plan, the pony truck will be completed by the end of this year.
This latest update follows those in May, where work orders had been issued for machining the compensating beam, refurbishing the brake hanger bracket, and preparing to fit spring hanger brackets, and in July, which reported on work starting on the pony truck.
The group has also issued work orders for the manufacturing of eight springs, a complete smokebox and an equalising beam bracket.
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28th August, 2025
5029 'Nunney Castle'
5029 Nunney Castle is to visit Dawlish this Saturday (30th August) as it hauls The English Riviera Express.
The tour will depart from Bedford at 05:29 with an LSL diesel locomotive, it will pass through Luton (05:55), St Albans (06:12), Slough (07:26), Maidenhead (07:35), Reading (07:58), Newbury (08:35) and Taunton, where 5029 is added to the train.
5029 will depart at 10:59 and will pass through Exeter St Davids (11:34), Dawlish Warren (11:52), Newton Abbot (12:16) and Paignton at 12:34 before heading to Kingswear.
The return hourney will see 5029 depart at 16:35 before heading through Paignton (17:20), Dawlish (17:54), Exeter St Davids (18:21), Tiverton Parkway (18:51), Taunton (19:48 – diesel hauled from here), Reading (21:44), Maidenhead (22:03), Slough (22:12), St Albans (23:04), Luton (23:16) and Bedford at 23:38.
Steam locomotive 5029 Nunney Castle set to visit Dawlish this Saturday
5029 'Nunney Castle'
5029 Nunney Castle is to visit Dawlish this Saturday (30th August) as it hauls The English Riviera Express.
The tour will depart from Bedford at 05:29 with an LSL diesel locomotive, it will pass through Luton (05:55), St Albans (06:12), Slough (07:26), Maidenhead (07:35), Reading (07:58), Newbury (08:35) and Taunton, where 5029 is added to the train.
5029 will depart at 10:59 and will pass through Exeter St Davids (11:34), Dawlish Warren (11:52), Newton Abbot (12:16) and Paignton at 12:34 before heading to Kingswear.
The return hourney will see 5029 depart at 16:35 before heading through Paignton (17:20), Dawlish (17:54), Exeter St Davids (18:21), Tiverton Parkway (18:51), Taunton (19:48 – diesel hauled from here), Reading (21:44), Maidenhead (22:03), Slough (22:12), St Albans (23:04), Luton (23:16) and Bedford at 23:38.
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28th August, 2025
35005 Canadian Pacific departs Ropley
The Watercress Line is hosting an Engineering Open Weekend on the 13th and 14th of September.
They have announced that one of the main attractions will be the No. 35005 Canadian Pacific steam locomotive.
Visitors will be able to be up close to the locomotive, which was launched in March following its 14-year-long restoration project.
The locomotive was built in 1941 and had to undergo major restoration, and thanks to dedicated members from The Watercress Line and the support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, it is now up and running.
Visitors will also get the chance to see behind the scenes at Ropley Station and meet the team behind the restoration.
The current projects will also be on show in the engineering hub, and visitors will also be able to access the yard, engineering shed, and carriage shop viewing gallery.
More information on what you’ll be able to get up close to and tickets can be found here.
“Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to view our flagship Canadian Pacific and many other exciting restoration projects at the Open Weekend – you’ll see the passion and expertise that goes into maintaining our locomotives and carriages. We’re incredibly proud of our team’s work, and this event allows us to share their story in an engaging, hands-on way.
“Whether you’re a lifelong rail enthusiast or looking for a great day out with the family, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Rebecca Dalley, CEO of The Watercress Line
The Watercress Line To Host Engineering Open Weekend
35005 Canadian Pacific departs Ropley
The Watercress Line is hosting an Engineering Open Weekend on the 13th and 14th of September.
They have announced that one of the main attractions will be the No. 35005 Canadian Pacific steam locomotive.
Visitors will be able to be up close to the locomotive, which was launched in March following its 14-year-long restoration project.
The locomotive was built in 1941 and had to undergo major restoration, and thanks to dedicated members from The Watercress Line and the support of the National Lottery Heritage Fund, it is now up and running.
Visitors will also get the chance to see behind the scenes at Ropley Station and meet the team behind the restoration.
