Press Release - Flushed With Success

Abergynolwyn Toilets - celebrating 25 years


In one of his final acts as Interim Managing Director of the Talyllyn Railway, on Friday 6 May 2016 David Ventry led the commemorations of the 25th anniversary of the official opening of the public toilets at Abergynolwyn station. A small crowd gathered to witness the event as David cut the paper ribbon to mark the occasion.

The toilets had been originally opened by the well-known railway publisher and author, Ian Allan, in 1991. He had previously written an article criticising the level of passenger facilities provided by Heritage Railways, highlighting the need for modern toilet facilities in particular. Therefore, when it came to the original opening ceremony he was the obvious choice to officiate.

Previously passengers had had to walk down the steep drive to the station to the toilets then situated in the car park at the junction with the main road. This was not only time-consuming and difficult for parents with young children, but was also a problem for those with mobility issues. Therefore the provision of toilets next to the main station building was a great improvement. Later similar facilities were provided at Tywyn Wharf and Dolgoch stations.

A spokesperson for the railway commented:

‘With all the celebrations over these few years we could not overlook this anniversary. Although this was essentially a bit of fun it also makes the serious point that today passengers are not just interested in steam locomotives and scenery, they also want excellent facilities to enable to them to have an enjoyable day out.

The Abergynolwyn toilets were the first step in seriously upgrading our facilities at the time, a course which we have followed ever since and will continue to do so into the future in order to provide a First Class experience for our visitors.’

David concludes his role as Interim Managing Director this week and new General Manager, Tracey Parkinson, will take up her post on Monday 9 May 2016.




Photo: Darren Turner

For further information about this press release please e-mail: pressoffice [at] talyllyn [dot] co [dot] uk or phone 01654 710472.