Created 17-Jan-20
Modified 8-Mar-24
Whilst it has the 'feel' of a rail replacement service, the 226 was introduced before the closure of the intermediate stations between Cardiff and Bridgend, although it certainly helped to provide alternative links when the closure took place.
The 226 service was introduced as late as 1964 and was jointly operated by Rhondda and Western Welsh. It ran from Maesteg via Aberkenfig, Bryncethin, Pencoed, Llanharan and Llanharry to Cardiff. Loading restrictions meant that passengers were not carried locally between Maesteg and Aberkenfig and also from Llanharry to Cardiff. It was a limited stop service, notably on the section from Llanharry to Cardiff.
From 2nd November 1964 the timetable was revised with slight adjustments to timings and a diversion of all journeys via Brynna and Llanharan (High Corner). By 1967 the service was no longer operated by Rhondda and had reduced from a maximum of ten daily journeys to seven. Further reductions by 1976 saw it down to five daily journeys and it was withdrawn completely by 1980.
© David Beilby