The current projects will also be on show in the engineering hub, and visitors will also be able to access the yard, engineering shed, and carriage shop viewing gallery.
More information on what you’ll be able to get up close to and tickets can be found here.
“Don’t miss this fantastic opportunity to view our flagship Canadian Pacific and many other exciting restoration projects at the Open Weekend – you’ll see the passion and expertise that goes into maintaining our locomotives and carriages. We’re incredibly proud of our team’s work, and this event allows us to share their story in an engaging, hands-on way.
“Whether you’re a lifelong rail enthusiast or looking for a great day out with the family, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.”
Rebecca Dalley, CEO of The Watercress Line
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CLEOPATRA
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29 Aug 2025
TrawsCymru T4
TrawsCymru T4 bus service is set for an upgrade, with Transport for Wales (TfW) announcing a new timetable to deliver improved frequency and reliability.
The upgraded service, operated by mid Wales-based Celtic Travel, will launch on Monday, 1 September 2025, continuing to connect communities between Newtown and Merthyr Tydfil.
The T4 route has been a vital link for commuters, students, residents, and visitors for over 14 years, serving destinations including Bannau Brycheiniog, the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show, and many picturesque towns and villages along the way.
What’s new from 1 September?
Lee Robinson, Executive Director for Regional Transport and Integration at Transport for Wales, said: “We’re excited to launch the enhanced T4 service with Celtic Travel. These improvements will offer greater flexibility and value for passengers, and the partnership model shows how regional operators can successfully collaborate to deliver high-quality public transport.”
Phyl Davies, Managing Director at Celtic Travel, added: “We’re proud to be taking on the T4 service and look forward to working closely with Transport for Wales to deliver a high-quality, dependable service. The new timetable and fare structure will offer greater flexibility and value for passengers, and we’re excited about the arrival of new vehicles next year to further enhance the journey experience.”
Cardiff–Merthyr Changes
From September, Stagecoach will launch a new X4 service between Merthyr and Cardiff, running every 60 minutes, Monday to Saturday, and serving Treforest Industrial Estate to improve access to employment, education, and leisure.
Rail alternatives remain available, and Transport for Wales is exploring integrated ticketing options to support seamless travel.
Enhanced T4 TrawsCymru service launches 1 September
TrawsCymru T4
TrawsCymru T4 bus service is set for an upgrade, with Transport for Wales (TfW) announcing a new timetable to deliver improved frequency and reliability.
The upgraded service, operated by mid Wales-based Celtic Travel, will launch on Monday, 1 September 2025, continuing to connect communities between Newtown and Merthyr Tydfil.
The T4 route has been a vital link for commuters, students, residents, and visitors for over 14 years, serving destinations including Bannau Brycheiniog, the Royal Welsh Agricultural Show, and many picturesque towns and villages along the way.
What’s new from 1 September?
- Operating every 2 hours between Newtown and Brecon, Monday to Saturday
- Hourly service between Brecon and Merthyr, Monday to Saturday
- Sunday service every 2 hours, with hourly summer peak enhancements between Brecon and Merthyr
- A new cost-effective fares structure, aligned with the wider TrawsCymru network
- New vehicles arriving in March 2026, offering improved comfort and environmental performance
Lee Robinson, Executive Director for Regional Transport and Integration at Transport for Wales, said: “We’re excited to launch the enhanced T4 service with Celtic Travel. These improvements will offer greater flexibility and value for passengers, and the partnership model shows how regional operators can successfully collaborate to deliver high-quality public transport.”
Phyl Davies, Managing Director at Celtic Travel, added: “We’re proud to be taking on the T4 service and look forward to working closely with Transport for Wales to deliver a high-quality, dependable service. The new timetable and fare structure will offer greater flexibility and value for passengers, and we’re excited about the arrival of new vehicles next year to further enhance the journey experience.”
Cardiff–Merthyr Changes
From September, Stagecoach will launch a new X4 service between Merthyr and Cardiff, running every 60 minutes, Monday to Saturday, and serving Treforest Industrial Estate to improve access to employment, education, and leisure.
