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Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership Wins Second Place at National Awards

Wed, 25 Mar 2026 16:40:07 GMT

Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership Wins Second Place at National Awards

The Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership has been recognised at the Community Rail Awards 2026, claiming second place in the prestigious Tourism and Leisure category for its innovative Make and Trade project, an initiative designed to showcase and connect independent makers and traders along the scenic railway.

The event, organised by Community Rail Network and supported by headline partner East Midlands Railway, took place in Derby on Thursday 19 March. A record-breaking 610 guests attended, including volunteers, community leaders and rail industry figures from across England, Scotland and Wales.

Judges reviewed more than 300 entries showcasing the extraordinary work taking place across Britain to connect communities with their railways.

The Make and Trade project was developed to highlight and connect more than 100 independent makers and traders along the railway line between Swansea and Shrewsbury. Central to the initiative was the production of ‘Goods Along The Line’, a 48-page brochure distributed widely across the route and at local tourist hotspots. The partnership also hosted a networking event and marketing masterclass to help participating businesses strengthen their skills and visibility.

The results have been impressive. The project has guided thousands of visitors along the line, with over 6,000 booklets now in circulation, social media outreach reaching more than 500,000 people and community events generating over £1,000 in direct sales for local makers. Businesses have reported new customers, stronger community links and valuable shared learning.

Owen Griffkin, Community Rail Development Officer for the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership said: “Winning second place at the Community Rail Awards is a tremendous honour and a testament to the dedication of everyone involved. Beyond the brochure, this project is about building genuine connections between the people behind their product along this beautiful railway and the visitors and communities who travel it. We’re incredibly proud of what we’ve achieved and excited about what’s to still to come.”

Melanie Lawton, Community Rail Strategy Lead for Transport for Wales, said: “The Make and Trade project is a shining example of what community rail can achieve when it puts local people and local enterprises at its heart. This award is thoroughly well deserved, and Transport for Wales is delighted to support the partnership in delivering such impactful work in promoting social and economic development among local communities served by the Heart of Wales Line.”

Clair Swales, Chief Executive of Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations, said: “We are delighted to see the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership recognised in this way.

“Projects like Make and Trade show how rail can do more than connect places - it can connect people, support local businesses, and celebrate the unique spirit of our communities.

“This award reflects the passion and creativity of everyone involved, and we are proud to see the difference the Partnership is making along the line.”

Looking ahead, the partnership plans to refresh the brochure annually through advertising and sponsorship, ensuring the project continues to support rural economies while promoting sustainable travel on the Heart of Wales Line.

Samantha Skyrme, Chair of the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership, said: "Make and Trade is an innovative project and this award has come at an exciting time as the team is developing the concept further."

More broadly, the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership delivers a wide range of community engagement and social inclusion initiatives, supports volunteering at stations and promotes green travel and tourism by rail.

Across Britain, the community rail movement continues to grow. There are now 76 community rail partnerships and around 1,300 volunteer station groups working with train operators, councils and local organisations to make rail travel more accessible, sustainable and connected to local communities.

Jools Townsend, Chief Executive for Community Rail Network, said: “Our awards celebrate the volunteers, community groups and local partnerships helping transform Britain’s railway stations into welcoming gateways to their communities.

“From supporting young people to travel independently, to creating greener stations and vibrant community spaces, these projects show how powerful local action can be.

“As the railway celebrates its 200th anniversary, community rail is helping ensure the network’s future is just as much about people and places as it is about trains and tracks. Our congratulations to [insert name of partnership/group] and to all our winners, and thanks to everyone who supports and champions community rail, helping the movement to go from strength to strength.”

*END*

Notes to editor

Photo description: Left to Right.

Geraint Morgan (Community Rail Manager – South, Transport for Wales), Claire Sterry (Senior Officer Third Sector Development, Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations), Rebecca Butcher (Social Media Manager), Samantha Skyrme (Chair, Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership) Melanie Lawton (Community Rail Strategy Lead, Transport for Wales), Rhiannon Jane-Raftery (Community Rail Development Coordinator - Wales and Borders, Community Rail Network), Owen Griffkin (Community Rail Development Officer, Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership).

The Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership (CRP) is an accredited Community Rail Partnership, awarded by the Community Rail Network, Department for Transport and Welsh Government working to connect communities to their railway.

The CRP works with communities along the Heart of Wales Line from Shrewsbury to Swansea via Llandrindod Wells.

The CRP is hosted by Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations (PAVO), who is the County Voluntary Council for Powys, supporting the third sector across the county.

Community Rail Network is the membership body for community rail partnerships and station adoption groups in Britain.

A digital version of the ‘Goods Along The Line’ brochure can be found here .

Dydd Miwsig Cymru | Welsh Language Music Day

Sun, 08 Feb 2026 15:29:00 GMT

Dydd Miwsig Cymru | Welsh Language Music Day

Os wyt ti’n chwilio am gig Dydd Miwsig Cymru yn lleol i ti, ewch i wefan newydd awni .

If you want to find a Dydd Miwsig Cymru gig near you, visit the brand new awni website .

Lliwedd Jones - Swyddog Cynnig Rhagweithiol PAVO | PAVO Active Offer Officer

Aeron Pughe - Dawnsio yn y Glaw
Y Cyrff - Cymru Lloegr a Llanrwst
Bwncath - Fel hyn Da ni Fod

Tomos Jones - Menter Iaith Abertawe

Los Blancos – Ffuglen Wyddonol
HMS Morris - Balls
Pys Melyn - Bolmynydd

Owen Griffkin - Swyddog Rheilffordd Cymunedol Lein Calon Cymru | Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Officer

Super Furry Animals - Nythod Cacwn
Datblygu - Y Teimlad
Carwyn Ellis - Duwies y Dre

Robert Bruce - Curadur | Curator YDysgwrAraf

E. L. Heath - Bendigedig
Los Blancos - Pancws Euros
Kathod - Gwenyn

Reem Muhammed - BBC Wales/Radio Cymru

Lila Zing - La Di Da
NoGood Boyo - Ffarwel
Lo-fi Jones - Mari Lwyd

Get Involved in Fix it Feb

Wed, 28 Jan 2026 12:20:25 GMT

Repair Cafe Wales: Fix it Feb

The Heart of Wales Line is more than a scenic rail route; it’s a lifeline for rural communities. Being rural means, it can sometimes be difficult for residents to visit the larger towns and cities to purchase new items, which is why we are encouraging our communities to take part in Fix it Feb.

What is Fix it Feb? It’s a national campaign organised and run by Repair Cafe Wales to keep cherished and practical items out of landfill. By repairing instead of replacing, we save money, reduce waste and promote sustainability.

How to take part?

Pledge: Take the pledge on the Repair Cafe Wales website to fix one item this month – anything from a toaster to a t-shirt.

Ride the Rails to Repair: Take the sustainable route and travel by train with your item to your local Repair Cafe. We’ve compiled a list of those near railway stations along the Heart of Wales Line.

Skills Sharing: Repair Cafes are also social hubs so why not sit with a volunteer, grab a cup of tea and learn how to maintain your own gear.

Repair Cafes along the Heart of Wales Line

Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership Appoints New Chair to Champion Community Connections and Sustainable Travel

Wed, 17 Sep 2025 09:21:08 GMT

Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership Appoints New Chair to Champion Community Connections and Sustainable Travel

The Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership (CRP) is pleased to announce the appointment of Samantha Skyrme as its new Chairperson, bringing new passion and inspiration to support sustainable travel, strengthen community connections, and encourage economic growth along this much-loved scenic route.

The Heart of Wales Line CRP promotes and develops the iconic and scenic railway for the benefit of local communities, businesses and visitors. The CRP’s role includes connecting communities, enhancing socio-economic development, amplifying community voices, and promoting sustainable, healthy and accessible travel.

Samantha has a personal connection to the railway as it runs right past her back garden. She brings years of experience from the Department of Food and Rural Affairs and other UK Government agencies, where she led projects focused on understanding what people really need. As a Senior User Researcher, she’s passionate about listening to users and using those insights to shape better products and services. She’s excited to bring this people-first approach to her new role.

Samantha said: "I'm delighted to have been given the opportunity to Chair the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership. The Heart of Wales Line is a wonderful resource for all of us living nearby and I'm looking forward to meeting more of the vital groups who do such great work up and down the line."

As Chair, Samantha will challenge the CRP to be “bigger, bolder and better”, building stronger community connections with the railway. This role is defined by leadership, community engagement, strategic oversight and a deep commitment to community and sustainability.

The Heart of Wales Line is an accredited CRP recognised by the Department for Transport, Community Rail Network and the Welsh Government. Guided by a diverse steering group including transport operators, local authorities, destination managers, businesses and voluntary organisations, the CRP is hosted by the Powys Association of Voluntary Organisations (PAVO).

Clair Swales PAVO CEO, and outgoing chair, said: “I am delighted to be handing over the role of Chair to Samantha, who has community engagement at the heart of everything she does, and who I know will continue to strengthen the Heart of Wales Line CRP’s role in connecting people, places and communities along the line.”

Owen Griffkin, Community Rail Officer said: “We are really excited to be working with Samantha. She brings with her a strong background in research and engagement, which will help us make sure the communities along the line have a real say in shaping both our activities and the future of the railway.”

Melanie Lawton, Community Rail Strategy at Transport for Wales said: "Samantha is a welcome addition to the Community Rail Partnership on the Heart of Wales line. We strive to deliver a community rail strategy to connect communities to their railway and look forward to working closely with Samantha and Owen for the benefit of the community."

New Model Railway Layout of Llandrindod Wells Unveiled at the Automobile Palace

Mon, 18 Aug 2025 13:08:18 GMT

New Model Railway Layout of Llandrindod Wells Unveiled at the Automobile Palace

Historic Llandrindod Wells in Miniature: 8-Metre Model Railway to be Unveiled at Auto Palace.

