BARRY'S Tourist Railway, under its new custodian Cambrian Transport, operated its first steam train services during the weekend’s Tall Ships Festival.

During the weekend visitors were welcomed aboard a pristine Great Western Pannier Tank steam engine for the once-in-a-lifetime chance to ride on the footplate of the locomotive with the driver and fireman.

Cambrian’s chairman John Buxton said: “I am delighted that this weekend was such a success. We have enjoyed providing this opportunity for the people of Barry and visitors to the town.”

The Cambrian Group has a long-term lease on the Barry Rail Centre, which includes the Tourist Railway, from the Vale Council.

The Pannier Tank Locomotive in use, 9466, was part of the famous Barry Scrapyard during the 1960's until it was rescued in 1975. It has been a long standing desire of the present owner to bring it back 'home' to Barry.

9466 is the first of many restored ex-Barry scrapyard locos that Cambrian hope to bring to Barry to operate services at the Barry Rail Centre Tourist Railway.

Cambrian’s Director of Communications and Education, Dr Mark Lang, said: “This is an exciting time for Barry’s Tourist Railway, and we look forward to outlining our plans for future services over the coming weeks, including some very special events leading up to Christmas.”