West Somerset prepares for the ‘longest season’ in many years
THE return of West Somerset Railway services to Minehead following the completion of the new Seward Way level crossing, combined with the return of galas and special events, will feature in the line’s longest season for several years.
Three return trips a day will run in March, April and October, while four trains are timetabled in May, June, and part of July, increasing to five each way at the height of the summer.
Discussions have also been ongoing into the possibility of regular scheduled services between Taunton and Bishops Lydeard and the return of a weekend shuttle service between the two.
A long length of track between Dunster and the resort has been relaid and updated, and Washford station, which was closed to passengers all last year, will open again (see separate story).
WSR plc chairman Jonathan Jones-Pratt said: “The railway is ready to begin operating from March 19, with celebrations marking our trains running to Minehead again. I want to thank our whole team who have worked tirelessly over the winter to achieve a wonderfully prepared railway for everyone to enjoy.”
April 2/3 will see the official Return to Minehead events. The spring steam gala will take place on May 5-8, while a 1960s diesel gala will be held on June 9-11. September 10/11 will see a 1940s weekend, and the autumn steam gala will take place from September 29 to October 2.
The line is planning to take part in celebrations for the Queen’s Platinum Jubilee, while Brunel family fun days will be held on Wednesdays and Sundays during the school holidays to give young visitors a chance to meet WSR’s mascot, Brunel the beagle, and enjoy various activities, vintage bus rides, and behind-the-scenes workshop tours.
The WSR is also looking to recruit volunteers for a wide range of roles. Stations co-ordinator Alan Smithers said: “Aside from running trains, we have 10 stations which require regular care and attention to keep them looking beautiful and welcoming to visitors.
“There are plenty of opportunities to practice gardening skills or to keep your hand in with a little DIY. Many people you will work with volunteer there because they enjoy what they are doing, and that means the welcome is always a warm one.”