The Brecon and Radnor Railway Club will unveil an 8-metre working OO gauge model of Llandrindod Wells as it appeared in 1906 at the Auto Palace in Llandrindod Wells from 19 to 23 August .

The launch is timed to coincide with this year’s Llandrindod Wells Victorian Festival and the nationwide Railway 200 celebrations, marking two centuries of railway heritage. The event is hosted by the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership.

Although famed for its Victorian architecture and spa-town heritage, the model depicts Edwardian Llandrindod Wells in the early years of the 20th century. The layout began life as a generous donation to the club, and members have since painstakingly restored and expanded it to its current 8-metre length, enhancing its historical accuracy and detail. Visitors will see everything from the bustling station platforms and period buildings to authentic rolling stock in full working order.

“This model is more than just a railway layout,” said John Moorhouse, Chair of the Brecon and Radnor Railway Club. “It is a living snapshot of Llandrindod Wells at a moment in history, and we are excited to share it with both locals and visitors during such a celebratory week for the town and for Britain’s railways.”

Owen Griffkin, the Community Rail Officer said, ‘“It is wonderful to be able to provide a platform for the club, and it promises to be the centrepiece of many events in the future. It’s amazing to see how the town used to look, and it really gives you a taste of the impact the railway has had on towns along the Central Wales Line , or the Heart of Wales Line as it is now known.”

The exhibition will be open daily at the Auto Palace from 19th to 23rd August between 10am and 4pm and entry is free . It is the latest in a series of events and groups that are making use of the newly-renovated space, with a gaming hub, and the National Cycling Museum amongst the attractions at the historic building.

Club members will be on hand to share insights, answer questions, and discuss the research and craftsmanship behind the project whilst they operate a multitude of authentic models.

New Brochure Launched to Support Local Makers and Traders Along the Heart of Wales Line

Thu, 07 Aug 2025 19:35:09 GMT

New Brochure Launched to Support Local Makers and Traders Along the Heart of Wales Line

The Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership (CRP) has proudly launched a new brochure featuring more than 100 independent businesses located along the line. The initiative aims to boost local economies and encourage sustainable travel and spending habits.

The Goods Along The Line brochure was unveiled at the annual Royal Welsh Show, with guest speakers from two of the featured businesses – Radnor Hills, a renowned local drinks producer, and Kirsty Lockwood Furnishings, an expert upholsterer. Both shared insights into the benefits of collaboration and the importance of visibility for rural enterprises.

The brochure forms part of the Community Rail Partnership’s wider Make and Trade project, designed to strengthen communities and encourage new connections using the railway. The project brings together local producers, retailers, and craftspeople to foster collaboration and create a supportive, sustainable trading environment.

Owen Griffkin, Community Rail Officer for the Partnership, which is hosted by PAVO ( Powys Association of VOluntary Organisations) said:

“The brochure is a small and handy guide for locals and tourists to see the diversity of expertise and produce available along the line. Local businesses are vital to the rural economy, and it’s great to be able to promote them and the places they are based in, strengthening this new business network we have created.”

Clair Swales, Acting Chair of the Heart of Wales Community Rail Partnership, added:

“Our aims are clear: to promote independent businesses along the railway line, encourage local spending, and support greater use of the railway. At the Heart of Wales Line CRP, we recognise the vital role small, independent businesses play in the life of our communities. Strong local businesses mean strong local economies – and a more memorable, meaningful experience for visitors to our towns and villages.”

Kirsty Lockwood said:

“I’ve already benefited from the networking events and masterclasses. Being part of a collective is helpful for sharing advice and bouncing ideas off each other. Micro-businesses struggle with marketing and budgets, but being in a group gives us more power to promote ourselves.”

Leon Tarr, from Radnor Hills, commented:

“It was easy for Radnor Hills to get involved with this project. One of our values is community involvement, and this initiative and Goods Along The Line highlight that. We’re happy to offer expertise and advice to newer, smaller businesses.”

Funded by the Community Rail Development Fund, with initial funding for the Make and Trade project received from Transport for Wales, the Goods Along The Line brochure will be distributed at railway stations, tourist destinations, and businesses across the region and beyond.

The brochure is expected to be refreshed and expanded annually through advertising and sponsorship, ensuring ongoing support for local businesses – and the railway that connects them.

Biodiversity boost for rural railway stations

Wed, 30 Jul 2025 14:55:17 GMT

Biodiversity boost for rural railway stations

Five railway stations along the scenic Heart of Wales railway line have benefitted from the installation of new floral planters.

The Heart of Wales line runs from Swansea to Shrewsbury via Llandrindod and the stations that have received new planters include Builth Road, Llandrindod, Penybont, Knucklas and Knighton.

Funded by a Welsh Government Local Places for Nature grant via the Powys Nature Partnership, the project aims to enhance biodiversity by providing pollinator plants with aesthetically pleasing floral displays at stations in Powys.

Speaking on behalf of the Partnership, Nature Recovery Officer Ben Mullen, said; “We were looking to fund green infrastructure on the transport network in Powys and involving Transport for Wales, their local volunteer station adopters and the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership was a perfect fit.”

He continued; “In addition to perennial, pollinator friendly plants, native wildflowers were planted into peat free compost. These will provide pollen and nectar for many species such as bees, hoverflies, butterflies and moths. The planters will act as ‘stepping stones’ within the wider environment and show that small scale planting can make a big different to our declining nature.”

The planters have been manufactured by Pembrokeshire based Norman Industries, a local authority based enterprise in Haverfordwest. Norman Industries is based in Haverfordwest and offers work experience, paid supported employment and training to disabled people and people with a work limiting health condition via its Supported Employment Programme.

Geraint Morgan, Community Rail Manager for Transport for Wales, said; “Stations are important gateways to communities along the Line and first impressions matter. This grant has helped enhance existing green features at the five stations, which will be cared for by our dedicated teams of local volunteers.”

Owen Griffkin, Community Rail Officer for the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership said; “We were delighted to partner with Powys County Council in making our stations more welcoming for the community and the many tourists who travel on the railway. Working with the volunteers, we chose a mix of pollinator-friendly plants that will self-seed and continue to brighten the platforms for many years, as providing a biodiversity boost that will benefit local wildlife.”

Community Rail Week Celebrated on the Heart of Wales Line with Events for Local Businesses and Railway Enthusiasts

Wed, 07 May 2025 11:16:59 GMT

Community Rail Week Celebrated on the Heart of Wales Line with Events for Local Businesses and Railway Enthusiasts

The Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership joins community rail partnerships, station friends’ volunteers and other community groups across Britain to showcase how the railway can bring people together, as the national Community Rail Week launches, during the milestone Railway 200 anniversary year.

The week begins with a networking event as part of the Partnership’s Make and Trade project, which connects independent makers and traders along the Heart of Wales Line and promotes local business visibility. The event will take place at the Radnor Hills facility in Knighton on 19th May from 12:30 pm and will include a short marketing session led by Megan Birch and Chris Butler of Radnor Hills followed by a tour of the facilities.

The Make and Trade project recently received funding from the Community Rail Network to produce a 50-page booklet highlighting businesses in each town along the route. The brochure will be distributed at tourist hotspots across the UK and showcase the attractions, shops, and unique products linked to the railway.

“This event is all about bringing people together and creating new partnerships that can make use of the railway to attract new customers,” said Owen Griffkin, Community Rail Officer.

"Having the support of Radnor Hills, one of the most recognisable companies along the line, will be a real asset to the project. Their experience in marketing and branding will be invaluable in helping smaller local businesses reach new audiences."

The following day, attention turns to the heritage of the railway as part of the national Railway 200 celebrations. A drop-in event titled Trains, Tales and Tea will take place at the new KDM Gaming Hub in the recently-renovated Automobile Palace in Llandrindod. Scheduled for Tuesday 20 May from 2pm to 4pm , the event invites members of the public to share stories, photographs, and memorabilia connected to the railway’s past.

“Railways have shaped our communities for generations,” said Mr Griffkin. “This event is a chance for people to share their memories and help us capture the social history of the line for future generations.”

The week will also see environmental improvements, with the installation of fifteen new planters at five stations across Powys thanks to a Local Places for Nature grant from Powys County Council. This will boost biodiversity and create a more welcoming station environment for passengers and volunteers.

In addition, the Community Rail Officer will join a group of primary school pupils on their return train journey from Radnorshire Wildlife Trust’s Pentwyn Farm site near Llanbister Road station, highlighting the railway’s role in supporting environmental education and community engagement.

Bill Freeman, interim chief executive of Community Rail Network, said: “We’re proud to see such a packed programme of community-led activities being held across Britain during Community Rail Week, especially during this Railway 200 anniversary year.

Community Rail Week shines a spotlight on community rail partnerships and station volunteer groups and the innovative projects they deliver across Britain, bringing people together and promoting the benefits of rail. Community rail has an inspiring track record of promoting travel confidence and broadening horizons, sometimes with life-changing effects, while giving communities a voice on transport, and putting railways and stations at the heart of community life.”

For more information about the events, visit the Heart of Wales Line’s social media platforms (@heartwalesline) or email heartwalesline@gmail.com .

Businesses can also apply to be in the brochure by emailing the address above.

Have Your Say | Dweud Eich Dweud

Thu, 20 Mar 2025 13:56:07 GMT

Have Your Say | Dweud Eich Dweud

Have Your Say on Regional Transport Plans in Wales!

Consultations are now open for the Corporate Joint Committees (CJCs) Regional Transport Plans (RTPs). This is your chance to shape the future of transport in your area.

Check out the links below to each of the CJC consultation sites for more details and to participate:

North Wales End Date 14 April 2025

Mid Wales End Date 4 April 2025

South West Wales End Date 6 April 2025

South East Wales End Date 19 May 2025

Your input is invaluable in creating a more accessible, sustainable, and efficient transport system for everyone.

