A GROUP of enthusiastic railway volunteers are celebrating a special anniversary. Talyllyn Tracksiders is starting its 20th year this summer with a range of activities.

The group was formed in 1996 to provide opportunities for families to work together on the Talyllyn Railway, and has encouraged many young people to volunteer. Several former Tracksiders have gone to on to start careers in the industry.

Tracksiders hold two special working weeks each year, the Spring Bank Holiday half term week, and the week leading up to the August Bank Holiday weekend. There are also other one-off events.

During these weeks a range of activities are organised and the group has been responsible for clearing undergrowth, repairing fencing, building viewing areas for photographers, as well as many other tasks across the railway.To celebrate their 20th anniversary the group is planning some special events on Friday and Saturday, 3 to 4 June. On the Friday they will be installing a special commemorative milepost at Dolgoch station, and also making an addition to the time capsule that was buried as part of the Millennium celebrations.

Then on the Saturday there will be the launch of a book Tracksiders 20 illustrating some of the activities the group has been involved with through the years.

In the evening the group will be giving a special performance of The Railway Children at Abergynolwyn station along with a barbecue.