Russell

Only a rumour, though, just like the strategic reserve!

 

It's true that Russell is the only surviving loco owned by the old WHR, although it was actually purchased by North Wales Power and Traction rather than the railway. Other extant locos which operated the 1923 railway (and the NWNGR before it): Prince and Princess, which headed the opening day trains from Dinas and Porthmadog; Palmerston, which was used during the construction of both the NWNGR and WHR; Welsh Pony, Merddin Emrys and Livingston Thompson, which were also used for bridge deflection tests prior to opening.

All the above predate Russell by a considerable margin and the younger Moelwyn and the Kerr Stuart are also still with us.

 

Don't forget James Spooner, which was photographed at Beddgelert on a WHR train (IIRC). Technically Lilla and Jubilee 1897 passed over WHR metals too, though probably not in steam.

 

Remember that all donations before the end of May will recieve £ for £ match donations so if you are thinking of helping out then doing so in the next 10 days will make a bigger difference!!! Subject to all funding being in place RUSSELL will back steaming in North Wales for the beginning of next year.



So please lets get him finished and back where he belongs.




In mid-February we received a single donation of £25,000 from one of our longstanding donors. The donor wishes to remain anonymous. However, our donor has offered to match other donations we receive before the end of May 2013 pound for pound up to another £25,000. WOW! This is a fantastic opportunity - please consider making a donation now.

And it goes without saying, a huge thank you to the mystery donor. Please visit:Russell Appeal for further information/to donate.