Dyma gyfle i chi ddweud eich dweud ar Gynlluniau Trafnidiaeth Rhanbarthol yng Nghymru!

Mae ymgynghoriadau bellach ar agor ar gyfer Cynlluniau Trafnidiaeth Rhanbarthol (CTRh) y Cyd-bwyllgorau Corfforedig (CBCau). Dyma’ch cyfle i lunio dyfodol trafnidiaeth yn eich ardal chi.

Bwriwch olwg ar y dolenni isod ar gyfer lleoliad pob un o ymgynghoriadau’r Cyd-bwyllgorau Corfforedig am ragor o fanylion ac i gymryd rhan:

Gogledd Cymru Dyddiad Gorffen: 14 Ebrill 2025

Canolbarth Cymru Dyddiad Gorffen: 4 Ebrill 2025

De Orllewin Cymru Dyddiad Gorffen: 6 Ebrill 2025

De Ddwyrain Cymru Dyddiad Gorffen: 19 Mai 2025

Mae eich mewnbwn yn amhrisiadwy er mwyn creu system drafnidiaeth fwy hygyrch, cynaliadwy ac effeithlon i bawb.

First of six fully refurbished cycle travel trains enters service

Tue, 25 Feb 2025 13:47:06 GMT

First of six fully refurbished cycle travel trains enters service

The first of six fully refurbished cycle travel trains has launched on the Heart of Wales line.

As part of a gradual introduction, by the summer, customers will be able to bring up to 12 bicycles and e-bikes onboard the service that runs between Swansea and Shrewsbury.

Until that point only two bikes can be brought onboard, in line with all other TfW trains.

The trains are being introduced to tap into the fantastic walking and cycling opportunities in Swansea, Carmarthenshire, Powys and Shropshire.

They will also offer additional seats compared with the single car trains that currently operate on the line.

Each bike carriage is in a specially designed livery to reflect the best the Heart of Wales line has to offer.

Transport for Wales Project Manager Matthew Payn said it was “an exciting new development for the line”.

He said: “This has been a fantastic project to work on and a great investment to make the most of what the Heart of Wales line has to offer.

“By the summer when all the trains are running you’ll be able to take up to 12 bikes for leisure or commuting.

“It’s a fantastic example of upcycling, taking an older train and refurbishing it for a new purpose to help more people get out and use their bikes to enjoy some of the best countryside Wales and England has to offer.

“This is a unique offering for us and an exciting new development for the line and I hope all our customers get to enjoy the service soon.”

The bike carriages have been refurbished by Chrysalis Rail at Landore depot in Swansea in partnership with Transport for Wales.

The project has seen a number of seats removed from six of TfW’s Class 153 trains to make way for 10 bike spaces, with room for tandems too. The carriages will be coupled to a standard class carriage which includes a fully accessible toilet and space for a further two bikes, making up the total of 12.

Running in two car formation, the cycle carriages will offer a total of 108 seats, an increase of 42 compared with the single carriage trains that have previously operated on the line.

While the first train entered service in February, the remaining five will be joining the fleet gradually up until the summer to ensure a smooth introduction.

£1m vegetation management programme gets underway on Heart of Wales line

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 14:31:05 GMT

£1m vegetation management programme gets underway

Press Release: Network Rail

A £1 million vegetation management programme on the Heart of Wales line is underway, with the aim of reducing delays and cancellations caused by fallen trees.

The 12-week project, which will cover 60 miles of track, was planned before Storm Darragh devastated parts of the line in December, with more than 56 trees falling within one 10-mile section alone during the storm.

The line was closed for almost a week as Network Rail teams dealt with more than 70 fallen trees in total, around 30 of which were uprooted.

The vegetation management work, which will run overnight from Monday to Thursday every week until March 28, took months of planning owing to the complicated nature of the ecology on the line.

It is part of a significant five-year investment to make the railway safer, more resilient, and more reliable across the whole Wales & Borders route.

From Craven Arms to Llandrindod, every structure will be cleared within 300 metres on both sides, while every station will be cleared within 600m on both sides.

From Llandrindod to Llandovery, the work will be less invasive owing to the local ecology, focusing largely on removing overhanging branches from near the line.

The work will be carried out by a combination of Network Rail staff and local contractors.

Dale Caviell, Network Rail maintenance engineer and the project lead, said: “Ecology has played a key part in planning this work. The Heart of Wales line serves such a rural area, which is a hotspot for many different species including dormice, bats, badgers, and newts – the conditions are more or less perfect for them.

“We have been working with Natural Resources Wales and our in-house ecology team to make sure the work can go ahead safely and legally. There are no habitat restrictions over the first 32 miles, from Craven Arms to Llandrindod. For the remaining 28 miles, the work will be far less invasive.

“This project will really tidy up the Heart of Wales line, helping to reduce delays and cancellations, with the real benefits likely to be felt next autumn and winter.”

Rheilffordd 200 yn cael ei lansio yn Aberystwyth

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 14:21:18 GMT

Rheilffordd 200 yn cael ei lansio yn Aberystwyth

Datganiad i'r Wasg: Trafnidiaeth Cymru

Mae’r flwyddyn hon yn nodi 200 mlwyddiant y rheilffordd fodern yn y DU ac mae Cymru’n paratoi i ddathlu’r garreg filltir hanesyddol hon.

Bydd digwyddiadau yn cael eu cynnal drwy’r flwyddyn ledled Cymru a chynhelir y digwyddiad cychwynnol yn Aberystwyth heddiw.

Dywedodd Dr Louise Moon, Arweinydd Rhaglen Rheilffordd 200 Trafnidiaeth Cymru, ei bod hi’n gyffrous i arddangos hanes Cymru yn ogystal â hyrwyddo’r datblygiadau newydd sydd bellach yn digwydd.

Dywedodd hi: “Rydyn ni’n hynod o gyffrous i rannu cymaint o hanes Cymru gyda’n cymunedau, gan adrodd yr holl straeon am arloesedd, cryfder, a phenderfyniad.

“Mae Rheilffordd 200 yn dathlu cymaint o’n hanes cymdeithasol a diwylliannol ynghyd â’r ffordd wnaeth y rheilffyrdd drawsffurfio’n gwlad a’i gwneud hi’r hyn y mae heddiw.

“Gyda dyfodiad y rheilffordd, gwnaeth trefi fel Aberystwyth dyfu’n eithriadol. Braf felly, yw lansio’r flwyddyn o ddigwyddiadau yma.

“Nid yn unig yr ydym eisiau ysbrydoli cenhedlaeth newydd gyda’n hanes yr ydym mor falch ohono, wrth inni ddatblygu prif waith trawsffurfio nesaf ein rhwydwaith, a fydd yn cysylltu cenhedloedd y dyfodol o fewn Cymru, rydym hefyd am ei hysbrydoli gyda’r wyddoniaeth, technoleg ac arloesedd sydd bellach yn bodoli.”

Er i’r garreg filltir nodi 200 blynedd ers y daith gyntaf i gwsmeriaid ar Reilffordd Stockton & Darlington ar 25 Medi,1825, gall Cymru hawlio rhan enfawr yn hanes y daith nodedig honna.

Ym 1804, dylunwyd locomotif Penydarren gan y peiriannydd Cernywaidd, Richard Trevithick, a wnaeth dynnu 10 tunnell o lo am 10 milltir rhwng Gwaith Haearn Penydarren ym Merthyr Tydfil ac Abercynon.

Tair blynedd wedyn, ym 1807, gwelwyd teithwyr cyntaf y byd yn prynu tocynnau ar gyfer Rheilffordd Abertawe a’r Mwmbwls. Byddai ceffylau yn lle locomotifau’n tynnu cerbydau ar hyd y traciau trên a fyddai’n brofiad hynod o boblogaidd i lawer.

Mae Trafnidiaeth Cymru yn dod yn rhan o’r hanes hwnnw drwy drydaneiddio llinellau craidd y cymoedd yn ne-ddwyrain Cymru, adeiladu gorsafoedd a depos newydd, a buddsoddi £800 miliwn mewn trenau newydd.

Dyma’r pedair prif thema a fydd yn cael eu harchwilio fel rhan o’r cynlluniau ehangach i adrodd hanes Rheilffordd 200 ledled y DU.

· Sgiliau ac Addysg

· Arloesedd, Technoleg a’r Amgylchedd

· Treftadaeth, Diwylliant a Thwristiaeth

· Dathlu Pobl y Rheilffordd

Am ragor o wybodaeth, ewch i Mae Rheilffordd 200 ar y gweill | Trafnidiaeth Cymru

Railway 200 launches in Aberystwyth

Fri, 24 Jan 2025 14:14:58 GMT

Railway 200 launches in Aberystwyth

Press Release: Transport for Wales

Wales is geared up to mark 200 years of passenger rail travel this year as the UK marks the historic anniversary of the advent of the modern rail.

As part of the celebrations, a launch event is being held in Aberystwyth today, kicking off a year of events around the country.

Dr Louise Moon, Transport for Wales’ Railway 200 Programme Lead said it was exciting to be showcasing Wales’ history as well as promoting the innovations that are taking place now.

She said: “We’re incredibly excited to be sharing so much of our history across Wales within our communities, telling the stories of innovation, grit and determination.

“Railway 200 celebrates so much of our social and cultural history and how the railways transformed our country and made it what it is today.

“Towns like Aberystwyth grew massively with the arrival of the railway so it’s great to be launching the year of events here.

“We want to inspire a new generation not just with our proud history but through science, technology and innovation that is taking place right now as we are going through the next major transformation of our network which will connect future generations within Wales.”

While the milestone marks 200 years since the first passenger steam journey on the Stockton & Darlington Railway in September 27, 1825, Wales can rightly claim a huge part in the build up to that historic journey.

