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The railways were revolutionised by the introduction of the railcar, or diesel multiple unit, in the 1950s. Costs were slashed, passengers won back and many lines which would have closed were saved. Our mission is to preserve and operate some of these trains for the benefit and enjoyment of future generations.
On new track. The Class 104 unit on the new Carrog-Bonwm extension of the Llangollen Railway - the first DMU on the section for almost 50 years - during driver route learning on April 15th. Picture George Jones
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LATEST PAGE CHANGES |
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May 14 - Update to Newsfeed and weekly roster pages |
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May 3 - Ticket prices and on-line link for bookings added to gala page. |
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April 21 - Page for 51118 updated with full historical information and many new pictures |
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April 12 - New Page on Phase 1 of Gloucester 100 restoration project |
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March 5 - Page for E56171 revised with new text and additional picture | |
We have a fleet of seven two-car diesel railcars which see public passenger service on over 90 days per year at Llangollen and over 50 elsewhere. We are all volunteers and membership is open to anyone with an interest in this particular aspect of our railways.
Our mission is to restore vintage railcar sets and to operate them in the way originally intended so that the public can see and understand what a large contibution these trains have made to the British Railway system. We have been supported in this work by the Heritage Lottery Fund.
Our operation is not solely directed at the railway enthusiast. Many ordinary members of the public appreciate these trains with their unique views of the line ahead and the surrounding scenery. We are mainly based at the Llangollen Railway, just South of Chester, where we currently have four of our Railcar sets in service. A fifth is currently on loan to the Weardale Railway in County Durham where, during 2010 and 2011, it was used on services for the benefit of the local community. Two of our sets are under long-term restoration, one at Llangollen and another at the Midland Railway, Butterley.
Llangollen Railcars Ltd is a company limited by guarantee with charitable status. Membership and participation in our activities is open to all.
The stunning scenery of our host line at Llangollen can best be admired through the panoramic front windows of one of our railcars. The Wickham is seen climbing the hill towards the Berwyn Tunnel. Picture Paul Dawson.
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