Description

In 2012 the world of railway preservation said farewell to one of its most famous fathers.

Alan Pegler was known throughout the world for his contributions to the preservation movement, being famously involved with two of its greatest achievements: the saving of the complete Ffestiniog Railway, and of probably the world’s most famous steam locomotive, Flying Scotsman. A man of some personal modesty, Alan’s adventures with steam started young when in 1928, aged just 8, his father took him to see the Flying Scotsman on its first non stop run from London to Edinburgh. From that moment on he was ‘hooked’ on steam.

In a rare interview in 2000, Alan spoke openly of his life with trains and reflected at length on how he came to get involved with the Ffestiniog Railway. His crucial role in rescuing what is now the world’s most famous narrow gauge line, and his success in saving A3 Pacific Flying Scotsman, played a great part in the huge upsurge of interest in railway preservation in general.

His legacy today lives on all around us, with preserved railways and mainline steam in abundance giving employment, satisfaction and pleasure to millions.

This programme, which includes rare archive film and newsreel footage, provides a short appreciation of his very long and full life and a record of his unmatched achievements.

Proceeds from the sale of this DVD will go towards the Ffestiniog Railway’s Alan Pegler Appeal in support of the rebuilding and signalling at Porthmadog Harbour station – where it all began.