In 1804 Cornish engineer Richard Trevithick designs the Pen-y-Darren locomotive which pulled 10 tonnes of coal 10 miles from the Pen-y-Darren Ironworks in Merthyr Tydfil to Abercynon.

And then in 1807, the Swansea and Mumbles Railway saw the world’s first fare paying passengers, with horses pulling their carriage along the rail tracks, proving a widely popular experience.

Transport for Wales is writing its own chapter in that history electrifying the core valley lines in south east Wales, building new stations and depots, and making an £800 million investment in new trains.

As part of the wider plans to tell the story of Railway 200 across the UK, four main themes will be explored.

· Skills & Education

· Innovation, Technology & Environment

· Heritage, Culture & Tourism

· Celebrating Railway People

For more information visit Railway 200 | Transport for Wales

New Bus Service for Powys and Shropshire Residents

Fri, 10 Jan 2025 10:09:42 GMT

New Bus Service for Powys and Shropshire Residents

Powys County Council have implemented a new bus service between Llanwrtyd Wells and Craven Arms.

The bus service, known as the X48, is being run by Celtic Travel , operating 6 days a week, excluding Sundays and Bank Holidays. Four buses are running per day from Craven Arms to Llandrindod Wells with some services continuing to Builth Wells and Llanwrtyd Wells.

We will continue to update this page as more information is made available to us so please check back.

The timetable for the X48 bus service can be viewed on the Traveline Cymru website here .

If you have any queries with regards to this service, please contact Traveline Cymru on 0800 464 00 00

Some important information to note:

The stop at Builth is within the town NOT at Builth Road railway station.

Between Builth Wells and Llanwrtyd Wells the service diverts via Beulah and therefore does not serve Llangammarch.

This service is due to run until August 2025, at which point it will be reassessed.

The service stops at Knighton bus station NOT Knighton railway station.

If catching the bus there and the train back please purchase your return train ticket on the Transport for Wales App or website before commencing your journey, your train ticket will be accepted on the bus, but a bus ticket will not be accepted on the train.

Walk with Rail Rambles

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 13:57:34 GMT

Walk with Rail Rambles

Rail Rambles have released their 2025 timetable of guided walks from railway stations in mid-Wales and the Marches.

Each walk is planned to be accessible by a day return rail journey from a number of main line and connecting bus and rail stations. The walks are free to join and are open to the public, with no membership of any organisation required.

The Rail Rambles programme is organised by volunteer members of the Rail Rambles Association and produced with the support of Transport for Wales.

Guided walks have been published up until the end of June 2025. You can see the full list of guided walks here .

Below are the dates, times and locations of Rail Rambles guided walks accessible from railways stations on the Heart of Wales Line:

Saturday 25 January

Craven Arms Circular via View Edge, Brandhill Gutter and Aldon.

(8 miles moderate).

Leaders Nigel Hotchkiss, Diane Hambleton.

Depart Shrewsbury 09.13. Return Craven Arms 16.36.

Book Craven Arms return

Saturday 22 February

Church Stretton Circular via Hope Bowdler Hill, Willstone Hill, Cardington and Cwms.

(8 miles moderate).

Leaders Nigel Hotchkiss, John Mattocks.

Depart Shrewsbury 09.13. Return Church Stretton 16.48.

Book Church Stretton return

Saturday 5 April

Knucklas to Knighton via Selley Cross, Cwm-Sanahan Hill and Offa’s Dyke.

(6 miles moderate).

Leaders Nigel Hotchkiss, Bob Owen.

Depart Shrewsbury 10.06. Return Knighton 16.12.

Book Knucklas return

Wednesday 16 April

Bucknell to Knighton via Stowe Hill and Kinsley Wood

(6.5 miles moderate).

Leaders Les Lumsdon and Mike Ledlie.

Depart Shrewsbury 10.02, return Knighton 16.11.

Book Knighton return

Possible train timetable changes in May please check your train times online

Saturday 3 May

Craven Arms circular via Watling Street, Onny Trail, Upper Carwood, Hopesay Hill, Sibdon Castle.

(8.5 miles moderate).

Leaders Aisling Amato, Clare Gathercole.

Depart Shrewsbury 09.13. Return Craven Arms 16.36.

Book Craven Arms return

Wednesday 14 May

Broome to Craven Arms via Clapping Wicket, Aldon, Stokesay.

(7 miles moderate).

Leaders Bob and Liz Owen.

Depart Shrewsbury 10.02. Return Craven Arms 16.35.

Book Broome return

In Memoriam: Huw Francis

Thu, 09 Jan 2025 08:21:19 GMT

In Memoriam: Huw Francis

It is with deep sadness, that we received the news on the 4 th of January, 2025,that Huw Francis, Trail Champion and Friend, had died after a short illness.

Huw was the Trail Champion for section 16b, Llanelli to Pontarddulais via Llangennech, and had been so since the Trail's inception. He became a Friend of the Trail last year.

Huw, a member of Llanelli Ramblers, lived in Llanelli with his wife Adrienne, also a keen walker.

From the very beginning, Huw and Adrienne were enthusiastic supporters of the Trail, and Huw was a mainstay of the Trail workparties at the southern end of the Trail, working on signage and infrastructure projects as far north as Llandeilo.

Always ready to lend a hand, his knowledge and practical expertise were second to none.

As a walk leader, he regularly led train walks on our line, which proved popular and always well-supported.

Without doubt, his dedication, cheerful disposition and friendly outlook will be sorely missed by all who knew him. A gentleman - in the true sense of the word.

John Maudsley

Pp The Committee of the Friends of the Heart of Wales Line Trail

Engineering work to affect train journeys on Heart of Wales Line for 11 days from late November

Wed, 13 Nov 2024 12:30:22 GMT

Engineering work to affect train journeys on Heart of Wales Line for 11 days from late November

Press Release: Network Rail

Passengers are urged to check before they travel between Swansea and Llandrindod later this month, when Network Rail will be carrying out essential engineering work at a viaduct on the Heart of Wales Line.

Buses will replace trains between Swansea and Llandrindod stations from Thursday 21 November to Sunday 1 December inclusive.

Network Rail engineers will be renewing the bridge deck on Glantowy Viaduct, between Llangadog and Llanwrda stations in Carmarthenshire.

They will change 19 pairs of timbers – which were last fully replaced in 1990 – as well as carrying out steelwork repairs to the structure holding the timbers in place.

They will also install 60 new sleepers and re-rail more than 200 metres of track, replacing 400 tonnes of ballast (track stone) in the process.

While the line is closed, engineers will also relay switches and crosses (moveable sections of track that guide trains from one track to another and allow them to cross paths) and points (the mechanical systems that move the switches and crosses) near Pontarddulais.

Rachel Heath, Network Rail Wales and Borders operations director, said: “Our teams will be working around the clock to carry out important renewals on the Heart of Wales Line.

“We recognise there is never a good time to close the railway for a period of 11 days. But, by completing this work in one stint, we will minimise wider disruption – and do the work in a more cost-effective way – than if we had to return over several weekend shifts.

“I would like to thank passengers for their patience and understanding, and urge them to check their journeys before travelling.”

Transport for Wales (TfW) rail replacement services will call at all stops between Swansea and Llandrindod. A quicker service calling at a limited number of key stations will also be available.

Due to the additional time needed for road transport, the timetable will differ from the current rail timetable.

Details are available in journey planners on the Transport for Wales website and passengers are strongly advised to check for the latest information before travelling.

Gŵyl Helo Hanes | Llandeilo History Festival

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 08:06:03 GMT

Gŵyl Helo Hanes | Llandeilo History Festival

Mae Menter Dinefwr yn mynd ‘nôl â Llandeilo i Oes Fictoria! Bydd Gŵyl Helo Hanes Llandeilo yn dathlu stori ddifyr y dref, felly ymuna â ni i fwynhau gwledd o weithgareddau, fel:

Teithiau cerdded hanesyddol
Arddangosfa a helfa drysor
Sesiynau celf a chrefft
Cerddoriaeth

Cofia ddod yn dy wisg ffansi Fictoraidd!

Gyda’r hwyr, bydd y band gwerin eiconig Jac y Do yn cynnal cyngerdd yn y Neuadd Ddinesig am 7:30pm.

Tocynnau ar werth: https://menter-dinefwr.yapsody.com/

***

Menter Dinefwr are taking Llandeilo back to the Victorian era! This special history festival will celebrate the fascinating story of Llandeilo as a prosperous market town. Come along and enjoy an array of activities, including:

Theatrical historical walks
An exhibition and treasure hunt
Arts and crafts sessions
Music

Remember to come in your Victorian fancy dress!

In the evening, the iconic folk band Jac y Do will hold a concert at the Civic Hall at 7:30pm.

Tickets for sale: https://menter-dinefwr.yapsody.com/

More information: www.facebook.com/MenterDinefwr

Rhaglen | Programme

Lansio rhaglen Addysgol Diogelwch ar y Rheilffyrdd yng Nghymru

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 07:44:01 GMT

Lansio rhaglen Addysgol Diogelwch ar y Rheilffyrdd yng Nghymru

Datganiad i’r wasg – Trafnidiaeth Cymru

Roedd Ken Skates, Ysgrifennydd y Cabinet dros Drafnidiaeth a Gogledd Cymru, wedi lansio rhaglen addysgol diogelwch ar y rheilffyrdd yng Nghymru heddiw.

Cafodd Rail Safe Friendly ei chreu gan Learn Live ac mae’n addysgu pobl am beryglon tresmasu ar reilffyrdd Prydain, er mwyn codi ymwybyddiaeth, achub bywydau ac atal anafiadau.

Mae Trafnidiaeth Cymru, Network Rail a Learn Live wedi ffurfio partneriaeth i lansio’r rhaglen yn Ysgol Bryn Alyn yn Wrecsam.

Mae’r rhaglen yn rhoi cyfle i ysgolion ac i’r diwydiant rheilffyrdd weithio gyda’i gilydd tuag at nod cyffredin i addysgu plant a phobl ifanc am y llu o beryglon sy’n bodoli ar y rheilffordd.

