 |
|
Sixteen returns to Minehead, please
A good start to the season for the booking clerk at Stogumber Station. Ken Davidge explains "Stogumber Station has started the new season by selling tickets. The first few days were quiet as expected but on Saturday 26 February a 'hen party' arrived - 16 young ladies, all sporting orange wigs" Each of the young ladies bought a return ticket to Minehead. Ken Davidge (by kind permission of the Station Master, his wife) was persuaded to pose with the 16 before they boarded the train. With the Spring Steam Gala looming, Jenny Davidge (the Stogumber Station Master) and daughter Lydia were busy ensuring for the all-important cakes will be ready for the event.
27 February 2010
Details from local correspondent
|
|
 |
|
A fashion photo-shoot brightens a dull day at Crowcombe
Crowcombe Heathfield Station was chosen by Heartfelt Boutique of Watchet, owned by Mandy Hawkins and Becky Griffiths, as the ideal location for their fashion shoot. Photography was by Martin Hill of Taunton. The station has been promised some prints which will be on show hopefully for the Spring Steam Gala. More pictures in the February Gallery. For more details see the Friends of Crowcombe Heathfield Station website www.fochs.org.uk...
25 February 2010
Details from FoCHS
|
|
 |
|
The Railway joins the So Somerset campaign
The Railway has joined the newly formed Somerset Tourism Association. The Somerset Tourism Association (STA) is "the driving force behind local tourism" and is currently busy promoting local tourism under the "So Somerset" banner. The Railway was represented on the STA stand at the six day "Boat and Caravan Show" at the NEC in Birmingham from Tuesday 23 February to Sunday 28 February. The new website for the Somerset Tourism Association www.sosomerset.co.uk went live on Tuesday 23 February - So Somerset, So Steam.
25 February 2010
Details from WSR Plc
|
|
 |
|
900 concrete sleepers received at Norton
More concrete sleepers have arrived for use on the Norton Triangle. Around 900 concrete sleepers were delivered by rail on 22 February in eight Network Rail wagons. During the next few days, the wagons were unloaded at various points, with Class 47 no D1661 acting as shunter. D1661 ran light engine from Williton to carry out the task. The delivery provides a boost to the Triangle Project as tracklaying continues on the former Barnstaple formation and the new East Chord.
25 February 2010
Details from local correspondent
|
|
 |
|
New book traces local harbour trade
A new series of volumes covering the maritime history of Somerset. The county has a rich and varied maritime heritage, aspects of which are brought to light in "A Maritime History of Somerset Volume One: Trade & Commerce". Many communities depended on the sea for their livelihood, not just for the goods that came and went from their ports, but also for the people who were associated with those transactions. This book contains a wealth of information on the trade and commerce witnessed in Somerset from the sixteenth century onwards, written by a collective of authors (including a section on Watchet Harbour by the West Somerset Steam Railway Trust curator Ian Coleby) based upon original research. Watchet Harbour in particular figures strongly in the fortunes of the West Somerset Railway. The Buffer Stop Shop at Minehead Station will stock "A Maritime History of Somerset Volume One: Trade & Commerce".
25 February 2010
Details from local correspondent
|
|
 |
|
Vacancies at the Turntable Cafe
A season of culinary delights is planned at the Turntable Café on Minehead Station, from early morning breakfast baps to afternoon cream teas. To help make that happen some additional staff are needed. There are vacancies for a relief/assistant café manager to work from three full days each week and also for volunteer café workers who can work regular 4 hour shifts. The café is a thriving and busy place at the heart of life on Minehead station and the work is very rewarding. If you would be interested in joining the team, please contact Jacquie Green, Hospitality and Catering Manager, on 07985 808934 or by email. If you'd prefer an informal chat first, just pop in during opening hours and speak to The Café Manager, Sue Boyes.
21 February 2010
Details from WSR Plc
|
|
 |
|
Ken steps down as Bishops Lydeard Station Master
After more than two years at the helm Bishops Lydeard Station Master Ken Davidge moves on. In recent times, Ken has been increasingly busy with other railway duties at Minehead and he now feels it is time to concentrate on that work. Ken clearly enjoyed his time at Bishops Lydeard as he explains, "I have truly enjoyed my time at Bishops Lydeard. I know personally every member of the station staff, think very highly of each one and offer my sincere thanks for all their hard and dedicated work which has transformed operations beyond recognition. I am confident that their level of commitment to me will be transferred to the new Station Master when he or she starts. Bishops Lydeard is one of the jewels in the WSR's crown, a very busy terminus, and a lively station. I will always see it as my spiritual home and wish all the staff the very best future possible." We understand Peter Hendy will manage the Bishops Lydeard team until a new Station Master is appointed.
