Talyllyn Railway celebrates 'The Railway Series 80th' | 'Awdry Extravaganza V' - July 2025

After a series of highly successful events, the 5th Edition of the Talyllyn Railways 'Awdry Extravaganza' was deemed to be the last for a while. But 2025 being the 80th Anniversary of the Railway series, this years event was set to be rather special. In 1952, the Rev Wilbert Awdry visited the worlds first privately preserved railway at the time, the Talyllyn Railway. He fell in love with the little narrow gauge line as do many who visit, and became a volunteer for many years gaining stories and knowledge of the railway world. Just four years prior, Awdry had published his first book in 'The Railway Series', later to become world famous as the inspiration for 'Thomas the Tank Engine'. The Talyllyn soon became apart of this series with many of it's engines becoming immortalised by the books and TV show. Thus it seems only apt that this railway with a heart of gold should pay host to the biggest celebration during this famous series 80th year. Held over three days in July, the 'Awdry Ex V' had a number of special additions to the running of trains. The first was two exhibitions at both Tywyn Wharf and Abergynolwyn, with both the Rev.W.Awdry's layouts on show, as well as a display of TV & book Series memorabilia featuring models from the show. There were also evening seminars and talks around the subject of the Railway Series, so lots to see and do! Alongside these extra's, the home fleet of locos and rolling stock were utilised to recreate a number of famous scenes capture by the books and TV series. Of particular note were the two special visitors brought in for the event; Ffestiniog Railway N.o.4 'Palmerston' appeared at the Mid-Sodor Railway's 'Duke', while Ravenglass & Eskdale N.o.9 'River Mite' running as Small Railway Engine 'Mike'. So overall it created a gathering for Railway Series and Thomas fans both young and old, and from far and wide! 0:00 Tywyn Wharf Activity 3:23 N.o.7 'Ivo Hugh' 5:10 N.o.5 'Rusty' 9:54 N.o.4 'Peter Sam' 14:11 N.o.3 'Sir Handel' 25:54 N.o.2 'Rheneas' 31:13 N.o.1 'Skarloe' Filmed at various locations along the stunning line, this video includes scenes from Friday through Sunday of the event which saw an intensive timetable in use, with some extra special trains being added in. We had a splendid time enjoying the sights and sounds of this event, and can highly recommend a visit to the Talyllyn to anyone!. Hope you enjoy! ‪@82AStudios‬ ‪@terrier55stepney‬ Check out my Facebook Page for updates and extra content:   / frontlinesteam