Mae addysg diogelwch ar y rheilffyrdd yn cael ei darparu drwy ddarllediadau byw neu ar-alw gan ddefnyddio’r sianel Learn Live a bydd yn cael ei defnyddio’n ddigidol mewn ystafelloedd dosbarth neu neuaddau gwasanaeth.

Dywedodd Ysgrifennydd y Cabinet dros Drafnidiaeth a Gogledd Cymru, Ken Skates: "Mae pwysigrwydd cydweithio i addysgu pobl ifanc am ddiogelwch ar y rheilffyrdd yn glir. Mae'n bwysig cofio bod y rheilffordd yn ddiogel i'r rhai sy'n ei defnyddio'n gywir ac mae negeseuon diogelwch yn achub bywydau. Rwy'n falch o fod yma i nodi lansiad ymgyrch Addysgol Diogelwch ar y Rheilffyrdd yma yng Nghymru.

"Mae'n wych bod yma yn Ysgol Bryn Alyn a gallu trafod y mater pwysig yma gyda'r disgyblion."

Dywedodd Melanie Lawton, Arweinydd Strategol Rheilffyrdd Cymunedol, Trafnidiaeth Cymru:  “Rydyn ni’n falch o weithio mewn partneriaeth â Learn Live i ddod â’r rhaglen hon i ysgolion yng Nghymru. Mae tresmasu ar y rheilffordd yn dal yn risg uchel ac mae’r risg hyd yn oed yn fwy ar ôl cyflwyno Cyfarpar Llinellau Uwchben (OLE) a rhagor o wasanaethau ar y rhwydwaith.”

Dywedodd Stuart Heaton, Rheolwr Gyfarwyddwr Rail Safe Friendly a Learn Live: “Rydyn ni’n falch iawn o fod yn gweithio gyda Trafnidiaeth Cymru a Network Rail Cymru ar y rhaglen Rail Safe Friendly. Drwy eu cefnogaeth, byddwn yn gallu cyrraedd hyd yn oed rhagor o blant gyda gwybodaeth hanfodol am ddiogelwch ar y rheilffyrdd, gyda’r nod o achub bywydau ac atal anafiadau ar rwydwaith rheilffyrdd y wlad ac mewn iardiau, depos a seidins.

“Mae’n hollbwysig bod plant yn cael gwybodaeth hanfodol, pan fyddant yn ifanc, i’w cadw’n ddiogel ar y rheilffyrdd. Mae’r rhaglen Rail Safe Friendly yn ceisio addysgu plant a phobl ifanc am y llu o beryglon sy’n bodoli ar y rheilffordd.”

Am Rail Safe Friendly

Mae Learn Live yn rhedeg sianeli newyddion ar-lein arloesol, rhyngweithiol wedi’u cymedroli sy’n dod â byd o gyfleoedd a phrofiadau’n uniongyrchol i’r ystafell ddosbarth, i’r cartref neu i’r busnes. Mae faint bynnag o ysgolion/colegau, ceiswyr gwaith neu fusnesau yn gallu gwylio pob darllediad Learn Live rhyngweithiol, dim ond drwy fewngofnodi i’r sianel ar-lein.

Mae Sianeli Newyddion Learn Live yn cysylltu ysgolion/colegau/prifysgolion yn barhaus â chyflogwyr ac maent yn gweithio'n llwyddiannus gyda chwmnïau sy’n cynnwys Network Rail, Balfour Beatty, yr Adran Gwaith a Phensiynau, Maes Awyr Gatwick, Brook a’r GIG ymysg eraill i ddarparu darllediadau ABGI ar draws y DU.

Mae Rail Safe Friendly yn cael ei redeg gan Learn Live, a chafodd ei lansio ym mis Mawrth 2023 i ddarparu cynnwys diogelwch fideo Network Rail yn uniongyrchol i ysgolion drwy’r Sianel Learn Live. Eisoes, mae bron i 6,000 o ysgolion yn y DU yn rhan o’r rhaglen ac mae partneriaid yn y diwydiant o bob rhan o’r sector rheilffyrdd wedi’i noddi a dod yn bartneriaid.

Mae tair lefel i’r Rhaglen Rail Safe Friendly i ysgolion eu cyflawni:

Lefel Efydd - Bydd ysgol yn sicrhau bod yr holl ddisgyblion ac athrawon wedi gwylio’r darllediad diogelwch ar y rheilffyrdd naill ai’n fyw neu ar-alw drwy’r sianel Learn Live. Bydd angen i ysgolion gofrestru i gadarnhau eu presenoldeb a rhoi adborth ar ôl i’r myfyrwyr wylio’r darllediad. Bydd angen i ysgolion hefyd gofrestru ar wefan Diogelwch ar y Rheilffyrdd ‘Switched On’ i gael yr wybodaeth ddiweddaraf am ddiogelwch ar y rheilffyrdd gan Network Rail.
Lefel Arian – Er mwyn cyrraedd y lefel Arian, bydd angen i ysgol fod wedi cwblhau’r lefel Efydd a chyfleu manylion y darllediadau diogelwch ar y rheilffyrdd i rieni ac i ofalwyr. Mae modd gwneud hyn drwy gylchlythyrau, gwasanaethau i rieni, gwefan yr ysgol, sianeli cyfryngau cymdeithasol neu fathau eraill o gyfathrebu mae’r ysgol yn eu defnyddio. Bydd gofyn i’r ysgol hyrwyddo’r wefan Diogelwch ar y Rheilffyrdd Switched-On Rail Safety ar eu sianeli cyfryngau cymdeithasol.
Lefel Aur - I gyrraedd y lefel Aur, bydd angen i ysgol fod wedi cwblhau’r lefelau Efydd ac Arian a chreu fideo, podlediad neu boster diogelwch ar y rheilffyrdd gyda’u myfyrwyr i hyrwyddo diogelwch ar y rheilffyrdd yn eu hysgol ac ar sianeli cyfryngau cymdeithasol gan ddefnyddio briff a ddarperir gan Learn Live.

Educational rail safety programme launched in Wales

Tue, 24 Sep 2024 07:33:00 GMT

Educational rail safety programme launched in Wales

Press Release: Transport for Wales

A rail safety educational programme was today (Friday 20 Sept) launched in Wales by Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales, Ken Skates.

Rail Safe Friendly was created by Learn Live and teaches young people about the dangers of trespassing on Britain’s railways, aiming to raise awareness, save lives and prevent injuries.

Transport for Wales, Network Rail and Learn Live partnered to launch the programme at Ysgol Bryn Alyn in Wrexham.

The programme provides schools and the rail industry with an opportunity to work together towards a common goal to educate children and young people on the many dangers that are present on the railway.

Rail safety education is delivered via live or on demand broadcasts using the Learn Live channel and will be used digitally in classrooms or assembly halls.

Cabinet Secretary for Transport and North Wales Ken Skates said: “The importance of working together to educate young people about rail safety is clear.

"It is important to remember that the railway is safe for those who use it correctly and safety messaging saves lives. I am pleased to be here to mark the launch of the Rail Safe Friendly campaign here in Wales.

“It’s great to be here at Ysgol Bryn Alyn and be able to discuss this important issue with the pupils.”

Melanie Lawton, Community Rail Strategy Lead, TfW said: “We are proud to partner with Learn Live to bring this programme to schools in Wales. Trespass on the railway remains a high risk and the risk is even greater with the introduction of Overhead Line Equipment (OLE) and increased services on the network.”

Stuart Heaton, Managing Director of Rail Safe Friendly and Learn Live, said: “We are delighted to be working with Transport for Wales and Network Rail Wales on the Rail Safe Friendly programme. Through their support we will be able to reach even more children with vital rail safety awareness with the aim of saving lives and preventing injuries on the country’s rail network and in yards, depots and sidings.

“It is crucial that children receive vital knowledge, at a young age, to keep them rail safe. The Rail Safe Friendly programme seeks to educate children and young people on the many dangers that are present on the railway.”

About Rail Safe Friendly

Learn Live runs innovative, interactive, moderated online news channels that bring a world of opportunity and experiences directly into the classroom, home, or business. Each interactive Learn Live broadcast can be attended by an unlimited number of schools/colleges, job seekers or businesses simply by logging into the channel online.

The Learn Live News Channels continuously link schools/colleges/universities to employers and are working successfully with companies like Network Rail, Balfour Beatty, DWP, Gatwick Airport, Brook and The NHS amongst others to deliver PSHE broadcasts across the UK.

Rail Safe Friendly is run by Learn Live, and it was launched in March 2023 to deliver Network Rail’s video safety content directly to schools via the Learn Live Channel. Already, nearly 6,000 UK schools are on board with the programme and industry partners from across the rail sector have sponsored and become partners in it.

There are three levels to the Rail Safe Friendly Programme for schools to achieve:

Bronze level - A school will ensure that all pupils and teachers have watched the rail safety broadcast either live or on demand via the Learn Live channel. Schools will need to register to confirm their attendance and provide feedback after the broadcast has been viewed by the students. Schools will also need to sign up to the ‘Switched On’ Rail Safety website to receive rail safety updates from Network Rail.
Silver level - To achieve the Silver level, a school will need to have completed the Bronze level and communicated to parents and carers the details of the rail safety broadcasts. This can be done via newsletters, parent assemblies, school websites, social media channels or other forms of communication used by a school. The school will also be asked to promote the Switched-On Rail Safety website on their social media channels.
Gold level - To achieve the Gold level, a school will need to have completed the Bronze and Silver levels and create a rail safety video, podcast or poster with their students to promote rail safety in their school and on social media channels using a brief provided by Learn Live.

Join Us | Ymunwch â Ni

Mon, 22 Jul 2024 12:22:02 GMT

Join Us - as the Chair of the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership!