20 February 2010
Details from local correspondents
|
|
 |
|
Classic diesel hydraulic locos for Mixed Traction event
The three-day Mixed Traction Weekend will showcase the Diesel Hydraulics of the Western Region. The event on 11, 12, and 13 June 2010 promises a feast of Maybach music - courtesy of the Western, Warship and Hymek locomotives, all examples of the BR Modernisation Plan which led to the demise of steam haulage on Britain's railways. Western class nos D1010 and D1062; Warship class nos D821 and D832; and Hymek no D7017 will be joined by no D9520, D9526, D1661, D7523, a Diesel Multiple Unit, along with lone steam locomotive, GWR-designed BR(W) 2-6-2T no 4160. All motive power is, of course, subject to availability. Full details...
19 February 2010
Details from WSR Plc
|
|
 |
|
Enjoy Mothers Day on the Quantock Belle
A great way to celebrate Mothers Day. Enjoy a superb three course lunch on the Quantock Belle First Class Dining Train on Sunday 14 March 2010. Depart Bishops Lydeard Station at 12.55pm and journey through the glorious countryside to the coast at the seaside town of Minehead. Plenty of time to stroll along the promenade before the cream tea on the return journey! The all inclusive fare is £42 per person. The Quantock Belle is very popular so don't delay - ring 01823 433856 for reservations.
19 February 2010
Details from WSRA
|
|
 |
|
Volunteer couriers needed on the Railway
Couriers wanted. Sam Minter, the WSR Tours Officer, is interested in hearing from people who would be able to escort large (100-150 people) coach parties who take trips on the railway. Duties include marshalling of the party onto the train, safety, and giving a talk to the party during their journey. The job is progressive and training is given so no fear about being thrown in at the deep end. It would suit those perhaps stepping down from other duties or those keen to stick a toe in the water and find out more about the Railway. Turns are usually quite short - typically half a day at a time. If you might be interested then please contact Samantha Minter at the Railway Station in Minehead on 01643 704996) or by email.
16 February 2010
Details from WSR Plc
|
|
 |
|
Spring Steam Gala 2010 posters available
Posters are now available to promote the 2010 Spring Steam Gala. Here is another chance for supporters to help bring the attractions at the Spring Steam Gala to a wider audience by displaying a poster in a local shop, library or workplace. There are two downloadable options, a PDF and a Jpeg image for those who can print a small supply. Or copies of the printed A4 poster can be obtained from John Simms of the Railway's Commercial Office. Contact John by email or telephone 01643 700382.
15 February 2010
Details from WSR Plc
|
|
 |
|
The WSR Association Bristol Group to continue
Good news about the WSRA Bristol Group. In the last "Journal", the sad loss of Dave Mills was reported, along with the understandable belief that this may be the end of the previously thriving Bristol group. Earlier requests, during the period of Dave's illness, for someone to take on the group had brought no takers. However, Dave's widow, Jayne, has kindly agreed to continue with the good work that the two of them had achieved over recent years, so the Bristol Group will re-commence in September 2010 at the same venue - BAWA, Southmead Road, Filton, Bristol. BS34 7RG. The programme is now being put together. All previous and new members will be most welcome. The dates of the 2010 meetings can be found on the Diary Page. Meetings start at 7.30pm. For further details please email wsrabristol@aol.com. Your support will be appreciated!
15 February 2010
Details from WSRA Bristol Group
|
|
 |
|
Wheelchair dimension policy will remain unchanged
The West Somerset Railway Plc policy on the use of wheelchairs and motorised scooters will remain unchanged. The policy introduces strict maximum dimensions for wheelchairs and motorised scooters which seem, to us at this website, unrealistic. We expressed our concerns to the Railway that the adopted maximum dimensions (cloned from UK and EU regulations for new-build trains) are not appropriate for a heritage railway and in fact will deny access to wheelchair-bound visitors with a wheelchair that exceeds the allowed dimensions. In reply to those concerns, the Railway say whilst the maximum dimensions will not be amended, anyone with an oversize wheelchair or motorised scooter wishing to travel can request an individual assessment. The Railway have more information on the official WSR website  and this website now has an Access  page.
