London Midland Steam In North Wales

London Midland Steam In North Wales.

INTRODUCTION

The London Midland lines in North Wales were well known to most enthusiasts, yet appear to have been neglected by photographers. Whilst compiling this volume, the author contacted many of the likely photographers, only to draw a blank, or obtain views in one of about four well known locations. As a result, it will be seen that the greater proportion of this book is the work of the author and Norman Kneale, and is concentrated on locations West of Llandud-no.

The author worked for several years with British Railways, and became very friendly with the staff of Bangor shed. In the early 1950s, there was much activity, but even so, the first rumblings of closure were to be heard.

Diesel units began to make their appearance, including the small A.C.V. three coach unit, which spent a couple of weeks growling up and down the Amwch branch. The late

J. M. Dunn made the forecast then that the days of Bangor shed were numbered. Despite this warning, and the belief that 'there was plenty of time left', many locations which would have provided good views remained unvisited. My own activities were concentrated on Caernarvon and the branches to Afonwen and Llanberis, whilst Norman worked around Bangor and on Anglesey.

A book of this nature takes time to prepare, and calls for much patience on the part of relatives. To this end, I would like to place on record my thanks to my family who 'put up with it', and state that without the encouragement of

• my wife Norma, this book would not have been completed.

To photographers go grateful thanks, especially Norman Kneale. Lastly, I wish to place on record my thanks to all I the footplate staff of Bangor shed, alas no more, especially Moi Edwards, Will Bach Bob Shunt, and to the memory of Trevor Williams, with his brother Bob 'Joy' Williams, who I shared many happy hours with me. Also two members of iLlandudno Junction shed, namely Tommy Gill and Bill Griffiths, who produced many fine runs along the coast which live on in memory.