Ymunwch â Ni - fel Cadeirydd Partneriaeth Rheilffyrdd Cymunedol Rheilffordd Calon Cymru!

Are you passionate about community engagement, sustainable transport, and the beautiful Heart of Wales Line? The Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership is seeking a dynamic and dedicated individual to Chair the Partnership.

The Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership aims to promote and develop this iconic and scenic railway line for the benefit of people living and working locally, local businesses and visitors. The CRP wishes to appoint a new Chairperson to take the CRP forward. We are looking for a new Chair to provide inspiration, leadership, strategic guidance, and ensure effective governance of the partnership.
The CRP strives to connect communities, improve social and economic development along the line, provide a voice for the community and promote sustainable, healthy and accessible travel. A Community Rail Officer is employed by the CRP to design and deliver an activity plan to help us achieve this.

The Chair will be an individual with the ability to challenge the organisation to be bigger, bolder and better and to connect the community with their railway. They will have a proven track record in leadership, excellent communication skills, and a deep commitment to community and environmental sustainability.

Number of meetings per annum/time commitment:

Minimum of 3 x Partnership meetings per annum, 1 x Annual General Meeting.
Ad hoc representation of CRP at functions and attendance at other events/meetings as requested by the Partnership or supporting the Rail Officer.
Regular in-person and electronic contact with the Community Rail Officer is expected.
CRP meetings and AGM are normally online meetings.

If you think this role may be right for you and would like to know more, please get in touch for an informal chat about the role. Please contact Claire Sterry at PAVO (CRP Hosts) using the details below for more information.

claire.sterry@pavo.org.uk or telephone: 01597 822191

A ydych chi’n angerddol am ymgysylltu â’r gymuned, trafnidiaeth gynaliadwy, a Rheilffordd hardd Calon Cymru? Mae Partneriaeth Rheilffordd Cymunedol Rheilffordd Calon Cymru yn chwilio am unigolyn deinamig ac ymroddedig i Gadeirio'r Bartneriaeth.

Nod Partneriaeth Rheilffordd Gymunedol Rheilffordd Calon Cymru yw hyrwyddo a datblygu’r rheilffordd eiconig a golygfaol hon er budd pobl sy’n byw ac yn gweithio’n lleol, busnesau lleol ac ymwelwyr. Mae'r CRP (Partneriaeth Rheilffordd Gymunedol Rheilffordd Calon Cymru) yn dymuno penodi Cadeirydd newydd i symud y CRP yn ei flaen. Rydym yn chwilio am Gadeirydd newydd i ddarparu ysbrydoliaeth, arweinyddiaeth, arweiniad strategol, a sicrhau llywodraethu effeithiol o'r bartneriaeth.

Mae'r CRP yn ymdrechu i gysylltu cymunedau, gwella datblygiad cymdeithasol ac economaidd ar hyd y llinell, darparu llais i'r gymuned a hyrwyddo teithio cynaliadwy, iach ac hygyrch. Mae Swyddog Rheilffyrdd Cymunedol yn cael ei gyflogi gan y CRP i ddylunio a chyflwyno cynllun gweithgaredd i'n helpu i gyflawni hyn.

Bydd y Cadeirydd yn unigolyn gyda’r gallu i herio’r sefydliad i fod yn well ac yn fwy beiddgar ac i gysylltu’r gymuned â’u rheilffordd. Bydd ganddynt brofiad profedig mewn arweinyddiaeth, sgiliau cyfathrebu rhagorol, ac ymrwymiad dwfn i gynaliadwyedd cymunedol ac amgylcheddol.

Nifer y cyfarfodydd y flwyddyn/ymrwymiad amser:

Lleiafswm o 3 x Cyfarfod Partneriaeth y flwyddyn, 1 x Cyfarfod Cyffredinol Blynyddol.
Cynrychiolaeth ad hoc o CRP mewn digwyddiadau a phresenoldeb mewn digwyddiadau/cyfarfodydd eraill yn unol â chais y Bartneriaeth neu'r Swyddog Rheilffyrdd.
Disgwylir cyswllt personol ac electronig rheolaidd gyda'r Swyddog Rheilffyrdd Cymunedol.
Mae cyfarfodydd CRP a CCB fel arfer yn gyfarfodydd ar-lein.

Os ydych chi'n meddwl y gallai'r rôl hon fod yn iawn i chi ac yr hoffech wybod mwy, cysylltwch â ni am sgwrs anffurfiol am y rôl. Cysylltwch â Claire Sterry yn PAVO (CRP Hosts) gan ddefnyddio'r manylion isod i gael rhagor o wybodaeth.

claire.sterry@pavo.org.uk neu ffoniwch: 01597 822191

Become a friend of Llandrindod station

Thu, 04 Jul 2024 13:36:03 GMT

Forming a Friends of Llandrindod station group

At Llandrindod, Transport for Wales would like to form a Friends of the station group consisting of local people with an interest in gardening. No previous experience is necessary as training will be given.

Most of the activity at the station would occur between Spring and Autumn and generally involves occasional watering and deadheading plants.

If a group of about 6 people were able to be formed, they’d be part of Transport for Wales' station adoption scheme , and join other volunteers along the Heart of Wales Line who help care for planters and green spaces at stations.

Transport for Wales provide all the materials such as compost, plants and volunteer tabard. They can also provide gloves and hand tools such as trowels.

Joining a group is a great way of meeting new people, learning a new skill and making a difference in the community.

All volunteers receive a safety briefing before joining and must be 16 years of age or over. Expressions of interest can be made to community@tfw.wales

Community Rail Officer's 'My Community Rail Week'

Tue, 04 Jun 2024 20:47:43 GMT

Community Rail Officer's 'My Community Rail Week'

For this year's Community Rail Week (20 - 26 May 2024) we reflected on the projects we have facilitated this year, revisiting them on social media and sharing stories from the participants. We had a really good response to our posts, and we promoted some of the walks that were created by Quiet Walks as part of our Walking Connections Project.

On Friday I travelled down to Birmingham to help run a stall in New Street station over the weekend. This was organised by Wales on Rails to promote the 12 Great Little Trains of Wales, for example Talyllyn and Ffestiniog, whilst also highlighting the TfW network as a tourist option. We had special postcards printed, and spoke to many people about how they could use the Heart of Wales Line, and the places they could visit. Saturday was especially useful as there were lots of people travelling for leisure that were very interested in using the line in the future.

Partneriaeth Rheilffordd Gymunedol Rheilffordd Calon Cymru yn Dathlu Mis Cerdded Cenedlaethol gyda Lansiad Teithiau Cerdded Dwyieithog Newydd o Orsafoedd

Thu, 16 May 2024 10:03:25 GMT

Partneriaeth Rheilffordd Gymunedol Rheilffordd Calon Cymru yn Dathlu Mis Cerdded Cenedlaethol gyda Lansiad Teithiau Cerdded Dwyieithog Newydd o Orsafoedd

Mae Partneriaeth Rheilffordd Gymunedol Rheilffordd Calon Cymru yn falch o gyhoeddi lansiad ei gwefan newydd, a gynlluniwyd i hyrwyddo teithio cynaliadwy a chyfleoedd i fynd a darganfod yr awyr agored a’r golygfeydd ar hyd llwybr y rheilffordd.

Mae'r wefan yn dangos amrywiaeth o gynnwys deniadol, gan gynnwys cyfres o deithiau cerdded cylchol byr sy'n cychwyn o orsafoedd rheilffordd ar hyd y llinell, wedi'u mapio'n ofalus gan y tywysydd cerdded Lisa Denison, Teithiau Tawel .

Un o nodweddion nodedig y wefan sydd newydd ei lansio yw ei phwyslais ar ddwyieithrwydd, gan adlewyrchu treftadaeth ddiwylliannol gyfoethog Cymru. Cyflwynir y teithiau cerdded cylchol yn Gymraeg a Saesneg, gan ddarparu hygyrchedd i gynulleidfa ehangach a hyrwyddo'r iaith a'r diwylliant Cymraeg. Mae cyfarwyddiadau llwybr cynhwysfawr yn cyd-fynd â phob taith, mapiau Arolwg Ordnans, a ffeiliau GPX, gan sicrhau rhwyddineb llywio ar gyfer cerddwyr newydd a phrofiadol.

Am y tro cyntaf erioed, mae cyfarwyddiadau Llwybr Rheilffordd Calon Cymru ar gael yn Gymraeg, carreg filltir bwysig o ran hyrwyddo amrywiaeth ieithyddol a bod yn gynhwysol. Mae'r fenter hon nid yn unig yn hwyluso cysylltiad dyfnach â'r gymuned leol ond hefyd yn meithrin mwy o werthfawrogiad o dreftadaeth ieithyddol Cymru.

Mae lansio'r wefan newydd a chyflwyno teithiau cerdded cylchol o orsafoedd ar hyd Llinell Calon Cymru yn cyd-fynd â'r Mis Cerdded Cenedlaethol, dathliad cenedlaethol o gerdded a'i fanteision i iechyd, lles a'r amgylchedd. Wrth i gymunedau ledled y wlad groesawu’r pleser o ddarganfod yr awyr agored, mae Partneriaeth Rheilffordd Gymunedol Rheilffordd Calon Cymru yn gwahodd teithwyr a phobl leol fel ei gilydd i ddarganfod y trysorau cudd sy'n nythu ar hyd y llwybr rheilffordd hardd.

Wrth sôn am y lansiad, dywedodd Owen Griffkin, Swyddog Rheilffyrdd Cymunedol : "Rydym wrth ein bodd gyda chynllun newydd y wefan. Mae cymaint o wybodaeth wedi'i bacio i mewn iddo, mae'n hawdd llywio ac yn fwy hygyrch i bob defnyddiwr. Gyda llawer o amynedd ac arbenigedd a ddarperir gan Neil o Touchdown Design mae bellach yn brofiad defnyddiwr llawer glanach sy'n edrych cystal ar ffôn symudol ag y mae ar fwrdd gwaith. Mae hyn wedi ein galluogi i gynyddu'r nifer o deithiau cerdded a gynhelir ar y safle, gyda'r teithiau cerdded cylchol newydd gwych hyn o orsafoedd ar hyd y llinell, y mae rhai ohonynt yn cysylltu â Llwybr Rheilffordd Calon Cymru.