14 February 2010
Details from www.wsr.org.uk
|
|
 |
|
Friends of Crowcombe Heathfield Station get underway
The inaugural meeting of the Friends of Crowcombe Heathfield Station has taken place. Thirty two people met Church House, Crowcombe on Saturday 13 February 2010 for the first-ever meeting of the Friends. The meeting was chaired by the WSR General Manager, Paul Conibeare. With one minor amendment the draft constitution was ratified and the committee elected as follows - Chairman: David Phillips-Mepham; Secretary: Beryl Ayres; Treasurer/Membership: Peter Martin; Sales/Fundraising: David Bartin; Garden: Gill Southwood; Catering: Jan Cubitt; Works/Projects: Tim Stanger. The Station Master, Ted Cubitt, is ex-officio. After the public meeting the committee met for the first time and agreed on a number of expenses. They also agreed to meet monthly to start with and then quarterly. A Social Secretary is also being sought. For much more, see the FoCHS website.
14 February 2010
Details from FoCHS
|
|
|
|
The next meeting of the WSRA Taunton Group
News of the next WSR Association Taunton Group meeting. This will be at the GW Staff Club, Station Approach, Taunton on Monday 1 March at 7.30pm for a 7.45pm start. Until the next coordinator is appointed, the monthly meetings will continue on an ad hoc basis with slide shows, videos and DVDs covering railway history and events. The March meeting features speaker John Sparks who will be giving a slide presentation on Great Western 150, which is very appropriate as the Railway celebrates GWR 175.
14 February 2010
Details from WSRA
|
|
 |
|
Bar Manager wanted for the Quantock Belle
A volunteer Bar Manager is needed for the dining train team. Due to retirement, a vacancy has arisen on the "Quantock Belle" for a Bar Manager to oversee the running of the dining train bar. This is a volunteer position. Duties will include stocking and preparation prior to each train, and preparing drinks for the wine waiters to serve during the journey. It will also be necessary to purchase drinks for the bar, and keep a stocklist. If you would like further information contact the QB Volunteer Co-ordinator Mrs Larraine Willmott on 01934 732171 or email qbvolunteers@tiscali.co.uk.
12 February 2010
Details from WSRA
|
|
 |
|
Tornado, Day Trips and Fish and Chips too...
More details about the Tornado Summer on the Minehead Branch have been published. Following the hugely successful visit by the LNER A1 Pacific 4-6-2 no 60163 Tornado to West Somerset in 2009, the Railway is delighted to welcome back this historic machine for two more visits in 2010. The locomotive will be working trains between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead on Monday to Friday 12 to 16 July, and Monday to Friday 13 to 17 September. Tornado will head the 11.40am (*11.05am on Tuesdays and Wednesdays) and 3.05pm from Bishops Lydeard and the 1.15pm and 5.35pm from Minehead. And a rare chance to enjoy a summer evening return trip behind Tornado with two "Fish and Chip" Specials, on Wednesday 14 July and Wednesday 15 September, with a 7.30pm departure from Bishops Lydeard for Minehead and back. Further details of the Tornado trains can be found on the official WSR website .
11 February 2010
Details from WSR Plc
|
|
 |
|
Braunton will haul trains at Spring Steam Gala
The resident rebuilt West Country locomotive will delight Southern fans at the forthcoming Spring Steam Gala. Now confirmed as appearing is Southern Railway West Country Pacific 4-6-2 no 34046 Braunton. After ultrasonic testing of the axles on the tender, which were then passed fit for duty, the locomotive will be in use on all six days of the event. The Spring Steam Gala is a six day affair - 20, 21, 25, 26, 27 and 28 March 2010. For places to stay, see the Where to Stay page. For more information please see the Spring Steam Gala page.
9 February 2010
Details from WSR Plc
|
|
 |
|
Marathon session by WSRA PW Gang at Norton
East now meets West at Norton Fitzwarren. In an unprecedented three day marathon the WSRA Permanent Way gang has severed the West Chord of the Norton Triangle, taken out three lengths of rail and sleepers, graded the trackbed, installed, bolted, lined and levelled a complete point - and then replaced the rails either side of the new point before ballasting it all. The West Chord of the Triangle was originally laid in plain line through the location where the East Chord will leave it. This was because the location forms the unloading site for the HOBC and a suitable turnout was not available. However since then a refurbished bullhead lead has been donated to the WSR Association and was available in three large sections at Norton. With the HOBC on temporary stand down now was the time to put the lead into place. Full story.
7 February 2010
Details from WSRA
|
|
 |
|
New Civil Engineering Manager is appointed
The West Somerset Railway has appointed a new Civil Engineering Manager. Shaun Hodges joins the staff and will assume full responsibility on 1 April when the current contract with John Buxton expires. Shaun started his career on British Rail and upon rail privatisation he set up a rail contracting company. Changes in the industry led to a career review and being a local lad Shaun felt applying his rail engineering skills and knowledge to his local heritage railway would be an ideal move. The change of managing the Railway's Civil Engineering responsibilities from contract to in-house came from the Company Board deciding the time is right to employ an in-house Civil Engineering Manager which will result in a full five day week hands-on presence as from the changeover date.
