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 Grand Trains Extravaganza - 25-26 October 2003

 · Timetables  · Locomotives  · Events  · Auto Train

The West Somerset Railway "Grand Train Extravaganza" - a brand new event - promises to provide a feast of fun for all the family. Full TIMETABLE is now available.
Lots of engines will be in steam and working trains at the event...

Steam locomotives:
 · GWR 4-6-0 no 4936 "Kinlet Hall"
 · GWR Manor Class 4-6-0 no 7820 "Dinmore Manor"
 · GWR 4575 Class 2-6-2T no 5542
 · GWR Small Prairie 2-6-2T no 5553
 · BR Class 4MT 2-6-4T no 80136

Diesel locomotives:
 · 'Western' No D1010 "Western Campaigner"
 · Class 14 No D9526
 · Class 33 No D6566
 · Class 117 diesel multiple unit

All engines listed above are subject to availability.

A comprehensive TIMETABLE of trains between Bishops Lydeard and Minehead will be in operation on both days of the Gala. A complete working timetable – which will include full details of all train workings, and the locomotive and coaching set diagrams – will be available seven days in advance from Minehead Station priced £2.50 and a large SAE.
Events and highlights of the Grand Trains Extravaganza 2003 include...

 · Brand new event for 2003
 · Plenty of locomotive action – both steam and diesel
 · Five engines in steam over the weekend, four on each day
 · Last Gala appearance of "Kinlet Hall"
 · At least three main line diesels in use, plus a diesel multiple unit
 · Possible visit of a main line Class 66 diesel (subject to confirmation)
 · Intensive timetable
 · Services to Norton Fitzwarren
 · Bar/buffet car facilities on all trains
 · Day & Weekend Rover Tickets available – cheaper if booked in advance
 · Museums open at Bishops Lydeard, Washford & Blue Anchor
 · Gift shops, model railways, refreshments, free parking
 · Lots of photographic opportunities

All events listed are subject to availability

In addition to the trains shown in the main timetables, there will also be shuttle services from Bishops Lydeard to Norton Fitzwarren on both days, as follows...

Saturday - a Great Western auto train – featuring ex-GWR 2-6-2T no 5542 and trailer no 178 – will run, with departures from Bishops Lydeard at:- 9.50, 10.45, 11.40, 12.20, 1.20

Sunday - a shuttle service will operate between 11.00 and 3.30 featuring the Class 117 diesel multiple unit.

The round trip takes 20-25 minutes. Please note that it is not possible to board and alight at Norton Fitzwarren.

Washford: Come and see recent developments at the Somerset & Dorset Railway Trust’s site and museum, which will be open throughout the Gala (separate admission charge).

Gauge Museum: Whilst at Bishops Lydeard, come and see the many exhibits and displays of railway interest inside the refurbished Gauge Museum on Platform 1 at Bishops Lydeard. Engine No 4561 will be on display, and there will be lots to see and do to maintain your interest while you wait for your train!

Blue Anchor Railway Museum: This excellent little museum will be open on both days.

Taunton Model Railway Group: The TMRG’s base on platform 1 at Bishops Lydeard – which includes the excellent new model of Bath Green Park station – will also be open on both days (separate admission charge).

Bus Link: On both days, there is a frequent First Bus service between Taunton and Bishops Lydeard Station [Service 28A, Saturday; Service 928, Sunday]. WSR tickets are NOT valid on these services, except return tickets to Taunton issued by Booking Offices at Minehead, Dunster, Blue Anchor, Watchet and Williton. Full timetable details available direct from First Bus – 01823 272033.

Staying over? A List of accommodation is available here.

Rover tickets will be cheaper if booked in advance from West Somerset Railway, The Station, Minehead, TA24 5BG - telephone 01643 704996

4936 at Nethercott

80136 at Ker Moor

5542 at Blue Anchor