Dywedodd Lisa Denison, Teithiau Tawel : "Mae'r wefan newydd yn wych am arddangos y teithiau cerdded o orsafoedd Rheilffordd Calon Cymru. Rwy'n gobeithio'n fawr y gall unrhyw un sydd am wneud y teithiau cerdded cylchol byr i weld y golygfeydd hyn ar hyd y llinell wneud hynny'n hyderus, gan ddefnyddio'r deunyddiau a ddatblygwyd. Mae'r teithiau cerdded yn braf ac yn hawdd ac maen nhw'n ategu'r teithiau cerdded hirach ar y llwybr"

Dywedodd Melanie Lawton, Arweinydd Strategol Rheilffyrdd Cymunedol Trafnidiaeth Cymru : "Yn TrC rydym am annog mwy o bobl i deithio'n gynaliadwy, ac mae'r teithiau cerdded hyn yn wych i'r rhai sydd am ddarganfod llefydd newydd. Mae gennym eisoes nifer o deithiau cerdded teuluol a theithiau cerdded tywys o orsafoedd ac rydym yn gobeithio y bydd y rhain yr un mor boblogaidd."

Dewch i ddarganfod harddwch Cymru ar droed a chychwyn ar antur fythgofiadwy ar hyd Llinell Calon Cymru. I ddysgu mwy am y teithiau cerdded cylchol a chynllunio eich taith nesaf, ewch i www.heart-of-wales.co.uk

Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership Celebrates National Walking Month With The Launch Of New Bilingual Circular Walks From Stations

Thu, 16 May 2024 10:00:26 GMT

Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership Celebrates National Walking Month With The Launch Of New Bilingual Circular Walks From Stations

The Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership is excited to announce the launch of its new website, designed to promote sustainable travel and outdoor exploration along the scenic railway route.

The website features an array of engaging content, including a series of short circular walks originating from railway stations along the line, meticulously mapped out by walking guide Lisa Denison of Quiet Walks .

One of the distinctive features of the newly launched website is its emphasis on bilingualism, reflecting the rich cultural heritage of Wales. The circular walks are presented in both English and Welsh, providing accessibility to a wider audience and championing the Welsh language and culture. Each walk is accompanied by comprehensive route instructions, Ordnance Survey maps, and GPX files, ensuring ease of navigation for both novice and seasoned hikers.

For the first time ever, the Heart of Wales Line Trail route instructions are available in Welsh, a significant milestone in promoting linguistic diversity and inclusivity. This initiative not only facilitates a deeper connection with the local community but also fosters a greater appreciation for Wales' linguistic heritage.

The launch of the new website and the introduction of circular walks from stations along the Heart of Wales Line coincide with National Walking Month, a nationwide celebration of walking and its benefits to health, well-being, and the environment. As communities across the country embrace the joys of outdoor exploration, the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership invites travellers and locals alike to discover the hidden gems nestled along the picturesque railway route.

Commenting on the launch, Owen Griffkin, Community Rail Officer said : “We are delighted with the new layout of the website. There is so much information packed into it, it is easy to navigate and more accessible for all users. With a lot of patience and expertise provided by Neil from Touchdown Design it is now a much cleaner user experience which looks as good on mobile as it does on desktop. This has allowed us to increase the amount of walks hosted on the site, with these wonderful new circular walks from stations along the line, some of which link with the Heart of Wales Line Trail.

Lisa Denison, Quiet Walks said : “The new website showcases the walks from Heart of Wales Line stations brilliantly. I really hope that anyone wanting to do these short scenic circular walks along the line can now do so confidently, using the materials developed. The walks are nice and easy and they complement the longer walks on the trail ”

Melanie Lawton, Community Rail Strategic Lead for Transport for Wales said : “At TfW we want to encourage more people to travel sustainably, and these walks are great for those who want to explore somewhere new. We already have a number of family walks and guided walks from stations and we’re hoping these will be just as popular”

Discover the beauty of Wales on foot and embark on an unforgettable adventure along the Heart of Wales Line. To learn more about the circular walks and plan your next excursion, visit www.heart-of-wales.co.uk

TfW Future Timetable Review: Have Your Say!

Wed, 08 May 2024 10:38:38 GMT

TfW Future Timetable Review: Have Your Say!

Transport For Wales have announced changes for the new train timetables that will come into force in December 2024 .

Amongst the proposed changes are adjustments to the Heart of Wales Line service. This includes a reduction from 5 to 4 services a day from Monday to Saturday, there will be no change to the Sunday service. There is also a planned removal of the shorter evening services from Shrewsbury to Llandrindod and from Swansea to Llandovery. The timings have also changed and the trains will pass at Llandrindod Wells railway station to allow for a better passenger service.

If you would like to have a say in these changes please fill in the feedback form before May 13th . Click the link below.

HAVE YOUR SAY on the TfW Future Timetable Review

Major milestone reached in improving accessibility at Llanelli station

Tue, 07 May 2024 10:58:58 GMT

Major milestone reached in improving accessibility at Llanelli station

Press Release: Network Rail

Network Rail has successfully installed the main span for the footbridge which will provide step-free access between the two platforms at Llanelli station.

Contractors AmcoGiffen installed the span overnight on Saturday, while the station was closed to passengers, with a temporary road closure of Great Western Crescent in place to allow access to the site.

The process of lifting and placing the span took two hours, and it followed recent work to install the landings and stairs on both platforms.

The next milestone at Llanelli station will see the lift shafts installed in the coming weeks as the project gathers pace.

Theo Smith, Network Rail Wales and Borders lead portfolio manager, said : “We’re really pleased to see the work progressing well at Llanelli station with the successful installation of the bridge span, following on from the recent installation of the staircases and landings.

“I’d like to thank passengers and residents for their patience while we continue making these important improvements. I look forward to seeing the completion of this work, which will provide a fully accessible station and more comfortable journeys for all rail users.”

Llanelli is one of six stations in Wales and Borders becoming step-free and more accessible, with the improvements being funded by the Department for Transport as part of the UK Government’s Access for All programme.

Shropshire Walking Connections

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 15:32:11 GMT

Shropshire Walking Connections

The Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership have received funding from Avanti West Coast to deliver a series of led walks. These will take place in March in Shropshire.

There will be four walks led by Lisa Denison of Quiet Walks who is a professional walking guide and will offer support and encouragement. Each weekly walk will be from a town or village on the Heart of Wales Line (see below for dates and locations).

Participants will be able to access the walks by train and take part in a short scenic circular walk which will take a couple of hours.

There are 8 spaces available and all travel and incidental costs will be covered. The hope is that participants will benefit physically and mentally from going on the walks and that by the end of the 4 weeks they will feel more confident in going for a walk alone or as a group together. Ideally you would be able to attend all 4 walks.

The dates are as follows:

- March 7 th - Shrewsbury

- March 14 th - Craven Arms

- March 21st - Broome/Aston on Clun

- March 28th - Church Stretton

If you would like to apply please fill in this form here . Closing date 26th February 2024.

'All Change' Event | Digwyddiad 'Pob Newid'

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 15:22:40 GMT

All Change' Event | Digwyddiad 'Pob Newid'

The Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership is looking for new members to help shape the focus of our work in communities. A Community Rail Partnership is usually composed of people interested in how the railways connect with the local community and includes representatives from county and town councils, train operating companies, Network Rail, local voluntary groups, rail user groups and tourism organisations. We want to recruit a diverse and energetic group from who can help formulate an annual action plan that will be delivered by the Community Rail Officer.

We are looking for people representing organisations or community groups to join the new partnership, who can bring energy and enthusiasm and provide some local knowledge and experience.

We will be holding 3 events at venues along the Heart of Wales Line, specifically, Shrewsbury, Llanelli and Llanwrtyd Wells. These events will allow us to share what we do in the partnership and how you can get involved. You will hear from current members and the Community Rail Officer. You will be able to ask questions, and there will be light refreshments available as well.

We have timed the event so you can travel by train from other stops along the Heart of Wales line. Full details can be found below. If you would like to attend an event please book in advance so we can plan food and seating.

If you can’t attend but you are interested please get in touch at owen.griffkin@heart-of-wales.co.uk

Mae Partneriaeth Rheilffyrdd Cymunedol Lein Calon Cymru yn chwilio am aelodau newydd i helpu i lunio ffocws ein gwaith mewn cymunedau. Mae Partneriaeth Rheilffyrdd Cymunedol fel arfer yn cynnwys pobl sydd â diddordeb yn y ffordd y mae’r rheilffyrdd yn cysylltu â’r gymuned leol ac mae’n cynnwys cynrychiolwyr o gynghorau sir a thref, cwmnïau gweithredu trenau, Network Rail, grwpiau gwirfoddol lleol, grwpiau defnyddwyr rheilffyrdd a sefydliadau twristiaeth. Rydym am recriwtio grŵp amrywiol ac egnïol o blith y rhain a all helpu i lunio cynllun gweithredu blynyddol a fydd yn cael ei gyflawni gan y Swyddog Rheilffyrdd Cymunedol.

Rydym yn chwilio am bobl sy'n cynrychioli sefydliadau neu grwpiau cymunedol i ymuno â'r bartneriaeth newydd, a all ddod ag egni a brwdfrydedd a darparu rhywfaint o wybodaeth a phrofiad lleol.

