Minehead here we come!

WEST Somerset Railway trains will operate between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead from March 19 following the rebuilding of Seaward Way level crossing at the coastal resort, plus the relaying of a long length of track between Dunster and the town.

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 going on into the possibility of regular scheduled services between Taunton and Bishops Lydeard and the return of a weekend shuttle service between the two.

Five dates have been announced for special events: April 2 and 3 – official Return to Minehead events; May 5-8 Spring Steam Gala; June 9-11 1960s Diesel Gala; September 10/11 1940s Weekend; and September 29-October 2 Autumn Steam Gala.

The line is also planning to take part in celebrations of 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 workshop tours.