National Screen and Sound Archive of Wales preserves and celebrates the sound and moving image heritage of Wales, making it accessible to a wide range of users for enjoyment and learning. Its film collection reflects every aspect of the nation’s social, cultural and working life across the 20th century, giving a fascinating insight into Welsh filmmaking, both amateur and professional.
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Cader Idris & Talyllyn
Down Talyllyn way, 22/5/1957, with the Rev W V Awdry of ‘Thomas the Tank Engine’ fame and other Talyllyn Railway notables. J Adams films the BBC filming ‘Now’ series footage.
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Overview
Down Talyllyn way, on 22/5/1957, John Adams, co-presenter with P B Whitehouse of the BBC children’s programme ‘Railway Roundabout’, was filming the BBC filming footage for a programme on light railways in the ‘Now’ series. Prominent members of the Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society were present – L T C Rolt, Lord Northesk, P B Whitehouse, Bill Faulkner – including the Rev W V Awdry, creator of ‘Thomas the Tank Engine’, his story-book locos based on those of the Talyllyn.
John Adams and Patrick Bruce Whitehouse were both members of the Talyllyn Railway Preservation Society and the Railway Photographic Society. They made over 100 films together, filming and presenting the BBC’s children’s programme ‘Railway Roundabout’ (1958-1962). L T C (Tom) Rolt was one of the founder’s of the TRPS, Lord Northesk (David L G H Carnegie) was the society’s president, W H D (Bill) Faulkner was a weekend and then full-time volunteer, becoming honorary managing director. Huw Wheldon, who would be presenting the ‘Now’ programme, is also seen. He came from Prestatyn and worked for the BBC, embarking on his lofty career in front of the cameras by organising a conker competition for children.
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