Byddwn yn cynnal 3 digwyddiad mewn lleoliadau ar hyd Lein Calon Cymru, yn benodol, Amwythig, Llanelli a Llanwrtyd. Bydd y digwyddiadau hyn yn ein galluogi i rannu'r hyn a wnawn yn y bartneriaeth a sut y gallwch chi gymryd rhan. Byddwch yn clywed gan aelodau presennol a’r Swyddog Rheilffyrdd Cymunedol. Byddwch yn gallu gofyn cwestiynau, a bydd lluniaeth ysgafn ar gael hefyd.

Rydym wedi amseru’r digwyddiad er mwyn i chi allu teithio ar y trên o arosfannau eraill ar hyd Lein Calon Cymru. Gweler manylion llawn isod. Os hoffech fynychu’r digwyddiad, archebwch o flaen llaw er mwyn i ni allu cynllunio bwyd a seddi.

Os na allwch fynychu ond bod gennych ddiddordeb, cysylltwch â owen.griffkin@heart-of-wales.co.uk

Heart of Wales Line Service - Statement from Transport for Wales

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 15:14:27 GMT

All Change' Event | Digwyddiad 'Pob Newid'

We (the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership) know that there has been significant disruption on the line recently and as a Community Rail Partnership we have used every resource we have within Transport for Wales to feedback the concerns and impact that service unreliability is having on the passengers and communities along the line.

Please be reassured that we are listening and reading every comment and we sympathise whole heartedly with the experiences passengers are having. We hope that the statement below from Transport for Wales will help you in understanding the reasoning behind the current level of service not being what customers expect and urge anyone experiencing disruption to their journey to contact Transport for Wales.

We understand your frustrations and are doing all we can to feedback and advocate for the line but we are not responsible for the service on the line. Please be kind in your comments and remember that we are a part of your community, the person you make small talk to in the shop or the parent you see in the school yard picking up their child.

Please read the below statement from Transport for Wales (TfW) regarding the recent service on the Heart of Wales Line.

Transport for Wales Statement

Transport for Wales wishes to apologise to customers who have experienced disruption to their journeys along the Heart of Wales railway line, which connects Swansea with Shrewsbury via Llandrindod Wells.

Recent storms have caused damage to some trains and placed exceptional pressure on fleet availability network wide as they undergo repair. Incidents affecting track, signalling and on occasions, staff availability have also contributed to the disruption.

A spokesperson for Transport for Wales said; “We sincerely apologise for the recent disruption that has affected customers along the Heart of Wales Line and recognise that the service has not been at the level customers expect. The Line provides an important service for many rural communities and we appreciate the significant impact delays or cancellations will have had on travel plans. Our engineers are working around the clock to ensure that trains are returned into service as soon as possible.

“When disruption occurs, we always aim to provide replacement road transport to enable customers to continue their journeys. This can sometimes be a challenge to resource due to the limited number of bus operators located along the Line, their availability due to other commitments and the distance required to travel. It is however an issue that we are focussed on addressing.”

Customers whose train has been delayed or cancelled and who have arrived at their destination station more than 15 minutes late can claim compensation through TFW’s 'Delay Repay' scheme. Full details can be found here or by contacting the Customer Relations team on 03333 211 202.

Check the status of your journey by using the Transport for Wales Journey Check site.

Latest News from the Friends of the Heart of Wales Line Trail

Mon, 15 Apr 2024 15:11:07 GMT

I think the last couple of months since my last update can best be described as a period of gradual progress for the Friends of the Heart of Wales Line Trail (FHWLT).

Since the granting of Charitable Incorporated Organisation (CIO) status I have spent some time submitting details which the Charity Commission requires. However, we still need to do more work on adopting policies on a range of subjects, having previously been covered by the policies of the HWL Development Co. Getting this right should mean that securing grants to develop the Trail will be easier, as funders may well expect to see certain policies in place before considering applications.

Meanwhile we have now been able to open an account with the Co-operative Bank, largely due to the efforts of Andy Bull, who has taken on the role of Treasurer.

This means we can now start to appeal for Trail supporters to join the Friends. The committee has decided that at first the basic annual membership fee will be £10.00 and Lisa Denison has offered to run the membership side of things. So once an online membership application form has been finalised and loaded onto the Trail section of the Community Rail Partnership website, all systems will be go!

As I’ve said before in these reports, one of the main reasons for setting up the Friends as a stand-alone organisation is to try to get more help. We would like to have an online newsletter as part of the membership offer, but for that to happen an editor or editorial team is needed – volunteers please!

On November 14th we held our annual Trail Champions (TCs) meeting at the Victoria Hall in Llanwrtyd Wells, where we received a very warm welcome from the hall volunteers. A splendid buffet lunch was laid on at the nearby Neuadd Arms before we returned to the hall for the second part of the proceedings. I think those who attended enjoyed the day, but some felt unable to travel because of train cancellations. In addition Lewis Brencher, (Communications Director of Transport for Wales) had to send his apologies, but we were very pleased to welcome in his place Geraint Morgan, TfW’s Community Rail Manager (South), who gave a very interesting presentation. It was great to be able to thank the TCs for their continued efforts to check the route and report issues – and to hear their ideas for the future of the Trail. As FHWLT is not blessed with significant funds at present, we were very grateful that Owen Griffkin, the new Community Rail Officer, was able to let us have £300.00 towards the cost of the meeting.

I ought to mention that we could do with some extra TCs on the section between Llandrindod and the Powys/Carmarthenshire boundary. If you would like to know more about what this would involve or if you think you might be able to help do get in touch.

As I mentioned last time, we continue to seek ways of diverting the Trail off road not far from Llanbister Road station so that it runs through Pentwyn Farm, which is being developed by the Radnorshire Wildlife Trust (RWT) as a haven for wildlife. Andy and I recently attended a site visit there with representatives of RWT and Powys County Council Rights of Way team. All three organisations agree on how the farm and the Trail can go forward together, but the sticking point is that significant funding will be needed to pay for two bridges over the stream that flows through the site. Andy has put a lot of effort into identifying potential funders and preparing grant applications – but if anyone reading this feels that they could find the money, please let me know!

Best wishes for Christmas and the New Year!

Mike Watson

Chairman/ FHWLT

alunwatson@hotmail.com

6ddff359

Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership Wins Second Place at National Awards

Dydd Miwsig Cymru | Welsh Language Music Day

Dydd Miwsig Cymru | Welsh Language Music Day

Get Involved in Fix it Feb

Repair Cafe Wales: Fix it Feb

Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership Appoints New Chair to Champion Community Connections and Sustainable Travel

New Model Railway Layout of Llandrindod Wells Unveiled at the Automobile Palace

New Brochure Launched to Support Local Makers and Traders Along the Heart of Wales Line

New Brochure Launched to Support Local Makers and Traders Along the Heart of Wales Line ﻿

Biodiversity boost for rural railway stations

Biodiversity boost for rural railway stations

Community Rail Week Celebrated on the Heart of Wales Line with Events for Local Businesses and Railway Enthusiasts

Have Your Say | Dweud Eich Dweud

Have Your Say | Dweud Eich Dweud

First of six fully refurbished cycle travel trains enters service

First of six fully refurbished cycle travel trains enters service

£1m vegetation management programme gets underway on Heart of Wales line

£1m vegetation management programme gets underway

Rheilffordd 200 yn cael ei lansio yn Aberystwyth

Rheilffordd 200 yn cael ei lansio yn Aberystwyth

Railway 200 launches in Aberystwyth

Railway 200 launches in Aberystwyth

New Bus Service for Powys and Shropshire Residents

Walk with Rail Rambles

Walk with Rail Rambles

In Memoriam: Huw Francis

In Memoriam: Huw Francis

Engineering work to affect train journeys on Heart of Wales Line for 11 days from late November

Engineering work to affect train journeys on Heart of Wales Line for 11 days from late November ﻿

Gŵyl Helo Hanes | Llandeilo History Festival

Gŵyl Helo Hanes | Llandeilo History Festival

Lansio rhaglen Addysgol Diogelwch ar y Rheilffyrdd yng Nghymru

Lansio rhaglen Addysgol Diogelwch ar y Rheilffyrdd yng Nghymru

Educational rail safety programme launched in Wales

Educational rail safety programme launched in Wales

Join Us | Ymunwch â Ni

Join Us - as the Chair of the Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership!

﻿

Ymunwch â Ni - fel Cadeirydd Partneriaeth Rheilffyrdd Cymunedol Rheilffordd Calon Cymru!

Become a friend of Llandrindod station

Forming a Friends of Llandrindod station group

Community Rail Officer's 'My Community Rail Week'

Community Rail Officer's 'My Community Rail Week'

Partneriaeth Rheilffordd Gymunedol Rheilffordd Calon Cymru yn Dathlu Mis Cerdded Cenedlaethol gyda Lansiad Teithiau Cerdded Dwyieithog Newydd o Orsafoedd

Partneriaeth Rheilffordd Gymunedol Rheilffordd Calon Cymru yn Dathlu Mis Cerdded Cenedlaethol gyda Lansiad Teithiau Cerdded Dwyieithog Newydd o Orsafoedd

Heart of Wales Line Community Rail Partnership Celebrates National Walking Month With The Launch Of New Bilingual Circular Walks From Stations

TfW Future Timetable Review: Have Your Say!

TfW Future Timetable Review: Have Your Say!

Major milestone reached in improving accessibility at Llanelli station

Major milestone reached in improving accessibility at Llanelli station

Shropshire Walking Connections

Shropshire Walking Connections

'All Change' Event | Digwyddiad 'Pob Newid'

All Change' Event | Digwyddiad 'Pob Newid'

Heart of Wales Line Service - Statement from Transport for Wales

All Change' Event | Digwyddiad 'Pob Newid'

Latest News from the Friends of the Heart of Wales Line Trail

New Brochure Launched to Support Local Makers and Traders Along the Heart of Wales Line

Engineering work to affect train journeys on Heart of Wales Line for 11 days from late November