Template:Featured picture/October 2008

The Simplex, also known as Mary Ann, was built as a 4wPM in 1917 for service in World War 1. It is one of a small number of survivors from that conflict built for the Ministry of Munitions by the Motor Rail and Tramcar Company of Bedford, England. The Festiniog Railway’s example is a blend of the frames and running gear from an “Open” type Simplex and “Protected” type bodywork butchered so it appears as “Open” Type bodywork. It was purchased for the Festiniog and Welsh Highland Railways in July 1923 from The Kent Construction & Engineering Co of Ashford, Kent, at a cost of £350 and was used mainly for shunting the wharves at Portmadoc and Minffordd, replacing a steam locomotive in these duties. Photo credit: William High Recently featured: Criccieth Castle – Gelert’s Farm Works – Tryfan Junction Station