Adam, Ollie & Ian Evans next to the newly unveiled award plaque

Tracksiders are the Talyllyn Railway’s family volunteer working group, conceptualised in 1996 by the late TRPS Vice-President Winston McCanna and led by volunteer Ian Evans. Every year since 1997 they have held working weeks dedicated to engaging young people under 14 years of age and their families with activities at the Talyllyn Railway in supervised groups on projects such as painting, fencing, clearing undergrowth, restoring slate fencing, building footpaths and many, many other jobs.

Many Tracksiders from over the years have continued their relationship with the Talyllyn Railway going on to become volunteer Guards, Blockmen, Firemen and Drivers! The group was recognised for their hard efforts at the Heritage Railway Association’s Annual Awards ceremony in February 2024 where they were presented with the “Team of the Year” award.

The Award plaque was officially unveiled on the 26th May 2024 at the Railway’s first-ever Tracksider’s Day, where the majority of operating roles were occupied by those who had come through the group. Ian Evans gave a speech about the history of the group and then passed the honours of unveiling the plaque – situated on the brand new awards wall at Tywyn Wharf Station – over to the two youngest Tracksiders Adam & Ollie.

After this, the Tracksiders got straight back to work on odd jobs in and around Tywyn Wharf yard in full view of the public, which even resulted in a new family signing up as Tracksiders there and then!

Find out more about the Tracksiders and how to get involved HERE!

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(Adam & Ollie’s parents have consented to their photographs being taken and are happy for their use in press related matters.)