The official launch of the Saundersfoot Bay Heritage Land Train was marked by an event held at Saundersfoot Sailing Club last week

The event was organised by the Saundersfoot Village Working Party (SVWP), who are responsible for the train project, and was attended by Clr. Dr Simon Hancock, Chair of PCC, Clr. David Simpson, Leader, PCC, Clr. Phil Baker SVWP, Clr. Neil Sefton Chair of Saundersfoot Community Council and Saundersfoot Bay Heritage Regeneration Trust, contributors, supporters and sponsors.

Speaking at the event, Mrs Sue Boughton-Thomas, Chair of the SVWP, highlighted the “unique contribution the train will make to bringing the history of the village to life for both visitors and local people.”

The train, named Rosalind after the small gauge steam train that transported coal and miners in the late 1800s, follows a route past historical landmarks in the village and, by means of an audio commentary, tells the story of Saundersfoot’s proud mining heritage.

The audio is narrated by 84 year old Eric Mullins, ex local policeman, who was presented with a commemorative CD by Michael Slade, on behalf of the SVWP.

As well as musical contributions from the Tenby Male Voice Choir, the audio features personal memories of the mining days related by local residents Audrey Hilling and Peter Williams, who were also presented with commemorative CDs, as was script-writer Alan Jones.

Mr. Slade thanked all supporters and sponsors of the project and made special mention of Edwards Coaches for providing drivers and maintenance services, Dilys Hackett for her co-ordination of advertising and the community agency PLANED for their support in obtaining a funding grant.

Guests at the launch event were invited to sample the Rosalind experience for themselves.

Reflecting on his trip on the train Clr. Hancock commented: “It was informative, with lots of historical detail but also very moving. The stories told by local people like Audrey, really brought the history to life.”

Audrey Hilling, narrator of one of the stories described her journey as, ‘absolutely lovely’.

The Saundersfoot Heritage Train will be running daily from Saturday (July 20) to September 1, with regular departures from Saundersfoot Harbour and Coppet Hall Beach car park.

Pics. Alan Jones