7 February 2010
Details from WSR Plc
|
|
 |
|
The Spring Steam Gala to feature on-the-hour departures
A radically different timetable will feature during the Spring Steam Gala in March. In a bid to make the train times easier to read during the busy Spring Steam Gala on 20, 21, 25, 26, 27 and 28 March, the timetable for the event will feature on-the-hour departures from the termini at Minehead and Bishops Lydeard. Whilst the hourly timetable results in the overall end-to-end journey time is slightly increased, the Railway suggest the aim during special events in particular is to allow visitors time to enjoy the experience rather than to get from one end to the other in the shortest time. To view the timetable please visit the Spring Steam Gala page.
5 February 2010
Details from WSR Plc
|
|
 |
|
A Tornado Summer for the Minehead Branch
A celebrity returns to the West Somerset Railway this summer. Following an enormously successful initial visit to the West Somerset Railway in 2009 the A1 Class Pacific no 60163 Tornado will be returning to the Minehead Branch for two separate weekly visits in 2010. Tornado will be working trains over the line between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead on the Mondays to Fridays 12 to 16 July and then again 13 to 17 September when it will be visiting the WSR between operations on the main line network. It is intended that it will work two round trips over the WSR on each day and the WSR will charge normal fares to travel on the trains which it is working.
5 February 2010
Details from WSR Plc
|
|
 |
|
The Hestercombe Express in 2010
The Hestercombe Express will run on a grand total of 22 Wednesdays in 2010. The Express - a rail travel adventure on the West Somerset Railway combined with the beauty of the internationally acclaimed Hestercombe Gardens. Hestercombe is a unique combination of three period gardens: the Georgian landscape; Victorian terrace: and the Edwardian formal - all once abandoned and now lovingly restored. New for 2010 is the restored 17th century Watermill complex which showcases the historic uses of renewable energy alongside original working mill machinery. Visit the Mill Tea Garden adjacent to the Mill Pond for tasty snacks, cream teas and wonderful cakes. More details are on the official WSR website.
4 February 2010
Details from WSR Plc
|
|
 |
|
Restored pump trolley for sale
An opportunity to obtain a gangers pump trolley is offered for sale by a WSR volunteer. The trolley, which has been totally restored, is in full working order and ready to go. Its full history is not known. It was acquired at auction when Wolferton Station Railway Museum in the Sandringham Estate, Norfolk closed down some 20 years ago. It did not see a lot of use after being acquired and sadly deteriorated over time but has now been given a new lease of life following full restoration. It is an ideal bit of machinery for fund raising as members of the public love the opportunity to have a go. Anyone interested and would like some more details please feel free to email John Farley for more details.
4 February 2010
Details from local correspondent
|
|
 |
|
Help us man the stations every day
Volunteer station staff are wanted for the ten stations on the West Somerset Railway. Help is always welcome at any of the stations and currently there is a growing need for additional assistance at the delightful stations of Dunster and Crowcombe Heathfield. If you can help for a day or two at a frequency that suit you, please get in touch. Contact should initially be through Ian Aldridge, Volunteer Co-ordinator on 01823 433856 or via email via wsra@btconnect.com.
3 February 2010
Details from WSRA
|
|
|
|
The Friends of Crowcombe Heathfield Station
The inaugural meeting to set up the Friends of Crowcombe Heathfield Station has been announced. It will take place on Saturday 13 February 2010 at the Church House, Crowcombe Village at 2.30pm, with tea/coffee and biscuits being available from 2pm. The venue is opposite the church in the village centre and there is a free car park to the rear of the building. Paul Conibeare, General Manager of West Somerset Railway plc has kindly agreed to chair the meeting which will formally adopt the constitution, elect a committee and set the annual subscription. Following this there will be an open forum. Full details are available at the FoCHS website including the draft constitution and a membership form.
1 February 2010
Details from FoCHS
|
|
|
|
New policy on wheelchairs and motorised scooters
The West Somerset Railway Plc have issued a new policy on the use of wheelchairs and motorised scooters. A leaflet titled "Have you a disability" outlines the main points of the policy which was approved in November 2009 and now being implemented. Registered disabled visitors may receive half fares, along with an attending carer. Most of the WSR stations are accessible and the leaflet usefully explains some of the facilities and also some of the restrictions such as narrow platforms for boarding/alighting from trains. The policy introduces strict maximum dimensions for wheelchairs and motorised scooters which seem, to us, unrealistic and we have expressed our concerns to the Railway and we will report further on this issue in due course.
1 February 2010
Details from www.wsr.org.uk
|
|