An additional attraction is set to enliven The Llangollen and Corwen Railway’s upcoming Diesel Power and Ultimate 80s Weekend with the announcement that popular live band Rhythm Train will headline Saturday evening’s entertainment.

Set to be held on Saturday, 30th and Sunday, 31st May, the weekend is a perfect accompaniment to the launch of Season 2 of the hit 80’s period drama Rivals on Disney, and visitors are encouraged to search out their favourite 80s gear.

Daytime will be devoted to a full heritage diesel gala, with trains travelling between Llangollen and Corwen, with stops at Berwyn, Glyndyfrdwy, and Carrog. Locomotives appearing will be those that were everyday sights in the 1980s, such as Class 31 No 31271 with an authentic and rather garish 1980’s Rail Freight livery.

From 6.00 until 10.00 on Saturday evening, Llangollen Station will host a Buffers nightclub and bar, where Rhythm Train will perform two sets, which will include an eclectic range of hits from the 1980s. Between sets, a DJ with professional PA and lighting will continue the 80s theme, helping to turn Llangollen station into what must be one of North Wales’ most unusual live music venues.

There is no charge for volunteers or Llangollen Railway ticket holders; alternatively, tickets can be purchased for the evening’s entertainment for just £5.

Rhythm Train is a five-piece party band which plays at events across the UK. Members of the band have performed with well-known artists such as Eric Clapton, Snow Patrol, Supergrass, and Echo and the Bunnymen, and played at well-known venues including the Royal Albert Hall and the Glastonbury Festival.

Tickets have already gone on sale for another special event at the railway, its ‘Ride the Rocket’ event with a special evening of steam and fireworks on Saturday, 7th November. 

“We wanted to recreate an era that we don’t usually see on our railway, but one that many of our visitors will remember very fondly, as do many of us who look after the Railway’s diesel fleet. British Rail went through a real transformation in the 80’s, reversing 20 years of decline as it was prepared for privatisation. The looks of the trains and stations changed dramatically, matching the colours and styles of the era. I am really looking forward to hearing my own 80’s playlist over the Tannoy over the weekend, and we’ve got some other nostalgic surprises lined up too. Rhythm Train are perfect for our gig – with huge energy, a brilliant reputation and a setlist packed with songs people know and love.”

Pete Edwards, Event Co-Organiser