The Llanelli and Mynydd Mawr Railway’s Spring Gala will help celebrate 200 years of train travel

The heritage line will look back at two centuries of rail travel on Saturday, 22nd March.

In fact, this line is even older and can trace its roots back 219 years as the Llanelli Tram road.

The Spring Gala will kick off at 9.30 and offer rides, talks and walks based around the former coal mining railway.

Three different trains will be providing regular rides on the Llanelli and Mynydd Mawr Railway’s (LMMR) short demonstration line between 10.00 and 3.00.

Traction should include the LMMR’s Sentinel 0-4-0 DM Shunter, Class 143 Pacer Railcar and Ex. MOD 4-wheel Railcar.

Visitors will have the opportunity to take single or multiple rides, with rover tickets available.

There will also be demonstrations of ‘Winnie’, the special Wickham Track Inspection car.

An historic ‘Walk and Talk’ event will allow visitors to learn about the history of the railway, from its early days of horse-drawn coal wagons to its rebirth as a heritage line today.

Much of the old mining site is now covered by trees and extensive conservation work is turning this area into a resource for leisure and learning.

Intrepid Gala-goers will be able to explore this natural feature of the former industrial setting with Woodland Walks also an attraction.

The pond-side picnic area also offers a calming spot for lunch.

Refreshments will be available all day in the newly-opened Super Sprinter Cafe, housed in a converted single-carriage Class-153.

Full details of the Gala Day, as well as timetables, will be published shortly on the LMMR’s website. You can also keep an eye on preparations, and see the Super Sprinter Cafe, on their Facebook page.