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By Peter Johnson, ( hardback, Pen & Sword, 208pp, £ 30, ISBN 9781526718051)

IF YOU ever consider buying just one book on the Vale of Rheidol Railway, This is the one. The author's comprehensive work means it really is a one- stop shop, providing a complete story of the line to date, with a host of welcome detail.

Running for 12 miles between Aberystwyth and Devil's Bridge, the well- known 2ft gauge line became British Rail's last steam operation and the first part of the national network to be privatised.

Now operated by a charitable trust, the Rheidol has been transformed, benefiting from investment in rolling stock and infrastructure alike - the detail about which is covered in this book. It's a railway you should travel on if you haven't visited for many years.

The author has drawn on a variety of sources, such as press reports and correspondence, including the Department for Transport's files dealing with the line's Privatisation now accessible at the National Archives.

Five chapters cover planning, powers and funding; construction; the independent years and rolling stock gallery 1902- 88t; h e subsidiary years; a nd Privatisation- return to independence.

Interesting details in the 21 appendices include Board of Trade returns from 1903- 1913o; perating costs for 1986; the number of tickets sold between 1958 and 1987, plus 1989- 2016a; list of planning applications since 1987; and work carried out by the Brecon Mountain Railway at BR expense in 1987.

A route map and gradient profile can be found in the inside front pages, which is mirrored in the inside rear pages.

Well designed and clear to read throughout, images are reproduced large and sharp. Informative captions accompany the 200 colour and black and white illustrations, m aps and track diagrams. According to the author, a number of' new' images have been uncovered.

In the author's familiar style, the text is highly informative yet easy and enjoyable to read - he doesn't' waffle'. It's no exaggeration to describe this book as gripping. It's worth every penny of its recommended retail price.

The meticulous detail and photographs are sure to appeal to historians and modellers a like. T his invaluable reference source now proudly sits on your deputy editor's bookshelf.

In short, it's an essential read for Rheidol enthusiasts.

THE RHEIDOL'S BIBLE!