Newplc director‘ will bringWest Somerset Railway groups closer together’

STEVEWilliamshas been appointed asadirectorofWest Somerset Railway plc inabid to boost collaboration between the line’s ‘ familymembers’.

He has been a volunteer for around 12 years and previously held the post of plc planning director until 2017.

Subsequently, hehas been company secretaryof theWest Somerset Steam Railway Trust, being appointedvice- chairman last year.

Stevehas a lifetime’s experience in NHS management and as a management consultant, and lives in nearbyOake. He will continue to be a trustee with the steam trust.

His appointment strengthens the plc boardmembership to six, andhebrings skills in organisational development, planning and partnerships. It is seen as an innovative approach to strengthening collaborative work across the railway and using experienced people to benefit its wider needs.

Both the plc and the trust were conscious of the potential for conflicts of interest and, following discussion, were satisfiedwith the governance arrangements, but will reviewthe situation in six months.

WSR chairman Jonathan JonesPratt said: “I am pleased that Steve has agreed to join us and know thatwewill benefit greatly from his professionalism and expertise.”