The 2008 Gala was a spectacular success and saw the visit of Derby Lightweight single car Iris from its Derbyshire base. This 1950s single car was very popular and was a credit to those who have restored it. Despite the poor weather visitor numbers were significantly up on previous years and most took advantage of the intensive timetable which saw 15 trains each way - with an additional run with all nine cars coupled together on the Saturday evening.

This photo by Richard W Jones shows Iris leaving Berwyn Station

Iris near Deeside - Picture Richard W Jones

The steam auto train is seen with Iris at Carrog

The Wickham unit in multiple with Iris Picture Richard W Jones

The full lineup comprised four two car sets, from classes 104/108/Wickham and class 127+105. There was also the steam autotrain for comparison. The class 104 appeared with a full yellow end on one vehicle, Picture Mike Martin

The class 104 unit leaves Carrog platform one while the Cravens is seen on Platform two.

The Cravens unit is seen here at Glyndyfrdwy station. Picture Mike Martin

The view forward through the cab was always the most sought after in first generation railcars - here Iris is seen from the Wickham Unit. Picture Elizabeth Harland.

The finale of the event was a giant nine-car train which ran non-stop from end to end of the line.