The Llangollen and Corwen Railway in Denbighshire in North Wales has hailed its contribution to the local Eisteddfod festival as a “resounding success”.

The Railway worked in partnership with the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod, and welcomed hundreds of performers and visitors, who travelled by train through the Dee Valley as part of the new World Voices on the Railway initiative.

Musicians, choirs and dance groups travelled from around the world to take part in the Eisteddfod. During the week of the festival, they travelled on heritage trains between Llangollen and Corwen. This recreated the traditions established during the early years of the Eisteddfod.

The Railway’s stations at Llangollen and Corwen hosted impromptu performances.

The Railway’s contribution to the Eisteddfod forms part of its close working relationship with Llangollen Tourist Information Centre.

At the start of the week, composer Sir Karl Jenkins and Lady Carol Jenkins travelled. They were followed by performers from Ukraine, India, Zimbabwe, Belgium, Indonesia, Norway, the Philippines, the United States and other countries.

Another highlight was Children’s Day, on which local schoolchildren met international performers and tasted the spirit of international friendship that defines the festival.

Dancer Dame Darcey Bussell met volunteers at Llangollen Station before travelling by steam to Berwyn Station. There, Station Master Peter Dickinson and his team welcomed her. Dame Darcey described Berwyn as “the most beautiful railway station in the United Kingdom”.

On the final day, the Railway sponsored the Male Voice Choir Competition. Chantage from London won the contest, and received their trophy from Corwen Station Master Wayne Ronneback and volunteer rostering co-ordinator Sue Ronneback. Between them, the married couple have given more than 60 years of voluntary service to the railway.

“This partnership has exceeded every expectation. We have brought back the tradition of performers travelling to the Eisteddfod by train, creating something completely unique for visitors, schools and competitors alike.

“From Sir Karl Jenkins opening the week, to Dame Darcey Bussell’s visit, Children’s Day and the wonderful international performances, the Railway became an extension of the Eisteddfod itself. With next year marking the Eisteddfod’s 80th anniversary, we’re already looking forward to making World Voices on the Railway even bigger.”

Llangollen and Corwen Railway Trust Manager David Hennigan, who is also a Director of the Llangollen International Musical Eisteddfod