With Garth Quarry in the background GWR ‘2251’ 0-6-0 No.2294 approaches Minffordd station with the 10.25am Pwllheli to Barmouth train on 9th September 1961. It was transferred to Machynlleth from Croes Newydd in October 1959 and was withdrawn a year after this picture was taken.

Peter Kerslake says "This fine picture has 2294 approaching Minffordd station on the one in fifty gradient and on an eastbound duty with Minffordd quarry in the background, the source of granite ballast for the Cambrian line, access to the quarry being by way of a siding with the points into the quarry being worked by a ground frame and locked with a token, all the responsibility of the guard on the freight working into and from the quarry and requiring a deal of care and vigilance on the falling gradient."


Photo: M.J. Fox/Rail Archive Stephenson