October 23, 2025 - 312 views
Llangollen Railway is inviting members of the public to take part in a major safety exercise in partnership with North Wales Fire and Rescue Service on Tuesday 11 November.
The Berwyn Tunnel Evacuation Exercise will simulate an emergency, giving railway staff, volunteers and emergency services the chance to test their joint response procedures in a realistic setting.
To make the exercise as effective as possible, the Railway is looking for around 60 volunteers from Llangollen and the surrounding areas to take part. Participants will play the role of passengers and help staff and emergency services practise a full evacuation from the train inside Berwyn Tunnel.
“This is a rare opportunity for members of the community to get involved behind the scenes at Llangollen Railway,” said Mike Williams, a member of the Railway’s Operations Team.
“Our volunteers and staff take passenger safety extremely seriously, and this joint exercise will help ensure we are fully prepared for any eventuality. We’re keen for local people to join us and see the teamwork and professionalism that goes into keeping our railway safe.
“Built in the 1860’s, Berwyn tunnel is 689 yards long and the longest single bore tunnel on a UK heritage railway. It is narrow, curved and in a remote location with very limited road access. It therefore offers a great and fascinating challenge for a rescue training exercise.”
Arron Jones, Locality Manager from North Wales Fire and Rescue Service added: “Working closely with partners like Llangollen Railway helps us ensure that our crews are ready to respond quickly and effectively to any incident.
“Exercises like this are vital for testing communication, co-ordination and safety procedures, and they also demonstrate how seriously we all take the safety of the public.”
Volunteers should be available to meet at Llangollen Station at 5.30pm for a short safety briefing before the train departs at 6.30pm. The exercise will conclude at around 9.30pm.
To register your interest, please call 01978 860 979 or email info@llangollen-railway.co.uk. You can also sign up online at: https://llangollen-railway.co.uk/news/berwyn-tunnel-evacuation-exercise/
