A TOUCHING memorial service has been held for one of Fairbourne’s most renowned characters.

On 6 February, a memorial service was held at Barmouth Ferry Station for Fairbourne Railway stalwart Lionel Read.

Mr Read, one of the Fairbourne Railway’s most prominent volunteers and a musician with the Tywyn Silver Band, died in December after a short illness.

The father-of-five was a popular figure along the Meirionnydd coast and was renowned for his charisma and sense of humour.

Lionel, 71, had a varied career including driving a bus, driving a taxi and even piloting planes in Australia.

A spokesperson for the Fairbourne Railway Preservation Society (FPRS) said: “Lionel was a terrific Driver, fireman, engineer and instructor - the list of jobs he tackled was endless and he had the distinction of being awarded life membership of the FRPS.

“A ten coach train was packed with friends and relatives as Lionel was given his last footplate ride on Sherpa, carrying a special headboard.

“The Towyn Silver Band, of which Lionel was a member, played, before the scattering of the ashes at the Point.”