Rail alternatives remain available, and Transport for Wales is exploring integrated ticketing options to support seamless travel.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
29 Aug 2025
VR Training
Transport for Wales (TfW) has become the first train operator in the UK to introduce new, cutting-edge Virtual Reality (VR) training technology for front-line staff.
The innovative VR software allows trainees to experience key, real-world scenarios from the comfort of a classroom before moving on to practical training.
The VR training features a computerised replica of a brand-new Class 197 train, which now operates on the majority of mainline routes across Wales and the Borders.
Developed by Denova, a Scottish based company, the training environment gives trainees full control, allowing them to change between keys, check route diagrams, and even use a whistle to alert virtual customers.
David Lewis, Commercial Operations Trainer at Transport for Wales said: “We’re really excited about launching this software. It’s a fantastic investment by TfW in training and will make a massive difference moving forward.
“This sort of training is used by the military, NHS, emergency services and other educational establishments but we’re the first train operator in the UK to introduce it to our train manager function.
“It’s important to understand that it doesn’t replace real life training but it will bridge the gap between theory in the classroom and practical experience.”
Lee Alexander, a Conductor Instructor at Transport for Wales, who has worked on the railway for 18 years said he was “impressed to see the technology in action and I wish this was about when I was doing my training”.
“You can test out situations you just wouldn’t typically experience in the real world when taking trainees out.
“I must have trained hundreds of Train Conductors over the years and this would have been fantastic to have had for them.
“I was really impressed with the technology and I like that we can suggest ideas for different scenarios.”
Brendan Morris CEO of Denova said “ We were delighted to be the technology partner for the Dispatch Simulator; it’s been a fantastic project and a real industry first.
“It allows trainees to practise degraded or emergency situations that they might seldom see, but need to be competent in. Like cab simulators for driving , the dispatch simulator helps build confidence and competence in safety critical procedures.
“Transport for Wales have really led the way with this innovation and we’re already seeing interested form other UK Operators”
First UK operator to launch virtual reality training
VR Training
Transport for Wales (TfW) has become the first train operator in the UK to introduce new, cutting-edge Virtual Reality (VR) training technology for front-line staff.
The innovative VR software allows trainees to experience key, real-world scenarios from the comfort of a classroom before moving on to practical training.
The VR training features a computerised replica of a brand-new Class 197 train, which now operates on the majority of mainline routes across Wales and the Borders.
Developed by Denova, a Scottish based company, the training environment gives trainees full control, allowing them to change between keys, check route diagrams, and even use a whistle to alert virtual customers.
David Lewis, Commercial Operations Trainer at Transport for Wales said: “We’re really excited about launching this software. It’s a fantastic investment by TfW in training and will make a massive difference moving forward.
“This sort of training is used by the military, NHS, emergency services and other educational establishments but we’re the first train operator in the UK to introduce it to our train manager function.
“It’s important to understand that it doesn’t replace real life training but it will bridge the gap between theory in the classroom and practical experience.”
Lee Alexander, a Conductor Instructor at Transport for Wales, who has worked on the railway for 18 years said he was “impressed to see the technology in action and I wish this was about when I was doing my training”.
“You can test out situations you just wouldn’t typically experience in the real world when taking trainees out.
“I must have trained hundreds of Train Conductors over the years and this would have been fantastic to have had for them.
“I was really impressed with the technology and I like that we can suggest ideas for different scenarios.”
Brendan Morris CEO of Denova said “ We were delighted to be the technology partner for the Dispatch Simulator; it’s been a fantastic project and a real industry first.
“It allows trainees to practise degraded or emergency situations that they might seldom see, but need to be competent in. Like cab simulators for driving , the dispatch simulator helps build confidence and competence in safety critical procedures.
“Transport for Wales have really led the way with this innovation and we’re already seeing interested form other UK Operators”
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
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The VR scenarios can include dispatch procedures on a range of platform types, bringing the train to a stop in an emergency, dispatching against signal failure, identifying suspicious items and even dealing with a fire onboard, plus many more scenarios.
The user can even interact with the virtual onboard phone to speak to the driver or signaller – played by the instructor in the classroom.
