Llangollen and Corwen Railway is gearing up for one of the biggest events in its calendar, as its Branchline Gala returns for three full days from April 10 to 12 bringing together an exciting mix of steam, heritage traction and live entertainment in the heart of the Dee Valley.
As part of the weekend’s programme visitors will be treated to a special evening of live music, as Chris Greve and Friends take to the stage on Saturday April 11 at 6pm in the Station Master’s Marquees, located on the ramp at the front of Llangollen Railway Station.
The performance offers visitors the chance to relax and enjoy live music after a day experiencing the Gala’s intensive timetable and attractions.
Chris Greve is a musician and songwriter known for his distinctive blend of UK Americana with strong Celtic influences. Born in London, raised in Calgary, Canada, and now based in Llangollen, Chris brings an international flavour to his performances. He began playing guitar at the age of four and has spent many years recording and performing both as a solo artist and with his band Claymore.
Joining Chris on stage will be champion fiddler Richard Powell, bringing fiddle and mandolin magic to the performance and adding an extra layer of energy and musicianship to the evening. The night will also feature solo sets from John Hughes, the Singing Farmer, adding further variety and entertainment to the line-up.
Chris has earned praise from audiences across the UK and beyond, with performances described as “an evening constructed of a high quality songlist, abundant musical talent and charm,” while others have highlighted his “amazing sound” and energetic, engaging style. One reviewer summed it up by saying, “You won’t notice Chris off stage, once on stage though, his voice will cut the air like a knife and shake your soul like a tree in a storm.”
Chris Greve said: "It’s really special to be performing here in Llangollen. The railway is such an iconic part of the town, and to be able to play music in that setting, with friends, is something I’m really looking forward to. After a day at the Gala, it’s the perfect way to wind down, and we’re excited to put on a great show for everyone."
Iain Ross, Branchline Gala organiser, said: "We’re really pleased to be welcoming Chris Greve and Friends to the Gala this year. It’s a fantastic addition to what is already a packed weekend, and gives visitors the chance to enjoy some high-quality live music in a unique setting. The Station Master’s Marquees will be a great place to round off the day, and we’re sure it will be a very popular part of the event."
Across the three-day Gala, visitors can expect an impressive mix of home fleet and visiting locomotives, including the return of 1924 built GWR Small Prairie No. 4555 to the Dee Valley for the first time since 1964, the final running days of visiting Class 14 D9525, and home fleet favourites Pannier Tank No. 7754 and Heavy Freight 2-8-0 No. 3802. Taking centre stage will be GWR No. 1369, a 1366 Class 0-6-0 pannier tank designed by Charles Collett and built at Swindon Works in 1934. With only six ever built and No. 1369 now the sole surviving example, its appearance promises to be a rare and unmissable highlight for visitors and enthusiasts alike.
Special highlights also include the opportunity to take part in unique footplate experiences, giving visitors the chance to ride aboard working steam locomotives, as well as free vintage shuttle buses linking the railway with the national network at Ruabon Railway Station, adding to the atmosphere and accessibility of the event.
The event is free for all Branchline Gala ticket holders, with entry available for just £5 for non-ticket holders.
* For more information and to book tickets, visit: https://llangollen-railway.co.uk/branchline-gala/
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