£ 15.99

The first ‘past and present’ volume on the Ffestiniog Railway was published back in 1998, and although its everyday operations have not greatly changed, there have been developments in the company’s approach to its business, as well as new liveries and even new builds. A second pictorial journey describing the history and evolution of this historic line. Gone are the days when visitors would be concentrated during the summer holiday months; now the railway is as likely to be busy in winter, and today’s passengers are seeking comfort as well as the all-encompassing ‘experience’. John Stretton – who first visited the Ffestiniog nearly 40 years ago – has discovered a fresh new collection of fascinating ‘past’ views and matched them with present-day equivalents to tell the on-going story of this world-class railway. Written with the full co-operation of the railway company this new volume takes us on a fact filled pictorial trip along the entire route. Those fortunate enough to have both volumes will be able to compare selected locations to see the numerous changes that have taken place in recent years, as well as enjoying new past and present views of both previous locations and brand new vantage points. As local competition for custom increases and social fashions change, the railway has held its own and has many exciting ideas for the future, such as the ‘Talking Train’, introduced in 2004.