A NEW chairman of Llangollen Railway will take over the reins with plans to ‘drive the railway forward’ and ensure its significance in the Dee Valley.
Liz McGuinness, 56, former commercial director, will take over the top role after seven years at Llangollen Railway which also included roles as general manager and business manager.
Ms McGuinness said: “I anticipate the challenge of leading the Llangollen Railway onward as we prepare to open our new terminus at Corwen. I am proud and excited to be part of Llangollen Railway. The volunteers and staff are a great bunch of people and they have achieved some fabulous things so far.
“I want to work with everyone to continue to drive the railway forward to enhance the facilities and earn more revenue. This is vital for the prosperity of Llangollen Railway as a major tourist attraction in the Dee Valley.”
In the new role, Ms McGuinness’s first major challenge will be the completion of the new Corwen Railway Station, which has already seen the construction of a 10-mile railway line between Llangollen and Corwen.  
Ms Guinness continued: “The railway is a significant part of the local economy and I will work with local businesses, Denbighshire Tourism and the Countryside Services to further enhance our visitor experience.
“The opening of Corwen Station will be a major achievement and will give visitors to North Wales greater access to Llangollen and the Dee Valley Areas of Natural Beauty.
“I would like to thank Peter Lund for all the work he did as chairman over the past three years and I am sure I will be making use of his knowledge over the coming months.”
Peter Lund, retiring chairman, said: “I have known Liz since she started as a volunteer at the railway. She has a definite passion for Llangollen Railway.
Mr Lund, who stood down from the Llangollen Railway Trust after serving for three years, will remain on the board as a director.