Olympic flame

On its way from Aberystwyth to Bangor the olympic flame steamed past Campbell’s Platform. Couldn’t see any flame but the train looked great anyway. Balloons, bunting, flags and a cheery toot from the engine driver.

Ffestiniog Railway 30 years to Blaenau

Thirty years ago the Ffestiniog Railway re-opened all the way to Blaenau and there will be a series of special events from 5^th to 7^th May to celebrate the anniversary. It is also thirty years since the death of Colonel Campbell who rescued Plas y Dduallt from dereliction and did much to help the railway.

Farm buildings next to the house were used by the ‘deviationists’ between 1965 and 1973 during which time an estimated 10,000 bed nights were enjoyed. These days it is known as Campbell’s Cottage and is available for holidays. We are currently booked until 21^st September apart from the weeks beginning 15^th and 22^nd June. Details at www.campbellscottage.co.uk

In return for his help the Colonel gained Campbell’s Platform and the right to operate his own engine; aptly named ‘The Colonel’. The siding has gone but the private platform remains – guests to the cottage can stick out a hand and a steam train will grind to a halt. The story of his eccentric commute is told in a 1974 BBC documentary called 'The Campbells Came by Rail'.