Crossing the Glaslyn Estuary: Over the Cob With Overhauled No. 10 hauling Empty Victorian Carriages

Ffestiniog Railway owned 0-4-4-0T Double Fairlie articulated narrow-gauge steam locomotive number 10 "Merddin Emrys" was built in 1879 at the railway's famous Boston Lodge Works in Porthmadog, Wales. Designed by George Percival Spooner utilizing Robert Francis Fairlie’s revolutionary patent articulation design, this historic machine holds the prestigious distinction of being the first locomotive built completely in-house by the Ffestiniog Railway Company. Powered by a unique double-ended boiler configuration with a central firebox and four cylinders, this 24-tonne masterpiece produces approximately 9,070 lbf of tractive effort, running on an iconic 2-foot (597 mm) narrow gauge. Following its major boiler overhaul completed in early 2026, the locomotive is captured here in its unique, work-in-progress state—wearing a temporary, unlined satin black livery with its cast nameplates completely left off the tanks. This bare, utilitarian "stealth" appearance is a fantastic sight for lineside spectators who know the engine's true identity as the legendary Welsh Wizard.

The engine is seen here operating completely out of service on an empty stock transfer move, hauling an empty rake of authentic Victorian-era carriages finished in a heritage green and cream livery. The train is filmed making a grand evening departure as it leaves Porthmadog Harbour station, steaming hard across the spectacular, wide-open expanse of the iconic Cob embankment over the Glaslyn Estuary as it heads home towards Boston Lodge Works. This stunning narrow-gauge empty coaching stock (ECS) working was recorded on Saturday 30/05/2026 at 17:57, catching the unlined locomotive in the gorgeous late afternoon light.

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