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The VR scenarios can include dispatch procedures on a range of platform types, bringing the train to a stop in an emergency, dispatching against signal failure, identifying suspicious items and even dealing with a fire onboard, plus many more scenarios.
The user can even interact with the virtual onboard phone to speak to the driver or signaller – played by the instructor in the classroom.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Friday 29 Aug 2025
Newport Station
Network Rail Wales and Borders will be undertaking essential engineering works across key sections of the railway between Hereford, Newport, and Shrewsbury from Saturday 6 September to Monday 8 September, and again the following weekend (13 and 14 September).
This vital work will continue to keep the railway running safely and efficiently for passengers and freight.
The works taking place include:
Passengers are advised to check before they travel at: www.nationalrail.co,uk
We thank passengers for their patience while we carry out these vital improvements to keep the railway running safely and reliably.
One week to go: Weekend rail engineering works in South Wales and the Marches
Region & Route: Wales & Western: Wales & BordersNewport Station
Network Rail Wales and Borders will be undertaking essential engineering works across key sections of the railway between Hereford, Newport, and Shrewsbury from Saturday 6 September to Monday 8 September, and again the following weekend (13 and 14 September).
This vital work will continue to keep the railway running safely and efficiently for passengers and freight.
The works taking place include:
- Track and drainage upgrades at St. Julian’s (Newport) and Tram Inn (Hereford)
- Drainage and level crossing maintenance between Cwmbran and Maindee
- Earthworks and drainage at Little Stretton (Church Stretton to Craven Arms)
- Points (the component that allows trains to move from one track to the other) renewal and signalling work at Panteg and Pontypool
- Vegetation management improving
- Newport, via Hereford, to Shrewsbury
- Maindee to Cwmbran, Pontypool and Panteg
- Sutton Bridge Junction (Shrewsbury) to Bromfield, Craven Arms and Church Stretton
Passengers are advised to check before they travel at: www.nationalrail.co,uk
We thank passengers for their patience while we carry out these vital improvements to keep the railway running safely and reliably.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
29th August, 2025
13268 on the Severn Valley Railway
The Great Central Railway has announced that class 5 mogul No.13268 based at the Severn Valley Railway will be making an appearance at their flagship Autumn Steam Gala from Thursday 2 to Sunday 5 October.
The 2-6-0 class 5 moguls were designed for mixed traffic duties across the LMS, and are a smaller version of the very successful Black 5, 4-6-0s.
Built in January 1934, No.13268 is the only survivor of Stanier’s 2-6-0 design.
With a working career lasting 33 years, during which time it hauled freight and passenger trains, 13268 was withdrawn in December 1966.
Great Central Railway announce Third Guest to its Autumn Steam Gala
13268 on the Severn Valley Railway
The Great Central Railway has announced that class 5 mogul No.13268 based at the Severn Valley Railway will be making an appearance at their flagship Autumn Steam Gala from Thursday 2 to Sunday 5 October.
The 2-6-0 class 5 moguls were designed for mixed traffic duties across the LMS, and are a smaller version of the very successful Black 5, 4-6-0s.
Built in January 1934, No.13268 is the only survivor of Stanier’s 2-6-0 design.
With a working career lasting 33 years, during which time it hauled freight and passenger trains, 13268 was withdrawn in December 1966.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Stanier Mogul No. 132698
Having been taken to Barry scrapyard, the Stanier Mogul Fund was set up to preserve the locomotive for its historical importance.
13268 was moved by rail from Barry to Bewdley in late 1973, where restoration of the locomotive began.
The locomotive returned to steam in April 1991, before briefly running on the main line under its own power in the late 1990s.
The locomotive’s most recent overhaul was completed just last year, and the engine also attended the Greatest Gathering in Derby in early August.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
Stanier Mogul 13268 in its freshly painted LMS lined black livery
No.13268 will join Bahamas Locomotive Society’s locomotives No. 45596 ‘Bahamas’ and LNWR coal Tank No.1054, at the Great Central Autumn Gala, in what will be the first time that both Bahamas Locomotive Society’s locomotives will be hauling a train together.
- TNP Nation
- Ethnon
30th August, 2025
Marcus and Neo watch wrestling in Cardiff
Marcus and Neo watch wrestling in Cardiff
- Status