Cambrian special As a taste of the improvements planned for the Cambrian lines over the next few years, Central Trains ran a class 170 preview special from Shrewsbury to Aberystwyth in March for Welsh councillors and the press. Many on board were impressed by the new trains but worried about overcrowding because the new trains have fewer seats than the 158s they will replace.
Bonus for residents A pioneering new £3 residents rail card has been introduced on the Heart of Wales line for people living in Powys and South Shropshire. The card will be given a year’s trial and is being promoted by the Heart of Wales Forum and Wales & West. It gives fare reductions of a third and enables people to take two children up to the age of 10 for a flat fee of £2 per child. “The introduction of the rail card will make a cost-effective alternative to travelling by road,” said Mike Wilson, development manager for the Heart of Wales Forum. The scheme was launched at Llandrindod Wells station by Brecon and Radnorshire Welsh Assembly member Kirsty Williams.
Welsh Highland The Dinas-Waunfawr section of the restored Welsh Highland Railway will open on 14 July. The original opening date was in May but excessive rain caused a delay in completing drainage work.
You can e-mail Railwatch editor Ray King or e-mail Deltic Computers with comments about the Railwatch Web pages
for all your IT needs